Cardboard Container Folding With Synchronized Flap Grippers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for forming cardboard containers by folding vertical flaps sequentially cause deformation, shifting, and synchronization issues, particularly when handling lightweight or slippery products, leading to production inefficiencies and potential safety hazards.
Innovation Solution
A device and method for simultaneously folding vertical flaps of a cardboard sheet using grippers on both sides of the conveyor, actuated jointly, with synchronized mobility to ensure precise folding and transfer, using grippers that grip and accompany the sheet during the folding process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If vertical flaps are folded sequentially using existing methods, then the folding process can be completed, but deformation and shifting of the cardboard sheet occur, leading to poor manufacturing precision
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple folding operations into a single simultaneous action. Two folding means act together on opposite sides of the cardboard sheet at the same time, folding vertical flaps from both sides simultaneously rather than sequentially. This merging of operations prevents the sheet from shifting or deforming between folding steps, achieving precise folding while maintaining sheet stability throughout the process.
Solution Approach 2:
The folding means are positioned and configured in advance to perform the folding action at the optimal moment. The device is set up so that when the folding operation initiates, the folding means are already in position to apply force simultaneously to both sides of the sheet, ensuring precise folding from the start without requiring corrective adjustments.
2Productivity
If sequential folding methods are used, then the folding process can be completed, but synchronization issues arise and production efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two separate folding operations into a single simultaneous action. Instead of folding one side then the other sequentially, both folding means operate at the same time on opposite sides of the cardboard sheet. This doubling of the folding rate without increasing the total time required significantly improves production efficiency and reduces the folding cycle time.
3Reliability
If lightweight or slippery products are handled during sequential folding, then products can be processed, but handling stability deteriorates and safety hazards increase
Solution Approach 1:
The simultaneous folding action is performed at the optimal moment when the products are most stable in their positioning. By folding both sides at once rather than sequentially, the device creates a more stable folding environment that prevents products from shifting or becoming dislodged, improving handling reliability and reducing safety hazards associated with lightweight or slippery products.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to the forming of a container by folding a cardboard sheet with at least vertical flaps, using a forming device and a forming method. Such a device comprises an upstream conveyor driving said cardboard sheet in a direction of travel, a downstream conveyor, means for folding the vertical flaps, said folding means being situated symmetrically about said upstream conveyor, and is characterized in that, on each side, said folding means comprise a pair of downstream and upstream pushers forming a gripper, said pushers being actuated jointly from an open position toward a closed position of folding said corresponding vertical flaps, a support for each gripper, said support being mobile in said direction of travel.