Beverage Container Transport Clamps with Independent Control Cams
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing container transport devices in beverage bottling plants require frequent changes and external intervention to accommodate different container sizes, leading to downtimes and potential deformation of thin-walled containers, especially in aseptic systems where sterilization is necessary.
Innovation Solution
A device with pivotable clamps controlled by independent control cams, allowing for simultaneous or sequential operation based on container size, reducing the need for external intervention and minimizing collisions, and a treatment device with variable clamps for handling different container sizes without deformation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If clamps are replaced to accommodate different container sizes, then the device can handle various container dimensions, but this results in downtimes and requires external intervention with subsequent sterilization
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp assembly is divided into modular components: a base structure and interchangeable clamp elements that can be quickly swapped. Each clamp element is designed as a separate module that attaches to the base, enabling rapid replacement without affecting the entire clamp system or requiring system shutdown.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp base structure is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate multiple types of clamp elements for different container sizes. The base includes standardized mounting features and adjustment mechanisms that work with various clamp configurations, allowing one base to serve multiple functions across different container specifications.
2Reliability
If containers are pressed into holders with arcuate elements, then containers can be held securely, but thin-walled containers may be deformed
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp elements feature localized contact zones with optimized curvature and pressure distribution. Instead of uniform arcuate surfaces, the clamps have specific contact regions tailored to match container geometry at critical holding points, applying force only where structurally sound portions of the container can withstand it.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp design incorporates compliant elements and cushioning features that absorb excess pressure before it reaches the container. Soft contact surfaces and spring-loaded mechanisms are positioned to prevent over-compression, cushioning the container against deformation risks before they occur.
3Area of stationary object
If clamps are positioned closer together to reduce installation space, then material costs and energy requirements are reduced, but collisions between clamps may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp system incorporates dynamic positioning capabilities with sensors and control mechanisms that actively monitor clamp positions and adjust them in real-time. This dynamic adjustment prevents collisions by maintaining optimal spacing between clamps during operation, allowing closer initial positioning while ensuring safe operational distances through active control.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a device (1) for transporting containers (9) in a beverage filling system, which device has at least one first clamp (2), which can be pivoted between an open switching position and a closed switching position and is arranged in a pivoting plane (10), for holding a container (9) of a first container size and one second clamp (3), which can be pivoted between an open switching position and a closed switching position and is arranged in the pivoting plane (10), for holding a container (9) of a second container size, wherein a first control cam (24) is provided for controlling the switching position of the first clamp (2) and a second control cam (34) is provided for controlling the switching position of the second clamp (3), wherein the first control cam (24) is arranged in a first control plane (20) parallel to the pivoting plane (10) and the second control cam (34) is arranged in a second control plane (30) parallel to the pivoting plane (10) and the first control plane (20) and the second control plane (30) are spaced apart from each other.