Diagonal Trajectory Transfer Device for Flexible Packages
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing transfer devices for empty flexible containers in automatic packaging machines are limited in their ability to efficiently move containers from a single row to multiple rows, requiring vertical movement and rotation, which complicates the process and reduces efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A transfer device with transverse, vertical, and longitudinal guide elements and grippers that move in combined diagonal trajectories to align and transfer flexible containers from a single row to multiple rows, utilizing cam followers and actuators to adjust positions and grip containers effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If containers are transferred vertically one by one from supply row to filling row, then the transfer mechanism is simple, but the productivity is low and the process is inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces diagonal movement trajectories that combine vertical, longitudinal, and transverse dimensions. The grippers move along diagonal paths from the supply row to multiple filling rows simultaneously, transforming the conventional single-dimensional vertical transfer into a multi-dimensional operation that increases throughput without proportionally increasing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The transfer device is divided into multiple independent grippers (first gripper, second gripper, etc.), each capable of independently transferring containers to different filling rows. This segmentation allows parallel operation of multiple grippers, simultaneously transferring multiple containers to multiple rows, thereby significantly improving productivity
2Adaptability or versatility
If containers are rotated ninety degrees to transfer from supply row to filling rows, then the filling unit can receive containers in multiple rows, but the device complexity increases due to rotation mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of rotating containers ninety degrees, the patent uses diagonal movement trajectories that combine vertical displacement with longitudinal and transverse components. This allows containers to be transferred to symmetrical filling rows while maintaining their original orientation, eliminating the need for rotation mechanisms and reducing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
Rather than rotating the containers to change their orientation, the patent inverts the approach by moving the grippers along diagonal paths that naturally position containers in the correct location and orientation for the filling rows, achieving the same result without rotation
3Productivity
If single grippers transfer one container at a time, then the mechanism is simple, but the productivity is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The transfer device employs multiple independent grippers (first gripper, second gripper, third gripper, etc.), each capable of independently gripping and transferring containers. This segmentation enables parallel transfer operations where multiple containers are moved simultaneously to different filling rows, significantly increasing the transfer rate without requiring each individual gripper to be overly complex
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple grippers are integrated into a single coordinated system that operates in unison along diagonal trajectories. The grippers work together as a unified transfer mechanism, with their movements synchronized to achieve efficient simultaneous transfer of multiple containers to multiple filling rows, thereby improving productivity while maintaining manageable system complexity
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
Enables efficient transfer of flexible containers from a single row to multiple rows, allowing for simultaneous loading of two containers per gripper in each cycle, improving the packaging process by optimizing container alignment and positioning.
Implementation Method 1
at least two cam followers respectively assembled in said gripper supports and coupled to guide cams arranged in the corresponding gripper-holding carriages to move the gripper supports along the longitudinal guide elements when the guide supports are moved along the vertical guide elements
Data Source
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AI summary
The transfer device comprises two grippers (1, 2) supported in respective gripper supports (5, 6) and operated by actuators (3, 4). The gripper supports (5, 6) are movably assembled in a direction (X) parallel to a supply container row (A1) in guide supports (9, 10), which are in turn movably assembled in a direction (Z) in gripper-holding carriages (13, 14), which are in turn movably assembled in a direction (Y) in a base support (50). In the gripper supports (5, 6) cam followers (19, 20) are assembled coupled to guide cams (17, 18) arranged in the corresponding gripper-holding carriages (13, 14). Operating means move the gripper supports (5, 6) and the grippers (1, 2) in combined trajectories in the directions (X,Y, Z).