Multi-bead Applicator for High-Viscosity Adhesives
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional two-part polyurethane adhesives used in roofing applications are sensitive to temperature, leading to viscosity issues and are difficult to apply with existing pump-driven applicator systems, which struggle with high-viscosity adhesives and safe handling of large containers.
Innovation Solution
A pump-driven applicator system with tiltable trays capable of holding 15-gallon containers, featuring a prime mover, separate pumping systems for each adhesive component, and a nozzle configuration that prevents mixing within the pumps, allowing for reliable application of high-viscosity two-part adhesives on roofing substrates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If high-viscosity adhesive is used to overcome temperature sensitivity, then adhesive performance is improved, but pumpability and reliability of application deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The adhesive system is segmented into two separate components (isocyanate and polyol) that are stored independently in separate containers and pumped through separate lines. This segmentation allows each component to be handled separately, avoiding viscosity-related pumping issues while enabling reliable mixing only at the point of application.
Solution Approach 2:
A mixing nozzle or mixing chamber acts as an intermediary device where the two separate adhesive components are combined. This intermediary allows the high-viscosity components to be pumped separately and then mixed only when needed, resolving the contradiction between maintaining high viscosity for performance and enabling pumpability through separate low-stress pumping paths.
2Productivity
If large capacity containers are used to improve productivity, then adhesive supply capacity is improved, but operator safety and ease of handling deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces manual handling of heavy large-capacity containers with a mechanical self-propelled applicator that has integrated pumping capability. The applicator can draw adhesive from large containers through pumping action, eliminating the need for operators to manually lift and move heavy containers while maintaining productivity benefits.
Solution Approach 2:
The applicator system is designed to be self-propelled and self-servicing, with the applicator moving under its own power and the pumping system automatically drawing adhesive from the containers. This eliminates the need for operator intervention in physically demanding tasks while maintaining continuous adhesive supply.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional pump-driven applicator is used, then application capability is provided, but ability to handle high-viscosity adhesive and large containers deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator system incorporates a self-propelled dynamic platform with mobile pumps and flexible delivery mechanisms. This dynamic design allows the system to adapt to different job site conditions, maneuver around obstacles, and maintain reliable adhesive delivery even when working with high-viscosity materials from large containers, unlike static conventional applicators.
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 system effectively applies high-viscosity two-part adhesives across large areas while ensuring safe handling and operation, improving the reliability and efficiency of adhesive application on roofing substrates by preventing premature mixing and accommodating larger adhesive containers.
Implementation Method 1
Upon mixing, the isocyanate blend reacts or crosslinks with the simple polyol blend to form the polyurethane adhesive
Implementation Method 2
a prime mover mounted on the carrier for providing a driving torque, a pumping system having inlets and outlets and driven by the prime mover
Data Source
AI summary
A system for applying a two-part adhesive to a substrate includes two separate trays for holding a 15 gallon capacity drum containing a two-part adhesive compound, where the trays are tiltable independent of each other, a prime mover for providing an output torque, a first pump connected to the prime mover for receiving the output torque, the first pump having an inlet and an outlet, a second pump connected to the prime mover for receiving the output torque, the second pump having an inlet and an outlet, a first compound in communication with the inlet of the first pump, a second compound in communication with the inlet of the second pump, a first accumulator in communication with the outlet of the first pump, a second accumulator in communication with the outlet of the second pump, a first manifold in communication with the outlet of the first pump, and a second manifold in communication with the outlet of the second pump. A plurality of applicators is included.