Product Dispensing System

Abstract

A processing system for producing a product from a plurality of separate components is provided. A product dispensing system includes a flow control device configured to regulate a first component. A pump module is configured to couple to a supply inlet of a second component. A controller is configured to send a first control signal to the flow control device to control the dispensing of a first amount of the first material based at least in part on a predetermined recipe. The controller is further configured to send a second control signal to the pump module to control the dispensing of a first amount of the second material based at least in part on a predetermined recipe.

Description

Related Applications

[0001] This specification claims the priority of the following patent applications, each of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety: U.S. Patent Application No. 61 / 092,396, entitled "RFID Systems and Methods," filed on August 27, 2008; U.S. Patent Application No. 61 / 092,394, entitled "Processing Systems and Methods," filed on August 27, 2008; U.S. Patent Application No. 61 / 092,388, entitled "Beverage Dispensing System," filed on August 27, 2008; U.S. Patent Application No. 60 / 970,501, entitled "Content Dispenser System," filed on September 6, 2007; U.S. Patent Application No. 60 / 970,494, entitled "Virtual Manifold Systems and Methods," filed on September 6, 2007; U.S. Patent Application No. 60 / 970,493, entitled "FSM Systems and Methods," filed on September 6, 2007; U.S. Patent Application No. 60 / 970,495, entitled "Virtual Machine Systems and Methods," filed on September 6, 2007; U.S. Patent Application No. 60 / 970,497, entitled "RFID Systems and Methods," filed on September 6, 2007; U.S. Patent Application No. 11 / 851,344, entitled "Systems and Methods for Generating Drive Signals," filed on September 6, 2007; U.S. Patent Application No. 61 / 054,757, entitled "RFID Systems and Methods," filed on May 20, 2008; U.S. Patent Application No. 61 / 054,629, entitled "Flow Control Module," filed on May 20, 2008; U.S. Patent Application No. 61 / 054,745, entitled "Capacitive Flow Detector," filed on May 20, 2008; U.S. Patent Application No. 61 / 054,776, entitled "Beverage Dispensing System," filed on May 20, 2008.

Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates to a processing system, and more particularly to a system used to produce a product from multiple separate components. Regarding the processing system. [Background technology]

[0003] The processing system combines one or more components to create the product. Unfortunately, In many cases, such systems are immutable in their equipment configuration and are relatively limited in number. It can only generate products. Such a system cannot generate other products. While it is possible to configure it, such a reconstruction would involve mechanical / electrical / software systems This requires major changes.

[0004] For example, to create different products, new valves, piping, manifolds, software, etc. New components such as Brutin need to be added to the existing processing system. Because the equipment / process is not reorganizable and has a single dedicated use, such large A large-scale change is required, which means that additional components will be needed to perform the new task. It is required that it be added. [Overview of the Initiative]

[0005] In the first embodiment, the product dispensing system is configured to prepare the first component. It has a flow control device. The pump module is coupled to the supply section of the second component. The system is configured such that at least a part of it is configured according to a predetermined recipe. A first control signal is supplied to a flow control device for controlling the supply of a first amount per minute. The controller is configured in such a way. The controller also has at least a part that is based on a predetermined recipe The pump module controls the supply of the first amount of the second component. It is configured to supply signals.

[0006] The flow control device may include one or more of the following functions: The flow control device controls the flow within the flow control device. a flow measuring device configured to send a feedback signal based on the amount of the first component. It has. The variable line impedance is at least a portion of the feed of the flow measuring device. The first component is controlled based on the back signal and the first control signal supplied by the controller. It is configured as follows. The flow rate measuring device has a positive displacement flow rate measuring device. The unit has a gear-type positive displacement flow meter.

[0007] The variable line impedance is a first rigid member having a first surface and a second rigid member having a second surface. It has a rigid member. The variable cross-sectional fluid path is at least a portion of which is formed by the first surface and the second surface It is defined as follows: The first surface increases or decreases the variable cross-sectional fluid path. It is movable relative to the second surface. The stepper motor moves the first surface relative to the second surface. To move it, it is connected to one of the first rigid member and the second rigid member.

[0008] The pump module is configured to engage releasably with the supply unit for the second component. The pump module is configured to be releasably engaged with multiple supply units for second components. It has a bracket assembly. The pump module has a second component of a calibrated fixed volume. It has a solenoid piston pump assembly configured to supply minutes.

[0009] The flow sensor is related to the pump module. The flow sensor receives the fluid. It has a configured fluid chamber and a diaphragm portion configured to always be displaced when the fluid in the fluid chamber is discharged. The transducer portion monitors the displacement of the diaphragm portion and is configured to generate a flow signal based on the amount of fluid discharged into the fluid chamber at least in part. The transducer portion has a first capacitive plate coupled to the diaphragm and movable thereon, and has a second capacitive plate rigidly attached with respect to the fluid chamber. The flow signal is at least in part based on a change in capacitance between the first capacitive plate and the second capacitive plate.

[0010] The flow control device and the pump module are coupled to a nozzle for mixing a first component and a second component.

[0011] In a second embodiment, the fluid delivery system includes a fluid path having an inlet disposed at a first vertical height and an outlet disposed at a second vertical height higher than the first vertical height. A fluid pump is disposed between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet. The fluid pump is further disposed at a third vertical height higher than the first vertical height and lower than the second vertical height. A flow detector is disposed between the fluid inlet and the fluid pump. The flow detector is configured to detect the flow rate of the fluid through the fluid path. Air entering the fluid inlet moves through the fluid path and exits via the fluid outlet.

[0012] One or more of the following functions may be included. The inlet of the fluid path is coupled to a component supply port. The fluid chamber is configured to receive fluid. When the fluid in the fluid chamber is discharged, the diaphragm portion is always configured to be displaced. Furthermore, the transducer portion, the die The displacement of the yaphramm section is monitored, and at least a portion of the fluid discharged into the fluid chamber is also monitored. It is configured to generate a flow signal based on the volume of the body. The transducer is coupled to a diaphragm. Furthermore, it has a first capacitive plate that is movable, and is rigid with respect to the fluid chamber. It has a second capacitive plate attached to it. The flow signal is at least part of the first This is based on the change in capacitance between the capacitive plate and the second capacitive plate.

[0013] The fluid pump is configured to supply a calibrated, fixed volume of the second component. It has a piston pump assembly.

[0014] In the third embodiment, the flow control device controls the contents flowing in the line of the dispensing system. A flow measuring device configured to generate a flow rate feedback signal indicating the quantity of a substance. The feedback controller system responds to the flow feedback signal and adjusts the flow rate to the desired level. It is configured to compare this with a flow feedback signal to generate a flow control signal. The back-back controller system is used to establish the initial value of the flow control signal, at least in part. It has a feedforward controller. The variable line impedance is a dispensing system. It is located within the line and responds to the flow control signal. The variable line impedance is small. In part, the contents flowing within the dispensing system line are controlled based on flow control signals. It is configured to adjust the volume.

[0015] The following functions may be included: The flow meter is a volumetric flow meter. Possibly possessing one, the positive displacement flow meter has a gear-type positive displacement flow meter.

[0016] The variable line impedance is a first rigid member having a first surface and a second rigid member having a second surface. It has a rigid member. The variable cross-sectional fluid path is at least a portion of which is formed by the first surface and the second surface It is defined as such. The first surface increases or decreases the variable cross-sectional fluid path. It is movable relative to the second surface. The stepper motor moves the first surface relative to the second surface. To move it, it is connected to one of the first rigid member and the second rigid member.

[0017] The variable line impedance is a first rigid part that defines a first fluid path portion having a bore. It has a material and a second rigid member that defines the second fluid path portion. The second fluid path section increases or decreases the specified fluid path. Furthermore, the first fluid path portion is movable relative to the second fluid path portion.

[0018] A dual valve selectively obstructs the flow of contents within the dispensing system line. Therefore, it may be located within the dispensing system line.

[0019] In the fourth embodiment, the fluid pump device has a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet. It has a path. The fluid pump transports fluid through the fluid path between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet. It is configured to be pumped out. The air detection sensor is placed between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet. The air detection sensor is configured to detect the presence of air in the fluid path.

[0020] One or more of the following mechanisms may be included: A fluid pump is a calibrated determinant of the fluid. It has a solenoid piston pump assembly configured to supply product. The air detection sensor, in response to the air detection sensor that detects the presence of air in the fluid path, The system is configured to send a signal. The fluid pump is further configured so that an air detection sensor detects air in the fluid path. In response to a signal sent in response to detecting the presence of energy, the fluid is pumped through the fluid pathway. It is configured to stop pumping.

[0021] The valve is located within the fluid path. The valve is connected to an air detection sensor that detects air within the fluid path. It is configured to move to the closed position in response to a signal sent in response to detecting the presence of, As a result, the fluid flow through the fluid path is obstructed, at least partially. Details of one or more embodiments are described below in the attached drawings and description. The advantages will become clear from the description, drawings, and claims. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0022] These and other functions and advantages of the present invention are shown herein with reference to the drawings. This will be better understood by reading the detailed description of the invention below.

[0023] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of one embodiment of the processing system. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a configuration diagram of one embodiment of the control logic subsystem included in the processing system shown in Figure 1. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a configuration diagram of one embodiment of a large-capacity component subsystem included in the processing system shown in Figure 1. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a configuration diagram of one embodiment of the micro-component subsystem included in the processing system shown in Figure 1. [Figure 5A]Figure 5A is a schematic side view of one embodiment of a capacitive flow detector included in the processing system shown in Figure 1, illustrating the non-pumping state (when not being pumped). [Figure 5B] Figure 5B is a schematic plan view of the capacitive flow detector shown in Figure 5A. [Figure 5C] Figure 5C is a diagram showing the configuration of the two capacitive plates included in the capacitive flow detector shown in Figure 5A. [Figure 5D] Figure 5D is a graph showing the time dependence of the capacitance value of the capacitive flow detector in Figure 5A, illustrating the non-pumping, pumping, and empty states. [Figure 5E] Figure 5E is a schematic side view of the capacitive flow detector shown in Figure 5A, illustrating the pumping state. [Figure 5F] Figure 5F is a schematic side view of the capacitive flow detector shown in Figure 5A, illustrating the empty state. [Figure 6A] Figure 6A is a block diagram of the piping system / control subsystem included in the processing system shown in Figure 1. [Figure 6B] Figure 6B is a diagram illustrating the configuration of one embodiment of a gear-type positive displacement flow meter. [Figure 7] Figures 7A and 7B are configuration diagrams showing an embodiment of the flow control module shown in Figure 3. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a configuration diagram showing another embodiment of the flow control module shown in Figure 3. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a configuration diagram showing another embodiment of the flow control module shown in Figure 3. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a configuration diagram showing another embodiment of the flow control module shown in Figure 3. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a configuration diagram showing another embodiment of the flow control module shown in Figure 3. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a configuration diagram showing another embodiment of the flow control module shown in Figure 3. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a configuration diagram showing another embodiment of the flow control module shown in Figure 3. [Figure 14] Figures 14A, 14B, and 14C are configuration diagrams representing other embodiments of the flow control module shown in Figure 3. [Figure 15] Figures 15A and 15B are configuration diagrams representing some of the variable line impedances. Figure 15C is a configuration diagram representing one embodiment of the variable line impedance. [Figure 16] Figures 16A and 16B are configuration diagrams showing the gears of a gear-type positive displacement flow meter according to one embodiment. [Figure 17] Figure 17 is a configuration diagram of the user interface subsystem included in the processing system shown in Figure 1. [Figure 18] Figure 18 is a flowchart of the FSM processing performed by the control logic subsystem in Figure 1. [Figure 19] Figure 19 is a diagram showing the configuration of the first phase diagram. [Figure 20] Figure 20 is a diagram showing the configuration of the second phase diagram. [Figure 21] Figure 21 is a flowchart of the virtual machine processing performed by the control logic subsystem in Figure 1. [Figure 22] Figure 22 is a flowchart of the virtual manifold processing performed by the control logic subsystem in Figure 1. [Figure 23] Figure 23 is an isometric projection of the RFID system included in the processing system shown in Figure 1. [Figure 24] Figure 24 is a configuration diagram of the RFID system shown in Figure 23. [Figure 25] Figure 25 is a diagram showing the configuration of the RFID antenna assembly included in the RFID system shown in Figure 23. [Figure 26] Figure 26 is an isometric projection of the loop antenna assembly of the RFID antenna assembly shown in Figure 25. [Figure 27] Figure 27 is an isometric projection of the housing assembly for the processing system shown in Figure 1. [Figure 28]Figure 28 is a configuration diagram of the RFID access antenna assembly included in the processing system shown in Figure 1. [Figure 29] Figure 29 is a configuration diagram of an alternative RFID access antenna assembly included in the processing system shown in Figure 1. [Figure 30] Figure 30 is a configuration diagram of an embodiment of the processing system shown in Figure 1. [Figure 31] Figure 31 is a diagram showing the internal assembly of the processing system shown in Figure 30. [Figure 32] Figure 32 is a configuration diagram of the upper cabinet of the processing system shown in Figure 30. [Figure 33] Figure 33 is a configuration diagram of the flow control subsystem of the processing system shown in Figure 30. [Figure 34] Figure 34 is a diagram showing the configuration of the flow control module of the flow control subsystem shown in Figure 33. [Figure 35] Figure 35 is a diagram showing the configuration of the upper cabinet of the processing system shown in Figure 30. [Figure 36] Figures 36A and 36B are configuration diagrams of the power module of the processing system shown in Figure 35. [Figure 37] Figures 37A, 37B, and 37C are configuration diagrams representing the flow control module of the flow control subsystem shown in Figure 35. [Figure 38] Figure 38 is a configuration diagram of the lower cabinet of the processing system shown in Figure 30. [Figure 39] Figure 39 is a diagram showing the configuration of the micro-component tower in the lower cabinet of Figure 38. [Figure 40] Figure 40 is a diagram showing the configuration of the micro-component tower in the lower cabinet of Figure 38. [Figure 41] Figure 41 is a diagram showing the configuration of a four-unit product module of the micro-component tower shown in Figure 39. [Figure 42] Figure 42 is a diagram showing the configuration of a four-unit product module of the micro-component tower shown in Figure 39. [Figure 43]Figures 43A, 43B, and 43C are configuration diagrams of one embodiment of a micro-component container. [Figure 44] Figure 44 is a diagram illustrating another embodiment of the micro-component container. [Figure 45] Figures 45A and 45B are configuration diagrams showing other embodiments of the lower cabinet of the processing system shown in Figure 30. [Figure 46] Figures 46A, 46B, 46C, and 46D are configuration diagrams showing one embodiment of the micro-component shelf in the lower cabinet of Figures 45A and 45B. [Figure 47] Figures 47A, 47B, 47C, 47D, 47E, and 47F are configuration diagrams representing the four-pack product modules of the micro-component shelf shown in Figures 46A, 46B, 46C, and 46D. [Figure 48] Figure 48 is a diagram showing the piping system assembly of the four-piece product module shown in Figures 47A, 47B, 47C, 47D, 47E, and 47F. [Figure 49] Figures 49A, 49B, and 49C are configuration diagrams representing the large-capacity micro-component assembly of the lower cabinet shown in Figures 45A and 45B. [Figure 50] Figure 50 is a configuration diagram showing the piping system assembly of the large-capacity component assembly shown in Figures 49A, 49B, and 49C. [Figure 51] Figure 51 is a diagram illustrating one embodiment of a user interface screen within a user interface bracket. [Figure 52] Figure 52 is a diagram illustrating one embodiment of a user interface bracket without a screen. [Figure 53] Figure 53 is a detailed side view of the bracket shown in Figure 52. [Figure 54] Figure 54 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a membrane pump. [Figure 55] Figure 55 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a membrane pump. In various drawings, identical reference numerals represent the same elements. Detailed description of the invention

[0024] A product dispensing system is described here. The system consists of one or more modular components. It includes solid materials and is named a "subsystem." A typical system is various In the examples described herein, the product dispensing system is described as a subsystem. It includes one or more of the TEM. However, the product dispensing system is described here. It is not limited to just one or more subsystems. Therefore, in one embodiment, Additional subsystems are used within the product dispensing system.

[0025] The following specification disclosure enables the mixing and processing of various components for making products. Various electrical components, mechanical components, electrical mechanical components and software processing (i.e., "subsystems") This paper discusses the interactions and cooperating of the following: Specific examples of such products include: This is not limited to: dairy-based products (e.g., milkshakes, floats, Malt, frappés; coffee-based products (e.g., coffee, cappuccino, espresso) ); soda-based products (e.g., floats, sodas with fruit juice); tea base Products made with water (e.g., iced tea, sweet tea, hot tea); water-based products (e.g., natural water, Flavored natural water, vitamin-fortified natural water, high-electrolyte beverages, high-carbohydrate beverages); solid Shape-based products (e.g., trail mix, granola-based products, mixed nuts) , cereal products, mixed granule products); pharmaceutical products (e.g., injectable drugs, injectable drugs, ingestible drugs) Possible medications, dialysis fluids); alcohol-based products (e.g., cocktails, wine spritzes, Soda-based alcoholic beverages, water-based alcoholic beverages, flavored beer "shots" "); Industrial products (e.g., solvents, paints, lubricants, dyes); and health / cosmetic products (e.g.) Examples include shampoos, cosmetics, soaps, hair conditioners, skin treatments, and topical ointments.

[0026] The product is produced using one or more "ingredients." These ingredients are one or more fluids, powders, or solids. It contains matter or gas. Fluids, powders, solids, and / or gases are processed and distributed. In context, it may be rehydrated or diluted with water. Products can be fluids, solids, or powders. It is a gas.

[0027] Various components can be described as "macro components," "micro components," or "high-volume micro components." It is called [name of product]. One or more of the components used are contained inside the housing, i.e., the product weighing and dispensing machine. It is acceptable for them to be mixed. However, one or more of the components may be stored outside the machine, and may also be generated. This may be done. For example, in one embodiment, a large amount of water (of various qualities) is used, or Another component accumulates on the outside of the machine, and in one embodiment, for example, high-fructose corn syrup is It is stored outside the machine. On the other hand, other components, such as components in powder form, concentrated components, nutrients Supplements, compounded medicines, and / or gas cylinders are stored within the machine itself.

[0028] Various referenced electrical components, mechanical components, electrical mechanical components, and software processing mentioned above. The combinations are discussed below. For example, beverages and pharmaceuticals using various subsystems. The production of a manufactured product (e.g., dialysis fluid) is disclosed, and the combination is described below. However, this This disclosure is a typical example of how subsystems work together to produce / formulate a product. This disclosure is not intended to be limited to this specific disclosure. Specifically, it includes electrical components, mechanical components, and machinery. The structural components and software processing (each of which will be discussed in more detail below) are as described above. It is used to generate any other product that is referenced or similar to it.

[0029] Referring to Figure 1, a generalized diagram of the processing system 10 is shown, followed by several subsystems It is indicated that the following are included: memory subsystem 12, control logic subsystem 14, large capacity Subsystem 16, Microcomponent subsystem 18, Piping system / control subsystem 20 , user interface subsystem 22 and nozzle 24. The above subsystem Sections 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, and 22 will be described in more detail below.

[0030] While using the processing system 10, user 26 accesses the user interface system Using Tem 22, select a specific product 28 for distribution (into container 30). User In The surface subsystem 22 allows the user 26 to access such contents within the product. Choose one or more options. For example, the options include adding one or more ingredients. However, it is not limited to this. In a typical embodiment, the system distributes beverages This is a system for that purpose. In this embodiment, the use involves various flavorings (e.g.,) added to beverages. For example, it contains lemon flavoring, lime flavoring, chocolate flavoring, and vanilla extract, but this (and not limited to) select one or more nutritional supplements (e.g., vitamins) in the beverage; and add one or more nutritional supplements (e.g., vitamins) to the beverage. Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Vitamin E, Vitamin B6, Vitamin B 12 and contains zinc The addition of (but not limited to these); one or more other beverages in a beverage (e.g., coffee, Addition of milk, lemonade, and iced tea (including, but not limited to, these); This includes the addition of one or more food products (e.g., ice cream, yogurt) to the beverage. .

[0031] Once user 26 makes the appropriate selection, the user interface subsystem Through 22, the user interface subsystem 22 receives the appropriate data signal (Sent via data bus 32) to control logic subsystem 14. 14 processes these data signals and stores multiple recipes on the memory subsystem 12. Search for one or more recipes selected from 36 (via data bus 34). Term "recipe" " refers to an instruction to process / produce the requested product. From memory subsystem 12 When searching for the recipe, the control logic subsystem 14 processes the recipe (via the data bus 38). (Then) Appropriate control signals are applied, for example, to the large-capacity component subsystem 16 and the micro-component subsystem 1 8. Provided to the piping system / control subsystem 20. As a result, (administered to container 30) Product 28 is produced. [Here, in one embodiment, treatment with respect to microcomponents The description related to the principle includes large-capacity micro-components (not shown). These large-capacity micro-components Regarding the subsystem for distributing the chloro component, in one example, the microcomponent acetate was used. An alternative assembly from Nbri was used to distribute these large-capacity micro-components. [reru]

[0032] Also, refer to Figure 2 to see the configuration diagram of the control logic subsystem 14. The processing subsystem 14 is a microprocessor 100 [for example, Santa Claus, California]. ARM® microprocessor manufactured by Intel Corporation in Lara City ], non-volatile memory (e.g., read-only memory 102), volatile memory (e.g., random It has access memory 104). Here, each of these has one or more data / series They are interconnected by stem buses 106 and 108. As discussed above, users Interface subsystem 22 connects to control logic subsystem 1 via data bus 32. It is connected to 4.

[0033] The control logic subsystem 14 supplies, for example, an analog audio signal to the speaker 112. Therefore, it has an audio subsystem 110. Here, the speaker 112 is processed It is integrated into system 10. Audio subsystem 110 is data / system It is coupled to the microprocessor 100 by Muvas 114.

[0034] The control logic subsystem 14 runs the operating system. Examples of these include Microsoft Windows CE (registered trademark), Red Hat Linux (registered trademark) (Mark), Palm OS®, or device-specific (i.e., specially ordered) operation This includes, but is not limited to, the G system.

[0035] The instruction set and subroutines of the above operating system are (they are stored subroutines) (which may be stored on stem 12), one or more processors (e.g., microprocessors) The service 100) and one or more memory architectures incorporated into the control logic subsystem 14 (e.g., read-only memory 102 and / or random access storage device 104) It is executed by [the specified method / system].

[0036] The memory subsystem 12 includes, for example, a hard disk drive, a semiconductor drive, and an optical drive. Live, Random Access Memory (RAM), Read-Only Memory (ROM), CF ( In other words, a compact flash card, SD (registered trademark) (i.e., secure digital) Cards, SmartMedia® cards, Memory Stick®, and MultiMedia Includes (registered trademark) cards.

[0037] As discussed above, the memory subsystem 12 is connected to the control logic subsystem via the data bus 34. It is coupled to the system 14. The control logic subsystem 14 is also a microprocessor Conversion to a format usable by the storage system 12, supplied by 100. It includes a memory control unit 116 for signals (shown in the phantom). Furthermore, a memory control unit 11 6 converts the memory subsystem to a format usable by the microprocessor 100. The signal supplied by M12 may be converted.

[0038] In one embodiment, an Ethernet® connection is also included.

[0039] As discussed above, the large-capacity component subsystem (which is also referred to here as the "macro component") (16), micro-component subsystem 18, and / or piping system / control subsystem 2 0 is coupled to the control logic subsystem 14 via the data bus 38. Stem 14 includes a large-capacity component subsystem 16, a micro-component subsystem 18, and / or The microprocessor converts the piping system / control subsystem 20 into a format usable by the piping system / control subsystem 20. Bus interface 118 (phantom) for conversion signals supplied by the 100. It has (as shown inside). Furthermore, the bus interface 118 has a large capacity component subsystem. System 16, microcomponent subsystem 18, and / or microprocessor 100 The signals supplied by the piping system / control subsystem 20 are then converted into a usable format. Convert the number.

[0040] As will be discussed in much more detail below, the control logic subsystem 14 is a processing system One or more control processes 120 that control the operation of M10 [for example, finite state machine processes] (FSM processing 122), virtual machine processing 124, and, for example, virtual manifold processing 126 ] is executed. The instruction set and subroutines of control process 120 are stored in memory subsystem 1 2 These are stored on the control logic subsystem 14, one or more A processor (e.g., microprocessor 100) and one or more memory architectures (For example, read-only memory 102 and / or random access storage device 104) This will be executed.

[0041] Also, refer to Figure 3, the large-capacity component subsystem 16 and the piping system / control subsystem 20 A diagram of the configuration is shown. The large-capacity component subsystem 16 is used when making the beverage 28. This includes containers for housing consumables used at high speeds. For example, large capacity containers Subsystem 16 includes a carbon dioxide supply unit 150, a water supply unit 152, and a high-fructose corn supply unit. It includes a drop supply unit 154. The large-capacity component is in a separate subsystem in one embodiment. It is installed in close proximity to the other. An example of the carbon dioxide supply unit 150 is a compressed gas dioxide. It has, but is not limited to, a carbon dioxide tank (not shown). Examples include urban tap water supply (not shown), distilled water supply, filtered water supply, and reverse osmosis ("RO") water supply. Alternatively, they may have other preferred means of water supply, but are not limited to these. High-fructose corn syrup An example of a supply unit 154 is one or more tanks of highly concentrated high-fructose corn syrup. (Not shown), or one or more bag-in-box packages of high-fructose corn syrup It has, but is not limited to.

[0042] The large-capacity component subsystem 16 receives carbon dioxide supplied by the carbon dioxide supply unit 150. Then, a carbonated water generator 156 is used to produce carbonated water from the water supplied by the water supply unit 152. It contains: Carbonated water 158, water 160, and high-fructose corn syrup 162, which are used in the cooling plate assembly. The actual supply to Ri163 (for example, the actual supply of products that are to be cooled) This is an example. In one embodiment, the cooling plate assembly is a component of the dispensing system and (either not included or bypassed). The cooling plate assembly 163 is provided as required. Mix 158ml of carbonated water, 160ml of water, and high-fructose corn syrup until it reaches a temperature (e.g., 40°F [4°C]). It is designed to cool the 162.

[0043] A single cooling plate 163 dispenses carbonated water 158, water 160, and high-fructose corn syrup 162. Cooling is indicated, but this is solely for illustrative purposes and does not restrict the disclosure of the specification. It is not intended to do so, and other equipment configurations are possible. For example, individual cooling plates Use 158ml of sparkling water, 160ml of water, and 162ml of high-fructose corn syrup respectively to chill. Once cooled, the cooled carbonated water 164, cold water 166, and cooled The high-fructose corn syrup 168 is supplied to the piping system / control subsystem 20. In yet another embodiment, a cooling plate is not included. In one embodiment, at least one A hot plate is included.

[0044] The piping system is shown to have the order illustrated, but in some embodiments, this order The order is not used. For example, the flow control modules described here are configured in a different order. It may also be a flow meter, a two-way valve, and a variable line impedance. ru.

[0045] For the sake of explanation, we will use the system to dispense soft drinks as a product. Regarding this, the system is described below. In other words, the components / large-capacity components of the described macro It contains high-fructose corn syrup, carbonated water, and water. However, dispensing In another embodiment of the stem, the number of macro components and the macro components themselves may vary.

[0046] For explanatory purposes, the piping system / control subsystem 20 consists of three flow control modules 1 It is indicated that this includes 70, 172, and 174. Flow control modules 170, 172, 17 4 generally controls the volume and / or flow rate of large-volume components. Flow control module 170 172 and 174 are flow rate measuring devices (for example, flow rate measuring devices 176, 178, and 180) It contains chilled carbonated water 164, cold water 166, and chilled high-fructose corn. Measure the volume of each of the syrup 168. Flow rate measuring devices 176, 178, and 180 are used. Feedback signal 182 is provided to each of the feedback adjustment systems 188, 190, and 192. , 184, and 186 are supplied respectively.

[0047] The feedback regulator systems 188, 190, and 192 are discussed in much more detail below. It is argued that (chilled carbonated water 164, cold water 166, and chilled high-fructose corn syrup) Each of the rop168 (as specified for each) desired flow volume and flow feedback signal Compare signals 182, 184, and 186. Flow rate feedback signals 182, 184, and 186 When processing, the (each) feedback regulator systems 188, 190, and 192 ( The (each) current supplied to the variable line impedances 200, 202, and 204, Generates quantity control signals 194, 196, and 198. Variable line impedance 200, 20 2. Specific examples of 204 are published in U.S. Patent No. 5,755,683 and U.S. Patent Publication No. 2007 / 0085049. They are shown and claimed. Both of them, in their entirety, are incorporated here by reference. The variable line impedances 200, 202, and 204 are (each) connected to line 218. Chilled carbonated water 164, cold water 166, and chilled high-fructose syrup pass through 220 and 222. Adjust the flow rate of corn syrup 168. These are the nozzle 24 and the container 30 that follows it. It is supplied to. Additional embodiments of variable line impedance are also described here.

[0048] Periods during which the flow is not desired or necessary (e.g., during transit, maintenance work, and downtime) , in order to obstruct the fluid flow through lines 218, 220, and 222, line 218, 220 and 222 further have two-way valves 212, 214, and 216, respectively. In the embodiment, the two-way valves 212, 214, and 216 include electromagnetically operated two-way valves. However, in another embodiment, the two-way valve includes a two-way valve driven by any means. However, this is not limited to this, and any two-way valve known in the art may also be used. Furthermore, two-way valves 212, 214, and 216 are used when the processing system 10 is not distributing the product. The configuration is always set to obstruct the flow of fluid through lines 218, 220, and 222. It may also be possible. Furthermore, the functionality of the two-way valves 212, 214, and 216 is variable line impedance. By completely closing down the 200, 202, and 204 channels, the variable line impedance is achieved. This is carried out via lines 200, 202, and 204, thereby passing through lines 218, 220, and 222. It obstructs the flow of fluid passing through.

[0049] As described above, Figure 3 is simply an example of the piping system / control subsystem 20. A diagram is provided. Therefore, the method by which the piping system / control subsystem 20 is illustrated is described in this specification. There is no intention to restrict the disclosure of the document, and alternative equipment configurations are possible. For example, some of the functions of the feedback regulator systems 182, 184, and 186 All of these are incorporated into the control logic subsystem 14. Also, the flow control module 17 Regarding 0, 172, and 174, the intention is solely to show concrete examples, specifically the continuous equipment configuration of its components. This is shown in Figure 3. Therefore, the illustrated sequence of equipment configurations is not merely a typical embodiment. This is useful. In another embodiment, the components are arranged in a different order.

[0050] Figure 4 also shows the structure of the micro-component subsystem 18 and the piping system / control subsystem 20. A plan view is shown. The micro-component subsystem 18 is part of the product module assembly 25. It includes 0. Product module assembly 250 contains one or more product containers 252, 254 , 256, 258 are configured to engage in a releasable manner. Product containers 252, 254, 2 56 and 258 are configured to hold micro-components for use when making product 28. It is done. Microcomponents are used to create specific product examples of such microcomponents / substrates. This is the substrate used. The microcomponent / substrate is the first part of the soft drink flavoring, soft drink flavor The second part of the ingredients includes, but is not limited to, coffee flavoring, nutritional supplements, and compounded medicines. It can also be a fluid, powder, or solid. However, for the purpose of explanation, the following description In the following, we will consider the micro-components, which are fluids. In one embodiment, the micro-components are powders. It may be a solid. If the micro-components are in powder form, the system will measure the powder. , and / or include an additional subsystem for reconstituting the powder with water. (However, the following applies:) As in the example described, if the micro-components are in powder form, the powder is used to mix the product. Legally, it can be returned to its original state with water; in other words, it's a software manifold.

[0051] The product module assembly 250 comprises multiple product containers 252, 254, 256, 258 Multiple slot assemblies 260, 262, 26 configured to engage in a releasable manner It includes 4,266. In particular, in this example, the product module assembly 250 has 4 units. Including the slot assembly (i.e., slots 260, 262, 264, 266) As shown, and therefore called a 4-piece product module assembly. Product Module The position of one or more product containers 252, 254, 256, and 258 within the assembly 250 is determined. In this case, the product container (e.g., product container 254) is in the direction of arrow 268 of the slot assembly It is slid into (for example, slot assembly 262). Typical as shown here. As a typical example, a "4-piece product module" assembly is described, but another example... So, to a greater or lesser extent, the product is contained within the module assembly. The number of product containers varies depending on the product being distributed by the system. Therefore, The number of products contained within any module assembly is application-specific. The system is selected to satisfy any desired characteristics of the system. These desired characteristics include This includes, but is not limited to, the efficiency, requirements, and / or functionality of the stem.

[0052] For illustrative purposes, each slot assembly of product module assembly 250 is a pin It is shown to include a pump assembly. For example, slot assembly 252 is a pump assembly The bri 270 is shown to include; slot assembly 262 is pump assembly 272 It is shown to include; slot assembly 264 includes pump assembly 274 As shown; also shown that slot assembly 266 includes pump assembly 276. It will be done.

[0053] The inlet ports connected to each pump assembly 270, 272, 274, and 276 are manufactured The product orifice contained within the product container is releasably engaged. For example, pump assembly 2 72 is configured to releasably engage with the container orifice 280 contained within the product container 254. It is shown to include an inlet port 278. Inlet port 278, and / or product O The Lifis 280 facilitates leak-proof sealing by using, for example, one or more O-rings, It includes one or more sealed assemblies (not shown), such as a luer mount. The inlet port (e.g., inlet port 278) coupled to each pump assembly is a rigid "pipe" It may be made from a "tubular" material, or it may be made from a flexible "tubular" material. That's fine.

[0054] One or more examples of pump assemblies 270, 272, 274, and 276 are pump assemblies When one or more of R270, 272, 274, and 276 have voltage applied, each calibration is It includes a solenoid piston pump assembly that supplies the expected fluid volume, However, it is not limited to this. In one embodiment, such a pump is located in Italy, Pavilion. ULKA Electrical and Mechanical Construction Company (Costruzioni Elettromeccaniche) (SpA) in Pavia It is available from. For example, the pump assembly (e.g., pump assembly 274) is available from Each time a voltage is applied by the control logic subsystem 14 via the bus 38, the pump The assembly supplies approximately 30 μL of the fluid microcomponent contained within the product container 256. However, the volume of fragrance supplied is calibrated and varies. Again, micro-components are described in this section. In this description, the fact that it is a liquid is for explanatory purposes only. The term "calibrated" refers to the volume. Refer to the cumulative measurement, or other information and / or characteristics. These characteristics and other information refer to the pump. This is verified through the calibration of the assembly and / or its individual pumps.

[0055] Pump assemblies 270, 272, 274, 276 and various pumping technologies Specific examples include U.S. Patent Nos. 4,808,161, 4,826,482, and 4,976,162. This is described in U.S. Patent Nos. 5,088,515 and 5,350,357. Furthermore, the entirety of these is By reference, the whole of them is incorporated here. In one embodiment, the pump assembly This is a membrane pump as shown in Figures 54 and 55. In one embodiment, the pump assembly This is an optional pump assembly as described above, and the whole is incorporated here by reference. Any of the pump technologies described in Japanese Patent No. 5,421,823 may be used.

[0056] The above cited references describe the components of a pneumatically driven membrane pump used for pump working fluid. This description will not be limited to specific examples. Air-driven membrane pump assemblies, for example, can be assembled in various combinations. The fluid is reliably and accurately delivered in microliter quantities during numerous load cycles. It has the capability to reliably deliver and / or, for example, an air-driven pump that delivers air from a carbon dioxide source. Since it can use the power of qi, air-driven pumps require less electricity, The advantages include, but are not limited to, the above reasons. In addition, membrane pumps are operated It does not require a moving seal, and in a moving seal, the surface moves relative to the seal. According to ULKA Generally, vibratory pumps that are manufactured require the use of dynamic rubber seals. However, for example, after contact with a certain type of liquid and / or abrasion, a dynamic rubber-like seal The pump gradually fails. In one embodiment, a pneumatically driven membrane pump is compared to another pump. Furthermore, it is more reliable, more cost-effective, and easier to calibrate. Also, another pump In comparison, air-driven membrane pumps are quieter, generate less heat, and consume less power. There are few examples. A specific example that is not limited to membrane pumps is shown in Figure 54.

[0057] Various embodiments of the membrane pump assembly 2900 shown in Figures 54 and 55 include a cavity. The empty cavity is shown as 2942 in Figure 54 and is also called the pumping chamber. In Figure 55, this is 2944, and is also called the control fluid chamber. The cavity is connected to the pump. Diaphragm 29 separates the two chambers, the suction chamber 2942 and the volume chamber 2944. It has 40.

[0058] Here, referring to Figure 54, a typical diagram of a membrane pump assembly 2900 is shown. In this embodiment, the membrane pump assembly 2900 is a membrane or diaphragm 2940 , pumping chamber 2942, control fluid chamber 2944 (best seen in Figure 55), It has a three-way switching valve 2910, and check valves 2920 and 2930. In one embodiment, a pumping The volume of the Guchamber 2942 ranges from approximately 20 microliters to approximately 500 microliters. It is within the range. In a typical embodiment, the volume of the pumping chamber 2942 is approximately 30 m It ranges from chloroliters to about 250 microliters. In another embodiment, The volume of the Ping Chamber 2942 ranges from approximately 40 microliters to approximately 100 microliters. It is within the range up to 'ru'.

[0059] The switching valve 2910 is connected to the switching valve fluid channel 2954 or the switching valve fluid channel 2956. The pump control channel 2958 is operated to place it in fluid communication. (Limited to embodiments) Although it is not intended to do so, the switching valve 2910 receives an electrical signal via the control line 2912. It is an operating, solenoid valve that is actuated by an electromagnet. In another, non-limiting embodiment, a switching valve 2910 is a pneumatic or hydraulic valve that operates on a pneumatic or hydraulic signal input. In yet another embodiment, the switching valve 2910 is fluid-type, pneumatic, mechanical, or electromagnetic, It is a piston driven within a cylinder. More generally, another type of valve is a switching valve fluid channel. Between channel 2954 and the switching valve fluid channel 2956 and the pump control channel 2958 Valves capable of switching fluid connections are preferred and used in pump assembly 2900. It will be considered for this purpose.

[0060] In one embodiment, the switching valve fluid channel 2954 is ported to a positive fluid pressure source. Here, the fluid pressure source is either pneumatic or hydraulic. The required amount of fluid pressure is... The tensile strength and elasticity of the ear phragm 2940, the viscosity of the fluid being pumped and / or Density, degree of solubility of dissolved solids in the fluid, and / or flow within the pump assembly 2900 It may depend on one or more factors, including the length and size of the body channels and ports, but this may depend on one or more factors. No limitations. In various embodiments, the fluid pressure source ranges from approximately 15 psi (103 kPa) to approximately 25 It ranges up to 0 psi (1720 kPa). In a typical example, it is about 60 psi (4 It ranges from 14 kPa to approximately 100 psi (689 kPa). Another typical implementation In this example, the range is approximately 70 psi (483 kPa) to approximately 80 psi (552 kPa). It is located there. As described above, in one embodiment of the dispensing system, carbonated beverages are produced. Therefore, carbonated water is used as an ingredient. In these examples, carbonated beverages are produced The gas pressure of CO2 commonly used to produce it is often around 75 psi (517 kPa). Yes. Therefore, in one embodiment, in order to pump out a small amount of fluid in a beverage dispenser The same gas pressure source used to drive the diaphragm pump is regulated to a lower pressure, even when used. good.

[0061] In response to the appropriate signal supplied via control line 2912, valve 2910 controls the pump. A switching valve fluid channel 2954 is placed in fluid connection with channel 2958. The pressure can then be transmitted to the diaphragm 2940. Diaphragm 2940 then pumps the fluid in the pumping chamber 2942 through the pump outlet channel 295 The fluid pumped out by the pump is pushed through the inlet. The check valve 2930 prevents the fluid from being pushed through the inlet. To prevent leakage from the pumping chamber 2942 through channel 2952. We guarantee it.

[0062] The switching valve 2910 is in fluid contact with the switching valve fluid channel 2956 via the control line 2912. A pump control channel 2958 is placed in the state. It is (as shown in Figure 54) diaphrag The ram 2940 is brought to the wall of the pumping chamber 2942. In this embodiment, the switching valve fluid Passage 2956 is connected to the vacuum source and port. It is connected to the pump control channel 2958 and fluid communication. When this happens, the vacuum source causes the diaphragm 2940 to retract, and the control pump chamber 2944 The volume of the diaphragm 294 is reduced, and the volume of the pumping chamber 2942 is increased. Due to the depression of 0, flow to the pumping chamber 2942 via the pump inlet channel 2952. Pull your body back. The check valve 2920 prevents the fluid pumped out from flowing back through the outlet channel 2 This prevents the fluid from returning to the pumping chamber 2942 via 950.

[0063] In the embodiment, the diaphragm tends to maintain a curved or ellipsoidal shape. Furthermore, the diaphragm 2940 is semi-rigid so that it functions as a cup-shaped diaphragm spring. It is made from springy material. For example, the diaphragm 2940 is made from a thin sheet of metal. It may be partially constructed or embossed. This metal may be high-carbon spring steel, nickel silver. This includes high-grade nickel alloys, stainless steel, titanium alloys, beryllium copper and similar materials. It is used in, but is not limited to, the convex curved surface of the diaphragm 2940, pump The pump is positioned so as to face the control chamber 2944 and / or the pump control channel 2958. The 2900 is constructed. Therefore, the diaphragm 2940 is made up of a pump. The chamber 2942 has an inherent tendency to be retracted after being pushed against its surface. In this situation, the switching valve fluid channel 2956 is connected to the ambient (atmospheric) pressure and the dial. The flamm 2940 is automatically retracted, and the fluid is pumped through the pump inlet channel 2952. This allows for pulling to the pin chamber 2942. In one embodiment, a spring-shaped diaphragm is used. The recess of the pump is equal to, or substantially equal to, the volume of fluid delivered in each pump stroke. Determine an equal volume. This is necessary to construct a pumping chamber having a specified volume. It has the advantage of eliminating the need for a specific part. Their precise external dimensions are difficult, and / or acceptable. Manufacturing within a tolerable tolerance range is expensive. In this embodiment, the pump control chamber is The shape is designed to accommodate the convex side of the ear phragm when it is stationary. Also, the shape of the opposing surfaces is The shape can be anything; in other words, it doesn't affect performance.

[0064] In this embodiment, the volume delivered by the membrane pump is the expected volume of fluid in each stroke of the pump. This is done using an "open-loop" method, without a mechanism to sense and confirm the transport of the product. In this embodiment, the volume of fluid pumped out through the pump chamber during the membrane process is Fluid management system ("FMS") technology can be used for measurement. TEM is registered under U.S. Patents 4,808,161, 4,826,482, 4,976,162, 5,088,515, and 5,350,357. It is described in great detail in the issue number, and all of them can be found here by reference. It can be incorporated. In short, FMS measurement measures the volume of fluid delivered in each stroke of a membrane pump. Used to detect the product. A small, constant reference air chamber is located outside the pump assembly. It is placed or, for example, installed inside an air manifold (not shown). Valve The constant reference air chamber and the second pressure sensor are isolated. The pump's stroke volume is controlled by the air to a constant reference. By filling the air chamber, then measuring the pressure, and then opening the valve to the pumping chamber... It is calculated with greater precision. The volume of air on the side of the chamber is a constant volume of a constant reference air chamber, and a constant volume of air on the side of the chamber. It is calculated based on the pressure change when the reference air chamber is coupled to the pump chamber.

[0065] The product module assembly 250 engages with the bracket assembly 282 in a releasable manner. It is configured as follows. The bracket assembly 282 is part of the processing system 10 and is rigid. It is fixed inside the processing system 10. This is referred to here as the "bracket assembly". However, the assembly may differ in other embodiments. The bracket assembly is as desired. It serves to secure the product module assembly 282 in place. Bracket assembly 2 One example of 82 is a processing system configured to releasably engage product module 250 This includes, but is not limited to, shelves within module 10. For example, product module 250 is a bracket The complementary device incorporated into the assembly 282 is configured to engage in a releasable manner. Includes an engaging device. The engaging device includes, for example, a clip assembly, a slot assembly. There are latch assemblies and pin assemblies, but they are not shown in the diagram.

[0066] The piping system / control subsystem 20 is rigidly mounted to the bracket assembly 282. It includes a manifold assembly 284. The manifold assembly 284 connects each pump The integrated pump orifice (e.g., the pump orifice) of assemblies 270, 272, 274, and 276 The orifices (294, 296, 298, 300) are configured to be releasably engaged. It is configured to include multiple inlet ports 286, 288, 290, and 292. When placing the product module 250 in the socket assembly 282, the product module 250 is an arrow Moved in the direction of mark 302, thereby to inlet ports 286, 288, 290, 292 In contrast, the pump orifices 294, 296, 298, and 300 (each) are releasably engaged. This enables the use of inlet ports 286, 288, 290, 292, and / or pump ports. Fiss 294, 296, 298, and 300 are designed to facilitate leak-proof sealing, as described above. Includes one or more O-rings or other seal assemblies as described (not shown). Inlet ports included within the hold assembly 284 (e.g., inlet ports 286, 288, 90, 292) may be made from a rigid "pipe-shaped" material, or from a flexible material. It may be composed of "tubular" material.

[0067] The manifold assembly 284 is configured to engage with the pipe bundle 304. 4 is positioned perpendicular to nozzle 24 (directly or indirectly). As described above, large volume The quantitative component subsystem 16, in at least one embodiment, contains cooled carbonated water 164. In the form of cold water 166 and / or chilled high-fructose corn syrup 168, (directly (Indirectly) liquid is supplied to nozzle 24. Therefore, especially in this example, control logic Subsystem 14 provides, for example, cooled carbonated water 164, cold water 166, cooled high-fructose corn Like the 168 syrup, it contains specific amounts of various large-capacity ingredients, as well as various micro-ingredients. (For example, the first substrate, i.e., flavoring; the second substrate, i.e., nutritional supplements; and the third substrate) Since it adjusts the amount of the compounded medicine, the control logic subsystem 14 precisely adjusts the amount of product 28. Control supply lines.

[0068] As described above, one or more of the pump assemblies 270, 272, 274, and 276 are One or more of these pump assemblies 270, 272, 274, and 276 are connected via data bus 38. Each time a voltage is applied by the control logic subsystem 14, a predetermined consistent amount This is a solenoid piston pump assembly that supplies fluid. Furthermore, as mentioned above To that end, the control logic subsystem 14 controls one or more operations of the processing system 10. Execute process 120. An example of such a control process is from control logic subsystem 14. The data supplied to pump assemblies 270, 272, 274, and 276 via data bus 38 It includes a drive signal generation process (not shown) that generates the live signal. One typical methodology for generating a patent number is U.S. Patent Application No. 11,851,344, Title of Invention. The term "system and method for generating a drive signal" is used. Disclosed in VE SIGNAL) (this is an application filed on September 6, 2007, and is attached here as Appendix A) However, the information of this entire specification is incorporated here by reference.

[0069] Figure 4 shows one nozzle 24, but in various other embodiments, one or more nozzles 24 are included. They may be filled. In one embodiment, one or more containers 30 may be, for example, one or more sets of tube bundles. Therefore, the product is distributed from the system. The distribution system requires that one or more users be given one or more products simultaneously. It is also configured in a way that is beneficial.

[0070] Capacitive flow detectors 306, 308, 310, and 312 are located in each pump assembly 270 , used to sense the flow rate of the above micro-components passing through 272, 274, and 276. ru.

[0071] Also, refer to Figure 5A (side view) and Figure 5B (top view) for a typical capacitive flow detector. A detailed diagram of 308 is shown. The capacitive flow detector 308 is a first capacitive plate 31 It has a first capacity plate and a second capacity plate 312. The second capacity plate 312 has a first capacity It is configured to be movable relative to the capacity plate 310. For example, the first capacity plate 310 It is rigidly attached to the structure within the processing system 10. Furthermore, the capacitive flow detector 3 08 is also firmly attached to the structure within the processing system 10. However, the second capacitive Plate 312 is formed by the use of the diaphragm portion 314, thereby transforming the first capacitive plate 310. Furthermore, it may be configured to be movable relative to the capacitive flow detector 308). The section 314 allows the displacement of the second capacitive plate 312 in the direction of arrow 316. The diaphragm portion 314 is made of various materials that allow displacement in the direction of arrow 316. It is made from. For example, to prevent corrosion of stainless steel foil, the diaphragm part 31 4 is stainless steel with PET (i.e., polyethylene terephthalate) coating. It is made from steel foil. Instead, the diaphragm part 314 is made from titanium foil. That is also fine. Furthermore, the diaphragm portion 314 may be made from injection-molded plastic. i. The surface of the injection-molded plastic diaphragm assembly is the second capacitive plate 31 It is metallized to form 2.

[0072] As described above, the pump assembly (e.g., pump assembly 272) is on the data bus Each time a voltage is applied by the control logic subsystem 14 via 38, the pump assembly Ri is, for example, the calibrated volume of the appropriate micro-components contained inside the product container 254 (for example A fluid of 30-33 μL is supplied. Therefore, the control logic subsystem 14 provides the appropriate point The pump assembly controls the rate at which voltage is applied, thereby controlling the flow rate of micro-components. To control. A typical rate of energy supplied to a pump assembly is 3 Hz (i.e., 3 per second). It is between Hz and 30Hz (i.e., 30 times per second).

[0073] Therefore, when voltage is applied to the pump assembly 272, for example from the product container 254 To enable the pumping of appropriate microcomponents (e.g., substrate), (capacitive flow Suction is performed (in the chamber 318 of the quantity detector 308). Therefore, the pump assembly Since voltage is applied to 272 and suction is performed in chamber 318, the second capacitive plate 312 is moved downward (with respect to Figure 5A), and therefore the distance "d" (i.e., the first The distance between the first capacitive plate 310 and the second capacitive plate 312 is increased.

[0074] Also, referring to Figure 5C, as is known in this technology, the capacitance (C) of the capacitor is It is determined according to the equation below: C = εA / d

[0075] Here, "ε" is located between the first capacitive plate 310 and the second capacitive plate 312. This is the dielectric constant of the dielectric material to be placed. "A" is the area of ​​the capacitive plate. "d" is the first This is the distance between the first capacitive plate 310 and the second capacitive plate 312. "d" is the above Since it is located in the denominator of the equation, any increase in "d" does not affect "C" (i.e., the static value of the capacitor). This results in a corresponding decrease in electrical capacity.

[0076] Continuing with the previous example and referring to Figure 5D, when voltage is applied to the pump assembly 272 If not, it is generated by the first capacitive plate 310 and the second capacitive plate 312. Assume that the capacitor has a value of 5.00pF. Furthermore, pump assembly 27 When a voltage is applied to 2 at time T=1, the first capacitive plate 310 and the second capacitive plate A rate of 312 results in a 20% decrease in the capacitance of the capacitor produced. A chamber 3 large enough to move the second capacitive plate 312 downwards by a distance sufficient to do so. When absorption occurs within 16, it is considered to have occurred. Therefore, the first capacitive plate 310 and the second The new value of the capacitor generated by the capacitive plate 312 is 4.00pF. In the sequence using the pump described above, the second capacitive plate 312 is moved downward. A concrete example illustrating this is shown in Figure 5E.

[0077] Once the appropriate ingredients are dispensed from the product container 254, the suction in the chamber 318 is reduced. Furthermore, the second capacitive plate 312 is placed back in its original position (as shown in Figure 5A). It is moved in the direction. When the second capacitive plate 312 is moved upward, the second capacitive plate The distance between plate 312 and the first capacitive plate 310 is reduced to its initial value. The first capacitive plate 310 and the second capacitive plate 312 generate The capacitance of the indenter becomes 5.00pF again. The second capacitive plate 312 is When it moves upward and returns to its initial position, the moment of the second capacitive plate 312 Then, the second capacitive plate 312 passes its initial position and instantaneously returns to the first capacitive After being positioned close to plate 310, the second capacitive (as shown in Figure 5A) This returns to the initial position of plate 312. Therefore, the first inductance of plate 310 The capacitance of the capacitor generated by the second inductance plate 312 is It momentarily increases above the initial value of 5.00pF, and then stabilizes at 5.00pF.

[0078] While the pump assembly 272 is being repeatedly and intermittently circulated, (in this example) The above change in volume value between 5.00pF and 4.00pF is, for example, in the product container. Continue until container 254 is empty. At time T=5, when product container 254 is empty, the explanatory eye Consider it for the purpose of. At this point, the second capacitive plate 312 may not return to its original position (as shown in FIG. 5A). Furthermore, when the pump assembly 272 continues to be circulated (as shown in FIG. 5F), the second capacitive plate 312 can no longer be moved up to this point, the second capacitive plate 312 continues to be pulled downward. At this point, due to the increase in the distance "d" as shown in FIGS. 5A and 5E, the capacitance value of the capacitor generated by the first capacitive plate 31 0 and the second capacitive plate 312 is minimized to the minimum electrostatic capacitance value 320. The actual value of the minimum electrostatic capacitance value 320 varies depending on the flexibility of the diaphragm portion 314

[0079] Therefore, the fluctuation (e.g., absolute value fluctuation or peak-to-peak fluctuation) of the capacitance value of the capacitor generated by the first capacitive plate 310 and the second capacitive plate 312 is monitored by a monitor, for example, to confirm the proper operation of the pump assembly 272. For example, if the above capacitance value periodically changes between 5.00 pF and 4.00 pF, this change in capacitance indicates the proper operation of the pump assembly 272 and a non-empty product container 254 However, if the above capacitance value does not change (e.g., remains at 5.00 pF), this indicates a faulty pump assembly 272 (e.g., a pump assembly having faulty mechanical parts and / or faulty electrical parts) or a blocked nozzle 24 [[ID=�1]]

[0080] Furthermore, if the above capacitance value decreases to a point below 4.00 pF (e.g., the minimum electrostatic capacitance value 320), this indicates an empty product container 254. In addition, in this event, peak-to-peak ​​​​​​​​If the change in capacitance is less than the expected value (e.g., less than the change of 1.00 pF above), the product container 2 shows the leakage between 54 and the capacitance flow detector 308.

[0081] To determine the capacitance value of the capacitor generated by the first capacitive plate 310 and the second capacitive plate 312, the signal is supplied to the capacitance measurement system 326 (via conductors 322, 324) to the stem 326. The output of the capacitance measurement system 326 is supplied to the control logic subsystem 14. An example of the capacitance measurement system 326 includes the CY8C21434-24LFXI PSOC supplied by Cypress Semiconductor of San Jose, California. The design and operation are described within the "CSD User Module" published by Cypress Semiconductor, which is incorporated herein by reference. The capacitance measurement circuit 326 may be configured to provide compensation for environmental factors (e.g., temperature, humidity, and power supply voltage changes). shows the leakage between 54 and the capacitance flow detector 308. To determine the capacitance value of the capacitor generated by the first capacitive plate 310 and the second capacitive plate 312, the signal is supplied to the capacitance measurement system 326 (via conductors 322, 324) to the stem 326. The output of the capacitance measurement system 326 is supplied to the control logic subsystem 14. An example of the capacitance measurement system 326 includes the CY8C21434-24LFXI PSOC supplied by Cypress Semiconductor of San Jose, California. The design and operation are described within the "CSD User Module" published by Cypress Semiconductor, which is incorporated herein by reference. The capacitance measurement circuit 326 may be configured to provide compensation for environmental factors (e.g., temperature, humidity, and power supply voltage changes). To determine the capacitance value of the capacitor generated by the first capacitive plate 310 and the second capacitive plate 312, the signal is supplied to the capacitance measurement system 326 (via conductors 322, 324) to the stem 326. The output of the capacitance measurement system 326 is supplied to the control logic subsystem 14. An example of the capacitance measurement system 326 includes the CY8C21434-24LFXI PSOC supplied by Cypress Semiconductor of San Jose, California. The design and operation are described within the "CSD User Module" published by Cypress Semiconductor, which is incorporated herein by reference. The capacitance measurement circuit 326 may be configured to provide compensation for environmental factors (e.g., temperature, humidity, and power supply voltage changes). To determine the capacitance value of the capacitor generated by the first capacitive plate 310 and the second capacitive plate 312, the signal is supplied to the capacitance measurement system 326 (via conductors 322, 324) to the stem 326. The output of the capacitance measurement system 326 is supplied to the control logic subsystem 14. An example of the capacitance measurement system 326 includes the CY8C21434-24LFXI PSOC supplied by Cypress Semiconductor of San Jose, California. The design and operation are described within the "CSD User Module" published by Cypress Semiconductor, which is incorporated herein by reference. The capacitance measurement circuit 326 may be configured to provide compensation for environmental factors (e.g., temperature, humidity, and power supply voltage changes). To determine the capacitance value of the capacitor generated by the first capacitive plate 310 and the second capacitive plate 312, the signal is supplied to the capacitance measurement system 326 (via conductors 322, 324) to the stem 326. The output of the capacitance measurement system 326 is supplied to the control logic subsystem 14. An example of the capacitance measurement system 326 includes the CY8C21434-24LFXI PSOC supplied by Cypress Semiconductor of San Jose, California. The design and operation are described within the "CSD User Module" published by Cypress Semiconductor, which is incorporated herein by reference. The capacitance measurement circuit 326 may be configured to provide compensation for environmental factors (e.g., temperature, humidity, and power supply voltage changes). To determine the capacitance value of the capacitor generated by the first capacitive plate 310 and the second capacitive plate 312, the signal is supplied to the capacitance measurement system 326 (via conductors 322, 324) to the stem 326. The output of the capacitance measurement system 326 is supplied to the control logic subsystem 14. An example of the capacitance measurement system 326 includes the CY8C21434-24LFXI PSOC supplied by Cypress Semiconductor of San Jose, California. The design and operation are described within the "CSD User Module" published by Cypress Semiconductor, which is incorporated herein by reference. The capacitance measurement circuit 326 may be configured to provide compensation for environmental factors (e.g., temperature, humidity, and power supply voltage changes). To determine the capacitance value of the capacitor generated by the first capacitive plate 310 and the second capacitive plate 312, the signal is supplied to the capacitance measurement system 326 (via conductors 322, 324) to the stem 326. The output of the capacitance measurement system 326 is supplied to the control logic subsystem 14. An example of the capacitance measurement system 326 includes the CY8C21434-24LFXI PSOC supplied by Cypress Semiconductor of San Jose, California. The design and operation are described within the "CSD User Module" published by Cypress Semiconductor, which is incorporated herein by reference. The capacitance measurement circuit 326 may be configured to provide compensation for environmental factors (e.g., temperature, humidity, and power supply voltage changes). To determine the capacitance value of the capacitor generated by the first capacitive plate 310 and the second capacitive plate 312, the signal is supplied to the capacitance measurement system 326 (via conductors 322, 324) to the stem 326. The output of the capacitance measurement system 326 is supplied to the control logic subsystem 14. An example of the capacitance measurement system 326 includes the CY8C21434-24LFXI PSOC supplied by Cypress Semiconductor of San Jose, California. The design and operation are described within the "CSD User Module" published by Cypress Semiconductor, which is incorporated herein by reference. The capacitance measurement circuit 326 may be configured to provide compensation for environmental factors (e.g., temperature, humidity, and power supply voltage changes).

[0082] The capacitance measurement system 326 is configured to perform capacitance measurement (on the capacitor formed by the first capacitive plate 310 and the second capacitive plate 312) for a predetermined period of time to determine whether the above-mentioned variation in capacitance has occurred. For example, the capacitance measurement system 326 is configured to monitor the change in the above-mentioned capacitance value that occurs with respect to a time frame of 0.50 seconds. Therefore, particularly in this example, as long as the pump assembly 272 is applied with a voltage at a minimum rate of 2.00 Hz (i.e., at least once every 0.50 seconds), at least one of the above-mentioned capacitance changes should be sensed by the capacitance measurement system 326 during each 0.50-second measurement cycle. The capacitance measurement system 326 is configured to perform capacitance measurement (on the capacitor formed by the first capacitive plate 310 and the second capacitive plate 312) for a predetermined period of time to determine whether the above-mentioned variation in capacitance has occurred. For example, the capacitance measurement system 326 is configured to monitor the change in the above-mentioned capacitance value that occurs with respect to a time frame of 0.50 seconds. Therefore, particularly in this example, as long as the pump assembly 272 is applied with a voltage at a minimum rate of 2.00 Hz (i.e., at least once every 0.50 seconds), at least one of the above-mentioned capacitance changes should be sensed by the capacitance measurement system 326 during each 0.50-second measurement cycle. The capacitance measurement system 326 is configured to perform capacitance measurement (on the capacitor formed by the first capacitive plate 310 and the second capacitive plate 312) for a predetermined period of time to determine whether the above-mentioned variation in capacitance has occurred. For example, the capacitance measurement system 326 is configured to monitor the change in the above-mentioned capacitance value that occurs with respect to a time frame of 0.50 seconds. Therefore, particularly in this example, as long as the pump assembly 272 is applied with a voltage at a minimum rate of 2.00 Hz (i.e., at least once every 0.50 seconds), at least one of the above-mentioned capacitance changes should be sensed by the capacitance measurement system 326 during each 0.50-second measurement cycle. The capacitance measurement system 326 is configured to perform capacitance measurement (on the capacitor formed by the first capacitive plate 310 and the second capacitive plate 312) for a predetermined period of time to determine whether the above-mentioned variation in capacitance has occurred. For example, the capacitance measurement system 326 is configured to monitor the change in the above-mentioned capacitance value that occurs with respect to a time frame of 0.50 seconds. Therefore, particularly in this example, as long as the pump assembly 272 is applied with a voltage at a minimum rate of 2.00 Hz (i.e., at least once every 0.50 seconds), at least one of the above-mentioned capacitance changes should be sensed by the capacitance measurement system 326 during each 0.50-second measurement cycle. The capacitance measurement system 326 is configured to perform capacitance measurement (on the capacitor formed by the first capacitive plate 310 and the second capacitive plate 312) for a predetermined period of time to determine whether the above-mentioned variation in capacitance has occurred. For example, the capacitance measurement system 326 is configured to monitor the change in the above-mentioned capacitance value that occurs with respect to a time frame of 0.50 seconds. Therefore, particularly in this example, as long as the pump assembly 272 is applied with a voltage at a minimum rate of 2.00 Hz (i.e., at least once every 0.50 seconds), at least one of the above-mentioned capacitance changes should be sensed by the capacitance measurement system 326 during each 0.50-second measurement cycle. The capacitance measurement system 326 is configured to perform capacitance measurement (on the capacitor formed by the first capacitive plate 310 and the second capacitive plate 312) for a predetermined period of time to determine whether the above-mentioned variation in capacitance has occurred. For example, the capacitance measurement system 326 is configured to monitor the change in the above-mentioned capacitance value that occurs with respect to a time frame of 0.50 seconds. Therefore, particularly in this example, as long as the pump assembly 272 is applied with a voltage at a minimum rate of 2.00 Hz (i.e., at least once every 0.50 seconds), at least one of the above-mentioned capacitance changes should be sensed by the capacitance measurement system 326 during each 0.50-second measurement cycle. The capacitance measurement system 326 is configured to perform capacitance measurement (on the capacitor formed by the first capacitive plate 310 and the second capacitive plate 312) for a predetermined period of time to determine whether the above-mentioned variation in capacitance has occurred. For example, the capacitance measurement system 326 is configured to monitor the change in the above-mentioned capacitance value that occurs with respect to a time frame of 0.50 seconds. Therefore, particularly in this example, as long as the pump assembly 272 is applied with a voltage at a minimum rate of 2.00 Hz (i.e., at least once every 0.50 seconds), at least one of the above-mentioned capacitance changes should be sensed by the capacitance measurement system 326 during each 0.50-second measurement cycle. The capacitance measurement system 326 is configured to perform capacitance measurement (on the capacitor formed by the first capacitive plate 310 and the second capacitive plate 312) for a predetermined period of time to determine whether the above-mentioned variation in capacitance has occurred. For example, the capacitance measurement system 326 is configured to monitor the change in the above-mentioned capacitance value that occurs with respect to a time frame of 0.50 seconds. Therefore, particularly in this example, as long as the pump assembly 272 is applied with a voltage at a minimum rate of 2.00 Hz (i.e., at least once every 0.50 seconds), at least one of the above-mentioned capacitance changes should be sensed by the capacitance measurement system 326 during each 0.50-second measurement cycle.

[0083] Also, referring to Figure 6A, a configuration diagram of the piping system / control subsystem 20 is shown. The piping system / control subsystem described below is controlled via the flow control module 170. A piping system used to control the amount of chilled carbonated water 164 added to product 28 / This relates to control systems, but this is for illustrative purposes only, and the disclosures in this specification are not intended to be used in any way. No restrictions are intended, and other equipment configurations are possible. For example, as described below. The piping system / control subsystem also controls, for example, the amount of chilled water 166 added to product 28 (example (e.g., by flow control module 172) and / or cooled high-fructose corn syrup 16 It is used to control 8 (for example, by the flow control module 174).

[0084] As described above, the piping system / control subsystem 20 receives the flow rate from the flow rate measuring device 176. It has a feedback regulator system 188 that receives a feedback signal 182. The feedback regulator system 188 receives the flow feedback signal 182 (data bus 38 Compare with the desired flow volume (as defined by the control logic subsystem 14 via) When processing the flow rate feedback signal 182, the feedback regulator system 188 This generates a flow control signal 194 that is supplied to the variable line impedance 200.

[0085] The feedback regulator system 188 includes a trajectory shaping regulator 350, a flow control valve 352, Feedforward regulator 354, unit delay regulator 356, saturation regulator 358 and stepper It includes regulator 360, each of which is discussed in much more detail below.

[0086] The trajectory forming regulator 350 is configured to receive control signals from the control logic subsystem 14 via the data bus 38. These control signals define a trajectory for the fluid used in the product 28 (in this case, the chilled carbonated water 164 via the flow control module 170) for the piping system / control subsystem 20 in the manner assumed. However, the trajectory provided by the control logic subsystem 14 needs to be adjusted before being processed by, for example, the flow regulator 352. For example, the control system tends to have a difficult time-processing control curve composed of multiple line segments (i.e., line segments including step changes). For example, since it consists of three separate linear segments (i.e., segments 372, 374, 376), the flow control valve 352 has a difficult processing control curve 370. Thus, at the transition points (e.g., transition points 378, 380), the flow regulator 352 (and generally the piping system / control subsystem 20) is required to instantaneously change from the first flow rate to the second flow rate. Therefore, the trajectory forming regulator 350 filters the control curve 30 to generate a smoothed control curve 382 that is more easily processed by the flow regulator 352 (and thus generally the piping system / control subsystem 20). In this case, the instantaneous transition from the first flow rate to the second flow rate is no longer necessary. In addition, the trajectory forming regulator 350 enables pre-fill wetting and post-fill rinsing of the nozzle 24. In one embodiment, and / or for some recipes, ingredients (referred to herein as "dirty ingredients") may cause deposits on the nozzle 24 and the piping system / control subsystem 20. In addition, the trajectory forming regulator 350 enables pre-fill wetting and post-fill rinsing of the nozzle 24. In one embodiment, and / or for some recipes, ingredients (referred to herein as "dirty ingredients") may cause deposits on the nozzle 24 and the piping system / control subsystem 20. In addition, the trajectory forming regulator 350 enables pre-fill wetting and post-fill rinsing of the nozzle 24. In one embodiment, and / or for some recipes, ingredients (referred to herein as "dirty ingredients") may cause deposits on the nozzle 24 and the piping system / control subsystem 20. In addition, the trajectory forming regulator 350 enables pre-fill wetting and post-fill rinsing of the nozzle 24. In one embodiment, and / or for some recipes, ingredients (referred to herein as "dirty ingredients") may cause deposits on the nozzle 24 and the piping system / control subsystem 20. In addition, the trajectory forming regulator 350 enables pre-fill wetting and post-fill rinsing of the nozzle 24. In one embodiment, and / or for some recipes, ingredients (referred to herein as "dirty ingredients") may cause deposits on the nozzle 24 and the piping system / control subsystem 20. In addition, the trajectory forming regulator 350 enables pre-fill wetting and post-fill rinsing of the nozzle 24. In one embodiment, and / or for some recipes, ingredients (referred to herein as "dirty ingredients") may cause deposits on the nozzle 24 and the piping system / control subsystem 20. In addition, the trajectory forming regulator 350 enables pre-fill wetting and post-fill rinsing of the nozzle 24. In one embodiment, and / or for some recipes, ingredients (referred to herein as "dirty ingredients") may cause deposits on the nozzle 24 and the piping system / control subsystem 20.

[0087] In addition, the trajectory forming regulator 350 enables pre-fill wetting and post-fill rinsing of the nozzle 24. In one embodiment, and / or for some recipes, ingredients (referred to herein as "dirty ingredients") may cause deposits on the nozzle 24 and the piping system / control subsystem 20. In addition, the trajectory forming regulator 350 enables pre-fill wetting and post-fill rinsing of the nozzle 24. In one embodiment, and / or for some recipes, ingredients (referred to herein as "dirty ingredients") may cause deposits on the nozzle 24 In the case of direct contact, that is, in the case of types where components accumulate, one or more components come into contact with the nozzle 24. Let's present the problem. In one embodiment, the nozzle 24 is prevented from directly contacting these "nuisance components". Thus, the nozzle 24 is moistened with a "pre-filling" component (e.g., water) before filling. This is a "post-wash ingredient," such as water, which is rinsed off after filling.

[0088] In particular, the nozzle 24 is pre-filled with, for example, 10 mL of water, and / or for example, 10 In cases where the product is filled with mL of water or any post-washing agent and then rinsed, the addition of unwanted ingredients is temporarily removed. If it stops, the trajectory forming regulator 350 will supply an additional amount of unwanted components during the filling process. By doing so, the pre-washing components added during pre-filling wetting and / or post-filling rinsing are effectively removed. Kill. In particular, since container 30 is filled with product 28, pre-filling wash water or "pre-wash" "From the outset, a product 28 that is insufficiently concentrated with harmful components is obtained. At that time, trajectory formation The regulator 350 adds the unwanted components at a larger flow rate than required, resulting in "insufficient concentration" or From "appropriate concentration" to "over-concentration," or as required by a special recipe. Product 28 can be adjusted to show a higher concentration. However, once you start to hesitate... If the correct amount of additive is added, the post-filling rinse process can be done with additional water or another appropriate solution. "Post-cleaning ingredients" may be added. As a result, a product with unwanted ingredients in an "appropriately concentrated" state will be produced. At 28, you can get something again.

[0089] The flow regulator 352 is configured as a proportional-integral (PI) loop regulator. As generally described above, step 2 is performed by the feedback regulator system 188. , comparison and processing are performed. For example, the flow regulator 352 receives a feed from the flow measuring device 176. It is configured to receive a back signal 182. The flow regulator 352 receives a flow feedback signal. The buck signal 182 is defined by the control logic subsystem 14 and the trajectory shaping regulator 350. Compare to the desired flow volume (as adjusted by 182). Flow feedback signal 182 When processing, the flow regulator 352 controls the flow rate supplied to the variable line impedance 200. Generates control signal 194.

[0090] The feedforward regulator 354 is the initial value of the variable line impedance 200. It provides the "most reasonable" estimate for what should be. In particular, under a given constant pressure, a variable light The impedance is as a flow rate (for cooled carbonated water 164) from 0.00 mL / second It is assumed that there is a interval of 12,000 mL / second. Furthermore, the filling container 30 is filled with the beverage product 28. If so, a flow rate of 40 mL / second is considered desirable. Therefore, feedforward adjustment is necessary. Device 354 is (assuming the variable line impedance 200 operates in a linear manner) The variable line impedance 200 is initially opened to 33.33% of the maximum opening, A feedforward signal is supplied (on feedforward line 384).

[0091] When determining the value of the feedforward signal, the feedforward regulator 354 uses experience Developed specifically to define the signals provided for various initial flow rates, a lookup table (not shown) is used. Use. An example of such a lookup table includes the following table, however this Unrestricted: [Table 1]

[0092] Again, when the filling container 30 is filled with the beverage product 28, a flow rate of 40 mL / second is desired. If we assume this, then for example, the feedforward regulator 354 utilizes the above lookup table. Using (feedforward wire 384), the stepper motor is pushed up to 60.0 degrees. It emits a noise. In a typical embodiment, a stepper motor is used, but various other embodiments The example uses other types of motors, including but not limited to servo motors.

[0093] The unit delay circuit 356 provides the old control signal (provided to the variable line impedance 200). The version forms a feedback path, such as one provided to the flow regulator 352.

[0094] The variable line impedance 200 is set to the maximum flow rate (by the stepper regulator 360). If set, always use the saturation regulator 358 and the feedback regulator system 188 ( It renders the integral control (configured as a PI loop regulator, as discussed above) powerless. It is configured to prevent overshoot due to a decrease in flow rate and system By reducing oscillations, the system's stability is increased.

[0095] The stepper regulator 360 is supplied (on line 386) by the saturation regulator 358. The signal is configured to be converted into a usable signal by a variable line impedance of 200. The variable line impedance 200 is the orifice of the variable line impedance 200. It includes a stepper motor for adjusting the flow rate (and therefore the control signal). 194 is configured to control a stepper motor that is included within a variable line impedance. It will be done.

[0096] Also, referring to Figure 6B, the flow rate measuring devices of flow control modules 170, 172, and 174. Examples 176, 178, and 180 are, respectively, an outer ring flow meter and a turbine-type flow meter. It has a fixed or positive displacement flow measuring device (for example, a gear-type positive displacement flow measuring device 388). However, it is not limited to these. Therefore, in various embodiments, the flow meter is directly i is any device that can indirectly measure flow rate. In a typical embodiment, a gear-type positive displacement type is used. A flow rate measuring device 388 is used. In this embodiment, the flow rate measuring device 388 has multiple meshing It includes gears (for example, gears 390, 392), for example, gear 390 which rotates counterclockwise and From the clockwise gear 392, for example, one or more defined paths (for example, path 394) According to 396), any contents passing through the gear-type positive displacement flow measuring device 388 are required The rotation of gears 390 and 392 is monitored to obtain a feedback signal (for example, f A feedback signal (182) is generated and directed to the appropriate flow regulator (e.g., flow regulator 352). It will be supplied.

[0097] Also, referring to Figures 7 to 14, the flow control module (for example, flow control module 17) 0) Various concrete examples of implementations are shown. However, as mentioned above, The assembly order may differ in various embodiments, that is, the assembly may be desired They can be arranged in any order. For example, in one embodiment, the assemblies are arranged in the following order. : Flow metering device, two-way valve, variable impedance; on the other hand, in another embodiment, assembly The following are arranged in this order: flow meter, variable impedance, two-way valve. In the example, it maintains pressure and fluid on a variable impedance, or variable impedance - It is desirable to change the order of the assembly to change the pressure in the dance. In these embodiments, the variable impedance valve includes a lip seal. Since it is desirable to maintain pressure and fluid on the lip seal, this is done as follows: This is accomplished by ordering the following: flow meter, variable impedance and bidirectional battery. Lube. The two-way valve downstream from the variable line impedance has a lip seal for the desired seal. Maintain the variable impedance pressure and fluid to maintain the same level of control.

[0098] Referring first to Figures 7A and 7B, one embodiment of the flow control module 170a is shown. In one embodiment, the flow control module 170a is generally a flow meter 176a, a variable flow meter. It includes an impedance 200a and a two-way valve 212a, and generally passes through there. It has a straight fluid flow path. The flow meter 176a receives a large volume component subsystem 16. It has a fluid inlet 400 to receive the volumetric component. The fluid inlet 400 is located in the housing 40 A gear system including multiple gears that mesh with each other (e.g., gear 390) arranged within 2. Positive displacement flow measuring devices (e.g., gear-type positive displacement devices 388 in general as described above) In contrast, a large-capacity component is connected. The large-capacity component flows through the fluid passage 404 to the flow meter 176a It passes from there to the two-way valve 212a.

[0099] The two-way valve 212a has a banjo valve 406 that is driven by a solenoid 408. The banjo valve 406 is positioned in the closed position. For example, biased by a spring (not shown), as a result, the flow control module The solenoid coil 408 obstructs the flow of large-capacity components passing through coil 170a. To move the banjo valve 406 from its sealing engagement with 414, (e.g., control logic) (In response to a control signal from subsystem 14) Linear drive plunger via coupling section 412 Activate 410. As a result, a large capacity is generated for the variable line impedance of 200a. Open the two-way valve 212a to allow the flow of water.

[0100] As described above, the variable line impedance 200a adjusts the flow rate of large-capacity components. The variable line impedance 200a includes the drive motor 416, and it is This includes, but is not limited to, a tapered motor or a servo motor. Drive motor 41 6 is generally coupled to the variable impedance valve 418. As described above, The variable impedance valve 418 is connected, for example, to the two-way valve 212a via the fluid passage 420. It controls the flow of a large volume component, which moves and exits from the fluid outlet 422. Specific examples of the impedance valve 418 are U.S. Patent No. 5,755,683 and U.S. Patent Publication No. 200. Disclosed and requested in issue 7 / 0085049. Both are incorporated in their entirety by reference. Although not shown in the diagram, the gearbox is connected to the drive motor 416 and the variable impedance valve. It is coupled between 418.

[0101] Also, refer to Figures 8 and 9, the flow control module (for example, flow control module 170b) Another embodiment of the ) includes a flow meter 176b, a two-way valve 212b, and a variable line impedance. This is generally shown including S200b. Flow control is similar to flow control module 170a. Module 170b includes a fluid inlet 400, which is used for the large volume component of flow meter 176b. Connect to the flow meter 176b includes meshing gears 390 and 392 located in the cavity 424. For example, it is provided within the housing member 402. The meshing gears 390, 392 and The cavity 424 defines the flow path around the cavity 424. The large volume component is the fluid passage. It passes through 404 from the flow meter 176b to the two-way valve 212b. As shown in the figure, The fluid inlet 400 and fluid passage 404 are for the inflow and outflow of the flow meter 176b (i.e., into the cavity 424). A 90-degree flow path is provided for entry and exit.

[0102] The two-way valve 212b has a banjo valve 406 (for example via a connecting portion 412) The engagement with the valve seat 414 is promoted (in accordance with the biasing force applied by the spring 426). When voltage is applied to the solenoid coil 408, the plunger 410 moves the solenoid coil It is forced to retract toward the 408, and as a result, the sealing engagement with the valve seat 414 is broken By moving the banjo valve 406, the large-capacity component is a variable line impedance 200b This allows it to flow to. In another embodiment, the banjo valve 406 is a variable line-in. It is located downstream of Peedance 200b.

[0103] The variable line impedance 200b is a first rigid member (e.g., a shaft) with a first surface. The shaft 428 typically has a first fluid having a first boundary on the first surface. The path portion is defined. The first boundary is defined on the first surface (for example, of shaft 428). It has a groove (for example, groove 430). The groove 430 is large and perpendicular to the tangent to the curve of the first surface. It tapers from a large cross-sectional area to a small cross-sectional area. However, in another embodiment, Foot 428 is a bore hole (i.e., a straight ball-style hole, Figure 15C) rather than a groove 430. (See reference) The second rigid member (e.g., housing 432) has a second surface (e.g., There is an inner bore (434). The first and second rigid members are continuously partially open from the fully open position. They can rotate relative to each other, passing through an open position to a closed position. For example, shaft 428, The housing is driven by a drive motor 416 (including, for example, a stepper motor or a servo motor). It is driven to rotate freely in relation to G432. The first surface and the second surface define a space between them. The first and second rigid members are in a fully open position or a partially open position relative to each other. If it is in one of the second rigid member (i.e., housing 432), then the opening in the second rigid member (i.e., the opening) Section 436) provides fluid communication between the first and second fluid path sections. The fluid flowing between the path sections is through the opening (i.e., opening 436) as well as the groove (i.e., groove 430) ) passes through. At least one sealing means in one embodiment (e.g., gasket, O-ring, etc.). (Not shown) These are used to prevent fluid from leaking out of the space and from leaking out of the desired channel. To prevent fluid from entering, a seal is provided between the first and second rigid members, such as the first surface and the second It is positioned between the surfaces. However, as shown in a typical embodiment, this type of sealing means Not used. In a typical embodiment, the lip seal 429 or another sealing means is used in space It is used to seal.

[0104] Various connection configurations allow the flow control modules 170, 172, and 174 to be connected to the large-capacity component subsystem. Includes for fluid coupling to the system 16 and / or downstream components (e.g., nozzle 24). For example, as shown with respect to the flow control module 170b in Figures 8 and 9. The fixing plate 438 is slidably positioned with respect to the guide mechanism 440. Fluid conduit (not shown) The ) is partially inserted at least into the fluid discharge port 422, and the fixing plate 438 is the fluid discharge It is slidably translated to lock the fluid pipeline in an engaged state with the outlet. Various gases The ket, O-ring, etc., provide a fluid sealing relationship between the fluid pipeline and the fluid outlet 422. It is used for that purpose.

[0105] Figures 10 to 13 show the flow control module (for example, flow control module 170c, 1 Various additional embodiments of 70d, 170e, and 170f are shown. Flow control module 170c, 170d, 170e, and 170f are generally the same as the flow control modules described earlier. For 170a and 170b, fluid connection and relative variable line impedance 20 The difference lies in the orientation of the two-way valve 212. For example, as shown in Figures 11 and 13, respectively. The flow control modules 170d and 170f are connected to the flow meters 176d and 176f (or... (a) Includes a fluid connector 442 with bellows for connecting fluids. Similarly, flow control motor Joule 170c connects the fluid to (or from) a variable line impedance of 200c. Includes a bellows-type fluid connection 444. Various additional / alternative fluid connection arrangements. They are equally utilized. Similarly, the various relative orientations of the solenoid 408 and the banjo The spring bias configuration for valve 406 is designed to accommodate various mounting arrangements and design standards. It will be used.

[0106] Further reference to Figures 14A to 14C reveals another embodiment of the flow control module. (i.e., the 170g flow control module). The 170g flow control module is generally Flow meter 176g, variable line impedance 200g and two-way valve 212g (for example) It typically has a banjo valve driven by a solenoid, as described above. Referring to Figure 14C, you can see the lip seal 202g. Also, the flow control module is Figure 14 shows the fact that it has a cover that provides protection for various flow control module assemblies. C shows one typical example. Although not shown in all illustrated examples, Each embodiment of the flow control module also has a cover.

[0107] Flow control modules (e.g., flow control modules 170, 172, 174) have large capacity The components are transferred from the large-capacity component subsystem 16 to the flow meters (e.g., flow meters 176, 178, 180). It flows up to the variable line impedance (for example, variable line impedance 200) , 202, 204) and finally two-way valves (for example, two-way valves 212, 214) It was explained that it is configured to pass through 216), but this contradicts the current disclosure of the specification. It should be noted that this should not be interpreted as a restriction. For example, Figures 7 to 14C As illustrated and discussed, the flow control module is connected to the large-capacity component subsystem 16. A flow meter (e.g., flow meters 176, 178, 180), followed by a two-way valve (e.g., a two-way valve This leads to the Lube 212, 214, 216), and finally to the variable line impedance (for example) It is configured to have a flow path through which variable line impedances (200, 202, 204) pass. This may be done. Various additional / alternative equipment configurations are equally available. In addition, one or more The additional components include one or more of the following: a flow meter, a two-way valve, and a variable line impedance. They may be interconnected.

[0108] Refer to Figures 15A and 15B, and consider the variable line impedance (e.g., variable line impedance). Part of the P-Dance 200 is the drive motor 416 (for example, it is a stepper motor, etc.) This includes the motor, etc. The drive motor 416 has a groove 430 in which the shaft It is coupled to the 428. In one embodiment, referring here to Figure 15C, the shaft 42 8 has a bore. Also, in a typical embodiment, as shown in Figure 15C, the bore is a bore. It is a cubic bore. For example, as discussed with respect to Figures 8 and 9, the drive motor 416 is , to adjust the flow rate through a variable line impedance, housing (e.g., housing The shaft 428 is rotated relative to the magnet 432. The magnet 446 is connected to the shaft 428. They are aligned (for example, at least partially located within the axial opening in the shaft 428). The magnet 446 is generally magnetized in the diametrical direction, with a south pole 450 and a north pole 452. The rotational position of shaft 428 is determined, for example, by one or more magnetic flux detection devices (as shown in Figure 9). It is determined based on the magnetic flux provided by the magnet 446 on the sensors 454, 456). Magnetic flux detection devices include, but are not limited to, Hall effect sensors, for example. The bundle detection device, for example, controls the logical subsystem 14 using position feedback signals. To supply the number.

[0109] In one embodiment, with reference again to Figure 15C, the above is shown and described with respect to Figures 8 and 9. As in the previous embodiment, the magnet 446 is placed on the opposing surface. In addition, in this embodiment, the magnet 44 6 is held by the magnetic holder 480.

[0110] Furthermore, alternatives to using magnetic position sensors (for example, to determine the rotational position of a shaft) The variable line impedance is at least partially related to the motor position or shaft position. It may be determined based on the light sensor being detected.

[0111] Next, referring to Figures 16A and 16B, a gear-type positive displacement flow meter (for example, a geared gear) The gear (for example, gear 390) of the wheel-type positive displacement flow measuring device 388) is coupled to 1 It includes one or more magnets (e.g., magnets 458, 460). As discussed above, the fluid When (for example, a large volume component) flows through the gear-type positive displacement flow measuring device 388, gear 3 It rotates 90 degrees (and gear 392 as well). The rotation rate of gear 390 is determined by the gear-type positive displacement flow meter. The rotation (or rotational ratio) of the gear 390 is usually proportional to the flow rate of the fluid passing through the measuring device 388. ) is measured using a magnetic flux sensor (e.g., a Hall effect sensor). The rotational motion of axial magnets 458 and 460 coupled to vehicle 390 is measured. A magnetic flux sensor is, for example, For example, as shown in Figure 8, a flow rate feedback is placed on the printed circuit board 462. Flow feedback to the regulator system (e.g., feedback regulator system 188) A signal (e.g., flow feedback signal 182) is supplied.

[0112] Also, refer to Figure 17 for the structure of the user interface subsystem 22. The diagram is shown. The user interface subsystem 22 allows user 26 to drink A touchscreen interface that allows you to select various options related to fee 28. It has a surface 500, and a typical example is described below with reference to Figures 51 to 53. It is revealed. For example, user 26 can specify the size of beverage 28 via the "Beverage Size" field 502. Select the size. Examples of available sizes include "12 oz" (355 ml) and "16 oz". "S" (473ml), "20 oz" (591ml), "24 oz" (710ml), It includes "32 ounces" (946 ml) and "48 ounces" (1419 ml), but They are not restricted.

[0113] User 26 selects a type of beverage 28 via the "Beverage Type" field 504. Specific examples of such drinks include "cola," "lemon-lime," "root beer," and "iced tea." It includes, but is not limited to, "lemonade" and "fruit punch".

[0114] User 26 also requests via the “Additives” section 506 that one or more flavorings be added to the beverage 28. You can choose the ingredients / products. Specific examples of selectable additives include "cherry flavor" and "lemon flavor". Includes "lime flavor", "chocolate flavor", "coffee flavor", and "ice cream". However, these are not limitations.

[0115] Furthermore, user 26 can add 1 to the contents of beverage 28 via the “Nutritional Supplements” section 508. You can choose from more than one nutritional supplement. A specific example of such a supplement is "Vitamin A". "Vitamin B6", "Vitamin B12", "Vitamin C", "Vitamin D", "Zinc" It includes, but is not limited to, these.

[0116] In one embodiment, an additional screen is located below the touchscreen. It has "remote control" (not shown). Remote control includes, for example, up, down, left, right, and selection. It includes button displays. However, in another embodiment, additional buttons are provided.

[0117] Once user 26 has made the appropriate choice, user 26 presses the "GO" button 510. Select. Then, the user interface subsystem 22 controls the logic subsystem. The appropriate data signal is supplied to TEM14 (via data bus 32). Once received... Then, the control logic subsystem 14 retrieves appropriate data from the memory subsystem 12, for example. For example, a large-capacity component subsystem 16, a micro-component subsystem 18, and a piping system / control subsystem. The system 20 is supplied with appropriate control signals. The piping system / control subsystem 20 is connected to the beverage 28 To prepare it, it is processed using the method discussed above. Instead, user 26 says You may select the "Cancel" button 512, or, for example, if no button is selected, The touchscreen interface 500 will be reset to its default state.

[0118] The user interface subsystem 22 enables bidirectional communication with the user 26. It is configured to enable. For example, the user interface subsystem 22 The information screen enables the processing system 10 to provide information to the user 26. It has n514. The types of information provided to user 26 include advertisements, system malfunctions and warnings. This includes specific examples of information related to the advertisement and information regarding the pricing of various products, however They are not restricted by them.

[0119] As described above, the control logic subsystem 14 controls the operation of the processing system 10. The control logic subsystem 14 executes one or more control processes 120. Therefore, the control logic subsystem 14 is a finite state machine. Perform machine processing (e.g., FSM processing 122).

[0120] Furthermore, as described above, while using the processing system 10, user 26 is user-in Use the surface subsystem 22 to dispense a specific beverage (to container 30) Select 8. User 26, via the user interface subsystem 22, Select one or more options as inclusions in such a beverage. Once user 26 is appropriate If you make a selection, the user interface subsystem 22 will be used to access the user interface The interface subsystem 22 is configured to allow the user 26 to make choices and preferences regarding the beverage 28. Send the appropriate instructions to the control logic subsystem 14.

[0121] If you choose, there are essentially two distinct recipes that produce a multi-component product. User 26 selects a multi-ingredient recipe, which is a combination of the following. For example, User 26 Choose a root beer float. A root beer float is essentially two distinct and different components. The multi-component is a combination of the main components (i.e., vanilla ice cream and root beer soda). This is a recipe. As another example, user 26 chose the combination of cola and coffee. Yes. This cola and coffee combination is essentially two separate and different components (i.e., cocoa). It's a combination of soda and coffee.

[0122] Also, referring to Figure 18, upon receiving the above instructions at 550, FSM processing is performed at 552. 122 is an instruction to determine whether the resulting product (e.g., beverage 28) is a multi-component product. Process.

[0123] If the product generated in 554 is a multi-component product, then FSM processing 12 in 556 2. Verify the recipes needed to produce each component of the multi-component product. The recipe is selected from multiple recipes 36 stored on the memory subsystem 12 shown in Figure 1. It'll be found out.

[0124] If the product generated in 554 is not a multi-component product, then FSM processing 12 in 558 2 confirms a single recipe for generating the product. The single recipe is memory subsystem 1 Selected from multiple recipes 36 held on 2. Thus, the instructions received at 550 and 5 If the instruction processed in 52 was an instruction specifying lemon-lime soda, this is a multi-configuration. Since it is not an element product, FSM processing 122 at 558 produces lemon-lime soda. Check the single recipe you need.

[0125] If the instruction in 554 relates to a multi-component product, then in 556, memory subsystem 1 2. In order to confirm the appropriate recipe selected from the multiple recipes 36 held above, 560 FSM processing 122 analyzes each recipe into multiple discrete states and determines one or more state transitions. At that time, the FSM process 122 processes at least one part of a plurality of discrete states in 562. Define at least one finite state machine (for each recipe) that uses minutes.

[0126] If the instruction in 554 is not related to a multi-component product, then in 558, memory subsystem 1 2. In order to confirm the appropriate recipe selected from the multiple recipes 36 held above, 564 FSM processing 122 analyzes the recipe into multiple discrete states and determines one or more state transitions. At that time, the FSM process 122 performs at least one of several discrete states in 566. Define at least one finite state machine for recipes that use parts.

[0127] As is known with this technology, a finite state machine (FSM) is a machine that has a finite number of states, and between those states This is a behavioral model composed of transitions and / or actions. See also Figure 19, for example. Therefore, for physical entrances and exits where a finite state is either a perfectly open state or a perfectly closed state, a finite state machine When defining a machine, a finite-state machine has two states: the "open" state (570) and the "closed" state (572). It has a state of "having". In addition, there are two transitions that allow a transition from one state to another. It is understood that the transition state in 574 is "open" the door (and therefore "close" in 572). (The state transitions from "open" to the "open" state at 570), and the transition state at 576 is "closed" (Therefore, it transitions from the "open" state of 570 to the "closed" state of 572) be.

[0128] Also, refer to Figure 20, which shows a state diagram 600 relating to the method of coffee preparation. The state diagram 600 is shown including five states, namely, the stopped state 602, the preparation state 604, These are the mixing state 606, the temperature maintenance state 608, and the off state 610. In addition, there are five transitions. A transition state is shown. For example, transition state 612 is, for example, when a coffee filter is attached. The process involves adding coffee powder and filling the coffee vending machine with water, but in a stopped state 60 The process transitions from state 2 to preparation state 604. Transition state 614 is, for example, when the mixing button is pressed. However, the process transitions from preparation state 604 to preparation state 606. Transition state 616 is, for example, For example, although the water supply is used up, the process transitions from the mixing state 606 to the temperature maintenance state 608. Transition state 618 occurs, for example, when the power switch is turned off or the maximum "temperature maintenance" time is exceeded. In cases such as the above, the system transitions from the temperature maintenance state 608 to the off state 610. Transition state 620 is, for example, the power switch that turns on, changing from the off state 610 to the stopped state 602. Migrate.

[0129] Therefore, FSM process 122 is the recipe (or so it is) used to produce the product. Generate one or more finite state machines corresponding to the part ( ). If so, the control logic subsystem 14 will execute a finite state machine, for example, from user 26 Produce the requested product (e.g., multi-component or single-component).

[0130] Therefore, the processing system 10 is 550, (User Interface Subsystem) (via 22) Assume that user 26 has received instructions that they have selected a root beer float. The FSM process 122 is 552, and the root via float is a multi-component product 554. Process instructions to determine whether or not the root beer float is a multi-component product. Then, FSM treatment 122 is 556 root beer float (i.e., root beer soda Check the recipes needed to produce the sipi and vanilla ice cream recipes, 56 0 represents the root beer soda recipe and the vanilla ice cream recipe in multiple discrete states. It analyzes and determines one or more state transitions. At that time, FSM process 122 is 562, Use at least one part of multiple discrete states, at least one (for each recipe) Define a finite state machine. Generate a root beer float selected by user 26. To that end, these finite state machines are subsequently executed by the control logic subsystem 14. It can be done.

[0131] When executing a state machine corresponding to a recipe, the processing system 10 will run within the processing system 10 Utilize one or more manifolds (not shown) included in this specification. Thus, a manifold is a temporary storage device designed to allow the execution of one or more operations. This is the storage area. To facilitate the movement of components entering and leaving the manifold, processing system 1 0 is to facilitate the movement of components between manifolds (for example, to control logic subsystem 14). It includes multiple valves (which are therefore controllable). Specific examples of various types of manifolds include: Mixing manifold, blending manifold, grinding manifold, heating manifold, cooling manifold Manifolds, refrigeration manifolds, immersion manifolds, nozzles, pressure manifolds, vacuum manifolds This includes, but is not limited to, a stirring manifold.

[0132] For example, when making coffee, a grinding manifold grinds the coffee beans. Once the beans are ground... Then, water 160 is heated to a predetermined temperature (e.g., 100°C [212°F]), heating manifold Water is supplied to the holder. Once the water is heated, (generated by the heating manifold) ) The heated water passes through the powdered coffee beans (produced by the grinding manifold) It is filtered. In addition, depending on how the processing system 10 is configured, The processing system 10 adds cream and to the coffee produced in a separate manifold or nozzle 24. / Or add sugar.

[0133] Therefore, each part of the multi-part recipe is a different manifold included within the processing system 10. It is executed within the system. Therefore, each component of a multi-component recipe is processed within the system. It is generated in different manifolds contained within 10. Continuing from the previous example, multi-configuration requirements The first component of the raw product (i.e., root beer soda) is the mixture contained within the processing system 10. It is generated within the manifold. Furthermore, it is a multi-component product (i.e., vanilla ice cream). The second component of the mixture is produced in a refrigeration manifold contained within the processing system 10.

[0134] As described above, the control logic subsystem 14 controls the operation of the processing system 10. The control logic subsystem 14 executes one or more control processes 120. Therefore, the virtual machine process Execute logic 124.

[0135] Furthermore, as mentioned above, during the use of the processing system 10, the user interface... Using subsystem 22, user 26 dispenses a special beverage 28 (into container 30). The user 26 selects to do so via the user interface subsystem 22. Select one or more options for the beverage's contents. Once user 26 has made the appropriate selection, Then, via the user interface subsystem 22, the user interface The subsystem 22 sends appropriate instructions to the control logic subsystem 14.

[0136] If you choose, there are essentially two distinct recipes that produce a multi-component product. User 26 selects a multi-part recipe, which is a combination of the following. For example, User 26 Choose a root beer float. A root beer float is essentially two distinct and different components. The multi-component is a combination of the main components (i.e., vanilla ice cream and root beer soda). Here is a recipe. As another example, user 26 suggested a combination of cola and coffee. Choose a beverage. This cola / coffee combination is essentially two distinct and different components. (That is, a combination of cola soda and coffee.)

[0137] Also, referring to Figure 21, when the above instruction is received at 650, virtual machine processing 1 is performed at 652. 24 processes these instructions so that the resulting product (e.g., beverage 28) is multi-component Determine whether it is a product or not.

[0138] If the product generated by 654 is a multi-component product, then virtual machine processing 124 656 provides a first recipe for producing the first component of a multi-component product, and at least one second component for generating at least one second component of the product of the multi-component Identify the two recipes. The first and second recipes are stored on the storage subsystem 12. Selected from 36 different recipes.

[0139] If the product generated by 654 is not a multi-component product, then virtual machine processing 124 It checks a single recipe for generating the product at 658. The single recipe is stored in the memory subsystem. Selected from multiple recipes 36 held on Tem 12. Therefore, life received at 650 If the order was about lemon-lime soda, then this is not a multi-component product. So, virtual machine process 124 is the single 658 needed to produce lemon-lime soda. Check the ship.

[0140] Confirmation of 656 and 658 shows that from the multiple recipes 36 held on the memory subsystem 12 Based on the recipe, the control logic subsystem 14 executes the recipe on 660 and 662, For example, a large-capacity component subsystem 16, a micro-component subsystem 18, and a piping system / The appropriate control signal is supplied to the control subsystem 20 (via the data bus 38). Then, the beverage 28 is made and supplied to the container 30.

[0141] Therefore, the processing system 10 (via the user interface subsystem 22) Let's assume it receives an instruction to create a root beer float. Virtual machine process 124, In 654, to determine whether the root beer float is a multi-component product, refer to 652. These instructions are processed by the Root Beer Float, since it is a multi-component product, The thought process 124 is 656, and the recipe needed to make a root beer float (that is Check the root beer soda recipe and the vanilla ice cream recipe, and 660 Run both recipes to produce Tobi Soda and Vanilla Ice Cream (each). Once these products are generated, the processing system 10 is requested by the user 26. To create a root beer float, separate products (i.e., root beer soda and vanilla) Combine with ice cream.

[0142] When executing a recipe, the processing system 10 will execute one or more of the processing systems 10 that are included within the processing system 10. A manifold (not shown) is used. A manifold is a temporary storage area designed to allow the execution of one or more operations. To facilitate the movement of components entering and leaving the manifold, the processing system 10 controls the components between the manifolds. It has multiple valves to facilitate movement. The valves are, for example, control logic subsystems It can be controlled by M14. Specific examples of various types of manifolds include mixed manifolds. Blending manifold, grinding manifold, heating manifold, cooling manifold, freezing Manifolds, immersion manifolds, nozzles, pressure manifolds, vacuum manifolds, and stirring manifolds It includes, but is not limited to, Niford.

[0143] For example, when making coffee, a grinding manifold grinds the coffee beans. Once the beans are ground... Then, water 160 is heated to a predetermined temperature (e.g., 100°C [212°F]), heating manifold Water is supplied to the holder. Once the water is heated, (generated by the heating manifold) ) The heated water passes through the powdered coffee beans (produced by the grinding manifold) It is filtered. In addition, depending on how the processing system 10 is configured, The processing system 10 adds cream and to the coffee produced in a separate manifold or nozzle 24. / Or add sugar.

[0144] Therefore, each part of the multi-part recipe is a different manifold included within the processing system 10. It is executed within the system. Therefore, each component of the multi-component recipe is processed by the processing system 10. It is generated in different manifolds contained within. Continuing the previous example, a multi-component The product (i.e., one or more used by the processing system 10 to make root beer soda) The first component of the above process is generated in a mixing manifold contained within the processing system 10. Furthermore, a multi-component product (i.e., a processing system to make vanilla ice cream) The second component of one or more processes used by Tem 10 is included within the processing system 10. It is generated within a frozen manifold.

[0145] As described above, while using the processing system 10, user 26 accesses the user interface. Using the face subsystem 22, a special beverage 28 is selected for distribution (into the container 30). That is also acceptable. User 26 can do so via the user interface subsystem 22. Select one or more options for the inclusions in the beverage. Once user 26 has made the appropriate selection, Then, via the user interface subsystem 22, the user interface Subsystem 22 is appropriate for control logic subsystem 14 (via data bus 32). Data signals are sent. The control logic subsystem 14 processes these data signals and stores them. One or more recipes selected from multiple recipes 36 held on system 12 (data Search via bus 34. When searching for a recipe from memory subsystem 12, the control logic subsystem System 14 processes the recipe, for example, the large-capacity component subsystem 16, the micro-component subsystem The appropriate control signals are supplied to the piping system 18 and the piping system / control subsystem 20. As a result, beverage 28 is produced and supplied to container 30.

[0146] If user 26 makes those choices, user 26 is essentially two distinct different Select a multi-part recipe, which is a combination of recipes. For example, user 26 selects a root vegetable Choose Afloat. Root beer floats are essentially two separate and different recipes ( This is a multi-part recipe combining vanilla ice cream and root beer soda. As another example, user 26 selects a beverage that is a combination of cola and coffee. Yes. This combination of cola and coffee is essentially two separate and different recipes (i.e., cocoa It's a combination of soda and coffee.

[0147] Accordingly, the processing system 10 (user interface subsystem 22 Assume that the system receives an instruction to generate a root beer float (via a certain method). Then the processing system 10 learned that the root beer float recipe is a multi-part recipe, and processing system Mu10 provides a standalone recipe for root beer soda, as well as a recipe for vanilla ice cream. Obtain independent recipes to produce root beer soda and vanilla ice cream (each). To do this, both recipes are executed. Once these products are generated, processing system 10 , individual products (suna Combine root beer soda and vanilla ice cream.

[0148] When executing a recipe, the processing system 10 will execute one or more of the processing systems 10 that are included within the processing system 10. A manifold (not shown) is used. A manifold is a temporary storage area designed to allow the execution of one or more operations. To facilitate the movement of components entering and leaving the manifold, the processing system 10 controls the components between the manifolds. It has multiple valves to facilitate movement. The valves are, for example, control logic subsystems It can be controlled by M14. Specific examples of various types of manifolds include mixed manifolds. Blending manifold, grinding manifold, heating manifold, cooling manifold, freezing Manifolds, immersion manifolds, nozzles, pressure manifolds, vacuum manifolds, and stirring manifolds It includes, but is not limited to, Niford.

[0149] For example, when making coffee, a grinding manifold grinds the coffee beans. Once the beans are ground... Then, water 160 is heated to a predetermined temperature (e.g., 100°C [212°F]), heating manifold Water is supplied to the holder. Once the water is heated, (generated by the heating manifold) ) The heated water passes through the powdered coffee beans (produced by the grinding manifold) It is filtered. In addition, depending on how the processing system 10 is configured, The processing system 10 adds cream and to the coffee produced in a separate manifold or nozzle 24. / Or add sugar.

[0150] As described above, the control logic subsystem 14 controls the operation of the processing system 10. One or more control processes 120 are executed. Therefore, the control logic subsystem 14 is a virtual manifold. Execute process 126.

[0151] Also, referring to Figure 22, the virtual manifold processing 126 is 680, for example, at least The processing system 10 uses a multi- Monitor one or more such processes that occur while the first part of a partial recipe is being executed. For example, let's consider that a multi-part recipe is relevant to the production of a root beer float. As discussed above, the root via float is essentially stored on the memory subsystem 12. Two separate and different recipes are selected from the 36 recipes provided (i.e., root beer) It is a combination of (da and vanilla ice cream). Therefore, the first part of the multi-part recipe is , one or more processes used by the processing system 10 to make root beer soda and It is possible. Furthermore, the second part of the multi-part recipe is to make vanilla ice cream. This is considered to be one or more processes used by the processing system 10.

[0152] Each part of a multi-part recipe consists of one or more manifolds contained within the processing system 10. It is used and executed. For example, the first part of a multi-part recipe is, that is, root beer soda. One or more processes used by the processing system 10 to create, but the processing system It is executed within the mixing manifold contained in M10. Furthermore, the second of the multi-part recipe The portion is used by the processing system 10 to make vanilla ice cream. One or more processes are performed within a refrigeration manifold included in the processing system 10. As described above, the processing system 10 includes multiple manifolds. Examples of these include This includes mixing manifolds, blending manifolds, grinding manifolds, heating manifolds, and cold Cooling manifold, freezing manifold, immersion manifold, nozzle, pressure manifold, vacuum manifold This includes, but is not limited to, a rudder and a stirring manifold.

[0153] Therefore, the virtual manifold process 126 obtains data related to these processes at 680. Therefore, the process used by processing system 10 to make root beer soda is monitored. It may be used as a starter, or processed by processing system 10 to make vanilla ice cream. You may monitor the processes being used.

[0154] Specific examples of the types of data obtained include component data and processed data, but Not restricted.

[0155] The ingredient data includes a list of ingredients used in the first part of a multi-part recipe. However, it is not limited to this. For example, the first part of a multi-part recipe is the preparation of root beer soda. If related to the production, the list of ingredients includes: a specified amount of root beer flavoring, A specified amount of carbonated water, a specified amount of still water, and a specified amount of high-fructose corn syrup.

[0156] The processing data contains a sequential list of processes performed on the components, but is not limited to this. It does not happen. For example, a specified amount of carbonated water is initially taken into the manifold within the processing system 10. Add the specified amount of root beer flavoring and the specified amount of high-fructose syrup while filling the manifold with carbonated water. The corn syrup and the specified amount of non-carbonated water are also incorporated into the manifold.

[0157] At least one portion of the acquired data is 682 (for example, temporarily or permanently). It is stored in. Furthermore, the virtual manifold processing 126 is 684, for example, multipart In one or more processes that occur during the second part of the Shipi, this is used for subsequent use. Enable the usefulness of stored data. When storing data obtained with 682, a virtual manifold is used. The RD process 126 is 686, and for the purpose of subsequent diagnostics, the non-volatile memory system (e.g.) For example, the data obtained from the memory subsystem 12) is stored in an archive. A concrete example of the purpose is to set up a purchasing plan for consumables for processing system 10. This includes enabling service professionals to investigate consumption characteristics. Alternatively or additionally, When data stored in 682 is retrieved, virtual manifold processing 126 is performed in 688, volatilization The data obtained is temporarily stored in a random access memory system (e.g., random access storage device 104). You can write to it.

[0158] If the usefulness of the data obtained in 684 is enabled, the virtual manifold processing 126 is 69 0, one or more occurrences (or future occurrences) in the second part of a multi-part recipe. Send the obtained data (or part thereof) to the process. Continuing from the previous example, vanilla ice cream One or more processes related to the process used by the processing system 10 to create the ream In the second part of the Luchi part recipe, virtual manifold processing 126 is 684, vanilla ice cream The obtained data (ma Enable that part.

[0159] In the case of root beer flavoring used to make the above root beer float, Let's assume that a certain amount of vanilla extract can be used to flavor it. Furthermore, vanilla ice cream When making this, we assume that a considerable amount of vanilla extract will also be used. Virtual manifold processing 126 is 684, and the control logic subsystem (i.e., to make vanilla ice cream) The data obtained (e.g., components and) in a subsystem that combines one or more processes used When enabling the effectiveness of the data (and / or process data), this data is examined and then the control logic is... Subsystem 14 modifies the ingredients used to make vanilla ice cream. Specifically, the control logic subsystem 14 controls the amount of vanilla essence in the root via float. To avoid this, vanilla extract used to make vanilla ice cream Reduce the quantity.

[0160] In addition, in 684, the validity of the obtained data for subsequent processing is enabled. Therefore, it is not possible to make that data unavailable for subsequent processes. The process is proven to be effective. Continuing from the previous example, add 10.0 vanilla extract. Studies have shown that consumers tend to dislike any single-ingredient product containing more than a certain amount (mL). Let's assume it's determined experimentally. Furthermore, for the root beer float, we'll use root beer soda. The root beer flavoring used to make it contains 8.0 mL of vanilla extract, and another 8.0 mL of vanilla extract is needed to make a root beer float. Let's assume that these two products (root beer) are used to make... If you combine (a type of ice cream and vanilla ice cream), you will get 16.0 mL of vanilla extract. This is used to add flavor to the final product, but this exceeds the empirically defined 10.0 mL. Going beyond the principle of not doing so.

[0161] Therefore, if the ingredient data for root beer soda is not stored in 682, that stored data If the effectiveness of was not valid at 684 by virtual manifold processing 126, then root be The fact that Asoda contains 8.0 mL of vanilla extract is lost, and 16.0 A final product containing mL of vanilla extract is produced. Therefore, this obtained data The data stored in 682 may have any undesirable influences (e.g., unwanted flavor characteristics). Undesirable appearance characteristics, undesirable aroma characteristics, undesirable texture characteristics, and nutritional supplements It is used to avoid (or reduce) the occurrence of exceeding the recommended maximum intake.

[0162] The validity of the data obtained makes it possible to adjust subsequent processes. For example, The amount of salt used to make vanilla ice cream is the same as the amount used to make root beer soda. Let's assume it changes depending on the amount of carbonated water used. Again, the ingredients for root beer soda. The data was not stored in 682, and the validity of the stored data was checked in 684 by the virtual manifold. If not enabled by rule 126, the carbonation used to make root beer soda The amount of water is lost, and the ability to adjust the amount of salt used to make ice cream is To be put in danger.

[0163] As described above, the virtual manifold processing 126 is 680, for example, at least one or more A multi-processing system 10 is running to acquire data related to the part of the process, Monitor one or more processes that occur during the first part of a partial recipe. Monitor at 680. One or more of these processes may be executed within a single manifold of the processing system 10, , a single part of a multipart treatment performed within a single manifold of the processing system 10 A table format is also acceptable.

[0164] For example, when making root beer soda, there are four inlets (for example, one for the root beer flavoring, One for carbonated water, one for still water, and one for high-fructose corn syrup) and (roux) There is one outlet (so that all the Tobias soda is supplied to a single second manifold) The first manifold is used.

[0165] However, if the manifold has two outlets instead of one ( One has the flow rate of the other in case 4), the virtual manifold processing 126 is the same manifold This process is considered when it has two separate and completely different parts that are executed simultaneously. For example, 80% of the total ingredients together make up 80% of the total volume of root beer soda. They can be mixed, but on the other hand, the remaining 20% ​​of the total ingredients make up 20% of the root beer soda. Therefore, they are mixed simultaneously (within the same manifold). So the virtual manifold process 126 is 6 In 84, the obtained data related to the first part (i.e., the 80% part) was used as root beer. 80% of the soda is made available for use in downstream processes, and in 684, the second part (i.e.) The data obtained for the 20% portion was used in downstream processes that utilize 20% of root beer soda. Make it available in a reasonable amount of time.

[0166] In addition, or instead, multi-processing performed within a single manifold of the processing system 10 A single part of a partial treatment is one that occurs within a single manifold that performs multiple discrete processes. The process may be shown. For example, when making vanilla ice cream in a freezing manifold, The individual components are taken in, mixed, and the temperature is lowered until they freeze. Therefore, vanilla The ice cream making process involves the ingredient introduction process, the ingredient mixing process, and the ingredient freezing process. The process includes each individually monitored by virtual manifold processing 126 on 680. ru.

[0167] As described above, (micro component subsystem 18 and piping system / control subsystem Product module assembly 250 (M20) consists of multiple product containers 252, 254, 256 Multiple slot assemblies 260, 26 configured to engage 258 in a releasable manner. Includes 2, 264, and 266. Unfortunately, product containers 252, 254, 256, and 258 are not included. When servicing the processing system 10 to replenish the product module assembly 25 It is possible to install a product container into an incorrect slot assembly with zero slots. Due to an error, one or more pump assemblies are contaminated with one or more micro-components. (e.g., pump assemblies 270, 272, 274, 276) and / or one or more pipes A type assembly (e.g., a tube bundle 304) is obtained. For example, root beer flavoring (i.e., product The micro-components contained in container 256 have a very strong taste, so once you have a special pon A pipe assembly is used, for example, to dispense root beer flavoring. Well, the flavor is no longer that strong (for example, lemon-lime flavoring, iced tea flavoring and It cannot be used to distribute micro-components (such as lemonade flavoring).

[0168] In addition, as described above, the product module assembly 250 is a bracket The semblage 282 is configured to be releasably engaged. Thus, the processing system 10 is When providing service, the processing system 10 processes a large number of product module assemblies and a large number of brackets. If the product module assembly has a bracket assembly, the incorrect bracket assembly will be used. It is possible to mount it on top. Unfortunately, such an error can result in one or more mistakes. One or more pump assemblies (e.g., pump assembly 2) are contaminated with chlorochemicals. 70, 272, 274, 276) and / or one or more pipe assemblies (e.g., pipe bundle 3) 04) is obtained.

[0169] Therefore, the processing system 10 processes the product containers and product modules within the processing system 10. It includes an RFID-based system to ensure proper placement. Also see Figure 23 and Figure Referring to 24, the processing system 10 is the product module assembly 2 of the processing system 10. The RFID system 700 includes an RFID antenna assembly 702 located at 50. ru.

[0170] As described above, the product module assembly 250 includes at least one product container ( For example, it is configured to releasably engage with the product container 258. RFID system 70 0 is the RFID tag assembly 70 placed (e.g., attached) to the product container 258. It has 4. The product module assembly 250 releases the product container (e.g., product container 258). Whenever possible to engage, the RFID tag assembly 704 will, for example, the RFID antenna The detection zone 706 is located inside the upper part of assembly 702. Therefore, in this example, product container 2 If 58 is located inside the product module assembly 250, that is, releasably engaged Whenever this happens, the RFID tag assembly 704 connects to the RFID antenna assembly 702. Therefore, it is detected.

[0171] As described above, the product module assembly 250 disassembles the bracket assembly 282. It is configured to engage in a way that allows it to be released. The RFID system 700 further includes a bracket. The RFID tag assembly 708 placed (for example, attached) on the semblé 282 The bracket assembly 282 is involved in enabling the release of the product module assembly 250. Whenever they match, the RFID tag assembly 708 is, for example, an RFID antenna assembly. It is located inside detection zone 710, which is lower to RI702.

[0172] Therefore, RFID antenna assembly 702 and RFID tag assemblies 704, 708 Through its use, the RFID system 700 can identify various product containers (e.g., product container 252, Are parts 254, 256, and 258 properly positioned inside the product module assembly 250? We can determine this. Furthermore, the RFID system 700 is a product module assembly 25 It is possible to determine whether 0 is appropriately located within the processing system 10.

[0173] RFID system including one RFID antenna assembly and two RFID tag assemblies Although stem 700 is shown in the illustration, this is for illustrative purposes only and does not constitute disclosure of this specification. It is not intended to be restrictive, and other equipment configurations are possible. Specifically, RFID system A typical equipment configuration for the Mu700 is a product module assembly 250, with each slot assembly... It has one RFID antenna assembly located inside. For example, an RFID system 700 is the RFID antenna assembly 7 located within the product module assembly 250. It also has 12, 714, and 716. Therefore, the RFID antenna assembly 702 is The product container is inserted into the slot assembly 266 (of the product module assembly 250). Determine if it is. RFID antenna assembly 712 is (product module assembly Determine if a product container is inserted into slot assembly 264 (of 250). RFID Antenna assembly 714 is a slot assembly (of product module assembly 250) Determine if the product container is inserted into Ri262. Also, RFID antenna assembly 7 16 is the product container into the slot assembly 260 (of the product module assembly 250) Determine if it is inserted. Furthermore, the processing system 10 assembles a large number of product modules. Since each of these product module assemblies has a special product module, which product container is special to the product One or more RFID antenna assemblies to determine whether to be inserted into a Joule assembly. It includes.

[0174] As described above, within the detection zone 710 at the bottom of the RFID antenna assembly 702 By monitoring the presence of the RFID tag assembly, the RFID system 700 The system determines whether the product module assembly 250 is properly positioned within the processing system 10. Yes, it is possible. Therefore, any of the RFID antenna assemblies 702, 712, 714, and 716 The object is one or more RFID tag assemblies attached to bracket assembly 282. It is used to read. For explanatory purposes, product module assembly 282 is single It is shown to have only the RFID tag assembly 708. However, this is solely for explanatory purposes. This is for the purpose of [the purpose of the specification] and is not intended to restrict the disclosure of the specification, and other equipment configurations may be [details omitted]. It is possible. For example, bracket assembly 282 can connect multiple RFID tag assemblies. It possesses. That is, the RFID tag assembly 718 has RF (indicated by the phantom) This is read by the ID antenna assembly 712 and the RFID tag assembly 7 20 is read by RFID antenna assembly 714 (indicated as Phantom) Therefore, the RFID tag assembly 722 is an RFID antenna (shown as a phantom). This is read by assembly 716.

[0175] RFID tag assembly (e.g., RFID tag assembly 704, 708, 718, 7 One or more of the 20, 722) are passive RFID tag assemblies (e.g., those that do not require a power supply). (RFID tag assembly). In addition, RFID tag assembly (for example RFID One or more of the tag assemblies (704, 708, 718, 720, 722) are RFID systems In the sense that the Tem700 writes data to the RFID tag assembly, it is writable. This is an RFID tag assembly. The types of data that can be stored within the RFID tag assembly are... Specific examples include, but are not limited to, the following: for product containers Quantity identifier, production date identifier for product container, disposal date identifier for product container, ingredient identifier for product container These are identifiers, product module identifiers, and bracket identifiers.

[0176] In one embodiment, the quantity identifier of each volume of the component drawn from a container containing an RFID tag. Regarding this, the RFID tag will have the latest container volume and / or the amount that has been dispensed. It is written. Next, the container is removed from the assembly and replaced with a different assembly. In this case, the system reads the RFID tag and determines the volume of the container and / or the amount of material dispensed from the container. This is important to know. In addition, the pumping date is also written on the RFID tag.

[0177] Therefore, each bracket assembly (e.g., bracket assembly 282) is processed by the system When installed inside M10, the RFID tag assembly (for example, RFID tag assembly) The R708) is attached. Here, the included RFID tag assembly is (uniquely branded A bracket identifier is defined to identify the racket assembly. Therefore, the processing system If unit 10 includes 10 bracket assemblies, then 10 RFID tag assemblies The buri (i.e., one is mounted on each bracket assembly) is a unique bracket of 10 Define a bracket identifier (i.e., one for each bracket assembly).

[0178] Furthermore, product containers (e.g., product containers 252, 254, 256, 258) are manufactured, When filled with micro-components, the RFID tag assembly includes: component identification Separator (for identifying micro-components within the product container); Quantity identifier (for identifying micro-components within the product container) For identifying capacity; production date identifier (for identifying the manufacturing date of micro-components); and disposal date identifier. Separate label (for identifying the date on which the product container should be discarded or reused).

[0179] Therefore, when the product module assembly 250 is installed in the processing system 10 RFID antenna assemblies 702, 712, 714, and 716 are RFID subsystems. Voltage is applied by 724. RFID subsystem 724 via data bus 726 It is coupled to the control logic subsystem 14. Once voltage is applied, the RFID A Intern assemblies 702, 712, 714, and 716 are located in the presence of RFID tag assemblies. In contrast, the upper and lower detection zones (for example, the upper detection zone 706 and the lower detection zone) Start scanning zone 710.

[0180] As described above, one or more RFID tag assemblies constitute a product module assembly. 250 is attached to a bracket assembly that engages in a releasable manner. Thus, the product module The assembly 250 is slid into the bracket assembly 282 (i.e., it can be released). When engaging with the RFID tag assembly 708, 718, 720, 722, one or more The top image shows the bottom of RFID antenna assemblies 702, 712, 714, and 716 (each). It is located within the detection zone. For illustrative purposes, its bracket assembly 282 is Including one RFID tag assembly (i.e., RFID tag assembly 708) Let's assume that they are. Furthermore, product containers 252, 254, 256, and 258 are (each) slots The purpose of the explanation is that the parts are installed inside assembly 260, 262, 264, and 266. We assume for this reason. Therefore, the RFID subsystem 714 is (RFID tag assembly 7 The bracket assembly 282 should be detected by detection of 08, and each product container Detection of the attached RFID tag assembly (e.g., RFID tag assembly 704) Product containers 252, 254, 256, and 258 should be detected accordingly.

[0181] Location information for various product modules, bracket assemblies, and product containers is provided, for example. For example, it is stored inside the storage subsystem 12 which is coupled to the control logic subsystem 14. If nothing has changed, the RFID subsystem 724 will have an RFID antenna. RFID tag assembly 704 to product container 258 (i.e., it is attached to product container 258) It is required to detect the (attached) and the RFID antenna assembly 702 is configured to detect the RFI D tag assembly 708 (i.e., it is mounted on bracket assembly 282) Detection should be required. In addition, if nothing has changed: RFI The D antenna assembly 712 is attached to the RFID tag assembly on the product container 256. (Not shown) should be detected; the RFID antenna assembly 714 is connected to the product container 25 The RFID tag assembly (not shown) attached to 4 should be detected; and R The FID antenna assembly 716 is attached to the RFID tag assembly on the product container 252. The (not shown) should be detected.

[0182] During a routine repair service call, the product container 258 was found to be faulty inside the slot assembly 264. If the product container 256 is positioned correctly, and the product container 256 is not positioned correctly within the slot assembly 266, For the purpose of explanation, we assume the following: (using an RFID antenna assembly) RFID When obtaining information contained within the assembly, the RFID subsystem 724 uses RFID encryption. Using the tenor assembly 262, the RFID tag assembly associated with the product container 258 Detect; and use the RFID antenna assembly 702 to detect the product container 256. Detects connected RFID tag assemblies. (as stored on the memory subsystem 12) (ni) The location where product containers 256 and 258 were previously stored, and the new location of product containers 256 and 258 When comparing locations, the RFID subsystem 724 correctly identifies the location of each of these product containers. To determine that there is none.

[0183] Therefore, the RFID subsystem 724, via the control logic subsystem 14, for example, On the screen 514 of the information of the user interface subsystem 22, for example, A warning message to service professionals indicates that the product container was incorrectly reinstalled. Display the label. Depending on the type of micro-components in the product container, a service professional may, for example, You are given the option to continue, or you are told that they cannot continue. As mentioned above, certain micro-components (for example, root beer flavoring) have a very strong taste. Therefore, once they are separated through a special pump assembly and / or pipe material assembly If it has been installed before, the pump assembly / pipe material assembly is no longer a separate micro It cannot be used as an ingredient. In addition, as mentioned above, it is attached to various product containers. The RFID tag assembly identifies the micro-components within the product container.

[0184] Therefore, the pump assembly / pipe material assembly used in the lemon-lime flavoring will now When used in root beer flavoring, service professionals say this is what they want to do. You are given a warning asking you to confirm something. However, the root beer flavoring The pump assembly / pipe material assembly that was used is now being used for lemon-lime flavoring. In such cases, service professionals will be unable to continue and will need to revert to the original equipment configuration. Replacing the product container, or, for example, replacing a faulty pump assembly / pipe material. Remove the gentian and replace it with a new pump assembly / pipe material assembly. An explanatory warning is provided. The bracket assembly has been moved into the processing system 10. If the RFID subsystem 724 detects this, a similar warning will be provided.

[0185] The RFID subsystem 724 is configured to monitor the consumption of various micro-components. For example, as mentioned above, an RFID tag assembly is a microphone inside a specific product container. The quantity of component B is first coded. The control logic subsystem 14 then... Microphones drawn from each of the various product containers at fixed time intervals (for example, every hour) Since we know the amount of component B, we define the latest amount of micro-components to be contained in the product container. To that end, various RFID tag assemblies contained within various product containers are (RFID A Rewritten by RFID subsystem 724 (via the container assembly).

[0186] When detecting that the product container has reached a predetermined minimum quantity, the RFID subsystem 724 will: Information from the user interface subsystem 22 is transmitted via the control logic subsystem 14. A warning message is displayed on the information screen 514. In addition, one or more product containers, The expiration date (as defined within the RFID tag assembly attached to the product container) has been reached or exceeded. In that case, the RFID subsystem 724 (User Interface subsystem) (Provides a warning via screen 414 of the information on M22.)

[0187] The RFID antenna assembly attached to the product module and the bracket assembly and If the product container has an RFID tag assembly attached, the RFID system 700 is above Although described therein, this is for illustrative purposes only and does not constitute a limitation of disclosure in this specification. It is not intended to do so. Specifically, the RFID antenna assembly is not intended to be used in any product container. , placed in the bracket assembly or product module. In addition, RFID tag assembly The module is placed in any product container, bracket assembly, or product module. When an RFID tag assembly is attached to a product module assembly, A tag assembly is, for example, a project module that defines the sequential number of a product module. Define a identifier.

[0188] Slot assemblies included in product module assembly 250 (for example, slots) To be adjacent to assemblies 260, 262, 264, 266), for example, adjacent slots A method that makes it possible to avoid reading product containers located within the assembly, RF It is desirable to configure the ID antenna assembly 702. For example, an RFID antenna So that Sembli 702 can read only RFID tag assemblies 704 and 708. The RFID antenna assembly 702 should be configured. The BR712 is an RFID tag attached to the tag assembly 718 and product container 256. RFID antenna assembly 71, so that only gentians (not shown) can be read. 2 should be configured. RFID antenna assembly 714, RFID tag assembly Only the RFID tag assembly (not shown) attached to the Bri 720 and product container 254. The RFID antenna assembly 714 should be configured so that it can read the data. Furthermore, the RFID antenna assembly 716 and the RFID tag assembly 722 are included in the product. Only the RFID tag assembly (not shown) attached to the device 252 can be read. The RFID antenna assembly 716 should be configured as follows.

[0189] Therefore, referring again to Figure 25, RFID antenna assemblies 702, 712, 71 4.716 or more are configured as loop antennas. The following discussion is about RFID antennas It is pointed towards Tenor Assembly 702, but this is for explanatory purposes only. It is not intended to be a restriction on the disclosure of the specification. Therefore, the following discussion is not intended to be an RFID issue. This also applies equally to tenor assemblies 712, 714, and 716.

[0190] The RFID antenna assembly 702 is energized - The first capacitor assembly connected between port 754 and ground terminal 752 It has a BR750 (e.g., a 2.90pF capacitor). Second capacitor assembly Port 756 (e.g., a 2.55pF capacitor) connects to port 754 and the inductive loop assembly. It is located between R758. Resistor assembly 760 (e.g., a 2.00 ohm resistor) To increase bandwidth and provide a wide range of operation, it is necessary to reduce the Q value. The ground terminal 752 and the inductive loop assembly 758 are connected to it.

[0191] As is known with this technology, the RFID antenna assembly 702 has the characteristic of an inductive loop Adjustments are made by changing the physical properties of assembly 758. For example, inductive loop assembly As the diameter "d" of the ri758 increases, the far-field electromagnetic field of the RFID antenna assembly 702 The performance increases. Furthermore, as the diameter "d" of the inductive loop assembly 758 decreases, RFI The long-range electromagnetic field performance of the D antenna assembly 702 is reduced.

[0192] Specifically, the far-range electromagnetic field performance of the RFID antenna assembly 702 is... This depends on the energy radiating performance of the Tenor Assembly 702. Thus, the performance of the RFID antenna assembly 702 in radiating energy is (port 7 The carrier used to supply energy to the RFID antenna assembly 702 via 54 (Related to the wavelength of the transmitted signal 762) Depends on the circumferential environment of the inductive loop assembly 708 ru.

[0193] Also, referring to Figure 26 and a preferred embodiment, the carrier signal 762 is 12.89 inches (3 This is a 915MHz carrier signal with a wavelength of 27mm. Once the surface of the inductive loop assembly 758 approaches 50% of the wavelength of the carrier signal 762 If it exceeds the limit, the inductive loop assembly 758 will be affected by the axis of the inductive loop assembly 758. From core 812 (for example, by arrows 800, 802, 804, 806, 808, 810) By radiating energy outward in the radial direction, strong long-range electromagnetic field performance can be obtained. Conversely, the circumferential surface of the inductive loop assembly 758 is less than 25% of the wavelength of the carrier signal 762. By holding it in place, the outward-diverging energy of the inductive loop assembly 758 is released. The amount of energy is reduced, and the long-range electromagnetic field performance is impaired. Furthermore, electromagnetic coupling is affected (arrow). Directions perpendicular to the plane of the inductive loop assembly 758 (represented by 814 and 816) This results in strong close-range performance.

[0194] As described above, the slot assembly included in the product module assembly 250 For example, slot assemblies 260, 262, 264, and 266 are adjacent. For example, a method that avoids reading product containers located within adjacent slot assemblies. It is desirable to configure the RFID antenna assembly 702. Therefore, an inductive loop antenna The surface area of ​​the sembri 758 is less than 25% of the wavelength of the carrier signal 762, for example, 915 MHz. For transmitting signals, the inductive loop assembly 75 is 3.22 inches (82 mm). By configuring 8, the long-range electromagnetic field performance is reduced, and the short-range performance is enhanced. Furthermore, the RFID tag assembly is located on either the top or bottom of the RFID antenna assembly 702. As can be read, by positioning the inductive loop assembly 758, RFI The D-tag assembly is inductively coupled to the RFID antenna assembly 702. For example, The surface of the inductive loop assembly 758 is 10% of the wavelength of the carrier signal 762, for example, 915. When configured to be 1.29 inches (32.8 mm) for a MHz carrier signal The diameter of the inductive loop assembly 758 is 0.40 inches (10.1 mm). This provides relatively high short-range performance and relatively low long-range electromagnetic field performance.

[0195] Also, referring to Figures 27 and 28, the processing system 10 is assembled to the housing assembly 850. It can be inserted. Housing assembly 850 has one or more inspection windows / panels 852, 854 It has, for example, enabling the service of the processing system 10, and empty product containers (for example) To enable replacement of the product container (258) for various reasons, such as security and safety. The internal components of the beverage dispenser 10 are to be accessible exclusively to authorized personnel. It is desirable to ensure the safety of inspection windows / panels 852 and 854. Therefore, appropriate RFI is required. When the D-tag assembly is located adjacent to the RFID access antenna assembly 900 Only the inspection windows / panels 852 and 854 will open, as described above for RFID sub-systems. The system (i.e., RFID subsystem 700) is configured. Such a suitable RFI An example of a D-tag assembly is an RFID tag attached to a product container (for example, product container 258). Includes an RFID tag assembly to be attached to assembly 704).

[0196] The RFID access antenna assembly 900 is a multi-segment inductive loop antenna. Includes component 902. First matching component 904 (e.g., 5.00pF component) The denser is a port that provides energy to the RFID access antenna assembly 900. It is coupled between 908 and the ground terminal 906. Second matching component 910 (e.g., 1 6.56 nanohenry inductor) Port 908 and multi-segment inductive loop It is located between assembly 902. Matching components 904 and 910 are for the desired impedance. (For example, 50.00 ohms) of the multi-segment inductive loop assembly 902 Match the P-dance. Typically, matching parts 904 and 910 are RFID access antennas. Improve the efficiency of Assembly 900.

[0197] The RFID access antenna assembly 900 has element 912 (e.g., a 50 ohm resistor) This includes a decrease in the Q value of the device, which is due to the RFID access antenna assembly 900. It is configured to allow the use of a wider frequency range. This also applies to R The FID access antenna assembly 900 is made usable across the entire bandwidth. It also enables tolerances within the matching network. For example, RFID access The Tenor Assembly 900 is involved in a bandwidth of 50 MHz, and the Q-factor element (also "De-Eating (d The reduction of 912 (referred to here as the "e-Qing element") results in a 100MHz wide antenna. When configured as such, the center frequency of the RFID access antenna assembly 900 is, Without affecting the performance of the RFID access antenna assembly 900, only a 25MHz shift is possible. Move. The Deitin element 912 is inside the multi-segment inductive loop assembly 902. It is located either in the RFID access antenna assembly 900 or in another location other than within the RFID access antenna assembly 900. To be located.

[0198] As described above, relatively small inductive loop assemblies (for example, the inductive loops shown in Figures 25 and 26) The use of conductive loop assemblies (758) improves the long-range electromagnetic field performance of antenna assemblies. This is reduced, and short-range performance is enhanced. Unfortunately, such small inductive loops When using Sembri, the detection range depth of the RFID antenna assembly is also relatively Small (for example, typically proportional to the loop diameter). Therefore, a larger detection range. To obtain greater depth, a larger loop diameter is used. Unfortunately, as mentioned above... This ultimately boils down to increasing long-range electromagnetic field performance by using a larger loop diameter.

[0199] Therefore, the multi-segment inductive loop assembly 902 is a phase-shifting element (for example) (Capacitor assemblies 928, 930, 932, 934, 936, 938, 940) Along with this, multiple discrete antenna segments (for example, antenna segments 914, Includes capacitor assembly (6, 918, 920, 922, 924, 926). Specific examples of 928, 930, 932, 934, 936, 938, and 940 are 1.0pF. Intensifiers, or varactors such as 0.1-250pF (for example, voltage-adjustable varactors). It includes a variable capacitor. The above phase shift element is a multi-segment inductive loop. The configuration allows for adaptive control of the phase shift of assembly 902, enabling compensation for fluctuation conditions. Multisegment to supply various inductive coupling properties and / or magnetic properties. The above phase shift is configured to adjust the characteristics of the inductive loop assembly 902. An example of an alternative element is a coupled line (not shown).

[0200] As described above, energy is supplied to the RFID access antenna assembly 900. By keeping the wavelength of the carrier signal less than 25% of the length of the antenna segment, the antenna The amount of energy radiated to the outside by the nanosegment is reduced, and the long-range electromagnetic field performance is not compromised. However, short-range performance is enhanced. Therefore, RFID access antenna assembly 90 Each antenna segment is set to be shorter than 25% of the wavelength of the carrier signal that gives energy to 0. Ment 914, 916, 918, 920, 922, 924, and 926 can be made to match the size. Furthermore, each capacitor assembly 928, 930, 932, 934, 936, By appropriately matching the magnitudes of 938 and 940, the carrier signal becomes multi-segmented. Any phase shift that occurs when propagating around the inductive loop assembly 902 Various capacitors incorporated into the multi-segment inductive loop assembly 902 - This is canceled out by the assembly. Therefore, each antenna segment 914, 916, Regarding 918, 920, 922, 924, and 926, a 90° phase shift occurs, according to the theory. For the sake of clarity, we assume that a capacitor assembly of appropriate size is necessary. By using Ri928, 930, 932, 934, 936, 938, and 940, each segment The 90° phase shift that occurs during transmission is reduced or eliminated. For example, a 915MHz carrier Antennas are less than 25% (typically 10%) of the wave signal frequency and the wavelength of the carrier signal. Regarding the segment length, the 1.2pF capacitor assembly is used to control segment resonance. Similar to adjustment, it is used to achieve the desired phase shift rejection.

[0201] Multiple multi-segment inductive loop assemblies 902 are joined via miter joints. Although it is shown as consisting of linear antenna segments, this is for illustrative purposes only. This is solely for that purpose and is not intended to be a limitation on the disclosure of this specification. For example, multiple The curved antenna segments form a multi-segment inductive loop assembly 902. It is used to construct. In addition, the multi-segment inductive loop assembly 902 It may be configured to have any loop type shape. For example, a multi-segment The inductive loop assembly 902 can be elliptical, circular, square, or rectangular (as shown in Figure 28). The rui is constructed as an octagon.

[0202] As explained above, this system is used within a processing system, but this explanation It is for the sole purpose of and is not intended to be a limitation of the disclosure in this specification, and is not intended to be another device. It is possible to configure it as follows: For example, the above system can be configured with another consumable product (e.g., ice cream). It is used for processing / distributing (meat and alcoholic beverages). In addition, the above system is used for food production It may also be used in areas other than business. For example, the above system may be used for the following processing / dispensing. Used for: vitamins; compounded medicines; medical supplies; cleaning products; lubricants; painted or dyed products; or other Non-consumable liquids / semi-liquids / powdered solids and / or powdered fluids.

[0203] The system uses an RFID antenna assembly (e.g., RFID antenna assembly 702). RFID tag attached to the product container (e.g., product container 258) located above ) As described above, it has a semblage (e.g., RFID tag assembly 704). Here, the RFID antenna assembly is attached to the bracket assembly 282. It is located above the FID tag (e.g., RFID tag assembly 708). However, these This is for explanatory purposes only and is not intended to be a limitation of the disclosures in this specification. Such equipment configurations are possible. For example, it can be attached to a product container (e.g., product container 258). An RFID tag assembly (for example, RFID tag assembly 704) has an RFID antenna. It is located below the assembly (e.g., RFID antenna assembly 702). Here, The RFID antenna assembly is mounted on bracket assembly 282. It is located below the tag (for example, RFID tag assembly 708).

[0204] As described above, the carrier signal that provides energy to the RFID antenna assembly 900 Relatively short antenna segments that are shorter than 25% of the wavelength (e.g., antenna segments) By using 914, 916, 918, 920, 922, 924, 926), The long-range electromagnetic field performance of assembly 900 is reduced, while its short-range performance is enhanced.

[0205] Also, refer to Figure 29, which shows that higher levels of long-range electromagnetic field performance are achieved in RFID antenna assemblies. If desired, the RFID antenna assembly 900a is multi-segment inductive A long-range electromagnetic field antenna assembly 9 is electrically coupled to a portion of the loop assembly 902a. It is configured to include 42 (e.g., a dipole antenna assembly). Far-field electromagnetic fields Antenna assembly 942 is the first antenna section 944 (i.e., the first part of the dipole) (forming the second part) and the second antenna section 946 (that is, forming the second part of the dipole) ) includes. As mentioned above, the antenna segment is less than 25% of the carrier signal wavelength. By maintaining the lengths of 914, 916, 918, 920, 922, 924, and 926 Therefore, the long-range electromagnetic field performance of antenna assembly 900a is reduced, and the short-range performance is increased. Therefore, the sum of the lengths of the first antenna section 944 and the second antenna section 946 is This allows for an enhanced level of long-range electromagnetic field performance, with the wavelength exceeding 25% of the transmitted signal wavelength. I'll do that.

[0206] Also, referring to Figure 30 (or, for example, Figure 27), the processing system 10 is incorporated into housing assembly 850. Housing assembly 850 is For example, enabling the service of the processing system 10, and empty product containers (e.g., product container 258) ) enables the replacement of one or more inspection windows / panels (e.g., upper door 852 and lower door 8 54) has a touch screen interface 500 on the upper door 852. It is positioned to facilitate user access. The upper door 852 also houses a dispenser. This provides access to assembly 1000, thereby allowing access to the beverage container (e.g., container 30). This allows it to be filled with beverages (e.g., by nozzle 24; not shown), ice, etc. In addition The lower door 854 has an RFID inquiry area 1002, which is, for example, an inspection window / panel. To enable one or more of the 852 and 854 to be opened, for example, RFID access This relates to the antenna assembly 900. RFID access antenna assembly 90 Even if 0 is located equally in various alternative locations, including locations other than inspection windows / panels 852 and 854 Therefore, query area 1002 is presented solely for explanatory purposes.

[0207] Also, refer to Figures 51 to 53, User Interface Assembly 5100 A typical embodiment is shown, which is incorporated into the housing assembly 850 shown in Figure 30. It can be installed. The user interface assembly is a touchscreen interface. It has face 500. User interface assembly 5100 is tap Screen 5102, frame 5104, edge 5106, seal 5108 and system It includes a controller enclosure 5110. The edge 5106 is a touch screen. It is spaced apart with the 5102 and also serves as a complete visual border. Touchscreen 510 In a typical embodiment, 2 is a capacitive touchscreen. However, in another embodiment... In this case, a different type of touchscreen is used. However, in a typical embodiment, Due to the capacitive nature of the touchscreen 5102, the touchscreen is not accessible via the edge 5106. It is desirable to maintain a predetermined distance between the 5102 and the 852 door.

[0208] Seal 5108 protects the display portion shown as 5200 in Figure 52, and is protected from moisture and / or This serves to prevent fine particles from reaching the display unit 5200. In a typical embodiment, seal 5 108 contacts the door of housing assembly 852 to better maintain the seal In a typical embodiment, the display unit 5200 is an LCD display device, and at least one set of... The spring finger 5202 is held by the frame. The spring finger 5202 is connected to the display unit 5200. It engages and holds the display unit 5200. In a typical embodiment, the display unit 5200 is Japan. A 15-inch LCD like the LQ150XILGB1 model from Sony Corporation in Tokyo. D is a display device. However, in another embodiment, the display unit is any type of display unit. The spring finger 5202 is also permissible within the user interface assembly 5100. It serves as a spring to allow for a range. In a typical embodiment, a touchscreen is used. The 5102 is made to float relative to the display unit 5200. In a typical embodiment, The Touchscreen 5102 is manufactured by Zytronics, Inc., Braidon, Tyne, UK. With a protruding capacitive touchscreen like the ZYP15-10001D model by s) Yes. However, in another embodiment, the touchscreen is a different type of touchscreen and / Alternatively, another capacitive touchscreen may be used. In a typical embodiment, the seal is placed in a pre-positioned gas The foam inside the sket is, in a typical embodiment, punched urethane foam. It is made from, but in another embodiment, it is made from silicone foam or another similar material. In some embodiments, the seal is a sealed molded seal or another type of sealing body.

[0209] In a typical embodiment, the user interface assembly 5100 has four sets of springs It has a spring finger 5202. However, another embodiment has more or fewer spring fingers 5 It may have 202. In a typical embodiment, the trigger finger 5202 and frame 510 4 is made from ABS resin, but in another embodiment, it can be made from any material.

[0210] Also refer to Figure 53, and in a typical embodiment, the user interface assembly The connector 5100, like the connector 5114, has at least one printed circuit board. In one embodiment, connector 5114 is covered by connector cap 5116. - will be done.

[0211] Also, referring to Figure 31, consistent with a typical embodiment, the processing system 10 is located in the upper cavity. It has a net portion 1004a and a lower cabinet portion 1006a. However, This should not be interpreted as a restriction on the disclosure in this specification, and if another equipment configuration is equivalent, It may be used. Also, referring to Figures 32 and 33, the upper cabinet section Part 1004a is, for example, at least partially covered by the upper door 852. The piping system subsystem 20 has one or more mechanisms as described above. For example, the upper cabinet The net portion 1004a consists of one or more flow control modules (for example, flow control module 1 70) Fluid cooling system (e.g., cooling plate 163, not shown), dispensing nozzle (e.g., nozzle) (Figure 24, not shown), large capacity component supply unit [for example, carbon dioxide supply unit 150, water supply unit 15 2, and for connection to a high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) supply unit 154 (not shown) Piping systems and similar items are included. In addition, the upper cabinet section 1004a is ice Ice hopper 1008 for storage, and ice hopper 1008 (for example, inside a beverage container) (e) It has an ice dispensing chute 1010 for distributing ice.

[0212] The carbon dioxide supply unit 150 is, for example, located remotely and piped to the processing system 10. It is supplied by one or more carbon dioxide cylinders. Similarly, the water supply section 152 is used as urban water. It is supplied, and for example, it is also piped to processing system 10. High fructose corn syrup supplied The supply section 154 is, for example, a bag-in-box container with a capacity of 5 gallons (18.9 liters). It has one or more tanks (in the shape of a tent) and it stores in a remote location (for example, a back room, etc.). It is stored. Furthermore, the high-fructose corn syrup supply unit 154 is piped to the processing system 10. Piping systems for various large-capacity components are not configured via conventional hard or soft piping system arrangements. It is achieved in this way.

[0213] As described above, carbonated water supply unit 158, water supply unit 152 and high-fructose corn syrup supply unit The supply unit 154 is located remotely and is part of the processing system 10 (for example, the flow rate control module 170). It is piped to 172, 174). Refer to Figure 34, and the flow control module (e.g., flow control Module 172) is connected to the large-capacity component supply unit (for example) via the rapid piping system connection unit 1012. For example, the water supply unit 152 is connected to the piping system connection 1012. Furthermore, the piping system connection 1012 is removably connected to the flow control module 172. In this way, the piping system for the water supply section 152 to the flow control module 170 is completed.

[0214] Refer to Figures 35, 36A, 36B, 37A, 37B, and 37C, upper ca Another embodiment of the vignette portion (e.g., the upper cabinet portion 1004b) is shown. As in a typical embodiment, the upper cabinet portion 1004b is the piping system described above. The integrated subsystem 20 has one or more mechanisms. For example, the upper cabinet portion 1004 b is one or more flow control modules (e.g., flow control module 170), fluid cooling system Stem (e.g., cooling plate 163, not shown), mixing nozzle (e.g., nozzle 24, not shown) , large-capacity component supply unit [for example, carbon dioxide supply unit 150, water supply unit 152, and high-fructose corn syrup Piping system for connecting to the HFCS (HFCS) supply unit 154 (not shown), and the same Includes the following types. In addition, the upper cabinet section 1004b is an ice hob for storing ice. To dispense ice from the Par 1008 and the Ice Hopper 1008 (for example into a beverage container) It has an ice dispensing chute 1010.

[0215] Also, referring to Figures 36A to 36B, the upper cabinet portion 1004b is the power module It has a module 1014. The power module 1014 is, for example, a power supply, one or more power distribution buses. S, controller (e.g., control logic subsystem 14), user interface controller, It houses the storage device 12 (other). The power module 1014 has one or more status indicators ( Indicator lights 1016 (general) and power / data connection parts (e.g., connection part 1018 (general)) It includes.

[0216] Also, referring to Figures 37A, 37B, and 37C, the flow control module 170 is connected The upper cabinet portion 1004b is connected via assembly 1020, mechanically and fluidly, generally It is connected to the inlet 1. The connection assembly 1020 has a supply fluid passage, for example, it has an inlet 1 Large-capacity ingredient supply unit via 022 (e.g., carbonated water 158, water 160, high-fructose corn syrup) It is connected to (162, etc.). The inlet 1024 of the flow control module 170 is at least The connection assembly 1020 is configured to be partially received by the exit passage 1026. Therefore, the flow control module 170 receives the large volume component via the connection assembly 1020. The connecting assembly 1020 further includes a valve that is movable between an open position and a closed position (for example). It has a ball valve 1028). When the ball valve 1028 is in the open position, the flow control module The 170 is fluidly connected to the large-capacity component supply section. Similarly, the ball valve 1028 is in the closed position. In this configuration, the flow control module 170 is fluidically isolated from the large-capacity component supply unit.

[0217] The ball valve 1028 rotates the locking tab 1030 to open position. It moves between the open and closed positions. In addition to the open / closed ball valve 1028, the locking tab 103 0 engages with the flow control module 170, for example, thereby connecting the flow control module It is held relative to the subsequent assembly 1020. For example, the shoulder portion 1032 is the flow control module The tab 1034 of the 170 engages with the shoulder portion 1032 and the tab 1034. , the outlet passage 1026 of the connection assembly 1020 is connected to the inlet 102 of the flow control module 170. 4 is held. Flow control module 17 in the outlet passage 1026 of connection assembly 1020 By keeping the inlet 1024 at 0 (for example, between inlet 1024 and exit 1026) (By maintaining satisfactory engagement) between the flow control module 170 and the connection assembly 1020 Maintaining fluid-sealed connections becomes additionally easier.

[0218] The locking tab surface 1036 of the locking tab 1030 engages with the exit connector 1038. For example, the outlet connector 1038 is fluidly connected to the outlet of the flow control module 170. For example, as shown in the figure, the locking tab surface 1036 is connected to the exit connector 1038. The outlet connector 1038 engages with surface 1040 and fluid seals with the flow control module 170. To hold in engagement.

[0219] The connection assembly 1020 is used for the installation of the flow control module 170 from the processing system 10. This facilitates removal and allows for the replacement of, for example, damaged or malfunctioning flow control modules. In accordance with the depicted direction, the locking tab 1030 is rotated counterclockwise, for example. In the illustrated embodiment, this is approximately a quarter turn. Counterclockwise rotation of the locking tab 1030. The rotation releases the outlet connector 1038 and tab 1034 of the flow control module 170. The outlet connector 1038 disconnects from the flow control module 170. Similarly, the flow The inlet 1024 of the control module 170 is the exit passage 1026 of the connection assembly 1020. It separates. In addition, the counterclockwise rotation of the locking tab 1030 causes the ball valve 1028 to It is rotated to the closed position, and as a result, the fluid supply passage coupled to the large-capacity component is closed. Therefore, once the flow control module 170 is removed from the connection assembly 1020 When the locking tab 1030 is rotated, it allows for large capacity The fluid connection to the system is closed, for example, if the processing system is contaminated by a large volume of components. To reduce or prevent the ball valve 1028 from being rotated 90 degrees to the fully closed position. Until then, the ball will not be removed or detached by fluid. Until the valve 1028 is in the fully closed position, the tab extension portion 1042 of the locking tab 1030 is in contact Removal of the flow control module 170 from the continuation assembly 1020 is prohibited.

[0220] In a related manner, the flow control module 170 is coupled to the connection assembly 1020. For example, while the locking tab 1030 is rotated counterclockwise, the flow control module The inlet 1024 of 170 is inserted into the outlet passage 1026 of the connection assembly 1020. The port connector 1038 engages with the outlet (not shown) of the flow control module 170. The locking tab 1030 rotates clockwise, and as a result, the flow control module 170 and engage the exit connector 1038. In the clockwise rotated position, the connection assembly 1020 is the outlet passage 1026 of the connection assembly and the inlet 10 of the flow control module 170 24 is held in place by a fluid-sealed connection. Similarly, the outlet connector 1038 is connected to the flow control module. The outlet of the 170 is held in place by a fluid sealing connection. Furthermore, the locking tab 1030 rotates clockwise. As a result, the ball valve 1028 is moved to the open position, and as a result, the flow control module The 170 liters are fluidly bonded to the large-volume components.

[0221] Also, referring to Figure 38, the lower cabinet portion 1006a is a micro component. The subsystem 18 has one or more mechanisms and one or more built-in consumable component supply mechanisms. It houses the section. For example, the lower cabinet section 1006a is (for example, micro component One or more micro-ingredient towers (1050, 1052, 1054) and non-nutritious sweet It has a supply unit 1056 for flavorings (for example, artificial sweeteners or a combination of multiple artificial sweeteners). The illustrated micro-component towers 1050, 1052, and 1054 are one or more product modules. It has a module assembly (e.g., product module assembly 250), and each has one or more of them. The product container (e.g., product containers 252, 254, 256, 258, not shown) can be opened. They are configured to engage. For example, micro-component towers 1050 and 1052 each have 3 It has a product module assembly. In addition, the micro component tower 1054 has four It has a product module assembly.

[0222] Refer again to Figures 39 and 40, one or more micro-component towers (e.g., micro The component tower (1052) is coupled to a stirring mechanism, for example, it vibrates and slides linearly. It moves in a certain direction, and in other cases, it agitates the microcomponent tower 1052 and / or a portion thereof. The stirring mechanism holds the mixture of separable components stored in the microcomponent tower 1052. It supports the following. The stirring mechanism includes, for example, a stirring motor 1100, which is connected. The stirring arm 1102 is driven via section 1104. The stirring arm 1102 generally vibrates vertically. Driven by motion, one or more product module assemblies (e.g., product module assemblies) It is combined with (250a, 250b, 250c, 250d), and as a result, the product module Vibration agitation is applied to the rake assemblies 250a, 250b, 250c, and 250d. Safety stop. The safety lock is related to the lower door 854, for example, the loosened cabinet door 1154 If it is open, it will stop the operation of the stirring mechanism.

[0223] As described above, the RFID system 700 can detect the presence and location of various product containers (e.g., manufacturing The product module assembly and slot assembly are detected, as well as the content. Therefore, stirring Product containers containing the required amount are not connected to a micro-component tower (e.g., For example, if it is installed in the micro component tower 1052, the RFID system 700 is ( For example, via RFID subsystem 724 and / or control logic subsystem 14) Provide. Furthermore, the control logic subsystem 14 utilizes the unagitated product container. To prevent it from happening.

[0224] As described above, product module assembly (for example, product module assembly 25 0) consists of a 4-slot assembly, and therefore a 4-piece product module and / or referred to as a 4-piece product module assembly. See also Figure 41 for further reference. Product module assembly 250 consists of multiple pump assemblies (for example, pump assembly 2 It has 70, 272, 274, 276). For example, one pump assembly (e.g., a pump assembly) The module assemblies 270, 272, 274, and 276 are (for example, a 4-piece product module). (In this case) It is connected to each of the four slot assemblies of product module 250. Module assemblies 270, 272, 274, and 276 are part of product module assembly 250. The product is released from the product container (not shown) by a corresponding slot assembly that is releasably engaged with the product container. To scoop out.

[0225] As shown in the figure, the product of a micro-component tower (e.g., micro-component tower 1052) Module assemblies (for example, product module assemblies 250a, 250b, 250c) Each of the 250d) is connected to the common wiring harness (for example, via connector 1106) Therefore, the micro-component tower 1052 is, for example, the control logic subsystem 14. It is electrically connected to the power supply and other systems via a single connection point.

[0226] Also, referring to Figure 42, as described above, the product module 250 has multiple slots. It includes semblage (e.g., slot assemblies 260, 262, 264, 266). Slot assemblies 260, 262, 264, and 266 are used for product containers (e.g., product container 256). ) are configured to engage in a releasable manner. Slot assemblies 260, 262, 264 , 266 has doors 1108, 1110, and 1112 respectively, as shown in the figure. If there are two or more slot assemblies (for example, slot assemblies 260, 262), then double the amount. Product container of width (for example, configured to be releasably engaged with a two-slot assembly) (a single product container) and / or two separate product containers containing free products (e.g., a two-component beverage) It is configured to engage with the separate ingredients for the recipe in a releasable manner. The 260 and 262 slot assemblies are twice the width, covering both slot assemblies 260 and 262. It has a door (for example, door 1108).

[0227] Doors 1108, 1110, and 1112 are pivotally open. To enable closing, it engages with the hinge rail in a releasable manner. For example, door 1108, 1 Doors 110 and 1112 have a snap-type mechanism, and doors 1108, 1108, and 1112 have a hinge It is possible to fold or separate on the rail. Therefore, doors 1108, 1110, 1112 is folded or separated on the hinge rail, (for example, two double-width doors) Replacing a faulty door with a single-width door, or vice versa, allows for the replacement or reconstruction of a door. It is possible.

[0228] Each door (e.g., door 1110) is connected to the cooperating mechanism of the product container (e.g., the door of product container 256). It has a tongue mechanism (e.g., tongue portion 1114) that engages with the latch 1116). The tongue portion 1114 is ( For example, force is transmitted to the product container 256 (via notch 1116), and also to the slot assembly It assists in the insertion and removal of the product container 256 into 264. For example, during insertion, the product container 2 56 is at least partially inserted into slot assembly 264. Door 1110 is closed. If this occurs, the tongue portion 1114 engages with the notch 1116, and the closing force of the door is applied to the product container 25 It is passed to 6, and (as a result of the lever ratio provided by door 1110, for example) slot Ensure that the product container 256 is installed in the assembly 264. Similarly, the tongue portion 1114 It engages with notch 1116 at least partially (for example, notch 11 (Caught by 16 lips), (for example again provided by door 1110) As a result of this ratio, an extraction force is applied to the product container 256.

[0229] Product module 250 includes one or more indicator lights, for example, it has one or more S Status of lot assemblies (e.g., slot assemblies 260, 262, 264, 266) It transmits information about the following. For example, each door (e.g., door 1112) is a light source (e.g., light emission). It has an optical waveguide (e.g., optical waveguide 1118) optically coupled to the source 1120). 1118, for example, transmits light from the light source 1120 to the front of the door 1112, The transparent material (for example, transparent plastics such as acrylic resin, glass, etc.) It has. The light source 1120 is, for example, one or more LEDs (e.g., a red LED and a green LED) It has. In the case of a double-width door (e.g., door 1108), relating to a single optical waveguide, Only a single optical waveguide and a single light source corresponding to one of the slot assemblies are utilized. The unused light source corresponding to the other slot assembly of the double-width door is less of a door. Both are blocked by a single part.

[0230] As described above, the optical waveguide 1118 and the light source 1120 are slot assemblies, product contents It transmits various information about the device and other things. For example, the light source 1120 is a slot assembly. Operating state of the bri 266, and product contents releasably engaged with slot assembly 266 To indicate that the device is not empty, a green signal is supplied, but it is transmitted via optical waveguide 1118. It is transmitted to the front of A1112. The light source 1120 is openable to slot assembly 266. The device supplies a red light to indicate that the product container engaged with the device is empty, but it uses an optical waveguide. It is transmitted to the front of door 1112 via path 1118. Similarly, the light source 1120 is functionally... A red light flashes to indicate that the entire or complete failure is related to slot assembly 266. The signal is supplied, but it is transmitted to the front of the door 1112 via the optical waveguide 1118. Additional / alternative information is displayed using the light source 1120 and the optical waveguide 1118. In addition, other related lighting schemes are also used (e.g., flashing green light, both blue and red). Orange light (and similar light) originating from a light source that supplies it.

[0231] Also, referring to Figures 43A, 43B, and 43C, the product container 256 is (for example, the front part The housing has two parts: a wadding portion 1150 and a rear housing portion 1152. The front housing portion 1150 has a projection 1154, for example, it is a lip 115 6 provides. Lip 1156 is (for example, from slot assembly 264 of the product container) To facilitate handling of the product container 256 (during insertion and / or removal).

[0232] The rear housing portion 1152 has an equipment mechanism 1158a, for example, it is a pump assembly The fitting equipment of the hub (for example, the pump assembly 272 of product module 250) The containers (e.g., product container 256) are connected fluidly. The equipment mechanism 1158a is a fitting with no outlet. It has a fluid connection part. The mounting mechanism is a cooperating mechanism (e.g., stem) of the pump assembly 272. )When pressed upwards, the fitting fluid connection portion connects the product container 256 to the pump assembly 272. Connects fluidly. Various alternative equipment mechanisms (e.g., equipment mechanism 1158b depicted in Figure 44) However, it is provided to supply fluid couplings between the product container 256 and various pump assemblies. ru.

[0233] The front housing portion 1150 and the rear housing portion 1152 form the product container 256. It has separate plastic components that are connected to lift it. For example, the front housing portion. 1150 and rear housing portion 1152 are exposed to heat and bonded together, super The product container 256 is further connected by ultrasonic welding, or by appropriate methods in other cases. The product pouch 1160 has a front housing portion 1150 and a rear housing portion It is positioned at least partially inside the ring portion 1152. For example, product pouch 1160 It is filled with consumables (e.g., beverage flavorings), and the front housing 1150 and the rear housing Located inside the wringing section 1152, they are for housing the product pouch 1160. It is connected to the product pouch 1160, for example, when consumables are taken out of the product pouch 1160. For example, when pumped out by pump assembly 272, the easily bendable air collapses. It has a bag.

[0234] Product pouch 1160 has a gusset 1162, and the gusset 1162 is (for example, product pouch Our part 1160 is defined by the front housing portion 1150 and the rear housing portion 1152. (By allowing it to occupy a relatively large portion of the internal volume) Volume efficiency of the product container 256 To improve this. In addition, when the consumable material is drawn out of the product pouch 1160, the gusset 1162 facilitates the crushing of the product pouch 1160. In addition, the equipment mechanism 1158 'a' is physically connected to the product pouch 1160 (for example, by ultrasonic welding).

[0235] As described above, in addition to the micro-component tower, there is also the lower cabinet section 1006a It has a large-capacity micro-component supply unit 1056. For example, in one embodiment, The micro-components are sweeteners with no nutritional value (for example, artificial sweeteners or multiple artificial sweeteners). It is a combination. In one embodiment, it contains micro-components that are required in large quantities. Examples include the supply of one or more high-volume micro-components. Examples as illustrated are shown. For example, the supply unit 1056 supplies a non-nutrient-rich sweetener contained in a bag-in-box container. It is a material. Bag-in-box containers, for example, protect flexible air bags from damage and other factors. It generally has a flexible air bag containing a non-nutrient-value sweetener product placed inside a rigid box. It is known that this occurs. For the sole purpose of the examples, examples of sweeteners with no nutritional value are used. However, in another embodiment, any microcomponent is provided in large volume. It may be stored in the feeding section. In some alternative embodiments, a different type of component is described herein. It is stored in a supply unit similar to supply unit 1056. The term "large volume microcomponents" is This refers to microcomponents that have been identified as frequently used, where microcomponents are For the products being dispensed, more than one micro-component pump assembly is used. It is used quite frequently.

[0236] The supply unit 1056 for non-nutrition sweeteners is coupled to the product module assembly, for example. For example (as mentioned above), a product module assembly consists of one or more pump assemblies. It contains 'mbri'. For example, the supply section 1056 of a sweetener with no nutritional value is as described above. It is combined into a product module that has four pump assemblies. Each of the yellowtail is given a non-nutritious sweetener (for example, in combination with one or more additional ingredients). To do this, non-nutritious sweeteners are transferred from each pump assembly to the nozzle 24. A pipe or piping insert.

[0237] Referring to Figures 45A and 45B, the lower cabinet portion 1006b is made of microplastic Subsystem 18 has one or more mechanisms. For example, the lower cabinet portion 100 6b houses one or more micro-component supply units. One or more micro-component supply units The above micro-component shelves (for example, micro-component shelves 1200, 1202, 1204) and nutrition It is configured as one supply unit 1206 for a non-value sweetener. As shown in the figure, micro Each component shelf (e.g., micro-component shelf 1200) is typically composed of one or more components arranged horizontally. Product module assemblies (for example, product module assemblies 250d, 250e, 2 It has 50f). One or more of the micro-component shelves (for example, the micro-component towers mentioned above) It is configured to be stirred (by a similar conventional method to -1052).

[0238] Continuing from the above embodiment, the micro-component supply unit is configured to contain one or more micro-components. It is composed of multiple product module assemblies ( The product module assemblies 250d, 250e, and 250f are included. A module assembly (for example, product module assembly 250f) consists of each slot assembly Within a slot assembly (for example, slot assemblies 260, 262, 264, 266), one or more products It is configured to engage releasably with a container (e.g., product container 256).

[0239] In addition, each product module assembly 250d, 250e, and 250f is available in multiple quantities. It has a pump assembly. For example, also see Figures 47A, 47B, 47D, 47E and See Figure 47F, the product module assembly 250d is typically the pump assembly 27 It has 0a, 270b, 270d, and 270e. Pump assemblies 270a, 270b, One unit each of 270c and 270d is included (for example, in each product container (for example, product container 256)) Slot assemblies 260, 262, 264 (to pump out the contained components) It relates to one of the 266 units. For example, each pump assembly 270a, 270b, 2 70c and 270d are the respective fluid coupling stems (for example, fluid coupling stems 1250, 1252, 1254, 1256) have, for example, the fluid coupling stem is cooperating equipment (for example, Figure 43B and Product container (e.g., product container) via the equipment mechanism 1158a, 1158b shown in Figure 44 It is fluidly connected to 256).

[0240] Refer to Figure 47E, which shows a cross-sectional view of the pump module assembly 250d. The Nburi 250d has a fluid inlet 1360 as shown in the cross-sectional view of the equipment. The equipment is product contents The female part of the container (not shown, shown as 256 in Figure 43B and also shown in other figures) (Figure 4 It connects to (shown as 1158a in 3B). The fluid from the product container is connected to the fluid inlet 1360. The fluid then enters the pump assembly 250d. The fluid flows into the capacitive flow detector 1362, and then The fluid flows through pump 1364, past back pressure regulator 1366, and to the fluid outlet 1368. To reach. As shown here, the fluid flow through the pump module assembly 250d The path allows air to pass through assembly 250d without being obstructed within the assembly. The fluid inlet 1360 is in a lower plane than the fluid outlet 1368. In addition, the fluid has a flow rate. It moves vertically towards the detector, and then, when moving inside the pump, it is higher than the inlet 1360. It returns to a plane. Therefore, due to its arrangement, the air is not obstructed and passes through the system. It allows for flow while also enabling the fluid to flow continuously upward. Therefore The 250d pump module assembly design is self-priming and features a purging type positive displacement fluid delivery system. It is a system.

[0241] Referring to Figures 47E and 47F, the back pressure regulator 1366 is an arbitrary back pressure regulator However, it is a typical back pressure regulator 1366 for pumping out small volumes. A typical embodiment is shown. The back pressure regulator 1366 is molded with respect to the "volcano" mechanism and outer diameter. It has a diaphragm 1367 including an O-ring. The O-ring forms a seal. The piston is coupled to the diaphragm 1367. The spring for the piston is located in the closed position. The spring and diaphragm are biased. In this embodiment, the spring is mounted on the outer sleeve. It can be attached. The fluid pressure matches or exceeds the cracking pressure of the piston / spring assembly. In this case, the fluid passes the back pressure regulator 1366 and heads towards the fluid outlet 1368. Typical In typical embodiments, the cracking pressure is approximately 7-9 psi (48-62 kPa). The cracking pressure is matched to pump 1364. Therefore, in various embodiments, The pump may differ from that described, and in those examples, the back pressure Another embodiment of the regulator is used.

[0242] See also Figure 48 for an example of each product module assembly (e.g., product module To supply components from the piping assembly 250d) to the piping system / control subsystem 20, The outlet piping system assembly 1300 is pump assemblies 270a, 270b, 270c, 2 It is configured to engage with 70d in a releasable manner. The outlet piping system assembly 1300 is, for example, For example, pump assemblies 270a, 270b, 270c, and 270d are connected to the fluid pipeline 1310. Fluidly coupled to the piping system / control subsystem 20 via 1312, 1314, and 1316. To achieve this, each pump assembly 270a, 270b, 270c, and 270d is fluidically connected. Multiple piping system equipment configured to do so (for example, equipment 1302, 1304, 1306 It has , 1308).

[0243] Removable between outlet piping system assembly 1300 and product module assembly 250d Such engagements include, for example, the outlet piping system assembly 1300 and the product module assembly 250. It is enabled via a cam assembly that provides easy engagement and disengagement of d. For example, The assembly consists of a handle 1318 that is rotatably connected to the equipment support part 1320 and a cam mechanism. It has 1322 and 1324. The cam mechanisms 1322 and 1324 are part of the product module assembly. It engages with the cooperating mechanism of 250d (not shown). Refer to Figure 47C, the hand in the direction of the arrow. The rotational motion of the 1318 is from the product module assembly 250d to the outlet piping system assembly. Release the 1300, for example, the outlet piping system assembly 1300 is a product module assembly This allows the BR250d to be raised away from the vehicle and removed.

[0244] With particular reference to Figures 47D and 47E, the product module assembly 250d is similar. , releasably engaged with the micro-component shelf 1200, for example, in production of the micro-component shelf 1200 The removal / installation of the product module assembly 250 can be easily facilitated. For example, the illustrated product module The Joule assembly 250d has a release handle 1350, for example, it is pivotal It is then coupled to the product module assembly 250d. The release handle 1350 is, for example, , it has locking ears 1352, 1354, for example, in Figures 47A and 47D Clearly described. The locking ears 1352 and 1354 cooperate with the micro-component shelf 1200. It engages with the mechanism, for example, in this way the product module assembly 250d The microcomponent shelf 1200 is held in an engaged state. As shown in Figure 47E, the microcomponent To release the locking ears 1352 and 1354 from the cooperating mechanism of shelf 1200, release handle The dollar 1350 will be pivotally raised in the direction of the arrow. Once released, the product module The 250d assembly is lifted from the micro component shelf 1200.

[0245] One or more sensors are located on one or more of the handles 1318 and / or release handles 1350. They are related. One or more sensors are connected to handle 1318 and / or release handle 1350. It provides an output indicating the locking position. For example, the output of one or more sensors indicates the handle 1 318 and / or release handle 1350 in either the engaged or released position It indicates whether it is located in the product module, based at least part on the output of one or more detectors. Assembly 250d is electrically and / or fluidly connected to the piping system / control subsystem 20. They are isolated. Typical sensors include, for example, cooperating RFID tags and readers, and contact switches. It has a switch, a magnetic position sensor, and the like.

[0246] Also, refer to Figures 49A, 49B, and 49C for the supply unit 1206 of the sweetener with no nutritional value. A typical equipment configuration is shown in the diagram. The supply unit 1206 for the non-nutrient-value sweetener contains non-nutrient-value sweeteners. A housing 1400 is generally configured to receive a sweetener container 1402. A container 1402 for a sweetener without nutritional value is, for example, one having a bag-in-box configuration. For example, it contains a non-nutrient-rich sweetener placed within a standard rigid protective housing. It is a flexible bag. The supply section 1206 has a joint 1404, for example, the joint 1404 is pivot The pivotable wall 1406 is associated with the joint 1404, which is associated with the non-nutrient-rich container 1402. The equipment is fluidly connected to the equipment. The equipment configuration and properties of the joint 1404 are that of a non-nutrient-rich container. It changes according to the joint equipment related to 1402.

[0247] Also, referring to Figure 49C, the supply unit 1206 is one or more pump assemblies (e.g., pump It has pump assemblies 270e, 270f, 270g, and 270h. One or more pump assembly The 270e, 270f, 270g, and 270h are the product module assemblies mentioned above. It is constructed in the same way as (for example, product module assembly 250). Fitting 140 4 is fluidly connected to fitting 1404 via piping system assembly 1408. Piping system The main assembly 1408 has a normal inlet 1410, and the inlet 1410 has a fitting 140 It is configured to be fluidly coupled to 4. Manifold 1412 receives at inlet 1410. Dispense the nutritionally worthless sweetener into one or more dispensing tubes (for example, dispensing tubes 1414, 14 Distribute to 16, 1418, 1420). Distribution tubes 1414, 1416, 1418, 1420 is fluidically applied to each pump assembly 270e, 270f, 270g, and 270g. Each connector 1422, 1424, 1426, and 1428 is configured to flow. .

[0248] Here, referring to Figure 50, in a typical embodiment, the piping system assembly 1408 is air It has a sensor 1450. Therefore, the piping system assembly 1408 is in the presence of air. It has a mechanism for detecting whether or not. In one embodiment, the fluid entering through the fluid inlet 1410 is If it contains air, the air sensor 1450 detects the air, and in one embodiment, a large volume of It sends a signal to stop extracting the micro-component. This function is used in many dispensing systems. While desired in the system, the volume of the large-capacity micro-components is incorrect, and the distributed product has a poor reputation. This is especially desirable in cases where objects may be dropped and / or pose a risk. Therefore, a system including an air sensor is desirable. The piping system assembly 1408 ensures that air is not pumped out. Also, for example In examples where pharmaceutical products are compounded, it is a safety feature. In another product, the piping system This embodiment of assembly 1408 is part of the quality assurance function.

[0249] Various electrical components, mechanical components, electromechanical components, and software processing distribute the beverage. As explained above, it is used within the processing system, but this is for explanatory purposes only. This specification is not intended to be a limitation on the disclosure, and other equipment configurations are possible. For example, the above processing system could be used for another consumable product (e.g., ice cream and alcohol). It is used for processing / distributing beverages. In addition, the above system is used in areas other than the food industry. It is used. For example, the above system is used for the following processing / dispensing: vitamins; Compoundings; medical supplies; cleaning products; lubricants; paints or dyes; or other non-consumable liquids / semi-liquids. Powdered solids and / or powdered fluids.

[0250] As described above, generally the processing system 10 (and FSM processing 122, virtual machine processing) Various electrical components, mechanical components, and electromechanical devices (124 and especially virtual manifold processing 126) Component and software processing involves processing one or more substrates (also called "components") into a product. It is used in any machine where on-demand generation is desired.

[0251] In various embodiments, the product is generated according to a recipe programmed into the processor. As mentioned above, recipes are updated, incorporated, and modified with permission. Pre-programming is required by the user or is scheduled to be prepared. The recipe may have any number of substrates or ingredients, and may also be produced. The product contains any number of substrates or materials in any desired concentration.

[0252] The substrate used is any fluid at any concentration, or a machine that produces the product. Any powder or other solid material that is returned with water before the machine or machine produces the product. In other words, the powder or solid reconstituted with one serving of water is weighed out to produce additional products. Therefore, or to dispense "batch" solutions as products, they are prepared at a specific time during preparation. ). In various embodiments, two or more substrates are mixed together in a single manifold, and then It is then weighed in a separate manifold to be mixed with additional substrates.

[0253] Therefore, in various embodiments, it is either on demand or at a desired time prior to actual demand. A solution of manifold 1 contains the first substrate and at least one additional group according to the recipe. The material is generated in the manifold by weighing and adding the quality. In one embodiment, among the substrates One of them is reconstituted with water, meaning the substrate is a powder / solid and a specific amount is mixed in a manifold. The liquid substrate is added to the same mixing manifold, and the powder substrate is added to the desired concentration. The contents of this manifold are then returned to the liquid with water to reach a certain temperature. It is supplied to or distributed to Niford.

[0254] In one embodiment, the method described herein is used for peritoneal dialysis or It is used for on-demand mixing of dialysate used in hemodialysis. Known in this technology As such, the composition of the dialysate includes, but is not limited to, one of the following: bicarbonate Sodium, calcium, potassium, chloride, glucose, lactate, acetic acid, acetate, magnesium Nesium, glucose, and hydrochloric acid.

[0255] The dialysate absorbs unwanted molecules from the blood through osmosis (e.g., urea, creatinine, It is used to extract potassium, phosphates, and other ions, as well as water. Furthermore, the dialysis solution is well known to those with the usual skill in this technology.

[0256] For example, dialysate typically contains potassium at concentrations similar to those naturally present in healthy blood. It contains various ions such as calcium. In some cases, the dialysis fluid contains sodium bicarbonate. It contains lium, at a somewhat higher concentration than is normally found in healthy blood. In terms of type, dialysis fluid is water mixed with one or more components from a water source (e.g., reverse osmosis or "RO" water). Prepared by: for example, "acids" (such as acetic acid, glucose, NaCl, CaCl, KC) (It has various types such as I, MgCl, and others), sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) 3) and / or sodium chloride (NaCl). Also, salts, osmotic properties, pH and similar substances The preparation of the dialysate, including the use of the appropriate concentration, is a matter of normal skill in the art. This is well known. As will be discussed in detail below, on-demand, real-time dialysis There is no need to prepare the fluid. For example, the dialysis fluid is manufactured at the same time as or prior to dialysis. It can be stored inside a dialysis fluid storage tank or similar container.

[0257] In one embodiment, one or more substrates (e.g., bicarbonates) are stored in powder form. For typical purposes only, the powder substrate is called "bicarbonate" in this example. However, in another example, any substrate / component is powdered in addition to or instead of bicarbonate. It is stored in a machine in its original form or as another solid. Also, in order to rehydrate the substrate with water, The process described here will be used. Bicarbonate is poured into the manifold, for example, as a "disposable" product. It is stored in a "type" container. In one embodiment, many bicarbonates are stored in a container, and the container A specific amount of bicarbonate is measured from the container into the manifold. In one embodiment, the total amount of bicarbonate The entire contents are then transferred into the manifold, meaning a large volume of dialysis fluid is mixed in.

[0258] The solution in the first manifold, along with one or more additional substrates / components, is transferred to the second manifold. It is mixed in. In addition, in one embodiment, the solution mixed in the first manifold is desired. One or more sensors (e.g.,) are tested to ensure that the concentration has reached the target level. One or more conductivity sensors are provided. In one embodiment, data from one or more sensors is collected. The `TA` is used in a feedback control loop that should correct errors in the solution. For example, If the bicarbonate solution has a concentration higher or lower than the desired concentration, the detector data If indicated by 'TA', additional bicarbonate or reverse osmosis (RO) water is added to the manifold.

[0259] In one example of a recipe, the ingredients were in the form of a powder / solid or liquid that had been reconstituted with water. However, before being mixed with one or more of the same materials in another manifold, there are one or more materials. It is returned to the water during the manifold process.

[0260] Therefore, the systems and methods described herein are for dialysis fluid and other solutions used in medical applications. To provide precise, on-demand production or dispensing of another solution containing a liquid. In one embodiment, this The system is, for example, a US special interest application filed on February 27, 2008, with a priority date of February 27, 2007. It will be incorporated into a dialysis machine, as described in license application serial number 12 / 072,908. The contents of the national patent application are incorporated here in their entirety by reference. In another embodiment, This system can be incorporated into any machine where on-demand product mixing is desired. It is possible.

[0261] Water makes up the largest volume of the dialysate, and thus transports the dialysate bags. This is linked to high costs, space, and time. In the above processing system 10, the dialysis machine, and The dialysis material is prepared in a standalone dispensing machine (for example, at the patient's home). This eliminates the need to send and store large quantities of dialysis material bags. This processing system 10 described above is The system provides the performance required to meet the prescription desired by the user or supplier. This system and method uses the same technology and methods, and is available on demand (for example, at medical centers, pharmacies, etc.) This includes, but is not limited to, the patient's home, and generates a prescription for the local area. And when the substrate / component is the only component that needs transport / delivery, the description here Transportation costs can be reduced through the system and methods used.

[0262] As described above, another specific example of such a product that can be produced by the processing system 10. This includes, but is not limited to, dairy-based products (e.g., milk). Shakes, floats, malt drinks, frappés; coffee-based products (e.g., coffee, cappuccino). (e.g., espresso); soda-based products (e.g., floats, fruit juices) Soda; tea-based products (e.g., iced tea, sweet tea, hot tea); water-based products Products (for example, natural water, flavored natural water, vitamin-containing natural water, high-electrolyte beverages, high-carbonated water) Water-based beverages; solid-based products (e.g., trail mix, granola-based products) Products, mixed nuts, cereal products, mixed grain products); pharmaceutical products (e.g., injectable drugs, injections); Injectable drugs, ingestible drugs, dialysis fluids); alcohol-based products (e.g., cocktails, Wine Spritz, soda-based alcoholic beverages, water-based alcoholic beverages, flavored Beer "shots"); industrial products (e.g., solvents, paints, lubricants, dyes); and health Health / cosmetic products (e.g., shampoo, cosmetics, soap, hair conditioner, skin treatment, (Topical ointment).

[0263] Many examples have been described. However, it is understood that various modifications may be made. Therefore, another embodiment falls within the scope of the following claims. A first aspect of the present invention is: Nozzle and; A flow control device configured to adjust the flow rate of the first component to the nozzle; A pump module configured to be coupled to the supply unit for the second component; To supply pre-filling moisture to the nozzle with water, and at least a portion thereof The supply of a first amount of the first component to the nozzle is controlled based on a fixed recipe. The flow rate control device is configured to supply a first control signal, and at least A portion of the supply of the second component in a first amount based on the predetermined recipe controls the supply of the second component in a first amount. A control configured to supply a second control signal to the pump module for control Vessels and; Equipped with, The flow rate control device controls the amount of the first component flowing within the flow rate control device. A flow rate measuring device configured to send a feedback signal, and at least a portion thereof, the flow The feedback signal of the quantity measuring device and the first control signal supplied by the controller A variable line input configured to control the first component to the nozzle based on the number It has pedance and, The aforementioned variable line impedance is: A first rigid member having a first surface; A second rigid member having a second surface; At least a portion of the variable cross-sectional fluid diameter defined by the first and second surfaces Road and; The first has the ability to increase or decrease the variable cross-sectional fluid path. The surface is movable relative to the second surface; This is a product dispensing system. A second aspect of the present invention is: In the product dispensing system of the first embodiment, the controller controls the nozzle with water. This is a product dispensing system configured to allow rinsing after filling. A third aspect of the present invention is: In the product dispensing system according to the first embodiment, the flow rate measuring device is a positive displacement flow rate measuring device. This is a product dispensing system equipped with a quantity measuring device. A fourth aspect of the present invention is: In the product dispensing system described in the third embodiment, the volumetric flow rate measuring device is This is a product dispensing system equipped with a Y-type volumetric flow meter. A fifth aspect of the present invention is: In the product dispensing system according to the first embodiment, the first surface is further the To move relative to the second surface, one of the first rigid member and the second rigid member This is a product dispensing system that has a connected stepper motor. A sixth aspect of the present invention is: In the product dispensing system according to the first embodiment, the pump module is The product dispensing system is configured to be releasably engaged with the supply unit of the second component. It is Tem. A seventh aspect of the present invention is: In the product dispensing system according to the sixth aspect, the pump module is multi A bracket assembly configured to releasably engage with the supply unit of the second component of the number This is a product dispensing system that has a refill function. An eighth aspect of the present invention is: In the product dispensing system described in the first embodiment, the pump module is compared A solenoid piston configured to supply the second component of the corrected fixed volume This is a product dispensing system with a pump assembly. A ninth aspect of the present invention is: In the product dispensing system according to the first embodiment, the pump module and related It has a flow detector, and the flow detector is; A fluid chamber configured to receive fluid; Whenever the fluid in the fluid chamber is discharged, the diamond is configured to be displaced. Flamm section and; The displacement of the diaphragm is monitored, and at least a portion of it is located within the fluid chamber. A converter unit configured to generate a flow rate signal based on the amount of fluid discharged; This is a product dispensing system that has [a certain feature]. A tenth aspect of the present invention is: In the product dispensing system according to the ninth aspect, the converter unit is the diamond A first capacitive plate coupled to the flammable portion and movable thereon, and related to the fluid chamber It has a second capacitive plate that is firmly attached, and the flow rate signal is less A portion of the capacitor between the first capacitive plate and the second capacitive plate is Based on changes in the lance; This is a product dispensing system. An eleventh aspect of the present invention is: In the product dispensing system according to the first embodiment, the flow rate control device and the pump The module is coupled with a nozzle for mixing the first and second components. This is a product dispensing system. A twelfth aspect of the present invention is: Nozzle and; A flow control device configured to adjust the flow rate of a first component; A pump module configured to be coupled to the supply unit for the second component; To supply pre-filling moisture to the nozzle with water, and at least a portion thereof The supply of a first amount of the first component to the nozzle is controlled based on a fixed recipe. The flow rate control device is configured to supply a first control signal, and at least A portion of the second component is supplied to the nozzle based on the predetermined recipe. To supply a second control signal to the pump module for controlling the supply of the amount of The controllers that are configured; Equipped with, The flow control device is Flow rate feedback signal indicating the amount of contents flowing through the dispensing system line. A flow rate measuring device configured to generate, In response to the flow rate feedback signal, the desired flow rate is set in relation to the flow rate feedback signal. In comparison, a feedback controller system configured to generate flow control signals In other words, the feedback controller system, at least in part, is the initial of the flow control signal. Feedback controller system with a feedforward controller for establishing time values and, Located within the line of the dispensing system and capable of responding to the flow control signal A variable line impedance, wherein the variable line impedance is at least a portion Based on the flow rate control signal, the flow in the line of the dispensing system It has a variable line impedance configured to adjust the amount of contents; The aforementioned variable line impedance is: A first rigid member having a first surface; A second rigid member having a second surface; At least a portion of the variable cross-sectional fluid diameter defined by the first and second surfaces Road and; The first has the ability to increase or decrease the variable cross-sectional fluid path. The surface is movable relative to the second surface; This is a product dispensing system. A thirteenth aspect of the present invention is: In a product dispensing system according to the twelfth embodiment, the controller controls the nozzle by water. This product dispensing system is configured to allow rinsing after filling. A fourteenth aspect of the present invention is: In the product dispensing system according to the twelfth embodiment, the flow rate measuring device is a volumetric type This is a product dispensing system equipped with a flow rate measuring device. A fifteenth aspect of the present invention is: In the product dispensing system according to the 14th embodiment, the volumetric flow rate measuring device This is a product dispensing system equipped with a gear-type positive displacement flow meter. A sixteenth aspect of the present invention is: In the product dispensing system according to the twelfth aspect, further, the first surface is brought forward To move relative to the second surface, one of the first rigid member and the second rigid member This is a product dispensing system that has a stepper motor coupled to it. A 17th aspect of the present invention is: In the product dispensing system according to the twelfth aspect, the dispensing system The dispensing system includes a two-way valve located within the aforementioned line, within the aforementioned line This is a product dispensing system that prevents the contents from flowing out. An eighteenth aspect of the present invention is: In the flow control device according to the 12th embodiment, the variable line impedance is: A first rigid member defining a first fluid path portion having a bore; A second rigid member defining a second fluid path portion; The fluid path defined by the first fluid path portion and the second fluid path portion is increased. The first fluid path portion above, and the second fluid path portion above, are configured to cause or reduce the amount of fluid in the first fluid path portion above. It is movable in minutes; This is a flow control device.

Claims

1. A flow control device configured to control a first fluid, having a flow measuring device configured to provide a feedback signal based on the amount of a first fluid flowing through the flow control device, and a variable line impedance configured to control the first fluid; A pump module configured to be coupled to a second fluid supply unit; A controller comprising at least a portion configured to supply a first control signal to the flow control device for controlling the flow rate of the first fluid based on the feedback signal of the flow measuring device and a predetermined recipe, and at least a portion configured to supply a second control signal to the pump module for controlling the flow rate of the second fluid based on the predetermined recipe; A flow detector coupled to the pump module, wherein the flow detector is a capacitive flow detector and comprises: a fluid chamber configured to receive the second fluid; a diaphragm portion configured to be displaced whenever the second fluid is discharged from the fluid chamber; and a transducer portion configured to monitor the displacement of the diaphragm portion and to generate a flow signal for controlling the flow rate of the second fluid based on the amount of the second fluid discharged from the fluid chamber, at least a portion of which is configured to generate a flow signal for controlling the flow rate of the second fluid; The pump module is configured to distribute a predetermined amount of the second fluid based on the second control signal supplied by the controller and the flow rate signal supplied by the converter. A product dispensing system for a product in which the first fluid and the second fluid are mixed.

2. In the product dispensing system according to claim 1, the flow rate measuring device has a volumetric flow rate measuring device. Product dispensing system.

3. In the product dispensing system according to claim 2, the volumetric flow rate measuring device has a gear-type volumetric flow rate measuring device. Product dispensing system.

4. In the product dispensing system according to claim 1, the variable line impedance is: A first rigid member having a first surface; A second rigid member having a second surface; At least a portion of it has a variable cross-sectional fluid path defined by the first surface and the second surface; The first surface is movable relative to the second surface so as to increase or decrease the variable cross-sectional fluid path; Product dispensing system.

5. The product dispensing system according to claim 4 further comprises a stepper motor coupled to one of the first rigid member and the second rigid member for moving the first surface relative to the second surface; Product dispensing system.

6. In the product dispensing system according to claim 1, the pump module is configured to be releasably engaged with the second fluid supply unit. Product dispensing system.

7. Product dispensing system according to claim 6, wherein the pump module has a bracket assembly configured to be releasably engaged with a plurality of the second fluid supply units.

8. The product dispensing system according to claim 1, wherein the pump module has a solenoid piston pump assembly configured to supply the second fluid in a calibrated fixed volume, Product dispensing system.

Images