Capsule Closing Drive Decoupling for Fast Size Changeovers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing capsule filling machines require complex setups and lengthy changeover times when switching between different capsule sizes, and the mechanical coupling of the closing device to the rotary table leads to inefficient adjustments and increased costs.
Innovation Solution
A capsule filling machine with a separate auxiliary drive unit for the closing device, allowing independent adjustment of the first closing element's kinematics and movement parameters, decoupled from the main drive unit, enabling flexible production and fast changeover times.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the closing device is mechanically coupled to the rotary table, then precise coordination of capsule handling is achieved, but the setup becomes complex and changeover times increase when switching between different capsule sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The closing device is segmented into independent modules (first closing element, second closing element, auxiliary drive unit) that can be adjusted separately from the main rotary table system, allowing precise coordination without complex mechanical coupling
Solution Approach 2:
The auxiliary drive unit provides dynamic, programmable control of the closing elements' movement, replacing static mechanical coupling with flexible electronic control that can adapt to different capsule sizes without physical reconfiguration
2Reliability
If the closing device is mechanically coupled to the rotary table, then the closing action is synchronized with capsule transport, but adjustment of the stroke of slide elements becomes time-consuming and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical coupling system is replaced with an auxiliary drive unit that uses electronic control to synchronize closing actions with capsule transport, eliminating the need for manual mechanical adjustment of slide element strokes
Solution Approach 2:
The auxiliary drive unit allows electronic adjustment of closing parameters (stroke length, speed, timing) without physical modifications to the machine, enabling fast changeover between different capsule sizes by simply changing control parameters
3Adaptability or versatility
If the first closing element is driven by the auxiliary drive unit, then flexible production and fast changeover are enabled, but the closing device becomes less mechanically rigid
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical drive system is replaced with an auxiliary drive unit that provides precise electronic control, maintaining the necessary mechanical rigidity for capsule closing while enabling flexible adjustment of closing parameters without compromising structural stability
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a capsule filling machine for filling two-part capsules, each consisting of a capsule top and a capsule bottom. The capsule filling machine comprises a main drive unit (4) for operating the capsule filling machine (1) and a closing device (23) for closing the capsule top (31) and capsule bottom (32). The capsule filling machine (1) includes a capsule top holder (33) for the capsule top (31) and a capsule bottom holder (34) for the capsule bottom (32). The closing device (23) comprises at least one first closing element (26) for exerting an insertion force (FS) acting on the capsule (10) and at least one second closing element (27) for exerting a counterforce (FG) acting against the insertion force (FS).The locking device (23) comprises an auxiliary drive unit (24) designed separately from the main drive unit (4), wherein the at least one first locking element (26) is driven by means of the auxiliary drive unit (24).