Volumetric Pump Filling Pressure Control for Net Weight Machines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Filling machines without integrated tanks face challenges in managing filling processes for non-compressible products, leading to inconsistent dispensing speed and pressure due to difficulties in controlling the volumetric pump's output, especially during start-stop operations and changes in product flow.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating an adjustment member with a flexible membrane and pneumatic piston system between the volumetric pump and distribution manifold, which maintains constant dispensing pressure by adjusting the membrane's position in response to changes in filling valve operation, using a position sensor and pressurized gas to control the pressure and ensure consistent filling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If a volumetric pump is used to replace the integrated tank system, then the washing and sanitation time is reduced and layout is simplified, but the control of dispensing pressure and speed becomes difficult especially during start-stop operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback control system where a pressure sensor continuously monitors the pressure in the distribution duct and sends signals to the control unit, which adjusts the volumetric pump's operation to maintain constant dispensing pressure. This closed-loop feedback mechanism resolves the control difficulty during start-stop operations by automatically compensating for pressure fluctuations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary adjustment member with a flexible membrane positioned between the volumetric pump and the distribution manifold. This intermediary component acts as a buffer that smooths out pressure variations and stabilizes the dispensing pressure, making the system easier to control during dynamic operations.
2Device complexity
If the volumetric pump output is not properly controlled, then the layout remains simple, but the dispensing speed becomes inconsistent and filling precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit receives pressure sensor data and adjusts the volumetric pump's delivery rate in real-time to maintain consistent dispensing speed. This feedback mechanism ensures filling precision without significantly increasing layout complexity, as the control system integrates with existing components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the system dynamically adjustable by enabling the control unit to modify the volumetric pump's operation parameters based on real-time pressure conditions. This dynamic control ensures consistent dispensing speed varying from 0 to 20 meters per hour, resolving the precision issue while maintaining layout simplicity.
3Speed
If the filling valve operation changes discontinuously, then the system responds quickly, but the pressure fluctuates and dispensing consistency is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure sensor and control unit form a feedback loop that detects pressure fluctuations caused by discontinuous filling valve operations and automatically adjusts the volumetric pump to compensate. This maintains pressure stability while preserving the quick response capability of the filling valves.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustment member with flexible membrane provides beforehand cushioning by absorbing and smoothing out pressure variations before they affect the dispensing process. This preparatory buffering action prevents pressure instability while maintaining rapid response to filling valve 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
The system maintains a constant filling pressure and dispensing speed, even during discontinuous filling steps, improving the precision and flexibility of the filling process, and simplifying maintenance by reducing operational complexities.
Implementation Method 1
maintains constant dispensing pressure by adjusting the membrane's position in response to changes in filling valve operation
Implementation Method 2
using a position sensor and pressurized gas to control the pressure and ensure consistent filling
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 2
Figure 4~7
AI summary
The present invention relates to a weight filling machine of the volumetric valve type. More precisely, in this type of filling machines, the tank of the product to be dispensed using a hydrostatic flap is replaced by a dispensing system controlled by a volumetric pump. In particular, the invention relates to a machine (1) for filling containers (B) with a product, comprising: - a carousel (2) for moving a plurality of said containers (B); - a plurality of filling valves (5), each filling valve (5) being positioned above a clamp (4); - a distribution duct (6) connecting said filling valves (5) with a distribution manifold (8), in said distribution duct (6) having the product a filling pressure (P1); - a feed duct (9) intercepted by a volumetric pump (10), wherein said volumetric pump (10) moves a filling product with a discharge pressure (P) greater than said filling pressure (P1), characterized in that along the feed duct (9), downstream of the volumetric pump (10), an adjustment member (11) of the feed pressure of the filling product is placed.