Pump-free dispensing

Abstract

A system and method for pumpless delivery of a product is provided. The system generally utilizes one or more containers each containing a fluid, and a sensor configured to detect a velocity of the fluid in an output line from the container. A controller is configured to control one or more valves using speed or flow rate data received from the sensor in order to control flow of fluid from the container. There may also be a source for generating a pressure difference that generates a pressure higher or lower than the pressure in each vessel.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 315,733 filed on March 2, 2022, which is incorporated herein by reference. Background Art

[0003] The present invention generally relates to a system and method for dispensing fluids, such as beverage dispensing or medication dosing. Current pumpless systems are unable to automatically provide accurate dispensing of the desired fluid, resulting in systems that either have significant variability in dispensing or require the user to control the dispensing of the fluid. Summary of the invention

[0004] To provide improved control over fluid dispensing, embodiments of the disclosed system are described herein. In some embodiments, a system for pumpless delivery of a product may include: (1) a container operably connected to a source containing a fluid to be dispensed, (2) a sensor configured to detect a speed or flow rate of output from the container, and (3) a controller configured to control a valve using speed or flow rate data received from the sensor.

[0005] In some embodiments, the container may be connected to a source for generating a pressure differential to drive dispensing of the container, such as a pressurized (i.e., non-atmospheric) gas (such as air, CO 2 , O 2 、N 2 or inert gas). In some embodiments, this is a high pressure gas (e.g., above atmospheric pressure). In some embodiments, this is a low pressure gas (e.g., below atmospheric pressure), which can be generated using, for example, a venturi device.

[0006] In some embodiments, the fluid to be distributed is a concentrate. In some embodiments, the concentrate can be, for example, a food concentrate, a beverage concentrate, a flavor concentrate, a pharmaceutical ingredient, a biopharmaceutical ingredient, a therapeutic composition, or an intermediate cosmetic composition (e.g., a cosmetic composition intended to be combined with another fluid stream before being applied to the user's body). In some embodiments, the fluid to be distributed can be a final product, such as a final cosmetic composition or a therapeutic final product. In some embodiments, the final product can be, for example, a solution, a suspension, or an emulsion.

[0007] In some embodiments, the final product can take a variety of forms, including, for example, foams, lotions, gels, or creams. In some embodiments, the pressurized gas causes the fluid to be dispensed without substantially changing its form (e.g., starting with an appropriate fluid in a container as a liquid, it can be dispensed in a manner that causes the fluid to remain a low viscosity fluid while the pressurized gas escapes, for example, into the atmosphere). In some embodiments, the pressurized gas can be combined in a manner that causes the fluid to not only be dispensed but also to change its form (e.g., starting with an appropriate fluid in a container as a liquid, it can be dispensed in a manner that entraps at least some of the gas in the fluid and causes the fluid to substantially transform into a foam).

[0008] In some embodiments, the pressurized gas is controlled so that the pressure in each container is less than or equal to 100 psig. In some embodiments, the pressurized gas is controlled so that the pressure in each container is less than or equal to 10 psig. In some embodiments, the pressurized gas is controlled so that the pressure in each container is less than or equal to 5 psig. In some embodiments, the pressurized gas is controlled so that the pressure in each container is less than or equal to 2.5 psig. In some embodiments, the pressurized gas is controlled so that the pressure is between 1 and 2.5 psig.

[0009] In some embodiments, the container may include a plurality of containers, each container being operably connected to the source via a manifold. In some embodiments, the manifold may include one or more valves, which may be controlled by a controller, for controlling the flow of pressurized gas into the container. In some embodiments, a single valve may be controlled by a controller using sensor data (e.g., voltage, velocity, mass flow rate, or volume flow rate).

[0010] In some embodiments, a pressure regulator may be positioned between the source and either container to control the pressure of the flow of pressurized gas into the container. In some embodiments, the regulator is controlled by a controller.

[0011] In some embodiments, a pressure sensor is positioned between the source and any of the containers to measure the pressure of the pressurized gas flowing into at least one of the containers. In some embodiments, the pressure sensor is in communication with the controller.

[0012] In some embodiments, a valve may be present between the source and either container, which valve may be controlled by a controller.

[0013] In some embodiments, the system may include a temperature sensor located downstream of the container to measure the temperature of the output from the container. In some embodiments, the temperature sensor may be in communication with the controller.

[0014] In some embodiments, the sensor and controller may be selected and configured to detect a flow rate as low as 1 mg / hour. In some embodiments, the sensor and controller may be selected and configured to detect a flow rate as low as 1 μL / min. In some embodiments, the sensor and controller may be selected and configured to detect a flow rate as low as 100 μL / min. In some embodiments, the sensor and controller may be selected and configured to detect a flow rate as low as 1 mL / min. In some embodiments, the sensor and controller may be selected and configured to detect a flow rate between 1 mL / min and 10 mL / min. In some embodiments, the sensor and controller may be selected and configured to detect a flow rate between 10 mL / min and 1 L / min. In some embodiments, the sensor and controller may be selected and configured to detect a flow rate up to 100 L / min.

[0015] In some embodiments, the controller may include a processor. In some embodiments, the processor may control some or all valves in the system. In some embodiments, the controller includes a display, which may be a touch-sensitive display. In some embodiments, the controller may include a knob, button, and / or slider for receiving input from a user. In some embodiments, the controller receives input from a remote user.

[0016] In some embodiments, the controller may be configured to (1) initiate fluid flow from a container through a velocity or flow rate sensor by adjusting a valve, (2) receive data from the sensor as the fluid flows past, (3) determine a total amount of output from the container based on the received data, and (4) adjust the valve based on the determined total amount of output.

[0017] In some embodiments, a method may be provided that may include receiving voltage data from a sensor when a fluid is forced from a container to flow through the sensor by a pressurized gas. The method may include determining a velocity, mass flow rate, and / or volume flow rate from the container based on the voltage data. In some embodiments, the voltage data is current data. The method may include regulating a valve based on the velocity, mass flow rate, and / or volume flow rate. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of a pumpless system.

[0019] FIG. 2A to FIG. 2E is a simplified diagram of an embodiment of a container.

[0020] Figure 3 is an illustration of a speed sensor used in some embodiments.

[0021] Figures 4 to 5 is a schematic diagram of an alternative embodiment of a pumpless system.

[0022] Figure 6 is a flow chart of an embodiment of a method.

[0023] Figures 7 and 8 is a schematic diagram of an alternative embodiment of a pumpless system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0024] refer to Figure 1 , a system 10 for pumpless delivery of fluids can be seen. The system generally comprises a source 21 for pressurized gas 20, wherein the source is operably coupled to at least one container 33 containing a fluid 36 to be dispensed.

[0025] The pressurized gas may be any suitable gas for the fluid to be dispensed. Generally, it is desirable that the gas does not chemically react with the fluid to be dispensed. Non-limiting examples of gases include, for example, air, CO 2 , O 2 、N 2 or an inert gas (such as He, Ne or Ar).

[0026] In some embodiments, source 21 is a large or small cylindrical gas container that can be made of metal. In some embodiments, the gas source can be a power device, such as a fan or a compressor. In some embodiments, the source is a gas container in accordance with any of the specifications of 49 CFR Subpart C (e.g., DOT 3A, 3AX, 3AL, 3E, etc.) or equivalent regulations in non-US countries.

[0027] The container can be removably coupled to the rest of the system. For example, in some embodiments, one or more connectors 34, 35 (these connectors can be, for example, threaded fittings) are used to removably couple the input line 29 and the output line 39 to the container 33. As will be readily appreciated, other types of connections other than threaded fittings are also conceivable. For example, in some embodiments, the components can be clamped together. In some embodiments, the container can include a quick disconnect coupler for connecting to the system.

[0028] In some embodiments, the container 33 is a separate component from the one or more connectors 34, 35. In some embodiments, the container and any connector are a single piece (eg, molded together as a single component).

[0029] Fluid 36 can be any suitable fluid that can flow through the system. In some embodiments, the fluid can be a concentrate, such as a food concentrate, a beverage concentrate, or a flavor concentrate, a fragrance concentrate, a fertilizer, or can include a pharmaceutical ingredient, a biopharmaceutical ingredient. For example, a compounding pharmacy can use the system to dispense pharmaceutical ingredients or nutritional ingredients, such as total parenteral nutrition.

[0030] In some embodiments, the fluid may be a cosmetic or therapeutic concentrate. For example, in some embodiments, a cosmetic intermediate product in one container is co-dispensed with a compatible fragrance and / or colorant composition from a second container, such that the dispensed final cosmetic product has the cosmetic intermediate product in combination with any fragrance and / or colorant provided by the user in the second container. In some embodiments, a UV protection final product may be formed by co-dispensing a base concentrate cosmetic formulation (e.g., which may not have a UV absorbing material) with different amounts of UV protection concentrates in different containers (or one UV protection concentrate formulation selected from one of several different containers, such as one configured to provide an SPF 10 final product, one configured to provide an SPF 20 final product, and one configured to provide an SPF 30 final product) in one container to achieve a specific desired UV protection level.

[0031] In certain embodiments, the fluid to be distributed can be a final product, such as a beverage, cosmetics, or therapeutic product. In certain embodiments, the final product can be, for example, a solution, a suspension, or an emulsion. In certain embodiments, the final product can be in the form of, for example, a foam, a lotion, a gel, or a cream.

[0032] like FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D As shown, the design of the container can vary. In some embodiments (see Figure 2A ), container) 100 generally has an outer wall 110. The outer wall 110 can be made of any suitable material. In some embodiments, the outer wall can be rigid. In some embodiments, the outer wall can be flexible. When used with respect to the outer wall, the term "rigid" is intended to indicate that the wall generally does not lose its overall shape when a force is applied. The term "flexible" is intended to indicate a wall that can be easily bent into a maintained shape, or a wall that does not maintain a general shape but continuously deforms when a force is applied.

[0033] In some embodiments, the container is made of or consists of a metal such as aluminum or an alloy. In some embodiments, the container is made of or consists of a polymer such as HDPE, PET, etc. In some embodiments, the container is made of or consists of glass.

[0034] The outer wall will generally define an inlet port 120 and an outlet port 130. Figure 2A In the embodiment, the inlet port is located on a first end 125 of the container and the outlet port is located on a second end 126 opposite the first end. The pressurized gas is configured to enter the container via the inlet port 120 and then the fluid 140 is forced to flow out through the outlet port 130. In some embodiments, the inlet port and / or the outlet port are configured to be coupled to an inlet line and / or an outlet line, respectively, via, for example, threads, barbs, or quick-connect fittings.

[0035] In some embodiments, the circuit 150 may be present on the exterior of the container. The circuit 150 may be configured to allow, for example, a housing 70 (see FIG. 14 ) that at least partially surrounds the container. Figure 1 ) in which circuit 54 communicates with circuit 150.

[0036] In some embodiments, the circuit 150 on the container can be used to identify what fluid (or type of fluid) is present in the container.

[0037] In some embodiments, the circuit may include a microchip containing information to be sent to the controller. In some embodiments, the controller may be configured to query the circuit to determine what fluid is present.

[0038] In some embodiments, the circuit may include, for example, resistors, capacitors, etc. In some embodiments, determining what material or material type is present is based on the measured resistance of the circuit. In such embodiments, the controller may include (or be operably connected to) a database that associates the measured resistance with the fluid or fluid type. For example: 10 ohms = beverage A, 25 ohms = beverage B, and 50 ohms = beverage C, or 10 to 100 ohms = flavor, 100 to 500 ohms = beverage, and 500 to 1000 ohms = food, etc.

[0039] refer to Figure 2B In some embodiments, a piston 160 is present in the container to assist in forcing the fluid 141 out of the container 101. Gas will enter the inlet port 121, pushing the piston 160 downward, thereby forcing the fluid out through the outlet port 131. Figure 2C In some embodiments, a flexible membrane 190 separates the fluid 141 from the gas 191, the membrane being configured to deform when the fluid is dispensed. In some embodiments, the membrane is a bag. In some embodiments, the membrane may include a metallized foil bag and may optionally include a polymer. For example, in some embodiments, the bag may include two layers of film, including an aluminum film coupled to a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film.

[0040] refer to Figure 2D In some embodiments, the inlet port 122 and the outlet port 132 are positioned on the same end (e.g., end 127) of the container 102. In some embodiments, the inlet port 122 is defined by an inlet tubular portion 170 extending into a head space 171 of the container above the fluid 142, and the outlet port is defined by an outlet tubular portion 172 extending into the fluid 142, such that when gas enters the head space via the inlet port 122, the increased pressure causes the fluid 142 to enter an end 173 of the outlet tubular portion 172 and then flow out through the outlet port 132.

[0041] exist Figure 2DIn the embodiment, the head space 171 is located at the same end (e.g., end 127) where the inlet port and the outlet port of the container 102 are located. Figure 2E As shown, in some embodiments, in some embodiments, the top space 171 is located at one end (e.g., end 127) of the container 103 (e.g., the "top" end), while the inlet port 123 and the outlet port 133 are present at a second end (e.g., end 128) of the container 103 opposite the first end (e.g., the "bottom" end).

[0042] In some embodiments, one or more valves may be present in the inlet port or the outlet port. In some embodiments, these valves are not controlled by the controller. For example, in some embodiments, the valve 180 in the inlet port 123 can be a simple check valve that is configured to allow gas to enter but not allow the fluid in the container to exit. In some embodiments, the valve 181 in the outlet port 133 can be, for example, a fluid dispensing silicone valve that allows the fluid to exit when placed under pressure, but otherwise remains in the container. In some embodiments, the valves at the inlet port 123 and the outlet port 133 can be composed of foils that are broken before use.

[0043] Return to reference Figure 1 The system 10 may also include a sensor 40 for determining a velocity or flow rate of the fluid 36 in the output line 39 from the container 33 .

[0044] Various velocity or flow rate sensors may be appropriate based on the fluid 36 and flow conditions in the outlet line 39 of the system. In some embodiments, the velocity sensor is a micrometer or nanometer velocity meter. In some embodiments, the velocity sensor may be, for example, a multi-wire velocity sensor such as Figure 3 In some embodiments, the sensor is an elastic wire velocity meter. In some embodiments, the sensor is an impeller sensor. In some embodiments, the sensor is acoustic and / or optical. Figure 3, a multi-wire velocity sensor 200 is shown, comprising: a substrate 220 having an outer surface 221, the outer surface defining an opening 225 through the substrate, the opening being configured to allow fluid to flow through the opening in a direction perpendicular to the outer surface and (2) a plurality of wires 230, 231 (e.g., substantially parallel conductive wires) connected in series 232 across the opening in a direction parallel to the outer surface of the substrate (such as 5 to 50 wires, or 10 to 30 wires), wherein the distance 235 separating each wire from an adjacent wire is between 2 and 10 times the dimension 236 of the wire in the transverse direction. In some embodiments, the distance 237 between a side of the opening 225 and the wire closest to the side is at least 10 times the distance 235 separating each wire from an adjacent wire. In some embodiments, the distance 237 between a side of the opening 225 and the wire closest to the side is as small as the distance 235 separating each wire from an adjacent wire. For example, there may be contact pads 240, 241 for allowing current to be applied to the wires. For example, there may be an additional wire 250 (which may be a single wire, or may be a plurality of wires) not connected in series with the plurality of wires 230, 231, wherein the additional wire 250 has a different temperature sensitivity than the plurality of wires 230, 231. In some embodiments, the sensor may be an elastic wire velocity sensor.

[0045] In various embodiments, the sensor is configured to measure voltage. Then, the voltage can be related to speed, mass flow rate or volume flow rate. The correlation can be based on many factors, such as thermal conductivity / thermal properties and viscosity. For flow rate, the correlation can also be based on known geometry. The flow rate can be integrated over time to obtain the total volume (or mass) of distribution. In some embodiments, the correlation is specific to the fluid-that is, the system can measure the voltage when dispensing a specific fluid, and the system includes a database with a correlation table, which is empirically determined using the exact fluid distributed. In some embodiments, each fluid can have a defined type or category (which can be based on, for example, the thermal conductivity / thermal properties and / or viscosity of the fluid, or chemical composition), and the correlation can be specific to the type, but not specific to the exact fluid distributed. For example, if it is configured to distribute coffee with optional flavoring agents, the system can be configured to use a first correlation (voltage and flow rate) to determine the flow rate of any type of coffee that the system can distribute (e.g., Colombian deep roasting and Ecuadorian medium roasting, etc.), and a second correlation (voltage and flow rate) of any type of flavoring agent that can be distributed (e.g., vanilla flavor, caramel flavor, etc.).

[0046] By measuring the flow rate downstream of the fluid container, the system can avoid the problems inherent in conventional systems. For example, in conventional systems, the pressure in the input pipeline of the manifold or container can be measured, and then the input pressure is related to the output flow rate. Therefore, this method requires that the pressure must be "stable" in order to accurately estimate the output flow, but even when using a pressure regulator that operates in a steady state, such input pressure will inherently change over time. In addition, even if the pressure is completely known, changes in the downstream part of the system will affect the actual flow rate and thus the volume or mass dispensed. In addition, when using a manifold connected to multiple fluid containers, it is simply not possible to accurately estimate the output flow rate from these containers when measuring a single input pressure value (i.e., the pressure of the manifold).

[0047] Reference again Figure 1 , the system 10 may also include a controller 50 in communication with the sensor 40. In some embodiments, the controller may be configured to control the valve 27 in the input line 29 of the container 33 based on the data received from the sensor 40. In some embodiments, the controller may be configured to control the valve 45 in the output line 39 of the container 33 based on the data received from the sensor 40. In some embodiments, multiple valves are controlled, including valves on the inlet line and / or the outlet line. In some embodiments, the controller may be configured to determine the flow rate based on the information from the sensor. Preferably, the determination is not based on the measured pressure; the pressure in the disclosed system will inherently change over time, and any change will reduce the accuracy of the flow rate determination.

[0048] Furthermore, monitoring varying pressures (and optionally attempting to control pressures based on those varying pressure measurements) does not change the fundamental problem of varying pressures causing inaccurate pressure measurements. Nor does it change the fundamental problem of downstream fluid line variations causing inaccuracies. In certain applications, even very small differences in total flow determination may create problems. For example, in pharmaceutical applications, a 5 μg / mL dose may produce very different results compared to a 10 μg / mL dose, but such variations may be inherently present when attempting to control a system by monitoring pressure. Furthermore, more preferably, the pressure of the fluid leaving one or more containers is not measured;

[0049] In some embodiments, the sensor and controller may be selected and configured to detect a flow rate as low as 1 mg / hour. In some embodiments, the sensor and controller may be selected and configured to detect a flow rate as low as 1 μL / min. In some embodiments, the sensor and controller may be selected and configured to detect a flow rate as low as 100 μL / min. In some embodiments, the sensor and controller may be selected and configured to detect a flow rate as low as 1 mL / min. In some embodiments, the sensor and controller may be selected and configured to detect a flow rate between 1 mL / min and 10 mL / min. In some embodiments, the sensor and controller may be selected and configured to detect a flow rate between 10 mL / min and 1 L / min. In some embodiments, the sensor and controller may be selected and configured to detect a flow rate up to 100 L / min.

[0050] In some embodiments, the sensor and controller may be selected and configured to detect flow rates between 0.01 mL / min and 100 mL / min.

[0051] In some embodiments, the controller may include at least one display 52. ​​In some embodiments, the display may include a touch-sensitive display.

[0052] In some embodiments, the controller may include at least one knob, button, or slider 53 for receiving input from a user. For example, in some embodiments, the user can adjust the total amount of fluid to be dispensed at one time, the rate at which the fluid is dispensed, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the controller is configured to receive input from a remote user (e.g., via wired or wireless communication).

[0053] In some embodiments, the controller may be in operable communication with the container 33, either wired or wirelessly. FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D As described, in some embodiments, the circuit 54 may be present on the exterior of the container. The circuit 54 may be configured to allow, for example, the circuit in the housing 70 to communicate with the circuit 54 on the container to determine or communicate information about the container (e.g., size, fluid, etc.). The housing may partially or completely surround the container.

[0054] In some embodiments, the controller adjusts one or more operating parameters (eg, inlet pressure, target speed, etc.) based on the fluid in the vessel.

[0055] In some embodiments, the controller includes at least one processor 51. In some embodiments, the at least one processor is configured to control valve 45.

[0056] In some embodiments, the controller, and preferably a processor in the controller, can be configured to cause fluid 36 to begin flowing from container 33 past velocity sensor 40. This will typically be accomplished by controlling one or more valves (e.g., valve 27 and / or valve 45) within the control system to allow pressurized gas 20 to force the fluid out of the container. Figure 1 As shown, velocity or flow rate sensor 40 is typically located downstream of container 33 but upstream of valve 45, although embodiments in which the opposite arrangement is used (valve 45 is located upstream of velocity or flow rate sensor 40) are also contemplated. In some embodiments, a valve downstream of the container (e.g., valve 45) is used to control flow. In some embodiments, a valve upstream of the container (e.g., valve 27) is used to control flow.

[0057] In some embodiments, the controller may be configured to receive data including at least one speed or flow rate from the speed or flow rate sensor 40. The speed or flow rate measured is the speed or flow rate of the fluid flowing out of the container.

[0058] In some embodiments, the controller can be configured to determine the total amount of fluid that has passed through the output line from the container based on the received data. In some embodiments, this includes determining a volume flow rate based on the measured velocity and the cross-sectional area of ​​the outlet line 39. In some embodiments, this includes determining a mass flow rate based on the measured velocity, the cross-sectional area of ​​the outlet line 39, and the density of the fluid 36 in the container. In some embodiments, the circuitry on the container (e.g., Figure 2A Circuit 150 in the container) communicates the density of the fluid to the controller. In some embodiments, the circuit on the container communicates the composition of the fluid, and the controller accesses a database to determine the composition of the fluid with viscosity.

[0059] In some embodiments, the controller can be configured to adjust one or more valves (e.g., valves 27, 45) based on the determined total output. In some embodiments, the fluid flow rate is stopped after reaching a volume threshold. In some embodiments, the fluid flow rate slows after reaching a first volume threshold and stops when a second volume threshold is reached.

[0060] After the controller stops the flow of fluid, the total amount output can be reset. For example, if the system or method is filling a series of 500 mL bottles, the controller may advantageously have a counter that tracks how much liquid is filled in each bottle and resets the counter after 500 mL of fluid is dispensed into each bottle. In this case, a separate counter may be used to track how many bottles have been filled.

[0061] In some embodiments, it may be advantageous for the controller to have a counter that tracks how many fluids have been output in total or how many fluids remain in the container. For example, if a 1L container is attached to the system, the container can convey the information that 1L is in the container. In some embodiments, the controller can use a counter that starts from the defined volume of the container (1L here) and is reduced to 0 as the speed sensor detects the fluid flow rate. In some embodiments, the controller can use a counter that starts from 0 and increases as the speed sensor detects the fluid. In some embodiments, the controller can calculate the percentage or amount of the fluid remaining in the container (for example, by dividing the total amount of output by the defined volume of the container). In some embodiments, the removal of the container (or the attachment of a new container) can reset the counter.

[0062] In some embodiments, the controller can be in operable wired or wireless communication with a remote device 70 (such as a mobile phone, a computer, or a remote server). This can be done directly or indirectly across one or more networks through at least one intermediate device 71 (such as a hub, a router, etc.).

[0063] In some embodiments, the controller can communicate the status of the source or container to a remote device, which can be configured to display the status to a user. This can include communicating how much fluid is left in the container, or estimating how much gas is left in the source. In some embodiments, the controller can transmit operational metrics to the remote device, which can include, for example, the percentage of time spent dispensing fluid over a period of time (e.g., in the past 8 or 24 hours, since the gas source was last changed, etc.).

[0064] refer to Figure 1 In some embodiments, the system may include a pressure regulator 25 and / or a pressure sensor 26 between the source 20 and the container 33. The regulator may be configured to control the pressure of the pressurized gas flow entering the container. In some embodiments, there may be a single regulator between the gas source and the container. In some embodiments, there may be multiple regulators between the gas source and the container. In some embodiments, the regulators are connected in series. In some embodiments, the regulators are connected in parallel. The pressure sensor may be configured to measure the pressure of the pressurized gas flowing into the container. In some embodiments, the pressure of the gas leaving the regulator may be 1 to 2.5 psig.

[0065] In some embodiments, a velocity or flow rate sensor 40 may be used to detect when the container 33 is empty. In some embodiments, the controller may determine that the container is empty if the downstream valve is open but the velocity or flow rate sensor does not provide sensor readings consistent with fluid flowing at an expected flow rate. In some embodiments, the controller may determine that the container is empty if the downstream valve is open, the pressure sensor 26 indicates that gas is flowing into the container, and the velocity or flow rate sensor does not detect fluid flowing through the system.

[0066] In some embodiments, a velocity or flow rate sensor 40 may be used to detect when bubbles appear in the liquid line after the container 33. For example, the system may have (e.g., in a database) or may calculate the expected measured voltage (or voltage range) for a given fluid being dispensed. If the system measures normal fluid flow, the voltage is outside the expected range for a period of time, and then measures normal fluid flow again, such as if the measured voltage is outside the range for a short period of time (e.g., less than 1 second, less than 0.5 seconds, less than 0.1 seconds, etc.), the system may be configured to identify the disturbance as a bubble. In some embodiments, other characteristics of the signal may be used to determine if a bubble is present in the dispense line, such as the amplitude or frequency of the signal. Information that a bubble has been detected may be communicated to a controller or remote device.

[0067] In some embodiments, the system can identify a voltage or voltage range that is indicative of one or more gases, such as a pressurized gas used as a source. If the sensor detects normal fluid flow, then the detected voltage falls within the expected range for a gas, and then the sensor detects normal fluid flow again, the system can be configured to identify it as a bubble.

[0068] In some embodiments, the presence of one or more bubbles may indicate that the fluid container is low, may indicate that the input pressure is too high for the fluid being dispensed, or may indicate that some form of maintenance is needed. In some embodiments, the system may be configured to provide information to the user that a bubble has been detected (via a display, an error light, a text message, etc.).

[0069] In some embodiments, if a fluid other than the expected fluid from the container is detected (e.g., a bubble is detected), the system can be configured to ignore data for the period of time when the unexpected material was detected when determining the total flow through the system. For example, if the system attempts to dispense 8 fluid ounces of a beverage from a single container, and a bubble is detected in the fluid line for 0.1 seconds, data including that 0.1 second period may not be meaningful because any such data would be related to the bubble, not the beverage.

[0070] In some embodiments, the controller is configured to communicate with sensors and regulators. In some embodiments, the controller is configured to adjust various valves and regulators to maintain the pressure in the container 33. In some embodiments, the pressure in each container is less than or equal to 10 psig. In some embodiments, the pressure is less than or equal to 5 psig. In some embodiments, the pressurized gas is controlled so that the pressure in each container is less than or equal to 1.5 psig.

[0071] In some embodiments, the system 10 may include at least one temperature sensor 60 downstream of the container (e.g., in or on the output line 39). In some embodiments, the temperature sensor 60 is located upstream of the velocity sensor 40. In some embodiments, the temperature sensor 60 is juxtaposed with the velocity sensor 40. In some embodiments, the temperature sensor is located between the container 33 and the valve 45 and is configured to measure the temperature of any fluid flowing out of the container. In some embodiments, the temperature sensor is mounted on the container 33. In some embodiments, the temperature sensor 60 can communicate with the controller 50. The temperature can be used, for example, to determine the velocity, volume flow rate, and / or mass flow rate or to improve the accuracy of the sensor 40.

[0072] In some embodiments, the system can include a needle 80 (e.g., a thin gauge metal tube) located downstream of the valve 45 through which the fluid from the container can flow. In some embodiments, the needle can be a 16 to 34 gauge needle. In some embodiments, the needle can be an 18 to 30 gauge needle. In some embodiments, the needle is connected to the valve via a pipeline. In some embodiments, the needle is directly connected to the valve.

[0073] In some embodiments, all containers in the system may be coupled to a single needle.

[0074] In some embodiments, the system includes more than one needle but has fewer needles than containers, where each needle is operably coupled to one or more containers (e.g., if there are N containers, then there are M needles, where 2≤M≤N-1). For example, in some embodiments, the system may have two or more containers dedicated to providing a carrier fluid (e.g., water) that can be connected to a single needle, and a second additional container dedicated to providing a separate component (such as a flavorant) coupled to its own separate needle.

[0075] In some embodiments, each container is coupled to its own needle (eg, if there are N fluid containers in the system, then there are N needles).

[0076] Although the above description relates to a system with a single container, it is readily applicable to a system with multiple containers.

[0077] refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5, two different systems are disclosed. Figure 4 In some embodiments, system 11 includes multiple containers 33, 37, 38, each container is independently filled with the same (or different) fluid. In some embodiments, the fluid in each container is the same. In some embodiments, the fluid in each container is different. In some embodiments, one or more fluids in a container (e.g., container 33) are different from one or more fluids in at least one other container (e.g., container 37 or 38).

[0078] In some embodiments, the system 11 may include a plurality of containers operably connected to the source 21 via a manifold 30. In some embodiments, the manifold may include one or more manifold valves 31 for controlling the flow of pressurized gas into one or more containers 33, 37, 38. In some embodiments, the controller is configured to control each of the one or more manifold valves 31.

[0079] In some embodiments, each container 33 , 37 , 39 has a valve 45 , 46 , 47 associated with its respective output line 39 , 68 , 69 .

[0080] In some embodiments, the system is configured so that each container has a valve that is controlled by a controller using sensor data. Figure 4 In this example, this may be valve 27. In this example, other valves (such as manifold valve 31) may be controlled based on the desired output product, etc., while other valves (including valves 45, 46, and 47) may simply be opened or closed at the appropriate time. In some embodiments, the valve is located upstream of the sensor. In some embodiments, the valve is located downstream of the sensor. In some embodiments, the valve is cycled open and closed to effectively reduce the flow rate. This allows one to adjust the time required to dispense a certain mass or volume.

[0081] like Figure 5 As shown, in some embodiments, the system 12 can be configured so that the controller can read the flow rate of the fluid from each container 33, 37 separately and independently control the flow of the fluid from each container. Figure 5As shown, a temperature sensor 60, 61, a speed or flow rate sensor 40, 41, and a valve 45, 46 are located downstream of each container 33, 37. In other words, each container 33, 37 has its own temperature sensor, speed or flow rate sensor and valve. The controller can read each sensor independently and control each valve independently. In some embodiments, the flow of the fluid in a container (e.g., container 33) is controlled based only on the input of the temperature sensor 60 and the speed or flow rate sensor 40 downstream of the container. In some embodiments, inputs from sensors downstream of other containers are included. For example, in some embodiments, the flow of the fluid in a container (e.g., container 33) is controlled based on the input of the temperature sensor 60 and the speed or flow rate sensor 40 downstream of the container and the input of the temperature sensor 61 and the speed or flow rate sensor 41 downstream of at least one other container (e.g., container 37).

[0082] In some embodiments, fluids from multiple containers can be dispensed simultaneously (e.g., in parallel). In some embodiments, fluids from more than one container can be dispensed sequentially. In some embodiments (see Figure 4 ), the fluids from all containers can be combined into a single stream in a single outlet line 62 and then dispensed from the system into an external container 63 (such as a drinking cup or bottle) via, for example, a dispensing nozzle.

[0083] In some embodiments, there may be a sensor 90 that detects when the external container is positioned to receive the fluid from the dispensing nozzle. The sensor may be coupled to a controller. In some embodiments, the system may determine whether the external container is correctly positioned before dispensing any fluid. In some embodiments, a warning may occur if the fluid is dispensed without the external container in place.

[0084] In some embodiments (see Figure 5 ), the fluids from all containers are not so combined prior to being dispensed from the system.

[0085] Various combinations or permutations of these options are easily conceivable. Figure 4 In those embodiments where the fluid from each container is combined into a single stream, some embodiments may have a single temperature sensor 60 for the combined stream, and multiple velocity or flow rate sensors 40, one for each container downstream prior to combining, rather than just a single velocity or flow rate sensor for all containers. Similarly, the system may have multiple valves 45 (similar to Figure 5 ), there is one downstream of each container before combining, rather than just a single valve for all containers.

[0086] In some embodiments, methods for pumpless dispensing, such as controlling pumpless dispensing, may be provided. Figure 6 , method 600 may include receiving 610 voltage data from a sensor as fluid from a fluid container is forced out of the container by the pressurized gas, the fluid flowing from the container and past the sensor.

[0087] The method may include determining 620 a velocity, mass flow rate, or volume flow rate from the container based on the voltage data. In some embodiments, this may include determining a total amount dispensed over a period of time based on the velocity, mass flow rate, or volume flow rate. For example, by integrating one or more determined mass flow rates over time, the total mass dispensed during a defined period of time may be determined.

[0088] The method may include adjusting 630 a valve to control the flow of fluid from the container based on the determined velocity, mass flow rate, or volume flow rate (including a value derived from the determined velocity, mass flow rate, or volume flow rate).

[0089] In some embodiments, the method may include determining 602 whether the external container is positioned to receive fluid from the fluid container.

[0090] In some embodiments, the method may include automatically causing 603 the pressurized gas to force the fluid in the fluid container to begin flowing out of the container and past the sensor by adjusting a valve, such as a valve adjusted to control the flow of fluid out of the container. In some embodiments, this may be based on determining whether an external container is in place to receive the fluid.

[0091] In some embodiments, the method may include providing 601 a system disclosed herein.

[0092] In some embodiments, the method may include communicating 640 with a remote device via one or more networks. In some embodiments, the communication may include sending information to the remote device. In some embodiments, the information may include information representing the number of external containers to which the material is dispensed. In some embodiments, the information may include information representing the amount (e.g., mass or volume) of fluid dispensed by the system over a period of time. In some embodiments, the information may include information representing the amount of fluid remaining in one or more fluid containers. In some embodiments, the information may include information representing the amount of gas remaining in a pressurized gas source.

[0093] In some embodiments, the method may include communicating with a user 650, including providing information and / or receiving input from the user. The user may be a user at a remote location, or may be a user near the dispensing device. For example, in some embodiments, a display on the dispensing device may display a warning to a nearby user (e.g., that the fluid in the fluid container may be running out), and then may receive input from the user (e.g., confirming and eliminating the warning, or indicating that the dispensing unit should pause or stop dispensing). In some embodiments, this may include displaying information on a display of, for example, a tablet computer, a laptop computer, or a smart phone, indicating the current amount of fluid in each container of the dispensing device.

[0094] In some embodiments, based on input from the user, the method may include adjusting 660 (e.g., automatically) a valve to control the flow of fluid out of the fluid container. For example, if the user indicates that they want to dispense a specific amount of additional fluid, the system should automatically control the flow rate using the sensor technology disclosed herein so that that amount of fluid is dispensed. The system can then return to receiving the voltage data, making a decision, and adjusting the valve.

[0095] It should be understood that the optional step (in Figure 6 The communication with the user 650 is shown as being performed after the communication with the remote device 640, in some embodiments, the communication with the user may be performed only before (or after) the fluid is dispensed into the external container, and no information may be transmitted to the remote device.

[0096] refer to Figure 7 In some embodiments, a system 13 may be provided wherein the source 21 is a device for providing pressurized gas (eg, a fan or a compressor). As shown, the source may be operably coupled to a controller 50 .

[0097] In some embodiments, the system may include a separate pressure regulator 25 and / or valve 27 between the source and any container 33, 37, such as between the source and any manifold 30. In some embodiments, the system may not have a separate pressure regulator 25 or valve 27 between the source and any container 33, 37. In some embodiments, only the pressure regulator is located between the source and the container. In some embodiments, only the pressure regulator is located between the source and the manifold.

[0098] In some embodiments, the controller may be configured to adjust settings of the source (eg, speed, pressure, etc.) based on measured / determined flow rates (eg, via flow rate sensors 40, 41).

[0099] In a preferred embodiment, each container has its own flow rate sensor 40, 41. In such an embodiment, there is no need to wait for the pressure to stabilize, and this avoids any problems with trying to associate a single pressure (or a single flow rate) with multiple cartridges.

[0100] In some embodiments, a flow rate sensor in the device can be used to detect bubbles in the pipeline. For example, whenever a bubble in the fluid contacts the flow rate sensor, the voltage will generally drop when the bubble contacts the wire in the sensor. In some embodiments, the controller can be configured to adjust the determined flow rate based on the presence of bubbles. In some embodiments, the controller can be configured to adjust the determined flow rate based on the number of bubbles detected over a period of time. In some embodiments, the controller can be configured to determine the change in voltage (i.e., from a first measurement to a second measurement at a later point in time). In some embodiments, the controller can be configured to determine whether the voltage is within a predetermined range (e.g., the expected voltage range for "normal" operation of the system). In some embodiments, the controller can be configured to determine that bubbles exist only when the system is in use (e.g., if the controller has opened one or more valves so that the fluid flows out of the container as expected) and if the voltage is below a predetermined threshold (e.g., the lower limit expected for "normal" use can be determined empirically) or a predetermined gas voltage range (e.g., the expected voltage range for a specific gas to be detected). In some embodiments, the controller can determine the size of the bubble based on the length of time the voltage is below the predetermined threshold. In some embodiments, the controller can be configured to generate an alarm based on the detection of bubbles. In some embodiments, the controller can be configured to generate an alarm based on the size of the detected bubble.

[0101] As will be appreciated, the driving force causing the fluid in each container to leave the container is a pressure difference. Figure 1 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 7 As shown, the driving force is gas from an upstream source at a pressure greater than ambient pressure, which enters the container and displaces the liquid.

[0102] However, if Figure 8 As shown, the system can be reconfigured so that the pressure at the outlet of the container is lower than the pressure inside the container, thereby creating a pressure differential that draws fluid from the container. Figure 8 In FIG. 8 , system 800 generates low pressure 801 , which can be connected to optional regulator 25 and optional valve 27 , and operably connected to containers 33 , 37 directly or through optional output container 810 .

[0103] In some embodiments, at least one container 33, 37 may have an opening 830 or port for allowing gas to enter the container. In some embodiments, all containers containing fluid to be distributed have such an opening. In some embodiments, the opening is connected to the atmosphere. In some embodiments, the opening is connected to a gas source. In some embodiments, the gas source can be used to keep the pressure in the container fixed.

[0104] In some embodiments, the output container can be sealed and can include additional outputs (e.g., output 820) for allowing collected fluid and / or low pressure gas to leave the container. The output can include one or more valves (e.g., valve 825). In some embodiments, the output container can have an opening 835 or port for allowing gas to enter the container (e.g., to maintain the internal pressure within the container at ambient / atmospheric pressure).

[0105] In some embodiments, the pressure difference is controlled based on the measured flow rate of the fluid leaving the container. In some embodiments, the low pressure 21 is generated by a venturi device (e.g., as known in the art, the container can be operably connected to a device for generating low pressure gas, such as a venturi device, etc.).

[0106] Embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail with reference to the drawings, in which the same reference numerals identify similar or identical elements. It should be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of the present disclosure and may be implemented in various forms. To avoid unnecessary details from obscuring the present disclosure, well-known functions or configurations are not described in detail. Therefore, the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein should not be interpreted as restrictive, but merely as a basis for the claims, and as a representative basis for teaching those skilled in the art to use the present disclosure in different ways with virtually any appropriately detailed structure.

[0107] Those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, many equivalents to the specific embodiments of the invention described herein. Such equivalents are intended to be encompassed by the following claims.

Claims

1. A system (10) for pumpless delivery of a product, comprising: at least one container (33), each container enclosing an associated fluid (36), the at least one container being operably coupled to the gas (20); at least one sensor (40) configured to detect flow of the associated fluid in an output line (39) from the at least one container; as well as A controller (50) in communication with the at least one sensor, the controller being configured to control at least one valve (27, 45) using a velocity or flow rate based on a voltage from the at least one sensor.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein the container (33) is connected to a source (21) of pressurized gas (20).

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the gas is a low pressure gas.

4. The system of claim 3, wherein the low pressure gas is generated by a venturi device.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the associated fluid is a liquid.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein the pressure in each vessel is less than or equal to 100 psig.

7. The system of claim 6, wherein the pressure is less than or equal to 10 psig.

8. The system of claim 7, wherein the pressure is less than or equal to 5 psig.

9. The system of claim 8, wherein the pressure is less than or equal to 2.5 psig.

10. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one container (33) comprises a plurality of containers (33, 37, 38), each container being operatively connected to the source (21) via a manifold (30).

11. The system of claim 10, wherein the manifold (30) further comprises one or more valves (31) for controlling the flow of the pressurized gas into the plurality of containers (33, 37, 38).

12. The system of claim 11, wherein the one or more valves (31) are controlled by the controller.

13. The system of claim 12, wherein there is at least one valve (45, 46, 47) on at least one of the output lines (39, 68, 69), the at least one valve being controlled by the controller using data from the at least one sensor.

14. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 13, further comprising a pressure regulator (25) located between the source and the at least one container (36, 37, 38), the pressure regulator being configured to control the pressure of the pressurized gas flow entering the at least one container (36, 37, 38).

15. The system of claim 14, wherein the pressure regulator (25) is controlled by the controller (50).

16. The system of any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the pressure source is generated by a fan or a compressor.

17. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 16, further comprising a pressure sensor (26) located between the source and the at least one container (36, 37, 38), the pressure sensor being configured to measure the pressure of the pressurized gas flowing into the at least one container (36, 37, 38).

18. The system of claim 17, wherein the pressure sensor (26) is in communication with the controller (50).

19. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 18, further comprising a valve (27) located between the source and the at least one container (36, 37, 38).

20. The system of claim 19, wherein the valve (27) is controlled by the controller (50).

21. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 20, further comprising at least one temperature sensor (60) juxtaposed with the at least one valve (45), the at least one temperature sensor being configured to measure the temperature of the product flowing out of the at least one container (33, 37, 38).

22. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 20, further comprising at least one temperature sensor (60) located between the at least one container and an external container (62), the at least one temperature sensor being configured to measure a temperature of a product flowing out of the at least one container.

23. The system of claims 21 and 22, wherein the temperature sensor is in communication with the controller (50).

24. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 23, wherein the controller comprises at least one processor (51).

25. The system of claim 24, wherein the processor controls the at least one valve (45).

26. The system of any one of claims 1 to 25, wherein the controller comprises at least one display (52).

27. The system of claim 26, wherein the at least one display (52) is a touch-sensitive display.

28. The system of any one of claims 1 to 27, wherein the controller comprises at least one knob, button or slider (53) for receiving input from a user.

29. The system of any one of claims 1 to 28, wherein the pressurized gas is air, CO2, O2, N2, or an inert gas.

30. The system of any one of claims 1 to 29, wherein the product comprises a food concentrate, a beverage concentrate, a flavor concentrate, a pharmaceutical ingredient, a biopharmaceutical ingredient, or a cosmetic composition.

31. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 30, wherein the at least one sensor (40) and controller (50) together are capable of detecting flow rates as low as 1 μL / min.

32. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 30, wherein the at least one sensor (40) and controller (50) together are capable of detecting flow rates as low as 1 mL / min.

33. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 30, wherein the at least one sensor (40) and the controller (50) together are configured to detect a flow rate between 1 mL / min and 1 L / min.

34. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 33, wherein the controller (50) is configured to: causing the product to begin flowing from the at least one container (33) past the at least one sensor (40); receiving data including at least one flow rate from the sensor (40); determining a total amount of output (39) from the at least one container (33) based on the received data; and The at least one valve (27, 45) is adjusted based on the determined total amount of output.

35. The system of claim 1, wherein the manifold (30) further comprises one or more valves (31) for controlling the flow of the pressurized gas into the plurality of containers (33, 37, 38).

36. The system of claim 35, wherein the one or more valves (31) are controlled by the controller.

37. The system of claim 1, wherein there is at least one valve (45, 46, 47) on at least one of the output lines (39, 68, 69), the at least one valve being controlled by the controller using data from the at least one sensor.

38. The system of claim 1, further comprising a pressure regulator (25) located between the source and the at least one container (36, 37, 38), the pressure regulator being configured to control the pressure of the pressurized gas flow entering the at least one container (36, 37, 38).

39. The system of claim 38, wherein the regulator (25) is controlled by the controller (50).

40. The system of claim 1, further comprising a pressure sensor (26) located between the source and the at least one container (36, 37, 38), the pressure sensor being configured to measure a pressure of the pressurized gas flowing into the at least one container (36, 37, 38).

41. The system of claim 40, wherein the pressure sensor (26) is in communication with the controller (50).

42. The system of claim 1, further comprising a valve (27) located between the source and the at least one container (36, 37, 38).

43. The system of claim 42, wherein the valve (27) is controlled by the controller (50).

44. The system according to claim 1, further comprising at least one temperature sensor (60) disposed in conjunction with the at least one valve (45), the at least one temperature sensor being configured to measure the temperature of the product flowing out of the at least one container (33, 37, 38).

45. The system according to claim 1 further comprises at least one temperature sensor (60) located between the at least one container (36, 37, 38) and the container (62), wherein the at least one temperature sensor is configured to measure the temperature of the product flowing out of the at least one container (33, 37, 38).

46. ​​The system of claim 45, wherein the temperature sensor is in communication with the controller (50).

47. The system of claim 1, wherein the controller comprises at least one processor (51).

48. The system of claim 47, wherein the processor controls the at least one valve (45).

49. The system of claim 1, wherein the controller includes at least one display (52).

50. The system of claim 49, wherein the at least one display (52) is a touch-sensitive display.

51. The system of claim 1, wherein the controller comprises at least one knob, button, or slider (53) for receiving input from a user.

52. The system of claim 1, wherein the pressurized gas is air, CO2, O2, N2, or an inert gas.

53. The system of claim 1, wherein the product comprises a food concentrate, a beverage concentrate, a flavor concentrate, a pharmaceutical ingredient, a biopharmaceutical ingredient, a fertilizer, or a cosmetic composition.

54. The system of claim 1, wherein the pressure in each container (33, 37, 38) is less than or equal to 100 psig.

55. The system of claim 54, wherein the pressure is less than or equal to 10 psig.

56. The system of claim 55, wherein the pressure is less than or equal to 5 psig.

57. The system of claim 56, wherein the pressure is less than or equal to 2.5 psig.

58. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one sensor (40) and controller (50) together are capable of detecting flow rates as low as 1 μL / min.

59. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one sensor (40) and controller (50) together are capable of detecting flow rates as low as 1 mL / min.

60. The system of claim 1, wherein the sensor (40) and controller (50) together are configured to detect a flow rate between 1 mL / min and 1 L / min.

61. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one sensor (40) and controller (50) together are capable of dispensing a mass as small as 1 g.

62. The system of claim 1, wherein the controller (50) is configured to: causing the product to begin flowing from the at least one container (33, 37, 38) past the at least one sensor (40); receiving data including at least one flow rate from the sensor (40); determining a total amount of output (39) from the at least one container (36, 37, 38) based on the received data; and The at least one valve (27, 45) is adjusted based on the determined total amount of output.

63. A method for pumpless dispensing, comprising: receiving voltage data from the sensor as the fluid flows therethrough; determining a velocity, mass flow rate, or volume flow rate from a vessel based on the voltage data; as well as The valve is adjusted based on the determined velocity, mass flow rate, or volume flow rate.

Images