Sealing Profile Joint Detection via Mechanical Deflection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods face challenges in reliably detecting joints in sealing profile strands made of elastomeric materials like TPE or EPDM, particularly when using camera-based systems, which can be inefficient due to the uniform axial length and hardness of joints.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus utilizing a detection element that moves relative to the sealing profile strand, detecting deflections or forces to identify joints, with sensors producing peak signals when joints are present, allowing for accurate detection and cutting of predefined strip lengths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If camera-based systems are used to detect joints in sealing profile strands, then the detection can be performed visually, but the detection efficiency is low and reliability is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces optical detection systems with a mechanical detection system. A detection element with a radial detection surface is brought into contact with the sealing profile strand, and a sensor detects mechanical deflections or forces as the strand moves relative to the detection element. This mechanical approach provides more reliable and efficient joint detection compared to camera-based visual systems.
2Measurement precision
If a detection element is brought into contact with the sealing profile strand to detect joints, then detection accuracy improves, but the complexity of the detection apparatus increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the detection parameter from optical properties to mechanical properties (deflection or force). The detection element has a radial detection surface that contacts the strand, and sensors detect mechanical parameters as the strand moves relative to the detection element. This parameter change improves detection accuracy while keeping the apparatus relatively simple.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the detection element is movably mounted in a deflection direction transverse to the longitudinal axis, then the detection of joint irregularities is enabled, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The detection element is made movable in a deflection direction transverse to the longitudinal axis of the strand. This dynamic mounting allows the detection element to respond to joint irregularities as the strand moves past it, enabling detection of defects while maintaining a relatively simple structural implementation.
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 reliable detection of joints in sealing profile strands, improving the efficiency of joint identification and strip cutting, even when used in conjunction with camera-based systems, by using a detection element that moves relative to the strand and detects deflections or forces, ensuring accurate and efficient application of sealing profile strips.
Implementation Method 1
The detection element is brought into contact with the sealing profile strand... detecting a deflection of the detection element in the deflection direction and/or a force acting on the detection element in the force direction
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 2f~2i
AI summary
A method for detecting irregularities on a material strand made of an elastomeric material, particularly a sealing profile strand, comprising the steps of: - providing a material strand which defines a longitudinal axis along which the material strand is to be conveyed; - bringing a detection element in contact with the material strand, wherein the detection element is movably mounted in a direction of deflection transverse to the longitudinal axis and/or wherein a force can act on the detection element in a force direction, - setting up a relative movement between the detection element and the material strand along the longitudinal axis; and - detecting a deflection of the detection element in the deflection direction and/or a force acting on the detection element in the force direction, so as to detect irregularities in the material strand. (Fig. 5)