Remote Beverage Line Cleaning via Electric Valve Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing beverage line cleaning systems require manual disassembly and flushing, which is tedious and inefficient, and do not allow for remote operation.
Innovation Solution
A beverage line cleaning system that includes electric valves controlled by remote signals, allowing for automatic selection between beverage dispensing and cleaning modes, and a cleaning system connected to the beverage line for remote operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual disassembly and flushing is used for beverage line cleaning, then the cleaning process can be performed with simple equipment, but the cleaning process becomes tedious and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The beverage line cleaning system enables automatic self-cleaning through electronically controlled valves that automatically switch between beverage dispensing and cleaning modes, eliminating the need for manual disassembly and flushing operations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical cleaning operations with an automated electronic control system that uses electrically actuated valves to control cleaning fluid flow, substituting human labor and simple mechanical flushing with an automated electromechanical system
2Ease of operation
If manual cleaning operations are used, then the system structure remains simple, but remote operation is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a controller as an intermediary device that receives remote signals and translates them into valve control actions, enabling remote operation without requiring direct physical presence at the cleaning location
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual local operation with remote electronic control, where electronic signals transmitted over distance control the cleaning process through the controller and electric valves, eliminating the need for on-site manual operations
3Extent of automation
If automatic valve control is implemented for remote operation, then cleaning efficiency improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electric valves are designed to perform multiple functions - controlling both beverage dispensing operations and cleaning fluid flow through the same valve mechanism, reducing the need for separate dedicated components for each function
Solution Approach 2:
The automatic valve control system enables the cleaning process to operate autonomously in response to remote signals, with the controller automatically managing valve actuation sequences without requiring manual intervention or complex coordination
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods of the invention relate to cleaning a portion of a beverage line of a beverage distribution system based upon a signal received from a remote source. An administrative (also referred to as “admin”) system can manage a cleaning system from a remote location in which a remote signal can drive a cleaning system and at least one or more electric valves within the beverage distribution system. A controller component (local to the beverage distribution system) can receive the remote signal from the admin system, wherein a cleaning system (e.g., via a cleaning line) or a dispensing system (e.g., via a hose) can be selected to enable a cleaning mode or a dispensing mode.