Packaging Unit Forming Member Actuation for Dynamic Stress Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing packaging units for producing sealed pourable food products face issues with dynamic stress and limited flexibility due to shock during forming member movement, and inadequate control over forming member position during the return stroke, leading to vibrations and reduced output.
Innovation Solution
A packaging unit with forming assemblies that include a linear actuator connected to forming members through linkages, allowing controlled movement between operating positions and reducing dynamic stress by maintaining forming members in the second operating position during the return stroke, and enabling flexible control over their position independent of jaw position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If forming members are spring-loaded into the first operating position and moved by cams, then the packaging unit can operate automatically, but dynamic stress and shock occur during forming member movement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces static spring-loaded forming members with dynamically controlled pneumatic cylinders that can adjust their motion characteristics. The cylinders are equipped with adjustable flow control valves that regulate the speed and acceleration of the forming members, allowing the system to maintain automatic operation while minimizing dynamic stress and shock during movement.
2Productivity
If forming members are controlled by cams and springs, then the packaging unit operates continuously, but the return stroke causes vibrations and reduces output
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates feedback control through programmable logic controllers (PLC) that monitor the position and motion of forming members. The system uses sensors to detect the state of forming members and adjusts the pneumatic cylinder actuation in real-time, providing feedback control that eliminates vibrations during the return stroke and optimizes the cycle time to maintain high productivity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If forming members are moved independently of jaw position, then flexibility and control are enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs multi-functional pneumatic cylinders that serve multiple purposes: they control the forming members' position, regulate their motion speed, provide damping during movement, and coordinate with the jaw positioning system. This universal control approach enhances flexibility while managing device complexity through standardized pneumatic components and integrated control logic.
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
This solution minimizes dynamic stresses and vibrations, enhances the flexibility of the packaging unit, and allows for smoother operation, reducing the risk of mechanical impacts and extending the lifespan of components, while maintaining consistent package weight and enabling real-time adjustments to motion profiles.
Implementation Method 1
a linear actuator connected to forming members through linkages, allowing controlled movement between operating positions
Implementation Method 2
heat seal equally spaced cross sections of the tube and form pillow packs connected to the tube by transverse sealing bands
Implementation Method 3
counter-pressure member configured to provide mechanical support to grip the tube with the necessary pressure
Data Source
AI summary
A packaging unit for producing sealed packages from a tube of packaging material advanced along a first axis includes: at least two jaws arranged on opposite sides of the first axis and movable between a closed position, in which they grip and seal the tube and an open position, in which they are detached from the tube; at least two forming members supported by the respective jaws in a movable manner between a first operating position, in which, in relation to the position of the jaws, they have the maximum distance from one another, and a second operating position, in which they mate with one another and an actuator to produce movement of the forming members; the actuator includes at least one mover connected to both forming members and selectively activated to perform opposite strokes, along which the mover itself produces the movement of each forming members.