Preform Orientation in Blowing Machines Using Visual Markers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for orienting preforms in blowing machines are inefficient, particularly when producing large batches of non-axisymmetric recipients, as they require near-complete rotation and are not suitable for high-throughput production due to the need for precise angular positioning and correction.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the use of visual markers on the preform neck, captured by an image capture device, to determine the current angular position and calculate the necessary rotation to align the preform with a reference position, allowing for automatic and rapid orientation of axisymmetric preforms in a blowing machine.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the preform is rotated in a fixed direction until the marker is detected, then the angular position can be determined, but the production throughput is limited due to near-complete rotation requirements
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of rotating the preform in a fixed direction until the marker is detected, the invention detects the marker's initial position and calculates the minimum rotation angle needed to reach the reference position. This reverses the traditional approach by determining the optimal rotation path rather than performing a full rotational search, thereby reducing rotation time and increasing production throughput while maintaining precise angular positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention performs preliminary detection of the marker's angular position before initiating rotation. By detecting the marker's starting position and pre-calculating the minimum rotation angle and direction, the system prepares the optimal rotation path in advance, eliminating the need for trial-and-error rotation and enabling faster, more efficient positioning.
2Shape
If the preform is heated non-uniformly to achieve non-axisymmetric shaping, then the final recipient shape can be controlled, but the orientation control becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The invention uses an optical detection system to detect the marker's angular position on the preform neck, providing feedback information about the preform's current orientation. This feedback enables the control system to calculate the precise rotation angle needed to align the preform with the reference position, simplifying orientation control despite non-uniform heating requirements for achieving non-axisymmetric shapes.
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 quick and precise orientation of preforms, enhancing production throughput by determining the minimum angle and direction of rotation needed to align the preform correctly, thus improving the efficiency of the blowing machine in producing non-axisymmetric recipients.
Implementation Method 1
at least one image of the neck of the preform (14) is captured by at least one image capture device (56)
Data Source
AI summary
A method for orienting a preform of axis in a forming mold of a blowing machine, a neck of the preform being provided with at least one marker, the method including (i) installing the preform in the mold; (ii) detecting the current angular position of the preform by determining the angle of rotation through which the preform has to be rotated to reach the reference angular position thereof; and (iii) orienting the preform about the axis thereof in relation to the mold until a reference angular position is reached.