Radially Adjustable Cup Dispenser Columns
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cup dispensers for beverage vending machines lack flexibility in accommodating cups of different sizes, limiting their operational flexibility and requiring column replacement after each cup size is used.
Innovation Solution
The cup dispenser features radially adjustable columns with cam members and containment rods that can be adjusted to accommodate cups of varying sizes, allowing for reconfiguration between different cup diameters through a synchronized adjustment mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If columns are fixed in size to contain stacks of cups, then the structural simplicity is maintained, but the adaptability to different cup sizes is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The containment rods are made radially adjustable along the column axis, transforming the static column structure into a dynamic one that can adapt its internal dimensions. This allows the same column to accommodate cups of different diameters by repositioning the containment rods, thereby resolving the contradiction between adaptability and structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the radial position parameter of the containment rods to adapt to different cup sizes. By allowing the containment rods to move radially inward or outward, the effective internal diameter of the column can be adjusted, enabling the system to handle various cup dimensions without replacing the entire column structure.
2Productivity
If columns are replaced after each cup size is used, then the simplicity of operation is maintained, but the productivity is reduced due to downtime
Solution Approach 1:
The radially adjustable containment rods enable the column to dynamically reconfigure itself for different cup sizes during operation. This eliminates the need to stop the vending machine for column replacement, thereby maintaining productivity and operational continuity while adding an adjustment mechanism that requires simple radial movement.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple columns for different cup sizes are maintained, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention makes each column universal by equipping it with radially adjustable containment rods that can accommodate multiple cup sizes. Instead of requiring separate columns for different cup diameters, a single column can serve multiple functions by adjusting the radial position of its containment rods, thereby reducing the total number of columns and the space they occupy.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention combines the functionality of multiple specialized columns into a single multi-functional column. By merging the cup containment capability across different size ranges into one adjustable column structure, the system reduces the overall footprint and eliminates redundant storage spaces while maintaining the ability to handle various cup sizes.
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 design enhances the operational flexibility of the cup dispenser by enabling it to handle cups of different sizes without the need for column replacement, improving usability and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of cam members arranged, during use, below a column of cups stacked along a stacking axis. The cam members are rotatable on command about their own generating axis, which is substantially parallel to the stacking axis, and have a helical lateral profile for engaging the upper rim of the cup arranged at the bottom of the column of stacked cups
Implementation Method 2
The spacing/approach means comprise a rotating supporting pivot for each one of the cam elements that can be moved angularly on command about an angular displacement axis in order to move closer/away a respective cam element with respect to the stacking axis
Data Source
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AI summary
A cup dispenser (1) for a beverage vending machine; the cup dispenser (1) comprises at least one cup containment and release member (4) comprising a containment portion (5), which defines a guide channel (6) adapted to contain a stack of cups, and a release portion (9), which is configured to support the stack of cups and single out individual cups from the bottom of the stack of cups; wherein the containment portion (5) comprises a number of containment members (8), which laterally delimit the guide channel (6) and are mounted to be radially movable so as to modify the cross-section of the guide channel (6).