Pelt Stretching Machine with Dynamic Force Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for stretching pelts before drying often result in overstretching or damage, leading to reduced pelt value and quality, as they lack precise control over the stretching force and uniformity.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that determine the optimal stretch force based on the pelt's length, applying a monotonic relation to maximize stretching without damage, and selectively reduce the force to achieve the highest classification size while ensuring fur density and preventing shrinkage during drying.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If a higher stretch force is applied to maximize pelt length, then the pelt can reach a higher classification size and increase value, but the risk of overstretching or damaging the pelt increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a dynamic stretching process where the stretch force is not constant but varies during the stretching cycle. The pelt is subjected to alternating stretching and relaxing phases, allowing the collagen fibers to gradually realign and extend without exceeding their elastic limits, thereby maximizing length while preventing damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The stretching process employs periodic cycles of tension and release. The pelt is stretched to a certain length, held for a period, then relaxed slightly before being stretched further. This periodic action allows the pelt material to adapt progressively to the stretching force, achieving maximum extension without causing structural damage.
2Ease of operation
If uniform stretch force is applied across the entire pelt, then the stretching process becomes simpler to control, but the pelt may still experience localized overstretching or uneven tension distribution
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the pelt into multiple zones or sections, each subjected to independently controlled stretching forces. By segmenting the stretching process into multiple zones along the pelt length, the system can apply different forces to different areas, ensuring uniform overall stretching while preventing localized overextension.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the pelt receive tailored stretching treatments based on their specific characteristics. The stretch force is adjusted locally according to the pelt's thickness, density, and structural properties in each zone, ensuring that each area is stretched optimally without compromising the whole.
3Length of moving object
If the pelt is stretched to maximize length before drying, then the classification size and value increase, but shrinkage during drying may reduce the final length and classification
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary stretching actions before the drying process to pre-condition the pelt's collagen structure. By stretching the pelt in advance and allowing it to set in the stretched position before drying begins, the system compensates for expected shrinkage during drying, ensuring the final dried length meets the desired classification.
Solution Approach 2:
The stretching process incorporates feedback mechanisms where the pelt's length, tension, and physical state are continuously monitored. Based on this feedback, the stretching force is dynamically adjusted to account for predicted shrinkage during drying, ensuring the final length after drying will achieve the target classification size.
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
This approach enhances pelt quality and value by achieving precise stretching without damage, allowing for higher classification and maintaining fur density, while accommodating potential shrinkage post-drying.
Implementation Method 1
a first stretch force is applied to stretch the pelt and, in case it is detected that the pelt length is close to the next higher classification size, a second, higher stretch force is applied to the pelt
Implementation Method 2
adding a vibrating movement to the pelt during the stretching thereof, whereby an increased stretching of the pelt is achieved without causing damages to the pelt
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~4
AI summary
The present invention relates to a method and an apparatus for stretching a pelt on a pelt board, by determining a length of the pelt and adjusting the stretch force in accordance whit the determined length. In particular, the length may be determined prior to stretching of the pelt, or the length may be determined after the primary stretching of the pelt stretching the pelt, where after the stretching force is reduced before securing the pelt to the pelt board.