Hinged Filter Assembly for Clean Product Transfer in Packaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing packaging systems face issues with product flow control during the package forming process, leading to contamination of the packaging system and surrounding environment due to product buildup in the open space between the dosing device and fill pipe.
Innovation Solution
A filter assembly with a hinged connection and releasable coupling, featuring filters that prevent solids from flowing while allowing fluid passage, is attached to the fill and dispensing pipes to contain product flow and maintain cleanliness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the dosing device and fill pipe are positioned close together to improve productivity, then the package forming process is more efficient, but product flows out of the open space between them causing contamination
Solution Approach 1:
A filter assembly is introduced as an intermediary component between the dosing device and fill pipe. The filter assembly includes a filter element that allows fluid product to pass through while blocking solid particles, preventing contamination of the packaging system and surrounding environment while maintaining efficient product transfer
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a filter is added to prevent product contamination, then sanitation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The filter assembly is segmented into distinct components: a filter element, a support structure, and mounting mechanisms. This segmentation allows for easy assembly, disassembly, and cleaning of individual components, reducing operational complexity while maintaining effective filtration
Solution Approach 2:
The filter assembly incorporates movable and adjustable components that allow it to adapt to different pipe configurations and product flows. The dynamic design enables the filter to maintain proper positioning and filtration effectiveness under varying operating conditions without requiring complex fixed structures
3Reliability
If the filter assembly is designed to be secure and reliable, then product flow control is improved, but the ease of maintenance decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The filter assembly is divided into separable components including the filter element, support structure, and mounting brackets. This segmentation allows the filter element to be easily removed and replaced without affecting the structural integrity of the overall assembly, facilitating simple maintenance while maintaining reliable product flow control
Solution Approach 2:
The filter element is designed as a disposable or easily replaceable component that can be quickly removed and replaced when clogged or damaged. This approach prioritizes ease of maintenance over the cost of the filter element itself, allowing for rapid replacement rather than complex repair procedures
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 filter assembly effectively prevents product from escaping into the environment, maintaining sanitation and reducing contamination by securing to various pipe sizes and types, with removable and cleanable filters for continuous operation.
Implementation Method 1
a filter coupled to the first body and that is in fluid communication with the opening formed through the first body, wherein the filter is configured to prevent solids from flowing through the filter while allowing fluid flow through the filter
Data Source
AI summary
An assembly having a first body coupled to a second body via a hinged connection to rotatably couple the first and second bodies together. The assembly also has a releasable connection releasably coupling the first and second bodies together. The assembly also has a filter coupled to at least one of the first and second bodies and configured to prevent solids from flowing through the filter while allowing fluid flow through the filter. The assembly is configured to be coupled to a dispensing pipe of a dosing device and a fill pipe of a packaging system.