Food Processor Clean-in-Place System Using Counter-Current Flow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for cleaning food processors are time-consuming and require significant operator input, especially in commercial settings with diverse beverage offerings, necessitating a more efficient and automated solution for rinsing, cleaning, and sanitizing food flow paths.
Innovation Solution
A clean-in-place system that uses a counter-current flow of pressurized cleaning solution through the food processor's flow path, controlled by a manifold assembly and valve system, allowing for automated operation and reduced manual intervention, with features like a wash barrel, bypass lines, and a wand assembly for comprehensive cleaning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If portable chemical dispenser systems are used to clean beverage lines, then cleaning effectiveness is improved, but operator time and manual effort increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables automated cleaning operations where the food processor cleans itself through integrated cleaning ports and channels that allow cleaning solutions to flow through the food flow path without requiring manual intervention or portable dispenser systems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces cleaning ports and cleaning solution flow paths as intermediary elements that enable automated delivery of cleaning chemicals through the food processor, replacing the need for manual portable dispenser systems while maintaining cleaning effectiveness
2Productivity
If manual cleaning methods are used, then equipment complexity is reduced, but productivity and cleaning efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning ports and channels are integrated into the existing food processor structure, allowing the same components to serve dual purposes: food flow during operation and cleaning solution flow during cleaning, thereby improving productivity without proportionally increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the cleaning system with the food processor by integrating cleaning ports into the food flow path structure, combining two functions (food processing and cleaning) into a unified system rather than adding separate standalone cleaning equipment
3Reliability
If reverse flow cleaning is implemented, then cleaning thoroughness is improved, but risk of contaminating food product increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the cleaning process by using bypass lines that allow cleaning solutions to flow through portions of the food flow path (such as the dispensing valve and flow path) without contacting the food product in the hopper, thereby enabling thorough cleaning while preventing contamination
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the cleaning solution flow path from direct contact with food product by introducing bypass lines and dedicated cleaning ports, separating the cleaning function from food handling to eliminate contamination risk while maintaining cleaning effectiveness
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 significantly reduces operator time and effort while ensuring thorough cleaning and sanitizing of food processors, enhancing efficiency and compliance with health regulations by automating the cleaning process.
Implementation Method 1
passing a pressurized cleaning solution from the engaged manifold assembly through the dispensing port to pass the cleaning solution along a portion of the food flow path in a reverse flow direction from the dispensing port toward the upstream end
Data Source
AI summary
A self-contained system is provided for cleaning a food flow path in a food processor. The system can be operably engaged without requiring disassembly and reassembly of the food processor or can be operably engaged after a partial disassembly of the food processor. The system includes a control assembly for directing passage of a solution through the food processor without requiring constant operator oversight. The system 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 a food flow path in the food processor, though typically countercurrent to the normal processing food flow. A manifold assembly includes an intake manifold and a distribution manifold, with an induction port and/or access port in the distribution manifold for introducing additives or agents into a controlled motive stream passing through the manifold assembly.