Transverse Thread-Bound Multi-Layer Paper Machine Screen

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing multi-layer paper machine screens face challenges in achieving high fiber support, low tendency to marking, and stable layer connection, particularly due to the limitations of traditional binder threads and weave patterns, which lead to wear and separation of fabric layers under high mechanical stress and abrasive conditions.

Innovation Solution

A transverse thread-bound multi-layer fabric design where upper and lower fabric layers are connected through functional transverse thread pairs, with thicker lower longitudinal and transverse threads providing mechanical stability and binding, while thinner upper threads maintain a fine weave for paper formation, eliminating the need for separate binder threads.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional separate binder threads are used to connect fabric layers, then layer connection is achieved, but the structure becomes more complex and the binder threads wear and break under mechanical stress

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelayer connection stabilityVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the binding function into the structural threads themselves. The longitudinal threads that form the fabric structure also serve as binding threads by extending through both fabric layers, eliminating the need for separate binder threads and simplifying the overall structure while maintaining reliable layer connection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The longitudinal threads perform multiple functions: they provide structural support for the fabric and simultaneously bind the upper and lower fabric layers together. This multi-functionality reduces the number of components needed and simplifies the screen construction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Object-generated harmful factors

If the upper fabric layer uses a fine weave for paper formation, then marking tendency is reduced, but fiber support is decreased

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemarking tendencyVSAvoidfiber support
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-generated harmful factorsVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The screen is divided into two distinct fabric layers with different weave characteristics. The upper fabric layer uses a fine weave (e.g., 10x10 or 12x12 plain weave) to reduce marking tendency and provide a smooth paper surface, while the lower fabric layer uses a coarse weave with larger openings to provide mechanical strength and fiber support.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Different regions of the screen have different weave densities optimized for their specific functions. The upper surface has a fine weave where paper contact occurs to minimize marking, while the lower portion has a coarse weave where mechanical support is needed. This local differentiation allows each region to perform its function optimally.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Strength

If the lower fabric layer uses thick threads for mechanical stability, then screen strength is improved, but the ability to form fine paper details is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemechanical stabilityVSAvoidpaper formation quality
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The screen structure is segmented into two fabric layers with different thread thicknesses. The lower fabric layer uses thick threads for mechanical stability and resistance to wear, while the upper fabric layer uses thin threads to create a fine weave that can form detailed paper structures without marking.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Thread thickness is optimized locally for each fabric layer based on functional requirements. The lower layer has thick threads where mechanical strength is needed, while the upper layer has thin threads where fine paper formation is required. This local optimization allows the screen to simultaneously provide both strength and precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

4Reliability

If functional transverse thread pairs are arranged in groups, then layer binding is enhanced, but the weave pattern complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelayer bindingVSAvoidweave pattern complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The transverse threads are merged into functional pairs that work together to bind the fabric layers. Each functional transverse thread pair consists of two threads that alternate between the upper and lower fabric layers, creating a coordinated binding mechanism that enhances layer attachment while maintaining a manageable weave pattern.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The functional transverse thread pairs follow a periodic pattern where threads alternate between layers in a regular sequence. This periodic arrangement creates a systematic binding mechanism that is easier to weave and maintain compared to random or irregular binding patterns, while still providing effective layer attachment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Data Source

PatentUS10060076B2Paper machine screen
Publication Date: 2018.08.28 ANDRITZ TECH & ASSET MANAGEMENT GMBH
  • US10060076B2 patent drawing
  • US10060076B2 patent drawing
  • US10060076B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A paper machine screen which is formed as a transverse thread-bound, multi-layer fabric. Binding transverse threads extend respectively both in an upper fabric layer and in a lower fabric layer and hereby bind the lower fabric layer to the upper fabric layer. The binding transverse threads form functional transverse thread pairs within the total repeat, the transverse threads of which alternately complete the first weave. In the total repeat, the functional transverse thread pairs in the upper fabric layer are arranged in groups of respectively two or more functional transverse thread pairs arranged directly one after another, when seen in a longitudinal direction.