Tape Delivery System with Dancer Roll for Multifunction Applicator
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current L-clip tape applicators are complex, user-unfriendly, and require significant space and power, making them less efficient for multifunctional applications compared to C-clip tape applicators, which are simpler and more reliable but limited to single configurations.
Innovation Solution
A tape delivery system with a dancer roll, one-way clutch roll, and pivotable components that provide slack and tension control for tape delivery, allowing for seamless switching between C-clip and L-clip configurations in a multifunctional tape applicator.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a dedicated L-clip tape applicator is used, then L-clip taping capability is achieved, but device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The tape applicator is designed with a universal mechanism that can perform both C-clip and L-clip taping configurations using the same basic apparatus. The dancer roll assembly and applicator arm can be positioned to apply tape in different patterns (continuous C-shape or L-shape at leading/trailing ends), eliminating the need for separate dedicated applicators for each configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The applicator employs dynamic positioning of the applicator arm and dancer roll assembly that allows transition between different taping configurations. The arm can be positioned to apply tape along the entire case length (C-clip) or only at the ends (L-clip), providing adaptability without requiring multiple static mechanisms.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a dedicated L-clip tape applicator is used, then L-clip taping capability is achieved, but mounting space and installation requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The tape applicator is designed with a universal mechanism that can perform both C-clip and L-clip taping configurations using the same basic apparatus. The dancer roll assembly and applicator arm can be positioned to apply tape in different patterns (continuous C-shape or L-shape at leading/trailing ends), eliminating the need for separate dedicated applicators for each configuration.
3Device complexity
If C-clip tape applicator is used, then simplicity and reliability are maintained, but only C-clip configuration can be applied
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator employs dynamic positioning of the applicator arm and dancer roll assembly that allows transition between different taping configurations. The arm can be positioned to apply tape along the entire case length (C-clip) or only at the ends (L-clip), providing adaptability without requiring multiple static mechanisms.
4Reliability
If tape tension is maintained during L-clip application, then tape adhesion is ensured, but tape slack is required for configuration switching
Solution Approach 1:
The dancer roll assembly provides dynamic tension control, maintaining appropriate tape tension during application to ensure adhesion while allowing the mechanism to accommodate slack when configuration changes are required. The spring-loaded dancer roll automatically adjusts tension based on the operational state.
Solution Approach 2:
The dancer roll assembly acts as an intermediary mechanism between the tape supply and the applicator, mediating the tension requirements. It can maintain tension for reliable adhesion during application while also accommodating the slack needed for configuration transitions, reconciling the conflicting requirements.
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 efficient and user-friendly operation of tape applicators capable of switching between C-clip and L-clip configurations, reducing complexity and space requirements while maintaining reliable tape application.
Implementation Method 1
a spring biasing said dancer arm to rotate in a counterclockwise direction around said second axis
Implementation Method 2
a one way clutch roll pivotably mounted on said frame on a third axis parallel to said first axis, said one way clutch roll permitting rotation to permit movement of said tape along said tape path from said tape supply toward said applicator
Data Source
AI summary
An improved tape supply system particularly suited for use in a multifunction tape applicator for applying a front and/or back L-clips to a case wherein a dancer roll is operable to provide slack in the tape and a break is applied to facilitate cutting of the tape.