Feed Station for Automatic Palletizing Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automatic palletizing systems require separate feed lines for single packs and packages, leading to increased overall dimensions and costs, and lack flexibility in handling articles of different types and dimensions.
Innovation Solution
A feed station with a motorized roller conveyor and movable combs that can lift, align, and grip packs of varying dimensions, using a single feed line for both single packs and packages, coordinated by a microprocessor control unit to adapt to different article types and dimensions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate feed lines are used for single packs and packages of packs, then the system can handle different article configurations, but the overall dimensions and costs increase considerably
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a single feed line that is configured to handle both single packs and packages of packs through a unified mechanism. The feed line includes a conveyor belt that can accommodate different article configurations, eliminating the need for separate feed lines for single packs and packages. This multi-functional design reduces the overall system dimensions while maintaining the ability to handle various article types and configurations.
2Manufacturing precision
If dedicated equipment such as means of rotation and translation is used for single packs, then the system can align and position packs precisely, but the general system costs are considerably boosted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a single feed line with a conveyor belt that serves multiple functions: conveying single packs, conveying packages of packs, and performing alignment operations. The feed line is designed to handle different article configurations through its conveyor mechanism, eliminating the need for separate dedicated equipment for rotation and translation. This reduces system complexity and costs while maintaining precision through the unified conveyor design.
3Length of stationary object
If a single feed line is used for both single packs and packages, then the overall dimensions and costs are reduced, but the system must be more flexible to handle different article types and dimensions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a motor-driven conveyor belt that can dynamically adjust its operation to accommodate different article types and dimensions. The conveyor is controlled by a microprocessor that can adapt the conveyance parameters based on the type of articles being handled. This dynamic control enables a single feed line to flexibly handle both single packs and packages of packs, as well as different article types, while maintaining compact overall dimensions.
4Device complexity
If a single feed line is used for both single packs and packages, then the system costs are reduced, but the system must be coordinated by microprocessor control to adapt to different article types
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a microprocessor-controlled conveyor system that uses feedback mechanisms to detect and adapt to different article types and dimensions. The microprocessor receives information about the articles being conveyed and automatically adjusts the conveyor parameters accordingly. This feedback-based control enables the single feed line to handle diverse article configurations efficiently, reducing system costs while maintaining high levels of automation and adaptability.
Data Source
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AI summary
The feed station (1) for articles in automatic palletizing systems or the like, comprising a supporting frame (2) for article feeding means (3) and temporary retention means (4) of at least one (G1) of the articles which can be associated in terms of operation with said feeding means (3) for the simultaneous feeding of a preset number of articles towards at least one pickup station.