Pivoting Base Plate Strap Cutter for Tight Package Straps
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing strapping apparatuses struggle to efficiently cut straps that are tightly bound to packages, often requiring manual intervention and risking operator injury, and are limited by the need for clearance space to maneuver cutting mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A treatment head with a beveled lift edge on a full base plate that engages under the strap at a corner, allowing it to pivot and pass completely under the strap, combined with a cutting blade aligned perpendicular to the strap's longitudinal extension, and assisted by sensors for precise positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a manipulator with a treatment head is used to cut straps, then automatic cutting is achieved, but the apparatus cannot handle straps that lie closely against the package surface without clearance space
Solution Approach 1:
The base plate is designed to pivot from an initial position to a final position underneath the strap, transforming the cutting mechanism from a static to a dynamic system. This allows the treatment head to adapt its position relative to the strap, enabling it to handle both loosely and tightly bound straps on package surfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The cutting mechanism moves from a single-plane approach to a multi-dimensional operation by pivoting the base plate. The treatment head transitions from approaching the strap from above to positioning itself underneath the strap, adding a vertical dimension to the cutting operation that enables handling of tightly bound straps.
2Reliability
If manual cutting shears are used to detach straps, then complete strap removal is achieved, but the procedure is time-consuming and dangerous due to high tension
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus allows the strap to be cut in its tensioned state without requiring manual intervention. The automated treatment head performs the cutting operation while the strap remains under tension, eliminating the danger to operators while maintaining the integrity of the cutting process.
Solution Approach 2:
Manual cutting shears are replaced with an automated treatment head mounted on a manipulator. This substitution eliminates the need for operators to physically handle the high-tension straps, replacing manual mechanical cutting with an automated mechanical system that can safely cut straps in their tensioned state.
3Ease of operation
If feet are pushed under the strap for cutting, then the strap can be gripped and severed, but sufficient clearance between the package and strap is required
Solution Approach 1:
The base plate is designed to pivot from an initial position to a final position underneath the strap, transforming the cutting mechanism from a static to a dynamic system. This allows the treatment head to adapt its position relative to the strap, enabling it to handle both loosely and tightly bound straps on package surfaces.
4Reliability
If additional manipulation of packaged goods is performed to remove wires, then wire cutting is achieved, but great effort is required making the solution cost-effective and marketable
Solution Approach 1:
The treatment head with the pivoting base plate is designed to handle multiple types of strapping materials (plastic and steel straps, wires) on various package types (pallets, coils, paper packages) without requiring additional manipulation steps or specialized equipment for each material type.
Data Source
AI summary
A strapping apparatus for cutting a strap on a package has a treatment head having on a lower side a full base plate having a lift edge on a full base plate. A manipulator carries the treatment head for movement in three dimensions. A controller operates the manipulating means for first passing a corner of the base plate under the strap and subsequently pivoting in the base plate to completely underlie the strap.