Modular Workpiece Carrier for Multi-Format Packaging Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing workpiece carriers for hood-shaped product packaging require separate carriers for each format, leading to high manufacturing costs due to format dependency.
Innovation Solution
A base carrier with a through-opening and a detachable insert element that adapts to various formats, allowing the insert element to be redesigned for different formats while the base carrier remains unchanged, secured by fixing elements or magnets, and a handling device with independent slide control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a separate workpiece carrier is designed for each format of hood-shaped packaging, then the handling and securing of each format is optimized, but the manufacturing cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The workpiece carrier is divided into two functional segments: a universal base carrier that remains unchanged and format-specific insert elements that can be exchanged. This segmentation allows the base structure to be manufactured once and reused, while only the insert elements need to be customized for different formats, significantly reducing manufacturing costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The base carrier is designed with universal features including a through-opening in the central area and circumferential fixing elements that can accommodate multiple formats. By making the base carrier multi-functional and format-agnostic, the system achieves versatility without requiring separate carriers for each packaging format.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the base carrier opening is made large enough to accommodate various formats, then format versatility is improved, but the securing precision of the lid in the recess may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The insert element provides localized precision features including a recess with dimensions and shape specifically tailored to each format's lid. While the base carrier opening remains large and universal, the insert element's recess is precisely configured to match the specific format, ensuring accurate lid positioning and secure engagement without compromising precision.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the insert element is made detachable for format changes, then adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional fixing mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical fixing mechanisms with simpler alternatives such as magnetic attraction or gravity-based retention. The insert element can be easily attached to and removed from the base carrier using these simplified mechanisms, achieving format changeability without introducing excessive device complexity.
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
Enables cost-effective format adaptation and secure handling of hood-shaped product packaging across different formats, enhancing flexibility and reducing manufacturing costs.
Implementation Method 1
Alternatively or additionally, the inserted element can be held magnetically to the base
Data Source
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AI summary
The workpiece carrier (5) for moving at least one hood-shaped product packaging (6) and its cover element (7) comprises a base carrier (22) which has a passage opening (26) in a central area for the hood-shaped product packaging (6). An insert element (24) is detachably placed on the base carrier (22) and has at least one recess (28) for suspending the hood-shaped product packaging (6). The recess (28) of the inserted insert element (24) is arranged above the passage opening (26) of the base carrier (22). A circumferential web (23) of the base carrier (22) projects around the inserted insert element (24). The base carrier (22) has fixing elements (30) on the circumferential web (23) for securing the cover element (7) around its circumference.