Infusion Capsule Production Using Synchronized Closed-Path Filter Insertion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing packaging processes for infusion type capsules face challenges in synchronizing the high-speed transfer and insertion of filters and cup-shaped containers, requiring flexibility to handle different sizes and formats without errors, and ensuring efficient production rates.
Innovation Solution
A production device and process that utilizes synchronized closed paths for filter delivery and cup-shaped container transport, allowing continuous insertion and shaping of filters into containers, with a carousel structure and synchronized moving members to manage varying speeds and formats.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If filters and cup-shaped containers are fed at high flow rates, then productivity is improved, but synchronization between the two streams becomes more difficult to maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the transport paths of filters and cup-shaped containers into a single integrated conveyor system with synchronized moving members. This merging allows both streams to be transported and inserted simultaneously at the same location, maintaining synchronization even at high production rates of 600-1000 capsules per minute.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs movable shaping members that can adjust their position and speed dynamically. The closed path conveyors allow the transport system to adapt to different production rates and accommodate variations in the timing and positioning of filters and containers, ensuring reliable synchronization while maintaining high productivity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the production device is designed to handle different sizes and formats of filters and containers, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the conveyor system and moving members with universal characteristics that allow them to handle multiple formats of filters and cup-shaped containers. The closed path conveyors and adjustable positioning mechanisms can accommodate different sizes without requiring separate dedicated systems for each format, achieving versatility while controlling complexity.
3Productivity
If continuous feeding and transport is implemented, then productivity is improved, but the requirement for precise speed control and synchronization increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the transport paths and using a single integrated conveyor system with synchronized moving members, the patent simplifies speed control compared to coordinating separate independent systems. The unified system allows for easier synchronization while maintaining continuous feeding and transport operations at high productivity levels.
Data Source
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AI summary
In a device (200) and in a production process for capsules, in particular for infusion type products, for delivery filters (20) into the capsules continuously, independently of both the feed rate of the flows of the filters (20) and of the cup-shaped containers (10) of the capsules, there are provided: a plurality of filter delivery devices (20); a first transport system for said delivery devices, continuously moving them along a first closed path; and a second transport system of support devices (9) which are continuously moved along a second closed path, each support device (9) receiving a respective cup-shaped container (10), wherein said first closed path comprises a filter inserting segment (20) which is superimposed to said second closed path, thereby the delivery devices and respective support devices (9) of the cup-shaped containers (10) are synchronized with each other, so as to continuously achieve the transfer of the filter (20) to a target cup-shaped container (10).