Multi-Cavity Handle Platen Conveyor for Faster Pressforming
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Solution Overview
Problem
The formation of handles on containers such as cat litter boxes, soap detergent boxes, and paper bags increases production time and is a limiting factor in container production rates.
Innovation Solution
A handle pressforming system combining conveyor mechanics with roller mechanics to increase production speed, utilizing a carriage, conveyor assembly, plate train, and roller press to form multiple handles simultaneously.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional single-handle forming method is used, then production process is simple, but production speed is slow and production time is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the handle forming process into multiple independent cavities (first cavity, second cavity, third cavity, fourth cavity) that operate simultaneously. Each cavity forms one handle, allowing parallel production of multiple handles in one cycle, thereby increasing production speed without proportionally increasing overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple forming operations into a single integrated pressforming system. The carriage assembly integrates the plate carrier, roller press, and multiple cavities into one coordinated unit that performs simultaneous forming operations, reducing the need for multiple separate machines and operators
2Productivity
If multiple handles are formed simultaneously, then production volume increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs a dynamic carriage assembly that moves horizontally to position different cavities under the roller press at different times. The plate carrier rotates to present different cavities to the forming position, and the roller press moves vertically to engage with the material. These coordinated movements allow multiple handles to be formed in sequence or parallel while maintaining manageable device complexity through automated motion control
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds spatial dimensions to the forming system by arranging cavities in multiple positions (first, second, third, fourth cavities at different locations) and using a carriage that moves in horizontal dimension while the roller press operates in vertical dimension. This multi-dimensional arrangement allows simultaneous or sequential forming of multiple handles without requiring a proportional increase in linear system 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
The system enables high-speed and high-volume production of handles, allowing multiple handles to be formed and produced concurrently, enhancing production efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The roller press includes a number of protrusions annularly and longitudinally spaced apart from each other and configured to press the shapable material into the pockets of the plates thereby forming bands of the handles
Implementation Method 2
The roller press is configured to rotate relative to the carriage and engage a web of shapable material opposite the plates of the plate train. The protrusions are configured to press the shapable material into the pockets of the plates thereby forming bands of the handles
Implementation Method 3
The conveyor assembly is mounted on the carriage and includes first and second sprockets rotatably supported on the carriage and a roller chain linking the sprockets together. The plate train is conveyably engaged with the roller chain
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for pressforming handles. The system broadly includes a carriage, a conveyor, a plate train, and a roller press. The conveyor assembly is mounted on the carriage and includes first and second sprockets rotatably supported on the carriage and a roller chain linking the sprockets together. The plate train is conveyably engaged with the roller chain and includes several plates. Each plate includes a flat portion and a number of pockets spaced from each other. The roller press is configured to rotate relative to the carriage and engage a web of shapable material opposite the plates of the plate train. The roller press includes several protrusions annularly and longitudinally spaced apart from each other and configured to press the shapable material into the pockets of the plates thereby forming bands of the handles.