Open Polygonal Beams for Hygienic Packaging Machine Frames
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing packaging machine frame structures lack flexibility, are costly, and pose challenges in cable management and hygiene, particularly in controlled environments like the food and pharma industries, where easy cleaning and sanitization are crucial.
Innovation Solution
A modular frame structure featuring open polygonal horizontal beams with internal reinforcing flanges that accommodate cables, allowing for flexible configuration and easy access for cleaning, combined with adjustable cross beams for customizable layouts and integrated cable management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If modular frame systems with tubular members are used, then adaptability to different machine types is improved, but cable management and hygiene are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The horizontal beams are segmented into modular sections with standardized connection interfaces, allowing the frame to be configured in different layouts while maintaining consistent cable management features. Each beam segment can be independently assembled and disassembled, facilitating adaptability to various machine types while preserving hygienic design principles throughout the structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The horizontal beams are designed as multi-functional components that simultaneously provide structural support, cable routing channels, and hygienic surfaces. The beams incorporate integrated cable glands and sealing features that serve both mechanical and hygiene functions, eliminating the need for separate cable management systems and reducing contamination risks.
2Strength
If conventional closed beams are used, then structural strength is improved, but cleaning access and hygiene are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of providing cable access through the beam interior as in conventional designs, the invention inverts the approach by routing cables through sealed glands at the beam exterior. This maintains the closed structural integrity for strength while eliminating internal cavities that would require cleaning, thus achieving both structural strength and hygiene requirements simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable routing function is extracted from the beam interior and relocated to external cable glands and conduits. This separation allows the beam to maintain its simple closed cross-section for optimal structural strength while cable management is handled by attached components that do not compromise hygiene or require internal cleaning access.
3Reliability
If customized frame structures are designed for each application, then machine performance is improved, but cost and manufacturing complexity are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The frame structure is divided into standardized modular components with uniform connection mechanisms. Different machine configurations are achieved by assembling different combinations of identical beam segments, vertical supports, and connection elements, allowing customization of machine performance while maintaining consistent manufacturing processes and reducing overall cost.
Solution Approach 2:
Rather than designing custom structures for each application, the invention allows performance customization by changing assembly parameters such as beam length selections, connection positions, and component configurations. The same basic beam design with standardized interfaces can be adapted to different machine requirements through varied assembly arrangements, reducing manufacturing complexity while maintaining performance optimization.
Data Source
AI summary
A module structure for a packaging machine comprising vertical members and horizontal beams, including horizontal beams configured as open beams, having an open polygonal cross section and comprising at least a first end face, a second end face, one or more intermediate faces between said first and second end faces, said end faces being distanced in such a way to leave a longitudinal aperture of the beam; said open beams may include reinforcing flanges and accommodate power/signal cables.