Bottle Clip Application in Continuous Packaging Grouping
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing packaging process for bottles is inefficient as it often requires interrupting the process chain to attach bottle clips, leading to increased space requirements and potential malfunctions due to additional module interfaces, and does not allow for continuous operation.
Innovation Solution
A method and packaging device that integrates the application of bottle clips into a continuous stream using a grouping device with a circulating conveyor chain or endless traction means, allowing for simultaneous bottle clip attachment and grouping of articles, minimizing space requirements and maintaining a continuous process flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If bottle clips are attached in a separate machine after grouping, then the bottle clip application can be performed by a specialized device, but the process chain is interrupted and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the bottle clip application device with the grouping device into a single integrated unit. The handling device for applying bottle clips is arranged within or in an area of the grouping device, allowing both grouping and bottle clip attachment to occur simultaneously in one location, eliminating the need for a separate machine and maintaining continuous process flow
Solution Approach 2:
The grouping device is enhanced with multi-functionality by integrating the bottle clip application capability. The same device that performs grouping now also applies bottle clips to the grouped articles, making the device versatile and eliminating the need for dedicated separate equipment
2Ease of manufacture
If a separate machine is used for bottle clip attachment, then the bottle clip application can be performed, but the system requires increased space and additional module interfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the bottle clip application function into the existing grouping device footprint. By arranging the handling device within or in an area of the grouping device, the solution utilizes already allocated space rather than requiring additional floor space for a separate machine
3Ease of manufacture
If bottle clips are attached after grouping in a separate machine, then the bottle clip application can be performed, but additional module interfaces increase malfunction risk
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the bottle clip application function into the grouping device, reducing the number of separate modules and interfaces in the system. This integration minimizes potential failure points and simplifies the overall system architecture, improving reliability
4Productivity
If articles are moved at full speed through the grouping device, then productivity is maintained, but accurate bottle clip application becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic speed reduction within the grouping device area. The speed of articles is at least temporarily reduced compared to the transport means speed in the area of the grouping device, creating favorable conditions for bottle clip application while maintaining overall continuous flow and productivity
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for combining and packaging a group of articles consisting of at least two articles, wherein at least one article comprises a bottle clip. The articles are moved in a continuous, at least single-row article stream on at least one transport means in a transport direction to a grouping device for dividing up the group of articles. The grouping device comprises at least one retaining means for separating off a defined number of articles forming the group of articles whilst creating a gap. The application of the bottle clip to at least one article takes place while a speed of the at least two articles is reduced at least at times and/or in some sections relative to a speed of the transport means for the articles in the region of the grouping device by the retaining means. The invention further relates to a packaging device for packaging a group of articles.