Packaging Line Product Distribution via Reverse Priority Logic

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing packaging plant operation leads to inefficient use of downstream machines due to products being predominantly assigned to upstream machines, resulting in variable and uncontrollable intervals, prolonged waiting times, and constant recirculation, which causes machine stoppages and fails to maintain a 'first in, first out' order.

Innovation Solution

A method where products are distributed based on a reverse priority order, with machines further downstream being considered primary and those upstream as reserve, utilizing accumulation stations and a buffer storage unit to ensure continuous operation and controlled product flow, ensuring that products are processed immediately and maintaining a 'first in, first out' order.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If products are distributed to upstream machines first, then upstream machines operate continuously, but downstream machines remain unused and productivity decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoverall plant productivityVSAvoidmachine idle time

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent inverts the traditional distribution logic by prioritizing downstream machines over upstream machines. Instead of feeding products to the first available upstream machine, the system distributes products to downstream machines first, ensuring they remain operational. This reversal eliminates idle time for downstream machines and maximizes overall plant productivity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary assessment of machine availability and product destination before actual distribution. By evaluating which downstream machines will be available and preparing the distribution plan in advance, the system ensures continuous operation of downstream machines while preventing upstream machine idle time.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

2Reliability

If products are recirculated continuously, then no products are discarded, but recirculation causes jams and increases processing time

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveproduct packaging guaranteeVSAvoidproduct circulation time

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent inverts the traditional recirculation approach by preventing products from reaching the end of the conveyor line in the first place. Through reverse priority distribution, products are directed to downstream machines before they would otherwise need to recirculate. This eliminates recirculation-related jams and reduces processing time while ensuring all products are packaged.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

3Ease of operation

If products are fed to first available machines, then distribution is simple, but downstream machines stop due to lack of products

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedistribution control simplicityVSAvoiddownstream machine utilization

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies reverse priority distribution where downstream machines are given preference over upstream machines. This inverted approach ensures downstream machines receive products first and remain productive, while upstream machines automatically receive remaining products. The system maintains operational simplicity through this clear hierarchical distribution rule.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

Data Source

PatentEP3502018B1Method for packaging products and corresponding packaging line

Publication Date: 2024.09.18 SOREMARTEC SA(BE)

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AI summary

Described herein is a packaging method implemented via an industrial plant comprising a formation of packaging machines (M1-M4) arranged in succession and supplied via one and the same conveyor line (120). The method envisages operating the machines further downstream as primary machines and the machines further upstream as reserve machines and establishing a constant presence of products on the conveyor line for each primary machine.