Programmable Filler Spout Actuation for Bottle Height Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Industrial filling installations face productivity drops due to the need for adjustments in cam shapes and plunger spout strokes when bottle dimensions change, particularly in height, and require additional tooling for cleaning, which complicates operations.
Innovation Solution
A filler device with a movable support member and filler spout actuated by electromechanical systems, controlled by an electronic unit to adapt to different bottle types and shapes, allowing for precise liquid distribution and automatic cleaning without manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If cam paths are adjusted to accommodate different bottle heights, then the device can fill bottles of various dimensions, but the installation must be stopped and numerous manipulations are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces static cam paths with dynamic programmable control that can adapt to different bottle heights through software configuration rather than physical adjustment. The control system stores multiple cam profiles and selects the appropriate one based on the bottle type, enabling quick changes without stopping the installation or performing manual manipulations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes the mechanical cam adjustment system with an electronic control system that uses programmable logic and stored cam profiles. Instead of physically modifying cam paths, the system electronically selects and applies the appropriate cam profile from memory, eliminating the need for manual adjustments and maintaining continuous operation.
2Ease of repair
If additional tooling is positioned relative to plunger spouts for cleaning, then cleaning can be performed, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service cleaning through the programmable control system that automatically manages the positioning and operation of cleaning tooling. The control system stores cleaning cam profiles that automatically guide the cleaning process, eliminating the need for manual positioning and reducing the complexity of the cleaning mechanism itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent prepares cleaning cam profiles in advance and stores them in the control system memory. Before cleaning is needed, the appropriate cleaning profile is already loaded and ready to be automatically applied, streamlining the cleaning process and reducing the need for complex real-time adjustments.
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 efficient filling of various bottle sizes and shapes with improved productivity and hygiene by automatically adjusting the filler spout positions and facilitating easy cleaning, independent of bottle height and shape changes.
Implementation Method 1
a first electromechanical actuator connected to said valve to move it between its two positions
Implementation Method 2
a second electromechanical actuator connected to at least one of said support member and said filler spout to move it between its two positions
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a device for filling a bottle with a liquid product, comprising support means for the bottle and a filling nozzle (11) arranged above the support means. The device comprises a first actuator for movement of a valve of the filling nozzle and a second actuator for movement of one of the support member and the filling nozzle between high and low positions, the actuators being connected to a control unit.