Rigidity Detection in Sheet Manufacturing via Intersecting Press Force
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sheet manufacturing apparatuses cannot detect the rigidity level of manufactured sheets without adversely affecting productivity, as existing detection methods require pausing or slowing down sheet transport.
Innovation Solution
A rigidity level detection apparatus is integrated into the sheet manufacturing process, comprising a transport unit, a press unit with deformable rollers that apply pressure intersecting the transport direction, and a detection unit using sensors to measure reaction forces, allowing for real-time rigidity assessment without pausing or significantly reducing transport speed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a rigidity level detection mechanism is applied to a sheet manufacturing apparatus, then the rigidity level of the sheet can be detected, but the sheet transport speed decreases and sheet productivity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The press unit continuously presses the sheet against the transport direction during transport without pausing or significantly reducing transport speed. The sensor continuously detects the reaction force during this continuous pressing action, enabling rigidity level detection while maintaining continuous sheet production and transport, thus resolving the contradiction between measurement capability and productivity.
2Measurement precision
If the sheet transport is paused or speed is decreased for rigidity detection, then the rigidity level can be accurately measured, but the detection process becomes time-consuming and reduces output
Solution Approach 1:
The press unit applies pressing force to the sheet in the direction intersecting with the transport direction during normal transport. This preliminary action of pressing the sheet while it is moving allows the sensor to detect the reaction force that corresponds to the sheet's rigidity level without needing to pause or slow down transport, thereby enabling accurate measurement while minimizing time loss.
3Reliability
If a detection mechanism is integrated into the manufacturing process, then real-time quality control is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The press unit serves dual functions: it presses the sheet against the transport direction to enable rigidity detection, and simultaneously maintains the sheet's proper positioning during transport. The sensor both detects the reaction force for rigidity measurement and provides feedback for process control. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated detection components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity while achieving real-time quality control.
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 continuous sheet production with accurate rigidity level detection, allowing for quality control and maintaining productivity by determining sheet suitability without interrupting the manufacturing process.
Implementation Method 1
a press unit having a press member that deforms the sheet by pressing the sheet in a direction intersecting with a transport direction of the sheet
Implementation Method 2
a press unit having a press member that deforms the sheet by pressing the sheet
Implementation Method 3
a detection unit having a sensor that detects a reaction force exerted from the deformed sheet to the press unit
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a rigidity level detection apparatus provided in a sheet manufacturing apparatus that manufactures a sheet by performing compression shaping of a defibrated material of a fiber-containing material and configured to detect a rigidity level of the sheet. The rigidity level detection apparatus includes a transport unit that transports the sheet, a press unit having a press member that deforms the sheet by pressing the sheet in a direction intersecting with a transport direction of the sheet while the sheet is transported by the transport unit, a detection unit having a sensor that detects a reaction force exerted from the deformed sheet to the press unit, and a determination unit that determines the rigidity level of the sheet based on a detection value from the sensor.