Pineapple Processing System with Airflow Insect Deterrent
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for preparing pineapples for consumption are time-consuming, require manual effort, and result in cleaning needs, while stationary equipment faces issues with fruit fly accumulation due to pulp and juice attraction.
Innovation Solution
A system with a housing, processing device, and fan-generated airflow to deter flying insects, combined with a device for determining pineapple diameter and optimizing cutting to minimize waste and maximize yield, featuring adjustable air deflectors and a cutting mechanism for automated preparation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If stationary equipment is used for pineapple processing, then automation and productivity are improved, but fruit fly accumulation occurs due to pulp and juice attraction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful static environment that attracts fruit flies into a beneficial flowing environment by introducing air circulation. The airflow system transforms the stagnant pulp and juice atmosphere into a moving air current that prevents fruit fly accumulation while maintaining automated processing productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies pneumatic principles by using fans and air circulation systems to create airflow through the processing chamber. This pneumatic approach moves air around the pulp and juice, preventing fruit fly accumulation without compromising the automated processing function.
2Ease of manufacture
If manual pineapple preparation is used, then equipment cost is reduced, but time consumption and manual effort increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the pineapple processing system to serve itself by automatically determining pineapple diameter, positioning, and cutting parameters without manual intervention. The system measures the pineapple dimensions and autonomously adjusts cutting depth and position, eliminating the need for manual preparation while keeping equipment simple and cost-effective.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical preparation with automated measurement and control systems. Instead of manual eyes and hands for positioning, the system uses optical or sensor-based diameter measurement and automated control mechanisms to determine and execute cutting parameters.
3Productivity
If automated cutting is implemented, then productivity and precision are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the processing chamber serve multiple functions: it houses the pineapple, contains the cutting mechanism, circulates air to prevent fruit fly accumulation, and provides the space for automated measurement and positioning. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and simplifies the overall system design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the diameter measurement function, positioning system, and cutting mechanism into an integrated automated processing unit. By merging these functions into a single coordinated system, the patent achieves high productivity and precision while avoiding the complexity of separate independent systems.
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 system effectively prevents fruit fly accumulation, reduces manual effort, minimizes waste, and maximizes pineapple pulp yield through automated, efficient processing.
Implementation Method 1
a fan (114) for generating an airflow (121) in the processing chamber (124)
Data Source
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AI summary
System for preparing a pineapple fruit (A) for consumption in a stationary retail setting, comprising a housing that defines a processing space; a device for processing the pineapple fruit (A) in the processing space; and a fan for generating an airflow in the processing space.