Dual Mobile Die Storage for Continuous Cartoning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cartoning machines face limitations in production capacity without compromising package quality.
Innovation Solution
A cartoning machine with a magazine that stores flat cartons, an unfolding station, product feeding and insertion station, gluing station, and an exit station, featuring mobile storage units with independent actuators to ensure continuous die supply and improved die handling, along with controlled suction cups and transport mechanisms for efficient box formation and closure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the cartoning machine uses a single storage unit for dies, then the device complexity is reduced, but the productivity decreases due to interruptions in die supply
Solution Approach 1:
The single storage unit is divided into two separate storage units (first and second storage units) that can operate independently. This segmentation allows one unit to supply dies while the other is being replenished, eliminating interruptions and increasing productivity without requiring a completely complex new system architecture
Solution Approach 2:
The storage units are pre-loaded with stacks of flat cartons (dies) before the packaging process begins. This preliminary action ensures that dies are always available for immediate use, preventing interruptions in the packaging process and maintaining high productivity throughout operation
2Productivity
If the cartoning machine operates at high speed to increase production, then the productivity increases, but the package quality may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The dual storage units enable continuous supply of dies to the packaging process. By having one unit ready while the other is replenished, the system maintains uninterrupted operation at high speed without compromising the quality of packaging, as each die is properly positioned and ready for use
Solution Approach 2:
The storage units are designed to automatically manage die supply through their independent actuator systems. The first actuator replenishes the first storage unit while the second actuator manages the second storage unit, creating a self-sustaining system that maintains quality standards while operating at high productivity levels
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
Enhances production capacity by maintaining package quality through continuous die supply and efficient box formation, without interrupting the packaging process.
Implementation Method 1
means for picking up and transporting the dies (F)
Data Source
AI summary
Cartoning machine comprising a magazine configured to store stacks of cardboard dies (F) and means for picking up and transporting the dies (F) to move the dies (F) along a path (FM, FS) between the magazine, an unfolding station (S) and a product insertion station (N). The magazine comprises two mobile storage units (M1, M2) for storing the stacked dies, each mobile storage unit (M1, M2) being configured to store a respective stack (P1, P2) of dies (F). Cyclically, each mobile storage unit is in a waiting position while the other unit is in an operating position in which the means for picking up and transporting the dies are arranged and active. The storage units (M1, M2) are arranged one on a right side (DT) and one on a left side (ST) of the machine with respect to said path.