Precision Measurement Dispenser for Granular Ingredients
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Measuring granular food ingredients by volume is imprecise due to settling and varying densities, leading to inconsistencies in recipes.
Innovation Solution
A storage dispensing unit that measures ingredients by weight, using a scale and controller to convert requested volumetric measures to equivalent weight measures, with optional features like airtight storage, temperature, and humidity control to maintain ingredient freshness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If granular ingredients are measured by volume using traditional measuring vessels, then the measurement process is simple and quick, but the precision and reliability of the measurement deteriorates due to settling and varying densities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical volume measurement system (measuring cups and spoons) with an electronic weight-based measurement system. The dispenser uses an internal scale to measure ingredients by weight, which is then converted to volumetric measurements through pre-stored density data, eliminating the precision problems associated with volume measurement while maintaining ease of use.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the measurement parameter from volume to weight. By measuring ingredients by weight instead of volume and using pre-stored density information to convert between the two measurement systems, the patent achieves precise volumetric measurement through weight-based detection, resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and device complexity.
2Reliability
If granular ingredients are stored in traditional open containers, then access and dispensing is easy, but the ingredients deteriorate due to settling, moisture exposure, and contamination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the ingredient storage function from the traditional open container and separates it from the dispensing function. The airtight storage container maintains ingredient quality by isolating it from environmental factors, while the integrated dispensing mechanism provides convenient access, resolving the contradiction between reliability and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a protected environment for ingredient storage using an airtight seal that prevents moisture and contamination. The vacuum pump further enhances this by removing air from the storage container, creating a near-inert environment that preserves ingredient quality while the controlled dispensing system maintains operational convenience.
3Manufacturing precision
If traditional volume measurement methods are used, then no additional equipment is needed, but recipe consistency deteriorates due to human error and varying loading techniques
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service measurement system where the dispenser automatically measures and dispenses ingredients based on pre-programmed recipes. The system eliminates human error by automatically weighing ingredients and converting to volumetric measurements, ensuring consistent recipe preparation without requiring complex manual measurement procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from the internal scale to continuously monitor the weight of dispensed ingredients. This feedback mechanism ensures precise measurement by comparing actual weight against target values and adjusting dispensing accordingly, achieving high recipe consistency through automated control rather than manual measurement.
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
Ensures precise dispensing of granular ingredients, eliminating the need for measuring cups and reducing errors in recipes by using a weight-based measurement system that maintains ingredient quality.
Implementation Method 1
The storage container may be vacuum sealed to maintain freshness and prevent contamination
Implementation Method 2
The storage container may be refrigerated to maintain freshness and extend shelf life
Data Source
AI summary
A precision measurement dispenser provides for storage of a granular bulk material in a storage container that is preferably airtight. The granular material is held in a storage container which feeds a dispensing section that is preferably positioned within the storage container. The dispensing section selectively dispenses the ingredient by gravity to a weighting tray of a scale. The ingredient is dispensed by weight. The storage dispensing unit may also include a display and keypad for entry of a desired quantity of ingredient to be dispensed, and optionally which of plural ingredients to be dispensed. A controller can convert a requested volumetric measure to an equivalent weight measure, and dispense by weight in place of volume. The storage dispensing unit further optionally includes pressure control, temperature control, and/or humidity control on the storage container. The dispensing section uses screw, roll, vibration, or shuttle mechanisms for precise dispensing of material.