Multi-container filling machine with volumetric valve
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional filling machines are expensive and inflexible, making them unsuitable for small-scale productions that require filling a variety of container sizes, leading to increased costs and inefficiencies for micro-breweries and similar small-scale beverage producers.
Innovation Solution
A multi-container filling machine equipped with a volumetric filling valve system that includes a gas and fluid valve actuator, allowing for the use of a single machine to fill containers of different sizes without the need for frequent hardware changes, utilizing a smart lift system and adjustable conveyor rails to accommodate various container dimensions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single filling machine is used to fill multiple container sizes, then versatility is improved, but manufacturing precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The filling machine employs adjustable filling heads and variable fill volume control mechanisms that allow dynamic adaptation to different container sizes while maintaining precise filling volumes through electronic control and sensors
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operating parameters such as fill volume, filling speed, and head position based on the selected container type, allowing the same machine to accurately fill different container sizes by adjusting these parameters rather than physical reconfiguration
2Productivity
If conventional filling machines are used for large-scale production, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The filling machine is designed as a universal system that can fill multiple container types and sizes using the same basic mechanism, reducing the need for multiple specialized machines while maintaining high productivity through automated operation
3Manufacturing precision
If filling machines are customized for specific container types, then manufacturing precision is improved, but adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses adjustable and reconfigurable components that can be dynamically adjusted for different container types while maintaining consistent filling precision through controlled movement and positioning mechanisms
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for filling containers with fluid includes a volumetric filling valve. The volumetric filling valve includes a valve stem having a gas valve portion and a fluid valve portion. An interior passageway of the gas valve portion is positioned interior of the valve stem, wherein the interior passageway positioned to supply a quantity of gas to a filling nozzle. A gas valve actuator is mechanically connected to the valve stem, wherein the gas valve actuator controls an activation of the gas valve portion. A fluid valve actuator is mechanically connected to the valve stem, wherein the fluid valve actuator controls an activation of the fluid valve portion. The volumetric filling valve may be positioned within a filling head container with the gas valve portion positioned at least partially within a quantity of gas and the fluid valve portion positioned within a quantity of fluid.