Spindle Nose Replacement Device for Preform Blowing Furnaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing solutions for replacing spinner noses in a preform blowing installation are inefficient due to the need for precise alignment, which is challenging in environments with mechanical and thermal stresses, and require complex digital configurations or occupy significant space, leading to errors and operational disruptions.
Innovation Solution
A mechanical device with gripping tools and indexing means that allows for transverse movement to align tools perfectly with spinner noses without applying stress, using a support system that compensates for conveyor chain elongation and allows for simultaneous alignment of multiple tools, reducing the need for precise optical measurements and complex digital setups.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a robotic arm is used to replace spinner noses, then automation is improved, but the device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The replacement device is divided into separate functional modules: a support structure, multiple independent gripping tools, and an indexing mechanism. Each module performs a specific function, allowing the system to be simpler than a fully integrated robotic arm while achieving automation.
Solution Approach 2:
An indexing mechanism acts as an intermediary between the support structure and the gripping tools, providing precise positioning without requiring complex robotic control systems. This mediator simplifies the overall automation architecture.
2Measurement precision
If optical measurement systems are used for alignment, then measurement precision is improved, but the device complexity and susceptibility to errors increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex optical measurement and digital configuration systems with a mechanical indexing mechanism. This mechanical system provides precise alignment through physical reference features, eliminating the need for sophisticated optical sensors and digital calibration procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The indexing mechanism features self-aligning reference elements that automatically guide the gripping tools into correct positions. The system uses its own mechanical structure to provide alignment references, eliminating the need for external measurement systems.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If the conveyor chain elongates due to thermal and mechanical stress, then the operating duration is improved, but the manufacturing precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The indexing mechanism is designed to accommodate the dynamic changes in conveyor chain length. As the chain elongates over time, the indexing mechanism maintains its reference relationships, allowing the system to adapt to the changing physical conditions without losing precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical indexing system incorporates reference features that are immune to chain elongation effects. By designing the indexing mechanism to be independent of chain tension and length variations, the system预先 compensates for the precision losses that would otherwise occur during prolonged operation.
Data Source
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AI summary
Device for replacing the spindle nose of a furnace of a preform blowing plant. The present invention relates to a device (2) for replacing the spindle nose of a furnace of a preform blowing plant for an industrial line for producing and treating products, comprising at least one tool (3) for gripping at least one spindle nose, the tool (3) being driven in at least one first direction, between a spaced-apart position and an aligned position with said spindle; at least one indexing means (4) for indexing each tool (3) by moving transversely with respect to said first direction towards said aligned position, characterised in that at least one indexing means (4) comprises at least one member (5) for receiving each tool (3) by insertion according to the aligned position. The invention also relates to a corresponding replacement method.