Blister Pack Transfer via Stationary Rotary Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for transferring blister packs to a conveyor device are complex and costly due to the need for multi-axis robots and intricate control systems, especially when dealing with multi-lane arrangements and subsequent packaging requirements.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a first and second transfer device that rotates blister packs about a perpendicular axis to align them for deposition on a clipboard, allowing for simple mechanical and kinematic design, enabling cost-effective transfer to a single-track conveyor by moving the devices between stationary positions without complex synchronization or three-dimensional movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a multi-axis robot is used to transfer blister packs from multiple lanes to a single lane, then the transfer function is achieved, but the device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The transfer device is divided into two independent transfer devices: a first transfer device that handles rotation and positioning, and a second transfer device that handles deposition onto the conveyor. This segmentation eliminates the need for a complex multi-axis robot while achieving the same transfer function.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of moving the blister packs in three-dimensional space with a robot, the invention inverts the approach by using two stationary transfer devices that move between fixed positions. The first transfer device rotates the blister packs in place, and the second transfer device deposits them onto the conveyor, simplifying the overall system complexity.
2Productivity
If a multi-axis robot with complex control is used, then blister pack transfer is achieved, but the control complexity and error susceptibility increase
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into two independent control systems: one for the first transfer device (rotation and positioning) and another for the second transfer device (deposition). This segmentation simplifies the control logic compared to a single complex multi-axis robot control system, reducing errors and improving reliability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If blister packs are transferred using a multi-lane to single-lane conversion, then packaging requirements are met, but the transfer process complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention inverts the traditional approach by using two stationary transfer devices that move between fixed positions rather than using a mobile robot. The first transfer device rotates blister packs from a transverse arrangement to a longitudinal arrangement, and the second transfer device deposits them onto the conveyor, simplifying the transfer process while meeting packaging requirements.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method for transferring blister packs (2) to a conveying device (60) comprises the following steps: a) providing a plurality of blister packs (2) in a receiving area (12); b) receiving the plurality of blister packs (2) with a first transfer device (20); c) moving the plurality of blister packs (2) together by means of the first transfer device (20) into a depositing area (14); d) rotating the plurality of blister packs (2) together about a rotary axis (22) during the movement; e) depositing the plurality of blister packs (2) onto an intermediate storage area (30); f) arranging one blister pack (2) from the plurality of blister packs (2) in a receiving position (38); g) receiving this blister pack (2) with a second transfer device (40); h) moving this blister pack (2) by means of the second transfer device (40) into a depositing position (50); i) Placing this blister pack (2) onto the conveyor device;and j) repeating steps f) to i) for each further blister pack (2) from the plurality, wherein the arrangement of the blister packs (2) according to step f) is carried out in each case by moving the intermediate tray (30) in a longitudinal direction (L).;