Motorized Carousel Flavoring Dispenser with Integrated Pump
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flavoring dispensing systems for beverages are cumbersome, labor-intensive, and inefficient, particularly when changing out empty flavoring containers and require extensive maintenance, while also occupying valuable counter space.
Innovation Solution
A compact flavoring dispensing apparatus with a motorized carousel that automatically positions and dispenses flavoring bottles, using a pump system with a piston mechanism and sensors for precise dosing, and a rotating cuff for easy bottle replacement, minimizing labor and space requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If peristaltic pumps and delivery tubes are used to dispense flavoring, then liquid flavoring can be delivered, but the system requires extensive cleaning and maintenance when containers are changed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the delivery tube and peristaltic pump from the system entirely. Instead, each flavoring container is equipped with its own integrated pump mechanism, eliminating the need for external delivery tubes that require cleaning and maintenance during container changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the dispensing function into independent segments by equipping each flavoring container with its own pump. This segmentation allows each container to operate independently without shared delivery tubes, simplifying container changes and reducing maintenance requirements.
2Ease of operation
If canisters with hoses are used for flavoring dispensing, then flavoring can be stored and dispensed, but hose rethreading is required during container changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the hose and rethreading operation by integrating the pump directly into each container. The pump mechanism remains stationary while the container is replaced, removing the time-consuming hose rethreading step entirely.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple flavoring bottles are stored for different sizes, then various beverage sizes can be flavored, but the apparatus occupies more counter space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes each flavoring container universal by equipping it with an integrated pump that can dispense precise amounts regardless of container size. A single pump mechanism serves multiple container sizes, eliminating the need for separate dispensing systems for different beverage volumes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the pump mechanism with the flavoring container itself, merging the storage and dispensing functions into a single integrated unit. This consolidation reduces the overall space required compared to having separate storage and dispensing 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 system allows for efficient, precise, and space-saving dispensing of multiple flavors with minimal labor and maintenance, enabling quick and easy container changes, reducing operational costs and improving workflow in beverage preparation areas.
Implementation Method 1
a pump configured to meter a known amount of flavoring ingredient with a predetermined movement, such as a stroke or other known action of the pump
Data Source
AI summary
A flavoring dispensing apparatus, system, and method configured for use with a plurality of pump equipped flavoring containers such as bottles, operable to automatically dispense relatively precise or metered amounts of flavoring, and more specifically concentrated flavoring, into a beverage container, mixing vessel, or other receiver. The containers are easily removed and replaced and flavoring levels can be automatically monitored for replacement with a fresh container.