Oscillating Roller Zipper Closer for Pouch Stress Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing zipper closure mechanism for plastic pouches on turret-style machines applies undue stress to the pouch due to the top being stretched from a straight line to follow the circular path of the grippers, leading to deformation and potential damage.
Innovation Solution
A device with a support module and oscillating arm equipped with rollers that maintain the pouch on a straight line path during closure, allowing the rollers to radially oscillate and minimize the distance traveled, reducing stress on the pouch.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the grippers follow a circular path to rotate the pouch through filling stations, then the pouch can be processed through multiple stations, but the top of the pouch is stretched from a straight line to follow the circular path, causing undue stress and deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary device (the oscillating arm with rollers) between the grippers and the pouch top. This intermediary mechanism follows the circular path of the grippers while maintaining the pouch top on a straight line trajectory, thereby mediating between the rotational motion requirement and the stress reduction goal
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic motion control where the oscillating arm radially oscillates in sync with the gripper rotation. This dynamic adjustment allows the rollers to maintain optimal contact with the pouch top while following the circular path, enabling the system to adapt to the rotational motion without imposing stress on the pouch
2Ease of operation
If the rollers are spaced apart to accept the pouch between them, then the pouch can be properly positioned, but the rollers must travel a longer distance to follow the circular path, increasing the complexity of the mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the positioning function and the motion control function into a single oscillating arm mechanism. The arm simultaneously performs the function of spacing the rollers to accept the pouch and the function of controlling their circular motion, thereby reducing overall mechanism complexity while maintaining proper pouch positioning
Solution Approach 2:
The oscillating arm serves multiple functions: it positions the rollers to accept the pouch, controls the rollers' circular path, and maintains the pouch top on a straight line trajectory. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate mechanisms and simplifies the overall device
Data Source
AI summary
A zipper closure device for use with a turret type flexible pouch fill machine. The zipper closer device has a pair of rollers supported by an arm which is permitted to oscillate within a support module. The support module is mounted such that the rollers oscillate in a radial direction with respect to the access of rotation of the turret. The support module is supported by an arm in a post which permits positioning of the closer device with respect to the position of the pouches to be closed.