Stretch Wrap Tail Adhesion Using Directed Airflow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional packaging techniques face challenges in securely adhering the packaging material tail to the load after wrapping, leading to potential snagging hazards and inefficiencies, especially in applications where loads are not on conveyors or turntables, and existing solutions can be complex and produce inconsistent results.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus utilizing pressurized fluid flow from an upstream position at an acute angle to the packaging material tail, followed by a second flow at a different angle, to securely adhere the tail to the load, potentially with heating to enhance adhesion, and including a controller to coordinate the fluid flow with the cutting process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional wipe down mechanisms are used to adhere packaging material tail to load, then adhesion is achieved, but the mechanisms are complex and produce inconsistent results
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical wipe down mechanisms with a simple air blow system. Instead of using mechanical arms, loops, or wipes that physically contact and press the packaging material tail against the load, the invention uses directed airflow to blow the tail onto the load surface. This substitution of mechanical action with pneumatic action simplifies the device while improving reliability and consistency of adhesion.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs pneumatic principles by using compressed air to achieve the adhesion function. A nozzle directs a controlled air stream onto the packaging material tail, using the aerodynamic force to position and press the tail against the load. This pneumatic approach eliminates complex mechanical components while providing consistent and reliable adhesion results.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If packaging material tail is left unadhered, then removal is easier, but it creates snagging hazards during transportation and storage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical state and adhesion parameters of the packaging material tail by using controlled air flow. The air stream adjusts the tail's position, pressure contact, and adhesion strength to achieve optimal bonding. By controlling parameters such as air pressure, flow rate, and nozzle distance, the system achieves sufficient adhesion to eliminate snagging hazards while maintaining reasonable ease of removal when needed.
3Adaptability or versatility
If loads are not on conveyors or turntables, then more applications are covered, but existing wipe down mechanisms cannot effectively adhere tails
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal adhesion solution that works across multiple application scenarios. The air blow system can be effectively applied whether the load is stationary, moving on a conveyor, or positioned in various orientations. Unlike mechanical wipe down mechanisms that require specific mounting configurations and load positions, the pneumatic system adapts to different applications, thereby increasing versatility while maintaining reliable adhesion effectiveness.
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 method ensures consistent and secure adhesion of the packaging material tail to the load, reducing the risk of snagging and improving the wrapping process efficiency, even for loads not on conveyors or turntables, by using directed fluid flows to manage the tail's position and adhesion effectively.
Implementation Method 1
direct a flow of fluid towards the packaging material tail from a position generally upstream of a free end of the packaging material tail and at an acute angle relative to the side of a load
Data Source
AI summary
A method, apparatus and program product utilize pressurized fluid flow from a position generally upstream of a free end of a packaging material tail and at an acute angle relative to the side of a load while the free end of the packaging material tail is unsupported and/or utilize pressurized fluid flow in two or more directions and from two or more positions to assist in adhering a packaging material tail to the side of a load at the completion of a wrapping operation.