Beverage Nozzle Diffuser With Segmented Syrup Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing beverage dispensing machines suffer from syrup contamination between different dispensed beverages, leading to unpredictable flavor variations, and lack efficient cleaning mechanisms for internal parts.
Innovation Solution
A diffuser with a unique design featuring cascading passages and peripheral outlets that separate the flow of base liquid and syrup, ensuring minimal contamination and automatic cleaning through the base liquid's peripheral flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If syrups pass through the same passage in the nozzle, then the machine structure is simplified and compact, but syrup contamination occurs between different beverage dispensings
Solution Approach 1:
The diffuser divides the single syrup passage into multiple separate passages (first peripheral passage, second peripheral passage, third peripheral passage) that are spatially separated. Each passage handles a different syrup type, preventing cross-contamination while maintaining a compact overall structure. The segmentation of flow paths is the core solution to the contradiction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-dimensional (single passage) to multi-dimensional (multiple spatially separated passages) syrup flow configuration. By arranging passages in different spatial dimensions and orientations, the design prevents syrup mixing while keeping the nozzle compact, resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and flavor consistency.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a single nozzle is used for different beverage types, then the machine is more versatile, but cleaning between dispensings becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The diffuser segments the internal structure into multiple accessible passages (first, second, and third peripheral passages) that can be individually cleaned. The separation of syrup paths allows cleaning tools to access each passage independently, making maintenance easier while maintaining versatility for different beverage types.
Solution Approach 2:
The diffuser design extracts and separates the cleaning function from the dispensing function by creating passages that are accessible for cleaning while maintaining the integrated nozzle structure for versatile beverage dispensing. The peripheral passages are positioned to allow external cleaning access.
3Ease of manufacture
If syrups flow through the same channel, then manufacturing is simpler, but flavor contamination occurs between different drinks
Solution Approach 1:
The diffuser segments the syrup flow into multiple distinct passages (first peripheral passage with first opening, second peripheral passage with second opening, third peripheral passage with third opening) that are manufactured as separate but integrated channels. This segmentation prevents flavor contamination while maintaining manufacturing efficiency through integrated diffuser construction.
Solution Approach 2:
Each peripheral passage is designed with specific local characteristics (different orientations, positions, and opening locations) that optimize its function while preventing cross-contamination. The local quality variations in passage geometry and positioning enable both manufacturing efficiency and contamination prevention.
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 diffuser effectively prevents syrup contamination and ensures consistent flavor by minimizing residual syrup in the system, while maintaining carbonation levels and facilitating automatic cleaning.
Implementation Method 1
when water or another base liquid is introduced into said inlet, a part of said water or said other base liquid flows through said at least one shaped passage, emerging from said outlet, and another part of said water or of said other base liquid flows through a portion of said at least one shaped passage and through said at least one peripheral passage emerging from said at least one opening
Implementation Method 2
flowing, in use, in an external space or passage between said diffuser and said casing
Data Source
Figure 1~2
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AI summary
The present invention concerns a diffuser (2) for a beverage dispensing nozzle (1 ), to dispense at least one beverage including water or a basic liquid, and at least one further flavoring liquid, said beverage dispensing nozzle (1 ) being of the type comprising a casing (3), in which a through cavity is defined, which leads into an outlet (3a) at one end of said casing (3); in said diffuser (2), having a longitudinal axis (X), being defined: an inlet (4) for receiving water or another basic liquid; an outlet (5) to allow the water or other base liquid to exit from said diffuser (2); and at least one shaped passage (8), extending between said inlet (4) and said outlet (5) and substantially having a cascade development.