Curd Pressing via Pneumatic Pressure Differential
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Solution Overview
Problem
In large-scale cheese production, there is a need to reduce operational costs, enhance hygienic standards, and minimize reliance on single components to prevent system shutdowns, particularly in the handling and utilization of whey as a by-product.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for pressing whey from curd using a closed casing with a pressure force generated by air pressure differences, controlled by a system and casing controller, which allows for adaptive pressure adjustments based on curd and mould properties, and includes RFID tags for identification and data transfer to ensure efficient and hygienic cheese production.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a closed casing with automated pressure control is used, then hygienic standards are improved and system reliability is enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into independent functional modules: a closed casing for containment, a pump apparatus for pressure control, a controller for automation, and RFID tags for identification. Each module operates independently but integrates seamlessly, reducing overall system complexity while enhancing reliability through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates automated pressure control where the controller automatically adjusts pressure parameters based on pre-programmed cycles or sensor feedback. The RFID tags enable automatic identification and tracking without manual intervention, allowing the system to self-regulate and maintain hygienic conditions autonomously.
2Manufacturing precision
If automated pressure control with multiple sensors is implemented, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs sensors to monitor pressure parameters and provides feedback to the controller, which automatically adjusts the pump apparatus operation to maintain precise pressure control. This closed-loop feedback mechanism ensures manufacturing precision while the automation reduces manual intervention complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts pressure parameters based on pre-programmed cycles or real-time sensor data. By changing pressure parameters automatically rather than manually, the system achieves precise control without increasing operational complexity, as the parameter adjustments are handled by the automated controller.
3Adaptability or versatility
If RFID tags and data transfer systems are added, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The RFID tags serve multiple functions: identification, tracking, and data transfer. This multi-functionality increases adaptability by enabling the system to handle different curd types and monitoring requirements without adding separate systems for each function, thereby minimizing the increase in device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses RFID tags as digital copies or identifiers that contain information about the curd batch, mould, and process parameters. These tags can be read and processed remotely, enabling adaptability in tracking and data management without requiring complex physical modifications to the main system components.
4Ease of operation
If a movable element with membrane is used for pressure application, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a movable element coupled with a membrane that responds to pneumatic pressure differences. The pump apparatus creates pressure differential that automatically moves the membrane and applies pressure to the curd. This pneumatic mechanism improves ease of operation by eliminating manual pressure application while the automated control manages the complexity of the pneumatic system.
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
This approach reduces operational costs, improves hygienic standards by containing the cheese production process, and minimizes the risk of system shutdowns by using automated and adaptable pressure control, ensuring efficient whey handling and cheese formation.
Implementation Method 1
pumping out air from said closed casing such that a pressure force onto said curd can be formed
Implementation Method 2
The pressure force onto said curd may be formed by having a first space between a lid placed on top of said curd and a movable element and a second space between said movable element and said casing, wherein a pressure difference between said first space and said second space provides for that said movable element is pressed onto said lid
Data Source
AI summary
A method for pressing out whey from curd is presented. The method includes receiving a closed casing holding a mold filled with curd, pumping out air from the closed casing such that a pressure force onto the curd can be formed, establishing a connection between a system controller and a casing controller provided in the casing, uploading instructions from the system controller to the casing controller on how to change the pressure during a pressing cycle by opening a valve on the casing, de-establishing the connection between the system controller and the casing controller, and storing the closed casing and executing the instructions uploaded to the closed casing such that whey is pressed out from the curd and a cheese is formed from the curd.