Quick-Coupling Ejector Assembly for Fast Container Lid Changeovers

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing container closure application systems in beverage filling plants require time-consuming adjustments and assembly efforts when processing different types of containers or lids, leading to significant downtimes due to the need for replacing and repositioning ejector parts.

Innovation Solution

An apparatus with a detachable ejector part using a quick-coupling mechanism and adjustable guide curve allows for rapid retooling and precise height adjustment of ejector parts, enabling quick replacement and alignment without mechanical processing, facilitating seamless transitions between container types.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional fastening methods (nuts and trimming) are used to secure ejector parts, then the ejector parts can be firmly fixed, but the setup change and format adjustment require great assembly effort and long downtimes

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefirm fixation of ejector partsVSAvoiddowntime during setup change

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The ejector rod is segmented into a modular structure consisting of a rod body and a separately attachable ejector part (ejector shield or ejector pin). This segmentation allows the ejector part to be quickly exchanged without replacing the entire ejector rod, enabling rapid format changes while maintaining reliable fixation through the quick-coupling mechanism.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The fastening system is made dynamic and adjustable through the quick-coupling mechanism with positioning elements. The coupling part can be rapidly engaged and disengaged, and the height of the ejector part can be adjusted using positioning elements (such as indexing positions or adjustable stops) without requiring trimming or complex assembly, thus reducing downtime during setup changes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Manufacturing precision

If individual readjustment of each apparatus is required for different container types, then precise adjustment can be achieved, but the process becomes time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprecise adjustment of apparatusVSAvoidspeed of format adjustment

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The ejector part is designed with universal applicability through standardized coupling interfaces and adjustable positioning mechanisms. A single ejector part design can accommodate multiple container types and closure thicknesses by adjusting the height positioning, eliminating the need for individual readjustment of each apparatus and enabling rapid format changes across the entire closer system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS20250243044A1Apparatus for applying a container closure to a container, and closer

Publication Date: 2025.07.31 KRONES AG

AI summary

An apparatus for applying a container closure to a container, for example for applying a can lid to a can, for example in a beverage filling plant, includes an application unit having a closure receptacle for receiving a container closure, and an ejector unit movable relative to the application unit for ejecting a container closure received in the closure receptacle, wherein an ejector part, for example in the form of an ejector screen, which comes into physical contact with the container closure, for ejecting the container closure is arranged on the ejector unit on its side facing the closure receptacle, wherein the ejector part is detachably attached to the ejector unit via a quick-coupling mechanism. A closer including the apparatus is also described.