Multi-Feeder Packaging System for Reducing Storage Volume
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for creating containers with multiple products require pre-production, storage, and packaging at different locations, leading to high acquisition and logistics costs due to the need for large storage capacities and packaging materials.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a packaging device with feeders for separate product types, a product memory with buffer lines for storage, and a controller for recognizing and managing product types, allowing for efficient packaging of different products into containers while minimizing storage requirements and ensuring consistent product ratios.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If products are pre-produced and stored at different locations before assembly, then product variety and availability are improved, but storage capacity requirements and logistics costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple single-variety product feeders into a single packaging device that produces multi-variety containers. Instead of storing and transporting multiple pre-assembled product combinations, the system feeds individual product types separately and assembles them at the packaging stage, eliminating the need for large storage capacities for pre-assembled units.
Solution Approach 2:
The system segments the packaging process by separating product feeding from product assembly. Each feeder handles a single product type independently, and the packaging device combines them. This segmentation allows flexible production of different product combinations without requiring storage of pre-assembled units, reducing storage volume requirements.
2Reliability
If large storage capacities are used to hold products for assembly, then product availability is improved, but acquisition and logistics costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts product feeding based on real-time packaging requirements. The controller coordinates multiple feeders to provide products in the exact quantities needed for each packaging cycle, eliminating the need for large static storage capacities. Products are fed on-demand rather than being pre-stored in large quantities.
Solution Approach 2:
Each feeder is equipped with its own product supply and feeding mechanism, allowing it to independently provide the required products without relying on large centralized storage. The system serves itself by having distributed feeding capabilities that reduce dependence on large storage infrastructure and associated logistics costs.
3Reliability
If packaging material is used for transporting pre-assembled containers, then product protection is improved, but material costs and environmental impact increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary product preparation in separate feeders, but delays the actual assembly action until the packaging stage. This allows products to be transported in their compact, unassembled state requiring minimal packaging material, and assembly occurs just-in-time during the packaging process, reducing the need for protective packaging for pre-assembled units.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple feeders are used for different product types, then packaging flexibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The packaging device is designed as a universal system that can handle multiple product types through standardized feeder interfaces and a coordinated control mechanism. Each feeder is specialized for a single product type, but the overall system is universal in its ability to combine different products in various configurations, managing complexity through modular design and centralized control.
Data Source
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AI summary
System for creating containers comprising two or more different products, in particular containers with liquid or pasty contents, wherein the system comprises a packaging device for creating containers, wherein the packaging device comprises two or more feeders for feeding products, wherein the packaging device is configured to create a container from two or more different products, wherein the system comprises a product storage unit comprising two or more buffer rows for storing products, wherein the product storage unit is configured and/or arranged such that a feeder of the packaging device can be filled with products from at least one buffer row of the product storage unit, characterized in that the system comprises a control unit comprising a control unit for the product storage unit, wherein the control unit is configured to control the storage of products in the product storage unit in such a way thatthat at least one buffer row of the product storage system is filled with a smaller number of products than the buffer capacity of the respective buffer row when filling with single-variety products.