Vacuum Packaging Device with Concentric Sealing and Cutting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vacuum packaging technologies are inefficient and labor-intensive, particularly for products like sliced ham and salami, as they require preformed pouches, multiple machine stations, and complex die changes, leading to increased processing time and variability in package size and gas control.
Innovation Solution
A packaging device with an upper and lower chamber that can be superimposed to form a vacuum bell, using concentric heat-sealing and cutting means to rapidly and simply package trays of desired size without machine stops, allowing for automatic centering and size recognition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If preformed pouches are used for vacuum packaging, then the packaging can be achieved, but the pouch size must match the product size and considerable labor is required
Solution Approach 1:
The film is folded and preformed into pouches before the packaging operation. The pouches are prepared in advance with the correct size and shape, eliminating the need for manual size matching during operation. This preliminary preparation of the film structure allows for automated packaging while reducing labor requirements.
2Ease of manufacture
If multiple distinct stations are used for film processing, then each operation can be performed, but the machine complexity increases and optimum centering is required at each station
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functions (folding, heat-sealing, cutting, and vacuum packaging) are combined into a single integrated station. The film is folded and formed into pouches within the same chamber where vacuum packaging occurs, eliminating the need for separate stations. This merging of operations reduces machine complexity and eliminates centering requirements between multiple stations.
Solution Approach 2:
The vacuum chamber serves multiple functions: it acts as both the folding/forming station and the vacuum packaging station. The same chamber and equipment are used for both film manipulation and vacuum sealing, making the device multi-functional and reducing the total number of components needed.
3Adaptability or versatility
If hot or cold forming and filling are performed separately, then liquid and granulated products can be packaged, but solid products with preset volumes cannot be efficiently packaged
Solution Approach 1:
The system is designed to dynamically adapt to different product types by adjusting the film folding and forming process. For solid products with preset volumes, the pouches are formed to match the product dimensions before vacuum application, allowing direct packaging without additional filling operations. This dynamic adjustment of pouch formation maintains versatility while improving productivity for solid products.
4Adaptability or versatility
If die changes are required for different package sizes, then various sizes can be accommodated, but machine downtime increases
Solution Approach 1:
The heat-sealing and cutting means are designed to be dynamically adjustable rather than fixed. The positioning and dimensions of these components can be modified for different package sizes without requiring physical die changes. This dynamic adjustability allows the machine to accommodate various package sizes while maintaining continuous operation and eliminating downtime associated with die changes.
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 rapid and efficient vacuum packaging or sealing of products in desired sizes without operator intervention, reducing machine downtime and waste, and maintaining optimal gas control within the package.
Implementation Method 1
a vacuum pump which is connected to a chamber, also known as vacuum chamber
Implementation Method 2
heat-sealing means or heat-sealing means which are substantially L-shaped
Data Source
AI summary
A packaging device, particularly for packaging trays containing food products or technical materials in a controlled atmosphere and by means of a film of plastic material, comprising an upper chamber and a lower chamber, which can be fastened by mutually superimposing them and are each provided internally with a plurality of heat-sealing and/or cutting and/or die-cutting elements arranged concentrically, the lower chamber being provided centrally with a plurality of supporting elements for a tray.