Kneading Machine Bowl Discharge Plug with Linear Actuator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bowls for kneading machines have complex construction and require additional actuator means for cleaning, making them cumbersome and less efficient in the discharge and cleaning processes.
Innovation Solution
A bowl with a discharge device featuring a plug and actuator means, including a linear actuator and cam means, which allows for simple and compact operation, enabling the plug to move between closing and opening positions while using the same actuator for cleaning by a scraper element, eliminating the need for additional dedicated actuator means.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If additional dedicated actuator means are used for cleaning the plug, then the cleaning function is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The linear actuator is designed to perform multiple functions: it both moves the plug between closing and opening positions, and drives the scraper element to clean the plug. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated actuator means for cleaning, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining reliable cleaning function.
Solution Approach 2:
The cleaning function is merged with the plug movement function by integrating the scraper element and its actuation into the existing linear actuator mechanism. The scraper element is positioned to contact the plug during its movement, and both actions are coordinated through the single linear actuator, combining multiple functions into one mechanism.
2Device complexity
If a linear actuator with cam means is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cam means are designed to guide the slider assembly through a predetermined path that dynamically coordinates the plug's linear movement with the scraper element's cleaning action. The cam track geometry is configured to automatically synchronize the timing and position of the scraper contact with the plug movement, reducing the need for complex control mechanisms while maintaining functional precision.
Data Source
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AI summary
A bowl for a kneading machine, comprising a bottom (2) provided with an opening (4), and a discharge device (6) equipped with a plug (8) and with actuator means configured for moving the plug between a position for closing the opening, in which the latter is engaged by the aforesaid plug, and a position of discharge of the bowl, in which the opening is disengaged from the plug so as to be able to discharge through it the dough prepared in the aforesaid machine. The bowl is characterized in that the aforesaid device comprises a linear actuator (16) configured for moving the plug, and, moreover, cam means (26', 26", 28) configured for guiding movement of the aforesaid plug along a path comprising a horizontal rectilinear stretch.