Beverage carbonation system flow control

Abstract

Various illustrative systems, apparatuses, and methods for beverage carbonation system flow control are provided. A carbonation system is one example of a processing system that applies the systems, apparatuses, and methods described herein. Generally, a carbonation system is configured to form a carbonation fluid and to dispense the carbonation fluid in a controlled manner. In an illustrative embodiment, a carbonation system is configured to initiate dispensing of a carbonation fluid if a pressure in a chamber of the carbonation system in which the carbonation fluid is formed is higher than atmospheric pressure. After pressure distribution through the chamber has been initiated, a gas is introduced into the chamber to drive the flow of the carbonating fluid. The gas may be introduced into the chamber according to a predetermined pressure profile.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. patent application No. 17 / 821,212, filed on August 22, 2022, and entitled “Beverage Carbonation System Flow Control,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to beverage carbonation system flow control. Background Art

[0004] Various beverage carbonation systems can be used to dispense carbonated beverages, such as carbonated water. In some cases, carbonated water can be flavored. Such beverage carbonation systems can be used by consumers in different locations (e.g., at home or in the office) to carbonate liquids and dispense the carbonated fluid into containers as needed.

[0005] The beverage carbonation system can mix carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) gas and water to dissolve CO in water 2 to provide the carbonated fluid. Dissolution is carried out at very high pressure to achieve the desired dissolved CO 2 concentration. Thereafter, the carbonated fluid exits the mixing chamber for distribution to the user. However, when the carbonated fluid begins to be dispensed through the low resistance passage, the pressure in the mixing chamber cannot be too high, or the pressure in the mixing chamber will cause the carbonated fluid to exit the mixing chamber at too high a rate, causing the carbonated fluid to spray out of the carbonation system and cause a chaotic splash and / or cause at least some of the carbonated fluid to not be dispensed neatly into the container. Some systems attempt to prevent the high pressure in the mixing chamber from causing a violent dispensing flow by adding a substantial resistance to flow in the dispensing outlet. However, such a flow restriction can cause a large amount of decarbonation of the fluid as it passes through, which limits the CO2 removal rate. 2 The efficiency of use also limits the amount of dissolved CO that can be achieved in the distributed fluid. 2 concentration.

[0006] Therefore, there remains a need for improved apparatus, systems, and methods for carbonation systems. Summary of the invention

[0007] In general, a system, apparatus, and method for flow control of a beverage carbonation system are provided.

[0008] In one aspect, a method is provided that may include forming a treated fluid in a chamber of a treatment system. The chamber has an initial pressure after forming the treated fluid. The method also includes exhausting pressure from the chamber over a period of time, and at a first time point during the period of time, beginning to dispense the treated fluid from the treatment system. The chamber has a first pressure less than the initial pressure at a first time point, and the first pressure assists in dispensing the treated fluid from the treatment system. The method also includes inputting a first gas into the chamber at a second time point during the dispensing of the treated fluid. The chamber has a second pressure at the second time point, the second pressure being less than the first pressure.

[0009] The introduction of the first gas assists in dispensing the processed fluid from the processing system.

[0010] The method can be varied in any number of ways. For example, the treated fluid can be dispensed at a substantially constant flow rate from the first time point to the end of the dispensing. The method can also include controlling the flow rate of the first gas input into the chamber to maintain a substantially constant flow rate. Controlling the flow rate can include varying the flow rate during the dispensing.

[0011] For another example, forming the treated fluid may include: adding a liquid to a chamber, adding carbon dioxide to the chamber, and stirring the liquid and carbon dioxide in the chamber. The stirring may be performed simultaneously with the addition of carbon dioxide. After the addition of carbon dioxide is stopped, the stirring may continue. The method may also include: after an initial period of time starting from the start of the addition of carbon dioxide, substantially maintaining the pressure in the chamber at a predetermined level until the addition of carbon dioxide is stopped. Carbon dioxide from a gas source may be added to the chamber, and the rate at which carbon dioxide is injected into the chamber may be controlled by a regulator operatively coupled between the gas source and the chamber.

[0012] As another example, forming the processed fluid may include mixing a liquid introduced into the chamber with a second gas introduced into the chamber, and the second gas may be a different type of gas than the first gas. The liquid may be water, and the second gas may be carbon dioxide.

[0013] As another example, forming the treated fluid may include mixing a liquid introduced into the chamber with a second gas introduced into the chamber, and the second gas may be the same type of gas as the first gas. The liquid may be water, and the second gas may be carbon dioxide.

[0014] As another example, forming the treated fluid may include mixing a liquid introduced into the chamber with carbon dioxide introduced into the chamber, and the first gas may be air.

[0015] As another example, forming the treated fluid may include mixing a liquid introduced into the chamber with carbon dioxide introduced into the chamber, and the first gas may be carbon dioxide introduced into the chamber from a gas source.

[0016] As another example, initiating dispensing of the treated fluid may include opening a valve of the treatment system.

[0017] As another example, venting the pressure may include opening a valve in a head space above the processed fluid in the chamber.

[0018] As another example, gravity can assist in distributing the processed fluid.

[0019] On the other hand, a system is provided, which may include a liquid source, a gas source and a chamber, the liquid source containing a liquid therein, the gas source containing a gas therein, and the chamber being configured to receive therein a liquid from the liquid source and a gas from the gas source. The treated fluid is configured to be produced in the chamber by mixing the liquid and the gas in the chamber. The system also includes an outlet and an exhaust port, the outlet having an open position, through which the treated fluid is dispensed; the exhaust port is operatively coupled to the chamber and is configured to: move from a closed position to an open position before the treated fluid begins to be dispensed, so that pressure is discharged from the chamber. The exhaust port is configured to remain in the open position when the treated fluid begins to be dispensed. The system also includes a processor, the processor being configured to: control the opening of the outlet so that the treated fluid begins to flow out of the outlet during the discharge pressure. The processor is also configured to: control the force introduced into the chamber after the outlet has been opened so that the treated fluid continues to flow out of the outlet after the pressure has stopped being discharged from the chamber.

[0020] The system may have any number of variations.For example, the processor controlling the force may include the processor controlling a gas regulator operatively coupled to a gas source.

[0021] As another example, the processor controlling the force may include the processor controlling an air pump configured to introduce air into the chamber after dispensing has begun.

[0022] As another example, the processor controlling the force can allow the treated fluid to be dispensed at a substantially constant flow rate.

[0023] For another example, the processor may be configured to open the outlet in response to determining that a first threshold has been met, the force may be configured to begin being introduced into the chamber in response to the processor determining that a second threshold has been met, and the processor may be configured to close the outlet in response to determining that a third threshold has been met.

[0024] As another example, the system may further include an agitator and a motor, wherein the agitator is configured to agitate the liquid and the gas in the chamber to form a processed fluid, and the motor is configured to drive rotation of the agitator in the chamber.

[0025] As another example, the liquid may be water, the gas may be carbon dioxide, and the treated fluid may be a carbonated fluid. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] The present disclosure will be more fully understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0027] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of a carbonation system;

[0028] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of a carbonation system;

[0029] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of yet another embodiment of a carbonation system;

[0030] Figure 4 is a partial perspective view of another embodiment of a carbonation system;

[0031] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 Another perspective view of the carbonation system;

[0032] Figure 6 is a flow chart of one embodiment of a method of forming a treated fluid;

[0033] Figure 7 It is shown that Figure 6 An embodiment of a graph of pressure versus time of a method;

[0034] Figure 8 It is shown that Figure 6 Another embodiment of a method of graphing pressure versus time. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] Certain embodiments will now be described to provide an overall understanding of the principles of structure, function, manufacture and use of the devices, systems and methods disclosed herein. One or more examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the devices, systems and methods specifically described herein and shown in the accompanying drawings are non-limiting embodiments, and the scope of the present invention is limited only by the claims. The features shown or described in conjunction with an exemplary embodiment may be combined with the features of other embodiments. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention.

[0036] In addition, in the present disclosure, like-named components of the embodiments generally have similar features, so in a particular embodiment, it is not necessary to fully describe every feature of each like-named component. In addition, where linear or circular dimensions are used in the description of the disclosed systems, devices, and methods, these dimensions are not intended to limit the types of shapes that can be used in conjunction with such systems, devices, and methods. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the equivalent dimensions of such linear and circular dimensions can be easily determined for any geometric shape.

[0037] Various illustrative systems, devices and methods for flow control of a beverage carbonation system are provided. In general, a carbonation system is configured to form a carbonated fluid and distribute the carbonated fluid in a controlled manner. The carbonated fluid is distributed into a container, such as a bottle, a cup or other container. The carbonated fluid is formed in a chamber of the carbonation system, and since a pressurized gas (carbon dioxide) is used when forming the carbonated fluid, the pressure in the chamber is higher than (e.g., significantly higher than) atmospheric pressure. If the carbonated fluid is distributed from the chamber and the carbonated fluid is left from the carbonation system when the pressure in the chamber is much higher than atmospheric pressure, the carbonated fluid will flow out of the chamber too quickly and spray out from the carbonation system, which will cause chaotic splashing and / or cause at least some of the carbonated fluid to be not distributed neatly into the container. Alternatively, a valve configured to be able to open at a high chamber pressure can be used, but such a valve may require an expensive and high-power actuator, which, in addition to increasing costs, may also cause serious disadvantages to the function of the carbonation system.

[0038] To address this potential problem, a certain amount of pressure may be vented from the chamber prior to commencing dispensing of the carbonated fluid. However, it may still be desirable to maintain a certain amount of pressure (e.g., low pressure) within the chamber during dispensing of the carbonated fluid to aid in dispensing. Assisting in this manner may reduce the time required to dispense the carbonated fluid, thereby increasing user satisfaction and saving the cost of otherwise reducing dispensing time. Maintaining a low pressure while dispensing the carbonated beverage may be achieved, for example, by inputting gas into the chamber (e.g., forcing gas into the chamber) (e.g., above the water level). For example, an air pump may pump air into the chamber, or CO 2 From pressurized CO 2 The canister (e.g., via a regulator) is forced into the chamber. In this context, the gas (e.g., from CO) that applies force to the chamber to assist in dispensing the carbonated fluid may be referred to herein as 2 CO tank 2 or air from an air pump) is called "forced gas".

[0039] At some point associated with dispensing the carbonated fluid, the pressure is stopped from being discharged and the forced gas is started to be input. If the timing between stopping the discharge, starting the forced gas input, and starting to distribute the carbonated fluid is not properly controlled, the carbonated fluid may be distributed relatively unevenly over a period of time corresponding to these events. For example, if the distribution is started after the discharge is stopped but before the forced gas input is started or almost at the same time as the forced gas input is started, the flow rate may start at a first rate, slowly decrease, then increase relatively suddenly as the initial impact of the forced gas is felt, and then reach a more stable state over time as the forced gas continues to be input into the chamber. This uneven distribution may be undesirable for user satisfaction and may cause splashing or splashing as described herein. As another example, if the output valve through which the carbonated fluid passes is opened too early (e.g., opened before a sufficient amount of pressure is discharged from the chamber), the headspace pressure in the chamber may be too high, causing the carbonated fluid to be ejected explosively at an excessively high rate. However, after such an initial burst, the resulting expansion of the headspace reduces the excess pressure and the flow rate will drop rapidly. As yet another example, if the pressure is vented for too long, the headspace pressure may drop to a very low value, perhaps even low enough to equal atmospheric pressure. If a dispense is initiated with very low headspace pressure, only gravity will be available to drive flow, and the result will be a very weak dispense that will become even weaker as the headspace pressure itself drops toward zero. Even if additional gas is input into the chamber, there will be a period of low and variable dispense flow rates before the input gas raises the headspace pressure sufficiently to drive a good dispense flow rate.

[0040] Configuring the carbonation system to dispense the carbonated fluid in the controlled manner described herein can prevent the carbonated fluid from flowing out of the chamber too quickly, too slowly, or unevenly, and can allow the carbonated fluid to be dispensed in a substantially steady flow from the beginning of dispensing to the end of dispensing without any splashing that might otherwise cause droplets of the carbonated fluid to splash onto the outside of the container.

[0041] In an illustrative embodiment, the carbonation system is configured to begin dispensing the carbonated fluid before the excess pressure has been completely released from the chamber. In other words, the carbonation system is configured to begin dispensing the carbonated fluid when the pressure in the chamber is a desired pressure for dispensing the carbonated fluid that is above atmospheric pressure. With the help of gravity, the pressure in the chamber that is above atmospheric pressure will cause the carbonated fluid in the chamber to flow out of the chamber and out of the carbonation system. Therefore, the carbonation system can use the pressure existing in the chamber as a product of forming the carbonated fluid to dispense the carbonated fluid in a controlled manner. Using the current pressure in this way can save time compared to waiting until the pressure in the chamber has reached atmospheric pressure before beginning to dispense the carbonated fluid and only then beginning to input gas into the chamber.

[0042] The carbonation system may include an outlet through which the carbonated fluid is configured to exit the carbonation system. The outlet may be configured and / or controlled to be closed until the pressure in the chamber has decreased to a preset pressure threshold, and to open at that point to allow the pressure in the chamber to drive the carbonated fluid out of the chamber. Thus, in such embodiments, dispensing of the carbonated fluid is not initiated until the preset pressure threshold has been reached, thereby allowing the carbonated fluid to be dispensed in a controlled manner. The preset pressure threshold may correspond to a pressure that is intended to be maintained throughout the dispensing process of the carbonated fluid.

[0043] Some carbonation systems allow for different types and sizes of beverages to be formed as desired, in which case the pressure in the chamber may not be the same for each carbonated fluid to be formed, for example, because different amounts of liquid and / or gas may be present in the chamber to form a particular carbonated fluid having specific parameters related to, for example, degree of carbonation, volume, source liquid, etc. Initiating dispensing based on a comparison of the pressure in the chamber to a preset pressure threshold can account for these different chamber pressures for the formation of different carbonated fluids. Additionally, components of a carbonation system may experience wear over time due to repeated use. Therefore, regardless of whether a carbonation system allows for different types and sizes of carbonated fluids to be formed, initiating dispensing based on a comparison of the pressure in the chamber to a preset pressure threshold can help ensure that dispensing can be performed properly and consistently over time even if any one or more components of the carbonation system have experienced wear that affects the formation of the carbonated fluid.

[0044] Rather than keeping the outlet closed until a preset pressure threshold is met, the outlet may be configured to close until a predetermined amount of time has passed since a predetermined event occurred. Thus, the start of dispensing may be based (e.g., based on empirical data) on whether a preset time threshold has been met. Since it may be assumed that the mixing process is performed in the same manner each time a carbonated fluid is formed, it may be assumed that the pressure in the chamber has dropped sufficiently to allow proper dispensing after a predetermined amount of time has passed since a predetermined event occurred. For example, the predetermined event may be an event that occurs during each process of forming a carbonated fluid, such as starting a motor to mix liquid and CO in the chamber. 2 , stop the motor, when to start adding liquid to the chamber, when to stop adding liquid to the chamber, when to start adding CO 2 The starting point of adding CO to the chamber, when stopping 2 When adding to the chamber, or another event. For another example, the predetermined event can be the start of the beverage dispensing process triggered by a user, such as by pressing a button on the carbonation system, providing input to the user interface of the carbonation system, or by triggering the beverage dispensing process in other ways.

[0045] In some embodiments, the carbonation system may be configured to account for each of pressure and time when dispensing the carbonated fluid is initiated. In such embodiments, one of the preset pressure threshold and the preset time threshold that is satisfied first is configured to trigger the start of dispensing, e.g., trigger opening of the outlet. Allowing either pressure or time to trigger the start of dispensing may account for differences in different mixing processes due to various factors, such as one or more components of the carbonation system experiencing wear that may affect the timing of the mixing process, carbonated fluids of different sizes and / or compositions, or other factors.

[0046] The pressure in the chamber (e.g., the pressure in its headspace after venting and initiation of dispensing) is typically insufficient to drive all of the carbonated fluid out of the chamber. Therefore, gas may be introduced into the chamber after dispensing has begun via the pressure within the chamber. The gas is configured to cause the carbonated fluid to leave the chamber. The gas may be introduced into the chamber according to a predetermined pressure profile or a predetermined timing profile to help dispense the carbonated fluid in a controlled manner. The predetermined timing profile or pressure profile may include compensation for changes in gravity head pressure, which may also help with dispensing flow rate, where gravity head pressure inherently decreases toward zero during dispensing. In some embodiments, the gas that drives the flow of the carbonated fluid may be CO 2. Thus, the gas can be the same type of gas that is mixed with the liquid to form the carbonated fluid, and can be introduced into the chamber from the same gas source that provides the gas to the chamber to mix with the liquid. Therefore, because the carbonation system already includes one or more components for introducing the gas into the chamber, the carbonation system does not need to include one or more additional components to allow the use of the gas to drive the flow of the carbonated fluid out of the carbonation system. If the gas is the same type of gas that is mixed with the liquid to form the carbonated fluid, the gas can be introduced into the chamber differently to drive the flow of the carbonated fluid for dispensing. For example, the gas can be introduced above the liquid to drive flow, and introduced below the liquid for carbonation. The carbonation system may include one or more components to facilitate such different gas introductions, such as by including a three-way valve. In other embodiments, the gas used to drive the flow of the carbonated fluid can be air introduced into the chamber. Using air instead of the same gas (CO 2 ) used to form the carbonated fluid 2 ) allows the retention of gas (CO 2 ) to form a carbonated fluid, thereby reducing the amount of gas (CO 2 The gas source is frequently replaced when there is little or no gas remaining in the gas source.

[0047] The systems, apparatus and methods described herein are not limited to carbonation systems in which the liquid is reacted with CO 2 The carbonation system is an example of a treatment system to which the systems, apparatus, and methods described herein may be applied. Other treatment systems are generally configured and used similarly to the carbonation system described herein, except that different gases are mixed with the liquid instead of CO. 2 Mix with liquid. The resulting fluid is a treated fluid, but not a "carbonated" fluid.

[0048] Figure 1 One embodiment of a carbonation system 100 configured to form a carbonated fluid is shown. The carbonation system 100 of the illustrated embodiment includes an agitator (in Figure 1 The invention relates to a carbonation system having a carbonation system and a carbonation system. The carbonation system has a plurality of impellers (labeled as "impeller" in FIG. 1 ) 102 and includes a chamber 104 in which the agitator 102 is disposed and configured to rotate to form a carbonated fluid. Various embodiments of the agitator and the chamber are described, for example, in International Application No. PCT / CN2022 / 092688, filed on May 13, 2022, entitled "Agitator For A Carbonation System", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0049] The carbonation system 100 also includes a liquid source 106 configured as a source of liquid for mixing in the chamber 104, a flow meter 108 configured to regulate the amount of liquid flowing from the liquid source 106 to the chamber 104, and a high pressure pump 110 configured to pump liquid from the liquid source 106 to the chamber 104. In the illustrated embodiment, the liquid is water, so that the liquid source 106 is a water reservoir, but another liquid, such as juice, may be used. In the illustrated example, the liquid pump is a high pressure pump 110, but may be another type of pump, such as a low pressure, high flow rate pump.

[0050] The carbonation system 100 also includes a gas source 112 configured as a source of gas for mixing in the chamber 104; a gas regulator 114 configured to regulate the amount of gas flowing from the gas source 112 to the chamber 104; and a gas solenoid valve 116 configured to open and close to selectively allow gas to flow from the gas source 112 to the chamber 104. In the illustrated embodiment, the gas is CO 2 , so that the gas source 112 is CO 2 CO in cylinder form 2 source, but another gas may be used (in which case, as described above, the fluid dispensed would not be a "carbonated" fluid, but would be a treated fluid). In the illustrated embodiment, the gas regulator 114 is a 0.8 MPa gas regulator, but other gas regulators may be used. For example, the gas regulator 114 may be a 0.65 MPa gas regulator. The gas regulator 114 may be configured to allow a high flow rate of gas when it is opened, so that the operation of the process takes less time than using a low flow rate of gas.

[0051] The carbonation system 100 may also include an air pump 118 configured to drive the carbonated fluid out of the chamber 104 through the outlet valve 128. The outlet valve 128 is configured to selectively open to allow the carbonated fluid to leave the chamber 104 and leave the carbonation system 100, for example, for dispensing into containers such as cups, bottles, etc. The type of outlet valve 128 can allow the flow passage through the outlet valve 128 to be adjusted so that the outlet valve 128 can be used as a control element configured to manage the flow rate. In particular, the opening of the outlet valve 128 can be configured to avoid a sudden jet or burst of flow at the beginning of dispensing. The air pump 118 is configured to pump air into the chamber 104 so that when the outlet valve 128 is open, the carbonated fluid in the chamber 104 is forced to leave the chamber 104 through the outlet valve 128 and leave the carbonation system 100. As discussed further herein, the pressure within the chamber 104 combined with the resistance of the output passage is configured to drive the carbonated fluid out of the chamber 104 through the outlet valve 128 before the air pump 118 is actuated to pump air into the chamber 104 .

[0052] The carbonation system 100 also includes: an exhaust solenoid valve 120, which is configured to allow excess pressure to be released from the chamber 104 when the exhaust solenoid valve 120 is open; a pressure relief valve (PRV) 122; a pressure sensor 124, which is configured to measure the pressure in the chamber 104; and a temperature sensor 126, which is configured to measure the temperature in the chamber 104. The temperature sensor 126 can be a negative temperature coefficient (NTC) thermistor as in the illustrated embodiment, but another type of temperature sensor can be used. In some embodiments, the temperature sensor 126 is omitted.

[0053] The carbonation system 100 may also include a motor 130 configured to drive the rotation of the agitator 102. In the illustrated embodiment, the motor 130 is shown as being disposed outside and above the chamber 104, but a first portion of the motor 130 may be disposed within the chamber 104, and a second portion of the motor 130 may be disposed outside the chamber 104. For example, various embodiments of the motor are described in the aforementioned international patent application filed on May 13, 2022, with application number PCT / CN2022 / 092688 and titled “Agitator For A Carbonation System”.

[0054] Figure 2Another embodiment of a carbonation system 200 configured to form a carbonated fluid is shown. The carbonation system 200 of the illustrated embodiment includes an agitator (in Figure 2 The agitator 202 is labeled “impeller” in FIG. 1 , and includes a chamber 204 in which the agitator 202 is disposed and configured to rotate to form a carbonated fluid. Figure 2 The carbonation system 200 is generally similar to Figure 1 2. The carbonation system 100 of claim 1 is configured and used, for example, the carbonation system includes a liquid source 206, a flow meter 208, a pump 210, a gas source 212, a gas regulator 214 configured to regulate the amount of gas flowing from the gas source 212 to the chamber 204, a gas solenoid valve 216, an outlet valve 224, a first air pump 218 configured to drive the carbonated fluid out of the chamber through the outlet valve 224, an exhaust solenoid valve 220, a PRV 222, and a motor 230. As further discussed herein, the pressure within the chamber 204 is configured to drive the carbonated fluid out of the chamber 204 through the outlet valve 224 before the first air pump 218 is actuated to pump air into the chamber 204. In the illustrated embodiment, the liquid is water, so that the liquid source 206 is a water reservoir, but another liquid, such as juice, may be used. In the illustrated embodiment, the gas is CO 2 , so that the gas source 212 is CO 2 CO in cylinder form 2 214 is a 0.65 MPa gas regulator, but other gas regulators (e.g., as described above) may be used. In the illustrated embodiment, the container to which the carbonated fluid is dispensed via the outlet valve 224 is a cup, but another type of container may be used.

[0055] The carbonation system 200 further includes a first check valve 226 disposed between the high pressure pump 210 and the chamber 204. The first check valve 226 is configured to allow liquid to flow in a direction toward the chamber 204 only.

[0056] The carbonation system 200 also includes a second check valve 228 disposed between the first air pump 218 and the chamber 204. The second check valve 228 is configured to allow air to flow in a direction toward the chamber 204 only.

[0057] The carbonation system 200 also includes a back pressure PRV 232 in series with the exhaust solenoid valve 220, which is configured to adjust the headspace pressure in the chamber 204 to a selected value even if the exhaust solenoid valve 220 remains open. In this way, the timing of closing the exhaust solenoid valve 220 may not be critical to the correct operation of the system for dispensing. That is, the back pressure PRV 232 is configured to limit the rate at which gas escapes from the chamber 204, thereby avoiding very high depressurization rates that may cause agitation when bubbles remaining in the fluid in the chamber 204 expand. The back pressure PRV 232 is also configured to limit the pressure of the chamber 204 even if the air pump 218 is not regulated, which can allow a lower cost air pump 218 or use of a separate pump control loop via a pressure sensor. In this way, the back pressure PRV 232 can allow a lower system cost to be achieved, and the system is configured to effectively control dispensing.

[0058] The carbonation system 200 also includes a second air pump 234, a first consumable 236, a third air pump 238, and a second consumable 240. Each of the first consumable 236 and the second consumable 240 may include one or more additives, the one or more additives including any of various ingredients, the various ingredients including, for example, flavorings, colorants, vitamins, minerals, chemicals, other ingredients, or any suitable combination of the foregoing ingredients. The second air pump 234 is configured so that one or more first additives contained in the first consumable 236 (e.g., cups, bags, etc.) are dispensed into the cup (or other container). The third air pump 238 is configured so that one or more second additives contained in the second consumable 240 (e.g., cups, bags, etc.) are dispensed into the cup (or other container). The carbonation system 200 may be configured to allow the user to select which one or both of the first additive and the second additive are dispensed into the cup (or other container), and / or, to allow the user to select the amount of the selected one or more additives to be dispensed into the cup (or other container). The user may not select an additive. The selected one or more additives can be dispensed into the cup (or other container) before, after, or while dispensing the carbonated fluid. Various embodiments of a carbonation system configured to add one or more additives are described, for example, in U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 744,459, filed on May 13, 2022, entitled “Flavored Beverage Carbonation System,” which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The same or similar physical ingredients, functional ingredients, and techniques described in that application with respect to flavorings can be applied to other types of additives (e.g., as described herein).

[0059] Figure 2 The carbonation system 200 in the illustrated embodiment is configured to add one or more additives, but in other embodiments, the carbonation system 200 can be configured not to add any additives. Figure 4 and Figure 5 Another example of a carbonation system 400 configured to add additives is shown. Figure 1 and Figure 3 An example of a carbonation system 100, 300 is shown without any additives.

[0060] Figure 1 Carbonation system 100 and Figure 2 The carbonation system 200 of each includes an air pump 118, 218, which is configured to introduce air into their respective chambers 104, 204 to drive the flow of carbonated fluid, thereby dispensing carbonated fluid through outlet valves 128, 224. The use of air when dispensing carbonated fluid re-enriches the chamber 104, 204 with air in each mixing cycle, which then affects the next mixing cycle. In the next mixing cycle, the chamber 104, 204 is mainly filled with air during its filling of liquid, so during the filling cycle, carbon dioxide gas cannot begin to dissolve in the chamber 104, 204, but only dissolves in the next stage of the process in which the gas regulator 114, 214 supplies gas (e.g., high pressure gas) to the chamber 104, 204. The air pump 118, 218 is generally low-cost, but the flow rate provided by the air pump 118, 218 must be equal to or greater than the dispensing flow rate, for example, greater than or equal to 2L / min, to effectively dispense the carbonated fluid. In some embodiments, air in the chamber may be vented during liquid filling, for example using an exhaust solenoid valve 120 , 220 .

[0061] In other embodiments, the carbonation system does not use air (including its constituent gases), but can be configured to introduce a gas other than air from a gas source into the chamber to dispense the carbonated fluid through the outlet valve. In such embodiments, the pressure within the chamber is configured to be constant at the gas source (e.g., Figure 1 Gas source 112, Figure 2 212, etc.) is controlled by a gas regulator (e.g., Figure 1 Gas regulator 114, Figure 2 The treated fluid is driven out of the chamber through the outlet valve before actuating a gas regulator 214 (e.g., a gas regulator) to introduce gas into the chamber, wherein the gas regulator controls the injection rate of gas into the chamber. In the illustrative embodiment, the gas source from which gas is introduced into the chamber for dispensing the carbonated fluid is the same as the gas source that supplies gas to the chamber for treating the chamber (e.g., CO 2The gas source for the liquid in the tank (e.g., for mixing with the liquid) is the same gas source. When dispensing using a process gas rather than air, agitation can continue for a shorter amount of time because any process gas left in the chamber from a previous carbonation-dispensing cycle can begin to dissolve in the chamber as soon as the liquid begins to be introduced into the chamber, rather than waiting until filling with water is complete and / or agitation has begun. For example, when dispensing using air, adequate agitation can continue for 12 seconds, but when dispensing using gas from another gas source, adequate agitation can continue for only 10 seconds. In addition, without dilution, the effective concentration of gas in the headspace of the chamber may be increased due to residual air introduced into the chamber during an earlier cycle to assist in dispensing.

[0062] The valve used to introduce gas into the chamber for mixing purposes may be the same valve as the valve used to introduce gas into the chamber for dispensing purposes, or different valves may be used. If the same valve is used, the valve may be a proportional valve with a range of flow settings, or a digital valve that pulses open to accommodate the different introductions of gas for mixing and dispensing. The use of different valves may allow the use of a valve adapted for use at a much lower target pressure than the target pressure of a valve used when introducing gas for mixing purposes, since less gas is typically introduced for dispensing than for mixing, where a large amount of gas is typically introduced into the chamber very quickly.

[0063] Figure 3 One embodiment of a carbonation system 300 is shown that is configured to form a carbonated fluid and is configured to use a gas for dispensing the carbonated fluid. The carbonation system 300 includes an agitator (in Figure 3 The invention also provides a method for dispensing a carbonated fluid, wherein the agitator 302 is disposed in the chamber 304 and is configured to rotate to form a carbonated fluid. In addition to using gas for dispensing, Figure 3 The carbonation system 300 is generally similar to Figure 1 Carbonation system 100 and Figure 2The carbonation system 200 is configured and used, for example, and includes a liquid source 306, a flow meter 308, a pump 310 (e.g., a high pressure pump), a gas source 312, a gas regulator 314 configured to regulate the amount of gas flowing from the gas source 312 to the chamber 304, a first gas solenoid valve 316, an air pump 318, a first check valve 320, an exhaust solenoid valve 322, a PRV 324, a pressure sensor 326, a temperature sensor 328, a back pressure PRV 330, an outlet valve 332, a motor 334, and a second check valve 336. In the illustrated embodiment, the liquid is water, so that the liquid source 306 is a water reservoir, but another liquid, such as juice, can be used. In the illustrated embodiment, the gas is CO 2 , such that the gas source 312 is CO 2 cylinder, but another gas may be used. In the illustrated embodiment, the gas regulator 314 is a 0.8 MPa gas regulator, but other gas regulators (e.g., as described elsewhere herein) may be used. In the illustrated embodiment, the temperature sensor 328 is an NTC thermistor, but another type of temperature sensor may be used, or the temperature sensor may be omitted. When using a non-air source (e.g., from CO 2 In embodiments where gas from a tank (eg, a carbonation tank) is used to assist in dispensing the carbonated fluid, the air pump 318 and the first check valve 320 may be omitted.

[0064] The carbonation system 300 also includes a second gas solenoid valve 338 and a flow control needle valve 340 configured to allow gas to flow from the gas source 312 into the chamber 304 to cause the carbonated fluid to exit the chamber 304 for dispensing through the outlet valve 332. As further discussed herein, the pressure within the chamber 304 is configured to drive the carbonated fluid out of the chamber 304 through the outlet valve 332 before the gas source 312 is actuated to introduce gas into the chamber 304.

[0065] Figure 4 and Figure 5 Another embodiment of a carbonation system 400 configured to form a carbonated fluid is shown. Figure 4 The lid 402 of the carbonation system 400 is omitted in order to show the chamber 404 of the carbonation system. For example, various embodiments of the chamber are described in the international patent application PCT / CN2022 / 092688 filed on May 13, 2022, entitled "Agitator For A Carbonation System". The carbonation system 400 can have various configurations, such as with Figure 1 Carbonation system 100, Figure 2 Carbonation system 200 or Figure 3 The carbonation system 300 is similarly configured.

[0066] The carbonation system 400 includes a liquid source 406 in the form of a canister configured to be releasably coupled to a housing 408 of the carbonation system 400 in which the chamber 404 is located. Other liquid sources may be used, and the canister 406 may have any of a variety of configurations. A check valve (e.g., Figure 2 The first check valve 226 or Figure 3 The second check valve 336 of the carbonation system 400 can be configured to automatically open in response to the tank 406 being placed in the base (not shown) of the carbonation system 400 to allow the liquid (e.g., water) in the tank 406 to flow out of the tank 406 and into the chamber 404. For example, various embodiments of a carbonation system configured to be in selective fluid communication with a liquid reservoir (e.g., a tank) are described in the aforementioned U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17 / 744,459, filed on May 13, 2022, and entitled “Flavored Beverage Carbonation System.”

[0067] The chamber 404 is configured to receive liquid therein through a liquid inlet (obscured in the figure) that is operatively coupled to a liquid source 406 (e.g., through a liquid tube and / or other components), and is configured to receive gas therein through a gas inlet (obscured in the figure) that is operatively coupled to a liquid source 406 (e.g., through a liquid tube and / or other components), and is configured to receive gas therein through a gas inlet (obscured in the figure) that is operatively coupled to a gas source (obscured in the figure) of the carbonation system 300 (e.g., through a gas tube and / or other components). Excess gas that is not dispensed from the chamber 404 through the outlet valve is configured to exit the chamber 404 through an outlet (obscured in the figure) that is operatively coupled to a vent solenoid (obscured in the figure), such as a Figure 1 The exhaust solenoid 120, Figure 2 The exhaust solenoid 220, Figure 3 Exhaust solenoid 322, etc.

[0068] In the illustrated embodiment, the carbonation system 400 is configured to selectively dispense the first additive and the second additive from the first consumable 410 and the second consumable 412, respectively, into a container, which may also serve as a drip tray, placed on a container base 414 of the carbonation system 400. However, as discussed above, the carbonation system 400 may be configured without adding additives.

[0069] The carbonation system 400 also includes a processor disposed in the housing 408 ( Figure 4 and Figure 5 Generally speaking, the processor is configured to execute the memory (in the case of the housing 408) stored in the housing 408. Figure 4 and Figure 5 400, so that one or more first additives are dispensed from the first additive consumable 410, so that one or more second additives are dispensed from the second consumable 412, an alarm is triggered (e.g., a light is illuminated, a sound is emitted, etc.) to provide a user with information when the carbonated fluid has been dispensed from the carbonation system 400, etc. Other embodiments of the processing systems described herein (e.g., Figure 1 Carbonation system 100, Figure 2 Carbonation system 200, Figure 3 The carbonation system 300, etc.) similarly includes a processor.

[0070] Figure 6 The use of, for example, a carbonation system (e.g., Figure 1 Carbonation system 100, Figure 2 Carbonation system 200, Figure 3 Carbonation system 300, Figure 4 and Figure 5 Carbonation system 400, etc.) to mix liquid (e.g., water, juice, etc.) with gas (e.g., CO 2 ) to form an embodiment of a method 500 of treating a fluid. As discussed herein, an agitator disposed in a chamber (e.g., Figure 1 Agitator 102, Figure 2 Agitator 202, Figure 3 agitator 302, etc.) to mix liquid and gas in a chamber (e.g., Figure 1 Chamber 104, Figure 2 Chamber 204, Figure 3 Chamber 304, Figure 4 The following will be about Figure 7 Discussing method 500, Figure 7 The gas is CO 2 Graph of example operations of method 500 in the case of FIG. Figure 7 The graph in plots pressure (absolute pressure in bar) versus time (in seconds) for one mixing cycle.

[0071] Method 500 includes at time zero t 0 Liquid begins to be added 502 from a liquid source to the chamber, and at time zero t 0 The first time after 1 Gas is started to be added 504 from a gas source to the chamber. Figure 7 It shows that at time zero t 0 With the first time t 1Since liquid is added 502 to the chamber, in this example, at a first time t 1 Before starting to add 504 gas, a pressure of about 1 bar is accumulated in the chamber (e.g., the head space of the chamber). If the chamber gas contains a large amount of air, then at the first time t 1 Previously, excess pressure in the chamber may reduce the maximum amount of gas concentration that can be achieved. Method 500 may include using a vent solenoid (e.g., Figure 1 The exhaust solenoid 120, Figure 2 The exhaust solenoid 220, Figure 3 332, etc.) to minimize excess pressure within the chamber during addition 502, thereby increasing the achievable concentration of the treated gas. That is, during the addition of liquid to the chamber, the exhaust solenoid can be opened to reduce the pressure generated by the addition of the liquid. In the illustrated embodiment, the addition of liquid 502 to the chamber is started before the addition of gas 504 to the chamber is started, and the addition of liquid 502 to the chamber is stopped before the addition of gas 504 to the chamber is started. In other embodiments, particularly those in which the chamber is already enriched with treated gas due to the use of the same treated gas for dispensing, the addition of gas 504 to the chamber can be started before the addition of liquid 502 to the chamber is started. In other embodiments, the gas and liquid can be added 502, 504 to the chamber at overlapping times (either completely or partially overlapping).

[0072] In the case of liquid and gas in the chamber, the motor (e.g. Figure 1 Motor 130, Figure 2 Motor 230, Figure 3 The motor 334, etc.) at the first time t 1 The motor may be activated 506 to drive the rotation of the agitator in the chamber and form a processed fluid. In contrast, the motor may be activated 506 after the gas has been added 504 to the chamber. As described herein, the rotation of the agitator mixes the gas in the chamber with the liquid so that the gas dissolves in the liquid. The motor may be activated 506 in any number of ways. For example, the motor may be automatically (e.g., by a processor of a processing system including the motor, which may be a processor of the motor in some embodiments, and may be a processor of the entire processing system in other embodiments) activated 506 in response to the end of adding 502, 504 each of the liquid and the gas to the chamber to ensure that when mixing with the agitator is started, all gases and liquids located in the chamber are intended to be in the chamber.

[0073] During stirring, at the second time t 2Adding gas to the chamber is stopped. Stopping the addition of gas to the chamber allows the headspace in the chamber (e.g., the space above the liquid fill level in the chamber) to partially equilibrate with the liquid in the chamber. Figure 7 As shown, from the first time t 1 Begin adding 504 gas to the chamber at a second time t 2 When the gas is stopped from being added to the chamber, the pressure in the chamber is substantially maintained at a level that is slightly below 8 bar in the illustrated embodiment. In some embodiments, from the first time t 1 Begin adding 504 gas to the chamber at a second time t 2 When the gas is stopped from being added to the chamber, the pressure in the chamber can be maintained at a different level, for example, 6.5 bar. In addition, in other embodiments, after the first time t 1 To the second time t 2 During the addition of gas to the chamber, the pressure in the chamber may fluctuate up and down. The processor of the processing system may be configured to adjust the timing and amount of gas addition to achieve a target dissolved gas concentration ready for dispensing.

[0074] Thereafter, at the third time t 3 The motor is stopped 508 to stop causing the agitator to rotate. Figure 7 It shows that at the third time t 3 Thereafter, stirring continues for a period of time while the agitator and a mass of agitated fluid are slowed to completely stop rotation and sedimentation prior to dispensing the treated fluid. Allowing the treated fluid to settle will allow the bubbles to separate from the liquid before the headspace pressure of the chamber is released. The motor can be configured to stop 508 in any of a variety of ways. For example, the motor can be configured to drive the agitator to rotate for a predetermined amount of time. The processor of the processing system can be configured to determine whether a predetermined amount of time has passed, for example, by using a counter or other timer. For another example, the motor can be configured to drive the rotation of the agitator until a threshold condition of at least one measured parameter (e.g., the temperature within the chamber or the pressure within the chamber) is met. The rate of change of the at least one measured parameter can be used as a measure of approaching equilibrium, and therefore as a measure of completion of the process. In the example of pressure, the rate of change of pressure can be measured after gas has been stopped from being added to the chamber. The processor of the processing system can be configured to, for example, by connecting a pressure sensor (e.g., Figure 1 Pressure sensor 124, Figure 3 The pressure measured by the pressure sensor 326 (e.g., Figure 1 Temperature sensor 126, Figure 3The temperature measured by the temperature sensor 328 (e.g., a temperature sensor 328) is compared with a threshold temperature value to determine whether the threshold condition has been met. The processing of the threshold may include using a derivative or combination of the measurement results to determine the optimal trigger point.

[0075] At the fourth time t 4 , after the motor has stopped 508 and the agitator has completely stopped rotating, and before starting to be re-energized by the exhaust solenoid (e.g., Figure 1 Exhaust solenoid valve 120, Figure 2 Exhaust solenoid valve 220, Figure 3 The headspace continues to partially or completely equalize the pressure before the pressure is released 510 from the chamber to the atmosphere or to a second chamber by a vent solenoid valve 322, etc. The pause between the complete cessation of rotation of the agitator and the start of the pressure release 510 can allow the treated fluid in the chamber to calm down as bubbles have risen into the headspace in the chamber. Starting to release 510 pressure from the chamber before dispensing the treated fluid helps prevent the treated fluid from leaving the chamber at a very high rate, which would prevent the treated fluid from being properly dispensed into the container.

[0076] When the pressure is released 510 from the chamber, and before gas is introduced 518 into the chamber to drive the processed fluid to be dispensed from the chamber into a container (e.g., a cup, a bottle, etc.), at a fifth time t 5 , the pressure in the chamber drives the processed fluid to begin to flow 514 out of the chamber and out of the processing system to the container. Figure 7 As shown, the filling level in the chamber at the fifth time t 5 It starts to decline. Figure 7 As shown, at the fifth time t 5 The agitation of the processed fluid is stopped before dispensing begins 514, so that the processed fluid does not move excessively within the chamber when dispensing begins 514. As discussed herein, the processed fluid passes through an already opened outlet valve of the processing system (e.g., via Figure 1 Outlet valve 128, Figure 2 Outlet valve 224, Figure 3 The outlet valve 332 of the chamber, etc.) leaves the processing system to a container (e.g., a cup, a bottle, etc.). When the outlet is opened, the pressure in the chamber allows the processed fluid to begin 514 to flow out of the chamber toward and through the outlet valve due to the pressure difference between the atmospheric pressure outside the chamber and the pressure above atmospheric pressure inside the chamber. The chamber has an opening at its bottom through which the processed fluid is configured to flow toward the outlet valve. Thus, gravity assists the processed fluid to flow out of the chamber toward the outlet valve.

[0077] In response to determining 512 (e.g., determined by a processor of the processing system) that a first threshold has been met, the outlet valve is opened to allow dispensing to begin 514. In one embodiment, the first threshold is a pressure threshold. In such an embodiment, the pressure within the chamber is compared to a first predetermined threshold pressure value to determine 512 whether the first threshold has been met. For various examples, the first predetermined threshold pressure value can be approximately 0.03 bar specification, approximately 0.05 bar specification, or approximately 0.1 bar specification. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that due to any number of factors (e.g., manufacturing tolerances and sensitivity of the measuring equipment), a value may not be exactly that value, but is still considered to be approximately that value. Typically, the first predetermined threshold pressure value depends on the flow resistance to the outlet valve and the target flow rate. Low flow resistance and low drive pressure for dispensing the treated fluid can retain the maximum amount of dissolved gas in the dispensed treated fluid. For example, a pressure sensor (e.g., Figure 1 Pressure sensor 124, Figure 3 The pressure in the chamber is measured using a pressure sensor 326 (e.g., a pressure sensor 326 configured to measure the pressure in the chamber and communicatively coupled to a processor of the processing system, which is configured to control the opening and closing of the outlet valve. If it is determined 512 that the pressure in the chamber is equal to or less than a first predetermined threshold pressure value, the first threshold is met, thereby allowing the pressure in the chamber to begin 514 leaving the chamber and flowing out of the processing system to the container. In this way, once the pressure in the chamber has been sufficiently low, the processed fluid can leave the chamber at a rate low enough not to be ejected from the processing system (e.g., not flowing out of the outlet valve too quickly) due to the release 510 of the pressure from the chamber.

[0078] The treated fluid is a supersaturated fluid with dissolved gas, so controlling the dispensing pressure of the treated fluid allows control of a very low pressure above atmospheric pressure at which such a supersaturated solution is optimally dispensed. In method 500, the pressure within the chamber may be measured relative to the atmospheric pressure at that time to prevent behavioral deviations caused by high or low atmospheric pressure due to weather or altitude.

[0079] In some embodiments, the first predetermined threshold pressure value can be selected to be a selected multiple of the gravity head pressure of the processed fluid, such as 5 or 10 times the gravity head pressure. In this way, the forced gas pressure does not result in a flow rate greater than the selected multiple of the gravity head pressure, and the method 500 takes into account different geometric sizes and fill levels of the chamber.

[0080] The first predetermined threshold pressure value can be adjusted by the system (e.g., the processor of the processing system) to take into account the change of fluid temperature and / or correction fluid viscosity. The first predetermined threshold pressure value can be adjusted based on the user's selection of size (e.g., the selection of beverage size) so that large and small sizes (e.g., large beverages and small beverages) are distributed in a more consistent time period. The first predetermined threshold pressure value can be adjusted to take into account the carbonation or supersaturation level of the selected processed fluid. Compared with weakly processed fluids (e.g., weakly carbonated fluids), highly processed fluids (e.g., highly carbonated fluids) are more sensitive to processing losses (e.g., carbonation losses) during distribution. In order to provide the highest possible processing level (e.g., carbonation level) in the distributed processed fluid, relative to the lower selected carbonation level, for very high carbonation levels, the distribution flow rate can be reduced. The lower flow rate is caused by adjusting to a lower distribution start threshold pressure and a lower mandatory gas target pressure.

[0081] In another embodiment, the first threshold is a time threshold. In such an embodiment, when it is determined 512 that the time elapsed from the end of stopping 508 the motor is equal to or greater than the first predetermined threshold time value, the processed fluid in the chamber begins 514 to leave the chamber and flow out of the processing system to the container. The predetermined threshold time value can be, for example, in the range of about 2 seconds to about 5 seconds. For example, a counter or other timer can be used to measure the elapsed time. Figure 7 As shown, at the third time t 3 The pressure in the chamber decreases after the motor has stopped 508. Therefore, waiting to open the outlet valve until a predetermined amount of time has passed since stopping 508 the motor allows the pressure in the chamber to have time to decrease.

[0082] Rather than measuring the time elapsed from the time the motor was stopped 508, the time elapsed from the time the motor was activated 506 may be used to determine 512 whether the first threshold has been met. If it is determined 512 that the time elapsed from the time the motor was activated 506 is equal to or greater than the first predetermined threshold time value, the processed fluid in the chamber begins 514 to leave the chamber and flow out of the processing system to the container. For example, the first predetermined threshold time value may be in the range of about 10 seconds to about 15 seconds. Figure 7 As shown, at the first time t 1 After the motor has been started 506, the pressure in the chamber will eventually decrease. Therefore, waiting to open the outlet valve until a predetermined amount of time has passed since the motor was started 506 allows the pressure in the chamber to have time to decrease.

[0083] Rather than using, for example, a counter or other timer of the processing system to measure the time elapsed since stopping 508 the motor or the time elapsed since the motor was started 506, the time elapsed since gas was stopped from being added to the chamber may be used to determine 512 whether the first threshold has been met. If it is determined 512 that the time elapsed since gas was stopped from being added to the chamber is equal to or greater than the first predetermined threshold time value, the processed fluid in the chamber begins 514 to leave the chamber and flow out of the processing system to the container. The first predetermined threshold time value may range, for example, from about 10 seconds to about 15 seconds from when the outlet valve is opened. If the time elapsed since gas was stopped from being added to the chamber is equal to or greater than the first predetermined threshold time value, the processed fluid in the chamber begins 514 to leave the chamber and flow out of the processing system to the container. The first predetermined threshold time value may range, for example, from about 10 seconds to about 15 seconds from when the outlet valve is opened. Figure 7 As shown, at the second time t 2 , when gas is stopped from being added to the chamber, the pressure within the chamber will begin to drop. Therefore, waiting to open the outlet valve until a predetermined amount of time has passed since gas has been stopped from being added to the chamber and after the chamber has begun to be vented allows the pressure within the chamber time to drop.

[0084] In some embodiments, only a pressure threshold is used as the first threshold. In other embodiments, only a time threshold is used as the first threshold. In still other embodiments, both a pressure threshold and a time threshold are used as the first threshold. In such embodiments, regardless of which threshold (pressure threshold or time threshold) is met 512 first, the pressure within the chamber is used to trigger the start 514 of dispensing to drive the flow of the processed fluid.

[0085] like Figure 7 As shown, at the fifth time t 5 , dispensing of the treated fluid has begun 514, and pressure is still being released from the chamber. 5 The sixth time t 6 , start 518 forcing gas into the chamber to drive the processed fluid out of the chamber. The exhaust solenoid (e.g., Figure 1 The exhaust solenoid 120, Figure 2 The exhaust solenoid 220, Figure 3, exhaust solenoid 332, etc.) so that exhaust does not reduce the ability of the gas forced into the chamber to maintain chamber pressure while the treated fluid continues to be dispensed. In this way, all of the gas forced into the chamber can be used to maintain pressure, and no gas forced into the chamber is lost by flowing through the exhaust path. The gas forced into the chamber cooperates with gravity and the residual headspace pressure in the chamber to drive the carbonated fluid out of the chamber until dispensing is completed. If any pressure above atmospheric pressure remains in the chamber, the gas also cooperates with the chamber pressure until the residual partial pressure in the chamber has equalized atmospheric pressure, at which point the flow of the carbonated fluid is driven solely by the forced gas until dispensing is completed. By providing a compensatory increase in forced gas pressure during dispensing, forcing gas into the chamber during dispensing can compensate for the reduction in gravity assistance when dispensing the treated fluid, which can help achieve consistency in dispensing rate. As discussed herein, the gas introduced into the chamber to drive the flow can be using an air pump (e.g., Figure 1 Air pump 118, Figure 2 The gas introduced into the chamber to drive the treated fluid out of the chamber may be a gas introduced by a first air pump 218, etc. (the air pump forces air into the chamber to drive the treated fluid out of the chamber), or the gas introduced into the chamber to drive the treated fluid out of the chamber may be the same type of gas that is mixed with the liquid to form the treated fluid, so that the gas from the gas source (e.g., Figure 1 Gas source 112, Figure 2 Gas source 212, Figure 3 A gas from a gas source 312, etc., enters the chamber, such as by a gas regulator (e.g., Figure 1 Gas regulator 114, Figure 2 Gas regulator 214, Figure 3 The gas flow rate is regulated by a gas regulator 314 to drive the processed fluid out of the chamber.

[0086] In response to determining 516 (e.g., determined by a processor of a processing system) that a second threshold has been met, introduction of gas into the chamber is initiated 518. In one embodiment, the second threshold is a pressure threshold. In such an embodiment, the pressure within the chamber is compared to a second predetermined threshold pressure value to determine 516 whether the second threshold has been met. For various examples, the second predetermined threshold pressure value may be approximately 0.03 bar gauge, approximately 0.05 bar gauge, or approximately 0.1 bar gauge. For example, a pressure sensor (e.g., Figure 1 Pressure sensor 124, Figure 3The pressure in the chamber is measured by a pressure sensor 326 (e.g., a pressure sensor configured to measure the pressure in the chamber and communicatively coupled to a processor of the processing system, which is configured to control the introduction of gas into the chamber, for example by controlling actuation of an air pump or a gas source. If it is determined 516 that the pressure in the chamber is equal to or less than a second predetermined threshold pressure value, then the second threshold is met.

[0087] In another embodiment, the second threshold is a time threshold. In such an embodiment, when it is determined 516 that the time elapsed from the start 514 of dispensing the processed fluid is equal to or greater than a second predetermined threshold time value, the gas begins 518 to be introduced into the chamber. The second predetermined threshold time value can, for example, be in the range of about 2 seconds to about 8 seconds. For example, a counter or other timer can be used to measure the elapsed time.

[0088] In some embodiments, only the pressure threshold is used as the second threshold. In other embodiments, only the time threshold is used as the second threshold. In still other embodiments, both the pressure threshold and the time threshold are used as the second threshold. In such embodiments, whichever threshold (the pressure threshold or the time threshold) is met 516 first, the start 518 of introducing the gas into the chamber is triggered.

[0089] Continue to introduce gas into the chamber until it is determined 520 (for example, determined by the processor of the processing system) that the third threshold value is met. Gas can be introduced into the chamber according to pressure distribution, and the pressure distribution makes the processed fluid basically stably flow out of the chamber without sputtering at the end of distribution. Those skilled in the art will understand that due to any number of factors (for example, the sensitivity of the measuring device), the flow may not be precisely stable, but is still considered to be basically stable. When the filling level of the processed fluid in the chamber is close to zero, a certain amount of processed fluid distributed at last tends to sputter out from the outlet valve, and causes the droplets of the processed fluid to splash outside the container intended to distribute the processed liquid therein. Controlling the introduction of gas into the chamber according to pressure distribution can reduce sputtering, including eliminating sputtering. Controlling the introduction of gas into the chamber by controlling an air pump or a gas regulator (for example, by a processor of the control air pump or gas regulator of the processing system).

[0090] In some embodiments, the pressure profile is a predetermined substantially steady flow of gas into the chamber that does not vary over time as the gas is introduced into the chamber.

[0091] In some embodiments, the pressure profile is configured to vary over time when the forced gas is introduced into the chamber, for example, at a sixth time t 6 The seventh time t of the stop allocation 7In this way, the amount of gas introduced into the chamber can vary over time, while the amount of force used to introduce the gas into the chamber varies over time, which can help ensure that the treated fluid is dispensed at a substantially constant rate. The pressure profile can be varied in a variety of ways. For example, the pressure profile can be configured to vary based on the carbonation level. As another example, the pressure profile can be configured to vary based on the fill level within the chamber. The fill level provides a known pressure contribution to the force driving the dispensing of the treated fluid. This contribution is a linear function of the height of the liquid above the outlet within the chamber. Since the geometric dimensions of the chamber and outlet are known, the processor of the processing system can apply a linear correction (increase) to the forced gas pressure to account for the drop in gravitational head pressure. For example, a temperature sensor (e.g., Figure 1 Temperature sensor 126, Figure 3 The temperature sensor 328 of the embodiment of the present invention is configured to measure the temperature in the chamber, and is communicatively coupled to a processor of the processing system, which is configured to control the introduction of gas into the chamber, for example, by controlling the actuation of an air pump or a gas source. For another example, the pressure profile can be configured to change based on the relationship between the flow resistance of the outlet valve and time.

[0092] As described above, gas is introduced into the chamber to drive the processed fluid out of the chamber until it is determined 520 (e.g., by a processor of the processing system) that a third threshold is met. In one embodiment, the third threshold is a pressure threshold. In such an embodiment, the pressure within the chamber is compared to a third predetermined threshold pressure value to determine whether 520 has met the third threshold. Typically, the third predetermined threshold pressure value represents the pressure reached when the chamber has been substantially emptied of the processed fluid and the distribution path is available for gas to begin flowing out through the distribution path. Since the viscosity of the gas is much lower than that of the liquid, the chamber pressure will drop further sharply during the transition from the distribution of the processed fluid to the distribution of the gas. The system (e.g., the processor of the processing system) can be configured to detect the rate of change of the chamber pressure to detect the event and determine whether 520 has met the third threshold. Alternatively, a suitable low pressure (e.g., approximately 0.001 bar specification or other value) above the ambient pressure can be selected to determine whether 520 has met the third threshold. For example, a pressure sensor (e.g., Figure 1 Pressure sensor 124, Figure 3 The pressure sensor 326 of the processing system is configured to measure the pressure in the chamber and is communicatively coupled to a processor of the processing system, which is configured to control the introduction of gas into the chamber, for example by controlling the actuation of an air pump or a gas source. If it is determined 520 that the pressure in the chamber is equal to or less than the third predetermined threshold pressure value, the third threshold is satisfied, and at the seventh time t 7The introduction of gas into the chamber is stopped 522, and dispensing is stopped.

[0093] In another embodiment, the third threshold is a time threshold. In such an embodiment, when it is determined 520 that the time elapsed since the start 518 of introducing the gas into the chamber is equal to or greater than the third predetermined threshold time value, the introduction of the gas into the chamber is stopped 522. In general, the third predetermined threshold time value can vary based on the carbonation level. The third predetermined threshold time value can, for example, be in the range of about 2 seconds to about 6 seconds. For example, a counter or other timer can be used to measure the elapsed time. If it is determined 520 that the elapsed time is equal to or greater than the third predetermined threshold temperature value, then the third threshold is satisfied, and at the seventh time t 7 The introduction of gas into the chamber is stopped 522, and dispensing is stopped.

[0094] In another embodiment, the third threshold is a temperature threshold. In such an embodiment, the temperature within the chamber is compared to a third predetermined threshold temperature value to determine 520 whether the third threshold has been met. For example, the third predetermined temperature time value can be in the range of about 45°F to about 50°F. For example, a temperature sensor (e.g., Figure 1 Temperature sensor 126, Figure 3 The temperature within the chamber is measured by a temperature sensor 328, etc., which is configured to measure the temperature within the chamber and is communicatively coupled to a processor of the processing system, which is configured to control the introduction of gas into the chamber, for example by controlling the actuation of an air pump or a gas source. If it is determined 520 that the temperature within the chamber is equal to or less than the third predetermined threshold temperature value, the third threshold is satisfied, and at the seventh time t 7 The introduction of gas into the chamber is stopped 522, and dispensing is stopped.

[0095] In some embodiments, only the pressure threshold is used as the third threshold. In other embodiments, only the time threshold is used as the third threshold. In still other embodiments, a combination of any two or more of the pressure threshold, the temperature threshold, and the time threshold is used as the third threshold. In such embodiments, no matter which threshold (pressure threshold, temperature threshold, or time threshold) is met first at 520, the third threshold is reached at the seventh time t 7 Triggering stop 522 introduces gas into the chamber and stops dispensing.

[0096] The method 500 may be repeated any number of times to form and dispense a treated fluid.

[0097] Figure 8 Another diagram is shown, which illustrates another example operation of the method 500. Except as described below, the method 500 is generally as described above with reference to Figure 7 Execute as discussed. Figure 8 The graph plots pressure versus time for one mixing cycle.

[0098] The method 500 as discussed above occurs by adding 502 a liquid to a chamber of a processing system, adding 504 a gas to the chamber, starting 506 a motor to drive rotation of an agitator in the chamber and forming a processed fluid, and stopping 508 the motor to stop causing rotation of the agitator. Figure 8 The first time t shown in a , opening the exhaust port to begin to release pressure, for example, through an exhaust solenoid (e.g., Figure 1 Exhaust solenoid valve 120, Figure 2 Exhaust solenoid valve 220, Figure 3 The exhaust solenoid valve 322 of the chamber releases 510 to the atmosphere or to the second chamber. a , the pressure in the chamber reaches the first threshold pressure P 排气 , which triggers the opening of the exhaust port.

[0099] Keep the exhaust port open until the pressure in the chamber reaches b has dropped to the second threshold pressure P 力 At the second time t b , the pressure in the chamber reaches the second threshold pressure P 力 , which triggers the closing of the exhaust port of the processing system and the opening of the outlet valve. Therefore, as the outlet valve becomes open, the pressure in the chamber reaches the second threshold pressure P 力 This triggers the start 514 of dispensing of the processed fluid from the chamber. The precise timing of exhaust port closing and outlet valve opening for dispensing and forced gas introduction can be adjusted to account for the transient behavior of starting flow.

[0100] like Figure 8 As shown, due to the second time t b Dispensing of the processed fluid has begun 514, and pressure is still being released from the chamber, where the pressure drops to a second threshold pressure P 力 At the third time t c , begin 518 forcing gas into the chamber to drive the processed fluid out of the chamber. As discussed above, in response to determining 516 (e.g., by a processor of the processing system) that the second threshold has been met, begin 518 forcing gas (at Figure 8 t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t d At 522 the introduction of gas into the chamber is stopped and dispensing stops. Figure 8The forced gas pressure is shown rising upward to compensate for the drop in gravity head pressure. The sum of the forced gas pressure and gravity head pressure provides the resulting uniform drive for flow. In one example, the gravity head pressure at the beginning is about 8 millibars, compared to a total drive pressure of about 50 millibars.

[0101] As described above, the processing system may include a processor, such as a microcontroller or other type of processor including a processor and a memory. Figure 6 In method 500, a processor of the processing system can be configured to start 506 a motor (e.g., by sending a control signal to the motor), stop 508 a motor (e.g., by sending a control signal to the motor), begin releasing 510 pressure from the chamber (e.g., by sending a control signal to an exhaust solenoid of the processing system, the control signal causing the exhaust solenoid to open), determine 512 whether a threshold has been met (e.g., by comparing a measured value to a predetermined threshold stored in a memory accessible to the processor), allow dispensing 514 of a processed fluid to begin from the chamber by opening an outlet valve of the processing system (e.g., by sending a control signal to the outlet valve causing the outlet valve to open), and close the outlet valve after dispensing of the processed fluid has been completed (e.g., by sending a control signal to the outlet valve causing the outlet valve to close).

[0102] The subject matter described herein can be implemented in analog electronic circuits, digital electronic circuits, and / or computer software, firmware or hardware, including the structural devices disclosed in this specification and their structural equivalents, or a combination thereof. The subject matter described herein can be implemented as one or more computer program products, such as one or more computer programs tangibly embodied in an information carrier (e.g., in a machine-readable storage device) or embodied in a propagation signal, for use by a data processing device (e.g., a programmable processor, a computer or multiple computers) to perform or control its operation. Computer programs (also referred to as programs, algorithms, software, software applications, or codes) can be written in any form of programming language (including compiled or interpreted languages), and can be deployed in any form, including as independent programs or as modules, components, subroutines or other units for computing environments. A computer program does not necessarily correspond to a file. A program can be stored in a portion of a file that holds other programs or data, in a single file dedicated to the program in question, or in multiple coordinated files (e.g., files storing one or more modules, subroutines or code portions).

[0103] The processes and logic flows described in this specification (including the method steps of the subject matter described herein) can be performed by one or more programmable processors that execute one or more computer programs to perform the functions of the subject matter described herein by operating input data and generating output. The processes and logic flows can also be performed by special-purpose logic circuits, and the apparatus of the subject matter described herein can be implemented as special-purpose logic circuits, such as Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) or Application-Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs).

[0104] For example, processors suitable for executing computer programs include general-purpose microprocessors and special-purpose microprocessors, and any one or more processors of any type of digital computer. Typically, the processor will receive instructions and data from a read-only memory or a random access memory or both. The basic elements of a computer are a processor for executing instructions and one or more memory devices for storing instructions and data. Typically, a computer will also include one or more mass storage devices (e.g., magnetic disks, magneto-optical disks, or optical disks) for storing data, or operatively coupled to the one or more mass storage devices for storing data to receive data from or transmit data to the one or more mass storage devices, or to receive data from or transmit data to the one or more mass storage devices. Information carriers suitable for containing computer program instructions and data include all forms of non-volatile memory, including, for example, semiconductor memory devices (e.g., EPROM, EEPROM, and flash memory devices). The processor and memory may be supplemented by or incorporated into a dedicated logic circuit.

[0105] The technology described herein can be implemented using one or more modules. As used herein, the term "module" refers to computing software, firmware, hardware and / or various combinations thereof. However, at least, a module should not be interpreted as software that is not implemented on hardware, firmware or recorded on a non-transient processor-readable recording storage medium (that is, the module itself is not software). In fact, a "module" should be interpreted as always including at least some physical, non-transient hardware, such as a part of a processor or a computer. Two different modules can share the same physical hardware (for example, two different modules can use the same processor). The modules described herein can be combined, integrated, separated, and / or copied to support various applications. In addition, the functions described herein as being performed at a specific module can be performed at one or more other modules and / or by one or more other devices, to replace the functions performed at the specific module, or as a supplement to the functions performed at the specific module.

[0106] Those skilled in the art will appreciate further features and advantages of the devices, systems and methods based on the above-described embodiments. Therefore, the present disclosure is not limited to what has been particularly shown and described, except as shown in the appended claims. All contents of all publications and references cited herein are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

[0107] The present disclosure is described above by way of example only in the context of the overall disclosure provided herein. It should be understood that modifications can be made within the spirit and scope of the claims without departing from the overall scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A method, comprising: forming a treated fluid in a chamber of a treatment system, the chamber having an initial pressure after forming the treated fluid; exhausting pressure from the chamber over a period of time; at a first point in time during the time period, initiating dispensing of the treated fluid from the treatment system, the chamber having a first pressure at the first point in time that is less than the initial pressure, and wherein the first pressure assists in causing dispensing of the treated fluid from the treatment system; and At a second point in time during the dispensing of the processed fluid, a first gas is input into the chamber, the chamber having a second pressure at the second point in time, the second pressure being less than the first pressure, and wherein the input of the first gas assists in dispensing the processed fluid from the processing system.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein: The treated fluid is dispensed at a substantially steady flow rate from the first time point to the end of dispensing.

3. The method according to claim 2, further comprising: The flow rate of the first gas input into the chamber is controlled to maintain the substantially constant flow rate.

4. The method according to claim 3, wherein: Controlling the flow rate includes varying the flow rate during the dispensing.

5. The method according to claim 1, wherein: Forming the treated fluid includes adding a liquid to the chamber, adding carbon dioxide to the chamber, and agitating the liquid and the carbon dioxide in the chamber.

6. The method according to claim 5, wherein: The stirring is performed simultaneously with the adding of the carbon dioxide.

7. The method according to claim 6, wherein: The stirring was continued after the addition of the carbon dioxide was stopped.

8. The method according to claim 5, further comprising: After an initial period of time from the start of adding the carbon dioxide, the pressure in the chamber is substantially maintained at a predetermined level until the addition of the carbon dioxide is stopped.

9. The method according to claim 1, wherein: forming the treated fluid comprises mixing a liquid introduced into the chamber with a second gas introduced into the chamber; and The second gas is a gas of the same type as the first gas, or the second gas is a gas of a different type than the first gas.

10. The method according to claim 9, wherein: The liquid is water and the second gas is carbon dioxide.

11. The method according to claim 1, wherein: forming the treated fluid comprises mixing a liquid introduced into the chamber with carbon dioxide introduced into the chamber; and The first gas is air, or the first gas is carbon dioxide.

12. The method according to claim 1, wherein: Initiating dispensing of the treated fluid includes opening a valve of the treatment system.

13. The method according to claim 1, wherein: Venting the pressure includes opening a valve in a head space above the processed fluid in the chamber.

14. A system, comprising: a liquid source, the liquid source comprising a liquid therein; a gas source, the gas source containing a gas therein; a chamber configured to receive therein a liquid from the liquid source and a gas from the gas source, a processed fluid configured to be produced in the chamber by mixing the liquid with the gas in the chamber; an outlet having an open position, the outlet being configured to dispense the treated fluid therethrough; a vent operatively coupled to the chamber and configured to move from a closed position to an open position prior to commencing dispensing of the treated fluid so as to vent pressure from within the chamber, the vent being configured to remain in the open position upon commencing dispensing of the treated fluid; as well as a processor configured to control the opening of the outlet so that the treated fluid begins to flow out of the outlet during the venting of the pressure, and the processor is further configured to control the force introduced into the chamber after the outlet has been opened so that the treated fluid continues to flow out of the outlet after the pressure has ceased to be vented from the chamber.

15. The system of claim 14, wherein: The processor controlling the force includes the processor controlling a gas regulator operatively coupled to the gas source.

16. The system of claim 14, wherein: The processor controlling the force includes the processor controlling an air pump configured to introduce air into the chamber after the dispensing has begun.

17. The system of claim 14, wherein: The processor controls the force to allow the treated fluid to be dispensed at a substantially constant flow rate.

18. The system of claim 14, wherein: The processor is configured to cause the outlet to open in response to determining that a first threshold has been met; The force is configured to: begin being introduced into the chamber in response to the processor determining that a second threshold has been met; and The processor is configured to, in response to determining that a third threshold has been met, cause the outlet to close.

19. The system of claim 14, further comprising: an agitator configured to agitate the liquid and the gas in the chamber to form a processed fluid; as well as A motor is configured to drive rotation of the agitator within the chamber.

20. The system of claim 14, wherein: The liquid is water, the gas is carbon dioxide, and the treated fluid is a carbonated fluid.

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