Double Clipper for Sausage Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Prior automated clippers for sausages require two separate operations to apply two clips at the end of a sausage, leading to processing delays due to the need for punch retraction and re-engagement, which increases the risk of leakage and contamination.
Innovation Solution
A double clipper system with a first clipper applying a single clip and a second clipper simultaneously applying a pair of clips, using a specialized die configuration to engage and bend the clips, allowing for efficient sealing of the sausage casing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single clipper applies two clips sequentially by retracting and re-engaging the punch, then two clips can be applied to the sausage end, but processing time increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The die is segmented into multiple independent depressions (first depression and second depression) that can simultaneously engage different clips. This segmentation allows the single punch to apply multiple clips in parallel rather than sequentially, eliminating the need for punch retraction and re-engagement while maintaining reliable sealing at both clip locations
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a single-point clipping action to a multi-point simultaneous clipping action by arranging multiple depressions in different spatial positions within the die. This dimensional arrangement enables the punch to apply multiple clips at once, improving productivity without compromising seal reliability
2Device complexity
If a single clipper applies clips one at a time, then the structure remains simple, but the risk of leakage and contamination increases due to repeated punch retraction
Solution Approach 1:
The die structure is segmented into multiple independent depressions, each capable of engaging a separate clip. This segmentation allows simultaneous multi-clip application in a single punch operation, maintaining simple overall clipper structure while eliminating the repeated retraction cycles that create leakage and contamination risks
Solution Approach 2:
The punch maintains continuous engagement with the die throughout the clipping operation, applying multiple clips simultaneously without retracting. This continuous action eliminates the intermittent retraction phases that expose the system to contamination risks while keeping the device structure relatively simple
3Reliability
If two clips are applied at the lower end of the sausage to prevent leakage under weight pressure, then sealing reliability improves, but processing time increases due to sequential application
Solution Approach 1:
The die contains multiple depressions positioned to engage different clips simultaneously. This segmentation enables the punch to apply multiple clips in a single operation rather than sequentially, achieving strong sealing at multiple points while eliminating the time loss associated with repeated punch retraction and re-engagement
Solution Approach 2:
By arranging multiple depressions in different spatial dimensions within the die, the system achieves multi-point simultaneous clipping. This dimensional arrangement allows two clips to be applied at the lower end of the sausage at the same time, maintaining seal strength under weight pressure while reducing processing time
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 solution enables faster and more secure sealing of sausage casings by applying a single clip at one end and a pair of clips at the other, reducing processing delays and enhancing the hanging and processing of sausages in smokehouses by ensuring a tighter seal against weight pressure.
Implementation Method 1
the die having a set of two depressions configured to engage and bend a pair of legs of the single clip
Data Source
AI summary
An improved system for stuffing material is described. The clipping system includes a first clipper comprising a clip reel, a clip rail, a punch, and a die, the punch configured to engage a single clip and the die having a set of two depressions configured to engage and bend a pair of legs of the single clip, and further includes a second clipper mounted adjacent the first clipper, the second clipper comprising a second clip reel, a second clip rail, a second punch, and a second die, the second punch configured to engage a pair of clips and the second die having two sets of two depressions configured to engage and bend the legs of the pair of clips.