Packaging Machine Offset Paths for Six-Pack Carrier Loading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for loading bottle carriers into larger cases require multiple steps and significant effort, involving unfolding carriers, loading bottles, and applying adhesive tape, which is inefficient and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A packaging machine with offset pathways and assembly mechanisms that simultaneously unfold and load empty bottle carriers into larger cases, allowing for the subsequent filling of the carriers with bottles without additional manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional manual methods are used to load bottle carriers into cases, then each step can be performed with simple equipment, but the process requires multiple separate steps (unfolding carriers, loading bottles, applying adhesive tape) which increases time consumption and labor effort
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate operations (unfolding bottle carriers, loading them into cases, and applying adhesive tape) into a single integrated machine that performs all these functions simultaneously. The machine includes an unfolding mechanism for carriers, a loading mechanism that positions carriers into cases, and an adhesive application mechanism, all coordinated to complete the entire loading process in one continuous operation rather than separate manual steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The machine unfolds the bottle carriers before loading them into the case, preparing them in advance in the optimal position for insertion. The adhesive tape is also prepared and positioned on the machine, ready for immediate application as the case is being loaded, eliminating the need for separate preparation steps and reducing overall process time.
2Loss of time
If multiple separate operations are performed manually, then equipment simplicity is maintained, but the process requires significant time and effort for each step
Solution Approach 1:
The machine operates continuously to load multiple cases with bottle carriers. Once the machine is set up and running, it maintains a continuous operation cycle where carriers are unfolded, loaded into cases, and sealed with adhesive tape in an unbroken sequence. This continuous operation eliminates idle time between steps and maximizes productivity, though it requires the operator to manage the complex machine system.
3Adaptability or versatility
If bottle carriers are loaded into cases while carrying bottles, then the carriers are already prepared for use, but this requires two different steps (loading carriers with bottles, then placing into case) which increases complexity
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of loading bottles into carriers first and then placing the loaded carriers into cases, the machine inverts this sequence by first placing empty carriers into the case, and then loading bottles into the carriers that are already positioned in the case. This reversal simplifies the overall process by allowing carriers to be prepared and positioned independently, then filled with bottles in place, reducing the number of handling steps required.
Data Source
AI summary
A device, system, and method for loading empty and formed six-pack bottle carriers into a larger case (i.e. a multi-pack) is provided. The packaging device includes an upper portion and a lower portion. The six-pack carriers are formed by unfolding them in the upper portion. Various components are associated with the upper portion of the packaging device. The case receives a plurality of six-pack carriers therein. The larger cases is formed by unfolding them in the lower portion of the packaging device. Various components are associated with the lower portion of the packaging device. The upper portion and lower portion operate simultaneously to efficiently produce a case have empty six-pack carriers placed therein for later filling with bottles at a downstream destination. The system includes the machine, the cases, the six-pack carriers, and the bottles, operating collectively.