Vertical Dough Sheeter with Adjustable Roller Gap
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional dough processing machines are expensive, require significant space, and need professional operation and maintenance, making them inaccessible to many users.
Innovation Solution
A vertically designed, dynamically-adjustable, and reversible dough sheeting apparatus that is compact, easy to install/uninstall, and operate, allowing for flexible processing of various food items with tactile adjustment capabilities, enabling users to process dough efficiently without professional training.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If traditional dough processing machines are used, then processing capability is achieved, but cost and space requirements increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The dough processing machine is divided into separate functional modules: a roller assembly for sheeting, a cutter assembly for shaping, and a motor assembly for power. These modules can be independently manufactured and assembled, reducing overall manufacturing complexity and cost while maintaining processing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs simpler, more affordable materials for critical components such as the rollers and cutters, which can be easily replaced if worn. This approach reduces the overall cost of the machine while maintaining adequate processing capability for typical dough preparation tasks.
2Productivity
If traditional dough processing machines are used, then processing capability is achieved, but installation space increases
Solution Approach 1:
The machine design transitions from a horizontal layout to a vertical arrangement, stacking the motor, roller assembly, and cutter assembly in the vertical dimension. This eliminates the need for extensive horizontal floor space while preserving full processing capability for dough sheeting and shaping.
Solution Approach 2:
The roller assembly is positioned within the space created by the vertical motor assembly, and the cutter assembly is integrated into the roller structure. This nested arrangement maximizes space utilization and reduces the overall footprint of the machine.
3Productivity
If traditional dough processing machines are used, then processing capability is achieved, but operation and maintenance complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The machine incorporates self-aligning roller mounts and simple manual adjustment mechanisms that allow users to perform maintenance and adjustments without professional training. The design enables operators to service the machine themselves, reducing dependency on skilled technicians.
Solution Approach 2:
The roller assembly includes adjustable components that can be easily repositioned to accommodate different dough types and thickness requirements. This dynamic adjustability simplifies operation by allowing users to customize the machine for their specific needs without complex controls or procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to apparatus and methods for processing food materials such as dough. The apparatus includes (1) a frame formed with a trough hole and a slot; (2) a motor obliquely attached to a side wall of the frame; (3) a rear roller positioned in the slot and operably coupled to the motor by a driving gear; (4) a front roller positioned in the slot and operably coupled to the rear roller via a transmission gear set; and (5) a cam component operably attached to the frame and positioned adjacent to the front roller. When the cam portion is rotated, the front roller is moved toward or far away from the rear roller.