Linear Motor Conveying Machine for Flexible Label Application
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional conveying machines for containers require frequent physical modifications and are limited in accommodating labels of varying lengths due to their circular design, which restricts production flexibility and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A linear motor-based conveying machine with modifiable base modules and independently controllable carriages allows for flexible configuration and operation, enabling the application of labels of different lengths without altering the machine's physical dimensions, and optimizing the placement of treatment units along a straight or curved pathway.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the diameter of the carousel is increased to accommodate more labelling units or larger containers, then the number of modules that can be coupled and the production velocity are improved, but the machine occupies more space and requires more frequent physical modifications
Solution Approach 1:
The machine is divided into modular base modules that can be independently configured and arranged. Each base module can support treatment units, and multiple base modules can be connected in series to create a linear conveying path, allowing the machine to accommodate varying numbers of treatment units without requiring a single large carousel structure
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a circular carousel layout to a linear conveying path with base modules arranged along a feed direction. This dimensional change allows treatment units to be coupled along the linear path, achieving high adaptability and module capacity while occupying less floor space compared to a large-diameter circular carousel
2Productivity
If the number of plates is increased to increase production velocity, then the productivity is improved, but the diameter of the carousel must be increased, leading to more space requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The conveying system is segmented into multiple independently controllable carriages that move along a linear path defined by base modules. Each carriage can carry a container and be independently positioned and controlled, allowing multiple processing stations to operate simultaneously along the linear path without requiring a large circular carousel
Solution Approach 2:
Each carriage is equipped with an independent drive system and can be controlled to move at different speeds and positions along the linear conveying path. This dynamic control allows optimization of production velocity by adjusting the movement of individual carriages and the operation of treatment units at different locations along the path
3Manufacturing precision
If the machine step is defined by the carousel diameter and number of plates, then the container positioning is determined, but the application of labels longer than the machine step becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The linear conveying system allows dynamic adjustment of the conveying speed and positioning of carriages along the feed direction. Treatment units can be positioned at different locations along the linear path, and the conveying speed can be adjusted to match the label application speed, enabling the application of labels of varying lengths while maintaining precise container positioning
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows independent adjustment of multiple parameters including the position of treatment units along the linear path, the conveying speed of carriages, and the rotation speed of containers. These parameter changes enable flexible accommodation of different label lengths and container sizes while maintaining precise positioning and synchronization for label application
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
This solution reduces design and operational complexities, allows for increased production flexibility, and enables the application of longer labels without the need for changing the machine's physical dimensions, while minimizing space requirements compared to traditional carousel systems.
Implementation Method 1
at least a supporting carriage (5) for the containers (2) slidably mounted on said base module (3) and mobile along said feed direction (4) for movement of the containers (2)
Data Source
AI summary
A conveying machine for containers, comprising at least one base module having a predetermined length according to a feed direction of the containers and at least a supporting carriage for the containers slidably mounted on said base module. The base module and carriage together define a linear motor, wherein the stator is the base module and the rotor is the carriage. The machine comprises a supporting plate for the containers, which is rotatably mounted on the carriage and means for moving the plate, which is operatively connected to the plate to rotate it on itself.