Multilayer Film Welding with Embossed Interlocking Seams

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for connecting cellulose-based films using hot sealing processes result in weld seams with low mechanical stability and resilience.

Innovation Solution

A multi-layer film network is created with an enlarged surface area in the connection zone, and an additional mechanical connection is achieved by interlocking the film layers, using a welding device with an embossed pattern that creates a form closure between the connected layers.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If conventional heat-sealing processes are used to bond cellulose-based film layers, then the film layers can be joined together, but the mechanical stability and load-bearing capacity of the weld seams remain low

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemechanical stability of weld seamVSAvoidload-bearing capacity of weld seam
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The invention transitions from a conventional flat heat-sealing process to a three-dimensional interlocking connection. The welding device with protruding elements creates a mechanical interlock where film layers are physically interconnected in multiple dimensions, not just bonded at a single planar interface. This dimensional change significantly enhances both mechanical stability and load-bearing capacity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention creates a composite weld structure combining thermoplastic resin material (from the coating layer) with the cellulose-based film layers. The protruding elements of the welding device embed into the thermoplastic material, creating a composite connection that leverages both the adhesive properties of the thermoplastic and the mechanical interlocking geometry, resulting in superior strength and reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

2Strength

If the surface area in the connection area is increased, then the bond strength improves, but the complexity of the welding device increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebond strength of weld seamVSAvoidcomplexity of welding device
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The welding device is segmented into multiple protruding elements rather than using a single large heating element. Each protruding element independently creates a localized weld point, collectively achieving large surface area engagement. This segmentation allows the device to maintain relatively simple construction while effectively increasing the connection surface area through multiple discrete contact points.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of uniformly heating a large area with a complex device, the invention applies heat and pressure locally through multiple protruding elements. Each element concentrates energy at its tip to create a strong localized bond, and the collective effect of multiple such local bonds achieves the desired overall bond strength without requiring device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

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 enhanced mechanical resilience of the weld seams improves the strength and durability of the cellulose-based film connections, making them more suitable for storing or transporting objects or materials.

Implementation Method 1

at least one heating element (10) arranged on at least one welding device (8, 13)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHeating: Heating

Implementation Method 2

the film layers (2) are pressed together between the welding devices (8) under a contact pressure

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPressure: Pressure Increase

Implementation Method 3

an embossed structure (15) that is embossed through the layers of the film composite (1) by means of the at least one embossed surface (9) of the pair of welding devices (8, 13) in the region of a weld seam (3) ensuring an additional connection of the film layers (2) by means of a positive connection between the connected layers (2)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical interlocking: Mechanical Fastener

Data Source

PatentEP3473437B2Multilayer film composite and method and device for manufacturing a multilayer composite film
Publication Date: 2025.04.30 SUPERSEVEN GMBH
  • EP3473437B2 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3473437B2 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP3473437B2 patent drawingFigure 5~6

AI summary

The invention relates to a multilayer film composite, as well as a method and a device for producing a multilayer film composite, in particular a multilayer film composite in the form of a container made of coated cellulose film for storing or transporting objects or materials. The manufacturing method according to the invention is a heat-sealing process which, with the aid of a device according to the invention, creates a seal for joining film layers, which, according to the invention, has at least a partially three-dimensionally embossed structure.