Preform Sterilization Feed Element for Blow-Molding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for sterilizing preforms before blow molding are inefficient, leading to uncontrolled escape of sterilization agents and incomplete sterilization, particularly at high throughput rates.
Innovation Solution
A feed element with an applicator is positioned in the mouth section of the preform to introduce and control the sterilizing agent, ensuring it is retained within the preform through a discharge channel, allowing for effective sterilization at temperatures above 100°C, above the glass transition temperature of the material.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a sterilizing agent is introduced into the preform without a feed element positioned in the mouth section, then the sterilization process is simpler, but the sterilization agent escapes uncontrollably and sterilization is incomplete
Solution Approach 1:
The feed element acts as an intermediary component positioned in the mouth section of the preform. It includes a feed channel that introduces the sterilizing agent into the preform interior and a discharge channel that controls the agent's exit. This intermediary structure prevents uncontrolled escape while ensuring complete sterilization of the inner surface.
2Productivity
If the preform is sterilized at high throughput rates using existing methods, then production efficiency is improved, but sterilization reliability decreases due to uncontrolled agent escape
Solution Approach 1:
The feed element provides feedback control for the sterilizing agent flow. The discharge channel allows the system to monitor and control the amount of sterilizing agent present in the preform, ensuring adequate sterilization even at high throughput rates. This controlled feedback mechanism maintains sterilization reliability while supporting high productivity.
3Ease of manufacture
If the sterilizing agent is introduced without controlled discharge, then the device structure is simpler, but mechanical effort increases and agent escape is uncontrolled
Solution Approach 1:
The feed element segments the sterilizing agent flow path into distinct functional zones: a feed channel for introduction, a retention zone within the preform interior, and a discharge channel for controlled exit. This segmentation organizes the complex flow control into manageable sections, reducing the overall mechanical effort required while maintaining precise control.
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 method ensures reliable and efficient sterilization of preforms with reduced mechanical effort, preventing uncontrolled agent escape and ensuring complete sterilization of the inner surface, supporting the production of sterile containers.
Implementation Method 1
a feed element for the sterilizing agent is positioned in a mouth section (21) of the preform (1) at least during part of a sterilization period
Implementation Method 2
allowing for effective sterilization at temperatures above 100°C, above the glass transition temperature of the material
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The method and the device are used to sterilize preforms made of a thermoplastic material that are intended for producing blow-molded containers. During the sterilization, a sterilizing agent is introduced into an interior of the preform. At least during part of the duration of the sterilization, a feeding element for the sterilizing agent is positioned in an opening area of the preform.