Rotary Can Changer for Multi-Head Drafting Line
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-head draw frames require complex linear movements for can changing, leading to time-consuming and costly operations, as they typically involve linear drives and multiple mechanical components for moving cans between filling and removal stations.
Innovation Solution
A multi-head draw frame with a common rotatable can changer, utilizing a turnstile with four rotating arms and a vertically arranged axis, allows for circular or oval movement of cans between filling and removal stations, eliminating the need for complex linear drives and enabling efficient can exchange with reduced mechanical complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If linear movement mechanics are used for can changing, then cans can be moved between filling and removal stations, but the movement mechanics become complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies curved movement paths (circular or oval tracks) instead of linear movement for can changing. The can changer moves cans along a curved trajectory from filling stations to removal stations, eliminating the need for complex linear drives with multiple reversing movements. This curved path approach simplifies the movement mechanics while maintaining operational effectiveness.
2Productivity
If complex linear drives are used for can movement, then cans can be transported between stations, but operational time increases and costs rise
Solution Approach 1:
The can changer is pre-positioned and pre-configured to move cans along a predetermined curved path. The system prepares the movement trajectory in advance, allowing cans to be transferred continuously without stopping for complex drive reversals. This preliminary preparation of the movement path eliminates time-consuming adjustments and reversals, thereby increasing productivity and reducing downtime.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple can changers are used for each filling station, then can exchange can be performed independently, but device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a single multi-functional can changer that serves multiple filling stations. This universal device can move cans to and from different filling stations and removal stations along its curved track, eliminating the need for separate dedicated can changers at each station. The multi-functional design reduces overall device complexity while maintaining the capability for independent can exchange operations.
Data Source
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AI summary
The multi-head line has adjacent drafting arrangements for stretching of one fiber composite. Each drafting unit has an outlet for drawn fiber material (5), which is arranged with storage disk (7). Each storage device is provided with dispensing area (13) in which can (8) is arranged. The cans are moved corresponding to sampling sites (15) during switching off state of fiber material deposition operation. An independent claim is included for method of changing cans on multi-head line.