Adjustable Net Filling Device for Gentle Fruit Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for filling containers with fruit do not allow partial filling and subsequent removal without damaging the fruit, and they require the container to be emptied before reuse.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a frame with non-parallel tensioning devices that form a net with adjustable openings, allowing fruit to be placed on a support surface that gradually fills the container under its weight, using threads or cords arranged in different planes to prevent damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a tarpaulin is used to support fruit during filling, then the fruit can be handled gently, but the container cannot be reused without emptying it completely
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is segmented into multiple independent tensioning devices that can be individually adjusted and released. Each tensioning device controls a portion of the net, allowing the net to be gradually relaxed and removed in segments rather than requiring complete container emptying
Solution Approach 2:
The tensioning devices are made dynamically adjustable during the filling process. The net transitions from a taut supporting structure to a relaxed state that can be easily removed, enabling the container to be reused without complete emptying while maintaining fruit safety throughout the process
2Device complexity
If the support surface is fixed during filling, then the structure is simple, but the device cannot accommodate partial filling and removal operations
Solution Approach 1:
The support surface is transformed from a fixed structure to a dynamically adjustable one through tensioning devices. The net can be tensioned during filling to provide support, then relaxed for removal, enabling partial filling operations without significantly increasing structural complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The tension parameter of the support net is changed during the filling process. By adjusting the tensioning devices, the net transitions between taut and relaxed states, allowing the same simple structure to accommodate different filling scenarios including partial filling and removal operations
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple tensioning devices are used to form an adjustable net, then the fruit handling is gentler and more flexible, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each tensioning device is designed to perform multiple functions: supporting the net during filling, adjusting the net configuration for different fruit types, and facilitating net removal. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components, balancing adaptability with device complexity
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a filling device (100, 200) which is mounted on a container (110) or inside it, which has a frame (101, 201, 211) which has at least two first clamping devices (105, 205, 215).According to the invention, at least two first tensioning devices (105, 205, 215) are not arranged parallel to each other and that on each first tensioning device (105, 205, 215) a series of threads and/or cords (102, 103, 202, 203) is arranged, which are connected to a second tensioning device (104, 204, 214) which is arranged on the opposite side of the frame (101, 201, 211) of the respective first tensioning devices (105, 205, 215) and the threads and/or cords (102, 103, 202, 203) of the at least two first tensioning devices (105, 205, 215) are arranged on two different levels and form a net (106, 206, 216) which has openings on which fruit, vegetables and/or rolling bodies can be placed and the first tensioning device (105, 205, 215) regulates openings of the net formed from the threads and/or cords (102, 103, 202, 203).