Blow Molding Machine Model for Parameter Determination

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Solution Overview

Problem

The complexity of setting up and operating blow molding machines requires operators to manage numerous process parameters, leading to complex adjustments and potential production inefficiencies due to the need for continuous readjustment during operations.

Innovation Solution

A method using a machine model to determine process parameters based on input parameters, allowing the machine to self-regulate and eliminating the need for continuous operator adjustments, with process parameters calculated before production using a test setup and mathematical models to predict system behavior.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If operators manually specify and adjust process parameters during production, then the machine can be controlled, but the setup complexity and operation difficulty increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of machine setup and operationVSAvoidcomplexity of parameter specification and adjustment
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a digital copy (virtual model) of the blow molding machine that replicates its pneumatic behavior. This virtual model allows operators to determine process parameters offline through simulation rather than manual adjustment during production, significantly simplifying operation while capturing the complex system behavior in the digital replica

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs parameter determination in advance using the virtual model before actual production starts. All complex calculations and parameter optimizations are completed beforehand, eliminating the need for operators to make complex adjustments during production, thus improving ease of operation during actual manufacturing

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Productivity

If process parameters are determined using a virtual model offline, then production time is reduced and self-regulation is achieved, but the initial setup requires complex model development

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveproduction efficiency and speedVSAvoidease of model creation and validation
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback loops where measurement data from real machine operations is continuously used to update and refine the virtual model. This feedback mechanism allows the model to self-improve and adapt to actual machine behavior, reducing the manual effort required for model creation while maintaining high accuracy for parameter determination

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The virtual model is designed to automatically determine process parameters without requiring continuous manual intervention. Once established, the system performs self-regulation by autonomously calculating optimal parameters based on production requirements, significantly boosting productivity while reducing operational complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Manufacturing precision

If continuous readjustment is performed during production operation, then process optimization is achieved, but production time is lost and efficiency decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocess parameter accuracyVSAvoidproduction time lost to adjustments
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent determines all necessary process parameters in advance using the virtual model before production begins. By performing the complex parameter optimization work beforehand rather than during production, the system achieves high manufacturing precision without sacrificing production time, as no readjustments are needed during actual manufacturing operations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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

This approach simplifies the setup and operation of blow molding machines by allowing self-regulation, reducing production time and minimizing the need for continuous adjustments, leading to more stable and efficient production processes.

Implementation Method 1

a multiplicity of process parameters is determined using a machine model, a predetermined number of input parameters being transferred to this machine model and at least one processor unit determining the process parameters and/or values characteristic of these process parameters on the basis of these input parameters

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMathematical modeling:

Data Source

PatentEP3560679B1Method for commissioning a blow-moulding machine and installation with a blow moulding machine
Publication Date: 2021.03.17 KRONES AG
  • EP3560679B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3560679B1 patent drawingFigure 3a
  • EP3560679B1 patent drawingFigure 3b

AI summary

A method for operating a device (1) for forming plastic preforms (10) into plastic containers (10a), wherein this device supplies the plastic preforms (10) with a flowable medium in order to expand them into the plastic containers (10a), and wherein the device (1) performs this forming process taking into account a plurality of process parameters (PP1). According to the invention, the plurality of process parameters (PP1) is determined using a machine model (20), wherein a predetermined number of input parameters (E1) are passed to this machine model (20), and at least one processor unit (22) determines the process parameters (PP1) and/or values ​​characteristic of these process parameters based on these input parameters (E1).