Strapping Tensioning Tool Gripper Angling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional strapping tools require a large vertical force to hold the strap in place during tensioning and cutting, making it difficult to lift the gripper portion after tensioning and cutting, and may damage the strap.
Innovation Solution
A strapping tool design featuring a gripper, windlass, and cutter configuration where the cutter is positioned closest to the front, the windlass is at the rear, and the gripper is between them, forming an angle of 45-55 degrees with the strapping surface, allowing the upper strap to apply a supplemental vertical force that reduces the primary vertical force needed by the gripper.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If conventional strapping tools are used, then the strap can be held in place during tensioning and cutting, but a large vertical force is required to hold the strap, making it difficult to lift the gripper after operation
Solution Approach 1:
The gripper is angled at 45-55 degrees relative to the strapping surface, changing the dimensional orientation of the force application. This angular configuration allows the upper strap to apply a supplemental vertical force component, reducing the primary vertical force burden on the gripper while maintaining holding capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The upper strap acts as an intermediary element that applies supplemental vertical force to the gripper through the angled configuration. This intermediary force application reduces the direct burden on the gripper mechanism, making it easier to lift after operation.
2Force
If large vertical force is applied by the gripper to hold the strap, then the strap can be securely held during tensioning and cutting, but the strap may be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
By angling the gripper at 45-55 degrees, the force application is distributed across different dimensional components. The supplemental vertical force from the upper strap reduces the concentration of force on any single point, preventing strap damage while maintaining secure holding.
Solution Approach 2:
The angled configuration changes the force distribution parameters, transforming the force application from a direct vertical load to a distributed force system with both vertical and horizontal components, reducing the risk of strap damage.
3Reliability
If the gripper is positioned to hold the strap securely, then the strap can be tensioned and cut effectively, but the tool configuration becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The angled gripper configuration achieves reliable holding through spatial orientation rather than complex mechanical structures. The 45-55 degree angle creates favorable force vectors that maintain holding ability while simplifying the overall tool configuration.
Data Source
AI summary
Strapping tensioning tools are disclosed herein. The disclosed strapping tensioning tools reduce the forces that are required to be applied by an actuator (i.e., a motor) to release the tools from tensioned straps without damaging the straps. According to one aspect of the invention, the forces are reduced by the relative positioning, from front to back, of the cutter, the gripper and the windlass. According to a second aspect of the invention, the forces are reduced by reducing the angle formed between the gripper and the base of the tool. Namely, in one embodiment, the angle of the gripper relative to the strapping surface of the base is approximately 45-55 degrees.