Interface Device for Multi-Color Food Decoration with Serrated Nozzle
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing decorating tools, such as the Wilton ColorSwirl and traditional pastry bags, are cumbersome and lack the ability to easily change or replenish colors mid-output, and cannot create three-dimensional ribbon candy designs with alternating colors on peaks and valleys.
Innovation Solution
A novel interface device and coloring agent system that allows for easy insertion and replacement of coloring agents during use, combined with a modified nozzle featuring inwardly extending serrations or ridges to create three-dimensional designs, enabling multiple colors and alternating stripes on the surface of extruded food materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional pastry bag with striping method is used, then color application is possible, but color interchangeability and replenishment are not allowed
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into separable components: a removable coupler plug, a coupler collar, and an interface device with separate coloring agent chambers. This segmentation allows individual replacement of coloring agents without disassembling the entire apparatus, enabling color interchangeability while maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The coloring agents are nested within sealed chambers inside the interface device, which itself is nested between the coupler plug and coupler collar. This nested structure allows compact storage of multiple coloring agents while enabling easy access and replacement through the coupler interface.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple bags of colored frosting are used simultaneously, then multi-color output is achieved, but the apparatus becomes cumbersome and unwieldy
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple coloring agents that would traditionally require separate bags are merged into a single interface device with multiple integrated chambers. The coupler plug and collar assembly combines these chambers into one unified apparatus, eliminating the need to handle multiple separate bags while maintaining multi-color capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The interface device serves multiple functions: it holds multiple coloring agents, provides sealing surfaces for the coupler interface, and directs flow paths for each color. This multi-functional design replaces the need for multiple separate decorating bags, improving operational convenience.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional coupler plug and collar are used, then basic dispensing is possible, but three-dimensional ribbon candy designs cannot be created
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler plug and collar are equipped with localized features such as ridges, grooves, and sealing surfaces at specific positions. These localized structural qualities enable the creation of three-dimensional ribbon candy designs by directing and shaping the extruded material in specific patterns without requiring complex overall device construction.
4Productivity
If coloring agents are applied internally in traditional bags, then color imparting is achieved, but replacement and replenishment are not possible mid-output
Solution Approach 1:
The coloring agents are pre-sealed in individual chambers within the interface device before use. This preliminary sealing allows the coloring agents to be prepared and positioned in advance, enabling quick replacement and replenishment during operation without requiring complex real-time sealing mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
An interface device, coloring agent and method for imparting color to food material during the decorating of foods. This interface device, coloring agent and method for imparting color to food material during the decorating of foods can be used to impart color from solid, liquid or semi-liquid coloring compounds to a wide variety of food material such as frosting and icing.