Food Loading Apparatus with Variable Buffer and Cam Gates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing food article loading systems face limitations in packaging rate due to fixed travel distances of oscillating conveyors, susceptibility to product damage, and frequent breakage of torsion springs in hinge gates, which restricts productivity and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A loading apparatus with a variable capacity buffer mechanism and a motorized cam mechanism for hinge gates, allowing continuous operation of the main conveyor while accommodating intermittent indexing conveyor motion, and reducing the likelihood of gate breakage through a linkage system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the transfer conveyor oscillates back and forth with a fixed travel distance, then food articles can be continuously deposited, but the packaging rate is limited and the product is susceptible to damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a buffer mechanism that dynamically adjusts the position of the transfer conveyor during oscillation. The buffer mechanism includes a buffer member that can move between a first position and a second position, allowing the transfer conveyor to travel a variable distance rather than a fixed distance. This dynamic adjustment enables the transfer conveyor to accommodate the intermittent motion of the indexing conveyor while maintaining continuous food article deposition, thereby increasing packaging rate without compromising product safety.
2Ease of operation
If torsion springs are used to close hinge gates, then the gates can be operated simply, but the springs frequently break and pieces may fall into the packaging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional torsion spring mechanism with a motorized cam mechanism. The cam mechanism includes a cam follower that engages with a cam profile, converting rotational motion into the desired gate opening and closing actions. This substitution eliminates the torsion springs that are prone to breaking, while maintaining the simplicity of gate operation. The motorized cam mechanism provides more reliable gate operation without the risk of spring failure and foreign object contamination.
3Productivity
If the indexing conveyor operates intermittently, then food articles can be deposited continuously on the main conveyor, but the transfer member must accommodate variable positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a buffer mechanism as an intermediary component between the main conveyor and the indexing conveyor. The buffer mechanism includes a buffer member that can move between a first position and a second position, acting as a mediator to accommodate the intermittent motion of the indexing conveyor. This buffer mechanism allows the transfer member to transfer food articles continuously from the main conveyor to the indexing conveyor despite the variable positioning requirements, maintaining productivity while managing the complexity through a well-defined intermediary system.
Data Source
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AI summary
A loading head for use with food articles has a main conveyor adapted to convey a plurality of food articles, an indexing conveyor positioned beneath the main conveyor, and a transfer member positioned between the main conveyor and the indexing conveyor. The transfer member is adapted to transfer each food article from the main conveyor to the indexing conveyor. A buffering mechanism is adapted to move the transfer member between a first position and a variable second position. A pusher mechanism is associated with the indexing conveyor to raise and lower gates from an open position permitting food article transfer to a closed position prohibiting food article transfer. The pusher mechanism includes a cam operably associated with the gates to open and close the gates.