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    • 专利摘要:
    APPLIANCE AND METHOD FOR APPLYING DIFFERENT PARTS TO A MOBILE ROLLER. Apparatus for the separate transport of a plurality of different parts of a roller and the application of each of the different parts to a substrate includes a plurality of transfer discs and a drive assembly. The drive assembly is configured to rotate each transfer disc so that a plurality of pairs of distinct parts are applied to the roller. Each pair of distinct pieces applied includes a first piece and a second piece spaced at a first distance from the first piece, where adjacent pairs of distinct pairs are spaced at a second distance that is different from the first distance.
    公开号:BR112014015127B1
    申请号:R112014015127-0
    申请日:2012-12-06
    公开日:2021-01-12
    发明作者:Adam Schoultz；Chadwick I. Romzek；Brian Rhodes；Jesse Sorenson
    申请人:Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.；
    IPC主号:
    专利说明:

    [0001] [0001] The field of the invention relates generally to a roller treatment apparatus and, more specifically, to apparatus for applying separate parts to a movable roller and a method of using the apparatus. HISTORIC
    [0002] [0002] Some people rely on disposable absorbent products in their daily lives, including, for example, disposable absorbent items, such as products for incontinent adults, diapers for bedwetting (urinary incontinence), training diapers and regular diapers. Many manufacturers of these absorbent articles seek to better meet the needs of users. For example, there is a constant need to improve the fit, discretion and leak protection of many of these items.
    [0003] [0003] Some absorbent articles employ elasticity in the front and / or back of the article to keep the article adjusted in the user during use. Some of these articles use a multiplicity of elastic threads inside the front and / or rear waist panels of the article to obtain elasticity, while others use elastomeric polymeric films, many of which are between one or more untwined layers.
    [0004] [0004] Most absorbent articles include an absorbent element, constructed from cellulose sparing, superabsorbent polymers and / or other absorbent material, to absorb fluids (such as urine) released by the user. The absorbent member is normally positioned in the crotch region of the article and extends forward and backward in the rear and / or front regions of the article. In some absorbent articles, the elastic elements that extend through the front and / or rear waist panels of the article overlap the absorbent element in several places since the absorbent element extends forwards / backwards from the waist region of the article .
    [0005] [0005] Some absorbent articles include reusable seams arranged along the sides of the article to allow the user or a caregiver to remove the article by separating the front region from the rear region along the seams. Since the seams that can be closed again are located along the sides of the article, some users find the seams difficult to manipulate. Side seams that can be closed again can also be difficult to handle for some bedridden caregivers.
    [0006] [0006] Thus, there remains a need for apparatus and article-making processes that have side seams that can be closed again that are easy to handle. ABSTRACT
    [0007] [0007] In one aspect, an apparatus for transporting a plurality of rolls of different pieces and applying each distinct piece to a substrate generally comprises a plurality of transfer discs and a drive assembly. Each transfer disc is adapted to transport the different parts of the roll to the substrate. The drive assembly is configured to rotate each transfer disc in such a way that a plurality of pairs of distinct parts are applied to the substrate. Each pair of distinct pieces applied includes a first piece and a second piece spaced at a first distance from the first piece, where adjacent pairs of distinct pairs are spaced at a second distance that is different from the first distance.
    [0008] [0008] In another aspect, an apparatus for transporting a plurality of distinct pieces and applying each distinct piece to a substrate generally comprises a plurality of transfer discs and a drive assembly. Each transfer disc is adapted to transport the different parts of the roll to the substrate. The drive assembly is configured to rotate each transfer disc to selectively adjust the rotational speed of each transfer disc so that a plurality of pairs of distinct parts are applied to the substrate. Each pair of distinct pieces applied includes a first piece and a second piece spaced at a first distance from the first piece, where adjacent pairs of distinct pairs are spaced at a second distance that is different from the first distance.
    [0009] [0009] In yet another aspect, a method of applying a plurality of discrete pieces to a substrate generally comprises directing a roll including the plurality of distinct pieces towards an apparatus for transporting each distinct piece of the roll and applying each distinct piece to the substrate. The apparatus includes a plurality of transfer discs rotatably coupled to a drive assembly. Each transfer disc is rotated so that each transfer disc transports each separate piece of the roll to the substrate. A plurality of pairs of distinct pieces including a first distinct piece and a second distinct piece are applied to the substrate in such a way that the applied second distinct piece is spaced at a first distance from the applied first distinct piece, and the adjacent applied pairs of distinct pieces are spaced at a second distance that is different from the first distance. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
    [0010] [0010] Figure 1 is a top view of an embodiment of an absorbent article, the article being in a longitudinally stretched condition and arranged in a horizontal direction showing a surface of the article, which is facing the user during use.
    [0011] [0011] Figure 2 is a front view of the absorbent article of Figure 1, with the front and rear areas of the waist connected by a fixation set such that the garment is in, a configuration similar to underwear.
    [0012] [0012] Figure 3 is another front view of the absorbent article of Figure 1 with another embodiment of a fixation set.
    [0013] [0013] Figure 4 illustrates an embodiment of a production process for the manufacture of the absorbent article shown in Figures 1 to 3.
    [0014] [0014] Figure 5 is a top view of a substrate roll manufactured with the manufacturing process illustrated in Figure 4 for the manufacture of the absorbent article shown in Figures 1 to 3.
    [0015] [0015] Figures 6 to 8 illustrate a part of the manufacturing process illustrated in Figure 4.
    [0016] [0016] Figures 9 to 11 are schematic views of a portion of a drive assembly that can be used with the manufacturing process illustrated in Figure 4.
    [0017] [0017] Figure 12 illustrates another embodiment of a production process for the manufacture of the absorbent article shown in Figures 1 to 3.
    [0018] [0018] Corresponding reference characters indicate the corresponding parts in the drawings. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
    [0019] [0019] Figures 1 and 2 illustrate a suitable embodiment of an absorbent article, generally indicated by 10. The absorbent article 10 has a front region 12, a rear region 14 and a crotch region 16 arranged longitudinally between and interconnecting the regions front and rear. Generally, the front, rear and crotch regions 12, 14 and 16 are indicated by the respective reference numbers. In the front region 12, the absorbent article 10 has a front edge 18 and transversely opposite the first and second front side edges 20 and 22. A rear edge 24 and the first and second transversely opposed rear side edges 26 and 28 are located in the rear region 14 of the absorbent article 10. As illustrated in Figure 1, the absorbent article 10 defines a longitudinal direction 30 and a transverse direction 32, which is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.
    [0020] [0020] The absorbent article 10 includes an absorbent insert, generally indicated by 34, which extends longitudinally from the front region 12 through the crotch region 16 and the rear region 14. The absorbent element 34 can be manufactured from materials suitable for absorption of liquid secretions, as it saves cellulose, superabsorbent polymers, absorbent foam and the like. The absorbent element 34 can be wrapped in one or more substrates. For example, the absorbent element 34 can be wrapped in a fabric and / or a non-woven substrate.
    [0021] [0021] The front and rear regions 12 and 14 of the illustrated absorbent article 10 are constructed of pieces other than laminate 36, which are connected by inserting the absorbent 34. That is, the front region 12 is formed by a piece of laminate 36 and the rear region 14 is formed by a part separate from the laminate. In one embodiment, the front region 12 and the rear region 14 are formed of a single piece of laminate. As can be seen in Figure 1, the laminate 36 forming the front region 12 is spaced from the laminate that forms the rear region 14, to define a gap G. The absorbent insert 34 crosses the gap G and connects laminate 36, which forms the front region 12 of the laminate which forms the rear region 14.
    [0022] [0022] In a suitable embodiment, the laminate 36 used to form both the front and rear regions 12 and 14 of the absorbent article 10 comprises a layer of polymeric film and at least one layer of nonwoven fabric. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, laminate 36 has two layers of nonwoven fabric superimposed on opposite upper and lower surfaces of the polymeric film such that the polymeric film is wrapped between the two nonwoven layers. The polymeric film and two layers of non-woven fabric extend substantially over the entire area of laminate 36. Although laminate 36 used to form the front and rear regions 12 and 14 is the same in the illustrated absorbent article 10, it is contemplated that the laminate used to form the front region 12 may be different from the laminate used to form the rear region 14.
    [0023] [0023] As can be seen in Figure 1, a part of the absorbent insert 34 overlaps a portion of the laminate 36 in the front and rear regions 12 and 14 to define overlapping regions 42 and non-overlapping regions 44. In a form of In a suitable embodiment, at least a portion of each of the overlapping regions 42 of laminate 36 is non-elastomeric, and at least a portion of the non-overlapping region 44 of laminate 36 is elastomeric. The overlapping regions 42 are indicated in Figure 1 by a pattern of dashes that extend diagonally.
    [0024] [0024] In a suitable embodiment, the entire laminate 36 forming the front and rear regions 12 and 14 consists of an elastomeric film laminate that has "deactivated" portions (e.g., portions generally corresponding to overlapping regions 42) or "cushioned" to make them non-elastomeric. As used herein, "elastomeric" refers to a material or compound that can be elongated by at least 50% of its relaxed length and which will recover, after releasing the applied force, at least 50% of its elongation. It is generally preferred that the elastic or composite material is able to be stretched by at least 100%, more preferably at least 200%, of its relaxed length and to recover, after releasing an applied force, at least 50% of its elongation. "Non-elastomeric" refers to a material or compound that is not extensible, or that is extensible but will not recover more than 20% of its elongated length, after releasing an applied stretching force. "Non-extensible" refers to a material that cannot stretch or extend more than 25% of its relaxed length without fracture after applying a tensile force. "Partially elastomeric" refers to a material or compound that can be stretched by at least 50% of its relaxed length and which will recover, after releasing the applied force, more than 20%, but less than 50% of its stretching.
    [0025] [0025] It should be noted that, when analyzing laminate 36 or its regions for elastic or extensible property, the laminate must be examined with laminate 36 removed from the components fixed separately. For example, before analyzing the extensible or elastic properties of the overlapping regions 42 of laminate 36, the absorbent insert 34 must be removed. That is, the absorbent insert 34 must be removed from the laminate 36, before analyzing the extensibility or elasticity of any portion of the laminates.
    [0026] [0026] In a suitable embodiment, most of the overlapping region 42 of each of the laminates 36 is not elastomeric. That is, more than 50% of the area of the overlapping region 42 of the laminates 36 is not elastomeric. In a suitable embodiment, more than 75% and, in a more suitable embodiment, more than 90% of the area of the overlapping region 42 of the laminates 36 is not elastomeric. In another suitable embodiment, the entire overlapping region 42 of laminates 36 (i.e., 100%) is not elastomeric. For example, in the absorbent article 10 shown in Figure 1, the entire overlapping region 42 of laminates 36 is non-elastomeric and generally has the same size and shape as the portion of the absorbent insert 34 that overlaps it.
    [0027] [0027] In other suitable embodiments, the portion of laminates 36 rendered non-elastomeric may be larger than the corresponding overlapping region 42. For example, the non-elastomeric area of laminate 36 can be 125% or less, more preferably 120% or less, and even more preferably 110% or less in area than the overlapping region 42. Because the non-elastomeric region of the laminates 36 larger than the area of the overlapping regions 42, it is possible to accommodate the variability in the common registration process in typical high-speed article manufacturing processes. In other words, the contact area of the non-elastomeric region of the laminates 36 being greater in relation to the contact area of the absorbent insert 34 in the front and rear regions 12, 14 of the absorbent article 10, allows the variability in record when the absorbent insertion is coupled to the laminates. In addition, in such embodiments, the relatively larger non-elastomeric region (greater than the overlapping region 42) will help to minimize the amount of deformation directly around the periphery of the absorbent insert 34, which can provide a smoother, " flatter, "more like underwear.
    [0028] [0028] As seen in Figures 2 and 3, the absorbent article 10 includes a fixation set, usually indicated by 46, which facilitates the fixation of the rear region 14 in the front region 12 to define a configuration that resembles underwear of the absorbent article 10 which has an opening in the waist, indicated by 48, and two leg openings, indicated by 50. The fixing set 46 includes a pair of fixing elements 54 which are connected to the front region 12. The pair of fastening members 54 are fixed in the front region 12 so that the absorbent article 10 includes a closing element on the left connected to a first separate piece 58 of the front region 12, and a closing element on the right connected to a second separate piece 60 front region 12. As seen in Figures 2 and 3, the first and second distinct parts 58, 60 in the front region 12 are configured to match a portion of the rear region 14.
    [0029] [0029] With reference again to Figures 2 and 3, each of the fixing elements 54 is adapted to releasably fix the rear region 14 to join, thus, the front region 12 and the rear region 14 in a set. Thus, the absorbent article 10 can be selectively moved between an open configuration, in which the fastening elements 54 disposed in the first and second distinct parts 58, 60 are disengaged (i.e., not fixed) in the rear region 14, and a closed configuration in which the fasteners 54 are engaged (that is, fastened) in the rear region 14. The absorbent article 10 is shown in its closed configuration, in Figures 2 and 3. As shown in Figure 3, the fasteners 54 can be tilted.
    [0030] [0030] Figure 4 schematically illustrates a portion of an embodiment of a process 68 suitable for making a plurality of absorbent articles 10 illustrated in Figures 1 to 3. As can be seen in Figure 4, a roll supply 70 used to form the first and second separate pieces 58, 60 of the absorbent article 10 are supplied from suitable sources of supply (e.g., feed roller 72).
    [0031] [0031] The roller 70 is supplied in a roller treatment apparatus, usually indicated by 78, for the assembly of at least a part of the absorbent article 10. More specifically, the treatment apparatus 78 receives the roller 70, when it is it moves in a first direction, represented by the arrow 80. In a suitable embodiment, the roll 70 includes a plurality of distinct pieces 58 and 60, separated by a plurality of preformed perforations or other suitable lines of fragility. It is contemplated, however, that a plurality of separate first and second parts 58 and 60 can be fed into the treatment apparatus 78. It is also contemplated that the roll 70 can be cut into a plurality of first and second parts 58 and 60 after the roller is fed into the treatment device 78.
    [0032] [0032] In one embodiment, the treatment apparatus 78 includes a drive assembly 88 configured to rotate about a drive axis 90, and a plurality of transfer segments 92, which are coupled to and extend outwardly. from the drive assembly. Drive assembly 88 includes one or more drive sources, including, for example, servomotors and / or cam housings, which are coupled to each transfer segment 92. Drive assembly 88 is configured to rotate each transfer segment 92 on the drive shaft 90 between a collection site, usually indicated by 94, and an application site, usually indicated by 96.
    [0033] [0033] As illustrated in Figure 4, transfer segment 92 is configured to receive roll 70 comprising a plurality of distinct first and second pieces 58, 60 at collection site 94, and to conduct distinct pieces 58 and 60 towards the place of application 96. In the illustrated configuration, each of the distinct pieces 58, 60 is separated from a distinct adjacent piece along the preformed perforation (or other line of weakness) when the roller 70 is transported by the treatment device 78. More specifically , and as described in greater detail below, each of the separate parts 58 and 60 is received by one of the transfer segments 92. During the rotation of the drive assembly 88, each of the adjacent transfer segments 92 of the treatment device 78 is moves causing the roll 70 of different parts 58 and 60 to break the preformed perforations. Thus, each of the transfer segments 92 is adapted to carry one of the distinct pieces 58, 60 (i.e., any of the first distinct pieces or one of the second distinct pieces).
    [0034] [0034] In a suitable embodiment, the roller treatment device 78 is an oscillating cam-adjusted roller as disclosed in U.S. Patent. No. 5,716,478, 5,759,340, and 6,139,004, which are attributed to Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc., and whose full descriptions of which are all incorporated herein by reference.
    [0035] [0035] With reference also to figure 4, each of the transfer segments 92 includes a support arm 108 which extends radially outwardly from the drive arm 88, and a transfer disc 110 rotatably coupled to the support arm 108 The support arm 108 includes a first end 112, which is coupled to the drive assembly 88, and a second opposite end 114, which is coupled to the transfer disc 110. The support arm 108 extends between the first end 112 and the second end 114 along a radial axis 116. In a suitable embodiment, the first end 112 of the support arm 108 is coupled to the drive assembly 88 so that each transfer disc 110 is independently rotatable about both drive axes 90 of treatment device 78 (as indicated by arrow 123 in Figure 4 and the radial axis (as indicated by arrow 125 in Figure 4).
    [0036] [0036] As shown in Figure 6, each transfer disk 110 includes a leading edge 118, a trailing edge 120 and a platform 122 that extends between the leading edge and the trailing edge. The platform 122 of each of the transfer discs is sized and configured to receive one of the first and second distinct pieces 58, 60 of the roll 70, and to release the distinct pieces 58 and 60 to apply the distinct pieces 58 and 60 to the second roll of substrate 76.
    [0037] [0037] As mentioned above, the transfer disk 110 rotates around the axis of the support arm 116. More specifically, the transfer disk 110 is articulated between a first position, generally indicated by 124 in Figure 6, in which the transfer disk is oriented to receive one of the first and second distinct pieces 58 and 60, at the collection point 94 and a second position, indicated generally by 126 in Figure 6, where the transfer disk 110 is oriented to apply one of the first and second separate pieces 58 and 60 of a substrate 76 respectively to the application site 96.
    [0038] [0038] In a suitable embodiment, the roll 70 of separate pieces 58, 60 moves at a first speed in the first direction 80, and the substrate 76 moves at a second speed, in a second direction 82 which is different from first speed. The drive assembly 88 is adapted to rotate in each transfer segment 92 on the drive shaft 90 so that the surface speed of each transfer disk 110 is approximately equal to the speed of the roller 70 when the first and second separate parts 58 and 60 are received by the platforms 122 of the transfer discs 110 at the collection site 94. In the illustrated embodiment, the drive assembly 88 accelerates each transfer segment 92 so that the speed of the transfer disc 110 is approximately equal to the speed of the substrate 76, when separate pieces 58 and 60 are applied to the substrate 76 by the transfer disks at the application site 96.
    [0039] [0039] In one embodiment, each of the transfer discs 110 is rotated about a disc axis 130. The drive assembly 88 rotates each transfer disc 110 on the axis of the disc 130 between the collection site 94 and the application site 96. In a suitable embodiment, the unit assembly 88 is configured to selectively adjust to a rotational speed of each transfer disc 110, when each transfer disc 110 is rotated between collection site 94 and the application site 96. More specifically, drive assembly 88 selectively rotates each transfer disc 110 at a first speed of rotation from collection site 94 to application site 96, and rotates each transfer disc 110 at a second speed of rotation from the application site 96 to the collection site 94, which is different from the first rotation speed. In addition, the drive assembly 88 can selectively rotate each transfer disc 110 at a different speed of rotation between the collection site 94 and the application site 96 to allow the treatment device 96 to apply each distinct piece 58 and 60 in variable spacing along a positioning axis 86.
    [0040] [0040] In a suitable embodiment, the apparatus 78 can be used to alternatively apply the first and second separate pieces 58, 60 to a product roll that moves continuously, including at least a portion of the absorbent article 10 (for example , a continuous roll of laminate 36 used to form the back region 14 of the absorbent article). It is contemplated that the other portions of the absorbent article 10 can be applied to the continuous roll of laminate 36, including, for example, the absorbent insert 34 and the laminate 36 forming the front region of the waist 12 of the absorbent article (as illustrated in the Figures of 6 to 8). Each transfer disk 110 is configured to receive a first distinct piece 58 or a second distinct piece 60 and apply the respective distinct piece in its correct position in the rear region of the waist 14 of the absorbent article 10.
    [0041] [0041] Figures 6 and 8 are schematic views of expanded circumferential views of a displacement path of the roller treatment apparatus 78, illustrating the relative positioning of adjacent transfer discs 110 that travel from the collection site 94 to the collection site. application. The transfer disc pair includes a first (or conductor) transfer disc 134, and a second transfer (or drag) disc 136. Drive assembly 88 is configured to rotate the first transfer disc 134 on the axis of the support arm 116 in a first direction of rotation, represented by the arrow 138 in Figure 6, such as, for example, in a clockwise direction, and to rotate the second transfer disc 136 in a second direction of rotation, represented by the arrow 140 in Figure 6, which is opposite the first direction of rotation, such as, for example, counterclockwise.
    [0042] [0042] It is also contemplated that the drive assembly 88 can be configured to adequately space the first and second transfer discs 134 and 136 in relation to each other so that the first transfer disc is properly spaced in relation to the second transfer disc. transfer at the application site 96. That is, the drive assembly 88 can be configured such that the distance (or spacing) 141 between the first and second transfer disc 134, 136 can be adjusted when the drive assembly rotates the first and second transfer discs 134, 136 about the drive shaft 90.
    [0043] [0043] Figure 7 illustrates the relative position of the two adjacent pairs of transfer disks 110 with respect to the second roll of substrate 76. In one embodiment, the roller treatment apparatus 78 and, more specifically, the drive assembly 88 guides each of the pairs of transfer disks 110 with respect to each other so that each of the transfer disks 110 are generally aligned along the positioning axis 86. In the illustrated embodiment, the drive assembly 88 rotates the first and second transfer discs 134 and 136 of each pair of transfer discs 110 on the axis of the corresponding support arm 116 so that a central portion of the second transfer disc 136 is spaced at a first circumferential distance 144 along the positioning axis 86 the central portion of the first transfer disc 134, and the central portion of the first transfer disc 134 of the adjacent pair of transfer discs s is spaced from a second circumferential distance 146 from the second transfer disk 136 along the positioning axis 86, which is different from the first circumferential distance, as shown in Figure 7. In the illustrated embodiment, the second circumferential distance 146 is smaller than the first circumferential distance 144. It is contemplated that, in other embodiments, the second circumferential distance 146 may be greater than the first circumferential distance 144.
    [0044] [0044] In addition, in a suitable embodiment, the first transfer disc 134 of each pair of transfer discs 110 carries the first distinct piece 58, and the second transfer disc 136 carries the second distinct piece 60. The first disc transfer 134 is rotated in the first direction 138, and the second transfer disc 136 is rotated in the second direction 140 so that the first distinct piece 58 is spaced from the first distance 104 from the second distinct piece. The second distinct piece 60 is spaced from the second distance 106 of the first distinct piece 58 of the pair of distinct drag pieces.
    [0045] [0045] In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 7, each of the first and second transfer discs 134 and 136 is rotated so that the first and second distinct pieces 58 and 60 are applied to the substrate 76 at an angle α with respect to the axis positioning 86, which is approximately equal to 90º. In another embodiment, which is illustrated in Figure 8, each of the first and second transfer discs 134, 136 is rotated at different angles with respect to the positioning of the axis 86 so that the first distinct piece 58 is applied in a first angle α1 and the second distinct part 60 is applied at a second angle α2 which is different than the first angle α1. In a suitable embodiment, the second distinct piece 60 is applied to the second angle α2 which is equal to, and opposite to, the first angle α1. By applying the first and second distinct pieces 58 and 60, in opposite and angular orientations, the apparatus 78 can manufacture the absorbent article 10 of Figure 3.
    [0046] [0046] In a suitable embodiment illustrated in Figures 6 and 7, the drive assembly 88 includes a cam cylinder coupled to each transfer segment 92 to rotate the respective transfer disc 110 on the axis of the support arm 116. The cylindrical cam includes a radial outer surface and a cam rail 152 defined along the outer radial surface (Figure 6). As shown in Figure 6, each transfer segment 92 includes a cam arm 154, and a cam follower 156 coupled to the cam arm. The cam arm 154 is coupled to the transfer disc 110, and to a pivot point 158. The cam follower 156 is adapted to fit the cam rail 152 to facilitate selectively rotating the transfer disc 110 around the articulation 158.
    [0047] [0047] In one embodiment, apparatus 78 includes a first transfer segment 160 associated with the first transfer disc 134 and an adjacent second transfer segment 162 associated with the second transfer disc 136. The cam follower 156 of the first segment transfer cam 160, which is a trailing cam follower, is positioned closest to the trailing edge of disc 120 of the conductive edge of disc 118. Cam follower 156 of the second transfer segment 162, which is a conductive cam follower , is positioned closer to the leading edge 118 of the disc than the trailing edge 120 of the disc. In addition, in one embodiment, the platforms 122 of the transfer disks 110 are moved a distance 168 from the pivot point 158 to allow the transfer disk 110 to receive the first and second distinct pieces 58 and 60 so that the pieces distinct movements are displaced from the point of articulation 158.
    [0048] [0048] Figures 9 to 11 are schematic views of a portion of a suitable embodiment of the drive assembly 88. As mentioned above, the roller device 78 includes a plurality of pairs of transfer discs 110 with each pair comprising a first transfer disc 134 and a second transfer disc 136. The illustrated drive assembly 88 is configured to rotate (and space, if necessary) each pair of transfer discs 110 so that the first transfer disc 134 is spaced from the first distance circumferential 144 (shown in Figure 7) from the second transfer disc 136 at the application site 96. In addition, drive assembly 88 is configured to rotate (and space, if necessary) the transfer disc pairs 110 of so that the second transfer disc 136 of a pair of conductive transfer discs is moved away from the first transfer disc 134 of a pair of air transfer discs track at the second circumferential distance 146 (shown in Figure 7), at the application site 96.
    [0049] [0049] As can be seen in Figures 9 and 10, the drive set 88 includes a drive ring set 172 and a cam plate set 174. The drive ring set 172 and cam plate set 174 are coupled to each transfer segment 92 to rotate the transfer segments on the drive shaft 90. The drive ring assembly 172 includes a first drive ring 176 and a second drive ring 178 which is coaxially aligned with the first drive ring drive 176. In one embodiment, the first drive ring 176 is rotated at a first speed of rotation, and the second drive ring 178 is rotated at a second speed of rotation, which is approximately equal to that of the first speed of rotation. Alternatively, the first speed of rotation may be different from the second speed of rotation.
    [0050] [0050] As shown in Figure 9, the cam plate assembly 174 includes a first cam track 180 and a second cam track 182, which is coaxially aligned with the first cam track 180. In one embodiment, the assembly cam plate 174 includes a cam plate including the first cam track 180 and the second cam track 182. In another embodiment, the cam plate assembly 174 includes a plurality of cam plates that each includes one or more cam rails. Referring now to Figure 11, each transfer segment 92 includes a cam arm 184 and a cam follower 186. Cam arm 184 is pivotally connected to support arm 108. Support arm 108 and / or the cam 184 are in turn coupled to drive assembly 88. Cam follower 186 is coupled to cam arm 184 and is adapted to fit one of the cam tracks 180 and 182.
    [0051] [0051] In one embodiment, the first drive ring 176 is coupled to a first transfer segment 160 of the plurality of pairs of transfer segments, and the second drive ring 178 is coupled to a second transfer segment 162 of the plurality transfer segment pairs. In addition, each first transfer segment 160 is adapted to fit the first cam track 180, and each second transfer segment 162 is adapted to fit the second cam track 182. In addition, in another embodiment, each second transfer segment 162 is positioned between the first adjacent transfer segments 160 so that the adjacent transfer segments 92 alternatively engage the first and second cam tracks 180 and 182, respectively.
    [0052] [0052] Referring again to Figure 4, in a suitable embodiment, the apparatus 78 includes a vacuum assembly 188, which is coupled to each transfer disc 110 to selectively apply a vacuum suction, through the platform 122 to allow transfer disc 110 to selectively receive, hold and release the respective separate parts 58 and 60.
    [0053] [0053] A control system 190 is coupled in the operational control communication with the drive set 88 and with the vacuum set 188 to operate the drive set 88 and the vacuum set 188 to drive the first and second separate parts 58 and 60 from roll 74, and apply separate parts 58 and 60 to substrate 76. Control system 190 includes a controller 192 that is coupled to drive assembly 88, vacuum system 188, and one or more sensors 194 Each sensor 194 detects various parameters about the operation of drive set 88, transfer segments 92, and / or vacuum set 188. Sensors 194 can include, but are not limited to: position sensors, angular speed, proximity sensors and / or any other sensors that detect different parameters on the operation of the device 78. Sensors 194 can be any suitable sensors, such as encoders, interru slide ptores, slide sensors, infrared type sensors and / or photo-ocular sensors. Alternatively, any sensors that allow the apparatus 78 to function, as described herein, can be used.
    [0054] [0054] In one embodiment, controller 192 includes a processor 196 and a memory device 198. Processor 196 includes any suitable programmable circuit that may include one or more systems and microcontrollers, microprocessors, circuits of reduced instruction sets ( RISC), application-specific integrated circuits (ASIC), programmable logic circuits (PLC), field programmable port arrangements (FPGA), and any other circuit capable of performing the functions described here. The above examples are only exemplary, and therefore are not intended to limit the definition and / or meaning of the term "processor" in any way. The memory device 198 includes a computer-readable medium, such as, without limitation, random access memory (RAM), flash memory, a hard disk, a solid state drive, a floppy disk, a flash drive, a CD, a digital video disc and / or any other suitable device that allows the 196 processor to store, retrieve and / or execute instructions and / or data.
    [0055] [0055] In one embodiment, the control system 190 is configured to detect a position of each transfer disc 110 with respect to the first roll of substrate 74, and energize the vacuum assembly 188 when transfer disc 110 is in collection site 94 adjacent the roll 70 to cause the distinct piece 58, 60 to adhere to the transfer disk platform 122. In addition, the control system 190 detects a position of each transfer disc 110 in relation to substrate 76, and de-energizes the vacuum assembly 188 to release the respective separate piece 58, 60 from the transfer disc platform 122, to allow the the transfer disk releases and, thus, apply the distinct piece to the substrate 76.
    [0056] [0056] Figure 12 illustrates another embodiment of a roller treatment apparatus, generally indicated by 178. In a suitable embodiment, the apparatus comprises a plurality of transfer segments 192 which includes a base transfer element 200, and a pair 202 of transfer discs 110. The base transfer element 200 is coupled to a drive assembly 288. The pair of transfer discs 202 is coupled to the base transfer element 200. The pair of transfer discs transfer 202 is adapted to transport a corresponding pair of separate pieces 58, 60 from a collection site 294 to an application site 296. The drive assembly 288 is configured to rotate each of the base transfer elements 200 so that adjacent pairs 202 of transfer disks 210 are spaced at a second circumferential distance 146 (shown in Figure 7) at the application site 296.
    [0057] [0057] In addition, the transfer disc par 202 includes a first transfer disc 234 and a second transfer disc 236. When the drive assembly 288 rotates transfer segment 292 from roll 74 towards substrate 76, drive assembly 288 moves the second transfer disc 236 away from the first transfer disc 234 along the circumferential path of the path so that the second transfer disc is spaced the first circumferential distance 144 (shown in Figure 7) from the first transfer disc. In one embodiment, the drive assembly 288 each moves from the first and second transfer discs 234 and 236 away from each other. Alternatively, the drive assembly 288 can be configured to move the first transfer disc 234, or the second transfer disc 236, respectively.
    [0058] [0058] In a suitable embodiment, the drive set 288 includes a plurality of servomechanisms 204 that are coupled to the first and second transfer disks 234 and 236. The control system 190 is coupled to each servomechanism 204 to selectively move the first transfer disc 234 and / or the second transfer disc 236 away from the corresponding transfer disc 210 along the circumferential path.
    [0059] [0059] When introducing the elements of the present invention or preferred embodiments thereof, the articles "one, one", "o, a, os, as" and "said, mentioned" are intended to indicate that there is one or more of the elements. The terms "comprising", "including" and "having" are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements in addition to those listed.
    [0060] [0060] As several changes could be made in the above constructions, without departing from the scope of the invention, it is intended that all the matter contained in the description above or shown in the attached drawings is to be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense.
    权利要求:
    Claims (6)
    [0001]
    Apparatus (78) for carrying a plurality of distinct pieces ((58, 60) and applying each distinct piece (58, 60) to a substrate (76) by moving along a positioning axis (86), the apparatus (78) comprising: a plurality of transfer discs (110) adapted to transmit the distinct parts (58, 60) of the roll (70) to the substrate (76) the plurality of transfer discs (110) comprising a first transfer disc (134) and a second transfer disc (136); and a drive assembly (88) said apparatus (78) characterized by the fact that the drive assembly (88) is configured to rotate the first transfer disc (134) in a first rotational direction (138) and rotate the second transfer disc (136) in a second rotational direction (140) which is opposite to the first rotational direction (138), so that a plurality of pairs of distinct parts (58, 60) are applied to the substrate (76) and perpendicular to the positioning axis (86), in that each pair of discrete pieces (58, 60) applied includes a first distinct piece (58) and a second distinct piece (60) spaced at a first distance (104) from the first distinct piece (58), the adjacent pairs of distinct pieces (58, 60) being spaced at a second distance (106) which is different from the first distance (104).
    [0002]
    Apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises a plurality of transfer segments (92), each transfer segment (92) comprising a support arm (108) extending outwardly from the drive assembly (88), and one of the plurality of transfer disks (110) together with the support arm (108) and configured to rotate on the support arm (108), each of the transfer disks (110) being rotatable between a first position (124) where the transfer disc (110) is oriented to receive one of the first and second distinct parts (58, 60) of the roller (70), and a second position (126) in which the disc transfer (110) is oriented to apply one of the first and second distinct pieces (58, 60) to the substrate (76); wherein the drive assembly (88) is configured to rotate the first transfer disc (134) about the axis of the support arm (116) in a first direction of rotation, and to rotate the second transfer disc (136), in a second rotational direction that is opposite the first rotational direction.
    [0003]
    Apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that the drive assembly (88) comprises a cylindrical cam, each transfer segment (92) of the plurality of transfer segments comprising: a cam arm (154) extending outwardly from the support arm (108); and a cam follower (156) adapted to engage the cylindrical cam to selectively rotate the transfer segment (92) on the support arm (108); wherein the plurality of transfer segments (92) comprise a first transfer segment (160) that has a cam follower (156) that leads, and a second transfer segment (162) that has a cam follower (156) drag.
    [0004]
    Apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that each transfer disc (110) comprises a platform (122) adapted to contact the first and second distinct parts (58, 60) to transport them to the substrate (76 ), each of the transfer disks (110) being coupled to the support arm (108) at a pivot point (158) so that the outer surface is displaced a distance from the pivot point (158).
    [0005]
    Apparatus according to claim 2, characterized by the fact that it further comprises a vacuum assembly (188) coupled to each transfer disc (110), the vacuum assembly (188) configured to selectively apply a vacuum to each transfer disc (110) to facilitate the transport of each distinct piece (58, 60) from the roll (70) to the substrate (76).
    [0006]
    Method of applying a plurality of different pieces (58, 60) to a substrate (76), moving along a positioning axis (86), said method characterized by the fact that it comprises: direct a roll (70) including the plurality of different parts (58, 60) towards an apparatus (78) to transport each different part (58, 60) of the roll (70) and apply each distinct part (58, 60) to the substrate (76), the apparatus (78) including a plurality of transfer discs (110) rotatably coupled to a drive assembly (88); rotating a first transfer disc (134) of the plurality of transfer discs (110) in a first direction (138); and rotating a second transfer disc (136) of the plurality of transfer discs (110) in a second direction (140) which is different from the first direction (138), so that each transfer segment (92) carries each distinct piece ( 58, 60) from the roll (70) to the substrate (76); applying a plurality of pairs of distinct pieces (58, 60) including a distinctive first piece (58) and a distinct second piece (60) to the substrate (76) and perpendicular to the positioning axis (86), so that the second piece distinct applied (60) is spaced at a first distance (104) along the positioning axis (86) of the applied first distinct piece (58), and adjacent pairs of distinct applied parts (58, 60) are spaced at a second distance (106) along the positioning axis (86) which is different from the first distance (104); selectively adjusting a rotation speed of each transfer disc (110) of the plurality of transfer discs when the transfer discs are rotated between a collection position located adjacent the roller (70) and an application location located adjacent to the substrate (76 ); and rotating a pair of transfer discs (110), including a first transfer disc (134) and a second transfer disc (136) so that the second transfer disc (136) is spaced at a first circumferential distance from the first disc of transfer (134) at the application site, and the adjacent transfer disc pairs (134, 136) are spaced at a second circumferential distance at the application site, which is different from the first circumferential distance.
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    同族专利:
    公开号 | 公开日
    KR102060062B1|2019-12-27|
    MX2014007454A|2014-07-28|
    WO2013093689A1|2013-06-27|
    AU2012356279B2|2016-10-06|
    RU2608536C2|2017-01-19|
    US20130152360A1|2013-06-20|
    CN103997999A|2014-08-20|
    US8813351B2|2014-08-26|
    CO6980649A2|2014-06-27|
    AU2012356279A1|2014-06-05|
    MX336222B|2016-01-12|
    RU2014127873A|2016-02-10|
    KR20140107266A|2014-09-04|
    EP2793788A4|2015-07-08|
    EP2793788A1|2014-10-29|
    CN103997999B|2016-08-17|
    EP2793788B1|2016-11-23|
    BR112014015127A2|2017-06-13|
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    法律状态:
    2018-12-04| B06F| Objections, documents and/or translations needed after an examination request according [chapter 6.6 patent gazette]|
    2019-11-26| B06U| Preliminary requirement: requests with searches performed by other patent offices: procedure suspended [chapter 6.21 patent gazette]|
    2020-12-01| B09A| Decision: intention to grant [chapter 9.1 patent gazette]|
    2021-01-12| B16A| Patent or certificate of addition of invention granted [chapter 16.1 patent gazette]|Free format text: PRAZO DE VALIDADE: 20 (VINTE) ANOS CONTADOS A PARTIR DE 06/12/2012, OBSERVADAS AS CONDICOES LEGAIS. |
    优先权:
    申请号 | 申请日 | 专利标题
    US13/331,656|2011-12-20|
    US13/331,656|US8813351B2|2011-12-20|2011-12-20|Apparatus and method for applying discrete parts to a moving web|
    PCT/IB2012/057039|WO2013093689A1|2011-12-20|2012-12-06|Apparatus and method for applying discrete parts to a moving web|
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