Pre-opening Mechanism for Web-Based Bag Packaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing packaging methods that use compressed air to open plastic bags for loading are inefficient and require a powerful air source, which can be costly and energy-intensive.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that utilize a web of preformed interconnected bags, where a blower provides air to sequentially open bags, and an engagement member moves to pre-open the next bag in the web, allowing for easier loading without the need for a source of pressurized air, using a controller to coordinate the indexing, sealing, and air flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a powerful source of compressed air is used to open bags for loading, then the bags can be effectively opened and separated, but the energy consumption increases and the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement member performs a preliminary action by engaging and manipulating the bag opening before the air blower acts on it. This pre-positioning or pre-opening of the bag by the engagement member reduces the amount of air pressure needed to fully open the bag, thereby reducing energy consumption while maintaining effective bag opening
Solution Approach 2:
The engagement member acts as an intermediary between the air blower and the bag. Instead of applying air pressure directly to the closed bag (which requires high power), the engagement member first positions or partially opens the bag, then the air blower completes the opening process with lower power consumption
2Ease of operation
If a powerful source of compressed air is used to open bags for loading, then the bags can be effectively opened and separated, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement member performs a preliminary mechanical action to open or position the bag before air is applied. This preliminary mechanical intervention simplifies the air system requirements, eliminating the need for complex high-power air compression equipment while maintaining effective bag opening
Solution Approach 2:
The engagement member serves as a mechanical intermediary that reduces the complexity of the pneumatic system. By handling the initial bag manipulation mechanically, the air blower can be a simpler, lower-power device, reducing overall system complexity and cost
3Productivity
If the web is engaged with the engagement member to pre-open the next bag, then lower air volumetric flow rates are needed, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement member is designed to perform multiple functions: it indexes the web, positions the bag opening, and pre-opens the next bag in sequence. This multi-functionality improves packaging efficiency without requiring proportionally complex mechanisms, as a single component handles multiple tasks
Solution Approach 2:
The engagement member continuously engages with the moving web to pre-open bags in sequence as they pass through the system. This continuous action ensures that each bag is prepared for loading without interruption, maintaining high productivity while using a relatively simple repeating mechanism
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 efficient packaging with lower air volumetric flow rates, reducing energy consumption and eliminating the need for an air compressor, while allowing for the use of smaller electric fans to open bags, thus simplifying the packaging process.
Implementation Method 1
A blower is positioned to sequentially blow air into the bags of the web to open the bags
Data Source
AI summary
Methods for forming packages from a web of preformed bags. In one exemplary method of forming packages from a web of preformed bags, a first bag is held open with air. A product is loaded into the first bag that is held open with air. An opening of the first bag is sealed. A next bag is indexed such that an opening of the next bag is proximate to an engagement member. The web is engaged with the engagement member to pre-open the next bag. The web is disengaged by the engagement member. The next bag is opened with air for loading.