Flow restrictor assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Beverage dispensing devices lack effective mechanisms to control the flow rate of liquids, leading to potential splashing and spillage, as existing solutions do not provide sufficient variability in flow restriction.
Innovation Solution
A flow restrictor assembly for beverage kettles, comprising a valve member and a handle operably coupled with a biasing member, allowing the valve member to move between positions to partially or fully cover the dispensing opening, thereby controlling the flow rate of liquids.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If no flow control mechanism is provided, then the device structure remains simple, but liquid flow cannot be controlled leading to splashing and spillage
Solution Approach 1:
The valve member is designed to be movable between different positions (fully open, partially open, closed) rather than fixed, allowing dynamic adjustment of flow rate. The biasing member enables the valve to automatically return to its default position, providing dynamic flow control without complex actuation mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The flow control function is segmented into discrete positions (fully open, partially open, closed) through the valve member's movable structure. This segmentation allows users to select specific flow rates without requiring continuous adjustment mechanisms, simplifying the overall device structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed flow restriction is used, then the structure remains simple, but sufficient variability in flow restriction cannot be provided
Solution Approach 1:
The valve member transitions from a fixed to a movable configuration, enabling multiple flow restriction levels. The biasing member provides the mechanical advantage to achieve these position changes with minimal user effort, maintaining structural simplicity while enhancing adaptability.
3Productivity
If the valve member is positioned to cover the opening, then flow restriction is achieved, but the mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The valve member is integrated with the beverage kettle structure, and the biasing member is combined with the valve assembly. This merging of components achieves effective flow regulation without requiring separate, complex control mechanisms, as the biasing member and valve work as a unified system.
Data Source
AI summary
A flow restrictor assembly for a beverage kettle having a valve member that moves with respect to an opening in the interior of the beverage kettle to restrict the flow of liquid from the opening in the beverage kettle. The valve member may be coupled to a handle that enables movement of the valve member into varying positions with respect to the opening to control the flow rate.