Spring Indexing Mechanism for Fitment Positioning Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing form/fill/seal packaging systems face challenges in accurately positioning and attaching fitments to thermoplastic film, leading to inconsistent attachment and potential leaks, as external fitments can be damaged during handling and storage, and require frequent tension adjustments for proper alignment.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a spring housing, a spring, and a fastener is used to index and attach fitments to the film, allowing for controlled release and sequential positioning, reducing the need for tension adjustments and enhancing accuracy and reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If external fitments are used in form/fill/seal packaging systems, then the packaging capability is enhanced, but the fitments can be damaged during handling and storage leading to potential leaks
Solution Approach 1:
The fitment is positioned inside the pouch rather than externally attached, nesting the coupling means within the packaging structure. This protects the fitment from damage during handling and storage while maintaining its functionality for controlled dispensing of packaged contents.
2Ease of operation
If traditional indexing devices are used to position fitments, then fitment attachment is achieved, but frequent tension adjustments are required to maintain proper alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The indexing device uses a spring mechanism that automatically maintains proper tension and alignment of fitments throughout the production run. The spring's elastic properties provide self-regulating force that compensates for wear and variation, eliminating the need for frequent manual tension adjustments by operators.
3Ease of manufacture
If manual positioning methods are used for fitments, then attachment to film is achieved, but inconsistent placement occurs throughout production runs
Solution Approach 1:
The indexing device pre-positions fitments in a queue before attachment to the moving film. This preliminary indexing ensures that each fitment is accurately positioned and aligned prior to the attachment process, maintaining consistent placement throughout the entire production run without requiring continuous manual adjustment.
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
The solution ensures high accuracy and reliability in attaching fitments to the film, minimizing leaks and maintenance needs, with consistent placement of fitments throughout a production run, and maintaining performance over the device's useful life.
Implementation Method 1
an indexing device for indexing the fitments, the indexing device comprising a spring housing, a spring, and a fastener, the indexing device being configured such that when a first fitment has been attached to the film and then advances past the indexing device, the spring controllably releases the first fitment
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for positioning and attaching a plurality of fitments to a film includes a guiding device for guiding a plurality of fitments; an attaching device for attaching the fitments to the film; a means for advancing the attached fitments and film; and an indexing device for indexing the fitments, the indexing device including a spring housing, a spring, and a fastener, the indexing device being configured such that when a first fitment has been attached to the film and then advances past the indexing device, the spring controllably releases the first fitment, and a second fitment is advanced into attaching position. A process and vertical form/fill/seal apparatus are also disclosed.