Food processor with integrated agitation treating
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing food processing systems require extensive manual effort and time for regular cleaning and sanitizing of food flow paths, which is inefficient and time-consuming, especially in commercial settings with diverse beverage offerings.
Innovation Solution
A food processor design incorporating a reservoir, freezer chamber, and solution input line allows for independent introduction of cleaning solutions into the food flow path, enabling simultaneous draining and treatment of the flow path with reduced operator input, using a combination of flow control valves and a circulating pump to manage solution flow and temperature.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual portable chemical dispenser systems are used to clean beverage lines, then cleaning can be performed, but the process becomes extremely time consuming and requires continuous operator attention
Solution Approach 1:
The beverage dispensing system performs cleaning automatically without requiring operator intervention. The system isolates the food flow path, introduces cleaning solution through the solution input line, activates the circulating pump to circulate the solution, and drains the solution automatically, enabling the system to clean itself
Solution Approach 2:
The system prepares for cleaning by isolating the food flow path from the food product supply before introducing the cleaning solution. This preliminary isolation ensures that the cleaning solution can be introduced and circulated without contamination from food products
2Reliability
If manual cleaning systems are used, then cleaning can be performed, but operator input and effort are required
Solution Approach 1:
The system automates the entire cleaning process including isolation of the food flow path, introduction of cleaning solution via the solution input line, circulation through the pump, and draining, eliminating the need for operators to manually move chemical dispensers between lines
Solution Approach 2:
The system separates the cleaning function from the food dispensing function by providing an independent solution input line and solution circulation system, allowing cleaning operations to occur independently without interfering with food product flow
3Reliability
If the food flow path is isolated for cleaning, then treatment efficacy is enhanced, but the cleaning process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the beverage dispensing system into separate functional segments: the food flow path and the solution input line. This segmentation allows the food flow path to be isolated and treated independently while the solution circulation system operates separately, enhancing treatment efficacy without requiring complete system disassembly
Solution Approach 2:
The circulating pump serves multiple functions: it circulates food product through the food flow path during normal operation and circulates cleaning solution during cleaning operations. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated cleaning equipment, managing complexity while maintaining treatment efficacy
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
This configuration reduces the time and effort required for cleaning and sanitizing, ensuring enhanced efficacy and efficiency in maintaining hygiene standards while minimizing water consumption and product agitation during non-dispensing periods.
Implementation Method 1
reducing a temperature of the solution to create a flowable media including solid frozen particles of the solution
Data Source
AI summary
A self-contained food processor is provided for treating a food flow path in the food processor with a solution. The food flow path can be treated without requiring disassembly and reassembly of the food processor and without requiring direct operator input. The food processor includes a controller for directing passage of a solution through at least portions of the food flow path without requiring constant operator oversight. The food processor can employ available positive pressure water supply, such as public utility water pressure to selectively and automatically push solutions, including rinses, backwards or forwards through the food flow path in the food processor.