Self-Propelled Wrapping Machine Automated Film Fixation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing self-propelled wrapping machines require manual intervention for initial film fixation and final cutting, limiting their ability to perform fully automated wrapping processes.
Innovation Solution
A self-propelled wrapping machine equipped with first and second gripping units, including anchoring elements and cutting means, allows for automatic film fixation and cutting, enabling complete automation of the wrapping process without operator intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If manual intervention is used for initial film fixation and final cutting, then the wrapping process can be completed, but the automation level is limited and operator intervention is required
Solution Approach 1:
The wrapping machine performs initial film fixation and final cutting operations autonomously without operator intervention. The system uses automated gripping units to hold the film end, positioning devices to place anchoring elements, and cutting mechanisms to sever the film, enabling the machine to complete the entire wrapping cycle independently
Solution Approach 2:
The machine prepares and positions the film end, anchoring elements, and cutting mechanisms in advance before the wrapping operation begins. The gripping unit pre-holds the film end, and the system pre-positions all necessary components to enable seamless automated execution of the wrapping process
2Device complexity
If the machine structure is simplified, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to perform automated film fixation and cutting is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The gripping unit serves multiple functions: it holds the film end during unwinding, positions the film for anchoring element placement, and assists in the cutting operation. This multi-functional design consolidates several operations into a single device, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining full automation capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the film holding, positioning, and cutting functions into an integrated gripping unit system. By merging these functions into a single coordinated mechanism rather than separate devices, the overall device complexity is reduced while preserving automated operation capabilities
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 machine can wrap loads completely automatically, ensuring firm and stable wrappings without manual intervention, as the anchoring element securely locks the initial film flap and the cutting unit handles film cutting within the wrapping cycle.
Implementation Method 1
The unwinding unit is provided with a pair of pre-stretching rollers suitable for unwinding the film from the reel and pre-stretching or extending it by a predefined percentage
Implementation Method 2
locking the initial flap of film unwound by the first gripping unit to the supporting plane on which the wrapping machine moves
Data Source
AI summary
A self-propelled wrapping machine movable around a load to wrap the load with a plastic film in a wrapping cycle, comprising a self-propelled carriage; a upright fixed to the carriage and slidably supporting an unwinding unit provided at least with a reel of film; a first gripping unit that is supported by the carriage, and is movable and arranged to hold and unwind an initial flap of film from the unwinding unit in an initial step of the wrapping cycle; and a second gripping unit that is supported by the carriage, and is movable and arranged to position and release an anchoring element on the initial flap of film in the initial step of the wrapping cycle so as to fix the initial flap of film to a supporting plane and to grasp and lift the anchoring element from the supporting plane so as to disengage it from the initial flap of film after at least one turn of the self-propelled wrapping machine around the load wrapping the load with the film supplied by the unwinding unit.