Labelling Trolley Threaded Rod Fixation Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing labelling machine trolleys face challenges in achieving precise fixation to the machine body, with simpler systems being imprecise due to floor imperfections and more complex systems being costly.
Innovation Solution
A trolley design featuring a longitudinal rod with a handwheel, threaded portion, and spring mechanism that allows for precise alignment and locking onto the labelling machine body using ramps and centering means, enabling easy and precise positioning without costly adaptations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the trolley is fixed while keeping the wheels in contact with the floor, then the device complexity is reduced, but the manufacturing precision deteriorates due to floor imperfections
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing system is divided into two independent parts: a mobile trolley with wheels for transport and a fixed positioning mechanism with threaded rod and ramp for precise fixation. This segmentation allows the trolley to be moved easily while the fixation mechanism provides precise positioning independent of floor imperfections.
Solution Approach 2:
A threaded rod with conical tip acts as an intermediary element between the trolley and the machine body. The rod engages with ramps on the machine body and threads into a threaded hole, providing a precise mechanical interface that eliminates the effect of floor imperfections on fixation precision.
2Manufacturing precision
If the trolley is lifted by an adapted device for fixing, then the manufacturing precision is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The trolley's own wheels serve the dual function of both mobility and lifting during fixation. When the threaded rod engages with the ramps, the wheels naturally lift the trolley body as the rod is screwed in, eliminating the need for a separate lifting device.
Solution Approach 2:
The threaded rod with conical tip performs multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a lifting mechanism, a centering guide, and a fixing element. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate lifting and positioning devices, reducing overall system complexity.
3Manufacturing precision
If a threaded rod with ramp engagement is used for fixation, then the manufacturing precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The centering and fixation functions are merged into a single threaded rod mechanism. The conical tip provides automatic centering while the threaded portion provides secure fixation, combining multiple functions into one simple component rather than requiring separate centering and fixing devices.
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 precise and cost-effective fixation of the labelling station to the machine body, ensuring optimal operation and reducing the risk of mechanical damage from abrupt contact.
Implementation Method 1
a spring (10) which is coaxial with the rod (6), and has a front end in abutment against a free bushing (10a) in contact with the bush (9), and a rear end in abutment against a second free bushing (10b)
Implementation Method 2
The rod (6) is provided with a threaded portion (8) with a conical tip (8a) at the front end
Implementation Method 3
The surface (14) also comprises at least one ramp and, more preferably, two ramps (15a, 15b), which are arranged symmetrically with respect to the bush (13), and are adapted to make contact, as will be described in more detail in the description of the operation, with respective wheels (16a, 16b)
Data Source
AI summary
A trolley for supporting a labelling station in a labelling machine, provided with front and rear wheels for resting on the floor, comprising a longitudinal rod which is provided, at the rear end, with elements adapted to cause its rotation about its own axis and with a threaded portion with a conical tip at its front end; the rod is associated with a bush which is pivoted to the trolley with a horizontal axis and able to at least rotate with respect to it. The threaded portion is adapted to mate with a portion of female thread provided with a conical guiding portion in an accommodation bush which is fixed to a surface that protrudes from the body of the labelling machine; the surface comprises at least one ramp which is adapted to be crossed by a respective wheel provided at the front end of the trolley, and means for abutment against centering means provided on the trolley.