Food Package Date Marking via Side Apertures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for marking food products with dates often require unpacking and repackaging, which is inefficient, especially when products are frozen and thawed before shipment, as the thawing date determines the marking date, making it difficult to accurately mark packages while they remain in a storage container.
Innovation Solution
A product marking assembly that includes a storage container with side flaps and apertures, allowing packages to be marked while still packed, using an opening device to create access through side apertures, a marking device to apply dates, and a conveyor system to manage the container's movement and sealing, enabling marking without unpacking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If packages are unpacked and repackaged to mark dates, then marking can be performed, but productivity decreases and packaging integrity is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The storage container is segmented with side apertures that allow selective access to packages without complete unpacking. The container structure is divided into sealed compartments with controlled access points, enabling marking operations while maintaining overall packaging integrity and avoiding the complexity of complete unpacking and repackaging processes.
2Ease of operation
If packages are accessed through top opening for marking, then marking is possible, but packaging integrity is compromised and access is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The invention transitions from vertical access (top opening) to horizontal access (side apertures). By positioning apertures in the side walls of the storage container, packages can be accessed laterally without compromising the top sealing integrity. This dimensional change allows marking operations while preserving packaging reliability and integrity.
3Measurement precision
If complete unpacking is performed for marking, then all packages can be marked, but time is lost and packaging integrity is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The storage container is pre-configured with side apertures and access mechanisms during manufacturing. This preliminary preparation allows packages to be accessed and marked directly through these pre-formed openings without requiring time-consuming complete unpacking operations. The packaging structure itself facilitates the marking process while maintaining integrity.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of dating a food product that includes packaging at least two packages of a food product into a storage container and after packaging the at least two packages, the method further includes making the at least two packages with a date while the at least two packages are located within the storage container.