Overturn Member for Confectionery Transfer Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional wrapping machines for confectionery products cannot create a twist closure on the top of products like Boeri chocolates, and dedicated machines that overturn products are limited in their versatility for other packaging types.
Innovation Solution
A transfer device with a star-shaped overturn member and holding mechanism that rotates products 90° to facilitate top twist packaging, compatible with existing wrapping machines, using a disc with shaped seats and a hammer-shaped holding member to securely grasp and transfer products.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If traditional wrapping machines are used, then the structure is simple and space-efficient, but top twist packaging cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The overturn member is designed to perform multiple functions: it can overturn products for top twist packaging, and can be positioned out of the way to allow traditional lateral twist packaging. This multi-functionality allows a single machine structure to handle different packaging types, resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and packaging versatility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If dedicated machines with overturn mechanisms are used, then top twist packaging is enabled, but the device complexity increases and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The overturn member is merged with the existing feeding line structure, integrating the overturning function into the traditional wrapping machine rather than adding a separate dedicated overturning machine. This integration reduces overall device complexity while enabling top twist packaging capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The overturn member is designed to be movable and reconfigurable, allowing it to be positioned in different configurations depending on the packaging type required. This dynamic positioning capability enables the machine to switch between top twist and lateral twist packaging without requiring completely different machine structures.
3Adaptability or versatility
If dedicated overturning machines are used, then top twist packaging is achieved, but the space occupied increases
Solution Approach 1:
The overturn member is designed to nest within or alongside the existing feeding line structure, utilizing the available space in the traditional wrapping machine rather than requiring additional external space. This nesting approach enables the overturning function without increasing the overall machine footprint.
Data Source
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AI summary
The transfer device for wrapping machines for confectionery products comprises an overturn member (10) peripherally shaping shaped seats (13) suitable to receive a respective product (2) outgoing from a feeding line (3) of the wrapping machine. Said overturn member (10) is rotatable about an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal median plane of the feeding line (3) and is suitable to be operated in angular rotation for rotating said product (2) inserted in a respective shaped seat (13) from a picking configuration, in which the same product (2) is arranged with said flat base (2a) in support on a support member (7) suitable to be an extension of the feeding line (3), to an overturned configuration at which said product (2) is arranged for being grasped by grip means (21, 22).