Underhung Pan Shaker With Multi-Mode Motion for Dough Centering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Prior art pan shakers are inadequate for centering dough in baking pans due to their limited single orbital movement, which is ineffective for various pan configurations, and magnetic bases are insufficient for larger pans.
Innovation Solution
An automated pan shaker with a central longitudinal and lateral axis, featuring a clamping assembly and actuation assembly that induces multiple modes of movement, including linear, lateral, and orbital motions, using a carriage assembly and actuator linkages to adapt to various pan sizes and shapes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single orbital movement is used to shake the pan, then the device structure is simple, but the effectiveness of centering dough is insufficient for various pan configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The shaker assembly is designed with multiple actuator linkages (first and second actuator linkages) that can be dynamically positioned at different angles relative to the pan. The linkages can be adjusted to different angular positions to accommodate various pan configurations and mold arrangements, transforming a static single-orbit system into a dynamic multi-mode shaking system that adapts to different baking pan geometries
Solution Approach 2:
The shaker assembly is designed to perform multiple shaking functions (different orbital paths, angles, and modes) using a single integrated mechanism. By incorporating both first and second actuator linkages that can operate independently or in combination, the system provides universal applicability across different pan types, sizes, and mold configurations, eliminating the need for separate shaking mechanisms for each pan type
2Force
If a magnetic base is used to capture and shake the pan, then the attachment is simple, but the magnetic base is insufficient for larger and heavier pans
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the magnetic attachment system with a mechanical clamping system. The clamping assembly uses physical clamps that can be securely fastened to the pan, providing sufficient attachment force for larger and heavier pans that exceed the capacity of magnetic bases. This substitution maintains simplicity while dramatically increasing the force capability and weight handling capacity
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment system is segmented into separate clamping and actuation components. The clamping assembly independently secures the pan, while the actuator linkages independently provide the shaking motion. This segmentation allows the clamping mechanism to be optimized for maximum attachment force without compromising the shaking function, enabling the system to handle heavier pans effectively
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple modes of movement are induced in the pan, then the dough centering effectiveness is improved, but the actuation mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The first and second actuator linkages are merged into a single integrated actuation assembly that shares common components such as the motor, drive shaft, and control system. The linkages work together in a coordinated manner to produce complex multi-mode shaking patterns, combining their individual motions to achieve precise dough placement. This merging reduces overall system complexity compared to having completely separate actuation systems for each linkage
Data Source
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AI summary
An automated pan shaker has a central longitudinal axis and a central lateral axis. The automated pan shaker includes a shaker assembly that is configured to induce a plurality of modes of movement in the baker pan. The pan shaker assembly includes a carriage assembly, a clamping assembly supported by the carriage assembly and an actuation assembly. The carriage assembly resides below the conveyor belt of the automated pan shaker. The actuation assembly further includes an actuator post connected to the carriage assembly, a first actuator assembly that includes a first actuator linkage connected to the actuator post, and a second actuator assembly that includes a second actuator linkage connected to the actuator post.