Container Processing Machine Bag-Type Sensing for Reliable Changeovers

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

In packaging machines, it is challenging for operators to correctly identify and switch between different types of bags or switchable objects, leading to potential production losses and increased workload, especially in OEM production where multiple bag types are handled.

Innovation Solution

A container processing method that utilizes sensors to acquire information on switchable objects, such as bags, containers, or jigs, and adjusts the operating parameters of the packaging machine based on this information to ensure proper processing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If manual switching of bag types is performed by operators, then the packaging machine can handle multiple bag types, but the risk of wrong bag type being set increases and operator workload increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to handle multiple bag typesVSAvoidrisk of wrong bag type being set

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs automatic identification and verification of bag types through sensors and control units, eliminating reliance on manual operator input. The packaging machine autonomously detects the bag type and adjusts processing parameters, making the system self-sufficient in verifying the correct bag type is being used.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The control unit receives information from sensors about the actual bag type being processed and compares it with the expected bag type. This feedback mechanism allows the system to detect mismatches and prevent processing with incorrect bag types, thereby improving reliability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

2Adaptability or versatility

If manual switching of bag types is performed by operators, then the packaging machine can handle multiple bag types, but production loss increases due to wrong bag type switching

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to handle multiple bag typesVSAvoidproduction loss

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The sensor acquires information about the bag type before the packaging process begins. The control unit verifies the bag type in advance and prepares the appropriate processing parameters, preventing production errors before they occur and avoiding downtime associated with correcting wrong bag type settings.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system continuously monitors bag type information and provides feedback to the control unit, which can immediately halt or adjust processing if a mismatch is detected, preventing production loss from processing with incorrect bag types.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

3Measurement precision

If sensors are used to acquire information on switchable objects, then accurate identification of bag types is achieved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccuracy of bag type identificationVSAvoidcomplexity of sensor and control system

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system replaces manual mechanical identification methods with optical or electronic sensors that automatically detect bag type characteristics. This substitution increases measurement precision while the automated nature of the system actually reduces operational complexity despite adding technical components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The sensor and control unit system is designed to handle multiple bag types through a single universal interface. The control unit can store and manage processing parameters for various bag types, making the increased device complexity applicable to a wide range of bag types and reducing the need for multiple specialized systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Ease of operation

If automatic sensor-based identification is implemented, then operator workload is reduced, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoperator workloadVSAvoidcomplexity of automated identification system

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The automated identification system performs bag type detection and verification autonomously without requiring operator intervention. The sensor and control unit work together to automatically identify the bag type and configure processing parameters, significantly reducing operator workload despite the added technical complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

Manual operations for bag type identification and parameter setting are replaced with automated sensor-based detection and control unit processing. This substitution transfers complexity from human operators to the automated system, making operation easier while concentrating technical complexity in the machine itself.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS20250115386A1Container processing method and container processing machine

Publication Date: 2025.04.10 PACRAFT CO LTD

AI summary

A container processing method includes the steps of: acquiring information on a switchable object associated with a container processing machine with a sensor; and performing a container processing with the container processing machine, based on a container processing information that is associated with the acquired information on a switchable object.