Packaging Transport Module with Adjustable Support Surfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current packaging machines and conveying devices are often specific to certain types and sizes of packaged goods, making it difficult to adapt to different packaging types, especially when switching between bundled and loose items, leading to potential tipping or falling issues during transport.
Innovation Solution
A device with a modular design featuring a work module for erecting flaps on packaging trays and a transport module for moving items on flat pads or thermoplastic material, allowing easy switching between operating positions and enabling the use of a chain drive or belt drive with pusher bars for secure transport, along with a control system for actuating the modules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conveying devices are specifically adapted to a certain type, size, and/or shape of conveyed goods, then the reliability of transport is improved, but the adaptability to different packaging types deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The conveying device incorporates adjustable support surfaces that can be dynamically repositioned and reconfigured to accommodate different packaging types. The support surfaces can be adjusted in position, angle, and configuration to match the specific dimensions and shape requirements of various articles, allowing the same device to reliably transport diverse packaging formats without requiring multiple specialized devices
Solution Approach 2:
The conveying device is designed with universal support surfaces that can serve multiple functions across different packaging types. The support surfaces can be configured to handle both bundle units and loose goods, adapting their geometry and positioning to provide appropriate support for each packaging variant, thereby eliminating the need for separate specialized conveying devices
2Productivity
If conveying devices are used for bundle units, then the transport efficiency is improved, but the stability of loose goods deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The conveying device applies local quality adjustments to different zones of the support surface based on the specific packaging type being transported. For loose goods, the support surface provides localized contact points and positioning features that prevent tipping and falling. For bundle units, the support surface offers broader contact areas optimized for efficient transport. This localized adaptation of support characteristics allows the device to maintain both high productivity and article stability across different packaging types
3Manufacturing precision
If packaging machines are specifically adjusted to transporting a different product variant, then the manufacturing precision is improved, but the loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support surfaces are designed with dynamic adjustment capabilities that allow rapid reconfiguration between different packaging types. The adjustment mechanisms enable quick changes to support surface geometry, positioning, and configuration without requiring time-consuming manual reassembly or complex reconfiguration procedures, thus minimizing downtime while maintaining transport precision for each product variant
Data Source
AI summary
A device (1) handling articles comprises at least one work module (30), which can move packages with article placed on a first packaging type and at least one folding mechanism (45) used to erect back and/or front flaps of the first packaging type. Another component of the device (1) is at least one transport module (20), with a transport device (2), along which articles intended for packages of a second packaging type move, where the second packaging type differs from the first packaging type. The at least one folding mechanism (45) and the transport device (2) alternate between an operating position (BP) and a waiting position (WP). The operating positions (BP) and the waiting positions (WP) are configured such that the at least one folding mechanism (45) is disposed exclusively adjacent to the right side or to the left side of the transport means (2).