Packaging Transport Device Changeover Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing packaging devices require cumbersome and time-consuming conversions to switch between different operating modes, leading to prolonged downtimes.

Innovation Solution

A device with a first, second, and third transport device, where an exchangeable transport device with a single conveyor segment can be inserted between the first and third transport devices, and the length and width of the exchange transport device and gaps between transport devices can be adjusted using translational displacement of deflection units.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a second transport device is used between two transport devices for folding carton bases, then the device can operate in a first operating mode to form containers with cardboard bases, but converting the device to a second operating mode requires replacing the second transport device which is cumbersome and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperating mode conversion capabilityVSAvoidchangeover time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the conveying length of transport devices adjustable through translational displacement of deflection units. This allows the device to adapt between operating modes without complete replacement of transport devices, reducing changeover time while maintaining versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements universality by designing transport devices that can serve multiple functions through adjustable configurations. The same transport device structure can accommodate different operating modes (with or without folding tools) by adjusting the conveying length, eliminating the need for complete device replacement.

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

2Ease of operation

If the conveying length of transport devices is fixed, then the device structure is simple, but the exchangeable transport device cannot be easily inserted due to narrow installation space

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinsertion ease of exchangeable transport deviceVSAvoidadjustable conveying length mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent makes the conveying length dynamic and adjustable through translational displacement of deflection units. This allows the installation space to be temporarily expanded during changeover operations, facilitating easy insertion of exchangeable transport devices while maintaining operational flexibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent resolves the installation space constraint by introducing adjustability in the conveying length dimension. This allows temporary expansion of the installation space along the conveying direction, enabling easy insertion of exchangeable transport devices without permanently increasing device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentEP3609819B1Apparatus and method for forming packs
Publication Date: 2025.06.18 KHS GMBH
  • EP3609819B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3609819B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP3609819B1 patent drawingFigure 5~6

AI summary

An apparatus for forming packs from multiple packaging units includes three transporters, a deflector, and an exchange transporter having no more than one transport segment. A gap exists between the first transporter and the third transporter. Either the exchange transporter or the second transporter is in the gap. Movement of the deflector adjusts a lineal dimension of the gap so as to accommodate insertion of the exchange transporter.