Multi-Compartment Drink Mixer for Constant-Ratio Dispensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing beverage containers require multiple containers and tools for mixing cocktails, leading to a time-consuming process and limited flexibility in ingredient combinations, with dual-compartment containers often being expensive, non-reusable, and inefficient in mixing liquids.
Innovation Solution
A multi-compartment container with first, second, and third storage compartments connected to corresponding dispensing compartments via one-way outlets, allowing for simultaneous dispensing of liquids at a constant volume ratio when the container is inverted, using a system of channels and O-ring fluid control elements to manage flow rates and prevent backflow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If separate storage containers and mixing tools are used for cocktail preparation, then ingredient storage and mixing functions are provided, but the process becomes time-consuming and requires multiple containers and tools
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple storage compartments and mixing functions into a single container system. The first and second compartments store different liquids, and the mixing chamber combines them, eliminating the need for separate storage containers and mixing tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The container system performs multiple functions: storing different liquids in separate compartments, mixing them in the mixing chamber, and dispensing the mixed beverage. This multi-functional design replaces multiple separate tools with one universal device.
2Productivity
If dual-compartment containers are used for mixing liquids, then storage and dispensing are simplified, but the liquids do not mix adequately when the upper compartment flows into the lower compartment
Solution Approach 1:
The container is divided into distinct compartments (first compartment, second compartment, and mixing chamber) with separate outlets. This segmentation allows controlled flow of each liquid into the mixing chamber where adequate mixing occurs, rather than relying on simple gravity flow from one compartment to another.
Solution Approach 2:
The mixing chamber acts as an intermediary between the storage compartments and the dispensing outlet. Both liquids flow into this intermediate mixing zone where they are properly combined before being dispensed, ensuring adequate mixing.
3Measurement precision
If dual-compartment containers are designed with complicated mechanisms for constant dispensing ratio, then dispensing precision is improved, but manufacturing cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses flow restrictors in specific locations (at the outlets of the first and second compartments) to control the flow rates of individual liquids. This localized flow control achieves constant dispensing ratio without requiring complicated overall mechanisms, simplifying manufacturing.
Solution Approach 2:
The flow restrictors modify the flow parameters (flow rate) of liquids from the storage compartments. By changing the flow characteristics through these restrictors, the system achieves precise dispensing ratios using simple, manufacturable components.
4Loss of time
If multiple containers are used for storing and mixing beverages, then ingredient separation is maintained, but the preparation process becomes time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple storage and mixing functions into a single integrated container system. The first and second compartments store different liquids separately, while the mixing chamber combines them, all within one container, eliminating the need for multiple separate containers and reducing preparation time.
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 container simplifies the preparation of mixed drinks by combining storage and mixing in a single unit, reducing the need for multiple containers and tools, offering flexibility in ingredient ratios and ease of use while maintaining efficient mixing and dispensing.
Implementation Method 1
dispensing said at least first liquid product and said at least second liquid product simultaneously from said first outlet and said second outlet into said liquid holding compartment to form a beverage liquid mixture
Implementation Method 2
each liquid-storage compartment having a respective at least first outlet for said at least first liquid-storage compartment and at least second outlet for said at least second liquid-storage compartment
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides a multi-compartment container for storing and dispensing separately a plurality of consumable liquids that can be mixed in an accurate and repeatable manner. Each storage compartment within the container encloses a predetermined quantity of a consumable liquid, wherein the first compartment is filled with a first liquid and the other compartments are filled with second and third liquids. The individual storage compartments are structurally merged to form elongated dispensing compartments each with a first end and a second end, wherein a one-way outlet positioned at the first end and a one-way outlet located at the second end permits passage of liquid from the storage compartments into the corresponding dispensing compartments. Upon fully inverting the container, the designated outlet of each dispensing compartment is opened, wherein precise amounts of liquids in the first, second, and third compartments are dispensed at constant volume ratio using gravity.