Multi-part closure pre-assembly for aseptic sterilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for assembling multi-part closures for containers are complex and costly, requiring multiple aseptic stations for sterilization and assembly, which complicates the bottling process and increases costs.
Innovation Solution
A method involving pre-assembling closure parts in a provisional position to allow sterilization fluid to reach all contact surfaces, followed by mounting on the container in a single work step, simplifying the process and reducing logistical and operational costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple aseptic stations are used for sterilization and assembly, then sterilization effectiveness is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sterilization functions into a single aseptic station by designing a closure pre-assembly that allows sterilization fluid to access all critical surfaces through strategically positioned openings. The housing, valve insert, and cover are arranged with openings that enable comprehensive sterilization in one location rather than requiring separate stations for each component.
Solution Approach 2:
The closure is divided into separate pre-assembled components (housing, valve insert, cover) that can be independently sterilized through the openings in the pre-assembly. This segmentation allows the sterilization fluid to reach all internal and external surfaces that will contact the product, achieving thorough sterilization without multiple stations.
2Productivity
If closure parts are pre-assembled in provisional position, then manufacturing efficiency is improved, but mechanical stability may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The closure components are pre-assembled in a provisional position before final delivery to the bottling plant. This preliminary assembly allows sterilization fluid to penetrate all necessary surfaces through designed openings while maintaining sufficient mechanical stability for handling and transport. The pre-assembly is configured to be stable enough for logistical purposes but designed to be easily converted to final assembly position.
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 method reduces the need for multiple aseptic stations, streamlines the bottling process, and lowers costs by allowing pre-assembly before delivery to the bottling plant, ensuring effective sterilization and stable mechanical connections.
Implementation Method 1
The pre-assembled position is thus such that there is a continuous open space from the vicinity of the pre-assembled closure to all such surface sections, through which the sterilization fluid can flow in order to come into contact with the surface sections.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
The method involves mounting a closure in a pre-assembly, where the pre-assembly corresponds to two pre-mounted locking systems for a closure not in a final assembly position. A portion of a surface of a pre-assembled closure part is brought into contact with a fluid. A pre-assembled closure is mounted on a container, where the pre-assembled closure part is put into a final assembly position (14).