Rubber-Cored String Joining Structure Using Porous Particle Solidifier

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Solution Overview

Problem

The joining strength of opposite end portions of rubber core cords in rubber rings is a persistent challenge for manufacturers, as conventional methods often result in nappped fiber yarns and reduced adhesive strength.

Innovation Solution

A rubber core cord joining structure is developed using a solidifying agent containing porous particles and a solvent, which forms solidified portions at the end portions of the cords, allowing for enhanced adhesive bonding and increased joining strength when joined with a permeable adhesive.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If rubber-cored string is joined by conventional methods (splicing, twisting, welding), then joining is achieved, but the joining part becomes visible and affects the aesthetic appearance of the rope

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvejoining methodVSAvoidaesthetic appearance
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

A solidifier is introduced as an intermediary substance that penetrates into the rubber core during joining, allowing the rubber to solidify and form a seamless, aesthetically pleasing joint without visible splicing or twisting marks

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of manufacture

If rubber-cored string is joined by splicing or twisting, then joining is achieved, but the joining part is bulky and creates uneven surface

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvejoining methodVSAvoidsurface evenness
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The mechanical joining methods (splicing, twisting) are replaced by a chemical/physical process where a solidifier penetrates the rubber core and causes it to solidify, creating a seamless join without the bulkiness of mechanical deformation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Ease of manufacture

If rubber-cored string is joined by welding, then joining is achieved, but the process requires special equipment and is complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvejoining methodVSAvoidequipment requirement
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The solidifier acts as a simple, inexpensive consumable material that can be easily applied without special equipment, replacing complex welding equipment with a straightforward penetration and solidification process

Inventive Principle:
Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

4Reliability

If rubber-cored string is joined by any conventional method, then joining is achieved, but the joining part is visible and cannot be hidden

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvejoining strengthVSAvoidaesthetic quality
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The physical state of the rubber core is changed from flexible to solidified through the introduction of the solidifier, allowing the rubber to set and form a seamless, aesthetically pleasing joint that maintains both strength and appearance

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 use of porous particles in the solidifying agent significantly improves the joining strength of rubber core cord structures, achieving a force requirement 1.6 to 1.7 times higher than conventional methods for separation of the joined end portions.

Implementation Method 1

a solidifier (40) for joining rubber-cored string (1), wherein the solidifier (40) comprises a solidifying agent and a carrier, wherein the solidifying agent is soluble in the carrier, wherein the solidifier (40) is applied to a leading end (2) of the rubber-cored string (1), wherein the solidifier (40) penetrates into a rubber core (3) through the leading end (2), wherein the solidifying agent solidifies the rubber

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhase change: Phase Change

Data Source

PatentEP3453283B1Joining structure for rubber-cored string, and use of a solidifier for joining rubber-cored string
Publication Date: 2023.10.04 EIKO ENTERPRISE
  • EP3453283B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3453283B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3453283B1 patent drawingFigure 3(a)~3(d)

AI summary

The present invention provides a joining structure with a joining strength higher than that of a conventional rubber core cord joining structure of a rubber ring. The invention also provides a solidifying agent for joining a rubber core cord that provides such a joining structure. A joining structure 2 of a rubber core cord 11 according to the present invention is a rubber core cord joining structure of which opposite end portions of the rubber core cord 11 or end portions of two rubber core cords are joined to each other with an adhesive. A solidified portion 23 formed by a solidifying agent 25 that has solidified is formed at each of the opposite end portions of the rubber core cord 11 or each of the end portions of the two rubber core cords, and the solidified portion 23 contains porous particles. The solidifying agent 25 according to the present invention is a solidifying agent that is applied to the rubber core cord 11, and contains a solvent containing a solidification component and porous particles contained in the solvent.