Blister Pack Dispensing Roller Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for dispensing pharmaceuticals in blister bags have complex and energy-intensive transport mechanisms with limited functionality, which are not flexible enough to handle various operating modes and can be harsh on the medication.
Innovation Solution
A device with independently controlled pairs of transport rollers that can operate in multiple directions and speeds, allowing for flexible and efficient transportation of blister bags while minimizing stress on the medication, including the option to separate or compress blister tubes, using geared motors and a separating device for efficient separation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If elaborate transport mechanisms with conveyor belts are used, then blister packs can be conveyed, but the structure becomes complex and energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The transport mechanism is segmented into two independent roller pairs (first and second pairs), each capable of independent operation. This segmentation allows the system to achieve complex transport functions through simpler, modular components rather than a single elaborate conveyor belt system.
Solution Approach 2:
The roller pairs are designed to perform multiple functions: they can transport blister packs individually, transport blister tubes containing multiple blister packs, separate blister packs from tubes, and operate in various directions (same or opposite directions). This multi-functionality replaces the need for multiple specialized mechanisms.
2Productivity
If conventional transport mechanisms are used, then blister packs can be conveyed, but energy consumption becomes high
Solution Approach 1:
The transport rollers operate periodically rather than continuously. The system can activate only the necessary roller pair(s) based on the current operation mode (transporting individual packs vs. tubes, separation operations), reducing overall energy consumption compared to continuously running conveyor belts.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters by independently controlling the rotation direction and speed of each roller pair. This allows optimization of energy consumption by adjusting roller speeds and activation patterns based on the specific transport task at hand.
3Productivity
If conventional transport mechanisms are used, then blister packs can be conveyed, but operational flexibility is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The transport system is dynamically configurable through independent control of the two roller pairs. The system can adapt its operation in real-time by adjusting which rollers are active, their rotation directions, and their speeds, enabling flexible switching between different operating modes (individual pack transport, tube transport, separation operations).
Solution Approach 2:
By dividing the transport function into two independently controllable roller pairs, the system gains the flexibility to perform different operations by activating different combinations of rollers, enabling multiple operating modes from a single segmented mechanism.
4Productivity
If conventional transport mechanisms are used, then blister packs can be conveyed, but the medication becomes subject to harsh handling
Solution Approach 1:
The system adjusts transport parameters by controlling roller speed and activation patterns. Softer, more controlled transport is achieved by using lower speeds and activating only the necessary rollers, reducing mechanical stress and harsh handling on the medication compared to conventional conveyor belts.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables flexible and efficient dispensing of blister bags with reduced energy consumption and improved handling of medication, ensuring gentle transport and secure separation, thereby enhancing operational flexibility and reducing waste.
Implementation Method 1
a first pair of transport rollers (122) comprising a first transport roller (122a) and a second transport roller (122b), and a second pair of transport rollers (124) comprising a third transport roller (124a) and a fourth transport roller (124b), wherein at least one transport roller (122a, 122b, 124a, 124b) can be driven independently of the other transport rollers (122a, 122b, 124a, 124b)
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~5
Figure 6~7
AI summary
Device for dispensing medicinal products arranged in blister packs, wherein the device has at least one storage container for receiving the blister packs and a transport device for conveying at least one blister pack out of the storage container, wherein the transport device has a first transport roller pair with a first transport roller and a second transport roller, and a second transport roller pair with a third transport roller and a fourth transport roller, wherein at least one transport roller of the first transport roller pair and at least one transport roller of the second transport roller pair are independently driveable, wherein the device has a housing with a housing base, and wherein the transport device is arranged in an interior of the housing.