Modular Preform Device for Rubber Extrusion Profile Change
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rubber extruder mold systems require significant time and resources to change profiles due to bulky and heavy preform devices that need to be adapted with final forming devices, leading to inefficient maintenance and production conversions.
Innovation Solution
A modular preform device comprising an inlet and outlet module, where each module can be inserted independently into an extruder system, with tapering surfaces allowing for easier insertion and reduced need for frequent changes, particularly the outlet module, which can be changed without altering the inlet module.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional bulky preform device is used, then the structural integrity and positioning capability are maintained, but the device complexity and weight increase, requiring frequent changes of entire assemblies
Solution Approach 1:
The preform device is divided into separate modules: a base module and interchangeable profile modules. Each profile module can be independently changed without replacing the entire preform device, reducing complexity while maintaining adaptability for different rubber element profiles
Solution Approach 2:
The base module serves multiple functions by accommodating different profile modules through a standardized interface. This universal base structure eliminates the need for multiple complete preform device assemblies, simplifying the overall system while enabling production of various profiles
2Manufacturing precision
If the entire preform device is changed for profile conversion, then the positioning accuracy is maintained, but the production time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the preform device into a stable base module and interchangeable profile modules, only the necessary profile module needs to be changed for profile conversion. This maintains positioning accuracy through the consistent base module while reducing changeover time since only one module is replaced
Solution Approach 2:
The base module is pre-configured with standardized positioning interfaces and features that work with all profile modules. This preliminary setup ensures that when profile modules are changed, positioning accuracy is automatically maintained without requiring additional adjustment or recalibration
3Reliability
If the entire preform device is changed for maintenance, then the system reliability is maintained, but the maintenance time and storage space increase
Solution Approach 1:
The preform device is segmented into a durable base module and interchangeable profile modules. For maintenance, only the affected profile module needs to be replaced rather than the entire assembly, reducing maintenance time while maintaining system reliability through the robust base structure
Solution Approach 2:
Worn or damaged profile modules can be quickly removed and replaced with new or refurbished modules without affecting the base structure. This allows for efficient maintenance cycles where only consumable components are replaced, reducing overall maintenance time and extending the life of the main device
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a preform device for positioning extruded rubber mixtures, characterized in that the preform device consists of an inlet module (2) and an outlet module (3), wherein both the inlet module (2) and the outlet module (3) each have a base surface (11, 12) and a contact face (19, 21) opposite the base surface (11, 12, 13), and wherein the surface of the contact face (19, 21) of the inlet module (2) is smaller than the surface of the base surface (11, 12) of the inlet module (2). The invention also relates to an extruder mold system for molding extruded rubber mixtures into a complete rubber element (40), having the preform device and at least one final forming device, and to a corresponding extruder system (22).