Thermo-forming Packaging Machine Side Panel Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Thermo-forming packaging machines have a significant distance between the product feeder and containers, which increases cycle time and reduces efficiency due to the lateral space required by the machine frame and web conveying chain guide.
Innovation Solution
The side panel along the loading stretch is integrated as part of the product feeder, allowing the film clamp chain guide to be attached, reducing the distance between the product feeder and containers, and incorporating a curved belt and robot for efficient product transfer, with optional position detection using a vision system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a separate machine frame and side coverings are used to house the thermo-forming packaging machine, then the machine structure is stable and complete, but the lateral distance between the product feeder and containers increases
Solution Approach 1:
The side panel is merged to serve dual functions: it acts as both the side covering of the machine frame and as the inner wall of the product feeder. This integration eliminates the lateral space between the product feeder and the film web, reducing the distance to a minimum of not more than 125 millimeters while maintaining structural stability through the combined design.
Solution Approach 2:
The side panel is designed with multi-functionality, serving simultaneously as the side covering for the machine frame and as the inner wall structure of the product feeder. This universal component approach allows the same structure to fulfill both protective and functional roles, eliminating the need for separate side coverings and reducing lateral distance.
2Productivity
If the lateral distance between product feeder and containers is reduced, then the picker cycle time decreases and performance increases, but the machine frame and web conveying chain guide require sufficient space
Solution Approach 1:
The side panel integrates the chain guide attachment function directly into its structure. The chain guide is attached to the inner side of the side panel, which serves as both the machine side covering and the product feeder inner wall. This merging allows the chain guide to be positioned closer to the product feeder, reducing the lateral distance and enabling faster picker cycle times while utilizing the same structural space.
3Length of moving object
If the side panel is integrated as part of the product feeder, then the distance between products and containers is minimized, but the side panel requires additional support and rigidity
Solution Approach 1:
The side panel is merged with the product feeder structure, where the side panel forms the inner wall of the product feeder. This integration allows the side panel to be positioned immediately adjacent to the film web, minimizing the lateral distance to not more than 125 millimeters. The combined structure provides mutual support, enhancing rigidity while achieving compact dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The side panel is designed with a curved configuration instead of a straight vertical panel. This curvature provides structural strength and rigidity to the side panel, enabling it to serve as both the side covering and product feeder inner wall while withstanding the mechanical loads. The curved shape enhances the panel's load-bearing capacity and structural integrity.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a thermo-forming packaging machine comprising a product feeder for feeding a product to a loading stretch of the packaging machine, and a film web having trays formed therein wherein the trays are configured to receive a product. The product feeder may be arranged at least partially parallel to the loading stretch of the packaging machine. The thermo-forming packaging machine also includes a side panel disposed along the loading stretch that is formed such that it also forms part of the product feeder.