Dual-mode fluidic junction

Abstract

The present application provides a dual-mode fluid connector, which comprises a hollow connector having a cavity inside; a raw material pipe located on the hollow connector and communicating with the cavity; a cleaning pipe located on the hollow connector and communicating with the cavity; a head located at one end of the hollow connector and comprising a connecting port, wherein the connecting port is capable of detachably connecting a discharge check valve on a raw material container; a tail located at the other end of the hollow connector and comprising a through hole; and a push rod inserted into the cavity through the through hole and comprising a rod head and a sealing portion. When the connecting port of the head is detachably connected to the discharge check valve and the sealing portion abuts against the blocking member, the rod head pushes the blocking member on the discharge check valve inward, so that the outlet end of the discharge check valve is in an open state. The dual-mode fluid connector can be connected to a pipeline conveying cleaning liquid by the cleaning pipe, so that the dual-mode fluid connector does not need to be detached from the raw material container during cleaning.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of Chinese invention patent application entitled "Dual-mode fluid connector capable of switching between different operating modes", filed on September 6, 2021, with application number 2021110403530. Technical Field

[0002] This invention relates to the technology of fluid connectors, and more particularly to a dual-mode fluid connector that can be easily switched between different operating modes. Background Technology

[0003] For many consumers, freshly made beverages are more appealing than factory-produced canned or bottled drinks in many ways, including 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, many businesses have begun to utilize various machines and equipment to provide or assist in the preparation of freshly made beverages, thereby reducing 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 with the number of ingredient containers connected to the machine. 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 dual-mode fluid connector, comprising: a hollow connector having a cavity inside, the inner wall of which has a protruding blocking member that divides the internal space of the cavity into a first space and a second space; a raw material pipe located on the hollow connector and communicating with the cavity; a cleaning pipe located on the hollow connector and communicating with the cavity; a head located at one end of the hollow connector and including a connection port, wherein the connection port communicates with the cavity and can be removably connected to a discharge check valve on a raw material container; a tail located at the other end of the hollow connector and including a through hole; and a push rod inserted into the cavity through the through hole and including a rod head and a sealing portion. When the connector of the head is removably connected to the discharge check valve and the sealing part abuts against the blocking member, the rod head will push the blocking member on the discharge check valve inward, so that the outlet end of the discharge check valve is in an open state.

[0008] One of the advantages of the above embodiments is that, during the cleaning, disinfection, and / or sterilization of the dual-mode fluid connector, the user does not need to disconnect the raw material pipe from the originally connected pipeline.

[0009] Another advantage of the above embodiments is that, during the cleaning, disinfection, and / or sterilization of the dual-mode fluid connector, the user does not need to disconnect the cleaning tube from the originally connected pipeline.

[0010] Another advantage of the above embodiments is that, during the cleaning, disinfection, and / or sterilization of the dual-mode fluid connector, the user does not need to remove the dual-mode fluid connector from the discharge check valve of the raw material container.

[0011] Another advantage of the above embodiments is that after the cleaning, disinfection, and / or sterilization procedures are completed, the user naturally does not need to reconnect the raw material pipe to the corresponding pipeline, nor the cleaning pipe to the corresponding pipeline, nor the dual-mode fluid connector to the discharge check valve of 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 with reference to the following description and drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0013] The accompanying drawings, which are provided to further illustrate this application and form 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 1This is a simplified perspective view of an automatic beverage mixing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0015] Figure 2 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.

[0016] Figure 3 for Figure 2 A simplified visual representation of the dual-mode fluid connector and the raw material container being connected to each other.

[0017] Figure 4 and Figure 5 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.

[0018] Figure 6 This is a top view schematic diagram of a dual-mode fluid connector in operation mode according to an embodiment of the present invention.

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

[0020] Figure 8 for Figure 7 A simplified side view of the dual-mode fluid connector.

[0021] Figure 9 for Figure 6 A simplified cross-sectional view of the dual-mode fluid connector along the A-A' direction.

[0022] Figures 10 to 11 This is a simplified exploded view of the dual-mode fluid connector according to an embodiment of the present invention from different perspectives.

[0023] Figures 12 to 17 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.

[0024] Figures 18 to 19 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.

[0025] Figure 20 This is a schematic diagram of the rotatable part and push rod of an embodiment of the present invention after assembly from a first perspective.

[0026] Figure 21 This is a rear view schematic diagram of a dual-mode fluid connector in operation mode according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 22 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.

[0028] Figure 23 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.

[0029] Figure 24 and Figure 25 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.

[0030] Figure 26 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.

[0031] Figure 27 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.

[0032] Figure 28 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.

[0033] Figure 29 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.

[0034] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0035] Detailed Implementation

[0036] 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.

[0037] Please refer to Figure 1 The diagram shown is a simplified perspective view of an automatic beverage mixing machine 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The automatic beverage mixing machine 100 includes an upper accommodating cavity 101, a lower accommodating cavity 103, a door panel 105, a neck accommodating cavity 107, a control panel 109, one or more output connectors 110, and a plurality of dual-mode fluid connectors 150.

[0038] To avoid making the diagrams too complex, Figure 1 The lower accommodating cavity 103's door panel 105 is deliberately shown with dashed lines, while internal objects to be further described later are drawn with solid lines. Please note that... Figure 1 The appearance of the automatic beverage mixing machine 100 shown is a simplified schematic diagram for the purpose of illustration and is not limited to the actual shape of the automatic beverage mixing machine 100.

[0039] The upper cavity 101 of the automatic beverage mixing machine 100 can be connected to the neck cavity 107 or the lower cavity 103. Related wires, signal lines, connectors, material transmission pipes, and / or detergent transmission pipes can be arranged inside the automatic beverage mixing machine 100 in various suitable ways.

[0040] In practice, the automatic beverage mixing machine 100 can be equipped with multiple pumps, multiple flow stabilizers, multiple flow meters, and one or more cleaning systems.

[0041] The aforementioned multiple pumps can be connected to other components through various suitable material delivery pipelines and connectors, and can be arranged in the upper accommodating cavity 101 in various suitable spatial configurations.

[0042] The aforementioned multiple flow stabilizing devices and multiple flow meters can be connected to other components through various suitable raw material conveying pipelines and connectors, and can be installed in the upper accommodating cavity 101 and / or the neck accommodating cavity 107 in various suitable spatial configurations.

[0043] The aforementioned cleaning system can be connected to other components through various suitable cleaning agent delivery pipelines and connectors, and can be installed in the upper receiving cavity 101, lower receiving cavity 103, and / or neck receiving cavity 107 in various suitable spatial configurations.

[0044] The aforementioned one or more output connectors 110 can be connected to other components via various suitable material delivery lines. For example, the input end of an individual output connector 110 can be connected to the output end of a corresponding pump, flow regulator, or flow meter via various suitable material delivery lines. The output end of an individual output connector 110 can be exposed outside the neck cavity 107 to facilitate related cleaning procedures by the user.

[0045] like Figure 1 As shown, the lower accommodating cavity 103 of the automatic beverage preparation machine 100 can hold multiple ingredient containers 130. Different ingredient containers 130 can be used to store different liquid ingredients required for preparing freshly made beverages. Each ingredient container 130 is equipped with a discharge check valve 140 as an output connector.

[0046] The aforementioned multiple dual-mode fluid connectors 150 can be removably connected to the discharge check valves 140 on different raw material containers 130. In addition, each dual-mode fluid connector 150 can be connected to a corresponding pump or flow stabilizing device through various suitable raw material delivery pipelines, or to a corresponding pump or cleaning system through various suitable cleaning agent delivery pipelines.

[0047] In the automatic beverage mixing machine 100, various suitable raw material conveying devices (e.g., combinations of pumps, flow stabilizers, flow meters, and suitable raw material conveying pipelines) can be installed to convey liquid raw materials in individual raw material containers 130 to the outlet end of the corresponding output connector 110 via corresponding dual-mode fluid connectors 150. Additionally, various suitable cleaning agent conveying devices (e.g., combinations of pumps, flow meters, and suitable cleaning agent conveying pipelines) can also be installed in the automatic beverage mixing machine 100 to convey cleaning agents from the aforementioned cleaning system to individual dual-mode fluid connectors 150.

[0048] In practice, the automatic beverage mixing machine 100 can also be equipped with various suitable refrigeration devices to extend the preservation time of various liquid ingredients in the ingredient container 130 in the lower accommodating cavity 103. In addition, when the door panel 105 is kept closed, it can isolate the lower accommodating cavity 103 from the external environment, which is conducive to maintaining the low temperature in the lower accommodating cavity 103 and can prevent foreign objects such as insects or small animals from entering the lower accommodating cavity 103.

[0049] To avoid making the diagrams too complex, Figure 1 The diagram does not show the pump, flow stabilizer, flow meter, control circuit, wires, signal lines, raw material delivery pipelines connecting different components, cleaning agent delivery pipelines connecting different components, refrigeration equipment, power supply device, related parts and frames used to support or fix the aforementioned components, or other structures and devices inside the automatic beverage mixing machine 100.

[0050] During operation, users can operate on the control panel 109 to set one or more production parameters for the desired freshly made beverage, such as beverage item, cup size, beverage volume, sugar level, ice level, and / or quantity, etc.

[0051] Next, the automatic beverage mixing machine 100 will automatically use one or more pumps to extract liquid ingredients from certain ingredient containers 130 according to the parameters set by the user, and transfer the extracted liquid ingredients to the corresponding output connectors 110 through their respective transmission pipes. With the continuous operation of the individual pumps, the liquid ingredients in the output connectors 110 will be output to the beverage containers 120 through the corresponding output connectors 110.

[0052] Different liquid ingredients can be mixed together in a specific ratio in a beverage container 120 or simply stirred to create freshly made beverages of various flavors. In practice, the beverage container 120 can also be designed to support or have a stirring function to improve the speed and uniformity of mixing liquid ingredients.

[0053] Please refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 . Figure 2 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 3 for Figure 2 A simplified visual representation of the dual-mode fluid connector 150 and the raw material container 130 connected to each other.

[0054] like Figure 2 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.

[0055] 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 2 and Figure 3 (In the middle), pressure can be applied to the blocking member 242 to push the blocking member 242 outward.

[0056] 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 liquid raw material in the raw material container 130 from leaking out.

[0057] 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.

[0058] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 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.

[0059] 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 automatic beverage dispenser 100) can easily switch the dual-mode fluid connector 150 between the service mode and the clean mode.

[0060] 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 tube 324. Therefore, in working mode, liquid raw materials in the raw material container 130 can flow into the dual-mode fluid connector 150 via the discharge check valve 140. However, the liquid raw materials received by the dual-mode fluid connector 150 will only flow into the raw material tube 322 and the connecting pipe (not shown) to the raw material tube 322 via the hollow connector 310, and cannot flow into the cleaning tube 324 via the hollow connector 310.

[0061] 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 liquid raw material in the raw material container 130 will not flow into the dual-mode fluid connector 150 through 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 agent through the cleaning tube 324 and the tubing connected to the cleaning tube 324 (not shown in the figure). The cleaning agent can flow not only into the internal space of the dual-mode fluid connector 150, but also into the raw material tube 322 through the hollow connector 310.

[0062] Please note that when the dual-mode fluid connector 150 is operating in cleaning mode, the cleaning agent 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 agent from flowing into the raw material container 130 and contaminating the liquid 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.

[0063] The following will be paired Figures 4 to 21 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.

[0064] Figure 4 and Figure 5 Simplified appearance diagrams of the dual-mode fluid connector 150 in operation mode from different perspectives. Figure 6 This is a top view of the dual-mode fluid connector 150 in operation mode. Figure 7 This is a side view of the dual-mode fluid connector 150 in operation mode. Figure 8 for Figure 7 A simplified side view of the dual-mode fluid connector 150. Figure 9 for Figure 6 A simplified cross-sectional view of the dual-mode fluid connector 150 along the A-A' direction. Figures 10 to 11 This is a simplified exploded view of the dual-mode fluid connector 150 from different perspectives. Figures 12 to 17 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly process of the dual-mode fluid connector 150 from different perspectives.

[0065] like Figures 4 to 17 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 8 and Figure 9 The push rod 360, the bend plate 370, and the rotatable part 380 in the dual-mode fluid connector 150 are omitted.

[0066] Figures 18 to 19 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 20 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 21 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 18 and Figure 19 Other components besides the rotatable part 380 and the bent plate 370 are omitted, and in the aforementioned Figure 20 Other components besides the rotatable part 380 and the push rod 360 are omitted.

[0067] 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 9 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.

[0068] in addition, Figure 9 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.

[0069] 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.

[0070] like Figures 4 to 6As 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.

[0071] The head 330 further includes a first protrusion 437 and a second protrusion 439. For example... Figures 4 to 6 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.

[0072] 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.

[0073] 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.

[0074] like Figures 8 to 11 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.

[0075] The putter 360 includes a head 461, a seal 463, a flange 465, a flange 467, and a slot 469. For example... Figures 10 to 17 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.

[0076] 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.

[0077] Spring 350 is located next to the through hole 441 at the tail 340. (As...) Figures 12 to 14 As 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.

[0078] 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 4 , Figure 7 ,and Figures 10 to 17 As shown, the bent plate 370 is positioned between the rotatable part 380 and the tail part 340.

[0079] 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.

[0080] 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.

[0081] 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.

[0082] 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.

[0083] like Figures 4 to 7 ,and Figures 10 to 11As 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.

[0084] 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.

[0085] like Figures 4 to 7 ,and Figures 10 to 19 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.

[0086] 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 4 , Figure 7 , Figure 18 ,and Figure 19 The embodiments illustrated herein.

[0087] 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 4 , Figure 6 ,and Figures 10 to 21 The illustrated embodiment.

[0088] 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 10 to 20 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.

[0089] As previously described, after the rotatable part 380 is fitted onto the tail 340, the user can rotate the rotatable part 380 with the tail 340 (or push rod 360) as the axis of rotation. 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.

[0090] 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 20 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.

[0091] 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.

[0092] In addition, such as Figure 17As 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.

[0093] 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.

[0094] 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.

[0095] 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.

[0096] 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.

[0097] 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.

[0098] 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 7 and Figure 20 As shown.

[0099] 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.

[0100] 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.

[0101] 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.

[0102] 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.

[0103] 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.

[0104] 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.

[0105] As mentioned above, the dual-mode fluid connector 150 has two operating modes: a working mode and a cleaning mode. Users (e.g., cleaners or operators of the automatic beverage mixing machine 100) can easily switch the dual-mode fluid connector 150 between the working mode and the cleaning mode by rotating the rotatable part 380.

[0106] 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.

[0107] 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.

[0108] Please refer to Figure 22 The diagram shown is a simplified schematic 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 22 In the middle, the dashed line is used to indicate the possible flow direction of the liquid material in the dual-mode fluid connector 150.

[0109] like Figure 22As shown, when the dual-mode fluid connector 150 is operating in working mode, the liquid raw 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 liquid raw material received by the dual-mode fluid connector 150 will only flow into the raw material pipe 322 and the pipeline connected to the raw material pipe 322 (not shown in the figure) through the hollow connector 310, and cannot flow into the second space 413 in the cavity 411, the cleaning pipe 324, and the pipeline connected to the cleaning pipe 324 (not shown in the figure) through the hollow connector 310.

[0110] At this time, even if there is residual cleaning agent in the cleaning pipe 324 and the pipe connected to the cleaning pipe 324, the residual cleaning agent will not contaminate the liquid raw material in the first space 412 of the hollow connector 310, and therefore will not affect the liquid raw material output by the raw material pipe 322.

[0111] 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 liquid raw materials 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 liquid raw materials from accidentally flowing into the cleaning tube 324.

[0112] 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.

[0113] 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.

[0114] Therefore, by combining the first extension 483 with 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.

[0115] Similar to traditional beverage making machines, the automatic beverage mixing machine 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 connectors of the automatic beverage mixing machine 100.

[0116] 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.

[0117] 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 automatic beverage mixing machine 100 without first removing the dual-mode fluid connector 150 from the discharge check valve 140 of the raw material container 130.

[0118] The following combinations Figures 23 to 29 To further describe the operation method of setting the dual-mode fluid connector 150 to cleaning mode. Figure 23 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 24 and Figure 25 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 26 This is a side view of a dual-mode fluid connector 150 operating in cleaning mode according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 27 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.

[0119] like Figure 23 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, so that the rod head 461 of the push rod 360 disengages from the block 242 on the discharge check valve 140, and causes the sealing part 463 on the push rod 360 to disengage from the blocking part 415 in the cavity 411.

[0120] 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.

[0121] like Figures 24 to 27 As shown, when the rotatable part 380 is rotated so that the second region 582 faces upward, the push rod 360 will be pushed back a predetermined distance by the rotatable part 380 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 agents, bactericides, disinfectants, and water can flow smoothly between the first space 412 and the second space 413 in the cavity 411.

[0122] Please refer to Figure 28 and Figure 29 . Figure 28 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 29 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 28 and Figure 29 The push rod 360, bend plate 370, and rotatable part 380 of the dual-mode fluid connector 150 are omitted. Figure 28 and Figure 29 In the middle, the dashed line is used to indicate the possible flow direction of liquids such as cleaning agents, bactericides, disinfectants, and water in the dual-mode fluid connector 150.

[0123] exist Figure 28In this embodiment, when the dual-mode fluid connector 150 operates in cleaning mode, liquids such as cleaning agents, disinfectants, and water can flow into the second space 413 of the hollow connector 310 through the cleaning pipe 324. The liquids such as cleaning agents, disinfectants, 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 pipeline (not shown in the figure) connected to the raw material pipe 322 through the first space 412.

[0124] exist Figure 29 In this embodiment, when the dual-mode fluid connector 150 operates in cleaning mode, liquids such as cleaning agents, disinfectants, 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 agents, disinfectants, 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 pipeline (not shown in the figure) connected to the cleaning pipe 324 through the second space 413.

[0125] In other words, in Figure 28 Implementation examples and Figure 29 In one embodiment, when the dual-mode fluid connector 150 is switched to cleaning mode, the raw material pipe 322, the pipe connected to the raw material pipe 322, the cleaning pipe 324, the pipe connected to the cleaning pipe 324, and the dual-mode fluid connector 150 together form a cleaning circuit.

[0126] In this configuration, the automatic beverage mixing machine 100 can utilize its internal cleaning system (not shown) to transport and circulate liquids such as cleaning agents, disinfectants, sterilizers, and water within the aforementioned cleaning loop. This process cleans, disinfects, and / or sterilizes the dual-mode fluid connector 150 and related pipes, parts, and connectors within the automatic beverage mixing machine 100. After the aforementioned cleaning, disinfection, and / or sterilization processes are completed, the automatic beverage mixing machine 100 can discharge the waste liquid through appropriate pipes. In this way, automatic cleaning, automatic disinfection, and / or automatic sterilization processes can be achieved for the dual-mode fluid connector 150 and related pipes, parts, and connectors within the automatic beverage mixing machine 100.

[0127] In practice, the operation of transporting and circulating liquids such as cleaning agents, disinfectants, and water within the aforementioned cleaning circuit can be simply based on... Figure 28 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 29 The direction of liquid flow in the middle can be followed sequentially. Figure 28 and Figure 29 The direction of liquid flow can be used to determine the direction of flow, or it can be done alternately. Figure 28 and Figure 29The direction of liquid flow is used to determine this.

[0128] If the dual-mode fluid connector 150 were replaced with a traditional unidirectional connector, the automatic beverage mixing machine 100 would find it difficult to perform the aforementioned automatic cleaning, automatic disinfection, and automatic sterilization processes. Clearly, the aforementioned dual-mode fluid connector 150 is highly beneficial in enabling the automatic beverage mixing machine 100 to perform automatic cleaning, automatic disinfection, and / or automatic sterilization functions.

[0129] 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.

[0130] 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.

[0131] 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.

[0132] 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 4 to 7 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 24 to 27 As shown.

[0133] 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.

[0134] 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.

[0135] like Figure 4 , Figure 6 ,and Figure 7 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 24 , Figure 25 ,and Figure 27 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.

[0136] 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.

[0137] 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).

[0138] 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.

[0139] On the other hand, such as Figure 25 and Figure 27 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.

[0140] 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.

[0141] Therefore, by combining the second extension 484 with 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.

[0142] 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.

[0143] 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.

[0144] 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.

[0145] Furthermore, when the dual-mode fluid connector 150 is switched to cleaning mode, the raw material pipe 322, the pipe connected to the raw material pipe 322, the cleaning pipe 324, the pipe connected to the cleaning pipe 324, and the dual-mode fluid connector 150 together form a cleaning loop. In this case, the automatic beverage mixing machine 100 can transport and circulate liquids such as cleaning agents, disinfectants, sterilizers, 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 automatic beverage mixing 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 automatic beverage mixing machine 100.

[0146] If the dual-mode fluid connector 150 were replaced with a traditional unidirectional connector, the automatic beverage mixing machine 100 would find it difficult to perform the aforementioned automatic cleaning, automatic disinfection, and automatic sterilization processes. Clearly, the aforementioned dual-mode fluid connector 150 is highly beneficial in enabling the automatic beverage mixing machine 100 to perform automatic cleaning, automatic disinfection, and / or automatic sterilization functions.

[0147] 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.

[0148] 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.

[0149] For example, in some embodiments, spring 350 may be omitted.

[0150] 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.

[0151] 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.

[0152] 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.

[0153] 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.

[0154] For example, the aforementioned first clamp 433 and second clamp 435 can be reconnected to the outside of the hollow connector 310.

[0155] 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.

[0156] 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.

[0157] 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.

[0158] 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 liquid materials from accidentally flowing into the cleaning tube 324.

[0159] For example, the second spiral track 445 and / or the second straight 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.

[0160] For example, the flanges 465 and / or 467 of the aforementioned push rod 360 can be omitted.

[0161] 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.

[0162] For example, the first extension 483 and / or the second extension 484 of the aforementioned rotatable portion 380 can be omitted.

[0163] For example, the first fin 485 and / or the second fin 486 of the aforementioned rotatable portion 380 can be omitted.

[0164] For example, the first region 581 and / or the second region 582 on the aforementioned rotatable part 380 can be omitted.

[0165] 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.

[0166] 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.

[0167] 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.

[0168] 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.

[0169] The term "element" as used in the specification and claims includes the concepts of component, layer, or region.

[0170] 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.

[0171] 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," "forward," "backward," 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 accompanying drawings but also various orientations during use, operation, or assembly. For example, if the accompanying 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." Furthermore, if the contents of the accompanying drawings are reversed left to right, an action originally described as "forward" will become "backward." Therefore, the use of the term "forward" in the instruction manual can be interpreted as both "forward" and "backward" in terms of direction.

[0172] 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.

[0173] 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 dual-mode fluid connector (150), characterized in that, Include: Hollow connector (310), the hollow connector (310) has a cavity (411) inside, and a protruding blocking member (415) is provided on the inner wall of the cavity (411). The blocking member (415) can divide the internal space of the cavity (411) into a first space (412) and a second space (413). The raw material pipe (322) is located on the hollow connector (310) and is connected to the first space (412). A cleaning tube (324) is located on the hollow connector (310) and communicates with the second space (413). The head (330) is located at one end of the hollow connector (310) and includes a connection port (431), wherein the connection port (431) communicates with the first space (412) and can be removably connected to the discharge check valve (140) on the raw material container (130). The tail (340), located at the other end of the hollow connector (310), includes a perforation (441); and A push rod (360) is inserted into the cavity (411) through the perforation (441) and includes a rod head (461) and a sealing part (463). When the push rod (360) advances a predetermined distance toward the head (330), the sealing part (463) abuts against the blocking member (415). When the sealing part (463) abuts against the blocking member (415), the first space (412) and the second space (413) are blocked by the sealing part (463) and the blocking member (415) and cannot communicate with each other; and When the connection port (431) of the head (330) is removably connected to the discharge check valve (140) and the sealing part (463) abuts against the blocking member (415), the rod head (461) will push the blocking member (242) on the discharge check valve (140) inward, so that the outlet end of the discharge check valve (140) is in an open state.

2. The dual-mode fluid connector (150) as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The dual-mode fluid connector (150) further includes: A rotatable part (380) covers the tail (340) and touches the push rod (360), and the rotatable part (380) can drive the push rod (360) forward or backward.

3. The dual-mode fluid connector (150) as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The tail (340) has a track (443) on its outer surface. The push rod (360) includes a flange (467). The rotatable part (380) includes a guide (487) and a blocking part (489). The guide (487) is located inside the rotatable part (380) and can reach the track (443). The blocking part (489) is located inside the rotatable part (380) and can reach the flange (467). The guide (487) can move along the track (443).

4. The dual-mode fluid connector (150) as described in claim 3, characterized in that, When the rotatable part (380) rotates in the first predetermined direction, the rotatable part (380) will rotate and move forward, and drive the push rod (360) forward together until the sealing part (463) abuts against the blocking member (415).

5. The dual-mode fluid connector (150) as described in claim 4, characterized in that, After the sealing part (463) abuts against the blocking member (415), if the rotatable part (380) rotates in the second predetermined direction, the rotatable part (380) will rotate and retract, and drive the push rod (360) to retract as well, so that the sealing part (463) leaves the blocking member (415). Wherein, after the sealing part (463) moves away from the blocking member (415) by a predetermined distance, the first space (412) and the cleaning tube (324) will be connected to each other, and the rod head (461) will disengage from the blocking member (242), so that the outlet end of the discharge check valve (140) forms a closed state; The rotatable portion (380) further includes one or more fins (485, 486) located on the outer surface of the rotatable portion (380) to allow the user to easily rotate the rotatable portion (380).

6. The dual-mode fluid connector (150) as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The outer surface of the rotatable part (380) includes a first region (581) and a second region (582). When the rotatable part (380) is rotated so that the first region (581) faces upward, the dual-mode fluid connector (150) operates in working mode, and when the rotatable part (380) is rotated so that the second region (582) faces upward, the dual-mode fluid connector (150) operates in cleaning mode.

7. The dual-mode fluid connector (150) as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The dual-mode fluid connector (150) further includes: A curved plate (370) is located between the rotatable part (380) and the tail part (340), and the outer surface of the curved plate (370) includes a first marking area (471) and a second marking area (473). The rotatable portion (380) further includes a first window (781) and a second window (782). When the rotatable portion (380) is rotated so that the first window (781) faces upward, the first marking area (471) is exposed from the first window (781), and the dual-mode fluid connector (150) operates in working mode; and When the rotatable part (380) is rotated 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.

8. The dual-mode fluid connector (150) as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The tail (340) further includes a retaining wall (447) located on one side of the end of the track (443). When the rotatable part (380) drives the push rod (360) forward so that the sealing part (463) abuts against the blocking part (415), the guide (487) will enter the end of the track (443) so that the retaining wall (447) supports the guide (487) to prevent the sealing part (463) from leaving the blocking part (415).

9. The dual-mode fluid connector (150) as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The dual-mode fluid connector (150) further includes: A spring (350) is located between the tail (340) and the rotatable part (380), or between the tail (340) and the flange (467), and when the rotatable part (380) drives the push rod (360) forward, the blocking part (489) or the flange (467) will compress the spring (350). When the guide (487) moves out of the range of the retaining member (447), the spring (350) applies an elastic restoring force to the blocking part (489) or the flange (467) to push the rotatable part (380) or the push rod (360) backward.

10. The dual-mode fluid connector (150) as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The dual-mode fluid connector (150) further includes: A spring (350) is located between the tail (340) and the rotatable part (380), or between the tail (340) and the flange (467), and when the rotatable part (380) drives the push rod (360) forward, the blocking part (489) or the flange (467) will compress the spring (350). The tail section (340) further includes a retaining wall (447) located on one side of the end section of the track (443), and when the guide (487) is disengaged from the range of the retaining wall (447), the spring (350) applies an elastic restoring force to the blocking part (489) or the flange (467) to push the rotatable part (380) or the push rod (360) backward.

11. The dual-mode fluid connector (150) as described in claim 10, characterized in that, The hollow connector (310) further includes a second limiting member (417) extending outward from the outer surface of the hollow connector (310), and the rotatable part (380) further includes a second extension (484) extending from the edge of the front opening (481) of the rotatable part (380) toward the head (330). When the rotatable part (380) rotates to a certain extent in the second predetermined direction, the second extension part (484) will touch the second limiting member (417) to prevent the rotatable part (380) from continuing to rotate in the second predetermined direction.

12. The dual-mode fluid connector (150) as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The hollow connector (310) further includes a first limiting member (416) extending outward from the outer surface of the hollow connector (310), and the rotatable part (380) further includes a first extension (483) extending from the edge of the front opening (481) of the rotatable part (380) toward the head (330). When the rotatable part (380) rotates to a certain extent in the first predetermined direction, the first extension part (483) will touch the first limiting member (416) to prevent the rotatable part (380) from continuing to rotate in the first predetermined direction.

13. The dual-mode fluid connector (150) as described in claim 12, characterized in that, The hollow connector (310) further includes a second limiting member (417) extending outward from the outer surface of the hollow connector (310), and the rotatable part (380) further includes a second extension (484) extending from the edge of the front opening (481) of the rotatable part (380) toward the head (330). When the rotatable part (380) rotates to a certain extent in the second predetermined direction, the second extension part (484) will touch the second limiting member (417) to prevent the rotatable part (380) from continuing to rotate in the second predetermined direction.

14. The dual-mode fluid connector (150) as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The hollow connector (310) further includes a second limiting member (417) extending outward from the outer surface of the hollow connector (310), and the rotatable part (380) further includes a second extension (484) extending from the edge of the front opening (481) of the rotatable part (380) toward the head (330). When the rotatable part (380) rotates to a certain extent in the second predetermined direction, the second extension part (484) will touch the second limiting member (417) to prevent the rotatable part (380) from continuing to rotate in the second predetermined direction.

15. The dual-mode fluid connector (150) as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The dual-mode fluid connector (150) further includes: One or more clamping parts (433, 435) are located on the side of the head (330), and when the connection port (431) is connected to the discharge check valve (140), the one or more clamping parts (433, 435) will lock onto the protrusion (244) of the discharge check valve (140).

16. The dual-mode fluid connector (150) as described in claim 2, characterized in that, When the rotatable part (380) rotates in the first predetermined direction, the rotatable part (380) will rotate and move forward, and drive the push rod (360) forward together until the sealing part (463) abuts against the blocking member (415).

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