Rotatable Dual-Mode Fluid Connector for Automatic Cleaning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional beverage preparing machines lack an automatic cleaning functionality, requiring manual removal and reconnection of multiple connectors, which is labor-intensive and prone to damage, and often results in a dirty environment and bacterial growth.
Innovation Solution
A dual-mode fluid connector with a rotatable element that can switch between serve and clean modes, allowing for automatic cleaning and disinfection without detaching from material containers, using a hollow connecting element with a chamber, material and cleaning tubes, and a head portion with clamp elements for stable connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual cleaning procedure is used, then cleaning can be performed, but labor time consumption increases and connector damage risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector enables self-service cleaning by allowing cleaning solution to flow through its internal chamber and passages while remaining connected to the material container. The cleaning tube integrates with the connector body, enabling automatic cleaning without manual disassembly or reassembly operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector serves multiple functions: it transmits material liquid during normal operation and simultaneously serves as a conduit for cleaning solution during cleaning operations. The dual-mode design allows the same connector structure to handle both serving and cleaning functions without requiring separate components.
2Extent of automation
If connectors remain connected during cleaning, then automatic cleaning is enabled, but cleaning solution may contaminate material containers
Solution Approach 1:
The connector internal chamber is segmented into distinct zones: a material liquid passage and a cleaning solution passage. The cleaning tube connects to a separate inlet on the connector body, creating independent flow paths that prevent mixing between material liquid and cleaning solution while allowing both to flow through the connector simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the connector have specialized functions: the main chamber handles material liquid transmission, while the cleaning tube inlet and associated passages are dedicated to cleaning solution flow. This local functional differentiation ensures that cleaning operations occur in designated areas without affecting the material container connection point.
3Extent of automation
If traditional connectors are used, then simple liquid transmission is achieved, but automatic cleaning functionality cannot be realized
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning tube is nested within or integrated with the connector body structure. The cleaning tube passes through the connector chamber, with its inlet positioned to receive cleaning solution while the tube itself is contained within the overall connector assembly. This nesting approach adds cleaning functionality without requiring a completely separate external cleaning system.
Solution Approach 2:
The cleaning function is merged with the connector structure by integrating the cleaning tube inlet and passages directly into the connector body. Rather than using separate cleaning equipment, the connector itself becomes the conduit for cleaning solution, combining transmission and cleaning functions in a single integrated component.
Data Source
AI summary
A dual-mode fluid connector includes: a hollow connecting element, comprising a chamber inside the hollow connecting element; a material tube, positioned on the hollow connecting element and connected through the chamber; a cleaning tube, positioned on the hollow connecting element and connected through the chamber; a head portion, positioned on one terminal of the hollow connecting element and having a connecting opening, wherein the connecting opening can be detachably connected to a material container; a rear portion, positioned on another terminal of the hollow connecting element and having a through hole; a rod, inserted into the chamber via the through hole; and a rotatable element, covered on the rear portion and comprising a block portion, wherein the block portion is positioned in an interior of the rotatable element and arranged to operably engage with the outer flange.