Sales Counter Humidifier Layout for Cleanable Steam Lines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing refrigerated counters with humidifiers face issues of unfiltered air being drawn into the steam generator and inaccessible, difficult-to-clean steam supply lines, leading to potential germ and slime formation, compromising hygiene.
Innovation Solution
The steam generator is positioned separately from the display area with a removable, air-permeable cover for the steam outlet and transparent pipes, allowing for easy cleaning and visual inspection, along with pre-filtering the air supply to prevent contamination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the steam supply line is positioned inside the goods display area with pipes or coils, then the steam can be effectively distributed throughout the display area, but the pipes become inaccessible for cleaning and hygiene deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The steam supply system is segmented into a fixed steam generator and a removable steam outlet cover. The cover can be detached to provide access to the steam supply line for cleaning, while the generator remains stationary. This segmentation allows maintenance without compromising the overall system functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The steam outlet cover is designed to be movable (removable or pivoting) rather than fixed, enabling dynamic access to the steam supply line for cleaning purposes while maintaining steam distribution functionality when in place.
2Device complexity
If the air intake is directly connected to the steam generator without filters, then the device complexity is reduced, but contamination increases leading to germ and slime formation
Solution Approach 1:
Air filters are installed in the air intake path before air enters the steam generator. This preliminary filtration action removes contaminants from the air supply, preventing germ and slime formation in the steam system while maintaining relatively simple device architecture.
3Reliability
If the steam outlet cover is sealed to prevent contamination, then hygiene is improved, but steam penetration into the display area is blocked
Solution Approach 1:
The steam outlet cover incorporates perforations or porous material that allows steam to pass through while providing a barrier against larger contaminants. This enables the cover to maintain hygiene protection without blocking steam penetration into the goods display area.
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
This configuration enhances hygiene by ensuring clean steam supply lines and prevents contamination, maintaining the freshness of stored produce while allowing for effective cleaning and visual monitoring of the steam system.
Implementation Method 1
a steam generator (9) for the fresh goods humidifier... convey the cold vapor into the interior of the merchandise display area
Implementation Method 2
The vapor permeability of the cover means that the moist mist or steam can still penetrate into the merchandise display area
Data Source
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AI summary
The device comprises a steam generator (9) arranged separately opposite the goods display area and a steam discharge (13) opened in the goods display area. A steam supply line (12) is connected with the steam generator and steam discharge. A removable and steam permeable cover of the steam discharge is provided.