Penetrating Tool Vacuum Packaging for Deep Trays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vacuum packaging methods struggle to efficiently remove air from packages, especially in deeper trays or with irregularly shaped products, leading to residual air that can degrade the product and affect the packaging's appearance and shelf life.
Innovation Solution
A packaging apparatus and method that uses a penetrating tool with distinct through openings to access and remove air from the package, allowing for efficient air extraction and creating a controlled atmosphere without requiring complex modifications to conventional systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional vacuum packaging methods are used, then the packaging process is simple, but air cannot be efficiently removed from deeper trays or packages with irregular shapes
Solution Approach 1:
The packaging system divides the air extraction function into multiple segments by providing multiple vacuum channels distributed throughout the packaging chamber. Each channel connects to specific regions, allowing simultaneous extraction from multiple locations including deep trays and irregular shapes, thereby improving overall air removal efficiency without requiring a single complex extraction mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism in the form of a movable partition or valve system that controls the opening and closing of vacuum channels. This intermediary allows the system to selectively activate different extraction channels based on the package configuration, enabling efficient air removal from complex geometries while maintaining operational simplicity through automated control
2Reliability
If more vacuum channels are added to improve air extraction, then air removal efficiency improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The vacuum channels are designed with multi-functionality, serving both as air extraction pathways and as structural support elements for the packaging chamber. The channels are integrated into the chamber walls and base, allowing them to perform dual functions: removing air from various package regions and maintaining the structural integrity of the chamber, thereby reducing the need for additional separate components
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic control mechanisms such as movable partitions or electronically controlled valves that regulate the activation of different vacuum channels. This dynamic system allows the number of active channels to be adjusted based on the specific packaging requirements, providing reliable vacuum packaging quality when needed while maintaining simpler operation during normal functioning
3Reliability
If the film is welded to the support edge, then the package is sealed, but air trapped inside cannot be removed
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary air extraction before the film welding process. Vacuum channels are activated to remove air from the packaging chamber and trapped pockets before the thermoplastic film is welded to the support edge. This preliminary action ensures that the sealing process occurs in an air-free environment, maintaining both the integrity of the seal and the quality of the vacuum package without requiring the film to be welded open
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 solution effectively reduces air extraction times and production costs, ensuring the packaged products are safely sealed and maintaining product quality and appearance.
Implementation Method 1
a suctioning system (21) associated with the penetrating tool (8), said suctioning system (21) being configured for removing air from the packaging station
Implementation Method 2
a heating device configured for heating said film portion (6) so as to enable sealing of the same to said support (4)
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus can be used for packaging a product. The apparatus includes a frame, a conveyor, and a packaging station. The packaging station receives a support at a respective positioning seat, receives a portion of a film above the support so that, between the support and the film portion, a reception volume is defined, and sealingly constrains the film portion to the support. The packaging station comprises a penetrating tool having a first through opening and a second through opening. The penetrating tool is arranged in an advanced position in which a part of the tool crosses the support arranged in the positioning seat, accessing the reception volume. At the advanced position, the first through opening is arranged at least partly in the reception volume, beyond the base wall or beyond the lateral wall and the second through opening is arranged astride the base wall or the lateral wall.