Rotating Tool Trolley for Packaging Machine Alignment

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing devices for changing tools in packaging machines lack sufficient alignment relative to the machine, making the process cumbersome and inefficient, especially for heavy tools exceeding 100 kilograms.

Innovation Solution

A device with a functional part receiving arrangement that includes a transport surface and a mobile frame, equipped with means for reversible docking and alignment to the packaging machine, allowing precise positioning and rotation in multiple axes, and featuring a guide system for easy transfer and storage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a device for tool changing is used, then the operator's task is facilitated, but the alignment relative to the packaging machine is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoperator's task of changing toolVSAvoidalignment relative to packaging machine

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The functional part receiving arrangement is made rotatable about two spatial axes relative to the frame, allowing dynamic adjustment of the transport surface orientation. This enables the device to adapt its alignment to match the packaging machine's positioning requirements while maintaining ease of operation for tool changes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The device is divided into separable components: a movable frame and a functional part receiving arrangement that can be independently positioned and rotated. This segmentation allows the receiving arrangement to be precisely aligned with the packaging machine while the frame provides mobile support, resolving the contradiction between operational ease and alignment precision.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Manufacturing precision

If the functional part receiving arrangement is made rotatable about two spatial axes, then horizontal orientation is achieved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvehorizontal orientation of transport surfaceVSAvoidrotational mechanism

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The two-axis rotational mechanism serves multiple functions: it achieves horizontal orientation of the transport surface, enables parallel arrangement with the packaging machine, and provides adaptation to different floor conditions. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by eliminating the need for separate alignment mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If the transport surface is made displaceable relative to the structure, then the transfer of functional part is facilitated, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetransfer of functional partVSAvoiddisplaceable transport surface

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The displaceable transport surface acts as an intermediary between the functional part and the packaging machine. It can move independently to bridge gaps or accommodate positioning variations, facilitating tool transfer without requiring complex external positioning systems or additional alignment tools.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentEP2707178B1Tool trolley

Publication Date: 2023.07.12 GEA FOOD SOLUTIONS GERMANY GMBH

Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a device for receiving and/or transporting at least one functional part of a packaging machine, in particular a sealing and/or moulding tool, comprising at least one functional part receiving arrangement having a transport surface, and a moveable frame on which the functional part receiving arrangement is arranged.