Integrated Refillable Capsule Filling and Closure Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Refillable capsules face issues with precise portioning, reliable filling, and secure closure due to handling steps occurring in different processing positions, leading to loosening of filler material and contamination of the capsule edge, which affects the quality of the final product.
Innovation Solution
A device with an integral design featuring a first and second housing section, a capsule holder, and counterholding elements ensures seamless transfer and secure closure by pressing the capsule against the filling tube, preventing filler material displacement during compaction, and using locking mechanisms for precise positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If refillable capsules are filled and sealed using separate processing devices or positions, then operational flexibility is improved, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to loosening of filler material and contamination of capsule edges
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple processing functions (filling, tamping, sealing) into a single integrated processing device with a unified processing chamber. This allows the capsule to remain in one position throughout all operations, preventing filler material loosening and edge contamination while maintaining operational flexibility through automated multi-step processing sequences.
2Ease of operation
If the capsule is transferred between different processing positions, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to loosening of stuffed filling material
Solution Approach 1:
The processing device integrates filling, tamping, and sealing operations within a single processing chamber, eliminating capsule transfers between positions. The capsule remains stationary throughout all operations, ensuring filler material stability and processing reliability while maintaining ease of operation through automated sequencing.
Solution Approach 2:
The device performs preliminary positioning of the capsule in a fixed processing position before initiating the filling operation. The capsule is held securely in place with positioning elements that prevent movement during filling and tamping, ensuring reliable processing before the sealing operation commences.
3Quantity of substance
If filler material is dispensed in excess to ensure adequate filling, then quantity of substance is improved, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to displacement of filler material onto capsule edges
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated processing device performs filling and tamping operations in a unified chamber where the capsule remains stationary. This allows excess filler material to be compacted in-place without displacement onto the capsule edges, maintaining both adequate filling quantity and edge cleanliness for reliable sealing.
Solution Approach 2:
The device extracts or removes excess filler material from the capsule opening after the tamping operation, preventing contamination of the capsule edge while maintaining adequate internal filling quantity. This separation of filling and excess removal operations ensures both sufficient content and clean sealing surfaces.
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2
Figure 3A
AI summary
The invention relates to a device for filling, plugging and closing refillable capsules (3), the device having at least a first processing unit (1) which is formed in a first housing portion (1b) and has a first receptacle (1a) for receiving a capsule (3) to be filled, and having a second processing unit (2) which is formed in a second housing portion (2b) and has a second receptacle (2a) for receiving a capsule (3) to be closed, the first housing portion (1b) and the second housing portion (2b) being integral with one another.