Packaging Machine Elevator and Pusher Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current packaging machines lack flexibility and adaptability in producing packs of variable size and shape, limiting their capacity to handle different arrangements and numbers of articles efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A packaging machine with a movable elevator and a pusher system controlled by a detection system, allowing for precise adjustment of the pusher movement based on the size of the articles, combined with a programmable control unit to optimize the packaging process, including the use of a multi-function station with auxiliary conveyors and a detection system for size detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed feed system is used, then the machine structure is simple, but the machine lacks flexibility and cannot adapt to variable pack sizes and shapes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a movable elevator that can change its position vertically to accommodate different pack sizes. The elevator's position is adjusted based on the detected size of articles to be packaged, allowing the machine to adapt to variable pack configurations without requiring complete structural redesign. This dynamic adjustment mechanism resolves the contradiction by enabling adaptability while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system modifies operational parameters (elevator position, pusher movement) based on detected article dimensions. By changing these parameters dynamically rather than redesigning the mechanical structure for each pack type, the system achieves versatility while keeping the device complexity manageable.
2Productivity
If the pusher movement is fixed, then the control system is simple, but the operating cycle is slower and productivity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a detection system that measures article size and provides feedback to the control system. The control system then adjusts the pusher movement accordingly, optimizing the operating cycle for each specific pack configuration. This feedback loop enables faster operation by avoiding unnecessary movements while keeping the control system complexity relatively low through straightforward sensor-actuator coupling.
Solution Approach 2:
The detection system identifies article dimensions before the packaging operation begins, allowing the control system to pre-calculate and prepare the optimal pusher movement trajectory. This preliminary action eliminates delays during the actual packaging process, increasing productivity without requiring complex real-time control algorithms.
3Manufacturing precision
If generic packaging parameters are used, then the setup is simple, but the packaging precision is insufficient for variable article sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual measurement and adjustment mechanisms with an automated detection system using optical sensors or cameras. This substitution provides precise measurement of article dimensions without requiring complex mechanical gauges or manual intervention, achieving high packaging precision while keeping the added complexity manageable through electronic rather than mechanical means.
Data Source
AI summary
The packaging machine includes a wrapping tunnel, adapted to form a tube of plastic film around a group of articles and a feed conveyor adapted to feed articles to be packaged toward the wrapping tunnel. An elevator is positioned between the feed conveyor and the wrapping tunnel, and is movable vertically from a lower position, to receive articles coming from the feed conveyor, to a higher height, to transfer articles to the wrapping tunnel. A pusher is arranged to push articles to be packaged from the elevator into the wrapping tunnel. An auxiliary conveyor is also provided between the feed conveyor and the elevator. An upender is associated with the auxiliary conveyor, adapted to be arranged selectively in an active position, to co-act with the auxiliary conveyor to upend articles coming from the feed conveyor and transfer them toward the elevator, and in a deactivated position.