Ice dispensing system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ice dispensing systems are inefficient as they require user intervention to dispense a precise amount of ice, often leading to overfilling or underfilling, and are typically bulky when integrated with beverage dispensing machines, resulting in inaccuracies and increased machine footprint.
Innovation Solution
An ice dispensing system comprising an ice hopper, ice chute, ice dispensing element, and a controller that directs ice to either a dispensing outlet or waste outlet, allowing for precise control of ice dispensing without user intervention, using an ice directing element that can be positioned to direct ice to either outlet based on controller instructions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual ice dispensing is used, then user control over dispensing action is achieved, but dispensing precision and consistency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically detects cup presence, controls ice dispensing timing and amount, and manages the dispensing process without requiring user operation of levers or buttons. The cup itself triggers the dispensing sequence through its presence on the platform, eliminating manual activation while ensuring precise controlled dispensing.
2Extent of automation
If pre-set ice dispensing time is used, then automated dispensing is achieved, but ice amount accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses sensors to detect ice presence in the chute and cup fill level in real-time during dispensing. This feedback allows the controller to dynamically adjust dispensing timing and duration based on actual conditions rather than relying solely on pre-set times, ensuring accurate ice amounts while maintaining automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The dispensing system transitions from static pre-set timing to dynamic adaptive timing. The controller continuously monitors dispensing progress and adjusts the dispensing duration based on real-time sensor feedback about ice flow rate and cup fill level, optimizing accuracy for each dispensing cycle.
3Ease of operation
If integrated beverage and ice dispensing is implemented, then user convenience is improved, but machine footprint increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ice dispensing outlet is integrated directly into the beverage dispensing machine body, with the cup platform serving dual purposes for both ice and beverage dispensing. This merging of functions eliminates the need for separate ice dispensing equipment while providing users with a single streamlined interface for obtaining both ice and beverages.
4Extent of automation
If ice is dispensed without user-held cup positioning, then automation is improved, but ice dispensing gentleness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary cup detection and positioning verification before initiating ice dispensing. The cup is positioned on a designated platform with guides that ensure correct placement prior to dispensing. This preliminary positioning action allows automated dispensing while ensuring the cup is properly positioned to receive ice gently without toppling.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to an ice dispensing system comprising an ice hopper, an ice chute for transporting ice from the ice hopper to a dispensing outlet or a waste outlet, an ice dispensing element for dispensing ice from the hopper into the ice chute, an ice directing element having a first position for directing ice to the waste outlet and a second position for directing ice to the dispensing outlet, and a controller for controlling the ice dispensing element and the position of the ice directing element. Also provided is a beverage dispensing machine comprising the ice dispensing system of the invention and a method for dispensing ice from the ice dispensing system or beverage dispensing machine of the invention.