Modular Reel Support Module for Safe Band Handling

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing supporting structures for heavy and large annular reels of bands are not flexible or reliable, making them difficult and dangerous to move, posing risks to operators.

Innovation Solution

A supporting module with a main body having a housing seat and locking device, equipped with rollers and wheels, allowing for secure stacking and easy maneuverability, and a kit that includes a supporting assembly with coupling elements for stable and agile transport of reels.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If existing supporting structures are used for heavy reels, then the reels can be supported, but they are difficult and dangerous to move

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of moving reelsVSAvoidsafety of operators
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The supporting structure is divided into modular components: a supporting element with a body, a separate coupling element, and a reel support interface. This segmentation allows the structure to be assembled around the reel rather than requiring the reel to be fitted into a fixed structure, improving ease of operation and safety.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The supporting element incorporates a coupling element that can be dynamically positioned and secured at different locations along the supporting element's body. This dynamic positioning capability allows the structure to adapt to different reel sizes and weights, making it easier and safer to move various reel configurations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If existing supporting structures are used, then reels can be supported, but the structures are not flexible

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflexibility of supporting structureVSAvoidcomplexity of supporting structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The supporting element is designed with a universal coupling element that can interface with different reel configurations and sizes. The coupling element can be positioned at multiple locations along the supporting element, allowing a single supporting structure design to accommodate various reel types, thereby achieving versatility without proportionally increasing complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

By separating the supporting element from the coupling mechanism, the design achieves flexibility through modular assembly. The coupling element can be independently positioned and secured at different locations, allowing the structure to adapt to different applications while maintaining relatively simple individual components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Ease of operation

If existing supporting structures are used, then reels can be supported, but moving operations are dangerous

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of moving operationsVSAvoidrisk to operators
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The separation of the supporting element from the reel creates a more ergonomic interface. Operators can couple the coupling element to the supporting element at optimal positions, reducing the need for operators to manually handle or position heavy reels during transfer operations, thereby reducing risk.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The coupling element acts as an intermediary between the operator and the heavy reel. Instead of operators directly handling the reel, they interact with the coupling element which is positioned on the supporting element, providing a safer and more controlled interface for moving operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 enables safe and efficient movement of heavy reels by keeping the main axis horizontal, reducing operator risk and simplifying handling operations, while allowing for stable storage and transport configurations.

Implementation Method 1

equipped with rollers and wheels, allowing for secure stacking and easy maneuverability

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentEP3401234B1Supporting module for supporting at least an annular reel of a band, support group comprising said module and kit for moving at least one annular reel of a band
Publication Date: 2020.02.05 FASB LINEA 2
  • EP3401234B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3401234B1 patent drawingFigure 2A~4
  • EP3401234B1 patent drawingFigure 5~7

AI summary

Supporting module for supporting at least one annular reel (2) of a band, comprising a main body (7) provided with a housing seat (8), which comprises at least two supporting elements (20) arranged at a given distance (D) from each other and configured to support respective portions of an outer annular peripheral edge (6) of at least one reel (2).