Mixing Blade Assembly with Trailing Scrapers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional mixing machines are inefficient in achieving uniform heat transfer and mixing of viscous liquids with solid constituents within a reduced time, as the support structure does not effectively contribute to moving feedstock towards or away from the vessel walls, leading to resistance and increased energy consumption.
Innovation Solution
A mixing blade assembly with support members that include a mixing surface configured to squeeze feedstock material between the mixing surface and the heat transfer surface, enhancing shear and heat transfer, while scraper blades engage the heat transfer surfaces to direct the feedstock towards the mixing blade, facilitating circulation and uniformity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If conventional mixing blades are used with support members that do not actively move feedstock, then the structure is simple, but heat transfer effectiveness is poor and mixing time is extended
Solution Approach 1:
The support members are designed to perform multiple functions: they structurally hold the mixing blade while simultaneously acting as active mixing elements that squeeze and circulate feedstock against the vessel walls. This merging of structural and functional roles eliminates the need for separate scraping mechanisms and improves heat transfer during the mixing process itself
Solution Approach 2:
The support members are configured to dynamically interact with the feedstock through squeezing action as the blade rotates, creating variable pressure zones that actively push viscous material against the heat transfer surfaces. This dynamic interaction ensures continuous contact between feedstock and vessel walls throughout the mixing cycle
2Productivity
If support members are designed to actively move feedstock toward and away from walls, then heat transfer improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support members serve universal functions by simultaneously providing structural support for the mixing blade and performing active feedstock manipulation. This multi-functionality achieves improved mixing efficiency without adding separate dedicated components, thereby avoiding increased device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The support members utilize changes in pressure and position parameters during rotation to achieve feedstock movement. By varying the squeezing force and contact position as the support members rotate with the blade, the system achieves active feedstock circulation using the existing rotational motion rather than requiring additional actuation mechanisms
3Use of energy by moving object
If viscous feedstock is circulated without active support member engagement, then energy consumption is high, but the structure remains simple
Solution Approach 1:
The support members utilize the existing rotational kinetic energy of the mixing blade to perform additional mixing work. As the blade rotates, the support members automatically engage and squeeze feedstock against the walls without requiring separate power sources or control systems, thereby reducing overall energy consumption while adding minimal complexity
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 enhances heat transfer and mixing uniformity within a shorter time, reduces energy consumption, and simplifies maintenance, resulting in a more effective and durable mixing process.
Implementation Method 1
the feedstock material squeezed within the passage will be subjected to mixing shear
Implementation Method 2
facilitates heat transfer between a batch of feedstock and the walls of the vessel
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and method for mixing feedstock within a vessel wherein the feedstock is moved along a heat transfer surface within the vessel. A mixing blade assembly includes a mixing blade and at least one mixing blade support member moved within the vessel to sweep forward along a path of travel extending adjacent the heat transfer surface. Feedstock is circulated within the vessel by the mixing blade, and the mixing blade support member includes a mixing surface confronting the heat transfer surface. The mixing surface is spaced from the heat transfer surface and is configured such that feedstock material is squeezed between the mixing surface and the heat transfer surface so as to be subjected to mixing shear and heat transfer between the squeezed feedstock material and the heat transfer surface. A scraper blade is located on the mixing blade support member in position to trail behind a trailing face of the mixing blade support member and is engaged with the heat transfer surface during movement of the mixing blade support member along the path of travel so as to scrape feedstock material from the heat transfer surface and direct the squeezed feedstock material to the mixing blade to be mixed with the feedstock circulated within the vessel by the mixing blade.