Adjustable additive delivery systems and methods
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing beverage dispensing systems lack efficient methods for delivering additives like flavorings or supplements in a controlled manner, often requiring the entire base fluid supply to be consumed in a mixed state, and do not allow for user-adjustable mixing ratios.
Innovation Solution
The system incorporates a cartridge-based additive delivery system with a mixing nozzle and one-way valve to prevent backflow, allowing for different additives to be used with a single base fluid supply, and includes an adjustable flow mechanism that allows users to customize the additive-to-base fluid ratio.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If additive is mixed with base fluid in a container, then flavoring or supplementation is achieved, but the entire base fluid supply must be consumed in a mixed state and cannot be reused
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the beverage dispensing process into separate components: a reusable base fluid container and a replaceable cartridge containing the additive reservoir and mixing mechanism. This allows the base fluid to be separated from the additive, enabling the base fluid to be reused with different cartridges while the cartridge is disposed of after use.
Solution Approach 2:
The cartridge acts as an intermediary device between the base fluid container and the additive. It contains the additive reservoir and mixing mechanism, allowing the additive to be introduced into the base fluid only when needed and in controlled amounts, while the base fluid itself remains in the reusable container.
2Ease of operation
If additive is dispensed into base fluid, then flavoring is provided, but there is no user control over the amount of additive mixed
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates an adjustable flow mechanism within the cartridge that allows users to dynamically control the flow rate of additive being dispensed into the base fluid. This adjustment capability enables users to customize the additive-to-base fluid ratio according to their preferences without requiring complex external control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The cartridge is designed with built-in flow control mechanisms that allow users to self-adjust the additive dispensing rate directly at the point of use. The mechanism provides intuitive controls that enable users to manage their own mixing ratios without requiring technical knowledge or complex setup procedures.
3Adaptability or versatility
If different additives are used with base fluid, then variety is achieved, but the base fluid container and mixing system must be redesigned for each additive
Solution Approach 1:
The base fluid container and mixing system are designed as universal components that can work with multiple different cartridge types. The cartridge interface and flow mechanism are standardized to accommodate various additives, allowing a single base fluid container to be used with different cartridges containing different flavorings or supplements without requiring redesign.
Solution Approach 2:
The system separates the additive-specific components (contained within the cartridge) from the base fluid container. This segmentation allows the base fluid container to remain universal while the cartridges can be specialized for different additives. Users can simply replace the cartridge to change additives, without affecting the base fluid container or mixing system.
4Reliability
If additive flows freely into base fluid, then mixing is achieved, but backflow contaminates the base fluid supply
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs a one-way valve that allows additive to flow into the base fluid in one direction while preventing backflow in the opposite direction. This converts the potential harmful effect of backflow (which would contaminate the base fluid supply) into a beneficial feature that ensures base fluid purity while maintaining efficient additive mixing through the valve's controlled flow path.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution enables efficient use of both additives and base fluids by allowing leftover base fluid to remain unmixed and reusable, while also providing precise control over mixing ratios, ensuring consistent flavor and product quality.
Implementation Method 1
A one-way valve prevents backflow of base fluid and/or mixed base fluid/additive from an area downstream of the mixing nozzle such that the base fluid supply remains in a pure state.
Implementation Method 2
A mixing nozzle is cooperatively associated with the container cap for mixing of the additive with a base fluid as the base fluid flows from the base fluid container through the cartridge.
Data Source
AI summary
An additive delivery system may incorporate a cartridge system, including a container cap and a reservoir assembly that provides for storage of an additive. The container cap includes a mixing nozzle for mixing of the additive with a base fluid as the base fluid flows from the base fluid container through the cartridge. A one-way valve prevents backflow of base fluid and/or mixed base fluid/additive from an area downstream of the mixing nozzle such that the base fluid supply remains in a pure state.