Two-Stroke Pneumatic Actuator for Packaging Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing packaging apparatuses face challenges in efficiently and reliably moving a vacuum chamber relative to a table during the packaging process, particularly in achieving precise and quick positioning while withstanding both longitudinal and lateral forces.
Innovation Solution
A packaging apparatus equipped with two-stroke pneumatic actuators, controlled by a digital microprocessor or analog circuitry, which can transition between three distinct configurations to manage the spatial relationship between a table and a chamber, allowing for efficient vacuumization and sealing, as well as maintenance access, by applying different fluid pressures to the actuators.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional actuators are used to move the vacuum chamber, then the chamber can be positioned, but the positioning is not precise or quick enough and structural stresses are not effectively managed
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator is divided into two separate cylinders (first cylinder and second cylinder) that operate independently. The first cylinder handles the primary movement while the second cylinder provides fine-positioning adjustments, enabling both quick and precise positioning of the vacuum chamber.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from static positioning to dynamic multi-stage positioning. The actuator can switch between different movement phases: rapid initial movement by the first cylinder, followed by precise adjustment by the second cylinder, optimizing both speed and precision throughout the positioning process.
2Productivity
If the chamber is moved quickly between positions, then productivity increases, but structural stresses on the actuator and chamber increase
Solution Approach 1:
The movement task is segmented into two phases: rapid coarse movement by the first cylinder and controlled fine adjustment by the second cylinder. This segmentation allows the system to achieve high productivity through quick initial movement while the second cylinder manages structural stresses during the adjustment phase.
Solution Approach 2:
The second cylinder acts as a cushioning mechanism that absorbs and manages structural stresses before they can damage the system. By providing a controlled adjustment phase after the rapid movement, it prevents stress concentration and potential damage during quick positioning transitions.
3Ease of manufacture
If the actuator design is simplified, then ease of manufacture increases, but the ability to withstand both longitudinal and lateral forces decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator is segmented into two specialized cylinders rather than one complex multi-functional actuator. Each cylinder is designed for specific force requirements, allowing simpler individual components that are easier to manufacture while collectively providing comprehensive force resistance capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The two-cylinder actuator system provides multi-functionality: the first cylinder handles primary movement forces while the second cylinder manages adjustment forces and structural stress absorption. This universal design approach allows the system to withstand various force types (longitudinal and lateral) using relatively simple individual components.
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 precise, efficient, and reliable movement of packaging components, reducing structural stresses and facilitating quick transitions between operational and maintenance configurations, thus enhancing the overall packaging process.
Implementation Method 1
two-stroke pneumatic actuators, controlled by a digital microprocessor or analog circuitry, which can transition between three distinct configurations to manage the spatial relationship between a table and a chamber, allowing for efficient vacuumization and sealing, as well as maintenance access, by applying different fluid pressures to the actuators
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2c
Figure 3a~3c
AI summary
A packaging apparatus and a method of operating the apparatus are provided. The apparatus comprises a support frame,a packaging station having a first tool, a second tool, and one or more actuators, operably coupled to at least one of the first tool and the second tool, to modify a position of the second tool with respect to the first tool; and a control unit operably coupled to the one or more actuators, wherein the one or more actuators have a first configuration, in which the first tool and the second tool are spaced from one another by a first distance, a second configuration, in which the first tool and the second tool are spaced from one another by a second distance, and a third configuration, in which the first tool and the second tool are spaced from one another by a third distance, and wherein the control unit is configured to operate in a first modality, wherein the control unit is configured to move the one or more actuators from the first configuration into the second configuration, to maintain the one or more actuators in the second configuration for a first time interval, and to move the one or more actuators from the second configuration into the first configuration