Modular Vacuum Packaging Machine with Interchangeable Chambers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vacuum packaging machines are inflexible, require multiple machines for different packaging tasks, consume excessive power, and occupy large spaces, limiting their efficiency and adaptability to varying packaging speeds and product types.
Innovation Solution
A modular vacuum packaging machine with interchangeable components and automated processes, utilizing a conveyor system, multiple vacuum chambers, and a nitrogen recycling system, allowing for efficient packaging of various products like beef, lamb, chicken, and cheese at different speeds without human intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing vacuum packaging machines are designed for singular operation, then they can perform one specific packaging task reliably, but they cannot be easily modified to handle different packaging speeds or product types
Solution Approach 1:
The vacuum packaging machine is divided into modular components including interchangeable vacuum chambers, sealing mechanisms, and conveyor sections. Each module can be independently configured or replaced to accommodate different packaging requirements, enabling the system to handle various product types and packaging speeds without redesigning the entire machine.
Solution Approach 2:
The machine incorporates universal interfaces and standardized mounting configurations that allow a single base unit to support multiple vacuum chamber sizes and sealing mechanism types. This multi-functionality enables the same machine to package everything from small individual portions to large bulk items by simply changing the attached modules.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple vacuum packaging machines are used for different packaging tasks, then each machine can be optimized for its specific function, but the manufacturing cost and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
A single vacuum packaging machine is designed to perform multiple packaging tasks by incorporating interchangeable vacuum chambers of different sizes and configurations. The machine can be reconfigured to handle everything from small individual packages to large bulk items, eliminating the need for multiple dedicated machines and thereby reducing floor space requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The machine features nested or stackable vacuum chamber configurations where smaller chambers can be positioned within or adjacent to larger ones. This nesting arrangement allows multiple packaging capacities to coexist in a compact footprint, enabling the machine to handle various package sizes without requiring proportionally larger floor space.
3Use of energy by stationary object
If existing vacuum packaging machines are configured with traditional component layouts, then they can maintain structural simplicity, but they consume excessive power and occupy more floor space
Solution Approach 1:
The machine incorporates dynamic component configurations where vacuum chambers and sealing mechanisms can be positioned or activated based on actual packaging needs. Instead of running all components continuously, the system dynamically activates only the required chambers and mechanisms, significantly reducing power consumption while maintaining operational flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The component layout is optimized with local quality variations, placing vacuum chambers, sealing mechanisms, and motors in positions that minimize energy transmission losses and improve efficiency. Critical components are positioned closer to their functional points, reducing the length of vacuum lines and power cables, thereby lowering overall power consumption without requiring a complete redesign of the machine architecture.
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
The modular design reduces manufacturing costs, increases processing flexibility, and minimizes vacuum system capacity, enabling efficient and adaptable packaging with reduced power consumption and space requirements.
Implementation Method 1
a first chamber at a lower pressure than the second chamber
Implementation Method 2
a pressure equalizing manifold in fluid communication with the first chamber and the second chamber, wherein the pressure equalizing manifold can be used to permit or restrict the flow of gases between the first chamber and the second chamber
Data Source
AI summary
The apparatus for vacuum sealing products is an automated system for packaging various products. The apparatus for vacuum sealing products has a conveyor system, a modular packaging assembly, and a chamber positioning system. The conveyor system is a material transport system and has a loading end and a drop-off end. The modular packaging assembly is a system that is used to vacuum seal the packages of various products and includes a central column and multiple openable chambers. The central column is a rigid pillar used to support the multiple openable chambers. The openable chambers function as vacuum chambers that can be switched out to vacuum seal packages of varying shape and size. The modular packaging assembly is mounted next to the drop-off end of the conveyor system. The chamber positioning system is a drive mechanism that moves the openable chambers next to and away from the drop off end.