Preform Sterilisation via Stationary Nozzle and Microwave Heating
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sterilization methods for preforms are complex and inefficient, with incomplete sterilization of the preform's interior and areas near the mouth due to integrated dispensing nozzle complications and obstructed agent distribution.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that introduce a sterilizing agent in liquid form through a stationary nozzle, which is heated by microwaves, allowing for evaporation and condensation on the preform's bottom before distributing evenly throughout the interior and exterior surfaces, using a gripper system that surrounds the neck to facilitate unobstructed agent distribution and re-evaporation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the sterilising agent is introduced through integrated dispensing nozzles within gripping means, then sterilisation can be performed during rotation, but the system complexity increases substantially due to dosing, vaporisation, thermal insulation and distribution requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the dispensing nozzle function from the gripping means, using a separate stationary nozzle positioned downstream. This separation eliminates the complex integrated system of dosing, vaporisation, and thermal insulation that would be required within rotating gripping elements, while maintaining continuous sterilisation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a stationary dispensing nozzle as an intermediary element that delivers the sterilising agent to preforms during their movement through the microwave heating zone. This intermediary approach simplifies the system by separating the dosing function from the gripping and heating functions, allowing each to be optimized independently.
2Reliability
If gripping means with integrated nozzles are used, then sterilisation occurs during preform movement, but the portions of the preform in proximity to the mouth are not subjected to effective sterilisation due to obstruction by gripping elements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the dispensing nozzle from the gripping means, allowing the gripping elements to simply hold and position the preform without obstructing the sterilising agent distribution. The stationary nozzle is positioned to deliver the agent directly to the preform interior without interference from gripping components.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of integrating the nozzle within the gripping means (internal approach), the patent positions the nozzle externally and stationary, allowing the preform to pass through the sterilisation zone. This inversion of the arrangement ensures unobstructed access to all preform surfaces, including the mouth area.
3Reliability
If a complex integrated system is used for dosing and distributing sterilising agent, then sterilisation can be performed, but the associated costs increase substantially
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the complex dosing and vaporisation system from the gripping means, using a simple stationary nozzle instead. This extraction dramatically reduces manufacturing costs by eliminating the need for integrated thermal insulation, complex dosing mechanisms, and vaporisation systems within rotating components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a simple, easily manufactured stationary nozzle that can be replaced if needed, rather than investing in expensive, complex integrated systems. This approach prioritizes cost-effectiveness while maintaining reliable sterilisation functionality.
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 approach simplifies the sterilization system, reduces costs, and ensures thorough sterilization of both internal and external preform surfaces, including areas near the mouth, with improved agent distribution and reduced consumption.
Implementation Method 1
heating by exposing the preforms to microwaves
Implementation Method 2
introducing into the preform (10) an agent (15) intended to perform a sterilising action... heating the agent (15) contained in the preform (10)
Implementation Method 3
evaporation and condensation on the preform's bottom before distributing evenly throughout the interior and exterior surfaces
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2g
Figure 3~4
AI summary
Method for the sterilisation of a preform (10) made of plastic material, said preform (10) comprising both a neck (13) equipped with an opening (11) and a bottom (12) opposite to the opening (11). The method comprises the steps of: -introducing into the preform (10) an agent (15) intended to perform a sterilising action; -heating the agent (15) contained in the preform (10) in order to determine evaporation. The step of heating the agent (15) is preceded by a gripping step of the preform (10) by gripping means (2) acting on the outside of the preform (10). The gripping means (2) identify, in combination with the preform (10) itself, an annular cavity (3). The annular cavity (3) externally surrounds the neck (13) of the preform (10) and is in fluid communication with the inside of the preform (10) to allow the evaporated sterilising agent (15) to reach the outside of the neck (13).