Modular Compactor Arrangement for Configurable Container Sorting

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing empty-container return systems face challenges in efficiently compacting and sorting various types of empty containers, such as single-use and reusable vessels, to optimize space usage and logistics in return processes.

Innovation Solution

A modular compactor arrangement with a function module system, featuring a module receptacle and multiple function modules that can be selectively configured and operated based on the type and configuration of the modules received, utilizing a processor to ascertain the actual configuration and operate the compactor in appropriate modes for efficient compacting and sorting.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a modular function module arrangement is implemented to handle different container types, then the adaptability and versatility of the compactor system is improved, but the device complexity increases due to multiple modules and configurations

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptability to different container typesVSAvoidcomplexity of modular function module arrangement

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The compactor system is divided into multiple independent function modules (e.g., compaction module, sorting module, inspection module) that can be selectively installed in a module receptacle. Each module handles a specific function, allowing the system to be customized for different container types and return process requirements without redesigning the entire system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The module receptacle and control system are designed with universal interfaces that can accommodate various types of function modules. The processor automatically detects and adapts to the installed module configuration, enabling a single base unit to serve multiple functions through different module combinations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Productivity

If multiple function modules with different configurations are received in the module receptacle, then the productivity and efficiency of the return process is improved, but the difficulty of detecting and measuring the actual configuration increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveefficiency of compacting and sortingVSAvoiddifficulty of ascertaining actual configuration

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The system employs self-detection mechanisms where the processor automatically identifies the installed module configuration through sensors, RFID tags, or mechanical position detection. The system autonomously adapts its operation to the detected configuration without requiring manual intervention or complex external measurement equipment.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The control system continuously monitors the actual module configuration and provides feedback to the processor. Based on this feedback, the processor automatically adjusts operating parameters, activation sequences, and control logic to match the installed modules, ensuring optimal productivity for each configuration.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

3Volume of moving object

If the compactor arrangement is designed to compact various types of empty containers to reduce space requirements, then the volume of containers is reduced, but the device complexity increases to handle different container materials and types

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvevolume of empty containersVSAvoidcomplexity of handling different container types

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The compaction function is separated into a dedicated compaction module that can be selectively installed. This module contains the compaction mechanism (e.g., hydraulic press, mechanical ram) and is designed to handle various container types through automated detection and adaptive control, rather than incorporating multiple compaction mechanisms for different materials.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The compaction module is designed with adjustable parameters (force, pressure, compaction cycle duration) that can be dynamically modified based on the detected container type and material. This allows a single compaction mechanism to effectively handle glass, plastic, metal, and mixed materials by changing operational parameters rather than using different mechanical systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS11498300B2Compactor arrangement and method for operating a compactor arrangement

Publication Date: 2022.11.15 WINCOR NIXDORF INT GMBH

AI summary

According to various embodiments, a compactor arrangement (202) may have the following: a function module arrangement (1002), which is installed on a support framework (204a) above an empty-container transport device (202t), wherein the function module arrangement (1002) has: a module receptacle (1004) for receiving multiple function modules (1006), the multiple function modules (1006), which are designed to match the module receptacle (1004) such that the multiple function modules (1006) can each be selectively received in multiple configurations (1100c, 1100d, 1100e, 1100f) in the module receptacle (1004), at least one processor (1008) which is configured to ascertain an actual configuration of the multiple configurations (1100c, 1100d, 1100e, 1100f) and to operate the function module arrangement (1002) and/or the compactor arrangement (202) on the basis of the ascertained actual configuration.