Multi-Level Preform Sterilization Transport for Higher Throughput
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sterilization systems for plastics material preforms are inefficient and limited in throughput due to the time required for sterilization, making it difficult to transport preforms at increased speeds.
Innovation Solution
A transport device with multiple levels and lifting mechanisms that allows for simultaneous sterilization of plastics material preforms using a circular transport path, incorporating holding devices arranged equidistantly on multiple levels, and application devices for radiation and sterilization agents, enabling continuous movement and efficient use of space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If preforms are transported through a treatment room at high speed, then productivity increases, but sterilization time becomes insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a single-level linear transport to a multi-level circular transport system. Multiple holding devices are arranged at different heights (first level, second level, etc.) around a circular path, allowing sterilization to occur in three-dimensional space. This dimensional expansion enables parallel processing of multiple preforms simultaneously while maintaining adequate sterilization exposure time at each position.
Solution Approach 2:
The transport system divides preforms into discrete holding devices positioned at multiple locations around the circular path. Each holding device can be independently positioned and treated, allowing the system to process multiple preforms in parallel segments rather than as a single continuous stream, thereby increasing overall productivity without compromising individual sterilization time.
2Productivity
If multiple levels of holding devices are added, then output increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple holding devices at different levels into a single integrated circular transport system. Instead of separate transport mechanisms for each level, all holding devices share a common circular path and coordinated control system, allowing them to function as one unified device. This merging approach increases output capacity while limiting the growth of device complexity through shared infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The circular transport device serves multiple functions simultaneously: it transports preforms through sterilization zones, positions them for treatment, and enables multi-level processing. The same transport mechanism handles both the first level and second level holding devices, making the system multi-functional rather than requiring separate dedicated systems for each level.
3Area of stationary object
If holding devices are arranged equidistantly on multiple levels, then space utilization improves, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a circular arrangement of holding devices positioned equidistantly around the transport path. This curved, radial configuration optimizes space utilization by distributing holding devices uniformly in three-dimensional space around the central axis. The circular geometry naturally provides equidistant positioning and efficient space usage, though it requires precision in manufacturing the curved transport path and positioning mechanisms.
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
Enhances the efficiency and output of sterilization processes by allowing simultaneous treatment of multiple preforms while maintaining consistent exposure times, reducing installation space, and ensuring thorough sterilization of both inner and outer surfaces.
Implementation Method 1
at least one application device (4a, 4b) which is suitable and intended to sterilize the plastics material preforms (10) with radiation
Implementation Method 2
it is known that the plastics material preforms are introduced into a treatment room and, within this treatment room, are exposed to a sterilization medium such as hydrogen peroxide
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for treating piece goods has a transport device for transporting the goods and at least one application device for sterilizing the goods that are transported by the transport device, to sterilize them with radiation and/or to apply a flowable sterilization agent. The transport device has a first transport unit rotatable with respect to an axis of rotation which has a plurality of first holding devices for holding the goods. The transport device has a second transport unit rotatable with respect to the axis of rotation which has a plurality of second holding devices, each arranged in a second level perpendicular with respect to the axis of rotation. The transport device has at least one first lifting device for displacing a predetermined first portion of the first holding devices with respect to a predetermined second portion of the first holding devices in the direction of the axis of rotation.