FIBER CLEANING APPARATUS

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a fiber cleaning apparatus (100). The fiber cleaning apparatus (100) includes a cylindrical brush (106) having a plurality of bristles (104), and a set of rollers (102) positioned at a predetermined depth relative to the plurality of bristles (104). The set of rollers (102) is configured to prevent fibers from penetrating beyond the predetermined depth into the plurality of bristles (104) during cleaning, thereby preventing fiber clogging and deep fiber pulls.

Specification

Description:TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to cleaning machines. In particular, the present disclosure relates to a fiber cleaning apparatus.

BACKGROUND
[0002] The following description of related art is intended to provide background information pertaining to the field of the disclosure. This section may include certain aspects of the art that may be related to various features of the present disclosure. However, it should be appreciated that this section be used only to enhance the understanding of the reader with respect to the present disclosure, and not as admissions of prior art.
[0003] Once raw fibers have been extracted/produced, such as polypropylene fiber, cotton fibers and the like, the fibers have to be cleaned from contaminants such as dust, dirt, and debris, before they are processed into other products, such as clothing, ropes, and the like. Fiber cleaning technologies are commonly used in various industries to maintain cleanliness and quality of fiber-based materials.
[0004] Traditional cleaning machines often are susceptible to fiber clogging, where fibers become lodged in bristles of the machine. This results in reduced cleaning efficacy and increased maintenance requirements. Furthermore, the risk of deep fiber pull, where fibers get lodged or penetrate too deep into the machine, poses a significant challenge for manual operators, causing potential damage and undue strain on the fibers. Further, different machines are required for different types of fibers, which is not cost-effective.
[0005] Therefore, there is a need to address the above-mentioned drawbacks, along with any other shortcomings, and provide an alternative to the existing fiber cleaning solutions.

OBJECTS OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE
[0006] Some of the objects of the present disclosure, which at least one embodiment herein satisfies are listed below.
[0007] A general object of the present disclosure is to provide a fiber cleaning apparatus for cleaning fibers.
[0008] One object of the present disclosure is to prevent fiber clogging into the fiber cleaning apparatus, maintaining the cleaning effectiveness and reducing maintenance requirements.
[0009] Another object of the present disclosure is to prevent deep fiber pulls for minimizing the risk of fiber damage, thereby extending the lifespan of the fibers and reducing the need for frequent replacements of bristles of the fiber cleaning apparatus.
[0010] Yet another object of the present disclosure is to reduce force required to disengage fibers from rollers to enhance operator safety and minimize the risk of injuries.

SUMMARY
[0011] In an aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a fiber cleaning apparatus. The fiber cleaning apparatus includes a cylindrical brush having a plurality of bristles, and a set of rollers positioned at a predetermined depth relative to the plurality of bristles. The set of rollers is configured to prevent fibers from penetrating beyond the predetermined depth into the plurality of bristles during cleaning.
[0012] In an embodiment, the set of rollers may be placed circumferentially on the cylindrical brush.
[0013] In an embodiment, the predetermined depth may be 50 millimeters (mm).
[0014] In an embodiment, the cylindrical brush may be driven by a motor.
[0015] In an embodiment, the set of rollers may include six rollers.
[0016] In an embodiment, the set of rollers may be placed between two sets of bristles from the plurality of bristles.
[0017] In an embodiment, the fiber cleaning apparatus further may include a clip arrangement configured to hold the fibers on a support plate.
[0018] In an embodiment, the plurality of bristles may be configured to rub against the fiber on the cylindrical brush being rotated by a motor.
[0019] In an embodiment, the fiber cleaning apparatus further may include a debris collection chamber positioned below the cylindrical brush, where the debris collection chamber may be configured to suck, separate, and store debris removed from the fibers.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0020] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the present disclosure, and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure. The diagrams are for illustration only, which thus is not a limitation of the present disclosure.
[0021] In the figures, similar components and/or features may have the same reference label. Further, various components of the same type may be distinguished by following the reference label with a second label that distinguishes among the similar components. If only the first reference label is used in the specification, the description is applicable to any one of the similar components having the same first reference label irrespective of the second reference label.
[0022] FIG. 1A illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a side view of a fiber cleaning apparatus, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0023] FIG. 1B illustrates a front view of the fiber cleaning apparatus, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0024] FIGs. 2A illustrates a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a frame of the fiber cleaning apparatus, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0025] FIGs. 2B illustrates a top view of an exemplary embodiment of a frame of the fiber cleaning apparatus, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0026] FIG. 3A illustrates a cross-sectional view of a cylindrical brush of the fiber cleaning apparatus, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0027] FIG. 3B illustrates a schematic representation of a shaft of the fiber cleaning apparatus, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0028] FIG. 4 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a set of rollers of the fiber cleaning apparatus, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0029] The following is a detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure depicted in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments are in such detail as to clearly communicate the disclosure. However, the amount of detail offered is not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments; on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the present disclosures as defined by the appended claims.
[0030] The ensuing description provides exemplary embodiments only, and is not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the disclosure. Rather, the ensuing description of the exemplary embodiments will provide those skilled in the art with an enabling description for implementing an exemplary embodiment. It should be understood that various changes may be made in the function and arrangement of elements without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as set forth.
[0031] Specific details are given in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that the embodiments may be practiced without these specific details.
[0032] The word "exemplary" and/or "demonstrative" is used herein to mean serving as an example, instance, or illustration. For the avoidance of doubt, the subject matter disclosed herein is not limited by such examples. In addition, any aspect or design described herein as "exemplary" and/or "demonstrative" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs, nor is it meant to preclude equivalent exemplary structures and techniques known to those of ordinary skill in the art. Furthermore, to the extent that the terms "includes," "has," "contains," and other similar words are used in either the detailed description or the claims, such terms are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term "comprising" as an open transition word without precluding any additional or other elements.
[0033] Reference throughout this specification to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" or "an instance" or "one instance" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the appearances of the phrases "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.
[0034] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a fiber cleaning apparatus. The fiber cleaning apparatus includes a cylindrical brush having a plurality of bristles, and a set of rollers positioned at a predetermined depth relative to the plurality of bristles. The set of rollers is configured to prevent fibers from penetrating beyond the predetermined depth into the plurality of bristles during cleaning, thereby preventing fiber clogging and deep fiber pulls.
[0035] In an embodiment, the present disclosure offers a practical and efficient solution to remove debris from fibers while minimizing the risk of damage or excessive force applied to the fibers. The set of rollers is arranged circumferentially, which works in tandem with a rotating cylinder brush to comb and separate the fibers, thus enhancing the overall efficiency and safety of fiber cleaning processes.
[0036] Various embodiments of the present disclosure will be explained in detail with respect to FIG. 1A- 5.
[0037] FIG. 1A illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a side view of a fiber cleaning apparatus (further referred as "apparatus") (100), and FIG. 1B illustrates a front view of the fiber cleaning apparatus (100), in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The apparatus (100) may be used to clean fibers of different kinds. In an embodiment, the fibers may include jute, hemp, and various natural fibers, but not limited thereto. The fibers may have applications in various industries, and may require cleaning of contaminants such as dust, dirt, and the like, before application.
[0038] As shown, the apparatus (100) may include a frame (112) configured to support a motor (110) that drives a cylindrical brush (106). The motor (110) may be configured to controllably rotate the cylindrical brush (106). The fibers may be pressed against the cylindrical brush (106) when being rotated by the motor (110), for cleaning. The motor (110) may be configured to drive the cylindrical brush (106) through a shaft (122) that runs along the length of the cylindrical brush (106). The shaft (122) may be connected to a rotor of the motor (110) through a pulley belt (120). In some embodiments, the motor (110) may be an energy efficient motor and recyclable component with focus on sustainability.
[0039] In an embodiment, the frame (112) may be designed to support the different components of the apparatus (100). The frame (112) may be configured to securely place the cylindrical brush (106) and the motor (110) relative to each other. The cylindrical brush (106) may be rotatably placed on the frame (112). The cylindrical brush (106) may be supported between support plates (116-1, 116-2). Further, the motor (110) may be supported on a motor support plate (114). In some embodiments, the frame (112) may be made of mild steel. However, it may be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the frame (112) may be made of any other material based on the requirements and constraints (such as of cost, weight, and the like).
[0040] FIGs. 2A and 2B illustrate a side view and a top view, respectively of an exemplary embodiment of the frame (112) of the fiber cleaning apparatus (100) in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. In an embodiment, the frame (112) may have a height of 701.7mm with an inclined structure of length 702.4mm. In an embodiment, a top portion of the frame (112) that supports the cylindrical brush (106) may be 394.7mm in width. In an embodiment, a base of the frame (112) may be 800mm wide. However, it may be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the dimensions and geometry of the frame (112) of the apparatus (100) may be suitably adapted based on the requirements of the use case. For example, industrial use cases may require the apparatus (100) to have larger dimensions, while other home or smaller scale applications may require comparatively smaller dimensions. In some embodiments, the frame (112) may be ergonomically designed and dimensioned, thereby providing comfortable/convenient apparatus (100) to operate.
[0041] In an embodiment, the apparatus (100) includes the shaft (122) rotatably locked with the cylindrical brush (106). The shaft (122) may be rotatably supported on the frame (112). FIG. 3A illustrates a cross-sectional view of the cylindrical brush (106), and FIG. 3B illustrates a schematic representation of the shaft (122), in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown, the cylindrical brush (106) may include a plurality of bristles (104). The bristles (104) may be arranged circumferentially around the cylindrical brush (106). In an embodiment, the cylindrical brush (106) may include a plurality of holes for holding the plurality of bristles (104).
[0042] The bristles (104) may be arranged in multiple sets. In an embodiment, each set of the bristles (104) may be disposed along at least one portion of a lateral surface of the cylindrical brush (106), such as between radii of the cylinder forming at least 50 degrees at the center of the cylindrical brush (106), and each set of the bristles (104) may be separated by a portion of the lateral surface, such as between radii of the cylinder forming at least 10 degrees at the center. In some embodiments, the bristles (104) may be made of fabricated nylon fiber with 1mm diameter. In some embodiments, the bristles (104) may have a length greater than a set of rollers (such as rollers (102) described subsequently in the present disclosure). In some examples, the bristles (104) may be at least 50mm in length. In another embodiment, the set of rollers (102) is fabricated with plastic. However, it may be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the materials, geometries, and dimensions of the bristles (104) may be selected based on the fiber to be cleaned.
[0043] In an embodiment, the apparatus (100) includes one or more first steel inserts (302) adapted for fixing the shaft (122) to the cylindrical brush (106). In an example, the apparatus (100) may include four first steel inserts. In an embodiment, the apparatus (100) includes one or more second steel inserts (304) adapted for fixing a disc of the pulley belt (120).
[0044] In an embodiment, the shaft (122) may have a diameter of 30mm, as shown in FIG. 3B. In an embodiment, the shaft (122) includes a step structure (306) adapted to fit into center of the pulley belt (120). In an embodiment, the shaft (122) has six holes with 150 mm pitch circle diameter for fixing the set of rollers (102). However, it may be appreciated by those skilled in the art that geometry and dimensions of the shaft (122) may be suitably selected based on the requirements.
[0045] FIG. 4 illustrates an example representation of a set of rollers (102), in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the cylindrical brush (106) may further include the set of rollers (102) attached thereto. The set of rollers (102) may be circumferentially fixed to the cylindrical brush (106). In some embodiments, the rollers (102) may be placed between two sets of the bristles (104) (such as within the 10-degree gaps between each set of bristles (104)). In some embodiments, the rollers (102) may be protrusions extending from the cylindrical brush (106). In other embodiments, the rollers (102) may be elongated structures connected to connecting structures (402) extending from both sides/bases of the cylindrical brush (106).
[0046] In an embodiment, the connecting structures (402) may be connected to the cylindrical brush (106) through a corresponding set of hexagonal nuts (404), and a corresponding set of spring-loaded washers (406), a predefined number of screws, and the like, which may securely fix the rollers (102) to the cylindrical brush (106), and also prevent loosening, absorb shocks more efficiently, distribute load evenly, and so on.
[0047] The fiber cleaning apparatus (100) includes a set of rollers (102) positioned at a predetermined depth relative to a plurality of bristles (104) to prevent deep pull of the fiber during cleaning. In an embodiment, the set of rollers (102) may include a set of six rollers, arranged circumferentially. In some embodiments, the rollers (102) may be placed closer to the center of the cylindrical brush (106) in comparison to distal tips of the plurality of bristles (104). In an embodiment, each roller of the set of rollers (102) is positioned at a depth of 50 millimeter (mm) with respect to the bristles (104) to ensure optimal engagement with the fibers and prevent the fibers from penetrating deeper than a desired threshold into the plurality of bristles (104). In some embodiments, the rollers (102) may have a substantially cuboidal shape. In other embodiments, the rollers (102) may have a substantially cylindrical shape. In an embodiment, the diameter of each of the rollers (102) may be 100 mm and diameter of the cylindrical brush (106) may be 150 mm. However, it may be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the apparatus (100) may be adapted to have any number of rollers based on the requirements of the use case (such as dimensions of the cylindrical brush (106)).
[0048] In an embodiment, the set of rollers (102) may be fixed to the cylindrical brush (106) such that the rollers (102) rotate when the motor (110) is actuated. The set of rollers (102) may be configured to prevent clogging and deep fiber pulls. In an embodiment, during cleaning of the fibers, a stack of fibers may be pressed against the bristles (104) of the cylindrical brush (106). The cylindrical brush (106) may be caused to rotate by the motor (110). The fibers may engage with and rub against the bristles (104) on the rotating cylindrical brush (106), during which the bristles (104) may comb and separate the fibers, while removing contaminants, such as dust, dirt and/or debris from the fiber. In some embodiments, the contaminants may be collected on a debris collection chamber (not shown) placed below the cylindrical brush (106). The debris collection chamber is configured to suck (such a suction), separate (such a filter), and store (using a container) the debris removed from the fibers.
[0049] In such embodiments, the rollers (102) may be configured to prevent the fibers from being pressed into the bristles (104) beyond the depth in which the rollers (102) are placed. The rollers (102) prevent leading edges of the fibers from penetrating excessively deep into the cylinder brush (106). Hence, clogging and deep pulling of the fibers may be avoided as the rollers (102) prevent the fiber from being inserted/pressed beyond the predefined depth (such as 50 mm).
[0050] Further, the fiber cleaning apparatus (100) may include a control mechanism operatively connectable with the cylindrical brush (106). The control mechanism may include a clip arrangement (not shown) for restricting the leading edges of fibers from penetrating deep into the cylindrical brush (106). In some embodiments, the fiber may be fixed/held on any of the support plates (116-1, 116-2) using the clips. The proximity of the support plates (116-1, 116-2) to the cylindrical brush (106) may cause the fibers to engage with or rub against the distal tips of the bristles (104). Further, the rollers (102) may be configured to ensure that the fibers do not rub against portions close to the roots of the bristles (104).
[0051] Hence, the cylindrical brush (106) may mitigate the risk of fibers getting pulled deeply into the set of rollers (102), thereby reducing chances of fiber damage. Further, since the fibers do not penetrate deep into the roots of the bristles (104), the force required to disengage fibers from the rollers (102) is reduced, thereby enhancing operator safety and minimizing the risk of injuries and repetitive strain. Additionally, the rollers (102) and cylindrical brush (106) ensures efficient fiber cleaning, thereby improving overall productivity of the cleaning processes. The apparatus (100), such as through the frame (112), is ergonomically designed with energy efficient motor and recyclable component with focus on sustainability. Further, the bristles (104) may also be suitably adapted to suit the need of different fibers, such as jute, hemp, and other natural fiber, but not limited thereto.
[0052] While the foregoing describes various embodiments of the disclosure, other and further embodiments of the disclosure may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof. The scope of the disclosure is determined by the claims that follow. The disclosure is not limited to the described embodiments, versions, or examples, which are included to enable a person having ordinary skill in the art to make and use the disclosure when combined with information and knowledge available to the person having ordinary skill in the art.

ADVANTAGES OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE
[0053] The present disclosure provides a fiber cleaning apparatus for fiber cleaning.
[0054] The present disclosure prevents fiber clogging into the plurality of bristles, maintaining the cleaning effectiveness and hence reducing maintenance requirements.
[0055] The present disclosure reduces the risk of fiber damage and extends the lifespan of the fibers.
[0056] The present disclosure provides operator safety by reducing the force required to disengage fibers from the rollers.
[0057] The present disclosure provides an optimized set of rollers and the cylindrical brush ensuring efficient fiber cleaning.
[0058] The present disclosure provides an automated debris collection system for collecting the dusts and debris to a bin, thereby maintaining cleaner work environment.
[0059] The present disclosure provides an energy efficient motor and recyclable component with focus on sustainability.
[0060] The present disclosure provides replaceable plurality of bristles to suit the need of different fibers such as jute, hemp, and other natural fiber.
[0061] The present disclosure provides a combination of the set rollers and the cylindrical brush to mitigate deep fiber pulls during the cleaning process.
, Claims:1. A fiber cleaning apparatus (100) comprising:
a cylindrical brush (106) having a plurality of bristles (104); and
a set of rollers (102) positioned at a predetermined depth relative to the plurality of bristles (104), wherein the set of rollers (102) are configured to prevent fibers from penetrating beyond the predetermined depth into the plurality of bristles (104) during cleaning.

2. The fiber cleaning apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the set of rollers (102) are placed circumferentially on the cylindrical brush (106).

3. The fiber cleaning apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the predetermined depth is 50 millimeters (mm).

4. The fiber cleaning apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the cylindrical brush (106) is driven by a motor (110).

5. The fiber cleaning apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the set of rollers (102) comprises six rollers.

6. The fiber cleaning apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the set of rollers (102) are placed between two sets of bristles from the plurality of bristles (104).

7. The fiber cleaning apparatus (100) of claim 1, wherein the fiber cleaning apparatus (100) further comprises a clip arrangement configured to hold the fibers on a support plate (116-1, 116-2).

8. The fiber cleaning apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of bristles (104) is configured to rub against the fiber on the cylindrical brush (106) being rotated by a motor (110).
9. The fiber cleaning apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, comprises a debris collection chamber positioned below the cylindrical brush (106), wherein the debris collection chamber is configured to suck, separate, and store debris removed from the fibers.

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