Filling Device Shutter for Integrated Sanitization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing filling devices for sensitive food products are structurally complex and cumbersome due to the need for external sanitization means, which interfere with normal filling operations and increase overall dimensions.
Innovation Solution
A filling device with a valve body, shutter, and flow rate selector that allows for seamless sanitization without external actuation, using a slider and annular sleeve with magnetic coupling for fluid flow regulation and sanitization fluid management, enabling the device to switch between filling and sanitization modes without increasing complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If external means (dummy bottle or perforated guide element) are positioned under the dispensing nozzle for sanitization, then sanitization treatment can be performed, but the device becomes structurally complex and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the sanitization function with the existing shutter mechanism. The shutter, which normally controls product flow during filling, is repurposed to control sanitization fluid flow. This eliminates the need for separate external sanitization means (dummy bottles or perforated guide elements) and integrates sanitization capability into the existing valve body structure, thereby reducing structural complexity while maintaining sanitization effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The shutter mechanism is designed to serve multiple functions: during filling operations, it regulates product flow between fully open and partially open positions; during sanitization, it controls sanitization fluid flow and positioning. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated sanitization components, reducing device complexity while ensuring reliable sanitization capability
2Productivity
If external means are moved away from the dispensing nozzle during normal filling, then filling operations are not interfered with, but the device requires additional actuation mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the shutter positioning mechanism used during filling with the sanitization fluid flow control. The same shutter that positions itself during filling operations (fully open, partially open, fully closed) automatically controls sanitization fluid flow when in the fully closed position. This eliminates separate actuation mechanisms for moving external means away during filling, maintaining filling efficiency while reducing overall device complexity
Data Source
AI summary
Sanitisation process for sanitising a filling device (1) of a receptacle, the filling device (1) comprising a valve body (2), an inlet (4) for a fluid, a dispensing nozzle (5), and a shutter (8) that can be moved inside the valve body (2), comprising the steps of:bringing the shutter (8) into a position whereby it engages the dispensing nozzle (5) so as to close it completely;supplying the inlet (4) with the sanitisation fluid so as to fill the valve body (2) with the sanitisation fluid;moving the shutter (8) away from the dispensing nozzle (5) so as to discharge the condensation that has formed inside the valve body (2).