Laser Opening of Double-Bag Outer Layers Without Inner Bag Damage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for opening pre-filled double-bags are manual and inefficient, particularly in automated handling and high-level hygienic environments, where the outer bag needs to be removed without opening or damaging the inner bag.
Innovation Solution
A method and system utilizing a laser arrangement emitting light in the 7-13 um wavelength range to perforate the cellulose-based outer bag of a pre-filled double-bag, while maintaining the integrity of the plastic-based inner bag, using an automated system that can be integrated with existing in-line processing systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual knife cutting is used to open the outer bag, then the outer bag can be opened, but the process is inefficient and requires manual handling which increases contamination risk
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical knife cutting system with an automated laser-based opening system. The laser arrangement emits laser light that selectively perforates the outer bag material without requiring manual intervention, thereby increasing productivity and eliminating manual handling while maintaining precision in the opening process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the difference in material properties (cellulose-based outer bag vs. plastic-based inner bag) by selecting a specific laser wavelength range that is selectively absorbed by the outer bag material. This parameter change in wavelength selection enables automated differentiation between the two materials, allowing the system to open only the outer bag while preserving the inner bag integrity.
2Ease of operation
If a knife is used to cut the outer bag, then the outer bag opens, but there is risk of accidentally opening or damaging the inner bag
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the non-selective mechanical knife cutting with a selective laser opening system. The laser can be precisely controlled to target only the outer bag material based on its optical absorption properties, providing ease of operation through selective opening while ensuring the inner bag remains intact and undamaged.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent exploits the differential optical absorption characteristics of the outer bag (cellulose-based) and inner bag (plastic-based) materials by selecting a specific laser wavelength range. This parameter change enables the system to selectively interact with the outer bag material only, achieving both ease of operation and reliability in protecting the inner bag.
3Productivity
If manual removal of outer bag is performed, then the outer bag can be removed, but the process is time-consuming and increases potential for contamination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical removal process with an automated laser opening system followed by automated handling. This substitution dramatically increases the speed of outer bag removal and eliminates manual contact with the inner bag and its contents, thereby reducing contamination risk while improving productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces the laser arrangement as an intermediary tool that performs the opening operation without requiring direct manual contact with the bags. This intermediary system enables automated operation, increasing productivity while minimizing human exposure and contamination risk in the handling process.
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 method enables automated, efficient, and hygienic opening of pre-filled double-bags, ensuring the inner bag remains intact and reducing manual handling and potential contamination risks.
Implementation Method 1
The opening system may comprise a laser arrangement comprising one or more laser units emitting laser light having wavelengths in the range of 7-13 um (microns) such as in the range of 9-11 um (microns)
Implementation Method 2
exposing a wall area of the outer bag to the laser light, so as to at least provide a perforation of the outer bag in said exposed wall area
Data Source
AI summary
A method of opening an outer bag of a pre-filled double-bag including a bag content and an opening system. A wall of the outer bag includes a cellulose-based material and a wall of the inner bag may include a plastic-based material enclosing an inner compartment including the bag content.The method may include an opening operation performed by the opening system, so as to open the outer bag leaving the inner bag substantially intact.The opening system may include a laser arrangement including one or more laser units emitting laser light having wavelengths in the range of 7-13 μm. The opening operation may include acts of exposing a wall area of the outer bag to the laser light, so as to at least provide a perforation of the outer bag in the exposed wall area.