Preform Gripper Trajectory Superimposition for Reliable Neck Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing loading devices for containers with necks, such as preforms, face challenges in high-speed gripping operations due to the mandrel's insufficient fitting into the preform's neck, leading to potential falling issues, as the gripping operation must be very quick and synchronized with the transfer wheel's rotation, which is not suitable for high operational rates.
Innovation Solution
The device ensures reliable gripping by superimposing the trajectories of the receiving means and gripping members along a line of intersection, allowing progressive sliding of the receiving means between gripping and transfer positions, using a rotary plate with grippers that elastically fit the preform's neck, and includes ejection means for poorly taken preforms, ensuring secure handling and release.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If the gripping operation is performed quickly at a single point of intersection, then the synchronization with transfer wheel rotation is achieved, but the mandrel fitting into preform neck is insufficient leading to preform falling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the gripping operation from a single-point intersection in horizontal plane to a linear superimposed trajectory where the mandrel and preform move together along a common path. This dimensional change from point-to-point transfer to continuous linear motion allows the gripping action to occur over an extended distance rather than at a single moment, enabling both high speed and reliable fitting.
Solution Approach 2:
The receiving means progressively guides the preform into the gripping position along the line of intersection before the final gripping occurs. This preliminary alignment and positioning action ensures that when the mandrel engages the preform neck, both are already properly oriented and positioned, eliminating misalignment issues that would compromise gripping reliability at high speeds.
2Productivity
If the transport element speed is increased for high operational rate, then the productivity is improved, but the gripping operation becomes too fast for reliable mandrel fitting
Solution Approach 1:
The patent establishes continuous useful action by making the mandrel and preform travel together along the superimposed line of intersection for an extended distance. This continuous engagement replaces the discontinuous single-point gripping, allowing the system to maintain high transport speeds while ensuring the mandrel remains properly fitted to the preform neck throughout the entire linear trajectory, not just at a single moment.
3Reliability
If the trajectory of receiving means and gripping members are superimposed along a line of intersection, then the preform is maintained in gripping position, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the trajectories of the receiving means and gripping members into a single superimposed line of intersection. By combining these two previously separate motion paths into one common linear trajectory, the system simplifies the coordination requirements while maintaining reliable gripping. The receiving means and gripping members become synchronized automatically by sharing the same path, reducing the complexity of separate trajectory control systems.
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
This solution enables reliable and efficient loading/unloading of preforms at higher speeds by maintaining the preform in a gripping position along the line of intersection, reducing the risk of preforms falling and improving operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The receiving means are grippers which are capable of gripping the container by its neck by reversible elastic fitting of the preform in the gripper
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention concerns a device for loading (10) or unloading (58) preforms (12) comprising a neck (20) on a transporting element (14) which includes a device (28) for individually gripping one preform (12) by its neck, the loading or unloading device comprising: means for dispensing (32, 42) preforms which include means for individually receiving (42) each preform, the trajectory of the receiving means and the trajectory of the gripping means, in planar projection, being tangent in at least one intersecting point (P3, P4) wherein the preform (12) being in a gripping position, the neck (20) of the preform (12) is vertically arranged opposite the gripping member; means for synchronizing the movement of the receiving means relative to the movement of the gripping member. The invention is characterized in that the trajectory of the receiving means and the trajectory of the gripping member are superimposed along at least one intersecting line (P3-P1, P2-P4).