Automated Strip Material End Connection Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for fabricating belt members and other long strip-like materials embedded with cords in rubber are inefficient due to the manual labor required to connect terminal ends of strip-like materials, leading to interruptions in the manufacturing process, particularly when supplying directly to molding drums.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for automatically connecting the terminal end of one strip-like material to the start end of another by using a hand apparatus to transfer the start end onto a receiving base and pressing it onto the terminal end, allowing continuous supply without manual labor and process interruptions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If manual labor is used to connect terminal end and start end portions of strip-like material, then connection can be achieved, but productivity decreases and time loss increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting apparatus automatically performs the connection operation without manual labor. The terminal end portion is automatically positioned on the receiving base, and the start end portion of the next strip-like material is automatically connected to it through the apparatus's automated mechanisms, enabling the system to service itself
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical connection operations are replaced with an automated connecting apparatus that uses mechanical systems controlled by automation technology. The apparatus includes automated positioning, holding, and pressing mechanisms that substitute human hands and tools with controlled mechanical systems
2Ease of manufacture
If manual connection is performed, then connection can be made, but loss of time occurs and process interruption happens
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting apparatus enables continuous connection operations without interrupting the molding process. The automated system maintains continuous useful action by seamlessly connecting strip-like material portions without stopping the production flow, ensuring uninterrupted supply to the molding drum
Solution Approach 2:
The terminal end portion is preliminarily positioned on the receiving base before the actual connection occurs. This preliminary positioning prepares the connection point in advance, allowing the start end portion to be quickly connected without delay, thus preventing process interruption
3Productivity
If automated connecting apparatus is used, then productivity increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting apparatus is segmented into distinct functional modules: a receiving base for positioning the terminal end, holding means for securing it, and pressing means for making the connection. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while keeping the overall system manageable and maintainable
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 supply of strip-like materials during the manufacturing of belt members and other components, enhancing operational efficiency and preventing interruptions in tire molding processes.
Implementation Method 1
pressing means for pressing the start end portion onto the terminal end portion
Data Source
AI summary
The invention enables to automatically connect a terminal end portion of a strip-like material drawn out from a winding member constituting an apparatus of supplying the strip-like material and a start end portion of a succeeding strip-like material, at supply support portions 1a, 1b, a strip-like material B is drawn out from one winding member Ba of a plurality of winding members Ba, Bb aligned on support shafts 2a, 2b to be supported thereby, a start end portion of the strip-like material B of other winding member Ba is made to be awaited at an awaiting portion 9a, at every time of finishing transporting the strip-like material B, the strip-like material B is temporarily stopped from being transported, during a time period of stopping to transport the strip-like material B, a start end portion of the strip-like material B of a succeeding winding member Ba is held by a hand apparatus 10 and transported from above the awaiting portion 9a to above a receiving base 7, the start end portion is laminated on a terminal end portion of the preceding strip-like material, and the start end portion and the terminal end portion are pressed to connect above the receiving base 7.