Monolithic Gauge Plate Knob for Simpler Food Slicer Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing food product slicers have complex indexing knob mechanisms that require multiple components and assembly steps, leading to increased part count, assembly complexity, and potential for errors.
Innovation Solution
A monolithic knob unit is introduced, combining the grip part and cam part as a single, molded unit, eliminating the need for separate components and assembly, and featuring a cam slot for moving the gauge plate.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate shaft component and cam component are used in the indexing knob mechanism, then the knob can effectively control the gauge plate movement, but the part count and assembly complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the shaft component and cam component into a single integrated indexing knob assembly. The knob body directly forms the cam profile without requiring a separate shaft, and the cam slot is molded as an integral feature of the knob structure. This merging eliminates multiple parts and their associated fasteners, directly reducing part count and assembly complexity while preserving the mechanical functionality of controlling gauge plate movement.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate components are used in the indexing knob, then each component can be optimized independently, but the assembly time and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The indexing knob is designed as a single molded plastic component that integrates the shaft, cam, and retaining features. This monolithic construction eliminates the need to assemble multiple separate components, significantly reducing assembly time. The single-component design also simplifies manufacturing inventory management and reduces the risk of assembly errors, thereby improving overall manufacturing productivity.
3Measurement precision
If a complex multi-component knob mechanism is used, then precise gauge plate positioning can be achieved, but the service requirements and maintenance needs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated indexing knob assembly reduces the number of potential failure points by eliminating interfaces between separate components. With fewer parts and connections, there are fewer elements that can wear, loosen, or fail over time. This simplified design reduces maintenance requirements and makes servicing easier, as the entire knob assembly can be replaced as a single unit rather than disassembling and repairing multiple components.
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 monolithic knob unit simplifies assembly, reduces system complexity, lowers costs, and minimizes service requirements while maintaining the functionality of prior art knobs.
Implementation Method 1
the cam part with a cam slot, wherein the grip part and the cam part are molded together as a monolithic unit
Data Source
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AI summary
A food product slicer includes a base, a knife mounted for rotation relative to the base, a carriage assembly mounted to the base for reciprocal movement back and forth past a cutting edge of the knife, a gauge plate mounted for movement between a closed position that prevents slicing and multiple open positions that permit slicing at respective thicknesses and a gauge plate control knob including a grip part and a cam part with a cam slot, wherein the grip part and the cam part are molded together as a monolithic unit.