Weight Bucket Mechanism Redesign
Redesigned a critical dispensing mechanism to eliminate recurring actuation failures and improve system reliability.
THE PROBLEM
The weight bucket repeatedly experienced failures during opening and closing, disrupting the ingredient dispense.
I investigated the failure mode and redesigned the actuation mechanism to provide more reliable dispense operation.
ROOT CAUSE ANALYSIS
The existing mechanism was overly complex, using multiple linkages and joints that introduced friction and inconsistent motion. The spring provided insufficient closing force, while its load path was poorly aligned with the required actuation direction. The linkage architecture also created difficult-to-clean areas, introducing food-safety concerns.
REDESIGNING THE MECHANISM
RESULT
Eliminated Failure Mode
Resolved the recurring opening and closing issue.
Simplified Design
Reduced mechanism complexity and total part count.
Reduced Cost
Lower part count reduced manufacturing and assembly costs.
Drop-In Integration
Implemented the redesign without disrupting the surrounding assembly.
