Inverting Filtration Pocket for Curd Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for separating curd from whey in the dairy industry are labor-intensive, time-consuming, and not ergonomically efficient, particularly in handling moist curds which require manual turning and scraping, leading to potential hygiene issues and material loss.
Innovation Solution
A device that suspends and inverts the filtration pocket using a moving frame and guide means, allowing the curd to fall through an opening and be collected, combined with robotic arms for efficient handling and scraping, optimizing the separation process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual turning and scraping operations are used for curd separation, then the curd can be effectively separated from whey, but the handling time increases and ergonomics deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The filtration pocket is designed to automatically turn over and empty itself through controlled inversion. The pocket's own weight and the gravitational force acting on the curd-whey mixture enable the self-emptying action, eliminating the need for manual turning and scraping operations while maintaining effective separation.
Solution Approach 2:
The device inverts the filtration pocket 180 degrees to change the orientation of the curd-whey separation process. By turning the pocket upside down, the liquid whey naturally drains through the filter material while the curd remains retained, achieving separation without manual intervention and improving operational ergonomics.
2Productivity
If manual handling of curd is performed, then the curd can be processed and separated, but hygiene risks increase due to direct operator contact
Solution Approach 1:
The automated inversion system allows the filtration pocket to empty itself without operator contact. The mechanical device performs the turning and emptying operations, creating a closed system that minimizes direct human contact with the curd and reduces hygiene contamination risks while maintaining processing efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical inversion device acts as an intermediary between the operator and the curd. Instead of operators directly handling the curd, the device mediates the separation process through automated inversion and controlled emptying, reducing direct contact and associated hygiene risks.
3Loss of substance
If manual scraping operations are used to recover curd from the pocket, then material recovery can be optimized, but handling time and labor requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The automated inversion system enables the filtration pocket to self-empty and self-clean through controlled flipping. The curd is completely discharged by gravity during inversion, and the pocket can be quickly repositioned for the next batch, reducing both material loss and handling time compared to manual scraping operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses periodic inversion cycles to achieve complete curd discharge. By repeatedly flipping the pocket at regular intervals during the emptying process, the system ensures thorough material recovery without requiring prolonged manual scraping, thus minimizing both time loss and material waste.
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
This solution significantly reduces handling time, minimizes material loss, and enhances hygiene by automating the curd separation and recovery process, improving ergonomics and efficiency in curd processing.
Implementation Method 1
the weight of the pocket loaded with the remaining curd and gravity causes the bottom of the pocket to fall through the inverted opening, which induces the complete inverting of the pocket
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The device (10) has a frame (11) mounted between initial and final positions. An upper surface of the frame becomes a lower surface of the frame and vice-versa in the final position. The frame is attached with a dome (14) of a filter bag for defining a flow path when the frame is moved from the initial position into an inverted position. The filter bag is lifted in the flow path relative to the frame and an opening. The upper and lower surfaces of the frame are directed towards an outer side and an inner side of the filter bag, respectively.