Tool-Free Closing Tool Exchange via Linear Guide Contours
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing closing tool assemblies for clipping machines, such as sausage clipping machines, require complex and time-consuming processes for tool replacement due to screw-based fastening systems, necessitating accurate alignment and use of additional tools in a confined space, which is inefficient and often requires non-stainless tools.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of linear guide contours on tool carriers and corresponding closing tools allows for easy exchange and alignment of closing tools without additional tools, using a reversible fixing device with a compression spring for secure positioning, enabling tool changes without tools and ensuring accurate alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If screw-based fastening systems are used to attach closing tools to tool carriers, then the tools are securely fixed during operation, but the tool replacement process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing device is segmented into a fixing element and an actuating element that can be independently operated. The fixing element remains engaged during operation to secure the tool, while the actuating element can be independently actuated to release the fixing element, enabling quick tool changes without removing entire fastening systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixing device transitions from a static screw-based system to a dynamic system where the fixing element can be quickly switched between engaged and disengaged states through the actuating element, maintaining security during operation while enabling rapid replacement when needed.
2Reliability
If screw-based fastening systems are used, then the closing tools are securely attached, but additional tools and work equipment are required for tool replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The actuating element is designed to be directly accessible and operable by hand, allowing the operator to release the fixing element and remove or install closing tools without requiring external tools or work equipment. The system serves itself by incorporating the release mechanism directly into the fastening assembly.
3Reliability
If screw-based fastening is used, then the closing tools are firmly fixed, but the alignment accuracy must be manually ensured during replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The linear guide contours are pre-formed on both the tool carrier and the closing tool, creating a self-aligning pathway. When the closing tool is inserted, the linear guide contours automatically guide it into the correct position, ensuring alignment accuracy is achieved automatically during the replacement process rather than requiring manual adjustment.
4Volume of moving object
If the working space in the closing tool assembly area is narrow, then the machine structure is compact, but tool replacement becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The actuating element is extracted as a separate, accessible component that can be operated from outside the narrow working space of the closing tool assembly. This allows the release mechanism to be actuated without requiring access to the confined internal space where the closing tools are mounted.
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
This solution facilitates quick and tool-free exchange of closing tools, maintaining precise alignment and reducing the complexity of tool replacement, while ensuring the tools are not displaced during operation, thus enhancing operational efficiency and safety.
Implementation Method 1
a compression spring for elastic prestressing of the fixing element into the fixing position
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3a~4b
AI summary
The invention relates to a closing tool assembly for a clipping machine, in particular for a sausage clipping machine, comprising: at least one first and at least one second tool carrier (22, 42) which are opposite each other and reversibly movable towards each other and which each carry at least one first and at least one second closing tool (24, 44), wherein the first and the second closing tool (24, 44) are interchangeably held on the first and the second tool carrier (22, 42) by at least one fixing device (50, 70) each. Furthermore, it is provided that a linear guide contour (22b, 42b) is provided on at least one of the two tool carriers (22, 42) and a complementary linear guide counter contour (24b, 44b) is provided on the associated closing tool (24, 44).