Modular Laser Supply Unit for Flexible Filter Tipping Machines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing filter tipping machines in the tobacco processing industry face challenges in efficiently and cost-effectively integrating and adapting laser systems for perforating rod-like articles, as existing solutions are often expensive and inflexible, requiring significant modifications to accommodate different machines and spatial conditions.
Innovation Solution
A modular design for a filter tipping machine incorporating a separate laser supply unit with an adapter device, allowing for easy installation and relocation of CO2 lasers, along with a supply frame that houses necessary operating devices, such as control, cooling, and voltage supplies, connected via a beam guidance system to facilitate efficient perforation of rod-like articles across various machines.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If laser systems are integrated directly into filter tipping machines, then processing capability is provided, but machine complexity increases and adaptability to different spatial conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The laser system is separated from the filter tipping machine into an independent external unit. The laser supply unit can be positioned independently and connected to the machine via laser beam guidance, allowing flexible spatial arrangement without complicating the machine structure.
Solution Approach 2:
A beam guidance system acts as an intermediary between the external laser supply unit and the processing position on the machine. This mediator enables the laser beam to be transmitted from a separate location to the required processing point, providing spatial flexibility.
2Ease of manufacture
If laser systems are custom-integrated into each machine, then processing is enabled, but costs increase due to inability to reuse systems
Solution Approach 1:
The external laser supply unit is designed as a universal device that can be connected to different filter tipping machines through standardized interfaces. The same laser unit can serve multiple machines, reducing overall system costs and enabling resource sharing.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of integrating unique laser systems into each machine, the invention uses a centralized laser supply that can be replicated or shared across multiple machines, reducing the need for duplicate expensive components.
3Ease of operation
If laser devices are permanently installed on machines, then operational stability is achieved, but ease of maintenance and relocation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The laser supply unit is designed to be dynamically repositionable rather than statically fixed. It can be moved between different machines or locations while maintaining operational connection through the beam guidance system, enabling both maintenance flexibility and operational reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The laser device is extracted from the permanent machine structure and placed in an external supply unit. This separation allows the laser to be easily removed for maintenance or relocation without affecting the core machine functionality.
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
This configuration simplifies the handling and maintenance of laser devices across different machines, reduces costs by allowing reuse of laser systems, and ensures adaptability to various spatial conditions, while maintaining operational efficiency and cleanliness.
Implementation Method 1
at least one laser device (30) for processing rod-like articles (10) of the tobacco processing industry and/or the components thereof
Data Source
AI summary
Laser supply unit for at least one laser device for processing at least one of rod-like articles of the tobacco processing industry and components of rod-like articles of the tobacco processing industry. The unit includes a supply frame structured to receive one or more supply devices for the at least one laser device and at least one of an adapter device structured to position the at least one laser device one of on or in the supply frame, at least one laser device structured to be positionable in operative connection with an adapter device of a machine of the tobacco processing industry. The at least one laser device is positionable in co-operation with the adapter device of the supply frame one of on or in the supply frame.