Beverage Dispenser Cleaning Control Using Conductivity Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing beverage dispensers require manual connection to cleaning and sanitizing liquid sources for periodic cleaning, which is inconvenient and may lead to inconsistent flavor and safety issues.
Innovation Solution
A cleaning system for beverage dispensers that automatically cleans and sanitizes plumbing and mechanical parts using a controller to regulate the dilution ratio of cleaning and sanitizing solutions based on electrical conductivity and flow rate, ensuring consistent cleaning and safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual cleaning connection is used, then device complexity is reduced, but cleaning consistency and reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The beverage dispenser automatically performs cleaning operations without manual intervention. The controller activates pumps and valves to circulate cleaning solutions through the plumbing, and sensors detect when cleaning is needed and when it is complete, enabling the system to service itself
Solution Approach 2:
Sensors monitor parameters such as water flow rate, cleaning solution concentration, and system state during cleaning operations. This feedback is sent to the controller, which adjusts pump speeds, valve positions, and cleaning solution dosing to maintain consistent cleaning quality across multiple cycles
2Reliability
If automatic cleaning system is implemented, then cleaning reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning system uses existing beverage dispenser components (pumps, valves, plumbing, sensors) for dual purposes: beverage dispensing and cleaning operations. The same water pump that delivers beverage ingredients also circulates cleaning solutions, and the same sensors monitor both beverage and cleaning fluid parameters
Solution Approach 2:
The cleaning system integrates multiple functions into unified operations. The controller combines pump control, valve actuation, solution dosing, and sensor monitoring into a coordinated automated sequence, reducing the need for separate dedicated cleaning components
3Reliability
If cleaning solution dilution is controlled, then cleaning effectiveness is improved, but measurement precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system controls cleaning solution dilution by adjusting pump speeds and valve positions to maintain specific flow rates and pressures. The controller modifies operational parameters such as pump duty cycle and valve opening percentage to achieve target dilution ratios without requiring ultra-precise measurement equipment
4Loss of time
If automated cleaning is implemented, then loss of time is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs cleaning operations automatically at scheduled intervals or after a predetermined number of beverage dispensing cycles. The controller initiates cleaning sequences without waiting for manual input, and pre-rinses plumbing with water before applying cleaning solutions to reduce overall cleaning time
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
The system provides automatic and consistent cleaning and sanitizing of beverage dispensers, maintaining flavor consistency and ensuring safety without manual intervention.
Implementation Method 1
A first sensor may be included in the ingredient circuitry to measure a water flow rate through the ingredient circuitry. A second sensor may be included in the ingredient circuitry to measure an electrical conductivity of the mixture
Implementation Method 2
at least one pump, thereby forming a mixture of the water, a cleaner solution, and/or a sanitizing solution
Data Source
AI summary
A cleaning system for a beverage dispenser, the system comprising: a water source; a cleaner solution source and/or a sanitizer solution source; at least one cleanable ingredient circuit of the beverage dispenser which is in fluid connection with the water source, and the cleaner solution source and/or sanitizer solution source; a first conduit for connecting the water source to the at least one cleanable ingredient circuit via a sensor; at least one second conduit for connecting the cleaner solution source and/or sanitizer solution source to the first conduit via at least one pump prior to the sensor, thereby forming a mixture of the water, a cleaner solution, and/or a sanitizing solution; and a controller for: (a) receiving a first signal from the sensor representative of electrical conductivity of the mixture, whereby the controller calculates a dilution ratio of the mixture from the electrical conductivity; and/or (b) receiving a second signal from the sensor indicative of a flow rate of the mixture passing through the sensor via the first conduit.