Counter-pressure beverage dispenser and method of use
阅读说明：本技术 反压力饮料分配器和使用方法 (Counter-pressure beverage dispenser and method of use ) 是由 S·佩蒂弗 N·比森 D·戈弗雷 N·厄尔 C·埃德蒙兹 K·布鲁克斯 K·奥卡拉汉 于 2019-03-12 设计创作，主要内容包括：用于将饮料分配到容器(18)中的系统,该系统包括至少一个分配器单元(10)。分配器单元(10)包括可移动密封构件(34)和至少一个饮料出口端口,该可移动密封构件(34)被构造成在容器(18)的至少一部分和分配头之间形成密封屏障。以这种方式,使得在填充之前容器被加压,以便避免过多形成泡沫。(System for dispensing a beverage into a container (18), the system comprising at least one dispenser unit (10). The dispenser unit (10) comprises a movable sealing member (34) and at least one beverage outlet port, the movable sealing member (34) being configured to form a sealing barrier between at least a portion of the container (18) and the dispensing head. In this way, the container is pressurized before filling in order to avoid excessive foaming.)
1. A system for dispensing a beverage into a container, the system comprising:
at least one dispenser unit, the at least one dispenser unit comprising:
a dispensing head, wherein the dispensing head comprises:
at least one fluid port;
a movable sealing member configured to form a sealing barrier between at least a portion of the container and the dispensing head.
2. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one fluid port is a beverage outlet and/or a pressure port.
3. The system of claim 1 or 2, comprising at least one support member configured to contact, hold, position and/or support the container.
4. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein at least one support member is configured to contact, hold, position and/or support the container at the mouth, ledge and/or flange of the container.
5. The system of claim 2, wherein at least one support member is configured to contact, hold, position, and/or support the container at a base or side of the container.
6. The system of any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the at least one support is configured to position and/or align the container with the moveable sealing member to ensure an effective seal.
7. System according to any one of claims 3 to 6, wherein the at least one support member is shaped and/or dimensioned to allow the inner, outer and/or upper surface of the mouth, ledge and/or flange of the container to rest on the support member when the container is loaded or positioned in the dispenser unit.
8. The system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the movable sealing member is configured to be movable between a first state in which the sealing member is spaced apart from the container and a second state in which the sealing member is in contact with at least a portion of the container to form a sealing barrier.
9. System according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least part of the container is a mouth, a protruding portion and/or a flange of the container.
10. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the sealing member is configured to contact, grip and/or clamp an inner, outer or upper surface of a mouth, projecting portion and/or flange of the container.
11. The system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the sealing member comprises a sealing element made of a material selected from the group comprising silicone, rubber, plastic, or resin.
12. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the sealing member is configured to move in a substantially vertical direction.
13. The system of any one of the preceding claims, comprising a screen, door and/or splash shield configured to isolate the container from a user during dispensing of the beverage.
14. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the container is selected from the group comprising drinking vessels, bottles, mugs, cups, kettles, glasses, beakers, cups and/or mugs.
15. The system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the container is made of a range of materials including hard or soft plastic, glass, ceramic, cardboard, paper, waxed paper and/or foam.
16. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the beverage is dispensed into the container in less than 5 seconds.
17. System according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the beverage is a carbonated and/or sparkling beverage.
18. The system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the beverage is alcoholic or non-alcoholic.
19. The system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one pressure port is connected to at least one pressure source.
20. The system of claim 19, wherein the at least one pressure source is a gas supply selected from the group consisting of an inert gas, air, carbon dioxide, and/or a gas mixture.
21. The system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the pressure port is configured to create a pressure differential between the interior and the exterior of the container.
22. The system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the sealing member is configured to maintain a pressure differential between the interior and exterior of the container during dispensing of the beverage to prevent oxidation or contamination of the beverage.
23. System according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the beverage outlet is connected to a dip tube.
24. System according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the beverage outlet is connected to a nozzle.
25. System according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the sealing member and/or the dispensing head are movable relative to the at least one support member.
26. The system of any one of the preceding claims, comprising a plurality of support members.
27. The system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein a first support member is configured to contact and/or retain the container at the mouth, ledge and/or flange of the container, and a second support member is configured to contact and/or retain a side and/or base of the container.
28. The system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein a valve is connected to the at least one fluid port and is configured to operate between a first valve state in which the fluid port is a pressure port and a second valve state in which the fluid port is a beverage outlet.
29. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the base support member is removably mountable on the dispenser.
30. The system of any preceding claim, comprising a plurality of base support members of different sizes and/or shapes arranged to adjust the height and/or position of a container in the dispenser.
31. The system of claim 29 or 30, wherein the base support member is made of a transparent, translucent, or semi-opaque material.
32. The system according to any of the preceding claims, comprising a control unit configured to control the pressurization of the container through the at least one pressure port and to control the dispensing of the beverage under counter pressure.
33. System according to any of the preceding claims, comprising sensors to monitor beverage dispenser execution to allow "real-time" adjustment of dispensing parameters selected from the group comprising flow rate, pump speed, flow/pump time, container threshold counter pressure and cooling parameters such as temperature.
34. The system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the control unit is programmed to actuate a safety lock to prevent access to and/or release of the container during dispensing.
35. A system for dispensing a beverage into a container, the system comprising:
a support frame comprising a plurality of dispenser units;
wherein each dispenser unit comprises:
a dispensing head comprising a beverage outlet and at least one pressure port; and
a movable sealing member configured to form a sealing barrier between at least a portion of the container and the dispensing head.
36. A method of dispensing a beverage into a container, the method comprising:
providing a beverage dispenser system comprising:
at least one dispenser unit, the at least one dispenser unit comprising:
a dispensing head, wherein the dispensing head comprises:
at least one fluid port; and
a sealing member;
moving the sealing member to contact at least a portion of the container to form a sealed barrier between the dispensing head and the container;
pressurizing an interior volume of the container with a pressurized fluid; and
Pumping the beverage into the interior volume of the container through the at least one fluid port.
37. The method of claim 36, comprising creating a pressure differential between the interior and exterior volumes of the container when the sealed barrier between the dispensing head and the container is formed.
38. A method according to claim 36 or 37, comprising increasing the pressure in the container above atmospheric pressure prior to pumping the beverage into the container.
39. The method of any one of claims 36 to 38, comprising dispensing the beverage under counter pressure.
40. A method according to any one of claims 36 to 39, comprising draining or removing pressurised fluid from the internal volume of the container while the beverage is being pumped into the container or after the beverage has been pumped into the container.
41. A method according to any one of claims 36 to 40, wherein the at least part of the container is a mouth, a bulge and/or a flange of the container.
42. A method according to any one of claims 36 to 41, wherein the sealing member is lowered onto at least a portion of the container.
43. A method according to any one of claims 36 to 42, wherein the sealing member contacts, grips and/or clamps an inner, outer or upper surface of the mouth, nose and/or flange of the container.
44. A method according to any one of claims 36 to 43, comprising holding the container stationary during formation of a seal, pressurisation of the container and/or pumping of the beverage.
45. A method according to any one of claims 36 to 44, comprising reducing the internal pressure of the container to atmospheric pressure during or after pumping of the beverage into the container.
46. A method according to any one of claims 36 to 45, comprising moving the sealing member away from a flange, upper edge or inner edge of the container after the beverage is pumped into the container to break the sealing barrier between the dispensing head and the container.
47. The method of any one of claims 36 to 46, comprising dispensing the beverage into the container in less than 5 seconds.
48. A method according to any one of claims 36 to 47, comprising supporting the container at its mouth, nose, flange, side and/or base.
49. The method of any one of claims 36 to 48, comprising moving the dispensing head to bring the sealing member into contact with a flange, upper edge or inner edge of the container to form a sealing barrier between the dispensing head and the container.
50. A method of dispensing a carbonated or frothed beverage into a plurality of containers, the method comprising:
providing a beverage dispenser system comprising:
a plurality of dispenser units, wherein each dispenser unit comprises:
a dispensing head, wherein the dispensing head comprises:
at least one fluid port; and
a sealing member;
mounting the first container on the first dispenser unit;
moving the sealing member to contact at least a portion of the first container to form a sealed barrier between the dispensing head and the first container;
pressurizing an interior volume of the first vessel with a gas; and
pumping the beverage into the interior volume of the first container through the at least one fluid port.
Background
Beverages such as alcoholic and non-alcoholic carbonated drinks are purchased at casinos including bars, arenas, movie theaters, theaters and stadiums. During recreational activities, these venues may accommodate thousands of people, requiring a large number of beverages to be dispensed and sold in a short period of time.
Current beverage dispenser systems typically store carbonated or foamed beverages in pressurized kegs or cans. The keg or can is connected to the dispensing head and the beverage is dispensed manually into a glass or cup by a skilled operator. Alternatively, in a post-mix system, the water is carbonated and mixed with the flavored juice before the water is dispensed. However, these systems for serving large numbers of consumers have several problems and limitations during entertainment activities.
Due to the nature of entertainment activities, typically a large number of consumers will attempt to purchase beverages at the same time, i.e. before the activity or during a short on-screen rest period. This may result in a skilled operator attempting to dispense a large number of drinks during a short time frame. This puts pressure on the field staff to deal with the hassle of receiving consumers' beverages quickly and returning to the large number of consumers enjoying the event.
Unfortunately, current dispenser systems do not dispense quickly. Increasing the volumetric flow rate of these systems can result in excessive foaming of the frothed beverage. This further slows down the dispensing of the beverage as the operator must either wait until the foam formation has subsided, or discard the beverage and dispense a substitute. This limits the speed at which a beverage can be dispensed at any given time and the number of recipients.
Some venues may attempt to address this problem by pre-pouring a large quantity of drinks during low demand quiet periods before they are ordered in order to meet high demand during busy periods. However, this solution affects the quality of the drink, since it may be contaminated while waiting to be sold. The dispensed beverage may also heat up quickly and flatten, reducing consumer pleasure and causing the consumer to no longer pay for the beverage. This may negatively impact the reputation and profits of the venue and the brewer or beverage brand.
Furthermore, producing large quantities of pre-poured drinks can cause storage area problems for the field and can result in significant waste if the drinks are not sold in their entirety.
Disclosure of Invention
It is an object of an aspect of the present invention to obviate or at least mitigate the aforementioned disadvantages of prior art beverage dispenser systems.
It is an object of an aspect of the present invention to provide a robust and reliable beverage dispensing system capable of dispensing beverages quickly and with high quality.
It is a further object of an aspect of the present invention to provide a beverage dispensing system that can allow carbonated or frothy beverages to be dispensed quickly under back pressure to mitigate or avoid excessive frothy formation of the beverage.
It is a further object of an aspect of the present invention to provide a self-service beverage dispensing system that can allow multiple carbonated or frothed beverages to be dispensed sequentially and/or simultaneously.
It is an object of an aspect of the present invention to provide a method of rapidly dispensing carbonated or frothed beverages without forming excessive foam within the beverage.
Further objects of the invention will become apparent from the following description.
According to a first aspect of the invention, there is a system for dispensing a beverage into a container, the system comprising:
At least one dispenser unit, the at least one dispenser unit comprising:
a dispensing head, wherein the dispensing head comprises:
a beverage outlet;
at least one pressure port; and
a movable sealing member configured to form a sealing barrier between at least a portion of the container and the dispensing head.
By providing a beverage dispensing system capable of forming a sealed barrier between the container and the dispensing head, this may facilitate the creation of a pressure differential between the interior and exterior of the container to allow beverage to be dispensed rapidly into the interior of the container.
Preferably, the system or at least one dispenser unit comprises at least one support member configured to support the container.
Preferably, the at least one support member is configured to contact, hold, locate and/or support the container at the mouth, nose and/or flange of the container. The at least one support member may be configured to contact an inner surface, an outer surface and/or an upper surface of the mouth, the projecting portion and/or the flange of the container.
The at least one support member may be configured to contact, hold, position and/or support the container at a base or side of the container.
The at least one support may be configured to position and/or align the container with the moveable sealing member to ensure an effective seal. The at least one support may be configured to position the container to align the mouth and/or flange of the container with the moveable sealing member.
The at least one support member may be shaped and/or dimensioned to allow the inner, outer and/or upper surface of the mouth, ledge and/or flange of the container to rest on the support member when the container is loaded or positioned in the dispenser unit.
By providing a system comprising a movable sealing member configured to form a sealing barrier between at least a portion of the container and the dispensing head, the position of the container does not change during formation of the sealing barrier, dispensing of the beverage, and removal of the sealing barrier. This may avoid or mitigate agitation or spillage of the beverage.
The moveable sealing member may be configured to be moveable between a first state in which the sealing member is spaced apart from the container and a second state in which the sealing member is in contact with at least a portion of the container to form a sealing barrier.
At least a portion of the container may be a mouth, a projection and/or a flange of the container. The sealing member may contact, grip and/or clamp an inner, outer or upper surface of the mouth, projecting portion and/or flange of the container.
The sealing member may comprise a sealing element. The sealing element may comprise an elastic and/or food-safe material. The sealing element may be made of a material selected from the group consisting of silicone, rubber, plastic or resin. Any suitable resilient and/or food safe material may be used.
By providing a moveable sealing member configured to contact, grip and/or clamp an inner, outer or upper surface of the mouth, projecting portion and/or flange of the container, the distance between the sealing member in the first state and the sealing member in the second state may be a short distance. This may allow the system to quickly form a sealed barrier, saving time.
The sealing member may be configured to move in a substantially vertical and/or horizontal direction. Preferably, the sealing member is configured to move in a substantially vertical direction. The vertical distance between the first and second states of the sealing member may be in the range of substantially 2mm to 200 mm. Preferably, the distance between the first and second states of the sealing member may be in the range of substantially 10mm to 15 mm.
By providing a moveable sealing member configured to contact, grip and/or clamp an inner, outer or upper surface of the mouth, nose and/or flange of the container, a sealing force is applied and limited to a small area of the container. This avoids forces being applied to the entire container body.
The system may include a screen, a door, and/or a splash plate. The barrier, door, and/or splash plate may isolate the container from the user during dispensing of the beverage. By isolating the user from the container during dispensing, this mitigates the risk of moving parts or breaching the container to the user. Isolating the user from the container during dispensing also mitigates spillage or splashing. Limited user access to dispenser parts also improves the hygiene of the dispenser.
The container may be selected from the group comprising drinking vessels, bottles, mugs, cups, kettles, glasses, beakers, cups and/or mugs. The container may be made from a range of materials including hard or soft plastics, glass, ceramics, cardboard, paper, waxed paper and/or foam. The container may be disposable or reusable.
The volume of beverage to be dispensed may be 568ml for an english pint or 473ml for a american pint. The volume of beverage to be dispensed may be a fraction of a english pint or a american pint. The volume of beverage to be dispensed can be set in an adjustable manner.
The beverage may be dispensed into the container in less than 10 seconds. Preferably, the beverage may be dispensed into the container in less than 5 seconds. Further preferably, the beverage may be dispensed into the container in less than 3 seconds.
The beverage may be a carbonated and/or sparkling beverage. The beverage may be alcoholic and/or non-alcoholic. Preferably, the beverage is beer. The beer may be selected from the group comprising lager, ale, wheat, stout, bordetella and/or malt liquors.
The pressure port may also serve as a beverage outlet. A valve connected to the pressure port may control the media passing through the port.
This may facilitate the dispensing of the beverage under counter pressure by providing a system capable of forming a sealed barrier between the container and the dispensing head.
At least one pressure port may be connected to at least one pressure source. The pressure source may be configured to create a pressure differential between the interior and the exterior of the container. The internal pressure may be higher than the external pressure. The internal pressure may be maintained during dispensing of the beverage to prevent oxidation or contamination of the product. For carbonated or sparkling beverages, this may prevent carbonic acid or bubbles from escaping from the beverage.
Preferably, the beverage outlet is connected to at least one beverage source. The at least one beverage source may be pressurized or non-pressurized. The at least one beverage source may be a keg or a reservoir.
The beverage source may be a two-part system in which a first fluid, such as water, is carbonated in a carbonator and mixed with a second fluid, such as fruit juice, prior to dispensing.
The beverage outlet may be connected to the dip tube and/or the nozzle. The dip tube and/or nozzle may be short or extend to the bottom of the vessel. The dip tube and/or nozzle may be straight or angled to the side of the vessel.
The nozzle may have a substantially conical shape. The nozzle may include a plurality of fluid transport channels on a surface thereof. The channel may be shaped and sized to convey and/or direct the beverage to contact the interior surface of the container.
The at least one pressure source may be a gas supply. Preferably, the at least one pressure source is configured to create a pressure differential between the interior and exterior volumes of the container when the sealing member is in the second state.
The gas supply may be selected from the group comprising inert gas, air, carbon dioxide and/or gas mixtures.
The movable sealing member may be connected to an actuator configured to move the sealing member between the first state and the second state.
Preferably, the sealing member is mounted on the dispensing head. The dispensing head may be movable to move the sealing member. Preferably, the dispensing head may be movable in a substantially vertical direction to move the sealing member in a substantially vertical direction. The sealing member and/or the dispensing head are movable relative to the at least one support member. The sealing member and/or the dispensing head is movable in a substantially vertical direction relative to the at least one support member and/or the container supported by the at least one support member.
The system may include a plurality of support members. The first support member may be configured to contact and/or retain the container at the mouth, ledge and/or flange of the container, and the second support member may be configured to contact and/or retain the side and/or base of the container.
The base support member may be removably mounted on the dispenser. Multiple base support members of different sizes and/or shapes may be provided to adjust the height and/or position of the container in the dispenser. By selecting an appropriate base support to match the container shape and size, the container can be raised or lowered to ensure that the dispensing head can effect an effective seal with the container. Thus, a range of different container shapes and sizes may be used in the dispenser.
The base support member may be made of any suitable material that can support the container. Preferably, the base support member is made of a transparent, translucent or semi-opaque material. The base support member may be made of plastic or glass.
The base support may allow light to propagate through its structure. Different colors of light may be transmitted through the base support by the dispenser system to indicate the status of the dispensing operation.
The system may comprise a control unit. The control unit may be configured to control the movement of the dispensing head and/or the sealing member. The control unit may be configured to control the pumping of the beverage through the beverage outlet. The control unit may be configured to control the pressurization of the container through the at least one pressure port. The control unit may be configured to control the discharge of gas and excess beverage from the container through the at least one pressure port.
The system may include sensors to monitor beverage dispenser performance and allow for "real-time" adjustment of dispensing parameters. The parameters may include flow rate, pump speed, flow/pump time, vessel threshold backpressure, and cooling parameters such as temperature. By setting the control of the dispensing parameters, the carbonation level, temperature and/or foam "head" height can be maintained within desired parameters or to meet user preferences.
The containers may be loaded into the dispensing device manually or automatically. The automatic loading may be controlled by the control unit to allow placement of the beverage container without user intervention.
The control unit may be programmed to facilitate safe, automatic operation of the beverage dispensing unit. The control unit may be programmed to actuate the safety lock to prevent access to and/or release of the container during dispensing. The control unit may issue commands to various components of the dispensing system and monitor outputs from various sensors (pressure, temperature, flow, proximity).
The control unit may comprise a single board programmed by a remote computer. Alternatively, programming may be performed remotely over a network to a local computer unit installed within the beverage dispenser.
The control unit may be configured to monitor the amount of beverage dispensed during a period and have the ability to switch off the dispensing operation when the control unit calculates that the beverage source has reached a lower volume threshold limit after which further dispensing may result in no beverage or a poor beverage.
The control unit may be connected to a computer device that provides instructions to and receives instructions from a user (consumer).
The control unit may be configured to open the door (if present) to automatically surrender the dispensed beverage to the user/consumer.
Preferably, the system is a self-service system. The loading of the container, the dispensing of the beverage and the handing off of the dispensed beverage are automated.
According to a second aspect of the invention, there is a system for dispensing a beverage into a container, the system comprising:
at least one dispenser unit, the at least one dispenser unit comprising:
at least one support member configured to support a container; and
A dispensing head, wherein the dispensing head comprises:
a beverage outlet;
at least one pressure port;
a moveable sealing member configured to move between a first state in which the sealing member is spaced apart from the container and a second state in which the sealing member is in contact with at least a portion of the container to form a sealing barrier.
Embodiments of the second aspect of the invention may comprise one or more features of the first aspect of the invention or embodiments of the first aspect of the invention or may comprise one or more features of the second aspect of the invention or embodiments of the second aspect of the invention.
According to a third aspect of the invention, there is provided a system for dispensing a beverage into a container, the system comprising:
at least one dispenser unit, the at least one dispenser unit comprising:
at least one support member configured to support a container; and
a movable dispensing head, wherein the dispensing head comprises:
a beverage outlet;
at least one pressure port; and
a sealing member;
wherein the dispensing head is movable between a first state in which the sealing member is spaced from the container and a second state in which the sealing member is in contact with at least a portion of the container.
Preferably, the at least one pressure source is configured to create a pressure differential between the interior and exterior volumes of the container when the dispensing head is in the second state.
Preferably, the sealing member is mounted on the dispensing head. The dispensing head may be movable to move the sealing member. The sealing member and/or the dispensing head are movable relative to the at least one support member.
Embodiments of the third aspect of the invention may comprise one or more features of the first or second aspect of the invention or embodiments of the first or second aspect of the invention or may comprise one or more features of the third or third aspect of the invention.
According to a fourth aspect of the invention, there is provided a system for dispensing a beverage into a container, the system comprising:
at least one support member configured to support a container;
a beverage outlet;
at least one pressure source; and
a moveable sealing member moveable between a first state in which the sealing member is spaced from the container and a second state in which the sealing member is in contact with a flange, upper edge or inner edge of the container to form a sealing barrier.
Wherein the at least one pressure source is configured to create a pressure differential between the interior and exterior volumes of the container when the sealed barrier is formed.
Embodiments of the fourth aspect of the invention may include one or more features of the first, second or third aspect of the invention or embodiments of the first, second or third aspect of the invention or may include one or more features of the fourth aspect of the invention or embodiments of the fourth aspect of the invention.
According to a fifth aspect of the invention, there is a system for dispensing a beverage into a container, the system comprising:
a support frame including a plurality of dispenser units;
wherein each dispenser unit comprises:
at least one support member configured to support a container;
a dispensing head comprising a beverage outlet and at least one pressure port; and
a movable sealing member configured to form a sealing barrier between at least a portion of the container and the dispensing head.
Embodiments of the fifth aspect of the invention may comprise one or more features of the first to fourth aspects of the invention or embodiments of the first to fourth aspects of the invention or may comprise one or more features of the fifth aspect of the invention or embodiments of the fifth aspect of the invention.
According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system for dispensing a carbonated or frothed beverage into a container, the system comprising:
at least one dispenser unit, the dispenser unit comprising:
at least one support member configured to support a container; and
a dispensing head, wherein the dispensing head comprises:
a beverage outlet;
a sealing member movable between a first state in which the sealing member is spaced from the container and a second state in which the sealing member is in contact with a flange, upper edge or inner edge of the container to form a sealing barrier; and
at least one pressure port configured to create a pressure differential between an interior volume and an exterior volume of the container.
Embodiments of the sixth aspect of the invention may include one or more features of the first to fifth aspects of the invention or embodiments of the first to fifth aspects of the invention, or may include one or more features of the sixth aspect of the invention or embodiments of the sixth aspect of the invention.
According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of dispensing a beverage into a container, the method comprising:
Providing a beverage dispenser system comprising:
at least one dispenser unit, the at least one dispenser unit comprising:
at least one support member;
a dispensing head, wherein the dispensing head comprises:
a beverage outlet;
at least one pressure port; and
a sealing member;
supporting the container using at least one support member;
moving the sealing member to contact at least a portion of the container to form a sealing barrier between the dispensing head and the container;
pressurizing the interior volume of the vessel with a gas; and
beverage is pumped into the interior volume of the container through the beverage outlet.
The method may include venting or removing pressurized gas from the interior volume of the container as the beverage is pumped into the container. The method may include venting or removing the pressurized gas through the at least one pressure port.
The method may include venting or removing pressurized gas from the interior volume of the container after the beverage has been pumped into the container.
The gas may be selected from the group comprising inert gases, air, carbon dioxide and/or gas mixtures.
At least a portion of the container may be a mouth, a projection and/or a flange of the container. The sealing member may contact, grip and/or clamp an inner, outer or upper surface of the mouth, projecting portion and/or flange of the container.
The method may comprise moving the sealing member by moving the dispensing head. The method may comprise moving the sealing member away from the flange, upper edge or inner edge of the container after the beverage is pumped into the container to break the sealing barrier between the dispensing head and the container.
The method may include pressurizing an interior volume of the vessel to create a pressure differential between the interior volume and an exterior volume of the vessel.
The method may comprise increasing the pressure in the container above atmospheric pressure prior to pumping the beverage into the container. The method may comprise reducing the pressure in the container to atmospheric pressure during or after pumping the beverage into the container.
The method may include dispensing the beverage in less than 10 seconds. Preferably, the method may comprise dispensing the beverage in less than 5 seconds. Further preferably, the method may comprise dispensing the beverage in less than 3 seconds.
The beverage dispenser system may be a self-service system. The steps of the method may be automated. The automatic steps may be controlled by a control unit.
Embodiments of the seventh aspect of the present invention may include one or more features of any one of the first to sixth aspects of the present invention or embodiments of any one of the first to sixth aspects of the present invention, or may include one or more features of the seventh aspect of the present invention or embodiments of the seventh aspect of the present invention.
According to an eighth aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of dispensing a carbonated or frothed beverage into a container, the method comprising:
providing a beverage dispenser system comprising:
at least one dispenser unit, the dispenser unit comprising:
at least one support member;
a dispensing head, wherein the dispensing head comprises:
a beverage outlet;
at least one pressure port; and
a sealing member;
mounting the container on at least one support member;
moving the dispensing head to bring the sealing member into contact with the flange, upper edge, or inner edge of the container to form a sealing barrier between the dispensing head and the container;
pressurizing the interior volume of the vessel with a gas; and
beverage is pumped into the interior volume of the container through the beverage outlet.
Embodiments of the eighth aspect of the present invention may include one or more features of any one of the first to seventh aspects of the present invention or embodiments of any one of the first to seventh aspects of the present invention, or may include one or more features of the eighth aspect of the present invention or embodiments of the eighth aspect of the present invention.
According to a ninth aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of dispensing a carbonated or frothed beverage into a container, the method comprising:
providing a beverage dispenser system comprising:
at least one dispenser unit, the at least one dispenser unit comprising:
at least one support member;
a dispensing head, wherein the dispensing head comprises:
a beverage outlet;
at least one pressure port; and
a sealing member;
supporting the container using at least one support member;
moving the dispensing head to bring the sealing member into contact with the flange, upper edge, or inner edge of the container to form a sealing barrier between the dispensing head and the container;
pressurizing the interior volume of the vessel with a gas; and
beverage is pumped into the interior volume of the container through the beverage outlet.
Embodiments of the ninth aspect of the invention may include one or more features of any one of the first to eighth aspects of the invention or embodiments of any one of the first to eighth aspects of the invention, or may include one or more features of the ninth aspect of the invention or embodiments of the ninth aspect of the invention.
According to a tenth aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of dispensing a carbonated or frothed beverage into a plurality of containers, the method comprising:
providing a beverage dispenser system comprising:
a plurality of dispenser units, wherein each dispenser unit comprises:
at least one support member configured to support a container; and
a dispensing head, wherein the dispensing head comprises:
a beverage outlet;
at least one pressure port; and
a sealing member;
mounting the first container on the first dispenser unit;
moving the sealing member to contact at least a portion of the first container to form a sealed barrier between the dispensing head and the first container;
pressurizing an interior volume of the first vessel with a gas; and
beverage is pumped into the interior volume of the first container through the beverage outlet.
The method may comprise repeating the steps to dispense the beverage into the second or further container. The method may comprise dispensing the beverage into the second container using the first dispenser unit after the first container is filled. The method may comprise dispensing the beverage into the second container using the second dispenser after or simultaneously with the first dispenser unit dispensing into the first container.
At least a portion of the container may be a mouth, a projection and/or a flange of the container. The sealing member may contact, grip and/or clamp an inner, outer or upper surface of the mouth, projecting portion and/or flange of the container.
Embodiments of the tenth aspect of the present invention may include one or more features of any one of the first to ninth aspects of the present invention or embodiments of any one of the first to ninth aspects of the present invention, or may include one or more features of the tenth aspect of the present invention or embodiments of the tenth aspect of the present invention.
According to an eleventh aspect of the invention, there is a system for dispensing a beverage into a container, the system comprising:
at least one support member configured to support a container; and
at least one dispensing head, wherein the at least one dispensing head comprises at least one moveable sealing member configured to form a sealing barrier between at least a portion of the container and the at least one dispensing head.
Embodiments of the eleventh aspect of the invention may include one or more features of any one of the first to tenth aspects of the invention or embodiments of any one of the first to tenth aspects of the invention, or may include one or more features of the eleventh aspect of the invention or embodiments of the eleventh aspect of the invention.
According to a twelfth aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of dispensing a beverage into a container, the method comprising:
providing a beverage dispenser system comprising:
at least one support member;
at least one dispensing head, wherein the at least one dispensing head comprises:
at least one sealing member;
supporting the container using at least one support member;
moving the sealing member to contact at least a portion of the container to form a sealing barrier between the dispensing head and the container;
pressurizing the interior volume of the vessel with a gas; and
beverage is pumped into the interior volume of the container through the beverage outlet.
Embodiments of the twelfth aspect of the invention may include one or more features of any one of the first to eleventh aspects of the invention or embodiments of any one of the first to eleventh aspects of the invention, or may include one or more features of the twelfth aspect of the invention or embodiments of the twelfth aspect of the invention.
According to a thirteenth aspect of the invention, there is a system for dispensing a beverage into a container, the system comprising:
At least one dispenser unit, the at least one dispenser unit comprising:
a dispensing head, wherein the dispensing head comprises:
at least one fluid port; and
a movable sealing member configured to form a sealing barrier between at least a portion of the container and the dispensing head.
Preferably, the at least one fluid port is a beverage outlet and/or a pressure port. A valve may be connected to the at least one fluid port to control whether the fluid port acts as a beverage outlet and/or a pressure port. The valve is operable between a first state in which the fluid port is a pressure port and a second state in which the fluid port is a beverage outlet.
The system may include at least one support member configured to support the container.
Embodiments of the thirteenth aspect of the invention may include one or more features of any one of the first to twelfth aspects of the invention or embodiments of any one of the first to twelfth aspects of the invention, or may include one or more features of the thirteenth aspect of the invention or embodiments of the thirteenth aspect of the invention.
Drawings
Various embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
FIG. 1 presents a dispenser system shown in perspective view in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
fig. 2A to 2F present components of the dispenser device of the dispenser system of fig. 1, shown in perspective and enlarged view;
FIGS. 3A, 3B and 3C are top views of alternative support elements that may be used in the dispenser apparatus embodiment of FIG. 1;
4A-4B are schematic illustrations of the dispenser device of FIG. 1, showing the dispenser mechanism in a beverage dispensing and container loading state, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
FIGS. 5A, 5B and 5C are schematic representations of sealing element arrangements that may be used in the embodiment of FIG. 1;
FIGS. 6A, 6B and 6C are schematic representations of alternative sealing element arrangements that may be used in the embodiment of FIG. 1;
figures 7A to 7I are schematic illustrations of the dispenser mechanism of the dispenser system of figure 1 shown in various stages of operation, according to an embodiment of the invention;
FIGS. 8A and 8B are schematic illustrations of an alternative dispenser mechanism, shown in a container-loaded and beverage-dispensing state, that may be used in the dispenser system of FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 9 is a schematic block diagram of the circuitry of the dispenser system of FIG. 1;
10A, 10B, and 10C are schematic and perspective views of a dispenser system according to an embodiment of the present invention;
11A and 11B are enlarged perspective views of the container support in the dispenser system of FIG. 10A;
FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a base support in the dispenser system of FIG. 10A;
FIGS. 13A-13D are schematic views of a seal plate that may be used in the distributor of FIGS. 1 and 10A;
FIG. 13E is a perspective view of a nozzle used in the seal plate of FIGS. 13A-13C;
FIG. 14 is a schematic block diagram of the circuitry of the dispenser system of FIG. 10A; and
fig. 15A and 15B are schematic cross-sectional views of a dispenser system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
In the following description, like parts are marked throughout the specification and drawings with the same reference numerals. The drawings are not necessarily to scale and the proportions of certain parts have been exaggerated to better illustrate the details and features of embodiments of the present invention.
Detailed Description
Fig. 1 shows a dispenser system 10. The system has a main distributor body 12 in which two distributors 14a and 14b are shown. The dispenser has a
In this example, as best shown in fig. 2A-2D, the
As shown in fig. 2B and 2D, when the hinged
Fig. 2F shows a perspective view of the underside of the dispensing
The sealing
The sealing
Fig. 3A to 3C show an alternative design of the
In the above example, the
Fig. 4A and 4B show an alternative design of the
As shown in fig. 4B, the upper edge or
As shown in fig. 4A, when the door is closed, the second and third support members pivot such that the second end 26e of the second support member and the second end 26g of the third support member meet to form a semi-circular support. The second and third members, together with the first support member, encircle the perimeter of the container and fully support the upper rim or flange of the container. In this design, no door is required and the container is positioned or loaded directly into the dispenser.
In the above example, the sealing
FIG. 5A illustrates an embodiment in which the sealing element 34a is in a sealed position and an unsealed position. Similar to the above example, the sealing element 34a is located on the sealing
As shown in fig. 5A, when the dispensing head is lowered, a seal is formed between the sealing element 34a and the sealing element 37. The upper rim or
Fig. 5B illustrates an embodiment in which the sealing element 34B is in a sealing position. The sealing
FIG. 5C illustrates an embodiment in which the sealing element 34C is in a sealing position and a non-sealing position. The sealing
In the above example, the sealing element has been shown to contact the upper edge of the
Fig. 6A shows an embodiment in which a
As shown in fig. 6A, when the dispensing head is lowered, a seal is formed between the sealing
Fig. 6B shows an alternative seal design in which the sealing element 34e is sandwiched between the
Fig. 6C shows another seal design in which the sealing element 34f is inflatable and is mounted around the outer edge of the
Fig. 7A to 7I schematically show the steps of dispensing a carbonated beverage from the dispenser device 10 into disposable plastic cup containers.
As shown in fig. 7A, dispenser 14a has container supports 16a and 16 b. In this example, the
The window is made of clear plastic or other material and provides the user with a clear view of the dispensing process, which is uniquely visually appealing and pleasing to the user. The
The weight of the
The
The sealing
The
As shown in fig. 7B,
As shown in fig. 7D, the
Since the sealing barrier allows a pressure differential to be created between the interior volume and the exterior volume of the container, the exterior of the container is at atmospheric pressure while the interior volume is pressurized. The door does not provide an airtight seal with the dispenser body to maintain a pressure different than atmospheric pressure.
A locking mechanism may be provided in the manifold assembly such that the locking mechanism engages the
A security system including a lock and a sensor may be connected to the
As shown in fig. 7D, the
Once the seal has been created, the dispenser system is actuated to fill the
The dispenser system is then actuated to pump the
After a selected period of time after the dispensing process is completed, the remaining air is released through the
Fig. 8A and 8B schematically illustrate a
Figure 9 illustrates a pressure and flow circuit for a beverage dispenser system according to an embodiment of the present invention. For clarity, the control unit in the system connected to, monitoring and controlling all valves, sensors and actuators has been removed.
The circuit 200 includes an air supply 212 and a beverage source 214. The air supply 212 has three flow lines 212a, 212b, 212 c. The flow line 212a is connected to a fluid pump 220 via a regulator 222. The flow line 212a is configured to actuate a fluid pump 220.
The flow line 212b is connected to the actuator 236 via a regulator 237 and a valve 239. The actuator is configured to pneumatically control actuation and movement of the dispensing head 230.
Flow line 212c is connected to pressure port 262 on dispense head 230 via regulator 235, three-way valve 233, and check valve 231. The purpose of delivering pressurized air to the pressure port 262 is to create a back pressure in the container 218 that allows the beverage to be dispensed quickly into the container 218 without gas escaping from the beverage solution that could result in excessive foam or bubble formation.
A beverage source 214, in this example a pressurized keg, is connected to the flow line 214 a. The flow line 214a is connected to a pump 220 via a valve 214 b. The pump 220 is configured to pump beverage from the beverage source 214 to the container 218 via a beverage inlet port 260 on the dispensing head 230.
The pump 220 is designed to be actuated when the pump 220 detects a lower pressure or pressure drop in the flowline 220 a. This occurs when valve 221 is opened.
In use, an operator places the container 218 into a container support (not shown) of the dispenser apparatus.
Before the dispensing cycle begins, the control unit checks the condition of the safety system, including checking the interior door sensor 246 to confirm that the container 218 is present and checking the condition of the door safety switch to confirm that the door is closed. If any of the sensors report a negative value, the dispense cycle is stopped and the user is awaited to correct the error.
Upon a positive signal from the safety system, the control unit opens the valve 239 to activate the actuator 236 to move the dispense head 230. The dispense head 230 is lowered toward the container 218 causing the manifold seal plate and seal element 232 to form a sealed barrier with the container 218.
Once the seal has been created, the control unit actuates the valve 233 to open a passage between the air supply 212 and the outlet on the dispenser manifold. The pressurized air then fills the container. The valve 233 is an electrically operated valve powered by air.
The control unit controls the pressure at which the air injection is stopped. The pressure level is set in an adjustable manner by means of an electronically or manually controlled regulator. The pressure may range from 0.4Bar up to the maximum rated pressure of the vessel, which may exceed 5 Bar.
A pressure sensor (not shown) located within the dispensing head 230 monitors the internal pressure of the container 218 to confirm that the seal has maintained the applied back pressure. In case it is not possible to build up as high a back pressure as required within a predetermined period of time, the control unit stops the dispensing cycle. A digital display located near the back pressure manifold may provide real-time pressure levels of the back pressure in the vessel 218.
If the reservoir 218 is successfully maintained at the required back pressure, a signal is sent to open the valve 221, opening the valve 221 actuates the pump 220 to pump beverage from the beverage source 214 through flow lines 220a and 220c made of flexible plastic tubing to the beverage inlet port 260 on the distribution manifold and into the reservoir 218. The flexible plastic tubing is "slack" enough to allow the distribution manifold to be raised and lowered by the actuator 236 without causing the tubing to stretch.
The pump 220 will continue to pump the beverage until the control unit closes the valve 221, which valve 221 stops actuating the pump 220 after a pre-programmed elapsed time. Alternatively, or additionally, a flow meter may be provided in the flow line 214a, 220c or the dispense head 230 to measure that the desired volume of beverage has been dispensed or a sensor identifies that the beverage level in the container has reached a desired level.
During pumping of the beverage, adding the beverage to the pressurized container increases the internal pressure of the container 218. The three-way valve 233 is set with a discharge threshold. When the internal pressure level in the container exceeds this pressure threshold, pressurized air from the container is released by the valve 233 along the discharge passage 233b through the pressure port 262 until the desired internal pressure level is again reached.
As the container 218 is filled, the volume of pressurized air in the container is replaced by the beverage, and the pressurized air is discharged through the channel 233 b.
During the dispensing cycle, the beverage is dispensed rapidly into the container. If the beverage is carbonated, foaming is reduced or minimized because the back pressure in the container during dispensing substantially prevents the gases dissolved or mixed in the carbonated beverage from escaping from the solution.
Once the beverage dispensing stage is completed, the three-way outlet valve 233 is switched by the control unit to open the discharge channel 233 b. The counter pressure provided by the pressurized air is discharged to the waste receptacle through channel 233b along with any excess beverage in the container. Subsequently or simultaneously, the control unit actuates the actuator 236 to lift the distribution manifold away from the container 218, thereby breaking the seal barrier between the seal plate and the container.
Once the distribution manifold 230 is withdrawn, the
The circuit 200 may be modified to accommodate different beverage types or dispenser systems.
For example, if the beverage is stored in a non-pressurized vessel, or the pressure in the beverage source 214 is not sufficient to reach the pump 220, a separate beverage pressure system 250, as shown in phantom in FIG. 9, may be used. A beverage pressure source 252 is connected to the valve 214b before the pump 220. The pressure system 250 is configured to pressurize the flowline 252a to provide beverage from the beverage source 214 through the valve 214b (when open) to the pump 220. The beverage pressure source may be a pressurized gas tank, a compressor tank, a reservoir tank, or a pressurized gas bottle.
The beverage pressure source may be an inert gas, a mixed gas, clean air or carbon dioxide. A beverage pressure source may be applied to the vessel via one or more reduced-pressure manifolds to maintain or increase vessel pressure and/or carbonation.
The pressurized or non-pressurized vessel may include a post mix concentrate for use with a carbonator for carbonated soft drinks. It is composed of The beverage source may comprise a "baggy" bulk container, such as having a capacity of approximately 1m3To an Intermediate Bulk Container (IBC) having a range up to 35m3A mobile tanker of capacity.
Another way in which the circuit can be modified is to provide a beverage conditioning system 280 as shown in phantom in fig. 9. The beverage conditioning system 280 allows for adjustment and control of parameters of the beverage such as temperature. In this example, the beverage conditioning system is a temperature conditioning system that allows a particular beverage to be dispensed at an optimal desired temperature for consumption.
The beverage conditioning system 280 includes a cooling device 282, the cooling device 282 being connected downstream of the pump 220 in the passage 220b (the passage 220b being an alternative to the passage 220 a). Channel 220b is in fluid communication with beverage inlet port 260 on dispensing head 230 through valve 221 and channel 220 c.
The cooling device 282 may comprise a tube coiled within a chilled liquid/ice bank. The number and length of the coils can be selected to ensure an optimal cooling rate and cooling level to provide a consistent target beverage outlet temperature.
The cooling means may comprise a refrigerant cooling compressor, the rate at which the refrigerant cools the compressor being dynamically controllable by the control unit so as to maintain a desired beverage temperature at different dispensing rates. The conditioning/cooling means may be placed inside or outside the body of the dispenser device.
The operation of the dispenser is the same as previously described above. However, after exiting the pump 220, the beverage passes along the channels 220b and 220d through the cooling device 282 before being dispensed into the container 218 via the valve 221, the channel 220c, the dispensing head 230 and the beverage inlet port 260.
Flow sensors, pressure sensors, and/or temperature sensors can be deployed along the flow line 220b to facilitate monitoring of beverage flow conditions. All of the above-described conduits and flow lines may be fixed or flexible and formed of materials approved for use in food and beverage environments, such as food grade plastic or stainless steel.
The description provided above relates to a single dispensing point (beverage inlet port 260 on the dispensing head 230). However, a plurality of dispensing points may be incorporated into the beverage dispensing device and controlled by at least one control unit.
In a preferred embodiment of the apparatus, a pipe diameter of 3/8 inches was utilized. However, it should be understood that larger bore tubes (1/2 inches or greater) may be used to facilitate greater volumetric flow rates and reduce friction between the beverage and the inner walls of the tubes.
Fig. 10A, 10B, and 10C illustrate a
In this example, the
As shown in fig. 10A and 10B, the
When the
The
The dispensing
The
The sealing element is designed and dimensioned to form a sealing barrier when the sealing element is pressed into contact with and/or clamped against the upper edge, inner edge or
The sealing element is designed to maintain a pressure differential between the interior and exterior of the container when the seal is formed. By providing a pressure differential between the interior and exterior of the container, counter pressure can be used to quickly dispense the beverage into the container without excessive foaming.
Once dispensing is complete, the dispense head manifold is raised, breaking the seal with the container. The
Fig. 11B and 11B show enlarged perspective views of the container support in the dispenser system of fig. 10A.
The
In this example, a base support or insert 327 is located below each
For example, by inserting a base support having an increased height, a shorter container may be used in the dispenser system. The base support raises the container to allow an effective seal to be created between the container and the sealing element. The base support allows the dispenser system to be customized or adapted to accept a range of different container sizes.
Fig. 12 shows an enlarged view of the base support or insert 327. The base support has a
In the above example, the positions of the
It should be understood that the base support may be made of any material capable of supporting a container. In this example, the base support is made of a transparent or translucent material, such as plastic or glass. The base support allows light to propagate through its structure, and different colors of light may be propagated through the base support by the dispenser system to indicate the status of the dispensing operation. For example, the base support may glow red (or another color) to indicate that dispensing is in progress, and green (or another color) to indicate that dispensing is complete.
Fig. 13A shows a perspective view of a dispensing
This method of attachment allows for easy replacement or cleaning of the sealing
The dispense
The sealing
As best shown in fig. 13C, the dispense
As best shown in fig. 13E, the
Incorporating both the sealing
Fig. 13D shows the beverage fluid path (as indicated by the arrows) as the beverage fluid exits the beverage port, through the nozzle, and into the receptacle 618. The fluid flow is divided into several helical flow paths by grooves in the
The centrifugal force acting on the beverage caused by the curved profile and the reduced cross-sectional area of the
The nozzle is protected from contact with foreign objects or consumers by the sealing plate, thereby improving the hygiene of the dispenser. The nozzles and sealing elements can also be removed from the dispense head manifold for easy cleaning.
The nozzle design avoids the need for a dip tube and can therefore be used in basic dispenser designs such as bar units.
Figure 14 illustrates a pressure and flow circuit for a beverage dispenser system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
The
The
The
In this example, pressurized air is used as a pneumatic energy source (6Bar pressure) for the operation of the unit. However, it should be understood that mechanical, electrical and/or hydraulic systems may also perform this function.
The
The
A
In use, a user selects a beverage on the
Before the dispensing cycle begins, the
Upon a positive signal from the safety system, the
Once the seal has been created, the control unit actuates the
The
A pressure sensor (not shown) located within the dispensing
If the
Beverage is pumped from the
The
The
Flow sensors, pressure sensors, and/or temperature sensors can be deployed along the
The
During pumping of the beverage, adding the beverage to the pressurized container increases the internal pressure of the
As the
During the dispensing cycle, the beverage is dispensed rapidly into the container. If the beverage is carbonated, foaming is reduced or minimized because the back pressure in the container during dispensing substantially prevents the gases dissolved or mixed in the carbonated beverage from escaping from the solution.
Once the beverage dispensing stage is completed, the three-
Once the dispensing
The
For example, if the beverage is stored in a non-pressurized vessel, or the pressure in the
In this example, the beverage pressure source is carbon dioxide or a mixture of carbon dioxide and nitrogen. However, the beverage pressure source may alternatively be any inert gas, mixed gas, and/or clean air.
A beverage pressure source may be applied to the vessel via one or more reduced-pressure manifolds to maintain or increase vessel pressure and/or carbonation.
The pressurized or non-pressurized vessel may include a post mix concentrate for use with a carbonator for carbonated soft drinks. Other beverage sources may include "bagged" bulk containers, such as those having a capacity of approximately 1m3To an Intermediate Bulk Container (IBC) having a range up to 35m3The capacity of the mobile tanker.
Fig. 15A and 15B illustrate a dispenser assembly 700. The assembly has a main distributor body 712. The dispenser 700 has a container base support 716. The support 716 is configured to retain and support a container 718 for dispensing a beverage under pressure into the container. Although only one dispenser 714 is shown in fig. 15, the system may include multiple dispensers in the main dispenser body 712.
The main dispenser body 712 has an opening 720b that allows the insertion and removal of a container from the assembly 700. In this example, the door is pivotally mounted on the dispenser body 712. The door 720 has a window 720a to allow monitoring of the filling of the container and to protect the user during dispensing.
The assembly 700 has a dispensing head manifold 730, the dispensing head manifold 730 being designed to be lowered and raised in a vertical direction along arrow "F" relative to the upper edge or flange 718a of the container 718. The dispensing head 730 includes a sealing plate 732 having a sealing element 734 on a cut-out of the sealing plate 732.
The dispenser 700 may optionally include ribs or supports configured to position or align the container with the dispensing head.
The dispense head manifold 730 is lowered and raised by a clamping mechanism. In this example, a cam lever 744 is pivotally mounted on the main distributor body 712. In the first stem position shown in fig. 15A, the stem is not acting on the distribution head manifold 730. In this unlocked position, the container can be inserted and removed from the assembly. When the lever is pivoted in the direction indicated by arrow X in fig. 15A to the second lever position, the cam lever acts on the distribution head manifold 730 to move the distribution head manifold 730 in a downward direction. In this locked position, the dispense head manifold 730 is lowered onto the container and the sealing element 734 forms a seal with the container.
Sealing member 734 is designed to maintain a pressure differential between the interior and exterior of the container when a seal is formed. By providing a pressure differential between the interior and exterior of the container, counter pressure can be used to quickly dispense the beverage into the container without excessive foaming.
The dispense head manifold 730 has apertures for beverage ports 731 and apertures for gas inlet/outlet connections. The
In the above example, the dispenser assembly 700 has a container base support. However, alternatively or additionally, the assembly may comprise at least one support to support the mouth, nose, flange and/or side of the container.
In the specification, unless the context requires otherwise, the term "comprise" or "includes" or variations such as "comprises" or "comprising", "including" or "including" should be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or group of integers but not the exclusion of any other integer or group of integers.
Furthermore, relative terms such as "lower," "upper," "upward," "downward," "above," "below," and the like are used herein to refer to directions and positions, and thus the relative terms are applicable to the accompanying drawings and should not be construed to limit the invention and the features of the invention to a particular arrangement or orientation. Also, the term "outlet" or "outlet portion" should be interpreted as an opening, which may also be used as an "inlet" or "inlet" and vice versa, depending on the direction of movement of the fluid.
In the above examples, the device has a dip tube connected to the beverage inlet port, which is an optional feature. The dip tube may vary in length, straightness, and/or angle with the sides of the vessel. An advantage of the dip tube is that the dip tube reduces turbulence in the container during beverage dispensing.
The above examples describe beverage systems dispensed into plastic disposable cups. However, the beverage system may also be used to dispense into any type of beverage container including bottles, mugs, cups, jugs, glasses, beakers, cups or mugs. The container may be made from a range of materials including hard or soft plastics, glass, ceramics, cardboard, paper, waxed paper and/or foam. The container may be disposable or reusable.
However, the beverage may be dispensed into the container without a dip tube or by using a nozzle instead of a dip tube. These arrangements may reduce the required vertical travel of the distribution head manifold. This will have the benefit of reducing the stroke distance of the distribution manifold and thereby reducing the distribution cycle time.
In embodiments of the invention, the dispenser may comprise a payment system.
The control unit may be connected to means for taking and accepting payment before the dispensing is permitted to take place, or alternatively not releasing the beverage until payment has taken place. The instructions from the user may include the amount of beverage needed or the particular dispensing customization needed (e.g., temperature/foam "head" height).
The instructions issued by the dispenser device to the user may include instructions on how to pay for or surrender the beverage container. Payment may be by cash, payment card, or "application" payment.
In the above example, the pressure ports on the seal plate have two functions. The pressure port serves as an inlet for pumping air into the container to provide a counter pressure. The pressure port also serves as a discharge outlet for gases and waste products. In an alternative design, the sealing site may have two separate ports for these functions.
The present invention provides a system for dispensing a beverage into a container, the system comprising at least one dispenser unit. The dispenser unit includes a dispensing head and at least one support member configured to support a container. The dispensing head includes a beverage outlet, at least one pressure port, and a movable sealing member configured to form a sealing barrier between at least a portion of the container and the dispensing head.
By providing a system comprising a movable sealing member configured to form a sealing barrier between at least a portion of the container and the dispensing head, the position of the container does not change during formation of the seal, dispensing of the beverage and release of the seal. This may prevent or mitigate agitation of the beverage in the container, allowing for faster beverage settling times or mitigating excessive foaming.
This system also mitigates movement of the container, which may avoid spillage of the beverage once it has been dispensed.
The foregoing description of the present invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description and is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the invention in the form disclosed. The described embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and the practical application of the invention, to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the invention in various embodiments and with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. Accordingly, further modifications or improvements may be incorporated without departing from the scope of the invention as intended herein.
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