Frozen Confection Machine Automated Control System
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing frozen dessert machines are tedious and unsanitary to operate and clean, waste dessert mix during inactive periods, and lack accurate dispensing and data tracking capabilities, leading to inconsistent product quality and inefficient inventory management.
Innovation Solution
A programmable control system with a graphical interface and data storage unit for automated operation, including a hibernation mode to conserve mix and reduce cleaning frequency, and precise dispensing mechanisms to ensure consistent product quality and inventory tracking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual cleaning and refilling procedures are used, then the machine can be operated, but the operations are tedious and potentially unsanitary
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automatic cleaning cycles where the cleaning solution is pumped through the dispensing system and mixing chamber, and then drained automatically. The programmable controller manages the entire cleaning process without manual intervention, making the system self-servicing for maintenance tasks.
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical cleaning operations are replaced by an automated fluid-based cleaning system. A cleaning solution is pumped through the system components and drained automatically, substituting manual scrubbing and rinsing with an automated fluid circulation and drainage process.
2Loss of time
If the machine retains dessert mix during inactive periods, then cleaning frequency is reduced, but the mix may spoil or become contaminated
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements periodic cleaning cycles automatically initiated by the programmable controller. During inactive periods, the machine can perform automatic cleaning at set intervals, allowing the dessert mix to be retained for longer periods while maintaining sanitation through scheduled automated cleaning operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses sensors and controllers to monitor the state of the dessert mix and system conditions. The programmable controller receives feedback from various sensors and automatically initiates cleaning cycles when conditions warrant, ensuring product safety while maximizing operational intervals between manual interventions.
3Manufacturing precision
If manual refilling and restarting procedures are used, then the machine can be replenished, but the first batches of product are inconsistent and substandard
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary mixing and aeration of the dessert mix before it is dispensed to customers. The programmable controller ensures that the mix is properly prepared and reaches consistent operational parameters before product dispensing begins, eliminating the inconsistency problem associated with manual refilling and immediate use.
Solution Approach 2:
Manual refilling and initial product preparation operations are replaced by automated dispensing mechanisms controlled by a programmable controller. The system automatically manages the refilling process and initial product batches, ensuring consistent quality through automated control rather than manual operation.
4Ease of operation
If automated control systems are implemented, then operation is simplified and product consistency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The programmable controller serves multiple functions including monitoring system conditions, controlling dispensing operations, managing cleaning cycles, and tracking production data. By consolidating these diverse functions into a single multi-functional control unit, the system achieves automated operation without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The programmable controller acts as an intermediary between various system components and the operator. It manages the complexity of automated operations internally while presenting a simplified interface to users, mediating between the complex automated systems and ease of operation requirements.
5Manufacturing precision
If precise dispensing mechanisms are used, then product consistency is ensured, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Manual dispensing operations are replaced by automated dispensing mechanisms controlled by the programmable controller. The system uses automated control of mixing, aeration, and dispensing parameters to achieve precise and consistent product delivery without requiring complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The system achieves precise dispensing by automatically controlling and adjusting operational parameters such as mixing speed, aeration level, temperature, and dispensing pressure. The programmable controller manages these parameters to ensure consistent product quality and accurate portioning without requiring complex mechanical precision in the dispensing hardware itself.
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
The solution automates manual operations, reduces waste, ensures consistent product quality, and provides comprehensive data for inventory and cost management, improving operational efficiency and safety.
Implementation Method 1
a refrigeration system for cooling various components of the apparatus
Implementation Method 2
a mixing system including a mixing container for the preparation of edible product and a beater motor and rod for agitating and/or otherwise stirring the ingredients of the mixing container
Implementation Method 3
a dispensing system including one or more nozzles and/or plungers which may be electrically or pneumatically operated for dispensing dessert product from the apparatus
Data Source
AI summary
An edible item is prepared by identifying a number of edible items; associating a predetermined portion of confection with each of the edible items; associating an item identifier with each of the edible items and with the predetermined portion of confection; providing a supply of confection; presenting a selection of item identifiers on a visual display; selecting a single item identifier from the product identifiers presented on the visual display; and dispensing the predetermined portion of confection associated with the edible item associated with the item identifier. Data can be collected related to one of the selection of the single item identifier and the predetermined portion of confection dispensed; and the data can be stored for recall, display, output, and/or transmission. Information about the supply of confection, including supply amount available for dispensing, temperature, consistency, and other characteristics can be stored, displayed, or transmitted.