Integrated Tag Applicator for Container Forming Throughput
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tag application systems for paperboard and corrugated containers are costly, limited to specific product lines, and inefficient, leading to material waste and disruptions in high-speed container forming processes.
Innovation Solution
A machine with an integrated identification tag applicator that applies tags to the interior surface of a blank before it is formed into a container, allowing for efficient and adaptable tag application during the container assembly process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If existing tag application systems are used separately from the container assembly machine, then tag application can be performed, but material waste increases and throughput is reduced due to inefficiencies in the assembly process
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the tag application system with the container assembly machine into an integrated system. The tag applicator is positioned within the assembly machine to apply tags to blanks during the container forming process, eliminating the need for separate tag application operations and reducing both material waste and throughput limitations.
Solution Approach 2:
The tag is applied to the blank before the container assembly process begins. This preliminary tagging allows for identification and tracking throughout the entire manufacturing process without disrupting subsequent assembly operations, enabling high-speed container formation while maintaining inventory control.
2Reliability
If tag application is performed prior to container assembly, then identification tracking is enabled, but blank alignment may be altered causing improper container formation and machine shutdown
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a movable blank support surface positioned between the tag applicator and the container assembly mechanisms. This support surface acts as an intermediary that can be adjusted to accommodate the tagged blank while maintaining proper alignment for subsequent folding and assembly operations, preventing alignment disruption.
Solution Approach 2:
The blank support surface is designed to be movable and adjustable rather than fixed. This dynamic capability allows the support surface to adapt to the presence of the applied tag and maintain optimal blank positioning throughout the assembly process, ensuring both identification tracking and manufacturing precision are achieved.
3Manufacturing precision
If folder arms and presser arms are precisely controlled to avoid incidental contact, then manufacturer joints can be formed, but panels lift away from mandrel causing distortion and decreased joint uniformity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a lateral presser arm as a separate, specialized component distinct from the main folder arms. This segmentation allows the lateral presser arm to specifically address panel stabilization against the mandrel, while the folder arms focus on their primary folding function, thereby improving both joint uniformity and formation reliability without requiring complex coordination between all components.
Data Source
AI summary
A machine for forming a container from a blank of sheet material includes a frame and an identification tag applicator mounted to the frame. The blank includes a first surface that forms an interior surface of the container and a second surface that forms an exterior surface of the container. The identification tag applicator is configured to apply an identification tag to the first surface of the blank. The machine also includes a mandrel assembly mounted to the frame and located operationally downstream from the identification tag applicator. The mandrel assembly includes a mandrel having an external shape complimentary to an internal shape of at least a portion of the container. The machine also includes a lift assembly configured to lift the blank having the identification tag adhered thereto towards the mandrel and wrap the blank about the mandrel.