Removable Die Dough Cutter for Shape Variety
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dough extrusion technologies are limited in producing dough-based products with complex and non-uniform shapes, requiring new cutters for each shape, which is costly and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A dough cutting apparatus with a removable die and knife mechanism that allows for various shaped openings, enabling the extrusion and cutting of dough-based products in diverse shapes without the need for multiple cutters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional uniform dough cutters are used, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but product shape variety is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single dough cutter apparatus that can produce multiple doughnut shapes through interchangeable dies. The base cutter unit remains the same, but different dies (circular, square, heart-shaped, etc.) can be attached to create various product shapes, eliminating the need for multiple dedicated cutters for each shape.
Solution Approach 2:
The cutter system is segmented into modular components: a base cutter apparatus and interchangeable dies. This segmentation allows the die component to be replaced based on desired product shape while retaining the expensive base apparatus, reducing overall system complexity and cost for producing shape varieties.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple dedicated cutters are purchased for each shape, then product shape variety is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention creates a universal cutter platform that can produce multiple shapes, eliminating the need to purchase separate dedicated cutters for each doughnut shape. The interchangeable die system allows one cutter to perform the functions of multiple specialized cutters, significantly reducing manufacturing investment.
Solution Approach 2:
The die components are designed as relatively inexpensive, replaceable elements compared to the expensive base cutter apparatus. When a die becomes worn or when shape variety is needed, only the cheap die needs replacement rather than replacing the entire cutter system, reducing manufacturing costs.
3Adaptability or versatility
If complex shaped openings are used, then product shape variety is improved, but dough flow consistency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies local quality by allowing different die geometries to be selected based on the desired product shape. Each die is optimized for its specific shape function while maintaining consistent dough flow characteristics through proper design of the opening geometry, ensuring that complex shapes can be produced without sacrificing dough flow consistency.
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
Enables cost-effective production of dough-based products in unique shapes, enhancing marketing opportunities by allowing manufacturers to create shapes associated with holidays, events, and other themes, while maintaining consistent product quality and reducing manufacturing costs.
Implementation Method 1
the container is pressurized to a pre-selected starting air pressure that is based on the type of dough-based product to be dispensed. Air pressure can be important to the maintenance of proper dispensed weight of the selected dough-based product.
Implementation Method 2
the extrusion process is initiated and air pressure forces the dough through the cutters as they are opened and closed by the air cylinder mechanism
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatuses for cutting dough are described. One described dough cutting apparatus comprises a barrel having two ends, a removable die comprising a shaped opening, the removable die adapted to be coupled to a first end of the barrel, and a knife adapted to cut dough extruded from the shaped opening. In one illustrative method for making doughnuts, dough is extruded and cut using such a dough cutting apparatus and the dough is then cooked.