Automated Packaging Station Pouch Biasing and Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
The packaging process for shipping objects is labor-intensive and requires significant human effort, with existing automated solutions facing challenges in versatility and efficiency due to the variety of packaging methods and materials needed.
Innovation Solution
An automated packaging station that forms a pouch from web material, biases it open to receive objects, and seals it automatically, incorporating a scanning system for shipping information and labeling, reducing manual labor and increasing throughput.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual packaging methods are used, then packaging versatility is maintained, but labor intensity and time consumption increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The packaging system is divided into separate functional modules: pouch formation module, object insertion module, and sealing module. Each module performs a specific task independently, allowing the system to handle diverse packaging requirements through modular configuration rather than a monolithic complex system.
Solution Approach 2:
The pouch formation mechanism uses a universal web material supply system that can form pouches of various sizes and configurations. The same basic mechanism adapts to different packaging needs by adjusting web material parameters and pouch formation settings, reducing the need for multiple specialized devices.
2Loss of time
If automated pouch formation is implemented, then packaging time is reduced, but material handling complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Web material is pre-supplied in ready-to-form configurations with predetermined dimensions and properties. The material is prepared in advance and fed into the pouch formation mechanism, eliminating the need for real-time material preparation and reducing handling complexity during the packaging process.
Solution Approach 2:
The web material supply system is designed to automatically feed and position material without requiring complex external handling mechanisms. The material self-positions through its web structure and feeding mechanism, reducing the need for additional actuators and control systems.
3Productivity
If pouch biasing mechanism is added, then object insertion efficiency improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pouch biasing mechanism uses biasing elements that apply pre-tension forces to hold the pouch open in a stable configuration. This counteracts the natural collapsing tendency of the pouch, maintaining an open state that facilitates easy object insertion without requiring complex active manipulation during the insertion process.
Solution Approach 2:
The biasing mechanism prepares the pouch in advance by holding it in a pre-opened, receptive configuration. This preliminary preparation ensures the pouch is ready to receive objects immediately when inserted, eliminating the need for real-time pouch manipulation and speeding up the insertion process.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The automated system significantly reduces the time and skill required for packaging, increases packaging rates, and minimizes shipping costs by automating the packaging process while maintaining object protection.
Implementation Method 1
The automated packaging station is configured to bias open the pouch beneath the surface such that the object inserted through the aperture falls into the pouch
Data Source
AI summary
An automated packaging station is capable of being used to package objects. The automated packaging station includes a supply of web material, a surface (202), an aperture (206) therein, and a closing system. The automated packaging station is configured to form the web material into a pouch. The aperture (206) is configured such that an object can be inserted therethrough. The automated packaging station is configured to bias open the pouch beneath the surface such that the object inserted through the aperture falls into the pouch. The closing system is configured to close the pouch to form a package around the object in response to the object being inserted through the aperture. The object is capable of being shipped to a recipient in the package.