Beverage Mixing Block Turbulent Impingement Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mixed beverage systems face challenges in maintaining consistency due to settling of components over time, particularly in PRE-MIX systems, and the high cost and undesirable aesthetics of two-port taps in POST-MIX systems.
Innovation Solution
A mixing block design that combines two separate streams before they reach a single-port tap, utilizing a larger primary port and a smaller secondary port to create turbulence and ensure thorough mixing, thereby maintaining consistency without the need for expensive two-port taps.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If PRE-MIX system is used to store mixed beverage components, then convenience is improved, but consistency deteriorates due to settling over time
Solution Approach 1:
The mixed beverage is segmented into separate components (concentrate and diluent) stored in different containers, with mixing occurring at the point of dispensing rather than in advance. This prevents settling while maintaining convenience.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary separation of beverage components into stable storage containers, then combines them at the optimal moment (at dispensing) to ensure consistency. The mixing block is pre-positioned to enable immediate mixing when needed.
2Stability of the object's composition
If POST-MIX system with two-port tap is used, then consistency is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mixing block merges the functions of two separate ports and mixing chamber into a single integrated component. Two input ports feed into a common mixing chamber that directs mixed output through one port, simplifying the dispensing valve structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The mixing block acts as an intermediary device between the separate concentrate and diluent lines and the single-port tap. It performs the mixing function that would otherwise require a complex two-port valve system.
3Stability of the object's composition
If two-port tap is used for POST-MIX system, then consistency is improved, but aesthetic appearance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system combines multiple fluid streams (concentrate and diluent) into a single mixed output stream through the mixing block, enabling use of a standard single-port tap that has simpler, more aesthetically pleasing appearance.
4Device complexity
If mixing occurs after dispensing through single-port tap, then device complexity is reduced, but mixing effectiveness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The mixing action is performed preliminarily within the mixing block before the mixed beverage reaches the tap and dispensing point. This ensures thorough mixing occurs in advance, guaranteeing consistency at the point of service.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses fluid dynamics (hydraulics) to achieve mixing, with one stream impinging from the side onto the other stream in the mixing chamber, creating turbulence and enhanced mixing without mechanical components.
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 mixing block achieves 100% mixing of the two liquid streams within three feet of the block, maintaining consistent beverage composition over long distances and avoiding settling issues, while allowing the use of standard, cost-effective single-port taps.
Implementation Method 1
one stream goes straight through and the other impinges from the side, to cause enhanced mixing
Data Source
AI summary
A mixing block for mixing components of a beverage prior to the mixture reaching the tap, for improving the consistency of the mixed beverage as it leaves the tap. The invention is particularly effective when one of the components tends to settle out during storage. In the mixing chamber, one stream goes straight through and the other impinges from the side, to cause enhanced mixing.