Capsule Making Machine Integrated Weighing System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing capsule making machines are complex and expensive due to the need for a separate lifting system and loading cells to accurately weigh capsules, which requires a long settling time for the product and is prone to inaccurate measurements from machine vibrations.
Innovation Solution
A capsule making machine with a simplified architecture where the weighing system is integrated into the machine structure, using microwave sensors to detect the moisture and density of the product directly in the capsules without the need for a separate lifting system, allowing for immediate weighing without product settling time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a separate lifting system with loading cells is used to weigh capsules, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases and manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the weighing function directly into the machine frame by integrating loading cells into the structural support elements that already hold the capsules during processing. The frame itself becomes the weighing platform, eliminating the need for separate lifting systems and standalone weighing stations. This integration maintains measurement precision while significantly reducing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The machine frame serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for capsule handling and simultaneously acts as the weighing platform through integrated loading cells. This multi-functionality eliminates dedicated weighing components, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining accurate measurement capability throughout the capsule processing cycle.
2Measurement precision
If a separate lifting system is used to isolate capsules from machine vibrations, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the capsule support function with the weighing function by integrating loading cells into the fixed machine frame. capsules remain supported by the frame throughout processing, and the frame's integrated sensors measure weight without requiring separate lifting mechanisms. This eliminates the complexity of isolated lifting systems while maintaining measurement accuracy through vibration-resistant frame integration.
3Measurement precision
If capsules are weighed after being lifted from the seat, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases due to required settling time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary weighing action by continuously monitoring capsule weight through integrated loading cells in the machine frame before the capsule is lifted or moved to subsequent stations. This allows weight measurement to occur during the normal capsule support phase without requiring additional settling time after lifting, thereby maintaining measurement precision while eliminating time loss.
4Device complexity
If loading cells are built into the machine frame, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision may deteriorate due to machine vibrations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the weighing function into the rigid machine frame, utilizing the frame's inherent structural stability. The loading cells are integrated into fixed support elements that naturally dampen vibrations, and the frame's rigidity provides a stable measurement platform. This integration reduces device complexity while maintaining measurement precision through the frame's vibration-resistant properties.
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 integration of microwave sensors enables accurate and efficient weighing of capsules, reducing machine complexity and cost, while eliminating the need for a separate lifting system and minimizing the impact of machine vibrations on measurement accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
the detecting sensor (18) is a microwave sensor configured to detect the moisture and/or density of the product P
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~4
AI summary
A machine (1) for making capsules of the type comprising a container (101) and a dose of product (P) inside the container (101), comprises a feed system (2) for feeding at least a first container (101) along a feed path in a direction of feed (V); at least one filling station (9, 10, 11, 12) for supplying a dose of said product (P) into said first container (101), at least one detecting station (14, 15, 16, 17) positioned along said feed path downstream of said filling station (9, 10, 11, 12) in the direction of feed (V) and comprising a detecting sensor (18) operating at said first seat (8) configured to detect the moisture of the product (P) supplied into the first container (101).