Tensioning Frame Side Opening for Automated Screen Loading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tensioning frames for printing screens, such as the VectorGuard system, are difficult to automate for loading into a printing machine, requiring multiple inversions and manual handling, which complicates the process and reduces efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A tensioning frame with a side opening and movable components that allow for cartridge-style side-loading of printing screens, enabling a robot or autonomous intelligent vehicle to load the screen without removing the frame from the printing machine, streamlining the loading process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a conventional tensioning frame without side opening is used, then the frame structure is simple and strong, but the loading process requires multiple inversions and manual handling making automation difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is segmented by introducing a side opening in one of the beams, dividing the frame structure into sections that allow partial access. This enables the printing screen to be loaded through the side opening while maintaining the integrity of the overall frame structure, facilitating robotic loading without requiring complete frame inversion.
Solution Approach 2:
The loading approach is changed from vertical (top-down) to lateral (side-entry) by providing a side opening in the beam. This dimensional change allows the printing screen to be inserted horizontally into the frame from the side, enabling automation while the frame remains in its operational horizontal position.
2Productivity
If multiple inversions and manual handling are used for loading, then the frame structure remains simple, but the loading time increases and efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The printing screen is prepared with engagement features that align with the side opening configuration in advance. The frame is positioned with the side opening accessible before the loading operation begins, eliminating the need for time-consuming inversions during the loading process and enabling direct robotic insertion.
3Ease of operation
If a side opening is provided in the beam, then robotic loading becomes possible, but the beam structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The beam is divided into sections with a side opening in one portion while maintaining the continuous structure in other portions. This segmented approach allows the opening to be provided only where needed for loading, minimizing the impact on overall beam strength while enabling robotic operation.
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
Facilitates automated and efficient loading of printing screens into tensioning frames and printing machines, reducing manual handling and increasing operational efficiency by allowing side-loading, which can be performed by a robot or autonomous vehicle.
Implementation Method 1
Each beam includes an opening which is dimensioned to permit a printing screen to be received therethrough. The opening in each beam is arranged on the same side of the beam as the engagement body. The engagement body is movable with respect to the beam between a loading position, in which the opening permits access to the engagement arm, and an operational position, in which the engagement arm engages with a printing screen.
Data Source
AI summary
A tensioning frame (22) for tensioning a printing screen (3) comprises a plurality of elongate beams (30A-30D) which extend around the periphery of the printing screen (3) and define the tensioning frame (22), wherein at least one of the beams (30A-30D) comprises an opening (32) which is dimensioned to permit a printing screen (3) to be received therethrough, in a lateral direction (A). Mechanisms are described for engagement of the tensioning screen (22) and printing screen (3), as well as an apparatus and a method permitting the lateral loading of the printing screen (3).