Lid Cam-Recess Stacking Means for Automated Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing container assemblies with pivotably connected lid parts face challenges in automatic handling and stacking, especially at high production speeds, leading to instability and rigidity issues during assembly and use.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of complementary stacking means, such as a cam-recess system, allows for stable stacking of lid parts and container assemblies, enhancing automatic handling and rigidity, with the cam on the lid functioning as both a stacking and assembly mechanism, and the circumferential rim providing additional stability and support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If lid parts are automatically supplied and manipulated at high production speeds, then productivity is improved, but stability and positioning precision of lid parts deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
Lid parts are pre-stacked in a stable configuration before the assembly process begins. The stacking means (protrusions and recesses) are designed to maintain stable stacks of lid parts that can be automatically fed to the assembly station without requiring complex handling mechanisms during high-speed production
Solution Approach 2:
The stacking means consisting of protrusions and recesses act as an intermediary mechanism between the automatic supply system and the assembly process. This intermediary structure enables stable stacking and controlled positioning of lid parts, facilitating automatic handling while maintaining stability during high-speed production
2Ease of manufacture
If the connection portion is simplified to ease manufacture, then ease of manufacture is improved, but the ability to receive stacking means and ensure precise positioning deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connection portion is segmented into distinct functional zones: a simplified base structure for easy manufacture, and integrated stacking means (protrusions and recesses) for precise positioning. This segmentation allows the connection portion to be manufactured easily while still providing accurate positioning of lid parts during assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The stacking means are merged directly into the connection portion structure rather than being separate components. The protrusions and recesses are formed as integral features of the connection portion, combining the functions of connection and precise positioning in a single manufactured element, thus achieving both ease of manufacture and manufacturing precision
Data Source
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AI summary
Container assembly (1) comprising a container part (3) and a lid part (2). The lid part has a connection portion (8) to be connected to said container part. For automatic assembly of the container assembly from the container part and the lid part it is advantageous that separate lid parts can be manipulated easily. To that end it is proposed to embody the lid parts such a way that they are stackable in a stable way. More particular it is proposed to provide the top side of the lid with a circumferential cam (9) which can engage inside a circumferential rim (22) of the connection portion. To be able to remove dust and debris from the top side of the lid it is proposed to provide a circumferential cam with interruptions (10). In the embodiment wherein part of the lid is shaped to correspond with its aimed contents, as is for example part of the spoon, the interruption should preferably be provided at the location of such shape such as a spoon. If the container assembly is rectangular such shapes preferably extend diagonally and the interruptions are also provided diagonally. In this way a very stable stacking position is obtained. The cam on the lid is preferably embodied to also be engagable with the circumferential edge of the bottom of a further container so that a number of containers can be stacked in a stable way.