Food Processor CIP Manifold for Countercurrent Flow Cleaning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for cleaning food processors are time-consuming and require significant operator input, especially in commercial settings with diverse beverage offerings, necessitating a more efficient and automated solution for rinsing, cleaning, and sanitizing food flow paths.
Innovation Solution
A clean-in-place (CIP) system that uses a counter-current flow of pressurized cleaning solution through the food processor's flow path, controlled by a manifold assembly and dispensing valve, allowing for automated regulation and reduced operator intervention, with features like a wash barrel, bypass line, and ultrasonic generator for enhanced cleaning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If portable chemical dispenser systems are used to clean beverage lines, then cleaning can be performed, but the process becomes extremely time consuming and requires significant operator input
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables automated self-service cleaning through the automated dispenser that independently cycles through cleaning modes (flush, clean, rinse) without requiring manual operator intervention to move between lines or operate equipment
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical operations of portable dispensers are replaced by an automated electronic control system that manages cleaning cycles, solution dispensing, and monitoring across multiple beverage lines simultaneously
2Reliability
If portable chemical dispenser systems are used to clean beverage lines, then cleaning can be performed, but operator input and attention are required for each line
Solution Approach 1:
The automated dispenser performs cleaning operations autonomously without requiring operators to manually operate each line, reducing operational complexity and effort
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides universal cleaning capability across multiple beverage lines through a single automated dispenser unit that can service all lines simultaneously or sequentially based on programmed parameters
3Adaptability or versatility
If beverage variety is increased, then customer selection is improved, but the cleaning process becomes even more time demanding
Solution Approach 1:
Manual tracking and cleaning of multiple beverage lines is replaced by an automated electronic system that monitors and manages cleaning cycles across all lines regardless of beverage variety
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates monitoring capabilities that track cleaning status and beverage line conditions, automatically adjusting cleaning cycles based on actual usage patterns rather than fixed schedules
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 significantly reduces operator time and effort, enhances cleaning efficiency, and provides improved monitoring and reporting capabilities, ensuring compliance with health regulations while minimizing waste and maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
passing a pressurized cleaning solution from the engaged manifold assembly through the dispensing port to pass the cleaning solution along a portion of the food flow path in a reverse flow direction
Implementation Method 2
with features like a wash barrel, bypass line, and ultrasonic generator for enhanced cleaning
Data Source
AI summary
A self-contained system is provided for cleaning a food flow path in a food processor. The system can be operably engaged without requiring disassembly and reassembly of the food processor or can be operably engaged after a partial disassembly of the food processor. The system includes a control assembly for directing passage of a solution through the food processor without requiring constant operator oversight. The system can employ available positive pressure water supply, such as public utility water pressure to selectively and automatically push solutions, including rinses, backwards or forwards through a food flow path in the food processor, though typically countercurrent to the normal processing food flow. A manifold assembly includes an intake manifold and a distribution manifold, with an induction port and/or access port in the distribution manifold for introducing additives or agents into a controlled motive stream passing through the manifold assembly.