Format Part Fastening with Auto-Locking Quick Change
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for changing format parts in container treatment and transport machines are time-consuming and labor-intensive, requiring manual operation and tool usage, which disrupts production and reduces machine availability.
Innovation Solution
A device with a first and second connection unit, featuring a fastening bolt and a lockable receptacle with an actuatable locking element that automatically secures the connection, allowing for quick and tool-free exchange of format parts, enabling secure fixation and easy handling with one hand.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If screw connections are used to attach format parts, then secure fixation is achieved, but the replacement process becomes time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening system is divided into separate components: a fastening element with head and shank, and a receptacle with locking element. This segmentation allows the format part to be quickly attached and detached without compromising the security of fixation during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element is designed to be movable between locked and unlocked positions. During operation, it provides secure fixation in the locked position. During replacement, it can be moved to the unlocked position, enabling rapid tool-free removal of the format part.
2Loss of time
If quick-release fasteners are used for tool-free replacement, then replacement time is reduced, but both hands are required for operation
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element automatically assumes the locked position when the format part is attached, providing self-securing without requiring manual intervention. This self-service mechanism simplifies operation to a single-handed pulling motion for removal.
3Reliability
If manual unlocking and locking actions are required, then secure connection is established, but the number of operational steps increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of requiring manual locking actions to secure the connection, the system inverts the approach: the connection is passively secured by the locking element automatically assuming the locked position upon attachment, while active action is only needed for removal.
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
Facilitates rapid and secure attachment and detachment of format parts, reducing downtime and improving operational efficiency by allowing single-handed operation and automatic locking, thus enhancing the handling and changing process of format parts in container processing machines.
Implementation Method 1
The locking element is designed and configured in such a way that it automatically assumes the locking position
Implementation Method 2
means are provided to force the locking element into the release position by actuation when the connecting units are connected
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
The invention relates to a device (1) for the exchangeable fastening of format parts (2) to a machine component (3) of a container-processing machine. The device (1) has at least one first connection unit (4) and at least one corresponding second connection unit (5), wherein one of the connection units (4, 5) is fastened to the format part (2) and the respective corresponding connection unit (4, 5) is fastened to the machine component (3). The first connection unit (4) has at least one fastening bolt (6) extending along a bolt axis (BA), and the second connection unit (5) comprises at least one lockable receptacle (7) having a main axis (HA) and being designed to receive the fastening bolt (6) by means of the latter being plugged into it. Moreover, an actuatable locking element (8) is provided which is arranged on the receptacle (7) and which is movable from at least one blocking position (SS) to at least one release position (FS). In particular, the locking element (8) is designed and set up in such a way that it automatically adopts the blocking position (SS), and means are provided for forcing the locking element (8) by actuation into the release position (FS) in the connected state of the connection units (4, 5).