Receiving Bin Configuration Mechanism for Hygienic Sorting Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing receiving bins in sorting machines are difficult to clean due to limited access, requiring manual relocation and additional space, which increases labor intensity and costs, and are prone to contamination from water ingress and structural failure.
Innovation Solution
A receiving bin with a configuration altering mechanism allowing easy transition between operative and inoperative states, enabling full access for cleaning and maintaining the bin, with guided members and handles for smooth movement and separation of chutes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the receiving bin is arranged in close proximity to the outfeed conveyor belt, then product transfer efficiency is improved, but access for cleaning is severely limited
Solution Approach 1:
The receiving bin is made movable between a first position (close to conveyor belt for operation) and a second position (away from conveyor belt for cleaning access). This dynamic repositioning allows the system to optimize for either productivity or ease of cleaning depending on the operational phase, resolving the contradiction between these two requirements.
2Ease of operation
If the receiving bin is physically separated from the frame, then cleaning access is improved, but additional storage space and labor are required
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of permanent separation requiring storage space, the receiving bin is designed to dynamically reposition on-demand. The bin moves to a cleaning position only when needed, eliminating the need for dedicated storage space and reducing labor requirements compared to manual relocation of heavy bins.
Solution Approach 2:
The receiving bin serves multiple functions: it processes products during operation and serves as an accessible cleaning surface when repositioned. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate storage infrastructure and reduces overall system complexity.
3Strength
If the receiving bin is made heavy for structural integrity, then strength is improved, but manual relocation becomes labor intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The receiving bin incorporates a movable design with controlled repositioning capability. This allows the bin to maintain its structural integrity and weight for strength while enabling easy relocation through mechanical assistance or automated mechanisms, eliminating the need for heavy manual labor.
4Ease of operation
If high pressure wash-down is used for sanitizing, then cleaning effectiveness is improved, but water accumulation in joints causes rust
Solution Approach 1:
The receiving bin is repositioned to a cleaning position where it is accessible for wash-down while minimizing water accumulation in critical joints. The design extracts the cleaning function from the operational position, allowing effective sanitization while protecting structural joints from water damage through proper drainage and positioning.
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A receiving bin for a sorting machine is disclosed. The receiving bin is movable to alternate between an operative configuration and an inoperative configuration. In an operative configuration, the receiving bin is configurable for receiving a rejected product from the sorting machine. In an inoperative configuration, the receiving bin is configurable for servicing and maintenance. The receiving bin comprises an inlet chute and a transfer chute. Advantageously, the receiving bin for the sorting machine further comprises a configuration altering mechanism connecting said inlet chute, and said transfer chute. In the proposed arrangement, the inlet chute and the transfer chute are sufficiently exposed to waterjet during a cleaning event, which is essential to maintain aseptic conditions and hygienic environment, especially when the sorting machine is commissioned in a production plant where food items such as meat, fish, or dairy products are processed and packaged.