Alternate Capsule Row Stacking With Curved Transfer Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machines for arranging objects with a first end and a projecting edge, such as beverage capsules, in single file rows are often complex, expensive, and bulky, making them inefficient and costly to produce and use.
Innovation Solution
A machine comprising first and second transportation means, moving means, and collecting and dropping means that rotate objects along arcs to stack them alternately in single file rows, minimizing space and using simple, cost-effective components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If known devices use articulated rail structures for transporting objects, then objects can be arranged in single file rows, but the machine becomes bulky and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The machine divides objects into two groups and processes them separately through different transportation means, moving means, and collecting/dropping means. This segmentation allows each subsystem to be simpler while achieving the overall arrangement function, avoiding the need for complex articulated rails.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces vertical stacking as a new dimension for arranging objects. Instead of only horizontal arrangement via articulated rails, objects are arranged in single file rows and then stacked vertically in alternate orientation, reducing the machine's horizontal footprint and simplifying the transportation path.
2Ease of operation
If known devices use long articulated paths for object transport, then objects can be arranged, but the machine occupies excessive space
Solution Approach 1:
The invention transitions from purely horizontal object arrangement to a combination of horizontal arrangement and vertical stacking. By stacking objects vertically in alternate orientation after arranging them in single file rows, the machine reduces its horizontal area occupation while maintaining arrangement functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The moving means transport objects along curved paths (arcs of circumference) rather than long articulated straight lines. This curvature allows compact arrangement of transportation paths, reducing the overall machine footprint while still achieving proper object positioning.
3Ease of operation
If known devices use complex structures, then objects can be arranged in single file rows, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The machine is divided into separate functional modules (transportation means, moving means, collecting and dropping means) that can be manufactured independently using simpler components. This modular segmentation reduces manufacturing complexity and cost compared to building a single complex articulated rail system.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using complex articulated rails to achieve arrangement, the invention inverts the approach by using simple curved transportation paths combined with vertical stacking in alternate orientation. This inverted methodology achieves the same arrangement function with simpler, more cost-effective components.
4Area of stationary object
If objects are stacked in alternate manner, then space occupation is reduced, but machine complexity increases due to rotation means
Solution Approach 1:
The rotation function is segmented and integrated into the collecting and dropping means rather than being a separate complex subsystem. Each collecting/dropping unit handles rotation for its specific objects, simplifying the overall system architecture while achieving compact vertical stacking.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotation means utilize curved paths (arcs of circumference) to rotate objects during dropping. This curved motion naturally achieves the orientation change needed for alternate stacking without requiring complex mechanical rotation mechanisms, reducing overall device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A machine (M) and a method for arranging objects (T, T1, T2) comprising a first end (Te) and a projecting edge (Tb) arranged in proximity to the first end, in an alternate manner along single file rows (F). The objects are oriented so that they rest on the first end and are divided into a first group (A) and a second group (B). The first group are moved in an anti-clockwise direction along a first arc of circumference (C1) and, simultaneously, the second group are moved in a clockwise direction along a second arc of circumference (C2). The objects (T1) of the first group and the objects (T2) of the second group are dropped in turn along the same direction (Y). The objects (T, T1, T2) are stacked on top of one another in an alternate manner along single file rows (F).