Packaging Device Feed System for Blank Changeover
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing packaging devices require manual and time-consuming adjustments to change between different dimensioned packaging blanks, leading to potential errors and disruptions in the packaging process.
Innovation Solution
A packaging device with a horizontal conveyor and a feed system that allows for easy switching between first and second conveyor devices, which are arranged on a common linear guide and coupled to a common drive shaft, enabling automatic adjustment of spacing and positioning for different flat packaging blanks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual adjustment of carrier spacing is used to change between different packaging blanks, then the device can be adapted to different packaging dimensions, but the changeover process becomes time-consuming and requires stopping the entire device
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adjustability of carrier spacing through motorized actuators that can automatically change the distance between carriers based on the packaging blank being used. This allows the system to adapt to different packaging dimensions without manual intervention, resolving the contradiction by making the spacing adjustment dynamic rather than static.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit automatically manages the carrier spacing adjustment based on input parameters about the packaging blank. The system self-regulates the actuator positions without requiring operator intervention, enabling quick changeovers while maintaining adaptability to different packaging types.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual adjustment of carrier spacing is performed, then different packaging blanks can be accommodated, but the risk of incorrect setting increases leading to handling problems
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit receives input parameters about the packaging blank and automatically calculates and sets the appropriate carrier spacing. This feedback mechanism ensures accurate positioning by eliminating manual measurement and adjustment errors, thereby improving reliability while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical adjustment with an automated control system that uses sensors and actuators to precisely position carriers. This substitution of manual operation with automated control eliminates human error in spacing adjustment, ensuring consistent and accurate settings for different packaging blanks.
3Ease of operation
If the device is stopped for extended periods during changeover, then manual adjustment can be performed, but productivity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The dynamic actuator system enables carrier spacing changes to be performed quickly during operation or with minimal stopping. This dynamic adjustment capability maintains ease of operation while significantly reducing the time the device needs to be stopped, thereby preserving productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit pre-calculates and pre-positions the carriers based on the upcoming packaging blank specifications. This preliminary action allows the system to be ready for the next packaging type with minimal interruption, maintaining both ease of operation and high productivity.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a packaging device for articles such as beverage containers or the like. The packaging device comprises at least one horizontal conveying device for conveying articles. Furthermore, the packaging device comprises at least one feeder (4) which can introduce flat packaging blanks (2) into a transport path for the articles, so that articles, during conveying via the at least one horizontal conveying device, encounter flat packaging blanks (2) introduced into the transport path. It is provided that the feeder (4) comprises a first conveying device (20) which is prepared for introducing first flat packaging blanks (2) into the transport path for the articles.Furthermore, it is provided that at least one feeder includes a second conveying device (30) which is prepared for the introduction of second flat packaging blanks, which differ from the first flat packaging blanks, into the transport path of the articles.