Bakeable Serving Tray With Melt-Release Support Matrix
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current packaging solutions for frozen dough or batter products are not suitable for high-speed processing and automated filling, and they do not allow for easy unit portioning and covering for display and sale, requiring excessive labor in preparation and handling.
Innovation Solution
A bakeable tray with detachable support matrix attached using hot melt adhesive, allowing automatic separation during baking, and a method for pre-filling and packaging that includes a transparent cover for individual serving containers, enabling efficient preparation and display of food portions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If traditional paper cups and support elements are used, then manual separation is possible, but they are not strong enough to withstand high-speed processing and automated filling
Solution Approach 1:
The invention uses a composite packaging structure consisting of a rigid tray made from materials such as plastic, metal, or composite materials that can withstand high-speed processing and automated filling operations. This replaces the traditional weak paper-based system while maintaining the functionality of individual container separation and support.
2Ease of operation
If traditional packaging is used, then products can be shipped, but excessive labor is required for preparation, handling, and display
Solution Approach 1:
The packaging is segmented into distinct functional components: a tray for support, individual containers for portioning, and a cover for protection. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, reducing the need for manual manipulation during preparation and display operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The packaging is pre-assembled with containers positioned in the tray and covers ready to be placed, allowing the product to be shipped in a ready-to-use state. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for manual assembly at the point of sale, significantly reducing labor requirements.
3Ease of operation
If the packaging is designed for manual handling, then it is simple to manufacture, but it does not allow for easy unit portioning and covering for display
Solution Approach 1:
The packaging structure is divided into discrete units with individual containers for each portion, making it easy to separate and display single servings. The modular design allows containers to be easily removed from the tray and covered individually without requiring complex mechanisms.
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
Substantially reduces labor in preparing and displaying food portions by allowing automated processing and automatic separation of serving containers, while ensuring cleanliness and ease of handling, resulting in cost-effective and efficient food packaging and preparation.
Implementation Method 1
a bakeable tray with detachable support matrix attached using hot melt adhesive, allowing automatic separation during baking
Data Source
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AI summary
Packaging for heatable food portions comprises an ovenable tray including a plurality of serving containers connected by a detachable support matrix. In one embodiment, the support matrix is attached to the serving containers by hot melt glue which melts during baking or heating to automatically release the support matrix from the serving containers. Pre-fÊlled trays are shipped with display covers fitted to the serving containers, such that the covers may be placed on the individual serving containers after the food portions are baked and the serving containers are separated from the support matrix to provide individually packaged, freshly baked food portions for display.