Web Roll Tape Securing via Movable Arm Dispenser

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional methods for securing the trailing ends of web rolls, such as using tape dispensers, are inefficient and uneconomical due to the need for manual adjustments and the inability to accurately allocate tapes with varying lengths and widths, leading to complex operations and production losses.

Innovation Solution

A method and assembly that utilize a single, wide tape dispenser with a tape conveyor system, where tapes with an adhering coating on one side are digitally allocated and applied with precision, allowing for adjustable tape lengths and widths without physical readjustment of dispensers, enabling efficient and automated securement of web rolls.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Extent of automation

If multiple tape dispensers are used to secure web rolls, then the securing operation can be automated, but the device complexity and manual adjustment requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautomated tape applicationVSAvoidnumber of tape dispensers
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple tape dispensing functions into a single dispenser unit. The dispenser is equipped with a movable arm that can position a single tape roll to multiple locations around the web roll, eliminating the need for multiple separate dispensers while maintaining automated operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The single tape dispenser is designed with multi-functionality to perform the work of multiple dispensers. The movable arm mechanism allows one dispenser to service multiple positions, and the system can handle varying web roll sizes and tape requirements through digital control, making the device universally applicable.

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

2Extent of automation

If tape dispensers are mounted at fixed distances, then automation is possible, but adaptability to varying web roll widths is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefixed dispenser mountingVSAvoidadjustment to different roll widths
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The tape dispenser incorporates a movable arm with adjustable positioning capabilities. The arm can be dynamically repositioned to accommodate different web roll widths and diameters. Digital control systems enable the dispenser to adapt its position and tape application parameters automatically for varying roll dimensions without physical remounting.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes operational parameters such as dispenser position, arm angle, and tape application timing based on detected web roll dimensions. Sensors and control systems adjust these parameters automatically, allowing the fixed-mounted dispenser to adapt to varying roll widths through parameter modification rather than physical reconfiguration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If manual tape application is used, then flexibility is maintained, but productivity and economy are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanual adjustment flexibilityVSAvoidsecuring operation speed
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The tape dispenser system is designed to be self-servicing through automated tape cutting, application, and arm repositioning. The system automatically detects web roll parameters and adjusts tape application without human intervention, maintaining flexibility through programmable control while achieving high productivity through automation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

Manual mechanical adjustment operations are replaced with digitally controlled mechanisms. The movable arm uses motorized positioning instead of manual handling, and tape application parameters are controlled electronically rather than mechanically adjusted, combining automation with adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

4Adaptability or versatility

If tapes of varying lengths are used, then different securing requirements are met, but operational complexity and downtime increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevariable tape lengthsVSAvoidtape replacement frequency
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The tape dispenser incorporates an adjustable cutting mechanism that can dynamically set tape lengths based on the specific securing requirements for each web roll. The system automatically calculates and cuts tapes to the required lengths, eliminating the need to manually replace tapes of different pre-cut lengths and reducing operational downtime.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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

This solution allows for precise, automated allocation and application of tapes across web rolls, reducing manual intervention and production losses, as the tape conveyor system can handle varying roll sizes and shapes, ensuring secure and efficient end securing without interrupting the manufacturing process.

Implementation Method 1

applying on each of the rolls at least one securing tape which has an adhering coating on a first side, so that the end securing tape is fixed by said first side against the roll

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAdhesion: Adhesive

Data Source

PatentEP3022143B1Method and assembly for securing the end of a web roll
Publication Date: 2018.10.03 VALMET TECH INC
  • EP3022143B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3022143B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3022143B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

For the securing of the web end of a number of web rolls, which lie adjacent to one another or side by side, tapes which shall be applied onto the rolls are transferred from a tape dispenser (13) to a tape conveyor (14, 22) such that the tapes will contact the conveyor through their non-adhering surface at a distance from one another corresponding to the desired distances between the tapes on the roll/rolls of web material. The conveyor with the tapes thereafter is moved towards the web roll/rolls, each tape being directed towards that place on the roll/rolls where the tape shall be applied with an adhering side brought into contact with the respective roll and secured to the roll at the said place. The conveyor then is removed, the tapes remaining secured to the roll/rolls therein that the adhering side of the tapes has a greater adhering power to the roll/rolls than the non-adhering side has to the conveyor.