Integrated Filling Valve Sanitization With Condensate Discharge
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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 slider and annular sleeve mechanism that integrates sanitization by shifting the shutter to discharge condensation without moving away from the dispensing nozzle, using a stepper motor and magnetic coupling for flow rate regulation, and external sterilization of the nozzle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If external means (dummy bottle or perforated guide element) are positioned under the dispensing nozzle for sanitisation, then sanitisation treatment can be performed, but the device becomes structurally complex and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the sanitisation function with the existing valve body structure by creating an integrated condensate discharge system. The shutter mechanism, already present for product flow control, is repurposed to also discharge condensation during sanitisation. The valve body is designed with an inclined floor and drain hole that directly receives condensation from the dispensing nozzle, eliminating the need for separate external sanitisation components.
Solution Approach 2:
The shutter serves multiple functions: it controls product flow during normal operation and acts as a closure for the drain hole during sanitisation. The valve body simultaneously functions as the product containment structure and the sanitisation fluid pathway. This multi-functionality reduces device complexity while maintaining sanitisation capability.
2Productivity
If external means are moved away from the dispensing nozzle during normal filling, then filling operations are not interfered with, but additional actuation mechanisms are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the product flow control function and condensate discharge function into a single shutter mechanism. The same shutter that opens/closes for product dispensing is also used to open/close the drain hole for condensate discharge during sanitisation. This eliminates the need for separate actuation mechanisms for different operational modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The shutter is designed as a universal component that performs both product flow regulation and condensate discharge control. The valve body universally handles both product fluid and sanitisation fluid pathways. This multi-functionality simplifies the actuation system while maintaining efficient filling operations.
3Reliability
If the shutter is positioned far from the dispensing nozzle during sanitisation, then condensation can be discharged, but the device dimensions may increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent nests the condensate discharge pathway within the existing valve body structure. The inclined floor and drain hole are integrated into the valve body's internal geometry, utilizing the existing spatial envelope. The shutter mechanism, already positioned within the valve body for product control, is used to seal the drain hole, eliminating the need for additional external discharge components that would increase device length.
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
Enables easy sanitization of the filling device without increasing dimensions or complexity, maintaining saturation pressure and temperature, and reducing structural complexity by integrating sanitization within the device's operation.
Implementation Method 1
an annular sleeve slidably mounted outside the valve body and comprising a plurality of magnetic rings alternating with a plurality of ferromagnetic rings. The slider comprises a core made of ferromagnetic material
Implementation Method 2
comprising a plurality of magnetic rings alternating with a plurality of ferromagnetic rings
Implementation Method 3
a floor, extending in the longitudinal direction, having an inclination towards a drain hole formed in the valve body in said longitudinal direction. The shutter being configured to close the drain hole
Data Source
Figure 1~5
Figure 2~3
Figure 6~7
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).