Shoe Upper Mounting Machine with Proportional String-Pulling Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current shoe upper mounting machines using the string-pulling method are limited by the need for skilled operators, leading to repetitive strain injuries and high operational costs, and are not suitable for assembling footwear with tougher or less flexible materials due to lack of proportional force and speed control, resulting in inefficiencies and material waste.
Innovation Solution
A shoe upper mounting machine with a string-pulling device that includes a metal support housing with three modules: an uppers putting on module, a string-pulling module, and an optional assembling and disassembling module, utilizing a proportional command pedal for precise control of force and speed, allowing a single operator to perform tasks with reduced physical effort and increased accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If manual string-pulling method is used by skilled operators, then assembly quality can be maintained, but operator fatigue and repetitive strain injuries occur, leading to high operational costs
Solution Approach 1:
The machine performs string-pulling operations automatically without requiring continuous manual intervention. The automated mechanism pulls and tightens strings through the entire shoe upper assembly process, making the system self-sufficient for the task and eliminating the need for operators to perform repetitive manual string-pulling that causes fatigue and injuries
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical string-pulling system with an automated mechanical system. The machine uses motorized or mechanically actuated components to perform string tensioning, substituting human physical effort with automated mechanical forces that can maintain consistent tension without causing operator strain
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional string-pulling equipment is used, then basic tightening function is provided, but proportional force and speed control is lacking, making it unsuitable for tougher or less flexible materials
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic control capabilities that allow the string-pulling mechanism to adjust its force and speed in real-time during operation. This dynamic adjustment enables the machine to handle different material types (from flexible to tough materials) by modulating the tightening parameters according to the specific material properties being processed
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows for changing operational parameters such as force magnitude, pulling speed, and tension levels to match the requirements of different footwear materials. This parameter adjustability enables the same machine to work with various material types including tougher and less flexible materials that would damage or not respond well to fixed-parameter equipment
3Productivity
If multiple separate devices are used for upper attachment and string tightening, then specialized functions are provided, but device complexity and operational inefficiency increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple previously separate functions (upper attachment, string pulling, and tightening operations) into a single integrated machine. This consolidation allows all operations to be performed in sequence without moving the workpiece between different devices, significantly improving productivity and reducing the complexity associated with coordinating multiple separate machines
Solution Approach 2:
The machine is designed to perform multiple functions within a single device: attaching the upper to the last, pulling the strings through the upper, and tightening the strings to the required tension. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for multiple specialized devices and streamlines the entire assembly process into one operational unit
Data Source
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AI summary
SHOE UPPER MOUNTING MACHINE WITH STRING-PULLING DEVICE designed for mounting a shoe upper using a string-pulling device, for the high-productivity footwear assembly sector, using the string-pulling method - stitching the edges with a lasting string. The invention also includes the use of this technology in footwear models that are normally excluded as they have tough and not very flexible shoe uppers that are difficult to shape through string-pulling. For that purpose, it is sufficient to provide a shoe upper with new dimensions suitable for this assembly technology, whenever necessary. The machine is able to tighten any string and adjust any shoe upper to the last, provided that these materials comply with acceptable quality standards for footwear components. The invention comprises a module (3) for fitting shoe uppers onto the last (F), a string-pulling module (4), and optionally a module (5) for assembling and disassembling the mountable shoe last; these modules may be associated, meaning, module (3) together with module (4), or module (3) together with module (4) together with module (5), or may be used in combination or individually with at least one of these modules, with modules (3) and (4) also comprising force and speed actuators.