Automated Lid Manipulation for Fluidic Product Containers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing working lines for fluid products in containers face issues with contamination and dripping due to manual lid removal, leading to increased costs and potential damage to containers and lids, and require additional production costs for replacing lids.
Innovation Solution
A working line with at least two manipulation stations for automatically removing and repositioning lids on containers, using manipulators to decouple and recouple lids without damaging them, and a movement system to transport lids between stations, ensuring containers remain sealed and reducing material waste.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual lid removal is used, then operation flexibility is maintained, but contamination and dripping of fluid products occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical lid removal with an automated system comprising a manipulator arm with gripping elements and a rotational mechanism. The manipulator automatically grasps the lid, rotates it to an open position, and maintains sealing through controlled movement, eliminating manual handling issues while preserving operational flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary sealing element or membrane that maintains the seal during automated lid rotation. This intermediary component allows the lid to be opened mechanically without causing fluid dripping or contamination, bridging the gap between automated operation and seal integrity.
2Device complexity
If manual lid removal is used, then device complexity is reduced, but material waste increases due to dripping
Solution Approach 1:
The automated manipulator system with controlled rotational movement replaces manual lid removal, preventing fluid dripping and material waste. The system uses sensors and controlled actuation to open lids precisely without spilling contents, eliminating the need for cleanup materials while adding automated control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary sealing maintenance before lid removal by positioning sealing elements or adjusting container orientation. This preliminary action ensures that when the lid is mechanically removed, no fluid drips or material is wasted, preparing the system in advance to prevent loss.
3Ease of manufacture
If manual lid removal is used, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but container damage occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces rough manual lid removal with a controlled automated manipulator that applies precise, distributed force through multiple gripping elements. The rotational mechanism opens lids smoothly without sudden movements that could crack or deform container structures, maintaining integrity while eliminating manual handling.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated system incorporates cushioning elements or controlled deceleration mechanisms that prevent excessive force during lid removal. The manipulator slows down near the end of the opening stroke, cushioning the final separation to avoid container damage while maintaining manufacturing efficiency.
4Ease of operation
If lids are definitively separated from containers, then ease of operation is improved, but production cost increases due to lid replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic lid handling system where the manipulator can perform both temporary opening and permanent removal operations. The system adjusts its operation mode based on process requirements, allowing lids to be opened for filling operations and then repositioned or replaced as needed, providing operational flexibility without mandatory replacement costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated manipulator system serves multiple functions: it can temporarily open lids for filling, permanently remove lids, reposition lids, or work with different container types. This universal capability eliminates the need for dedicated lid removal and replacement systems, reducing overall production costs while maintaining ease of operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A working line is for fluidic or fluid products contained in pre-dosed containers. The container includes a cover and/or lid for closing the container. The working line includes a first manipulation station having a manipulator to manipulate the cover and/or lid to remove the cover and/or lid from the container to open the container. A working station carries out at least one operation on the fluid product contained in the container after the removal of the cover and/or lid from the container. A second manipulation station includes a manipulator to manipulate the cover and/or lid to associate the cover and/or lid with the container to close the container. A transportation system moves the pre-dosed containers among different stations. The working station is located between the first manipulation station and the second manipulation station. The manipulator manipulates covers and/or lids associable with the container through joint-type and/or screw-type devices.