Bi-Layer Paper Feed Roller Using Silicone-Modified EPDM
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional paper-sheet-feeding/conveying rollers with bi-layer structures face issues of inner layer damage under severe feeding or conveying conditions, leading to potential breakage and idle running due to excessive load, which compromises mechanical strength and durability.
Innovation Solution
A paper-sheet-feeding/conveying roller with a bi-layer structure featuring a foamed elastic inner layer made of silicone-modified EPDM and a non-foamed elastic outer layer, providing enhanced mechanical strength and durability by using a foamed elastic body with specific additives and a vulcanization method that includes electron beam cross-linking for improved durability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a bi-layer roller with foamed EPDM inner layer is used to increase contact width and feed various paper sheets, then adaptability is improved, but under severe conditions the inner layer receives excessive load and may be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter of the foamed elastic layer from conventional foamed EPDM to foamed silicone-modified EPDM. This material substitution provides superior mechanical strength and load-bearing capacity while maintaining the necessary elasticity and contact width, thereby resolving the contradiction between adaptability and reliability under severe feeding conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a composite material structure where silicone-modified EPDM combines the advantages of both EPDM (good elasticity and paper compatibility) and silicone rubber (superior mechanical strength and durability). This composite approach allows the inner layer to withstand excessive loads while maintaining the bi-layer roller's ability to feed various paper sheets
2Ease of operation
If the inner layer is made of conventional foamed EPDM to provide elasticity and contact width, then ease of operation is improved, but mechanical strength and durability are insufficient under severe conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the material composition parameter by introducing silicone modification to EPDM. The silicone-modified EPDM maintains the softness and elasticity needed for easy paper sheet feeding while significantly enhancing mechanical strength and resistance to damage under severe operating conditions
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 solution ensures high durability and mechanical strength, enabling reliable operation under severe feeding and conveying conditions by maintaining the deformation amount and preventing breakage, thus ensuring consistent performance.
Implementation Method 1
a cross-linked gel structure formed by electron beam irradiation
Implementation Method 2
cross-linking reactions in the foamed elastic body of silicone-modified EPDM
Implementation Method 3
the contact width (nip width) with the counter member increases with an increase in deformation (deformation amount, nip amount) of the bi-layer roller material under a specific pressure load
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a paper-sheet-feeding/conveying roller having a shaft, and a bi-layer roller material which is formed of an inner layer provided on the shaft and an outer layer. The inner layer provided on the shaft is a foamed elastic layer. The outer layer provided on the foamed elastic layer is a non-foamed elastic layer. The foamed elastic layer is formed of a foamed elastic body of silicone-modified EPDM.