Fluid Dispensing Pump with Current-Based Viscosity Compensation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid dispensing systems for beverages face challenges in accurately dispensing sauces and syrups with varying viscosities due to inconsistencies in agricultural ingredients, leading to inconsistent volume flow rates and fluid output, especially in automated systems lacking real-time feedback.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable pump system that uses data correlations from previous pumping operations to adjust output volume flow rates based on electrical current, pressure, and air displacement measurements, allowing for consistent fluid dispensing across varying viscosities, employing a controller to determine and adjust pump speed and duration for precise fluid delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual mechanical pumps are used to dispense sauces and syrups, then the system is simple and easy to operate, but the volume flow rate is inconsistent due to varying fluid viscosities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical pumps with an automated peristaltic pump system controlled by a microprocessor. The system uses electrical signals to control pump motor speed and duration, eliminating manual operation inconsistencies. The microprocessor adjusts pump parameters based on fluid viscosity variations, maintaining consistent volume flow rates through automated control rather than manual mechanical operation.
2Device complexity
If fixed pump speed and duration are used, then the system is simple to control, but the fluid output varies when viscosity changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic control of pump operation parameters. The microprocessor continuously adjusts pump motor speed and operational duration based on detected fluid viscosity changes. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to adapt to varying fluid properties, maintaining consistent fluid output despite changes in viscosity, while keeping the control interface simple through automated decision-making algorithms.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the microprocessor monitors pump performance and fluid characteristics, then adjusts pump speed and duration accordingly. This closed-loop control ensures that variations in fluid viscosity are compensated for in real-time, maintaining reliable and consistent fluid output without requiring complex manual intervention.
3Productivity
If automated pumping is implemented, then productivity increases, but the system complexity increases and requires precise control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-regulating automated system where the microprocessor independently manages pump operation parameters. The system automatically detects viscosity changes and adjusts pump speed and duration without external intervention, maintaining high productivity while managing complexity through autonomous decision-making. This self-service approach eliminates the need for complex manual control mechanisms.
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 system ensures consistent volume flow rates and uniform fluid output, accommodating changes in viscosity over time, thereby maintaining the quality and consistency of beverages by compensating for variations in fluid characteristics.
Implementation Method 1
The pump mechanism includes a peristaltic pump with a pump head having a hollow cylindrical body and an interior surface defining a pumping chamber. The pump mechanism is configured to pump the sauce, syrup or flavor from the container in a controlled manner.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein are methods of pumping fluids and fluid pump devices and systems. The systems described herein include an adjustable pump configured to expel fluid at a plurality of flow rates. The systems include at least one current measurement device communicatively coupled to the pump and configured to measure an electrical current applied to the pump. The systems include a controller communicatively coupled to the pump and the at least one current measurement device. The controller is configured to adjust an operating parameter of the pump based at least in part on a measurement of the electrical current measured by the at least one current measurement device.