Beverage Dispenser Segmentation for Compact Storage

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Beverage dispensers require large storage space and refrigeration due to traditional beverage bases with low reconstitution ratios, limiting the variety and customization of beverages and necessitating remote storage.

Innovation Solution

A beverage dispenser system that breaks down beverage bases into macro- and micro-ingredients with high reconstitution ratios, allowing for smaller storage and customization options, using a user interface to control pumps and metering devices for precise ingredient dispensing, including a multi-flavor valve and consumer data system for personalized beverages.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional beverage bases with low reconstitution ratios are used, then beverage dispensers can provide a variety of beverages, but they require large storage space and refrigeration

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvebeverage varietyVSAvoidstorage space

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The beverage base is segmented into multiple concentrated components (flavor concentrate, sweetener, acidulant, color) that can be stored separately in small containers and combined at the point of dispensing. This segmentation allows high versatility with minimal storage space, as only small amounts of each concentrated component are needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The reconstitution ratio is dramatically increased from traditional 3:1 or 6:1 to ratios of 10:1, 20:1, or even higher for micro-ingredients. This parameter change allows the same beverage variety to be achieved with much smaller storage volumes, as the concentrated components require far less space.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Volume of stationary object

If traditional beverage bases are stored remotely, then storage space requirements are met, but long lines are needed from containers to dispenser

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestorage spaceVSAvoidline length

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of stationary objectVSLength of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple concentrated beverage components are nested within a single compact dispenser unit. The small containers of flavor concentrate, sweetener, acidulant, and color are housed within the dispenser housing, eliminating the need for external storage locations and long connecting lines.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The storage arrangement transitions from a distributed, remote storage system requiring horizontal line connections to a centralized, integrated system where all components are vertically stacked or arranged within the dispenser footprint, eliminating long horizontal lines.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Volume of stationary object

If highly concentrated micro-ingredients are used, then storage footprint is reduced, but precise metering and dispensing becomes more challenging

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestorage footprintVSAvoidingredient ratio precision

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of stationary objectVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The control system incorporates feedback mechanisms that monitor the dispensing process and adjust metering rates in real-time. Sensors detect flow rates and ingredient mixing ratios, providing feedback to the controller which adjusts pump speeds and valve timing to maintain precise formulation ratios despite the high concentration of ingredients.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

Traditional mechanical metering mechanisms are replaced with electronically controlled dosing systems that use sensors, microprocessors, and automated feedback loops to achieve precise ingredient ratios. This substitution of mechanical systems with intelligent control systems enables accurate dispensing of highly concentrated components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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

Enables the creation of numerous beverage options with a smaller footprint, allowing consumers to customize their drinks by dispensing precise ratios of ingredients, reducing storage needs and enhancing user interaction with nutritional information and biometric data integration.

Implementation Method 1

The pumps or metering devices may include a positive displacement pump

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPositive displacement pump: Pump

Implementation Method 2

The beverage dispenser system that breaks down beverage bases into macro- and micro-ingredients with high reconstitution ratios, allowing for smaller storage and customization options, using a user interface to control pumps and metering devices for precise ingredient dispensing

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFluid mixing:

Data Source

PatentEP1993946B1Beverage dispensing system

Publication Date: 2018.01.17 THE COCA COLA CO

Figure 1
Figure 2~3

AI summary

The present application describes a product dispenser. The product dispenser may include at least one macro-ingredient source, at least one micro-ingredient source positioned about the dispenser, a diluent source, a dispensing valve, a number of pumps or metering devices, and a user interface. The user interface receives a request for a product type and instructs the pumps or metering devices to dispense a predetermined type and ratio of macro-ingredients, micro-ingredients, and diluent to the dispensing valve for a predetermined flow rate.