Receptacle Conversion Device for Single-Operation Loading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing receptacle grouping systems require multiple successive loading and unloading operations due to the need to convert receptacles between delivery and machine configurations, leading to inefficient transport and increased time for loading/unloading.
Innovation Solution
A conversion device with independently movable electromagnetically coupled movers and receiving means in an adaptation area allows for simultaneous configuration adaptation of multiple receptacles between delivery and machine configurations, enabling efficient loading and unloading of receptacles into a receptacle carrier with a single operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If receptacles are transported singly or as small sub-quantities between receptacle carrier and stock container, then loading and unloading operations can be performed, but multiple successive transport movements are required which takes a lot of time
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides receptacles into sub-quantities that are handled together as groups rather than individually. The conversion device processes multiple receptacles simultaneously by maintaining their relative positions and configurations, enabling batch operations that reduce the number of transport movements required.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple transport operations are merged into a single transport movement. By converting receptacle configurations in place at the loading area before transport, the system combines what would otherwise require separate transport steps into one efficient operation, reducing total transport time.
2Adaptability or versatility
If receptacles are converted from delivery configuration to machine configuration by picking up singly or as small sub-quantity, then configuration conversion is achieved, but multiple successive operations are necessary
Solution Approach 1:
The conversion process is segmented into distinct areas (delivery configuration area and machine configuration area) within the same loading station. Receptacles maintain their sub-quantity groupings throughout the conversion process, allowing configuration changes to be made to groups rather than individual items.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses movable components that can dynamically adjust to accommodate different receptacle configurations. The loading device can adapt its positioning and handling mechanisms to work with receptacles in either delivery or machine configuration, enabling flexible conversion without requiring multiple specialized devices.
3Area of stationary object
If receptacles are converted in the same loading area, then space is utilized efficiently, but the loading device must perform both conversion and loading functions which increases operation time
Solution Approach 1:
The loading area is segmented into distinct functional zones: a delivery configuration area where receptacles arrive, a conversion area where configuration changes occur, and a machine configuration area where converted receptacles are positioned for loading. This spatial segmentation allows different operations to occur simultaneously in different zones.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables continuous operation by allowing receptacles to be converted and positioned in one continuous workflow within the loading area. While some receptacles are being converted in one zone, other receptacles can be simultaneously loaded from previously converted positions, maintaining continuous productive action throughout the loading area.
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
This solution significantly reduces the number of transport movements required, allowing for the efficient loading and unloading of a larger number of receptacles in a single operation, thereby enhancing the overall efficiency of the receptacle grouping system.
Implementation Method 1
there being at least one stator and at least two movers, electromagnetically coupled to the stator, arranged in the at least one adaptation area, the movers being drivable to move independently of each other relative to a drive surface
Data Source
AI summary
A receptacle grouping system (10) includes a stock storage device (14), receptacles (12, 18) being arranged in the stock storage device in a delivery configuration in which different sub-quantities of the receptacles have a first distance (32) from each other that corresponds to the delivery configuration, further including a transport device (83) for transporting receptacles, arranged in a receptacle carrier (22), along a transport path, the receptacles being arranged in the receptacle carrier in a machine configuration in which the different sub-quantities of receptacles have a second distance (88) from each other that corresponds to the machine configuration and that is different from the first distance corresponding to the delivery configuration, and there being provided, as viewed along the transport path, at least one loading area (64) having a loading device (66) for loading the receptacle carrier with unfilled receptacles and/or for unloading filled receptacles from the receptacle carrier.