Closed-Package Butter Dispensing for Hygienic Portion Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for dispensing margarine, butter, or other bread spreads are either unhygienic, visually unattractive, or environmentally unfriendly due to open packets, manual handling, and the need for frequent cleaning and filling of automatic dispensing devices.
Innovation Solution
A device and system that uses a ready-made package of margarine or butter, where the package is arranged within a housing with a dispensing opening and pressing means that compress the package from its outer surface, eliminating the need for manual filling and cleaning, and allowing for easy substitution of products and optimal portion control through a computer-controlled system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If open packets are used for dispensing margarine or butter, then the dispensing process is simple and visual access is easy, but the solution is visually unattractive and unhygienic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a knife as an intermediary tool between the closed packet and the user. The knife is inserted through a dispensing opening in the packet to access the margarine or butter, eliminating the need to open the packet while still allowing portioning. This mediator approach maintains hygiene by keeping the packet closed while enabling easy dispensing operation.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If pre-packet portions are provided, then hygiene is improved, but environmental friendliness deteriorates due to huge amount of waste from packages
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables self-service dispensing where users can portion and dispense margarine or butter directly from a reusable closed packet using a knife. Instead of distributing many small single-use packets that become waste, the system allows users to serve themselves from one packet multiple times, significantly reducing package waste while maintaining hygiene through the closed packet design.
3Manufacturing precision
If automatic dispensing devices are used, then portion control is improved, but device complexity increases due to many elements that must be detached and cleaned
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the complex automatic dispensing mechanism and replaces it with a simple manual system using a knife and closed packet. The portion control function is achieved through manual manipulation rather than automated mechanisms, eliminating the need for multiple detachable elements that require cleaning and reassembly. The solution maintains portion control capability while dramatically reducing device complexity.
4Adaptability or versatility
If manual filling of device container is done, then flexibility in product selection is maintained, but time consumption increases and hygiene deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses pre-filled closed packets that are prepared in advance during manufacturing. Instead of requiring manual filling at the point of use (which consumes time and compromises hygiene), the packets arrive ready-filled and sealed. The system maintains product flexibility by allowing different pre-filled packets to be used, while eliminating the time-consuming and unhygienic manual filling process through preliminary preparation.
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
The solution provides a hygienic, efficient, and cost-effective method for dispensing small portions of bread spreads, reducing waste and simplifying the filling process while maintaining product quality, suitable for high-demand settings like hotels and restaurants.
Implementation Method 1
pressing means (4), which are arranged to press the package (2) from its outer surface
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The invention relates to a device (1), a system and a method for dispensing butter, margarine or other bread spreads in small portions.