Packaging Machine Telescopic Lug Transfer for Multi-Format Cartons
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current packaging machines are limited in their ability to handle multiple carton formats and require complex systems with many drive motors, leading to increased costs and a higher risk of product damage due to excessive handling.
Innovation Solution
A packaging machine with multiple processing lines and adaptable conveyor systems that can transfer articles into various carton formats, including wrap-around, basket, and fully enclosed cartons, minimizing handling and reducing the number of subsystems and drive motors by using telescopic lug assemblies and transfer devices that can reorient cartons for efficient loading.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a packaging machine is designed to handle multiple carton formats and loading methods, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases due to the need for multiple subsystems and drive motors
Solution Approach 1:
The packaging machine employs universal handling devices that can perform multiple functions - the first handling device can transfer articles or cartons between processing lines, and the second handling device can transfer packaged articles. The conveyor system can accommodate different carton types and loading methods (side load, end load, top load, bottom load) through a single adaptable mechanism, eliminating the need for separate specialized subsystems for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The machine incorporates adaptable conveyor systems with moveable components that can dynamically adjust to different carton formats and loading requirements. The conveyor can change its configuration and orientation to match the required packaging operation, allowing a single system to handle multiple carton types without requiring fixed dedicated subsystems for each format.
2Reliability
If the packaging machine minimizes handling of products, then product damage is reduced, but the machine layout becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The packaging machine is designed with processing lines that are spatially arranged to minimize handling distance and maintain product flow at consistent levels. The first and second processing lines are positioned to receive articles and cartons with minimal transfer distance, and the handling devices operate at comparable elevations, reducing the mechanical complexity of lifting and positioning mechanisms while limiting product exposure to damage risks.
3Productivity
If the packaging machine is designed to rapidly change format to adapt to different carton types, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The conveyor system incorporates dynamically adjustable components that can quickly reconfigure to match different carton formats. The moveable conveyors and adjustable positioning mechanisms allow rapid adaptation to various loading methods (side load, end load, top load, bottom load) without requiring multiple fixed subsystems, enabling format changes through motion and repositioning rather than mechanical reconfiguration of entire subsystems.
Data Source
AI summary
A packaging machine (10) for continuously packaging articles (B) comprising a first conveyor line (23), a second conveyor line (22a, 22b, 22c) and a transfer mechanism (26a, 26b) which transfers articles (B) from the first conveyor line to the second conveyor line into a primary or intermediate carton (C) or transfers primary or intermediate cartons (C) from a second conveyor line to the articles (B) and a second transfer mechanism which transfers packaged articles (B) in said primary or intermediate cartons (C) from the first conveyor line to the second conveyor line to be packaged in secondary or final cartons (T) or transfers articles (B) from the first conveyor to the second conveyor to be packaged directly in the secondary or final cartons (T) or which second transfer mechanism is adapted for reorientation of articles (B) or packaged articles (B) in said primary or intermediate cartons (C) or which second transfer mechanism is idle allowing primary or intermediate cartons to pass for further processing.