Shared Output Connector Assembly for Spill-Free Drink Mixing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing single drink makers are inadequate for providing variances in flavor, color, texture, and ingredients in dispensed drinks, and transferring containers between separate makers leads to inefficiencies and potential spills.
Innovation Solution
A shared output connector assembly that connects two dispenser assemblies, allowing independent actuation of levers and channels to combine drink products from multiple makers into a single outlet, with snap-fit or magnetic connectors and sloped chutes for seamless integration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate drink makers are used to provide variances in flavor, color, texture, and ingredients, then product variety is improved, but device complexity and operational inefficiency increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple dispenser assemblies into a single integrated system where multiple drink makers share common components including the mixing vessel, cooling system, and dispensing mechanism. This allows different drink products to be prepared simultaneously in separate compartments while using shared infrastructure, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining product variety.
Solution Approach 2:
The shared output connector assembly serves multiple functions: it connects to multiple dispenser assemblies, enables independent actuation of each dispenser, and provides a common dispensing outlet. This multi-functional design allows a single device to operate as multiple separate drink makers while reducing the need for separate complete systems.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a receiving container is moved between separate dispenser assemblies to mix multiple drink products, then drink mixing capability is improved, but productivity decreases due to time delays and potential spills
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple dispenser assemblies are merged into a single integrated unit with a common mixing vessel and dispensing outlet. This eliminates the need to move receiving containers between separate devices, allowing multiple drink products to be dispensed simultaneously into the same container without time delays or spills.
Solution Approach 2:
The shared output connector assembly enables continuous dispensing operation where multiple drink products can be dispensed sequentially or simultaneously without interruption. The lever mechanism allows uninterrupted operation by enabling independent actuation of each dispenser while maintaining continuous flow through the shared outlet.
3Adaptability or versatility
If separate dispenser assemblies are operated independently, then drink product variety is improved, but loss of substance increases due to waste from slow-flowing drink product
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple dispenser assemblies share a common mixing vessel and dispensing outlet, allowing drink products to be dispensed efficiently without the slow-flowing waste problem associated with separate independent operations. The integrated design maintains product variety while improving flow efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a shared output connector assembly for connecting a first dispenser assembly and a second dispenser assembly. The shared output connector assembly includes a primary lever and at least one projection configured to mechanically connect the primary lever to a first lever of the first dispenser assembly and a second lever of the second dispenser assembly. When the shared output connector assembly is attached to the first dispenser assembly and the second dispenser assembly, the first lever and the second lever are independently actuatable. When the primary lever is actuated, the at least one projection causes the first lever and the second lever to actuate.