Automated Glue Assembly for Suitcase Shell and Middle Frame

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing manual assembly processes for suitcases, including machine sewing and rivet connections, are inefficient, costly, and prone to deformation, making them unsuitable for large-scale production.

Innovation Solution

A device comprising a locating mechanism, glue coating mechanism, feed mechanism, press-in mechanism, and pressure-keeping mechanism automates the assembly of a shell and middle frame using glue, simplifying the process and reducing manual labor.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If manual assembly with machine sewing or rivet connection is used, then the assembly process is simple to implement, but the production efficiency is low and the production period is long

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveproduction efficiencyVSAvoidassembly process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The assembly device is divided into multiple independent functional modules including locating mechanism, glue coating mechanism, feed mechanism, press-in mechanism, and pressure-keeping mechanism. Each module performs a specific function, allowing for streamlined automated operation while maintaining process simplicity through modular design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical connection methods (machine sewing and rivet connection) with an automated glue-based assembly system. This substitution eliminates the need for complex sewing machines or rivet-setting equipment, achieving higher productivity through a simpler automated gluing process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Productivity

If manual assembly is used, then the device complexity is low, but the labor cost is high and production efficiency is low

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveproduction efficiencyVSAvoidautomation level
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSExtent of automation

Solution Approach 1:

The automated assembly device integrates multiple functions into a single system that can handle different assembly operations (locating, glue coating, feeding, pressing, and pressure-keeping) in sequence. This multi-functional automated system replaces multiple manual operations, significantly improving production efficiency while controlling overall system complexity.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The device enables automated self-service assembly where the system automatically performs all assembly operations without manual intervention. The manipulator automatically transfers components, the glue coating mechanism automatically applies adhesive, and the press-in mechanism automatically assembles parts, eliminating labor costs while achieving high productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Productivity

If rivet connection is used to fix the frame, then the connection strength is high, but the consumption of manpower and material resources is large

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly efficiencyVSAvoidmaterial resource consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts and eliminates the need for rivets as connection elements, using only glue for the assembly process. This extraction of the rivet component reduces material resource consumption while the automated glue application and pressing mechanisms maintain assembly efficiency and connection strength.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

4Strength

If machine sewing process is used for zipper-type suitcase, then the assembly can be completed, but the production efficiency is greatly reduced and the mechanical strength is poor

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemechanical strengthVSAvoidproduction efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the machine sewing process with an automated glue-based assembly system. This substitution eliminates the weak mechanical connection produced by sewing while achieving stronger bonds through adhesive, and simultaneously improves productivity by automating the entire assembly process without the limitations of sewing machine operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS10697487B2Device for automatically assembling shell and middle frame by glue and use method thereof
Publication Date: 2020.06.30 SHANGHAI RUNMI TECH CO LTD
  • US10697487B2 patent drawing
  • US10697487B2 patent drawing
  • US10697487B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A device for automatically assembling a shell and a middle frame by glue includes a locating mechanism of the middle frame, a glue coating mechanism, a feed mechanism, a press-in mechanism, and a pressure-keeping mechanism. Components to be assembled are transferred among the locating mechanism of the middle frame, the glue coating mechanism, the feed mechanism, the press-in mechanism, and the pressure-keeping mechanism through manipulators. An automatic assembly line is formed by the device to assemble various components of the case body, which considerably reduces the manual assembly cost, simplifies the complicated assembly process, effectively shortens the whole production period, and improves the production efficiency.