Servo-Controlled Box Forming Machine Mandrel Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing box forming machines lack individually controlled folding arms and a control system that allows for programming different box forming recipes, limiting their ability to produce various sizes and types of boxes with minimal mechanical changes.
Innovation Solution
A machine with a mandrel assembly and independently controlled lifting mechanisms and folding arms, operated by a control system that transmits signals to servomechanisms to wrap the blank around the mandrel, enabling the formation of different box sizes and types by following programmed movement paths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If folding arms are rigidly connected together to move in tandem, then the mechanical structure is simpler, but the ability to independently control each arm for different box configurations is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The machine divides the blank wrapping operation into multiple independent folding arms (first folding arm, second folding arm, third folding arm) that can be individually controlled by separate servomechanisms. Each arm handles a specific portion of the blank independently, allowing precise control over the folding sequence and geometry to create various box configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The folding arms transition from rigid mechanical linkages to dynamically controllable components driven by servomechanisms. Each arm's position, speed, and movement path can be independently adjusted through programmed control, enabling the system to adapt to different box sizes and types without physical reconfiguration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a control system with programmable servomechanisms is implemented, then the versatility of box forming is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system serves multiple functions: it controls the positioning of folding arms, manages the sequence of operations, adjusts movement speeds, and stores multiple box forming recipes. This centralized control architecture allows a single system to handle various box configurations without requiring separate control mechanisms for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical linkages and manual adjustment mechanisms with an automated control system using servomechanisms and computer programming. The control system electronically manages the folding process, eliminating the need for physical reconfiguration of mechanical components when changing box types.
3Manufacturing precision
If individually controlled folding arms are used, then the precision of blank wrapping is improved, but the mechanical complexity of the machine increases
Solution Approach 1:
The servomechanisms controlling each folding arm incorporate feedback mechanisms that continuously monitor arm position and movement. This feedback allows the control system to make real-time adjustments, ensuring precise positioning of the blank during wrapping and maintaining high manufacturing precision throughout the forming process.
Data Source
AI summary
A machine a mandrel assembly includes a mandrel having an external shape complimentary to an internal shape of at least a portion of a container, a first lift mechanism operatively coupled to a first servomechanism to wrap a first portion of a blank about the mandrel, a second lift mechanism operatively coupled to a second servomechanism to wrap a second portion of the blank about the mandrel, and a folding arm coupled to the first lift mechanism and operatively coupled to a third servomechanism. A control system is in communication with the first servomechanism, the second servomechanism, and the third servomechanism and is configured to transmit a signal to each of the servomechanisms to independently control movement of the first lift mechanism, the second lift mechanism, and the folding arm to wrap at least the first and second portions of the blank about the mandrel to form the container.