Food Processing Machine Remote Service Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machines for producing food products like ice creams and soft drinks face challenges in efficiently communicating machine malfunctions or deviations to remote service points, relying on traditional telephone calls which are time-consuming and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A machine with a user interface that allows operators to send immediate service requests and transmit real-time information to remote processors via an internet connection, including parameters like pressure, temperature, and actuator states, enabling remote troubleshooting and prompt action.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If traditional telephone calls are used to report machine malfunctions, then operators can contact remote service points, but the communication process is time-consuming and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/manual telephone call system with an electronic automated communication system. The control unit automatically transmits malfunction data and alarm messages via electronic networks (GSM, GPRS, 3G, 4G, Wi-Fi, or fixed network) to remote service points, eliminating the need for operators to make manual phone calls and significantly reducing reporting time
Solution Approach 2:
The machine performs self-diagnosis and automatically generates and transmits malfunction reports without human intervention. The control unit detects malfunctions, formulates alarm messages with relevant data, and sends them automatically to predetermined remote service points, allowing the system to serve itself in the malfunction reporting process
2Loss of information
If operators manually troubleshoot machine issues, then they can attempt to resolve problems, but the process lacks real-time data transmission to remote service points
Solution Approach 1:
The system establishes a feedback loop where malfunction data is automatically transmitted from the machine's control unit to remote service points. This feedback mechanism provides real-time information about machine status, measured values, and alarm conditions, enabling remote diagnostics and reducing information loss between the machine and service providers
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit serves multiple functions: it controls machine operation, monitors parameters, detects malfunctions, and transmits data via multiple communication protocols (GSM, GPRS, 3G, 4G, Wi-Fi, fixed network). This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated communication hardware, balancing information transmission capability with device complexity
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
Enables operators to quickly address machine issues by facilitating immediate communication of malfunctions and operational data to remote service points, allowing for efficient troubleshooting and reducing downtime.
Implementation Method 1
a cooling coil circuit mounted on the outside of the cylindrical chamber or in the space inside its wall: a refrigerant fluid flows inside the circuit
Implementation Method 2
a stirring element, usually consisting of a set of blades extending along the surface of the cylinder and driven in continuous rotation
Data Source
AI summary
A machine for making food products in liquid or semi-liquid form, including:a container for containing a basic product;a container for processing the basic product flowing out of the containing container;a stirring element mounted inside the processing container;a thermal treatment system associated with the processing container;a unit for driving and controlling the variables correlated with the aforementioned devices and systems;a user interface provided with operator controls and connected to the drive and control unit.The user interface is configured to allow a remote service request to be sent by activating an operator control.