Packaging Machine Display Guidance for Low-Error Operation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Operational control of packaging machines requires manual input, which can be time-consuming, prone to human error, and requires extensive training, limiting efficiency and accuracy.

Innovation Solution

A computerized controller with a processing element and display that selects and displays demonstrative content for user inputs, machine operations, and troubleshooting, providing tutorial videos and instructions for operating, repairing, and packaging items, and managing consumables and machine settings.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If manual input control is used for packaging machines, then operational flexibility is maintained, but time consumption increases and human error occurs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational efficiencyVSAvoiderror rate
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables self-service operation where the packaging machine automatically receives inputs, processes packaging parameters, and executes operations without requiring manual intervention. The machine self-adjusts settings based on predefined programs, eliminating human error and improving efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical control with an automated control system that uses electronic interfaces, processors, and memory to manage packaging operations. This substitution eliminates the need for manual input while maintaining operational flexibility through programmable parameters.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Ease of operation

If extensive training is provided for machine operation, then operational accuracy improves, but training time and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational simplicityVSAvoidtraining duration
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses pre-programmed packaging templates and operational patterns that can be copied and reused. Instead of training operators on complex procedures, the machine stores standard operating patterns that automatically execute, reducing the need for extensive training while maintaining operational accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The control system performs preliminary configuration of packaging parameters and operational sequences before actual operation. Predefined programs and settings are prepared in advance, allowing operators to simply select from ready-made options rather than learning complex operational procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Productivity

If automated control systems are implemented, then operational efficiency increases, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemachining efficiencyVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control system is designed with multi-functionality, where a single integrated controller handles multiple packaging operations, parameter adjustments, and monitoring functions. This universal approach consolidates what would otherwise require multiple separate systems, maintaining efficiency while managing complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines the control system, memory storage, processing unit, and user interface into an integrated control module. By merging these functions into a single cohesive system rather than separate components, the design achieves high automation efficiency while reducing overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS10926507B2Protective packaging machines demonstrative content
Publication Date: 2021.02.23 PREGIS LLC
  • US10926507B2 patent drawing
  • US10926507B2 patent drawing
  • US10926507B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure relates generally to a method and a machine for creating protective packaging. The machine includes a controller including a processing element and a display in electrical communication with the processing element. In response to a user input or a machine operation input, the processing element selects demonstrative content corresponding to the user input or the machine operation input and the display displays the demonstrative content. Examples of demonstrative content include tutorial videos or photographs illustrating how to operate the machine, how to replace consumables used by the machine, replace or repair machine components, and/or how to package certain items using packaging materials created by the machine.