Pneumatic Pocket Membrane for Cigarette Pack Fixing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for holding cigarette packs or their contents in packaging machines require extensive conversion for different product dimensions and often damage the products due to non-adaptive fixing methods.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of pneumatically or hydraulically operated elements, such as membranes, within the pocket walls of the packaging machine to apply adaptable pressure, ensuring secure fixation and gentle handling of products during transport and processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed rigid holding structures are used in packaging machines, then products are securely held during transport, but products with different dimensions cannot be accommodated and extensive conversion work is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by replacing fixed rigid holding structures with pneumatically or hydraulically actuated elements that can dynamically adjust their position and pressure. These elements can move between retracted and extended positions, and their pressing force can be varied, allowing the same device to accommodate products of different dimensions without conversion work.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by controlling the pressure and position of the holding elements through pneumatic or hydraulic systems. By varying the pressure parameters, the device can adapt to different product weights and dimensions. The holding force can be increased for heavier products and decreased for lighter ones, providing versatility without requiring structural modifications.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed rigid holding structures are used in packaging machines, then structural simplicity is maintained, but products with different dimensions require extensive conversion work
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a holding device that can process multiple product types and dimensions using the same structural components. The pneumatically or hydraulically actuated elements serve multiple functions: they can hold, press, and release products of varying sizes, making the device universally applicable without requiring conversion work for different product specifications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent directly applies pneumatics and hydraulics to achieve adaptability. By using compressed air or hydraulic fluid to control the holding elements, the system can easily adjust its behavior for different products. This fluid-powered control mechanism provides a simple yet effective way to change operating parameters without mechanical conversion work.
3Reliability
If high fixed pressure is applied to fix products in pockets, then products are securely held, but products are repeatedly damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by controlling the pressure level dynamically based on product characteristics. Instead of applying constant high pressure, the system adjusts the pressure parameter to match the specific product being handled. This ensures secure fixation while avoiding excessive pressure that could damage the product surface or structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback control where the pressure applied to the product is regulated based on detected product characteristics such as weight or dimensions. The system receives information about the product and automatically adjusts the holding pressure accordingly, ensuring optimal fixation force that prevents both insufficient holding and excessive pressure damage.
4Device complexity
If non-adaptive fixing methods are used, then device structure is simple, but products are repeatedly damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies pneumatics and hydraulics to create an adaptive fixing mechanism that remains relatively simple in structure. By using fluid pressure control instead of complex mechanical adjustment systems, the device achieves adaptability while maintaining structural simplicity. The pneumatic or hydraulic system provides smooth, controllable pressure application that prevents product damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes through a simple control system that adjusts pressure levels based on product detection. Rather than requiring complex mechanical reconfiguration, the system changes the pressure parameter electronically or pneumatically, maintaining structural simplicity while achieving adaptive fixation that prevents product damage.
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
Enables flexible adaptation to various product dimensions, reduces damage, and ensures precise control of pressure based on machine speed and product weight, effectively compensating for dimensional tolerances and ensuring gentle handling.
Implementation Method 1
pneumatically operating element for fixing the product in the pocket
Implementation Method 2
hydraulically operating element for fixing the product in the pocket
Implementation Method 3
the organ is formed by a pneumatically or hydraulically working or operable membrane, which is arranged in one of the walls of the pocket and, when actuated, exerts lateral pressure on the product
Implementation Method 4
the organ is formed by a pneumatically or hydraulically working or operable membrane
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4
AI summary
The invention relates to a system and a method for fixing a product, especially a cigarette packet (11), and/or packet contents (17) of a cigarette packet (11), in a holder for the product, preferably as part of a system (10) for the manufacture of cigarette packets (11), with a pocket (26, 39) for accommodating the product. According to the invention, a pneumatically or hydraulically working means (29) is provided for fixing the product in the pocket (26, 39) in the region of at least one wall of the pocket (26, 39). The invention can be implemented, for example, in the area of a folding stage of a cigarette packaging machine or in the area of a drying turret.