Drink Mixing and Dispensing Valves With Pulse-Frequency Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid mixing devices lack precise and rapid feedback control of fluid flow rates, leading to low reproducibility of drink flavor over time, especially under varying pressure and temperature conditions, and are prone to turbulences and residue formation.
Innovation Solution
A device with continuously controlled valve means featuring Pulse Frequency Modulation (PFM) for fluid flow regulation, incorporating feedback integral control and feed-forward reference control to maintain a predetermined flow ratio, reducing head losses and avoiding residue formation, while using electronic control means and hydraulically-operated shutters with return springs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If discrete control of valve opening time is used to regulate fluid flow rate, then the device structure is simple, but the feedback control precision and response speed are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback control system where flow rate sensors continuously monitor the actual flow rates of both fluids, and the controller adjusts the valve opening times based on the difference between actual and target flow rates. This closed-loop feedback mechanism achieves precise flow rate control while maintaining relatively simple device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical flow control mechanisms with an electronic control system that uses sensors, microcontrollers, and electronically controlled valves. This substitution enables more precise and responsive flow rate regulation while actually reducing overall system complexity through integration.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If valve shutters are used to control fluid flow, then the device structure is simple, but turbulences and residue formation occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic opening and closing of valves with carefully controlled duty cycles to regulate flow rates. By adjusting the proportion of open time versus closed time, the system achieves precise flow control while maintaining laminar flow conditions and preventing residue formation through regular clearing actions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses dynamically adjustable valve opening times that can be continuously modified based on real-time flow rate feedback. This dynamic control allows the system to optimize valve operation for each specific condition, minimizing turbulence and residue formation while adapting to changing flow requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional valve control is used, then the device is simple to operate, but the capacity to regulate flow rate with pressure and temperature variations is low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates sensors that continuously monitor flow rates, pressures, and temperatures, with the controller automatically adjusting valve opening times based on real-time measurements. This feedback mechanism enables the system to maintain precise flow rate control and consistent mixing ratios despite variations in operating conditions, without requiring manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a self-regulating system where the controller automatically adjusts valve operations based on sensor feedback, eliminating the need for manual adjustment. The system monitors its own performance and makes real-time corrections to maintain optimal flow rates and mixing ratios under varying pressure and temperature conditions.
4Measurement precision
If rapid valve actuation is implemented for precise flow control, then flow rate control precision improves, but residue formation on shutters increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses periodic valve operation with optimized duty cycles that include complete closing phases. These regular closing actions prevent residue accumulation by allowing syrup to fully stop flowing and be cleared from the shutter surfaces, while the rapid opening/closing capability maintains precise flow control during active dispensing periods.
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 device achieves precise and continuous control of fluid flow rates, maintaining consistent flavor reproducibility across pressure and temperature changes, reducing turbulences and residue issues, and ensuring efficient mixing with improved valve actuation.
Implementation Method 1
the command coil (18) of the control means (5, 8) is operatively connected to the output of the generation means (21, 22) and to at least one of the first and second valve means (4, 7)
Implementation Method 2
return means (19), of the type of a spring or the like, adapted to counteract the shift of the shutter (14) itself towards the relative opening position
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5
AI summary
The device (1) for the mixing of fluids comprises: - a first supply line (3) of a first fluid along which first valve means (4) are arranged, there being provided first control means (5) able to command the opening/closure of the first valve means (4); - at least a second supply line (6) of a second fluid along which second valve means (7) are arranged, there being provided second control means (8) able to command the opening/closure of the second valve means (7); - driving means (20) of the control means (5, 8) which comprise generation means (21, 22) of an impulsive driving signal (23) by pulses able to open the first valve means (4) and/or the second valve means (7) for an impulsive opening time (T-on) and to close the first valve means (4) and/or the second valve means (7) for an impulsive closure time (T-off), wherein the ratio between the impulsive opening time (T-on) and the impulsive closure time (T-off) for each pulse is constant and the pulses have a variable repetition frequency.