Capping Machine Gripping Device for Flexible Container Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing capping machines are inflexible and require multiple bulky devices to accommodate different types of containers and caps, leading to inefficiencies in use, accuracy, and space occupancy.
Innovation Solution
A capping machine with a conveyor apparatus and cap screwing unit that uses self-movable carts and tracks to align and screw caps onto containers with high precision, allowing for various cap and container types without tool replacement, and featuring a sensor system for synchronized movement and torque control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple distinct screwing devices are used to accommodate different types of containers and caps, then compatibility with various container types is improved, but device complexity and space occupancy increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single screwing device capable of processing multiple container types through programmable control. The device uses adjustable parameters (screwing speed, torque, acceleration) and interchangeable but standardized gripping elements to accommodate different container sizes, shapes, and cap types, eliminating the need for multiple dedicated devices while maintaining versatility
2Adaptability or versatility
If tool replacement is performed to switch between different cap types, then adaptability to various caps is improved, but loss of time and productivity decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamically adjustable screwing parameters controlled by a programmable unit that can be reconfigured between different cap types without physical tool changes. The system stores multiple parameter sets (screwing speed, torque, acceleration profiles) and automatically selects appropriate parameters based on the container-c cap combination, enabling rapid adaptation without stopping production
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes operational parameters (screwing torque, speed, acceleration) rather than physical tools to adapt to different cap types. The programmable control unit adjusts these parameters dynamically based on pre-programmed settings for different container-c cap combinations, eliminating tool replacement time while maintaining processing quality
3Extent of automation
If traditional rotary capping machines are used, then automation is improved, but space occupancy and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the capping process into distinct functional modules: a conveyor system for container transport, a separate screwing unit with programmable control, and independent gripping devices. This modular segmentation allows for a more compact arrangement compared to traditional rotary machines while maintaining full automation through coordinated control of each module
Data Source
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AI summary
A capping machine (1) has at least one gripping device (25) moving along a path (P) and receiving one corresponding cap (2) to be screwed onto a product container (3); the gripping device (25) includes two carts (25a, 25b) that move along respective track portions (39a, 39b) parallel to a screwing stretch of the path (P); and one of the carts (25a) is movable relatively to the other (25b) when the gripping device (25) moves along the screwing stretch, so that the cap (2) has a screw motion toward the product container (3).