Modular Partitioning Conveyor for Fast Product Format Changes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing partitioning devices require time-consuming and costly format changes due to fixed cradle mounting points, necessitating multiple devices or complex operations, leading to inefficiencies and increased maintenance costs.
Innovation Solution
A partitioning device with adjustable pitch and independent towing elements connected via rigid articulated connections, allowing easy replacement of towing elements for format changes without dismounting the entire system, reducing operational complexity and costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If cradles are fixed to belts at special fixing points, then products can be reliably grouped and advanced, but format changes require time-consuming dismounting and remounting operations
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into modular components: the frame structure remains stationary while the belts with attached cradles form replaceable modular units. This segmentation allows the cradle-train-belt assembly to be quickly removed and replaced as a unit, eliminating time-consuming individual cradle adjustments while maintaining reliable product grouping during operation
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static fixed configuration to a dynamic reconfigurable system. The belts can be circulated to different positions and the entire cradle-train assembly can be quickly replaced between formats, enabling the device to adapt dynamically to different product formats while maintaining operational reliability through controlled movement and positioning
2Productivity
If multiple identical belts with cradles are used for continuous loading, then productivity increases, but device complexity and maintenance costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device maintains continuous productive action through multiple independent belt-train units that can operate simultaneously. While one train is being used for product grouping and advancement, another train can be prepared or replaced, ensuring uninterrupted operation and maximizing productivity without requiring all components to be permanently complex
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple belt-train units perform the same universal function of grouping and advancing products. This multi-functionality allows the system to handle continuous loading demands while simplifying maintenance, as identical universal components can be replaced interchangeably without affecting the overall system architecture or requiring specialized parts
3Adaptability or versatility
If the entire partitioning device is replaced for format changes, then adaptability improves, but costs and operational disruption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The partitioning device is divided into a permanent stationary frame and replaceable movable belt-train modules. This segmentation enables format changes by simply replacing the modular belt-train units rather than the entire device, improving adaptability to different product formats while significantly reducing costs and operational disruption compared to full device replacement
Data Source
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AI summary
Partitioning device configured to group products and advance them to a packaging machine, comprising a first towing element movable in an advancement direction, a plurality of first towed elements defining first housings for the products and connected in series with each other to the first towing element by means of rigid articulated connections being movable with it in the advancement direction, and first advancement means connectable to the first towing element to act on it by moving it in the advancement direction in such a way that also the first towed elements move in the advancement direction from a loading area, where the products can be loaded into the first housings, to an unloading area, where the products can be unloaded from the first housings and introduced into the machine.