Machine for squeezing pomegranates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current manual pomegranate squeezing machines require significant operator force due to their lever-based operation and lack uniform pressure distribution, resulting in inefficient juice extraction and yield.
Innovation Solution
A machine with an electromechanical pressing assembly, including a gearmotor and nut screw cylinder, that automatically applies pressure using a crushing element with elastic means for efficient juice extraction, allowing for easier operation and increased yield.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual lever system is used for cap displacement, then device complexity is reduced, but operator force requirement increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual lever system with an electromechanical pressing assembly comprising a motor, transmission mechanism, and movable pressing element. This substitution eliminates the need for operator leverage while providing automated control of the pressing force, directly resolving the contradiction between mechanical simplicity and force requirements.
2Strength
If rigid cap is used for squeezing, then structural strength is improved, but pressure distribution uniformity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces elastic means between the rigid pressing element and the pomegranate surface. These elastic components deform under load to accommodate surface irregularities, thereby distributing pressure uniformly across the fruit surface while the rigid pressing element maintains structural strength. This local addition of elasticity resolves the contradiction between overall rigidity and local pressure distribution.
3Ease of operation
If manual squeezing operation is used, then ease of operation is improved, but productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The electromechanical pressing assembly performs the squeezing action automatically once the pomegranate is positioned. The motor-driven system eliminates the need for manual lever manipulation, maintaining ease of operation (simple positioning) while dramatically increasing extraction speed through powered, rapid pressing cycles. This automation resolves the contradiction between operational simplicity and productivity.
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 reduces operator effort, increases juice extraction speed, and improves yield by ensuring uniform pressure distribution across the pomegranate surface.
Implementation Method 1
at least one nut screw cylinder (13) associated with the gearmotor (12)
Implementation Method 2
elastic means (17, 18) adapted to accumulate elastic energy when the crushing element (9) is in the crushing position
Data Source
AI summary
The machine (1) for squeezing pomegranates comprises: a supporting structure (2); at least one abutment element (5) associated with said structure (2) and adapted to receive and support a portion of pomegranate (6) to be squeezed for obtaining the related juice; at least one pressing assembly (8, 9) comprising at least one crushing element (9) movable between a lifting position, in which the crushing element (9) is moved away from the abutment element (5), and a crushing position, in which the crushing element (9) is approached to the abutment element (5); electromechanical motor means (11) associated with the pressing assembly (8, 9) for the mobilization of the crushing element (9) from the lifting position to the crushing position.