Dumpling Mold Set Four-Bar Linkage Compression Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current dumpling forming machines require manual labor to shape dumplings into their final form, limiting productivity and increasing labor costs, as no machine can replicate the human action of compressing the filling pocket to achieve the desired shape and texture of handmade dumplings.
Innovation Solution
A mold set with a pair of jaws that simulates human compression by clamping and compressing the dough over a filling, using a four-bar linkage mechanism to drive the jaws inwardly, mimicking the action of pinching to form a tight and juicy filling pocket, thereby transforming the dumpling shape from 'D' or semicircle to a scallop or curved triangle, and a compressive device to automate this process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If manual compression is used to shape dumplings, then the filling pocket becomes tight and juicy with desirable shape, but productivity is limited and labor costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the copying principle by creating a mechanical compression device that replicates the human hand compression action. The device includes a compression plate with fingers that mimic the geometry and motion of human fingers, applying compression forces identical to manual dumpling making. This allows automated reproduction of the desirable dumpling shape and tight filling pocket without manual labor, thereby increasing productivity while maintaining manufacturing precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical system (human hands) with an automated mechanical compression device. The device uses a compression plate with multiple fingers actuated by mechanical linkages to simulate the pinching and compression actions of human fingers. This substitution eliminates the need for manual operation while preserving the exact compression mechanics that create the desired dumpling characteristics, thus improving productivity without sacrificing quality
2Productivity
If more workers are hired to operate forming machines, then productivity can be maintained, but labor costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the self-service principle by designing an automated compression device that operates independently without human intervention. The device includes self-actuating mechanisms where the compression plate and fingers automatically perform the shaping action as dough pads pass through the forming machine. This eliminates the need for specialized workers to manually shape dumplings, allowing continuous production to be maintained with fewer workers and reducing labor costs
3Productivity
If automated compression is implemented, then productivity increases and labor costs decrease, but the complexity of the forming machine increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the compression function into separate, modular components: a compression plate with individual fingers, each potentially actuated by separate linkages or springs. This modular design allows the complex compression action to be broken down into simpler, independent elements that can be manufactured, assembled, and maintained more easily, reducing the overall device complexity while maintaining high automation capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses dynamic elements such as spring-loaded compression fingers and movable linkages that automatically adjust to the dough pad position and apply appropriate compression forces. This dynamic design eliminates the need for complex control systems, sensors, and actuators, achieving automation through passive mechanical means that respond naturally to the workpiece, thereby increasing productivity without proportionally increasing device complexity
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 increases productivity by automating the final shaping of dumplings, reducing labor costs, and producing dumplings that are aesthetically and texturally similar to handmade products, allowing for continuous production with fewer workers.
Implementation Method 1
a four-bar linkage mechanism to drive the jaws inwardly, mimicking the action of pinching
Data Source
AI summary
The present utility model provides a mold set used for dumpling or dumpling-like food product formation comprising a pair of jaws, the closure of which is configured to clamp a dough pad over a filling thereby forming a raw product of the dumpling or dumpling-like food product, wherein the jaws in a closed condition can be driven to simulate the human action of compressing a filling pocket of the dumpling or dumpling-like food product.