Beverage Package Connector Locking for Contamination Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing beverage dispensing systems face inefficiencies due to regulatory restrictions on packaging sizes, leading to space and labor inefficiencies, and potential contamination of supply lines when incorrect packages are connected.
Innovation Solution
A system for controllably connecting beverage dispensing packages to a supply line using a connector assembly with a controller, reader, and locking mechanism that verifies package information against supply line information to ensure compatibility and prevent unauthorized connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If multiple bottles are used to multiply dispensing capacity, then the beverage supply capacity is improved, but the space requirement and device complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the beverage storage into multiple separate packages (e.g., multiple 1.8L bottles) that can be individually connected to the dispensing system. Each package is handled independently through separate connection operations, allowing the system to achieve higher total capacity without requiring a single large container that would consume excessive space.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-positioning multiple beverage packages in ready-to-connect states. The connector assembly is designed to quickly connect and disconnect packages without requiring complex manual handling or reconfiguration, enabling rapid replacement and minimizing the space needed for storage and manipulation.
2Quantity of substance
If multiple bottles and collectors are used to increase capacity, then the beverage supply capacity is improved, but the device complexity and labor requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly serves multiple functions: it connects beverage packages to the dispensing line, verifies package integrity through RFID scanning, controls the connection state (open/closed), and provides a standardized interface for rapid package replacement. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate manual operations for each task, reducing overall system complexity despite handling multiple packages.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates automated RFID scanning and verification that automatically identifies and validates beverage packages without requiring manual input or complex human intervention. The connector assembly automatically tracks connection states and manages the dispensing process, reducing labor requirements while maintaining high capacity operation.
3Ease of operation
If package connection is not verified, then the ease of operation is improved, but the risk of contamination and system failure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates RFID readers that automatically scan and verify package identifiers upon connection. The connector assembly provides real-time feedback on connection status and package validity, allowing the system to detect and prevent contamination risks without requiring complex manual verification procedures. This automated feedback loop maintains both ease of operation and high reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
A system containing a beverage dispensing package to a supply line, with associated supply line information, is provided. The beverage dispensing package has a package tag, having associated package information, affixed thereto. The package includes a connector assembly, a controller, a reader associated with the connector assembly, and a locking mechanism. The connector assembly has a recess and an outlet and is configured to receive the beverage dispensing package. The reader is coupled to the controller and is configured to read the package information associated with the beverage dispensing package. The locking mechanism is coupled to the connector assembly and the controller. The controller is configured to compare the package information and the pack liquid parameter, and control the locking mechanism to prevent or allow the beverage dispensing package to be connected to the outlet as a function of the comparison of the package information.