Device and method for mixing and dispensing beverages using a venturi mixing chamber

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a device and a method for mixing and dispensing beverages, wherein the mixing process uses a Venturi mixing chamber. In particular, the device allows a first ingredient and a second ingredient to be mixed precisely, based on a flow measurement. The flow measurement is carried out on the first liquid. Since this measurement is known, it is possible to calculate and correct the flow of the second liquid during operation.

Description

[0001] DEVICE AND METHOD FOR MIXING AND DISPENSING BEVERAGES USING A VENTURI MIXING CHAMBER

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present disclosure relates to the technical field of beverage dispensing equipment and devices for dispensing beverages prepared by mixing at least two liquid components, in particular, it relates to a device and method for mixing and dispensing beverages using a Venturi mixing chamber.

[0004] DESCRIPTION OF THE STATE OF THE ART

[0005] In the beverage manufacturing industry, processes to ensure the tightness and safety of a beverage and reduce waste are important within the logistics operation. According to the above, packaging, transportation, and container handling represent a considerable portion of both the cost of a beverage for the end consumer and its carbon footprint and environmental impact.

[0006] In order to improve the efficiency of this logistics operation and with the focus on offering a convenient consumer experience, it is common to find beverage dispensing systems based on a mixture of concentrated ingredients and water. These dispensing systems have the advantage of reducing logistics costs relative to the quantity of beverages served, compared to the distribution cost of packaged beverages, and of reducing the waste generated.

[0007] The impact that the dispensing system, and consequently the beverage dispensing device, has on the organoleptic characteristics of the final beverage significantly influences the consumer experience. Today, beverage dispensers are equipped with elements to control and regulate variables that determine these characteristics. For example, with regard to soft drink dispensing devices, it is important that the dispenser allows for a homogeneous mixture of ingredients, ensuring an adequate temperature, controlled carbonation, and precise dosage of ingredients according to the type of beverage.

[0008] In this sense, the blending method exerts a substantial influence on the quality of the final beverage, in addition to providing the possibility of customizing the ingredients according to consumer preferences.

[0009] In patent documents US6994231B2, US7866508B2 and EP2891622B1, reference is made to mixing devices that use the Venturi effect to achieve a homogeneous mixture of ingredients.

[0010] Specifically, US6994231B2 discloses a beverage dispensing system and method that utilizes a Venturi mixing device to mix a beverage concentrate with water, the water being used as the driving force to blend the beverage components. Optionally, the system disclosed in US6994231B2 allows for providing a single-serve beverage by adding liquid sweeteners and flavorings to the mixture.

[0011] Additionally, the system described in US6994231B2 includes control valves for each component, allowing the quantities and proportions to be regulated to produce the desired beverage. These valves operate to control the flow of the beverage components for mixing in the device according to a preset proportion.

[0012] For its part, document US7866508B2 discloses a beverage dispensing system and a method for dispensing a beverage. The system disclosed in US7866508B2 comprises an inlet adapted to be coupled to a water source, a concentrate source containing concentrate, a dispensing outlet, a fluid line, and a valve. The valve can be positioned to deliver any desired amount of concentrate and water in a range of concentrate amounts from the concentrate source to the fluid line, where the movement of the concentrate is generated by the Venturi effect using a Venturi-type mixing valve.

[0013] On the other hand, document EP2891622B1 relates to a device for dispensing a beverage, wherein at least one additional solution, or additive, is injected into the dispensed beverage. Said additive injection can be performed by the Venturi effect, generated by a main flow, where the additive is provided by a dosing system, and its quantity is proportional to the desired amount of beverage.

[0014] According to the above, Venturi-type mixers provide the aforementioned dispensing devices with the ability to perform highly efficient mixing without requiring moving parts. However, these mixers also generate significant pressure loss due to the constriction of the passage at the throat. This pressure loss makes the mixing process susceptible to variations in flow velocity, affecting the dosage of ingredients in the final dispensed beverage mixture.

[0015] Accordingly, dispensing devices incorporating a Venturi-type mixer require specific design and operating conditions, making them unsuitable for application in processes requiring precise ingredient blends, such as, for example, custom beverage blends, blends comprising concentrated fermented beverages, or beverage blends containing alcohol.

[0016] One solution to this problem is the use of dosing pumps, such as peristaltic pumps. Dosing pumps generate volumetric displacement, allowing the proportion of ingredients delivered to be controlled.

[0017] In relation to the above, patent document US20230227301A1 discloses a device for producing and dispensing fermented beverages using customized concentrates. Specifically, the mixing of ingredients in the device described in US20230227301A1 is carried out by means of an injection mixer that operates according to the Bernoulli principle, where the ingredients are administered by means of peristaltic pumps. This device requires careful calibration to achieve a homogeneous mixture, which depends on both the properties of the mixed ingredients and the working environmental conditions.

[0018] While the proposed solutions allow for the dispensing of mixed beverages with high efficiency and control over the ingredient ratio, such developments typically require specific design and operating conditions, as well as careful calibration, making them difficult to install and maintain without the assistance of highly qualified personnel.

[0019] BRIEF DESCRIPTION

[0020] The present disclosure relates to a device and method for mixing and dispensing beverages, wherein said mixing utilizes a Venturi mixing chamber.

[0021] The device comprises a computing unit; a liquid supply system with a supply inlet connected to a source of first liquid, and a supply outlet; a metering pump connected to a second liquid container containing a second liquid; a Venturi mixing chamber with a primary inlet connected to the supply outlet, a secondary inlet connected to the metering pump, and a mixed liquid outlet; and a dispensing valve connected to the mixed liquid outlet of the Venturi mixing chamber.

[0022] In particular, the device has a flow meter arranged between the supply inlet and the supply outlet of the supply system, which allows the calculation of the dosage of the second liquid in the computing unit. This allows the quantity of second liquid in the mixture to be accurately calculated, without said quantity being influenced by factors external to the operation of the device for mixing and dispensing beverages. The method of the present disclosure comprises the following steps: a) obtaining recipe data in a computing unit from an I / O system connected to the computing unit; b) obtaining start data in the computing unit from a dispensing sensor connected to a dispensing valve;c) generating a trigger data to obtain a first liquid with a distribution pressure in a liquid supply system, from the start data and the recipe data, and where the first liquid flows through the flow meter; d) determining in the computing unit a volumetric flow rate data of a first liquid derived from the first liquid flowing through the flow meter; e) determining in the computing unit a volume data of a second liquid from the recipe data and the volumetric flow rate data; f) generating in the computing unit a drive data to obtain a volume of a second liquid in at least one dosing pump from the volume data, and where at least one dosing pump is configured to dispense a volume of a second liquid; g) obtaining a mixed liquid in a Venturi mixing chamber from the first liquid and the second liquid;yh) dispense the mixed liquid through the dispensing valve.;

[0023] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0024] FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of a device for mixing and dispensing beverages, comprising a computing unit; a liquid supply system connected to the computing unit, said liquid supply system having a supply inlet connected to a source of first liquid, and a supply outlet; a flow meter disposed between the supply inlet and the supply outlet, and connected to the computing unit; a dosing pump connected to a container of second liquid and to the computing unit; a Venturi mixing chamber having a primary inlet connected to the supply outlet of the liquid supply system, with a diffusion section having a secondary inlet connected to the dosing pump, and a mixed liquid outlet; and a dispensing valve connected to the mixed liquid outlet of the Venturi mixing chamber.

[0025] FIG. 2 is a schematic representation of a device for mixing and dispensing beverages comprising a computing unit; a liquid supply system connected to the computing unit, said liquid supply system having a supply inlet connected to a source of first liquid, a purification system connected to the supply inlet, a cooling system connected to the purification system, a pressurization system connected to the cooling system, a carbonation system connected to the pressurization system, and a supply outlet connected to the carbonation system; a flow meter disposed between the carbonation system and the supply outlet, and connected to the computing unit; a plurality of dosing pumps individually connected to a container of second liquid and to the computing unit;a Venturi mixing chamber with a main inlet, two diffusion sections with a plurality of secondary inlets individually connected to a metering pump, and a mixed liquid outlet; a dispensing valve connected to the mixed liquid outlet of the Venturi mixing chamber; a dispensing sensor connected to the dispensing valve and to the computing unit; and a second mixing chamber with a second mixture inlet, an additive inlet, and a second mixture outlet.

[0026] FIG. 3 shows an isometric view of a device for mixing and dispensing beverages comprising a computing unit; a liquid supply system with a purification system; a Venturi mixing chamber with a primary inlet, a plurality of secondary inlets, and a mixed liquid outlet; a plurality of dosing pumps; and a dispensing valve.

[0027] FIG. 4 shows a schematic of a Venturi mixing chamber with a main inlet, two diffusion sections, and an outlet; two secondary inlets are connected to the first diffusion section; a secondary inlet is connected to the second diffusion section. The first liquid flows through the main inlet, and the second liquid flows through each of the secondary inlets. The first and second liquids mix in the mixing chamber, and the mixed liquid exits through the mixed liquid outlet.

[0028] FIG. 5 shows a sectional isometric view of one embodiment of the Venturi mixing chamber with more than one main inlet, each main inlet being independently connected to two diffusion sections in series, and one outlet; two secondary inlets are connected to each first diffusion section; one secondary inlet is connected to each second diffusion section.

[0029] FIG. 6 shows a simulation of liquid velocities during the mixing process of a first liquid and three second liquids in a Venturi mixing chamber with a main inlet, two diffusion sections, and one outlet; two secondary inlets are connected to the first diffusion section; one secondary inlet is connected to the second diffusion section.

[0030] FIG. 7 shows a flow diagram of a method for mixing beverages including the steps of conducting the mixed liquid to a second mixing chamber to obtain a post-mixed liquid and dispensing the post-mixed liquid.

[0031] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] Consumer beverages can be produced using concentrated ingredients, which optimizes the use of resources used in production processes. These ingredients are usually diluted and carbonated to achieve optimal drinking characteristics and maintain their freshness.

[0033] These processes can be carried out just before packaging the beverage and distributing it for sale at a point of sale or distribution center. This is done to maintain strict quality control over the product.

[0034] In other cases, the dilution and carbonation of the beverage can be carried out at the points of sale by means of dispensing systems, which reduces transportation costs and distribution logistical efforts. In this sense, in a first aspect and according to FIG. 1 , the present disclosure refers to a device for mixing and dispensing beverages comprising a computing unit (1); a liquid supply system (3) connected to the computing unit (1), said liquid supply system (3) having a supply inlet (31) connected to a source of first liquid (2), and a supply outlet (32); a dosing pump (4) connected to a container of second liquid (5) and to the computing unit (1);a Venturi mixing chamber (6) with a main inlet (61) connected to the supply outlet (32) of the liquid supply system (3), a diffusion section (62) with a secondary inlet (63) connected to the dosing pump (4), and a mixed liquid outlet (64); a flow meter (7) arranged between the supply inlet (31) of the supply system (3) and the supply outlet (32); and a dispensing valve (8) connected to the mixed liquid outlet (64) of the Venturi mixing chamber (6).

[0035] According to the above, the device allows a first liquid (12) provided by the first liquid source (2) connected to the liquid supply system (3), to move towards the liquid supply system (3), which allows the distribution of the first liquid (12). Said first liquid (12) has a flow rate that is measured through a flow meter (7) arranged between the supply inlet (31) and the supply outlet (32) of the supply system (3).

[0036] In this way, the first liquid (12) is conducted to the main inlet (61) of the Venturi mixing chamber (6) connected to the supply outlet (32) and, subsequently, it is conducted to the diffusion section (62) of the Venturi mixing chamber (6).

[0037] For its part, a second liquid (13) stored in the second liquid container (5) is displaced by means of the dosing pump (4) towards the secondary inlet (63) of the Venturi mixing chamber (6) located in the diffusion section (62). The second liquid (13) supplied by means of the dosing pump (4) has a flow rate related to the flow rate of the first liquid (12) measured through the flow meter (7). For example, the flow rate of the second liquid (13) may be proportional to the flow rate of the first liquid (12).

[0038] As it passes through the diffusion section (62), the first liquid (12) allows the generation of a reduced pressure in said diffusion section (62). Said reduced pressure allows the second liquid (13) supplied by means of the dosing pump (4) to be injected so that it can be integrated with the first liquid (12), in this way, the first liquid (12) and the second liquid (13) are integrated in the diffusion section (62) of the Venturi mixing chamber (6). When the first liquid (12) and the second liquid (13) are integrated, a mixed liquid (14) is obtained from the mixture that is carried out in the diffusion section (62) and is homogenized through its passage through the Venturi mixing chamber (6).

[0039] Finally, the mixed liquid (14) moves towards the dispensing valve (8) connected to the outlet of the Venturi mixing chamber (6). This allows a mixed beverage corresponding to the obtained mixed liquid (14) to be supplied.

[0040] For the purposes of this disclosure, a computing unit (1) shall be understood as a device, or a set of devices, that allows the processing, management, and storage of data. Said computing unit (1) is selected from the group consisting of microcontrollers, microprocessors, computers, servers, tablets, cell phones, smart phones, and other devices known to a person moderately versed in the subject. According to this disclosure, the computing unit (1) may include a storage device, a display device, and / or an I / O (Input / Output) system.

[0041] For the understanding of the present disclosure, an I / O system will be understood as a device that allows a user to interact with the computing unit (1), in other words, it allows the exchange of information, from the user's point of view, into data that can be interpreted and processed by the computing unit (1) and vice versa. According to the foregoing, an I / O device can be understood as, without limitation, a keyboard, a mouse, a TrackBall, a touchpad, a pointing device, a joystick, a screen, a touch screen, a printer, among other devices capable of allowing a user to enter and interpret information from the data processed, managed and / or stored in the computing unit (1).

[0042] The I / O system can be an integral part of the mixing device or it can be a separate device, linked via data transfer such as IoT (Internet of Things).

[0043] Additionally, the computing unit (1) may be or may include a special purpose data processing unit programmed to execute the method described below.

[0044] For the purposes of this disclosure, liquid shall be understood as a relatively incompressible fluid whose volume is constant under conditions of constant temperature and pressure, for example, water, oil, milk, alcohol, equivalent liquids known to a person of ordinary skill in the art, or a combination of the above.

[0045] According to the above, the first liquid (12) is a relatively incompressible fluid and characterized in that it is suitable for human consumption and has a known quality, for example, the first liquid can be drinking water, distilled or demineralized water, or a previously prepared beverage such as tea, coffee, flavored waters or fruit juices and extracts whose chemical or organoleptic characteristics can be modified in a subsequent mixing process. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first liquid (12) is drinking water.

[0046] For its part, the second liquid (13) corresponds to a liquid ingredient with physical and chemical characteristics that allow the organoleptic, chemical or physical characteristics of another substance, or another liquid, to be modified when combined with it. For example, the second liquid (13) may be a colorant that allows the color of another liquid to be modified when combined.

[0047] The second liquid (13) may be comprised of a plurality of ingredients. Said ingredients are selected from the group consisting of concentrated fermented beverages (e.g., concentrated beer), ethyl alcohol, isomerized hops, additives, flavorings, fragrances, natural extracts, artificial extracts, food extracts, other compounds known to a person of ordinary skill in the art, and combinations thereof.

[0048] For the understanding of this disclosure, a liquid source will be understood as an open system (i.e., one that can exchange matter and energy with its environment) that allows a liquid to be provided continuously, such as elevated hydraulic storage elements, hydraulic distribution systems, hydraulic pumps, liquid storage tanks configured to allow the passage of a liquid, liquid dispensers, taps, aqueducts, water distribution systems, drinking water distribution systems, rivers, wells, liquid sources known to a person moderately versed in the subject matter, or a combination of the above.

[0049] According to the above, the source of first liquid (2) is a source of liquid that provides the first liquid (12), where the first liquid (12) provided by said source of first liquid (2) is characterized as being a liquid suitable for human consumption and of a known quality, for example, drinking water. Additionally, the first liquid (12) provided by the source of first liquid (2) may have a flow rate suitable for the operation of the device, where the flow rate is understood as the amount of fluid that flows per unit of time.

[0050] Said source of first liquid (2) is selected from the group consisting of hydraulic storage elements, hydraulic distribution systems, hydraulic pumps, other hydraulic supply systems known to a person moderately versed in the subject, and a combination of the above.

[0051] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure wherein the first liquid (12) is potable water, the source of first liquid (2) may be a potable water distribution system.

[0052] In accordance with the present disclosure, and in relation to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the source of first liquid (2) is connected to a supply inlet (31) of a liquid supply system (3), wherein the first liquid flows from the supply inlet (31) to a supply outlet (32) of the liquid supply system (3).

[0053] Said liquid supply system (3) is a hydraulic system comprising a set of elements, arranged between the supply inlet (31) and the supply outlet (32) that allow the flow, rate, and pressure of the first liquid (12) to be distributed and modified. In this sense, the liquid supply system (3) allows the control of the flow, rate, and pressure with which the first liquid (12) is distributed through the elements that make up the device, where pressure is understood as the force per unit area experienced by a moving fluid, in other words, the force that pushes the liquid through a hydraulic system, for example, the liquid supply system (3), and towards the outside of it.

[0054] In accordance with the above, the liquid supply system (3) may have elements and accessories that allow controlling, directing, modifying or regulating the flow, the rate, the pressure, and the organoleptic properties of the first liquid (12) that flows from the supply inlet (31) to the supply outlet (32). Said elements and accessories are selected from the group consisting of valves, gates, diffusers, deflectors, nozzles, diverters, pipes, tanks, filters, carbonation systems, cooling systems, hydraulic pumps, among other elements known to a person moderately versed in the matter that allow controlling, directing, modifying or regulating the flow, the rate, the pressure, and the organoleptic properties of a liquid.

[0055] In this sense, the liquid supply system (3) allows the distribution of the first liquid (12) through the elements that make up the device, where the flow, the rate, the pressure, and the organoleptic properties of the first fluid (12) can be different in the supply inlet (31) and the supply outlet (32).

[0056] In accordance with the present disclosure and with reference to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the liquid supply system (3) may be connected to the computing unit (1), wherein said computing unit (1) is configured to generate data that allows modifying the flow, the rate of flow, and the pressure of the first liquid that enters through the supply inlet (31) and is conducted through the liquid supply system (3) to the supply outlet (32).

[0057] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the liquid supply system (3) may comprise an electromechanical valve arranged between the supply inlet (31) and the supply outlet (32). Said electromechanical valve allows modifying the flow and pressure of the first liquid that enters through the supply inlet (31) and is conducted through the liquid supply system (3) to the supply outlet (32), based on data generated in the computing unit (1). For example, said modification may be carried out through the opening and closing control of the electromechanical valve.

[0058] Said electromechanical valve is selected from the group consisting of check valves, gate valves, ball valves or spherical valves, safety or pressure relief valves, globe (or seat) valves, butterfly valves, diaphragm valves, rotary valves, non-return valves, such as swing flap valves, spring valves, piston valves, ball check valves, and electromechanical valves known to a person moderately versed in the subject.

[0059] On the other hand, according to the present disclosure, the device has a second liquid container (5) that allows to contain, protect and supply the second liquid (13).

[0060] In accordance with the present disclosure and with reference to FIG. 1, the second liquid (13) may be placed in the second liquid container (5) for storage, protection and use. The second liquid container (5) may comprise a liquid containment element selected from the group consisting of tanks, barrels, jugs, drums, flexible containers, flexible tanks, storage bags, flexible bags, liquid containment elements known to a person of ordinary skill in the art, and combinations thereof.Additionally, said containment element of the second liquid container (5) may be a closed containment element, a containment element with a hermetic seal, a containment element with a valve, a containment element with pouring elements, a containment element with a tap, a closed containment element known to a person moderately versed in the matter, or a combination of the above.

[0061] According to the present disclosure, and in relation to FIG. 1, the second liquid container (5) is connected to a dosing pump (4). Said dosing pump (4) corresponds to a device that allows to provide a specific and precise volume of a liquid, in the case of the present disclosure, the dosing pump (4) allows to provide a specific and precise volume of the second liquid (13).

[0062] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the dosing pump (4) allows providing a second liquid (13) with a specific flow rate, that is, it allows controlling the volume supplied per unit of time of the second liquid (13).

[0063] The dosing pump (4) is selected from the set consisting of peristaltic pumps, diaphragm pumps, piston pumps, membrane pumps, and devices that allow providing a specific volume known to a person moderately versed in the subject.

[0064] In accordance with the present disclosure, and in relation to FIG. 1, the dosing pump (4) may be connected to the computing unit (1), in this way, the flow rate of the second liquid (13) provided by the dosing pump (4) may be determined from data generated in the computing unit (1).

[0065] In particular, the flow rate, which is supplied of the second liquid (13) can be determined in the computing unit (1) from a data related to the flow rate of the first liquid (12). In other words, the flow rate that is dispensed of the second liquid (13) can be related to the amount of fluid that flows between the supply inlet (31) and the supply outlet (32) of the supply system (3) per unit of time. In relation to the above, in order to determine the flow rate of said first liquid (12) in accordance with the present disclosure and with reference to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 , the device has a flow meter (7) arranged between the supply inlet (31) and the supply outlet (32). Said flow meter (7) is connected to the computing unit (1).

[0066] In particular, said flow measurement, carried out by means of the flow meter (7) and derived from the flow of the first liquid (12) between the supply inlet (31) and the supply outlet (32) of the supply system (3), allows calculating and adjusting the flow rate of the second liquid (13) provided by the dosing pump (4).

[0067] According to the above, the flow meter (7) corresponds to a device that allows measuring the flow rate or volumetric flow of a liquid in a system. Said flow meter (7) is selected from the set consisting of a velocity flow meter (e.g. propeller flow meters, turbine flow meters, electromagnetic flow meters, ultrasonic or Doppler effect flow meters), differential pressure flow meter (e.g. orifice plate, Venturi tube, Pitot tube, flow plate), mass flow meter (e.g. Coriolis effect flow meters, thermal flow meters), volumetric flow meter (e.g. oval wheel flow meters, piston flow meters), and devices for measuring the flow rate or volumetric flow of a liquid known to a person moderately versed in the matter.

[0068] According to the elements previously described, the device of the present disclosure is configured to provide a first liquid (12) with a flow rate, said flow rate being measured by means of a flow meter (7). The measurement of said flow rate makes it possible to calculate and adjust the flow rate of the second liquid (13) provided by the dosing pump (4), that is, it makes it possible to supply a second liquid (13) with a specific flow rate related to the flow rate of the first liquid (12).

[0069] On the other hand, and referring to FIG. 1 , the first liquid (12) and the second liquid (13) can be conducted to a Venturi mixing chamber (6) where said liquids can be mixed to obtain the mixed liquid (14). According to the present disclosure, the Venturi mixing chamber (6) corresponds to a device that allows mixing at least two distinct streams of different fluids. Said Venturi mixing chamber (6) has a main inlet (61) connected to the supply outlet (32) through which the first liquid (12) enters; a diffusion section (62); a secondary inlet (63) connected to the dosing pump (4) through which the second liquid (13) enters; and a mixed liquid outlet (64) through which a mixed liquid (14) exits.

[0070] The diffusion section (62) of the Venturi mixing chamber (6) may have a narrowing which may be funnel-shaped, a low-pressure zone following the narrowing, and a diverging zone after the low-pressure zone. In particular, the secondary inlet (63) is arranged in the low-pressure zone and is part of the diffusion section (62).

[0071] According to the present disclosure, the first liquid (12) flows into the Venturi mixing chamber (6) and is conducted to the narrowing of the diffusion section (62). Upon passing through said narrowing and due to Bernoulli's principle, the first liquid (12) loses pressure and its speed increases. This allows a pressure reduction to be generated when the first liquid (12) passes through the low pressure zone of the diffusion section. Said reduced pressure allows the second liquid (13) to mix with the first liquid (12) in said low pressure zone, which allows the mixed liquid (14) to be obtained. The mixed liquid (14) passes through the diverging zone of the diffusion section where its speed decreases and its pressure increases. This ensures that the mixed liquid (14) is homogenized.

[0072] Referring to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the mixed liquid (14) is conducted to the mixed liquid outlet (64) of the Venturi mixing chamber (6). Said mixed liquid outlet (64) is connected to a dispensing valve (8) through which the mixed liquid (14) is dispensed.

[0073] Said dispensing valve (8) is selected from the group consisting of check valves, gate valves, ball valves or spherical valves, safety or pressure relief valves, globe (or seat) valves, butterfly valves, diaphragm valves, rotary valves, non-return valves, such as oscillating flap valves, spring valves, piston valves, ball check valves, and electromechanical valves known to a person moderately versed in the subject.

[0074] On the other hand, in one embodiment of the present disclosure and according to FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, the liquid supply system (3) may include a purification system (33), a pressurization system (34), a cooling system (35), and a carbonation system (36), arranged between the supply inlet (31) and the supply outlet (32), wherein said mentioned systems may be connected in series.

[0075] According to the previous modality, the supply system (3), in addition to allowing the flow and distribution of the first liquid (12) to be controlled, also allows various physical and organoleptic properties of the first liquid (12) to be modified.

[0076] For example, because the supply system (3) comprises a cooling system (35), it is possible to modify the temperature of the first liquid (12). Similarly, because the supply system (3) comprises a carbonation system (36), it is possible to modify the amount of CO2 dissolved in the first liquid (12). Also, because the supply system (3) comprises a purification system (33), it is possible to modify the amount of substances dissolved in the first liquid (12) (e.g. dissolved solids, dissolved minerals, dissolved particles).

[0077] In this sense, in order to obtain a filtered first liquid (12), the purification system (33) of the supply system (3) allows to retain and eliminate some particles that may be present in the first liquid (12), for example, it allows to retain sediments, contaminants, organic and inorganic substances, and other unwanted materials that may be found in said first liquid (12). The above helps to improve the quality of said first liquid (12), reduces or eliminates organoleptic effects, and protects the equipment and systems through which said first liquid (12) flows. According to FIG. 2, the purification system (33) can be connected to the supply inlet (31) and is selected from the group consisting of sediment filters, mesh filters, filtering particle filters (e.g.sand, quartz gravel, zeolite), activated carbon filters, ceramic filters, metal filters, membrane filters, reverse osmosis filters, ultraviolet light systems, ion exchange systems, ozone purification systems, other systems known to a person moderately versed in the subject, and combinations of the above.

[0078] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, in which the source of the first liquid (2) is a drinking water distribution system, the purification system (33) may be comprised of a sediment filter, which performs a first filtration of the water provided by the drinking water distribution system; and an activated carbon filter connected to the sediment filter, which performs a second filtration of the water provided by the drinking water distribution system. The above configuration is known as a two-stage filter.

[0079] According to the above embodiment, the fact that the purification system (33) is provided with a sediment filter allows the retention of particles, for example, particles with a size of up to 5 pm. On the other hand, the fact that the purification system (33) is provided with an activated carbon filter allows the retention of smaller particles compared to sediment filters, for example, particles with a size of up to 0.5 pm, in addition to the retention by adsorption of organic substances, aromas and flavors, for example, chlorine compounds. The two-stage filter configuration of the purification system (33) allows to improve the efficiency of the purification process, in addition, it reduces the workload on each of the filters, compared to a purification system (33) that has a single stage, for example, that has only a sediment filter, or only an activated carbon filter.

[0080] On the other hand, in order to obtain a pressurized first liquid (12), the pressurization system (34) of the supply system (3) allows the pressure of the first liquid (12) to be greater than the supply pressure (16). The fact of having said pressurized first liquid (12) allows the pressure of the first liquid (12) at the supply outlet (32) not to be the same as or depend on the pressure of the first liquid (12) at the supply inlet (31), therefore, said pressure of the first liquid (12) at the supply outlet (32) can be greater than the pressure of the first liquid (12) at the supply inlet (31).

[0081] According to FIG. 2, in one embodiment of the present disclosure the pressurization system (34) may be arranged between the purification system (33) and the supply outlet (32), i.e. the pressurization system (34) is connected downstream of the purification system (33) with respect to the flow direction. In this case the delivery pressure (17) of the first liquid (12) corresponds to the pressure provided by the pressurization system (34).

[0082] In another embodiment of the present disclosure, the pressurization system (34) can be arranged between the supply inlet (31) and the purification system (33), that is, the pressurization system (34) is connected before the purification system (33) with respect to the flow direction. This allows to provide an adequate pressure so that the first liquid (12) can flow through the purification system (3) so that it allows a constant flow and avoids possible obstructions due to particles retained in the purification system (34), therefore, it improves the purification process.

[0083] Additionally, in some embodiments of the present disclosure, the purification system (33) may cause a pressure drop in the system, said pressure drop may decrease the flow of the first liquid through the supply system (3), therefore, the pressurization system (34) allows to provide a higher pressure that compensates said pressure drop, guaranteeing the correct flow of the first liquid (12) through the device.

[0084] According to the above, the pressurization system (34) is selected from the group consisting of pressure pumps, pressurization systems with pressure tank, pressurization systems with variable speed pumps, pressurization systems with multiple pumps, pressurization systems with regulation, other systems known to a person moderately versed in the subject, and a combination of the above.

[0085] On the other hand, and in order to obtain a cooled first liquid (12), the cooling system (35) of the supply system (3) allows the first liquid (12), coming from the source of first liquid (2), to reach a lower temperature with respect to the temperature of said first liquid (12) at the supply inlet (31). The cooling system (35) can be connected to the computing unit (1), which allows the temperature of the first liquid (12) to be modified from data obtained in the computing unit (1).

[0086] According to the above, the cooling system (35) may be arranged between the supply inlet (31) and the supply outlet (32), i.e., it may be connected after the supply inlet (31), it may also be connected after the purification system (33), or it may be connected after the pressurization system (34). In one embodiment of the present invention, the cooling system (35) is arranged between the purification system (33) connected to the supply inlet (31), and the pressurization system (34).

[0087] Said cooling system (35) is selected from the group consisting of compression refrigerators, condensation refrigerators, ice bank cooling systems, evaporation cooling systems, immersion cooling systems, plate cooling systems, thermoelectric coolers (e.g. Peltier systems), and other cooling systems known to a person moderately versed in the subject.

[0088] On the other hand, in order to obtain a first carbonated liquid (12), that is, a first liquid (12) that includes carbon dioxide (CO2) bubbles, referring to FIG. 2, the carbonation system (36) allows CO2 to be dissolved in the first liquid (12) to create gas bubbles (carbonation) once the first liquid is depressurized and reaches atmospheric pressure when dispensed by the dispensing valve (8). This allows modifying the perception of flavor and texture of said first liquid compared to the first liquid (12) before carbonation. The carbonation system (36) can be connected to the computing unit (1), which allows modifying the amount of CO2 added to the first liquid from a data, said data can be generated or obtained in the computing unit (1).

[0089] The carbonation system (36) is selected from the group consisting of membrane carbonation systems, CO2 injection systems, tank carbonation systems, Venturi-type saturation systems, and other carbonation systems known to a person moderately versed in the subject.

[0090] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, said carbonation system (36) is a membrane carbonation system (36), which allows reducing the size of the device for mixing and dispensing beverages, thanks to the fact that a membrane carbonation system (36) can have a smaller size compared to other commercial carbonation systems. Said membrane carbonation system (36) also allows a more homogeneous suspension of CO2 in the first liquid (12) and allows a more precise regulation of the CO2 content in the first liquid (12) compared to other carbonation systems. The above is possible because the membranes allow the regulation of the pressure and the flow of CO2.

[0091] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the purification system (33) may be arranged between the supply inlet (31) and the supply outlet (32); the pressurization system (34) may be arranged between the supply inlet (31) and the supply outlet (32); the cooling system (35) may be connected to the purification system (33); and the carbonation system (36) may be arranged between the cooling system (35) and the supply outlet (32).

[0092] For example, the purification system (33) may be connected to the supply inlet (31); the pressurization system (34) may be connected to the purification system (33); the carbonation system (36) may be connected to the pressurization system (34); and the cooling system (35) may be disposed between the purification system (33) and the carbonation system (36). According to one embodiment of the present disclosure and referring to FIG. 2, the purification system (33) is connected between the supply inlet (31); the cooling system (35) is connected to the purification system (33); the pressurization system (34) is connected to the cooling system (35); and the carbonation system (36) is connected to the cooling system (35) and the supply outlet (32).

[0093] According to the above, the carbonation system (36) receives a first filtered, cooled and pressurized liquid (12), which facilitates the carbonation process, in relation to a non-pressurized, hot and unfiltered liquid, that is, it allows a greater dissolution of CO2 in the first liquid (12), with respect to the supplied CO2. This is because the solubility and retention of CO2 in a liquid increases as the temperature of said liquid decreases, therefore, having the cooling system (35) before the carbonation system (36) facilitates said carbonation process.

[0094] In relation to the above, the fact that the pressurization system (34) can be arranged between the cooling system (35) and the carbonation system (36), that is to say that the pressurization system (34) is connected before the carbonation system (36) with respect to the flow direction, allows compensation of the pressure losses generated by the purification system (33) and the cooling system (35). Said pressure compensation makes it possible to guarantee a controlled and constant pressure in the carbonation system (36) to guarantee the passage of the first liquid (12), therefore optimizing its operation.

[0095] According to the previous embodiment, the flow meter (7) can be arranged between the pressurization system (34) and the carbonation system (36). This allows the flow rate of the filtered, cooled and pressurized liquid to be measured before carbonation, which prevents the loss of CO2 related to the flow meter measurement system (7).

[0096] According to one embodiment, including the elements described above, the liquid supply system (3) allows obtaining a purified (e.g., free of dissolved solids, dissolved minerals, dissolved particles, chlorine compounds, unwanted organic substances), carbonated, and cooled first liquid (12). On the other hand, in one embodiment of the present disclosure and according to FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, the device may include more than one second liquid container (5), wherein each second liquid container (5) may contain a different second liquid (13). For example, with reference to FIG.2, a second liquid (13A), for example, a concentrated fermented beverage, may be contained in a first second liquid container (5A); a different second liquid (13B), for example, ethyl alcohol, may be contained in a second second liquid container (5B); and a different second liquid (13C), for example, a flavoring, may be contained in a third second liquid container (5C).

[0097] According to the above embodiment, and with reference to FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 , the device comprises a plurality of dosing pumps (4A, 4B, 4C), each of said dosing pumps (4A, 4B, 4C) being independently connected to a second liquid container (5A, 5B, 5C) and to the computing unit (1). Said configuration makes it possible to provide more than one second liquid (13A, 13B, 13C) at a specific and precise flow rate, wherein said more than one second liquid may be different liquid ingredients. This makes it possible to make mixtures including more than one liquid ingredient to obtain a mixed liquid (14) with several ingredients, wherein said mixed liquid (14) with several ingredients is conducted to a dispensing valve (8) through the mixed liquid outlet (64).

[0098] In this regard, according to one embodiment of the present invention and FIG. 4 , FIG. 5 , and FIG. 6 , the Venturi mixing chamber (6) may have more than one diffusion section (62) with more than one secondary inlet (63). Wherein said more than one diffusion section (62) may be connected in series, and wherein each of the secondary inlets (63) is independently connected to one of the plurality of dosing pumps (4). Said configuration allows more than one mixture to be made, which allows different mixtures to be made, wherein different ingredients are included integrated in different ways, which allows obtaining different mixed liquids (14) that are conducted to a dispensing valve (8) through the mixed liquid outlet (64).According to the above, in one embodiment of the present disclosure the Venturi mixing chamber (6) may have a main inlet (61), a mixed liquid outlet (64), and two diffusion sections (62) with two secondary inlets (63) independently connected to a dosing pump (4), wherein each secondary inlet (63) is located in a different diffusion section (62). Such a configuration allows a homogeneous mixing to be carried out to obtain a mixed liquid (14) that includes a first liquid (12) and two second liquids (13), wherein said two second liquids (13) can be different liquid ingredients, and wherein the mixed liquid outlet (64) allows the mixed liquid (14) to be conducted to the dispensing valve (8).

[0099] Additionally, in one embodiment of the present disclosure the Venturi mixing chamber (6) may have a main inlet (61), a mixed liquid outlet (64), and a plurality of diffusion sections (62) with a plurality of secondary inlets (63) distributed in different diffusion sections (62). Said configuration allows a homogeneous mixing to be carried out to obtain a mixed liquid (14) that includes a first liquid (12) and a plurality of second liquids (13), wherein said second liquids (13) may be different liquid ingredients, and wherein the mixed liquid outlet (64) allows the mixed liquid (14) to be conducted to the dispensing valve (8).

[0100] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, and referring to FIG. 4 , FIG. 5 , and FIG. 6 , the Venturi mixing chamber (6) may have a main inlet (61), a mixed liquid outlet (64), a first diffusion section (62A) connected to the main inlet (61), said first diffusion section (62A) with two secondary inlets (63A, 63B); and a second diffusion section (62B) disposed between the first diffusion section (62A) and the mixed liquid outlet (64), said second diffusion section (62B) with one secondary inlet (63C), wherein each secondary inlet (63A, 63B, 63C) is connected to a separate dosing pump (4A, 4B, 4C).

[0101] For example, referring to FIG. 2, the secondary inlet (63A) may be connected to the dosing pump (4A) to receive a second liquid (13A), the secondary inlet (63B) may be connected to the dosing pump (4B) to receive a second liquid (13B), and the secondary inlet (63C) may be connected to the dosing pump (4C) to receive a second liquid (13C).

[0102] The above configuration allows a homogeneous mixture to be made to obtain a mixed liquid (14) that includes a first liquid (12) and three second liquids (13A, 13B, 13C), wherein said three second liquids (13A, 13B, 13C) can be different liquid ingredients, and wherein the mixed liquid outlet (64) allows the mixed liquid (14) to be conducted to the dispensing valve (8).

[0103] Additionally, the fact that each of the three secondary inlets (63A, 63B, 63C) is independently connected to a dosing pump (4A, 4B, 4C), wherein each of said dosing pumps (4A, 4B, 4C) is independently connected to a second liquid container (5A, 5B, 5C) and to the computing unit (1), allows a specific and precise volume of said second liquids (13A, 13B, 13C) to be provided to each of the secondary inlets (63A, 63B, 63C) independently.

[0104] On the other hand, according to one embodiment of the present invention and with reference to FIG. 5 , the Venturi mixing chamber (6) may comprise more than one main inlet (61) and more than one mixed liquid outlet (64). Said more than one main inlet (61) are independently connected to at least one diffusion section (62) with more than one secondary inlet (63). Said configuration allows more than one mixed liquid (14) to be obtained, wherein each mixed liquid (14) incorporates more than one second liquid (13), wherein said more than one second liquid (13) is a distinct liquid ingredient, and wherein each mixed liquid (14) is conducted to a distribution valve (8) through a mixed liquid outlet (64), that is, where there is more than one dispensing valve (8).

[0105] In this sense, the Venturi mixing chamber (6), in combination with the liquid supply system (3) connected to a source of first liquid (2) and the more than one dosing pump (4) independently connected to a container of second liquid (5), allows more than one mixed liquid (14) to be obtained through a dispensing valve (8). In one embodiment of the present disclosure, each mixed liquid (14) can be dispensed through a different dispensing valve (8).

[0106] In one embodiment of the present disclosure and according to FIG. 2 , the device comprises a second mixing chamber (9) with a second mix inlet (91) connected to the dispensing valve (8), at least one additive inlet (92) connected to a dosing pump (4D) connected to a second liquid container (5D) with a second liquid (13D) and to the computing unit (1), and a second mix outlet (93). The above makes it possible to obtain a post-mixed liquid (15) dispensed at the second mix outlet (93) that includes a mixed liquid (14) and at least one second liquid (13) incorporated.

[0107] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the second mixing chamber (9) is an atmospheric, non-pressurized mixing chamber, wherein the second mix inlet (91) is the primary inlet and the additive inlet (92) is the secondary inlet.

[0108] In one embodiment of the present disclosure and according to FIG. 2 , the dispensing valve (8) is connected to a dispensing sensor (10). Said dispensing sensor (10) corresponds to a device that allows an action to be interpreted to produce data that is transmitted to the computing unit (1). For example, said action may be the change in the pressure of the mixed liquid (14) due to the opening of the dispensing valve (8), the pressure of a switch, the presence of a person, a change in light intensity, a signal generated by a wireless device, or any interaction that allows electrical or electronic data to be generated on a device.

[0109] According to the above, the dispensing sensor (10), connected to the computing unit (1), can detect the opening of the dispensing valve (8), thus, said detection of opening of the dispensing valve (8) allows starting a dispensing process.

[0110] The dispensing sensor (10) is selected from the group consisting of switches, pressure sensors, flow sensors, light sensors, motion sensors, position sensors, temperature sensors, level sensors, magnetic sensors, wireless signal receivers, RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) receivers, Bluetooth receivers, remote connection receivers, receivers for web-based control, sensors and receivers known to a person of ordinary skill in the art, or a combination of the above.

[0111] In relation to the above, the dispensing sensor (10) allows a person or user to interact with the computing unit (1) in order to start a process of mixing and dispensing a beverage.

[0112] In accordance with the foregoing and in relation to FIG. 7 , in a second aspect, the present disclosure refers to a method for mixing and dispensing beverages, comprising the steps of: a) obtaining at a computing unit (1) a recipe data (101) from an I / O system connected to the computing unit (1); b) obtaining at the computing unit (1) a start data (102) from a dispensing sensor (10) connected to a dispensing valve (8); c) generating an activation data (103) to obtain a first liquid (12) with a flow rate by means of a liquid supply system (3), from the start data (102) and the recipe data (101), and wherein the first liquid (12) flows through a flow meter (7); d) determining in the computing unit (1) a first volumetric flow rate data (104) of a first liquid (12) derived from the liquid flowing through the flow meter (7);e) determining in the computing unit (1) a second volumetric flow rate data (105) for a second liquid (13) from the recipe data (101) and the first volumetric flow rate data (104); f) generating in the computing unit (1) a drive data (106) to obtain a flow rate of the second liquid (13) in at least one dosing pump (4) from the second volumetric flow rate data (105), wherein the at least one dosing pump (4) is configured to dispense a flow rate of a second liquid (13); g) obtaining a mixed liquid (14) in a Venturi mixing chamber (6) from the first liquid (12) and the second liquid (13); and h) dispensing the mixed liquid (14) through the dispensing valve (8);

[0113] In relation to the above, the mixing and dispensing process may be initiated by obtaining a recipe data (101) in the computing unit (1). Said recipe data (101) may be preset in the computing unit (1) or may be provided by a user. Accordingly, the device may comprise an I / O system connected to the computing unit (1), wherein said I / O system allows a user to interact with said computing unit (1).

[0114] In particular, the recipe data (101) corresponds to data related to a proportion of liquids needed to mix and prepare a mixed liquid (14), said proportion may refer to a first liquid (12) and a plurality of second liquids (13), wherein said plurality of second liquids (13) may comprise different liquid ingredients.

[0115] Additionally, the recipe data (101) may include information about a quantity of gas and a temperature to obtain a mixed beverage (14).

[0116] Once the recipe data (101) has been obtained, a start data (102) is obtained in the computing unit (1). Said data can be obtained from the interaction of a user with the dispensing valve (8), said interaction is registered by means of the dispensing sensor (10), with the dispensing sensor (10) itself or by means of the I / O system. For example, the dispensing sensor (10) can detect the opening of the dispensing valve (8).

[0117] According to the above, the start data comprises a signal that is transmitted to the computing unit (1) and functions as a start instruction for the process of dispensing and mixing a beverage.

[0118] In particular, upon obtaining the start data (102), an activation data (103) is generated. Said activation data corresponds to an instruction that is transmitted to the liquid supply system (3), connected to the first liquid source (2), to obtain a first liquid (12). In this sense, the activation data (103) functions as a switch for the operation of the liquid supply system (3), so that said liquid supply system (3) provides a first liquid (12).

[0119] Optionally, said activation data (103) may include data related to a required volume, a required flow rate, a required pressure, a required temperature, and a required carbonation level for the first liquid (12). Accordingly, the activation data (103) may allow control of the pressurization system (34), the cooling system (35), and the carbonation system (36).

[0120] In this way, the liquid supply system (3) provides a first liquid (12) with specific characteristics determined from the activation data (103), for example, a specific temperature, and a specific carbonation level.

[0121] Said first liquid (12) flows through the flow meter (7) arranged between the supply inlet (31) and the supply outlet (32), which allows determining the flow rate of the first liquid (12) flowing through the supply system (3). It is important to highlight at this point that the flow rate of the first liquid (12) flowing through the supply system (3) does not vary in its transit through the elements that compose it as long as said elements function correctly, that is, that there are no leaks or stagnation of the first liquid (12).

[0122] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the flow meter (7) is arranged between the pressurization system (34) and the carbonation system (36), that is, it is connected before the carbonation system (36) with respect to the flow direction. The above configuration allows diagnosing problems related to the supply system (3), that is, verifying the correct operation of said supply system (3), validating that there are no leaks or stagnation of the first liquid (12).

[0123] For example, when the supply system (3) presents a stagnation, there is no flow of the first liquid (12) through the supply system (3), between the supply inlet (31) and the supply outlet (32), according to the above, the flow meter (7), connected to the computing unit (1), can allow the detection of this irregular behavior to generate an alert. Similarly, when there is a leak, the flow of the first liquid (12) through the supply system (3), between the supply inlet (31) and the supply outlet (32), may present irregular variations in its flow, in this way, the flow meter (7), connected to the computing unit (1), can allow the detection of this irregular behavior to generate an alert.

[0124] In this sense, the flow meter (7) allows generating in the computing unit (1) a volumetric flow data (104), derived from the first liquid (12) that flows through the flow meter (7), which corresponds to the quantity of the first liquid (12) per unit of time that is distributed by the supply system (3).

[0125] According to the method of the present disclosure, from said volumetric flow rate data (104), and considering the recipe data (101), a second volumetric flow rate data (105) for the second liquid (13), which is to be provided by the dosing pump (4), can be determined in the computing unit. The fact that the first volumetric flow rate data (104) of the first liquid (12) can be determined makes it possible to ensure that the proportion of liquids required to mix and prepare a mixed liquid (14) is accurately provided.

[0126] In relation to the above, the operating conditions of a beverage dispensing device may vary, depending on various parameters including atmospheric pressure at the location where the device is installed, device maintenance schedule, device wear, variation in the characteristics of the liquid ingredients, among others.Therefore, measuring the flow rate of the first liquid (12), derived from the first liquid (12) flowing through the flow meter (7), to determine a first volumetric flow rate data (104), and said first volumetric flow rate data allowing to determine the second volumetric flow rate data (105) required to dispense a second liquid (13), allows said second volumetric flow rate data (105) to depend exclusively on the amount of the first liquid (12) supplied, and is therefore more accurate compared to a system that does not determine the flow rate required to dispense the second liquid (13), for example, by a time calculation, a volume calculation, a geometric relationship of the supply lines or hydraulics of the liquids, or a flow relationship. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first volumetric flow rate data (104) is related to the recipe data (101).The first volumetric flow rate data (104) allows the computing unit (1) to determine, based on the recipe data (101), the second volumetric flow rate data (105) of the second liquid (13), which must be provided by the dosing pump (4) in relation to the flow rate of the first liquid (12) provided by the supply system (3) and which corresponds precisely to the proportion of ingredients necessary to mix and prepare a mixed liquid (14).

[0127] From said second volumetric flow rate data (105), a drive data (106) is generated in the computing unit. Said drive data (106) corresponds to a data related to the operation of the dosing pump (4) and depends on the drive mechanisms of said dosing pump (4). The drive data (106) allows the operating mechanisms of the dosing pump to be activated in order to obtain a specific flow rate of the second liquid (13) in the dosing pump (4).

[0128] For example, when the drive system of the dosing pump (4) may be related to a rotating element, such as a peristaltic pump, wherein the drive system may be a stepping motor, the drive data (106) may include a speed data (107). According to the previous example, the drive data (106) comprises a speed data (107) that allows the dosing pump (4), which may be a peristaltic pump coupled with a stepping motor, to execute a movement corresponding to a rotational speed to provide a second liquid (13) with a specific flow rate.

[0129] According to the steps previously described, the method of the present disclosure allows to provide a first liquid (12) with a flow rate, a required volume, a required pressure, a required temperature, and a required carbonation level, and a second liquid (13) with a specific flow rate related to the flow rate of the first liquid (12).

[0130] Said first liquid (12) and second liquid (13) move towards the Venturi mixing chamber (6), where the first liquid (12) enters through the main inlet (61) of the Venturi mixing chamber (6) connected to the supply outlet (32) and is conducted to the diffusion section (62) of the Venturi mixing chamber (6). For its part, the second liquid (13) enters through the secondary inlet (63) of the Venturi mixing chamber (6) located in the diffusion section (62).

[0131] The first liquid (12) and the second liquid (13) are located in the Venturi mixing chamber (6), where a mixed liquid (14) is obtained. This is possible because, upon passing through the diffusion section (62), the first liquid (12) generates a reduced pressure in said diffusion section (62), which allows the second liquid (13) to be incorporated by means of the dosing pump (4) into the main flow in said diffusion section (62) so that it can mix with the first liquid (12), and a mixed liquid (14) is obtained.

[0132] Finally, the mixed liquid (14) is conducted to the dispensing valve (8) connected to the mixed liquid outlet (64) of the Venturi mixing chamber (6) where the mixed liquid (14) is dispensed, i.e. it can be served as a mixed beverage ready for consumption.

[0133] In one embodiment of the present disclosure and according to FIG. 7 , the method includes the following steps after step h) of dispensing the mixed liquid (14): i) conducting the mixed liquid (14) to a second mixing chamber (9) to obtain a post-mixed liquid (15), wherein the second mixing chamber (9) has a second mix inlet (91) connected to the dispensing valve (8), at least one additive inlet (92) connected to a dosing pump (4), and a second mix outlet (93); and j) dispensing the post-mixed liquid (15) through the second mix outlet (93) of the second mixing chamber (9).

[0134] In relation to the above, said post-mixed liquid (15) includes a mixed liquid (14) and at least a second liquid (13). For example, the post-mixed liquid (15) allows additional components to be incorporated into the mixed liquid (14), such as ethyl alcohol, isomerized hops, additives, flavorings, fragrances, natural extracts, artificial extracts, food extracts, other compounds known to a person moderately versed in the art, and combinations of the above. The fact that a post-mixed liquid (15) can be obtained in a step subsequent to the step of obtaining a mixed liquid (14) allows increasing the flexibility and accentuating the sensory effect of this final ingredient.

[0135] Examples

[0136] EXAMPLE 1

[0137] A beverage mixing and dispensing device for dispensing a fermented beverage from a concentrated fermented beverage (e.g., concentrated beer) is designed according to FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 with the following features:

[0138] - a computing unit (1);

[0139] - a liquid supply system (3) with a supply inlet (31) connected to a source of first liquid (2), and a supply outlet (32), wherein the source of first liquid (2) is a drinking water distribution system, and the first liquid (12) is drinking water;

[0140] - a purification system (33) connected to the supply inlet (31), wherein the purification system (33) is a two-stage filter composed of a sediment filter and an activated carbon filter;

[0141] - a cooling system (35) connected to the purification system (33), which allows the reduction of the temperature of the first liquid (12) to 2 o C;

[0142] - a pressurization system (34) connected to the cooling system (35), and connected to the computing unit (1);

[0143] - a membrane carbonation system (36) connected to the pressurization system (34)

[0144] - a flow meter (7) connected to the pressurization system (34) and to the carbonation system (36);

[0145] - three second liquid containers (5A, 5B, 5C) independently connected to three dosing pumps (4A, 4B, 4C); wherein the first second liquid container (5A) contains isomerized hops, the second second liquid container (5B) contains ethyl alcohol, and the third second liquid container (5C) contains concentrated beer; and wherein each dosing pump (4A, 4B, 4C) is connected to the computing unit (1); - a Venturi mixing chamber (6) with a main inlet (61) connected to the supply outlet (32) of the liquid supply system (3); two diffusion sections (62A, 62B), the first diffusion section (62A) connected to the main inlet (61) and to two secondary inlets (63A, 63B), the first secondary inlet (63A) connected to the dosing pump (4A) and the second secondary inlet (63B) connected to the dosing pump (4B);the second diffusion section (62B) with a secondary inlet (63C) connected to the dosing pump (4C); and a mixed liquid outlet (64); and;

[0146] - a dispensing valve (8) connected to the mixed liquid outlet (64) of the Venturi mixing chamber (6).

[0147] With this configuration, it was possible to serve a variety of fermented beverage blends with an alcohol content between 0% and 10%.

[0148] Additionally, a dilution of a concentrated beer was achieved with a dilution factor between 1 to 4 vol / vol up to 1 to 6 vol / vol and the adjustment of the bitterness units of the fermented beverage to desired values ​​of 15 to 50 bitterness units.

[0149] EXAMPLE 2

[0150] Starting from the device of EXAMPLE 1, a method for mixing and dispensing beverages is implemented that includes the following steps: a) obtaining in a computing unit (1) a recipe data (101) from an I / O system connected to the computing unit (1), where the recipe data was obtained by means of an application, and where the recipe data (101) indicates that a beer with 10° of alcohol is desired; b) obtaining in the computing unit (1) a start data (102) from a dispensing sensor (10) connected to a dispensing valve (8); c) generating an activation data (103) to obtain a first liquid (12) with a flow rate by means of a liquid supply system (3), from the start data (102) and the recipe data (101), and where the first liquid (12) flows through a flow meter (7), where the measured flow rate is 2.4 1 / min;(d) determining in the computing unit (1) a first volumetric flow rate data (104) of a first liquid (12) derived from the liquid flowing through the flow meter (7); (e) determining in the computing unit (1) a second volumetric flow rate data (105) for a second liquid (13) from the recipe data (101) and the first volumetric flow rate data (104), wherein the second volumetric flow rate data (105) for a second liquid (13) is 0.5 1 / min; f) generating in the computing unit (1) a drive data (106) to obtain a flow rate of the second liquid (13) corresponding to 0.5 1 / min in at least one dosing pump (4) from the second volumetric flow rate data (105), wherein the at least one dosing pump (4) is configured to dispense a flow rate of a second liquid (13); g) obtaining a mixed liquid (14) in a Venturi mixing chamber (6) from the first liquid (12) and the second liquid (13);yh) dispensing the mixed liquid (14) through the dispensing valve (8);

[0151] The resulting mixed liquid was a reconstituted beer with 0% alcohol, 18 bitterness units, and a nominal drinking density corresponding to non-concentrated beer.

[0152] It should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the modalities described and illustrated, since as will be evident to a person skilled in the art, there are possible variations and modifications that do not depart from the spirit of the disclosure, which is only defined by the following claims.

Claims

CLAIMS 1. A device for mixing and dispensing beverages, comprising: - a computing unit (1); - a liquid supply system (3) connected to the computing unit (1), said liquid supply system (3) having a supply inlet (31) connected to a source of first liquid (2), and a supply outlet (32); - a dosing pump (4) connected to a second liquid container (5) and to the computing unit (1); - a Venturi mixing chamber (6) with a main inlet (61) connected to the supply outlet (32) of the liquid supply system (3), a diffusion section (62) with a secondary inlet (63) connected to the dosing pump (4), and a mixed liquid outlet (64); - a flow meter (7) arranged between the supply inlet (31) of the supply system (3) and the supply outlet (32) of the supply system (3), and connected to the computing unit (1); and - a dispensing valve (8) connected to the mixed liquid outlet (64) of the Venturi mixing chamber (6).

2. The device of Claim 1, wherein the liquid supply system (3) further comprises: - a purification system (33) arranged between the supply inlet (31) and the supply outlet (32); - a pressurization system (34) arranged between the supply inlet (31) and the supply outlet (32) and connected to the computing unit (1); - a cooling system (35) connected to the purification system (33), and connected to the computing unit (1); and - a carbonation system (36) arranged between the cooling system (35) and the supply outlet (32), and connected to the computing unit (1); where the flow meter (7) is arranged between the supply inlet (31) and the supply outlet (32).

3. The device of Claim 1, comprising a plurality of dosing pumps (4), wherein each of said dosing pumps (4) is independently connected to a second liquid container (5) and to the computing unit (1).

4. The device of Claim 3, wherein the Venturi mixing chamber (6) has more than one diffusion section (62); wherein said more than one diffusion section (62) are connected in series; and wherein each of the secondary inlets (63) of the more than one diffusion section (62) is independently connected to one of the plurality of dosing pumps (4).

5. The device of Claim 1, wherein a dispensing sensor (10) connected to the computing unit (1) is configured to detect the opening of the dispensing valve (8).

6. The device of Claim 1, wherein the second liquid container (5) contains a liquid ingredient that is selected from the group consisting of concentrated fermented beverages, ethyl alcohol, isomerized hops, additives, or flavorings.

7. The device of Claim 3, wherein the dispensing valve (8) is connected to a second mix inlet (91) of a second mixing chamber (9), and wherein said second mixing chamber (9) has at least one additive inlet (92) connected to a dosing pump (4), and a second mix outlet (93).

8. A method for mixing and dispensing beverages, comprising the steps of: a) obtaining in a computing unit (1) a recipe data (101) from an I / O system connected to the computing unit (1); b) obtaining in the computing unit (1) a start data (102) from a dispensing sensor (10) connected to a dispensing valve (8); c) generating a trigger data (103) to obtain a first liquid (12) with a flow rate by means of the liquid supply system (3) of Claim 2, from the start data (102) and the recipe data (101), and wherein the first liquid (12) flows through a flow meter (7); d) determining in the computing unit (1) a first volumetric flow rate data (104) of a first liquid (12) derived from the first liquid (12) flowing through the flow meter (7); e) determining in the computing unit (1) a second volumetric flow rate data (105) for a second liquid (13) from the recipe data (101) and the first volumetric flow rate data (104);f) generating in the computing unit (1) a drive data (106) to obtain a flow rate of a second liquid (13) in at least one dosing pump (4) of the plurality of dosing pumps (4) of Claim 3, from the second volumetric flow rate data (105), and wherein the at least one dosing pump (4) is configured to dispense a flow rate of a second liquid (13); g) obtaining a mixed liquid (14) in the Venturi mixing chamber (6) of Claim 4, from the first liquid (12) and the second liquid (13); and h) dispensing the mixed liquid (14) through the dispensing valve (8) of Claim 5; wherein the recipe data (101) comprises a liquid ratio data; and wherein the drive data (106) comprises a motor speed data (19) to control the speed of each of the at least one dosing pump (4).; 9. The method of Claim 8, wherein after the step of dispensing the mixed liquid (14) are the steps of: i) conducting the mixed liquid (14) to the second mixing chamber (9) of Claim 7 to obtain a post-mixed liquid (15); and j) dispensing the post-mixed liquid (15) through the second mixing outlet (93) of the second mixing chamber (9).

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