Recirculation Mechanism for Multi-Pass Bottle Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional machine arrangements for processing articles, such as bottles, are linear and space-consuming, requiring multiple machines for various operations and being costly, with limitations in accommodating different article sizes and shapes, and often not feasible in smaller spaces.
Innovation Solution
A machine arrangement with a recirculation mechanism that allows articles to make multiple passes through the same machines, using an article guide track with adjustable width and vacuum grip to accommodate varying sizes, and incorporating star wheels with lubrication mechanisms for efficient processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional linear machine arrangements are used to perform multiple processing operations on articles, then the desired processing functions can be achieved, but the machine arrangement requires large space and becomes costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple processing operations into a single recirculating machine by allowing articles to pass through the same machine multiple times in sequence. The machine performs different operations on different passes, combining the functionality of what would traditionally require multiple separate machines in a linear arrangement, thereby reducing the overall space required.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a time dimension to the processing sequence by using recirculation. Instead of arranging machines spatially in a linear sequence, the same machine is used repeatedly over time as articles circulate through the system. This transforms a spatial problem into a temporal solution, allowing multiple operations to occur in one machine over multiple passes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional linear machine arrangements are used with multiple machines for different operations, then the desired processing functions can be achieved, but the arrangement becomes costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple processing functions into a single machine by utilizing recirculation. The same machine performs different operations on different passes, eliminating the need for multiple separate machines and thereby reducing capital costs, maintenance requirements, and operational complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes a single machine universal by enabling it to perform multiple different processing operations depending on the pass number. The machine's capabilities are extended over time through recirculation, allowing one machine to replace what would traditionally require several specialized machines.
3Productivity
If conventional machine arrangements are used, then processing can be performed, but the arrangement cannot easily accommodate varying article sizes and shapes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic adjustability to the machine arrangement, allowing the configuration to change based on the specific processing requirements and article characteristics. The system can adapt its parameters and operations for different article sizes and shapes while maintaining efficient processing through recirculation.
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
Reduces the size and cost of machine arrangements by allowing multiple processes to be performed in fewer machines, efficiently handling different article sizes and shapes, while maintaining throughput and quality of processing.
Implementation Method 1
the belt including openings having a vacuum applied therethrough, the vaccum being configured to hold the articles onto the belt
Data Source
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AI summary
A machine arrangement (102) that operates on a plurality of articles (50), such as bottles, includes a plurality of machines arranged in a machine arrangement (102). At least one of the machines includes an apparatus configured to modify the articles (50) by at least one of moving, holding, manipulating and shaping the articles as they pass from an article infeed (130) to an article discharge (146) of the machine arrangement (102). A recirculation mechanism (103) moves articles (50) from a downstream machine after a first pass (or run) and recirculates the articles (50) back to an upstream machine in a second (recirculation) pass (or run) so that the articles (50), which are recirculated through the second pass are again subjected to a different machine modifying operation in at least one machine that the articles (50) have previously passed in the first pass. The articles (50) move continuously through the first and second passes while being subjected to at least one machine modifying operation.