Container-value subassembly for a beverage dispenser and refrigeration device having the container-valve subassembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing container-valve subassemblies for beverage dispensers face issues with jamming due to inaccurate movement of the closing body, leading to a non-tight seal and difficulties in cleaning, especially when used with beverages other than water.
Innovation Solution
A container-valve subassembly with a tiltable closing body connected to the container via an adapter portion, featuring a pivotal point for contact with the valve seat, ensuring reliable sealing and easy disassembly for cleaning, utilizing a bayonet coupling or rail-guided adapter for secure attachment and a spring for secure closure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If two telescopically interlocking sleeves are arranged downstream of the valve seat to supply beverage to a movable outlet, then the beverage can be supplied to an outlet that moves with the closing body, but the sleeves may jam against one another if the movement of the closing body is not an accurate translation, causing the valve to no longer seal tightly
Solution Approach 1:
The valve is divided into separate components: a closing body that tilts to open/close the valve seat, and a separate adapter portion that remains stationary. This segmentation allows the closing body to move independently without dragging the outlet, eliminating the jamming issue while maintaining sealing reliability through the pivotal point contact mechanism.
2Ease of repair
If the closing body is releasably connected to the container to allow dismantling for cleaning, then the valve can be cleaned when used with beverages other than water, but the connection mechanism adds complexity to the valve structure
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter portion serves multiple functions: it provides the releasable connection between closing body and container, houses the valve seat, and enables both cleaning accessibility and secure attachment. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity while achieving easy disassembly for cleaning.
3Strength
If an adapter portion is screwed to the base of the container with complementary threads, then the adapter portion can be securely fastened to the container, but the extent of rotation required for fastening increases the complexity of the attachment process
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment mechanism transitions from a static screw thread to a dynamic bayonet coupling that allows quick engagement and disengagement through rotational movement. This dynamic connection maintains secure attachment strength while dramatically reducing the time and complexity of the attachment process, enabling rapid replacement of the adapter portion for cleaning or refilling.
4Ease of operation
If the adapter portion is displaceably guided along the base of the container by rails with tongue-groove connection, then the adapter portion can be easily anchored and released with simple linear displacement, but the valve components offset laterally toward the valve seat require more space
Solution Approach 1:
The valve components are arranged in a lateral offset configuration rather than a linear alignment. The tongue-groove connection guides the adapter portion along the base while the valve seat and closing body are positioned laterally, utilizing three-dimensional space efficiently. This dimensional arrangement simplifies the attachment process to simple linear displacement while accommodating all valve components within the available space.
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 solution ensures a reliable and secure sealing mechanism that prevents jamming and allows for easy cleaning and maintenance, maintaining the integrity of the seal regardless of the beverage type, while simplifying the disassembly process for cleaning and refilling.
Implementation Method 1
the closing body is configured to be acted upon by a spring in the closed position
Data Source
AI summary
A container-valve subassembly for use in a refrigeration appliance contains a container and a valve which is arranged on the base of the container. At least one closing body of the valve is releasably connected to the container. The closing body is tiltable between a closed position adjacent to a valve seat and an open position about a pivotal point.