Fluid raw material discharge machine

Abstract

This invention proposes a fluid raw material discharge machine for automatic disinfection operation. The automatic disinfection operation includes: introducing a disinfectant solution into a distributor; actuating a pump to push residual cleaning solution in the raw material delivery pipeline forward, causing the residual cleaning solution to be discharged through an output connector; and using the operation of the pump to create a negative pressure in the cleaning agent delivery pipeline, causing the disinfectant solution in the distributor to be drawn into a fluid connector through the cleaning agent delivery pipeline, and then flowing into the raw material delivery pipeline through the fluid connector. Before using the fluid raw material discharge machine for automatic disinfection operation, the user does not need to remove the fluid connector from the raw material container.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the patent application entitled "Fluid Raw Material Discharge Machine", filed on January 29, 2022, with application number 202210112039.7. Technical Field

[0002] This invention relates to fluid material discharge technology, and more particularly to a fluid material discharge machine capable of automatic cleaning and / or automatic disinfection operations. Background Technology

[0003] For many consumers, freshly made beverages are more appealing than factory-produced canned or bottled drinks in many aspects, such as freshness, taste, and / or the flexibility to customize ingredients. Therefore, many food service operators offer a variety of freshly made beverages to meet customer demand. Due to rising labor costs and other factors (such as the impact of the pandemic or inflation leading to increased operating costs), many businesses have begun to utilize various machines and equipment to provide or assist in the preparation of freshly made beverages, in order to reduce the required labor time and costs.

[0004] As is well known, traditional beverage making machines have numerous internal pipes for transporting liquid ingredients. These pipes must be connected to different ingredient containers via appropriate connectors to allow the machine to obtain the various ingredients needed for beverage production. The number of connectors used in each machine increases as the number of ingredient containers connected to the machine increases. Because traditional beverage making machines do not have automatic cleaning functions, a significant amount of manpower and time is often required to clean the various parts, pipes, and connectors inside the machine to prevent the growth of bacteria or the production of toxins.

[0005] One of the key challenges hindering the implementation of automated cleaning functions in the industry lies in the fact that traditional connectors simply transfer liquid from the raw material containers to the corresponding pipelines. Therefore, when cleaning beverage-making machines, cleaners must manually disassemble multiple connectors from different raw material containers one by one, and then manually clean the relevant parts, pipelines, and connectors using other auxiliary equipment. After cleaning, cleaners must manually reconnect the connectors to the corresponding raw material containers and pipelines. This method of manually disassembling and reconnecting multiple connectors is not only time-consuming and labor-intensive, but also easily soils the surrounding environment during disassembly and frequently leads to scratches or even damage to the connectors. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In view of this, how to effectively avoid the aforementioned problems is indeed a technical issue that needs to be addressed.

[0007] This specification provides an embodiment of a fluid raw material discharging machine. The fluid raw material discharging machine is used to output fluid raw materials stored in multiple raw material containers and can perform automatic sterilization. The fluid raw material discharging machine includes: an output connector; a fluid connector, removably connected to a target raw material container among the multiple raw material containers, and having a raw material pipe and a cleaning pipe; a raw material conveying pipe coupled between the raw material pipe and the output connector; a cleaning agent conveying pipe coupled to the cleaning pipe; a pump coupled between the raw material conveying pipe and the output connector; and a distributor having a liquid input port and multiple liquid output ports, wherein the multiple liquid... The target output port in the body output port is coupled to the cleaning agent delivery pipeline; wherein, the automatic disinfection operation includes: introducing a disinfectant solution into the distributor; actuating the pump to push the residual cleaning solution in the raw material delivery pipeline forward, so that the residual cleaning solution is discharged through the output connector; and using the operation of the pump to create a negative pressure in the cleaning agent delivery pipeline, so that the disinfectant solution in the distributor is drawn into the fluid connector through the cleaning agent delivery pipeline and the cleaning pipe, and then flows into the raw material delivery pipeline through the raw material pipe of the fluid connector.

[0008] One advantage of the above embodiments is that the user does not need to disconnect the material pipe of the dual-mode fluid connector from the originally connected pipeline before using the fluid material discharge machine for automatic cleaning and / or disinfection procedures.

[0009] Another advantage of the above embodiments is that the user does not need to disconnect the cleaning tube of the dual-mode fluid connector from the originally connected pipeline before using the fluid material discharge machine to perform automatic cleaning and / or disinfection procedures.

[0010] Another advantage of the above embodiments is that the user does not need to remove the dual-mode fluid connector from the raw material container before using the fluid raw material discharge machine for automatic cleaning and / or disinfection procedures.

[0011] Another advantage of the above embodiment is that after the fluid raw material discharge machine completes the automatic cleaning and / or disinfection process, the user naturally does not need to reconnect the raw material pipe of the dual-mode fluid connector to the corresponding pipeline, nor does the user need to reconnect the cleaning pipe of the dual-mode fluid connector to the corresponding pipeline, nor does the user need to reconnect the dual-mode fluid connector to the corresponding raw material container. Therefore, it can not only effectively save a lot of manpower and time, but also avoid soiling the surrounding environment, and effectively avoid the problem of joint scratches or even damage.

[0012] Other advantages of the present invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0013] The accompanying drawings, which are provided to further understand this application and constitute a part of this application, illustrate exemplary embodiments of this application and are used to explain this application, but do not constitute an undue limitation of this application.

[0014] Figure 1 This is a simplified external schematic diagram of a fluid raw material discharge machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0015] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A simplified three-dimensional perspective diagram of the fluid raw material discharge machine.

[0016] Figure 3 This is a simplified external schematic diagram of the dual-mode fluid connector and the raw material container when they are separated according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] Figure 4 for Figure 3 A simplified visual representation of the dual-mode fluid connector and the raw material container being connected to each other.

[0018] Figure 5 and Figure 6 This is a simplified appearance diagram of a dual-mode fluid connector in operation mode according to an embodiment of the present invention, viewed from different angles.

[0019] Figure 7 This is a top view schematic diagram of a dual-mode fluid connector in operation mode according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 8 This is a side view schematic diagram of a dual-mode fluid connector in operation mode according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] Figure 9 for Figure 8 A simplified side view of the dual-mode fluid connector.

[0022] Figure 10 for Figure 7 A simplified cross-sectional view of the dual-mode fluid connector along the A-A' direction.

[0023] Figures 11 to 12 This is a simplified exploded view of the dual-mode fluid connector according to an embodiment of the present invention from different perspectives.

[0024] Figures 13 to 18 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly process of a dual-mode fluid connector according to an embodiment of the present invention from different perspectives.

[0025] Figures 19 to 20 This is a schematic diagram of the rotatable part and the bent plate of an embodiment of the present invention after assembly from different perspectives.

[0026] Figure 21This is a schematic diagram of the rotatable part and push rod of an embodiment of the present invention after assembly from a first perspective.

[0027] Figure 22 This is a rear view schematic diagram of a dual-mode fluid connector in operation mode according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 23 This is a simplified schematic diagram of the internal liquid flow direction of a dual-mode fluid connector in operation mode according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 24 This is a rear view schematic diagram of a dual-mode fluid connector operating in cleaning mode according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 25 and Figure 26 This is a simplified appearance diagram of a dual-mode fluid connector operating in cleaning mode according to an embodiment of the present invention, viewed from different angles.

[0031] Figure 27 This is a side view schematic diagram of a dual-mode fluid connector operating in cleaning mode according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 28 This is a top view schematic diagram of a dual-mode fluid connector operating in cleaning mode according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 29 This is a simplified schematic diagram of the internal liquid flow direction of a dual-mode fluid connector in cleaning mode according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 30 This is a simplified schematic diagram of the internal liquid flow direction of the dual-mode fluid connector in cleaning mode, according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 31 for Figure 1 A simplified three-dimensional perspective diagram of the fluid raw material discharge machine during its automatic cleaning process.

[0036] Figures 32 to 35 This is a simplified schematic diagram showing the spatial configuration of some components involved in the automatic cleaning process from different perspectives.

[0037] Figures 36 to 37 This is a simplified flowchart of an embodiment of the automatic cleaning method used in the fluid raw material discharge machine of the present invention.

[0038] Figures 38 to 39 This is a simplified flowchart of an embodiment of the automatic disinfection method used in the fluid raw material discharge machine of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 40This is a simplified flowchart of an embodiment of the pipeline restoration method used in the fluid raw material discharge machine of the present invention.

[0040] Figure label:

[0041] 100 Fluid Material Dispensing Apparatus

[0042] 101 Upper chamber

[0043] 102 Working Platform

[0044] 103 Lower chamber

[0045] 105 door panel

[0046] 107 Neck Chamber

[0047] 109 Control Panel

[0048] 110 Outlet Connector

[0049] 120 Target container

[0050] 130 Material container

[0051] 140 Outlet check valve

[0052] 150 Dual-mode fluid connector

[0053] 152 Material transmission pipe

[0054] 154 Detergent Transmission Pipe

[0055] 160 pump

[0056] 162 connector

[0057] 170 Cleaning Sink

[0058] 172 Disinfectant container

[0059] 174 Water Injection Connector

[0060] 178 Connection hole

[0061] 180 drainage sink

[0062] 182 Drainage Pipe

[0063] 190 fluid diverter

[0064] 192. Switch

[0065] 194 Check valve

[0066] 242. Stopper

[0067] 244. Protruding portion

[0068] 310 Hollow Connecting Element

[0069] 322 Material Tube

[0070] 324 cleaning tube

[0071] 330 head portion

[0072] 340 rear portion

[0073] 350 spring

[0074] 360° putter (rod)

[0075] 370° bent plate

[0076] 380° rotatable element

[0077] 390 plug

[0078] 411 Chamber

[0079] 412 First Space

[0080] 413 Second space

[0081] 415 block element

[0082] 416 First restriction element

[0083] 417 Second restriction element

[0084] 431 connecting opening

[0085] 433 First clamp element

[0086] 435 Second clamp element

[0087] 437 First protrusion element

[0088] 439 Second protruding element

[0089] 441 Through hole

[0090] 443 First spiral track

[0091] 445 Second spiral track

[0092] 447 Block wall portion

[0093] 449 Rear-portion restriction element

[0094] 461 rod head

[0095] 463 Sealing portion

[0096] 465 outer flange

[0097] 467 outer flange

[0098] 469 slot

[0099] 471 First marked region

[0100] 473 Second marked region

[0101] 481 Front opening

[0102] 482 rear opening

[0103] 483 First elongated portion

[0104] 484 Second elongated portion

[0105] 485 First fin

[0106] 486 Second fin

[0107] 487 Second guiding element

[0108] 488 Second guiding element (first guiding element)

[0109] 489 Block portion

[0110] 581 First area

[0111] 582 Second area

[0112] 781 First window

[0113] 782 Second window

[0114] 890 diversion device

[0115] 891 Fluid inlet

[0116] 893 First fluid outlet

[0117] 895 Second fluid outlet

[0118] Operational procedures for models 3602-3614, 3702-3716, 3802-3814, 3902-3916, and 4002-4014. Detailed Implementation

[0119] The embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, the same reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or method flows.

[0120] Please refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 . Figure 1 This is a simplified three-dimensional perspective view of a fluid raw material discharge machine 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 for Figure 1 This is a simplified perspective view of the fluid material dispensing machine 100. The fluid material dispensing machine 100 can be used to output various fluid materials related to beverage preparation or food flavoring.

[0121] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 includes an upper receiving cavity 101, a worktable 102, a lower receiving cavity 103, a door panel 105, a neck receiving cavity 107, a control panel 109, and multiple output connectors 110.

[0122] To avoid making the diagrams too complex, Figure 2 The door panel 105 and control panel 109 of the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 are deliberately omitted, and the external outline of the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 is shown with dashed lines, while internal components that will be further described later are drawn with solid lines. Please note that Figure 1 and Figure 2 The appearance of the fluid material discharge machine 100 shown is a simplified schematic diagram for the purpose of illustration and is not limited to the actual appearance of the fluid material discharge machine 100.

[0123] The upper receiving cavity 101 of the fluid material discharge machine 100 can be connected to the neck receiving cavity 107, or it can be connected to the lower receiving cavity 103 through a suitable connecting channel. Related wires, signal lines, connectors, material transmission pipes, and detergent transmission pipes can be arranged inside the fluid material discharge machine 100 in various suitable ways.

[0124] like Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, the fluid feeder 100 also includes multiple pumps 160, a cleaning tank 170, a drain tank 180, and one or more distributors 190.

[0125] The aforementioned multiple pumps 160 can be respectively connected to various suitable material delivery pipelines (e.g., Figure 2 The exemplary raw material delivery pipeline 152 shown in the figure) and the associated connector (e.g., Figure 2 The exemplary connector 162 shown in the figure connects to other components and can be disposed within the upper receiving cavity 101 and / or the lower receiving cavity 103 in various suitable spatial configurations, without being limited to Figure 2 The spatial configuration shown.

[0126] Each pump 160 is configured to pressurize the received fluid feedstock to propel the fluid feedstock forward. In practice, each pump 160 can be implemented using various suitable liquid pump devices capable of propelling fluid forward, such as peristaltic pumps, diaphragm pumps, rotary diaphragm pumps, or similar devices, etc.

[0127] In addition, multiple flow stabilizing devices (not shown in the figure) and multiple flow meters (not shown in the figure) can be installed inside the fluid raw material discharge machine 100, and these flow stabilizing devices and flow meters can be connected to other components through various suitable raw material conveying pipelines and connectors, and can be installed in the upper receiving cavity 101, the lower receiving cavity 103, and / or the neck receiving cavity 107 in various suitable spatial configurations.

[0128] The aforementioned multiple output connectors 110 can be connected to other components via various suitable material delivery pipelines and connectors, and can be arranged within the neck receiving cavity 107 in various suitable spatial configurations, without being limited by... Figure 2 The spatial configuration shown.

[0129] The aforementioned multiple output connectors 110 can be disposed on a connecting plate (not shown) in various suitable removable manner, and the connecting plate can be disposed below the neck receiving cavity 107 in various suitable removable manner. The output end of each output connector 110 and the connecting plate can be exposed outside the neck receiving cavity 107 to facilitate related cleaning procedures by the user.

[0130] like Figure 2As shown, the lower receiving cavity 103 of the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can be used to hold multiple raw material containers 130. Different raw material containers 130 can be used to store different fluid raw materials. Each raw material container 130 is provided with a discharge check valve 140 as an output connector. In other words, the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 uses multiple dual-mode fluid connectors 150.

[0131] For example, the aforementioned fluid raw materials can be common beverage base raw materials such as water, sparkling water, black tea, green tea, soy milks, milk, milk-based liquids, coffee, nut pulps, various fruit-based concentrates, and various vegetable-based concentrates.

[0132] For example, the aforementioned fluid raw materials can be various syrups such as agave syrup, dulce de leche, fructose, golden syrup, lemonade syrups, maltose syrup, maple syrup, molasses, orgeat, and / or palm syrup.

[0133] For example, the aforementioned fluid raw materials can be various alcoholic beverages such as beer, cocktails, and / or sake.

[0134] For example, the aforementioned fluid ingredients can be various sauces or fluid condiments such as apple sauce, chutneys, cranberry sauce, salad dressings, fruit coulis, ketchup, tomato sauce, mayonnaise, meatgravies, miso sauce, hummus, pasta sauce, piccalilli, soya sauce, spice sauce, spicy sauce, and / or ginger jam.

[0135] For example, the aforementioned fluid ingredients can be various fluid ingredients such as fruit juices containing fruit fibers, tea liquids containing small particles (e.g., pearls or tapioca pearls), honey, cooking oils, vinegar, jams, marmalade with fruit peel, pressed fruit paste, beer vinegar, buttercream, condensed milk, and / or cream.

[0136] As can be seen from the foregoing description, the fluid raw material output by the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 may be a fluid with a higher viscosity than water, or it may be a fluid with a lower viscosity than water.

[0137] In practice, all or part of the raw material container 130 can also be placed in the upper receiving cavity 101, without being limited to... Figure 2 The spatial configuration shown.

[0138] exist Figure 2In this embodiment, a disinfectant container 172 is disposed within the cleaning tank 170, and the cleaning tank 170 is also coupled to a water inlet 174. The disinfectant container 172 can be fixed within the cleaning tank 170 or can be removably connected to the cleaning tank 170. A drain tank 180 is connected to a drain pipe 182. A diverter 190 has a liquid inlet port and multiple liquid outlet ports. A switch 192 is coupled between the liquid inlet port of the diverter 190 and a water outlet of the cleaning tank 170.

[0139] In addition, Figure 2 In one embodiment, the fluid feeder 100 further includes a plurality of one-way valves 194, each coupled to a plurality of liquid output ports of the distributor 190. Each one-way valve 194 is coupled between one of the liquid output ports of the distributor 190 and a corresponding detergent delivery line 154 to prevent fluid in the detergent delivery line 154 from flowing back into the distributor 190.

[0140] The aforementioned multiple dual-mode fluid connectors 150 can be removably connected to the discharge check valves 140 on different raw material containers 130. Furthermore, each dual-mode fluid connector 150 can be connected to a corresponding pump 160 or flow stabilizing device via various suitable means (e.g., a raw material delivery line 152, a connector 162, and combinations of other related lines), or via various suitable means (e.g., a combination of a cleaning agent delivery line 154, a one-way valve 194, a flow divider 190, and a switching switch 192) to a corresponding cleaning solution source (e.g., the aforementioned cleaning tank 170).

[0141] In the fluid material discharge machine 100, various suitable material conveying devices (e.g., combinations of material conveying pipelines 152, connectors 162, and associated pumps 160, flow stabilizers, and / or flow meters) can be provided to convey the fluid material in the individual material containers 130 to the outlet end of the corresponding output connector 110 via the corresponding dual-mode fluid connector 150. Additionally, various suitable cleaning agent conveying devices (e.g., combinations of the aforementioned cleaning tank 170, diverter 190, cleaning agent conveying pipeline 154, material conveying pipeline 152, and corresponding pumps 160) can be provided in the fluid material discharge machine 100 to convey cleaning solution and / or disinfectant solution to the individual dual-mode fluid connectors 150.

[0142] In practice, the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can also be equipped with various suitable refrigeration devices to extend the storage time of various fluid raw materials in the raw material container 130 in the lower receiving cavity 103. In addition, when the door panel 105 is kept closed, it can isolate the lower receiving cavity 103 from the external environment, which is conducive to maintaining the low temperature in the lower receiving cavity 103 and can prevent foreign objects such as insects or small animals from entering the lower receiving cavity 103.

[0143] To avoid making the diagrams too complex, Figure 2 The diagram does not show the internal flow stabilization device, flow meter, control circuit, wires, signal lines, refrigeration equipment, power supply device, some raw material conveying pipelines, some cleaning agent conveying pipelines, related parts and frames used to support or fix the aforementioned components, or other structures and devices.

[0144] In an embodiment where the fluid feeder 100 is used as an automated beverage preparation apparatus, a user can place a target container 120 at a predetermined position on the workbench 102 (e.g., below the aforementioned plurality of output connectors 110) and operate the control panel 109 to set one or more preparation parameters for the desired freshly made beverage, such as beverage item, cup size, beverage volume, sugar level, ice level, and / or quantity, etc.

[0145] Next, the fluid material discharge machine 100 will automatically use one or more pumps 160 to extract fluid materials from certain material containers 130 according to the parameters set by the user, and transfer the extracted fluid materials to the corresponding output connectors 110 through their respective transmission pipes. With the continuous operation of the individual pumps, the fluid materials in the output connectors 110 will be output to the target container 120 through the corresponding output connectors 110.

[0146] Different fluid ingredients can be mixed together in a specific ratio in the target container 120 or simply stirred to create freshly made beverages of various flavors. In practice, the target container 120 can also be designed to support or have a stirring function to improve the speed and uniformity of mixing fluid ingredients.

[0147] In an embodiment where the fluid feeder 100 is used as a sauce dispensing apparatus, the user can place the target container 120 or other vessel at a predetermined position on the workbench 102 (e.g., below the aforementioned plurality of output connectors 110) and operate the control panel 109 to set the type and quantity of sauce to be dispensed.

[0148] Similarly, the fluid ingredient dispenser 100 automatically uses one or more pumps 160 to extract fluid ingredients from certain ingredient containers 130 according to user-set parameters, and then transmits the extracted fluid ingredients through their respective transmission pipes to the corresponding output connectors 110. With the continuous operation of the individual pumps, the fluid ingredient dispenser 100 can output a specific quantity of one or more seasoning sauces to the target container 120 or other vessels through the corresponding output connectors 110.

[0149] Please note, Figure 2 The number of output connector 110, raw material container 130, dual-mode fluid connector 150, raw material delivery pipeline 152, cleaning agent delivery pipeline 154, pump 160, and distributor 190 shown is only an exemplary embodiment and is not intended to limit the actual implementation of the present invention.

[0150] Please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 . Figure 3 This is a simplified external schematic diagram of the dual-mode fluid connector 150 and the raw material container 130 when they are separated from each other, according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 for Figure 3 A simplified visual representation of the dual-mode fluid connector 150 and the raw material container 130 connected to each other.

[0151] like Figure 3 As shown, the discharge check valve 140 on the raw material container 130 includes a blocking element 242 and a protrusion 244 protruding outward from the outer surface of the discharge check valve 140. The dual-mode fluid connector 150 includes a hollow connector 310, a raw material tube 322, a cleaning tube 324, a head 330, a rotatable part 380, and a plug 390.

[0152] The blocking element 242 of the discharge check valve 140 can be implemented using various suitable balls, plugs, or blocks. The protrusion 244 can be implemented using a single annular element or multiple separate protruding structures. The discharge check valve 140 typically contains a spring (not shown in the figure). Figure 3 and Figure 4 (In the middle), pressure can be applied to the blocking member 242 to push the blocking member 242 outward.

[0153] Before the discharge check valve 140 is connected to the dual-mode fluid connector 150, the pressure applied by the aforementioned spring to the blocking member 242 will cause the blocking member 242 to block the outlet end of the discharge check valve 140, so that the outlet end of the discharge check valve 140 is kept in a closed state to prevent the fluid material in the raw material container 130 from leaking out.

[0154] In the dual-mode fluid connector 150, the raw material pipe 322 and the cleaning pipe 324 are both located on the hollow connector 310, while the head 330 is located at one end of the hollow connector 310 and includes a connection port 431, a first clamping member 433, and a second clamping member 435.

[0155] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the first clamp 433 and the second clamp 435 are respectively connected to opposite sides of the head 330. When the connector 431 is removably connected to the discharge check valve 140, the first clamp 433 and the second clamp 435 will lock onto the protrusion 244 of the discharge check valve 140, thereby improving the connection stability between the dual-mode fluid connector 150 and the discharge check valve 140.

[0156] The dual-mode fluid connector 150 has two operating modes: a service mode and a clean mode. Users (e.g., cleaners or operators of the fluid feeder 100) can easily switch the dual-mode fluid connector 150 between the service mode and the clean mode.

[0157] In one embodiment, when the dual-mode fluid connector 150 is operating in working mode, it controls the blocking element 242 of the discharge check valve 140, keeping the outlet of the discharge check valve 140 in an open state. Simultaneously, the dual-mode fluid connector 150 isolates or blocks the transmission channel between the head 330 and the cleaning pipe 324. Therefore, in working mode, the fluid material in the raw material container 130 flows into the dual-mode fluid connector 150 via the discharge check valve 140. However, the fluid material received by the dual-mode fluid connector 150 only flows into the raw material pipe 322 and the raw material delivery pipe 152 connected to the raw material pipe 322 via the hollow connector 310, and cannot flow into the cleaning pipe 324 via the hollow connector 310.

[0158] On the other hand, when the dual-mode fluid connector 150 operates in cleaning mode, it stops controlling the blocking element 242 of the discharge check valve 140, causing the outlet end of the discharge check valve 140 to return to a closed state. Therefore, the fluid material in the raw material container 130 will not flow into the dual-mode fluid connector 150 via the discharge check valve 140. At the same time, the dual-mode fluid connector 150 also restores the transmission channel between the head 330 and the cleaning tube 324. In cleaning mode, the dual-mode fluid connector 150 can receive cleaning solution through the cleaning tube 324 and the cleaning agent delivery line 154 connected to the cleaning tube 324. The cleaning solution can not only flow into the internal space of the dual-mode fluid connector 150, but also flow into the raw material tube 322 and the raw material delivery line 152 connected to the raw material tube 322 via the hollow connector 310.

[0159] Please note that when the dual-mode fluid connector 150 is operating in cleaning mode, the cleaning solution received by the dual-mode fluid connector 150 will not flow into the raw material container 130 through the discharge check valve 140 because the outlet end of the discharge check valve 140 is closed. In other words, even when the dual-mode fluid connector 150 is still connected to the discharge check valve 140, switching the dual-mode fluid connector 150 to cleaning mode can effectively prevent the cleaning solution from flowing into the raw material container 130 and contaminating the fluid raw material. Therefore, the user does not need to disconnect the dual-mode fluid connector 150 from the discharge check valve 140 of the raw material container 130 before switching the dual-mode fluid connector 150 to cleaning mode.

[0160] The following will be paired Figures 5 to 22 This section will further explain the structure and function of individual components in the dual-mode fluid connector 150, and how to set the dual-mode fluid connector 150 to operate in working mode.

[0161] Figure 5 and Figure 6 Simplified appearance diagrams of the dual-mode fluid connector 150 in operation mode from different perspectives. Figure 7 This is a top view of the dual-mode fluid connector 150 in operation mode. Figure 8 This is a side view of the dual-mode fluid connector 150 in operation mode. Figure 9 for Figure 8 A simplified side view of the dual-mode fluid connector 150. Figure 10 for Figure 7 A simplified cross-sectional view of the dual-mode fluid connector 150 along the A-A' direction. Figures 11 to 12 This is a simplified exploded view of the dual-mode fluid connector 150 from different perspectives. Figures 13 to 18 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly process of the dual-mode fluid connector 150 from different perspectives.

[0162] like Figures 5 to 18 As shown, the dual-mode fluid connector 150 also includes a tail section 340, a spring 350, a push rod 360, and a bend plate 370. For simplicity, in the aforementioned... Figure 9 and Figure 10 The push rod 360, the bend plate 370, and the rotatable part 380 in the dual-mode fluid connector 150 are omitted.

[0163] Figures 19 to 20 This is a schematic diagram of the rotatable part 380 and the bent plate 370 after assembly from different perspectives according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 21 This is a schematic diagram of the rotatable part 380 and push rod 360 after assembly from a first perspective, according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 22 This is a rear view schematic diagram of a dual-mode fluid connector 150 operating in working mode according to an embodiment of the present invention. For the sake of simplicity, the foregoing... Figure 19 and Figure 20 Other components besides the rotatable part 380 and the bent plate 370 are omitted, and in the aforementioned Figure 21 Other components besides the rotatable part 380 and the push rod 360 are omitted.

[0164] In this embodiment, the hollow connector 310 includes a cavity 411, a blocking member 415, a first limiting member 416, and a second limiting member 417. Figure 10 As shown, cavity 411 is a hollow portion located inside and penetrating the hollow connector 310. Blocking member 415 is a protruding structure located on the inner wall of cavity 411, and blocking member 415 can divide the internal space of cavity 411 into a first space 412 and a second space 413.

[0165] in addition, Figure 10 It is also clearly shown that the raw material pipe 322 and the cleaning pipe 324 located on the hollow connector 310 are connected to the cavity 411. In this embodiment, the raw material pipe 322 is connected to the first space 412 inside the cavity 411, while the cleaning pipe 324 is connected to the second space 413 inside the cavity 411.

[0166] The aforementioned blocking member 415 itself does not isolate or block the transmission channel between the first space 412 and the second space 413. Therefore, when the transmission channel between the first space 412 and the second space 413 is not isolated or blocked by other objects, the first space 412 and the second space 413 can communicate with each other, and at this time the first space 412 and the cleaning tube 324 can also communicate with each other through the second space 413. In practice, the blocking member 415 can be implemented with a single ring-shaped member or with multiple separate protruding structures.

[0167] like Figures 5 to 7 As shown, the first limiting member 416 and the second limiting member 417 extend outward from the outer surface of the hollow connector 310 and are located on opposite sides of the cleaning tube 324. In this embodiment, the first limiting member 416 and the second limiting member 417 also function as reinforcing ribs on both sides of the cleaning tube 324, which can improve the structural strength of the cleaning tube 324 and reduce the possibility of damage to the cleaning tube 324. Similarly, the raw material tube 322 is also provided with reinforcing ribs with a similar structure to the first limiting member 416 and the second limiting member 417 on both sides to improve the structural strength of the raw material tube 322 and reduce the possibility of damage to the raw material tube 322.

[0168] The head 330 also includes a first protrusion 437 and a second protrusion 439. For example... Figures 5 to 7 As shown, the first protrusion 437 and the second protrusion 439 extend outward from the outer surface of the head 330. The first protrusion 437 is located near the tail of the first caliper 433, while the second protrusion 439 is located near the tail of the second caliper 435. Under normal circumstances, the first protrusion 437 will not touch the first caliper 433, and the second protrusion 439 will not touch the second caliper 435.

[0169] When the user wants to connect the dual-mode fluid connector 150 to the discharge check valve 140 on the raw material container 130, the user can press the tail of the first clamp 433 and the tail of the second clamp 435 to slightly open the front ends of the first clamp 433 and the second clamp 435, and then sleeve the head 330 of the dual-mode fluid connector 150 with the discharge check valve 140. In this embodiment, the diameter of the connection port 431 of the head 330 is larger than the diameter of the outlet end of the discharge check valve 140, so when the head 330 is sleeved with the discharge check valve 140, the discharge check valve 140 will be inserted into the connection port 431. When the discharge check valve 140 is inserted into the connection port 431 to a suitable distance, the first clamp 433 and the second clamp 435 will be aligned with the protrusion 244 on the discharge check valve 140. At this time, the user can stop pressing the tail of the first clamp 433 and the tail of the second clamp 435, so that the first clamp 433 and the second clamp 435 are locked on the protrusion 244 of the discharge check valve 140, thereby improving the connection stability between the dual-mode fluid connector 150 and the discharge check valve 140.

[0170] The aforementioned first protrusion 437 and second protrusion 439 can be used to limit the degree of deformation of the tails of the first caliper 433 and the second caliper 435, so as to prevent the user from excessively pressing the tails of the first caliper 433 and the second caliper 435. In this way, the possibility of elastic fatigue or damage to the first caliper 433 and the second caliper 435 can be reduced.

[0171] like Figures 9 to 12 As shown, the tail portion 340 is located at the other end of the hollow connector 310. In this embodiment, the tail portion 340 includes a through hole 441, a first spiral track 443, a second spiral track 445, a retaining wall 447, and one or more tail limiting members 449. The first spiral track 443 and the second spiral track 445 are disposed on the outer surface of the tail portion 340, and the retaining wall 447 is located on one side of the end section of the first spiral track 443. In practice, the retaining wall 447 can be implemented using a structure that protrudes upward from the side of the end section of the first spiral track 443. In addition, the tail portion 340 in this embodiment has two tail limiting members 449, which are implemented using two protruding structures extending rearward from the end of the tail portion 340. In practice, the two tail limiting members 449 can also be implemented using a single protruding structure. In other words, the tail portion 340 can also have only one tail limiting member 449.

[0172] The putter 360 includes a head 461, a seal 463, a flange 465, a flange 467, and a slot 469. For example... Figures 11 to 18 As shown, the rod head 461 is located at the front end of the push rod 360, while the sealing part 463 protrudes outward from the outer surface of the push rod 360. In practice, the sealing part 463 can be implemented with a ring-shaped protrusion structure, and the push rod 360 or the sealing part 463 can be made of a slightly elastic material to improve the tightness of the sealing part 463 when it is in close contact with other objects.

[0173] Flanges 465 and 467 are located near the tail of push rod 360 and extend outward in opposite directions. Slot 469 can be implemented using a gap or grooved structure between flanges 465 and 467. In this embodiment, the shape of slot 469 can match the shape of plug 390 so that plug 390 can be inserted into slot 469.

[0174] Spring 350 is located next to the through hole 441 at the tail 340. (As...) Figures 13 to 15As shown, the push rod 360 can be inserted into the cavity 411 of the hollow connector 310 via the through hole 441 of the tail 340. In some embodiments, after the push rod 360 is inserted into the cavity 411, the spring 350 is located between the tail 340 and the flanges 465 and 467 of the push rod 360. In this case, as the push rod 360 continues to advance a certain distance toward the head 330, the flanges 465 and 467 will contact and compress the spring 350.

[0175] The bent plate 370 includes a first marking area 471 and a second marking area 473, wherein the first marking area 471 and the second marking area 473 are local areas located at different positions on the outer surface of the bent plate 370. In this embodiment, the bent plate 370 presents a C-shaped form when viewed from the front or rear side. When the bent plate 370 is fitted onto the tail 340, the two sides of the bent plate 370 abut against the outer side of the tail limiting member 449 on the tail 340 to prevent the bent plate 370 from rotating. Figure 5 , Figure 8 ,and Figures 11 to 18 As shown, the bent plate 370 is positioned between the rotatable part 380 and the tail part 340.

[0176] In practice, different indicator colors, images, texts, and / or symbols can be set on the first marking area 471 and the second marking area 473 to indicate different operating modes of the dual-mode fluid connector 150. For example, a first color (e.g., blue, green, purple, etc.) representing the operating mode can be filled in the first marking area 471, and a second color (e.g., yellow, orange, red, etc.) representing the cleaning mode can be filled in the second marking area 473. Please note that the aforementioned color combinations are only some embodiments and are not limited to the actual implementation of the present invention.

[0177] For example, a first graphic representing the working mode can be set in the first marking area 471, and a second graphic representing the cleaning mode can be set in the second marking area 473.

[0178] For example, a first character or letter representing the working mode can be set in the first marking area 471, and a second character or letter representing the cleaning mode can be set in the second marking area 473.

[0179] The rotatable part 380 includes a front opening 481, a rear opening 482, a first extension 483, a second extension 484, a first fin 485, a second fin 486, a first guide 487, a second guide 488, a blocking part 489, a first region 581, a second region 582, a first window 781, and a second window 782.

[0180] like Figures 5 to 8 ,and Figures 11 to 12 As shown, when the rotatable part 380 is fitted onto the tail 340, the rotatable part 380 will be located outside the tail 340, covering the tail 340, and engaging the push rod 360. The front opening 481 of the rotatable part 380 can cover part or all of the tail 340, while the rear opening 482 allows the plug 390 to be inserted.

[0181] After the rotatable part 380 is attached to the tail 340, the user can use the tail 340 (or push rod 360) as a rotation axis to rotate the rotatable part 380 clockwise or counterclockwise.

[0182] like Figures 5 to 8 ,and Figures 11 to 20 As shown, when the rotatable part 380 is fitted onto the tail 340, the position of the bent plate 370 will be between the inner surface of the rotatable part 380 and the outer surface of the tail 340.

[0183] The first extension 483 and the second extension 484 extend from the edge of the front opening 481 toward the head 330. The first extension 483 must be long enough so that the aforementioned first limiting member 416 can block the side of the first extension 483 when the rotatable part 380 is rotated to a certain angle. The second extension 484 must be long enough so that the aforementioned second limiting member 417 can block the side of the second extension 484 when the rotatable part 380 is rotated to a certain angle. In practice, the length and shape of the first extension 483 and the second extension 484 can be designed in various other ways to achieve the above functions, and are not limited to these methods. Figure 5 , Figure 8 , Figure 19 ,and Figure 20 The embodiments illustrated herein.

[0184] The first fin 485 and the second fin 486 are located on opposite sides of the outer surface of the rotatable part 380, making it easier for the user to rotate the rotatable part 380. The function of the first fin 485 and the second fin 486 is to increase the leverage effect when the user rotates the rotatable part 380. In practice, the position, shape, and size of the first fin 485 and the second fin 486 can be designed to assist the user in rotating the rotatable part 380 in various other ways, without being limited to... Figure 5 , Figure 7 ,and Figures 11 to 22 The illustrated embodiment.

[0185] The first guide member 487 and the second guide member 488 are located at different positions on the inner surface of the rotatable portion 380. In practice, the first guide member 487 can be implemented using various protruding structures whose shapes can mate with the aforementioned first helical track 443, while the second guide member 488 can be implemented using various protruding structures whose shapes can mate with the aforementioned second helical track 445. For example... Figures 11 to 21 As shown, in this embodiment, the first guide 487 and the second guide 488 are located on opposite sides of the inner surface of the rotatable part 380.

[0186] As previously described, after the rotatable part 380 is fitted onto the tail part 340, the user can rotate the rotatable part 380 with the tail part 340 (or push rod 360) as the rotation axis. In this case, the first guide member 487 will contact the first spiral track 443 and can move along the first spiral track 443, while the second guide member 488 will contact the second spiral track 445 and can move along the second spiral track 445. In this embodiment, since both the first spiral track 443 and the second spiral track 445 are spiral, with the cooperation of the first guide member 487, the second guide member 488, the first spiral track 443, and the second spiral track 445, when the rotatable part 380 is rotated by the user, the rotatable part 380 will rotate and move forward or rotate and move backward.

[0187] The blocking part 489 is located inside the rotatable part 380, and when the rotatable part 380 is sleeved on the tail part 340, the blocking part 489 can access the flanges 465 and 467 of the push rod 360, and can prevent the flanges 465 and 467 from passing through the rear opening 482 of the rotatable part 380. In this embodiment, as Figure 21 As shown, when the rotatable part 380 is assembled with the push rod 360, the flanges 465 and 467 located near the tail of the push rod 360 will be blocked by the blocking part 489 of the rotatable part 380, thus preventing the push rod 360 from coming out of the rotatable part 380 through the rear opening 482.

[0188] The blocking part 489 also drives the flanges 465 and 467 to rotate together. Therefore, when the rotatable part 380 is rotated by the user, the rotatable part 380 will not only rotate and move forward or backward due to the cooperation of the first guide 487, the second guide 488, the first spiral track 443, and the second spiral track 445, but will also drive the push rod 360 to rotate and move forward or backward together.

[0189] In addition, such as Figure 18 As shown, when assembling the dual-mode fluid connector 150, the plug 390 can be inserted through the rear opening 482 of the rotatable part 380 and into the slot 469 located between the flanges 465 and 467 of the push rod 360. In this case, the plug 390 will slightly press the flanges 465 and 467 to both sides, making the flanges 465 and 467 more tightly against the blocking part 489. Therefore, the plug 390 inserted into the slot 469 can not only prevent the flanges 465 and 467 from dislodging from the blocking part 489, but also further increase the connection stability between the rotatable part 380 and the push rod 360.

[0190] In some embodiments, after the rotatable portion 380 is fitted onto the tail portion 340, the spring 350 is located between the tail portion 340 and the blocking portion 489 inside the rotatable portion 380. In this case, after the rotatable portion 380 moves a certain distance toward the head portion 330, the blocking portion 489 contacts and compresses the spring 350.

[0191] The first region 581 and the second region 582 are located on opposite sides of the outer surface of the rotatable part 380. In practice, different indicator text, different indicator symbols, different indicator images, and / or different indicator colors can be provided on the first region 581 and the second region 582 to indicate different operating modes of the dual-mode fluid connector 150.

[0192] In this embodiment, the first region 581 and the second region 582 are located on opposite sides of the outer surface of the rotatable part 380. The first region 581 is provided with the indicator text "ON" and "SERVE" to represent the working mode, while the second region 582 is provided with the indicator text "OFF" and "CLEAN" to represent the cleaning mode. When the rotatable part 380 is rotated so that the first region 581 faces upward, it means that the dual-mode fluid connector 150 is switched to the working mode. When the rotatable part 380 is rotated so that the second region 582 faces upward, it means that the dual-mode fluid connector 150 is switched to the cleaning mode. Please note that the foregoing text combination is only a partial embodiment and is not limited to the actual implementation of the present invention.

[0193] For example, a first symbol (or a first group of symbols) representing the working mode can be set in the first area 581, and a second symbol (or a second group of symbols) representing the cleaning mode can be set in the second area 582.

[0194] For example, a first color (e.g., blue, green, purple, etc.) representing the working mode can be filled in part or all of the first area 581, and a second color (e.g., yellow, orange, red, etc.) representing the cleaning mode can be filled in part or all of the second area 582.

[0195] The first window 781 and the second window 782 are located at different positions on the rotatable portion 380. In practice, both the first window 781 and the second window 782 can be implemented using openings or notches of appropriate shape and size. For example, in this embodiment, the first window 781 and the second window 782 are implemented using openings located on the left and right sides near the first fin 485, respectively. Figure 8 and Figure 21 As shown.

[0196] As previously described, when the dual-mode fluid connector 150 is assembled, the bent plate 370 is positioned between the inner surface of the rotatable portion 380 and the outer surface of the tail portion 340. Therefore, a portion of the outer surface of the bent plate 370 is exposed through the first window 781 and / or the second window 782, allowing the user to see this portion of the outer surface of the bent plate 370 through the first window 781 and / or the second window 782.

[0197] In addition, when the direction of rotation of the rotatable part 380 is different from the rotation angle, the first window 781 and / or the second window 782 will expose different areas on the outer surface of the bent plate 370.

[0198] For example, in this embodiment, when the user rotates the rotatable part 380 so that the first window 781 faces upward, the first marking area 471 of the curved plate 370 will be exposed from the first window 781, and when the user rotates the rotatable part 380 so that the second window 782 faces upward, the second marking area 473 of the curved plate 370 will be exposed from the second window 782.

[0199] As described above, when the dual-mode fluid connector 150 is assembled, the spring 350 will be located between the tail 340 and the flanges 465 and 467 of the push rod 360, the push rod 360 will be locked on the rotatable part 380, the bent plate 370 will be located between the tail 340 and the rotatable part 380, the rotatable part 380 will cover the tail 340 and the bent plate 370, and the plug 390 will be inserted into the slot 469 of the push rod 360 and locked on the rear opening 482 of the rotatable part 380.

[0200] Additionally, the first window 781 and / or the second window 782 of the rotatable part 380 expose a portion of the outer surface of the curved plate 370. Furthermore, when the rotatable part 380 is rotated by the user, the rotatable part 380 will drive the push rod 360 to rotate together and move forward or backward together.

[0201] The aforementioned hollow connector 310, raw material tube 322, cleaning tube 324, head 330, and tail 340 together constitute the connector main body of the dual-mode fluid connector 150. In practice, the hollow connector 310, raw material tube 322, cleaning tube 324, head 330, and tail 340 can be manufactured in a one-piece molding manner to enhance the structural rigidity of the connector main body of the dual-mode fluid connector 150.

[0202] As mentioned above, the dual-mode fluid connector 150 has two operating modes: working mode and cleaning mode. Users (e.g., cleaners or operators of the fluid feeder 100) can easily switch the dual-mode fluid connector 150 between working mode and cleaning mode by rotating the rotatable part 380.

[0203] When the user wants to set the dual-mode fluid connector 150 to the working mode, the user can rotate the rotatable part 380 in a first predetermined direction (e.g., clockwise). In this case, the rotatable part 380 will rotate and move forward, driving the push rod 360 forward as well. This causes the sealing part 463 on the push rod 360 to abut against the blocking member 415 in the cavity 411, and causes the rod head 461 to push the blocking member 242 on the discharge check valve 140 inward. As mentioned above, during the movement of the push rod 360 or the rotatable part 380 towards the head 330, the flanges 465 and 467 on the push rod 360, or the blocking part 489 inside the rotatable part 380, will compress the spring 350.

[0204] In this embodiment, when the rotatable part 380 is rotated so that the first region 581 faces upward, the push rod 360 will advance a predetermined distance due to the rotation of the rotatable part 380, so as to ensure that the cleaning tube 324 and the first space 412 in the cavity 411 are isolated by the sealing part 463 and the blocking member 415 and cannot communicate with each other, and to ensure that the rod head 461 of the push rod 360 pushes the blocking member 242 inward a sufficient distance, so that the outlet end of the discharge check valve 140 is in an open state.

[0205] Please refer to Figure 23 The diagram shown is a simplified schematic representation of the internal liquid flow direction of a dual-mode fluid connector 150 in operation mode according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 23In the middle, the dashed line is used to indicate the possible flow direction of the fluid material in the dual-mode fluid connector 150.

[0206] like Figure 23 As shown, when the dual-mode fluid connector 150 is operating in working mode, the fluid material in the raw material container 130 can flow into the first space 412 of the hollow connector 310 through the discharge check valve 140, but it cannot flow into the second space 413 of the hollow connector 310 due to the obstruction of the sealing part 463 on the push rod 360. Therefore, the fluid material received by the dual-mode fluid connector 150 will only flow into the raw material pipe 322 and the raw material delivery pipe 152 connected to the raw material pipe 322 through the hollow connector 310, and cannot flow into the second space 413 in the cavity 411, the cleaning pipe 324, and the cleaning agent delivery pipe 154 connected to the cleaning pipe 324 through the hollow connector 310.

[0207] At this time, even if there is residual cleaning solution in the cleaning pipe 324 and the cleaning agent delivery pipe 154, the residual cleaning solution will not contaminate the fluid material in the first space 412 of the hollow connector 310, and therefore will not affect the fluid material output by the material pipe 322.

[0208] Additionally, as mentioned earlier, a baffle 447 is provided at the end of the first spiral track 443 on the tail section 340. When the rotatable part 380 drives the push rod 360 forward, causing the sealing part 463 to abut against the blocking member 415, the first guide member 487 on the rotatable part 380 will enter the end of the first spiral track 443, causing the baffle 447 to lock the first guide member 487. In practice, the end of the first spiral track 443 can be designed as a straight track. In this case, the baffle 447 located at the end of the first spiral track 443 will be planar. Since the baffle 447 acts to block the first guide member 487, the elastic restoring force of the spring 350 cannot push the push rod 360 backward. Therefore, the baffle 447 effectively prevents the sealing part 463 on the push rod 360 from being impacted by the fluid material and leaving the blocking member 415. In this way, it can be ensured that when the dual-mode fluid connector 150 is operating in working mode, the first space 412 and the second space 413 in the cavity 411 can remain isolated to prevent fluid raw materials from accidentally flowing into the cleaning tube 324.

[0209] On the other hand, when the user rotates the rotatable part 380 to a certain extent in the aforementioned first predetermined direction, the first extension 483 of the rotatable part 380 will contact the first limiting member 416 on the hollow connector 310 to prevent the rotatable part 380 from continuing to rotate in the first predetermined direction. This design can prevent the rotatable part 380 from being rotated excessively by the user, which would cause the push rod 360 to move excessively forward.

[0210] If the push rod 360 moves too far forward, the seal 463 on the push rod 360 may get stuck in or even through the opening formed by the stop member 415. Once the seal 463 on the push rod 360 gets stuck in or through the opening formed by the stop member 415, it may cause the dual-mode fluid connector 150 to malfunction or damage the seal 463.

[0211] Therefore, by combining the first extension 483 and the first limiting member 416, the rotation angle of the rotatable part 380 can be effectively limited, thereby limiting the forward distance of the push rod 360. In this way, improper operation by excessively rotating the rotatable part 380 can be avoided, thus reducing the possibility of failure of the dual-mode fluid connector 150 or damage to the sealing part 463.

[0212] Similar to conventional machines, the fluid feeder 100 also requires cleaning, disinfection, and / or sterilization procedures at appropriate times to prevent bacteria or toxins from growing on the parts, pipes, and / or joints of the fluid feeder 100.

[0213] As mentioned earlier, when cleaning traditional beverage making machines, cleaners must first manually disassemble multiple connectors from different ingredient containers one by one. Then, they must manually clean the relevant parts, pipes, and connectors using other auxiliary equipment. After cleaning, the cleaners must manually reconnect each connector to the corresponding ingredient container and pipe. This method of manually disassembling and reconnecting multiple connectors is time-consuming, easily soils the surrounding environment during disassembly, and frequently results in scratches or even damage to the connectors.

[0214] To avoid the aforementioned problems, the design of the dual-mode fluid connector 150 allows users to perform cleaning, disinfection, and / or sterilization procedures on the dual-mode fluid connector 150 and the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 without first removing the dual-mode fluid connector 150 from the discharge check valve 140 of the raw material container 130.

[0215] The following combinations Figures 24 to 30 To further describe the operation method of setting the dual-mode fluid connector 150 to cleaning mode. Figure 24 This is a rear view schematic diagram of a dual-mode fluid connector 150 operating in cleaning mode according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 25 and Figure 26 The following is a simplified view of the appearance of a dual-mode fluid connector 150 operating in cleaning mode according to an embodiment of the present invention, viewed from different angles. Figure 27This is a side view of a dual-mode fluid connector 150 operating in cleaning mode according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 28 This is a top view schematic diagram of a dual-mode fluid connector 150 operating in cleaning mode according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0216] like Figure 24 As shown, when the user wants to set the dual-mode fluid connector 150 to cleaning mode, the user can rotate the rotatable part 380 in a second predetermined direction (e.g., counterclockwise). In this case, the rotatable part 380 will rotate and retract, driving the push rod 360 to retract as well, causing the rod head 461 of the push rod 360 to leave the block 242 on the discharge check valve 140, and causing the sealing part 463 on the push rod 360 to leave the blocking part 415 in the cavity 411.

[0217] After the rod head 461 leaves the blocking member 242, the spring (not shown) inside the discharge check valve 140 will reset the blocking member 242, causing the outlet end of the discharge check valve 140 to return to a closed state. In addition, after the sealing part 463 leaves the blocking member 415 by a predetermined distance, the first space 412 in the cavity 411 and the cleaning tube 324 can communicate with each other through the second space 413.

[0218] like Figures 25 to 28 As shown, when the rotatable part 380 is rotated so that the second region 582 faces upward, the push rod 360 will be driven by the rotatable part 380 to move back a predetermined distance to ensure that the rod head 461 of the push rod 360 leaves the blocking member 242 and to ensure that the sealing part 463 and the blocking member 415 are separated by a sufficient distance so that liquids such as cleaning solution, bactericide, disinfectant solution, and water can flow smoothly between the first space 412 and the second space 413 in the cavity 411.

[0219] Please refer to Figure 29 and Figure 30 . Figure 29 This is a simplified schematic diagram of the internal liquid flow direction of a dual-mode fluid connector 150 in cleaning mode according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 30 This is a simplified schematic diagram of the internal liquid flow direction of a dual-mode fluid connector 150 operating in cleaning mode, according to another embodiment of the present invention. For the sake of simplicity, [the diagram is omitted here]. Figure 29 and Figure 30 The push rod 360, bend plate 370, and rotatable part 380 of the dual-mode fluid connector 150 are omitted. Figure 29 and Figure 30 In the diagram, the dashed lines are used to indicate the possible flow direction of liquids such as cleaning solutions, bactericides, disinfectants, and water in the dual-mode fluid connector 150.

[0220] exist Figure 29In this embodiment, when the dual-mode fluid connector 150 operates in cleaning mode, liquids such as cleaning solution, bactericide, disinfectant, and water can flow into the second space 413 of the hollow connector 310 through the cleaning pipe 324. The liquids such as cleaning solution, bactericide, disinfectant, and water flowing into the second space 413 can flow into the first space 412 through the opening formed by the blocking member 415, and then flow into the raw material pipe 322 and the raw material conveying pipe 152 connected to the raw material pipe 322 through the first space 412.

[0221] exist Figure 30 In this embodiment, when the dual-mode fluid connector 150 operates in cleaning mode, liquids such as cleaning solution, bactericide, disinfectant, and water can flow into the first space 412 of the hollow connector 310 through the raw material pipe 322. The liquids such as cleaning solution, bactericide, disinfectant, and water flowing into the first space 412 can flow into the second space 413 through the opening formed by the blocking member 415, and then flow into the cleaning pipe 324 and the cleaning agent delivery pipe 154 connected to the cleaning pipe 324 through the second space 413.

[0222] In other words, in Figure 29 Implementation examples and Figure 30 In one embodiment, when the dual-mode fluid connector 150 is switched to cleaning mode, the raw material pipe 322, the raw material delivery pipe 152, the cleaning pipe 324, the cleaning agent delivery pipe 154, and the dual-mode fluid connector 150 can together form a cleaning circuit.

[0223] In this configuration, the fluid feeder 100 can utilize its internal components to transport and circulate liquids such as cleaning solutions, disinfectants, sterilizing solutions, and water within the aforementioned cleaning circuit. This process cleans, disinfects, and / or sterilizes the dual-mode fluid connector 150 and its internal piping, components, and connectors. After the cleaning, disinfection, and / or sterilization process is completed, the fluid feeder 100 can discharge the waste liquid through appropriate piping. This achieves automated cleaning, disinfection, and / or sterilization of the dual-mode fluid connector 150 and its internal piping, components, and connectors.

[0224] In practice, the operation of transporting and circulating liquids such as cleaning solutions, bactericides, disinfectants, and water within the aforementioned cleaning circuit can be simply based on... Figure 29 The direction of liquid flow in the middle can be used to determine this; it can be done simply by following the direction of liquid flow in the middle. Figure 30 The direction of liquid flow in the middle can be followed sequentially. Figure 29 and Figure 30 The direction of liquid flow can be used to determine the direction of flow, or it can be done alternately. Figure 29 and Figure 30The liquid flow direction is determined by the fluid material discharge machine 100. The detailed operation of its automatic cleaning, disinfection, and / or sterilization programs will be further explained in later paragraphs.

[0225] If the dual-mode fluid connector 150 is replaced with a traditional unidirectional connector, the fluid material discharge machine 100 will find it difficult to perform the aforementioned automatic cleaning, automatic disinfection, and automatic sterilization procedures. Clearly, the aforementioned dual-mode fluid connector 150 greatly facilitates the realization of automatic cleaning, automatic disinfection, and / or automatic sterilization functions in the fluid material discharge machine 100.

[0226] Please note that during the entire cleaning, disinfection, and / or sterilization process described above, the user does not need to disconnect the raw material pipe 322 of the dual-mode fluid connector 150 from the originally connected pipeline, does not need to disconnect the cleaning pipe 324 of the dual-mode fluid connector 150 from the originally connected pipeline, and does not need to remove the dual-mode fluid connector 150 from the discharge check valve 140 of the raw material container 130.

[0227] Therefore, once the cleaning, disinfection, and / or sterilization procedures are completed, the user does not need to reconnect the raw material pipe 322 of the dual-mode fluid connector 150 to the corresponding pipeline, nor does the user need to reconnect the cleaning pipe 324 of the dual-mode fluid connector 150 to the corresponding pipeline, nor does the user need to reconnect the dual-mode fluid connector 150 to the discharge check valve 140 of the corresponding raw material container 130.

[0228] As can be seen from the foregoing description, such a mechanism can not only greatly reduce the burden on users, but also avoid soiling the surrounding environment and reduce the possibility of scratching or even damaging the dual-mode fluid connector 150.

[0229] As previously described, the first area 581 is provided with indicator text (e.g., "ON" and "SERVE"), indicator symbols, indicator images, and / or indicator colors (e.g., blue, green, purple, etc.) that can represent the working mode, while the second area 582 is provided with indicator text (e.g., "OFF" and "CLEAN"), indicator symbols, indicator images, and / or indicator colors (e.g., yellow, orange, red, etc.) that can represent the cleaning mode. As can be seen from the foregoing description, when the user rotates the rotatable part 380 so that the first area 581 faces upwards, the dual-mode fluid connector 150 will operate in the working mode, such as... Figures 5 to 8 As shown. When the user rotates the rotatable part 380 so that the second area 582 faces upward, the dual-mode fluid connector 150 operates in cleaning mode, as... Figures 25 to 28 As shown.

[0230] Therefore, when the user sees the rotatable part 380 with the first area 581 facing upwards, they can quickly understand that the current operating mode of the dual-mode fluid connector 150 is the working mode. Similarly, when the user sees the rotatable part 380 with the second area 582 facing upwards, they can quickly understand that the current operating mode of the dual-mode fluid connector 150 is the cleaning mode.

[0231] On the other hand, as mentioned above, the first marking area 471 of the curved plate 370 is provided with indicator text, indicator symbols, indicator images, and / or indicator colors (e.g., blue, green, purple, etc.) that can be used to represent the working mode, while the second marking area 473 is provided with indicator text, indicator symbols, indicator images, and / or indicator colors (e.g., yellow, orange, red, etc.) that can be used to represent the cleaning mode. When the direction of rotation of the rotatable part 380 is different from the rotation angle, the first window 781 and / or the second window 782 will expose different areas on the outer surface of the curved plate 370.

[0232] like Figure 5 , Figure 7 ,and Figure 8 As shown, when the user rotates the rotatable part 380 so that the first window 781 faces upwards, the first marking area 471 is exposed from the first window 781, and the dual-mode fluid connector 150 operates in working mode. Figure 25 , Figure 26 ,and Figure 28 As shown, when the user rotates the rotatable part 380 so that the second window 782 faces upward, the second marking area 473 is exposed from the second window 782, and the dual-mode fluid connector 150 operates in cleaning mode.

[0233] Therefore, when the user sees the rotatable part 380 with the first window 781 facing upwards and the first marking area 471 exposed from the first window 781, they can quickly understand that the current operating mode of the dual-mode fluid connector 150 is the working mode. Similarly, when the user sees the rotatable part 380 with the second window 782 facing upwards and the second marking area 473 exposed from the second window 782, they can quickly understand that the current operating mode of the dual-mode fluid connector 150 is the cleaning mode.

[0234] In this embodiment, the aforementioned spring 350 also has another function. As previously mentioned, when the user wants to set the dual-mode fluid connector 150 to cleaning mode, the user can rotate the rotatable part 380 in the aforementioned second predetermined direction. After the user rotates the rotatable part 380 to disengage the first guide member 487 from the range of the barrier member 447, if the user releases the rotatable part 380 without continuing to rotate it in the aforementioned second predetermined direction, the elastic restoring force of the spring 350 will automatically push the push rod 360 or the rotatable part 380 backward, causing the rotatable part 380 to rotate while retracting until the second extension 484 touches the second limiting member 417. Therefore, after the first guide 487 is removed from the range of the barrier 447, if the user does not continue to operate the rotatable part 380, the elastic restoring force of the spring 350 will automatically rotate the rotatable part 380 so that the second area 582 faces upward (or the second window 782 faces upward and the second marking area 473 is exposed from the second window 782).

[0235] In other words, after the first guide member 487 disengages from the barrier member 447, if the user does not continue to operate the rotatable part 380, the spring 350 in this embodiment will automatically switch the dual-mode fluid connector 150 to the cleaning mode using its elastic restoring force. This mechanism can effectively prevent the dual-mode fluid connector 150 from operating in the gray area between the working mode and the cleaning mode due to the user not rotating the rotatable part 380 to the appropriate angle.

[0236] On the other hand, such as Figure 26 and Figure 28 As shown, when the user or spring 350 rotates the rotatable part 380 to a certain extent in the aforementioned second predetermined direction, the second extension 484 of the rotatable part 380 will contact the second limiting member 417 on the hollow connector 310 to prevent the rotatable part 380 from continuing to rotate in the second predetermined direction. This design can prevent the rotatable part 380 from being excessively rotated by the user or spring 350, which would cause the push rod 360 to move excessively backward.

[0237] If the push rod 360 moves too far back, the rotatable part 380 may detach from the tail 340. Once the rotatable part 380 detaches from the tail 340, liquid in the cavity 411 of the dual-mode fluid connector 150 may leak out of the perforation 441 of the tail 340.

[0238] Therefore, by combining the second extension 484 and the second limiting member 417, the rotation angle of the rotatable part 380 can be effectively limited, thereby preventing the rotatable part 380 from accidentally detaching from the tail 340. In this way, improper operation by excessively rotating the rotatable part 380 can be avoided, thereby reducing the problem of liquid in the cavity 411 accidentally leaking out from the perforation 441 of the tail 340.

[0239] As described above, the design of the dual-mode fluid connector 150 allows users to easily switch between two different operating modes by rotating the rotatable part 380. This design is not only convenient to operate, but also very intuitive.

[0240] During the cleaning, disinfection, and / or sterilization of the dual-mode fluid connector 150, the user does not need to disconnect the raw material pipe 322 of the dual-mode fluid connector 150 from the original connected pipeline, does not need to disconnect the cleaning pipe 324 of the dual-mode fluid connector 150 from the original connected pipeline, and does not need to remove the dual-mode fluid connector 150 from the discharge check valve 140 of the raw material container 130.

[0241] Therefore, once the cleaning, disinfection, and / or sterilization procedures are completed, the user naturally does not need to reconnect the raw material pipe 322 to the corresponding pipeline, nor does the user need to reconnect the cleaning pipe 324 to the corresponding pipeline, nor does the user need to reconnect the dual-mode fluid connector 150 to the discharge check valve 140 of the corresponding raw material container 130. This not only effectively saves considerable manpower and time, reduces environmental contamination, but also effectively avoids the problem of joint scratches or even damage.

[0242] Furthermore, when the dual-mode fluid connector 150 switches to cleaning mode, the raw material pipe 322, raw material conveying pipe 152, cleaning pipe 324, cleaning agent conveying pipe 154, and dual-mode fluid connector 150 together form a cleaning loop. In this case, the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can convey and circulate liquids such as cleaning solution, bactericide, disinfectant solution, and water in the aforementioned cleaning loop to perform cleaning, disinfection, and / or sterilization procedures on the dual-mode fluid connector 150 and related pipes, parts, and connectors inside the fluid raw material discharge machine 100. In this way, automatic cleaning, automatic disinfection, and / or automatic sterilization procedures can be realized for the dual-mode fluid connector 150 and related pipes, parts, and connectors inside the fluid raw material discharge machine 100.

[0243] If the dual-mode fluid connector 150 is replaced with a traditional unidirectional connector, the fluid material discharge machine 100 will find it difficult to perform the aforementioned automatic cleaning, automatic disinfection, and automatic sterilization procedures. Clearly, the aforementioned dual-mode fluid connector 150 greatly facilitates the realization of automatic cleaning, automatic disinfection, and / or automatic sterilization functions in the fluid material discharge machine 100.

[0244] Please note that the number, shape, or position of some components in the aforementioned dual-mode fluid connector 150 can be adjusted according to the needs of actual application and is not limited to the manner illustrated in the aforementioned embodiments.

[0245] For example, the shape, width, and / or diameter of the aforementioned hollow connector 310, head 330, and tail 340 can be adjusted according to the needs of actual application. In some embodiments, the diameter or inner diameter of the hollow connector 310 can be designed to be the same as or larger than the diameter or inner diameter of the head 330. In other embodiments, the diameter or inner diameter of the hollow connector 310 can be designed to be larger or smaller than the diameter or inner diameter of the tail 340.

[0246] For example, in some embodiments, spring 350 may be omitted.

[0247] For example, the push rod 360 can be directly integrated into the rotatable part 380 in various suitable ways. In this case, the blocking part 489 of the rotatable part 380 can be omitted.

[0248] For example, the plug 390 can be directly integrated into the rotatable part 380 in various suitable ways. In this case, the rear opening 482 and the blocking part 489 of the rotatable part 380 can be omitted.

[0249] For example, the first limiting member 416 and / or the second limiting member 417 on the aforementioned hollow connector 310 can be omitted. In this case, the cleaning tube 324 can be used directly as the first limiting member 416 and / or the second limiting member 417.

[0250] For example, the shape, length, and / or width of the aforementioned first caliper 433 and second caliper 435 can be adjusted according to the needs of actual application.

[0251] For example, the aforementioned first clamp 433 and second clamp 435 can be reconnected to the outside of the hollow connector 310.

[0252] For example, the aforementioned first caliper 433 or second caliper 435 can be omitted. In this case, the corresponding first protrusion 437 or second protrusion 439 can also be omitted.

[0253] For example, in some embodiments where the connection between the head 330 and the discharge check valve 140 is sufficiently secure, the aforementioned first clamp 433 and second clamp 435 may be omitted. In this case, the corresponding first protrusion 437 and second protrusion 439 may also be omitted.

[0254] For example, the first protrusion 437 and / or the second protrusion 439 on the aforementioned head 330 can be omitted. In this case, the tail of the corresponding first caliper 433 or second caliper 435 can also be shortened or omitted.

[0255] For example, the first spiral track 443 on the aforementioned tail 340 can be replaced with a first straight track perpendicular to the baffle member 447, and the aforementioned second spiral track 445 can be replaced with a second straight track parallel to the first straight track. The first and second straight tracks are respectively set on opposite sides of the outer surface of the tail 340. In this embodiment, when the user wants to set the dual-mode fluid connector 150 to the working mode, the user can push the rotatable part 380 towards the head 330. In this case, the first guide member 487 and the second guide member 488 on the rotatable part 380 will advance along the first and second straight tracks respectively, and at the same time, the rotatable part 380 will drive the push rod 360 to advance in a straight line, so that the sealing part 463 on the push rod 360 abuts against the blocking member 415 in the cavity 411, and causes the rod head 461 to push the blocking member 242 on the discharge check valve 140 inward. As the push rod 360 or the rotatable part 380 moves towards the head 330, the flanges 465 and 467 on the push rod 360, or the blocking part 489 inside the rotatable part 380, compress the spring 350. When the first guide 487 of the rotatable part 380 reaches the side of the barrier 447, the user can rotate the rotatable part 380, causing the barrier 447 to lock the first guide 487. In this way, it can be ensured that when the dual-mode fluid connector 150 is operating in the working mode, the first space 412 and the second space 413 in the cavity 411 can remain isolated to prevent fluid materials from accidentally flowing into the cleaning tube 324.

[0256] For example, the second spiral track 445 and / or the second linear track on the aforementioned tail portion 340 can be omitted. In this case, the second guide member 488 of the rotatable portion 380 can be omitted.

[0257] For example, the flanges 465 and / or 467 of the aforementioned push rod 360 can be omitted.

[0258] For example, the slot 469 of the aforementioned push rod 360 can be omitted. In this case, the shape of the plug 390 can be adjusted accordingly, or the rear opening 482 of the rotatable part 380 can be omitted.

[0259] For example, the first extension 483 and / or the second extension 484 of the aforementioned rotatable portion 380 can be omitted.

[0260] For example, the first fin 485 and / or the second fin 486 of the aforementioned rotatable portion 380 can be omitted.

[0261] For example, the first region 581 and / or the second region 582 on the aforementioned rotatable part 380 can be omitted.

[0262] For example, the first window 781 or the second window 782 on the aforementioned rotatable part 380 can be omitted. In this case, the first marking area 471 or the second marking area 473 on the curved plate 370 can be omitted.

[0263] For example, the first window 781 and the second window 782 on the aforementioned rotatable part 380 can be omitted. In this case, the first marking area 471 and the second marking area 473 on the curved plate 370 can be omitted, or the entire curved plate 370 can be omitted.

[0264] As mentioned above, the aforementioned fluid material discharge machine 100 can perform automatic cleaning, automatic disinfection, and / or automatic sterilization procedures to prevent bacteria or toxins from growing on the parts, pipes, and / or joints of the fluid material discharge machine 100.

[0265] During cleaning, disinfection, and / or sterilization procedures, the fluid feeder 100 can simultaneously perform automatic cleaning, disinfection, and / or sterilization procedures on all parts, pipes, and / or connectors connected to all output connectors 110. Alternatively, the fluid feeder 100 can, according to the user's (e.g., cleaning personnel or operators of the fluid feeder 100) selection, perform automatic cleaning, disinfection, and / or sterilization procedures only on some parts, pipes, and / or connectors connected to some output connectors 110.

[0266] To further highlight the flexibility of the aforementioned fluid material discharge machine 100, the following will describe an application scenario in which the user wants the fluid material discharge machine 100 to automatically clean, disinfect, and / or sterilize only the parts, pipes, and / or connectors connected to a portion of the output connectors 110.

[0267] Users can switch all the corresponding dual-mode fluid connectors 150 of the pipelines to be cleaned to cleaning mode and place a flow guide device 890 at a predetermined position on the workbench 102 (e.g., below the aforementioned plurality of output connectors 110). In addition, users can set which output connectors 110 or pipelines to be cleaned on the control panel 109, put an appropriate or specified amount of cleaning agent (e.g., cleaning powder, cleaning tablets, cleaning capsules, concentrated cleaning solution, or other similar items) into the cleaning tank 170, and put an appropriate or specified amount of disinfectant (e.g., disinfectant powder, disinfectant tablets, disinfectant capsules, concentrated disinfectant solution, or other similar items) into the disinfectant container 172.

[0268] Next, the fluid material discharge machine 100 will begin an automatic cleaning program, an automatic disinfection program, and an automatic sterilization program for the parts, pipes, and / or connectors connected to the selected output connector 110.

[0269] Please refer to Figures 31 to 35 . Figure 31 A simplified three-dimensional perspective view of the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 during its automatic cleaning process. Figures 32 to 35 This is a simplified schematic diagram showing the spatial configuration of some components involved in the automatic cleaning process from different perspectives.

[0270] like Figures 31 to 35 As shown, the flow guiding device 890 in this embodiment includes a fluid inlet 891, a first fluid outlet 893, and a second fluid outlet 895. The fluid inlet 891 can be used to receive liquid output from one or more outlet connectors 110 above the flow guiding device 890. The first fluid outlet 893 faces the cleaning tank 170 and can discharge liquid from the flow guiding device 890 into the cleaning tank 170. The second fluid outlet 895 faces the drain tank 180 and can discharge liquid from the flow guiding device 890 into the drain tank 180.

[0271] During operation, the flow guiding device 890 can selectively guide one of the fluid output directions of the flow guiding device 890 to the cleaning tank 170 and the drainage tank 180, according to the control of the control circuit inside the control panel 109 or the fluid raw material discharge machine 100.

[0272] For example, when the flow guiding device 890 sets the first fluid output terminal 893 to a drainable state, it sets the second fluid output terminal 895 to a closed state. This allows liquid in the flow guiding device 890 to be discharged into the cleaning tank 170 through the first fluid output terminal 893, but not into the drain tank 180 through the second fluid output terminal 895. In other words, the fluid output direction of the flow guiding device 890 at this time is directed towards the cleaning tank 170 rather than the drain tank 180.

[0273] Conversely, when the flow guiding device 890 sets the second fluid output terminal 895 to a drainable state, it sets the first fluid output terminal 893 to a closed state. This allows the liquid in the flow guiding device 890 to be discharged into the drain tank 180 through the second fluid output terminal 895, but not into the cleaning tank 170 through the first fluid output terminal 893. In other words, the fluid output direction of the flow guiding device 890 at this time is directed towards the drain tank 180, not the cleaning tank 170.

[0274] In practice, various suitable components can be installed within the flow guiding device 890 to achieve the aforementioned function of selectively switching the fluid output direction. For example, an electric three-way valve connected to the first fluid output terminal 893 and the second fluid output terminal 895 can be installed at the bottom of the flow guiding device 890. Alternatively, two electric valves, two switches, two electric gates, or other similar components can be installed inside the flow guiding device 890, corresponding to the first fluid output terminal 893 and the second fluid output terminal 895, respectively.

[0275] In addition, the switching operation of the fluid output direction of the flow guiding device 890 can also be controlled by a device other than the fluid raw material discharge machine 100.

[0276] For example, the switching operation of the fluid output direction of the flow guiding device 890 can be changed to be controlled by a user-operated wireless communication device (e.g., mobile phone, tablet computer) or a remote control. In this case, the flow guiding device 890 must be equipped with the ability to receive control signals generated by the aforementioned wireless communication device or remote control.

[0277] For example, a control button, a control switch, a control interface, or an operation panel can be provided on the flow guiding device 890, and the switching operation of the fluid output direction of the flow guiding device 890 can be changed to be controlled by the aforementioned control button, control switch, control interface, or operation panel. In this case, the user can operate the aforementioned control button, control switch, control interface, or operation panel to control the switching operation of the fluid output direction of the flow guiding device 890.

[0278] like Figure 33 and Figure 34 As shown, the disinfectant container 172 includes a connecting hole 178, through which liquid in the disinfectant container 172 flows into the cleaning tank 170. In practice, the connecting hole 178 can be provided on the side wall or bottom of the disinfectant container 172.

[0279] The following will be paired Figures 36 to 39 To further explain the operation of the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 when it performs automatic cleaning, automatic disinfection, and automatic sterilization programs. Figures 36 to 37 A simplified flowchart of an embodiment of an automatic cleaning method used in a fluid raw material discharge machine 100. Figures 38 to 39 A simplified flowchart of an embodiment of an automatic disinfection method used in a fluid raw material discharge machine 100.

[0280] As previously described, after the user places the flow guide device 890 at a predetermined position on the workbench 102, puts cleaning agent into the cleaning tank 170, puts disinfectant into the disinfectant container 172, switches the relevant dual-mode fluid connector 150 to cleaning mode, and selects the output connector 110 or pipeline to be cleaned and disinfected through the control panel 109, the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 will start an automatic cleaning program, an automatic disinfection program, and an automatic sterilization program for the parts, pipelines, and / or connectors connected to the selected output connector 110.

[0281] For ease of explanation, the selected output connector 110 will be referred to as the target output connector 110, the pump 160 corresponding to the target output connector 110 will be referred to as the target pump 160, the raw material delivery pipeline 152 coupled to the target pump 160 will be referred to as the target raw material delivery pipeline 152, the dual-mode fluid connector 150 coupled to the target raw material delivery pipeline 152 will be referred to as the target dual-mode fluid connector 150, the cleaning agent delivery pipeline 154 coupled to the target dual-mode fluid connector 150 will be referred to as the target cleaning agent delivery pipeline 154, and the one-way valve 194 coupled to the target cleaning agent delivery pipeline 154 will be referred to as the target one-way valve 194.

[0282] In this case, the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can adopt Figure 36 and Figure 37It operates using an automatic cleaning method.

[0283] In process 3602, the internal control circuit of the control panel 109 or the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can set the fluid output direction of the guiding device 890 to guide the cleaning tank 170. As mentioned above, the internal control circuit of the control panel 109 or the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can control the guiding device 890 to set the first fluid output terminal 893 to a conducting state and the second fluid output terminal 895 to a closed state.

[0284] In process 3604, the fluid feeder 100 can inject water into the cleaning tank 170, causing the cleaning agent in the cleaning tank 170 to mix with the water to form a cleaning solution. During operation, the fluid feeder 100 can inject water into the guide device 890 through one or more output connectors 110, and the guide device 890 guides the water into the cleaning tank 170, causing the cleaning agent in the cleaning tank 170 to mix with the water to form a cleaning solution. If the user has not yet placed disinfectant in the disinfectant container 172, the fluid feeder 100 can also inject water into the disinfectant container 172 in the cleaning tank 170 through the water injection connector 174 in process 3604. In this case, the water in the disinfectant container 172 will flow into the cleaning tank 170 through the connecting hole 178, causing the cleaning agent in the cleaning tank 170 to mix with the water to form a cleaning solution.

[0285] When the amount of water injected into the cleaning tank 170 reaches a first predetermined amount, or when the water injection time reaches a first predetermined time, the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can proceed to process 3606.

[0286] In process 3606, the internal control circuit of the control panel 109 or the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can set the fluid output direction of the guiding device 890 to guide the drainage trough 180. As mentioned above, the internal control circuit of the control panel 109 or the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can control the guiding device 890 to switch the first fluid output terminal 893 to the closed state and the second fluid output terminal 895 to the open state.

[0287] In process 3608, the internal control circuit of the control panel 109 or the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can control the switching switch 192 to connect the cleaning tank 170 and the distributor 190, so that the cleaning solution in the cleaning tank 170 flows into the distributor 190 through the water outlet of the cleaning tank 170 and the liquid input port of the distributor 190.

[0288] In process 3610, the internal control circuit of the control panel 109 or the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can actuate the target pump 160 corresponding to the target output connector 110 to push the residual fluid raw material in the corresponding target raw material conveying pipeline 152 forward, so that the residual fluid raw material is discharged through the target output connector 110 to the flow guiding device 890.

[0289] In process 3612, the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can create a negative pressure in a target cleaning agent delivery line 154 corresponding to the target raw material delivery line 152, so that the cleaning solution in the distributor 190 is drawn into a corresponding target dual-mode fluid connector 150 through the target cleaning agent delivery line 154, and then flows into the target raw material delivery line 152 through the target dual-mode fluid connector 150.

[0290] As described above, the target raw material delivery line 152 and the corresponding target cleaning agent delivery line 154 are both coupled to the target dual-mode fluid connector 150. Moreover, when the target dual-mode fluid connector 150 is switched to cleaning mode, the target raw material delivery line 152 and the target cleaning agent delivery line 154 can be connected to each other through the target dual-mode fluid connector 150.

[0291] When the target pump 160 pushes the residual fluid material in the target raw material delivery pipeline 152 forward, it will also create a negative pressure in the target cleaning agent delivery pipeline 154, so that the cleaning solution in the distributor 190 is drawn into the target dual-mode fluid connector 150 through the target cleaning agent delivery pipeline 154, and then flows into the target raw material delivery pipeline 152 through the target dual-mode fluid connector 150.

[0292] In other words, the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 in this embodiment will also perform process 3612 simultaneously while performing process 3610.

[0293] Next, the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 will proceed to process 3614.

[0294] In process 3614, the internal control circuit of the control panel 109 or the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can control the target pump 160 to operate continuously for a period of time, causing the residual fluid raw material and part of the cleaning solution in the corresponding target raw material conveying pipeline 152 to be discharged into the guide device 890 through the corresponding target output connector 110. The fluid output direction of the guide device 890 at this time is set to guide the drainage tank 180. Therefore, the fluid raw material and cleaning solution discharged from the target output connector 110 will be output to the drainage tank 180 as waste liquid through the second fluid output end 895 of the guide device 890. This waste liquid will then be discharged from the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 through the drain pipe 182 of the drainage tank 180.

[0295] In this way, through the operation of the target pump 160, the residual fluid material in the target dual-mode fluid connector 150 and the target raw material conveying pipeline 152 can be discharged into the flow guiding device 890 through the target output connector 110, and then guided to the drainage tank 180 as waste liquid.

[0296] Next, the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can proceed... Figure 37 Process 3702 in the middle.

[0297] In process 3702, the internal control circuit of the control panel 109 or the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can again set the fluid output direction of the guide device 890 to guide the cleaning tank 170. As mentioned above, the internal control circuit of the control panel 109 or the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can control the guide device 890 to set the first fluid output terminal 893 to the conducting state and the second fluid output terminal 895 to the closed state.

[0298] Since the operation of processes 3610 to 3614 consumes part of the cleaning solution in the cleaning tank 170, the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can then proceed to process 3704.

[0299] In process 3704, the fluid feeder 100 can inject water into the cleaning tank 170 to replenish the liquid volume of the cleaning solution in the cleaning tank 170. During operation, the fluid feeder 100 can inject water into the guide device 890 through one or more output connectors 110, and the guide device 890 will guide the water into the cleaning tank 170 to replenish the liquid volume of the cleaning solution in the cleaning tank 170. If the user has not yet put disinfectant into the disinfectant container 172, the fluid feeder 100 can also inject water into the disinfectant container 172 in the cleaning tank 170 through the water injection connector 174 in process 3704. In this case, the water in the disinfectant container 172 will flow into the cleaning tank 170 through the connecting hole 178, thereby replenishing the liquid volume of the cleaning solution in the cleaning tank 170.

[0300] When the amount of water added to the cleaning tank 170 reaches a second predetermined amount, or when the water injection time reaches a second predetermined time, the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can proceed to process 3706.

[0301] In process 3706, the internal control circuit of the control panel 109 or the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can actuate the target pump 160 to push the cleaning solution in the corresponding target raw material conveying pipeline 152 forward, so that the cleaning solution is discharged into the guide device 890 through the corresponding target output connector 110.

[0302] In process 3708, the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can create a negative pressure in the target cleaning agent delivery line 154 corresponding to the target raw material delivery line 152, so that the cleaning solution in the distributor 190 is drawn into the corresponding target dual-mode fluid connector 150 through the target cleaning agent delivery line 154, and then flows into the target raw material delivery line 152 through the target dual-mode fluid connector 150.

[0303] As mentioned above, when the target pump 160 pushes the cleaning solution in the target raw material delivery pipeline 152 forward, it will also create a negative pressure in the target cleaning agent delivery pipeline 154, so that the cleaning solution in the distributor 190 is drawn into the target dual-mode fluid connector 150 through the target cleaning agent delivery pipeline 154, and then flows into the target raw material delivery pipeline 152 through the target dual-mode fluid connector 150.

[0304] In other words, the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 in this embodiment will also perform process 3708 simultaneously while performing process 3706.

[0305] On the other hand, the fluid output direction of the flow guiding device 890 is set to guide the cleaning tank 170. Therefore, the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can simultaneously perform process 3710 to guide the cleaning solution discharged from the target output connector 110 back into the cleaning tank 170 using the flow guiding device 890. In this embodiment, the cleaning solution discharged from the target output connector 110 is output to the cleaning tank 170 through the first fluid output end 893 of the flow guiding device 890, so that the cleaning solution discharged from the target output connector 110 can be reused.

[0306] In process 3712, the internal control circuit of the control panel 109 or the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can control the target pump 160 to operate continuously, so that the cleaning solution in the cleaning tank 170 is circulated multiple times in the above-mentioned cleaning loop (e.g., cleaning tank 170, distributor 190, target cleaning agent delivery line 154, target dual-mode fluid connector 150, target raw material delivery line 152, target pump 160, target output connector 110) to perform a cleaning procedure on the corresponding target dual-mode fluid connector 150, the corresponding target raw material delivery line 152, and the corresponding target output connector 110 for a predetermined time length.

[0307] In process 3714, the internal control circuit of the control panel 109 or the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can again switch the fluid output direction of the guide device 890 to guide the drainage trough 180. As mentioned above, the internal control circuit of the control panel 109 or the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can control the guide device 890 to set the first fluid output terminal 893 to the closed state and the second fluid output terminal 895 to the open state.

[0308] In process 3716, the internal control circuit of the control panel 109 or the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can control the target pump 160 to operate continuously for a period of time, causing the cleaning solution in the corresponding target raw material conveying pipeline 152 to be discharged into the guide device 890 through the corresponding target output connector 110. The fluid output direction of the guide device 890 at this time is set to guide the drainage tank 180. Therefore, the cleaning solution discharged from the target output connector 110 will be output to the drainage tank 180 as waste liquid through the second fluid output end 895 of the guide device 890. This waste liquid will then be discharged from the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 through the drain pipe 182 of the drainage tank 180. In other words, in process 3716, the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 uses the guide device 890 to guide the cleaning solution discharged from the target output connector 110 into the drainage tank 180, but does not use the guide device 890 to guide the cleaning solution discharged from the target output connector 110 back into the cleaning tank 170.

[0309] Through the operation of the target pump 160, most of the cleaning solution in the target dual-mode fluid connector 150, the target raw material delivery pipeline 152, and the target cleaning agent delivery pipeline 154 can be discharged into the diversion device 890 through the target output connector 110, and then guided to the drain tank 180 as waste liquid.

[0310] In this way, the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can complete the automatic cleaning process.

[0311] As previously described, the multiple check valves 194 in the fluid feeder 100 are respectively coupled to multiple liquid output ports of the distributor 190, and each check valve 194 is coupled between one of the liquid output ports of the distributor 190 and a corresponding detergent delivery line 154, to prevent the fluid in the detergent delivery line 154 from flowing back into the distributor 190. From another perspective, the distributor 190 is simultaneously coupled to multiple detergent delivery lines 154, and these multiple detergent delivery lines 154 can be interconnected through the distributor 190.

[0312] During the aforementioned automatic cleaning operation, the fluid material discharge machine 100 can perform the automatic cleaning procedure only on the user-selected output connectors 110 and related parts, pipelines, and / or connectors. As described above, when the target pump 160 pushes the residual fluid material or cleaning solution in the target material delivery pipeline 152 forward, a negative pressure will be formed in the corresponding target dual-mode fluid connector 150 and the target cleaning agent delivery pipeline 154 connected to the target dual-mode fluid connector 150.

[0313] If no check valve 194 is provided between the aforementioned multiple cleaning agent delivery lines 154 and the distributor 190, when the target pump 160 pushes the residual fluid material or cleaning solution in the target material delivery line 152 forward, negative pressure may also be formed in other cleaning agent delivery lines 154 (hereinafter referred to as non-selected cleaning agent delivery lines 154) and related dual-mode fluid connectors 150 (hereinafter referred to as non-selected dual-mode fluid connectors 150). In this case, the operation of the target pump 160 may cause the fluid material in the material container 130 connected to the non-selected dual-mode fluid connector 150 to be drawn into the non-selected dual-mode fluid connector 150 due to the negative pressure in the non-selected dual-mode fluid connector 150, and flow into the distributor 190 through the non-selected cleaning agent delivery line 154. This will cause the cleaning solution used in the automatic cleaning process to be contaminated by the aforementioned fluid material flowing into the distributor 190, thus significantly affecting the overall cleaning effect.

[0314] As explained above, the multiple check valves 194 positioned between the distributor 190 and the multiple cleaning agent delivery lines 154 effectively prevent the cleaning solution used in the automatic cleaning process from being contaminated by fluid materials in other unrelated dual-mode fluid connectors 150. In other words, the aforementioned multiple check valves 194 ensure that the automatic cleaning process of the fluid material discharge machine 100 can proceed smoothly.

[0315] In addition, by selecting a suitable type of check valve 194, the cleaning solution in the distributor 190 can be prevented from flowing into the non-selected cleaning agent delivery line 154, thereby preventing the fluid material in the non-selected dual-mode fluid connector 150 from being affected by the cleaning solution.

[0316] Next, the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can adopt... Figure 38 and Figure 39 The automatic disinfection method in the middle is used to perform automatic disinfection and sterilization procedures on the parts, pipes and / or connectors connected to the target output connector 110.

[0317] In process 3802, the internal control circuit of the control panel 109 or the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can set the fluid output direction of the guiding device 890 to guide the cleaning tank 170. As mentioned above, the internal control circuit of the control panel 109 or the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can control the guiding device 890 to set the first fluid output terminal 893 to a conducting state and the second fluid output terminal 895 to a closed state.

[0318] In process 3804, the fluid feeder 100 can inject water into the disinfectant container 172 in the cleaning tank 170, so that the disinfectant in the disinfectant container 172 mixes with the water to form a disinfection solution. In this case, the water in the disinfectant container 172 flows into the cleaning tank 170 through the connecting hole 178, so that the disinfectant in the disinfectant container 172 and the water mix together in the cleaning tank 170 to form a disinfection solution.

[0319] When the amount of water injected into the cleaning tank 170 reaches a third predetermined amount, or when the water injection time reaches a third predetermined time, the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can proceed to process 3806.

[0320] In process 3806, the internal control circuit of the control panel 109 or the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can set the fluid output direction of the flow guiding device 890 to guide the drainage trough 180. As mentioned above, the internal control circuit of the control panel 109 or the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can control the flow guiding device 890 to switch the first fluid output terminal 893 to the closed state and the second fluid output terminal 895 to the open state.

[0321] In process 3808, the internal control circuit of the control panel 109 or the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can control the switching switch 192 to connect the cleaning tank 170 and the distributor 190, so that the disinfection solution in the cleaning tank 170 flows into the distributor 190 through the water outlet of the cleaning tank 170 and the liquid input port of the distributor 190.

[0322] In process 3810, the internal control circuit of the control panel 109 or the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can actuate the target pump 160 corresponding to the target output connector 110 to push the residual cleaning solution in the corresponding target raw material conveying pipeline 152 forward, so that the residual cleaning solution is discharged through the target output connector 110 into the flow guiding device 890.

[0323] In process 3812, the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can create a negative pressure in the target cleaning agent delivery pipeline 154 corresponding to the target raw material delivery pipeline 152, so that the disinfectant solution in the distributor 190 is drawn into the corresponding target dual-mode fluid connector 150 through the target cleaning agent delivery pipeline 154, and then flows into the target raw material delivery pipeline 152 through the target dual-mode fluid connector 150.

[0324] As described above, the target raw material delivery line 152 and the corresponding target cleaning agent delivery line 154 are both coupled to the target dual-mode fluid connector 150. Moreover, when the target dual-mode fluid connector 150 is switched to cleaning mode, the target raw material delivery line 152 and the target cleaning agent delivery line 154 can be connected to each other through the target dual-mode fluid connector 150.

[0325] When the target pump 160 pushes the residual cleaning solution in the target raw material delivery pipeline 152 forward, it will also create a negative pressure in the target cleaning agent delivery pipeline 154, so that the disinfectant solution in the distributor 190 is drawn into the target dual-mode fluid connector 150 through the target cleaning agent delivery pipeline 154, and then flows into the target raw material delivery pipeline 152 through the target dual-mode fluid connector 150.

[0326] In other words, the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 in this embodiment will also perform process 3812 simultaneously while performing process 3810.

[0327] Next, the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 will proceed to process 3814.

[0328] In process 3814, the internal control circuit of the control panel 109 or the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can control the target pump 160 to operate continuously for a period of time, causing the residual cleaning solution and part of the disinfection solution in the corresponding target raw material conveying pipeline 152 to be discharged into the guide device 890 through the corresponding target output connector 110. The fluid output direction of the guide device 890 at this time is set to guide the drainage tank 180. Therefore, the cleaning solution and disinfection solution discharged from the target output connector 110 will be output to the drainage tank 180 as waste liquid through the second fluid output end 895 of the guide device 890. This waste liquid will then be discharged from the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 through the drain pipe 182 of the drainage tank 180.

[0329] In this way, through the operation of the target pump 160, the residual cleaning solution in the target dual-mode fluid connector 150 and the target raw material conveying pipeline 152 can be discharged into the flow guiding device 890 through the target output connector 110, and then guided to the drain tank 180 as waste liquid.

[0330] Next, the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can proceed... Figure 39 Process 3902 in the middle.

[0331] In process 3902, the internal control circuit of the control panel 109 or the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can again set the fluid output direction of the guide device 890 to guide the cleaning tank 170. As mentioned above, the internal control circuit of the control panel 109 or the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can control the guide device 890 to set the first fluid output terminal 893 to the conducting state and the second fluid output terminal 895 to the closed state.

[0332] Since the operation of processes 3810 to 3814 consumes part of the disinfectant solution in the cleaning tank 170, the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can then proceed to process 3904.

[0333] In process 3904, the fluid feeder 100 can inject water into the cleaning tank 170 to replenish the liquid volume of the disinfectant solution in the cleaning tank 170. During operation, the fluid feeder 100 can inject water into the diversion device 890 through one or more output connectors 110, and use the diversion device 890 to guide the water into the cleaning tank 170 to replenish the liquid volume of the disinfectant solution in the cleaning tank 170.

[0334] Alternatively, the fluid feeder 100 can inject water into the disinfectant container 172 inside the cleaning tank 170 via the water injection connector 174. In this case, the water in the disinfectant container 172 will flow into the cleaning tank 170 through the connecting hole 178, thereby replenishing the amount of disinfectant solution in the cleaning tank 170.

[0335] When the amount of water added to the cleaning tank 170 reaches a fourth predetermined amount, or when the water injection time reaches a fourth predetermined time, the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can proceed to process 3906.

[0336] In process 3906, the internal control circuit of the control panel 109 or the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can actuate the target pump 160 to push the disinfectant solution in the corresponding target raw material conveying pipeline 152 forward, so that the disinfectant solution is discharged into the guide device 890 through the corresponding target output connector 110.

[0337] In process 3908, the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can create a negative pressure in the target cleaning agent delivery pipeline 154 corresponding to the target raw material delivery pipeline 152, so that the disinfectant solution in the distributor 190 is drawn into the corresponding target dual-mode fluid connector 150 through the target cleaning agent delivery pipeline 154, and then flows into the target raw material delivery pipeline 152 through the target dual-mode fluid connector 150.

[0338] As mentioned above, when the target pump 160 pushes the disinfectant solution in the target raw material delivery pipeline 152 forward, it will also create a negative pressure in the target cleaning agent delivery pipeline 154, so that the disinfectant solution in the distributor 190 is drawn into the target dual-mode fluid connector 150 through the target cleaning agent delivery pipeline 154, and then flows into the target raw material delivery pipeline 152 through the target dual-mode fluid connector 150.

[0339] In other words, the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 in this embodiment will also perform process 3908 simultaneously while performing process 3906.

[0340] On the other hand, the fluid output direction of the flow guiding device 890 is set to guide the cleaning tank 170. Therefore, the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can simultaneously perform process 3910 to guide the disinfectant solution discharged from the target output connector 110 back into the cleaning tank 170 using the flow guiding device 890. In this embodiment, the disinfectant solution discharged from the target output connector 110 is output to the cleaning tank 170 through the first fluid output end 893 of the flow guiding device 890, so that the disinfectant solution discharged from the target output connector 110 can be reused.

[0341] In process 3912, the internal control circuit of the control panel 109 or the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can control the target pump 160 to operate continuously, so that the disinfectant solution in the cleaning tank 170 is circulated multiple times in the above-mentioned cleaning loop (e.g., cleaning tank 170, distributor 190, target cleaning agent delivery line 154, target dual-mode fluid connector 150, target raw material delivery line 152, target pump 160, target output connector 110) to disinfect the corresponding target dual-mode fluid connector 150, the corresponding target raw material delivery line 152, and the corresponding target output connector 110 for a target time length.

[0342] In process 3914, the internal control circuit of the control panel 109 or the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can again switch the fluid output direction of the guide device 890 to guide the drainage trough 180. As mentioned above, the internal control circuit of the control panel 109 or the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can control the guide device 890 to set the first fluid output terminal 893 to the closed state and the second fluid output terminal 895 to the open state.

[0343] In process 3916, the internal control circuit of the control panel 109 or the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can control the target pump 160 to operate continuously for a period of time, causing the disinfectant solution in the corresponding target raw material conveying pipeline 152 to be discharged into the guide device 890 through the corresponding output connector 110. The fluid output direction of the guide device 890 at this time is set to guide the drainage tank 180. Therefore, the disinfectant solution discharged from the target output connector 110 will be output to the drainage tank 180 as waste liquid through the second fluid output end 895 of the guide device 890. This waste liquid will then be discharged from the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 through the drain pipe 182 of the drainage tank 180. In other words, in process 3916, the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 uses the guide device 890 to guide the disinfectant solution discharged from the target output connector 110 into the drainage tank 180, but does not use the guide device 890 to guide the disinfectant solution discharged from the target output connector 110 back into the cleaning tank 170.

[0344] Through the operation of the target pump 160, most of the disinfectant solution in the target dual-mode fluid connector 150, the target raw material delivery pipeline 152, and the target cleaning agent delivery pipeline 154 can be discharged into the diversion device 890 through the target output connector 110, and then guided to the drain tank 180 as waste liquid.

[0345] In this way, the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can complete the automatic disinfection process.

[0346] In practice, if the selected disinfectant also has a bactericidal function, then the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 is simultaneously performing an automatic sterilization operation while carrying out the aforementioned automatic disinfection operation. Therefore, when the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 completes the automatic disinfection program, it will also complete the automatic sterilization program at the same time.

[0347] As previously stated, during the aforementioned automatic disinfection operation, the fluid material discharge machine 100 can perform the aforementioned automatic disinfection procedure only on the user-selected portion of the output connector 110 and related parts, pipelines, and / or connectors. As explained above, when the target pump 160 pushes the residual cleaning solution or disinfectant solution forward in the target material delivery pipeline 152, a negative pressure will be formed in the corresponding target dual-mode fluid connector 150 and the target cleaning agent delivery pipeline 154 connected to the target dual-mode fluid connector 150.

[0348] If no one-way valve 194 is provided between the aforementioned multiple cleaning agent delivery lines 154 and the distributor 190, when the target pump 160 pushes the residual cleaning solution or disinfectant solution in the target raw material delivery line 152 forward, negative pressure may also be formed in other cleaning agent delivery lines 154 (hereinafter referred to as non-selected cleaning agent delivery lines 154) and related dual-mode fluid connectors 150 (hereinafter referred to as non-selected dual-mode fluid connectors 150). In this case, the operation of the target pump 160 may cause the fluid raw material in the raw material container 130 connected to the non-selected dual-mode fluid connector 150 to be drawn into the non-selected dual-mode fluid connector 150 due to the negative pressure in the non-selected dual-mode fluid connector 150, and flow into the distributor 190 through the non-selected cleaning agent delivery line 154. This will cause the disinfectant solution used in the automatic disinfection process to be contaminated by the aforementioned fluid raw material flowing into the distributor 190, thus significantly affecting the overall disinfection effect.

[0349] As explained above, the multiple check valves 194 installed between the distributor 190 and the multiple cleaning agent delivery lines 154 can effectively prevent the disinfectant solution used in the automatic disinfection process from being contaminated by fluid materials in other unrelated dual-mode fluid connectors 150. In other words, the aforementioned multiple check valves 194 can ensure that the automatic disinfection process of the fluid material discharge machine 100 can proceed smoothly.

[0350] In addition, by selecting a suitable type of one-way valve 194, the disinfectant solution in the distributor 190 can be prevented from flowing into the non-selected cleaning agent delivery line 154, thereby preventing the fluid material in the non-selected dual-mode fluid connector 150 from being affected by the disinfectant solution.

[0351] As can be seen from the foregoing description, when the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 completes the aforementioned automatic disinfection / sterilization procedure, a small amount of disinfectant solution may remain in some components of the relevant cleaning circuit (e.g., the distributor 190, the target cleaning agent delivery line 154, the target dual-mode fluid connector 150, the target raw material delivery line 152, the target pump 160, and / or the target output connector 110).

[0352] In practical applications, the aforementioned disinfectant is a food-grade disinfectant. Therefore, even if some disinfectant solution remains in some components of the cleaning circuit after the automatic disinfection process, it will not negatively affect the safety of the fluid raw materials subsequently output by the fluid raw material discharge machine 100.

[0353] In some embodiments, the fluid feeder 100 may perform a resuming procedure on the relevant pipelines after completing the aforementioned automatic disinfection procedure, in order to further reduce or eliminate the impact of residual disinfection solution in the relevant components.

[0354] Please refer to Figure 40 The diagram shown is a simplified flowchart of an embodiment of the pipeline restoration method used in the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 of the present invention.

[0355] Fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can be adopted Figure 40 The pipeline restoration method is used to further reduce or eliminate the impact of residual disinfectant solution in the relevant components.

[0356] In process 4002, the fluid feeder 100 can use the control panel 109 or other suitable device to generate relevant prompts to remind the user to switch the target dual-mode fluid connector 150, which has completed the automatic cleaning / automatic disinfection program, from cleaning mode to working mode. The aforementioned prompts can be implemented using various suitable formats, such as specific colors, specific lights, indicative text, indicative patterns, specific images, specific sounds, or a combination of these formats.

[0357] As can be seen from the foregoing description, when the target dual-mode fluid connector 150 is switched to the working mode, the target raw material delivery pipeline 152 and the target cleaning agent delivery pipeline 154 can no longer be connected to each other through the target dual-mode fluid connector 150.

[0358] In process 4004, the fluid feeder 100 can request the user to perform specific operations (e.g., press a specific button, click a specific graphical option, enter a specific command, and / or enter a specific voice, etc.) via the control panel 109 or other suitable device (e.g., loudspeaker, indicator light, buzzer, etc.) to confirm that the relevant dual-mode fluid connector 150 has been switched to the working mode.

[0359] Once the fluid feeder 100 confirms that the relevant dual-mode fluid connector 150 has switched to the working mode, the fluid feeder 100 can proceed. Figure 40 Process 4006 in the middle.

[0360] In process 4006, the internal control circuit of the control panel 109 or the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can actuate the target pump 160 to push the residual disinfectant solution in the corresponding target raw material conveying pipeline 152 forward, so that the residual disinfectant solution is discharged into the guide device 890 through the corresponding target output connector 110. The fluid output direction of the guide device 890 at this time is set to guide the drainage tank 180. Therefore, the disinfectant solution discharged from the target output connector 110 will be output to the drainage tank 180 as waste liquid through the second fluid output end 895 of the guide device 890. This waste liquid will then be discharged from the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 through the drain pipe 182 of the drainage tank 180.

[0361] In process 4008, the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can create a negative pressure in the target raw material conveying pipeline 152 to draw the fluid raw material in the raw material container 130 connected to the target dual-mode fluid connector 150 into the target dual-mode fluid connector 150, and then flow into the target raw material conveying pipeline 152 through the target dual-mode fluid connector 150.

[0362] When the target pump 160 pushes the residual disinfectant solution in the target raw material delivery pipeline 152 forward, a negative pressure will be formed in the target raw material delivery pipeline 152 and the target dual-mode fluid connector 150. Under this condition, the fluid raw material in the raw material container 130 connected to the target dual-mode fluid connector 150 will be drawn into the target dual-mode fluid connector 150 due to the negative pressure in the target dual-mode fluid connector 150 and flow into the target raw material delivery pipeline 152.

[0363] In other words, the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 in this embodiment will also perform process 4008 simultaneously while performing process 4006.

[0364] Next, the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can proceed to process 4010.

[0365] In process 4010, the internal control circuit of the control panel 109 or the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can control the target pump 160 to operate continuously for a period of time, causing the residual disinfectant solution and part of the fluid raw material in the target raw material conveying pipeline 152 to be discharged into the guide device 890 through the corresponding target output connector 110. The fluid output direction of the guide device 890 at this time is set to guide the drainage tank 180. Therefore, the disinfectant solution and fluid raw material discharged from the target output connector 110 will be output to the drainage tank 180 as waste liquid through the second fluid output end 895 of the guide device 890. This waste liquid will then be discharged from the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 through the drain pipe 182 of the drainage tank 180.

[0366] By operating the target pump 160, the residual disinfectant solution in the target dual-mode fluid connector 150 and the target raw material delivery pipeline 152 can be completely discharged, thereby further reducing or eliminating the impact of the residual disinfectant solution in the relevant components.

[0367] In process 4012, the internal control circuit of control panel 109 or fluid material discharge machine 100 can control target pump 160 to stop operating in order to prevent target output connector 110 from continuing to discharge fluid material.

[0368] In process 4014, the fluid feeder 100 can use the control panel 109 or other suitable device to generate relevant prompts to remind the user to remove the guide device 890. Similarly, the aforementioned prompts can be implemented using various suitable formats, such as specific colors, specific lights, indicative text, indicative patterns, specific images, specific sounds, or a mixture of the aforementioned formats.

[0369] Next, the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can enter a standby state where it can operate normally at any time.

[0370] Please note that the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 is in operation. Figure 40 When the pipeline is restored to operation, it is not limited to using the flow diversion device 890. For example, in some embodiments, the flow diversion device 890 used in the aforementioned processes 4006, 4010, and 4014 can also be replaced by the aforementioned target container 120 or other containers.

[0371] As described above, the user only needs to perform a few actions (e.g., placing the flow guide device 890 at a predetermined position on the workbench 102, adding cleaning agent to the cleaning tank 170, adding disinfectant to the disinfectant container 172, switching the relevant dual-mode fluid connector 150 to cleaning mode, and selecting the output connector 110 or pipeline to be cleaned or disinfected via the control panel 109) for the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 to perform the aforementioned automatic cleaning, automatic disinfection, and automatic sterilization programs, which helps to prevent bacteria or toxins from growing in the parts, pipelines, and connectors inside the machine.

[0372] Before using the fluid feeder 100 for automatic cleaning and / or disinfection, the user does not need to disconnect the feed pipe 322 of the dual-mode fluid connector 150 from the original feed delivery line 152, the cleaning pipe 324 from the original cleaning agent delivery line 154, or remove the dual-mode fluid connector 150 from the feed container 130.

[0373] On the other hand, once the fluid material discharge machine 100 has completed the automatic cleaning and / or disinfection process, the user does not need to reconnect the material pipe 322 of the dual-mode fluid connector 150 to the corresponding material delivery pipe 152, the cleaning pipe 324 to the corresponding cleaning agent delivery pipe 154, or the dual-mode fluid connector 150 to the corresponding material container 130.

[0374] Clearly, by adopting the aforementioned fluid raw material discharge machine 100 and the aforementioned automatic cleaning / disinfection method, not only can a lot of manpower and time be saved, the surrounding environment is less likely to be soiled, but the problem of scratching or even damaging the dual-mode fluid connector 150 can also be effectively avoided.

[0375] In addition, the fluid material discharge machine 100 can use a disinfectant solution for automatic disinfection, which can effectively reduce the possibility of bacteria or toxins growing in the internal parts, pipes, and joints of the machine. This method can significantly reduce the frequency of cleaning and disinfection of the fluid material discharge machine 100, and may even reduce the need for cleaning / disinfection to once a week or longer.

[0376] Please note that the number, shape, or position of some components in the aforementioned fluid raw material discharge machine 100 can be adjusted according to the needs of actual application and are not limited to the manner illustrated in the aforementioned embodiments.

[0377] For example, in some embodiments, the aforementioned dual-mode fluid connector 150 can be replaced with a dual-mode connector with similar functions but different construction, or even with an electrically operated dual-mode connector with similar functions.

[0378] Furthermore, in the foregoing embodiments, the cleaning tank 170 and the drainage tank 180 are both disposed on the same workbench 102, but this is only an exemplary embodiment and is not intended to limit the actual implementation of the present invention. For example, in some embodiments, the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 may include multiple workbenches, and the cleaning tank 170 and the drainage tank 180 may be disposed on different workbenches.

[0379] In other embodiments, the cleaning tank 170 and / or the drain tank 180 may be disposed outside the body of the fluid feeder 100. In other words, the cleaning tank 170 and / or the drain tank 180 may be made into external devices.

[0380] For example, in some embodiments, the second fluid output terminal 895 of the flow guiding device 890 may be coupled to a drain pipe. In this case, the aforementioned drain trough 180 may be omitted.

[0381] For example, in some embodiments, the user may add the cleaning agent and disinfectant to the cleaning tank 170 at different times according to the instructions of the fluid feeder 100 or according to the specifications of a given standard operating procedure. In this case, the aforementioned disinfectant container 172 can be omitted.

[0382] For example, in some embodiments, the aforementioned cleaning tank 170 and / or disinfectant container 172 may be integrated with the flow guiding device 890.

[0383] For example, in some embodiments where a sterilization process for the fluid feeder 100 is not required, the aforementioned disinfectant container 172 may be omitted.

[0384] Furthermore, the execution methods and sequences in the aforementioned flowcharts are merely exemplary embodiments and are not intended to limit the actual implementation of this invention.

[0385] For example, in an embodiment where the fluid output direction of the flow guiding device 890 is manually adjusted by the user, the aforementioned processes 3602, 3606, 3702, 3714, 3802, 3806, 3902, and 3914 can be omitted.

[0386] For example, in an embodiment where the water required to generate the cleaning solution is manually injected by the user, the aforementioned processes 3604 and 3704 can be omitted.

[0387] For example, in an embodiment where the water required to generate the disinfectant solution is manually injected by the user, the aforementioned processes 3804 and 3904 can be omitted.

[0388] For example, in an embodiment where the second fluid output terminal 895 of the flow guiding device 890 is coupled to a drain pipe, the aforementioned processes 3606, 3714, and 3914 can be omitted.

[0389] For example, in the aforementioned embodiment where a food-grade disinfectant is used, steps 4002 to 4014 can be omitted.

[0390] Furthermore, in the aforementioned embodiments, the aforementioned fluid raw material discharge machine 100 will be performing... Figures 36 to 37 After the automatic cleaning operation, it continues to... Figures 38 to 39 The automatic disinfection operation is only an exemplary embodiment and is not limited to the actual implementation of the present invention.

[0391] For example, in some embodiments where a sterilization procedure is not required for the fluid feeder 100, the fluid feeder 100 can perform the aforementioned sterilization procedure. Figures 38 to 39 The processes described are omitted. In other embodiments, the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 is performing... Figures 38 to 39 Before the automatic disinfection operation, other cleaning methods can be used (for example, manual cleaning by the user or other different automatic cleaning programs can be used), instead of being limited to requiring manual disinfection first. Figures 36 to 37 Automatic cleaning operation.

[0392] For example, in some embodiments, when a specific disinfectant or the volume of the disinfectant solution is sufficient, the fluid raw material discharge machine 100 may skip [the process]. Figures 36 to 37 The automatic cleaning operation directly performs... Figures 38 to 39 The process is as follows. In this case, the object that the target pump 160 needs to push forward in processes 3810 and 3814 will be changed to the residual fluid material in the target raw material conveying pipeline 152. In this way, the fluid material discharge machine 100 will be in the process of... Figure 38 During processes 3810, 3812, and 3814, it is equivalent to simultaneously performing an alternative automatic cleaning procedure on the selected target output connector 110 and related components such as the target dual-mode fluid connector 150, the target raw material delivery pipeline 152, the target cleaning agent delivery pipeline 154, and the target pump 160.

[0393] Certain terms are used in the specification and claims to refer to specific elements, and those skilled in the art may use different names to refer to the same element. This specification and claims do not distinguish elements by differences in name, but rather by differences in function. The term "comprising" in the specification and claims is an open-ended term and should be interpreted as "comprising but not limited to". Furthermore, the term "coupled" herein includes any direct and indirect connection means. Therefore, if the text describes a first element coupled to a second element, it means that the first element can be directly connected to the second element through electrical connection or signal connection methods such as wireless transmission or optical transmission, or indirectly electrically or signal-connected to the second element through other elements or connection means.

[0394] The use of "and / or" in this specification includes any combination of one or more of the listed items. Furthermore, unless otherwise specified in this specification, any singular term also includes the meaning of the plural form.

[0395] The term "element" as used in the specification and claims includes the concepts of component, layer, or region.

[0396] The dimensions and relative sizes of some elements in the accompanying drawings may be enlarged, or the shapes of some elements may be simplified, in order to more clearly illustrate the embodiments. Therefore, unless specifically indicated by the applicant, the shapes, dimensions, relative sizes, and relative positions of the elements in the drawings are for illustrative purposes only and should not be used to limit the scope of this invention. Furthermore, this invention can be embodied in many different forms, and the interpretation of this invention should not be limited to the embodiments presented in this specification.

[0397] For ease of explanation, the specification may use descriptions relating to relative spatial positions to describe the function of a component in the accompanying drawings or its relative spatial relationship with other components. Examples include "above," "above," "below," "below," "higher than," "lower than," "upward," "downward," etc. Those skilled in the art will understand that these descriptions relating to relative spatial positions include not only the orientation of the described component in the drawings but also various orientations during use, operation, or assembly. For example, if the drawings are inverted, a component originally described as "above" will become "below." Therefore, the use of "above" in the specification implies both "below" and "above." Similarly, the term "upward" implies both "upward" and "downward."

[0398] In the specification and claims, if the first element is described as being located on, above, connected to, joined to, coupled to, or connected to the second element, it indicates that the first element may be directly located on, directly connected to, directly joined to, or directly coupled to the second element, or that other elements exist between the first and second elements. Conversely, if the first element is described as being directly located on, directly connected to, directly joined to, directly coupled to, or directly connected to the second element, it indicates that no other elements exist between the first and second elements.

[0399] The above are merely preferred embodiments of the present invention. All equivalent changes and modifications made in accordance with the claims of the present invention shall fall within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A fluid raw material discharge machine (100), characterized in that, The fluid raw material discharge machine (100) is used to discharge fluid raw materials stored in multiple raw material containers (130) and to perform automatic sterilization. It includes: Output connector (110); A fluid connector (150) is removably connected to a target raw material container (130) among the plurality of raw material containers (130) and has a raw material pipe (322) and a cleaning pipe (324); A raw material conveying pipeline (152) is coupled between the raw material pipe (322) and the output connector (110); A cleaning agent delivery line (154) is coupled to the cleaning tube (324); A pump (160) is coupled between the raw material conveying pipeline (152) and the output connector (110); as well as The distributor (190) has a liquid inlet port and a plurality of liquid outlet ports, and the target outlet port of the plurality of liquid outlet ports is coupled to the cleaning agent delivery line (154). The automatic disinfection operation includes: The disinfectant solution is introduced into the distributor (190); Actuate the pump (160) to push the residual cleaning solution in the raw material delivery line (152) forward, so that the residual cleaning solution is discharged through the output connector (110); and The operation of the pump (160) creates a negative pressure in the cleaning agent delivery line (154), so that the disinfectant solution in the distributor (190) is drawn into the fluid connector (150) through the cleaning agent delivery line (154) and the cleaning pipe (324), and then flows into the raw material delivery line (152) through the raw material pipe (322) of the fluid connector (150).

2. The fluid raw material discharge machine (100) as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The automated disinfection operation also includes: The pump (160) is controlled to operate continuously for a period of time, so that the residual cleaning solution and part of the disinfection solution in the raw material conveying pipeline (152) are discharged through the output connector (110).

3. The fluid raw material discharge machine (100) as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The automated disinfection operation also includes: The pump (160) is actuated to push the disinfectant solution in the raw material delivery pipeline (152) forward, so that the disinfectant solution in the raw material delivery pipeline (152) is discharged through the output connector (110).

4. The fluid raw material discharge machine (100) as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The automated disinfection operation also includes: The pump (160) is controlled to operate continuously to perform a sterilization procedure on the fluid connector (150), the raw material delivery pipeline (152), and the output connector (110) for a predetermined time length.

5. The fluid raw material discharge machine (100) as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The automated disinfection operation also includes: After the disinfection process has been carried out for the predetermined time, the pump (160) is controlled to continue operating so that the disinfection solution in the raw material delivery pipeline (152) is discharged through the output connector (110).

6. The fluid raw material discharge machine (100) as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The fluid raw material discharge machine (100) further includes: A one-way valve (194) is coupled between the target output port of the distributor (190) and the detergent delivery line (154) to prevent fluid in the detergent delivery line (154) from flowing back into the distributor (190).

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