Compact Manual Depalletizing Machine with Parallelogram Gripper
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current automatic depalletizing machines for glass bottles are large in size and costly due to complex gripping-head moving systems, making them unsuitable for small bottling plants and increasing manufacturing costs.
Innovation Solution
A compact, manually controlled depalletizing machine with a simplified structure featuring a ground supporting base, vertically extending bearing column, manually controlled carriage, and a gripping head with inflatable air bladders, where the gripping head is manually rotated and displaced by the operator using a bearing structure with an articulated parallelogram geometry and manually controlled pneumatic system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If an automatic gripping-head moving system is used, then depalletization efficiency is improved, but machine size and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the automatic moving system from the gripping head assembly, leaving only the essential gripping function while removing the complex horizontal and vertical moving mechanisms. The gripping head is now manually positioned rather than automatically moved, significantly simplifying the device structure while maintaining depalletization capability
Solution Approach 2:
The operator manually positions and operates the gripping head to perform depalletization tasks, eliminating the need for complex automatic moving systems. The simplified device relies on human operation for positioning while maintaining automated gripping and releasing functions
2Extent of automation
If a complex gripping-head moving system is implemented, then automated depalletization is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the expensive automatic moving mechanisms from the gripping head assembly, retaining only the essential gripping function. This extraction of unnecessary complexity significantly reduces manufacturing costs while preserving core depalletization functionality through manual operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs simpler, more cost-effective mechanical components for the gripping head structure, replacing expensive automated moving systems with basic manual positioning mechanisms that are easier and cheaper to manufacture
3Stability of the object's composition
If a rigid supporting framework is used, then structural stability is improved, but machine size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the supporting structure into modular segments that can be compactly arranged. The framework is organized into discrete functional zones (pallet positioning area, gripping head operation area, bottle discharge area) that maximize space utilization while maintaining structural stability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes vertical space more effectively by arranging components in the vertical dimension rather than spreading them out horizontally. The compact framework achieves stability through optimized vertical positioning of the gripping head and pallet platform, reducing the horizontal footprint
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 machine is significantly smaller and more cost-effective, allowing placement in small spaces, reducing electricity consumption, and enabling easy transportation, while maintaining efficient depalletization with lower operational complexity.
Implementation Method 1
The 'inflatable blades' are further connected to a pneumatic circuit which is able to inflate or deflate them on command
Implementation Method 2
a bearing structure with an articulated parallelogram geometry and manually controlled pneumatic system
Data Source
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AI summary
A depalletizing machine (1) for unpacking pallets (2) of products (3) consisting of a ground supporting base (4), a bearing column (6) which overhangingly extends from the base (4) in a substantially vertical direction, a head-holder carriage (7) slidingly mounted on the bearing column (6) in vertical direction, manually controlled carriage moving means (8) adapted to move the head-holder carriage (7) along the bearing column (6), and finally a gripping head (13) attached to the head-holder carriage (7) by means of a bearing structure (17) which overhangingly protrudes from the head-holder carriage (7) itself and is structured so as to be able to, on command, withhold and release a predetermined number of bottles (3) from the top of the pallet (2) to be unpacked; the base (4) being fixed to the ground (5) close to a pallet storage area (5a) in the periphery of which the pallet (2) to be unpacked is to be laid; the bearing structure (17) being a bearing structure (17) having an articulated parallelogram geometry which allows the gripping head (13) to make horizontal movements only when pushed by the operator controlling the machine.