Side Loading Packaging Machine with Independent Conveyor Segments
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing side loading secondary packaging machines are either costly and bulky due to continuous operation requiring precise timing, or mechanically burdensome with intermittent operation, lacking flexibility and efficiency in format changes.
Innovation Solution
A side loading packaging machine with a single conveyor system that allows continuous formation of containers and static or intermittent loading, featuring independent motor-driven transportation members for flexible movement and reduced mechanical stress, eliminating the need for two synchronized conveyors and precise timing devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a continuous motion machine with two conveyors is used, then the machine can operate continuously with less mechanical stress, but the machine becomes costly and bulky, especially in length, and requires precise timing devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of two separate conveyors into a single conveyor system. The single conveyor performs both the function of transporting empty containers from the forming section and carrying loaded containers to the closing section, eliminating the need for a second auxiliary conveyor and reducing machine complexity and size.
Solution Approach 2:
The single conveyor is designed to perform multiple functions: it transports empty containers from the forming section, positions them for loading, carries loaded containers to the closing section, and returns itself for reuse. This multi-functionality replaces the specialized auxiliary conveyor in traditional two-conveyor systems.
2Ease of operation
If a machine with intermittent loading is used, then the loading operation is simplified and timing devices are eliminated, but the master conveyor and feeding group experience repeated stops and restarts that burden the mechanical components
Solution Approach 1:
The conveyor system is divided into multiple independently controllable segments or zones. Different portions of the conveyor can operate at different speeds or in different modes (continuous or intermittent) simultaneously, allowing the loading section to stop for static loading while other sections continue moving, thus eliminating mechanical stress on the feeding group.
Solution Approach 2:
The conveyor system employs dynamic speed control where the conveyor speed can be adjusted in different zones and at different times. The conveyor can operate continuously in the forming section while allowing intermittent stopping in the loading section, adapting its motion characteristics to the specific requirements of each operational zone.
3Reliability
If continuous loading with two conveyors is used, then mechanical components operate continuously with less stress, but precise timing between articles and containers is required, increasing machine cost
Solution Approach 1:
The single conveyor system is self-synchronizing because it performs all transportation functions sequentially on the same continuous loop. The conveyor naturally brings containers to the loading position at the correct intervals without requiring external timing devices or complex synchronization mechanisms between separate conveyors.
Data Source
AI summary
A side loading packaging machine for packaging articles in containers including: a section for forming containers starting from die-cuttings, comprising at least one feeding device, a loading section, a closing section, substantially aligned along a longitudinal axis of the machine; a conveyor equipped with transportation members configured to carry at least one of said containers, wherein said conveyor includes a motor arranged to drive the advance of said transportation members or groups thereof in an independent manner, and the machine operates with: a continuous formation of boxes, said feeding member working with a continuous movement and with a constant rate over time, and said transportation members advancing with a continuous movement at said forming section; and a static loading, said transportation members being stationary during the loading of articles into the containers.