Mixing Blade Cleaning System for Rigid Containers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mixing devices for fluid products in rigid containers face challenges such as variable mixing times based on fluid viscosity, non-uniform mixing due to granulous parts deposition, and inefficient blade washing, particularly for viscous fluids, leading to contamination risks.
Innovation Solution
A device with a motorized mixing blade and supporting plane that adjusts to container shape, combined with a washing system using a brush and washing tank, controlled by an electronic system for customizable mixing times and automatic blade cleaning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a fixed mixing time is used for all fluids, then the device is simple to operate, but the mixing quality varies according to fluid viscosity
Solution Approach 1:
The mixing time is made variable and adjustable according to fluid viscosity. The electronic control system allows selecting different mixing times (e.g., 10, 20, 30 seconds) based on the fluid type, transforming a static fixed-time system into a dynamic adaptive one that optimizes mixing quality for different viscosities while remaining easy to operate through simple selector mechanisms.
2Device complexity
If a simple helix blade is used, then the device structure is simple, but non-uniform mixing occurs due to granulous parts deposition
Solution Approach 1:
The single helix blade is divided into multiple segments or elements arranged in a specific pattern. Instead of one continuous blade, the mixing element consists of several discrete helical segments that work together to create more uniform mixing patterns, preventing granulous parts deposition in remote areas while maintaining relatively simple device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the mixing blade are designed with different properties. The helical elements have varying parameters (pitch, diameter, spacing) optimized for different local mixing requirements. Areas prone to granulous deposition receive enhanced mixing action through strategically positioned blade segments, while other areas maintain simpler structure.
3Device complexity
If manual blade washing is required, then the device structure remains simple, but contamination occurs between different fluid products
Solution Approach 1:
The mixing blade performs self-cleaning through the washing system. A brush or cleaning element automatically cleans the blade surface after each mixing operation, eliminating the need for manual washing. This self-service mechanism prevents contamination between different fluid products while adding minimal structural complexity through the integration of the cleaning component.
Solution Approach 2:
The blade is cleaned immediately after each mixing operation before the next fluid product is processed. This preliminary cleaning action prevents residue buildup and contamination risks. The washing system is activated automatically as part of the mixing cycle, ensuring the blade is ready for the next operation without requiring manual intervention.
4Device complexity
If the blade remains stationary during mixing, then the device structure is simple, but viscous fluids do not self-mix uniformly
Solution Approach 1:
The mixing blade is designed to rotate dynamically during the mixing operation rather than remaining stationary. The helical elements rotate to create fluid motion and enhance mixing, particularly for viscous fluids. This dynamic action ensures uniform distribution of granulous parts and prevents remote deposition, while the overall device structure remains relatively simple through the use of a single rotational mixing mechanism.
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
Ensures uniform mixing of viscous fluids and efficient blade cleaning, reducing human effort and preventing contamination, while accommodating non-cylindrical containers and varying fluid viscosities.
Implementation Method 1
a brush (15) for cleaning the mixing blade (6)
Implementation Method 2
a first motor (3), mounted on a carriage (4) movable on guides (5) in a substantially horizontal direction; the motor (3) allows for the rotation of at least a mixing blade (6) for mixing the fluid
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~6
AI summary
A device (1) for mixing fluid products contained in substantially rigid containers (10) comprising a frame (2); a first motor (3), movable inside the frame (2); at least one mixing blade (6), which is actuated by said first motor (3) and being able to mix said fluid product contained into one of the said containers (10); the device (1) possesses some cleaning means (12, 15, 16, 18) of at least one blade (6) being able to remove from it possible traces of fluid remaining after the mixing of the same.