Sterile Packaging Removal Device with Segmented Slit and Holding Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing devices for removing sterile objects from packaging often malfunction due to the residual bag interfering with the suction process, leading to incomplete removal and the need for separate disposal of packaging parts, which compromises sterility and efficiency.

Innovation Solution

A device comprising a clamping device, cutting device, holding device, and removal device that creates a single slit in the packaging, allowing secure and sterile removal of objects while maintaining the packaging in one piece for easy disposal, using rollers and suction elements to manage the packaging effectively.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the foil packaging is completely cut off into two parts (cut-off part and residual bag), then the sterile object can be accessed, but the residual bag interferes with the suction device and prevents complete removal of the transport container

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccess to sterile objectVSAvoidcomplete removal of transport container
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The packaging is divided into two parts: a first partial area that is completely cut off to provide access, and a second partial area (residual bag) that is intentionally left attached to the transport container. This segmentation allows the cutting device to create an opening while the holding device maintains attachment of the residual bag, preventing interference with the suction device during removal.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The holding device acts as an intermediary between the residual bag and the suction device. By holding the second partial area of the packaging, it prevents the residual bag from settling between the suction device and the transport container, ensuring direct contact and reliable removal.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If the foil packaging is completely cut off into two parts, then the sterile object can be accessed, but both parts must be disposed of separately increasing disposal complexity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccess to sterile objectVSAvoiddisposal process
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The packaging is divided into two parts: a first partial area that is completely cut off to provide access, and a second partial area (residual bag) that is intentionally left attached to the transport container. This segmentation allows the cutting device to create an opening while the holding device maintains attachment of the residual bag, preventing interference with the suction device during removal.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Productivity

If a suction device is used to remove the transport container, but part of the residual bag settles between the suction device and the transport container, then the suction device attacks the residual bag instead of the transport container

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveremoval speedVSAvoidsuccessful removal
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The holding device acts as an intermediary between the residual bag and the suction device. By holding the second partial area of the packaging, it prevents the residual bag from settling between the suction device and the transport container, ensuring direct contact and reliable removal.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The holding device is positioned and activated before the suction device attempts to remove the transport container. This preliminary action ensures that the residual bag is already secured and cannot interfere with the subsequent removal operation, preventing malfunction before it occurs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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

Enables quick, safe, and sterile removal of objects with simplified disposal of packaging, preventing residual bag interference and maintaining sterility by using a minimal number of parts and a straightforward structure.

Implementation Method 1

the holding device (6) is provided with at least one suction element, which acts on an upward-pointing partial area (3b) of the sterile packaging (3)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSuction: Suction

Implementation Method 2

the removal device (7) comprises at least one suction element

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSuction: Suction

Data Source

PatentEP2158128B1Device and method for removing a sterile object from a sterile packaging
Publication Date: 2012.02.15 ROBERT BOSCH GMBH
  • EP2158128B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2158128B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2158128B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a device for removing a sterile object (2) from a sterile packaging (3), having a clamp device (4) which clamps a first subarea (3a) of the sterile packaging (3), a cutting device (5) for cutting the sterile packaging (3) in such a manner that a slit is produced in the sterile packaging (3), a holding device (6) which holds a second subarea (3b) of the sterile packaging (3), and a removal device (7) to remove the object (2) from the sterile packaging (3) through the slit. The invention also relates to a method for removing a sterile object.