Magnetic Gate Gauge for Stable Slicing Machine Thickness Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Slicing machines, such as the Model CC® machines, face challenges in accurately adjusting slice thickness due to the need for manual gauging, which can lead to measurement errors, especially when fine adjustments are required, as operators may inadvertently shift the gauge during adjustment.
Innovation Solution
A gauge system is developed that includes a frame secured to the cutting head, magnetic units for secure attachment, dial indicators for precise measurement, and a dual-acting plunger assembly with an anvil and probe to measure the gate opening between the knife and gate, allowing for accurate and hands-free adjustment of slice thickness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual gauging is used to measure gate opening, then the device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates due to operator error when holding the gauge during adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The gauge system is self-holding through magnetic attachment to the cutting head, eliminating the need for manual support. The magnetic units automatically secure the gauge in position, allowing hands-free operation and preventing operator-induced measurement errors while maintaining simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical holding action is replaced by magnetic attachment forces. The magnetic units provide automatic positioning and securing of the gauge to the cutting head, substituting human hand-holding with a magnetic field-based mechanical system that eliminates operator error
2Manufacturing precision
If fine adjustments of slice thickness are required, then manufacturing precision is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to increased likelihood of gauge shifting during adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The gauge system performs self-positioning and self-securing through magnetic attachment, maintaining stable measurements during fine adjustments without requiring operator intervention. This eliminates gauge shifting while enabling precise slice thickness control
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic units act as intermediaries between the gauge and cutting head, providing a stable connection that prevents gauge movement during adjustment operations. This intermediary magnetic attachment ensures measurement reliability while enabling precision adjustments
3Measurement precision
If a secure platform for measurement is provided through magnetic attachment, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional magnetic units and frame structure
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic attachment system provides automatic securing and positioning without requiring additional complex mounting mechanisms. The frame with magnetic units self-secures to the cutting head, simplifying the overall structure while ensuring measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
Magnetic units are strategically positioned at specific locations on the frame where attachment to the cutting head is needed. This localized application of magnetic attachment provides secure mounting only where required, avoiding unnecessary structural complexity throughout the entire gauge system
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 gauge system enables precise and consistent measurement and adjustment of slice thickness, reducing operator error and ensuring accurate slice production even during fine adjustments, by providing a stable and secure platform for the dial indicators to measure the gate opening without manual holding.
Implementation Method 1
magnetic units for secure attachment
Data Source
AI summary
Instruments and methods for measuring and adjusting gate openings of a slicing machine utilizing a gauge system that includes a frame, a device for securing the frame to the interior surface of a cutting head, a device for locating the frame relative to a knife and/or a gate of the cutting head that define the gate opening therebetween, and a device mounted to the frame for measuring the gate opening. The measuring device includes an anvil biased in an outward direction relative to the frame, an indicator mounted to the anvil and biased therewith in the outward direction relative to the frame, and a probe of the indicator biased in the outward direction relative to the indicator. The probe and anvil provide a outward measurement of the gate opening based on a differential measurement of surfaces of the knife and gate.