Packaging Machine Tool Transfer Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Packaging machines have complex structures and inefficient tool transfer processes, leading to increased time and risk of film damage during tool changes, especially when switching between different product sizes.
Innovation Solution
A packaging machine design that allows direct shifting of the working tool from a carrier to the processing station without an intermediate transfer tray, using a lifting device to adjust the receiving unit and a rotatable plate for tool selection, and firmly coupling the tool to a base plate for enhanced accuracy and accessibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an intermediate transfer tray is used to transfer the working tool from the rest position to the processing station, then the tool can be transferred without damaging the film, but the structure of the packaging machine becomes complex and the packaging time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the intermediate transfer tray from the tool transfer path, extracting the problematic component that caused structural complexity. Instead, the tool is transferred directly from the tool carrier to the processing station, simplifying the machine structure while maintaining film safety through careful positioning and transfer mechanics
Solution Approach 2:
The tool transfer process is segmented into distinct phases: the tool carrier moves to the processing station position, the tool is detached from the carrier, and the tool is mounted on the processing station. This segmentation allows each phase to be optimized independently, eliminating the need for an intermediate transfer tray while maintaining reliability
2Reliability
If an intermediate transfer tray is used for tool transfer, then the tool can be replaced without damaging the film, but the packaging process time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tool transfer is integrated into the continuous motion of the tool carrier, which moves directly to the processing station without intermediate stops or transfers. The tool change occurs during the carrier's positioning motion, maintaining continuous productive action and eliminating time losses associated with intermediate transfer trays
Solution Approach 2:
The tool carrier is positioned at the processing station before the actual tool change occurs. The new tool is prepared on the carrier in advance, and the exchange happens seamlessly as the carrier arrives at the processing position, eliminating waiting time and maintaining packaging process continuity
3Manufacturing precision
If the working tool is firmly coupled to the base plate in the processing station, then the machining accuracy increases, but the tool exchange process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The tool coupling system uses dynamic elements such as spring-loaded clamps or quick-release mechanisms that provide firm coupling during processing (ensuring machining accuracy) but allow rapid release during tool exchange. The coupling force can be dynamically adjusted or released without complex disassembly procedures
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediary coupling mechanism is introduced between the tool and base plate, consisting of a mounting interface with standardized quick-connect features. This intermediary element ensures precise positioning and firm coupling during operation while enabling rapid tool exchange through simple engagement and disengagement actions
Data Source
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AI summary
The machine has a working tool (11) arranged on an accommodation unit (13) in a support frame (15) of a support (10). A slide mechanism reciprocally and directly displaces the tool from the support to a processing station (110) e.g. thermoforming station, where the support is designed to be moved out of the machine. The support includes a plate rotatable around a rotational axis. The tool is non-contactly displaced relative to an upper film or lower film. A lifting device (200) e.g. pneumatic cylinder, adjusts a distance from the accommodation unit to the support frame.