Automated Cup Interior Decoration With Programmed Nozzle Patterning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Decorating cups manually is labor-intensive, time-consuming, and requires skill, leading to increased labor costs and inefficiencies in beverage preparation.
Innovation Solution
A cup decoration system comprising an ingredient container, nozzle, pump, motor, and controller that automates the application of ingredients onto the inner surface of cups in a predetermined pattern, reducing the need for manual labor and improving precision.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual cup decoration is used, then flexibility and customization are maintained, but labor intensity and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system allows the cup decoration process to serve itself through automated ingredient dispensing and application mechanisms, eliminating the need for manual labor while maintaining decoration quality and consistency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical decoration actions with an automated system comprising a nozzle, pump, and controller that mechanically dispense and apply ingredients to cup surfaces, thereby reducing labor intensity while increasing automation
2Manufacturing precision
If skilled employees are used for decoration, then decoration quality is maintained, but training time and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses pre-programmed decoration patterns and designs that can be replicated consistently without requiring employees to learn complex manual techniques, thereby maintaining high precision while eliminating training requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The automated system controls decoration parameters such as ingredient flow rate, nozzle position, and application speed through electronic controls, ensuring consistent precision without relying on employee skill levels or training
3Productivity
If automated decoration system is implemented, then productivity increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated decoration system is designed to perform multiple functions including ingredient storage, pumping, nozzle control, and pattern application through a single integrated device, thereby increasing productivity while managing overall system complexity through functional consolidation
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 decreases labor requirements, enhances speed and precision in cup decoration, and improves the consumer experience by providing aesthetically pleasing and faster beverage preparation.
Implementation Method 1
a pump coupled to drive the ingredients through the outlet of the nozzle
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, devices, and methods for decorating cups are described herein. Embodiments of the present disclosure include a cup decoration system including an ingredient container and a cup decorating device. The cup decoration device can include a nozzle, a pump, a motor, and a controller. The nozzle can be coupled to receive ingredients, include an outlet, and be configured to be positioned adjacent to or partially inside a cup to be decorated. The pump can be coupled to drive the ingredients through the outlet of the nozzle. The motor can be coupled to rotate the nozzle relative to the cup. The controller can be operably coupled to the pump and the motor, and be configured to operate the pump and the motor such that the nozzle dispenses the ingredients onto an inner surface of the cup via the outlet to create a layer having a predetermined pattern.