Enhanced Inline Fluid Foaming Device with Integrated Temperature Control and Self-Cleaning Mechanism
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
An improved inline fluid foaming device that optimizes foam quality and stability through temperature control, ensures hygiene with a self-cleaning mechanism, and offers customization options for diverse applications.
Background and Problem Solved
The original inline fluid foaming device (PCT/EP2018/072051) has limitations in terms of foam quality and stability, cleaning, and adaptability to different applications. The present inventive concept addresses these limitations by introducing an integrated temperature control system, a self-cleaning mechanism, and modular design elements.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The enhanced inline fluid foaming device comprises an air path and a fluid path, similar to the original device. However, it features an integrated temperature control system that adjusts the temperature of the fluid and air mixture to optimize foam quality and stability. The device also incorporates a self-cleaning mechanism that removes residue and debris from the pumping and foaming element after each use. Additionally, the device can be configured with interchangeable pumping and foaming elements of different geometries and materials, allowing for customization of foam texture and consistency. The device can be controlled and monitored in real-time using sensors and a control unit, ensuring precise control over the foaming process.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The integrated temperature control system, self-cleaning mechanism, and modular design elements introduce novel and non-obvious features that improve upon the original patent. The combination of these features provides a significant enhancement to the original device, offering improved foam quality, increased hygiene, and greater adaptability to diverse applications.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include the use of different temperature control systems, such as thermoelectric or heat-exchange based systems. The self-cleaning mechanism could be implemented using various methods, such as ultrasonic cleaning or chemical treatment. The modular design elements could be extended to include interchangeable air valves or sensors, further increasing the device's adaptability.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The enhanced inline fluid foaming device has significant commercial potential in industries such as food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. The device's ability to produce high-quality foams with customized textures and consistencies makes it an attractive solution for companies seeking to develop innovative products or improve existing manufacturing processes.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A47 | A47J31/4485 |
| A | A47 | A47J31/461 |
| A | A47 | A47J31/468 |
| A | A47 | A47J31/52 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Beverage preparation and fluid dispensing technologies, specifically inline fluid foaming devices for creating controlled foam mixtures in food and beverage applications. Requires mechanical engineering, fluid dynamics, and process control expertise
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A mechanical engineer or food processing technologist with expertise in fluid handling systems, pump design, fluid mixing technologies, and experience with beverage dispensing equipment. Familiar with fluid dynamics, valve control mechanisms, and modular device design principles
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the enhanced inline fluid foaming device represents predictable variations and improvements to the base patent's core technology. The temperature control, self-cleaning, and modular design elements are logical extensions of the original device's pumping and foaming principles. These modifications represent standard engineering problem-solving approaches to enhancing fluid processing equipment functionality and adaptability.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,106 |
|---|---|
| Title | Inline fluid foaming device |
| Assignee(s) | SOCIÉTÉ DES PRODUITS NESTLÉ S.A. |