Adjustable Cutting Modules for Cherry Stem Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cherry processing apparatuses are inefficient in handling cherries with varying characteristics, requiring manual sorting and processing, which leads to increased operational costs and resource inefficiencies due to the need for separate processing stations and manual intervention.
Innovation Solution
A multifunctional apparatus with adjustable cutting modules that can automatically cut stems and function as a manual processing surface, allowing for flexible operation between mechanical and manual processing modes, featuring a mobile structure that lifts and rotates cutting ramps and blades to accommodate different stem lengths and types, enabling simultaneous adjustment of all cutting modules for optimal performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the apparatus uses fixed cutting modules to mechanically process cherries, then processing speed and automation are improved, but the apparatus cannot handle cherries with varying characteristics (very ripe, special bunch characteristics) that require manual processing
Solution Approach 1:
The cutting modules are made movable rather than fixed. The apparatus includes cutting modules that can be moved along the conveying means, allowing the system to adapt its configuration based on whether mechanical or manual processing is needed for different cherry loads
Solution Approach 2:
The same conveying means and processing apparatus serve dual functions: they can transport cherries for mechanical cutting when appropriate, and serve as a work surface for manual processing when needed, eliminating the need for separate processing stations
2Ease of operation
If cherries requiring manual processing are transferred to a separate processing station, then manual processing can be performed, but time and resources are wasted and personnel must remain inactive during transfers
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical cutting apparatus and manual processing surface are merged into a single integrated system. The conveying means serves both as a transport mechanism for mechanical processing and as a work surface for manual processing, eliminating the need for separate stations and transfers
3Extent of automation
If the apparatus operates continuously with fixed cutting modules, then automation efficiency is maintained, but cherries cannot be processed manually even when placed on the movable table
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus allows dynamic switching between automated and manual modes. The cutting modules can be moved out of the way to allow manual processing on the conveying means, then returned for automated processing, enabling flexible adaptation to different operational needs
Data Source
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Figure 2A
AI summary
Apparatus for the separation of agricultural or vegetable product, with a fixed structure having two parallel horizontal side members, a plurality of cutting modules equipped with a common rotating shaft having a plurality of rotating blades in fixed position along its length, said shafts being parallel to each other and mounted above conveying means suitable to carry the products placed thereon toward said rotating blades, a plurality of positioning ramps mounted in a position corresponding to a respective rotating blade and having a shape elongated in the direction of movement of said conveying means and almost flattened and oriented vertically, the elongate upper edge of which is oriented downward toward said conveying means with an inclination such that the height of said edges increases in the feeding direction of the conveying means, so that the clusters of products placed on said conveying means are carried toward said ramps, the respective upper edge of which determines the point of intersection of the respective blade with the stems of each cluster carried under the blade, wherein: - said conveying means include a table formed by a plurality of parallel grooves substantially orthogonal to said rotating shafts and reciprocally separated by respective raised portions; - said table moves in a direction parallel to said grooves; - said ramps are arranged in positions corresponding to said respective grooves, - and the projection of each of said ramps with respect to one of said groove is aligned with the same groove. According to the invention, manoeuvring means are arranged, designed to rotate an auxiliary shaft around its centre of rotation so that said upper edges and the tips of the respective ramps are rotated so as to cause the rotational lifting of said ramps by a predetermined angle.