Platen-Locking System for Press-Type Strapping Machines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing press-type strapping machines require manual and time-consuming operation to suspend the platen at a specific position, limiting efficiency and flexibility, as they can only suspend the platen at one position and necessitate manual movement of suspension brackets.
Innovation Solution
A platen-locking system with a ratchet wheel, locking arm, and actuator that allows the platen to be suspended at any vertical position, electronically controlled to prevent descent and facilitate quick deenergization, enhancing operational flexibility and safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If suspension brackets are used to suspend the platen at a specific position, then the platen can be held in place during deenergization, but the operator must manually move the brackets into place below the platen, which is time-consuming and reduces efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The locking arm automatically engages with the ratchet wheel to suspend the platen at any vertical position without requiring manual intervention. The system self-services the suspension function through the automated locking mechanism, eliminating the need for operators to manually position suspension brackets.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical suspension bracket system with an automated locking mechanism consisting of a locking arm and ratchet wheel. This substitution eliminates manual positioning operations while maintaining the platen suspension function.
2Reliability
If suspension brackets are used to hold the platen, then the platen can be suspended at one particular position, but the operator must move the platen to a specific place each time, which limits flexibility and requires repeated manual operations
Solution Approach 1:
The locking arm can engage with the ratchet wheel at any vertical position of the platen, making the suspension position dynamic rather than fixed. This allows the system to adapt to different platen positions while maintaining stable locking, eliminating the need to move the platen to a specific predetermined location.
3Reliability
If manual suspension brackets are used, then the platen can be suspended, but the operator must move away from the control area to manually put the suspension brackets in place, which is inconvenient and reduces efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The automated locking mechanism performs the suspension function without requiring operator presence at the control area. The system self-services the platen suspension through the locking arm and ratchet wheel mechanism, allowing operators to remain at the control area while the platen is automatically suspended at any position.
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
Enables suspension of the platen at any vertical position, improving operational efficiency and safety by eliminating the need for manual positioning and providing a failsafe in case of motor failure, while allowing for flexible operation and rapid reactivation.
Implementation Method 1
a platen-locking system including a ratchet wheel, a locking arm, and an actuator operably connected to the locking arm and configured to move the locking arm relative to the ratchet wheel from a locked position to an unlocked position. When the locking arm is in the locked position, the locking arm engages the ratchet wheel in a manner that prevents the platen from descending.
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide a press-type strapping machine with a platen-locking system, that, when in a locked configuration, prevents the platen from descending regardless of its vertical position. The strapping machine includes a machine frame; a load supporter configured to support and move the load; a platen configured to compress the load against the load supporter; and a platen-locking system including a ratchet wheel, a locking arm, and an actuator operably connected to the locking arm and configured to move the locking arm relative to the ratchet wheel from a locked position to an unlocked position. When the locking arm is in the locked position, the locking arm engages the ratchet wheel in a manner that prevents the platen from descending. When the locking arm is in the unlocked position, the locking arm is disengaged from the ratchet wheel such that the platen can descend.