Beverage Dispensing Coupling and Spout for Multi-Temperature Drinks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing beverage dispensing systems are limited by the need for multiple devices to handle different temperatures and types of beverages, require ice for chilling, and often result in waste, high costs, and environmental impact due to steel kegs and transportation issues.
Innovation Solution
A versatile, all-in-one beverage dispensing system with a V-friction coupling for airtight seals, beverage flavor pods, temperature control, and CO2 management, allowing for hot or chilled, carbonated or non-carbonated beverages from a single container made of biodegradable materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple beverage dispensers are used to handle different temperatures and types of beverages, then beverage dispensing versatility is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The beverage dispenser is designed with a universal spout assembly that can handle both hot and chilled beverages, carbonated and non-carbonated drinks through a single device. The system incorporates a temperature-controlled chamber, CO2 injection system, and heating element that enable one dispenser to perform functions previously requiring multiple separate devices
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines previously separate beverage dispensing systems into a single integrated unit. The spout assembly integrates heating elements, CO2 injection mechanisms, and temperature control systems that were traditionally separate, allowing one device to replace multiple dispensers while maintaining all necessary functions
2Quantity of substance
If steel kegs are used for beverage storage and dispensing, then beverage storage capacity is improved, but environmental impact and transportation costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs disposable beverage containers made from biodegradable materials that can be sealed to the spout assembly. These single-use containers eliminate the need for returning, cleaning, and refilling steel kegs, reducing transportation costs and environmental impact while maintaining adequate beverage storage capacity for the dispensing operation
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from reusable steel keg storage to disposable biodegradable container storage. This parameter change in storage methodology eliminates the harmful factors associated with steel keg transportation and cleaning while providing sufficient beverage capacity through appropriately sized disposable containers
3Temperature
If ice is used to chill beverages, then beverage cooling capability is improved, but device complexity and operational convenience worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical refrigeration system with a thermal exchange system using a heat exchanger. Chilled plates or thermal mass elements are used to cool beverages directly through thermal contact, eliminating the need for compressors, refrigerants, and complex refrigeration cycles while achieving effective beverage chilling
4Device complexity
If a single spout assembly is used for both hot and chilled beverages, then device simplicity is improved, but temperature control capability worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The spout assembly incorporates localized heating and cooling zones that can be independently controlled. Different sections of the spout or underlying chamber can be heated or chilled as needed, allowing the single spout assembly to maintain precise temperature control for both hot and chilled beverages through spatially differentiated thermal management
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 convenience, efficiency, and environmental responsibility by allowing a single device to handle various beverages, reducing waste and costs, while extending beverage life and improving dispensing flexibility.
Implementation Method 1
The air tight seal also stops beverage spoilage by oxidation
Implementation Method 2
the beverage heater and the pump are part of top lift lid of dispenser, such that the beverage pump draws the beverage from the keg/beverage container and pushes it through the heater
Implementation Method 3
Others must use ice to chill beverage as they are not equipped with refrigeration systems to cool the beverages
Implementation Method 4
a CO2 control valve selector is provided allowing for carbonation to flow into beverage keg
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for dispensing a first liquid comprising a second liquid, the apparatus comprising: a male coupling configured to enter and establish a friction seal with a female coupling of a container containing the second liquid by inserting the male coupling into the female coupling and applying a load to the male coupling, the load being provided by the weight of a portion of the apparatus; a spout; and a pump for causing the second liquid to exit the container and the first liquid to be dispensed via the spout after the friction seal is established between the female and male couplings.