Packaging Machine Single-Step Binding with Recyclable Connectors
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing packaging machines for large ceramic slabs are inefficient due to high strap consumption, slow packaging cycles, and complex machinery that often malfunctions.
Innovation Solution
A packaging machine that binds products together using a single step with connecting elements made of recyclable materials like paper or cardboard, applied using a machine with a magazine, applicator, and cutting device to optimize packaging efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional strapping machines are used to bind boxes with multiple straps, then the boxes are securely bound to one another, but the packaging cycle becomes very slow and laborious
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the binding function into two distinct elements: a first binding element that secures initial boxes to the pallet, and a second binding element that consolidates subsequent boxes to the entire pack. This segmentation allows different binding strategies for different stages of packaging, improving overall efficiency while maintaining security.
Solution Approach 2:
The first binding element is applied in advance to secure the initial boxes to the pallet before subsequent boxes are added. This preliminary binding creates a stable base that facilitates faster packaging of remaining boxes, as they can be directly bound to the already-secured structure rather than requiring individual binding between each pair of boxes.
2Reliability
If multiple straps are used to bind each box individually, then each box is securely bound, but a large consumption of expensive and not-recyclable material occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the binding function into two elements instead of using multiple separate straps for each box. The second binding element binds all subsequent boxes together as a group to the first binding element, reducing the total number of binding elements required while maintaining secure binding of the entire pack.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention promotes the use of recyclable materials for the binding elements, particularly paper or cardboard, which can be recovered and recycled after use. This replaces the traditional plastic straps that are discarded and cannot be recycled, thereby reducing material loss and environmental impact.
3Reliability
If complex strapping machines are used to bind boxes, then binding functionality is achieved, but the machine structure becomes complex and frequently leads to malfunctioning
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and simplifies the binding mechanism by using a magazine system that stores pre-formed binding elements and an applicator that simply retrieves and applies them. This removes the complexity of traditional strapping machines that require strap feeding, tensioning, and sealing mechanisms, replacing them with a simpler system that handles pre-prepared binding elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The binding elements are designed to be self-applying through the magazine and applicator system. The applicator automatically retrieves binding elements from the magazine and positions them for application without requiring complex mechanical manipulation, reducing machine complexity and potential failure points.
4Productivity
If a single binding element is used to bind all products together, then packaging time is significantly reduced, but the binding must secure all products simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The binding system is segmented into two functional parts: the first binding element that anchors initial boxes to the pallet, and the second binding element that consolidates subsequent boxes to the pack. This segmentation allows each binding element to perform its specific function effectively, ensuring adequate binding despite the simplified single-step process for subsequent boxes.
Data Source
AI summary
A packaging machine comprising:a rest plane (2) for a pack (C) of products (P);at least one magazine (3), predisposed to contain one or more connecting elements (A), predisposed to be applied to at least one flank (S) of the pack (C);at least one applicator (4), movable between at least one pick up position, in which it is able to pick up a connecting element (A) from the magazine (3), and at least one application position, in which it is able to position a connecting element (A) in contact with a flank (S) of the pack (C).