Mixing and dispensing nozzle for beverage dispenser, beverage dispenser

Abstract

MIXING AND DISPENSING NOZZLE FOR BEVERAGE DISPENSER, BEVERAGE DISPENSER Mixing and dispensing nozzle (101) for a beverage dispenser comprising a shell (102) surrounding an x-axis, radially delimiting the mixing chamber (103), the openings comprising: a primary opening (105) transverse to the x-axis and intended to be connected to a primary conduit taken from among the inlet conduits, a set of at least one secondary opening (O6a, O7a, O8a, O9a) located downstream of the primary opening relative to the dispensing opening, intended to be connected to a secondary conduit taken from among the inlet conduits and equipped with a non-return valve (Va) closing the secondary opening (O6a, O7a, O8a, O9a) and extending within the volume delimited by the shell (102), the mixing chamber (103) being further delimited by a distribution opening (104) through which the x-axis passes. Figure for the abbreviation: Fig. 5a

Description

Title of the invention: MIXING AND DISPENSER NOZZLE FOR BEVERAGE DISPENSER, BEVERAGE DISPENSER Scope of the invention

[0001] The field of the invention is that of mixing and dispensing nozzles for beverage dispensers. Such dispensing nozzles are intended to be connected to the inlet ducts of the beverage dispenser so that liquids delivered by the respective inlet ducts are able to mix in a mixing chamber of the nozzle to form a mixture, and the beverage dispenser is able to deliver the mixture through a dispensing opening of the nozzle. Previous art

[0002] Typically, beverage dispensers include tanks containing liquids intended to be mixed. The tanks are connected to respective inlet lines which are equipped with non-return valves designed to prevent the mixture from flowing back into the tanks storing the different liquids.

[0003] For example, from patent EP1617728 B1, a beverage dispenser is known, comprising a cylindrical body delimiting a mixing chamber with several inlet channels, respectively for tea, hot water, and cold water, at least the cold water and tea channels having duckbill non-return valves. The body is connected to a dispensing nozzle so as to form, with the mixing chamber, a bent channel opening into a dispensing opening through which the dispenser is intended to dispense the mixture. This document also discloses a method for cleaning the nozzle by spraying water through the cold water channel.However, this solution is insufficient to prevent the proliferation of bacteria in the parts in contact with air that may escape the water flow, namely in the parts of the intake ducts located upstream of the check valves relative to the mixing chamber, at the level of the duckbill check valves and in the angled part of the duct.

[0004] Consequently, this type of beverage dispenser requires frequent cleaning of the mixing chamber, the non-return valves, and the portions of the inlet pipes located upstream of the non-return valves. This cleaning necessitates dismantling the nozzle and the cylindrical body to clean these parts, resulting in significant maintenance costs and time.

[0005] Furthermore, this type of dispenser is not suitable for dispensing several flavors of beverages, because between two dispensings, the stagnant beverage from the previous dispensing Tribute is sufficient to change the taste of the second.

[0006] One object of the invention is to limit at least one of the aforementioned disadvantages. Summary of the invention

[0007] To this end, the invention relates to a mixing and dispensing nozzle for a beverage dispenser intended to be connected to the inlet ducts of the beverage dispenser so that liquids delivered by the respective inlet ducts through respective openings of the nozzle are able to mix in a mixing chamber of the nozzle to form a mixture, and that the beverage dispenser delivers the mixture through a dispensing opening of the nozzle, the nozzle comprising a shell surrounding an x-axis and distant from the x-axis, radially delimiting the mixing chamber, the openings comprising: • a primary opening transverse to the x-axis and intended to be connected to a primary duct taken from among the intake ducts, • a set of at least one secondary opening, located downstream of the primary opening relative to the distribution opening, intended to be connected to a secondary conduit taken from among the intake conduits and equipped with a non-return valve closing the secondary opening and extending within the volume delimited by the shell,

[0008] the mixing chamber being further delimited by the distribution opening through which the x-axis passes.

[0009] Advantageously, the shell is configured and the non-return valve is arranged so that the internal surface of the non-return valve facing the mixing chamber is accessible manually from the distribution outlet for cleaning.

[0010] Advantageously, at least one secondary opening is provided with a non-return valve, the non-return valve being a perforated diaphragm.

[0011] Advantageously, the valve comprises several secondary openings, each secondary opening being equipped with a non-return valve, the nozzle comprising a single monobloc membrane forming several non-return valves.

[0012] Advantageously, the set of at least one secondary opening includes a transverse secondary opening located inside the volume delimited by the internal surface of the shell facing the x-axis.

[0013] Advantageously, the nozzle comprises an internal body received within the volume delimited by the internal surface of the shell, delimiting a conduit elongated along the x-axis and ending with the transverse secondary opening, the internal body delimiting a channel elongated along the x-axis in which a liquid delivered by the primary opening is intended to flow before flowing along the membrane closing the secondary opening under the effect of gravity.

[0014] Advantageously, the assembly of at least one secondary opening includes a radial secondary opening provided in the shell so as to allow one of the intake ducts connected to the nozzle to deliver a liquid into the mixing chamber via the secondary opening by radially passing through the shell, the radial secondary opening being provided with a non-return valve made in the form of a perforated membrane flush with the internal surface of the shell.

[0015] Advantageously, the non-return valve with which the radial secondary opening is fitted is one piece with the shell.

[0016] The invention also relates to a beverage dispenser comprising a nozzle according to the invention. The nozzle is connected to a plurality of inlet conduits of the beverage dispenser such that liquids delivered through the respective inlet conduits are able to mix in the mixing chamber of the nozzle to form a mixture, and the beverage dispenser delivers the mixture through the dispensing opening of the nozzle.

[0017] The invention also relates to a method for cleaning a mixing chamber of a nozzle according to the invention to limit bacterial growth, comprising at least one of the following steps: • Projection of a liquid through the primary opening; rinsing of the mixing chamber with the liquid from at least one of the conduits, for example, water through the primary opening. • Sterilization by cold plasma generation using a plasma generator capable of communicating with the mixing chamber, • manual cleaning of the mixing chamber via the distribution opening. Brief description of the figures

[0018] Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following detailed description, with reference to the accompanying figures, which illustrate:

[0019] [Fig-1]: a schematic perspective view of a distributor on which is mounted a nozzle according to the invention,

[0020] [Fig.2]: a schematic representation of a hydraulic circuit of the distributor on which the nozzle according to the invention is mounted,

[0021] [Fig.3]: a schematic perspective representation of an example of a nozzle according to a first embodiment of the invention,

[0022] [Fig.4]: a schematic cross-sectional representation along a radial plane passing through end E, of the nozzle of [Fig.3] when the lateral non-return valves are in the closed state,

[0023] [Fig. 5a]: a schematic perspective representation, front view of a example of a nozzle according to a second embodiment of the invention, the non-return valves and a nozzle flap not being shown in this figure;

[0024] [Fig. 5b]: a schematic representation of the nozzle of [Fig. 5a] in perspective front view, with the non-return valves shown and the flap not shown in this figure;

[0025] [Fig.6]: a schematic perspective representation of the internal body;

[0026] [Fig.7]: a schematic representation of a section of the pipe in an axial plane;

[0027] [Fig.8]: a schematic perspective representation, side view, of the nozzle of Figure [Fig. 5a], in which the flap is shown in the open state, the non-return valves not being shown in this figure, Description of the invention

[0028] We will first describe the general characteristics of the nozzle according to the invention applicable to the two embodiments before describing the two particular embodiments shown in the figures.

[0029] The present invention relates to a mixing and dispensing nozzle 1 and dispensing nozzle for a beverage dispenser D intended to deliver a beverage which is a mixture of liquids to a user.

[0030] The nozzle 1 is intended to be mounted on a support S of the beverage dispenser 1. This mounting is, for example, achieved by fitting or by screwing.

[0031] The nozzle 1 includes a dispensing opening 4 through which the beverage dispenser D is intended to deliver the mixture to a user when the nozzle 1 is mounted on the beverage dispenser D. In other words, it is through the dispensing opening 4 of the nozzle 1 that the mixture leaves the beverage dispenser D. Architecture of the beverage dispenser

[0032] As shown in [Fig. 2], the beverage dispenser D comprises one or more reservoirs R6, R7, R8, R9 for storing various beverages or liquids connected to respective inlet lines 6, 7, 8, 9, for example via respective solenoid valves E6, E7, E8, E9. The dispenser D also comprises a water inlet EE connected to at least one water inlet line 5a, 5b. Alternatively, at least one inlet line 5a, 5b is intended for dispensing a liquid other than water, for example tea or another antibacterial liquid.

[0033] The nozzle 1 is intended to be connected to the inlet conduits 5a, 5b, 6, 7, 8, 9 so that liquids delivered by the respective inlet conduits 5a, 5b, 6, 7, 8, 9 through respective openings of the nozzle 1 are able to mix in a mixing chamber 3 of the nozzle 1 to form a mixture and that the beverage dispenser D delivers the mixture to the user through the distribution opening 4 of the nozzle 1 as we will describe more precisely in the rest of the text.

[0034] Advantageously, the nozzle 1 is intended to be mounted on a support S of the beverage dispenser D and to be mechanically connected to the inlet conduits 5a, 5b, 6, 7, 8, 9 in a removable manner.

[0035] Each of the solenoid valves E6, E7, E8, E9 allows alternately to block and allow the passage of the liquid from one of the reservoirs R6, R7, R8, R9 to the mixing chamber 3, through one of the intake ducts.

[0036] Each of the solenoid valves E6, E7, E8, E9 is capable of being in a first state in which it blocks the passage of a liquid to the mixing chamber 3 and in a second state in which it allows the passage of the liquid from the corresponding reservoir R6, R7, R8, R9 to the mixing chamber 3, via the solenoid valve E6, E7, E8, E9.

[0037] Each of the solenoid valves E6, E7, E8, E9 is controlled by an electronic control device P of the beverage dispenser D capable of controlling the passage of the solenoid valve from the first state to the second state and vice versa.

[0038] The inlet ducts 6, 7, 8, 9 are equipped with respective pumps P6, P7, P8, P9 allowing the liquid flow rate to be regulated through the respective solenoid valves E6, E7, E8, E9. The pumps P are controlled by the electronic control device P.

[0039] The beverage dispenser D includes a water inlet EE connected to a cooler 11 by an inlet conduit CE comprising a valve RE controlled by the electronic control device P to prevent and alternatively allow, with a flow rate possibly adjustable, the liquid contained in the inlet conduit CE to pass through the valve RE to the cooler 11.

[0040] Advantageously, but not necessarily, the distributor D includes a carbon dioxide reservoir 12 connected to the cooler 11 by an inlet line CC so as to allow the gas to be charged from the inlet line CE to produce carbonated water. The line 11 is equipped with a solenoid valve pressure gauge MC controlled by the control device P.

[0041] The distributor D includes at least one inlet conduit, for example two inlet conduits 5a, 5b, equipped with respective solenoid valves E5a, E5b allowing alternately to block and allow the passage of water from the cooler 11 to the mixing chamber 3 through the respective inlet conduits 5a, 5b via the respective solenoid valves E5a, E5b.

[0042] The first inlet duct 5a is intended to convey still water from the cooler 11 to the mixing chamber 3. The solenoid valve E5a has two inlets and is connected, at the inlet, to a first elementary cold still water duct 5a1 and to a second elementary still water duct 5a2 at a temperature higher than the temperature of the cold water, both connected to the cooler 11. The solenoid valve E5a is capable of being in a first state in which it blocks the passage of still water to the chamber of mixing, in a second state in which it allows the passage of flat water from the first elementary conduit 5a 1 to the mixing chamber 3 via the valve E5a and in a third state in which it allows the passage of flat water from the second elementary conduit 5a2 to the mixing chamber 3 via the solenoid valve E5a.

[0043] The second inlet duct 5b is intended to convey gaseous water to the mixing chamber 3. The solenoid valve E5b is capable of being in a first state in which it blocks the passage of gaseous water to the mixing chamber 3, via the solenoid valve E5b, and in a second state in which it allows the passage of flat water from the cooler 11 to the mixing chamber 3 through the second inlet duct 5b via the solenoid valve E5b.

[0044] Each of the solenoid valves E5a, E5b is controlled by an electronic control device P.

[0045] The beverage dispenser D also includes a cold plasma generator 10. The plasma generator 10 is capable of generating cold plasma. The generated plasma is capable of circulating in the mixing chamber 3. The water delivered by the conduits 5a, 5b enters the mixing chamber 3 through the water inlet opening 5.

[0046] The control device C controls the various solenoid valves, the tap, and the cold plasma generator in response to a beverage or nozzle cleaning command issued by a user via manual control means B. General characteristics of the nozzle

[0047] Figures 3 and 4 represent a first embodiment of the nozzle according to the invention and Figures 5a to 8 represent a second embodiment of the nozzle according to the invention.

[0048] The nozzle 1, 101 includes a shell 2, 102 surrounding the x-axis and distant from the x-axis. The shell 2, 102 surrounds and radially delimits the mixing chamber 3.

[0049] The case is, for example, made of silicone or plastic or stainless steel.

[0050] More specifically, the shell 2, 102 is radially delimited by an internal surface SI, Sla surrounding radially the x-axis and facing the x-axis and by an external surface SE, SEa surrounding radially the internal surface SI, Sla. The internal surface SI, Sla radially and axially delimits a conduit.

[0051] The internal surface SI, Sla radially delimits the mixing chamber 3, 103 which is part of the conduit.

[0052] The nozzle 1, 101 includes a primary opening 5, 105 transverse to the x axis and intended to be connected to at least one primary conduit 5a, 5b taken from among the intake conduits 5a, 5b, 6, 7, 8, 9.

[0053] The primary aperture 5, 105 is radially surrounded by the internal surface SI, Sla.

[0054] By aperture transverse to the x-axis, we mean an aperture through which the x-axis passes.

[0055] The nozzle 1, 101 comprises a set of at least one secondary opening 06, 07, 08, 09; 06a, 07a, 08a, 09a located downstream of the transverse primary opening 5, 105 relative to the distribution opening 4, 104 and intended to be connected to a secondary conduit 6, 7, 8 taken from among the inlet conduits and being provided with a non-return valve or flap V6, V7, V8, V9; Va closing the secondary opening and extending within the volume delimited by the shell 2.

[0056] Downstream of the primary opening with respect to the distribution opening, we mean an opening located between the primary opening 5, 105 and the distribution opening 4, 104 along the x-axis.

[0057] In the non-limiting examples in the figures, the set of at least one secondary opening is composed of several secondary openings 06, 07, 08, 09; 06a, 07a, 08a, 09a. Alternatively, the nozzle comprises a single secondary opening.

[0058] Each non-return valve V6, V7, V8, V9; Va is capable of being in a closed state in which it prevents the passage of liquid from the distribution conduit 6, 7, 8, 9 to which it is connected to the mixing chamber 3.

[0059] The non-return valve V6, V7, V8, V9, Va is also capable of being in an open state in which it allows the passage of liquid from the lateral distribution conduit 6, 7, 8, 9 to the mixing chamber 3, 103. Each non-return valve prohibits the passage of liquid from the mixing chamber 3, 103 to the distribution conduit to which it is connected, whether it is in the closed or open state.

[0060] According to the invention, the mixing chamber 3, 103 is further delimited by the distribution opening 4, 104 which is crossed by the x-axis. In other words, the distribution opening 4, 104 is transverse to the x-axis.

[0061] One advantage is that it facilitates the cleaning of the mixing chamber 3, 103 and the non-return valves V6, V7, V8, V9; Va. This configuration makes the cleaning of the non-return valves received in the secondary openings by a water flow circulating along the x-axis particularly effective. It limits the risk of residue accumulation in the mixing chamber downstream of the distribution opening 4, 104.

[0062] Furthermore, it facilitates access to the valves from the distribution opening 4, for example by a jet of water or manually.

[0063] In the non-limiting examples shown in the figures, the shell 2, 102 has a cylindrical cross-section. The pipe may alternatively have a cross-section that varies along the x-axis. Arrangement of the non-return valves

[0064] Each check valve or non-return valve V6, V7, V8, V9; Va extends within the volume delimited by the shell 2, 102.

[0065] In other words, each of the lateral non-return valves V6, V7, V8, V9; Va extends at least in part within the delimited volume, i.e. surrounded, by the external surface SE, SEa.

[0066] In the advantageous examples in the figures, the lateral non-return valves V6, V7, V8, V9; Va extend totally into the volume radially delimited by the external surface SE, SEa.

[0067] This positioning of the non-return valves as close as possible to the mixing chamber 3, 103 makes it possible to avoid the proliferation of bacteria in the inlet ducts 6, 7, 8, 9 and the transfer of taste between two distributions. Non-return valves

[0068] Advantageously, at least one of the non-return valves V6, V7, V8, V9; Va is a perforated diaphragm, for example, a slotted one. Slots F are, for example, shown as dashed lines in [Fig. 3]. This diaphragm is designed to deform to change from a closed state in which it prevents the passage of a liquid to an open state in which it allows the passage of the liquid, and vice versa, under the effect of variations in the pressure difference between the upstream and downstream sides of the diaphragm.

[0069] In the non-limiting examples shown in the figures, each non-return valve V6, V7, V8, V9; Va is a membrane. One advantage is that this facilitates cleaning of the non-return valve and limits the risk of bacterial growth.

[0070] The membrane V6, V7, V8, V9; Va is, for example, made of elastomer. The membrane is, for example, made of silicone, preferably hydrophobic silicone. One advantage is the hydrophobic and antibacterial nature of certain silicones. Certain specific treatments on the internal surface of elastomeric membranes can also provide these functions.

[0071] In the case where the nozzle 101 comprises several secondary openings, 06, 07, 08, 09; each being equipped with a non-return valve V6, V7, V8, V9; Va, a single perforated, one-piece membrane advantageously forms the non-return valves as shown in [Fig. 5b]. This configuration has a reduced number of parts, which limits the risk of bacterial accumulation in the gaps between parts and facilitates the manufacture and cleaning of the non-return valves.

[0072] This feature is applicable to the embodiment of figures 3 and 4.

[0073] More generally, the nozzle advantageously comprises at least one single a single piece, for example a membrane, forming at least two non-return valves.

[0074] Alternatively, the non-return valves are formed of separate membranes as in the example of Figures 3 and 4.

[0075] By membrane, we mean a substantially flat piece at rest, deformable and having a substantially constant thickness in the area of ​​the opening.

[0076] Alternatively, at least one lateral non-return valve is an umbrella non-return valve. Manual access to the non-return valves

[0077] Advantageously, the hull 2, 102 is configured and dimensioned and the valves an V6, V7, V8, V9; Va are arranged so that the internal surfaces SI6, SI7, SI8, SI9; Sla of the non-return valves V6, V7, V8, V9; Va are manually accessible by a user from the distribution outlet 4, 104 for cleaning.

[0078] An advantage is to allow the internal surfaces of the non-return valves to be cleaned by rinsing with a liquid from the primary intake 5, 105, at each distribution, when the nozzle 1, 101 is mounted on the support S and / or mechanically connected to the intake ducts 5a, 5b, 6, 7, 8, 9, i.e. without having to separate the nozzle 1 from the intake ducts and / or the support S.

[0079] Another advantage is to allow, at the level of the non-return valves, i.e. where bacteria are most likely to accumulate, additional manual cleaning to cleaning by rinsing via the primary opening 5, 105, by a liquid from a distribution conduit 51, 5b connected to the primary opening 5, 105.

[0080] Another advantage is that it further limits bacterial growth.

[0081] Different configurations and dimensions of the shell 2, 102, as well as different positions of the non-return valves V6, V7, V8, V9; Va, allow this access to be obtained as described below.

[0082] The non-return valves V6, V7, V8, V9; Va are advantageously located at a distance less than or equal to 10 cm and preferably less than or equal to 6 cm or 5 cm from the distribution opening 4, 104.

[0083] The diameter of the cross-section (perpendicular to the x-axis) of internal surface SI, Sla is advantageously between 8mm and 30mm or between 10mm or 12mm and 30mm at least from the distribution opening 4, 104 to the non-return valves V6, V7, V8, V9; Va or over its entire length V6, V7, V8, V9; Va.

[0084] The internal surfaces of the check valves V6, V7, V8, V9; Va are advantageously located within the volume VI, delimited by the internal surface SI, Sla in the closed state. Alternatively, the internal surfaces of the check valves are located at a distance from the internal surface between the internal surface SI, Sla and the external surface SE, SEa.

[0085] Advantageously, as shown in the figures, the end E, Ea, of the shell 2, 102, which completely delimits and surrounds the distribution opening 4, 104, extends continuously away from a plane of the shell 2, 102, perpendicular to the x-axis, located between the primary opening 5, 105, in the direction from the primary opening 5, 105 towards the distribution opening 4, 104. In the examples shown in Figures 3, 4a, and 4b, the end E, Ea, of the shell 2, 102, which completely delimits and surrounds the distribution opening 4, 104, is beveled. In other words, the end E, Ea is substantially situated in a plane inclined with respect to the x-axis. One advantage is that it allows the mixture to be directed towards a container such as a glass and facilitates access to the surfaces. internal lateral non-return valves SI6, SI7, SI8, SI9; Sia. Alternatively, an orthogonal projection of the end of the tube opening 4 onto a radial plane containing the x-axis is substantially a concave curve.

[0086] Alternatively, the end E, Ea is substantially perpendicular to the x-axis.

[0087] Advantageously, the shell 2, 102 is configured and dimensioned and the check valves V6, V7, V8, V9; Va are arranged and configured so that all internal surfaces SI6, SI7, SI8, Sla of the check valves V6, V7, V8, V9; Va are manually accessible by a user from the distribution outlet 4, 104 for cleaning.

[0088] Diaphragm valves and umbrella check valves, for example, make such manual access easy.

[0089] In the embodiments shown in the figures, the shell 2 is cylindrical. Alternatively, the shell 2 is flared towards the opening 4. One advantage is that it facilitates manual access to the bottom of the internal surface. Hull shape

[0090] Advantageously, the hull 2, 102 is elongated along the x axis so as to promote the laminar flow of the water injected through the transverse inlet opening 5, 105 and therefore of the mixture.

[0091] For this purpose, the internal surface SI, Sla of the shell 2 and therefore the conduit delimited by the internal surface SI, Sla has a length, along the x axis, greater than or equal to 20 times the diameter of the largest section of the intake conduits, taken perpendicular to the x axis.

[0092] Advantageously, the shell 2, 102 is a cylindrical tube or a truncated cylindrical tube. Thus, its internal surface SI, Sia is a cylinder or a truncated cylinder. One advantage is that it allows easy manual access to the entire internal surface and to the internal surfaces of the lateral check valves. The cylinder is, for example, circular or generally oval in cross-section.

[0093] Alternatively, the hull has a different shape. First method of implementation

[0094] In the first embodiment shown in Figures 3 and 4, the primary opening 5 axially delimits the shell 2 and is radially delimited by the internal surface SL

[0095] In this embodiment, the set of secondary openings 06, 07, 08, 09 comprises at least one radial secondary opening 06, 07, 08, 09 provided in the shell 2, so as to allow the secondary conduit to deliver a liquid into the mixing chamber 3 via the secondary opening 06, 07, 08, 09 by passing radially, with respect to the x-axis, through the shell 2, i.e., by passing through the external surface SE and the internal surface SI promote mixing and make rinsing with water (or other liquid from opening 5) more effective.

[0096] In the non-limiting example of Figures 3 and 4, all secondary openings 06, 07, 08, 09 are radial.

[0097] Advantageously, as shown in [Fig. 4], but not necessarily, each of the side valves V6, V7, V8, V9 is a membrane flush with the internal surface SI when the valve is in the closed state so as to ensure continuity of surface and shape of the surface formed by the internal surface SI and the internal surfaces SI6, SI7, SI8, SI9 of the side valves V6, V7, V8, V9. This configuration facilitates manual cleaning and cleaning by water jet.

[0098] For example, each of the lateral check valves V6, V7, V8, V9 is flush with the internal surface SI of the shell 2 so that the mixing chamber 3 is delimited by a portion of the cylinder formed by a part of the internal surface SI and by the internal surfaces of the lateral check valves V6, V7, V8, V9 when the latter are in their respective closed states.

[0099] Advantageously, as shown in Figures 3 and 4, at least one of the non-return valves V6, V7, V8, V9 is a single unit with the shell 2. The shell 2 and the non-return valves can be manufactured in a single step, for example by overmolding. This configuration has a limited number of parts, which reduces the risk of bacterial accumulation between parts.

[0100] Advantageously all valves are one piece with the pipe.

[0101] Alternatively, at least one of the non-return valves V6, V7, V8, V9; Va is fixed to the hull 2.

[0102] In the non-limiting example of Figures 3 and 4, the secondary openings 06, 07, 08, 09 are distributed along the x-axis.

[0103] Advantageously, as in the example shown in Figures 3 and 4, the openings 06, 07, 08, 09 are aligned along an axis parallel to the x-axis. This facilitates the cleaning of the valves when the nozzle is mounted on the support as shown in [Fig. 1], i.e. the nozzle is mounted so that the axis along which the nozzles are mounted is the lowest part of the internal surface Sla, all along the shell 2.

[0104] Alternatively, the secondary openings 06, 07, 08, 09 are intersected by the same transverse plane (i.e., perpendicular to the x-axis). This configuration ensures a compact mixing chamber and easy manual access to all valves. Second embodiment

[0105] A second embodiment of the nozzle 101 is shown in figures 5a and 5b, 6, 7 and 8.

[0106] In this embodiment, the secondary openings 06a, 07a, 08a, 09a are transverse and arranged within the volume delimited by the internal surface Sla of the hull 102.

[0107] In the non-limiting example of Figures 5a and 5b, 7 and 8, the nozzle 101 includes an internal body CI, clearly visible on [Fig.6], received inside the volume delimited by the internal surface Sla of the shell 102.

[0108] The internal body CI is, for example, made of silicone or plastic.

[0109] The internal body CI delimits a primary CO5 conduit, along the x-axis, from a end of hull 2 ​​opposite end Ea and up to the primary transverse opening 105.

[0110] The internal body CI delimits secondary conduits CO6, CO7, CO8, CO9 ending with the respective openings O6a, O7a, O8a, O9a piercing a terminal wall PT of the internal body CI.

[0111] The primary and secondary conduits are intended to be connected to the respective distribution conduits so that they deliver liquids into the mixing chamber 103 via the respective openings O6a, O7a, O8a, O9a.

[0112] Advantageously, the primary CO5 and secondary CO6, CO7, CO8, CO9 conduits are elongated along respective axes parallel to the x-axis. This promotes laminar flow.

[0113] These are, for example, truncated cylindrical ducts such as the secondary ducts in [Fig. 6], or non-truncated ducts with a circular cross-section as in the example in [Fig. 6], or non-circular ducts. The secondary axes of the respective cylinders are parallel to the x-axis.

[0114] Advantageously, the internal body CI is mounted in a removable manner on the shell 102. In other words, the internal body CI and the shell 102 are separable. Alternatively, the internal body CI is mounted on the shell 102 in a fixed manner.

[0115] Advantageously, the internal body CI is a single piece. This facilitates mounting the internal body CI onto the shell 102. Alternatively, the internal body CI is formed from various assembled parts. It includes, for example, several pipes delimiting different conduits.

[0116] Advantageously, as shown in Figures 5a and 7, a one-piece perforated membrane Va forms the non-return valves closing the respective secondary openings O6a, O7a, O8a, O9a. The slots or holes formed in the valve are not visible in the figures.

[0117] Alternatively, separate membranes form different valves.

[0118] The membrane Va is contiguous with the terminal wall PT which is advantageously, but not necessarily, planar.

[0119] Advantageously, the membrane Va is fixed to the inner body or is one piece with the inner body CL

[0120] The internal body CI defines an elongated channel CA along the x-axis, arranged with respect to the opening 105 and the membrane such that a liquid delivered by the primary opening 105 is able to flow into the channel along the x-axis and then along the non-return valves Va, which close the secondary openings O6a, O7a, O8a, and O9a under the effect of gravity. The channel CA promotes laminar flow of the liquid delivered by the opening 105, preferably water, before it mixes with the liquids delivered by the openings O6a, O7a, O8a, and O9a, or guides this liquid towards the valve Va or valves, thus facilitating their cleaning.

[0121] Advantageously, the secondary channels CO6, CO7, CO8, CO9 are distributed around the CA channel.

[0122] Advantageously, the membrane Va is inclined with respect to a plane perpendicular to the x-axis.

[0123] In the embodiment shown in Figures 5a, 5b, 6, 7 and 8, the nozzle 101 includes a nozzle support SU radially surrounding the shell 2 and by which the nozzle 101 is intended to be mounted on the distributor D or on the support S of the distributor. Alternatively, the nozzle is without the nozzle support SU.

[0124] The nozzle 1 of Figures 3 and 4 could also include such a nozzle support.

[0125] In the embodiment of Figures 5a, 5b, 6, 7 and 8v, the nozzle 101 includes a flap VL, visible in [Fig. 8], pivotally mounted on the housing 102 so as to be able to be in an open state, shown in [Fig. 8], in which it opens the distribution opening 104, and in a closed state in which it closes the distribution opening 104. It is able to transition from the open state to the closed state under the effect of gravity and to transition from the closed state to the open state under the effect of a liquid flow along the x-axis, from the opening 105 to the opening 104.

[0126] Alternatively, the nozzle comprises at least one radial secondary opening and / or at least one transverse secondary opening as described above. Rinsing method

[0127] The invention also relates, secondarily, to a method of cleaning the mixing chamber 3 to limit the proliferation of microorganisms.

[0128] The process comprises at least one of the following steps: • projection of a liquid through the primary opening, rinsing of the mixing chamber with the liquid from at least one of the conduits, for example water through the primary opening 5, 105, • Sterilization by cold plasma generation using plasma generator 10, which is suitable for communication with mixing chamber 3, 103 • manual cleaning of the mixing chamber via the distribution opening 4, 104,

[0129] In the example in the figures, water is injected through the inlet opening 5, 105 and Other liquids are injected through check valves V6, V7, V8, V9, Va. This configuration is not limiting; water can, for example, be injected through one of the valves, and a liquid other than water can be injected through opening 5, 105.

Claims

1.

2.

3. Demands A mixing and dispensing nozzle (1, 101) for a beverage dispenser (D) intended to be connected to inlet lines (5a, 5b, 6, 7, 8, 9) of the beverage dispenser (D) such that liquids delivered by the respective inlet lines (5a, 5b, 6, 7, 8, 9) through respective openings (06, 07, 08, 09; 06a, 07a, 08a, 09a) of the nozzle (1, 101) are able to mix in a mixing chamber (3, 103) of the nozzle (1) to form a mixture, and the beverage dispenser (D) delivers the mixture through a dispensing opening (4, 104) of the nozzle (1, 101), the nozzle (1, 101) comprising a shell (2, 102) surrounding a axis (x), distant from the axis (x) and radially delimiting the mixing chamber (3, 103), the openings comprising: • a primary opening (5, 105) transverse to the axis (x) and intended to be connected to a primary conduit (5a, 5b) taken from among the intake conduits (5a, 5b, 6, 7, 8, 9), • a set of secondary openings (06, 07, 08, 09; 06a, 07a, 08a, 09a), located downstream of the primary opening relative to the distribution opening, intended to be connected to a secondary conduit taken from among the intake conduits and equipped with non-return valves (V6, V7, V8, V9; Va) closing the secondary openings (06, 07, 08, 09; 06a, 07a, 08a, 09a) and extending within the volume delimited by the shell (2, 102), the mixing chamber (3, 103) being further delimited by the distribution opening (4, 104) through which the axis (x) passes, the nozzle comprising at least one single perforated monobloc membrane forming several non-return valves. Nozzle (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the shell (2, 102) is configured and the non-return valve (V6, V7, V8, V9, Va) is arranged so that the internal surface (SI6, SI7, SI8, SI9; Sla) of the non-return valve (V6, V7, V8, V9; Va) facing the mixing chamber (3, 103) is manually accessible from the distribution outlet (4, 104) for cleaning. Nozzle (101) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the set of secondary openings (06a, 07a, 08a, 09a) includes a secondary transverse opening (O6a, 07a, 08a, 09a) located inside the volume delimited by an internal surface (Sla) of the shell (102) facing the axis (x).

4. Nozzle (101) according to the preceding claim, comprising an internal body (CI) received within the volume delimited by the internal surface (Sla) of the shell (102), delimiting a conduit elongated along the axis (x) and terminating by the secondary opening tr(Laansversale (06a, 07a, 08a, 09a), in which the internal body (CI) delimits a channel elongated along the axis (x) in which a liquid delivered by the primary opening (105) is intended to flow before flowing along the membrane closing the secondary opening (06a, 07a, 08a, 09a) under the effect of gravity.

5. Nozzle (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the secondary opening assembly comprises a radial secondary opening (06, 07, 08, 09) provided in the shell (2) so as to allow one of the inlet ducts connected to the nozzle (1) to deliver a liquid into the mixing chamber (3) via the secondary opening by radially passing through the shell (2), the radial secondary opening (06, 07, 08, 09) being provided with a non-return valve made in the form of a perforated membrane flush with an internal surface of the shell.

6. Nozzle (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the non-return valve with which the radial secondary opening is provided is one piece with the shell (2, 102).

7. Beverage dispenser (D) comprising a nozzle (1, 101) according to any one of the preceding claims, the nozzle (1, 101) being connected to a plurality of inlet conduits (5, 6, 7, 8, 9) of the beverage dispenser (D) such that liquids delivered by the respective inlet conduits (5, 6, 7, 8, 9) are able to mix in the mixing chamber (3, 103) of the nozzle (1, 101) so as to form a mixture and the beverage dispenser (D) delivers the mixture through the dispensing opening (4, 104) of the nozzle (1, 101).

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