Beverage Dispensing Device Pressure Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing beverage dispensing systems face issues with maintaining constant pressure in deformable containers, leading to variable carbonation levels and increased space requirements, due to dependence on container filling levels and deformation forces.
Innovation Solution
A beverage dispensing device with a deformable container receptacle, equipped with pressure measurement means that control deformation units to maintain a predetermined pressure, using a flexible dispensing line and various pressure-sensing technologies like torque meters or thin-film pressure gauges to ensure consistent pressure delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stress or pressure
If pressure is achieved by deforming the beverage container using a spring mechanism, then the beverage can be expelled from the container, but the pressure in the beverage container varies depending on filling degree and spring compression
Solution Approach 1:
A pressure sensor is integrated into the system to continuously monitor the beverage pressure in real-time. The sensor feedback signal is transmitted to the control unit, which automatically adjusts the motor-driven deformation mechanism to maintain constant pressure. This closed-loop feedback control eliminates pressure variations caused by filling degree or spring compression, ensuring reliable and consistent beverage expulsion pressure throughout the dispensing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static spring-based pressure mechanism to a dynamic motor-driven deformation mechanism with active control. The motor can dynamically adjust the deformation force applied to the beverage container based on real-time pressure sensor feedback, allowing the system to compensate for changes in filling degree and maintain constant pressure throughout the dispensing cycle.
2Ease of operation
If a spring mechanism is used to provide slack between the motor and deforming units, then the system can function, but the space requirements increase due to the long stroke required
Solution Approach 1:
The spring mechanism is completely removed from the system and replaced with a direct motor-to-deformation-unit coupling. The motor's own rotational stroke and torque characteristics are utilized to provide the necessary mechanical compliance and motion range, eliminating the need for separate spring components and their associated space requirements while maintaining full system functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes from using a mechanical spring with long stroke to utilizing the motor's electrical and mechanical parameters (rotational speed, torque, and controlled displacement) to achieve the same functional effect. This parameter change allows for a more compact design while maintaining the ability to provide necessary slack and motion range for proper system operation.
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 solution maintains constant beverage pressure independent of container filling and deformation force, reducing system bulkiness and space requirements while preventing over-carbonation, and allowing for efficient and accurate pressure control.
Implementation Method 1
means for measuring a pressure of the beverage in the beverage container and/or in the dispensing line
Implementation Method 2
means for deforming the beverage container in order to expel liquid stored therein
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 2b
AI summary
A beverage dispensing device for dispensing beverages is provided. The beverage dispensing device comprises a beverage dispensing device for dispensing beverage from a beverage container to an outlet, comprising a receptacle for a beverage container made from deformable material, said receptacle being defined by means for deforming the beverage container in order to expel beverage stored therein; a dispensing line fluidly connecting the beverage container and an outlet, the dispensing line having a first inner diameter; an actuator arranged at the outlet in connection with the dispensing line adapted for opening and closing the fluid connection between the beverage container and the outlet; wherein means for measuring a pressure of the beverage in the beverage container and/or in the dispensing line is arranged in connection with the beverage container and/or the dispensing line, the measured pressure being used for controlling the means for deforming the beverage container, so that a predetermined pressure of the beverage at the outlet is attained.