Cylindrical Extension Mechanism for Automated Confection Rolling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current machines are unable to automatically roll, fold, and form confections efficiently, relying on hand rolling which is time-consuming and prone to repetitive stress disorders due to the complexity of building machines capable of these processes.
Innovation Solution
A machine with cylindrical extensions that open and close to grip a confection blank, using a drive mechanism with a belt or chain to cycle through positions for rolling and forming, accompanied by a crimping device for shaping and a cutter for division, allowing for automated processing and further cooking or packaging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If hand rolling and forming is used, then the complexity of building machines is avoided, but the process is time-consuming and can lead to repetitive stress disorders
Solution Approach 1:
The machine is divided into multiple independent cylindrical extensions (first extension, second extension, third extension, fourth extension) that can operate independently yet cooperatively. Each extension has its own gripping member and drive mechanism, allowing the complex rolling and forming process to be broken down into manageable segments that can be controlled separately, thus reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The cylindrical extensions are designed to perform multiple functions: gripping the confection blank, rolling it into shape, and transferring it between stages. The same extensions that grip and roll the confection also serve as transfer mechanisms to the crimping device and cooker, eliminating the need for separate transfer mechanisms and reducing overall device complexity
2Productivity
If a machine is built to automatically roll, fold, and form confections, then productivity increases, but the device complexity increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functional operations (gripping, rolling, folding, forming, and transferring) are merged into a single integrated system of cylindrical extensions. The extensions combine the functions of grippers, rollers, and transfer mechanisms into one unified structure, allowing automatic processing without requiring separate devices for each operation, thus limiting the increase in device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The gripping members are designed to dynamically open and close based on the position and state of the confection blank. The extensions can adjust their gripping force and positioning dynamically during the rolling and forming process, allowing the machine to adapt to variations in the blank while maintaining automatic operation, thereby reducing the need for complex control systems
3Extent of automation
If cylindrical extensions with gripping members are used to grip and roll the confection blank, then automated rolling is achieved, but the mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The gripping members are designed to automatically open and close in response to the position of the confection blank and the movement of the cylindrical extensions. The mechanism uses the motion of the extensions themselves to trigger the gripping action, rather than requiring separate actuators for each gripping motion, thus achieving automated rolling with minimal additional mechanism complexity
Solution Approach 2:
A push rod acts as an intermediary element between the drive mechanism and the gripping member. The push rod translates the rotational motion of the cylindrical extension into the linear motion required to open and close the gripping member, simplifying the control mechanism while enabling automated operation
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 machine efficiently rolls, folds, and forms confections into crimped and cooked products, reducing manual labor and the risk of repetitive stress disorders while maintaining product shape and quality.
Implementation Method 1
The mechanism for opening and closing the gripping member in relation to the extension may comprise a push rod and a lever arm, wherein the gripping member is fixedly coupled to the lever arm, such that when the push rod pushes a portion of the lever arm, the lever arm pivots about a pivot point, opening the gripping member in relation to the extension
Implementation Method 2
a rotary drive, the rotary drive engaging the pair of extensions during a portion of the cycle, such that the pair of extensions roll up the blank
Implementation Method 3
the cooker supplying heat to at least partially cook the product before exiting the cooker, such that the product substantially retains its shape and is crimped
Data Source
AI summary
A machine comprises at lease one pair of cylindrical extensions coupled to gears driven by a rotating shaft for opening the extensions for insertion of a flat blank and closing the cylindrical extensions onto the flat blank. The flat blank is folded and rolled. A second set of gears, operated by a rotating shaft, crimps, at least partially fries, cuts and directs finished products to the next step in processing and packaging.