Packaging Machine Tool Plate Circular Path for Container Stability
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing packaging machines lack an efficient method to stabilize and securely package groups of containers, such as beverages, into a single unit for ease of transport and handling, while also providing a visually appealing arrangement that promotes consumer purchase.
Innovation Solution
A packaging machine with a positioning-and-folding unit and an application unit that uses a tool plate moving along a circular path to create a stable connection between the containers and a material blank, which is then secured by a packaging blank, allowing for continuous operation and adjustable settings for different container configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a packaging machine uses a traditional packaging method without a separate material blank application unit, then the device complexity is reduced, but the stability and secure connection of the container group is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The packaging machine is divided into distinct functional units: a positioning-and-folding unit for arranging containers on the packaging blank, and a separate application unit for applying the material blank to the container group. This segmentation allows each unit to specialize in its function, improving overall stability while keeping the system modular and manageable in complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
A material blank is introduced as an intermediary element between the container group and the packaging blank. The application unit applies this material blank to the container group, creating a positive-fit connection that stabilizes the containers. This intermediary component enables secure packaging without requiring direct complex mechanisms between the containers and the packaging blank.
2Productivity
If the tool plate moves along a circular path with continuous movement, then the productivity and continuous operation of the packaging machine is improved, but the manufacturing precision for positioning the material blank may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The tool plate is pre-configured with engagement positions that correspond to the container group geometry. Before the continuous circular movement begins, the positioning-and-folding unit arranges the containers in a predetermined configuration on the packaging blank. This preliminary arrangement ensures that when the material blank is applied during continuous movement, the positioning precision is maintained through the pre-established geometric relationships.
Solution Approach 2:
The continuous circular movement of the tool plate replaces complex intermittent indexing mechanisms. Instead of using traditional mechanical indexing systems that stop and start for each container group, the patent uses continuous circular motion with strategically positioned engagement points. This substitution maintains positioning precision through the tool plate's geometry and engagement design while enabling continuous high-speed operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the packaging machine is designed to accommodate different container configurations and speeds, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The application unit features adjustable parameters including the tool plate's circular path radius, engagement position, and pressing force. These dynamic adjustments allow the machine to adapt to different container group sizes (4-pack, 6-pack, 8-pack) and transport speeds without requiring complete reconfiguration. The positioning-and-folding unit also provides adjustable container arrangement patterns, enabling versatility while maintaining a relatively simple base device structure.
Data Source
AI summary
A tray packer includes a positioning-and-folding unit, an application unit, and a storage-and-feed unit. The positioning-and-folding unit arranges a container group on a packaging blank's bottom and places its sides against the group. The application unit places a material blank on the group opposite the bottom portion such as to form a bundle. The storage-and-feed unit stores and provides the material blanks to the application unit. The application unit comprises a pressing element that comprises a tool plate that moves continuously on a circular path in such a way that the tool plate adjusts between engagement positions with the containers. The circular path spans a plane oriented parallel to a transport plane along which the groups travel.