Rotary Latch Format Part Assembly for Quick Container Changeover

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing container handling systems require complex and costly replacement of format parts to accommodate different container sizes, with existing solutions being inefficient and difficult to implement.

Innovation Solution

A fastening device with a rotary latch that is rotatable between a first and second latch position, utilizing a locking element that blocks or allows rotation, enabling tool-free and quick assembly and disassembly of format parts, and incorporating a pre-tensioned mechanism for secure attachment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If format parts are made interchangeable to accommodate different container sizes, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity and replacement cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different container sizesVSAvoidcomplexity of format part replacement
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The fastening device is segmented into distinct functional components: a rotary latch mechanism for securing the format part, and a locking element with pre-tensioning for reliable attachment. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, simplifying the overall replacement process while maintaining adaptability across different container sizes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The rotary latch provides dynamic fastening by allowing rotation between locked and unlocked positions, enabling quick tool-free replacement. The locking element incorporates pre-tensioning that dynamically adjusts to ensure secure attachment during operation while facilitating easy release when needed, thus reducing replacement complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of manufacture

If existing locking mechanisms are used for format part attachment, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but ease of operation deteriorates due to tool requirements and complex procedures

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanufacturing cost of fastening deviceVSAvoidease of format part replacement
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The fastening device is designed to be self-servicing during operation. The pre-tensioned locking element automatically maintains secure attachment without requiring external tools or complex procedures. The rotary latch provides intuitive self-contained operation where the operator can directly engage or disengage the format part by simple rotation, eliminating the need for additional tools and simplifying the replacement process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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

Facilitates quick, tool-free, and cost-effective replacement of format parts, ensuring reliable container guidance while reducing operational complexity and maintenance costs.

Implementation Method 1

the rotary latch (42) is pre-tensioned to rotate to the second latch position (2)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

the pre-tensioning element (46) is designed as a torsion spring

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectTorsion spring: Torsion Spring

Implementation Method 3

the pre-tensioning element for the locking element is designed to displace the locking element into the locking position

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 4

the pre-tensioning element (48) is designed as a spring

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpring: Spring

Implementation Method 5

A friction device is rotatably mounted on the base body. In a first position, the friction device clamps the track element to the support element.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentEP4086205B1Format part, attachment for a format part and method of assembling a format part
Publication Date: 2026.01.28 KRONES AG
  • EP4086205B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP4086205B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP4086205B1 patent drawingFigure 5~6

AI summary

The invention relates, inter alia, to a fastening device (32) for a format part (10) for guiding containers. The fastening device (32) has a rotary latch (42) for clamping the format part (10). The fastening device (32) has a locking element (44) which, in the locked position, blocks the rotary latch (42) in the first locked position. Advantageously, the fastening device (32) enables quick and tool-free assembly and disassembly of the format part (10).