Dual-Cutter Food Processing for Overlapping 3D Mesh Shapes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing food processing devices are limited in the variety of shapes they can create, particularly for complex or high-volume applications, as they often rely on two-dimensional cutting methods that restrict the potential forms of food items.
Innovation Solution
A food processing apparatus with two cutting means, each having specific diameters and orientations, allows for overlapping cuts to create a three-dimensional basket, grid, or mesh effect, utilizing helical cutting formations to enhance shape flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single cutting means is used, then the device structure is simple, but the shape variety is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The cutting device is segmented into multiple independent cutting means (first cutting means and second cutting means), each capable of producing different cut patterns. This segmentation allows the device to create complex three-dimensional basket, grid, or mesh effects by combining multiple cuts, thereby increasing shape variety without requiring a completely new device for each shape.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from two-dimensional cutting (single plane) to three-dimensional cutting by introducing cutting means with different orientations and angular positions. The first and second cutting means are arranged at different angles relative to the central axis, enabling cuts in multiple dimensions that create complex spatial structures and varied shapes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple cutting means are used, then shape flexibility is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cutting means are arranged in a nested configuration where the first and second cutting means are positioned concentrically around the central axis. The cutting means can be nested within each other or arranged in a compact nested structure, allowing multiple cutting functions to be integrated in a space-efficient manner, thereby managing device complexity while maintaining shape flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
Each cutting means is designed with universal functionality to perform multiple cutting operations. The cutting means can be adjusted in angular position and orientation to create different cut patterns, allowing a single cutting means to serve multiple functions. This multi-functionality reduces the need for numerous specialized components, thereby controlling device complexity while achieving shape flexibility.
3Shape
If overlapping cuts are made, then three-dimensional basket/grid/mesh effect is produced, but the manufacturing precision requirement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cutting means are pre-positioned at specific angular positions and orientations before the cutting operation begins. The first and second cutting means are arranged in advance with predetermined angular separations and radial positions, ensuring that overlapping cuts will produce the desired three-dimensional basket, grid, or mesh effects. This preliminary positioning reduces the precision requirements during actual operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The cutting means are designed with adjustable angular positions and orientations that can be dynamically modified during operation. This dynamic adjustability allows for compensation of minor positioning variations and enables optimization of cut overlap patterns. The ability to dynamically adjust cutting parameters reduces the stringency of manufacturing precision requirements while maintaining the desired three-dimensional structure.
Data Source
AI summary
A food processing apparatus for the cutting of foodstuff comprising a first cutter having a cross/sectional shape defining a first maximal external diameter and a first minimal internal diameter about a first central axis. A second cutter having a cross-sectional shape defining a second maximal external diameter and a second minimal internal diameter about a second central axis is also provided. The second maximal external diameter of the second cutter is greater than or equal to the first minimal internal diameter of the first cutter. In use, the foodstuff is cut by the second cutter before being cut by the first cutter, or alternatively the first cutter may make the first cut with the second cutter making a second subsequent cut.