Rotating Tape-End Receptacle for Automatic Flag Closing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing taping systems fail to automatically secure the free end of adhesive tape after wrapping, leading to manual intervention and potential quality issues.
Innovation Solution
An auxiliary tool with a base plate, rotatable ring, and spring-loaded receptacle that aligns and rotates to secure the free end of the adhesive tape to the strand, compatible with robotic manipulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a taping head is used to wrap adhesive tape around a strand, then the tape can be applied to the strand, but the free end of the tape cannot adhere to the strand after cutting, resulting in a loose flag that requires manual work
Solution Approach 1:
A pressing element is introduced as an intermediary component between the taping head and the strand. This pressing element contacts the free end of the tape and presses it against the strand during rotation, ensuring reliable adhesion of the tape end without requiring manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The pressing element is designed to be movable relative to the taping head, allowing it to dynamically adjust its position and apply pressing force to the tape end during the rotation process, thereby ensuring consistent adhesion throughout the automated operation.
2Reliability
If the auxiliary tool is pressed against the strand to secure the tape end, then the flag can be closed, but the strand may be deformed
Solution Approach 1:
The pressing element is designed to apply pressing force locally only to the free end of the tape and the immediate contact area on the strand, rather than applying force along the entire length of the strand. This localized pressing ensures reliable tape end adhesion while minimizing deformation of the strand.
3Extent of automation
If a distinct auxiliary tool is provided for fixing the flag, then manual work is eliminated, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The auxiliary tool is merged with the taping head to form an integrated assembly. The pressing element is positioned within or adjacent to the taping head structure, allowing the flag closing function to be combined with the existing tape application mechanism, thereby reducing overall device complexity.
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
Automatically secures the free end of adhesive tape without requiring redesign of existing taping heads, ensuring efficient and reliable closure without deforming the strand.
Implementation Method 1
When the auxiliary tool is further urged against the strand, the receptacle will move against a spring force. Thereby, a central axis of the strand can be aligned with the centre of the mouths.
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~7
Figure 8~9
AI summary
An auxiliary tool for fixing a free end of an adhesive tape wrapped around a strand comprises a base plate and a rotatable ring with a receptacle.