Coffee Machine Milk-Conducting System Reverse-Flow Cleaning Method
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for cleaning coffee machine milk-conducting systems are complex and require elaborate switching arrangements and components, leading to potential mold growth and contamination due to residual milk.
Innovation Solution
A method involving fluid accumulation at the milk outlet to facilitate rinsing through the milk inlet, using a simple design that doesn't require complex valve or pump switching, allowing for efficient and cost-effective cleaning and disinfection without complex refitting, utilizing a cleaning device with a collecting container and sealing elements for fluidic connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If complex switching arrangements and valve/pump switching cycles are used for cleaning, then cleaning effectiveness may be improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes complex switching arrangements, valves, and pumps from the cleaning system. Instead of using these complex components to control fluid flow, the invention relies on simple gravity-driven flow and pressure differentials created by the cleaning device itself, thereby eliminating the need for elaborate switching mechanisms while maintaining cleaning effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The cleaning device performs self-regulation of fluid flow through its design. The accumulation container creates natural pressure differentials that automatically direct fluid through the milk-conducting system in the reverse direction without requiring external control mechanisms. The system uses its own structure to generate the necessary flow patterns for effective cleaning
2Reliability
If many complex components such as Venturi nozzles are used, then cleaning function may be enhanced, but ease of manufacture decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates complex components like Venturi nozzles from the cleaning system. The invention achieves effective cleaning through a simplified design that uses basic fluid dynamics and pressure differentials, removing the need for specialized components that are difficult and expensive to manufacture
Solution Approach 2:
The cleaning device uses a universal approach where a single accumulation container serves multiple functions: storing cleaning solution, generating pressure differentials, and controlling fluid flow direction. This multi-functional design replaces the need for multiple specialized components, simplifying both manufacturing and maintenance
3Device complexity
If fluid flows only in normal direction through milk outlet, then system design is simple, but rinsing effectiveness through milk inlet is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements reverse flow cleaning where fluid is directed through the milk-conducting system in the opposite direction of normal operation. The accumulation container creates pressure that forces fluid through the milk inlet and up through the system to the milk outlet, enabling thorough rinsing of areas that would otherwise be difficult to reach
Solution Approach 2:
The accumulation container acts as an intermediary device that enables reverse flow. It stores cleaning fluid and uses its own weight and pressure to drive fluid through the milk-conducting system in reverse, without requiring complex pumping or valve mechanisms to achieve the flow reversal
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
Ensures thorough rinsing and disinfection of the milk-conducting system, extending maintenance intervals and prolonging component lifespan by eliminating the need for intricate setups, allowing for autonomous operation and effective removal of residues and odors.
Implementation Method 1
a filling step in which a fluid is conveyed through the milk outlet so that an accumulation of fluid arises, as a result of which the fluid flows at least partially through the milk inlet so as to rinse the milk-conducting system
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a method and a cleaning device for cleaning, disinfecting and rinsing a milk-conducting system of a coffee machine for producing mixed coffee beverages, in which a fluid back flow is generated at the milk outlet such that the fluid at least partly flows through the milk inlet in order to rinse the milk-conducting system.