Elastic Modulus Measurement of Moving Paper Web Using Pneumatic Suction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for measuring the elastic modulus of moving cardboard or paper webs are inadequate for real-time optimization of cardboard production, as they do not effectively account for variations in web composition along the cross direction, and existing solutions may damage the web during measurement.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method utilizing a multi-dimensional scanner to detect deviations caused by controlled suction in a known measurement area, allowing for on-line measurement of the elastic modulus of moving cardboard or paper webs, which includes a suction unit, a deviation sensing unit, and a computing unit to determine the elastic modulus based on measured deviations, using air suction to apply a predetermined force non-destructively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional measurement methods are used to measure elastic modulus of moving web, then measurement can be performed, but the web may be damaged during measurement and measurement accuracy is insufficient for real-time optimization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical contact-based measurement systems with a pneumatic system. A measurement balloon inflated with compressed air contacts the web surface, applying uniform distributed pressure rather than concentrated mechanical force. This substitution eliminates web damage while enabling accurate elastic modulus measurement through non-destructive pneumatic loading.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs pneumatic principles by using compressed air to inflate a measurement balloon that contacts the web. The balloon applies controlled pneumatic pressure to create measurable deflection without damaging the web. This pneumatic approach allows repeated measurements on the same web section without degradation, solving both the damage and accuracy problems.
2Strength
If raw material amount is increased to improve cardboard strength and elastic properties, then stiffness increases, but manufacturing costs increase by 60-70%
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements real-time feedback measurement of elastic modulus during the cardboard manufacturing process. By continuously measuring the actual stiffness of the web as it passes through the production line, the system provides feedback that enables optimization of raw material usage. This allows manufacturers to achieve required stiffness with minimal raw material by adjusting composition based on measured performance rather than over-compensating with excess material.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables dynamic adjustment of cardboard composition parameters based on measured elastic modulus values. By monitoring stiffness in real-time, manufacturers can modify raw material ratios, fiber composition, or processing parameters to optimize the balance between strength and material consumption, reducing the 60-70% cost component associated with raw materials.
3Productivity
If on-line measurement system is implemented to enable real-time optimization, then productivity and cost optimization improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a multi-functional measurement system where a single integrated apparatus performs multiple tasks: the balloon applies pneumatic loading, serves as the measurement probe, and the system calculates elastic modulus from deflection data. This universal device replaces what would otherwise require separate testing equipment, reducing overall system complexity despite enabling real-time measurement capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement system is designed to be self-contained and self-operating as the web passes through the production line. The balloon automatically inflates and deflates, the deflection is automatically measured and recorded, and calculations are performed in real-time without requiring external intervention or complex external control systems, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.
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
Enables accurate, real-time measurement of elastic modulus, optimizing cardboard production by providing better measurement accuracy and minimizing web damage, allowing for direct optimization of cardboard properties and production costs.
Implementation Method 1
controlling suction with predetermined force in a known measurement area to a moving cardboard or paper web
Implementation Method 2
a multi-dimensional scanner to define multi-dimensional profile of the cardboard or paper web (20) in the measurement area (500)
Data Source
AI summary
According to an example aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method, comprising: controlling suction with predetermined force in a known measurement area to a moving cardboard or paper web in a manufacturing process, detecting on-line measurement information on deviation of the moving cardboard or paper web in the manufacturing process caused by the suction with predetermined force in the known measurement area, and determining elastic modulus of the moving cardboard or paper web in the manufacturing process on the basis of the measured deviation.