Foodstuff Batching Apparatus with Robotic Diverter Wings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for processing food items, such as meat and vegetables, require initial sorting based on various parameters, leading to inefficiencies and resource wastage, particularly when items do not fit within predefined ranges, and robots struggle to handle items of irregular shapes or sizes efficiently, reducing processing speed and output.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilize a batching apparatus with robotic handling means to selectively batch items based on measured data, allowing for flexible processing and diversion of items to secondary processes for trimming or manual handling, enabling optimal use of items regardless of size or shape, and enhancing efficiency by reducing the need for initial sorting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If initial sorting of items is performed based on predefined parameter ranges, then items within acceptable ranges can be identified for batching, but this necessitates undesirable costs and use of resources
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the parameter basis for item selection from strict predefined ranges to robot capability parameters (grip force, manipulation ability, placement precision). Items are selected based on whether the robot can handle them appropriately rather than是否符合预设参数范围，从而避免了不必要的初始分类资源消耗
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the sorting function from a separate preliminary process and integrates it into the robot's selection decision-making process. The robot directly decides which items to batch based on real-time assessment of item characteristics and robot capabilities, eliminating the need for a distinct initial sorting stage
2Productivity
If robot handling means are used for selective batching, then automation and productivity are improved, but the robot may not be able to place specific items in desired manner if items require large turning angles or are too large
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts batching decisions based on real-time feedback about item characteristics and robot capabilities. When an item is detected to require large turning angles or exceed robot manipulation capabilities, the system dynamically modifies the batching plan to exclude that item from the current batch, allowing the robot to maintain high-speed operation for suitable items
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the item population into different categories based on robot handling capability: items that can be batched at high speed, items requiring manual handling, and items to be excluded from automated batching. This segmentation allows the robot to optimize its operation for the majority of suitable items while accommodating special cases
3Manufacturing precision
If supply rate is reduced to allow robots sufficient time to grip and place items, then placement accuracy is improved, but total work rate and output rate are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies partial automation to the batching process by selectively batching only those items that meet robot handling criteria. This partial action approach allows the robot to operate at high speed for suitable items while accepting that some items will require alternative processing, thereby maintaining high overall output rate without compromising placement precision for automated items
Data Source
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Figure 3
Figure 4a~4c
AI summary
Method and system for processing of foodstuff items (30) that are supplied to a batching apparatus (6), where said batching apparatus (6) comprises at least one handling means of the robot type (50). By means of the batching apparatus (6) a first process is performed, according to which foodstuff items (30) are selectively batched in consideration of measured, detected and/or estimated data for the individual items (30) and in consideration of at least one predefined criterion. Particular items (44) are identified and led (14, 42) to another process (16, 46; 58, 54, 56), said particular items (44) being foodstuff items that have not been selected to be batched during said first process. Handling of an identified particular item (44) in connection with said another process for guiding or transferring said particular item (44) comprises use of one or more diverter wings or diverter arms (58, 70, 74).