Vacuum Draw System With Moveable Patterned Gate For Fiber Web Density Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for preparing nonwoven fiber webs lack the ability to adjust density and distribution post-production, as these properties are fixed by the machine setup and cannot be altered without changing the apparatus configuration.
Innovation Solution
A vacuum table with a moveable, patterned access gate that provides an oscillating or rotating pull force to redistribute fibers and particles, allowing for controlled density and distribution adjustments by combining feed means and gate speed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional vacuum table with fixed screen is used, then the fiber web consolidation is achieved, but the density and distribution cannot be adjusted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the screen moveable rather than fixed. The screen can be positioned at different locations and angles, allowing dynamic adjustment of vacuum application to control fiber web density and distribution. This transforms the static consolidation process into a dynamic one that can be adjusted during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by varying the screen position, angle, and vacuum intensity parameters. These parameter adjustments enable control over the fiber web properties without changing the fundamental machine structure, allowing flexibility in achieving different density and distribution characteristics.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the machine setup is altered to change density and distribution, then the web properties can be adjusted, but the apparatus complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The moveable screen mechanism allows the apparatus to adapt to different web properties requirements without altering the fundamental machine configuration. The screen's ability to change position and angle provides flexibility while maintaining a relatively simple overall apparatus structure.
3Manufacturing precision
If a fixed vacuum application is used, then the fiber web is consolidated, but the distribution of fibers and particles cannot be optimized
Solution Approach 1:
The dynamic screen positioning allows operators to adjust vacuum application in real-time during the web formation process. This enables optimization of fiber and particle distribution by changing screen position and angle parameters, providing both precision control and operational flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
By changing operational parameters such as screen position, angle, and vacuum intensity, the system can optimize fiber distribution without requiring complex reconfiguration. This maintains ease of operation while achieving precise control over web properties.
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 the creation of fibrous webs with varied and improved density and distribution, enhancing the consolidation and properties of the web through dynamic redistribution of fibers and particles.
Implementation Method 1
a vacuum table having a moveable screen that has a patterned opening and is located between the fibers and/or particles and the vacuum source, so that the vacuum draw system will provide an oscillating pull on a fiber web
Data Source
AI summary
A vacuum draw apparatus for preparing a fiber and/or particle web comprising a means for drawing a vacuum on a mass of fibers and/or particles, said vacuum draw means having an opening for applying a vacuum to said mass of fibers and/or particles, an access gate having a patterned opening located between the mass of fibers and/or particles and opening of said vacuum means, and means for moving said access gate, whereby the vacuum draw system will provide an oscillating pull on a mass of fibers and/or particles to work said mass to redistribute and/or further consolidate the fibers and/or particles.