Flexible Display Interface for Food Processing Machines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing food processing and packaging devices with displays are ergonomically unfavorable due to stationary or rotatable displays that can be obstacles and hinder operator convenience.
Innovation Solution
The device utilizes a flexible input and display area that can be variable in size and position, using a transparent film as a touch-sensitive surface integrated into the functional or protective housing, or even the packaging material, allowing for ergonomic adjustment based on the operator's needs, with features like gesture recognition and adjustable brightness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a stationary or rotatable display is used for device control, then the device can be operated, but the display becomes an obstacle and is ergonomically disadvantageous
Solution Approach 1:
The display and input area are extracted from the device housing and projected onto external surfaces such as the packaging material or surrounding atmosphere. This removes the physical display structure from the device, eliminating it as an obstacle while maintaining all control and information functions.
Solution Approach 2:
Electromagnetic radiation (light) serves as an intermediary to transmit information from the device to the operator. The display information is projected through electromagnetic radiation onto external surfaces, allowing the operator to receive information without a physical display structure blocking the workspace.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a physical display with input area is integrated into the device, then control functions are available, but the device requires more parts and space
Solution Approach 1:
The packaging material or surrounding atmosphere serves multiple functions: it contains the food product, provides structural protection, and simultaneously acts as the display surface for information and input area. This eliminates the need for separate display components while adding adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The display is moved from a two-dimensional fixed surface to a three-dimensional space where the input and display area can be projected onto various surfaces surrounding the device. This allows the display to adapt to different operator positions and device configurations without adding parts.
3Ease of operation
If a transparent protective housing is used, then the device function can be observed, but the housing must serve additional functions
Solution Approach 1:
The transparent protective housing serves multiple functions: it protects the device components, allows visual observation of the food processing, and acts as a support surface for the projected display and input area. This eliminates the need for separate display mounting structures.
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 enhances operator convenience by allowing the display to be adjusted to the operator's preferences, reducing ergonomic strain and improving usability while maintaining hygiene by not requiring direct contact with the input surface.
Implementation Method 1
the protective housing is designed to be switchable to transparent, for example by having a film that changes its transparency when an electrical voltage is applied
Implementation Method 2
at least one electromagnetic radiation source that projects information and/or an input field onto the functional part and/or a protective enclosure part
Implementation Method 3
This film can, for example, have an electrical power supply and/or a data line connecting it to the control system of the device and is preferably touch-sensitive
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a machine and/or line for processing and/or packaging food, comprising a display by means of which the machine can be set and via which information can be displayed, said display having an input surface and a display surface. The invention further relates to a method for controlling a machine and/or line for processing and/or packaging food.