Carton Flap Guide Blade Timing for Fast Format Changes
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Cartoning machines require reconfiguration to accommodate different carton sizes, leading to inefficiencies in production and complexity in mechanical and structural adjustments.
Innovation Solution
A cartoning machine design with adjustable mechanisms for handling and unfolding cartons, including a dragging unit with variable configuration and adjustable components for precise positioning and folding, allowing for efficient handling of varying carton formats without compromising production speed or quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the cartoning machine is reconfigured to accommodate different carton sizes, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity and production time are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adjustment mechanisms that allow the cartoning machine to adapt to different carton sizes during operation. The conveying means include adjustable components that can be repositioned to match various carton dimensions, and the unfolding means are configured to dynamically adjust to different blank formats without requiring complete machine reconfiguration
Solution Approach 2:
The cartoning machine is divided into modular sections with independent adjustment capabilities. The conveying means are segmented into multiple adjustable components (such as separate conveying elements for different sections), allowing each segment to be independently configured for specific carton dimensions while maintaining overall system coordination
2Adaptability or versatility
If the cartoning machine is reconfigured to accommodate different carton sizes, then the adaptability is improved, but the production time is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates pre-adjustable components and quick-change mechanisms that allow operators to rapidly reconfigure the machine for different carton sizes. The conveying means are designed with pre-positioned adjustment points and interchangeable components that can be quickly swapped, minimizing the time required for format changes while maintaining adaptability to various carton dimensions
3Productivity
If the cartoning machine operates at high speed to increase productivity, then the production is improved, but the precision of positioning and folding is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms that monitor the position and movement of cartons during high-speed operation. The control system uses this feedback to dynamically adjust the operation of conveying means and folding means, ensuring precise positioning and folding even at elevated production speeds. Sensors detect carton position and provide real-time data for corrective adjustments
Data Source
AI summary
Cartoning machine comprising: a store unit (M) for flat cartons or blanks (F); a blank feeding station (E); an unfolding station (SR) for forming boxes; a feeding station (A) and an insertion station (N) for the products to be packaged. At least two guide blades (202L, 202R) and folding members (206, 207) are arranged in the insertion station (N) for folding the side flaps (PSL, PSR) of the blanks inwards. The blades (202L, 202R) are connected to means which control their positioning in the open position and respectively in the closed position for disengaging the internal faces of said flaps (PSL, PSR). The blades are moved in such a way that, after inserting the products in a box, they are placed in the closed position and subsequently, while the box is moved towards the exit of the machine, they are placed again in the open position for a pre-established time.