Flexible Loop Identification Device for Ham Volume Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing identification devices for hams require multiple time-consuming and resource-intensive hanging and removal operations during the curation and commercialization processes, and are difficult to handle and expensive to manufacture, while also failing to adapt to the volume changes of the hams during processing.
Innovation Solution
An identification device comprising a flexible attach element forming a closed loop and a rigid or semi-rigid fastening element, where the information support is integrated into or on the fastening element, allowing for easy mounting and adaptation to volume changes, with a tracking process involving hanging and mounting steps that enable secure and efficient attachment and detachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If traditional identification devices are used, then identification function is provided, but multiple time-consuming hanging and removal operations are required
Solution Approach 1:
The identification device is divided into two independent parts: a flexible attach element that forms a closed loop and a rigid or semi-rigid fastening element. This segmentation allows the attach element to remain on the ham continuously while the fastening element can be easily attached or detached, eliminating the need to remove the entire identification device during processing operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible attach element is pre-formed into a closed loop configuration that can adapt to the ham's shape. This preliminary preparation allows the device to be quickly attached without requiring hanging operations, as the loop structure can be simply stretched over or around the ham and secured with the fastening element.
2Stability of the object's composition
If rigid identification devices are used, then structural stability is provided, but difficulty in handling and high manufacturing cost occur
Solution Approach 1:
Different parts of the identification device have different mechanical properties: the attach element is flexible to conform to the ham's shape and facilitate easy attachment, while the fastening element is rigid or semi-rigid to provide stable fastening and support the information support. This local differentiation of material properties optimizes both handling ease and structural stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The identification device combines flexible material (for the attach element) with rigid or semi-rigid material (for the fastening element and information support housing). This composite construction integrates the advantages of both material types: flexibility for easy attachment and rigidity for stable fastening and durable information storage.
3Adaptability or versatility
If fixed-size identification devices are used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to volume changes is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The attach element is designed as a dynamic, flexible component that can change its configuration to adapt to the ham's volume changes during the curing process. The flexible material allows the closed loop to expand or contract as the ham shrinks, maintaining continuous contact and secure attachment without requiring adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The attach element is made from flexible material that forms a thin-walled structure capable of deforming to match the changing dimensions of the ham. This flexible shell approach provides adaptability to volume changes while keeping the device structure simple and easy to manufacture.
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 allows for continuous monitoring of ham status without interrupting the curation process, reduces handling difficulties, and adapts to volume changes, thereby improving efficiency and reducing manufacturing costs while ensuring secure attachment and easy operation.
Implementation Method 1
The attach element is made of an elastic material
Data Source
Figure 1~5
AI summary
Identification device intended to be mounted around an object (1), notably a ham, comprising an information support (2) bound to a flexible attach element (3) forming a first closed loop (6), and a rigid or semi rigid fastening element (4); characterized in that the fastening element (4) is bound to a first extremity (5) of the first closed loop (6), the fastening element (4) being shaped to cooperate with a second extremity (7) of the first closed loop (6) so as to permit the binding of the second extremity (7) with the fastening element (4) to maintain the device on the object (1).