Carrier Element Pressure Sensor for Vacuum Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Packaging technologies face challenges in achieving high-precision and reliable positioning of packages during complex packaging processes, especially in high-throughput applications, due to issues with vacuum supply and leakage in carrier elements, leading to potential misalignment and damage to packaging equipment.
Innovation Solution
A carrier element with a receiving surface and suction opening connected to a pressure reservoir, equipped with a wireless pressure sensor that measures and transmits pressure information, allowing for precise vacuum control and monitoring, thereby ensuring accurate package positioning and reducing the risk of vacuum failures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If vacuum suction is used to position packages on carrier elements in high-throughput packaging devices, then packaging productivity is improved, but vacuum leakage and supply issues cause positioning reliability to deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism by equipping carrier elements with pressure sensors that continuously monitor vacuum levels. When vacuum leakage is detected, the system receives feedback signals to adjust or alert operators, ensuring positioning reliability is maintained despite high-speed operation. This closed-loop monitoring resolves the contradiction by enabling rapid response to vacuum issues without reducing throughput.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces purely mechanical vacuum supply systems with an integrated sensor-based monitoring system. Pressure sensors electronically detect vacuum levels and transmission issues, substituting mechanical inspection methods with electronic detection. This allows continuous monitoring during high-speed packaging operations, maintaining both productivity and reliability.
2Device complexity
If carrier elements are used in closed-loop transport systems, then device complexity is reduced, but vacuum supply and leakage control become more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables carrier elements to self-monitor their vacuum status through integrated pressure sensors. Each carrier element independently detects vacuum leakage and transmits status information, allowing the system to automatically identify and isolate problematic carriers without complex centralized control. This self-service approach simplifies vacuum management in closed-loop systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces pressure sensors as intermediary devices between the vacuum system and the control system. These sensors act as mediators that detect vacuum conditions and transmit information wirelessly, simplifying the overall control architecture while effectively managing vacuum leakage in closed-loop transport systems.
3Manufacturing precision
If precise positioning of packages is maintained during packaging, then manufacturing precision is improved, but the risk of equipment damage from misalignment increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies beforehand cushioning by continuously monitoring vacuum levels to prevent misalignment before it occurs. By detecting vacuum leakage early and taking corrective action, the system prevents positioning errors that could lead to equipment damage. This proactive approach protects equipment while maintaining high positioning precision.
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 enables precise and reliable package positioning even in high-throughput environments, reducing the likelihood of misalignment and equipment damage by continuously monitoring and maintaining optimal vacuum levels within the pressure reservoir.
Implementation Method 1
The receiving surface comprises at least one suction opening for fixing the package by suction
Implementation Method 2
the carrier element further comprises at least one pressure sensor for measuring a pressure inside the pressure reservoir
Data Source
AI summary
A carrier element for use in a packaging device is provided wherein the carrier element is connectable with at least one transport device of the packaging device. The carrier element comprises at least one receiving surface for receiving at least one package. The receiving surface comprises at least one suction opening for fixing the package by suction. The carrier element further comprises at least one pressure reservoir connected to the suction opening. The carrier element further comprises at least one pressure sensor for measuring a pressure inside the pressure reservoir. A packaging device for packaging at least one product into at least one package is also disclosed. The packaging device comprises at least one carrier element and at least one transport device, wherein the carrier element is connected to the transport device.