Interchangeable Transport Modules for Packaging Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional conveyor systems are often optimized for specific container and packaging types, requiring time-consuming and cumbersome changes when switching between different packaging modules, especially when handling containers with varying flaps or no support, leading to inefficiencies in transport path adaptation.
Innovation Solution
A transport path design with interchangeable modules and an adjustable endless traction device, allowing seamless transition between different packaging types by adjusting the range of push rods and conveyor belts or transfer plates, facilitated by a control device and actuators to manage the endless traction means.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional conveyor systems are optimized for specific container and packaging types, then transport reliability is improved, but adaptability to different packaging types deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The conveyor system is divided into modular components (first conveyor for item transport, second conveyor for packaging blank transport, transfer device) that can be independently configured and switched. This segmentation allows the system to maintain reliable transport for specific packaging types while enabling quick adaptation to different types by reconfiguring the modular segments.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates dynamic switching capabilities where the first and second conveyors can be selectively activated or deactivated based on the current packaging type being processed. This dynamic configuration allows the conveyor system to adapt its transport reliability characteristics to match different packaging requirements without permanent reconfiguration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If packaging modules are replaced when switching between different packaging types, then adaptability is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system prepares multiple packaging blanks in advance on the second conveyor before the item transport phase. This preliminary action eliminates the need for time-consuming module replacements during operation, as the necessary packaging components are already in position and ready for immediate transfer to the first conveyor.
Solution Approach 2:
The transfer device enables continuous operation by seamlessly transitioning items from the second conveyor (packaging blank transport) to the first conveyor (item transport) without interruption. This continuity maintains productive activity during type changes, eliminating downtime associated with module replacement.
3Stability of the object's composition
If push rods are attached to accompany groups during movement, then stability of articles is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The push rods are integrated into the conveyor structure itself rather than being separate attachment mechanisms. The conveyor belts or transfer plates provide the pushing action directly as part of their normal transport function, eliminating the need for complex external attachment and detachment systems while maintaining article stability.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2B
AI summary
A transport system (1) for articles is disclosed. The transport system (1) comprises a first transport section (10) and a second transport section (20) which connects to the first transport section (10). The second transport section (20) comprises a first module with several circumferentially guided folding fingers. Furthermore, the second transport section comprises a second module (22) with at least one conveyor belt (23, 23') or at least one sliding plate. The first module (21) and the second module (22) are interchangeable. At least one continuous traction element (6) with several push rods (3) arranged thereon is also provided, which accompany groups of articles during their movement along the first transport section (10) with rearward contact. It is provided that the reach of the respective continuous traction element (6) along the transport system (1) is adjustable.