Apparatus and method for cleaning a food processor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing food processing systems require time-consuming manual cleaning and lack efficient reporting and monitoring, especially with the increasing variety of beverages offered in commercial settings, necessitating a system for selective rinsing, cleaning, and sanitizing with reduced operator input and time.
Innovation Solution
A clean-in-place system that passes a cleaning solution in a reverse direction through the food flow path of a food processor, utilizing a manifold assembly with a dispensing valve and bypass line to isolate food product from the cleaning solution, and incorporates a controller assembly for automated regulation and reporting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual cleaning methods are used for beverage lines and food processors, then cleaning can be performed with simple equipment, but the cleaning process becomes extremely time consuming and requires continuous operator attention
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service cleaning by automatically circulating cleaning solution through the beverage lines and food processor without requiring operator intervention. The controller assembly manages the entire cleaning cycle, including pumping solution through lines, engaging manifold assemblies, and monitoring completion, allowing the system to clean itself
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical cleaning operations with an automated fluid-based system. Instead of operators physically moving and cleaning each component, a pump-driven cleaning solution circulation system automatically performs cleaning through the beverage lines and food processor components
2Ease of operation
If portable chemical dispenser systems are used to clean beverage lines, then cleaning can be performed with portable equipment, but the process requires manual movement between lines and becomes extremely time demanding
Solution Approach 1:
The system eliminates the need for operators to manually move chemical dispensers between lines. The fixed installation with integrated pump and manifold assemblies automatically directs cleaning solution to all beverage lines and food processor components without operator intervention
Solution Approach 2:
The cleaning system is designed to universally clean multiple different components including various beverage lines and food processor parts through a single integrated system. The manifold assembly can engage with different components and the controller manages cleaning cycles for all components through one centralized system
3Reliability
If reverse flow cleaning is implemented through the food flow path, then cleaning effectiveness is improved, but the system complexity increases with manifold assembly and control mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements reverse flow cleaning by circulating cleaning solution through the food flow path in the opposite direction of normal food product flow. The pump and manifold assembly are configured to push solution backward through the lines and processor, improving cleaning effectiveness by forcing solution against deposit buildup
Solution Approach 2:
The manifold assembly serves as an intermediary device that facilitates the complex reverse flow cleaning operation. It engages with the food processor and beverage lines, directing cleaning solution through appropriate pathways and enabling the controller to manage the cleaning process without requiring direct complex connections to each component
4Extent of automation
If automated control systems are added for selective rinsing and cleaning, then operator input is reduced and monitoring is enhanced, but the device complexity and initial setup time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The controller assembly incorporates feedback mechanisms to monitor and manage the cleaning process. It tracks the circulation of cleaning solution, monitors engagement of manifold assemblies with food processor components, and automatically adjusts operation to ensure complete cleaning of all lines and components before concluding the cycle
Solution Approach 2:
The automated control system enables the cleaning operation to proceed without operator input. The controller manages pump operation, manifold engagement, solution circulation timing, and cycle completion notification, allowing the system to perform selective rinsing and cleaning autonomously
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
Facilitates efficient, automated cleaning with reduced operator intervention, enhancing compliance with health regulations and reducing cleaning time while providing enhanced monitoring and reporting capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
passing a pressurized cleaning solution from the engaged manifold assembly through the dispensing port to pass the cleaning solution along a portion of the food flow path in a reverse flow direction
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
A manifold assembly (100) is provided for cleaning a food flow path in a food processor (10). The manifold assembly can be operably engaged without requiring disassembly and reassembly of the food processor or can be operably engaged after a partial disassembly of the food processor. Available positive pressure water supply, such as public utility water pressure can be employed to selectively and automatically push solutions, including rinses, backwards or forwards through a food flow path (20) in the food processor, though typically countercurrent to the normal processing food flow. The manifold assembly (100) includes an intake manifold (110) and a distribution manifold (150), with an induction port (170) and/or access port in the distribution manifold for introducing additives or agents into a controlled motive stream passing through the manifold assembly.