Rotating Arm Packaging Machine for Stiff Package Squaring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing packaging machines for stiff packages, such as carton boxes, are bulky, complex, and prone to damaging packages during the packaging process, often resulting in defective or improperly closed packages, and operate at low speeds.
Innovation Solution
A method and machine that folds and glues the flaps of stiff packages in a specific sequence, using a compact design with rotating arms and guides to minimize interference and ensure proper squaring, applying glue only once to secure the upper flap to the lower flap, and adjusting the package squaring to prevent defects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If multiple aligned stations are used for folding each flap separately, then each flap can be folded precisely, but the system becomes long and bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple flap folding operations into a single station using rotating arms that can simultaneously fold multiple flaps (upper, lower, left, right) in different sequences for different packages. This merges the function of multiple aligned stations into one compact unit, reducing system length while maintaining folding precision through controlled rotation and positioning mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic rotating arms that can adjust their position and rotation angle to accommodate different flap folding sequences. The arms rotate to different angular positions to fold different flaps, allowing a single station to perform multiple folding operations that previously required separate fixed stations, thereby reducing system length while preserving manufacturing precision.
2Adaptability or versatility
If complicated and bulky mechanisms are used to perform various packaging operations, then the packaging functions can be achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rotating arms are designed as universal components that can perform multiple packaging operations including folding different flaps, applying glue, and squaring packages. By making the arms multi-functional through programmable rotation sequences and interchangeable tools, the system achieves high adaptability without requiring separate specialized mechanisms for each operation, thereby reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses parameter changes in the form of adjustable rotation angles, speeds, and sequences of the rotating arms to accommodate different packaging requirements. Instead of designing different mechanisms for different operations, the system changes operational parameters (angle, velocity, timing) of the same mechanical components to achieve various packaging functions, simplifying the overall device structure.
3Reliability
If traditional packaging operations are performed, then flaps can be folded and glued, but the risk of damaging packages increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by positioning flaps in the correct closed configuration before applying glue. The rotating arms fold flaps into their final positions and hold them there during glue application, ensuring proper alignment and reducing the risk of damage during the gluing process. This preliminary positioning prevents misalignment and reduces the force needed during glue setting, thereby improving reliability and reducing damage risk.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional bulky mechanical folding mechanisms with a more refined rotating arm system that uses controlled rotation and gentle positioning forces. This substitution reduces mechanical stress and impact forces on the packages, lowering the risk of damage while maintaining reliable flap closure through precise angular control and soft positioning mechanisms.
4Productivity
If state-of-the-art packaging systems are used, then packaging operations can be performed, but the operating speed remains low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous operation by having rotating arms that can continuously fold and glue flaps without stopping between operations. The arms rotate through different angular positions in a continuous motion, performing multiple folding and gluing operations in sequence without interruption, thereby increasing packaging speed while maintaining quality through consistent, controlled motion throughout the cycle.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses periodic rotation of the arms through specific angular positions to perform different packaging operations at optimized intervals. By rhythmically rotating the arms to predetermined angles for folding, gluing, and squaring operations, the system achieves high-speed periodic packaging cycles that maintain reliability through consistent repetition of proven motion sequences while increasing overall productivity.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and a packaging machine for packaging objects in a stiff package, for example in a carton box or in a box, the stiff package comprising a right flap, a left flap, an upper flap and a lower flap. After folding the right, left, and lower flaps in closed position, the upper flap is kept in a semi-closed position so as to only partially overlap the closed lower flap. Glue is then applied to the closed lower flap or semi-closed upper flap. After applying the glue, the upper flap is brought in closed position so that it is fixed to the lower flap. The application of the glue to the lower flap in closed position or to the upper flap in semi-closed position allows adjusting the squaring of the package immediately before bringing the upper flap from the semi-closed position to the closed position, i.e., immediately before fixing the flaps and closing the package.