Adjustable Portion Control Dry Product Dispenser
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dispensing systems for dry, granulated products in restaurants and food establishments lack the ability to accurately dispense a user-selectable, measured portion of granulated products, such as chocolate candies or crushed ice, and do not allow for adjustability based on specific requirements.
Innovation Solution
A dispenser with a main body that includes a cylindrical loading and dispensing member with a receiving cavity and a portion control member that can be adjusted to define different portion volumes, allowing for precise measurement and dispensing of granulated products, along with a handle for easy operation and attachment flanges for secure mounting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed dispensing mechanism is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability and portion control capability are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The portion control member is made movable within the receiving cavity, allowing it to be adjusted to different positions to define different portion volumes. This dynamic adjustment capability enables the dispenser to adapt to various portion requirements while maintaining a relatively simple overall device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The receiving cavity is divided into multiple segments or positions along its length, with the portion control member able to select among these segments. This segmentation allows for discrete portion control options without requiring a completely complex control system.
2Measurement precision
If manual measurement methods are used, then the device complexity is minimized, but the measurement precision and consistency are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The portion control member automatically defines the portion volume when positioned at a selected location, eliminating the need for manual measurement tools or techniques. The system self-regulates the portion size based on the position of the control member within the receiving cavity, providing consistent and accurate measurements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual measurement mechanisms with a mechanical positioning system where the portion control member's position within the receiving cavity directly determines the portion volume. This substitution provides more precise and repeatable measurements compared to manual methods while keeping the device relatively simple.
Data Source
AI summary
A dispenser for use in dispensing a selected volume of a granulated, dry product. The dispenser includes a main body having an open interior that receives the supply of granulated products to be dispensed. A loading and dispensing member is positioned to receive the granulated product within a receiving cavity formed as part of the loading and dispensing member. A portion control member is selectively positioned within the receiving cavity. The position of the portion control member can be adjusted to vary the portion volume received within the receiving cavity between the portion control member and an open end of the receiving cavity. Once the portion volume has been received within the receiving cavity, the loading and dispensing member is moved to the dispensing position to dispense the portion volume. In this manner, a known, selected portion volume can be dispensed from the dispenser.