Multipack Forming Device With Segmented Sliding Carriages
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for producing multipacks struggle to easily accommodate containers of different formats and sizes, requiring complex adjustments and replacement of components, which increases time and costs when switching between container types.
Innovation Solution
A device with a forming system comprising sliding carriages and format parts with adjustable guiding and holding elements allows for simple adaptation to various container diameters without replacing the sliding carriages, using contact adhesive to bond containers into multipacks, and includes a transport section for compressing and forming container groups.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If sliding carriages are completely replaced to adapt to different container diameters, then adaptability to different container types is improved, but re-equipping time and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sliding carriage is divided into a permanent base structure and detachable format parts. The format parts can be quickly exchanged while the base structure remains in place, reducing re-equipping time and costs while maintaining adaptability to different container types.
Solution Approach 2:
The sliding carriage base structure is designed with universal features that can accommodate multiple container formats. By combining the permanent base with interchangeable format parts, the system achieves multi-functionality without requiring complete replacement of the sliding carriage for each container type.
2Ease of operation
If format parts are detachably secured to sliding carriages, then adjustment to different container sizes is simplified, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into permanent sliding carriage components and detachable format parts. This segmentation allows for simplified adjustment operations while the added complexity of the detachable connection system is minimized through straightforward mounting and dismounting mechanisms.
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
Enables quick and cost-effective adjustment to different container types and sizes, reducing re-equipping time and costs, while ensuring reliable adhesive bonding of containers into multipacks without the need for additional packaging materials.
Implementation Method 1
the containers are in each case provided with adhesive applications of a glue, preferably of a contact adhesive
Implementation Method 2
at least one forming device is provided at the transport section, for separating the container groups from the container flow and/or for compressing the container groups
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for producing a multipack includes forming groups on opposite sides of a transport section. The first forming group comprises a sliding carriage that moves along and transverse to a transport direction, a format part that forms a contact surface for engaging a container, and a guiding-and-holding element that detachably secures the format part to the sliding carriage. The first and second forming groups are movable along the transport direction and transverse to the transport direction such that contact surfaces of the first and second forming groups that are opposite each other are brought into contact with containers to move the containers along the transport direction and to press the containers against each other by moving transverse to the transport direction.