Sensor-Guided Washware Sorting for Flexible Cleaning Lines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cleaning devices for washware in large kitchens face challenges in adapting to varying load conditions, leading to inefficient staff planning and machine utilization, as they are often inflexible and unable to manage sudden peaks or changes in soiling types, resulting in overcapacity and additional costs.
Innovation Solution
A cleaning device with a sensor-actuated slide that identifies specific types of washware and automatically pushes them transversely to a receiving device, allowing for flexible configuration and reduced staff requirements, enabling efficient sorting and stacking of washware.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If cleaning devices are configured with fixed capacity and manual sorting, then device structure is simple and ease of operation is maintained, but adaptability to varying load conditions deteriorates and staff planning efficiency worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning device incorporates a dynamically adjustable conveyor belt system that can vary its speed and operational parameters based on real-time load conditions. The device includes variable speed motors and programmable logic controllers that enable the conveyor to adapt its transportation rate according to the volume and type of washware being processed, transforming a static system into a dynamic one that responds to changing operational requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The device implements automatic sorting mechanisms with sensors and actuators that enable self-service functionality. The conveyor belt system automatically identifies, sorts, and directs different types of washware to appropriate destinations without requiring manual intervention, allowing the device to serve itself in terms of basic operational decisions and reducing dependency on human operators for routine tasks
2Productivity
If cleaning devices are overdesigned to handle load peaks, then productivity during peak periods is ensured, but loss of substance increases due to inadequate utilization outside load peaks
Solution Approach 1:
The conveyor belt system employs variable speed drives and power management systems that adjust energy consumption dynamically. During peak periods, the conveyor operates at full capacity with higher power input, while during low-volume periods, the speed and power consumption are automatically reduced proportionally, ensuring productivity when needed while minimizing energy waste during quieter operational phases
Solution Approach 2:
The device utilizes programmable parameters including variable conveyor speed, adjustable washing cycle durations, and modifiable sorting criteria that can be changed based on operational demands. These parameter changes allow the system to optimize its resource consumption and output levels dynamically, matching energy input to actual processing requirements rather than operating at fixed overcapacity
3Productivity
If manual sorting and feeding is used, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity and staff planning efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates automatic identification sensors, robotic sorting mechanisms, and programmable control systems that enable self-service functionality. The conveyor belt automatically detects washware types, determines optimal routing, and directs items to appropriate destinations without human intervention, allowing the device to perform sorting and feeding tasks autonomously and significantly boosting cleaning process efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces manual mechanical sorting operations with automated systems including optical sensors, programmable logic controllers, and motorized positioning mechanisms. These systems use electronic control and automated decision-making algorithms to substitute human operators in sorting and feeding tasks, thereby increasing productivity while introducing controlled levels of technological complexity
Data Source
AI summary
The invention proposes a cleaning device (110) for cleaning washware (130). The cleaning device (110) comprises at least one cleaning chamber (114) with at least one application device (148) for applying at least one cleaning liquid (150) to the washware (130) in the cleaning chamber (114). The cleaning device (110) furthermore comprises at least one transportation device (136) for transporting the washware (130) through the cleaning chamber (114) in a transportation direction (138). The cleaning device (110) furthermore has at least one outlet region (142), which is arranged downstream of the cleaning chamber (114) in the transportation direction (138), for removing the washware (130) from the transportation device (136). The cleaning device (110) furthermore has at least one sensor (168) for identifying at least one prespecified type of washware (130). The cleaning device (110) furthermore has at least one slide (170) and is designed to automatically push the washware (130) of the prespecified type from the transportation device (136) transversely to the transportation direction (138).