Modular Press with Curved Aperture for EWC Manufacturing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing manufacturing processes for structural composites, such as engineered wood/cellulosic (EWC) products, face challenges with higher costs and potential environmental impacts, while also requiring efficient use of materials.
Innovation Solution
A modular press system comprising frame modules with a multiradial curved aperture design, coupled with a platen assembly and transport system, allows for flexible and efficient pressing of EWC products by varying the pressure and duration of the pressing process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If traditional manufacturing processes for EWC products are used, then production can proceed with established methods, but manufacturing costs increase and environmental impacts worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the pressing process parameters including applying pressure in the range of 0.5-5 MPa and maintaining it for 1-30 minutes, using temperatures of 20-100°C. These optimized parameters enable efficient bonding of wood strands with adhesive while reducing energy consumption and chemical usage compared to traditional high-pressure high-temperature processes, thereby lowering environmental impacts while maintaining ease of manufacture
Solution Approach 2:
The pressing process is segmented into distinct phases: adhesive application phase, pressing phase with specific pressure and time parameters, and curing phase. This segmentation allows for optimized control of each stage, reducing overall manufacturing complexity and environmental burden while maintaining production efficiency
2Ease of manufacture
If traditional pressing methods are used, then manufacturing can proceed with conventional equipment, but material waste increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by using adhesive application means that selectively apply adhesive only to specific areas where bonding is required, rather than coating the entire surface. The pressing process then applies pressure locally at the adhesive zones, ensuring precise bonding while minimizing adhesive consumption and material waste, thereby reducing both manufacturing complexity and substance loss
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The modular press system enhances the efficiency and flexibility of manufacturing EWC products by allowing for customizable pressing configurations, reduced material waste, and improved environmental sustainability.
Implementation Method 1
binding strands of wood or vegetable fiber with an adhesive under pressure
Implementation Method 2
binding strands of wood or vegetable fiber with an adhesive under pressure
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2~4
AI summary
A modular press suitable for use in the manufacture of EWC products may include a plurality of frame modules coupled together and aligned along a feed path axis. Each frame module may have a generally planar body supported on a corresponding pair of bases, an elongate aperture, an upper and a lower platform within the aperture, and a platen between the platforms. Optionally, the ends of the aperture may be curved. A first actuator system may be operable to move the platen from a raised position to an intermediate position, and a second actuator system may be operable to press the platen downwardly from the intermediate position onto a workpiece within the aperture. Some modular presses may include conveyor rolls and a third actuator system to raise and lower the conveyor rolls. In some embodiments, the actuator systems may be pneumatic actuator systems. Corresponding methods and systems are also described herein.