Vacuum Gripper and Rod Mechanism for Container Panel Folding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing manufacturing methods for containers and packaging struggle with inefficiencies in transitioning cutouts from a flat configuration to a collapsed configuration, particularly in handling and folding processes.
Innovation Solution
A machine equipped with a vacuum gripper and extendable rod system that bends panels along fold lines, allowing for efficient transformation of blanks into collapsed configurations by retracting suction cups and extending rods to guide the folding process, while maintaining suction engagement and utilizing additional side supports and plungers for further bending and collapsing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional handling methods are used for transitioning cutouts from flat to collapsed configuration, then the manufacturing process is simpler, but the processing time is longer and productivity is lower
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs dynamically adjustable components including extendable rods that can be positioned at various locations and vacuum grippers that can be activated and deactivated selectively. This dynamic configuration allows the system to adapt to different folding stages and optimize the transition process from flat to collapsed configuration, significantly reducing processing time and increasing productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The transition process is divided into multiple sequential stages: initial positioning with side supports, folding initiation with vacuum grippers, intermediate bending with extendable rods, and final collapsing. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, reducing overall processing time while maintaining system complexity at an acceptable level.
2Ease of operation
If traditional folding methods are used, then the device complexity is lower, but the ease of operation is reduced and manufacturing efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The machine integrates multiple functions into a single system: side supports provide positioning and stability, vacuum grippers perform both gripping and folding initiation, and extendable rods execute both positioning and bending operations. This multi-functionality improves ease of operation by consolidating multiple operations into one automated system, though it increases device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The extendable rods act as intermediaries between the vacuum grippers and the cutout material, transferring and controlling the folding force precisely. This intermediary mechanism enhances ease of operation by providing controlled, gradual bending rather than direct force application, while adding a layer of mechanical complexity.
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 significantly enhances the efficiency of the folding process, reducing processing time and improving the rate of transitioning cutouts, thereby increasing productivity in container manufacturing and packaging applications.
Implementation Method 1
a vacuum gripper comprising a suction cup that is extendable into suctioning engagement with an underside of the second panel
Data Source
AI summary
A machine is configured to transition a blank having a fold line extending therein directly between first and second panels thereof. The machine includes a side support configured to abut an underside of the first panel, and a vacuum gripper including a suction cup that is extendable into suctioning engagement with an underside of the second panel, and that is retractable while maintaining suctioning engagement with the underside of the second panel. The vacuum gripper is configured to pull the second panel downward by retraction of the suction cup while maintaining suctioning engagement with the underside of the second panel and while the side support abuts the first panel, whereby the first panel bends along the fold line upwardly relative to the second panel. A rod is extendable into engagement with the underside of the first panel for further bending of the first panel along the fold line.