Multiphase Mixing System Using Differential Pressure for Homogeneous Solutions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for preparing flavoring syrups for frozen confections like snow cones and shaved ice face challenges in achieving a homogenous mixture of solid and liquid components, particularly sugar and water, due to incomplete dissolution, clumping, and time-consuming processes, which are resource-intensive and messy.
Innovation Solution
A multiphase mixing system using a pump system and differential pressure nozzle to agitate and dissolve solid components within a liquid solvent, creating a homogeneous solution efficiently and quickly, suitable for large quantities of sugar and water, with minimal resource intensity and mess.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional mixing methods are used to prepare flavoring syrups, then the process is simple and requires minimal equipment, but the mixing is incomplete leading to clumping and settling of solid sugar components
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs a vibration mechanism that agitates the solid and liquid components during mixing, preventing clumping and promoting uniform distribution of sugar particles throughout the solvent. This vibrational energy overcomes the natural tendency of solid particles to settle and clump together.
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes a two-phase mixer that incorporates pneumatic or hydraulic mechanisms to create turbulent flow patterns and enhance the mixing process. This allows for more effective dissolution and distribution of solid components compared to simple mechanical stirring.
2Productivity
If traditional mixing methods are used, then the equipment required is minimal, but the process is time-consuming and labor intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The vibration mechanism rapidly agitates the mixture, significantly reducing the time required to achieve homogeneous dissolution of solid sugar components. This vibrational mixing accelerates the mixing process compared to traditional manual or mechanical stirring methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The two-phase mixer utilizes pneumatic or hydraulic power to create intense mixing action that quickly combines solid and liquid components, dramatically increasing mixing speed and reducing the time required to prepare flavoring syrups.
3Loss of substance
If traditional mixing methods are used, then the setup is simple, but the process is messy and requires significant resources
Solution Approach 1:
The two-phase mixer system provides controlled mixing of solid and liquid components, minimizing spillage and material waste. The enclosed or controlled mixing environment prevents messy overflow that occurs with traditional open-container mixing methods.
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 enables rapid, clean, and efficient preparation of homogeneous sugar-water solutions, allowing for custom flavoring syrups to be made on-site, reducing costs and time, and increasing profitability at establishments like sporting events and festivals.
Implementation Method 1
actuating the pump to generate a vacuum in the first tube such that at least a portion of the mixing composition is extracted from the mixing vessel through the first tube
Implementation Method 2
mixing the mixing composition with a pressurized jet stream output through the second tube
Data Source
AI summary
Multiphase mixing systems and methods for creating homogenous mixtures of solid and liquid components. A system includes an inlet pump tube configured to be disposed within a mixing vessel. The system includes a pump in fluid communication with the inlet pump tube, wherein the pump extracts a solution from the mixing vessel when the inlet pump tube is disposed within the mixing vessel. The system includes a three-way valve in fluid communication with the pump. The system includes a differential pressure outlet configured to be disposed within the mixing vessel, wherein the differential pressure outlet is in fluid communication with the pump and the three-way valve. The system is such that the extracted solution is processed through the pump and ejected into the mixing vessel through the differential pressure outlet.