Movable Spout Assembly for Contamination-Free Refilling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machines for refilling reusable containers are not capable of dispensing multiple different fluid products without contamination, as they typically use a single spout for all products, requiring frequent cleaning and sterilization.
Innovation Solution
A vending machine with multiple movable spouts arranged in a rectangular pattern, controlled by a touch screen for customer selection, allows for the secure positioning of a selected spout over a reusable container, enabling the dispensing of various fluids or powders from bulk containers without cross-contamination, using a coordinated mechanism of primary and secondary frames with linear bearings and powered movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single spout is used for dispensing multiple fluid products, then device complexity is reduced, but contamination risk increases and cleaning frequency increases
Solution Approach 1:
The single spout is segmented into multiple independent spouts (first spout, second spout, etc.), each dedicated to dispensing specific fluid products. This segmentation eliminates cross-contamination between different products while maintaining manageable device complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The spout assembly is designed as a universal multi-functional unit that can dispense multiple different fluid products (first fluid, second fluid, etc.) through its multiple spouts. The assembly can be configured to serve different products without requiring complete redesign, achieving versatility while preventing contamination.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If multiple fixed spouts are provided for different products, then contamination is prevented, but device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The spout assembly is made movable rather than fixed, allowing it to be repositioned dynamically. The assembly can move between different positions (first position, second position, etc.) to align with different container openings, enabling multiple spouts to serve different products without requiring fixed installations for each spout.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple spouts are merged into a single movable assembly unit. Instead of having separate fixed installations for each spout, they are combined into one assembly that can be moved and positioned as needed, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining contamination prevention benefits.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a movable spout assembly is used to position spouts over container openings, then versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The movable spout assembly serves multiple functions: it can position different spouts (first spout, second spout, etc.) over different container openings, dispense different fluid products, and adapt to various container types. This multi-functionality achieves high versatility without proportionally increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning mechanism is segmented into controlled movement components that can independently adjust the assembly's position. The control system is divided into separate control means for moving the assembly and for selecting which spout to activate, making the complex positioning function more manageable and less intimidating.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If frequent cleaning and sterilization of spouts is required, then contamination is prevented, but loss of time and productivity decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The spout system is segmented into multiple dedicated spouts, each assigned to specific fluid products. This eliminates the need for frequent cleaning and sterilization between different product types, as each spout only handles its designated fluid, thereby reducing time loss to cleaning operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is pre-configured with dedicated spouts for different products before operation begins. This preliminary arrangement prevents contamination issues from arising in the first place, eliminating the need for reactive cleaning and sterilization operations that would consume time and reduce productivity.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and a method for filling reusable containers employing a plurality of moveable spigots located in a planar rectangular arrangement inside two frames positioned to move back and forth on X and Y axes to position a selected spigot over the open top of a reusable container.