Filter-Bag Forming Machine with Integrated Rotary Orientation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machines for forming and packaging filter-bags for infusion products are complex and bulky due to the need for multiple synchronized kinematic systems, requiring separate operations for orientation and packaging, which complicates the process and reduces efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A machine that integrates a rotary carousel with a simplified preparing and packaging station, using a transporting element and a transfer unit with conical torque mechanisms to orient and package filter-bags in a single operation, eliminating the need for separate orientation units and reducing the machine's complexity and size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If separate orientation units and multiple synchronized kinematic systems are used, then filter-bags can be oriented and packaged, but the machine becomes complex and bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the orientation function and packaging function into a single integrated station. The transporting element both orients the filter-bags and transfers them to the packaging station in one synchronized motion, eliminating the need for separate orientation units and reducing the number of kinematic systems required.
Solution Approach 2:
The transporting element serves multiple functions: it transports filter-bags from the carousel, orients them through radial movement, and delivers them to the packaging station. This multi-functional design reduces the overall number of components needed in the system.
2Ease of operation
If multiple synchronized kinematic systems are used, then orientation and packaging can be performed, but the number of components increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functions (transport, orientation, transfer) are merged into the transporting element, reducing the total number of separate components. The single element performs what previously required multiple synchronized systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The transporting element is designed as a universal component that handles multiple operations in sequence, reducing the quantity of specialized components needed for each individual function.
3Productivity
If separate orientation and packaging operations are used, then filtering can be done, but the machine size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The orientation and packaging operations are merged into a single integrated station, reducing the overall machine footprint. The compact arrangement allows these functions to be performed in close proximity without increasing machine volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The transporting element uses radial movement (changing from linear to radial dimension) to orient filter-bags, allowing orientation to occur within the same spatial envelope rather than requiring additional linear space.
Data Source
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AI summary
Described is a machine for forming filter-bags (1) containing infusion products, comprising a transporting element (2) configured for picking up, transporting and releasing filter-bags (1) from an operational station (3) for forming filter-bags (1) to a station (4) for preparing and packaging groups (G) of formed filter-bags (1); the preparing and packaging station (4) comprises a tubular conduit (5) configured to receive individual filter-bags (1); and a unit (8) for transferring the group (G) of filter-bags (1) positioned, in a receiving position, below the tubular conduit (5) and configured to rotate about a second axis (X11) parallel to the first axis (X3) between a position for receiving the group (G) of filter-bags (1) to a position for releasing the group (G) of filter-bags (1) inside a box (12) and vice versa; the transfer unit (8) is articulated to a movement unit (11) in such a way as to also rotate about a third axis (X10) transversal to the second axis (X11) of rotation of the movement unit (11) of the body (9), in particular the transfer unit (8) is configured to rotate in a synchronised fashion about the second (X11) and the third (X10) axis so as to rotate and orient the group (G) of filter-bags (1) prior to the arrival in the release position inside the box (12).