Packaging Machine Tool Changeover via Horizontal Guide
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing packaging machines require high outlay and time for tool changeovers due to the weight and complexity of tools, making the process inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A packaging machine design featuring a reversible tool system with a guide that allows tools to be introduced and raised horizontally into an upper part, reducing the distance between the tool and the upper part, and utilizing rolling/sliding means for easy tool changeover, eliminating the need for manual lifting or lowering.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If tools are made heavy and complex to ensure durability and functionality, then tool strength and reliability are improved, but tool changeover time and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The tool is divided into two separate components: a heavy, durable tool body that remains stationary on the lifting table, and a lightweight tool head that is easily replaceable. This segmentation allows the heavy tool body to maintain reliability while the lightweight head enables quick changes, resolving the contradiction between durability and changeover speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool head is extracted as a separate, removable component from the tool body. This extraction allows the heavy tool body to remain in place while only the lightweight head needs to be changed, significantly reducing tool changeover time while maintaining the reliability of the overall tool system through the durable body.
2Manufacturing precision
If tools are introduced vertically into the upper part, then alignment precision is improved, but the distance between tool and upper part increases requiring manual lifting
Solution Approach 1:
The tool introduction path transitions from a vertical approach to a horizontal approach along the guide, followed by a brief vertical lift. This dimensional change allows the tool to be introduced along the guide surface first, reducing the lifting distance and manual effort while maintaining alignment precision through the guide's geometric constraints.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide acts as an intermediary element between the tool and the upper part. It provides a controlled path that first guides the tool horizontally, then facilitates a short vertical movement. This intermediary mechanism reduces the direct lifting distance and manual effort while ensuring precise alignment through its geometric design.
3Adaptability or versatility
If manual lifting and lowering of tools is required, then tool positioning flexibility is improved, but operational effort and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting table with its lifting device automatically performs the positioning function that would otherwise require manual lifting and lowering of tools. This self-service mechanism eliminates manual operational effort while maintaining positioning flexibility, as the automated system can adjust tool height according to different pack formats without human intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical lifting operation is replaced with an automated lifting device integrated into the lifting table. This substitution eliminates manual effort while preserving positioning flexibility, allowing the system to adapt to different tool heights and pack formats through automated control rather than manual manipulation.
4Device complexity
If tool changeover is performed without guide mechanism, then device complexity is reduced, but tool introduction distance and manual effort increase
Solution Approach 1:
The guide is designed as a multi-functional element that simultaneously provides alignment guidance, constrains tool movement path, and facilitates the transition from horizontal to vertical positioning. This universal design achieves precise tool introduction with minimal complexity, as the guide performs multiple functions that would otherwise require separate mechanisms.
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
Enables quick and easy tool changeovers without the need for manual operation, reducing operational time and effort, and improving overall efficiency in producing various pack formats.
Implementation Method 1
The tool further preferably has at least one first rolling or sliding means and at least one second roiling or sliding means
Implementation Method 2
The packaging machine preferably has a first rolling or sliding surface, for example the surface of the frame of the packaging machine and/or the surface of the chain guide, along which the tool can be displaced
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a packaging machine having a thermoforming station, a sealing station and/or a cutting device, wherein at least one of said stations or the cutting device have a lifting table having a lifting device.