Flexible Separator Element for Sorting Apparatus

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing sorting machines require complex and costly mechanisms for adjusting the position of the separator element, which can lead to trapping of foodstuffs and increased maintenance, while also being more expensive and less reliable compared to the proposed solution.

Innovation Solution

A flow divider assembly utilizing a flexible separator element with a formed upper edge for rigidity and adjustable lower edge, supported by end supports with engagement features and a locking mechanism, allowing for adjustment of the separator element's position without hinges, reducing the need for critical alignment and minimizing foodstuff trapping.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a hinged separator plate with locking mechanism is used, then the position of the dividing edge can be adjusted, but the device complexity increases and the reliability decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadjustability of dividing edge positionVSAvoidcomplexity of adjustment mechanism

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the rigid hinged separator plate with a flexible separator element that can be bent to different positions. The element has a formed upper edge that maintains rigidity in the horizontal plane while allowing vertical flexing. This flexible construction eliminates the need for hinges, locking mechanisms, and complex adjustment systems, directly resolving the contradiction between adjustability and device complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

2Adaptability or versatility

If a hinged separator plate is used, then the position of the dividing edge can be adjusted, but the reliability decreases due to more moving parts

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadjustability of dividing edge positionVSAvoidreliability of separator mechanism

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The flexible separator element eliminates hinges and locking mechanisms that are prone to failure. The formed upper edge provides structural integrity without requiring additional moving parts, directly improving reliability while maintaining adjustability through simple flexing motion.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

3Adaptability or versatility

If a rigid separator plate with hinge is used, then the position can be adjusted, but foodstuffs can be trapped in the hinge mechanism

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadjustability of separator positionVSAvoidfoodstuff trapping

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The flexible separator element with its formed upper edge eliminates the hinge joint that creates trapping zones. The continuous flexible construction allows the separator to bend without creating gaps or crevices where foodstuffs could be trapped, directly resolving the hygiene issue while maintaining position adjustability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

4Device complexity

If a flexible separator element is used, then the device complexity and cost are reduced, but the rigidity of the dividing edge must be maintained

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesimplicity of separator constructionVSAvoidrigidity of dividing edge

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The separator element has different properties at different locations: the upper edge is formed to provide local rigidity in the horizontal plane where it is needed for dividing edges, while the rest of the element remains flexible to allow bending and adjustment. This local differentiation of properties resolves the contradiction between overall flexibility and local rigidity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

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 reduces costs, enhances reliability, and improves hygiene by minimizing the number of moving parts and eliminating the need for precise alignment, while allowing for effective separation of product streams with improved visibility and adjustment capabilities.

Implementation Method 1

a flexible separator element, which has an upper edge which presents a dividing edge to the product flows and a horizontal position of which is adjusted by flexing the separator element

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS10427189B2Flow divider for sorting apparatus

Publication Date: 2019.10.01 BUHLER UK LTD

AI summary

A flow divider assembly for a sorting apparatus, comprising a flow divider (3), which is operative to separate first and second product streams or flows (F1, F2), wherein the flow divider (3) comprises a flexible separator element (11), which has an upper edge (12) which presents a dividing edge to the product flows and the position of which is adjustable by flexing the separator element (3).