Design of a Fully Automated Soap Multipack Packaging System
摘要
Soap multipack packaging is a fast-repetitive task which is difficult to accomplish by manual methods. Therefore, this paper presents an innovative automation solution for soap multipack packaging aimed at enhancing efficiency and productivity in soap packaging. Manual multipack soap packaging limits the production rate to 180 soaps per minute. This project focuses on the design of a system capable of packaging 240 soaps per minute which represents a 33.3% increase in production rate while maintaining quality and safety. This automated solution can package soaps in multipack carton boxes as 3, 4, or 5 per pack. In this approach, the required sequence of operations identified, and relevant mechanism are chosen and designed. Subsystems involved in the final design include conveyor systems, diverter and linear servo systems to precisely control soap stacking and synchronized carton filling. Detailed calculations and simulations were used for the determination of conveyor speeds, the amount of power required for motors, and for the structural analysis. Also, calculations proved that the automated system offers a projected return on investment within 3 years. This automation innovation represents an impactful solution applicable to soap packaging industries offering advancements in industrial automation technology.