carbonated drink dispenser

Abstract

A carbonated beverage dispenser (1) for dispensing a carbonated beverage containing soda and at least one additive comprises a compensator (100) for regulating a flow rate of the soda, the compensator (100) comprising an outer body (110) defining a compensator chamber (120), an inlet (140) for transporting the soda into the compensator chamber (120), an outlet (150) for transporting the soda out of the compensator chamber (120), and an inner body (130) disposed within the compensator chamber (120) between the inlet (140) and the outlet (150), the inner body (130) and the outer body (110) being arranged such that the inner body (130) and the outer body (110) are spaced apart from each other. the control element (170) configured to receive user input from a user and control the size of the gap (122) in response to the user input, the control element (170) moving the inner body (130) a first length relative to the control element (170) and moving the outer body (110) a second length different from the first length in response to the user input provided.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE The present disclosure relates to carbonated beverage dispensers. [Background technology]

[0002] Carbonated drinks (also known as sparkling drinks) are beverages containing dissolved carbon dioxide. One example of a carbonated drink is a soda, which contains a soda base (e.g., carbonated water) mixed with additives. Tonic water is one such soda drink. Tonic water has gained significant popularity in recent years, particularly with the resurgence of cocktails such as the gin and tonic. Tonic water is often flavored with additives such as citric acid, quinine, and sugar, which give it its distinctive sour, bitter, and sweet flavors. Other flavors, such as botanical and fruit flavors, may be added to provide flavored tonic water.

[0003] One method of dispensing large volumes of carbonated beverages is to use a soda gun. The soda gun typically contains a soda mix and at least one additive and dispenses the mixture into a beverage container for consumption. Various additives can be selected and added to create a variety of carbonated beverages. The ability to dispense a wide variety of carbonated beverages using just one tool, the soda gun, significantly saves bar space and bartender time. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, using a soda gun can make it difficult to maintain the characteristics of carbonated beverages, especially high-quality tonic water. High-quality tonic water typically has a high carbonation level—that is, a level higher than that of many other carbonated beverages. For example, premium tonic water and other premium (non-alcoholic) soda drinks contain at least four times the amount of CO2, while typical non-premium soda drinks and non-premium tonic water contain 2.5 to 3.5 times the amount of CO2, and beer typically contains 2.2 to 2.6 times the amount of CO2. When storing relatively small amounts of tonic water in bottles or cans, the carbonation level can be maintained relatively high. However, when dispensing large volumes of tonic water with a soda gun, maintaining a high carbonation level becomes more difficult.

[0005] This is because when a soda gun is used to dispense a carbonated beverage into a beverage container, the carbonated beverage can degas, i.e., foam, which can result in an undesirable reduction in the carbonation level of the dispensed beverage, which can result in the dispensed beverage being flat and undesirable to the consumer.

[0006] As a result, high quality tonic water has typically only been available in bottles or cans.

[0007] The carbonated beverage dispenser of the present invention seeks to solve at least some of the problems associated with the prior art. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a carbonated beverage dispenser for dispensing a carbonated beverage containing soda and at least one additive, the carbonated beverage dispenser including a compensator for regulating a flow rate of the soda, the compensator including an outer body defining a compensator chamber, an inlet for transporting the soda into the compensator chamber, an outlet for transporting the soda out of the compensator chamber, an inner body disposed within the compensator chamber between the inlet and the outlet, wherein a gap is formed between the inner body and the outer body for regulating a flow rate of the soda passing between the inlet and the outlet, and a control element configured to receive user input from a user and to control the size of the gap in response to the user input, the control element moving the inner body a first length relative to the control element and moving the outer body a second length different from the first length in response to the user input.

[0009] This allows for precise control of the gap between the inner and outer barrels to be used to achieve a high carbonation level in the dispensed soda beverage, and such precise control is more important for soda beverages than for beer because soda has a lower viscosity than beer and the carbonation requirements for high quality soda are often higher than for beer.

[0010] In a preferred embodiment, the carbonated drink dispenser is a soda drink dispenser for dispensing soda drinks, in particular for dispensing non-alcoholic drinks.

[0011] The first length may be greater than the second length, if desired. In one embodiment, the gap between the inner and outer fuselage is fixed.

[0012] The control element may be rotatable as desired. The user input may be the rotation of the control element.

[0013] In one embodiment, the control element has the form of a differential screw. The differential screw may include a first portion including a first thread for engaging the outer body and a second portion including a second thread for engaging the inner body. The first thread may have a different thread pitch than the second thread. In one embodiment, the first thread has a smaller thread pitch than the second thread.

[0014] Preferably, the first thread has a pitch between 0.65 mm and 0.85 mm, and / or the second thread has a pitch between 0.9 mm and 1.1 mm. If the first thread has a pitch of 0.75 mm and the second thread has a pitch of 1.0 mm, when the differential screw is rotated so that it moves downward 0.75 mm relative to the outer body, the inner body moves upward 1.00 mm relative to the differential screw. Thus, the inner body moves 0.25 mm relative to the outer body. The first thread has an ISO metric thread size M8, and the second thread has an ISO metric thread size M6.

[0015] Preferably, the control element produces a relative longitudinal movement between the inner and outer bodies of between 0.20 mm and 0.30 mm per revolution of the control element.

[0016] In the midstream region of the compensator, relative longitudinal movement between the inner and outer bodies results in a change of several microns in the gap between the inner and outer bodies, where the gap is measured perpendicular to the outer surface of the inner body, the inner surface of the outer body, and / or the flow of soda through the gap.

[0017] The inner fuselage may not rotate relative to the outer fuselage.

[0018] The carbonated beverage dispenser may include a rotation stopper configured to prevent rotation of the inner body relative to the outer body, and optionally, the rotation stopper may include a grub screw that may connect the inner body to the outer body.

[0019] The control element may extend along the same axis as the inner body.

[0020] In one embodiment, the outer body may have a contact portion protruding therefrom and functioning as a contact for contact by a user, the contact portion preferably having the form of a grip and being provided on the first portion of the rotatable control element.

[0021] Preferably, the compensation device further comprises a cooling passage disposed within the outer body and configured to receive a cooling fluid. The cooling passage may be configured to receive a cooling fluid.

[0022] Cooling the compensator further reduces gassing in the dispensed soda. It also helps achieve a constant flow rate of the dispensed soda, thus providing a more consistent liquid dispense rate. The coolant may be soda, which may be circulated through a cooling passage before or after passing through the compensator chamber. Alternatively, instead of utilizing recirculated soda, a cooling passage separate from the compensator chamber may be used with a separate coolant. In one embodiment, the outer body is constructed of a thermally conductive metal such as steel, although other metals or plastics may also be used. Plastic may be preferred due to its simplified and cost-effective manufacturing process. All plastic parts may be individually molded and then bonded together. Additionally, plastic has been found to provide adequate heat transport, and it is easier to achieve a smoother finish on plastic parts than on their metal counterparts.

[0023] Alternatively or additionally, the inner body may be constructed of steel or plastic, with plastic again being preferred due to the simplified manufacturing process and reduced costs.

[0024] The compensator may have a first region near the inlet, a second region near the outlet, and / or a midstream region between the first and second regions. Relative to the direction of soda flow through the compensator, the first region may be an upstream region and the second region may be a downstream region of the compensator. In one example, the upstream region may be located above the downstream region; the flow direction in this embodiment is downward, although this is not required; in other embodiments where the flow may be in another direction, the upstream and downstream regions may be located accordingly.

[0025] In the first region, the diameter of the inner body and the diameter of the compensator chamber are preferably substantially constant between the inlet and midstream regions.

[0026] This results in a fixed gap between the inner and outer bodies in the first region, since the gap therebetween remains the same regardless of any relative movement between the inner and outer bodies along the longitudinal axis L. This advantageously results in a fixed pressure drop for the fluid passing therethrough.

[0027] In the midstream region, the diameter of the inner body and the diameter of the compensator chamber increase at substantially the same constant rate between the first and second regions.

[0028] This provides a variable gap between the inner and outer bodies in the midstream region, which varies with relative lateral movement between the inner and outer bodies along the longitudinal axis L. Such relative longitudinal movement between the inner and outer bodies therefore allows for precise adjustment of the pressure drop across the compensator. This variable pressure drop in the midstream region allows for precise flow regulation.

[0029] In the second region, the diameter of the inner body and the diameter of the compensator chamber preferably decrease at different constant rates between the midstream region and the outlet.

[0030] This causes the gap between the inner and outer bodies in the second region to increase as one moves downward along the longitudinal axis L. Thus, no substantial pressure drop occurs, but the fluid is advantageously slowed down without escaping gas, and thus the fluid can be dispensed in the proper amount without losing carbonation.

[0031] The inner body may be substantially cylindrical in the first region, substantially frusto-conical in the midstream region, and / or substantially conical in the second region.

[0032] In one preferred embodiment, the outer surface of the inner body, the inner surface of the inlet, and / or the inner surface of the outlet have a maximum surface roughness Ra of 0.1 microns. This smoothness reduces nucleation sites for bubble formation and therefore reduces outgassing in the dispensed soda.

[0033] In one embodiment, the carbonated beverage dispenser further comprises a soda transport system having a chiller-carbonator for chilling and carbonating soda directed to the compensator.

[0034] Preferably, the soda transport system further includes a first soda transport path for transporting soda from the chiller carbonator to the cooling path for cooling the compensation device, whereby the cooled and carbonated soda water can be supplied after being adjusted by the compensation device and is utilized to cool the compensation device itself.

[0035] The soda delivery system may further include a third soda delivery line for refluxing soda from the chiller line to the chiller carbonator for re-cooling and re-carbonation.

[0036] The soda delivery system may further include a second soda delivery line for delivering soda water from the chiller carbonator to the compensator, preferably when selectively operated by a user, to regulate flow.

[0037] The chiller carbonator is preferably configured to pressurize the soda to between 5.5 and 6.9 bar, preferably 6.2 bar. Preferably, the soda is pressurized to between 80 and 100 PSI, more preferably to 90 PSI, i.e., between 5.5 and 6.9 bar, more preferably to 6.2 bar.

[0038] In one embodiment, the carbonated beverage dispenser further comprises an additive supply system for supplying at least one additive. The carbonated beverage dispenser may further comprise a mixing chamber for receiving the soda from the compensation device and the at least one additive from the additive supply system and mixing the soda and the at least one additive to produce a soda-based beverage.

[0039] The soda and additives are mixed before dispensing, so it feels like one liquid is being dispensed, as would be the case if dispensed using a bottle.

[0040] The inner surface of the mixing chamber preferably has a maximum roughness Ra of 0.1 microns. This smoothness reduces nucleation sites for bubble formation and therefore reduces outgassing in the mixed soda dispensed.

[0041] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the mixing chamber further comprises a first opening disposed in the mixing chamber. In this embodiment, the additive supply system preferably comprises at least one additive dispenser configured to supply at least one additive into the mixing chamber via the first opening. Advantageously, a space is formed between the at least one additive dispenser and the mixing chamber.

[0042] This prevents the additive delivery nozzle from coming into contact with the liquid in the mixing chamber and becoming contaminated by it, thus eliminating the need to clean the additive dispenser.The volume of the mixing chamber is preferably sufficient to prevent overflow of the mixing chamber depending on the delivery rate and delivery time.

[0043] The first opening may be formed in an upper wall of the mixing chamber, and / or the at least one additive dispenser may be located above the mixing chamber.

[0044] The at least one additive dispenser may advantageously be positioned at an angle to the direction of extension of the mixing chamber such that the at least one additive dispenser dispenses soda in line with the direction of soda flow through the mixing chamber, thereby avoiding liquid splashing from the top of the mixing chamber.

[0045] The mixing chamber may further have a second opening for receiving soda from the outlet of the compensator and / or a third opening for allowing the carbonated beverage to flow out of the mixing chamber, each of the first, second and third openings preferably being provided separately.

[0046] The additive delivery system may comprise a plurality of additive dispensers, each configured to deliver an additive, a plurality of additive reservoirs, each for storing an additive, and a plurality of additive transport lines for conveying the additive from each additive reservoir to each additive dispenser for delivery, which configuration is preferred to avoid contamination of the additives and thus reduce cleaning requirements.

[0047] In one embodiment, the carbonated beverage dispenser comprises a control unit for controlling the carbonated beverage dispenser during dispensing operations, preferably the control unit is configured to control the dispensing flow of soda and additives such that at the end of each dispensing operation the final liquid passing through the mixing chamber is soda and does not contain the dispensed additives.

[0048] The control unit is preferably configured to stop the supply of additives to the mixing chamber by the additive supply system before the control unit stops the supply of soda to the mixing chamber by the compensator, this final soda water serving to clean the mixing chamber, thereby preventing mixing of additives and flavors present in the mixing chamber.

[0049] For this purpose, the inlet of the compensator may have a control valve that controls which soda is delivered to the compensator and then to the mixing chamber, and the additive dispenser may have a dispenser valve and / or pump that controls which additive is delivered to the mixing chamber. The control unit may be electrically connected to the control valve and / or each dispenser valve.

[0050] In certain preferred embodiments, the mixing chamber is removable from the carbonated beverage dispenser, allowing for easy cleaning of the mixing chamber, and preferably is constructed from materials that are fully dishwasher safe.

[0051] The compensator may have a first connection near the outlet. The mixing chamber may have a second connection near the second opening. One of the first and second connections may be male and the other may be female. Preferably, the first and second connections are connected by a friction fit.

[0052] The carbonated beverage dispenser may include a control unit for controlling operation of the carbonated beverage dispenser, the control unit preferably being configured to detect whether the mixing chamber has been removed from the carbonated beverage dispenser and / or to inhibit dispensing by the compensation device and / or additive delivery system if the mixing chamber has been removed from the carbonated beverage dispenser.

[0053] A magnetic coupling between the mixing chamber and the compensation device may be used to facilitate this. The coupling may comprise a magnetic element in one or both of the first and second connectors and may further comprise a sensor for detecting that the magnetic coupling has been made. The sensor may be configured to communicate with the controller. Alternatively, the mixing chamber and compensation device may be attached via a rubber seal.

[0054] The carbonated beverage dispenser may further comprise a carbonated beverage outlet for dispensing carbonated beverage from the mixing chamber. The carbonated beverage outlet is preferably connected to the mixing chamber such that both the mixing chamber and the carbonated beverage outlet are removable from the carbonated beverage dispenser.

[0055] This allows the carbonated beverage outlet to be easily cleaned. Preferably, the carbonated beverage outlet is constructed from materials that are fully dishwasher safe. The carbonated beverage outlet may have a spout. The carbonated beverage outlet may be fixedly connected to the mixing chamber.

[0056] The inner surface of the carbonated beverage outlet preferably has a maximum surface roughness Ra of 0.1 microns. This smoothness reduces nucleation sites for bubble formation and therefore reduces off-gassing in the dispensed mixed soda.

[0057] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a carbonated beverage dispenser for dispensing a carbonated beverage containing soda and at least one additive, the carbonated beverage dispenser comprising: a soda transport system for dispensing the soda; an additive supply system for dispensing the at least one additive; and a mixing chamber for receiving the soda from the soda transport system and the at least one additive from the additive supply system and mixing the soda and the at least one additive to produce a soda beverage, the mixing chamber having an opening, the additive supply system having at least one additive dispenser configured to supply the at least one additive into the mixing chamber through a first opening, and a space being provided between the at least one additive dispenser and the mixing chamber.

[0058] This prevents the nozzle from coming into contact with the liquid in the mixing chamber and becoming contaminated by it, and therefore the additive dispenser does not need to be cleaned periodically.The volume of the mixing chamber is preferably sufficient to prevent the mixing chamber from overflowing, depending on the amount and duration of the dispense.

[0059] The first opening is preferably formed in an upper wall of the mixing chamber, and / or the at least one additive dispenser may be located above the mixing chamber.

[0060] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a carbonated beverage dispenser for dispensing a carbonated beverage containing soda and at least one additive, the carbonated beverage dispenser comprising: a compensation device for adjusting a flow rate of the soda prior to dispensing, the compensation device having an inner body and an outer body, wherein a gap is formed between the inner body and the outer body defining a flow path of the soda as the soda is dispensed; a cooling passage provided in the outer body for cooling the compensation device; a chiller carbonator for cooling and carbonating the soda; and a first soda transport passage for transporting the soda from the chiller carbonator to the cooling passage to cool the compensation device.

[0061] This allows the cooled and carbonated soda water to be dispensed after being conditioned by the compensator, but is also used to cool the compensator itself.

[0062] The carbonated beverage dispenser may further comprise a second soda transport line for transporting soda water from the chiller carbonator to the compensator, preferably when selectively operated by a user, to regulate flow.

[0063] The soda transport system may further include a third soda transport line for refluxing soda from the cooling line to the chiller carbonator for re-cooling and re-carbonation.

[0064] The outer body may have a first outer body portion and a second outer body portion, and the cooling passage may be provided between the first outer body portion and the second outer body portion.

[0065] The first outer body portion may be an upper outer body portion, and the second outer body portion may be a lower outer body portion.

[0066] The first outer barrel portion and the second outer barrel portion may each have flat abutment surfaces that abut when the outer barrels are in use.

[0067] The features of any aspect or embodiment of the present invention may be combined with other aspects or embodiments, where appropriate, either alone or in any suitable combination. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0068] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a carbonated beverage dispenser according to a first embodiment of the present invention, the carbonated beverage dispenser comprising an inner and outer body, a compensator having a control element, a mixing chamber, at least one additive dispenser, and a carbonated beverage outlet. [Figure 2] 2 is a cross-sectional side view of the compensator, mixing chamber, at least one additive dispenser, and carbonated beverage outlet of FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 3]3 is a cross-sectional side view of the compensator, mixing chamber, at least one additive dispenser, and carbonated beverage outlet of FIG. 1, showing the first liquid flow path. [Figure 4a] FIG. 4a is a perspective view of the inner fuselage of FIG. [Figure 4b] 4b is a cross-sectional side view of the inner fuselage of FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional side view of the control element of FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional front view of the compensation device of FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional front view of the compensation device of FIG. 1 showing the second liquid flow path. [Figure 8a] 8a is a rear perspective view of the mixing chamber and carbonated beverage outlet of FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 8b] 8b is a front perspective view of the mixing chamber and carbonated beverage outlet of FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 9] 9 is a rear cross-sectional perspective view of the mixing chamber and carbonated beverage outlet of FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 10] 10 is a cross-sectional side view of the mixing chamber and carbonated beverage outlet of FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a top view of the carbonated beverage dispenser of FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0069] The drawings illustrate the carbonated beverage dispenser in a vertical orientation, i.e., the orientation in which the carbonated beverage dispenser can be used by a user. In a first embodiment, the longitudinal axis L of the compensator extends generally downward when the dispenser is oriented for use. In a second embodiment, the longitudinal axis L of the compensator extends upward at an angle to the vertical when the dispenser is oriented for use. All references to "upper," "lower," "upward," "downward," "up," "down," etc., refer to the dispenser in a vertical orientation. However, it should be recognized that other orientations are possible. The LP coordinate system is used to refer to specific directions and axes relative to the compensator body, and this coordinate system is shown in the drawings.

[0070] 1 shows a carbonated drink dispenser 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention, illustrated in the form of a (non-alcoholic) soda drink dispenser, configured to dispense carbonated drinks, such as soda drinks containing tonic water.

[0071] A soda drink is any beverage containing soda, i.e., carbonated water, and at least one additive, such as citric acid, sugar, quinine, botanical and / or other flavorings. The at least one additive is preferably a water-based or alcohol-based liquid. For example, a water-based liquid may contain dissolved sugar. The soda and additive are mixed together to form any soda drink.

[0072] The carbonated beverage dispenser 1 includes a compensation device 100 configured to regulate the flow rate of the liquid, i.e., soda, flowing therethrough, thereby achieving a high carbonation level in the dispensed beverage. The compensation device 100 is particularly useful for providing resistance to offset the increased pressure required for high-pressure beverages, such as high-quality tonic water. Without the compensation device 100, a strong water outflow would result in undesirable gassing in the dispensed carbonated beverage.

[0073] In addition to compensation device 100, carbonated beverage dispenser 1 includes a soda transport system 200 for delivering soda to compensation device 100, i.e., for flow regulation, an additive supply system 400 for supplying at least one additive, and a mixing chamber 300 for receiving the soda from compensation device 100 and the at least one additive from additive supply system 400 and mixing the soda and the at least one additive to produce a soda beverage (see FIG. 1). Carbonated beverage dispenser 1 further includes a carbonated beverage outlet 500 for dispensing the soda beverage mixed in mixing chamber 300, for example, into a beverage container (not shown) for consumption. Carbonated beverage dispenser 1 is also provided with a control unit (not shown) for controlling its operation.

[0074] 3 illustrates the overall flow of liquid through carbonated beverage dispenser 1. Soda (solid arrow D) is introduced from the soda transport system, passes through compensation device 100, and enters mixing chamber 300. Additive supply system 400 supplies at least one additive or additive mixture (dotted arrow A) to mixing chamber 300. In mixing chamber 300, the soda and at least one mixture are mixed together to form a soda beverage. The soda beverage (dashed arrow S) is then delivered through carbonated beverage outlet 500.

[0075] Thus, it can be seen how carbonated beverage dispenser 1 both (i) prepares a carbonated beverage (by mixing soda and additives together) and (ii) dispenses a carbonated beverage with minimal unwanted carbonation loss in the dispensed product. Because the soda and additives are mixed prior to dispersion, it feels as though only one liquid is being dispensed from carbonated beverage dispenser 1, creating an impression similar to that of dispensing a soda beverage using a bottle.

[0076] The dispensing unit 1, and in particular the compensator arrangement, is specially designed to control the flow and carbonation of the soda drink during the dispensing process, maintaining the premium properties of the soda drink and allowing for large volume dispensing.

[0077] To regulate the flow rate of soda, the compensator 100 includes an outer body 110 that defines a compensator chamber 120, an inlet 140 for allowing soda to enter the compensator chamber 120, and an outlet 150 for allowing soda to exit the compensator chamber 120. The compensator 100 also includes an inner body 130 that is disposed within the compensator chamber 120 between the inlet 140 and the outlet 150, as best shown in FIG. 2. Between the inner body 130 and the outer body 110, the compensator 100 defines a minute gap 122 that regulates the flow rate of soda passing between the inlet 140 and the outlet 150.

[0078] The size of the gap 122 affects the rate at which liquid flows through the compensator 100, which in turn affects the amount of gas escape and ultimately the carbonation level of the final carbonated beverage. Therefore, careful control of the gap 122 is important in controlling the flow rate and the quality of the beverage delivered.

[0079] To control the size of the gap 122, the compensation device 100 further includes a control element 170, which is configured to receive user input from a user and control the size of the gap 122 in response to the user input, as described in more detail below. In response to the user input, the control element 170 is configured to move the inner body 130 a first length relative to the control element 170 and move the outer body 110 a second length relative to the control element 170, where the first length is different from the second length. This causes relative movement between the inner body 130 and the outer body 110, changing the size of the gap.

[0080] This particular configuration of the control element 170 allows for precise control of the gap 122 between the inner body 130 and the outer body 110, particularly more precise than if the control element directly moved only the inner body 130 or the outer body 110. This allows the compensator 100 to achieve a higher carbonation level in the dispensed carbonated beverage. This is particularly important for soda, as compared to, for example, beer, because soda has a lower viscosity than beer, making its flow rate more sensitive to changes in flow restriction, and the carbonation requirements for soda are often higher than those for beer, meaning that its quality is more susceptible to off-gassing.

[0081] To simplify cleaning, the mixing chamber 300 includes a first opening 305, and the additive supply system 400 includes at least one additive dispenser 410 configured to supply at least one additive to the mixing chamber 300 through the first opening 305. A space S is provided between the at least one additive dispenser 410 and the mixing chamber 300.

[0082] This ensures that the at least one additive dispenser 410 does not come into contact with and become contaminated by the liquid in the mixing chamber 300. Therefore, the additive dispenser 410 does not need to be cleaned periodically.

[0083] Next, each component of the carbonated drink dispenser 1 will be described in more detail.

[0084] First, with regard to the compensator 100, as best shown in Figure 2, the inner and outer bodies 130, 110 of the compensator 100 both extend along a longitudinal axis L and are preferably symmetrical about the longitudinal axis L. The outer body 110 surrounds the entire periphery of the inner body 130 along the longitudinal axis L. In this embodiment, the longitudinal axis L extends vertically.

[0085] The inner and outer bodies 130, 110 define first or upstream, midstream, and second or downstream regions 180, 181, 182 in the compensator chamber 120. The first and midstream regions 180, 181 are connected by an upstream intermediate region 183. The midstream and downstream regions 181, 182 are connected by a downstream intermediate region 184, which corresponds to the widest portion of the inner body 130 and compensator chamber 120. In this embodiment, the first region 180 is the upper region 180 and is located above the second region 182, which is the lower region 182.

[0086] In the first region 180, the inner body 130 and the compensator 120 extend substantially downward with parallel walls. In other words, the diameter of the inner body 130 and the diameter of the compensator chamber 120 are substantially constant when moving downward along the longitudinal axis L. This ensures that at each point in the first region 180, the angle between the outer surface of the inner body 130 and the longitudinal axis L is substantially equal to the angle between the inner surface of the outer body 110 and the axis L, each of which is approximately 0°.

[0087] In the first region 180, the gap 122 between the inner and outer bodies 130, 110 is constant at approximately 70 microns because the gap 122 between the inner and outer bodies 130, 110 remains the same even as relative movement occurs between them along the longitudinal axis L. This advantageously provides a constant pressure drop for fluid passing therethrough.

[0088] In the midflow region 181, the inner body 130 and the compensator chamber 120 flare outward at the same constant rate. In other words, the diameter of the inner body 130 and the diameter of the compensator chamber 120 increase at substantially the same constant rate when moving downward along the longitudinal axis L. This ensures that at each point in the midflow region 181, the angle between the outer surface of the inner body 130 and the longitudinal axis L is substantially equal to the angle between the inner surface of the outer body 110 and the axis L. In one embodiment, the angle between the outer surface of the inner body 130 and the longitudinal axis L and the angle between the inner surface of the outer body 110 and the longitudinal axis L are both constant at each point along the axis L between 5° and 15°, preferably about 10°.

[0089] In the midstream region 181, the gap 122 between the inner and outer bodies 130, 110 is variable in that it changes depending on the relative lateral position of the inner and outer bodies 130, 110 along the longitudinal axis L. Thus, relative longitudinal movement between the inner and outer bodies 130, 110 can change the gap 122, thereby allowing the pressure drop provided by the compensator to be precisely adjusted.

[0090] It should be appreciated that in the midflow region 181, the gap 122 between the inner and outer fuselage bodies 130, 110 is constant along the length of the midflow region when the inner and outer fuselage bodies 130, 110 are fixed in position, and varies only with relative movement between the inner and outer fuselage bodies 130, 110. It should also be appreciated that references to the gap 122 refer to the vertical gap, i.e., the vertical clearance between the inner and outer fuselage bodies 130, 110, measured perpendicular to their respective surfaces.

[0091] In the second region 182, the inner body 130 and the compensator 120 taper inward at different constant rates. In other words, the diameter of the inner body 130 and the diameter of the compensator chamber 120 decrease at different constant rates as one moves downward along the longitudinal axis L. In particular, at each point in the second region 182 of the compensator 100, the angle between the outer surface of the inner body 130 and the longitudinal axis L is slightly smaller than the angle between the inner surface of the outer body 110 and the axis L, such that the gap 122 increases as one moves downward along the longitudinal axis L. In one embodiment, the angle between the outer surface of the inner body 130 and the longitudinal axis L is constant between 5° and 15°, preferably about 10°, while the angle between the inner surface of the outer body 110 and the longitudinal axis L is constant between 15° and 25°, preferably about 20°.

[0092] In the second region 182, there is no substantial pressure drop, but the fluid is advantageously slowed down without escaping gas. Thus, the fluid can be delivered at an appropriate velocity without losing carbonation. Thus, the inner body 130 is substantially cylindrical in the first region 180, substantially frustoconical in the midstream region 181, and substantially conical in the second region 182.

[0093] Between the midstream and second regions 181, 182 of the inner fuselage 130 is a lower intermediate region 184. The lower intermediate region 184 is a short region with substantially straight vertical sides. The inner fuselage 130 and the outer fuselage 110 are formed in the lower intermediate region 184 such that the outer surface of the inner fuselage 130 abuts the inner surface of the outer fuselage 110 without a peripheral gap therebetween. This fit centers the inner fuselage 130 within the outer fuselage 110.

[0094] Regardless of the mating, inner body 130 includes at least one longitudinal groove 132 extending across lower intermediate region 184 to allow fluid to flow from midstream region 181 to second region 182. The longitudinal groove 132 provides a connecting flow path between midstream region 181 and second region 182, allowing fluid to be delivered therethrough.

[0095] The inlet 140 is fluidly connected to a first region 180 of the compensator chamber 120, while the outlet 150 is fluidly connected to a second region 182 of the compensator 120. Thus, soda, particularly in the second region 182 of the compensator, flows downwardly, at least partially under the influence of gravity, through the aforementioned gap 122 defined between the inlet 140 and the outlet 150. However, the majority of the movement of soda through the compensator 120 is due to the pressure differential that exists across the compensator.

[0096] The inlet 140 is L-shaped and has first and second inlet passages 142, 144 joined together at a right angle 146. The first inlet passage 142 is fluidly connected to the soda delivery system 200 and receives soda therefrom. The first inlet passage 142 extends upwardly and parallel to the longitudinal axis L. The second inlet passage 144 is fluidly connected to a first region 180 of the compensator chamber 120. The second inlet passage 144 extends along the vertical axis P through the outer body 110 of the compensator 100 and into the compensator chamber 120.

[0097] The outlet 150 is similarly L-shaped and has first and second outlet passages 152, 154 joined together at another right angle 156. The first outlet passage 154 is fluidly connected to the second region 182 of the compensator chamber 120 and receives the conditioned soda therefrom. The first outlet passage 152 extends downwardly parallel to the longitudinal axis L. The second outlet passage 154 is fluidly connected to the mixing chamber 300. The second outlet passage 154 extends along the vertical axis P through the outer body 110 of the compensator 100 and into the mixing chamber 300.

[0098] As mentioned above, it is the control element 170 that controls the size of the gap 122 between the inner and outer bodies 130, 110. The control element achieves this control by moving the inner and outer bodies 130, 110 along the longitudinal axis L, i.e., up and down in this embodiment, at different rates depending on a user input provided. In a preferred embodiment, the user input is a rotation of the control element performed by the user.

[0099] As best seen in FIG. 5, the control element 170 preferably has the form of a differential screw, although other forms of the control element 170 are also feasible.

[0100] The control element 170 extends along a longitudinal axis L and has an elongated shape. The control element 170 has a first portion 174 for engaging the outer body 110 and a second portion 176 for engaging the inner body 130. In this embodiment, the second portion 176 is disposed below the first portion 174 within the compensator 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the first portion 174 has a larger diameter than the second portion 176, and a narrow neck region 177 is provided between the first and second portions 174, 176, which serves as a thread relief and facilitates manufacturing of the element 170.

[0101] The first and second portions 174, 176 of the control element 170 have threaded surfaces for engaging the outer and inner bodies 110, 130, respectively. As best shown in FIG. 2 , the outer and inner bodies 110, 130 have corresponding first and second openings for receiving the control element, each having a corresponding threaded surface to facilitate engagement. The first opening in the outer body 110 is located in a first recess 114 in the top of the outer body 110, while the second opening in the inner body 130 is located in a second recess 134 in the top of the inner body 130. Thus, the control device 170 extends through the first and second recesses 114, 134 in this manner.

[0102] A first portion 178 of first portion 174 may be disposed within and engage outer body 110, and a second portion 179 of first portion 174 (i.e., above first portion 178) may be disposed outside outer body 110 for contact by a user. To facilitate this, second portion 179 of first portion 174 may have a contact portion 172, for example in the form of a grip, for contact and rotation by a user. A second portion 176 of control element 170 is disposed entirely within inner and outer bodies 130, 110.

[0103] In a preferred embodiment, the inner body 130 does not rotate relative to the outer body 110, i.e., does not rotate with rotation of the control element 170. This can be achieved by a rotation stop that rotationally fixes the inner body 130 relative to the outer body 110, for example, by a grub screw 190 connecting the inner and outer bodies 130, 110, as best shown in FIG. 2. This can prevent the inner body 130 from rotating with the outer body 110, thereby facilitating relative movement between the inner and outer bodies 130, 110.

[0104] Returning to FIG. 5 , the first portion 174 of the differential screw control element 170 has a smaller thread pitch than the second portion 176. This difference in thread pitch means that rotation of the control element 170 results in greater relative movement between the control element 170 and the inner barrel 130 than between the control element 170 and the outer barrel 110. This means that rotating the differential screw control element 170 in a clockwise direction can move the inner and outer barrels 130, 110 closer together, thereby decreasing the flow rate, which may be intuitive to an operator. The first portion 174 preferably has a thread pitch between 0.65 mm and 0.85 mm, more preferably 0.75 mm, while the second portion 176 preferably has a thread pitch between 0.9 mm and 1.1 mm, more preferably 1.0 mm. These thread pitches are preferred because they are easily machined, although other pitches may be used.

[0105] In another embodiment, the first portion 174 of the differential screw control element 170 has a larger thread pitch than the second portion 176. This means that rotating the differential screw control element 170 in a counterclockwise direction moves the inner and outer bodies 130, 110 toward each other. In this embodiment, the first portion 174 preferably has a thread pitch between 0.9 mm and 1.1 mm, more preferably 1.0 mm, while the second portion 176 has a thread pitch between 0.65 mm and 0.85 mm, more preferably 0.75 mm.

[0106] Because of the thread engagement, rotation of the control element 170 causes relative movement along the longitudinal axis L of the outer body 110 relative to the control element 170 and of the inner body 130 relative to the control element 170. Because the thread pitches are different, the relative movement is correspondingly different. For example, if the first portion 174 has a thread pitch of 0.75 mm and the second portion 176 has a thread pitch of 1.0 mm, one rotation of the control element causes the differential threads to move downward 0.75 mm relative to the outer body 110, while the inner body 130 moves upward 1.00 mm relative to the differential threads. Thus, the inner body 130 moves 0.25 mm relative to the outer body 110. Thus, a large relative movement of the control element causes a very small relative movement of the inner body 130 and the outer body 110.

[0107] It is clear how precisely the gap 122 can be controlled by rotating the differential screw. In particular, the control element 170 is configured so that one rotation of the control element 170 results in a relative longitudinal movement between the inner and outer fuselage bodies 130, 110 of between 0.20 mm and 0.30 mm. Note that the magnitude of the change in the gap 122 (i.e., the vertical gap between the inner and outer fuselage bodies 130, 110) is smaller than the magnitude of the lateral movement. This is because, in the midstream region 181 of the compensator, the outer surface of the inner fuselage body 130 and the inner surface of the outer fuselage body 110 are at angles (similar) to the L-axis. This relative longitudinal movement between the inner and outer fuselage bodies 130, 110 therefore results in only a few microns of change in the vertical gap 122 between the inner fuselage body 130 and the outer fuselage body 110, providing particularly fine control of the gap size.

[0108] In addition to having different pitches, the threads may have other different characteristics. For example, the threads may have different diameters. In one particular example, the threads of first portion 174 have an ISO metric thread size M8, and the threads of second portion 176 have an ISO metric thread size M6.

[0109] A locking nut may be used to lock the screw 170 in place after manual adjustment. Alternatively, a stop device may be applied to the screw that holds the screw in place and prevents it from turning unless the user wishes to manually adjust it. Such a device may be preferable to a locking nut because access to the screw may be limited, making the use of a locking nut difficult. In one embodiment, the stop device may be in the form of a "clicker" with three spring-loaded plastic clips that are applied to the top of the screw 170 to hold it in place.

[0110] 6, compensation device 100 is preferably provided within outer body 110 and includes a cooling circuit 160 for cooling compensation device 100. Chilled soda is continuously circulated through cooling circuit 160 to maintain outer body 110 and compensation device 100 at a constant temperature, preferably about 0°C, and to prevent soda stagnation within carbonated beverage dispenser 1.

[0111] Additionally, cooling can reduce gassing in the dispensed carbonated beverage. A constant temperature also promotes a consistent liquid viscosity of the dispensed soda, and therefore a consistent flow rate, which is important for consistent liquid delivery from dispense to dispense. Instead of using recirculated soda, a cooling circuit separate from the compensation device 100 can be used.

[0112] Cooling circuit 100 includes a cooling inlet 162, a cooling outlet 164, and a cooling passage 166 extending between cooling inlet 162 and cooling outlet 164. Cooling passage 166 has the form of a flow path that extends at least partially through outer body 110 and around compensator chamber 120. In use, soda enters through cooling inlet 162, flows through cooling passage 166, and exits cooling outlet 164, as shown in FIG.

[0113] In a preferred embodiment, the outer fuselage 110 is comprised of upper and lower outer fuselage sections 110a, 110b, which are preferably formed such that, in use, when the upper outer fuselage section 110a is placed on top of the lower outer fuselage section 110b, they define a cooling passage 166 therebetween. This configuration is easily manufacturable, as it is not easy to access the interior of the outer fuselage 110 to machine the cooling passage 166 when the two are integrally formed.

[0114] The cooling inlet 162 and the cooling outlet 164 are connected to the cooling circuit from the bottom of the lower outer fuselage 110b. The cooling inlet 162 and the cooling outlet 164 are preferably detachable from the lower outer fuselage 110b and thus removably connectable to the cooling passage 166. In one embodiment, the cooling inlet 162 and the cooling outlet 164 are screwed to the lower outer fuselage 110b. This lower location of the cooling inlet and cooling outlet advantageously minimizes the overall footprint of the compensator 100.

[0115] The upper and lower outer fuselage bodies 110a, 110b each have flat abutment surfaces that contact and are flush with each other when the upper and lower outer fuselage bodies 110a, 110b are placed on top of each other. Furthermore, the upper and lower outer fuselage bodies 110a, 110b are each constructed of a thermally conductive metal such as steel, although plastic may also be used. Both the flush construction and material of the fuselage bodies 110 facilitate the cooling effect of the cooling circuit 160 in the compensator 100.

[0116] The upper and lower outer fuselage bodies 110a, 110b are held together by fastening means such as screws. Without such fastening means, the high pressure of the soda passing through the compensator 100 could cause the upper and lower outer fuselage bodies 110a, 110b to separate.

[0117] The cooling passage 166 is sealed by sealing means. Preferably, the sealing means take the form of upper and lower O-rings 168, 169, each disposed between the upper and lower outer bodies 110a, 110b. The upper O-ring 168 may be disposed above the cooling passage 166 at the interface of the upper and lower outer bodies 110a, 110b, while the lower O-ring 169 may be disposed below the cooling passage 166 at the interface of the upper and lower outer bodies 110a, 110b. In this way, the upper O-ring 168 seals the cooling passage 166 from the outside, while the lower O-ring 169 seals the cooling passage 166 from the soda flow path through the compensator 100.

[0118] Having now described the compensator 100, other aspects of the unit 1 will now be described, beginning with the soda delivery system 200.

[0119] The soda delivery system 200 supplies cooled and carbonated soda to the compensator 100 for cooling of the compensator 100 and for flow regulation by the compensator 100 for delivery.

[0120] To this end, soda delivery system 200 includes a chiller carbonator 220 for cooling and carbonating soda, which maintains all soda at the proper temperature and carbonation level for cooling of the compensator via refrigeration circuit 160 and for serving and consumption.

[0121] Soda delivery system 200 includes a first soda delivery path 230, a second soda delivery path 232, a third soda delivery path 234, a fourth soda delivery path 236, and a control valve 240. Any suitable components may be used for these purposes.

[0122] The first soda transport line 230 connects the chiller carbonator 220 to the control valve 240 and transports cooled and carbonated soda water from the chiller carbonator 220 to the control valve 240 .

[0123] The second transport path 232 connects the control valve 240 to the cooling inlet 162 and transports chilled soda water from the control valve 240 to the cooling inlet 162, through the cooling path 166, and thereby cooling the compensation device 100.

[0124] The third soda transport path 234 connects the cooling outlet 164 to the chiller-carbonator 220 and transports the soda that has passed through the cooling path 166 and been warmed by the compensation device from the cooling outlet 164 to the chiller-carbonator 220, thereby re-cooling (and re-carbonating).

[0125] A fourth soda transport line 236 connects the control valve 240 to the inlet 140 of the compensator 100 and transports cooled and carbonated soda water from the control valve 240 to the inlet 140 of the compensator 100 for flow regulation by the compensator 100 and subsequent delivery.

[0126] The control valve 240 is settable to a first setting and a second setting. In the first setting, the control valve 240 directs the soda water from the first soda transport path 230 to the second transport path 232, circulates through the refrigeration circuit 160, and returns to the chiller-carbonator 220 for re-cooling and re-carbonation. In the second setting, the soda is again directed to the refrigeration circuit, and the control valve 240 further directs the soda water from the first soda transport path 230 to the inlet 140 of the compensation device 100 for flow regulation by the compensation device 100 and subsequent delivery.

[0127] Control valve 240 is set to a first setting unless otherwise set by the controller. When operated by the controller, control valve 240 is set to a second setting. This normally circulates soda through cooling circuit 160, thereby keeping compensator 100 cool and preventing soda stagnation within compensator 100, thereby maintaining carbonated beverage dispenser 1 in an operational state. When operated by the controller, for example, by a user providing a "dispense" input, soda is directed to inlet 140 of compensator 100 for flow regulation by compensator 100 and subsequent dispensing.

[0128] The chiller carbonator is preferably configured to pressurize the soda between 80 and 100 PSI, preferably up to 90 PSI, i.e., between 5.5 and 6.9 bar, preferably up to 6.2 bar, to achieve a sufficient carbonation level in the dispensed carbonated beverage for a high-quality carbonated beverage. This differs from the typical pressure of a soda gun, which is typically less than 60 PSI.

[0129] The mixing chamber 300 will now be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 1, 8a, 8b and 9. FIG.

[0130] As best seen in FIG. 1, the mixing chamber 300 extends along a vertical axis P away from the outlet 150 of the compensator 100 .

[0131] 8a, 8b, and 9, the mixing chamber 300 has a housing that is generally rectangular and that, in this example, extends along a vertical axis P. In other words, the housing of the mixing chamber 300 has lower and upper wall portions 310, 320, front and rear wall portions 330, 340, and first and second side wall portions 350, 360. The first and second side wall portions 350, 360 are longer than the front and rear wall portions 330, 340.

[0132] The mixing chamber has a cavity 301 therein that receives and mixes carbonated water from the compensator 100 and additives from the additive delivery system 400 .

[0133] The recess 301 has first, second, and third separate openings 305, 370, and 375 disposed therein. The first opening 305 extends along the length of the top wall 320 of the mixing chamber 300, making the mixing chamber 300 resemble an open-topped water tank. The additive supply system 400 supplies at least one additive into the mixing chamber 300 through the first opening 305. The volume of the mixing chamber 300 is sufficient to prevent liquid in the mixing chamber 300 from spilling out through the first opening 305.

[0134] A second opening 370 is provided in the rear wall 340 for receiving soda from the outlet 150 of the compensator 100, and a third opening 375 is provided in the front wall 330 for allowing the soda beverage to exit the mixing chamber 300. Thus, the second and third openings 370, 375 are located on opposite sides of the mixing chamber 300.

[0135] 9, there is a bottom surface 312 that defines the bottom of the recess 301, facing the first opening 305. The bottom surface 312 slopes downward from the second opening 370 toward the third opening 375, thereby promoting the flow of liquid toward the third opening.

[0136] The mixing chamber 300 is preferably removable from the compensation device 100 of the carbonated beverage dispenser 1, thereby allowing for easy cleaning of the mixing chamber 300. This is particularly beneficial because the mixing chamber 300 comes into contact with the soda beverage mix (i.e., a mixture of carbonated water and syrup), which generally provides an environment for mold growth and therefore particularly requires regular cleaning.

[0137] For this purpose, the compensating device 100 has a first connecting portion 158 defined by the second outlet channel 154 of the outlet 150, and the mixing chamber 300 has a second connecting portion 380 extending from the rear wall and surrounding the second opening. In this example, the second connecting portion 380 is male, i.e., has a protruding portion such as a collar 382, ​​while the first connecting portion 158 is female, i.e., has a receptacle such as a spigot 159, although alternative configurations are also contemplated. The two connecting portions 158, 380 are configured so that they can be connected by a friction fit. This allows for a rigid connection of the mixing chamber 300 to the compensating device 100 that can be quickly and easily connected and disconnected.

[0138] In this example, O-ring 386 is utilized to enhance the friction fit described above. As best seen in Figure 9, collar 382 of the second connection portion has a circumferential groove 384 on its outer surface that receives O-ring 386. When mixing chamber 300 is positioned so that collar 382 is inserted into spigot 159, as best seen in Figure 1, O-ring 386 provides a tight sealing contact against the inner surface of collar 382, ​​holding mixing chamber 300 in place.

[0139] Additionally, the connection between the mixing chamber 300 and the compensation device 100 is magnetized. For this purpose, one or more first magnetic elements may be accommodated in or near the collar 382 and / or the receptacle 159. The magnetization may provide a particularly tight fit and may also guide the collar 382 into the receptacle 159, thereby assisting the user in fitting the mixing chamber into place.

[0140] The magnetized connection may also be combined with a sensor that detects whether the mixing chamber is in place, and thus may be utilized as a "switch." To this end, the sensor may take the form of one or more second magnetic elements housed within or near the collar 382 and / or receptacle 159 and that detect when the magnetized connection is not made. In some embodiments, the first and second magnetic elements are the same, while in other embodiments, they are different. Alternatively, the sensor may be a touch sensor or any other suitable type of sensor. In either case, the control unit will not allow the unit to dispense liquid if it detects that the mixing chamber is not in place, thereby preventing the unit from being accidentally used without the mixing chamber in place.

[0141] Alternatively, the mixing chamber 300 and the compensation device 100 may be attached via a rubber seal. In this embodiment, a mechanical (rather than magnetic) switch may be provided on the compensation device 100. In this embodiment, the control unit will not allow liquid to be dispensed to the compensation device 100 unless the mechanical switch is operated by the user (i.e., to indicate that the mixing chamber 300 is correctly positioned relative to the compensation device 100).

[0142] The mixing chamber 300 is preferably thermally coupled to the compensator's outer body 110 when attached to the compensator 100. This allows the cooling of the compensator 100 to also be used to cool the mixing chamber 300, thereby reducing the possibility of outgassing. For this purpose, the mixing chamber 300 may be constructed of a thermally conductive metal such as steel, although plastic may also be used. Plastic may be preferred because it simplifies the manufacturing process and reduces costs. All plastic parts may be molded individually and then joined together. Furthermore, plastic has been found to provide adequate heat transfer, and it is much easier to achieve a smoother finish on plastic parts than on their metallic counterparts. Preferably, the mixing chamber 300 is constructed of a material that is dishwasher-safe, since it is a part that will be washed.

[0143] The additive supply system 400 will now be described with further reference to FIG.

[0144] For supplying at least one additive into the mixing chamber 300 via the first opening 305, the additive supply system 400 comprises at least one additive dispenser 410, preferably in the form of at least one supply nozzle extending vertically downwards. The additive supply system 400 further comprises at least one additive reservoir 420 for storing the additive and at least one additive transport path 430 for transporting the additive from the additive reservoir 432 to each additive dispenser 410 for supply.

[0145] At least one additive dispenser 410 is positioned above the first opening 305 of the mixing chamber 300 such that a space S is defined therebetween, so that the additive dispenser 410 does not come into contact with and become contaminated by the liquid in the mixing chamber 300. Therefore, the additive dispenser 410 does not need to be cleaned as frequently as the mixing chamber.

[0146] Preferably, the additive supply system 400 comprises a plurality of additive dispensers 410, each configured to supply an additive into the mixing chamber 300 through the first opening 305, a plurality of additive reservoirs 432 for storing the respective additives, and a plurality of additive transport paths 430 for transporting the additives from the respective additive reservoirs 432 to the respective additive dispensers 410 for supply. This configuration is preferred as it avoids contamination of the additives, thereby reducing the need for cleaning.

[0147] Turning now to Figures 8a, 8b and 9, the carbonated beverage outlet 500 has the form of a circular spout that extends away from the third opening of the mixing chamber 300 along the vertical axis P and curves downwards towards its end.

[0148] The carbonated beverage outlet 500 is preferably fixedly connected to the front wall 330 of the mixing chamber 300 so that both the mixing chamber 300 and the carbonated beverage outlet 500 can be removed from the carbonated beverage dispenser 1. The two components 300, 500 may alternatively be integrally formed, which allows the carbonated beverage outlet 500 to be easily cleaned together with the mixing chamber 300.

[0149] The carbonated beverage outlet 500 is preferably thermally coupled to the mixing chamber 300 and the outer body 110 of the compensator 100. This allows cooling of the compensator 100 to also be used to cool the carbonated beverage outlet 500, thereby reducing the possibility of gassing in the dispensed carbonated beverage. For this purpose, the carbonated beverage outlet 500 may be constructed of a thermally conductive metal such as steel, although other materials, such as other metals or plastics, may also be used. Plastics may be preferred because they simplify the manufacturing process and reduce costs. All plastic parts may be molded individually and then joined together. Furthermore, plastics have been found to provide adequate heat transfer, and it is much easier to achieve a smoother finish on plastic parts than their metallic counterparts. Preferably, the carbonated beverage outlet 500 is constructed of a material that is fully dishwasher-safe, as it will be cleaned regularly.

[0150] With respect to the above components of carbonated beverage dispenser 1, the outer surface of inner body 130, the inner surface of inlet 140, the inner surface of outlet 150, the inner surface of mixing chamber 300, and the inner surface of carbonated beverage outlet 500 all preferably have a surface roughness Ra of 0.1 microns or less. This smoothness reduces nucleation sites for bubble formation, thereby reducing gas loss in the dispensed mixed soda. Providing these surfaces with extremely high smoothness in particular minimizes gas loss.

[0151] Finally, the control unit (not shown) of the carbonated drink dispenser 1 will be described.

[0152] The control unit electrically controls the carbonated beverage dispenser 1. The carbonated beverage dispenser 1 also includes a user input interface electrically coupled to the control unit. This input allows a user to input selections of variables including, for example, which carbonated beverage to dispense and the amount of that beverage. Based on this, the control unit controls operation of the control valves of the additive dispenser 410 to produce a particular carbonated beverage and dispense it in a particular amount.

[0153] During each dispensing operation, i.e., during the production and dispensing of a particular soda beverage, the control unit separately controls the supply of carbonated water and additives to the mixing chamber 300. The control unit is configured to stop the supply of additives from the additive supply system 400 shortly before stopping the supply of soda from the compensation device 100. This means that during each dispensing cycle, the final liquid present in the mixing chamber 300 is carbonated water only, rather than a soda beverage mix. This final carbonated water serves to clean the mixing chamber 300 at the end of each dispensing cycle, thereby preventing flavors from mixing with the next soda beverage prepared and keeping the mixing chamber 300 as clean as possible during use of the unit.

[0154] For this purpose, the inlet 140 of the compensator 100 may be provided with a control valve 240 for controlling which soda is delivered to the compensator 100 and thus to the mixing chamber 300. A control valve (not shown) of the additive dispenser 410 controls which additive is delivered to the mixing chamber 300. A control unit is electrically connected to each of the control valves 240 and / or additive dispenser valves 410 to control the delivery of carbonated water and additives.

[0155] Also, as mentioned above, the same control unit may be configured to detect the magnetic coupling 390 between the mixing chamber 300 and the compensation device 100 and to inhibit liquid from being dispensed when the mixing chamber 300 is disconnected.

[0156] Modifications of the carbonated beverage dispenser 1 described above will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the appended claims.

[0157] 10 and 11 illustrate an alternative embodiment of a carbonated beverage dispenser 1001. This embodiment is similar to the above-described embodiment, except that (1) the compensation device 1100 of the carbonated beverage dispenser 1001 is disposed in a different, non-vertical orientation, (2) the control element 1170 has a different configuration, (3) the cooling circuit 1160 has a different configuration, and (4) at least one additive dispenser 1410 is disposed in a different, non-vertical orientation, as described below. Those skilled in the art will recognize that these features are not interrelated and that other embodiments exist that have one or more of these features in any combination.

[0158] With respect to the orientation of the compensator 1100, the longitudinal axis L, along which the compensator 1100 and the inner and outer fuselage bodies 1130, 1110 extend, is not vertical but instead extends upward at an angle θ relative to the vertical. In other words, the compensator 1100 is oriented or tilted at an angle θ relative to the vertical. The angle θ is preferably between about 20° and 85°, more preferably between about 40° and 80°, more preferably between about 50° and 70°, more preferably between about 55° and 65°, and even more preferably about 60°.

[0159] In this embodiment, because the compensator 1100 extends upward at an angle, a first or upstream region 1180 of the compensator body 1130 is the lower region 1180 and a second or downstream region 1182 of the compensator body 1130 is the upper region 1182. The inlet 1140 opens into the first region 1180 and the outlet 1150 opens into the second region 1182. In this manner, the inlet 1140 is located below the outlet 1150, and therefore, soda moves upward (rather than downward) through the gap 1122 defined between the inlet 1140 and the outlet 1150. A pressure differential across the compensator 1120 effects this movement of soda therethrough.

[0160] In this embodiment, the outlet 1150 of the compensator 1100 is not L-shaped but instead extends in only one direction, namely, along the vertical axis P. The outlet 1150 of the compensator 1100 extends from a side of the second region 1182 of the compensator chamber 1120. In other words, one end of the outlet 1150 is fluidly connected to the second region 1182 of the compensator chamber 1120 and receives the conditioned soda therefrom. The other end of the outlet 1150 is fluidly connected to the mixing chamber 1300 and delivers the conditioned soda thereto. The mixing chamber 1300 and the carbonated beverage outlet 1500 both extend along the vertical axis P away from the outlet 1150 of the compensator 1100.

[0161] The inlet 1140 is also L-shaped in this embodiment, but in this embodiment the inlet 1140 delivers fluid along a longitudinal axis L to a first region 1180 of the compensator chamber 1120. To this end, a first inlet channel 1142 extends upward at an angle perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L, while a second inlet channel 1144 extends upward along the longitudinal axis L through the outer body 1110 of the compensator 1100 and into the compensator chamber 1120. Thus, the configuration of the inlet 1140 is angled compared to the first embodiment.

[0162] In this embodiment, the shapes of the inner and outer bodies 1130, 1110 are similar but inverted. That is, in the first region 1180, the diameter of the inner body 1130 and the diameter of the compensator chamber 1120 preferably remain substantially constant as one moves upward along the longitudinal axis L. In the midstream region 1181, the diameter of the inner body 1130 and the diameter of the compensator chamber 1120 increase at substantially the same constant rate as one moves upward along the longitudinal axis L. In the second region 1182, the diameters of the inner body 1130 and the compensator chamber 1120 decrease at different constant rates as one moves upward along the longitudinal axis L. In particular, at each point along the longitudinal axis L of the upper region 1182 of the compensator 1100, the angle between the outer surface of the inner body 1130 and the longitudinal axis L is slightly smaller than the angle between the inner surface of the outer body 1110 and the longitudinal axis L, and therefore the gap 1122 between the inner and outer bodies 1130, 1110 increases as one moves upward along the longitudinal axis L in the upper region 1182.

[0163] In this embodiment, the control element 1170 is located at the downstream end of the compensator 1100 , ie, downstream of the second region 1182 of the compensator body 1100 .

[0164] The control element 1170 has the form of a differential screw in the above-described embodiment, but in a different configuration. In this example, the control element 1170 includes a collar 1171 having an outer surface 1174 and an inner surface 1176. The outer surface 1174 defines a first portion configured to engage with the outer body 1110 of the compensator assembly 1100, and the inner surface 1176 defines a second portion configured to engage with the inner body 1130 of the compensator 1100. In this manner, the collar 1171 is disposed between the inner and outer bodies 1130, 1110 of the compensator 1100.

[0165] The differential threads of the control element 1170 operate in substantially the same manner as described above. The outer surface 1174 has a first thread and the inner surface 1176 has a second thread, with the first and second threads each having a different pitch. The outer body 1110 and the inner body 1130 each have corresponding threads. Because of the different pitches, rotation of the control element 1170 causes the inner and outer bodies 1110, 1130 to move different amounts along the longitudinal axis L, thereby causing relative movement between the inner and outer bodies 1110, 1130, thereby adjusting the size of the gap 1122 between the bodies 1110, 1130 in the manner already described above. Other features of the control element 1170, such as the thread size and pitch, may be similar to those of the previously described embodiments.

[0166] The control element 1170 may also have a contact portion 1172 that protrudes from the outer body 1130 to facilitate contact by a user. In this embodiment, the contact portion 1172 may be an end region of the flange 1171.

[0167] The above-described inclined configuration of the compensator 1100 and the configuration of the collar of the control element are advantageous because they lead to a particularly compact and simple configuration of the compensation system.

[0168] With respect to the cooling circuit 1160, the cooling circuit 1160 has a different configuration as shown in Figure 10 compared to Figure 1. Specifically, the cooling inlet 1162 extends into the outer fuselage 1110 through the bottom of the outer fuselage 1110, but instead of exiting through the bottom of the outer fuselage 1110, the cooling outlet 1164 exits the outer fuselage 1110 through the top of the outer fuselage 1110. Locating the outlet 1164 at the top (as opposed to the bottom) of the outer fuselage 1110 is advantageous because it reduces the frequency of air bubbles becoming trapped in the cooling circuit 1160.

[0169] Turning to the additive dispenser 1410, the additive dispenser 1410 again takes the form of one or more feed nozzles. In this embodiment, the nozzles are inclined at an angle to the vertical to feed the additive into the mixing chamber 1300 along the direction of flow through the mixing chamber 1300, i.e., along axis P. Additionally or alternatively, each feed nozzle may be inclined at angle P to feed the additive inwardly (i.e., sideways) from each side of the mixing chamber 1300 about axis P from outside the mixing chamber 1300 into the mixing chamber 1300.

[0170] 11, in an example where there are multiple dispensing nozzles, half of the dispensing nozzles are configured to dispense additive from one side of the mixing chamber 1300 and the rest from the other side. The multiple nozzles are arranged symmetrically about axis P. These angled configurations of the additive dispenser 1410 are advantageous because they avoid splashing liquid from the top of the mixing chamber 1300 as the additive is dispensed.

[0171] Alternatively, the plurality of supply nozzles may be divided into a first plurality or bundle of supply nozzles for supplying the "base" syrup and a second plurality or bundle of supply nozzles for supplying the "flavor liquids." The first bundle may be inclined in one or two of the above directions, while the second bundle may be arranged to extend vertically downward. In this embodiment, only the nozzles supplying the "base" syrup are angled relative to the flow direction, since the flow rate of the syrup is greater than that of the flavor liquids.

[0172] Other variations and modifications are contemplated without departing from the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. 1. A carbonated beverage dispenser for dispensing a carbonated beverage comprising soda and at least one additive, comprising: a compensating device for adjusting the flow rate of the soda; The compensation device comprises: an outer body defining a compensator chamber; an inlet for transporting soda into the compensator chamber; an outlet for transporting soda out of the compensator chamber; an inner body disposed within the compensator chamber between the inlet and the outlet, the inner body defining a gap between the inner body and the outer body for adjusting the flow rate of soda passing between the inlet and the outlet; a control element configured to receive user input from a user and to control the gap size in response to the user input, the control element moving the inner body a first length relative to the control element and moving the outer body a second length relative to the control element, the second length being different from the first length in response to the user input provided; A carbonated beverage dispenser having

2. the control element is rotatable; The carbonated beverage dispenser of claim 1 , wherein the user input is rotation of the control element.

3. the control element has the form of a differential screw having a first portion including first threads for engaging the outer body and a second portion including second threads for engaging the inner body; 3. The carbonated beverage dispenser of claim 1, wherein the first thread has a different thread pitch than the second thread.

4. the first thread has a pitch between 0.65 mm and 0.85 mm; 4. The carbonated beverage dispenser of claim 3, wherein the second thread has a pitch between 0.9 mm and 1.1 mm.

5. 3. The carbonated beverage dispenser of claim 2, wherein the control element causes a relative vertical movement between the inner body and the outer body of between 0.20 mm and 0.30 mm per revolution of the control element.

6. The carbonated beverage dispenser of claim 1 or 2, wherein the inner body does not rotate relative to the outer body.

7. 3. The carbonated beverage dispenser of claim 1 or 2, wherein the control element has a contact portion protruding from the outer body and serving as a contact function for contact by a user.

8. 10. The carbonated beverage dispenser of claim 1, wherein the compensation device further comprises a cooling passage disposed within the outer body and configured to receive a cooling fluid.

9. The compensation device comprises: a first region proximate the inlet; a second region proximate the outlet; a midstream region between the first region and the second region; 3. The carbonated beverage dispenser of claim 1 or 2, comprising:

10. 10. The carbonated beverage dispenser of claim 9, wherein in the first region, the diameter of the inner body and the diameter of the compensator chamber are substantially constant between the inlet and the midstream region.

11. 10. The carbonated beverage dispenser of claim 9, wherein in the midstream region, the diameter of the inner body and the diameter of the compensator chamber increase at substantially the same constant rate between the first region and the second region.

12. 10. The carbonated beverage dispenser of claim 9, wherein in the second region, the diameters of the inner body and the compensator chamber decrease at different constant rates between the midstream region and the outlet.

13. 10. The carbonated beverage dispenser of claim 1 or 8, further comprising a soda transport system having a chiller-carbonator for cooling and carbonating soda directed to the compensation device.

14. 14. The carbonated beverage dispenser of claim 13 when dependent on claim 8, wherein the soda transport system further comprises a first soda transport path for transporting soda from the chiller carbonator to the cooling path for cooling the compensation device.

15. 14. The carbonated beverage dispenser of claim 13, wherein the soda transport system further includes a second soda transport path for transporting soda water from the chiller carbonator to the compensation device to regulate flow when selectively operated by a user.

16. 14. The carbonated beverage dispenser of claim 13, wherein the chiller carbonator is configured to pressurize the soda to between 5.5 bar and 6.9 bar.

17. an additive supply system for supplying at least one additive; a mixing chamber for receiving the soda from the compensation device and the at least one additive from the additive supply system and mixing the soda and the at least one additive to produce a soda-based beverage; The carbonated beverage dispenser of claim 1 further comprising:

18. the mixing chamber further comprises a first opening disposed in the mixing chamber; the additive supply system includes at least one additive dispenser configured to supply at least one additive into the mixing chamber through the first opening; 18. The carbonated beverage dispenser of claim 17, wherein a space is formed between the at least one additive dispenser and the mixing chamber.

19. the first opening is formed in an upper wall of the mixing chamber; 20. The carbonated beverage dispenser of claim 18, wherein the at least one additive dispenser is positioned above the mixing chamber.

20. The mixing chamber comprises: a second opening for receiving soda from the outlet of the compensator; a third opening for allowing the carbonated beverage to exit the mixing chamber; 20. The carbonated beverage dispenser of claim 17, further comprising:

21. a control unit for controlling the carbonated beverage dispenser during a dispensing operation; 21. The carbonated beverage dispenser of any one of claims 17 to 20, wherein the control unit is configured to control the dispensing flows of soda and additives so that at the end of each dispensing operation, the final liquid passing through the mixing chamber is soda and does not contain the additives being dispensed.

22. 22. The carbonated beverage dispenser of claim 21, wherein the control unit is configured to stop the additive supply system from supplying additives to the mixing chamber before the control unit stops the compensation device from supplying soda to the mixing chamber.

23. 21. The carbonated beverage dispenser of claim 17 or 20, wherein the mixing chamber is removable from the carbonated beverage dispenser.

24. the compensation device has a first connection near the outlet; the mixing chamber has a second connection portion adjacent the second opening; one of the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion is male, and the other is female; 24. The carbonated beverage dispenser of claim 23 when dependent on claim 20, wherein the first and second connecting portions are connected by a friction fit.

25. a control unit for controlling operation of the carbonated beverage dispenser; 24. The carbonated beverage dispenser of claim 23, wherein the control unit is configured to detect whether the mixing chamber has been removed from the carbonated beverage dispenser and to inhibit dispensing by the compensation device and / or the additive delivery system if the mixing chamber has been removed from the carbonated beverage dispenser.

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