Food Processor Cleaning Manifold for Automated Counterflow Sanitizing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for cleaning food processors are time-consuming and require significant operator input, especially in systems with multiple beverage lines, making it difficult to maintain hygiene and compliance with health regulations.
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 dispensing valve, allowing for automated cleaning and sanitizing without manual intervention, and utilizing specific cleaning agents like lactic acid and sodium dodecyl sulfate.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If portable chemical dispenser systems are used to clean beverage lines, then cleaning can be performed, but the process becomes extremely time consuming and requires manual operator input
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables automated cleaning operations where the cleaning system serves itself by automatically dispensing cleaning solutions through the beverage lines without requiring manual operator intervention to move dispensers between lines
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with an automated control system that manages the cleaning process, substituting human operators with electronic controls and automated dispensing mechanisms
2Adaptability or versatility
If the number of beverage lines increases to offer more variety, then product selection improves, but the cleaning process becomes even more time demanding
Solution Approach 1:
The automated cleaning system is designed to handle multiple beverage lines simultaneously or sequentially through a single integrated system, making the cleaning process universal across different line configurations and beverage types
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adapts to different cleaning scenarios by controlling the operation of multiple dispensing valves and adjusting cleaning parameters based on the specific configuration of beverage lines being cleaned
3Productivity
If manual cleaning methods are used, then equipment complexity remains low, but productivity and cleaning efficiency are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning system is divided into modular functional components including multiple dispensing valves, a control system, and cleaning solution reservoirs, allowing the complex system to be managed through independent, manageable segments
Solution Approach 2:
The control system acts as an intermediary between the operator and the cleaning components, managing the complex coordination of multiple valves and fluid flows while presenting a simplified interface for operation
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 reduces operator time and effort, enhances cleaning efficiency, and provides improved monitoring and reporting capabilities, ensuring effective sanitation of food processors while minimizing contact with food products.
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
Implementation Method 2
The cleaning solution can be formed to include at least one of lactic acid, acetic acid, caprylic acid an levulinic acid and at least one of sodium dodecyl sulfate and sodium lauryl sulfate
Implementation Method 3
locating a pressure cover having a drain port to cover a hopper and sufficiently seal the hopper so that pressure of the cleaning solution entering the hopper is sufficient to force material through the drain port in the cover
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.