A perimetral delimitation module for a collection system of a separating element arranged between two groups of blanks and corresponding collection system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing packaging machine systems require large, accessible work areas for removing separating elements, leading to time-consuming interruptions and safety concerns due to the need for manual intervention and complete handling device stops.
Innovation Solution
A perimetral delimitation module with parallel vertical panels and offset openings for inserting and extracting separating elements, allowing compact work areas and safe, continuous operation without manual access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the work area is completely delimited by partition walls to ensure safety, then operator safety is improved, but the work area becomes inaccessible for manual removal of separating elements
Solution Approach 1:
The delimitation module segments the partition wall structure by introducing openings (first opening for insertion, second opening for extraction) that divide the continuous wall into functional sections. This allows the wall to maintain its safety-delimiting function while providing access points for automated separating element removal without requiring manual intervention through the partition walls.
Solution Approach 2:
The delimitation module acts as an intermediary structure between the safe delimited work area and the separating element collection system. The openings in the module allow automated grippers to pass separating elements from the work area to the collection container without compromising the safety delimitation, thus mediating between safety requirements and operational needs.
2Ease of operation
If the work area is made large and accessible to allow manual removal of separating elements, then ease of operation is improved, but the footprint increases and safety regulations require larger clearances
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the separating element removal operation from the main work area by providing dedicated openings in the delimitation module. This allows the removal operation to occur through the partition walls rather than requiring a large accessible work area, thus reducing the footprint while maintaining ease of operation through automated means.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions the separating element removal from a horizontal access requirement (needing large work area) to a vertical/directional access through openings in the partition walls. The gripper approaches through the openings in a direction perpendicular to the main work area plane, reducing the horizontal footprint requirement while maintaining operational efficiency.
3Ease of operation
If manual intervention is required to remove separating elements, then ease of operation is improved, but productivity decreases due to complete interruption of handling device operations
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service by enabling automated removal of separating elements through the openings in the delimitation module. The gripper apparatus automatically retrieves separating elements from the work area through the first and second openings without requiring manual intervention, thus maintaining operational continuity and productivity while still providing ease of automated operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The delimitation module with its dedicated openings enables continuous operation of the handling device by allowing separating elements to be removed during or between processing cycles without complete interruption. The automated gripper can continuously retrieve separating elements through the openings, maintaining the flow of production without stops for manual intervention.
4Productivity
If the delimitation module includes openings for automated gripper access, then productivity is improved by enabling continuous operation, but the structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The delimitation module applies local quality by providing openings only at specific locations where gripper access is required, rather than creating a completely open structure. The partition walls remain intact in non-critical areas to maintain safety delimitation, while localized openings are strategically positioned to enable automated operations. This selective opening approach minimizes structural complexity while achieving productivity goals.
Data Source
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AI summary
A perimetral delimitation module (9) for a work area (7) of a gripping apparatus (4) configured for removing a flat separating element (2), which is arranged between two groups (3) of blanks overlapping one another, and which is configured to collect within it the at least one separating element (2); the perimetral delimitation module (9) comprises: a pair of vertical panels (10, 11) that are parallel and opposed to each other; the panels (10, 11) are spaced apart with a first distance (D1), so as to define between them a collection cavity (12) that is configured to accommodate the at least one separating element inserted by the gripping apparatus (4). The first panel (10) faces the work area (7) and is provided with an introduction opening (13); and the second panel (11) is arranged on the opposite side of the first panel (10) that is opposite to the work area (7); and the second panel (11) is provided with an extraction opening (14) through which the collection cavity (12) is accessible to take at least one separating element from the collection cavity (12).