Movable Lower Tool Packaging Apparatus with Barrier
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing packaging apparatuses for vacuum or controlled atmosphere packaging are complex, costly, and require large spaces, with high automation sensitivity and limited flexibility for small production batches and varied product geometries.
Innovation Solution
A compact packaging apparatus with a movable lower tool and barrier system that allows for efficient air removal or atmosphere modification, enabling quick and flexible packaging of products on various support geometries without compromising product aesthetics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If sophisticated automated packaging apparatuses are used, then packaging productivity and quality are improved, but device complexity and capital investment increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The packaging apparatus is divided into separate functional modules: a base support for holding products, a film supply unit, a sealing unit with heating elements, and a vacuum/ atmosphere control unit. Each module performs a specific function independently, allowing the system to achieve automated packaging functionality while maintaining structural simplicity and reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus is designed with multi-functional components that can perform multiple operations. For example, the sealing unit can both seal the film to the support and create the hermetic closure, while the vacuum chamber serves both for air removal and for creating controlled atmosphere conditions. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, thereby simplifying the overall apparatus structure while maintaining productivity.
2Productivity
If large-format automated packaging apparatuses are used, then packaging efficiency is improved, but flexibility for small batches and varied geometries deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus incorporates adjustable and movable components that can adapt to different product geometries and batch sizes. The base support can be repositioned, the film supply mechanism can accommodate different film widths, and the sealing elements can be adjusted to match various support dimensions. This dynamic adjustability allows the same apparatus to efficiently package both small batches and large volumes across different product types.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows for easy modification of operational parameters such as vacuum level, heating temperature, and film tension to accommodate different product requirements. These parameter changes can be made quickly without requiring physical reconfiguration of the entire apparatus, enabling flexible adaptation to varied geometries and production scenarios while maintaining packaging efficiency.
3Manufacturing precision
If highly automated equipment is used, then packaging quality is improved, but sensitivity to component malfunction and need for qualified personnel increases
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus is designed with self-regulating features that reduce dependency on complex control systems and highly skilled operators. For example, the sealing mechanism uses simple thermal contact control, the vacuum system employs basic pressure sensors with automatic cutoff, and the film feeding mechanism relies on mechanical tension control. These self-service characteristics maintain packaging quality while reducing sensitivity to component failures and minimizing the need for highly qualified technical personnel for operation and maintenance.
4Productivity
If complex automated apparatuses are used, then packaging speed is improved, but production costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus utilizes simple, inexpensive components that can be easily manufactured and replaced if needed. Rather than employing complex automated mechanisms, the design relies on straightforward mechanical elements, basic heating elements, and simple vacuum pumps. This approach achieves adequate packaging speed while keeping manufacturing costs low, making the apparatus economically viable for small to medium-sized operations.
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 apparatus reduces production costs, increases packaging speed, and ensures reliable operation with minimal disruption, while maintaining product quality and flexibility across different production scenarios.
Implementation Method 1
the air present in the package is extracted
Implementation Method 2
a suction system fluidly communicating with said chamber, said suction system being configured for removing air from the inside of the chamber
Implementation Method 3
a blowing system fluidly communicating with said chamber and configured for introducing a gas inside this latter for defining inside the same a modified atmosphere
Implementation Method 4
a heating element configured for heat-sealing said film to said support
Implementation Method 5
heat-sealing said film to said support
Data Source
AI summary
A packaging apparatus includes a frame, a lower tool engaged with the frame and configured to receive one or more supports, and an upper tool configured to engage a film portion with at least one support. The lower tool is movable relative to the frame at least between: a packaging position, in which the lower tool is aligned with the upper tool, and a loading position spaced from the packaging position in which the lower tool is configured to receive said support. The packaging apparatus comprises a barrier configured to intercept the package during the movement of the lower tool from the packaging position to the loading position.