Strapping Apparatus for Non-Tangent PET Bottle Bundles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for assembling containers like PET bottles into bundles using heat-shrinking plastic polymers are limited in productivity and flexibility, as they cannot produce bundles with non-tangent container arrangements, such as quinconce configurations, and lack adaptability to different packaging patterns.
Innovation Solution
A machine using tape-like straps with a multi-level conveyor system that allows for the production of bundles with varied container arrangements by applying straps perpendicular to the containers' axes, enabling easy adaptation to different configurations and minimizing shrinkwrapping time, while using adhesive substances to enhance friction between containers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If heat-shrinking plastic polymers are used to assemble containers into bundles, then the containers are held together securely, but the productivity is limited and the method cannot produce bundles with non-tangent container arrangements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the thermal-mechanical shrinkwrapping system with a purely mechanical strapping system using tensioned straps. This substitution enables faster operation since straps can be applied and tensioned much more quickly than heat-shrinking processes, while also allowing accommodation of various container arrangements including quinconce patterns through adjustable strap positioning mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The strapping system incorporates dynamic elements including adjustable strap tensioning mechanisms and repositionable strap application points. This allows the system to adapt to different container configurations (such as 2x2, 3x2, or quinconce arrangements) by dynamically adjusting where straps are applied and how much tension is applied, thereby achieving both high productivity and versatility
2Reliability
If traditional strapping machines are used for general packaging, then the machines are simple and reliable, but they cannot produce bundles with containers arranged in quinconce or non-tangent configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a strapping machine that serves multiple functions: it can handle traditional tangent container arrangements as well as quinconce and other non-tangent configurations. This is achieved through multiple strap application stations positioned at different locations and angles, along with programmable control that allows the same machine to adapt to various bundle patterns without requiring changeovers or specialized equipment for each configuration
Solution Approach 2:
The strapping machine is divided into multiple independent strap application modules, each capable of applying straps at specific positions and orientations. This segmentation allows the system to handle diverse container arrangements by selectively activating appropriate modules, maintaining reliability through modular design while achieving versatility in bundle configurations
3Volume of moving object
If containers are arranged in quinconce configuration, then space utilization is improved, but the shell surfaces are not all tangent to a plane parallel to the container axes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent addresses quinconce arrangements by introducing multi-dimensional strap application capability. Instead of relying solely on straps perpendicular to container axes, the system incorporates straps applied at various angles and orientations, including diagonal straps that can accommodate the offset positioning of containers in quinconce patterns. This dimensional expansion of strapping capability enables compact bundle formation while managing the increased mechanical complexity through systematic strap routing
Data Source
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AI summary
Apparatus for strapping bundles of PET bottles, cans, jars or similar containers arranged on four operating levels and comprising two horizontal strapping machines.