Spring-Loaded Pressure Regulator Valve for Beverage Headspace Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pressure control devices for carbonated beverage containers are complex and costly, often requiring scavenger structures that introduce air, which can ruin the beverage, and do not effectively maintain pressure for continuous dispensing.
Innovation Solution
A simple pressure regulator valve with a housing and piston mechanism that automatically introduces pressurized gas into the container headspace when pressure falls below a predetermined level, using a spring to open and close a valve connected to a pressurized gas source, eliminating the need for a scavenger and minimizing air introduction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a pressure control device with scavenger structure is used to maintain pressure in the container, then the pressure can be maintained, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the scavenger structure from the pressure control device, extracting only the essential pressure regulation function. The simplified device uses a pressure-sensitive diaphragm that directly responds to headspace pressure changes to open or close the gas supply valve, eliminating complex scavenger mechanisms while maintaining reliable pressure control.
Solution Approach 2:
The pressure control device operates autonomously using the pressure differential in the headspace itself to control the valve. When pressure drops, the diaphragm moves to open the valve and allow gas in; when pressure reaches the set point, the diaphragm closes the valve. The system self-regulates without external control or complex mechanisms.
2Reliability
If a scavenger structure is introduced to maintain pressure, then pressure control is achieved, but air is introduced into the container which can ruin the beverage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the potential harm of air introduction by completely eliminating the scavenger structure that caused the problem. Instead of trying to manage or filter air, the design prevents air introduction altogether by using a direct pressure-sensitive valve mechanism that only allows controlled gas flow when needed, protecting the beverage quality while maintaining pressure control.
3Reliability
If existing pressure control devices are used, then pressure can be maintained, but the devices are costly due to scavenger structures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs simple, inexpensive components such as a flexible diaphragm, basic valve mechanism, and spring assembly that can be manufactured at low cost. The design avoids expensive scavenger structures and complex electronics, using instead a straightforward mechanical pressure-sensing system that is both affordable and effective for maintaining container pressure.
4Reliability
If manual pumping or complex electrical systems are used to pressurize containers, then pressure can be maintained, but the complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex electrical pressure control systems with a simple mechanical pressure-sensitive diaphragm mechanism. The diaphragm responds directly to pressure changes and mechanically actuates the valve through a spring-loaded system, eliminating the need for electrical sensors, motors, or control circuits while achieving reliable automatic pressure maintenance.
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 ensures consistent pressure in the container headspace for continuous dispensing of carbonated beverages, maintaining quality and simplicity without the need for scavenger structures, thus addressing the complexity and cost issues of existing devices.
Implementation Method 1
a force generating member such as a spring to urge the piston into engagement with a member movable between first and second positions to open or close a valve
Implementation Method 2
to open the valve to permit the gas under pressure to enter the headspace of the container when the pressure in the headspace falls below a predetermined level
Data Source
AI summary
A pressure regulator valve adapted to be secured within a container housing a beverage to be dispensed through the aid of pressure within the headspace (11) above the beverage, the regulator valve includes a housing (16) containing a piston (26) having one surface exposed continuously to the pressure in the headspace and the other surface being engaged by a spring (44), a source of pressurized gas (14) such as carbon dioxide is secured to the housing and includes a valve (60) which is activated by the piston which moves responsive to a differential between the spring force and the headspace pressure to open the valve (60) when the headspace pressure falls below a predetermined level to insert the carbon dioxide into the headspace to maintain the headspace pressure sufficient to dispense the beverage.