Modular Centrifugal System for Granulated Confectionary Production
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for producing granulated confectionary products are inefficient, requiring bulky and expensive equipment, and are labor-intensive for cleaning and switching between products, with existing systems failing to provide a modular and easy-to-control solution for producing firm, homogeneous pastilles.
Innovation Solution
A modular system comprising cascaded centrifugal units with adjustable radial pegs for continuous production of granulated confectionary products, allowing for precise control of grain size and efficient processing, including grinding, granulation, and mixing, which enables quick configuration for different products and simplifies cleaning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If fluid-bed systems or microwave driers are used to produce granulated products, then the granulation process can be completed, but the equipment becomes extremely bulky and expensive to produce and maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the granulation process into multiple centrifugal units (first, second, and third units) that operate in sequence. Each unit performs a specific function (grinding, granulation, drying) with adjustable radial pegs, allowing the complex process to be segmented into manageable stages while maintaining compact equipment size
Solution Approach 2:
The centrifugal units are designed to perform multiple functions within a single device. The same unit can grind, granulate, and dry materials by adjusting operational parameters and radial peg positions, eliminating the need for separate specialized equipment for each function
2Productivity
If known systems are used for production, then adequate output is provided, but cleaning and switching between products becomes a long, painstaking job
Solution Approach 1:
The radial pegs in each centrifugal unit are adjustable and can be repositioned quickly for different grain size requirements. This dynamic adjustability allows rapid reconfiguration between product types without extensive cleaning, reducing changeover time while maintaining high production output
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows rapid change of operational parameters including radial peg positions, rotation speeds, and processing conditions. These parameter changes enable quick switching between different granulated products without requiring lengthy cleaning procedures, thus reducing time loss
3Manufacturing precision
If traditional grinding and fluid-bed drying processes are used, then granulated product can be produced, but the process requires multiple separate steps and bulky equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines grinding, granulation, and drying operations into a single integrated centrifugal unit system. The cascaded units process material continuously through each stage without separate equipment, reducing device complexity while maintaining precise grain size control through adjustable radial pegs
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 modular system enables rapid and efficient production of firm, homogeneous granulated confectionary products with reduced equipment complexity, facilitating quick changes between products and maintaining high output levels, while being compact and cost-effective.
Implementation Method 1
A modular system comprising cascaded centrifugal units with adjustable radial pegs for continuous production of granulated confectionary products
Implementation Method 2
the resulting mixture is granulated to modify its grain size, make it more compressible, and improve its organoleptic qualities
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
AI summary
A method and system (1) for preparing a granulated product, whereby one or more ingredients are first ground in a centrifugal grinding unit (2), and then granulated in a centrifugal granulating unit (3) before being fed to a centrifugal mixing and flavouring unit (4); each of the centrifugal units (2) (3) (4) having a tubular outer shell (6) having an axis (7) and defining a processing chamber (12); and a powered shaft (15) housed in the shell (6), coaxially with the axis (7), and fitted with a row of appendixes (18) (23) (25) projecting radially from, and connected integrally and interchangeably to, the shaft (15).