Modular Filling Adapter Handle Interface for Better Balance

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing filling adapters for containers on motor vehicle assembly lines face handling challenges due to fixed gripping angles and weights, which hinder optimal positioning and balance, especially when space and access options vary.

Innovation Solution

A modular gripping element with mechanical and electrical interfaces on the filling adapter head allows for variable positioning and rapid change, enabling optimal handling and weight balancing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If the gripping element is integrated into the hose pack cover, then the adapter structure is simplified, but the overall length increases and handling becomes difficult due to weight distribution

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadapter structureVSAvoidhandling

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The gripping element is separated from the hose pack cover and designed as an independent module that can be coupled to the adapter head via a standardized interface. This segmentation allows the gripping element to be positioned independently to optimize handling while keeping the hose pack cover compact.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of manufacture

If the handle is designed with large diameter to accommodate media lines, then the lines can be conducted through, but the handle dimensions exceed standard requirements

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemedia lines conductionVSAvoidhandle diameter

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSLength of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of conducting media lines through the handle (one-dimensional solution), the lines are routed through the adapter head and connected to the gripping element via flexible hoses. This dimensional change allows standard-diameter handles while maintaining media line functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Device complexity

If the gripping angle is fixed on the adapter head, then the structure is simplified, but access positions are limited and workers encounter handling problems

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvegripping element positioningVSAvoidaccess position

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The gripping element is designed with rotational freedom around the standardized interface on the adapter head, transforming the fixed gripping angle into a dynamic, adjustable configuration. This allows workers to optimize the gripping angle based on specific access requirements while maintaining structural simplicity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

4Ease of manufacture

If the center of gravity is positioned near the front of the adapter, then the media lines can be routed efficiently, but the weight distribution impairs handling by workers

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemedia lines routingVSAvoidweight balance

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The gripping element acts as a counterweight that can be positioned at different locations on the adapter head. By adjusting its position, workers can balance the center of gravity to improve handling comfort while maintaining efficient media line routing through the adapter head.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #8Anti-weight (Counterweight)

Data Source

PatentUS10053357B2Filling adapter comprising an interface for coupling a handle

Publication Date: 2018.08.21 DURR SOMAC GMBH

AI summary

A filling adapter for a container to be filled with media, in particular for the filling of containers on assembly lines for the production of motor vehicles where the filling adapter is equipped with a hose pack, electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic lines. An interface is configured for coupling a gripping element designed as a separate assembly on the filling adapter in the region of the adapter head, wherein the interface has mechanical and electrical connecting elements which are disposed in a common plane and can be coupled to mechanical and electrical connecting elements of the gripping element which are congruent therewith.