Compact Product Stacking Device Using Loop Transport and Nesting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing stacking devices in the food and beverage sector are complex and require a large installation area, limiting their efficiency and performance in stacking products such as containers and packaging materials.
Innovation Solution
A simplified device with a transport and lifting mechanism using loop-like transport elements guided by deflection rollers, driven by controlled motors to lift and stack products efficiently, forming multi-layer stacks with a compact design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If complex lifting and stacking devices with multiple conveyor belts and support brackets are used, then stacking capability is achieved, but device complexity and installation area increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The device segments the stacking function into modular components: a transport device with conveyor belt for horizontal movement, a lifting device with lifting elements for vertical movement, and a stacking device with support brackets for stack formation. Each component performs a specific function, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high stacking performance
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from purely horizontal conveyor systems to a three-dimensional stacking system by introducing vertical lifting elements that move products in the Z-direction. This dimensional expansion allows products to be stacked vertically without requiring additional horizontal space, thereby improving productivity without proportionally increasing installation area
2Area of stationary object
If vertically aligned endless conveyor belts with rotating support brackets are used for stacking, then product stacking is achieved, but the device requires relatively large installation area
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting elements are positioned between the conveyor belt and the support brackets, creating a nested arrangement where the lifting mechanism is integrated within the existing stacking structure. This nesting allows the lifting function to be added without requiring additional external space, reducing installation area while maintaining high stacking performance
Solution Approach 2:
The transport device, lifting device, and stacking device are merged into an integrated system where the conveyor belt, lifting elements, and support brackets work together in a coordinated manner. This merging eliminates the need for separate standalone devices, thereby reducing the total installation area required while achieving high productivity
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a device for stacking products (2) as a product stack (2.2), having at least two product layers (2.1) disposed one above the other in a stack, prepared in a transport and lifting device (3) and then withdrawn from said transport and lifting device (3) as a product stack (2.2).