Flexible Packaging Manipulator with Variable Pitch Drive
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional packaging systems are limited in flexibility, requiring product and pack-specific change parts, which reduces productivity and limits the range of products and packaging types that can be handled, and are not capable of executing optimized assembly sequences while packages are in transit.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a manipulator transportation unit with independently motion-controlled movers and manipulating units that can temporarily attach and release packaging components, allowing for synchronized motion-controlled manipulation of packaging materials along the x-, y-, and z-axes, enabling flexible handling and assembly of various package types and sizes without the need for specific change parts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional packaging systems use fixed pitch driving tracks and conventional means to move packaging, then the system structure is simple and reliable, but the system lacks flexibility and requires product and pack-specific change parts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by replacing fixed pitch driving tracks with variable pitch driving tracks that can dynamically adjust their pitch according to different package types. The driving track system can change its configuration on-the-fly without requiring physical change parts, enabling the same hardware to adapt to various package dimensions and formats through programmable control
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by designing a single multi-functional driving track system that can handle multiple package types through variable pitch adjustment. Instead of having dedicated fixed pitch tracks for different package types, one universal track system performs multiple functions by dynamically reconfiguring its pitch, eliminating the need for product-specific change parts
2Productivity
If conventional systems require change parts for different products, then the system is optimized for specific products, but productivity is reduced due to changeover time
Solution Approach 1:
The variable pitch driving track system allows dynamic reconfiguration during operation without stopping the production line. When a new product type is introduced, the system can adjust the pitch programmatically while maintaining continuous operation, eliminating the downtime associated with physical changeover of parts
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary configuration through programmable settings that prepare the driving track pitch in advance for upcoming product changes. The control system can pre-load configurations for different package types, allowing seamless transitions without physical changeover operations
3Ease of operation
If conventional systems use fixed pitch driving tracks, then the system is simpler to control, but it cannot execute optimized assembly sequences while packages are in transit
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the pitch parameter of the driving track dynamically based on package characteristics and assembly requirements. The control system adjusts pitch values programmatically to optimize assembly sequences for different package types, maintaining ease of operation through centralized control while achieving high adaptability
Data Source
AI summary
A system for processing a packaging in assembly comprising a main transportation unit (102); and a manipulator transportation unit (104) having at least one manipulating unit (110), said manipulating unit mounted on at least one independently motion controlled mover (108) and adapted for manipulating a material component of a package (106) in assembly present at the main transportation unit, wherein said manipulating unit comprises an engagement device (112) for temporarily engaging a material component of a package in assembly while being in transit.