Cartoning Machine Adjustable Paddle Conveyor

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing cartoning machines require reconfiguration each time the size of the flat cartons changes, which complicates the production process and reduces efficiency.

Innovation Solution

The cartoning machine is designed with a mechanism that allows for the adjustment of the means for moving processed materials, enabling it to handle varying carton sizes with improved mechanical and structural simplicity, and enhanced operating accuracy.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the cartoning machine is reconfigured each time the format of flat cartons changes, then the machine can adapt to different carton sizes, but the production efficiency decreases and the complexity of operation increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different carton sizesVSAvoidproduction efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements adjustable and reconfigurable components that can dynamically adapt to different carton formats. The conveying means include adjustable conveyors and positioning mechanisms that can be quickly repositioned to accommodate varying carton dimensions, allowing the machine to maintain high productivity while adapting to different formats without complete reconfiguration

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The cartoning machine is designed with universal components that can handle multiple carton formats. The conveying system incorporates multi-functional elements such as adjustable conveyors, reconfigurable positioning devices, and flexible guiding mechanisms that serve multiple purposes across different production scenarios, eliminating the need for dedicated components for each format

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the cartoning machine is reconfigured each time the format changes, then different carton sizes can be handled, but the operational simplicity is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveformat change capabilityVSAvoidoperational simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs dynamically adjustable components with simplified control mechanisms. The conveying means feature easy-to-adjust parameters such as conveyor speed, position, and orientation that can be modified through intuitive controls, reducing the operational complexity associated with format changes while maintaining adaptability to different carton sizes

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If the means for moving processed materials is made adjustable to handle varying carton sizes, then the machine flexibility improves, but the mechanical complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflexibility in handling carton sizesVSAvoidmechanical complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements conveying means with adjustable parameters that can be modified without fundamental mechanical changes. The system uses dynamically reconfigurable elements such as adjustable conveyor positions, variable speed motors, and repositionable guiding components that provide flexibility through controlled movement rather than complex mechanical reconfiguration

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent achieves flexibility by changing operational parameters of the conveying means rather than altering the fundamental mechanical structure. Adjustments in conveyor speed, position, orientation, and engagement force allow the system to handle varying carton sizes while maintaining a relatively simple and robust mechanical design

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS20250153880A1Cartoning machine
Publication Date: 2025.05.15 PLUSLINE SRL
  • US20250153880A1 patent drawing
  • US20250153880A1 patent drawing
  • US20250153880A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The invention relates to a cartoning machine comprising: a store unit for cardboard blanks; means for picking the blanks from the store unit; an unfolding station for forming boxes with the blanks; a conveyor for the blanks to the unfolding station; a feeding station for the products destined for the boxes; an insertion station, in which the products are inserted into the boxes; an exit station for the filled boxes; wherein between the insertion station and the exit station there is a paddle conveyor that moves downstream the filled box (C). The paddle conveyor is provided with a plurality of paddles connected with moving means controlled independently of each other, wherein the paddles are mounted on three pairs of flexible members motorized independently of each other.