Modular Converting Machine for Dual-Side Box Printing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Converting machines require frequent configuration changes to print on both inside and outside surfaces of boxes, leading to inefficiencies and increased tooling needs as box types and surface qualities change.
Innovation Solution
A versatile converting machine with separate printing, die-cutting, and scoring modules that can apply motifs and crease lines on either side of sheets, allowing for flexible printing on both surfaces without extensive tool changes, featuring a system with counter-cylinders, tool-holder cylinders, and interchangeable tools for cutting and creasing edges.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the converting machine is configured to print on both inside and outside surfaces of boxes, then the machine's versatility is improved, but the complexity of tooling changes increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the converting machine into separate functional modules: a first printing module for printing on the first side, a second printing module for printing on the second side, a scoring module for applying crease lines, and a die-cutting module for applying cut lines. Each module operates independently and can be configured separately, allowing the machine to handle different box types without complete tooling changes. This modular segmentation reduces the complexity of tooling changes while maintaining high versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universal modules that can perform multiple functions. The first printing module and second printing module can both print on different sides of the sheet, the scoring module can apply crease lines on either side, and the die-cutting module can apply cut lines on either side. These universal modules eliminate the need for separate tooling sets for inside and outside printing, reducing tooling complexity while enhancing machine versatility.
2Ease of operation
If the converting machine applies crease lines and cut lines on either side of the sheet, then operational flexibility is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic positioning of the scoring module and die-cutting module relative to the sheet transport path. The scoring module includes a scoring roller that can be positioned to apply crease lines on the first side or second side of the sheet. Similarly, the die-cutting module can be configured to apply cut lines on either side. This dynamic adjustability provides operational flexibility without requiring fundamentally different machine configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the third dimension (vertical positioning above or below the sheet transport path) to accommodate multiple printing modules and tooling modules. The first printing module is positioned above the transport path while the second printing module is positioned below, allowing both to operate simultaneously on opposite sides of the sheet. This spatial arrangement in another dimension enables operational flexibility without increasing horizontal device complexity.
3Manufacturing precision
If separate printing modules are used for first and second sides, then printing quality is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the printing function into two separate printing modules: a first printing module positioned above the transport path for printing on the first side, and a second printing module positioned below the transport path for printing on the second side. Each module is optimized for its specific printing task, ensuring high printing quality on both sides without requiring one complex multi-functional printing system.
Solution Approach 2:
The transport path acts as an intermediary between the first printing module and the second printing module. The sheet passes through the first printing module above the transport path, then continues along the transport path to the second printing module below. This intermediary transport mechanism allows both printing modules to operate independently at optimal positions, maintaining high printing quality while managing device complexity through functional separation.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to converting machine (10) for producing flat-packed or folding of boxes (1″) from sheets (1), the converting machine being configured to transport the sheets in a direction of transportation (T). The converting machine comprises a first printing module (16) configured to print on one of a first side and a second side of the sheet (1) and a die-cutting module (18) comprising a tool-holder cylinder configured to connect to a die-cutting tool and a counter-cylinder, the die-cutting module being configured to apply cut lines to the first side of the sheet. The machine further comprises a separate scoring module (19) having a scoring tool configured to apply crease lines on a second side of the sheet.