Preroll Filling Pod With Tamper And Ejector Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies for filling prerolls are either bulky or lack consistency in fill quantities, densities, and positioning, leading to inefficiencies in packing processes.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus comprising support pods with a tamper module and ejector module that allows for precise filling and packing of prerolls, utilizing centrifugal force and adjustable headspace to ensure uniform fill volumes, while the tamper module ensures consistent seating and the ejector module facilitates rapid retrieval without damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If existing filling technologies are used, then the packing process can be performed, but the fill quantities, densities, and positioning lack consistency
Solution Approach 1:
The filling apparatus is divided into modular components: individual pods each containing a preroll, separate tamper modules for compression, and ejector modules for removal. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently for precision while maintaining overall system manageability
Solution Approach 2:
The tamper modules automatically compress the filler material within each pod to a predetermined density without requiring manual intervention. The system self-regulates the compression force and duration to achieve consistent fill density across all prerolls
2Productivity
If manual filling methods are used, then flexibility in handling different preroll sizes is possible, but packing throughput is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus employs adjustable pod configurations and variable tamper compression forces that can be dynamically modified to accommodate different preroll sizes, shapes, and filler material types. This dynamic adaptability maintains high automated throughput while handling diverse product specifications
Solution Approach 2:
The filling apparatus is designed as a universal system that can process multiple types of prerolls (different sizes, shapes, and materials) using the same basic mechanism. The pods, tampers, and ejectors are configured to handle various product formats without requiring complete system reconfiguration
3Productivity
If high-speed automated filling is implemented, then packing throughput improves, but prerolls may be damaged during the process
Solution Approach 1:
The pod structure incorporates cushioning elements and shock-absorbing features that protect the preroll during high-speed handling. The filler material itself acts as a cushioning medium, and the pod design includes protective barriers to prevent mechanical damage during ejection and transport
Solution Approach 2:
The pod serves as an intermediary protective container between the preroll and the high-speed filling mechanism. It absorbs and distributes mechanical stresses from the tamper and ejector operations, preventing direct transmission of damaging forces to the preroll
4Manufacturing precision
If precise fill control is achieved through adjustable headspace, then fill quantity consistency improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system controls fill quantity by precisely adjusting the headspace parameter within the pod - the vertical distance from the preroll top to the pod rim. By modifying this single geometric parameter, the apparatus achieves accurate fill volume control without complex measurement and 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
Improves packing throughput and minimizes deviations in fill quantities and densities, enabling quick and precise filling of large quantities of prerolls with reduced damage, and allows for adjustment based on preroll size and shape.
Implementation Method 1
The support pod and preroll are placed in a centrifuge, and the centrifuge is activated to pack the preroll tightly within the cavity
Data Source
AI summary
A system for filling prerolls may include a pod, tamper accessory, and ejector accessory. The pod includes a keying groove, a support flange, and a plurality of fill chambers for filling prerolls that open into a foot space of the pod. The tamper accessory may include a keying segment configured to fit into the keying groove of the pod, allowing the tamping rods to seat prerolls within the fill chambers of the pod. The ejector accessory may include a keying segment configured to fit into the keying groove of the pod, a ring groove configured to accept the support flange, and an ejector pedestal configured to push filled and packed prerolls out of the pod.