Aerated Chocolate Dosing Closure Element for Precise Mass Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing casting machines are not suitable for casting both smooth and pressurized masses precisely, as pressurized masses can expand uncontrollably in dosing channels and casting channels, leading to imprecise dosing and inaccurate weights.
Innovation Solution
A device with adjustable closure elements that control the outflow of dosing channels, allowing precise timing of mass distribution, and a pump element for managing the flow of pressurized masses, along with interchangeable pouring plates to prevent dripping and ensure accurate pouring patterns.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If pressurized aerated mass is poured through metering channels, then the mass can be delivered to the mold plate, but the mass expands uncontrollably in the channels leading to imprecise dosing
Solution Approach 1:
The closure element is positioned in advance to block the metering channel before the aerated mass is introduced. This preliminary closure prevents premature expansion and ensures the mass only flows when intentionally released by moving the closure element to its open position, thereby maintaining dosing accuracy while enabling mass delivery.
2Productivity
If the closure element remains open to allow mass flow, then pouring is efficient, but mass may escape prematurely before optimal pouring time
Solution Approach 1:
The closure element is positioned in advance to block the metering channel before the aerated mass is introduced. This preliminary closure prevents premature expansion and ensures the mass only flows when intentionally released by moving the closure element to its open position, thereby maintaining dosing accuracy while enabling mass delivery.
Solution Approach 2:
The closure element is designed to be movable between a closed position (preventing mass escape) and an open position (allowing mass flow). This dynamic positioning enables precise control of the pouring timing, allowing the system to switch between preventing premature escape and enabling efficient pouring based on operational requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a single dosing device is used for both smooth and aerated masses, then device versatility is improved, but control precision for different mass types deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The dosing device incorporates a closure element that can be positioned to control flow for different mass types. For smooth masses, the closure element remains open during filling; for aerated masses, it is closed during filling and only opened at the precise moment of pouring. This universal design enables the same device to handle both mass types with appropriate control adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
The closure element is designed to be movable between a closed position (preventing mass escape) and an open position (allowing mass flow). This dynamic positioning enables precise control of the pouring timing, allowing the system to switch between preventing premature escape and enabling efficient pouring based on operational requirements.
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 precise and accurate casting of both smooth and pressurized masses by controlling the outflow and ensuring that masses reach their destination at the optimal time, preventing premature escape and ensuring accurate weights.
Implementation Method 1
The device also has at least one pump element for drawing mass from the mass container into the metering channel and for ejecting mass from the metering channel.
Implementation Method 2
The device also has at least one closure element, which can be positioned between a first position in which substantially no mass can escape from the metering channel towards the mass destination, and a second position in which mass can escape from the metering channel towards the mass destination.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2e
AI summary
Device (1) comprises: at least one dosing element (2) with at least one dosing channel (3), which can be brought in fluid communication with a mass container (4) and with a mass terminal (5); at least one closure element movable between a first position which does not discharge the mass from dosing channel in the direction of mass terminal, and a second position which discharges the mass from the dosing channel in the direction of the mass terminal. Independent claims are also included for: (1) distributing a flowable mass, preferably an edible product, preferably aerated chocolate, with the device, comprising providing mass in the mass container under pressure, placing closure element in first position such that the dosing channel is sealed at least in the direction of mass terminal, bringing the dosing channel in fluid connection with mass container, moving the dosing element in a second position in which the dosing channel is in fluid communication with the outlet opening after passing the mass into the dosing channel, and opening the outlet opening with closure element; and (2) an attachment part for conversion of casting machines with at least one dosing element, comprising at least one closure element, which is mounted on the casting machine, such that the closure element is adjustable between the first position and second position.