carbonated water dispenser

Abstract

To provide a carbonated water dispenser provided with a configuration enabling application of an appropriate pressure to carbonated water and efficient discharging of the carbonated water.SOLUTION: A carbonated water dispenser 1 dissolves carbon dioxide into beverage water under pressure and generates and discharges carbonated water. A carbon dioxide supply section 300 includes: a first carbon dioxide supply pipe L2 that supplies carbon dioxide to a generation section and includes a first on-off valve 312; and a second carbon dioxide supply pipe L5, when viewed in a carbon dioxide flow direction, which is provided in parallel with the first carbon dioxide supply pipe L2, branches from the first carbon dioxide supply pipe L2 on an upstream side of the first on-off valve 312, converges to the first carbon dioxide supply pipe L2 on a downstream side of the first on-off valve 312, and includes a pressure adjustment mechanism 314 that adjusts pressure of the carbon dioxide to be supplied to the generation section 100.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a carbonated water dispenser. [Background technology]

[0002] Examples of drinking water dispensers include those disclosed in JP 2020-132259 A (Patent Document 1) and JP 2020-132260 A (Patent Document 2).

[0003] Patent Documents 1 and 2 aim to produce strong carbonated water, and to provide a carbonated water dispenser that can increase the solubility of carbon dioxide gas and enable the production of strong carbonated water. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-132259 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-132260 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] When the produced carbonated water is discharged from the outlet, it is possible to have the water discharged by its own weight, but it is more efficient to pressurize the carbonated water at an appropriate pressure.

[0006] This invention was made in consideration of such problems, and aims to provide a carbonated water dispenser that has a configuration that can pressurize carbonated water at an appropriate pressure and dispense the water efficiently. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The carbonated water dispenser according to the present disclosure is a carbonated water dispenser that generates and dispenses carbonated water by dissolving carbon dioxide gas in drinking water under pressure, and includes a generation unit that generates the carbonated water, a drinking water supply unit that supplies the drinking water to the generation unit, a carbon dioxide gas supply unit that supplies the carbon dioxide gas to the generation unit, a water discharge unit that dispenses the carbonated water generated in the generation unit, and an internal pressure control unit that controls the internal pressure of the generation unit.

[0008] The carbon dioxide gas supply unit includes a first carbon dioxide gas supply pipe that supplies the carbon dioxide gas to the generation unit and includes a first on-off valve, and a second carbon dioxide gas supply pipe that is arranged parallel to the first carbon dioxide gas supply pipe when viewed in the flow direction of the carbon dioxide gas, branches off from the first carbon dioxide gas supply pipe upstream of the first on-off valve, merges with the first carbon dioxide gas supply pipe downstream of the first on-off valve, and includes a pressure adjustment mechanism that adjusts the pressure of the carbon dioxide gas supplied to the generation unit.

[0009] In another aspect of the carbonated water dispenser, the pressure adjustment mechanism includes a member that reduces the pressure of the carbon dioxide gas by narrowing the flow path of the second carbon dioxide gas supply pipe.

[0010] Another aspect of the carbonated water dispenser based on the present disclosure is a carbonated water dispenser that dissolves carbon dioxide gas in drinking water under pressure to generate and dispense carbonated water, and includes a generation unit that generates the carbonated water, a drinking water supply unit that supplies the drinking water to the generation unit, a carbon dioxide gas supply unit that supplies the carbon dioxide gas to the generation unit, a water discharge unit that discharges the carbonated water generated in the generation unit, an internal pressure control unit that controls the internal pressure of the generation unit, and a control unit that controls the carbon dioxide gas supply unit, the water discharge unit, and the internal pressure control unit.

[0011] When the carbonated water is generated in the generation section, the control unit instructs the carbon dioxide gas supply section, the water outlet section, and the internal pressure control section to close the water outlet section and the internal pressure control section, and to increase the internal pressure of the generation section to a first internal pressure using the carbon dioxide gas supply section.

[0012] Another aspect of the carbonated water dispenser based on the present disclosure is a carbonated water dispenser that dissolves carbon dioxide gas in drinking water under pressure to generate and dispense carbonated water, and includes a generation unit that generates the carbonated water, a drinking water supply unit that supplies the drinking water to the generation unit, a carbon dioxide gas supply unit that supplies the carbon dioxide gas to the generation unit, a water discharge unit that discharges the carbonated water generated in the generation unit, an internal pressure control unit that controls the internal pressure of the generation unit, and a control unit that controls the carbon dioxide gas supply unit, the water discharge unit, and the internal pressure control unit.

[0013] After the carbonated water is produced in the production section, the control unit instructs the carbon dioxide gas supply section, the water outlet section, and the internal pressure control section to close the carbon dioxide gas supply section and to use the internal pressure control section to reduce the internal pressure of the production section to a second internal pressure lower than the first internal pressure.

[0014] Another aspect of the carbonated water dispenser based on the present disclosure is a carbonated water dispenser that dissolves carbon dioxide gas in drinking water under pressure to generate and dispense carbonated water, and includes a generation unit that generates the carbonated water, a drinking water supply unit that supplies the drinking water to the generation unit, a carbon dioxide gas supply unit that supplies the carbon dioxide gas to the generation unit, a water discharge unit that discharges the carbonated water generated in the generation unit, an internal pressure control unit that controls the internal pressure of the generation unit, and a control unit that controls the carbon dioxide gas supply unit, the water discharge unit, and the internal pressure control unit.

[0015] When the carbonated water is discharged from the water outlet, the control unit instructs the carbon dioxide gas supply unit, the water outlet, and the internal pressure control unit to close the internal pressure control unit and cause the internal pressure of the generation unit to exceed the first internal pressure and be less than the second internal pressure. [Effects of the Invention]

[0016] This disclosure makes it possible to provide a carbonated water dispenser having a configuration that can pressurize carbonated water at a predetermined pressure and efficiently dispense the water. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0017] [Figure 1]1 is a schematic diagram showing the appearance of a carbonated water dispenser according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 is a circuit diagram of a carbonated water dispenser according to a first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a control unit of the carbonated water dispenser of the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a circuit diagram of a carbonated water dispenser according to a second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] Carbonated water dispensers according to various embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the embodiments described below, when reference is made to the number, amount, etc., the scope of the present invention is not necessarily limited to the number, amount, etc., unless otherwise specified. The same reference numerals are used for the same or corresponding parts, and redundant descriptions may not be repeated. It is intended from the outset that the configurations in the embodiments may be used in appropriate combinations. Arrows in the drawings indicate the flow directions of carbon dioxide gas, drinking water, and carbonated beverages.

[0019] (Embodiment 1) The configuration of a carbonated water dispenser 1 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 3. Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing the appearance of the carbonated water dispenser 1, Figure 2 is a circuit diagram of the carbonated water dispenser 1, and Figure 3 is a diagram showing a control unit 10.

[0020] 1, carbonated water dispenser 1 of this embodiment is provided with outlet 4 for dispensing carbonated water on the front side of the housing. Carbonated water produced in carbonated water dispenser 1 can be used from outlet 4 according to the user's request.

[0021] (Overall configuration of carbonated water dispenser 1) Referring to Figure 2, carbonated water is generated in a carbonated water generation tank 100, which is a generation unit. Connected to the carbonated water generation tank 100 are a drinking water supply unit 200 that supplies drinking water to the carbonated water generation tank 100 and a carbon dioxide gas supply unit 300 that supplies carbon dioxide gas. Connected to the carbonated water generation tank 100 is a water outlet unit 400 that outputs the carbonated water generated in the carbonated water generation tank 100. Connected to the carbonated water generation tank 100 is an internal pressure control unit 500 that controls the internal pressure of the carbonated water generation tank 100.

[0022] The carbonated water generation tank 100 is provided with an agitation unit 600 that agitates drinking water when carbon dioxide is dissolved in the drinking water. The agitation unit 600 includes a motor 610 and a magnet 620 that is rotated by the motor 610, both located outside the bottom of the carbonated water generation tank 100. The agitation unit 600 includes a rotor 630 that is located inside the bottom of the carbonated water generation tank 100 and rotates following the magnet 620 due to the magnetic force of the magnet 620.

[0023] The carbonated water generation tank 100 is provided with a water level sensor 700. The water level sensor 700 includes a full water detection sensor 710 and an empty water detection sensor 720.

[0024] A cooling unit 800 that cools the drinking water in the carbonated water generation tank 100 is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the carbonated water generation tank 100. The cooling unit 800 is arranged on the outer peripheral surface of the carbonated water generation tank 100 and includes a refrigerant circulation path 810 through which a refrigerant circulates.

[0025] The carbonated water dispenser 1 includes a control unit 10 that monitors and controls a drinking water supply section 200, a carbon dioxide gas supply section 300, a water outlet section 400, an internal pressure control section 500, a stirring section 600, a water level sensor 700, and a cooling section 800 when producing carbonated water.

[0026] (Carbonated water generating tank 100) In this embodiment, the carbonated water generation tank 100 is a stainless steel container. The bottom surface of the carbonated water generation tank 100 is preferably mirror-finished to prevent the generation of wear particles due to contact with the rotor 630. From the viewpoint of preventing the generation of wear particles, it is preferable that the degree of mirror finish is high.

[0027] (Drinking water supply section 200) The drinking water supply section 200 includes a drinking water supply pipe L1 that communicates with the carbonated water generation tank 100 and a drinking water supply on-off valve 210 that opens and closes the drinking water supply pipe L1. The opening and closing of the drinking water supply on-off valve 210 is controlled by the control unit 10. In this embodiment, a nylon tube is used for the drinking water supply pipe L1.

[0028] (carbon dioxide gas supply unit 300) The carbon dioxide gas supply unit 300 includes a first carbon dioxide gas supply pipe L2 that supplies carbon dioxide gas from a carbon dioxide gas supply means B1, such as a carbon dioxide gas cylinder, to the carbonated water generation tank 100. The first carbon dioxide gas supply pipe L2 includes a first pressure adjustment mechanism 311 that adjusts the pressure of the carbon dioxide gas supplied to the carbonated water generation tank 100. In this embodiment, the first pressure adjustment mechanism 311 uses a pressure reducing valve as a first pressure adjustment valve.

[0029] In the carbon dioxide gas supply unit 300, a first safety valve 313 and a first on-off valve 312 are provided in this order downstream of the first pressure adjustment mechanism 311 when viewed in the direction of carbon dioxide gas flow.

[0030] The carbon dioxide gas supply section 300 is arranged parallel to the first carbon dioxide gas supply pipe L2 when viewed in the direction of carbon dioxide gas flow, and includes a second carbon dioxide gas supply pipe L5 that branches off from the first carbon dioxide gas supply pipe L2 upstream of the first on-off valve 312 (in this embodiment, between the first pressure adjustment mechanism 311 and the first safety valve 313) and joins the first carbon dioxide gas supply pipe L2 downstream of the first on-off valve 312.

[0031] The second carbon dioxide gas supply pipe L5 includes a second pressure adjustment mechanism 314 that adjusts the pressure of the carbon dioxide gas supplied to the carbonated water generation tank 100. In this embodiment, an orifice is used as a second pressure adjustment valve in the second pressure adjustment mechanism 314. A second on-off valve 315 is provided downstream of the second pressure adjustment mechanism 314. Note that the second pressure adjustment mechanism 314 is not limited to an orifice, and may be any member that reduces the pressure of the carbon dioxide gas by narrowing the flow path of the second carbon dioxide gas supply pipe L5.

[0032] The first carbon dioxide gas supply pipe L2 includes a pressure gauge 320 for monitoring the internal pressure of the carbonated water generation tank 100 downstream of the position where the second carbon dioxide gas supply pipe L5 joins.

[0033] The first on-off valve 312 , the second on-off valve 315 , and the pressure gauge 320 are monitored and controlled by the control unit 10 .

[0034] The pressure of the carbon dioxide gas sent from the carbon dioxide gas supply means B1 is 7 MPaG. In the first pressure adjustment mechanism 311, the pressure of the carbon dioxide gas supplied to the carbonated water generation tank 100 is reduced to about 0.9 MPaG. Nylon tubes are used for the first carbon dioxide gas supply pipe L2 and the second carbon dioxide gas supply pipe L5.

[0035] (Izumi Department 400) The water outlet section 400 includes a carbonated water outlet pipe L3 that leads from the carbonated water generation tank 100 to the water outlet 4. When viewed in the direction of flow of the carbonated water, the carbonated water outlet pipe L3 includes, from upstream to downstream, a filter 410 for removing fine particles, a flow rate adjustment valve 420, and a third on-off valve 430. The flow rate adjustment valve and the third on-off valve 430 are monitored and controlled by the control unit 10. A nylon tube is used for the carbonated water outlet pipe L3.

[0036] (Internal pressure control unit 500) The internal pressure control unit 500 is provided for the purpose of reducing the internal pressure of the carbonated water generation tank 100. The internal pressure control unit 500 includes an internal pressure control pipe L4 that communicates with the carbonated water generation tank 100. When viewed in the flow direction of carbon dioxide gas, the internal pressure control pipe L4 includes, from upstream to downstream, a first back pressure valve 510, a check valve 520, a fourth on-off valve 530, and a second back pressure valve 540. The fourth on-off valve 530 is monitored and controlled by the control unit 10. A nylon tube is used for the internal pressure control pipe L4. The first back pressure valve 510 and the second back pressure valve 540 are set to predetermined pressure settings.

[0037] (Mixing section 600) The control unit 10 issues an operation command to the stirring unit 600 to stir the cooling water in the carbonated water generation tank 100. Specifically, the control unit 10 issues an operation command to the motor 610 of the stirring unit 600 to drive it.

[0038] (Water Level Sensor 700) The water level sensor 700 includes a full water detection sensor 710 and an empty water detection sensor 720. The control unit 10 monitors whether the drinking water or carbonated water in the carbonated water generation tank 100 is empty or full, based on signals obtained from the full water detection sensor 710 and the empty water detection sensor 720.

[0039] (Cooling section 800) A cooling section 800 is provided on the outer periphery of the carbonated water generation tank 100. The cooling section 800 is monitored and controlled by the control unit 10. A temperature sensor (not shown) is provided inside the carbonated water generation tank 100, and the control unit 10 monitors and controls the temperature inside the cooling section 800 based on temperature information obtained from this temperature sensor.

[0040] Cooling the drinking water stored in the carbonated water generation tank 100 can promote dissolution of carbon dioxide gas into the drinking water. The liquid temperature of the drinking water is preferably within the range of 0°C to 15°C. Setting the liquid temperature of the drinking water to 0°C or higher prevents the water from freezing. On the other hand, setting the liquid temperature of the cooling water to 15°C or lower prevents the carbon dioxide gas from dissolving in the cooling water insufficiently.

[0041] (Control unit 10) 3, the control unit 10 is electrically connected to each part of the carbonated water dispenser 1 and monitors and controls the operation of each part. The control unit 10 is composed of a computer including at least an arithmetic processing unit 20, a memory unit 30, and an input / output unit 40.

[0042] A CPU that performs various types of arithmetic processing may be used for the arithmetic processing unit 20. The memory unit 30 includes a ROM (Read-Only Memory) that is a read-only memory that stores programs, a RAM (Random-Access Memory) that is a readable and writable memory that stores various types of information, and a magnetic disk that stores control software, data, etc.

[0043] The magnetic disk is pre-stored with a program for producing carbonated water, etc. The CPU reads the program into RAM and controls each part of the carbonated water dispenser 1 according to the contents of the program.

[0044] The input / output unit 40 receives detection input signals from various sensors, such as a water level sensor 700 that measures the water level in the carbonated water generation tank 100, a pressure gauge 320 that measures the pressure in the carbonated water generation tank 100, and a temperature sensor that measures the temperature in the carbonated water generation tank 100. Operational inputs such as a carbonated water switch (none of which are shown) that requests the release of carbonated water are also received.

[0045] (Generating carbonated water) Next, the operation of the carbonated water dispenser 1 when producing and dispensing carbonated water using the carbonated water dispenser 1 having the above configuration will be described below.

[0046] (When carbonated water is generated) When a user operates the carbonated water switch to request the dispensing of carbonated water, the control unit 10 issues an operational command to the drinking water supply on-off valve 210 of the drinking water supply unit 200 to open it. As a result, drinking water is supplied to the carbonated water generation tank 100 through the drinking water supply pipe L1. The amount of drinking water supplied is adjusted by the opening time of the drinking water supply on-off valve 210, etc. The first on-off valve 312, second on-off valve 315, and third on-off valve 430 are closed by an operational command from the control unit 10. Cooled water that has been cooled to a predetermined temperature in advance may be used as drinking water.

[0047] The control unit 10 issues an operation command to open the fourth on-off valve 530. This causes part of the gas inside the carbonated water generation tank 100 to be exhausted through the internal pressure control pipe L4, and the pressure inside the carbonated water generation tank 100 is adjusted to be equal to atmospheric pressure.

[0048] When a predetermined amount of drinking water has been supplied into the carbonated water generation tank 100, the control unit 10 issues an operation command to the drinking water supply on-off valve 210 to close it. Similarly, the control unit 10 issues an operation command to the fourth on-off valve 530 to close it. The control unit 10 issues operation commands to the first on-off valve 312, the second on-off valve 315, and the third on-off valve 430 to maintain their closed states.

[0049] After the supply of drinking water is completed, the control unit 10 issues an operation command to open the first on-off valve 312 of the carbon dioxide gas supply unit 300. As a result, the carbon dioxide gas stored in the carbon dioxide gas supply means B1 is supplied to the carbonated water generation tank 100 through the first carbon dioxide gas supply pipe L2.

[0050] The set value of the pressure (first internal pressure) inside the carbonated water generation tank 100 is not particularly limited, but considering the provisions of the High Pressure Gas Safety Act, the upper limit is preferably less than 1.0 MPaG. On the other hand, from the viewpoint of sufficiently dissolving carbon dioxide gas in drinking water, the lower limit is more preferably 0.9 MPaG or more. While carbon dioxide gas is being supplied into the carbonated water generation tank 100, the drinking water supply on-off valve 210, the second on-off valve 315, the third on-off valve 430, and the fourth on-off valve 530 are all closed by operation commands from the control unit 10.

[0051] Simultaneously with the start of carbon dioxide gas supply, the control unit 10 issues an operation command to the stirring unit 600, stirring the drinking water in the carbonated water generation tank 100. Specifically, the control unit 10 issues an operation command to drive the motor 610 of the stirring unit 600. This drives the motor 610, which rotates the magnet 620, thereby rotating the rotor 630 placed in the carbonated water generation tank 100. By stirring the drinking water, the concentration of carbon dioxide gas dissolved in the drinking water can be made uniform, and the occurrence of concentration gradients can be suppressed. This makes it possible to produce carbonated water with more dissolved carbon dioxide gas than conventional carbonated water dispensers.

[0052] The stirring speed and stirring time can be set as needed. The stirring speed can be adjusted by controlling the rotation speed of the rotor 630 using an operation command from the control unit 10. The stirring time can be adjusted by controlling the driving time of the motor 610 using an operation command from the control unit 10.

[0053] The stirring by the stirring unit 600 ends simultaneously with the end of the supply of carbon dioxide gas. More specifically, the stirring ends when the control unit 10 issues an operation command to the motor 610 of the stirring unit 600 to stop driving.

[0054] (After carbonated water is generated) After the carbonated water is produced, the control unit 10 issues an operational command to the first on-off valve 312 of the carbon dioxide gas supply unit 300 to close it. Next, the control unit 10 issues an operational command to the fourth on-off valve 530 of the internal pressure control unit 500 to open it in order to prevent the carbonated water from spurting out from the outlet 4. As a result, the internal pressure of the carbonated water production tank 100 becomes approximately equal to atmospheric pressure (second internal pressure). Next, the control unit 10 issues an operational command to the third on-off valve 430 of the carbonated water outlet pipe L3 to open it in order to allow the carbonated water to flow out from the outlet 4. This allows the user to obtain carbonated water from the outlet 4.

[0055] However, since the carbonated water falls due to its own weight, it takes time to obtain the produced carbonated water. Therefore, in this embodiment, the control unit 10 issues the following operation commands.

[0056] (When carbonated water is pouring out) Specifically, after the carbonated water is produced, the control unit 10 issues an operational command to close the first on-off valve 312 of the carbon dioxide gas supply unit 300. Next, the control unit 10 issues an operational command to open the fourth on-off valve 530 of the internal pressure control unit 500 in order to prevent the carbonated water from spurting out from the water outlet 4. As a result, the internal pressure (second internal pressure) of the carbonated water production tank 100 temporarily becomes approximately equal to atmospheric pressure.

[0057] Next, the control unit 10 issues an operation command to the fourth on-off valve 530 of the internal pressure control unit 500 to close it. Next, the control unit 10 issues an operation command to the second on-off valve 315 of the carbon dioxide gas supply unit 300 to open it. This causes carbon dioxide gas to be supplied again to the carbonated water generation tank 100. This supply of carbon dioxide gas is intended to increase the internal pressure of the carbonated water generation tank 100. The amount of carbon dioxide gas supplied to the carbonated water generation tank 100 is regulated by the second pressure regulation mechanism 314.

[0058] Next, the control unit 10 controls the internal pressure of the carbonated water generation tank 100 so that it exceeds atmospheric pressure (second internal pressure) and reaches a carbonated water outflow internal pressure that is less than the first internal pressure and suitable for forcing out carbonated water. When this carbonated water outflow internal pressure is reached, the control unit 10 issues an operation command to the second on-off valve 315 of the carbon dioxide gas supply unit 300 to close it. Thereafter, the control unit 10 issues an operation command to the third on-off valve 430 of the carbonated water outflow pipe L3 to open it, in order to allow carbonated water to flow from the outlet 4. At this time, the first on-off valve 312, the second on-off valve 315, and the fourth on-off valve 530 are maintained in a closed state.

[0059] As a result, the carbonated water in the carbonated water generation tank 100 is pushed by the increased internal pressure of the carbonated water generation tank 100 and flows out from the water outlet 4 (see FIG. 1) with an appropriate force.

[0060] The carbonated water dispenser 1 of this embodiment has a second carbon dioxide gas supply pipe L5 including a second pressure adjustment mechanism 314 provided in the carbon dioxide gas supply unit 300 to enable the production of strong carbonated water and to cause the carbonated water to flow from the outlet 4. This makes it possible to provide carbonated water that flows from the outlet 4 with an appropriate force.

[0061] In this embodiment, the flow during the production of carbonated water, the flow after the production of carbonated water, and the flow during the release of carbonated water are implemented as a series of flows, but the present invention is not limited to implementing these three flows simultaneously. Only the flow during production, only the flow after the production of carbonated water, or only the flow during the release of carbonated water may be implemented, or these flows may be selected and combined as appropriate, or other known flows may be combined.

[0062] (Embodiment 2) Next, the configuration of the carbonated water dispenser 1A according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a circuit diagram of the carbonated water dispenser 1A.

[0063] The carbonated water dispenser 1A in this embodiment has the same basic configuration as the carbonated water dispenser 1 described in the above-mentioned embodiment 1. Therefore, improvements will be described below.

[0064] (Carbonated water generating tank 100) In this embodiment, the capacity of the carbonated water generation tank 100 is smaller than in embodiment 1, allowing the user to drain all of the generated carbonated water and prevent carbonated water from remaining in the carbonated water generation tank 100.

[0065] (Drinking water supply section 200) In the drinking water dispenser 200 in the first embodiment, a small on-off valve was used for the drinking water supply on-off valve 210 from the viewpoint of miniaturizing the carbonated water dispenser 1 and reducing costs. However, it was confirmed that the water supply time was long (one minute or more to supply water). Therefore, in the carbonated water dispenser 1A of the present embodiment, a larger on-off valve than that in the first embodiment is used for the drinking water supply on-off valve 210.

[0066] (carbon dioxide gas supply unit 300) In the carbon dioxide gas supply unit 300 in the first embodiment, an orifice was used as the second pressure regulating valve in the second carbon dioxide gas supply pipe L5. However, since it is not easy to regulate the pressure (flow rate) using an orifice, in this embodiment, a needle valve is used as the second pressure regulating valve. This makes it possible to easily regulate the pressure (flow rate) in the carbonated water generation tank 100.

[0067] (Izumi Department 400) In the water outlet unit 400 of the first embodiment, a filter 410 for removing particulates was provided in the carbonated water outlet pipe L3. However, it was confirmed that dissolved carbon dioxide gas in the carbonated water may evaporate in the filter 410, deteriorating the carbonation strength of the carbonated water that is being dispensed. Furthermore, water may remain in the filter 410, which may lead to the growth of bacteria. Furthermore, in ordinary water servers, an equivalent filter is not provided in the water outlet unit 400, and the generation of powder by the stirring unit 600 has not been confirmed in the carbonated water dispenser 1 of the first embodiment. Therefore, in the carbonated water dispenser 1A of the present embodiment, a filter 410 for removing particulates is not provided in the carbonated water outlet pipe L3.

[0068] In the water outlet section 400 in the first embodiment, the flow rate adjustment valve 420 was provided in the carbonated water outlet pipe L3. However, it was confirmed that the carbon dioxide gas dissolved in the carbonated water may evaporate inside the flow rate adjustment valve 420, causing the carbonation strength of the carbonated water to deteriorate. Therefore, in the carbonated water dispenser 1A of the present embodiment, the flow rate is adjusted by adjusting the third opening / closing valve 430, and the flow rate adjustment valve 420 is not provided.

[0069] In the water outlet section 400 in the first embodiment, a small on-off valve was used for the third on-off valve 430 from the viewpoint of miniaturizing the carbonated water dispenser 1 and reducing costs. However, it was confirmed that the carbon dioxide gas dissolved in the carbonated water may evaporate, causing a deterioration in the carbonation strength of the carbonated water being dispensed. Furthermore, since the flow rate adjustment valve 420 was not provided, a larger on-off valve than that in the first embodiment was used for the third on-off valve 430. This makes it possible to suppress a deterioration in the carbonation strength of the carbonated water being dispensed.

[0070] In the water outlet section 400 in the first embodiment, a nylon tube was used for the carbonated water outlet pipe L3. However, it was confirmed that the force of the carbonated water outlet increased, causing the dissolved carbon dioxide to evaporate, which could result in a deterioration in the carbonation strength of the carbonated water being discharged. Therefore, in the carbonated water dispenser 1A of the present embodiment, a thicker nylon tube than that in the first embodiment is used for the carbonated water outlet pipe L3. This makes it possible to prevent a deterioration in the carbonation strength of the carbonated water being discharged.

[0071] In the water outlet section 400 of the first embodiment, it is conceivable that carbonated water will remain between the carbonated water generation tank 100 and the third on-off valve 430 even after the carbonated water has been discharged. Over time, the dissolved carbon dioxide in this remaining carbonated water will evaporate. If this decarbonated carbonated water mixes with new carbonated water the carbonation strength of the new carbonated water will deteriorate. Therefore, in the carbonated water dispenser 1A of the present embodiment, the length of the carbonated water outlet pipe L3 is set to the shortest length possible within the structure of the carbonated water dispenser 1A. Furthermore, the inner diameter of the carbonated water outlet pipe L3 is made smaller. This minimizes heat input and pressure loss compared to the configuration of the first embodiment, making it possible to suppress deterioration in the carbonation strength of the carbonated water being discharged.

[0072] (Internal pressure control unit 500) The internal pressure control unit 500 in the first embodiment was provided with a second back pressure valve 540 with a pressure setting value of 0.01 MPaG. However, since it is possible to adjust the internal pressure of the carbonated water generation tank 100 to be reduced by controlling the fourth on-off valve 530, the carbonated water dispenser 1A of the present embodiment does not include the second back pressure valve 540. This makes it possible to reduce the cost required for manufacturing the carbonated water dispenser 1A. In controlling the fourth on-off valve 530, the control unit 10 instructs the control unit 10 to adjust the number of seconds that the fourth on-off valve 530 is open and the number of times it is open when reducing the internal pressure of the carbonated water generation tank 100.

[0073] (Water Level Sensor 700) The water level sensor 700 in the first embodiment includes a full-water detection sensor 710 and an empty-water detection sensor 720. The full-water detection sensor 710 may erroneously detect a full water level due to water droplets adhering thereto. The empty-water detection sensor 720, which is located on the bottom side of the carbonated water generation tank 100, needs to be positioned so as not to interfere with the rotor 630 of the agitator 600.

[0074] In carbonated water dispenser 1 of this embodiment, empty detection sensor 720 is eliminated and full-water detection sensors 710 are arranged in two locations. This makes it possible to avoid interference with rotor 630 of stirring unit 600 and improve the accuracy of detection when the tank is full.

[0075] (Control unit 10: Improved water supply timing) In the carbonated water dispenser 1 in the above embodiment, production of carbonated water is started based on a request from a user to produce carbonated water (such as turning on a carbonated water switch to request the release of carbonated water). Specifically, after the control unit 10 receives a request from a user to produce carbonated water, the supply of water from the drinking water supply unit 200 to the carbonated water generation tank 100 is started. However, this method requires a considerable amount of time before the user can obtain carbonated water.

[0076] In the carbonated water dispenser 1A of this embodiment, the control unit 10 controls the drinking water supply unit 200 and the cooling unit 800 to supply a predetermined amount of drinking water to the carbonated water generation tank 100 after the carbonated water generated in the carbonated water generation tank 100 is discharged from the water discharge unit 400, and to keep the drinking water at a predetermined temperature or below. This makes it possible to shorten the time required from the user's request to produce carbonated water to the discharge of the carbonated water.

[0077] (Control unit 10: Carbonated water temperature control) In the carbonated water dispenser 1 of the above embodiment, during the carbonated water production process in the carbonated water production tank 100 (during stirring by the stirring unit 600), the cooling unit 800 is operated for a certain period of time to cool the drinking water. However, since the temperature of the drinking water supplied varies depending on the timing of carbonated water production, it is conceivable that the temperature of the carbonated water produced will not reach the predetermined temperature (4°C) simply by operating the cooling unit 800 for a certain period of time, resulting in insufficient carbonation strength.

[0078] In the carbonated water dispenser 1A of this embodiment, the control unit 10 controls the stirring unit 600 to stir the drinking water until the temperature of the drinking water drops below a predetermined temperature (4°C) when dissolving carbon dioxide in the drinking water. This improves the carbonation strength and makes it possible to reduce fluctuations in the carbonation strength produced.

[0079] (Replacing carbon dioxide cylinders) As the carbon dioxide gas supply means B1 of the carbon dioxide gas supply unit 300 in each of the above embodiments, for example, the work of replacing a carbon dioxide gas cylinder (carbon dioxide gas cylinder replacement method) when the carbon dioxide gas in the carbon dioxide gas cylinder falls below a predetermined amount will be described below.

[0080] The amount of carbon dioxide gas in the carbon dioxide gas cylinder is detected by a sensor provided in the first pressure adjustment mechanism 311, and the detected information is sent to the control unit 10. When the control unit 10 detects that the amount of carbon dioxide gas in the carbon dioxide gas cylinder has fallen below a predetermined amount, an instruction is sent to the notification unit 50 (see Figure 3) provided in the carbonated water dispenser 1, 1A. This allows the user to recognize that the amount of carbon dioxide gas in the carbon dioxide gas cylinder has fallen below the predetermined amount.

[0081] The notification unit 50 may be configured to notify the user by sounding a buzzer or the like, emitting light from an LED or the like, or confirming the up and down position of a pin using pressure, so that the user can recognize the notification.

[0082] When a user replaces a carbon dioxide gas cylinder, the user specifically performs the following steps. Step 1: The user presses the carbon dioxide gas cylinder replacement button. Step 2: By pressing the carbon dioxide gas cylinder replacement button, the control unit 10 opens the fourth on-off valve 530 of the internal pressure control unit 500 for a few seconds to reduce the pressure in the carbonated water generation tank 100 and the carbon dioxide gas supply unit 300. During these few seconds, the alarm unit 50 may sound a buzzer. After the pressure has been reduced, the user closes the fourth on-off valve 530.

[0083] Step 3: After the carbon dioxide gas generation tank 100 and the carbon dioxide gas supply unit 300 are depressurized, the control unit 10 stops the buzzer sound from the alarm unit 50. Step 4: The user replaces the carbon dioxide gas cylinder with a new one. Step 5: While the carbon dioxide gas cylinder is being replaced, input from the various operation buttons provided on the carbonated water dispenser 1, 1A is restricted, and the user ends the notification from the alarm unit 50 when the carbon dioxide gas cylinder replacement is complete.

[0084] While the carbonated water dispenser of the present disclosure has been described above in each embodiment, the embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative in all respects and are not limiting. The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims, and includes all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0085] 1, 1A carbonated water dispenser, 4 water outlet, 10 control unit, 20 calculation processing unit, 30 memory unit, 40 input / output unit, 50 alarm unit, 100 carbonated water generating tank, 200 drinking water supply unit, 210 drinking water supply on / off valve, 300 carbon dioxide gas supply unit, 311 first pressure adjustment mechanism, 312 first on / off valve, 313 first safety valve, 314 second pressure adjustment mechanism, 315 second on / off valve, 320 pressure gauge, 400 water outlet unit, 410 filter, 420 flow rate adjustment valve, 430 third on / off valve, 500 internal pressure control unit, 510 first back pressure valve, 520 check valve, 530 fourth on / off valve, 540 second back pressure valve, 600 stirring unit, 610 motor, 620 magnet, 630 rotor, 700 water level sensor, 710 Full water detection sensor, 720 empty detection sensor, 800 cooling unit, 810 refrigerant circulation path, 2020 patent application, B1 carbon dioxide supply means, L1 drinking water supply pipe, L2 first carbon dioxide supply pipe, L3 carbonated water outlet pipe, L4 internal pressure control pipe, L5 second carbon dioxide supply pipe, S1 sensor.

Claims

1. A carbonated water dispenser that generates and dispenses carbonated water by dissolving carbon dioxide gas in drinking water under pressure, A generating unit for generating the carbonated water; a drinking water supply unit that supplies the drinking water to the generating unit; a carbon dioxide gas supply unit that supplies the carbon dioxide gas to the generation unit; A water outlet that outputs the carbonated water generated in the generation unit; an internal pressure control unit that controls the internal pressure of the generating unit; Equipped with The carbon dioxide gas supply unit a first carbon dioxide gas supply pipe that supplies the carbon dioxide gas to the generating unit and includes a first on-off valve; a second carbon dioxide gas supply pipe that is provided in parallel to the first carbon dioxide gas supply pipe when viewed in the flow direction of the carbon dioxide gas, that branches off from the first carbon dioxide gas supply pipe upstream of the first on-off valve, that joins the first carbon dioxide gas supply pipe downstream of the first on-off valve, and that includes a pressure adjustment mechanism that adjusts the pressure of the carbon dioxide gas supplied to the generation unit; Including, The first carbon dioxide gas supply pipe includes a pressure gauge that monitors the internal pressure of the generation unit downstream of a position where the first carbon dioxide gas supply pipe joins with the second carbon dioxide gas supply pipe. Carbonated water dispenser.

2. The carbonated water dispenser according to claim 1 , wherein the pressure adjustment mechanism includes a member that reduces the pressure of the carbon dioxide gas by narrowing the flow path of the second carbon dioxide gas supply pipe.

3. a control unit that controls the carbon dioxide gas supply unit, the water outlet unit, and the internal pressure control unit, When the carbonated water is generated in the generation unit, the control unit instructs the carbon dioxide gas supply unit, the water outlet unit, and the internal pressure control unit to close the water outlet unit and the internal pressure control unit, and to increase the internal pressure of the generation unit to a first internal pressure by the carbon dioxide gas supply unit. The carbonated water dispenser of claim 1.

4. a control unit that controls the carbon dioxide gas supply unit, the water outlet unit, and the internal pressure control unit, After the carbonated water is generated in the generation unit, the control unit instructs the carbon dioxide gas supply unit, the water outlet unit, and the internal pressure control unit to close the carbon dioxide gas supply unit and to reduce the internal pressure of the generation unit to a second internal pressure lower than the first internal pressure by the internal pressure control unit. The carbonated water dispenser of claim 1.

5. a control unit that controls the carbon dioxide gas supply unit, the water outlet unit, and the internal pressure control unit, When the carbonated water is discharged from the water discharge section, the control unit instructs the carbon dioxide gas supply section, the water discharge section, and the internal pressure control section to close the internal pressure control section and to make the internal pressure of the generation section exceed the first internal pressure and be less than the second internal pressure. The carbonated water dispenser of claim 1.

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