CARTRIDGE SYSTEM AND VALVE
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- MX · MX
- Patent Type
- Patents
- Current Assignee / Owner
- LANCER CORP
- Filing Date
- 2023-02-09
- Publication Date
- 2026-06-12
Smart Images
Figure MX435172B0
Abstract
Description
CARTRIDGE SYSTEM AND VALVE Field of Invention The present invention relates in general to flow control and in particular to a cartridge valve and related dispensing system. Background of the Invention Many systems require fluid flow control. Some of these systems require only on / off flow control. Others require flow rate control of one or more fluids. In some of these systems, such as, without limitation, beverage dispensing systems, space constraints are significant and affect the ease with which flow control elements can be calibrated or replaced. Brief Description of the Invention In accordance with the teachings of the present invention, a cartridge valve and a dispensing system are provided that eliminate or substantially reduce problems associated with prior art systems. In particular, a valve is provided that includes a fluid inlet, a fluid outlet, a regulator coupled to the fluid inlet and having a regulator outlet, and a solenoid, the solenoid including an armature configured to retract a retraction distance from a position Ref. 342945, closed to a retracted position, the armature is adapted to stop the flow of fluid between the regulator outlet and the fluid outlet in the closed position, and an adjustable stop is configured to set the retraction distance in an adjustable manner. The adjustable stop may be an adjusting screw, which includes a shaft with one end of the armature that restricts the retraction of the armature beyond the retracted position. In one particular embodiment, the valve includes a flow ring surrounding the regulator outlet. The flow ring includes at least one groove in fluid communication with the regulator outlet and the fluid outlet. The fluid outlet is outside the flow ring, and increasing the retraction distance exposes a larger portion of the at least one groove. In some embodiments, the valve further includes a diaphragm coupled to one end of the regulator armature. The diaphragm includes a first section adapted to close the regulator outlet in the closed position and a second section having an outside diameter greater than or equal to the inside diameter of the flow ring. In another particular embodiment, the valve includes a flow ring surrounding a ring outlet. The ring outlet is in fine communication with the fluid outlet. The flow ring includes at least one slot in fluid communication with the regulator outlet. The regulator outlet is outside the flow ring, and as the retraction distance increases, a larger portion of the at least one slot is exposed. In some embodiments, the valve further includes a diaphragm coupled to a regulating end of the armature. The diaphragm includes a first section adapted to close the ring outlet in the closed position and a second section having an outside diameter greater than or equal to the inside diameter of the flow ring. The valve may include a diaphragm coupled to one end of the regulator armature, the diaphragm adapted to isolate the armature from the fluid flowing from the regulator outlet. In some embodiments, the diaphragm includes a first section adapted to close off fluid communication between the regulator outlet and the fluid outlet in the closed position and a second section adapted to isolate the armature from the fluid flowing from the regulator outlet. In another particular embodiment, the valve includes a fluid passage from the regulator outlet to the fluid outlet, where the fluid passage is closed by the armature in the closed position. By increasing the retraction distance, the fluid flow through the fluid passage increases. The valve may also include tabs extending from it, adapted to engage with a backing block or rear block in a bayonet fitting arrangement. In certain embodiments, the regulator and solenoid are arranged in a substantially linear configuration and housed axially in a substantially cylindrical housing. In some embodiments, the regulator and solenoid are arranged in a substantially linear configuration. In some other embodiments, the Huido outlet is located between the regulator and the solenoid. In one particular application, the valves can be used in a post-mix beverage system. The present invention provides significant technical advantages. In particular, and without limitation, the combination of a regulator and an adjustable-stroke solenoid allows for stable flow control and a smaller solenoid size, thus reducing costs and size and fitting into larger service spaces. Furthermore, the bayonet fitting allows for quick and easy installation and replacement of the valves. Furthermore, the reciprocating motion of an armature and a solenoid diaphragm in a flow ring clears obstructed particles and some pulp, making the valve of the present invention suitable for, among others, relatively consistent fluids as well as those with varying amounts and sizes of particles or pulp. Brief Description of the Figures The description refers to the following figures, which are not drawn to scale and where similar reference numbers indicate similar characteristics: Figure 1 illustrates a block diagram of one modality of a dispenser according to certain aspects of the present invention; Figures 2 and 3 illustrate one modality of a cartridge valve assembly and backup block or back block, showing an installation procedure; Figures 4 and 5 illustrate different views of one modality of a cartridge valve and back block uninstalled; Figures 6 and 7 illustrate, respectively, top and side views of one modality of an uninstalled cartridge valve and back block; Figure 8 illustrates an enlarged cross-sectional view of one modality of an uninstalled cartridge valve and back block; Figure 9 illustrates an isometric view of one modality of an installed cartridge valve and back block; Figure 10 illustrates a front view of one modality of an installed cartridge valve and back block; Figures 11 and 12 illustrate angled side views of one modality of an installed cartridge valve and back block; Figure 13 illustrates an enlarged cross-sectional view of one modality of a cartridge valve and an installed back block αοα i nn / eznz / R / viAi; Figure 14 illustrates an exploded isometric view of one type of cartridge valve; Figure 15 illustrates an exploded isometric section view of one type of cartridge valve; Figures 16-18 illustrate, respectively, exploded views from above, side and cross-section of a type of cartridge valve; Figure 19 illustrates an exploded isometric view of one type of adjustable stroke solenoid; Figure 20 illustrates an exploded isometric section view of one type of adjustable stroke solenoid; Figures 21-23 illustrate, respectively, exploded views from above, side and cross-section of a modality of an adjustable stroke solenoid; Figures 24 and 25 illustrate isometric views of one modality of an armature and solenoid diaphragm; Figure 26 illustrates a side view of one modality of a solenoid armature and diaphragm; Figure 27 illustrates a cross-sectional side view of one modality of an armature and solenoid diaphragm; Figures 28 and 29 illustrate, respectively, isometric and exploded top views of one type of cartridge valve; Figures 30 and 31 illustrate schematic representations of one modality of a cartridge valve with the solenoid in its respective closed and retracted positions; Figures 32 and 33 illustrate, respectively, top and cross-sectional views of a modality of an uninstalled cartridge valve and back block; Figures 34 and 31 illustrate, respectively, angled views from above and in section of a modality of an installed cartridge valve and a back block with the solenoid in its retracted position; Figure 36 illustrates an orderly exploded view of one type of adjustable stroke solenoid; Figures 37A, 37B, and 38 illustrate alternatives for attaching a cartridge valve to a back block and accessory options. Figure 39 illustrates one type of offset adapter for backward compatibility with some existing systems. Detailed Description of the Invention Figure 1 illustrates one embodiment of a dispenser 10 according to certain aspects of the present invention. In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the dispenser 10 is a beverage dispenser; however, the present invention is not limited to beverage dispensers and can be used with virtually any dispenser or system that uses flow control. αοα i nn / C7n7 / R / viAi The beverage dispenser 10 includes one or more valve modules 12, each associated with one or more beverages. Each valve module 12 includes one or more cartridge valves, which are described in detail below. A valve module may contain a single cartridge valve (for example, for dispensing water, soft drinks, or some other beverage or beverage component) or a plurality of such valves, for dispensing two or more fluids. In one particular embodiment, the beverage dispenser 10 may be a post-mix dispenser, in which at least one beverage base (such as, for example, a syrup or other concentrate) is mixed with at least one diluent, such as tap water or carbonated water, to form a finished beverage. In such a case, the activation of a valve module 12 to dispense a beverage opens at least one diluent valve and at least one beverage base valve, to which the respective diluent and beverage base are coupled.Furthermore, a beverage can be created by mixing more than one base drink with more than one diluent. For example, a cherry cola can be made by mixing soda with cola syrup and cherry syrup (by opening three cartridge valves); similarly, a root beer cola can be made by mixing soda with a root beer base and a cola base (also by opening three cartridge valves). When opened, the selected valves allow fluids to flow through nozzle 14 into a container 16 (such as, without limitation, a cup). A controller 18 controls the valves in the center of the valve module 12 to allow the dispensing of a selected beverage. The controller 18 is also coupled to a user interface 20 through which a user makes a beverage selection. This interface can be any appropriate user interface, including, but not limited to, a push button, a lever, a voice recognition system, a gesture recognition system, a touchscreen, a smartphone, a proximity sensor system, or any combination thereof. A valve module 12 can be dedicated to a particular beverage (e.g., cola) or a valve module 12 can include more than two valves to accommodate the dispensing of multiple beverages in a post-mix dispenser. Figures 2 and 3 illustrate one configuration of a set of four cartridge valves 22 and a procedure for installing and removing the valves. The use of four cartridge valves is only an example, and fewer or more than four such valves may be used. In Figure 2, three cartridge valves 22 are installed in the rear block 24, and one (22a) is not yet installed. In Figure 3, valve 22a is installed in the back block 24. The back block 24 is mounted to the dispenser 10 and provides a connection point for the cartridge valves 22 and their respective fluids, which are supplied through conduits 26. The back block 24 includes a plurality of shut-off valves 28 (one is shown in Figure 2), each of which is coupled to an installed cartridge valve 22. Each shut-off valve 28 stops the flow of fluid from its respective supply conduit 26 when its respective cartridge valve 22 is not installed.Each shut-off valve 28 opens to allow fluid to flow to its respective cartridge valve 22, when its respective cartridge valve 22 is installed. In the particular example shown, examples of one type of cartridge valve 22 are installed and removed from the back block 24 using a bayonet fitting. The bayonet fitting is advantageous because it allows for easy attachment and detachment of the cartridge valves 22, thus facilitating more efficient maintenance. However, any suitable connection may be used. The bayonet fit is achieved with tabs 30 extending from near the back block end of each cartridge valve 22. These tabs 30 pass through openings 32 into a hollow space in the back block 24 and, after rotation of the cartridge valve 22, form an interference fit with the back block 24. As shown in Figure 2, the uninstalled valve 22a is oriented approximately 45° to the installed valves 22.After inserting tabs 30, the valve is rotated approximately 45° to complete installation. This process is reversed to uninstall a valve 22. A fluid outlet 34 extends from each cartridge valve 22. When a valve 22 is activated, its respective fluid flows through its respective fluid outlet 34 to the nozzle 14. An air vent outlet port 35 is also shown. Each valve 22 includes an electrical connection 36, which is coupled to the controller 18 for activation of the respective valve 22. Each valve 22 also includes an adjustment screw 38 for use in valve calibration, which will be described in detail below. Figures 4 and 5 show front and rear isometric views, and Figures 6 and 7 show top and side views of an uninstalled valve 22 and back block 24a. Back block 24a is shown as a discrete back block, accommodating a cartridge valve 22. However, back block 24a may be part of a larger back block 24, as shown in Figures 1 and 2. Figure 8 is an enlarged sectional side view taken along the site line shown in Figure 6. As shown, the valve 22 includes a housing 40, an adjustable-stroke solenoid 42 (which will be discussed in connection with Figures 19–27), and a regulator 44. Also shown is an example of a shut-off valve 28, which includes a pressure spring or driving spring 46 that pushes the sealing pin 48 over an outlet seat 49 to close the shut-off valve 28 when the cartridge valve 22 is not installed. When the cartridge valve 22 is installed (as in Figure 13), the regulator inlet 50, which extends from the regulator 44, is inserted into the shut-off valve 28 and overcomes the spring 46 to separate the sealing pin 48 and open the shut-off valve 28.Next, the fluid can flow from the supply conduit 26, through the shut-off valve 28, through slots 51 (best seen in Figures 14 and 16) of the regulator inlet 50 and to the regulator 44 of the cartridge valve 22. Regulator 44 can be any suitable regulator, but in one particular example, it includes a CFValve™ manufactured by Gate, LLC. Regulator 44 includes a regulator 52 outlet. Regulator 44 provides a substantially constant outlet pressure, which, as will be discussed later, will facilitate the delivery of a substantially constant outlet flow rate. Inlet pressures often have substantial variations (due to many factors), which affect flow rates and thus reduce the accuracy or quality of the system. For example, with a post-mix beverage dispenser, inlet pressure variations, if not regulated, affect the diluent-to-concentrate ratio, thereby reducing the quality of the finished beverage. The illustrated example of regulator 4 also includes a metering pin 54, a regulator diaphragm 56, a regulator spring 58, and an air vent 60 (the air vent 60 vents through the outlet port 35 in the housing 40). If the inlet pressure is too low (below a pressure threshold), the regulator spring 58 will push the regulator diaphragm 56 against a sealing ring 59 to close the regulator 44. As the inlet pressure reaches and exceeds the threshold pressure, the regulator spring 58 is overcome proportionally, and the regulator diaphragm 56 retracts from the sealing ring 59 so that fluid can flow around the metering pin 54 and into the regulator 44 and eventually out through the regulator outlet 52 when the cartridge valve 22 is opened.However, as the inlet pressure increases and the regulator diaphragm 56 retracts further from the sealing ring 59, the metering pin 54 (which is connected to and moves with the regulator diaphragm 56) restricts fluid flow through the regulator by reducing the inlet orifice area, thus controlling the fluid flow. Likewise, as the inlet pressure decreases (but remains above the threshold pressure), the regulator diaphragm 56 and metering pin 54 move upstream toward the sealing ring, due to the spring 58, to increase the inlet orifice area. The metering pin 54 may employ a tapered head to modulate the inlet orifice area as it moves in and out in response to the varying inlet pressure. The adjustable-stroke solenoid 42, which will be discussed in detail below, is shown in Figure 8 in its rest (unactivated) position, in which the cartridge valve 22 is closed. This closed state is caused by the solenoid spring 70, which drives the armature 72 toward and its cover solenoid diaphragm 74 against the regulator outlet 52, with the solenoid diaphragm 74 sealing the regulator outlet 52. In this position, there is a gap 61 between the adjusting screw 38 and the armature 72. Figures 9-13 show various views of the example cartridge valve 22 installed in the rear block 24a. As can be seen in the enlarged sectional view of Figure 13, the regulator inlet 50 engages with the shut-off valve 28 and, when engaged, compresses spring 46 to open the shut-off valve 28. As also shown in Figure 13, the adjustable stroke solenoid 42, which will be discussed in detail below, is shown in its engaged position, in which the cartridge valve 22 is open. This open state is effected by activating the solenoid coil (windings) 43 via electrical connection 36, which retracts the armature 72 and its solenoid diaphragm cover 74 from the regulator outlet 52, to allow fluid flow from the regulator outlet 52 to the fluid outlet 34. In this position, there is a gap 92 between the regulator outlet 52 and the solenoid diaphragm.henoid 74 and no space 61 (the end 84 of the armature 72 stops against the end 82 of the adjusting screw 38). The adjusting screw 38 is an adjustable stop. Other mechanisms may be employed to effect retention. Figures 14-18 show exploded views of the example cartridge valve 22. Housing 40 accommodates (at least partially) the adjustable-stroke solenoid 42 and regulator 44. The overall arrangement is substantially cylindrical. In the particular example shown, the fluid outlet 34 extends from housing 40 between solenoid 42 and regulator 44; however, other arrangements may be used. A sealing cap 62 may be welded or bonded to the flange 64 of solenoid 42 and end 66 of housing 40 to seal the valve 22 and secure the solenoid 42 in place. As shown in Figures 14-18, the regulator outlet 52 is surrounded by an outlet flow ring 67 that includes slots 69. The solenoid diaphragm 74 moves within the outlet flow ring 67 to alternately seal the regulator outlet 52 when valve 22 is closed or retract from the regulator outlet 52 and create a gap 92. The outside diameter of the solenoid diaphragm 74 (in its receptacle 88, see, for example, Figure 25) is equal to or slightly larger than the inside diameter of the outlet flow ring 67, such that fluid exits through the slots 69. As the diaphragm retracts from the regulator outlet 52, the gap 92 increases, exposing a larger portion (greater cross-sectional area) of the slots 69 to increase the flow from the regulator 44.With cartridge valve 22 in the open position, fluid flows through the fluid conduit that runs from regulator outlet 52, through space 92 and out through slots 69 to fluid outlet 34. As a result, the exposed portions of slots 69 are the effective outlet orifice of regulator 44. In the example configuration shown, three slots 69 are provided, but fewer or more can be used, and in fact, the outlet flow ring 67 (and therefore the slots 69) can be omitted entirely or its shape changed. For example, and without limitation, it may be desirable to omit the flow ring 67 or use more or larger slots 69 in high-flow rate applications, such as, and without limitation, in applications where pure or carbonated water is to be dispensed at high speeds. Figures 19-23 illustrate various views and elements of the adjustable stroke solenoid 42. The adjustable stroke solenoid 42 includes the adjusting screw 38, solenoid body 68 (which includes the coil 43 connected to the electrical connection 36), solenoid spring 70, armature 72, and solenoid diaphragm 74. The adjusting screw 38 includes a head 76, shaft 78, and armature end 82. The side wall of the head 76 is threaded (or the head end of the shaft 78, before it passes through the spring 70), preferably finely (e.g., without limitation, approximately 50 threads per 2.5 centimeters (1 inch)), and contacts matching threads inside the receptacle 80 of the solenoid body 68 (see, for example, Figure 13). Figures 24-27 illustrate various views of the armature 72 and solenoid diaphragm 74. The armature 72 includes an armature end 84, armature head 86, and main body 89. The head 86 may be separated from the main body 89 of the armature 72 by an armature neck 87, which has a smaller diameter than the head 86 or main body 89. The head 86 may also have a stepped diameter. The solenoid diaphragm 74 is inserted over the head 86 (or may be otherwise connected to the head 86). The solenoid diaphragm 74 may be made of a flexible material such as rubber or FKM rubber. When assembled, the head 86 resides in the diaphragm receptacle 88 of the solenoid diaphragm 74 after being pressed through the smaller-diameter opening 90 of the flexible diaphragm 74.The solenoid diaphragm 74 may include a diaphragm neck 91, which has a smaller diameter than the receptacle 88, and a diaphragm flange 93. The armature 72 is made of magnetic metal, for example, without limitation, magnetic steel. Isolation of the armature 72 from the fluids, due to the solenoid diaphragm 74, eliminates concerns about corrosion of the armature 72 and thus allows the use of highly magnetic metals for the armature 72 to achieve higher efficiency (corrosion-resistant metals are typically less magnetic). This higher efficiency allows for a smaller solenoid, reducing costs. In operation, when cartridge valve 22 is not activated (closed), the solenoid spring 70 pushes the armature 72 and solenoid diaphragm 74 towards the regulator outlet 52 of regulator 44 and the diaphragm 74 seals the regulator outlet 52 (as shown in Figure 8). To open the cartridge valve 22, current is passed through the coil 43 via the electrical connection 36 and the resulting magnetic field retracts the armature 72 (and therefore the diaphragm 74 that is attached to the armature 72) from the regulator output 52, towards the end 82 of shaft 78, creating a gap 92 (shown in Figure 13) between the solenoid diaphragm 74 and the regulator output 52. When the end 84 of the armature 72 makes contact with the end 82 of shaft 78 (as shown in Figure 13), the retraction stops and the armature 72 is in its retracted position.The size of the space 92 (the distance the armature travels to its retracted position, also called the retraction distance) determines how much of the slot area 69 is exposed to the outflow from the regulator outlet 52 to the fluid outlet 34 and thus controls the outflow velocity. That is, as the space 92 increases, a larger portion of the slots 69 is exposed to the outflow, thereby increasing the outflow velocity. Similarly, as the space 92 decreases, a smaller portion of the slots 69 is exposed to the outflow, thereby decreasing the outflow velocity. The size, shape, number, and location of the slots 69 can be designed as appropriate for the particular system in which the valves 22 will be used.The size of space 92, and therefore the outlet flow rate, is determined by the setting of the adjusting screw 38; the deeper the adjusting screw 38 is set, the smaller the space 92 becomes, and vice versa. Furthermore, although a groove and flow ring structure is preferred for restricting the outlet flow of regulator 52, other structures may be used. This combination of constant pressure (from regulator 44) and gap adjustment 92 (from adjustable stroke solenoid 42) allows for very precise control of flow rates. In particular, due to regulator 44, the outlet flow rate will not be materially affected by variations in inlet pressures. Furthermore, by adjusting gap 92, the outlet flow rate can be set as desired, for example, to suit the preferred ratio for the fluids being dispensed, to account for varying fluid viscosities (e.g., due to temperature or product characteristics), or for faster or slower dispensing (e.g., without limitation, to control foaming in carbonated fluids). Once the flow rate is set as desired (via adjusting screw 38), it will remain very stable due to the constant outlet pressure provided by regulator 44. Furthermore, by regulating the inlet pressures with regulator 44, a smaller solenoid can be used because, without pressure regulation, a solenoid must be able to seal against any foreseeable inlet pressure, which may include relatively high pressures. Sealing against such high pressures requires a relatively strong spring and a larger solenoid to overcome the spring when inlet pressures are lower. Because regulator 44 reduces these high inlet pressures, the present invention allows the use of a smaller solenoid, thereby reducing size and cost. By reducing size, space can be better utilized and more room can be provided for servicing. Adequate servicing space is important for efficient installation, replacement, and calibration of the valves 22. Figures 28-34 illustrate an alternative embodiment of a cartridge valve according to the present invention. As shown, the cartridge valve 94 includes the regulator 96, flow module 98, and adjustable stroke 100. A housing 102 at least partially encloses these elements. The sealing cap 104 can be welded or bonded to the end 106 of the solenoid 100 and the end 108 of the housing 102 to seal the valve 94 and secure the solenoid 100 in place. The regulator 96 functions as described above in relation to the regulator 44, except that the regulator outlet includes one or more regulator outlets 110 that are in fluid communication with the outside of the flow ring 112, which is disposed within the flow module 98. The flow ring 112 includes slots 114, like the flow ring 67 and slots 69 discussed above. The flow ring 112 also includes a ring outlet 116 in fluid communication with the outlet ring 118 through one or more ports 120. The outlet ring 118 is in fluid communication with the fluid outlet 34 and is sealed at each end with O-rings 119. As in the first embodiment discussed above, the armature 72 and solenoid diaphragm 74 move within the flow ring 112 from a closed position to an open, retracted position. However, in the embodiment of Figures 28-34, in the closed position, the diaphragm 74 seals the outlet of the ring 116 to close the valve (instead of the regulator outlet 52). In the retracted position, some or all of the slots 114 are exposed to allow fluid flow through the fluid conduit extending from one or more regulator outlets 110 to the flow module 98, through slots 114 to the flow ring 112, and then through the outlet of the ring 116, ports 120, and ring 118 to the fluid outlet 34. Figures 30 and 31 are schematic representations of the operation of cartridge valve 94. Figure 30 shows the adjustable stroke solenoid 100 in the closed position (diaphragm 74 seals the outlet of ring 116 and gap 61 is present), and Figure 31 shows it in the open position. In the open position, the armature 72 is retracted to its retracted position, there is no gap 61 (end 84 of the armature 72 stops against end 82 of the adjusting screw 38), and there is a gap 92 between diaphragm 74 and the outlet of ring 116. The flow arrows in Figure 31 show fluid flowing from outside the flow ring 112 into gap 92 (through slots 114). Figures 30 and 31 also demonstrate how the flange 93 of the solenoid diaphragm 74 rolls as the armature retracts and maintains the seal between the flux module 98 and the armature. As in the previously described configuration, the size of the space 92 determines how much of the slot area 114 is exposed to fluid flow from one or more regulator outlets 110 to the fluid outlet 34 and thus controls the outlet flow rate. That is, as the space 92 increases, a larger portion of the slots 114 is exposed to the outlet flow, thereby increasing the outlet flow rate. Similarly, as the space 92 decreases, a smaller portion of the slots 114 is exposed to the outlet flow, thereby decreasing the outlet flow rate. The size, shape, number, and location of the slots 114 can be designed as appropriate for the particular system in which the valves will be used, and the size of the space 92, and therefore the outlet flow rate, is determined by the setting of the adjusting screw; the deeper the adjusting screw is set, the smaller the space 92 becomes, and vice versa.As also shown in Figures 30 and 31, the flow ring 112 can be formed with an internal reservoir space 122, which is separated from the outlet of the ring 116. When valve 94 is opened, the reservoir space 122 is filled with fluid, and when valve 94 is closed, the fluid is trapped in the reservoir space 122 at the operating pressure. Furthermore, the flow module 98 is configured such that the fluid from the regulator 96 communicates with the space around the diaphragm neck 91 (and armature neck 87). The pressure across the armature head 86 is balanced by the fluid trapped in the reservoir space 122 and the fluid in the space around the neck 91. This design allows the use of a relatively small solenoid spring 70 and, therefore, a relatively small solenoid to overcome the spring to open. As described above, this reduces cost and saves space, allowing more room for service. Figures 32 and 33 show top and cross-sectional views of the uninstalled cartridge valve 94, showing the adjustable stroke solenoid 100 in its closed position. Figures 34 and 35 show angled top and cross-sectional views of the installed cartridge valve with the adjustable stroke solenoid 100 in its retracted position. The regulator 96 is shown as a block. Figure 36 illustrates an orderly exploded view of one modality of an adjustable stroke solenoid 100, showing a particular modality of an adjusting screw 124 and its threaded end 126. The reciprocating motion of the solenoid armature and diaphragm 74 within the flow ring (67 and 112) clears the flow ring and grooves (69 and 114) of obstructing particles and some pulp. This cleaning function makes these models particularly suitable for use with, among others, relatively consistent fluids and those with varying quantities and sizes of particles or pulp, such as juices. Figures 37A and 37B illustrate an alternative method for attaching a cartridge valve to a back block. As illustrated, the cartridge valve 22b includes tabs (or retaining legs) 30a, each of which has an anti-rotation projection or lug 30b. The tabs 30a are inserted into and rotated within the anti-rotation pocket 32a of the back block 24b, secured with an interference fit. The anti-rotation pocket 32a includes a matching contour for anti-rotation contact with the projection or lug 30b. Figure 38 illustrates another alternative method for attaching a cartridge valve to a back block. As shown, the cartridge valve 22c includes retaining grooves 130 for bayonet fitting with retaining protrusions 132 of the back block 24c. Figures 37A and 38 also illustrate that fittings can be connected to the cartridge valves described herein. As shown in Figure 37A, fitting lugs 134 can be formed into the cartridge valve body. 22b for securing fittings. In a non-limiting example, as shown in Figure 37a, a sliding lock 136 is slidably connected to the pins 134 and fitting 138, creating an interference fit and locking the fitting 138. Any suitable fitting may be used. As another non-limiting example, Figure 38 illustrates a flow director 140, which may be used to direct the flow from the fluid outlet 34 along a path parallel to the longitudinal axis of the valve 22c. Figure 39 illustrates one embodiment of an offset adapter 142 for backward compatibility with some existing systems. In some existing postmix dispensing systems, the separation of the water and syrup outlet connectors may prevent the direct connection of one or more of the downstream blocks 24 (e.g., 24a, 24b, 24c; discussed herein). That is, when one discrete downstream block 24 is installed, its position may interfere with the installation of another. To eliminate this problem, the offset adapter 142 is provided to connect to the appropriate outlet connector 144 in an off-center position (not centered with the valve 22) and direct its flow within the downstream block 24d to the valve 22, thus accommodating the space of two or more discrete downstream blocks 24. Furthermore, the overall design configuration of the valve configurations shown—a substantially straight cylinder—allows for a relatively high installed density with a relatively narrow mounting clearance. In one particular example, the back block 24 shown in Figures 2 and 3 (for 4 valves) can be approximately 10 centimeters (4 inches) wide by 9.5 centimeters (3.75 inches) high, and the cartridge valve housing can have an outside diameter of approximately 2.5 centimeters (1 inch). Moreover, the 4 cartridge valves installed in the back block are shown in a staggered arrangement, which advantageously allows for a reduction in the size of the back block by at least one dimension, thus providing design flexibility to accommodate the space requirements of the system in which the cartridge valves will be used.However, sizes and arrangements may vary depending on the system requirements. Although the description of the present invention has been provided largely in terms of liquid fluids, it can also be used with gaseous fluids and gaseous fluid systems. Furthermore, the terms couple or coupled, as used herein, include direct coupling or indirect coupling—through intermediate elements. Particular features of each of the modalities described herein may be interchanged with those of other modalities. In addition, valve 22 or 94 may be combined with a valve having a fixed outlet orifice (such as, among others, those described herein or those that have neither a flow ring nor slots, but without an adjustment mechanism) to simplify ratio adjustment (for example, in a post-mix dispenser with a base beverage valve and a water valve to form a finished beverage, the base beverage valve may be adjustable as described herein, but the water valve may have a fixed orifice between the regulator and the outlet for a constant, non-adjustable flow, and therefore only one adjustment is required in such a case). Although the present invention has been described in detail, it should be understood that various changes, alterations, substitutions, additions and modifications can be made without deviating from the intended scope of the invention, as defined in the following claims. It is hereby stated that, as of this date, the best method known to the applicant for putting the aforementioned invention into practice is the one that is clear from the present description of the invention.
Claims
Having described the invention as above, the following claims are claimed as property:
1. A valve characterized in that it comprises: a fluid inlet; a fluid outlet; a regulator coupled to the fluid inlet and having a regulator outlet; and a solenoid, comprising: an armature configured to retract a retraction distance from a closed position to a retracted position, the armature adapted to stop the fluid flow between the regulator outlet and the fluid outlet in the closed position; and an adjustable stop configured to adjustably set the retraction distance.
2. The valve according to claim 1, characterized in that the adjustable stop comprises an adjusting screw, the adjusting screw includes a shaft with an armature end that restricts the retraction of the armature beyond the retracted position.
3. The valve according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises a flow ring surrounding the regulator outlet, the flow ring including at least one slot in fluid communication with the regulator outlet and the fluid outlet, the fluid outlet being outside the flow ring and wherein increasing the retraction distance exposes a larger portion of the at least one slot.
4. The valve according to claim 3, characterized in that the flow ring has an inner diameter, the valve further comprises a diaphragm coupled to one end of the armature regulator, the diaphragm including a first section adapted to close the regulator outlet in the closed position and a second section having an outer diameter greater than or equal to the inner diameter of the flow ring.
5. The valve according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises a flow ring surrounding a ring outlet, the ring outlet being in fluid communication with the fluid outlet, the flow ring including at least one slot in fluid communication with the regulator outlet, the regulator outlet being outside the flow ring and wherein increasing the retraction distance exposes a larger portion of the at least one slot.
6. The valve according to claim 5, characterized in that the flow ring has an inner diameter, the valve further comprises a diaphragm coupled to an armature regulator end, the diaphragm includes a first section adapted to close the outlet of the ring in the closed position and a second section having an outer diameter greater than or equal to the inner diameter of the flow ring.
7. The valve according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises a diaphragm coupled to a regulator end of the armature, the diaphragm adapted to isolate the armature from the flowing fluid from the regulator outlet.
8. The valve according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises a diaphragm coupled to one end -of the regulator -of the armature, the diaphragm including a first section adapted to close the fluid communication between the regulator outlet and the fluid-o outlet in the closed position and a second section adapted to isolate the armature -from the fluid-o flowing from the regulator outlet.
9. The valve according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises a fluid passage from the regulator outlet to the fluid outlet, wherein the fluid passage is closed by the induced in the closed position and wherein increasing the retraction distance increases the fluid flow through the fluid passage.
10. The valve according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises tabs extending from the valve, the tabs being adapted to engage with a back block in a bayonet fitting arrangement.
11. The valve according to claim 1, characterized in that the regulator and solenoid are arranged in a substantially linear arrangement and housed axially in a substantially cylindrical housing.
12. The valve according to claim 1, characterized in that the regulator and solenoid are arranged substantially in a linear manner.
13. The valve according to claim 1, characterized in that the fluid outlet is positioned between the regulator and the solenoid.
14. A beverage dispensing system characterized because it comprises: a water valve coupled to a water inlet; a beverage base valve coupled to a beverage base inlet; a user interface; a controller coupled to the water valve, the beverage base valve, and the user interface; a nozzle; wherein each of the water valve and the beverage base valve comprises: a fluid inlet; a fluid outlet coupled to the nozzle;A regulator coupled to the fluid inlet and having a regulator outlet and a solenoid, comprising: an armature configured to retract a retraction distance from a closed position to a retracted position, the armature adapted to dezener the fluid flow between the regulator outlet and the fluid outlet in the closed position, and an adjustable stop configured to adjustably set the retraction distance, wherein the controller, in response to the user interface, can operate to activate the water valve and the beverage base valve to dispense water and beverage base to form a finished beverage.
15. The system according to claim 14, characterized in that the water comprises carbonated water.
16. The system according to claim 14, characterized in that each adjustable stop comprises an adjusting screw, the adjusting screw includes a shaft with an armature end that restricts the retraction of the armature beyond the retracted position.
17. The system according to claim 14, characterized in that each valve further comprises a flow ring surrounding the regulator outlet, the flow ring including at least one slot in fluid communication with the fluid outlet, the fluid outlet being outside the flow ring and wherein increasing the retraction distance exposes a larger portion of the at least one slot.
18. The system according to claim 14, characterized in that each valve further comprises a flow ring surrounding a ring outlet, the ring outlet being in fluid communication with the fluid outlet, the flow ring including at least one slot in fluid communication with the regulator outlet, the regulator outlet being outside the flow ring and wherein increasing the retraction distance exposes a larger portion of at least one slot.
19. The system according to claim 14, characterized in that it further comprises: a rear block adapted to couple the water inlet and the drink base inlet to the water valve and the drink base valve, the rear block including a water shut-off valve coupled to the water inlet and a drink base shut-off valve coupled to the drink base inlet, and tabs extending from the water valve and the drink base valve, the tabs being adapted to couple the respective water valve and drink base valve to the rear block in a bayonet fitting arrangement, and wherein the coupled water valve opens the water shut-off valve and the coupled drink base valve opens the drink base shut-off valve. 20.The system according to claim 14, characterized in that each valve further comprises a fluid passage from the regulator outlet to the fluid outlet, wherein the fluid passage is closed by the armature in the closed position and wherein increasing the retraction distance increases the fluid flow through the fluid passage.