Food Slicer Axial Reference Position Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Modern high-performance slicers require a quick and automatic method to set and recognize the axial reference position of the cutting blade relative to the closing element for precise cutting gap adjustment, as this setting needs to be frequently adjusted based on the type and condition of the cutting knife and the product being sliced.
Innovation Solution
A device with a movable contact section on the closing element that detects movement to determine the reference position using a measuring device, allowing for precise adjustment of the cutting gap by moving the cutting blade or closing element axially, and utilizing sensors like magnetostrictive displacement sensors for accurate distance measurement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the cutting gap is set manually using a reference position where the cutting blade touches the closing element, then the cutting precision can be achieved, but the time required for adjustment is excessive and productivity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical adjustment with an automated optical measurement system. A laser distance sensor automatically measures the distance between the cutting blade and closing element, eliminating the need for manual mechanical positioning while maintaining precise cutting gap settings. The sensor data is processed by a control unit that automatically adjusts the cutting blade position, substituting human operation with automated optical-mechanical control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-measurement and self-adjustment of the cutting gap. The laser distance sensor continuously monitors the distance between the cutting blade and closing element, and the control unit automatically adjusts the blade position based on real-time measurements, enabling the system to self-regulate without external intervention and significantly reducing adjustment time.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the cutting blade is frequently adjusted to accommodate different knife types and product requirements, then the adaptability is improved, but the time loss from repeated adjustments increases
Solution Approach 1:
The laser distance sensor continuously measures the cutting gap distance during operation, and the control unit continuously adjusts the cutting blade position to maintain the optimal gap. This continuous measurement and adjustment process eliminates interruptions and repeated setup times, allowing the system to adapt to different cutting requirements without stopping production or losing time on manual re-adjustment.
3Measurement precision
If a movable contact section with measuring device is integrated into the closing element, then the reference position detection precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The laser distance sensor serves multiple functions: it measures the cutting gap distance, detects the reference position, and provides data for automated control. The movable contact section integrates the sensor, support, and biasing mechanism into a single multi-functional component that performs measurement, positioning, and stabilization functions simultaneously, reducing overall system complexity despite the added measurement capability.
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 rapid and automatic determination of the axial reference position, ensuring precise cutting gap settings, reducing the risk of blade damage, and improving operational efficiency by integrating sensors for reliable detection and adjustment.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing sensors like magnetostrictive displacement sensors for accurate distance measurement
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
AI summary
A device for slicing food products, in particular a high-performance slicer, comprises a product feeder that feeds one or more products to be sliced along a product conveying direction to a cutting plane in which at least one cutting blade rotates and/or moves around an axis, wherein the product feeder comprises at least one end element, in particular a cutting edge and/or a forming tray, which has a product-guiding contact and/or bearing surface for a front product end area and with which the cutting blade interacts during slicing operation, wherein, in order to determine an axial reference position of the cutting blade, the cutting blade and/or the end element are movable towards each other in an axial direction, wherein at least one area of the end element is designed as a contact section, and wherein a measuring device is provided.by means of which the movement of the contact section can be detected as reaching the reference position.