Movable Weighing Unit for Continuous Container Transport
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing weighing systems for containers, such as those used in packaging machines for infusion or extraction beverage capsules, face a trade-off between accuracy and productivity, with high accuracy requiring longer weighing times and thus lower productivity, while indirect sensing methods offer high productivity but compromise on precision.
Innovation Solution
A unit and method for weighing containers that involves a continuous transport system with movable weighing devices and suction-based retaining elements, allowing containers to be weighed in motion along a closed path, ensuring precise measurement without interrupting the production line.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If containers are weighed using traditional stationary weighing cells with step-mode movement, then measurement precision is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to increased weighing time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transforming the stationary weighing cell into a movable one that travels along with the container transport system. The weighing cell is mounted on the same conveyor mechanism that transports containers between processing stations, allowing the weighing operation to occur in motion rather than requiring the container to stop. This dynamic approach enables continuous weighing without interrupting the production flow, thereby maintaining high productivity while achieving accurate measurements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuity of useful action by integrating the weighing function into the continuous transport process. Instead of requiring intermittent stopping and starting of containers for weighing, the system maintains continuous movement of containers through the weighing station. The weighing cell moves continuously along the transport path, and containers pass through the weighing zone without interruption, ensuring that the useful action of weighing occurs without breaking the continuous production flow.
2Productivity
If indirect sensing methods (capacitive, microwave, X-ray) are used for continuous weighing, then productivity is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces indirect sensing methods (capacitive, microwave, X-ray) with a direct mechanical weighing approach. Instead of using complex sensor systems that infer weight indirectly, the invention uses a mechanical weighing cell that directly measures the weight of containers through mechanical deformation or balance principles. This direct mechanical measurement method provides superior precision while maintaining continuous operation, as the weighing cell moves with the container transport system and measures weight in real-time during transit.
3Measurement precision
If weighing time is increased to improve accuracy, then measurement precision is improved, but productivity falls due to intermittent operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by making the weighing system dynamic rather than static. The weighing cell is mounted on the container transport mechanism and moves continuously along the production line. This allows the weighing operation to be performed during the natural movement of containers between processing stations, eliminating the need to increase weighing time. The dynamic configuration enables accurate measurements to be taken in the time it takes for containers to travel through the weighing zone, maintaining high operating speed without sacrificing precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by preparing the weighing system in advance along the transport path. The movable weighing cell is positioned and ready before containers arrive at the weighing zone. The system pre-positions the weighing mechanism at various stations along the transport route, so that when containers pass through, the weighing operation can be performed immediately without delay. This preliminary preparation allows accurate weighing to occur during normal production flow, maintaining high speed while ensuring measurement precision.
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 approach enables reliable and precise weighing of filled and closed containers at high operating speeds, maintaining high productivity while ensuring accurate weight measurement without the need for intermittent machine operation.
Implementation Method 1
a suction device (9), comprising: a suction cup (15) designed to retain the container (2)
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
Figure 4
AI summary
Described is unit for weighing containers (2) comprising a line (4) for transporting the containers (2) extending along a first path (P) which passes through a region (R1) for weighing and provided with a plurality of seats (5) for supporting the containers (2) arranged in succession along the first path (P); a plurality of elements (6) for vertical movement of the containers (2), each configured at the weighing region (R1) to make contact with and move vertically one of the containers (2) so as to place it in a raised position (PS1) disengaged from the corresponding supporting seat (5); a plurality of elements (7) for retaining the containers (2), each configured for retaining one of the containers (2) in the raised position (PS1); a plurality of weighing devices (8), each associated to, and carrying, a retaining element (7) for measuring the weight of a container (2) retained by the retaining element (7).