Variable-Length Bridge for Flat Substrate Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing packaging production machines require modification of substrate transfer devices when replacing units, as they are designed with fixed lengths, necessitating changes in position and speed of flat substrates during transfer between units.
Innovation Solution
A device with a variable-length bridge, comprising an adjustable static apron that allows flat substrates to slide between units without obstacles, maintaining constant speed and position, and incorporating adjustment means to match the length of the substrate, ensuring seamless transfer between upstream and downstream units.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If substrate transfer devices are designed with fixed lengths to bridge spacing between units, then the transfer function is established, but the device cannot be adapted when units are replaced or reconfigured
Solution Approach 1:
The bridge is designed with adjustable length through telescopic sections that can be extended or retracted. This dynamic structure allows the bridge to adapt to different spacings between units while maintaining a relatively simple overall design without requiring complete redesign when units are replaced.
Solution Approach 2:
The bridge is divided into multiple modular sections including fixed ends and adjustable intermediate sections. This segmentation allows independent adjustment of bridge length by modifying only the intermediate sections, leaving the fixed connection points intact, thus simplifying the adaptation process.
2Ease of operation
If the spacing between units is increased to allow operator access for maintenance, then maintenance ergonomics are improved, but the transfer distance and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable bridge allows optimization of spacing between units. The bridge can be extended to cover larger gaps when maintenance access is needed, or retracted to minimize transfer distance when units are positioned closer, thus balancing maintenance accessibility with transfer efficiency.
3Manufacturing precision
If the bridge length is fixed to maintain substrate position and speed consistency, then transfer precision is maintained, but the device cannot accommodate different unit configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The bridge incorporates adjustable length mechanisms that allow precise positioning of the substrate during transfer. The telescopic sections can be extended or retracted to maintain optimal transfer geometry and substrate alignment regardless of the spacing between units, thus preserving transfer precision while enabling adaptability.
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 easy adaptation and continuous transfer of flat substrates across different machine configurations, maintaining substrate speed and position consistency, enhancing maintenance ergonomics and reducing the need for frequent device modifications.
Implementation Method 1
an upper surface (16) substantially flat on which the flat substrate or substrates slide
Data Source
AI summary
A transfer device for one or more flat substrates (4, 4a, 4b), which can be inserted between two successive units upstream and downstream (3, 6, 9) in a packaging production machine (1), the device including a bridge (14) with an upper surface (16) providing a junction between the upstream unit (3, 6) and the downstream unit (9). An adjustment device (19) varies a length (L1, L2) of the bridge (14). The bridge (14) is a static apron on which the substrate (4, 4a, 4b) slides, having a fixed transversal end (36) and a mobile transversal end (22). The adjustment device (19) varies a position of the mobile end (22), as a function of a spacing (E1, E2) between the two units.