Tubular Fruit Coring With Automatic Core Reinsertion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fruit core removal machines suffer from issues such as rapid oxidation of fruits like pineapple due to exposed cavities, manual core repositioning leading to poor hygiene and inefficiency, and imprecise repositioning of cores in fruits of varying sizes.
Innovation Solution
A machine with gripping means, a tubular blade, and a pusher mechanism that automatically sections the core and repositions it precisely without manual intervention, using synchronized actuators and sensors for precise core reinsertion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of substance
If the core is removed from the fruit, then the core can be extracted for processing, but the cavity becomes exposed to air causing rapid oxidation and darkening of the fruit
Solution Approach 1:
The core is reinserted into the fruit cavity immediately after removal, preventing the cavity from being exposed to air for an extended period. This preliminary action of reinsertion eliminates the oxidation problem by restoring the protective structure before oxidative damage can occur.
2Loss of substance
If manual reinsertion of the core is used, then the core can be repositioned in the fruit, but the process is time-consuming and creates poor hygiene conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses automated mechanical components including a reinsertion device with positioning mechanisms that automatically return the core to the fruit cavity without manual intervention. This self-service approach eliminates the time-consuming manual handling while maintaining hygiene standards through automated, clean operation.
Solution Approach 2:
Manual reinsertion operations are replaced by an automated mechanical system comprising a reinsertion device with actuators and positioning mechanisms. This substitution of manual mechanical operations with automated mechanical systems increases processing speed while maintaining consistent hygiene conditions.
3Loss of substance
If manual reinsertion of the core is used, then the core can be repositioned, but hygiene conditions deteriorate due to manual handling
Solution Approach 1:
The automated reinsertion device performs the core repositioning task without human contact, allowing the system to serve itself in completing the core removal and reinsertion cycle. This eliminates contamination risks from manual handling while maintaining reliable hygiene standards throughout the process.
4Extent of automation
If existing core repositioning machines are used, then core reinsertion can be automated, but they are complex and not suitable for fruits of different sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The gripping means and reinsertion device incorporate adjustable and adaptable components that can dynamically adjust to different fruit sizes and shapes. The gripping force, positioning depth, and reinsertion timing are controllable parameters that can be modified based on the specific fruit being processed, providing versatility without requiring complex dedicated machinery for each fruit type.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is designed with universal capabilities to handle multiple fruit types and sizes using the same basic mechanism. The gripping means, tubular blade, and reinsertion device work together in a unified system that can adapt to different geometries, eliminating the need for complex specialized equipment for each fruit variety.
5Extent of automation
If existing core repositioning machines are used, then automation is achieved, but positioning precision is relatively poor
Solution Approach 1:
The reinsertion device uses controlled mechanical actuation with precise positioning mechanisms that guide the core back into the fruit cavity with high accuracy. The use of controlled mechanical systems with adjustable parameters enables precise positioning that exceeds the capability of earlier automated machines.
Data Source
AI summary
A machine for sectioning the core of a fruit, comprising: —gripping means (2,21), provided to assume a gripping configuration, in which they hold a fruit (F) in a cutting position, and a release configuration, in which they release the fruit (F); —a tubular blade (3), concentric to a longitudinal axis (Y), which is provided with a cutting edge (31) and is movable along the longitudinal axis (Y) between an advanced position and a retracted position; —an abutment (4), located in an opposite position to the tubular blade (3) and provided to be positioned in contact with the fruit (F) in a position opposite the tubular blade (3); —a pusher (5), arranged inside the tubular blade (3) and movable with respect to the latter between a first position, in which it is able to push the core (T) out of the tubular blade (3), and a second position, in which it enables the carrying out of the cutting stroke of the tubular blade (3).