Gravity-Based Handling of Flexible Strand Objects for Packaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automated handling of strand-like objects with flexible connections poses challenges due to their indeterminate spatial shape, requiring complex and costly gripper systems for precise manipulation and packaging.
Innovation Solution
A method and device utilizing inherent gravity to transfer and position strand-shaped objects onto a conveyor unit, forming groups along the conveyor, and using a handling means to package them efficiently, leveraging free fall and controlled pressure for packaging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If complex gripper systems with sensor technology and sophisticated control are used to handle flexible strand-shaped objects, then handling precision and reliability are improved, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible strand-shaped object is segmented into three distinct parts: two dimensionally stable object areas and one flexible connection area. This segmentation allows the stable areas to be handled like rigid objects while the flexible connection area naturally adapts, eliminating the need for complex gripping mechanisms designed for entirely flexible objects.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible connection area serves itself by naturally conforming and adapting during the handling process. The object's own flexibility provides the adaptation function that would otherwise require complex sensors and control systems, allowing the object to 'handle itself' through its inherent mechanical properties.
2Manufacturing precision
If complex gripper systems are deployed for individual handling of flexible objects, then positioning precision is improved, but manufacturing cost and maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the object into stable and flexible regions, the system can use simple, cost-effective handling mechanisms that exploit the stable regions for precise positioning while allowing the flexible regions to naturally accommodate movement and positioning adjustments without requiring complex control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces expensive, complex gripper systems with simpler, more cost-effective handling mechanisms. The flexible connection area acts as a disposable adaptation element that absorbs the complexity, allowing the use of cheaper, more maintainable handling equipment.
3Measurement precision
If complex sensor technology and control systems are used for gripping flexible objects, then handling accuracy is improved, but device complexity and scalability are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The segmentation of the object into stable and flexible parts allows the same simple handling mechanism to work across different object types and scales. The stable areas provide consistent reference points for handling, while the flexible areas adapt to different configurations, enabling the system to scale industrially without requiring reconfiguration of complex sensor and control systems.
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
Enables reliable, low-maintenance, and cost-effective handling and packaging of flexible strand-shaped objects, suitable for continuous flow and batch operations, with scalable properties for industrial applications.
Implementation Method 1
which conveys the at least one object into an area of a handling means, into which the at least one object is transferred from the conveyor unit by means of the object's inherent gravity. Preferably, the transfer of the at least one object from the conveyor unit to the handling means takes place by means of free dropping and solely by the effect of the object's inherent gravity.
Implementation Method 2
The at least one object transferred into the handling means is subsequently positioned together with the handling means relative to a packaging into which the at least one object is subsequently transferred, preferably by means of the exclusive effect of the object's inherent weight, for example by being dropped or by means of a free fall.
Data Source
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Figure 3
Figure 4a
AI summary
A method and a device for handling, portioning, and packaging individual strand-shaped objects, each having a flexible strand section and strand-shaped object areas adjacent to the flexible strand section on both sides, are described. The invention is characterized in that at least one of the objects is arranged along a conveying unit from which the at least one object is transferred into a box-shaped handling device by means of its inherent weight. The handling device is subsequently positioned relative to a package so that the at least one object contained in the handling device is transferred into the package.