Quick-Release Bottle Retaining Assembly for Filler Changeovers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current filling equipment requires significant downtime and increased operational complexity for changing over to fill differently sized or configured bottles, as existing systems necessitate disassembly and reconfiguration of multiple filling stations, often requiring tools and skilled labor.
Innovation Solution
A bottle retaining assembly with a lifter coupling and retaining structure featuring a releasable locking member that allows for quick attachment and detachment without tools, enabling easy adaptation to various bottle sizes and shapes by sliding movement and alignment guides, reducing the need for fasteners and tool usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional disassembly and reconfiguration methods are used to change bottle configurations, then the filler can accommodate different bottle sizes and shapes, but significant downtime occurs and operational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bottle retaining assembly is divided into separable components including the retaining structure, alignment guides, and releasable locking members that can be independently adjusted or replaced. This segmentation allows quick reconfiguration for different bottle types without complete disassembly of the filling station
Solution Approach 2:
The assembly incorporates movable and adjustable elements such as the releasable locking members that can be quickly engaged and disengaged, and alignment guides that can be repositioned. This dynamic design enables rapid adaptation to different bottle configurations without permanent fixation
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional disassembly and reconfiguration methods are used to change bottle configurations, then the filler can accommodate different bottle sizes and shapes, but operational complexity and skill requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The releasable locking members are designed to be extracted or removed without tools by simply releasing the locking mechanism. This eliminates the need for multiple fasteners and complex assembly procedures, reducing operational complexity while maintaining adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment guides and locking members are designed to self-align and self-lock into place through their geometric features and mechanical interfaces. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for skilled operators to perform precise alignment and complex assembly tasks
3Reliability
If multiple tools and fasteners are required for changeover, then secure attachment can be achieved, but part misplacement and assembly difficulties occur
Solution Approach 1:
The releasable locking members serve as intermediary elements that provide secure attachment between the retaining structure and the filling station. These locking members can be easily engaged and disengaged without tools, eliminating the need for multiple fasteners while maintaining reliable connection
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment guides incorporate visual features such as colored markings or contrasting colors to indicate proper alignment positions and insertion directions. This visual guidance prevents part misplacement and simplifies the assembly process by making the correct configuration immediately identifiable
Data Source
AI summary
A bottle retaining assembly for a filler including a lifter coupling and a retaining structure. The lifter coupling has an upper support structure attachable to a base of a bottle lifter assembly. The retaining structure has an upstand structure that is positionable in engagement with the upper support structure. The upper support structure includes a releasable locking member structurally configured to releasably lock the upper support structure of the lifter coupling to the upstand structure. The releasable locking member is actuatable without the use of a tool.