Floating Basin Apparatus for Layering Beers Without Mixing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for layering beers of different densities, such as in a Black and Tan, are messy and inefficient, particularly for novice pourers, as they require slow and controlled pouring to prevent mixing of the liquids.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a first component with extensions and a support portion, and a second component with a basin and apertures, is used to suspend the second beer component at a vertical opening in the glass, allowing controlled drainage of the second beer without direct falling into the first beer, thus maintaining distinct layers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional manual pouring methods are used to layer beers of different densities, then distinct layers can be achieved, but the process becomes messy and inefficient requiring slow and controlled pouring
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary device consisting of a floating platform with a cup that sits on the beer surface. This mediator allows the second beer to be poured into the cup and then slowly dispensed onto the first beer layer, preventing direct mixing while maintaining efficient pouring. The intermediary structure includes a floatation mechanism, cup, and controlled drainage system with holes of specific diameter ratios.
Solution Approach 2:
The pouring process is segmented into distinct stages: (1) pouring the first beer directly into the glass, (2) placing the floating platform on the surface, (3) pouring the second beer into the cup on the platform, and (4) controlled drainage through the cup holes onto the first layer. This segmentation allows each step to be optimized independently, improving both precision and efficiency.
2Stability of the object's composition
If slow and controlled pouring is used to prevent mixing of beer layers, then distinct layers are maintained, but the process becomes messy and difficult for novice pourers
Solution Approach 1:
The floating platform and cup system performs the controlled pouring function automatically. Once the second beer is poured into the cup, the device itself regulates the flow rate through its hole structure and floatation mechanism, eliminating the need for the pourer to manually control the pouring speed and angle. The system self-regulates to prevent mixing while maintaining layer stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The floating platform acts as a mediator between the pourer and the beer layers, taking over the complex task of controlled dispensing. The pourer simply pours into the cup, and the intermediary device handles the precise delivery onto the first layer, making the process accessible to novice pourers while maintaining professional results.
3Productivity
If direct pouring of the second beer onto the first layer is performed, then the process is simple and fast, but the beers mix and distinct layers cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The floating cup system serves as an intermediary that reconciles the conflict between speed and precision. The pourer can pour quickly into the cup without concern for precision, and the device then slowly and precisely dispenses the beer onto the first layer through its controlled drainage holes, achieving both fast pouring and precise layering.
Solution Approach 2:
The second beer is preliminarily contained in the floating cup before being dispensed onto the first layer. This preliminary containment allows the pourer to quickly transfer the beer into the cup without worrying about mixing, and then the controlled release happens automatically, separating the fast pouring action from the precise delivery requirement.
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 enables efficient and clean layering of beers by preventing mixing, making it easier for both professionals and novices to achieve distinct layers with minimal effort and mess.
Implementation Method 1
draining the second drinkable fluid from the basin to an exterior of the second component via apertures defined by the second component
Implementation Method 2
at least some portion of the second drinkable fluid is impeded from falling directly from the apertures into the drinking container by at least one portion of the second component that is of greater diameter than the exterior of the second component where the apertures meet the exterior of the second component
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for layering fluids in a container is provided. The apparatus may include a first component and a second component. The first component may include a first extension, a second extension, and a support portion disposed between the first extension and the second extension. When the first extension and the second extension are supported by the top of the drinking container, the support portion may be disposed at a vertical opening into the drinking container. The second component may include an upper portion defining a basin and a plurality of apertures extending between the basin and an exterior of the upper portion, a middle portion, and a lower portion. The lower portion or the middle portion may be configured to be coupled with the support portion of the first component to suspend the second component at the vertical opening into the drinking container.