Comb-Shaped Collector for Oval Vial Grouping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing product grouping and packing systems are inflexible, bulky, and costly, particularly when handling products of varying shapes and sizes, such as oval bottles, due to the complexity and expense of screw timers and the need for multiple tools, which can lead to inefficiencies and increased space requirements.
Innovation Solution
A compact, versatile system using a comb-shaped collector that makes an angle of 60 to 120 degrees with the product line, capable of picking up products at spaced intervals and moving transversely to deposit them efficiently, combined with a detection system to synchronize movements with the conveyor speed, allowing for easy tool adaptation and reduced friction risks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If screw timers are used to orient and space products, then product orientation and positioning precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the timing and positioning function from the complex screw timer mechanism and implements it through a simpler sensor-based detection system that identifies product positions and controls the pusher device activation timing, eliminating the need for mechanical timing mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical screw timer system with an automated control system using sensors (optical, capacitive, or inductive) and a control unit that electronically determines product positions and triggers the pusher device, substituting mechanical timing with electronic detection and control
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple tools are provided for different product types, then adaptability to various product shapes is improved, but device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the pusher device with a universal gripping mechanism that can handle multiple product types and shapes through a single tool configuration, eliminating the need for multiple specialized tools while maintaining adaptability to different product geometries
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements adjustable and reconfigurable pusher device parameters (such as grip force, positioning, and movement characteristics) that can be dynamically adapted to different product types through control system programming rather than physical tool changes
3Productivity
If screw timers and batch handling devices are included, then product grouping capability is improved, but installation length and bulkiness increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the timing, positioning, and batch handling functions into a single integrated pusher device that performs all operations in one compact unit, eliminating the need for separate timer mechanisms and batch handling devices that would increase installation length
4Measurement precision
If heavy screw timers are used, then timing precision is improved, but ease of changing and storage requirements worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces heavy mechanical screw timers with lightweight electronic sensors and control systems that provide equivalent or superior timing precision through electronic measurement and control, dramatically improving ease of installation and removal since these components are much lighter and require no complex mechanical mounting
Data Source
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AI summary
The method involves collecting certain number of products i.e. oval vials (2, 21), from a supply conveyor (1) by a collector (40) that is in the form of comb. The products are deposited and dropped in a transferring station situated on a side of the conveyor. The collector is driven along circular movement that is divided into a transversal movement combined with a longitudinal movement upwards of a queue of the products. A collection cycle is started based on considerable information such as position of the products on the conveyor with respect to the conveyor and speed of the conveyor. An independent claim is also included for an installation for grouping products comprising a collector.