Overwrap Leakage Detection via Sealed Test Fixture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for testing the integrity of cigarette package overwraps are not efficient, reliable, or non-destructive, making it challenging to detect leaks without damaging the package.
Innovation Solution
A testing system comprising a receptacle with a test fixture and piercing device that forms a seal with the overwrap, creates an orifice, and directs fluid to measure pressure or flow changes, determining leakage without damaging the package.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional testing methods are used to detect leakage in overwrap, then leakage detection capability is improved, but the cigarette package is damaged or destroyed
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the testing function from the package structure by using a test receptacle that can be complementarily engaged with the package. The test receptacle includes a test chamber that receives the package and allows testing to be performed on the overwrap without directly damaging the package itself, thus segmenting the testing process from the package integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary test receptacle and test fixture system between the testing mechanism and the package. The test fixture forms a seal with the overwrap and creates a test chamber that acts as an intermediary space, allowing fluid to be introduced and pressure changes to be measured without directly contacting or damaging the package structure.
2Productivity
If manual inspection methods are used to test overwrap integrity, then equipment complexity is reduced, but testing efficiency and reliability decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The test receptacle is designed with multiple functional components integrated into a single system. The receptacle includes a test chamber, sealing mechanisms, fluid introduction pathways, and pressure sensing capabilities, allowing one device to perform multiple testing functions rather than requiring separate manual operations for each testing step.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses pneumatic or hydraulic principles by introducing fluid into the test chamber and measuring pressure changes to detect leaks in the overwrap. This automated fluid-based testing method replaces manual inspection and provides efficient, reliable detection through pressure differential measurement.
3Measurement precision
If destructive testing methods are applied to ensure overwrap integrity, then measurement precision is improved, but the package cannot be reused
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a compliant sealing interface between the test fixture and the overwrap that applies gentle pressure to form a seal without causing damage. The test receptacle and fixture are designed to cushion the interaction with the package, allowing precise measurement of pressure changes while preventing damage that would compromise package reusability.
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 rapid, efficient, and reliable testing of overwrap integrity, detecting leaks without damaging the cigarette package, ensuring the freshness and quality of the cigarettes.
Implementation Method 1
a suction source configured to apply a suction to the overwrap so as to draw the overwrap away from the article and into contact with the test fixture
Implementation Method 2
a piercing device configured to form an orifice in a portion of the overwrap within the perimeter of the test fixture and drawn away from the article
Implementation Method 3
a fluid source configured to direct a fluid into the overwrap, between the overwrap and the article, through the orifice
Implementation Method 4
A measuring device is operably engaged with the first receptacle portion or the second receptacle portion, and is configured to measure a pressure change or a fluid flow change within the test receptacle
Data Source
AI summary
A testing system is provided for an article wrapped with an overwrap. The testing system includes first and second receptacle portions cooperating to define a test receptacle having a test fixture therein. The test receptacle is configured to receive the wrapped article. The test fixture is configured to form a seal with the test fixture about a perimeter thereof and to draw a portion of the overwrap away from the article in response to a suction applied in association with the test fixture. A piercing device is configured to form an orifice in the overwrap, within the perimeter, and a fluid between the overwrap and the article, through the orifice, from a fluid source. A pressure and/or a fluid flow change within the test receptacle, externally to the overwrap, is measured with a measuring device to determine whether there is leakage in the overwrap. An associated method is also provided.