Biodegradable Tea Bag Thread Knotting Device
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for attaching a label to a tea bag thread using metal clips are non-biodegradable, costly, and can disrupt microwave cooking, while knot-based methods require multiple tools and are not fully recyclable.
Innovation Solution
A device with a holding bracket and gripper forms a knot on one side of the body using linear and rotary movements, allowing the thread to be securely attached without additional non-biodegradable components, using biodegradable materials like paper or cardboard.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If metal clips are used to attach the label to the thread, then the connection is strong and reliable, but the assembly becomes non-biodegradable and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and removes the metal clip component from the assembly, replacing it with a knotting mechanism that uses only biodegradable materials (thread and label), thereby eliminating the harmful non-biodegradable element while maintaining connection reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The thread knots itself to the label through the knotting device, creating a self-contained biodegradable connection system that does not require external metal fasteners, achieving both reliability and biodegradability
2Reliability
If metal clips are used to attach the label to the thread, then the connection is secure, but production costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces expensive metal clips with a disposable biodegradable knotting system that uses only thread and label materials, significantly reducing production costs while maintaining adequate connection reliability for the application
Solution Approach 2:
By removing the metal clip component entirely and using only the existing thread and label materials for attachment, the invention eliminates the cost of metal components and associated assembly complexity
3Reliability
If metal clips are used to attach the label to the thread, then the connection is strong, but microwave heating is disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and removes the metal clip from the assembly, eliminating the source of microwave disruption (metal overheating and arcing) while maintaining connection strength through the knotting mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The invention creates a homogeneous biodegradable assembly where all components (thread, label, knot) are made from compatible materials that do not interfere with microwave heating, ensuring uniform and safe heating throughout the tea bag assembly
4Reliability
If multiple knots or thread bushings are used to attach the label, then the connection is reliable, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the functions of multiple knots and thread bushings into a single integrated knotting operation performed by the knotting device, reducing the number of separate components and simplifying the overall structure while maintaining connection reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The knotting device performs multiple functions (forming the knot, securing the label, creating the attachment) in a single operation, eliminating the need for separate components like thread bushings and multiple knots
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~6
Figure 7~9
AI summary
The label structure (2) has a through hole (10) through which a thread (5) is passed from one surface (3) of label structure to another surface (4) of label structure. A thread knot (26) is formed on another surface of label structure such that outer diameter of the knot is larger than diameter of through hole which is present in label structure. Independent claims are included for the following: (1) method for automatic mounting of thread to label structure; and (2) method for automatic mounting of thread to label structure.