Quick-Locking Coupling for Fast Tobacco Machine Part Changeover
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tobacco industry machines require time-consuming processes for changing operative parts, leading to unacceptable machine downtime due to the complexity of threaded parts and numerous components involved in the changeover process.
Innovation Solution
A quick connect/disconnect system utilizing plug members and receiving portions with a locking mechanism, actuated by a pressurized fluid circuit, allows for rapid attachment and detachment of machine components, reducing the time required for changeovers and maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional threaded fastening systems are used for replacing operative parts, then the connection is secure and reliable, but the replacement process becomes highly time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional threaded mechanical fastening system with a quick-coupling system that uses a coupling member with a retaining element and a receiving portion with a locking mechanism. This substitution eliminates the need for threaded fasteners and manual tightening operations, enabling rapid attachment and detachment of operative parts while maintaining secure connections through the locking mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of the fastening mechanism from threaded engagement to a coupling-locking system. The coupling member features a retaining element that engages with a receiving portion, and the locking mechanism provides secure fixation without requiring threaded fasteners. This parameter change transforms the fastening process from time-consuming threaded operations to rapid coupling and locking actions.
2Reliability
If numerous threaded parts and fastening elements are used to secure operative parts, then the connection is stable and secure, but the device complexity and operational difficulty increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple fastening functions into a single integrated coupling member. The coupling member combines the retaining element, locking mechanism, and fastening functions into one component, eliminating the need for numerous separate threaded fasteners and fastening elements. This consolidation simplifies the device structure while maintaining connection stability through the integrated locking mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling member serves multiple functions: it provides retention through the retaining element, secure locking through the locking mechanism, and easy attachment/detachment capabilities. This multi-functional design replaces numerous specialized fastening components with a single universal coupling device that handles all fastening requirements.
3Manufacturing precision
If manual operations with screwdrivers and spanners are required for part replacement, then precise control is achieved, but the ease of operation and productivity are significantly reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The quick-coupling system enables operators to perform part replacement without requiring specialized tools like screwdrivers and spanners. The coupling member and receiving portion are designed to engage and lock together through simple manual manipulation, allowing operators to complete fastening operations directly without auxiliary tools. This self-service capability significantly improves ease of operation while maintaining sufficient fastening precision through the locking mechanism.
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
The system significantly reduces machine downtime by enabling quick and efficient replacement of parts, facilitating faster product changeovers and maintenance, thereby enhancing productivity.
Implementation Method 1
a pressurized fluid circuit actuating the locking mechanism
Data Source
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AI summary
A device for changing operative portions for tobacco industry machines comprises a receiving portion (8, 8', 8") made in a structural part (7) of a tobacco industry machine; a plug member (5, 5', 5") attached to an operative portion of the tobacco industry machine, a locking member (10), housed in the structural part (7) of the machine and configured to adopt a locked position, where it locks the plug member (5, 5', 5") in the receiving portion (8, 8', 8"), and a released position, where it releases the plug member (5, 5', 5") from the receiving portion (8, 8', 8") and actuating means acting on the locking member (10) at least to move the locking member (10) from the locked position to the released position.