Packaged Food Microorganism Testing Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for testing packaged foodstuffs for microorganisms face a high risk of incorrect linking between packages and their test results due to misordering or user errors during the storage and analysis process.
Innovation Solution
A device with a storage unit and display means that synchronizes the delivery of packages with their test results at the discharge unit, using a control unit and conveyor system to ensure packages are released simultaneously with their corresponding results, thereby eliminating mix-ups.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If packages are stored in a static condition during sample analysis, then the analysis can be completed, but the risk of incorrect linking between packages and results increases due to order mismatches or user errors
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides real-time feedback by displaying test results immediately when packages are discharged. The display means shows results synchronously with package delivery, creating a direct feedback loop that eliminates manual linking and ensures accurate association between packages and their corresponding test results.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary system consisting of the control unit and display means that acts as a mediator between the sample analysis device and the discharged packages. This intermediary automatically associates results with packages through synchronized timing, eliminating the need for manual intervention and reducing linking errors.
2Productivity
If packages are stored in a static condition during analysis, then complete testing can be performed, but throughput and efficiency are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system maintains continuous operation by allowing packages to move through the storage unit while analysis is ongoing. The synchronized display of results during discharge ensures that the useful action of testing continues without interruption, improving throughput while maintaining reliability through automated result display.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-service by automatically displaying results in synchronization with package discharge without requiring manual intervention. The control unit autonomously manages the timing and display of results, ensuring accurate package-result linkage while maintaining continuous operation and high throughput.
3Ease of operation
If manual linking of results to packages is performed, then flexibility is maintained, but the risk of user errors increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service by automatically displaying results in synchronization with package discharge without requiring manual intervention. The control unit autonomously manages the timing and display of results, ensuring accurate package-result linkage while maintaining continuous operation and high throughput.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical process of linking results to packages with an automated electronic system. The control unit and display means constitute an electronic substitution for manual operations, eliminating user errors while maintaining ease of operation through automatic synchronization.
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
The invention relates to a device and a method for testing packaged foodstuffs for the presence of microorganisms. The device comprises an infeed unit (31) for a package containing a foodstuff; a sample analysis device (4) which is disposed downstream of the infeed unit and which is configured for taking a sample of the foodstuff in the package as well as for testing the sample for the presence of microorganisms; and a discharge unit (32) which is disposed downstream of the sample analysis device for discharging the package from the device. According to the invention, the device comprises a storage unit (5) for the package, which is disposed between the sample analysis device and the discharge unit. The device further, comprises display means (22) for displaying a result of the testing of the sample from the package at the location of the discharge unit. The device is configured so,that the storage unit delivers the package at the discharge unit substantially at the same time as the results of the package in question are being displayed by the display means.