Rotating Working Head for Overlapping Packaging Folds
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing packaging methods for small-piece articles, such as confectionery and consumer goods, are complex and time-consuming due to the need for multiple transfers between working heads and the formation of overlapping packaging material folds, which can lead to unintentional detachment of packaging material.
Innovation Solution
A device and method utilizing a rotating working head with integrated work stations that form and fix overlapping packaging material folds within a single work station, eliminating the need for additional transfers and reducing the risk of packaging material detachment by managing restoring forces through controlled folding and optional sealing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple transfers between different working heads are used to form overlapping folds, then complete packaging can be achieved, but the packaging process becomes lengthy and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple folding operations that were previously distributed across different working heads into a single integrated working head. The working head contains multiple workstations (first, second, and third workstations) that perform different folding operations (first folds, second folds, and third folds) in sequence, eliminating the need for multiple transfers and reducing process complexity while maintaining complete packaging
2Reliability
If multiple transfers between different working heads are used to form overlapping folds, then complete packaging can be achieved, but the packaging process becomes time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple folding operations into a single continuous process at one working head, eliminating transfer time between different working heads. The workstations are arranged to perform folds in sequence without interruption, maintaining high speed while reducing total process time
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuous packaging operation where the working head continuously processes articles through multiple workstations in sequence. The article remains in the same working head throughout the folding process, with workstations operating in a continuous manner rather than requiring discrete transfers, thereby maintaining high productivity while reducing total processing time
3Ease of manufacture
If packaging material is folded without immediate fixing, then folding operations can be performed, but the packaging may unintentionally detach due to material recoil forces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a fixing element to the packaging material immediately after each folding operation at the appropriate workstation. The fixing element secures the folded packaging material before the article is transferred to the next workstation, preventing unintentional detachment due to material recoil forces while allowing subsequent folding operations to proceed
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a fixing element as an intermediary component that mediates between the folding operation and the packaging material. This fixing element temporarily secures the folded material, preventing it from detaching due to elastic recovery forces, and allows the packaging process to continue without compromising integrity
4Ease of operation
If a single working head with integrated workstations is used, then handling complexity is reduced, but the device requires precise coordination of multiple folding operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the packaging process into distinct workstations (first, second, and third workstations) within the single working head, each responsible for specific folding operations. This segmentation allows complex folding operations to be divided into manageable steps while maintaining integration within one device, reducing handling complexity while organizing coordination requirements
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
Simplifies the packaging process, reduces handling complexity, and achieves high article output rates, with the potential for complete packaging of up to 2,300 articles per minute, while ensuring secure packaging through controlled folding and optional sealing.
Implementation Method 1
the packaging's inherent elastic recoil is reduced to such an extent that the folds do not open on their own immediately after the removal of the folding elements
Data Source
Figure 1(a)~1(b)
Figure 2(a)~2(c)
Figure 3(a)~3(f)
AI summary
The present invention relates to a device and a method for packaging small articles (A) by forming and optionally fixing overlapping packaging folds. To simplify such a device and method, the invention provides a working head (1) rotatable about a rotary axis (X1), which has at least one work station (10) for receiving an article (A) and for processing a packaging material (P) associated with the article (A). According to the invention, after receiving the article (A) in the work station (10), it is packaged with the packaging material (P) by forming and optionally fixing overlapping packaging folds and is then ejected from the work station (10).