阅读说明：本技术 具有可移除的泵和受控的泵系统的饮料分配器系统 (Beverage dispenser system with removable pump and controlled pump system ) 是由 A·科恩 R·R·金伯林 于 2019-02-26 设计创作，主要内容包括：公开了一种具有可移除的泵(14)的后混合饮料分配器系统(120)。该系统包括：泵围护壳(12),用于容纳多个饮料糖浆泵(14)。每个饮料糖浆泵可以容易地从该围护壳(12)以无工具的方式移除并且更换。还公开了用于多个或可移除的泵的传感器和控制系统(100、102)。(A post-mix beverage dispenser system (120) with a removable pump (14) is disclosed. The system comprises: a pump containment housing (12) for containing a plurality of beverage syrup pumps (14). Each beverage syrup pump can be easily removed from the enclosure (12) and replaced in a tool-less manner. Sensor and control systems (100, 102) for multiple or removable pumps are also disclosed.)

1. A multi-pump removable pump system comprising:

a pump enclosure for housing a plurality of removable pumps, the pump enclosure having at least: a front panel, a back panel, a first side panel, a second side panel, a bottom panel, and a removable top panel, the panels defining a pump enclosure interior,

wherein the back plate includes a plurality of apertures and at least one horizontal rim disposed above the plurality of apertures, the rim having a plurality of slots formed therein such that one of the slots is located above each of the plurality of apertures; and

a plurality of said removable pumps disposed at least partially within said pump enclosure interior, each said removable pump comprising:

a pump housing having an internal pumping chamber, an inlet port and an outlet port, each of these ports being in fluid communication with the pumping chamber,

a spring-biased retainer pin received in a retainer pin bore formed on an outer surface of the pump housing,

a pump engine, and

a pumping mechanism driven by the pump engine and disposed at least partially within the pumping chamber, the pumping mechanism capable of holding liquid entering the pumping chamber through the inlet port at a first pressure and discharging liquid from the pumping chamber through the outlet port at a second pressure, the second pressure being greater than the first pressure,

wherein the pump engine and at least a portion of the pump housing are disposed within the pump enclosure interior, the inlet port and the outlet port extend through one of a plurality of backplate holes, and a portion of the retaining pin extends through one of the backplate slots to retain at least a portion of the removable pump within the pump housing.

2. The multi-pump removable pump system of claim 1, wherein each of the removable pumps further comprises:

a sliding lock member having a first portion and a second portion and a lock securing aperture, the second portion being narrower than the first portion, the sliding lock member being slidably movable between a locked position and an unlocked position; and

a slide lock fixture passing through the slide lock fixture bore to secure the slide lock member in a position relative to the pump housing disposed between the inlet port and the outlet port,

wherein each of the inlet port and the outlet port includes a channel for receiving the first portion of the sliding lock member,

wherein the channel of the inlet port and the channel of the outlet port receive the first portion of the slide lock member to engage and retain a removable fitting within the inlet port and the outlet port when the slide lock member is in a locked position, and

wherein when the sliding lock member is in a locked position, the second portion of the sliding lock member is located adjacent to the channel of the inlet port and the channel of the outlet port, but does not engage and retain the removable fittings within the inlet port and the outlet port.

3. The multi-pump removable pump system of claim 2, wherein, for each of the removable pumps, the inlet port has a first cross-sectional area and the outlet port has a second cross-sectional area, the second cross-sectional area being different than the first cross-sectional area.

4. The multi-pump removable pump system of claim 2, wherein, for each of the removable pumps, the inlet port has a first cross-sectional diameter and the outlet port has a second cross-sectional diameter, the second cross-sectional diameter being different than the first cross-sectional diameter.

5. The multi-pump removable pump system of claim 1, wherein, for each of the removable pumps, the pumping mechanism comprises:

a drive gear having a plurality of drive gear teeth disposed within the pumping chamber and rotationally driven by the pump motor; and

an idler gear having a plurality of idler gear teeth intermeshed with the drive gear teeth, disposed within the pumping chamber and attached to an idler shaft disposed within the pumping chamber.

6. The multi-pump removable pump system of claim 1, wherein the pump housing further comprises, for each of the removable pumps: a sensor port in fluid communication with the pumping chamber and a pressure transducer disposed proximate the sensor port, the transducer in contact with the quantity of liquid at the second pressure and generating an electrical signal based on the second pressure.

7. The multi-pump removable pump system of claim 1, wherein the removable pump is a beverage syrup pump.

8. A post-mix beverage dispenser system comprising:

a beverage dispensing station having a plurality of beverage mixing devices and a dispensing nozzle;

a carbonated water supply in fluid communication with each of the beverage mixing device and the dispensing nozzle;

a plurality of beverage syrup containers, each of said containers having a supply of concentrated beverage syrup; and

the multi-pump syrup pump system includes:

a pump containment housing for containing a plurality of syrup pumps, the pump containment housing having at least: a front panel, a back panel, a first side panel, a second side panel, a bottom panel, and a removable top panel, the panels defining a pump enclosure interior,

wherein the back plate includes a plurality of apertures and at least one horizontal rim disposed above the plurality of apertures, the rim having a plurality of slots formed therein such that one of the slots is located above each of the plurality of apertures; and

a plurality of syrup pumps, at least part sets up in the pump enclosure inner space, every syrup pump includes:

a pump housing having an internal pumping chamber, an inlet port in fluid communication with one of the beverage syrup containers and the pumping chamber, and an outlet port in fluid communication with the pumping chamber and one of the beverage mixing device and the dispensing nozzle,

a spring-biased retainer pin received in a retainer pin bore formed on an outer surface of the pump housing,

a pump engine, and

a pumping mechanism driven by the pump engine and disposed at least partially within the pumping chamber, the pumping mechanism capable of holding liquid entering the pumping chamber through the inlet port at a first pressure and discharging liquid from the pumping chamber through the outlet port at a second pressure, the second pressure being greater than the first pressure,

wherein the pump engine and at least a portion of the pump housing are disposed within the pump housing interior, the inlet port and the outlet port extend through one of a plurality of backplate holes, and a portion of the retaining pin extends through one of a backplate slot to retain at least a portion of the syrup pump within the pump housing.

9. The post-mix beverage dispenser system of claim 8, wherein each of the syrup pumps further comprises:

a sliding lock member having a first portion and a second portion and a lock securing aperture, the second portion being narrower than the first portion, the sliding lock member being slidably movable between a locked position and an unlocked position; and

a slide lock fixture passing through the slide lock fixture bore to secure the slide lock member in a position relative to the pump housing disposed between the inlet port and the outlet port,

wherein each of the inlet port and the outlet port includes a channel for receiving the first portion of the sliding lock member,

wherein the channel of the inlet port and the channel of the outlet port receive the first portion of the slide lock member to engage and retain a removable fitting within the inlet port and the outlet port when the slide lock member is in a locked position, and

wherein when the sliding lock member is in a locked position, the second portion of the sliding lock member is located adjacent to the channel of the inlet port and the channel of the outlet port, but does not engage and retain the removable fittings within the inlet port and the outlet port.

10. The post-mix beverage dispenser system of claim 8, the inlet port having a first cross-sectional area and the outlet port having a second cross-sectional area, different than the first cross-sectional area, for each of the syrup pumps.

11. The post-mix beverage dispenser system of claim 8, wherein, for each of the syrup pumps, the inlet port has a first cross-sectional diameter and the outlet port has a second cross-sectional diameter that is different than the first cross-sectional diameter.

12. The post-mix beverage dispenser system of claim 8, wherein, for each of the syrup pumps, the pumping mechanism comprises:

a drive gear having a plurality of drive gear teeth disposed within the pumping chamber and rotationally driven by the pump motor; and

an idler gear having a plurality of idler gear teeth intermeshed with the drive gear teeth, disposed within the pumping chamber and attached to an idler shaft disposed within the pumping chamber.

13. The post-mix beverage dispenser system of claim 8, wherein, for each of the syrup pumps, the pump housing further comprises: a sensor port in fluid communication with the pumping chamber and a pressure transducer disposed adjacent the sensor port, the transducer in contact with a volume of liquid at the second pressure and generating an electrical signal based on the second pressure.

14. A multi-pump controlled pump system comprising:

a pump enclosure adapted to house a plurality of removable pumps;

a plurality of said removable pumps at least partially disposed within said pump enclosure, each said removable pump comprising:

a pump housing having an internal pumping chamber, an inlet port, an outlet port, and a sensor port, each of which is in fluid communication with the pumping chamber,

a pump motor is arranged at the bottom of the pump,

a pumping mechanism driven by the pump engine and at least partially disposed within the pumping chamber, the pumping mechanism capable of holding liquid entering the pumping chamber through the inlet port at a first pressure and discharging liquid from the pumping chamber through the outlet port at a second pressure, the second pressure being greater than the first pressure,

a pressure transducer disposed proximate the sensor port, the transducer being in contact with a volume of liquid at the second pressure and generating an electrical signal based on the second pressure, an

A programmable microcontroller receiving an electrical signal from the pressure transducer and electrically connected to the pump motor and capable of starting and stopping the pump motor;

a universal control panel for controlling each of a plurality of said removable pumps, said control panel comprising:

at least one reset switch for each of the removable pumps and electrically connected to the programmable microcontroller for the removable pump, an

At least one pump status indicator, the at least one pump status indicator for each of the removable pumps being electrically connected with the programmable microcontroller for the removable pump, each pump status indicator being capable of indicating a plurality of pump statuses.

15. The multi-pump controlled pump system of claim 14, wherein for each of a plurality of the removable pumps, the pumping mechanism comprises:

a drive gear having a plurality of drive gear teeth disposed within the pumping chamber and rotationally driven by the pump motor; and

an idler gear having a plurality of idler gear teeth intermeshed with the drive gear teeth, disposed within the pumping chamber and attached to an idler shaft disposed within the pumping chamber;

wherein the sensor port is located downstream of the drive gear and the idler gear.

16. The multi-pump controlled pump system of claim 14, wherein for each of the plurality of removable pumps, the pressure transducer comprises a ceramic piezoelectric patch.

17. The multi-pump controlled pump system of claim 14, wherein the control panel comprises at least two pump status indicators for each of the removable pumps, each of the pump status indicators capable of indicating a plurality of pump statuses.

18. The multi-pump controlled pump system according to claim 14, wherein said at least one reset switch for each said removable pump is a membrane switch and said at least one pump status indicator for each said removable pump is incorporated into said membrane switch.

19. The multi-pump controlled pump system of claim 14, wherein for each of a plurality of the removable pumps, the microcontroller is programmed to stop the pump motor and the at least one pump status indicator signals a first pump status if the second pressure exceeds a first predetermined pressure threshold.

20. The multi-pump controlled pump system of claim 14, wherein for each of a plurality of the removable pumps, the microcontroller is programmed to stop the pump motor and the at least one pump status indicator signals a second pump status if the second pressure is below a second predetermined pressure threshold.

21. The multi-pump controlled pump system according to claim 14, wherein for each of a plurality of said removable pumps, said microcontroller is programmed to start said pump motor and said at least one pump status indicator issues a third pump status signal if said second pressure is between a first predetermined pressure threshold and a second predetermined pressure threshold.

22. The multi-pump controlled pump system of claim 14, wherein for each of the plurality of removable pumps, the microcontroller is programmed to stop the pump motor and the at least one pump status indicator issues a fourth pump status signal if the second pressure remains between a first predetermined pressure threshold and a second predetermined pressure threshold for a period of time exceeding a predetermined time threshold.

23. The multi-pump controlled pump system of claim 14, wherein for each of the plurality of removable pumps, the microcontroller is programmed to stop the pump motor and the at least one pump status indicator issues a fourth pump status signal if the second pressure remains between a third predetermined pressure threshold and a fourth predetermined pressure threshold for a period of time exceeding a predetermined time threshold.

24. The multi-pump removable pump system of claim 14, wherein the removable pump is a beverage syrup pump.

25. A post-mix beverage dispenser system comprising:

a beverage dispensing station having a plurality of beverage mixing devices and a dispensing nozzle;

a carbonated water supply in fluid communication with each of the beverage mixing device and the dispensing nozzle;

a plurality of beverage syrup containers, each of said containers having a supply of concentrated beverage syrup; and

a multi-pump syrup controlled pump system comprising:

a pump containment housing adapted to enclose a plurality of the syrup pumps;

a plurality of syrup pump sets up in the pump enclosure, every syrup pump includes:

a pump housing having an internal pumping chamber, an inlet port in fluid communication with one of the beverage syrup containers and the pumping chamber, an outlet port in fluid communication with the pumping chamber and one of the beverage mixing device and the dispensing nozzle, and a sensor port in fluid communication with the pumping chamber,

a pump motor is arranged at the bottom of the pump,

a pumping mechanism driven by the pump engine and at least partially disposed within the pumping chamber, the pumping mechanism capable of containing liquid entering the pumping chamber through the inlet port at a first pressure and discharging liquid from the pumping chamber through the outlet port at a second pressure, the second pressure being greater than the first pressure, an

A pressure transducer disposed proximate the sensor port, the transducer in contact with a volume of liquid at the second pressure and generating an electrical signal based on the second pressure,

a programmable microcontroller receiving an electrical signal from the pressure transducer and electrically connected to the pump motor and capable of starting and stopping the pump motor; and

a universal control panel for controlling each of a plurality of said syrup pumps, said control panel comprising:

at least one reset switch for each of the syrup pumps and electrically connected to the programmable microcontroller for a removable pump, an

At least one pump status indicator for each removable pump electrically connected with the programmable microcontroller for the removable pump, each pump status indicator capable of indicating a plurality of pump statuses.

26. The post-mix beverage dispenser system of claim 25, wherein for each of the syrup pumps, the pumping mechanism comprises:

a drive gear having a plurality of drive gear teeth disposed within the pumping chamber and rotationally driven by the pump motor; and

an idler gear having a plurality of idler gear teeth intermeshed with the drive gear teeth, disposed within the pumping chamber and attached to an idler shaft disposed within the pumping chamber;

wherein the sensor port is located downstream of the drive gear and the idler gear.

27. The post-mix beverage dispenser system of claim 25, wherein the pressure transducer comprises a ceramic piezoelectric sheet for each of the plurality of syrup pumps.

28. The post-mix beverage dispenser system of claim 25, wherein the control panel includes at least two pump status indicators for each of the syrup pumps, each of the pump status indicators capable of indicating a plurality of pump statuses.

29. The post-mix beverage dispenser system of claim 25, wherein the at least one reset switch for each of the syrup pumps is a membrane switch and the at least one pump status indicator for each of the syrup pumps is incorporated into the membrane switch.

30. The post-mix beverage dispenser system of claim 25, wherein for each of the plurality of removable pumps, the microcontroller is programmed to stop the pump motor and the at least one pump status indicator issues a first pump status signal if the second pressure exceeds a first predetermined pressure threshold.

31. The post-mix beverage dispenser system of claim 25, wherein for each of the plurality of removable pumps, the microcontroller is programmed to stop the pump motor and the at least one pump status indicator signals a second pump status if the second pressure is below a second predetermined pressure threshold.

32. The post-mix beverage dispenser system of claim 25, wherein for each of the plurality of removable pumps, the microcontroller is programmed to start the pump motor and the at least one pump status indicator issues a third pump status signal if the second pressure is between a first predetermined pressure threshold and a second predetermined pressure threshold.

33. The post-mix beverage dispenser system of claim 25, wherein for each of the plurality of removable pumps, the microcontroller is programmed to stop the pump motor and the at least one pump status indicator issues a fourth pump status signal if the second pressure remains between a first predetermined pressure threshold and a second predetermined pressure threshold for more than a predetermined time threshold.

34. The post-mix beverage dispenser system of claim 25, wherein for each of the plurality of removable pumps, the microcontroller is programmed to stop the pump motor and the at least one pump status indicator issues a fourth pump status signal if the second pressure remains between a third predetermined pressure threshold and a fourth predetermined pressure threshold for more than a predetermined time threshold.

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to the field of fluid pumps. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to pumps and control systems associated with systems for post-mix beverage dispensers.

Background

The post-mix beverage dispenser mixes the carbonated water and the concentrated beverage syrup to provide a final beverage for dispensing and consumption. Beverage syrup is typically provided from bag-in-box syrup containers, which are often dense and/or viscous liquids. A syrup pump may be used to move syrup from the syrup container to the dispensing nozzle.

Typically, this syrup pump is a diaphragm type pump, driven by a compressed gas such as carbon dioxide. The problem is that the rubber diaphragms used in such pumps absorb taste from the syrup. Once the diaphragm of the pump is saturated with the flavor of the syrup, the pump cannot re-pump a different flavor beverage. The pump becomes practical for use with single flavor beverage syrups. More importantly, diaphragm pumps are also prone to leakage of compressed carbon dioxide used to drive the pump, which presents a choking risk in the enclosed space.

Still further, diaphragm pumps eventually require maintenance and/or replacement, requiring significant down time while a trained technician maintains the pump system.

Accordingly, an improved syrup pump for a beverage dispenser that would eliminate the problem of taste cross-contamination when the pump is reused for different taste beverages would be desirable. It is also desirable to provide a syrup pump for a beverage dispenser that can eliminate the suffocation risk associated with the use of carbon dioxide or other inert gases.

Further, it is desirable to simply and quickly service the syrup pump and associated system, preferably without the need for special tools or specially trained technicians. Further, it is also desirable to provide an improved system for monitoring and controlling the operation of a syrup pump.

Disclosure of Invention

The above and other needs are met by a beverage dispenser system with a removable pump and its associated pump control system made in accordance with the present disclosure.

In a first aspect, the present disclosure provides a multi-pump removable pump system. In one embodiment, a multi-pump removable pump system includes: a pump containment housing for housing a plurality of removable pumps. The pump enclosure includes at least: a front panel, a back panel, a first side panel, a second side panel, a bottom panel, and a removable top panel. Thus, the plates define an interior space within the pump enclosure. The back plate also includes a plurality of apertures and at least one horizontal edge disposed above the plurality of apertures. The rim has a plurality of slots formed therein such that one slot is positioned over each of the plurality of apertures.

The pump system further comprises: a plurality of removable pumps disposed at least partially within the pump enclosure interior. Each of these removable pumps includes: a pump housing having an internal pumping chamber, an inlet port, and an outlet port, each of these ports being in fluid communication with the pumping chamber. Each removable pump further comprises: a spring biases a retaining pin received in a retaining pin bore formed on an outer surface of the pump housing.

Each removable pump further comprises: a pump motor and a pumping mechanism driven by the pump motor and at least partially disposed within the pumping chamber. The pumping mechanism is capable of holding a liquid entering the pumping chamber through the inlet port at a first pressure and discharging the liquid from the pumping chamber through the outlet port at a second pressure, the second pressure being greater than the first pressure.

For each removable pump, at least a portion of the pump engine and the pump housing are disposed within the pump enclosure interior, the inlet port and the outlet port extend through one of the plurality of backplate holes, and a portion of the retaining pin extends through one of the backplate slots to retain at least a portion of the removable pump within the pump housing.

In certain embodiments of the multi-pump removable pump system, each removable pump further preferably comprises: a sliding lock member having a first portion and a second portion and a lock securing aperture, the second portion being narrower than the first portion. The slide lock member is slidably movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. Also included is: a slide lock mount passing through the slide lock mount aperture to secure the slide lock member in a position relative to the pump housing disposed between the inlet port and the outlet port.

Each of the inlet port and the outlet port includes a channel for receiving a first portion of the sliding lock member. The channel of the inlet port and the channel of the outlet port receive the first portion of the slide lock member to engage and retain the removable fittings within the inlet port and the outlet port when the slide lock member is in the locked position. However, when the sliding lock member is in the locked position, the second portion of the sliding lock member is located adjacent to the channel of the inlet port and the channel of the outlet port, but is not joined and does not retain the removable fittings within the inlet port and the outlet port.

Preferably, in some examples, for each removable pump, the inlet port has a first cross-sectional area and the outlet port has a second cross-sectional area, the second cross-sectional area being different from the first cross-sectional area. Also, in some examples, it is preferred that for each removable pump, the inlet port has a first cross-sectional diameter and the outlet port has a second cross-sectional diameter, the second cross-sectional diameter being different than the first cross-sectional area diameter.

In certain embodiments of the multi-pump removable pump system, the pumping mechanism for each removable pump preferably comprises: a drive gear having a plurality of drive gear teeth disposed within the pumping mechanism and rotatably driven by the pump motor. The pumping mechanism further preferably comprises: an idler gear having a plurality of idler gear teeth intermeshed with the drive gear teeth is disposed within the pumping chamber and attached to an idler shaft disposed within the pumping chamber.

In certain embodiments of the multi-pump removable pump system, the pump housing for each removable pump further preferably comprises: a sensor port in fluid communication with the pumping chamber and a pressure transducer disposed adjacent the sensor port. The transducer is in contact with a volume of liquid at a second pressure and generates an electrical signal based on the second pressure.

In certain embodiments of the multi-pump removable pump system, the removable pump is preferably a beverage syrup pump.

In a second aspect, the present disclosure provides a post-mix beverage dispenser system. In one embodiment, a post-mix beverage dispenser system comprises: a beverage dispensing station having a plurality of beverage mixing devices and a dispensing nozzle; a carbonated water supply in fluid communication with each of the beverage mixing device and the dispensing nozzle; a plurality of beverage syrup containers, each container having a supply of concentrated beverage syrup.

The post-mix beverage dispenser system further comprises: a multi-pump syrup pump system. The syrup pump system then includes: a pump containment housing for containing a plurality of syrup pumps. The pump enclosure includes at least: a front panel, a back panel, a first side panel, a second side panel, a bottom panel, and a removable top panel. Thus, the plates define an interior space within the pump enclosure. The back plate further includes: a plurality of holes and at least one horizontal edge disposed above the plurality of holes. The rim has a plurality of slots formed therein such that one slot is positioned over each of the plurality of apertures.

The syrup pump system further comprises: a plurality of syrup pumps disposed at least partially within the pump enclosure interior. Each of these syrup pumps includes: a pump housing having an internal pumping chamber, an inlet port, and an outlet port, each of these ports being in fluid communication with the pumping chamber. Each syrup pump further comprises: a spring biases a retaining pin received in a retaining pin bore formed on an outer surface of the pump housing.

Each syrup pump further comprises: a pump motor and a pumping mechanism driven by the pump motor and at least partially disposed within the pumping chamber. The pumping mechanism is capable of holding a liquid entering the pumping chamber through the inlet port at a first pressure and discharging the liquid from the pumping chamber through the outlet port at a second pressure, the second pressure being greater than the first pressure.

For each syrup pump, at least a portion of the pump engine and the pump housing are disposed within the pump housing interior, the inlet port and the outlet port extend through one of the plurality of backplate holes, and a portion of the retaining pin extends through one of the backplate slots to retain at least a portion of the removable pump within the pump housing.

In certain embodiments of the post-mix beverage dispenser system, each syrup pump further preferably comprises: a slide lock member having a first portion and a second portion and a lock securing aperture, the second portion being narrower than the first portion. The slide lock member is slidably movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. Also included is: a slide lock fixture passing through the slide lock fixture bore to secure the slide lock member in a position relative to the pump housing disposed between the inlet port and the outlet port.

Each of the inlet port and the outlet port includes a channel for receiving a first portion of the sliding lock member. The channel of the inlet port and the channel of the outlet port receive the first portion of the slide lock member to engage and retain the removable fittings within the inlet port and the outlet port when the slide lock member is in the locked position. However, when the sliding lock member is in the locked position, the second portion of the sliding lock member is located adjacent to the channel of the inlet port and the channel of the outlet port, but is not bonded and secured to the removable fitting fittings within the inlet port and the outlet port.

Preferably, in some examples, for each syrup pump, the inlet port has a first cross-sectional area and the outlet port has a second cross-sectional area, the second cross-sectional area being different from the first cross-sectional area. Also, in some examples, it is preferred that, for each syrup pump, the inlet port has a first cross-sectional diameter and the outlet port has a second cross-sectional diameter, the second cross-sectional diameter being different than the first cross-sectional area diameter.

In certain embodiments of the post-mix beverage dispenser system, the pumping mechanism for each syrup pump preferably comprises: a drive gear having a plurality of drive gear teeth disposed within the pumping mechanism and rotatably driven by the pump motor. The pumping mechanism further preferably comprises: an idler gear having a plurality of idler gear teeth intermeshed with the drive gear teeth is disposed within the pumping chamber and attached to an idler shaft disposed within the pumping chamber.

In certain embodiments of the post-mix beverage dispenser system, the pump housing for each syrup pump further preferably comprises: a sensor port in fluid communication with the pumping chamber and a pressure transducer disposed adjacent the sensor port. The transducer is in contact with a volume of liquid at a second pressure and generates an electrical signal based on the second pressure.

In a third aspect, the present disclosure provides a multi-pump controlled pump system. In one embodiment, a controlled pump system comprises: a pump containment case adapted to house a plurality of removable pumps and the plurality of removable pumps being at least partially disposed within the pump containment case.

Each removable pump, in turn, comprises: a pump housing having an internal pumping chamber, an inlet port, an outlet port, and a sensor port, each of which is in fluid communication with the pumping chamber.

Each removable pump further comprises: a pump motor and a pumping mechanism driven by the pump motor and at least partially disposed within the pumping chamber. The pumping mechanism is capable of holding a liquid entering the pumping chamber through the inlet port at a first pressure and discharging the liquid from the pumping chamber through the outlet port at a second pressure, the second pressure being greater than the first pressure.

Additionally, the pump housing of each removable pump further comprises: a pressure transducer disposed proximate the sensor port. The transducer is in contact with a volume of liquid at a second pressure and generates an electrical signal based on the second pressure. Also included is: a programmable microcontroller that receives the electrical signal from the pressure transducer and is electrically connected to the pump motor and is capable of starting and stopping the pump motor.

A controlled pump system comprising: a universal control panel for controlling each of the plurality of removable pumps. The control panel includes: at least one reset switch for each removable pump electrically connected to the programmable microcontroller for the removable pump and at least one pump status indicator for each removable pump. At least one pump status indicator is electrically connected to the programmable microcontroller for the removable pump, and each pump status indicator is capable of indicating a plurality of pump statuses.

In certain embodiments of the controlled pump system, the pumping mechanism for each removable pump preferably comprises: a drive gear having a plurality of drive gear teeth disposed within the pumping mechanism and rotatably driven by the pump motor. The pumping mechanism further preferably comprises: an idler gear having a plurality of idler gear teeth intermeshed with the drive gear teeth, the idler gear disposed within the pumping chamber and attached to an idler shaft disposed within the pumping chamber. The sensor port is located downstream of the drive gear and the idler gear.

In certain embodiments of the controlled pump system, the pressure transducer for each of the plurality of removable pumps preferably comprises a ceramic piezoelectric sheet.

In certain embodiments of the controlled pump system, the control panel preferably comprises: at least two pump status indicators for each removable pump, each pump status indicator capable of indicating a plurality of pump statuses.

In certain embodiments of the controlled pump system, the at least one reset switch for each removable pump is preferably a membrane switch and the at least one pump status indicator for each removable pump is incorporated into this membrane switch.

In certain embodiments of the controlled pump system, for each of the plurality of removable pumps, the microcontroller is preferably programmed to stop the pump motor and the at least one pump status indicator issues a first pump status signal if the second pressure exceeds a first predetermined pressure threshold.

In certain embodiments of the controlled pump system, for each of the plurality of removable pumps, the microcontroller is preferably programmed to stop the pump motor and the at least one pump status indicator issues the second pump status signal if the second pressure is below a second predetermined pressure threshold.

In certain embodiments of the controlled pump system, for each of the plurality of removable pumps, the microcontroller is preferably programmed to start the pump motor and the at least one pump status indicator issues a third pump status signal if the second pressure is between the first predetermined pressure threshold and the second predetermined pressure threshold.

In certain embodiments of the controlled pump system, for each of the plurality of removable pumps, the microcontroller is preferably programmed to stop the pump motor and the at least one pump status indicator issues the fourth pump status signal if the second pressure remains between the first predetermined pressure threshold and the second predetermined pressure threshold for more than a predetermined time threshold.

In certain embodiments of the controlled pump system, for each of the plurality of removable pumps, the microcontroller is preferably programmed to stop the pump motor and the at least one pump status indicator issues the fourth pump status signal if the second pressure remains between the third predetermined pressure threshold and the fourth predetermined pressure threshold for more than a predetermined time threshold.

In certain embodiments of the controlled pump system, each of the removable pumps is preferably a beverage syrup pump.

In a fourth aspect, the present disclosure provides a post-mix beverage dispenser system. In one embodiment, a beverage dispenser system comprises: a beverage dispensing station having a plurality of beverage mixing devices and a dispensing nozzle; a carbonated water supply in fluid communication with each of the beverage mixing device and the dispensing nozzle; and a plurality of beverage syrup containers, each container having a supply of concentrated beverage syrup.

The post-mix beverage dispenser system also includes a multi-pump syrup pump system. The multi-pump syrup pump system then includes: a pump containment housing adapted to receive a plurality of syrup pumps and at least a portion of the plurality of syrup pumps being disposed within the pump containment housing.

Each syrup pump then includes: a pump housing having an internal pumping chamber, an inlet port in fluid communication with one of the beverage syrup containers and the pumping chamber, an outlet port in fluid communication with the pumping chamber and one of the beverage mixing device and the dispensing nozzle, and a sensor port in fluid communication with the pumping chamber.

Each syrup pump further comprises: a pump motor and a pumping mechanism driven by the pump motor and at least partially disposed within the pumping chamber. The pumping mechanism is capable of holding a liquid entering the pumping chamber through the inlet port at a first pressure and discharging the liquid from the pumping chamber through the outlet port at a second pressure, the second pressure being greater than the first pressure.

In addition, the pump housing of each syrup pump further includes: a pressure transducer disposed proximate the sensor port. The transducer is in contact with a volume of liquid at a second pressure and generates an electrical signal based on the second pressure. Also included is a programmable microcontroller that receives the electrical signal from the pressure transducer and is electrically connected to the pump motor and is capable of starting and stopping the pump motor.

The syrup pump system includes: a universal control panel for controlling each of the plurality of syrup pumps. The control panel includes at least one reset switch for each removable pump electrically connected with the programmable microcontroller for the removable pump and at least one pump status indicator for each removable pump. At least one pump status indicator is electrically connected to a programmable microcontroller for the syrup pump, and each pump status indicator is capable of indicating a plurality of pump statuses.

In certain embodiments of the post-mix beverage dispenser system, the pumping mechanism for each syrup pump preferably comprises: a drive gear having a plurality of drive gear teeth disposed within the pumping mechanism and rotatably driven by the pump motor. The pumping mechanism further preferably comprises: an idler gear having a plurality of idler gear teeth intermeshed with the drive gear teeth is disposed within the pumping chamber and attached to an idler shaft disposed within the pumping chamber. The sensor port is located downstream of the drive gear and the idler gear.

In certain embodiments of the post-mix beverage dispenser system, the pressure transducer for each of the plurality of syrup pumps preferably comprises a ceramic piezoelectric sheet.

In certain embodiments of the post-mix beverage dispenser system, the control panel preferably comprises: at least two pump status indicators for each syrup pump, each pump status indicator capable of indicating a plurality of pump statuses.

In certain embodiments of the post-mix beverage dispenser system, the at least one reset switch for each removable pump is preferably a membrane switch and the at least one pump status indicator for each removable pump is incorporated into this membrane switch.

In certain embodiments of the post-mix beverage dispenser system, for each of the plurality of syrup pumps, the microcontroller is preferably programmed to stop the pump motor and the at least one pump status indicator issues the first pump status signal if the second pressure exceeds a first predetermined pressure threshold.

In certain embodiments of the post-mix beverage dispenser system, for each of the plurality of syrup pumps, the microcontroller is preferably programmed to stop the pump motor and the at least one pump status indicator issues the second pump status signal if the second pressure is below a second predetermined pressure threshold.

In certain embodiments of the post-mix beverage dispenser system, for each of the plurality of syrup pumps, the microcontroller is preferably programmed to start the pump motor and the at least one pump status indicator issues the third pump status signal if the second pressure is between the first predetermined pressure threshold and the second predetermined pressure threshold.

In certain embodiments of the post-mix beverage dispenser system, for each of the plurality of syrup pumps, the microcontroller is preferably programmed to stop the pump motor and the at least one pump status indicator issues the fourth pump status signal if the second pressure remains between the first predetermined pressure threshold and the second predetermined pressure threshold for more than a predetermined time threshold.

In certain embodiments of the post-mix beverage dispenser system, for each of the plurality of syrup pumps, the microcontroller is preferably programmed to stop the pump motor and the at least one pump status indicator issues the fourth pump status signal if the second pressure remains between the third predetermined pressure threshold and the fourth predetermined pressure threshold for more than a predetermined time threshold.

Thus, in accordance with the present disclosure, a pump system having multiple pumps for beverage syrup and other liquids is provided. Each of the pumps can be quickly and simply installed in or removed from a common pump enclosure-without the need for special tools or specially trained technicians.

In addition, the removable pump is preferably a diaphragm pump driven by an electric motor rather than an air drive. Advantageously, then, the problem of syrup flavors being absorbed by the rubber component of the diaphragm pump and then filtered out into other beverage syrups (i.e., flavor cross-contamination) is eliminated. Thus, syrup pumps according to the present disclosure can be easily reused for different flavored beverages, if desired. Furthermore, by eliminating the need for gas to drive the diaphragm pump, carbon dioxide or other inert gases leaking from the diaphragm pump is eliminated along with the associated risk of choking of the enclosed space.

Still further the pump system of the present disclosure provides an improved system for monitoring and controlling the operation of a syrup pump.

Drawings

Further advantages of the disclosure will become apparent by reference to the detailed description when considered in conjunction with the drawings, which are not to scale so as to more clearly show the details, wherein like reference characters refer to like elements throughout, and wherein:

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a pump containment case according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a top perspective view of a pump system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 is a top view of a portion of a pump system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 4 is a rear perspective view of a pump system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of a portion of a beverage syrup pump according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

6-9 are rear perspective views illustrating the steps of disconnecting a beverage syrup pump according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

10-13 are front perspective views illustrating the steps of removing the beverage syrup pump from the pump enclosure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram illustrating a beverage dispenser system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 15 is a flow chart illustrating a pump control scheme according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

Detailed Description

The present disclosure relates to multi-pump removable pump systems and related control systems. The pump and control system are particularly suited for pumping beverage syrup in a post-mix beverage dispenser.

As shown in fig. 1-4, a multi-pump removable pump system 10 according to the present disclosure includes a pump enclosure 12 for housing a plurality of removable pumps 14. The pump enclosure 12 is typically formed of steel or other metallic material, or is formed of plastic, and includes at least a front panel 16, a rear panel 18, first and second side panels 20, 22, a bottom panel 24, and a removable top panel 26. Thus, the plates define an interior space 28 within the pump enclosure 12. In some examples, the enclosure 12 may also include an interior divider 30, the interior divider 30 dividing the interior space 28 into two sections. The back plate 18 also includes a plurality of apertures 32 and at least one horizontal rim 34 disposed above (above) the plurality of apertures 32. The rim 34 includes a plurality of slots 36 formed in the rim 34 such that one slot 36 is positioned above each of the plurality of holes 32.

The pump system 10 also includes a plurality of pumps 14 disposed at least partially within the pump enclosure interior 28. Preferably each pump can be inserted into the pump containment case 12 or removed from the pump containment case 12 in a simple manner and without any tools.

Preferably, each of the removable pumps 14 is a beverage syrup pump suitable for use in, for example, a post-mix beverage dispenser system.

With further reference to fig. 5, each of these removable pumps 14 includes a pump housing 40 that is typically formed from a high strength material such as brass, stainless steel, or other metals or alloys. Alternatively, the pump housing 40 may be molded from a polymeric material, preferably a polymeric material embedded in a fiber reinforcement material such as carbon fiber or fiberglass filaments.

The pump housing 40 includes: an internal pumping chamber 42, an inlet port 44, an outlet port 46, and preferably a sensor port 48, each of which is in fluid communication with pumping chamber 42. Each removable pump 14 also includes a spring biased retainer pin 50 received, preferably controllably received, within a retainer pin hole 52 formed in the outer surface of the pump housing 40.

In addition, each removable pump 14 includes a pump motor 60 and a pumping mechanism driven by the pump motor 60 and disposed at least partially within the pumping chamber 42. The pump motor 60 is preferably an electric motor. Preferably, a common power supply 64 is provided within the enclosure 12 and is used to power all of the electric pump motors.

The pumping mechanism is typically driven by pump motor 60 via drive shaft 66. In some examples, drive shaft 66 may be directly coupled with the pumping mechanism. In this case, the pump housing 40 further includes a drive shaft bore through which the drive shaft 66 extends into the pump housing 40 and a seal assembly 68 to prevent leakage of liquid through the drive shaft bore. In other examples, the drive shaft 66 may be magnetically (magnetically) coupled with the pumping mechanism.

The pumping mechanism is capable of holding liquid entering pumping chamber 42 through inlet port 44 at a first pressure and expelling liquid from pumping chamber 42 through outlet port 46 at a second pressure, the second pressure being greater than the first pressure.

For example, in certain embodiments of the multi-pump removable pump system 10, the pumping mechanism for each removable pump 14 is preferably a gear pump mechanism. The gear pump preferably includes a drive gear 70. The drive gear 70 includes a plurality of drive gear teeth 72, the drive gear 70 being disposed within the pumping chamber 42 and being rotationally driven by the pump motor 60. The pumping mechanism also preferably includes an idler gear 74. The idler gear also includes a plurality of idler gear teeth 76 that intermesh with the drive gear teeth 72, which are also disposed within the pumping chamber 42. Idler gear 74 is attached to an idler shaft 78 disposed within pumping chamber 42.

During operation of the gear pump, liquid enters the pumping chamber 42 from the inlet port 44 at a first or initial pressure. Drive shaft 66 rotates drive gear 70, and due to the meshing teeth of the two gears, drive gear 70 in turn rotates idler gear 74. As the two gears rotate, liquid is trapped by the gear teeth. The liquid then moves around the inner perimeter (inner perimeter) of pumping chamber 42 until it is forced out through outlet port 46 at a second pressure that is greater than the first or initial pressure.

As shown in fig. 4, for each removable pump 14, the pump motor 60 and at least a portion of the pump housing 40 are disposed within the pump enclosure interior 28, while the inlet port 44 and the outlet port 46 extend through one of the plurality of rear plate apertures 32. In such a position, the removable pump 14 is secured in place by a portion of the retaining pin 50, the retaining pin 50 extending through one of the back plate slots 36 of the containment case 12 to retain at least a portion of the removable pump 14 within the pump housing 40.

Each removable pump 14 of the multi-pump removable pump system 10 is also preferably configured so that the inlet port 44 and the outlet port 46 can be quickly coupled or decoupled from the supply and discharge piping in a tool-less manner. As shown in fig. 6, this may be accomplished by providing a sliding lock member 80, the sliding lock member 80 being movably attached to the pump housing 40 adjacent the inlet port 44 and the outlet port 46. The slide lock member 80 has a first portion 82, a second portion 84, and a lock securing aperture 86, the second portion 84 being narrower than the first portion 82. The slide lock member 80 is slidably movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. Also included is a slide lock mount 88, the slide lock mount 88 passing through the slide lock mount aperture 86 to secure the slide lock member 80 in a position relative to the pump housing 40 disposed between the inlet port 44 and the outlet port 46.

The inlet port 44 and the outlet port 46 preferably each include a channel 90 or groove for receiving the first portion 82 of the sliding lock member 80. Thus, when the slide lock member 80 is in the locked position, the channel 90 of the inlet port 44 and the channel 90 of the outlet port 46 receive the first portion 82 of the slide lock member 80 to engage and retain the removable fittings 92, 94 within the inlet port 44 and the outlet port 46. However, when the sliding lock member 80 is in the locked position, the second portion 84 of the sliding lock member 80 is located adjacent the channel 90 of the inlet port 44 and the channel 90 of the outlet port 46, but does not engage and retain the removable fittings 92, 94 within the inlet port 44 and the outlet port 46. Thus, the inlet port 44 and the outlet port 46 may be tool-lessly coupled or decoupled from the supply and discharge piping.

Further, for each removable pump, the inlet port 44 preferably has a first cross-sectional area and the outlet port 46 preferably has a second cross-sectional area that is different from the first cross-sectional area. Also, in some examples, it is preferred that for each removable pump 14, the inlet port 44 have a first cross-sectional diameter and the outlet port 46 have a second cross-sectional diameter that is different than the first cross-sectional area diameter.

The removable fitting 92 for the supply conduit has a cross-sectional area and cross-sectional diameter suitable for mounting the inlet port 44 rather than the outlet port 46. At the same time, the removable fitting 94 for the discharge conduit has a cross-sectional area and cross-sectional diameter suitable for mounting the inlet and outlet ports 46, but not the inlet port 44. In this manner, it will be appreciated that improper coupling of the supply conduit with the outlet port 46, or improper coupling of the exhaust conduit with the inlet port 44 may be prevented.

In another aspect, a sensor and control system is also provided for the removable pump 14. Such a sensor and control system allows for safe use of a positive displacement pump mechanism, such as the aforementioned gear pump mechanisms, without damaging the equipment. Referring again to fig. 1-5, each removable pump 14 in this regard further includes a pressure transducer 100 disposed adjacent the sensor port 48. Each pressure transducer 100 preferably comprises a ceramic piezoelectric sheet. The transducer 100 contacts the volume of liquid at a second (e.g., exhaust) pressure and generates an electrical signal that is proportional to the second pressure.

Each removable pump 14 also includes a separate programmable microcontroller 102 that receives electrical signals from the pressure transducer 100 via a cable 104 and is electrically connected to the pump motor 60 and is capable of starting and stopping the pump motor 60. The programmable microcontroller 102 may be enclosed within a housing 106 that is attached to the pump motor 60, for example. In some examples, a heat sink 108, such as a metal plate or fin, may also be attached to the exterior of the housing to facilitate cooling.

A universal control panel 110 for controlling each of the plurality of removable pumps 14 is also provided. The control panel 110 is preferably disposed on the front panel 16 of the pump enclosure 12. The universal control panel 110 is electrically connected to each of the pump microcontrollers via a plurality of wires 116. The control panel 110 includes at least one reset switch 112 for each removable pump 14, the reset switch 112 being electrically connected to the programmable microcontroller 102 for the removable pump 14.

The control panel 110 also includes at least one pump status indicator 114 for each removable pump 14. At least one pump status indicator 114 is electrically connected to the programmable microcontroller 102 for the removable pump 14, and each pump status indicator 114 is capable of indicating a plurality of pump statuses. Preferably the status indicator 114 is an indicator light, such as an LED light. Alternatively, the status indicators 114 may be provided by audible alarms, by a video display, or the like. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the at least one reset switch for each removable pump 14 is preferably a membrane switch and the at least one pump status indicator 114 for each removable pump 14 is incorporated into this membrane switch.

In some embodiments, the control panel 110 may include at least two pump status indicators 114 for each removable pump 14, each pump status indicator 144 capable of indicating a plurality of pump statuses.

For each of the plurality of removable pumps 14, the microcontroller 102 is typically programmed to start and stop the pump and issue specific pump status signals based on the second pressure information received from the pressure transducer 100 (using the pump status indicator).

For example, if the second pressure exceeds a first predetermined pressure threshold (e.g., greater than 85psi), the microcontroller 102 is preferably programmed to stop the pump motor 60 and the at least one pump status indicator signals a first pump status. The first pump state corresponds to a ready, standby state of the pump. This may be signaled on the control panel 100 by a steady green indicator light, for example.

If the second pressure falls below a second predetermined pressure threshold (e.g., less than 15psi), the microcontroller 102 is preferably programmed to stop the pump motor 60 and the at least one pump status indicator 114 issues a second pump status signal. The second pump state corresponds to an empty syrup bag state of the pump. This may be signaled on the control panel 100 by a flashing red light, for example. This will indicate to the operator that the beverage syrup container is empty and needs to be replaced. After replacing the syrup container, it may be necessary to manually reset the pump using a reset switch.

If the third pressure is between the first predetermined pressure threshold and the second predetermined pressure threshold, the microcontroller 102 is preferably programmed to start the pump motor 60 and the at least one pump status indicator 114 issues a third pump status signal. The third pump state corresponds to normal pumping and syrup dispensing states of the pump. This may be signaled on the control panel 100 by a rapidly flashing green light, for example.

If the second pressure remains between the first predetermined pressure threshold and the second predetermined pressure threshold for more than a predetermined time threshold for a period of time (e.g., more than 1 minute), the microcontroller 102 is preferably programmed to stop the pump motor 60 and the at least one pump status indicator 114 issues a fourth pump status signal. The fourth pump state corresponds to a state in which the pump is operational, but air is trapped within the discharge conduit. This may be signaled on the control panel 100 by a green light that blinks more slowly, for example.

Alternatively, if the second pressure remains between the third predetermined pressure threshold and the fourth predetermined pressure threshold (e.g., from 30 to 60psi) for a period of time exceeding a predetermined time threshold (e.g., greater than 1 minute), the microcontroller 102 may be programmed to stop the pump motor 60 and the at least one pump status indicator 114 issues a fourth pump status signal. This in turn corresponds to a condition where the pump is operational, but with air trapped within the discharge conduit, but a narrower pressure range is used to define this condition.

The foregoing control scheme is summarized in the flow chart diagram of fig. 15.

Beneficially, the sensor and control system facilitates the use of a positive displacement pump, such as an electrically driven gear pump, as described above, in place of a conventional gas driven diaphragm pump. In particular, the sensor and control system allows for monitoring and managing the positive displacement pump in order to reduce or prevent the pump from overheating and/or crashing (dead head) in a boost situation.

In another aspect, the present disclosure is also directed to a post-mix beverage dispenser system 120, the post-mix beverage dispenser system 120 utilizing the multi-pump controlled and removable pump system 10 as described above. As shown in fig. 14, the post-mix beverage dispenser system 120 includes a beverage dispensing station 122 having a plurality of beverage mixing devices and dispensing nozzles 124 and a supply of carbonated water in fluid communication with each of the beverage mixing devices and dispensing nozzles 124. For example, the beverage dispenser may include a water carbonation system in which a source 126 of non-carbonated water (such as a municipal water supply line) is pumped into a carbonation tank 128 via a water pump 130. Such a mixing tank 128 is also in fluid communication with a source of carbon dioxide gas 132, such as a compressed gas cylinder. The water is pumped into the mixing tank 128 and then the carbon dioxide gas is mixed with and dissolved into the water in the mixing tank 128 to provide carbonated water. The carbonated water may also pass through a refrigerator 134 before reaching the mixing device and dispensing nozzle 124.

Additionally, the post-mix beverage dispenser system 120 also includes a plurality of beverage syrup containers 136, each having a supply of concentrated beverage syrup. For example, the beverage syrup containers 136 may be provided as bag-in-box (bag-in-box) syrup containers.

The post-mix beverage dispenser system 120 also includes a multi-pump syrup pump system 10, with the multi-pump syrup pump system 10 having a separate syrup pump for each beverage mixing device and dispensing nozzle 124. Thus, each dispensing nozzle 124 is also connected to or in fluid communication with a bag-in-box or other beverage syrup container 136. The controlled pump system 10 described above can be used to move syrup from a syrup container to the dispensing nozzle 124. The syrup container 136 is thus connected to the pump-in port 44 and the pump-out port 46 is connected to the beverage mixing device and the dispensing nozzle to supply the nozzle 124 with beverage syrup.

As described above, each pump of the multi-pump removable pump system 10 is configured to be quickly removable from the pump enclosure 12, or installed in the pump enclosure 12, in a tool-less manner. The removal of the pump from the enclosure 12 without tools is shown in fig. 6-13.

In normal operation, the sliding lock member 80 is initially in a locked position as shown in fig. 6, wherein the channel 90 of the inlet port 44 and the channel 90 of the outlet port 46 receive the first portion 82 of the sliding lock member 80 to engage and retain removable fittings 92, 94 for supply and exhaust piping within the inlet port 44 and the outlet port 46, respectively. The slide lock member 80 is then moved to the unlocked position shown in fig. 7, wherein the second portion 84 of the slide lock member 80 is positioned adjacent the passageway 90 of the inlet port 44 and the passageway 90 of the outlet port 46. The second portion 84 does not engage or retain the removable fittings 92, 94 within the inlet port 44 and the outlet port 46.

As shown in fig. 8, the fitting 92 for the supply conduit may then be removed from the inlet port 44, and the fitting 94 for the exhaust conduit may then be removed from the outlet port 46. As shown in fig. 9, with the supply and drain pipes removed, the pump remains attached to the back plate 18 of the enclosure 12.

As shown in fig. 10, the lines 116 providing the electrical connection between the microcontroller 102 and the universal control panel 110 are then disconnected.

As shown in fig. 11, the spring-biased securing pin 50, as described above, normally extending through one of the slots 36 formed in the back plate 18 of the enclosure 12 is then depressed to remove the pin from the back plate slot 36. As shown in fig. 12, the pump may then be rotated within its rear plate hole 32 until the retaining pin 50 is removed from the horizontal rim 34 where it opens at the rear. Finally, the pump can be pulled back out of the rear plate aperture 32 and removed from the pump enclosure 12, as shown in fig. 13.

The toolless installation of a new pump is accomplished by reversing the foregoing steps. Briefly, a portion of the pump is inserted through the rear plate aperture 32 of the containment case 12 and then rotated until the retaining pin 50 is aligned with and engages the slot 36 formed in the rim 34 above the rear plate aperture 32. A line connection is established between the microcontroller 102 and the control panel 110. A syrup supply conduit is attached to inlet port 44 and an exhaust supply conduit is attached to outlet port 46. Finally, the sliding lock member 80 is moved from the unlocked position to the locked position to hold the supply and discharge conduits in place.

Advantageously, then, in accordance with the present disclosure, a post-mix beverage dispenser is disclosed that does not utilize a gas driven diaphragm pump to pump the beverage syrup.

Thus, the pumped beverage syrup no longer contacts the rubber diaphragm used in such pumps, thereby preventing flavor cross-contamination within the pump.

In addition, by eliminating the gas driven diaphragm pump (and instead providing a controlled positive displacement pump), the risk of carbon dioxide or other inert gas leaking from the diaphragm pump is also eliminated. Thus, the significant risk of asphyxiation of the enclosed space caused by such carbon dioxide leakage is also eliminated.

Still further, diaphragm pumps eventually require maintenance and/or replacement, requiring significant down time while a trained technician maintains the pump system.

In addition, the provided beverage syrup pump can be easily and quickly serviced without the need for special tools or specially trained technicians.

The foregoing description of the preferred embodiments of the present disclosure has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the precise form disclosed. Obvious modifications or variations are possible in light of the above teachings. The embodiments were chosen and described to provide the best illustration of the principles of the disclosure and its practical application to thereby enable one of ordinary skill in the art to utilize the disclosure in various embodiments and with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. All such modifications and variations are within the scope of the disclosure as determined by the appended claims when interpreted in accordance with the breadth to which they are fairly, legally and equitably entitled.