Curd Distributor Dynamics for Uniform Cheese Mould Filling
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cheese curd filling systems face challenges in achieving even distribution across a wide range of cheese formats and shapes, leading to inefficient pressing and potential product loss due to uneven curd distribution.
Innovation Solution
A device with a movable curd distributor and mould holder that allows for two-dimensional motion orthogonal to the gravitational force, combined with an insert and sluice plate to guide and control the flow of curd into moulds, ensuring even distribution and reducing fouling and waste.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a traditional curd filling system is used, then the filling process is simple, but the curd distribution in the mould is uneven
Solution Approach 1:
The curd distributor is made movable in two spatial dimensions orthogonal to gravity, allowing dynamic adjustment of the distribution pattern. The pressing-mould holder is also movable in one or two dimensions in the same plane, enabling real-time adaptation to different mould configurations and achieving even curd distribution across various cheese formats without requiring complex fixed structures
Solution Approach 2:
The device is designed to handle a wide range of mould configurations including single moulds for round or rectangular cheese and multi-moulds for small cheeses in various shapes. The movable distributor and mould holder, combined with configurable inserts that can be divided into sections matching different mould cavity arrangements, provide universal applicability across diverse cheese production needs
2Adaptability or versatility
If the distributor is fixed in position, then the device structure is simple, but it cannot adapt to various cheese formats and shapes
Solution Approach 1:
The curd distributor and pressing-mould holder are both designed with movement capabilities in multiple spatial dimensions. This dynamic configuration allows the system to adapt to different mould arrangements (single mould, multi-mould, various shapes) by adjusting positions during operation, providing versatility without requiring multiple dedicated fixed systems
Solution Approach 2:
The insert can be divided into at least as many sections as there are mould cavities in the mould configuration, with delimiters that can be tapered to reduce fouling. This segmented design allows the insert to match different mould cavity arrangements while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure
3Loss of substance
If curd is distributed without guided flow control, then the distribution process is fast, but fouling increases and product loss occurs
Solution Approach 1:
An insert is arranged between the outlet end of the curd distributor and the pressing-mould holder to guide the curd into the mould configuration. The insert acts as an intermediary that directs curd flow properly, reducing fouling while maintaining efficient filling. The sluice plate with retractable portions serves as another intermediary component that controls curd flow, blocking it when no mould is present and allowing passage during filling, thereby reducing waste without significantly impacting productivity
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 enables efficient and versatile cheese production by ensuring even curd distribution across various mould configurations, reducing product loss and labor, while allowing for precise control of the distribution process.
Implementation Method 1
the outlet end of the curd distributor is movable in two spatial dimensions orthogonal to a gravitational force acting on the cheese curd leaving the outlet
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4A~5C
AI summary
A device for filling cheese curd into a pressing mould comprising a curd distributor (608), having an inlet end (610) through which cheese curd may be received, and an outlet end (612) through which the cheese curd may exit the curd distributor, a pressing-mould holder (614) arranged below the outlet of the curd distributor, one or more drive units, configured to perform a relative motion between the curd distributor and the pressing mould holder in accordance with a selected number of motion patterns, a control unit, configured to control the motion pattern based on input comprising an identifier of a pressing-mould configuration positioned by the pressing-mould holder.