Path Switching Device for Star Wheel Transport Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing transport devices lack a simple and reliable method for switching between transport paths without stopping the star wheels, which complicates the efficient and safe guidance of containers.
Innovation Solution
A path switching device with a pivot bearing allows for rapid and reliable switching of the transport path by pivoting a base part about an axis parallel to the star wheels' central axes, featuring a conical entry area and a guide surface between two jaws, enabling tangential transfer between star wheels and automatic defective part detection and sorting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a path switching device is added to switch between transport paths, then path switching capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The path switching device is segmented into functionally independent components: a base part with pivot bearing for path switching, and star wheels for container transport. This segmentation allows the switching function to be added without complicating the core transport mechanism, as each component performs its specific function independently.
Solution Approach 2:
The base part with pivot bearing serves multiple functions: it supports the star wheels, enables path switching between first and second paths, and maintains container guidance. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional dedicated components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity while achieving path switching capability.
2Speed
If the path switching device pivots parallel to the star wheel level, then switching speed is improved, but stability of the pivoting process deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The path switching is achieved by pivoting the base part in a direction parallel to the star wheel level (horizontal pivoting), rather than perpendicular to it. This dimensional approach allows rapid switching while the pivot bearing design ensures stability through proper constraint of movement axes and support structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The pivot bearing acts as an intermediary element between the base part and the support structure, enabling smooth and stable pivoting motion. It mediates the switching action by providing a controlled rotation axis that maintains stability during the pivoting process while allowing rapid transition between paths.
3Ease of operation
If the axis of rotation is positioned closer to the entry area, then container guidance is improved, but the first length from axis to exit area becomes shorter than required
Solution Approach 1:
The entry area features a tapered design with conically approaching jaw walls that provide enhanced guidance and container alignment. This local quality improvement at the entry point compensates for the shorter overall length, ensuring proper container guidance is achieved through localized geometric features rather than relying solely on increased overall dimensions.
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
Ensures rapid, reliable, and safe switching of transport paths without stopping the star wheels, allowing for efficient sorting and packaging of containers while protecting them from damage, and facilitating easy cleaning of the transport device.
Implementation Method 1
The path switching device comprises a pivot bearing in order to pivot the base part about an axis of rotation
Implementation Method 2
The path switching device preferably includes a tapered lead-in area formed by the first and second jaws. The inlet area serves to guide the container onto the path switching device. The tapering entry area is particularly preferably formed by conically approaching jaw walls of the first and second jaw
Implementation Method 3
the transport device also includes a drive to pivot the path switching device about the axis of rotation
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5
AI summary
The invention relates to a transport device comprising a path switching device (2) for switching a transport path, a first star wheel (3), and a second star wheel (4). The path switching device (2) comprises a base part (20), a first jaw (21), and a second jaw (22), said two jaws (21, 22) defining a transport surface (23) between each other, wherein the path switching device (2) can be pivoted about a pivot axis (D), and the pivot axis (D) is parallel to a first central axis (31) of the first star wheel (3) and a second central axis (41) of the second star wheel (4).