Spindle Differential Torque Distribution for Multi-Roll Tension

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing spindle systems for roll processing, such as printing systems, face challenges in efficiently managing rolls of different diameters, leading to uneven media tension and potential wrinkle issues when winding or unwinding multiple rolls simultaneously.

Innovation Solution

A spindle design incorporating a differential mechanism that equally distributes torque to multiple support tubes, allowing for simultaneous rotation of rolls of varying diameters with equal media tension, and a blocking arrangement for easy mounting and processing of single or multiple rolls.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If a single spindle rotates multiple rolls simultaneously, then productivity is improved, but media tension uniformity deteriorates when rolls have different diameters

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessing efficiencyVSAvoidmedia tension uniformity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The spindle is segmented into multiple independent support tubes (first support tube, second support tube) that can rotate independently. Each support tube carries a roll and can be driven separately through the differential mechanism, allowing different rotational speeds for rolls of different diameters while maintaining uniform media tension.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The differential mechanism enables parameter changes in rotational speed for each support tube while maintaining a constant relationship between them. When rolls have different diameters, the system automatically adjusts the rotational speed parameter of each tube to ensure uniform linear media feed rate and tension.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Manufacturing precision

If a differential mechanism is added to distribute torque equally, then media tension uniformity is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemedia tension uniformityVSAvoidspindle structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The differential mechanism serves multiple functions: it equally distributes torque to multiple support tubes, automatically accommodates rolls of different diameters, and maintains uniform media tension. This single component addresses multiple requirements that would otherwise need separate mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The differential acts as an intermediary mechanism between the drive system and the support tubes. It mediates the torque distribution and rotational speed relationships, providing a smooth transition and equal torque distribution to all support tubes without requiring complex control systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Productivity

If rolls of different diameters are processed simultaneously, then productivity is improved, but wrinkle issues increase due to uneven tension

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessing efficiencyVSAvoidwrinkle formation
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

By segmenting the spindle into independent support tubes with individual rotational control through the differential, each roll can be optimized for its specific diameter. This prevents the tension unevenness that causes wrinkles when rolls of different sizes are processed together on a conventional single-speed spindle.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 spindle system ensures consistent roll material tension and reduced wrinkle issues across rolls of different diameters, enabling efficient processing and easy mounting of rolls without the need for disassembly or additional components.

Implementation Method 1

The spindle (2) comprises a differential (10) having two outputs (15, 16) and one input (17)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDifferential mechanism: Differential Windlass

Data Source

PatentUS10239719B2Spindle
Publication Date: 2019.03.26 HEWLETT PACKARD DEVELOPMENT COMPANY LP
  • US10239719B2 patent drawing
  • US10239719B2 patent drawing
  • US10239719B2 patent drawing

AI summary

In one embodiment, a roll spindle comprises two roll supports and a differential.