Blister Machine Storage Container with Modular Holding Positioning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing storage containers for blister pack machines require complex and time-consuming adjustments when changing the size of small items to be separated, necessitating multiple separating devices and holding means positions, which can lead to dust escape and inefficiency.

Innovation Solution

A modular holding means positioning device with interchangeable components that adapt to different separating devices, allowing flexible and easy positioning of holding elements without complex reconfiguration.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple separating devices are kept in stock to adapt to different item sizes, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity and inventory requirements worsen

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different item sizesVSAvoidinventory requirements
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The storage container is designed with a universal holding means positioning device that can accommodate different separating devices through a standardized interface. The positioning device includes a recess that can receive various holding means configurations, allowing a single storage container to serve multiple functions for different item sizes without requiring separate devices for each configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The holding means positioning device is designed to be dynamically reconfigurable within the storage container. The positioning mechanism allows the holding means to be adjusted to different positions and configurations depending on the separating device being used, enabling the system to adapt to varying item sizes through movement and repositioning rather than requiring multiple fixed devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple holding means positions are provided for different separating devices, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity and dust escape worsen

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different holding means positionsVSAvoidstructural complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The holding means positioning device is segmented into modular components including a recess, cover opening, and positioning mechanisms that can be independently configured. This segmentation allows different holding means to be positioned within the same structural framework without requiring complex integrated designs for each position, reducing overall structural complexity while maintaining adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The positioning device acts as an intermediary between the storage container housing and the various holding means. It provides a standardized interface and positioning mechanism that mediates the connection between the fixed container structure and the variable holding means configurations, simplifying the overall structure while enabling multiple positions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Manufacturing precision

If complex reconfiguration is required when changing separating devices, then precision is improved, but ease of operation and time consumption worsen

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning precisionVSAvoidease of reconfiguration
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The positioning device is pre-configured with guide structures, recesses, and positioning features that are prepared in advance to receive specific holding means. This preliminary preparation ensures that when a separating device needs to be changed, the new holding means can be quickly installed in the correct position without complex alignment procedures, maintaining positioning precision while improving ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The positioning device incorporates self-aligning features and standardized interfaces that allow the holding means to automatically assume the correct position during installation. The design includes self-positioning mechanisms that reduce the need for manual adjustment and complex reconfiguration procedures, enabling operators to change separating devices quickly while maintaining precise positioning.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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

Facilitates easy adaptation to varying item sizes, reduces dust escape, and minimizes the need for multiple separating devices, enhancing operational efficiency and ease of use.

Implementation Method 1

the at least one filling element and the holding element can be pushed into the recess through the supply and removal opening and can be positioned in the recess by coupling with the guide means

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Implementation Method 2

the medication portion arranged in the channel (at the lowest point) slides or falls into the dispensing opening due to gravity

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGravity: Gravitation

Data Source

PatentEP4585525A1Storage container for a storage and dispensing station for a blister machine and method for adapting the storage container
Publication Date: 2025.07.16 BECTON DICKINSON ROWA GERMANY GMBH
  • EP4585525A1 patent drawingFigure 1A~1B
  • EP4585525A1 patent drawingFigure 1C~1D
  • EP4585525A1 patent drawingFigure 2A~4

AI summary

The present invention relates to a storage container for a storage and dispensing station for small-unit goods, as well as a method for adapting the storage container. In known storage containers, the positioning of the holding means to prevent small-unit goods from slipping is complex. The storage container (1) according to the invention comprises a housing (10) with an upper housing section (11) and a lower housing section (12), which define a receiving space (20) with a lower receiving space section (21), a separating device (30) arranged in the lower receiving space section (21), and a holding means positioning device (50), comprising a recess (60) with a cover opening (61) and a feed and removal opening (62), a guide device (70) with at least one guide means (71a, 71b), at least one filling element (80), and a holding element (90).wherein the holding element comprises a projecting holding means (91) and wherein the elements can be inserted through the supply and removal opening (62) into the recess (60) and positioned in the recess, wherein a filling element surface (82) and a holding element surface (92) are each adapted to an inner circumference U(UAA) of the lower receiving space section (21), and wherein the holding means positioning device (50) is arranged or can be arranged in the lower housing section (12) such that the holding means (91) is positioned above the discharge opening (18).