Modular Coating Hood Sections for Flexible Glass Container Lines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coating hoods for glass containers are typically supplied in fixed lengths, limiting flexibility and adaptability to changing production needs, and are difficult to clean and service due to their integral design.
Innovation Solution
A modular coating hood system comprising interchangeable sections with connecting means, allowing for customizable length and configuration to fit specific production requirements, and enabling easy disassembly for cleaning and maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed-length coating hood is used, then the manufacturing and inventory costs are reduced, but the adaptability to changing production needs is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The coating hood is divided into multiple modular sections that can be independently manufactured and stored. Each section contains standardized connecting means (flanges, bolts, gaskets) that allow them to be assembled in different configurations. This segmentation enables the hood to be customized for different production lengths and cleaning requirements without increasing overall system complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed-length coating hood is supplied, then the initial capital investment is reduced, but the flexibility to alter hood length is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The hood is manufactured as separate modular sections with standardized interfaces, allowing customers to purchase only the number of sections needed for their current application while maintaining the ability to add or remove sections later. Each section is manufactured using the same processes, simplifying production while enabling future flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
Each hood section is designed as a universal module that can function in various positions and configurations within the assembly line. The standardized connecting means allow the same section to be used in different locations and orientations, reducing the number of unique parts needed and simplifying manufacturing.
3Ease of operation
If an integral coating hood design is used, then the structural integrity is maintained, but the ease of cleaning and servicing is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The hood is divided into removable modular sections connected by standardized flanges and fasteners. This segmentation allows individual sections to be easily detached for cleaning or maintenance without compromising the overall structural integrity when sections are properly assembled. The connecting means are designed to maintain seals and structural strength while enabling easy disassembly.
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 flexible adjustment of hood length and configuration to match production needs, facilitating easy cleaning and maintenance, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and adaptability.
Implementation Method 1
a blower (24) positioned at least partially in the interior chamber (18, 20a, 20b) to carry air from the inlet (32) towards the outlet (44)
Data Source
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AI summary
A modular apparatus for coating glass articles with a chemical compound includes a coating hood section (10a) including a series of interconnected walls (12) defining an interior chamber (18, 20a, 20b) having an inlet (32) and an outlet (44), a blower (24) positioned at least partially in the interior chamber (18, 20a, 20b) to carry air from the inlet (32) towards the outlet (44); and a connector (50) for connecting the coating hood section (10a) to an identical coating hood section (10b). The connector (50) for connecting being defined on at least one of the interconnected walls (12) of the coating hood section (10a).