Filter life detection via dynamic pressure measurement

Abstract

A sensor coupled to the computer can sense a pressure of the buffer tank. The computer can determine a start of dispensing a beverage from the beverage dispenser. The computer can determine that an elapsed time from the start of dispensing the beverage reaches a predetermined duration threshold. The computer can measure a particular pressure of the buffer tank when the elapsed time is determined to reach the predefined duration threshold. The computer can determine that the particular pressure falls below a predefined pressure threshold. In response to the particular pressure falling below the predefined pressure threshold at the elapsed time, the computer can generate a command to replace a water filter of the beverage dispenser.

Description

Cross-references to related applications

[0001] This application claims the benefit and priority of U.S. Application No. 18 / 545,987, filed on December 19, 2023, entitled “FILTER LIFE DETECTION VIADYNAMIC PRESSURE MEASUREMENT,” the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0002] The systems and processes of this invention generally relate to the automatic assessment of the lifespan of filters within a beverage dispensing system. Background Technology

[0003] Beverage dispensing systems are commonly used in restaurants and office buildings to provide consumers with access to a variety of beverage options. In some configurations, the system includes flavoring syrups or additives that are mixed with a diluent to produce the desired beverage. The diluent is typically non-carbonated or carbonated water. In some cases, water sourced directly from a water source (e.g., municipal water) contains contaminants that are undesirable in flavored beverages. Therefore, it is often beneficial to filter the water to remove such contaminants.

[0004] Various filter types can be used to remove contaminants from source water. However, in most cases, filters have a limited lifespan because they can become clogged with filtered contaminants over time. Therefore, determining whether a filter is still effective is a necessary step to ensure optimal performance of the beverage dispensing system. As a filter approaches the end of its life, it may gradually restrict the flow of water through it. When a filter reaches the end of its life, it should be replaced with a new one. Replacing a filter before it reaches the end of its life adds unnecessary costs, while replacing it after it has reached the end of its life may prevent the beverage dispensing system from operating correctly.

[0005] Therefore, there is a long-standing but unresolved need for systems or processes that allow for computerized testing of filter lifespan in beverage dispensing systems without the need for manual testing. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Briefly described, and according to one embodiment, aspects of this disclosure generally relate to systems and processes for automated filter life detection based on dynamic pressure measurements. In a beverage dispensing system comprising a water source, a filter, and a buffer tank connected in series, the system pressure depends in part on the quality of the water filter. Specifically, if the filter ceases to function (e.g., clogged or damaged), the system pressure measured downstream of the filter decreases relative to the baseline system pressure. For example, a non-functional filter can cause a decrease in downstream pressure when the filter is located between the water source and the buffer tank. By measuring the pressure at specific points in time relative to the start and end of beverage dispensing, it is thus possible to determine whether the filter needs to be replaced.

[0007] The system can generate predictive models to assess the remaining lifespan of a filter. Specifically, the system can iteratively measure the system pressure relative to a specific assigned point throughout the filter's entire lifespan and assess the filter's remaining service life based on the trajectory of the system pressure measurements and the pattern of the assigned volume over time. Attached Figure Description

[0008] The accompanying drawings illustrate one or more embodiments and / or aspects of this disclosure and, together with the written description, serve to explain the principles of this disclosure. Where possible, throughout the drawings, the same reference numerals are used to refer to the same or similar elements of the embodiments, and wherein:

[0009] Figure 1A The figures illustrate beverage dispensing environments according to different embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0010] Figure 1B The figures illustrate beverage dispensing environments according to different embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0011] Figure 2 The figures illustrate beverage dispensing environments according to different embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0012] Figure 3 The figure illustrates example flowcharts of certain functions implemented by a portion of a beverage dispensing environment according to different embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0013] Figure 4 The figure illustrates example flowcharts of certain functions implemented by a portion of a beverage dispensing environment according to different embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0014] Figure 5 The figure illustrates example flowcharts of certain functions implemented by a portion of a beverage dispensing environment according to different embodiments of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0015] For the purpose of facilitating an understanding of the principles of this disclosure, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings, and these embodiments will be described using specific language. Nevertheless, it will be understood that this is not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure; any changes and further modifications to the described or illustrated embodiments, and any further application of the principles of the disclosure as set forth herein, are contemplated as would normally occur to those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains. All limitations of the scope should be determined by and expressed in the claims.

[0016] Whether a term is capitalized or not is not considered a limiting or restrictive element of its meaning. As used in this document, capitalized terms should have the same meaning as uncaptured terms, unless the context specifically indicates that a more restrictive meaning of the capitalized term is expected. However, capitalization or omission in the remainder of this document is not intended to impose a necessary restriction unless the context clearly indicates that such restriction is intended. Overview

[0017] This disclosure generally relates to systems and processes for automated filter life detection based on dynamic pressure measurements. In a beverage dispensing system comprising a water source, a filter, and a buffer tank connected in series, the system pressure depends in part on the quality of the water filter. Specifically, if the filter between the water source and the buffer tank ceases to function (e.g., clogged or damaged), the system pressure measured downstream of the filter decreases relative to the baseline system pressure. By measuring the pressure at specific time points relative to the start and end of beverage dispensing, it is thus possible to determine whether the filter needs to be replaced.

[0018] This disclosure relates to a system for generating a predictive model to assess the remaining lifespan of a filter. Specifically, the system iteratively measures system pressure at specific points relative to the dispensing location throughout the filter's lifespan and assesses the filter's remaining lifespan based on the trajectory of the system pressure measurements and the pattern of the dispensing volume over time. The predictive model can be generated and stored within the beverage dispensing system or stored on a remote server that can aggregate data across multiple devices. Exemplary embodiments

[0019] Now referring to the accompanying drawings, for the purpose of illustrating and explaining the basic processes and components of the disclosed system and process, see [reference] Figure 1A This figure illustrates an exemplary overview of a beverage dispensing environment 100a according to different embodiments of the filter life detection system of this disclosure. As will be understood and appreciated, Figure 1A The beverage dispensing environment 100a shown is only one method or embodiment of the system, and other aspects are used according to different embodiments of the system.

[0020] Beverage dispensing environment 100a includes beverage dispensing system 101a. Beverage dispensing system 101a may be a soft drink dispenser, a water dispenser, or other type of beverage dispensing system. Beverage dispensing system 101a may include various additives, such as flavoring syrups and various liquids. Beverage dispensing system 101a may combine one or more additives with at least one of one or more base liquids to produce a specific mixed beverage. For example, beverage dispensing system 101a may include lime-coconut flavored syrup. Continuing with this example, beverage dispensing system 101a may mix lime-coconut flavored syrup with carbonated water to produce a carbonated lime-coconut beverage. Beverage dispensing system 101a may include a buffer tank 103, which may contain any specific liquid used to dispense a beverage from beverage dispensing system 101a. For example, buffer tank 103 may contain water. In one embodiment, buffer tank 103 may contain a desired beverage liquid (e.g., water, carbonated water), additives for a specific beverage, or a combination thereof. In other embodiments, additives and / or carbonation may be added after buffer tank 103, for example, via a nozzle.

[0021] Buffer tank 103 may be connected via conduit to liquid source 106, which supplies liquid to the buffer tank. Liquid source 106 may be a separate reservoir, building water supply system, or other liquid source. For example, the buffer tank may be connected via conduit to a building water supply system. Beverage dispensing system 101a may include a filter 109 disposed between liquid source 106 and buffer tank 103. Filter 109 may be a reverse osmosis filter, a carbon filter, or any other suitable filter for removing substances such as impurities from the source liquid. In an exemplary embodiment, building water (supplied by a local water utility) is purified via a reverse osmosis filter and used to fill buffer tank 103. Beverage dispensing system 101a may further include dispensing nozzle 112 connected via conduit downstream of buffer tank 103. Dispensing nozzle 112 may be configured to combine flavorings and liquids from different sources to produce a mixed beverage. Beverage dispensing system 101a may include one or more pressure sensors 115 configured to measure the pressure of the liquid in the system at one or more locations within the fluid path of beverage dispensing system 101a. Pressure sensor 115 may be positioned upstream of filter 109, between filter 109 and buffer tank 103, above or in the buffer tank 103, and / or between buffer tank 103 and dispensing nozzle 112. In one embodiment, pressure sensor 115 is configured to measure the pressure between buffer tank and dispensing nozzle 112.

[0022] The beverage dispensing system 101a may include at least one computing device 118 communicatively coupled to the pressure sensor 115. The computing device 118 may include a microprocessor, computer, server, or other suitable computing device. The computing device 118 may be located within the beverage dispensing system 101a or remotely coupled to the beverage dispensing system 101a via a network. The computing device 118 may be configured to determine the quality or remaining life of the filter 109 based on measurements from the pressure sensor 115. For example, if the system pressure measured at a specific time relative to beverage dispensing drops below a specified threshold, the computing system 118 may determine that the filter 109 is no longer functioning properly and needs replacement. The computing system 118 may also be configured to generate a command to replace the filter 109. As an example, the computing system may send a request to ship the replacement filter 109 to an address associated with the beverage dispensing system 101a.

[0023] Now refer to Figure 1B This document describes exemplary embodiments of a beverage dispensing environment 100b according to different embodiments of the present disclosure. The beverage dispensing environment 100b may include a beverage dispensing system 101b. In one example, the beverage dispensing system 100b is a beverage dispensing system 100a omitting the buffer tank 103. The beverage dispensing system 101b may include a liquid source 106 that supplies liquid to the beverage dispensing system 101b. The liquid source 106 may be connected via a conduit to a dispensing nozzle 112 without a buffer tank. The beverage dispensing system 101b may include a filter 109 disposed between the liquid source 106 and the dispensing nozzle 112. The beverage dispensing system 101b may include one or more pressure sensors 115 configured to measure the pressure of the liquid at one or more locations within the fluid path of the beverage dispensing system 101b. The pressure sensor 115 may be located upstream of the filter 109, between the filter 109 and the dispensing nozzle 112, or at any other location within the system suitable for measuring the liquid pressure in the system. The beverage dispensing system 101b may include at least one computing device 118 communicatively connected to the pressure sensor 115. The computing device 118 may be configured to determine the quality or remaining life of the filter 109 based on measurements from the pressure sensor 115.

[0024] See now Figure 2The illustration depicts an exemplary system architecture for a beverage dispensing system 101. The beverage dispensing system 101 may include a user interface 201 for receiving user selections. The beverage dispensing system 101 may correspond to beverage dispensing systems 101a or 101b. The user interface 201 may be a collection of buttons, dispensing levers, and / or a touchscreen. For example, the user interface 201 may be a touchscreen display that presents various icons representing different beverage options to the user. The beverage dispensing system 101 may include a central computing system 202 configured to control the general operation of the beverage dispensing system 101. The user interface may include motion sensors to detect the placement of a container receiving the beverage. The central computing system 202 may be a microprocessor, computer, server, or other suitable computing device. The central computing system 202 may include a memory 203, a network communication module 206, and a control board 209. The memory 203 may store information related to beverage options, remaining liquid and flavorings, user preferences, temperature, pressure, and other important system variables. The network communication module 206 may allow the beverage dispensing system 101 to communicate with an external computing system 215 via a network 207. The network communication module can be a Wi-Fi dongle, an Ethernet communication port, or other suitable network communication device. The network can be a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), the Internet, or other suitable network.

[0025] Control panel 209 can control various valves, pumps, and sensors within the beverage dispensing system to produce and dispense the appropriate beverage selected by the user. Control panel 209 can be a microprocessor, motherboard, or other suitable control panel. In an exemplary embodiment, control panel 209 receives user input corresponding to a specific beverage to be dispensed from user interface 201. Control panel 209 initiates beverage dispensing by opening valves corresponding to the appropriate liquid and flavoring and engaging a demand pump that delivers the beverage to dispensing nozzle 112 for user consumption.

[0026] The beverage dispensing system may also include a filter life detection module 212. The filter life detection module 212 may be part of the central computing system 202 or a separate computing device. The filter life detection module 212 may reside within the beverage dispensing system 101 or be communicatively connected to the network communication module 206 via network 207. In one embodiment, the filter life detection module 212 resides within the beverage dispensing system. The filter life detection module 212 may receive inputs corresponding to the start and end times of dispensing from the central computing system 202. The filter life detection module 212 may receive direct inputs from the pressure sensor 115. The filter life detection module 212 may use the direct inputs to determine the start and end times of dispensing according to processes 300, 400, and 500 (see below). Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5The state of filter 109 is determined by a combination of the detailed description and other procedures described herein. This determination may then be transmitted via network communication module 206.

[0027] In one embodiment, the filter life detection module 212 resides on a central server at a remote location relative to the beverage dispensing system 101. The central computing system 202 receives measurements from various sensors (including pressure sensor 115) and transmits relevant information to the filter life detection module 212 via a network communication module 206. The filter life detection module 212 then proceeds according to processes 300, 400, and 500 (hereinafter referred to as...). Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 (Detailed description) Determine the status of filter 109.

[0028] As will be understood by those skilled in the art, Figure 3 The steps and processes shown (as well as those in all other flowcharts and sequence diagrams shown and described herein) may operate simultaneously and sequentially, are generally asynchronous and independent, and are not necessarily executed in the order shown.

[0029] Now for reference Figure 3 This illustrates an exemplary process 300 for determining the state of filter 109 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. At step 301, process 300 may include dispensing a beverage. For example, beverage dispensing system 101 dispenses a beverage. At step 303, filter life detection module 212 determines the start time of beverage dispensing. Beverage dispensing system 101 may measure time in absolute time (e.g., according to time of day) or relative time (e.g., relative to another event or the start of dispensing).

[0030] At step 306, process 300 may include determining whether a certain amount of time has elapsed since the start of allocation. For example, filter life detection module 212 may determine whether elapsed time relative to the start of allocation has occurred. Filter life detection module 212 may determine whether allocation continues for a period of one second after the start. In one embodiment, filter life detection module 212 may determine the allocation start time by receiving the demand pump run time and end time, converting the demand pump run time into a value in seconds to determine the run time in seconds, and subtracting the run time in seconds from the end time to determine the start time. The demand pump run time and end time may be provided to filter life detection module 212 via an inlet solenoid.

[0031] At step 309, process 300 may include receiving a pressure measurement from pressure sensor 115. For example, filter life detection module 212 may receive a pressure measurement from pressure sensor 115 if the dispensing duration has reached a predefined threshold. In some embodiments, filter life detection module 212 may receive pressure measurements from sensor 115 at a frequency regardless of whether a beverage has been dispensed, and select the most recent measurement for analysis. If the dispensing duration has not yet reached the predefined threshold, beverage dispensing system 101 may avoid receiving pressure measurements. The pressure measurement signal received by filter life detection module 212 may be an analog voltage or a digital representation of a pressure value expressed in pounds per square inch (PSI).

[0032] In some embodiments, the filter life detection model 212 can review the history of pressure readings from sensor 115 and determine the most recent reading from a threshold time elapsed since the start of a known beverage dispensing. The filter life detection model 212 can determine whether the most recent reading occurred before the end of the beverage dispensing. The filter life detection model 212 can use the most recent pressure reading from a known beverage dispensing.

[0033] At step 312, process 300 may include comparing the measured pressure with a predefined pressure threshold. For example, filter life detection module 212 may compare the measured pressure with a predefined pressure threshold. If the measured pressure is below the predefined pressure threshold (e.g., 10 pounds per square inch), filter life detection module 212 may determine that the filter 109 of beverage dispensing system 101 is no longer functional and needs to be replaced. In some embodiments, filter life detection module 212 may compare the measured pressure with a plurality of predefined pressure thresholds. Filter life detection module 212 may identify a specific expected life interval of filter 109 from a set of expected life intervals based on comparison. In one example, expected life intervals may include 1) equal to or greater than 60 PSI for a first filter interval, 2) less than 60 PSI but equal to or greater than 40 PSI for a second filter interval, 3) less than 40 PSI but equal to or greater than 20 PSI for a third filter interval, 4) less than 20 PSI but equal to or greater than 10 PSI for a fourth filter interval, and less than 10 PSI for a fifth interval. In this example, the filter life detection module 212 can determine that the fourth interval corresponds to the time when the filter life detection module 212 can order a new filter 109, and the fifth interval corresponds to the time when the filter life detection module 212 determines that the filter 109 is no longer working.

[0034] At step 315, the process may include generating a command to replace filter 109. In response to determining that filter 109 is no longer functional, the filter life detection module may generate a command to replace filter 109. The filter life detection module 212 may generate a notification to the user indicating that the filter needs to be replaced. The filter life detection module 212 may automatically generate a purchase command to replace the filter. The term "automatically" is used herein to refer to an action that occurs via a computer without user interaction.

[0035] See now Figure 4 This paper describes an exemplary method for determining the filter life of a beverage dispensing system 101, wherein a filter life detection module 212 does not reside within the beverage dispensing system 101. During the iteration process, the beverage dispensing system 101 may repeatedly measure system pressure via pressure sensor 115 (step 401), store the system pressure (step 403), and delay at a predefined sampling rate (e.g., one sample per second, step 406). Simultaneously, the beverage dispensing system may dispense beverages (step 409), measure the start and end times of dispensing (step 412), and store them throughout normal operation (step 415). At step 418, at predefined intervals, the beverage dispensing system may transmit the pressure and dispensing data to the filter life detection module 212 residing on a remote server. The remote filter life detection module 212 can identify pressure measurements taken relative to a specific time of dispensing. For example, the remote filter life detection module 212 can determine which pressure measurements most closely correspond to a time period of one second after the start of dispensing. At step 421, the remote filter life detection module can then compile the set of pressure measurements to generate a result consistent with steps 518-527 of process 500 (hereinafter combined). Figure 5 The resulting charts and prediction models are similar to those described.

[0036] Now for reference Figure 5This document describes an exemplary process 500 for generating a predictive model to assess the lifespan of a filter 109 within a beverage dispensing system 101. At step 501, the beverage dispensing system 101 may begin dispensing a beverage in response to a user request. A filter lifespan detection module 212 may determine the time at which dispensing begins. At step 503, the filter lifespan detection module 212 may determine whether a predetermined amount of time (e.g., one second) has elapsed since the dispensing began. If the predetermined time has elapsed, at step 506, the filter lifespan detection module may obtain a measurement of the system pressure from a pressure sensor 115. At step 509, the filter lifespan detection module may determine whether the measured pressure has dropped below a predefined pressure threshold (e.g., 10 PSI). At step 512, if the pressure has dropped below the predefined pressure threshold, the filter lifespan detection module may issue a command to replace the filter 109. At step 515, the measurement value may be stored by the filter lifespan detection module.

[0037] Steps 501-515 can be repeated iteratively. Further, the filter life detection module 212 can discard the measured value if the elapsed time fails to reach a predefined threshold during each iteration. At step 518, the filter life detection module 212 can generate a graph showing the pressure measurement value at each iteration as a function of time. The generated graph can be displayed to the user via the user interface 201 of the beverage dispensing system 101. Alternatively, the generated graph can be transmitted to a remote server via the network communication module 206 and stored for further processing.

[0038] At step 521, the filter life detection module 212 can generate a predictive model based on the iteratively recorded pressure measurements. This predictive model can produce predictions of subsequent pressure measurements as a function of time. The predictive model can be a linear regression model, a neural network, a machine learning model, or other suitable predictive model. At step 524, the predictive model can assess the future time at which the measured pressure will drop below a predefined pressure threshold. This assessment time corresponds to the assessed remaining life of the filter 109. At step 527, the filter life detection module 212 can transmit the assessed remaining life of the filter 109 to the user. In an exemplary embodiment, the filter life detection module 212 can store the assessed remaining filter life and update it with additional iterations of the allocation cycle. Further, the filter life detection module 212 can be configured to automatically generate a filter replacement command at the end of the filter life assessment.

[0039] In another embodiment, the filter life detection module 212 can use additional information to help assess the remaining filter life. For example, the remote filter life detection module 212 can determine the volume of fluid dispensed during dispensing. Volume calculation can be accomplished by directly measuring the flow rate of the liquid in the system and multiplying it by the duration of each dispensing, as calculated by the filter life detection module 212. Alternatively, the dispensing volume can be determined based on the average flow rate assessed in the system. The filter life detection module 212 can use the calculated volume to determine the total volume of beverage dispensed since the last filter 109 replacement. The total volume of beverage dispensed can be used to calculate the daily dispensing volume of the beverage dispenser. The daily dispensing volume can be correlated with pressure measurements to determine the relationship between the dispensing liquid volume and filter degradation. This relationship can be used to assess the estimated life of the filter on a machine-by-machine basis based on the typical use of each machine.

[0040] The filter life detection module 212 may additionally include information about the date of the most recent filter replacement. The date of the most recent filter replacement can be used to determine the current age of the filter, which can help assess the remaining life of the filter.

[0041] From the foregoing, it will be understood that the various aspects of the processes described herein are software processes executed on a computer system that forms part of the system. Therefore, it will be understood that the various embodiments of the systems described herein are typically implemented as specially configured computers, including various computer hardware components, and in many cases, have significant additional features compared to conventional or known computers, processes, etc., as discussed in more detail herein. Embodiments within the scope of this disclosure also include computer-readable media for carrying or having computer-executable instructions or data structures stored thereon. Such computer-readable media can be any available medium that is accessible by a computer or downloadable via a communications network. By way of example and not limitation, such computer-readable media can include various forms of data storage devices or media, such as RAM, ROM, flash memory, EEPROM, CD-ROM, DVD, or other optical disc storage, disk storage, solid-state drives (SSDs) or other data storage devices, any type of removable non-volatile memory (such as Secure Digital (SD), flash memory, Memory Stick, etc.), or any other medium capable of carrying or storing computer program code in the form of computer-executable instructions or data structures and accessible by a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a specially configured computer, a mobile device, etc.

[0042] When information is transmitted or provided to a computer via a network or another communication connection (hardwired, wireless, or a combination of hardwired and wireless), the computer appropriately considers that connection as a computer-readable medium. Therefore, any such connection is appropriately called and considered a computer-readable medium. The combinations described above should also be included within the scope of computer-readable media. Computer-executable instructions include, for example, instructions and data that cause a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, or a special-purpose processing device (such as a mobile device processor) to perform a particular function or a set of functions.

[0043] Those skilled in the art will understand the characteristics and aspects of a suitable computing environment in which aspects of this disclosure can be implemented. While not essential, some embodiments of the claimed system can be described in the context of computer-executable instructions (such as program modules or engines) executed by a computer in a networked environment, as previously described. Such program modules are often reflected and illustrated by flowcharts, sequence diagrams, exemplary screen displays, and other techniques used by those skilled in the art to convey how to make and use such computer program modules. Typically, program modules include routines, programs, functions, objects, components, data structures, application programming interface (API) calls to other computers (whether local or remote), etc., that perform specific tasks or implement data types with specific definitions within a computer. Examples of computer-executable instructions, associated data structures and / or patterns, and program modules representing steps of program code for performing the methods disclosed herein. Specific sequences of such executable instructions or associated data structures represent examples of corresponding actions for implementing the functionality described in such steps.

[0044] Those skilled in the art will also recognize that the claimed and / or described systems and methods can be implemented in networked computing environments with many types of computer system configurations, including personal computers, smartphones, tablets, handheld devices, multiprocessor systems, microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronics, networked PCs, minicomputers, mainframes, and the like. Embodiments of the claimed systems are implemented in a distributed computing environment, where tasks are performed by local and remote processing devices linked via a communication network (via a hardwired link, a wireless link, or a combination of hardwired and wireless links). In a distributed computing environment, program modules can reside in both local and remote memory storage devices.

[0045] An exemplary system (not shown) for implementing various aspects of the described operations includes a computing device comprising a processing unit, system memory, and a system bus that connects various system components, including the system memory, to the processing unit. A computer will typically include one or more data storage devices for reading data from and writing data to it. The data storage devices provide the computer with non-volatile storage of computer-executable instructions, data structures, program modules, and other data.

[0046] The computer program code implementing the functions described herein typically includes one or more program modules that can be stored on a data storage device. As known to those skilled in the art, this program code typically includes an operating system, one or more applications, other program modules, and program data. Users can input commands and information into the computer via a keyboard, touchscreen, pointing device, script containing computer program code written in a scripting language, or other input devices such as a microphone (not shown). These and other input devices are typically connected to the processing unit via known electrical, optical, or wireless connections.

[0047] The computers implementing many aspects of the described processes will typically operate in a networked environment using logical connections to one or more remote computers or data sources, which will be further described below. Remote computers can be other personal computers, servers, routers, network PCs, peer-to-peer devices, or other public network nodes, and typically include many or all of the elements described above relative to the host computer system in which the system is embodied. Logical connections between computers include local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), virtual networks (WANs or LANs), and wireless LANs (WLANs), which are presented here as examples rather than limitations. Such networked environments are common in office-wide or enterprise-wide computer networks, intranets, and the Internet.

[0048] When used in a LAN or WLAN networking environment, the computer system implementing this system is connected to the local area network (LAN) via a network interface or adapter. When used in a WAN or WLAN networking environment, the computer may include a modem, wireless link, or other mechanisms for establishing communication over a wide area network (WAN) such as the Internet. In a networking environment, program modules or portions thereof depicted relative to the computer may be stored in a remote data storage device. It should be understood that the network connections described or shown are exemplary, and other mechanisms for establishing communication over a WAN or the Internet may be used.

[0049] While different aspects have been described in the context of preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will readily discern other aspects, features, and methods of the claimed system from the description herein. Without departing from the spirit or scope of the claims, numerous embodiments and adaptations of this disclosure and the claimed system, in addition to those described herein, as well as numerous variations, modifications, and equivalent arrangements and methods, will be apparent from or reasonably implied by this disclosure and its foregoing description. Furthermore, any sequence and / or chronological order of the steps of the various processes described and claimed herein are those considered the best mode contemplated for performing the claimed system. It should also be understood that while the steps of different processes may be shown and described in a preferred sequence or chronological order, the steps of any such process are not limited to being performed in any particular sequence or order, and there is no specific indication of such a particular sequence or order to achieve a particular intended result. In most cases, the steps of such processes may be performed in a variety of different sequences and orders while still falling within the scope of the claimed system. Furthermore, some steps may be performed simultaneously, in parallel, or synchronously with other steps.

[0050] The aspects, features, and benefits of the claimed apparatus and its method of use will become apparent from the information disclosed in the exhibits and other applications (such as those incorporated by reference). Variations and modifications to the disclosed systems and methods may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the novel concept of this disclosure.

[0051] However, it will be understood that the scope of this disclosure is not intended to be limited by the information disclosed in the applications shown or incorporated by reference; any changes and further modifications to the described or illustrated embodiments, and any further application of the principles of this disclosure as set forth herein, are to be considered as would normally occur to those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains.

[0052] The above description of exemplary embodiments is presented for illustrative and descriptive purposes only and is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the apparatus and its use to the precise forms disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in accordance with the above teachings.

[0053] The embodiments were chosen and described to explain the principles and practical applications of the apparatus and its methods of use, thereby enabling others skilled in the art to utilize the apparatus and its methods of use, as well as various embodiments, with various modifications suitable for the intended specific use. Alternative embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art to which the apparatus and its methods of use pertain without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Therefore, the scope of the apparatus and its methods of use of the invention is defined by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description and the exemplary embodiments described therein.

[0054] Clause 1. A system comprising: a sensor configured to sense pressure in a buffer tank; and at least one computing device communicatively coupled to the sensor, wherein the at least one computing device is configured to: determine a starting point for dispensing beverage from a beverage dispenser; determine that elapsed time from the starting point for dispensing beverage has reached a predefined duration threshold; when the elapsed time has reached the predefined duration threshold, measure a specific pressure in the buffer tank; determine that the specific pressure has dropped below a predefined pressure threshold; and, in response to the specific pressure dropping below the predefined pressure threshold over the elapsed time, generate a command to replace the water filter of the beverage dispenser.

[0055] Clause 2. The system described in Clause 1 or any other clause herein, wherein at least one computing device is further configured to: determine a second starting point for dispensing a second beverage from a beverage dispenser; and determine whether a second elapsed time from the second starting point for dispensing the second beverage has reached a predefined duration threshold.

[0056] Clause 3. The system described in Clause 2 or any other clause herein, wherein at least one computing device is further configured to avoid measuring the pressure of the buffer tank in response to completing the dispensing of the second beverage before the second elapsed time reaches a predefined duration threshold.

[0057] Clause 4. The system described in Clause 2 or any other clause herein, wherein at least one computing device is further configured to determine the starting point for dispensing beverage from the beverage dispenser by: receiving the demand pump run time and end time; converting the demand pump run time into seconds to determine the run time in seconds; and subtracting the run time in seconds from the end time to determine the time of the starting point for dispensing.

[0058] Clause 5. The system described in Clause 4 or any other clause herein, wherein the demand pump run time and end time are received from the inlet solenoid.

[0059] Clause 6. The system described in Clause 1 or any other clause herein, wherein the predefined pressure threshold is 10 pounds per square inch (PSI).

[0060] Clause 7. The system described in Clause 1 or any other clause herein, wherein a first computing device in at least one computing device is configured to store data including a plurality of measurements at a beverage dispenser, and a second computing device in at least one computing device is configured to: read the data including the plurality of measurements; and analyze the data to at least: determine the starting point for dispensing the beverage and determine that a specific pressure has dropped below a predefined pressure threshold.

[0061] Clause 8. The system described in Clause 7 or any other clause herein, wherein the beverage dispenser includes a first computing device and a second computing device, the second computing device including a remote server.

[0062] Clause 9. A method comprising: determining, via one of one or more computing devices, a starting point for dispensing beverage from a beverage dispenser; determining, via one of one or more computing devices, that an elapsed time from the starting point for dispensing beverage has reached a predefined duration threshold; when the elapsed time is determined to have reached the predefined duration threshold, measuring, via one of one of the computing devices, a specific pressure in a buffer tank; determining, via one of one of the computing devices, that the specific pressure has dropped below a predefined pressure threshold; and determining, via one of one of the computing devices, to replace the water filter of the beverage dispenser based on the specific pressure dropping below the predefined pressure threshold over the elapsed time.

[0063] Clause 10. The method described under Clause 9 or any other clause herein further comprises: determining, via one of one or more computing devices, the volume of fluid dispensed from the beverage dispenser since the last water filter replacement; and calculating, via one of one or more computing devices, the daily volume value of the beverage dispenser.

[0064] Clause 11. The method described under Clause 10 or any other clause herein may further include generating a graph of the allocated total volume relative to the pressure via one of one or more computing devices based on daily volume values ​​and a specific pressure.

[0065] Clause 12. The method according to Clause 9 or any other clause herein, wherein, when determining that the elapsed time has reached a predefined duration threshold, measuring the specific pressure of the buffer tank further comprises: identifying the specific measurement value from a plurality of time-sequential measurements recorded at a specific interval closest in time to the elapsed time reaching the predefined duration threshold via one of one or more computing devices.

[0066] Clause 13. The method described under Clause 12 or any other clause herein may further include determining that a particular measurement falls between the start point of dispensing beverage from the beverage dispenser and the end point of dispensing beverage from the beverage dispenser.

[0067] Clause 14. The method described under Clause 9 or any other clause herein further includes analyzing stresses across multiple records to generate a prediction of the time during which stresses at a predefined duration threshold will exceed a predefined stress threshold, wherein stresses across multiple records include specific stresses.

[0068] Clause 15. The method described under Clause 14 or any other clause herein further includes receiving an indication of when the water filter is installed in the beverage dispenser, wherein the time prediction is generated based on the indication of when the water filter is installed in the beverage dispenser.

[0069] Clause 16. A system comprising: a sensor configured to sense pressure in a buffer tank; and at least one computing device communicatively coupled to the sensor, wherein the at least one computing device is configured to iteratively: determine a corresponding starting point for dispensing a beverage in the current iteration from a beverage dispenser; determine whether a corresponding elapsed time from the starting point for dispensing the beverage in the current iteration has reached a predefined duration threshold; and if the corresponding elapsed time has reached the predefined duration threshold: measure the current iteration pressure in the buffer tank; determine whether the current iteration pressure is below a predefined pressure threshold; and if the current iteration pressure drops below the predefined pressure threshold, determine to replace the water filter used for beverage dispensing.

[0070] Clause 17. A system pursuant to Clause 16 or any other clause herein, wherein at least one computing device is further configured to discard measurements associated with the current iteration if the corresponding elapsed time has not reached a predefined duration threshold.

[0071] Clause 18. The system described in Clause 16 or any other clause herein, wherein the at least one computing device is further configured to iteratively record the current iteration pressure as a plurality of recorded pressures when the corresponding elapsed time reaches a predefined duration threshold.

[0072] Clause 19. A system pursuant to Clause 18 or any other clause herein, wherein at least one computing device is further configured to generate a graph showing the pressure over time of multiple records.

[0073] Clause 20. The system described in Clause 18 or any other clause herein, wherein at least one computing device is further configured to: perform regression analysis on the pressure of a plurality of records to determine a predictive formula for future pressure readings; and generate, based on the predictive formula, a prediction of the time when the pressure at a predefined duration threshold will exceed a predefined pressure threshold.

[0074] These and other aspects, features, terms, and benefits of the claimed invention will become clear from the following detailed written description of preferred embodiments and aspects in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, although variations and modifications may be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the novel concept of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A system comprising: A sensor configured to sense the pressure of the buffer tank; as well as At least one computing device communicatively connected to the sensor, wherein the at least one computing device is configured to: Determine the starting point for dispensing beverages from the beverage dispenser; Determine that the elapsed time from the starting point of dispensing the beverage reaches a predefined duration threshold; When it is determined that the elapsed time has reached the predefined duration threshold, a specific pressure in the buffer tank is measured. Determine that the specific pressure drops below a predefined pressure threshold; and In response to the specific pressure dropping below the predefined pressure threshold over the elapsed time, a command is generated to replace the water filter of the beverage dispenser.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The at least one computing device is further configured to: Determine a second starting point for dispensing the second beverage from the beverage dispenser; and Determine whether the second elapsed time from the second starting point of dispensing the second beverage has reached the predefined duration threshold.

3. The system according to claim 2, wherein, The at least one computing device is also configured to avoid measuring the pressure of the buffer tank in response to completing the dispensing of the second beverage before the second elapsed time reaches the predefined duration threshold.

4. The system according to claim 2, wherein, The at least one computing device is also configured to determine the starting point for dispensing the beverage from the beverage dispenser by: Receive the required pump running time and end time; Convert the required pump running time into seconds to determine the running time in seconds; as well as The time for determining the allocated start point is determined by subtracting the running time in seconds from the end time.

5. The system according to claim 4, wherein, The required pump running time and the ending time are received from the inlet solenoid.

6. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The predefined pressure threshold is 10 pounds per square inch (PSI).

7. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The first computing device of the at least one computing device is configured to store data including multiple measurements at the beverage dispenser, and the second computing device of the at least one computing device is configured to: Read the data including the multiple measured values; as well as The data is analyzed to at least: determine the starting point for dispensing the beverage and determine when the specific pressure drops below the predefined pressure threshold.

8. The system according to claim 7, wherein, The beverage dispenser includes a first computing device and a second computing device, the second computing device including a remote server.

9. A method comprising: The starting point for dispensing beverage from the beverage dispenser is determined by one of one or more computing devices; A computing device of one of the one or more computing devices determines that the elapsed time from the starting point of dispensing the beverage has reached a predefined duration threshold. When it is determined that the elapsed time has reached the predefined duration threshold, a specific pressure in the buffer tank is measured via one of the one or more computing devices. The specific pressure drops below a predefined pressure threshold, determined by one of the one or more computing devices. as well as Based on the specific pressure dropping below the predefined pressure threshold over the elapsed time, a calculation device of one of the one or more computing devices determines to replace the water filter of the beverage dispenser.

10. The method of claim 9, further comprising: The volume of fluid dispensed from the beverage dispenser since the last replacement of the water filter is determined by one of the one or more computing devices. as well as The daily volume value of the beverage dispenser is calculated via one of the one or more computing devices.

11. The method of claim 10, further comprising generating a graph of the allocated total volume relative to the pressure via one of the one or more computing devices, based on the daily volume value and the specific pressure.

12. The method according to claim 9, wherein, When it is determined that the elapsed time has reached the predefined duration threshold, measuring the specific pressure of the buffer tank further includes: A specific measurement value is identified from a plurality of time-sequential measurements recorded at a specific interval that is closest in time to the elapsed time reaching the predefined duration threshold, via one of the one or more computing devices.

13. The method of claim 12, further comprising determining that the particular measurement falls between the starting point of dispensing the beverage from the beverage dispenser and the ending point of dispensing the beverage from the beverage dispenser.

14. The method of claim 9, further comprising analyzing the pressure of multiple records to generate a prediction of the time during which pressure at a predefined duration threshold will exceed the predefined pressure threshold, wherein, The pressure recorded in the multiple records includes the specific pressure.

15. The method of claim 14, further comprising receiving an indication of when the water filter is installed in the beverage dispenser, wherein, The time prediction is generated based on the indication of when the water filter is installed in the beverage dispenser.

16. A system comprising: A sensor configured to sense the pressure of the buffer tank; as well as At least one computing device communicatively connected to the sensor, wherein the at least one computing device is configured to iteratively: Determine the appropriate starting point for distributing the beverage for the current iteration from the beverage dispenser; Determine whether the elapsed time since the start point of distributing the current iteration beverage has reached a predefined duration threshold; and If the corresponding elapsed time reaches the predefined duration threshold: Measure the current iteration pressure of the buffer tank; Determine whether the current iteration pressure is lower than a predefined pressure threshold; and If the current iteration pressure drops below the predefined pressure threshold, then it is determined to replace the water filter of the beverage dispenser.

17. The system according to claim 16, wherein, The at least one computing device is also configured to discard the measurement associated with the current iteration if the corresponding elapsed time does not reach the predefined duration threshold.

18. The system according to claim 16, wherein, The at least one computing device is further configured to: when the corresponding elapsed time reaches the predefined duration threshold, iteratively record the current iteration pressure as a plurality of recorded pressures.

19. The system according to claim 18, wherein, The at least one computing device is also configured to generate a graph showing the pressure over time of the plurality of records.

20. The system according to claim 18, wherein, The at least one computing device is further configured to: Regression analysis was performed on the pressure of the multiple records to determine a predictive formula for future pressure readings; as well as Based on the prediction formula, a prediction is generated for the time when the pressure at the predefined duration threshold will exceed the predefined pressure threshold.

Images