Telescopic Mast Stretch Wrap Machine for Variable Height Pallets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional stretch wrapping systems face limitations in versatility, portability, and efficiency, particularly in handling materials of varying heights and requiring complex assembly or large shipping volumes.
Innovation Solution
A modular stretch wrap device with a sectional mast and rolling base, featuring swivel wheels and a powered winch system, allowing for adjustable mast height and easy assembly/disassembly, enabling efficient wrapping of materials up to 72 inches tall and compact shipping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a fixed turntable and mast system is used, then automatic rotation and wrapping capability is achieved, but portability and ease of relocation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The mast is divided into multiple telescopic sections that can extend and retract. The base unit remains compact and portable, while the mast can be extended to full height only when needed for operation. This segmentation allows the system to maintain portability while providing automatic rotation and wrapping capabilities when deployed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static fixed mast to a dynamic telescopic mast that can change its height and configuration. The mast sections can be extended vertically to provide the necessary wrapping height and then retracted for compact storage and transport, enabling the system to adapt between portable and operational states.
2Strength
If a single-piece mast is used, then structural integrity is maintained, but assembly complexity and shipping volume increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mast is segmented into multiple telescopic sections that nest within each other. Each section maintains structural integrity through proper engineering of the telescopic joints and connection mechanisms. The sections can be easily assembled and disassembled without complex procedures, reducing both assembly complexity and shipping volume while preserving the overall structural strength of the mast.
3Ease of manufacture
If mast height is fixed, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but versatility in handling different material heights deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The mast transitions from a fixed height structure to a dynamic telescopic structure with multiple extendable sections. Each section is manufactured using standard化的 components and connection mechanisms, maintaining manufacturing simplicity. The mast can be extended to various heights to accommodate different material stacking heights, providing versatility while keeping the manufacturing process relatively simple through modular design.
4Weight of moving object
If a portable handheld dispenser is used, then portability is maximized, but wrapping efficiency and coverage deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system combines the portability of handheld dispensers with the efficiency of automated systems through a telescopic mast structure. The compact base unit with integrated winch and control systems can be easily moved and repositioned like handheld devices, while the extendable mast provides automated film dispensing and wrapping capabilities that significantly improve wrapping efficiency and coverage compared to manual handheld operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual mechanical operation with an automated winch mechanism that controls the stretch wrap film dispensing. The winch system automatically winds and pays out the film as the telescopic mast moves, eliminating the need for manual film handling while maintaining the portability of a compact base unit. This mechanical substitution dramatically improves wrapping efficiency while keeping the device portable.
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
The modular design enhances portability, reduces shipping costs, and facilitates efficient wrapping of materials of different heights, while maintaining operational ease and ergonomic control.
Implementation Method 1
a powered winch system for raising and lowering stretch wrap or other similar film
Implementation Method 2
mobile or rolling stand, sectional mast and a powered winch system
Data Source
AI summary
A stretch wrap device. The stretch wrap device may include a base, a mast engaged with the base, such that the mast includes a plurality of adjoining mast sections. Each adjoining mast section having a plurality of side surfaces. Each adjoining mast section having at least one slot on at least one of the side surfaces and a connecting rod received within the slot of at least two immediately adjacent mast sections, the connecting rod being secured to each of the two immediately adjacent mast sections. The stretch wrap device may also include a stretch wrap holder slidably engaged with the mast such that the stretch wrap hold can slide along the mast.