Milk Frothing Airflow Control for Variable Foam Density
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing milk dispensing apparatuses struggle to automatically adjust air flow rates for foaming milk to different consistencies and temperatures during a single dispensing process, requiring manual calibration and multiple valve configurations, which limits flexibility and efficiency in producing varied milk-based drinks.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus incorporates a continuous flow rate regulator actuated by an electromagnetic or shape memory alloy valve, connected to a central processing unit, which allows for continuous adjustment of air flow from a closed to fully open position, with a flow sensor to monitor and control the air flow rate, enabling automatic adjustment of air flow during dispensing and integration of a steam heater for temperature control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If an intermittently operating valve is used on the air suction duct to vary foaming value, then the foaming capability is improved, but the device complexity increases and manual calibration is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by using a proportional valve that can continuously adjust the air flow rate parameter from 0% to 100% opening position, controlled by a central processing unit. This replaces the intermittent valve system with a continuously adjustable parameter control system, eliminating manual calibration while maintaining foaming capability variation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes the mechanical intermittent valve system with an electromechanical proportional valve system. The proportional valve is actuated by an electromagnetic actuator controlled by a central processing unit, replacing manual mechanical adjustment with automated electronic control, thereby reducing device complexity and eliminating manual calibration requirements.
2Manufacturing precision
If manual adjustment of air flow rate is implemented, then the manufacturing precision of foam density is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to requiring technical expert intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by implementing a central processing unit that automatically controls the proportional valve based on pre-programmed parameters. The system self-regulates the air flow rate to achieve the desired foam density without requiring technical expert intervention, making the apparatus easier to operate while maintaining manufacturing precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback control where the central processing unit monitors and adjusts the proportional valve position to maintain the desired air flow rate and foam density. This closed-loop control system ensures manufacturing precision while eliminating the need for manual adjustment by technical experts.
3Reliability
If a fixed air flow rate configuration is used, then the reliability of the apparatus is improved, but the adaptability to different drink types deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by using a proportional valve that can dynamically adjust the air flow rate from fully closed to fully open positions. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the apparatus to adapt to different drink types and foaming requirements while maintaining reliability through controlled, programmable operation rather than fixed configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by designing a single proportional valve system that can handle multiple drink types and foaming scenarios through programmable control. The central processing unit stores and executes different air flow rate profiles for various drink preparations, making one apparatus capable of performing multiple functions with high reliability.
4Productivity
If rapid transition between cold and hot foamed milk dispensing is required, then the productivity is improved, but the ease of operation worsens due to needing manual recalibration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies continuity of useful action by maintaining the proportional valve in a continuously controllable state between cold and hot milk dispensing operations. The central processing unit automatically adjusts the air flow rate parameter for different temperature requirements without requiring the valve to be manually recalibrated, enabling rapid transitions while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service by having the central processing unit automatically manage the air flow rate adjustments when transitioning between cold and hot foamed milk dispensing. The system self-calibrates and self-adjusts based on the selected drink type, eliminating the need for manual recalibration and enabling rapid productivity improvements.
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
Enables automatic adjustment of air flow for varying foaming consistencies and temperatures, allowing for the production of foamed milk with different densities and the creation of layered drinks, as well as seamless transitions between cold and hot foamed milk dispensing without manual intervention.
Implementation Method 1
apparatus for dispensing milk, foamed or non-foamed, with different foaming values, through suction of air from the outside
Implementation Method 2
actuator, for example of the electromagnetic type
Implementation Method 3
the heater is a steam heater and the apparatus, in this case, also comprises a steam generator
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
Apparatus for dispensing foamed or non-foamed milk with different foaming values, through suction of air from the outside and suction of milk from a container. The apparatus comprises a container (1) for the milk (2), an air intake (3) open towards the outside, a suction pump (5), an electric motor (6) for actuating it, a first duct (4) connecting said air intake (3) with said suction pump (5), a second duct (9) dipping into said container (1) for the milk and joined to said first duct (4) upstream of the point at which said first duct is connected to said pump (5), a third duct (14) connected to the delivery of the pump (5) and ending with a milk dispensing point (15). The apparatus also comprises a central processing unit (CPU) (21) for controlling the operating parameters at least of the electric motor (6) of said pump (5) based on a predetermined programme. The apparatus finally comprises a continuous flow rate regulator (7) inserted into said first duct (4) between the air intake (3) and the point (12) at which said second duct (9) joins to the first, said continuous flow rate regulator (7) having the relative actuator member (8) connected to said central processing unit (CPU) (21) to control it.