Closing Station Segmentation for Contamination Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current filling plants require different closing elements for various container types, leading to inefficient container transport, increased contamination risk, wear, and maintenance challenges due to the need for multiple closing elements and complex changeovers.
Innovation Solution
A closing station configuration where a single closing-element position is used, allowing for quick switching between different closing elements, with each closing element being uncoupled and swapped with a parked element suitable for the current container type, ensuring containers travel the shortest route for closure and reducing the need for multiple transport elements and format changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple closing elements are provided in cascade-like succession for different container types, then the filling plant can handle various container seal types, but containers are transported over long distances before closing, increasing contamination risk and wear
Solution Approach 1:
The closing station is segmented into multiple independent closing elements (first closing element, second closing element) that can be independently selected and positioned. Each closing element is dedicated to specific container types, allowing containers to be directed to the appropriate closing element without passing through all closing elements in sequence, thereby reducing transport distance and contamination risk while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
A container outlet with selective positioning capability acts as an intermediary between the filling machine and multiple closing elements. This intermediary can direct containers to different closing elements based on container type, eliminating the need for containers to travel through the entire cascade of closing elements and reducing both transport distance and contamination exposure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple closing elements are provided in cascade-like succession, then different container types can be processed, but all closing elements must constantly run, increasing wear and energy consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically selects which closing element to use based on the container type being processed. The container outlet can be positioned to direct containers to either the first closing element or the second closing element, allowing only the required closing element to operate at any given time. This dynamic selection reduces energy consumption and wear by eliminating idle operation of non-required closing elements.
3Ease of operation
If transfer screws are used to divert containers to different closing elements, then container routing is achieved, but numerous container guide components must be changed over, requiring time and effort
Solution Approach 1:
The container outlet is designed with universal positioning capability that can direct containers to different closing elements without requiring physical guide components. By positioning the container outlet itself to different locations, the system achieves routing functionality without transfer screws or interchangeable guide components, thereby eliminating changeover time and effort while maintaining routing capability.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of operating a closing station includes decoupling a first closing element from a working position of the closing station and moving it away from the working position, bringing a second closing element into the working position, and coupling it into the container transport path at the working position.