Convertible Applicating Machine with Adjustable Jaw Drum
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional container packaging machines require multiple configurations and setups to accommodate different container sizes and shapes, leading to inefficiencies and increased space requirements in packaging plants.
Innovation Solution
A machine with a jaw drum that allows for the use of multiple container carriers and package configurations, featuring a jaw drum with interchangeable jaw pairs and a feed system that adjusts to accommodate various container pitches and sizes, enabling a single machine to handle multiple container sizes and configurations without the need for multiple machines.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional applicating machines use fixed jaw drums and standardized carrier arrangements, then the machine structure remains simple and easy to manufacture, but the machine can only accommodate limited container sizes and configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The jaw drum is designed with adjustable and interchangeable jaw pairs that can be repositioned along the drum perimeter. This dynamic configuration allows the same jaw drum to accommodate different container diameters, pitches, and carrier arrangements without requiring multiple fixed drums, thereby improving adaptability while controlling complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The jaw drum serves multiple functions by incorporating adjustable jaw pairs that can be configured for different container sizes and carrier types. A single jaw drum replaces what would traditionally require multiple specialized drums, making the machine universally applicable to various packaging configurations.
2Reliability
If multiple dedicated machines are used for different container sizes and configurations, then each machine can be optimized for its specific function, but the total number of machines and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The machine consolidates multiple specialized packaging functions into a single multi-functional system. By using an adjustable jaw drum with interchangeable jaw pairs and programmable carrier feed mechanisms, one machine can perform the work of several dedicated machines, significantly reducing space requirements while maintaining packaging precision through controlled adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The jaw drum is segmented into multiple adjustable jaw pairs that can be independently positioned. This segmentation allows each jaw pair to be optimized for specific container sizes while maintaining the ability to reconfigure for other sizes, providing specialized functionality within a unified machine structure.
3Manufacturing precision
If conventional machines require different configurations for different container pitches, then packaging accuracy can be maintained, but setup time and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The jaw pairs are mounted on adjustable mechanisms that allow rapid repositioning along the drum perimeter to accommodate different container pitches. This dynamic adjustability enables quick reconfiguration between different packaging specifications without lengthy setup procedures, maintaining precision while reducing setup time.
Solution Approach 2:
The machine includes pre-configured jaw pair positions and adjustable feed mechanisms that can be quickly set to standard pitch configurations. Common packaging configurations are pre-programmed into the carrier feed system, allowing operators to rapidly switch between standard pitches without complex adjustments, thereby reducing setup time while maintaining positioning accuracy.
Data Source
AI summary
A machine for packaging multiple containers wherein a flexible carrier stock is fed across a jaw drum. A plurality of containers are also moved through the machine whereby the carrier is subsequently positioned over the plurality of containers so that flexible carrier stock engages with one of the containers to form a package. The jaw drum and/or a connected feed drum are preferably adjustable to accommodate a range of container sizes and carrier configurations.