Rotary Bottle Washer Dummy Bottle Automation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rotary bottle washing machines with a dummy bottle sanitizing system require manual operator intervention for installing and removing dummy bottles, which is time-consuming and prone to errors, especially in large machines, and occupy additional space for storage.
Innovation Solution
Integrating a dummy bottle secured to each washing device, allowing it to rotate and switch between a work position aligned with the nozzle and a rest position, eliminating the need for manual installation and removal, and enabling automated washing and sanitizing operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual operator intervention is used for installing and removing dummy bottles, then the machine can perform washing and sanitizing operations, but the operational time increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The washing device is equipped with a dummy bottle mounting mechanism that automatically mounts and dismounts dummy bottles without operator intervention. The mechanism includes a mounting arm that positions the dummy bottle onto the washing device and a dismounting mechanism that removes it after use, enabling the system to service itself and eliminate manual labor in this repetitive task.
Solution Approach 2:
The dummy bottle is pre-positioned on the mounting mechanism before the washing cycle begins. The mounting mechanism is prepared in advance to automatically attach the dummy bottle to the washing device at the start of the sanitizing operation, and the dismounting is prepared in advance to remove it automatically after the cycle completes.
2Ease of operation
If manual operator intervention is used for installing and removing dummy bottles, then the machine can perform washing and sanitizing operations, but the complexity of operation increases and error-prone situations arise
Solution Approach 1:
The automatic mounting and dismounting mechanism eliminates human error by replacing manual operator actions with automated mechanical operations. The system consistently performs the same mounting and dismounting actions with precise repeatability, ensuring reliable operation without the variability and potential errors associated with manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting and dismounting mechanism incorporates sensors and control systems that detect whether the dummy bottle is properly mounted or removed. The system receives feedback about the status of the dummy bottle and can automatically adjust or repeat the mounting/dismounting operation if the initial attempt is unsuccessful, ensuring reliable operation.
3Ease of operation
If dummy bottles are stored separately when not in use, then the washing device can function properly, but additional space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The storage function for dummy bottles is merged with the washing device itself. The mounting mechanism includes an integrated storage position or magazine that holds the dummy bottle when not in use, combining the storage function with the washing device structure and eliminating the need for separate storage space.
Solution Approach 2:
The dummy bottle storage position is nested within the structure of the washing device. The mounting mechanism incorporates a compact storage location that fits within the overall device footprint, allowing the dummy bottle to be stored in a space-efficient manner integrated into the machine's structure.
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
The solution allows for fully automated washing and sanitizing processes without operator intervention, reducing operational time and space requirements, enhancing productivity and cost-effectiveness by permanently integrating the dummy bottles within the machine.
Implementation Method 1
a nozzle arranged to inject water or air into the bottle held by the gripping member
Implementation Method 2
a supporting body mounted on the turret so as to rotate, together with the turret, about said vertical axis of rotation and to rotate with respect to the turret about a horizontal axis of rotation
Implementation Method 3
the bottle is turned upside-down immediately above the nozzle and subjected to washing
Data Source
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AI summary
The machine (10) comprises: a turret (12) rotatably supported for rotation about a vertical axis of rotation (z), and a plurality of washing devices (14) held by the turret (12), each of which arranged to wash a corresponding bottle (B) with each revolution of the turret (12) about said vertical axis of rotation (z). Each washing device (14) comprises: a supporting body (32) mounted on the turret (12) so as to rotate with respect to the turret (12) about a horizontal axis of rotation (y) lying tangentially; a gripping member (36) mounted on the supporting body (32) which may be controlled to switch, alternatingly, between a closed position for gripping the neck of the bottle (B) and an open position for releasing the bottle (B); a nozzle (38) for injecting a fluid into the bottle (B); and a dummy bottle (50) used to contain a spray of disinfecting liquid sprayed by said injection means (38) during the rinsing and sanitizing process of the machine (10), the dummy bottle (50) being secured to the supporting body (32) so as to rotate together therewith about the horizontal axis of rotation (y) between a work position, in which the dummy bottle (50) is above and aligned with the nozzle (38), and a rest position, in which the dummy bottle (50) is laterally away from the nozzle (38).