Foam Can Packaging via Unfolded Box Inversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for packaging foam cans using folding boxes are inefficient, as they require extensive time and space, often result in protruding parts getting caught, lead to confusion due to missing user instructions, and can cause damage to the boxes or foam cans during the packaging process, especially when handling different types of foam cans.
Innovation Solution
A method and system where the folding box is only folded up after the foam cans are placed inside, eliminating the need for partial folding and separate devices, using a conveyor belt for consistent and safe transport, and incorporating transport pucks to prevent slipping and ensure proper orientation, thus reducing the risk of damage and improving packaging efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the folding box is folded up before placing foam cans inside, then the packaging process can be divided into separate steps, but protruding parts of the foam cans get caught behind raised parts of the folding box causing delays and potential damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional sequence by placing foam cans into the unfolded folding box first, then folding the box around the contents. This reversal eliminates the problem of protruding parts catching on raised edges during pre-folding, as the box is folded after the cans are securely positioned inside.
2Ease of manufacture
If a separate device is used to form the folding box, then the box can be prepared in advance, but additional space and equipment are required increasing system complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of box formation and can placement into a single integrated operation. The folding box is prepared and used within the same packaging device that places the foam cans, eliminating the need for a separate box-forming device and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining ease of box preparation.
3Productivity
If the folding box is partially folded up and then presented to a packaging device, then the packaging process can be staged, but the process takes more time and requires additional transport steps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs the preliminary action of completely unfolding and positioning the folding box within the packaging device before introducing the foam cans. This eliminates the need for staged folding and multiple transport steps, as the box is fully prepared in advance within the same device that will contain the final packaged product, thereby reducing overall packaging cycle time.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for packaging foam cans (11), comprising: supplying foam cans, counting a predetermined number of foam cans, placing the foam cans in a folding box (8), after which the folding box is folded up and glued shut, wherein the foam cans are placed in a packaging position on a folding table (1,2,3,4,5), which extends in a longitudinal direction, wherein a folding box comprises four side walls, each side wall being provided with a flap at a top and bottom, wherein the folding box (8) is placed with an open bottom over the foam cans (11) in the packaging position, after which the flaps at the top and bottom are folded shut. The invention further relates to a system for packaging foam cans and a use.