Web Material Splicing Device with Movable Housing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing splicing devices for web material in hygienic-sanitary product production are cumbersome and unsafe due to their rigid structure, requiring operators to perform complex and inconvenient operations while managing reels and applying adhesive tapes under conditions where contact with the moving web can cause tears, leading to potential machine stoppages.
Innovation Solution
A splicing device with moving elements and a vacuum system that allows for precise positioning and alignment of the new reel's free end, enabling the application of bi-adhesive tape and alignment without manual handling, and a shearing mechanism for cutting the old reel's trailing end, reducing operator risk and improving operational efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the splicing device structure is made rigid to ensure safety and manufacturing precision, then the distances between blades and counterblade are reduced for faster splicing, but the operator must perform complex operations in critical conditions from a ladder
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates movable elements that can transition between open and closed positions. The housing can open to provide access to the splicing area, allowing operators to perform preparations from ground level. The blades and counterblade remain precisely positioned when closed to ensure cutting accuracy and safety during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The splicing device is divided into separable components including the housing, blades, and counterblade that can be independently accessed or adjusted. This segmentation allows the housing to open for operator access while maintaining the rigid structural relationships needed for precise cutting when closed.
2Productivity
If the splicing device is positioned at the top of the machine to prevent interference, then the web supply is optimized, but the operator must climb a ladder and perform alignment operations visually through slits
Solution Approach 1:
The housing can open to provide direct visual and physical access to the splicing area and alignment mechanisms. Operators can perform alignment operations from ground level with clear visibility and manual access, eliminating the need to work from a ladder while maintaining the top-positioned web supply configuration.
3Manufacturing precision
If the device structure is closed for safety and manufacturing reasons, then the distances between components are minimized for faster splicing, but the operator cannot easily access the splicing area for preparation
Solution Approach 1:
The housing transitions between open and closed states. When open, operators can easily access the splicing area for web insertion, adhesive application, and alignment. When closed, the housing maintains the precise fixed distances between blades, counterblade, and pressure pads needed for accurate cutting and splicing operations.
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
The device enhances safety and reduces operator inconvenience by allowing for precise and controlled splicing operations, minimizing web material stress and preventing tears, thus maintaining continuous machine operation and improving the overall efficiency of the splicing process.
Implementation Method 1
a vacuum system that allows for precise positioning and alignment of the new reel's free end
Data Source
AI summary
A device for splicing the free end of a strip of web material to a homologous strip of web material being supplied includes a first moving element and a second moving element, each of which is able to function alternatively as retention structure for the free end and as guiding structure for the web. The moving elements are, at least in part, translatable with respect to one another for connecting the free end to the web, performing the operation of splicing. The first and the second moving elements are selectively orientable between a position of opening, in which the moving element has a gripping formation exposed to receive the free end, and a position of closing, in which the gripping formation faces the other moving element of the device to allow the free end to connect to the web.