Weight-Based Ice and Beverage Dispensing for Compact Drink Stations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional beverage dispensers require significant storage space for large bag-in-box containers of beverage bases, limiting the variety of options and efficiency in quick service environments, whereas micro-ingredient technology offers a more compact solution but needs integration for behind-the-counter applications.
Innovation Solution
An automated beverage dispenser system incorporating an ice dispensing station with a weight sensor and a control device that fills cups with a predetermined amount of ice and beverage based on the cup's weight, utilizing micro-ingredients and a dispensing conveyor to provide multiple beverage options efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If large bag-in-box containers of beverage bases are used, then beverage variety and storage capacity are improved, but storage space requirements and distance from dispenser increase
Solution Approach 1:
The beverage base is segmented into micro-ingredients that can be stored in small individual packages within the dispenser, eliminating the need for large bag-in-box containers while maintaining the ability to provide multiple beverage varieties
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple small packages of micro-ingredients are nested within the dispenser unit, allowing compact storage of various beverage components in a centralized location adjacent to the dispensing mechanism
2Volume of stationary object
If micro-ingredients are used, then storage space is reduced, but automation and precise measurement capabilities are required
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically measures and dispenses the correct amounts of micro-ingredients using weight sensors and control mechanisms, eliminating the need for manual measurement while maintaining precision
Solution Approach 2:
Weight sensors provide real-time feedback on the amount of ice and micro-ingredients dispensed, allowing the control system to adjust and maintain precise measurements throughout the dispensing process
3Adaptability or versatility
If ice dispensing is added to the system, then beverage customization options are improved, but measurement precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The weight sensor continuously monitors the weight of ice dispensed into the cup, providing feedback that allows the control system to calculate and adjust the ice volume to achieve the desired predetermined amount
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual ice measurement with an automated weight-based measurement system, providing precise control over ice quantity through electronic sensing and control rather than mechanical estimation
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
Enables the offering of dozens of beverage options without extensive storage, ensuring fast and efficient service by accurately measuring ice and beverage volumes, thus optimizing storage and service efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
weighing the cup while filling the cup with a predetermined amount of ice... based upon the weight of the cup and the ice as determined by the load cell
Data Source
AI summary
The present application provides an automated beverage dispenser for dispensing a beverage and ice into a cup. The automated beverage dispenser may include an ice dispensing station with an ice auger and a weight sensor, a beverage dispensing station, and a control device. The control device instructs the ice auger to fill the cup with a predetermined amount of ice and instructs the beverage dispensing station to fill the cup with a predetermined amount of the beverage in response to a weight of the cup as determined by the weight sensor.