Container Transport With Parallel Conveyors and Rotating Holders
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing conveyor systems for transporting containers in pharmaceutical production lines require large spaces and are difficult to monitor due to their serial arrangement, leading to inefficiencies and space utilization issues.
Innovation Solution
A transport system utilizing parallel conveyor devices with a transfer device that rotates containers between them, allowing for a compact design and flexible operation, with a control system for automated handling and processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conveyor belts are arranged in series to transport containers between processing units, then the containers can be transported through multiple processing steps, but the production line takes up a lot of space and becomes difficult to monitor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a linear one-dimensional arrangement of conveyor belts to a two-dimensional parallel arrangement. Multiple conveyor belts run side-by-side, allowing containers to be transported through processing units in parallel rather than sequentially, thereby reducing the linear space required while maintaining processing capacity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple conveyor belts and processing units into an integrated parallel system where containers can be handled by multiple units simultaneously. This merging of transport paths and processing functions reduces overall space requirements compared to separate serial arrangements
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple conveyor belts are arranged in series with transfer devices, then containers can be transported between units, but the system comprises a multitude of components that must be seamlessly coordinated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs universal container holders that can be used across different conveyor belts and processing units. These standardized holders enable seamless transfer between parallel conveyors without requiring specialized transfer mechanisms, reducing component complexity while maintaining flexible handling capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses homogeneous container holders and standardized interfaces across all conveyor belts and processing units. This uniformity simplifies coordination and control by ensuring that all components interact in the same way, reducing the complexity of managing multiple different device types
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 system reduces space requirements, enables efficient and flexible transport, and allows for easy control of container handling and processing, optimizing production line layout.
Implementation Method 1
the container holder has a rotation axis running parallel to the conveying direction of at least one of the conveyors for rotating the container about the vertical axis
Data Source
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AI summary
A transport system for transporting containers (1) has at least a first conveyor device (10) and a second conveyor device (20) for conveying containers (1). The first and second conveyor devices (10, 20) run at least partially parallel to one another in a parallel section (5). A transfer device (30) for transferring containers (1) from the first conveyor device (10) to the second conveyor device (20) has at least one container receptacle (32, 36) with a rotation axis (34, 38). The container receptacle (32, 36) is designed to releasably grip at least one container (1). The rotation axis (34, 38) runs parallel to a conveying direction of the conveyor devices (10, 20). The at least one container (1) is grasped by a container holder (32, 36) in an upright position or a reverse position on the first conveyor device (10) and rotated about the axis of rotation (34, 38) and in a reverse position, oran upright position to the second conveyor device (20).