Mould Stacking System Latch Mechanism for Automated Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mould systems for food products face issues with bacterial contamination due to uncleanable corners, limited use in oven cooking, and inefficient storage, as well as difficulties in automated stacking and lifting due to a pressure-based fixing system.
Innovation Solution
A mould system with a latch or pin-like fixing mechanism that allows upper moulds to block onto lower ones, forming a compact structure for easy transport and storage, and includes handles for robotic or mechanical lifting, enabling automated stacking and unstacking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a pressure-based fixing system is used to attach moulds together, then the moulds can be securely stacked, but automated stacking and lifting becomes difficult due to the pressure requirement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the pressure-based mechanical fixing system with a latch-based mechanical system. The latch mechanism (comprising a latch element and a trigger element) allows moulds to be securely attached without requiring continuous pressure, enabling automated handling. The latch engages with the trigger element to lock moulds together, while automated lifting devices can attach to handles on the stacked moulds for easy manipulation.
2Device complexity
If traditional mould structures are used, then they can be simple in design, but cleaning becomes problematic due to uncleanable corners leading to bacterial contamination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the mould structure into separate, modular components including the support, external legs, and lid. This segmentation allows each component to be easily detached and thoroughly cleaned without difficult-to-reach corners. The modular design maintains structural simplicity while enabling complete disassembly for hygiene purposes, eliminating bacterial contamination risks.
3Ease of operation
If moulds are designed for traditional storage, then they can be individually stored, but storage space efficiency is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nesting arrangement where multiple moulds are stacked vertically with the lid of one mould serving as the base for the next mould above it. The external legs of lower moulds extend upward to receive and support upper moulds, creating a compact nested structure. This reduces storage space requirements significantly compared to individual storage while maintaining easy accessibility through the automated handling system.
4Volume of stationary object
If moulds are stacked tightly for space optimization, then storage efficiency improves, but automated lifting and handling becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces handles as intermediary elements attached to the external legs of the moulds. These handles provide designated attachment points for automated lifting devices, allowing tight stacked arrangements to be easily manipulated. The handles act as mediators between the compact stacked structure and the automated handling system, enabling both space optimization and ease of operation.
Data Source
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AI summary
It comprises at least one support (1), with an upper side (2) comprising at least one housing (7) defining an upper opening for placing the food product to be moulded, external legs (4) and a lower side (3), characterized in that it comprises fixing means (15), like a pin or latch, which attach and block it to external legs (21) of an upper support (20), and in that lower side (3) is a lid of a lower support (11) to which it is attached and blocked by external legs (4) which fit into lower support (11) and which are attached and blocked by respective fixing means, with supports (1, 11, 20) being identical.