Random Case Sealer for Protruding-Object Detection and Seal Interruption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing case sealers fail to detect and respond to objects protruding from the top surface of cases, which can interfere with the sealing process, potentially damaging the sealer or resulting in incomplete seals.
Innovation Solution
A case sealer equipped with sensors and a controller that interrupt the sealing process when an object is detected between the top-head assembly and the case surface, allowing for the removal of the object before completing the seal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the top-head assembly descends onto the case to apply tape, then the sealing process is completed, but objects protruding from the case can be damaged or cause incomplete seals
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor detects objects protruding from the case before the top-head assembly descends to apply tape. By performing detection in advance, the system can identify potential interference objects and prevent damage before the sealing force is applied, resolving the contradiction between completing the seal and avoiding damage to protruding objects
2Productivity
If the sealing process continues without interruption, then productivity is maintained, but seal integrity is compromised when objects are present
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor provides real-time feedback about objects protruding from the case during the sealing process. The controller receives this feedback and automatically interrupts the sealing process when objects are detected, ensuring seal integrity. After interruption, the operator can remove objects and the process can resume, maintaining both reliability and productivity
3Reliability
If sensors are added to detect objects, then seal integrity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A sensor acts as an intermediary between the operator and the sealing process. The sensor detects objects protruding from the case and transmits this information to the controller, which then interrupts the sealing process. This intermediary system provides reliable object detection and process control with minimal added complexity, resolving the contradiction between improving seal integrity and maintaining simple device design
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
Prevents damage to the case sealer and ensures complete sealing by detecting and interrupting the process when an object is present, enhancing operational reliability and seal integrity.
Implementation Method 1
A pressure switch at its front end detects when an incoming case has been moved into contact with the pressure switch
Implementation Method 2
pressurized gas is introduced from a gas source into the two pneumatic cylinders to pressurize the volumes below their respective pistons to a first pressure to begin raising the top-head assembly
Implementation Method 3
the front roller of the front roller assembly to contact a leading surface of the case and apply the tape to the leading surface
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide a random case sealer configured to interrupt the case-sealing process upon detecting an object between the top-head assembly and the top surface of the case.