Mobile Conveyor Segments for Packaging Line Reconfiguration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing packaging systems require significant manual effort and resources for frequent reconfiguration of conveyor systems due to frequent movement of filling stations between silos, leading to inefficiencies and machine downtimes.
Innovation Solution
A system incorporating a movable packaging station and a combination of continuous and discontinuous conveyor technologies, allowing for flexible reconfiguration and optimized routing of conveyor segments, including the use of AGVs to manage conveyor sections dynamically.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the filling station is moved between silos frequently, then the system can serve multiple silos efficiently, but the conveyor system requires frequent manual reconfiguration which increases personnel effort and time consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The conveyor system is transformed from a static, fixed installation to a dynamic, mobile system. Mobile conveyor sections with wheels or casters can be easily repositioned by operators or automated systems, allowing the conveyor to adapt to different silo positions without time-consuming manual reconfiguration. The conveyor sections can be moved, rotated, and reconnected to serve different filling stations and silos as needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The conveyor system is divided into modular sections that can be independently moved and reconfigured. Each conveyor section operates as a separate unit that can be detached, repositioned, and reconnected to different parts of the system. This segmentation allows flexible adaptation to various silo arrangements while minimizing the effort and time required for reconfiguration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual reconfiguration of conveyor systems is performed frequently, then the filling station can be repositioned, but significant personnel effort and resources are required
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile conveyor system is designed to be self-reconfiguring through automated control systems. Sensors, motors, and control algorithms enable the conveyor sections to autonomously navigate to their target positions, connect to appropriate interfaces, and integrate into the production line without requiring extensive manual intervention. This reduces personnel effort while maintaining high adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical reconfiguration operations are replaced with automated mechanical systems. Electric motors, hydraulic actuators, and robotic systems perform the physical movements and connections that previously required manual labor. Control systems coordinate these automated actions to achieve reconfiguration with minimal personnel involvement.
3Ease of operation
If belt conveyors are manually adjusted to new positions, then the conveyor can follow the filling station, but data and power connections must be re-established which increases complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile conveyor sections are equipped with universal, standardized interfaces for mechanical coupling, electrical power connection, and data communication. These multi-functional connection points allow a single integrated interface to handle multiple functions simultaneously, eliminating the need to separately manage and re-establish individual data and power connections during reconfiguration operations.
Solution Approach 2:
Connection interfaces with built-in coupling mechanisms serve as intermediaries between conveyor sections and the fixed infrastructure. These interfaces automatically establish mechanical, electrical, and data connections when sections are brought together, and automatically disconnect them when separated. The intermediary interfaces hide the complexity of multiple connection types behind a single unified interaction point.
4Ease of operation
If unused conveyors are left standing between silos, then no additional personnel effort is required, but the available workspace is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Conveyor sections designed with mobile bases can be easily moved from active positions to storage areas or repositioned to new work areas as needed. This dynamic mobility allows unused conveyors to be relocated without requiring additional personnel resources, while maximizing the availability of workspace at any given time. The same conveyor sections can serve multiple functions at different locations throughout the facility.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a packaging line, for example an FFS line, with a conveyor system for transporting filled packaging units, for example bags filled with bulk material, between production-related processing stations of the packaging line, comprising: a plurality of processing stations connected to one another by means of the conveyor system, which include at least one packaging station, for example a filling station, wherein the conveyor system has at least one fixed part and at least one mobile part, wherein the mobile part has a plurality of continuous conveyor segments connectable to one another and/or to the fixed part and/or the processing stations to form a conveyor section;The invention relates to at least one discontinuous conveyor, for example an AGV, which is designed to transport the continuous conveyor segments, wherein the discontinuous conveyor is controlled in such a way that the conveyor section can be configured according to a predetermined layout. The invention further relates to a corresponding system.