Grouping Unit for Cigarette Pack Format Changes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cigarette packaging machines with linear conveyors have complex structures and require lengthy adjustments when changing the format of cigarette packs, leading to inefficiencies in production speed and format change operations.
Innovation Solution
A grouping unit and method that simplifies the formation of two wraps containing a group of smoking articles, utilizing a packaging machine with a forming unit, wrapping unit, and grouping unit, where the wraps are efficiently grouped and collared to form a rigid cigarette pack with a hinged lid, allowing for quick format changes and high production speed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a grouping unit with linear conveyors is used, then the structure is complex, but the production speed is reduced and format change time is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The grouping unit is divided into multiple independent stations (first grouping station, second grouping station, third grouping station) that operate in sequence. Each station handles a specific aspect of the wrapping grouping process, allowing for modular design and easier maintenance while maintaining high production speed through continuous operation across stations.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses adjustable guide walls and reconfigurable station configurations that can be dynamically adjusted when changing production formats. This dynamic adaptability allows the same equipment to handle different pack sizes and configurations without requiring complete retooling, thus maintaining high productivity while reducing format change time.
2Device complexity
If a grouping unit with linear conveyors is used, then the structure is complex, but the format change adjustment time is increased
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the grouping function into three distinct stations, each with specialized components, the system allows independent adjustment of each station during format changes. This modular approach reduces the overall adjustment time compared to reconfiguring a single complex unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide walls and positioning mechanisms at each station are designed to be adjustable in terms of position and configuration. When a format change is required, operators can modify parameters such as guide wall positions and station spacing without redesigning the entire system, enabling quick adaptation to different product specifications.
3Device complexity
If linear conveyors are used in the wrapping unit, then the structure becomes complex, but the production efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The invention integrates the conveyor function directly into the grouping station design, merging the transport and grouping functions into a unified system. This eliminates the need for separate linear conveyor units while maintaining continuous material flow, thereby reducing overall device complexity and improving production efficiency through streamlined operations.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
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AI summary
A grouping unit (C) to form a group consisting of two wraps (3), each containing a group (14) of smoking articles; the grouping unit (C) has: four pockets (68, 69, 70, 71), each designed to house a respective wrap (3); two output stations (S8, S9); an input station (S7) arranged between the two output stations (S8, S9); an insertion device (72), which is designed to simultaneously insert two wraps (3) arranged at an input distance (I) from one another into a first pocket (68) and into a second pocket (69), which are, together, in the input station (S7), or into a third pocket (70) and into a fourth pocket (71), which are, together, in the input station (S7); an extraction device (73), which is designed to simultaneously extract two wraps (3) arranged at an output distance (O) from one another, which is smaller than the input distance (I), from the first pocket (68) and from the second pocket (69), which are, together, in a first output station (S8), or from the third pocket (70) and from the fourth pocket (71), which are, together, in a second output station (S9), which is opposite the first output station (S8) relative to the input station (S7); a first moving device (74), which is designed to move, along a moving direction (D1), the first pocket (68) and the second pocket (69) between the input station (S7) and the first output station (S8) and, simultaneously, is designed to move the third pocket (70) and the fourth pocket (71) between the second output station (S9) and the input station (S7).