Modular Coating Apparatus with Vertical Tablet Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coating systems lack flexibility and versatility, are ergonomically challenging for operators, and face issues with product movement and flow regulation, particularly during transition phases, leading to inefficiencies in both continuous and batch production processes.
Innovation Solution
A modular coating apparatus with two rotating containers and a conveying system featuring movable removal portions that lift and transfer bulk material between containers, allowing for flexible adaptation to varying process conditions and reduced operator effort, with the ability to manage product flow and movement efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single rotating container is used for coating bulk material, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability and versatility of the coating system deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The coating system is divided into multiple independent rotating containers (first rotating container for coating, second rotating container for drying/cooling). Each container performs a specific function in the coating process, allowing the system to handle different process requirements independently while maintaining overall simplicity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The second rotating container is designed to perform multiple functions (drying and cooling) by controlling the gas flow direction. The same container can be used for different process stages by simply adjusting the gas flow, eliminating the need for separate dedicated containers for each function.
2Ease of operation
If conventional coating systems are used, then the basic coating function is achieved, but the ergonomics and operator control deteriorates due to large dimensions and complex product flow management
Solution Approach 1:
The conveying system uses vertical lifting motion (movable element moving between lower and upper positions) to transfer material between containers, rather than horizontal conveyance. This vertical arrangement compactly stacks the rotating containers one above the other, reducing the horizontal footprint and improving operator accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
A movable conveying element acts as an intermediary between the two rotating containers, transferring material in a controlled manner. This intermediary mechanism simplifies the overall material flow management and reduces the complexity of direct coupling between containers.
3Adaptability or versatility
If fixed conveying systems are used to transfer material between containers, then the structure is simple, but the flexibility to adapt to varying process conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The conveying system employs a movable element that can change position (lower and upper positions) to adapt to different process conditions. This dynamic capability allows flexible control of material transfer timing and quantity without requiring complex mechanical structures, maintaining simplicity while enhancing adaptability.
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
The apparatus achieves flexible and versatile coating operations with improved ergonomics, ensuring precise product handling and efficient transfer between containers, reducing overall dimensions and enhancing production efficiency in both continuous and batch modes.
Implementation Method 1
each of which comprises a movable wall (for example in the form of a blade or door), in which during movement (rotation) of the movable element each removal portion removes a quantity of bulk material (exiting the first container) and lifts the quantity of bulk material up to a certain height
Implementation Method 2
a first rotating container where the bulk material is coated with coating material, a (rotating) movable element arranged for conveying the coated bulk material coming from the first container, and a second rotating container that receives the bulk material coming from the movable element
Data Source
AI summary
A coating apparatus and method are disclosed for coating tablets with a film, in which the tables transit through a drilled first container where they are coated, then exit the first container and are removed from a rotating element provided on the periphery of a plurality of removal members that are spaced angularly apart from one another, in which each removal member removes a quantity of tablets, raises the removed tables as far as a certain height and then discharges the tablets into a chute that conveys the tablets into a second rotating drilled container, with delicate transfer of the coated tablets from one container to the next.