Adjustable Case Grouping Unit for Variable-Height Case Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing case packer machines face inefficiencies in grouping and transferring cases of varying heights, leading to disproportionate lifting times and compromised performance due to fixed trap positions.
Innovation Solution
A case grouping and transfer unit with adjustable trap positions allows for varying the height of traps to adapt to the size of each batch, enhancing the grouping and transfer efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the trap position is set at a maximum height to accommodate the highest cases, then various types of cases with different heights can be handled, but the lifting stroke becomes exaggerated and lifting time is unnecessarily extended for shorter cases
Solution Approach 1:
The trap position is changed from fixed to adjustable, allowing the system to dynamically adapt its configuration based on the specific batch of cases being processed. The control unit receives height information and automatically adjusts the trap position to match the case height, eliminating the need for exaggerated lifting strokes while maintaining the ability to handle various case types.
Solution Approach 2:
The physical parameter of trap position is changed from a constant maximum value to a variable value that matches the actual case height. By changing this parameter dynamically based on input case dimensions, the system optimizes the lifting stroke length for each batch, reducing unnecessary movement and time consumption while preserving versatility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the trap position is fixed at maximum height, then the machine can process batches with different case heights, but the ratio between grouping speed and case height becomes disproportionate, compromising overall performance
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a static trap configuration to a dynamic one where the trap position adapts to each batch's characteristics. This dynamic adjustment restores the proportional relationship between grouping speed and case height, ensuring that the machine operates at optimal efficiency for each specific batch while maintaining the capability to handle diverse case types.
Solution Approach 2:
A control unit receives information about case height and uses this feedback to automatically adjust the trap position. This closed-loop control system ensures that the trap is positioned optimally for each batch, eliminating the performance compromise caused by fixed maximum positioning and restoring the proper balance between grouping speed and case dimensions.
3Loss of time
If the trap position is adjusted to match case height, then lifting time is reduced and grouping speed improves, but the device requires additional adjustment mechanisms and control systems
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit serves multiple functions: it receives case height information, calculates the optimal trap position, controls the adjustment mechanism, and monitors the lifting process. By consolidating these functions into a single multi-functional control system, the patent minimizes the added complexity while achieving the benefit of reduced lifting time through automated trap position adjustment.
Data Source
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AI summary
The cases grouping and transfer unit (1) for case packer machines comprises: - a holding element (2) configured to receive at least a first case (Al) intended to define a first layer of cases (S1), - a supporting element (3) configured to: - receive the first case (A1) from a thrust element (4) which moves it away from the holding element (2) to free it so as to allow receiving at least a possible second case (A2), which defines a second layer of cases (S2), and/or - receive the second case (A2) from the thrust element (4) which moves it away from said holding element (2) to free it and allow receiving at least one possible additional case (A2) in order to stack the second case (A2) onto the first case (A1) to make a stack of layers of cases, - adjustment means (5) configured to adjust the mutual position between the holding element (2) and the supporting element (3) depending on the height of the cases (A1, A2) in order to speed up their grouping and their transfer.