Microwave Carrier with Adjustable Support for Multi-Article Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current microwave heating systems face challenges in efficiently processing a wide variety of articles with different sizes and shapes due to the need for multiple carriers, leading to increased operating expenses and reduced production efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A carrier and article system that includes a frame with upper and lower support structures defining a cargo volume, allowing articles to be nested and secured in a way that maximizes space, with the use of electrically conductive slats to enhance microwave field uniformity and allow for adjustable configurations to accommodate various article sizes and shapes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple carriers are used to process different sizes and shapes of articles, then the system can accommodate various article types, but capital expenses and operating expenses increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal carrier design with adjustable support structures that can accommodate articles of various sizes and shapes. The carrier includes movable support members that can be repositioned to match different article dimensions, eliminating the need for multiple specialized carriers while maintaining versatility across product types
Solution Approach 2:
The carrier incorporates dynamic, adjustable support structures that can be reconfigured during operation. The support members can be moved to different positions to adapt to different article geometries, allowing a single carrier to serve multiple functions rather than requiring static, dedicated carriers for each article type
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple carriers are used to process different article types, then various sizes and shapes can be accommodated, but production efficiency decreases due to massive change outs
Solution Approach 1:
The carrier uses dynamically adjustable support structures that can be reconfigured quickly to match different article types. This eliminates the need for complete carrier changes between product runs, maintaining high production efficiency while accommodating versatility in article processing
Solution Approach 2:
The carrier support structures can be pre-adjusted to the required configuration before article loading. This preliminary setup allows for rapid transitions between different article types without disrupting the production flow, thereby maintaining productivity while achieving adaptability
3Volume of stationary object
If articles are arranged in nested configuration with overlapping portions, then cargo volume utilization increases to at least 85 percent, but article positioning complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested arrangement where smaller articles are positioned within the contours of larger articles, and overlapping portions are strategically configured to maximize space utilization. This nesting approach achieves at least 85% cargo volume utilization by eliminating wasted space between and around articles
Solution Approach 2:
The support structures provide localized, targeted support at specific points where articles make contact or overlap. Rather than requiring complex global positioning mechanisms, the system uses locally optimized support at critical contact points to maintain the nested configuration and achieve high volume utilization
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 system achieves consistent and efficient heating of articles, reducing capital expenses and maximizing throughput by allowing a single carrier to process multiple types of articles, while ensuring uniform heating and minimizing hot spots.
Implementation Method 1
Microwave radiation is a known mechanism for delivering energy to an object. The ability of microwave energy to penetrate and heat an object in a rapid and effective manner has proven advantageous in many chemical and industrial processes.
Implementation Method 2
The use of electrically conductive slats to enhance microwave field uniformity
Data Source
AI summary
Carriers suitable for transporting a plurality of articles through a microwave heating zone are provided. Carriers as described herein may include an outer frame and upper and lower support structures vertically spaced from one another to provide a cargo volume into which the articles are loaded. At least a portion of the upper and/or lower support structures may be formed of an electrically conductive material. Additionally, the carrier may include removable article spacing members, such as vertical spacing members and dividers, that can be selectively inserted to adjust the size and/or shaper of the cargo volume. Carriers as described herein may be configured to receive a variety of different articles, including trays and pouches, and the articles may be loaded into the carrier in a nested or overlapping manner.