Modular Food Roller Slat Assembly for Variable Roll Shapes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing food roller devices are limited in forming various shapes and sizes of food rolls, particularly when dealing with delicate materials or multiple ingredients, as they are often specific to a certain food type and restricted in size or shape.
Innovation Solution
A modular food ingredient roller system comprising pivotally connectable central slats, end slats, and a frame apparatus with a roll cutting guide, allowing users to form rolls of different sizes and shapes by selecting the number of central slats and configuring the apparatus for various cross-sections and diameters, along with a roll cutting guide for precise slicing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed food roller device is used, then it can form rolls of a specific size or shape, but it is limited in forming various shapes and sizes of food rolls
Solution Approach 1:
The roller device is divided into multiple individual slats (e.g., 6-12 slats) that can be selectively connected in different configurations. Each slat is a separate component with connection mechanisms that allow them to be arranged in various patterns, enabling the formation of different roll sizes and shapes while keeping individual components simple and manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The slats are designed as universal components that can serve multiple functions. Each slat has connection mechanisms on multiple sides, allowing it to connect with adjacent slats in different orientations and configurations. This universal design enables the same basic slat component to create various roll types (sushi, burritos, spring rolls) and sizes by changing the arrangement rather than requiring different specialized components.
2Ease of manufacture
If traditional food roller devices are used, then they are simple in structure, but they are difficult to clean and store
Solution Approach 1:
The roller is segmented into multiple detachable slats that can be separated from one another. This segmentation allows each slat to be individually rinsed, washed, or dried, making cleaning much easier compared to a solid integrated roller. The separated slats also occupy less storage space when not in use.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection mechanisms between slats allow for dynamic assembly and disassembly. Users can quickly connect and disconnect slats based on cleaning needs or storage requirements, transforming the device from a static fixed structure to a dynamic reconfigurable system that adapts to different operational states (assembled for use, disassembled for cleaning/storage).
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems, and apparatuses are disclosed for a modular food ingredient roller.