Flame Mitigation Device Installation Line for Portable Fuel Containers
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing production methods for portable fuel containers (PFCs) with flame mitigation devices (FMDs) lack an efficient and automated process for installing FMDs, leading to potential inefficiencies in throughput and quality control.
Innovation Solution
A production line system comprising a conveyor system, supply system, installation system, test system, and check system, which automates the installation of FMDs into PFCs, including a mandrel, platen, and platen heater to radially expand the platen for insertion, and a cutting and closing tool to form and supply sleeving for FMDs, with integrated leakproofness and FMD checking processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If automated installation system is implemented, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated installation system is divided into distinct functional modules: conveyor system for transport, supply system for FMD delivery, installation system for FMD insertion, test system for leakproofness testing, and check system for FMD verification. Each module operates independently but coordinates through the control module, enabling high productivity while managing complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The production line system integrates multiple functions into a single automated platform: conveying PFCs, supplying FMDs, installing FMDs, testing leakproofness, and checking FMD installation. This multi-functional system achieves high productivity by eliminating manual transfer between separate operations, while the centralized control module manages the complexity of coordinating these diverse functions.
2Loss of time
If automated installation system is implemented, then loss of time is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The conveyor system continuously transports PFCs through the production line without interruption. The supply system continuously feeds FMDs to the installation system, which continuously installs them as PFCs pass by. The test and check systems continuously verify installation quality. This continuous operation eliminates idle time between operations, significantly reducing total installation time while the automated coordination manages system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The supply system prepares FMDs in advance by receiving them from storage and positioning them for immediate installation. The conveyor system pre-positions PFCs in the installation path before they reach the installation station. This preliminary preparation eliminates waiting time during the actual installation process, reducing overall installation time while the automated control manages the complexity of coordinating these preparatory actions.
3Reliability
If integrated test and check systems are added, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The test system and check system are integrated into the same production line as the installation system. The test system performs leakproofness testing by applying pressure to PFCs and detecting leaks, while the check system verifies proper FMD installation by inspecting the installed components. Both systems are coordinated with the conveyor and installation systems through the central control module, achieving comprehensive quality control while managing complexity through integration rather than separate standalone systems.
4Ease of manufacture
If platen heater is used to radially expand platen, then ease of manufacture is improved, but use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The platen heater applies thermal energy to the platen, causing it to radially expand through thermal expansion. This phase change in the platen's dimensional state enables the installation tool to accommodate different FMD sizes and facilitates the installation process. The heating is localized and controlled, achieving the necessary dimensional change with minimal energy input while enabling easy manufacture and installation of FMDs.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system enables the efficient and automated installation of FMDs in PFCs, ensuring leakproofness and FMD checks, thereby improving production efficiency and quality control.
Implementation Method 1
the platen heater to heat the platen and the platen actuator to radially expand the platen
Data Source
AI summary
A production line for PFCs with FMDs includes a conveyor system, a supply system, and an installation system. The conveyor system is operable to convey PFCs. The supply system includes a roller stage. The roller stage operable to feed FMDs. The installation system includes an installation tool. The installation tool includes a mandrel, a platen, a platen heater, and a platen actuator. The installation tool is configured to receive FMDs from the roller stage in part around the mandrel and in part around the platen, configured to insert into PFCs on the conveyor system, and operable to install FMDs thereto by the operation of the platen heater to heat the platen and the platen actuator to radially expand the platen.