Non-Contact Food Mass Application via Pneumatic Entrainment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for applying masses to foodstuffs, particularly liquid masses with pieces, often require contact and are not suitable for non-contact application, especially when using a gas stream.
Innovation Solution
A device with a flow channel and a feed line that generates negative pressure for automatic suction of the mass, combined with a compressed gas connection to create a non-contact application method using a gas stream, allowing for the precise coating of foodstuffs with liquid masses containing pieces without damaging the surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If contact methods are used to apply masses to foodstuffs, then the application is simple and direct, but the method damages the food surface and is not suitable for liquid masses with pieces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a gas stream (pneumatic system) to transport and apply the mass to the foodstuff surface. The mass is suspended in a gas flow and deposited without mechanical contact, eliminating surface damage while maintaining application effectiveness. This is achieved through a nozzle system that generates a controlled gas stream carrying the mass particles.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical contact application methods with a gas stream-based non-contact system. Instead of using mechanical conveyors or direct contact nozzles, the invention uses aerodynamic forces to transport and deposit the mass, substituting mechanical interaction with fluid dynamic interaction.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If non-contact gas stream method is used, then surface damage is avoided, but the distribution uniformity of solid ingredients is difficult to control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the mass into fine particles or droplets that can be individually suspended and transported in the gas stream. This segmentation allows for more uniform distribution as the particles are carried by the gas flow and deposited evenly on the foodstuff surface, while maintaining non-contact application.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a dynamic gas stream system where the flow characteristics (velocity, pressure, direction) can be controlled and adjusted. This dynamic control allows optimization of the mass distribution uniformity while maintaining non-contact application, adapting the gas flow to achieve consistent coating across different foodstuff surfaces.
3Ease of operation
If high pressure is used to inject liquid into meat, then injection is achieved without piercing, but the surface may be damaged and energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses pneumatic pressure (gas stream) instead of hydraulic pressure (liquid injection) to transport and apply the mass. This pneumatic approach achieves the desired application without the high pressures that could cause surface damage, while still enabling non-piercing application through the gas-carrying mechanism.
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 method ensures uniform distribution of solid ingredients in the coating and retains gas inclusions, giving the mass a larger volume impression, even after freezing, and is suitable for various viscosities and temperatures, enhancing the adhesion and quality of the applied mass.
Implementation Method 1
the feed line, which, preferably coaxially with the flow channel, opens out in an area in which the flow channel generates negative pressure
Implementation Method 2
with compressed gas being able to flow through the flow channel from its inlet opening to its outlet opening
Implementation Method 3
the mass flowing with the compressed gas through the flow channel to the outlet opening
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention describes a device for use as an application device for masses onto foodstuffs and a method for producing coated foodstuffs by applying a mass to foodstuffs, comprising a flow channel at the inlet end of which a supply line for the mass is arranged, the opening of which is fixed in a region extending from a distance in front of the inlet end into the flow channel.