Spring-Loaded Tong Base Pivoting for Overload Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing blow molding machines face issues with mechanical damage and high costs due to the use of expensive overload couplings and active positioning devices in transfer wheels, which increase structural weight and inertia, and tong-like support elements are costly and require significant maintenance when worn or damaged.
Innovation Solution
A device with counter elements adjacent to the tong base, held by springs, allowing for deflection when a predetermined load is exceeded, providing a combination of passive and active control for the tongs, which can be used in blow molding machines and filling machines to support preforms, bottles, or transport elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If expensive overload couplings and active positioning devices are used in transfer wheels, then mechanical damage is prevented, but structural weight and inertia increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive overload couplings and active positioning devices with a simple spring mechanism that uses a inexpensive counter element. The spring can be easily replaced if worn, and provides the necessary overload protection without the complexity and weight of the previous solutions.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the essential function of overload protection from complex mechanisms (overload couplings, active positioning devices) and implements it through a simple spring-based counter element system, removing unnecessary complexity while retaining the protective function.
2Reliability
If expensive overload couplings and active positioning devices are used in transfer wheels, then mechanical damage is prevented, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive and complex overload couplings and active positioning devices with a simple spring mechanism. The spring system is mechanically straightforward, requiring fewer components and simpler assembly, while still providing effective overload protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the core function of overload protection from complex mechanisms and implements it through a minimal spring-based system, eliminating unnecessary mechanical complexity while maintaining reliability.
3Ease of operation
If tong-like support elements are used, then handling function is achieved, but maintenance costs increase when worn or damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a simple spring mechanism that is inexpensive to replace compared to traditional tong-like support elements. When the spring wears or damages, it can be easily replaced without requiring complex repair procedures or expensive components, reducing maintenance costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the operational parameters of the support element by allowing controlled deflection through the spring mechanism. This enables the element to adapt to varying loads and conditions, reducing wear and extending service life, thereby lowering maintenance requirements.
4Device complexity
If simple structural configuration is used, then costs are reduced, but operational safety may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a spring mechanism that provides beforehand cushioning by automatically deflecting when overload occurs. This pre-designed protective mechanism ensures operational safety without requiring complex structures, as the spring system is inherently simple yet effective in preventing damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-based counter element system is self-regulating and automatically responds to overload conditions without requiring external control systems or complex mechanisms. The system serves itself by using the spring's elastic properties to provide protection, maintaining safety while keeping the structure simple.
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
This solution enhances operational safety with a simple structural configuration, reduces costs, and minimizes maintenance by allowing the tongs to pivot and return to a safe position automatically upon overload, maintaining functionality without external influences.
Implementation Method 1
a counter element (63, 64) is arranged adjacent to two side surfaces (61, 62) of the tong base (47), wherein the counter element (63, 64) is held by means of at least one spring (68) in a basic position
Implementation Method 2
the tong base (47) is arranged so as to be pivotable at least over sections relative to the base element (48)
Data Source
AI summary
The device is used to retain workpieces, has a tong-like design, and is provided with two tong arms. The tong arms are retained by a tong base and can be arranged at least in an open position and in a closed position. The tong base is retained by a main element. When a specified actuating force is applied, the tong base is released and can be pivoted relative to the main element within a certain range. Respectively one movable counter-element is arranged adjacent to two lateral surfaces of the tong base. The counter-elements are retained in a starting position by means of at least one spring.