Diving Nozzle for Simultaneous Filling and Gas Purging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flexible pouch filling and sealing machines require a separate gas purge station, which decreases operational efficiency, increases machine size, and disrupts product filling, leading to potential contamination and reduced seal effectiveness.
Innovation Solution
A diving nozzle integrated with a vertical displacement mechanism allows for simultaneous filling and gas purging at a single station, using a dual-tube system with a resilient seal and actuator to displace the nozzle for efficient gas distribution and oxygen removal within the pouch.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate gas purge station is used, then oxygen purging is effective, but operational efficiency decreases and processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the filling operation and gas purging operation into a single integrated station. The filling nozzle is configured to perform both filling and purging functions by controlling gas flow through the same nozzle structure, eliminating the need for a separate purge station and thereby improving operational efficiency while maintaining purging effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The filling nozzle is designed as a multi-functional device that can perform both filling and gas purging operations. By controlling the gas flow rate and pressure, the same nozzle structure serves dual purposes: delivering product during filling and purging oxygen during the purging phase, thus reducing the number of stations required.
2Reliability
If a separate gas purge station is used, then oxygen purging is effective, but machine size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the purging function into the existing filling station structure. The filling nozzle is modified to include gas flow control capabilities, allowing it to perform both filling and purging. This integration eliminates the need for additional purge station equipment, reducing the overall machine footprint while maintaining effective oxygen purging.
3Reliability
If pouch is displaced to separate purge station, then purging is effective, but product filling is disrupted and contamination risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines filling and purging operations at the same station without requiring pouch displacement. The filling nozzle remains in position throughout both operations, delivering product during filling and then purging oxygen through the same nozzle. This eliminates the need to move the pouch to a separate station, preventing product disruption and contamination while achieving effective purging.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent maintains continuous operation at the filling station by seamlessly transitioning from filling to purging mode. The nozzle remains positioned in the pouch throughout, and the gas flow is controlled to switch between filling and purging functions without removing or relocating the pouch, thereby maintaining process continuity and preventing contamination.
Data Source
AI summary
A diving nozzle for purging a package with gas, a fill machine with such a diving nozzle, and a method of purging a package are disclosed. The diving nozzle includes a straight hollow tube and a lower end extending transversely to the straight hollow tube. The lower end is arranged at an angle to the straight hollow tube. An axis of the lower end is arranged at an angle of 20° to 70° relative to a longitudinal axis of the straight hollow tube. A flow of purging gas is directed by the lower end towards a side of the package.