Systems and methods for preparation of a homogenous mixture

Abstract

A system and method for preparing an ultra homogenous mixture or super ultra homogenous mixture, namely products such as detergents, oils, beverages and other desired liquids. A supply of two or more substances are drawn within a cavitation pump 40, 40' wherein they are mixed together, undergoing controlled cavitation to obtain an ultra homogenous mixture. In example embodiments, a return loop 42' can be provided for again processing the ultra homogenous mixture through the cavitation pump 40' to obtain a super ultra homogenous mixture.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a system and method for preparing a mixture, and more particularly to a system and method for preparing an ultra homogenous mixture utilizing a cavitation pump.BACKGROUND ART

[0002] Systems for preparing a mixture of two or more ingredients or substances are known. Typically, preparation of the mixture includes combining the two or more ingredients together and utilizing a static mixer. For example, a mixture such as a carbonated beverage requires blending ingredients (e.g., water and syrup) and injecting high pressure carbon dioxide gas into a carbonation zone containing the ingredients. Thereafter, a static mixer is utilized to assist in dissolving one or more ingredients with the carbon dioxide gas.

[0003] Processing the ingredients in the manner described above requires large amounts of energy, for example, to contain, transport, pressurize and mix the one or more ingredients. Furthermore, processing as described herein requires that a particular range of pressures and flow rates remain at consistent values in order to achieve the desired carbonated beverage. For example, it is known that for the static mixer to properly function, at least about 1 Bar of pressure drop is necessary.

[0004] Furthermore, in other circumstances when the ingredients' viscosity changes, obtaining homogenous mixtures thereof utilizing the known systems and methods becomes more difficult to obtain and less energy efficient.

[0005] Although carbonated beverages and systems for preparing the same are known and are functionally valid, the Applicant has observed that they are still open to further improvement.DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION

[0006] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a system and method for preparing an ultra homogenous mixture which is designed to meet the above-mentioned need in a straightforward and low-cost manner.

[0007] This object, and other objectives set out below, are achieved by the invention, which discloses a system and method for preparing an ultra homogenous mixture comprising: a first component comprising a mixture of a first substance and a second substance; a second component comprising a third substance; a cavitation pump comprising a rotationally mounted rotor; and a buffer tank; wherein the cavitation pump receives the first and second components to be cycled through the rotation of the rotor and undergo exposure to controlled cavitation such that the first and second components are fully mixed together and homogenized to result in the carbonated beverage. In example embodiments, the first component is deareated in a vacuum tank.

[0008] In example embodiments, the second component is pressurized within a vessel and supplied directly to the cavitation pump.

[0009] In example embodiments, the second component is pressurized within a vessel and configured for injection in a supply line feeding the cavitation pump.

[0010] In example embodiments, the controlled cavitation causes the generation and collapsing of cavitation bubbles within the cavitation pump containing the first and second components.

[0011] In example embodiments, the collapsing of cavitation bubbles within the cavitation pump cause energy transfer through the fluid such that shockwaves generated therefrom further break apart the particles of carbon dioxide, thereby obtaining a fully mixed and homogenized carbonated beverage.

[0012] In example embodiments, the buffer tank is fluidly connected to the cavitation pump to receive the fully mixed and homogenized carbonated beverage.

[0013] In example embodiments, the system further comprises a filling machine fluidly connected to the buffer tank for receiving the fully mixed and homogenized carbonated beverage and filling one or more containers.

[0014] In example embodiments, the first substance comprises water, the second substance comprises syrup, and the third substance comprises carbon dioxide gas.

[0015] According to example embodiments, the system further comprises a third component comprising at least a fourth substance for being received by the cavitation pump with the first and second components, wherein the substances of the first, second and third components are cycled through the rotation of the rotor and undergo exposure to controlled cavitation such that the first, second, and third components are fully mixed together and homogenized to result in the ultra homogenous mixture.

[0016] In example embodiments, the ultra homogenous mixture comprises a high viscosity.

[0017] In example embodiments, the system further comprises a return loop for processing again the ultra homogenous mixture through the cavitation pump, wherein the again processed ultra homogenous mixture becomes a super ultra homogenous mixture upon exiting the cavitation pump.

[0018] According to example embodiments, the invention comprises a filling system comprising a system for preparing an ultra homogenous mixture.

[0019] According to an example embodiment, the invention comprises a method for preparing an ultra homogenous mixture, the method comprising: providing the system according to claim 1; powering the cavitation pump so as to cause rotation of the rotor therein; drawing the first and second components within the cavitation pump; and exposing the first and second components to controlled cavitation, wherein the controlled cavitation causes the generation and collapsing of cavitation bubbles within the cavitation pump containing the first and second components, and wherein the collapsing of cavitation bubbles within the cavitation pump causes energy transfer through the fluid such that shockwaves generated therefrom further break apart the particles of the first and second components, thereby obtaining an ultra homogenized mixture.

[0020] In example embodiments, the method further comprises transporting the ultra homogenized mixture to the buffer tank. In example embodiments, the method further comprises transporting the ultra homogenized mixture from the buffer tank to a filling machineBRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] A non-limiting embodiment of the present invention will be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a first embodiment of a system for preparing a mixture, according to the invention; and Figure 2 is a lateral view, partially sectioned, and with parts removed for clarity of a cavitation pump according to the invention of Fig. 1. Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of a second embodiment of a system for preparing a mixture, according to the invention. BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0022] With reference to Figure 1, a system 10 for preparing a mixture is depicted, according to a first example embodiment. In example embodiments, the system 10 comprises a first component 20, a second component 30, and a cavitation pump 40. The first component 20 comprises a mixture of a first substance and a second substance, which is typically contained within a vacuum tank 22. The second component 30 comprises a third substance, which is typically contained within a pressure tank 32. According to an example embodiment of the invention, the first substance comprises deareated water, the second substance comprises syrup, and the third component comprises carbon dioxide.

[0023] A supply line 24 is fluidly connected between the vacuum tank 22 and a cavitation pump 40, and a supply line 34 is fluidly connected between the pressure tank 32 and the cavitation pump 40. In example embodiments, the first and second components 20, 30 are received and processed by the cavitation pump 40 so as to be exposed to controlled cavitation such that the first and second components 20, 30 are fully mixed together and homogenized to result in obtaining the mixture. According to an alternate example, the pressure tank 32 may be fluidly connected to the supply line 24, for example, such that the second component 30 is combined with the first component 20 prior to entering the cavitation pump 40. For example, supply line 35 can fluidly connect the pressure tank 32 to the supply line 24.

[0024] In example embodiments, the cavitation pump 40 comprises a rotationally mounted rotor 41. Rotation of the rotor 41 causes the first and second components 20, 30 to be drawn (e.g., vacuum or suction) into the cavitation pump 40 to be homogenized by exposure to controlled cavitation. For example, as depicted in Figure 2, the cavitation pump 40 is configured for the generation and collapsing of cavitation bubbles 46 within the cavitation pump 40. The collapsing of cavitation bubbles 46 within the cavitation pump 40 causes energy transfer through the fluid such that shockwaves generated therefrom further break apart the particles of the first and second components, thereby obtaining an ultra homogenous mixture. Furthermore, during the rotation of the rotor of the cavitation pump and the controlled cavitation occurrences, particles of the first and second components 20, 30 may rub together, generating uniform and instantaneous heat, thereby further attributing to the homogeneity of the ultra homogenous mixture. The ultra homogenous mixture obtained from the pump 40 exits from a conduit 44 thereof and is transported to a buffer tank 50. Thereafter, the ultra homogenous mixture can be transported directly to a filling machine or filler 60, in which one or more containers (not shown) are filled and sealed.

[0025] In example embodiments, the cavitation pump 40 is multifunctional. For example, the cavitation pump 40 not only facilitates the mixing and homogeneity of the first and second components, the cavitation pump 40 also applies a vacuum or suction to the first and second components 20, 30. Preferably, the cavitation pump 40 eliminates the need for at least one pump to transport the first and / or second components 20, 30 to the cavitation pump 40. According to example embodiments, the second component 30 (e.g., carbon dioxide) is retained at a greater pressure than the first component (e.g., water and syrup), and thus, injection of the second component within the first component 20, can be a more preferred technique for combining the first and second components 20, 30 together. As depicted, an optional route for inputting the second component in the cavitation pump 40 may be by the injection thereof by the conduit 35 that is fluidly connected along a portion of the supply line 24 right before its abutment with the cavitation pump 40.

[0026] Figure 3 shows a system 10' for preparing an ultra homogenous mixture according to a second example embodiment of the invention. In example embodiments, the system 10' comprises a first component 20', a second component 30', and a cavitation pump 40'. The first component 20 comprises a mixture of a first substance and a second substance, which is typically contained within a vacuum tank 22. The second component 30 comprises a third substance, which is typically contained within a pressure tank 32. According to an example embodiment of the invention, the first substance comprises deareated water, the second substance comprises syrup, and the third component comprises carbon dioxide. According to another example embodiment, the first, second and third substances may be chosen as desired.

[0027] A supply line 24' is fluidly connected between the vacuum tank 22 and a main supply line 36' that is in communication with the cavitation pump 40', and a supply line 34' is fluidly connected between the pressure tank 32' and the main supply line 36'. In example embodiments, a junction is provided for the convergence of supply lines 24', 34', and wherein the main supply line 36' fluidly connects between the junction and the cavitation pump 40'. Accordingly, the substances of the first and second components 20', 30' independently flow to the junction where they are joined together, flowing within the main supply line 36' to the cavitation pump 40'.

[0028] In example embodiments, the first and second components 20', 30' are received and processed by the cavitation pump 40' so as to be exposed to controlled cavitation such that the first and second components 20', 30' are fully mixed together and homogenized to result in obtaining the mixture. According to an alternate example, the pressure tank 32' may be fluidly connected to the supply line 24', for example, such that the second component 30' is combined with the first component 20' prior to entering the cavitation pump 40'. For example, supply line 35' can fluidly connect the pressure tank 32' to the supply line 24'.

[0029] In example embodiments, the cavitation pump 40' comprises a rotationally mounted rotor 41'. Rotation of the rotor 41' causes the substances of the first and second components 20', 30' to be drawn (e.g., vacuum or suction) into the cavitation pump 40' to be homogenized by exposure to controlled cavitation as described herein.

[0030] According to example embodiments, a return loop 42' is provided for permitting the return of the mixture exiting the cavitation pump from conduit 44'. In example embodiments, a junction provided along the conduit 44' is fluidly connected to the return loop 42' such that the mixture exiting the cavitation pump 40' can be returned to the main supply line 36' to be processed once again through the cavitation pump 40'. According to example embodiments, reprocessing the mixture results in a super ultra homogenous mixture, the homogeneity of which is unattainable using known mixing systems. According to example embodiments, various products can be processed more efficiently in less time than known mixing systems. Products of various liquid mixtures such as detergents, oils, beverages and other desired liquids can be processed using the embodiments of the present invention. In example embodiments, the viscosity of the liquid mixtures can vary between low, high or a combination thereof.

[0031] In example embodiments, the super ultra homogenous mixture exits from the conduit 44' thereof and is transported to a buffer tank 50'. Thereafter, the super ultra homogenous mixture can be transported directly to a filling machine or filler 60', in which one or more containers (not shown) are filled and sealed.

[0032] According to an example embodiment, one or more additional components can be provided for mixing within the cavitation pump 40'. For example, a third component 37' contained within tank 38' can be provided with a conduit 39' that is fluidly connected to the main supply line 36'. For example, the third component can comprise a substance in the form of a gas, liquid and / or solid, which can be fluidly connected to the main supply line 36' for joining the flow from the supply lines 24', 34'.

[0033] According to another example embodiment, the invention comprises a method for preparing an ultra homogenous mixture. In example embodiments, the method comprises: providing the system as described and shown herein; powering the cavitation pump 40 so as to cause rotation of the rotor 41 therein; drawing the first and second components 20, 30 within the cavitation pump 40; and exposing the first and second components 20, 30 to controlled cavitation, wherein the controlled cavitation causes the generation and collapsing of cavitation bubbles 46 within the cavitation pump 40 containing the first and second components, and wherein the collapsing of cavitation bubbles 46 within the cavitation pump 40 causes energy transfer through the fluid such that shockwaves generated therefrom further break apart the particles of the first and second components 20, 30, thereby obtaining a ultra homogenous mixture.

[0034] In example embodiments, the method may further include transferring the ultra homogenous mixture from the cavitation pump 40 to the buffer tank 50.

[0035] In example embodiments, the method further includes transferring the ultra homogenous mixture from the cavitation pump 40 to the buffer tank 50.

[0036] According to example embodiments, the systems 10, 10' and methods as described herein are electronically adjustable, for example to permit the electronic adjustment of the flow rates and operation thereof. For example, electronic control of the systems 10, 10' permit adjustments of the behavior thereof (increasing or decreasing the flows), operation of the return loop 42', actuation of junctions, etc.

[0037] Clearly, changes may be made to the systems 10, 10' and methods as described herein without, however, departing from the scope of protection as defined in the accompanying claims.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0022]With reference to Figure 1, a system 10 for preparing a mixture is depicted, according to a first example embodiment. In example embodiments, the system 10 comprises a first component 20, a second component 30, and a cavitation pump 40. The first component 20 comprises a mixture of a first substance and a second substance, which is typically contained within a vacuum tank 22. The second component 30 comprises a third substance, which is typically contained within a pressure tank 32. According to an example embodiment of the invention, the first substance comprises deareated water, the second substance comprises syrup, and the third component comprises carbon dioxide.

[0023]A supply line 24 is fluidly connected between the vacuum tank 22 and a cavitation pump 40, and a supply line 34 is fluidly connected between the pressure tank 32 and the cavitation pump 40. In example embodiments, the first and second components 20, 30 are received and processed by the cavitation pump 40 so a...

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a system and method for preparing a mixture, and more particularly to a system and method for preparing an ultra homogenous mixture utilizing a cavitation pump.BACKGROUND ART

[0002] Systems for preparing a mixture of two or more ingredients or substances are known. Typically, preparation of the mixture includes combining the two or more ingredients together and utilizing a static mixer. For example, a mixture such as a carbonated beverage requires blending ingredients (e.g., water and syrup) and injecting high pressure carbon dioxide gas into a carbonation zone containing the ingredients. Thereafter, a static mixer is utilized to assist in dissolving one or more ingredients with the carbon dioxide gas.

[0003] Processing the ingredients in the manner described above requires large amounts of energy, for example, to contain, transport, pressurize and mix the one or more ingredients. Furthermore, processing as described herein requires that a particular range of pressures and flow rates remain at consistent values in order to achieve the desired carbonated beverage. For example, it is known that for the static mixer to properly function, at least about 1 Bar of pressure drop is necessary.

[0004] Furthermore, in other circumstances when the ingredients' viscosity changes, obtaining homogenous mixtures thereof utilizing the known systems and methods becomes more difficult to obtain and less energy efficient.

[0005] Although carbonated beverages and systems for preparing the same are known and are functionally valid, the Applicant has observed that they are still open to further improvement.DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION

[0006] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a system and method for preparing an ultra homogenous mixture which is designed to meet the above-mentioned need in a straightforward and low-cost manner.

[0007] This object, and other objectives set out below, are achieved by the invention, which discloses a system and method for preparing an ultra homogenous mixture comprising: a first component comprising a mixture of a first substance and a second substance; a second component comprising a third substance; a cavitation pump comprising a rotationally mounted rotor; and a buffer tank; wherein the cavitation pump receives the first and second components to be cycled through the rotation of the rotor and undergo exposure to controlled cavitation such that the first and second components are fully mixed together and homogenized to result in the carbonated beverage. In example embodiments, the first component is deareated in a vacuum tank.

[0008] In example embodiments, the second component is pressurized within a vessel and supplied directly to the cavitation pump.

[0009] In example embodiments, the second component is pressurized within a vessel and configured for injection in a supply line feeding the cavitation pump.

[0010] In example embodiments, the controlled cavitation causes the generation and collapsing of cavitation bubbles within the cavitation pump containing the first and second components.

[0011] In example embodiments, the collapsing of cavitation bubbles within the cavitation pump cause energy transfer through the fluid such that shockwaves generated therefrom further break apart the particles of carbon dioxide, thereby obtaining a fully mixed and homogenized carbonated beverage.

[0012] In example embodiments, the buffer tank is fluidly connected to the cavitation pump to receive the fully mixed and homogenized carbonated beverage.

[0013] In example embodiments, the system further comprises a filling machine fluidly connected to the buffer tank for receiving the fully mixed and homogenized carbonated beverage and filling one or more containers.

[0014] In example embodiments, the first substance comprises water, the second substance comprises syrup, and the third substance comprises carbon dioxide gas.

[0015] According to example embodiments, the system further comprises a third component comprising at least a fourth substance for being received by the cavitation pump with the first and second components, wherein the substances of the first, second and third components are cycled through the rotation of the rotor and undergo exposure to controlled cavitation such that the first, second, and third components are fully mixed together and homogenized to result in the ultra homogenous mixture.

[0016] In example embodiments, the ultra homogenous mixture comprises a high viscosity.

[0017] In example embodiments, the system further comprises a return loop for processing again the ultra homogenous mixture through the cavitation pump, wherein the again processed ultra homogenous mixture becomes a super ultra homogenous mixture upon exiting the cavitation pump.

[0018] According to example embodiments, the invention comprises a filling system comprising a system for preparing an ultra homogenous mixture.

[0019] According to an example embodiment, the invention comprises a method for preparing an ultra homogenous mixture, the method comprising: providing the system according to claim 1; powering the cavitation pump so as to cause rotation of the rotor therein; drawing the first and second components within the cavitation pump; and exposing the first and second components to controlled cavitation, wherein the controlled cavitation causes the generation and collapsing of cavitation bubbles within the cavitation pump containing the first and second components, and wherein the collapsing of cavitation bubbles within the cavitation pump causes energy transfer through the fluid such that shockwaves generated therefrom further break apart the particles of the first and second components, thereby obtaining an ultra homogenized mixture.

[0020] In example embodiments, the method further comprises transporting the ultra homogenized mixture to the buffer tank. In example embodiments, the method further comprises transporting the ultra homogenized mixture from the buffer tank to a filling machineBRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] A non-limiting embodiment of the present invention will be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a first embodiment of a system for preparing a mixture, according to the invention; and Figure 2 is a lateral view, partially sectioned, and with parts removed for clarity of a cavitation pump according to the invention of Fig. 1. Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of a second embodiment of a system for preparing a mixture, according to the invention. BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0022] With reference to Figure 1, a system 10 for preparing a mixture is depicted, according to a first example embodiment. In example embodiments, the system 10 comprises a first component 20, a second component 30, and a cavitation pump 40. The first component 20 comprises a mixture of a first substance and a second substance, which is typically contained within a vacuum tank 22. The second component 30 comprises a third substance, which is typically contained within a pressure tank 32. According to an example embodiment of the invention, the first substance comprises deareated water, the second substance comprises syrup, and the third component comprises carbon dioxide.

[0023] A supply line 24 is fluidly connected between the vacuum tank 22 and a cavitation pump 40, and a supply line 34 is fluidly connected between the pressure tank 32 and the cavitation pump 40. In example embodiments, the first and second components 20, 30 are received and processed by the cavitation pump 40 so as to be exposed to controlled cavitation such that the first and second components 20, 30 are fully mixed together and homogenized to result in obtaining the mixture. According to an alternate example, the pressure tank 32 may be fluidly connected to the supply line 24, for example, such that the second component 30 is combined with the first component 20 prior to entering the cavitation pump 40. For example, supply line 35 can fluidly connect the pressure tank 32 to the supply line 24.

[0024] In example embodiments, the cavitation pump 40 comprises a rotationally mounted rotor 41. Rotation of the rotor 41 causes the first and second components 20, 30 to be drawn (e.g., vacuum or suction) into the cavitation pump 40 to be homogenized by exposure to controlled cavitation. For example, as depicted in Figure 2, the cavitation pump 40 is configured for the generation and collapsing of cavitation bubbles 46 within the cavitation pump 40. The collapsing of cavitation bubbles 46 within the cavitation pump 40 causes energy transfer through the fluid such that shockwaves generated therefrom further break apart the particles of the first and second components, thereby obtaining an ultra homogenous mixture. Furthermore, during the rotation of the rotor of the cavitation pump and the controlled cavitation occurrences, particles of the first and second components 20, 30 may rub together, generating uniform and instantaneous heat, thereby further attributing to the homogeneity of the ultra homogenous mixture. The ultra homogenous mixture obtained from the pump 40 exits from a conduit 44 thereof and is transported to a buffer tank 50. Thereafter, the ultra homogenous mixture can be transported directly to a filling machine or filler 60, in which one or more containers (not shown) are filled and sealed.

[0025] In example embodiments, the cavitation pump 40 is multifunctional. For example, the cavitation pump 40 not only facilitates the mixing and homogeneity of the first and second components, the cavitation pump 40 also applies a vacuum or suction to the first and second components 20, 30. Preferably, the cavitation pump 40 eliminates the need for at least one pump to transport the first and / or second components 20, 30 to the cavitation pump 40. According to example embodiments, the second component 30 (e.g., carbon dioxide) is retained at a greater pressure than the first component (e.g., water and syrup), and thus, injection of the second component within the first component 20, can be a more preferred technique for combining the first and second components 20, 30 together. As depicted, an optional route for inputting the second component in the cavitation pump 40 may be by the injection thereof by the conduit 35 that is fluidly connected along a portion of the supply line 24 right before its abutment with the cavitation pump 40.

[0026] Figure 3 shows a system 10' for preparing an ultra homogenous mixture according to a second example embodiment of the invention. In example embodiments, the system 10' comprises a first component 20', a second component 30', and a cavitation pump 40'. The first component 20 comprises a mixture of a first substance and a second substance, which is typically contained within a vacuum tank 22. The second component 30 comprises a third substance, which is typically contained within a pressure tank 32. According to an example embodiment of the invention, the first substance comprises deareated water, the second substance comprises syrup, and the third component comprises carbon dioxide. According to another example embodiment, the first, second and third substances may be chosen as desired.

[0027] A supply line 24' is fluidly connected between the vacuum tank 22 and a main supply line 36' that is in communication with the cavitation pump 40', and a supply line 34' is fluidly connected between the pressure tank 32' and the main supply line 36'. In example embodiments, a junction is provided for the convergence of supply lines 24', 34', and wherein the main supply line 36' fluidly connects between the junction and the cavitation pump 40'. Accordingly, the substances of the first and second components 20', 30' independently flow to the junction where they are joined together, flowing within the main supply line 36' to the cavitation pump 40'.

[0028] In example embodiments, the first and second components 20', 30' are received and processed by the cavitation pump 40' so as to be exposed to controlled cavitation such that the first and second components 20', 30' are fully mixed together and homogenized to result in obtaining the mixture. According to an alternate example, the pressure tank 32' may be fluidly connected to the supply line 24', for example, such that the second component 30' is combined with the first component 20' prior to entering the cavitation pump 40'. For example, supply line 35' can fluidly connect the pressure tank 32' to the supply line 24'.

[0029] In example embodiments, the cavitation pump 40' comprises a rotationally mounted rotor 41'. Rotation of the rotor 41' causes the substances of the first and second components 20', 30' to be drawn (e.g., vacuum or suction) into the cavitation pump 40' to be homogenized by exposure to controlled cavitation as described herein.

[0030] According to example embodiments, a return loop 42' is provided for permitting the return of the mixture exiting the cavitation pump from conduit 44'. In example embodiments, a junction provided along the conduit 44' is fluidly connected to the return loop 42' such that the mixture exiting the cavitation pump 40' can be returned to the main supply line 36' to be processed once again through the cavitation pump 40'. According to example embodiments, reprocessing the mixture results in a super ultra homogenous mixture, the homogeneity of which is unattainable using known mixing systems. According to example embodiments, various products can be processed more efficiently in less time than known mixing systems. Products of various liquid mixtures such as detergents, oils, beverages and other desired liquids can be processed using the embodiments of the present invention. In example embodiments, the viscosity of the liquid mixtures can vary between low, high or a combination thereof.

[0031] In example embodiments, the super ultra homogenous mixture exits from the conduit 44' thereof and is transported to a buffer tank 50'. Thereafter, the super ultra homogenous mixture can be transported directly to a filling machine or filler 60', in which one or more containers (not shown) are filled and sealed.

[0032] According to an example embodiment, one or more additional components can be provided for mixing within the cavitation pump 40'. For example, a third component 37' contained within tank 38' can be provided with a conduit 39' that is fluidly connected to the main supply line 36'. For example, the third component can comprise a substance in the form of a gas, liquid and / or solid, which can be fluidly connected to the main supply line 36' for joining the flow from the supply lines 24', 34'.

[0033] According to another example embodiment, the invention comprises a method for preparing an ultra homogenous mixture. In example embodiments, the method comprises: providing the system as described and shown herein; powering the cavitation pump 40 so as to cause rotation of the rotor 41 therein; drawing the first and second components 20, 30 within the cavitation pump 40; and exposing the first and second components 20, 30 to controlled cavitation, wherein the controlled cavitation causes the generation and collapsing of cavitation bubbles 46 within the cavitation pump 40 containing the first and second components, and wherein the collapsing of cavitation bubbles 46 within the cavitation pump 40 causes energy transfer through the fluid such that shockwaves generated therefrom further break apart the particles of the first and second components 20, 30, thereby obtaining a ultra homogenous mixture.

[0034] In example embodiments, the method may further include transferring the ultra homogenous mixture from the cavitation pump 40 to the buffer tank 50.

[0035] In example embodiments, the method further includes transferring the ultra homogenous mixture from the cavitation pump 40 to the buffer tank 50.

[0036] According to example embodiments, the systems 10, 10' and methods as described herein are electronically adjustable, for example to permit the electronic adjustment of the flow rates and operation thereof. For example, electronic control of the systems 10, 10' permit adjustments of the behavior thereof (increasing or decreasing the flows), operation of the return loop 42', actuation of junctions, etc.

[0037] Clearly, changes may be made to the systems 10, 10' and methods as described herein without, however, departing from the scope of protection as defined in the accompanying claims.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0022]With reference to Figure 1, a system 10 for preparing a mixture is depicted, according to a first example embodiment. In example embodiments, the system 10 comprises a first component 20, a second component 30, and a cavitation pump 40. The first component 20 comprises a mixture of a first substance and a second substance, which is typically contained within a vacuum tank 22. The second component 30 comprises a third substance, which is typically contained within a pressure tank 32. According to an example embodiment of the invention, the first substance comprises deareated water, the second substance comprises syrup, and the third component comprises carbon dioxide.

[0023]A supply line 24 is fluidly connected between the vacuum tank 22 and a cavitation pump 40, and a supply line 34 is fluidly connected between the pressure tank 32 and the cavitation pump 40. In example embodiments, the first and second components 20, 30 are received and processed by the cavitation pump 40 so a...

Claims

1. A system (10; 10') for preparing an ultra homogenous mixture comprising: - a first component (20; 20') comprising a mixture of a first substance and a second substance; - a second component (30; 30') comprising a third substance; - a cavitation pump (40; 40') comprising a rotationally mounted rotor (41; 41'); and - a buffer tank (50; 50'); wherein the cavitation pump (40; 40') receives the first and second components (20; 20', 30; 30') to be cycled through the rotation of the rotor 41 and undergo exposure to controlled cavitation such that the first and second components (20; 20', 30; 30') are fully mixed together and homogenized to result in the ultra homogenous mixture.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the first component (20; 20') is deareated in a vacuum tank (22; 22').

3. The system of claims 1 or 2, wherein the second component (30) is pressurized within a vessel (32; 32') and supplied directly to the cavitation pump (40; 40').

4. The system of claims 1 or 2, wherein the second component is pressurized within a vessel (32; 32') and configured for injection in a supply line (24; 24') feeding the cavitation pump (40).

5. The system of claims 1-4, wherein the controlled cavitation causes the generation and collapsing of cavitation bubbles (46) within the cavitation pump (40; 40') containing the first and second components (20; 20', 30; 30').

6. The system of claims 1-4, wherein the collapsing of cavitation bubbles (46) within the cavitation pump (40; 40') causes energy transfer through the fluid such that shockwaves generated therefrom further break apart the particles of the second component (30; 30'), thereby obtaining the ultra homogenous mixture.

7. The system of any of the proceeding claims, wherein the buffer tank (50; 50') is fluidly connected to the cavitation pump (40; 40') to receive the ultra homogenous mixture.

8. The system of claim 5, further comprising a filling machine (60; 60') fluidly connected to the buffer tank (50; 50') for receiving the ultra homogenous mixture and filling one or more containers.

9. The system of claim 1, wherein the first substance comprises water, the second substance comprises syrup, and the third substance comprises carbon dioxide gas.

10. The system of claim 1, further comprising a third component (37') comprising at least a fourth substance for being received by the cavitation pump (40') with the first and second components (20', 30'), wherein the substances of the first, second and third components are cycled through the rotation of the rotor (41') and undergo exposure to controlled cavitation such that the first, second, and third components (20', 30', 37') are fully mixed together and homogenized to result in the ultra homogenous mixture.

11. The system of claim 1, wherein the ultra homogenous mixture comprises a high viscosity.

12. The system of claim 1, further comprising a return loop (42') for processing again the ultra homogenous mixture through the cavitation pump (40'), wherein the again processed ultra homogenous mixture becomes a super ultra homogenous mixture upon exiting the cavitation pump (40').

13. A filling system comprising a system for preparing an ultra homogenous mixture according to claim 1.

14. A method for preparing an ultra homogenous mixture , the method comprising: - providing the system (10; 10') according to claim 1; - powering the cavitation pump (40; 40') so as to cause rotation of the rotor (41; 41') therein; - drawing the first and second components (20; 20', 30; 30') within the cavitation pump (40; 40'); and - exposing the first and second components (20; 20', 30; 30') to controlled cavitation, wherein the controlled cavitation causes the generation and collapsing of cavitation bubbles (46) within the cavitation pump (40; 40') containing the first and second components (20; 20', 30; 30') and wherein the collapsing of cavitation bubbles (46) within the cavitation pump (40; 40') causes energy transfer through the fluid such that shockwaves generated therefrom further break apart the particles of the first and second components (20; 20', 30; 30') thereby obtaining an ultra homogenous mixture.

15. The method of claim 13, further comprising transporting the ultra homogenous mixture to the buffer tank (50; 50').

16. The method of claim 14, further comprising transporting the ultra homogenous mixture from the buffer tank (50; 50') to a filling machine (60; 60').

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