EP1132337A1 - Method and device for mixing fluids - Google Patents

Abstract

A method and an arrangement for the batchwise generation of an end product formed by at least one main liquid and at least one secondary liquid are proposed. The secondary liquids to be metered into the flowing main liquid are transferred from a main store (22, 33, 48, 53, 58) to a delivery store (28, 37, 50, 55, 60) before metering in. Each secondary liquid is conveyed by means of an associated conveying means (25, 34, 49, 54, 59) that works according to the displacement principle. The conveying means (25, 34, 49, 54, 59) are operated hydraulically, the same medium being used as the hydraulic fluid as the main fluid. A mixing element (2) is provided for mixing the main liquid with the secondary liquids, the main liquid being under excess pressure, since it can be carbonated. The secondary liquids are therefore fed to the mixing element (2) under a pressure which is higher than that of the main liquid in the mixing element (2). <IMAGE>

Description

The invention relates to a method for batchwise generation of a liquid End product according to the preamble of claim 1 and an arrangement for Batch generation of a liquid end product according to the generic term of Claim 23.

Since such a method is used, for example, in vending machines for drinks can, should the basic problem when producing a drink in one Vending machines are described. Such methods can, for example are used in conventional vending machines where a cold or warm end product is filled into an open container such as a cup becomes. The method can also be used to fill beverage bottles are used, both carbonated drinks and so-called "still water" can be generated. A fundamental disadvantage of most Beverage vending machines previously used can be seen in the fact that the used Liquids and / or additives in the final product, i.e. in the finished beverage, are not homogeneously mixed together. When using additives in the form of powder, for example, this can be because the powder is not was completely dissolved in the main liquid -water-.

But even if the additives are added in liquid form, there is Danger that the end product is not a homogeneous mixture with respect to the used Represents liquids. This can have various causes, for example the different liquids are fed into the cup separately.

It is understood that an end product in which the individual components are not homogeneous are mixed together, defects in the desired quality disclosed. On the one hand, this can be that the drink is the consumer tastes not appealing. On the other hand, certain inhomogeneities can also occur be perceived visually.

EP 0 479 113 describes a device for producing beverages from at least one known two liquid components. For measuring specified quantities of the components several dosing containers are provided, their outlets open into a collecting container via a mixing channel. The dosing container of the largest component is designed as an overflow container. Its content flows with Mixing process, following gravity, through the dosing containers of the smaller components. The components in the smaller containers are adjusted specified filling levels.

EP 0 443 837 describes a method and a device for measuring and Mixing a beverage consisting of two components known. To determine The proportional mixing becomes the mass flow into a proportioning device inflowing components. The mass flow determined by means of mass flow meters.

A beverage dispenser is described in EP 0 152 283. To mix one The first with a second component has a double piston pump with different dimensioned, mechanically coupled pistons. in the a biased spring loading the piston is provided in a cylinder. The An upper cylinder chamber can be connected to an electromagnetically operated valve Fresh water source can be connected. The other, lower cylinder space is over one Check valve connected to a container containing a concentrate. If the upper cylinder chamber via the electromagnetically operated valve with the fresh water source is connected, the two pistons are pressurized by the standing fresh water flowing into the upper cylinder chamber against the Force raised by the spring. The lower cylinder space fills with concentrate. Then when the two pistons are moved down by the force of the spring both cylinder spaces empty. The two cylinder rooms leaking liquids in a solid, through the cross-sectional area the ratio determined by the cylinder spaces mixed together.

A beverage dispenser is known from WO 90/02702, which also has a Double piston pump is provided, the piston of which is biased by a spring are. One cylinder chamber of this double piston pump is used to hold Water, while the other cylinder room is intended to hold syrup is. The pistons are actuated against the preload force of the spring by Actuation of the larger piston with a carbon dioxide gas. Both the water in one cylinder space as well as the water in the other Syrup located in the cylinder space via a line to a beverage container promoted. The pumped water is also included in a mixing valve Enriched with carbon dioxide gas.

Starting from the described prior art, the object of the invention to improve a method according to the preamble of claim 1, that ensures a high and consistent quality of the final product and on the other hand a high flexibility in terms of size and / or composition the batch can be achieved.

This object is achieved by the method steps specified in the characterizing part of claim 1 solved.

Preferred forms of process are described in the dependent claims 2 to 22.

In a preferred form of the process, the secondary liquid is added before metering transferred from a main storage to a conveyor storage. This becomes the requirement created for an exact and reproducible dosage.

In a further preferred form of the process, the main liquid or liquids are the main fluids are under pressure and are / will be through a mixing element passed and the secondary liquid (s) are the mixing element under a pressure supplied, which is higher than that of the main liquid (s) in the mixing element. Thereby becomes, for example, the requirement for the production of a carbonated End product -drink- created.

Another object of the invention is that in the preamble of the claim 23 described arrangement to improve such that again a high and constant quality of the end product ensured and high flexibility in Regarding the size and / or composition of the batch can be achieved.

This object is achieved by the features stated in the characterizing part of claim 23 solved. Preferred embodiments of the arrangement are in the dependent ones Claims 24 to 45 circumscribed.

Fig. 1

eine Anordnung zum Zudosieren von mehreren Nebenflüssigkeiten zu einer strömenden Hauptflüssigkeit in schematischer Darstellung;

Fig. 2

eine alternative Anordnung zum Zudosieren von mehreren Nebenflüssigkeiten zu einer strömenden Hauptflüssigkeit in schematischer Darstellung;

Fig. 3a bis 3d

eine erste Systemgruppe der in der Fig. 2 dargestellten Anordnung zum Zudosieren einer ersten Nebenflüssigkeit während verschiedenen Phasen, und

Fig. 4a bis 4d

eine weitere Systemgruppe der in der Fig. 2 dargestellten Anordnung zum Zudosieren einer weiteren Nebenflüssigkeit während verschiedenen Phasen.

A preferred exemplary embodiment of the invention is explained in more detail below with reference to drawings. In these drawings:

Fig. 1

an arrangement for metering several secondary liquids to a flowing main liquid in a schematic representation;

Fig. 2

an alternative arrangement for metering several secondary liquids to a flowing main liquid in a schematic representation;

3a to 3d

a first system group of the arrangement shown in FIG. 2 for metering a first secondary liquid during different phases, and

4a to 4d

another system group of the arrangement shown in FIG. 2 for metering a further secondary liquid during various phases.

1, which shows a first embodiment of an arrangement for metering from several secondary liquids to a flowing main liquid in shows schematic and not to scale, the basic Structure of the arrangement explained in more detail. The arrangement shown forms here Case a part of a drinks machine for filling or filling beverage bottles 3. By the inventive method or the arrangement for Carrying out the method should on the one hand enable the user to bottle filled with different contents, for example 0.3 to 2 liters. On the other hand The user should be informed about the composition of the drink, namely its You can largely determine the taste and, if necessary, its ingredients. Water is used as the main liquid in the present case, while as Auxiliary liquids, in particular sugar syrup, flavorings, colorings and valuable substances such as vitamins and fiber are provided.

To generate a hydraulic necessary for the operation of the arrangement Control pressure, a hydraulic unit 1 is provided. However, it is by no means mandatory that the hydraulic unit 1 is part of the arrangement, but this could just as well be arranged decentrally outside the arrangement. in the further two control devices 4, 11, a valve matrix 20, several system groups A, B, C, D, E for dosing various secondary liquids, supply lines 67, 72 for supplying main liquids, a supply line 76 for Supply of a gas and a mixing element 2 for mixing the main liquid (s) provided with the secondary liquids. Each system group is A, B, C, D, E. with a volumetrically operating, hydraulically operated conveying means 25, 34, 49, 54, 59 provided. Water is also used as the hydraulic medium in the present case used.

The control devices 4, 11 each have one arranged in a cylinder 5, 12 Pistons 6, 13, which pistons 6, 13, based on the present drawing, can be moved to the left and to the right. Both control devices 4, 11 are hydraulically connected to the hydraulic unit 1 and for controlling the respective Pistons 6, 13 provided with a plurality of externally operated valves, wherein the corresponding lines and valves are not dealt with in detail, since their basic functionality is known. The two control devices 4, 11 are hydraulic via the valve matrix 20 with the system groups B, C, D, E connected. By means of this valve matrix 20, which in the present case actuated eight externally Includes valves, the system groups B, C, D, E can be hydraulically customized can be controlled, whereby two system groups are controlled simultaneously can be. On the outside of the control devices 4, 11 there is one Position sensor 8, 15 arranged. Each displacement encoder 8, 15 is connected to a corresponding detection electronics 9, 16 connected. For example, on the magnetostrictive Principle working displacement sensors 8, 15 serve to detect the position of the piston 6, 13. To the on the primary side of the pistons 6, 13 of the control devices 4, To be able to influence the pressure acting there are two proportional valves 18, 19 intended. It goes without saying that control and detection electronics for actuation the components provided, such as the valves mentioned is. In addition, the control and detection electronics also serve to evaluate the signals emitted by sensors 8, 15. On the representation of this Control and detection electronics together with the associated electrical cables was omitted in favor of a clear presentation.

The first system group A has a storage container 22 for receiving a first one Provide secondary liquid. In the present case there is the first secondary liquid made from sugar syrup. To pump the first secondary liquid from the reservoir A pump 23 is provided for the conveying means 25. That as a piston conveyor 25 trained funding is used for the exact metering of the first secondary liquid and forcibly supplying this first sub-liquid to the mixing element 2. The piston conveyor 25 is for this purpose with a cylinder 26 and an arranged therein Piston 27 displaceable in both directions. The right of the Piston 27 lying cylinder space 28 serves as a feed store for receiving the metered in Secondary fluid. Is on the outside of the piston conveyor 25 in turn a displacement sensor 29 is arranged on a corresponding detection electronics 30 is connected. This first system group A is via one line 31 connected to the mixing element 2. For cooling those accommodated in the storage container 22 A cooling unit can be provided if necessary. Means for circulating those received in the storage container 22 can also be used Auxiliary fluid can be provided to ensure the homogeneity of this auxiliary fluid is guaranteed. However, the means mentioned are not shown in detail.

The second system group B has one filled with a second secondary liquid Storage container 33 on. In contrast to the first system group A in this case however no pump is provided. The reservoir 33 is connected to the one Control devices 4, 11 actuated reciprocating piston conveyor 34 are provided. The reciprocating piston conveyor 34 has two pistons 35, 36 connected via a piston rod. The lower piston 35 will hereinafter be referred to as an actuating piston the upper piston 36 is referred to as a metering piston. The actuating piston 35 can be both upwards and downwards via the control devices 4, 11 be moved, the lines and valves provided for this purpose not closer are explained. The dosing space 37 arranged above the dosing piston 36 serves as a storage tank, by means of which the secondary liquid to be metered in is volumetric dosed and forcibly fed to the mixing element 2 via a line 46 can be. The mixing element through which the main liquid - water - flows 2 is used to mix the main liquid with the secondary liquids. The Valve matrix 20 enables the individual control of others, the individual System groups B, C, D, E assigned reciprocating piston conveyors 49, 54, 59. Both in the line 46 as well as in the connecting line between the reservoir 33 and the reciprocating piston conveyor 34 each have a check valve 38, 39 arranged on it however, their mode of action is also not discussed in detail. Furthermore the system group B has two hydraulic feed lines 40, 41 and two hydraulic feed lines Drain lines 42, 43 on. From the respective buffer 50, 55, 60 the The other system groups C, D, E also each have a line 52, 57, 62 leading to the mixing element 2. These lines 52, 57, 62 open out at different points a mixing section into the mixing element 2 through which the main liquid flows.

Since the other system groups C, D, E are identical in construction to the second system group B are not discussed in more detail on their design.

There are two supply lines for supplying the main liquid in the form of water 67, 72 provided. Still water is supplied via a line 67 during this time 72 carbonized water is supplied via the other line. Both lines 67, 72 are each with a flow meter 68, 73, an externally operated proportional valve 69, 74 and a check valve 70, 75 provided. The two Flow meters 68, 73, as well as the two proportional valves 69, 74 are also connected to the control electronics, not shown. About the line 76 can be a pressurized gas for pneumatically biasing the beverage bottle 3 are supplied, with another, externally operated in line 76 Proportional valve 77 and a liquid separator 78 are arranged.

The mode of operation and the procedural sequence of the arrangement are as follows represents:

After the user has determined the beverage composition via an operating unit and the beverage bottle 3 has been placed at the intended location, it is checked for leaks by pressurizing the beverage bottle 3 via the line 76 and then determining whether the pressure is above a certain one Time period, for example a few seconds, remains constant or whether a maximum predetermined pressure drop is not exceeded. A gas such as nitrogen (N ₂ ) or carbonic acid (CO ₂ ) is preferably used for this density test as well as the subsequent prestressing of the beverage bottle 3. In addition, the size -content- of the beverage bottle is determined, for example by means of an optical sensor, or checked with any specification.

On the display of a user interface control panel, by means of which the user the beverage machine selects or compiles its beverage can, was waived. For example, it is conceivable that the composition the drink is menu-controlled by means of a "touch screen" that can be operated by the user Screen can be done. The user can, for example, determine the bottle size, the type and basis of the sweetener, the taste of the finished drink as well as any additives such as fiber and vitamins within determine certain limits yourself. After the composition of the drink was determined, the computer is not shown Amount of the main and the individual secondary liquids calculated for the desired Total volume of the batch will be needed.

The filling process is then started by supplying the main liquid via line 67 or 72. By mixing the two main liquids, the CO ₂ content can also be varied within wide limits. Shortly after the start of the supply of the main liquid, the supply of the secondary liquid or the secondary liquids is also started. The arrangement is designed such that both the delivery store for the first secondary liquid -cylinder space 28 of the piston conveyor 25- and the delivery store for the further secondary liquids -dosing cylinders 37, 50, 55, 60 of the reciprocating-piston conveyors 34, 49, 54, 59- are already in front are filled with the respective secondary liquid at the beginning of the filling process. To add the first secondary liquid -sugar syrup-, the valve 24 is opened, whereby the piston 27 of the piston conveyor 25 is shifted to the right. The secondary liquid located in the metering cylinder 28 of the piston conveyor 25 is fed via line 31 to the mixing element 2, where it enters the interior thereof via a check valve and mixes with the main liquid flowing through.

At the same time as the first secondary liquid is added, the further secondary liquid also becomes or the other secondary liquids are metered in. Depending on the design The secondary liquids can be arranged continuously or at intervals be fed. By moving -hub- the piston 27 of the piston conveyor 25 and the piston 6, 13 of the two control devices 4, 11 by means of assigned encoder 29; 8, 15 is detected, an exact metering of the respective secondary liquid can be achieved, since from the piston stroke and the known Cylinder cross-sectional area, the corresponding volume can be calculated can. Such funding, which works on the displacement principle, with volumetric Dosing is particularly useful when there are different secondary liquids promoted with at least partially different viscosities Need to become. By switching the one assigned to the respective control device 4, 11 Valves can move both pistons 6, 13 for hydraulic Control of system groups B, C, D, E can be used.

In the present case, conveyor stores 37, 50, 55, 60 are provided, which are in relation can hold a very small amount of secondary liquid to the reservoir. The conveyor stores 37, 50, 55, 60 are preferably designed such that they Take up at least the maximum amount of secondary liquid to be added per batch can. By providing such storage 37, 50, 55, 60 Precondition created so that the corresponding secondary fluid is very accurate can be added.

By providing a valve matrix, the two control devices provided can be used controlled two reciprocating piston conveyors and thus two secondary liquids be metered in at the same time. It is understood that both the number of control devices as well as the number of reciprocating piston conveyors depending on the task can be changed at will.

So that the water used to actuate the funding 25, 34, 49, 54, 59 even high hygienic requirements are met, this is regularly renewed. The hydraulic water is functionally dependent on the two above the collecting tank 65 arranged valves 63, 64 drained. With the reciprocating piston conveyors 34, 49, 54, 59 each time the piston moves, the actuating piston 35 Water displaced on the side facing away from the pressure is drained because the valves 63, 64 can be opened at the appropriate time. Likewise, the hydraulic water are of course periodically replaced by the two valves 63, 64 in The idle state of the reciprocating piston conveyors 34, 49, 54, 59 opened and the lines thereby be rinsed through. The same applies to the piston conveyor 25 in this way a system is sealed off from the ambient atmosphere created with completed funding, which very high hygienic Requirements met.

Instead of the piston conveyor or reciprocating piston conveyor shown, for example a membrane conveyor can also be used. The advantage of the shown, after Displacement principle working piston conveyor or reciprocating piston conveyor exists for one in that the secondary liquids can be metered in very precisely, there is no liquid slippage with such conveyors working on the displacement principle arises and the piston stroke is therefore directly proportional to the amount of metered Secondary fluid is. On the other hand, they can handle a relatively high delivery pressure be built up, which is higher than the system pressure by the mixing element main liquid is flowing. By using the same medium as hydraulic fluid How is used as the main liquid - water - also has a possible "contamination" the secondary fluid (s) with the hydraulic fluid no negative consequences.

With the arrangement described, an accurate and reproducible dosage can from one or more secondary liquids, proportional to volume and time to one Main liquid, against increased, not constant pressure under tightened hygienic Requirements are met. Such an arrangement is suitable, for example also for dosing fiber and / or particle-containing secondary liquids. In addition, such an arrangement can be very easily above the two above the collection container 65 arranged valves 63, 64 are vented.

Fig. 2 shows an alternative embodiment of an arrangement for metering from several secondary liquids to a flowing main liquid in a schematic Presentation. Such an arrangement is suitable, for example, for laboratory, medical or chemical applications in which the main liquid is preferably not under high pressure.

The arrangement has a multiplicity of system groups 101, 103, 105, 107. Everyone System group 101, 103, 105, 107 is at least one storage container 110, 130, 150, 170, 171, 172, 173 assigned to absorb a secondary fluid. In the present An example, seen from the left, is a container 110 for the first system group Holding a first secondary liquid, the second system group a container 130 a container for holding a second secondary liquid, the third system group 150 for receiving a third secondary liquid and the fourth system group several Containers 170, 171, 172, 173 assigned to hold additional secondary liquids. Each storage container 110, 130, 150, 170, 171, 172, 173 is with a buffer 111, 131, 151, 175, 176, 177, 178 connected, which before generating a batch is filled with the respective secondary liquid. Also in this In this case, the intermediate stores 111, 131, 151, 175, 176, 177, 178 are provided for a very small amount of secondary liquid in relation to the reservoir record, preferably again the maximum to be added per batch Amount of secondary fluid should be included. It is understood that the Number and arrangement of the storage containers 110, 130, 150, 170, 171, 172, 173 practically can be varied as arbitrarily as the type and quantity of those included Liquids.

A vessel 102 provided for receiving the finished mixture is indicated drawn. A filling device is located above this vessel 102 104 arranged. The filling device 104 has a mixing valve 140, which via a line 141, 142, 143, 144 with the different system groups 101, 103, 105, 107 is connected. Main liquid can be supplied via a line 145 become. To be able to record the flow rate of the main liquid, if necessary, is a Flow sensor 149 provided.

The buffer of the first system group is a cylindrical container 111 trained, the size of which is selected so that it at least that amount Can absorb secondary liquid, which is required for a maximum of one batch becomes. A compressor (not shown) is used to convey the first secondary liquid. provided, which via a line 112 to the reservoir 110 or a line 113 can be connected to the buffer 111.

The second, third and fourth system groups are each via a common line 106 and a control valve 108 connected to a further supply line for main liquid.

In the second and third system groups 103, 105, the buffer is in Formed a metering spiral 131, 151. To promote the corresponding A secondary liquid is a pump above the intermediate store 131, 151 132, 152 arranged. A drain valve 133, 153 is attached above the pump 132, 152, the function of which is explained below. In addition, is a bypass line 135, 155 is provided to bypass the metering spiral 131, 151. To activate the drain valve 133, 153 of the bypass line 135, 155 and Filling and emptying the buffer 131, 151 are per system group 103, 105 three valves 136, 137, 138; 156, 157, 158 are provided.

The fourth system group 107 is provided with a total of four storage containers 170, 171, 172, 173 to accommodate generic liquids of the same type. Any storage container 170, 171, 172, 173 is a buffer in the form of a metering spiral 175, 176, 177, 178 assigned. However, there is only one pump 180 for pumping one auxiliary liquid per batch is provided. All inlets and outlets the metering spirals 175, 176, 177, 178 are each via a common line 181, 182 connected. This system group 107 also has a bypass line 183 to bypass the metering spirals 175, 176, 177, 178 and a drain valve 184 provided. For filling and emptying the four metering spirals 175, 176, 177, 178 a plurality of valves is provided, but not in detail is received.

3a to 3d show the first system group 101 in different phases during Add a first secondary liquid. From these representations it can be seen that this system group 101 together with the storage container 110 and the buffer store 111, a ventilation device 114, a control device 115, a Level sensor 117, a first pneumatic control valve 118, a second pneumatic Control valve 120 and various other valves.

3a shows the system group 101 at the beginning of the metering process. The one with the first secondary liquid filled buffer 111 is via the open pressure control valve 118 connected to the source of positive pressure. As a result, the buffer is available 111 under pressure and is forcibly emptied. To regulate the overpressure In the buffer 111, the control device 115 is provided, which is connected to the pressure control valve 118. At the entrance of control device 115 the capacitive level sensor 117 is connected, via which the Decrease in secondary liquid per unit of time recorded and by means of the control device 115 can be kept at a predetermined value. The decrease Secondary fluid per unit of time corresponds directly to that of the main fluid per unit of time amount of secondary liquid added.

As with the other secondary liquids, the amount to be added per unit time depends Amount of first secondary liquid depends on several parameters. On the one hand the flow rate of the main liquid must be taken into account. On the other hand it depends on the desired ratio between the main liquid and Secondary fluid.

3b shows the state of the system group 101 towards the end of the metering process.

3c shows the system group 101 in a snapshot when filling of the buffer 111 can be seen. For this purpose the valve 123 at the outlet of the Buffer 111 switched to pass while intake valve 124 was switched to lock, so that the buffer 111 over the line 126 is connected to the reservoir 110 and from this again with secondary liquid can be replenished. For this purpose, the reservoir 110 is under positive pressure set so that the first secondary liquid is forcibly in the buffer 111 is directed. Via the ventilation device 114, the flow through the Secondary liquid displaced air escape from the intermediate storage 111.

In Fig. 3d the system group is shown in the starting position, in which the Buffer 111 is again filled with the first secondary liquid and for a next batch is ready.

4a to 4d show the second system group 103 in different phases when adding a second secondary liquid. Pump 132 is through the input actuator 108 connected to the main liquid source. Special attention deserves the fact that the pump 132 is not from the by-liquid is flowed through, but that an overpressure or underpressure exerted by the pump 132 Transfer to the secondary liquid via the mediating medium -water , and a filling or emptying of the buffer memory 131 is effected. To one Mixing between the mediating medium and that to be recorded in the metering spiral 131 To avoid secondary liquid, the two media can be water and secondary liquid can be separated, for example by means of an air bubble. The Means for generating an air bubble are not shown in detail.

4a shows the system group 103 in the starting position, in which the metering spiral 131 is filled with secondary liquid. The emptying of the metering spiral 131 takes place by activating the pump 132. The mediating medium transmits the pressure difference built up by the pump 132 to that in the metering spiral 131 absorbed secondary fluid. The delivery rate of the pump 132 is by means of regulated electronics not shown here. If a reciprocating pump is used, the addition of the second can be done via the number of strokes per time Auxiliary fluid can be controlled. However, a regulation is also conceivable in which the fill level of the metering spiral 131 is measured and used as the actual value.

After the desired amount of the second secondary liquid has been added, can the line leading from the metering spiral 131 to the mixing valve 140 (FIG. 1) 142 with main liquid, in the present case water. To do this the two valves 137, 138, as shown in Fig. 4 b, switched and so far Water acting as mediator via the bypass line 135 on the metering spiral 131 bypassed. This turns the metering spiral 131 into a mixing valve leading line 142 rinsed with water and residual liquid residues exempted. This rinsing is particularly important if the Dosing spiral 131 to the mixing valve line 142 various secondary liquids can be supplied, such as in the fourth system group 107 (Fig. 2) is possible. This rinsing process is designed so that the Line 142 completely of the secondary liquid used for the corresponding batch was liberated, however, care is taken that ultimately only one very small amount of rinsing liquid gets into the vessel 102.

4c shows the system group when filling the metering spiral 131 first the two valves 137, 138 switched over and the drain valve 133 open. A vacuum is now generated by means of the pump 132, so that the second Secondary liquid is sucked from the reservoir 130 into the metering spiral 131. The The maximum fill level of the metering spiral 131 can be reached, for example, by means of an optical sensor can be monitored. Via the open drain valve 133 both parts of the line can be vented and residual liquid can be drained off.

4d, the system group 103 is shown in the starting position, in which the metering spiral 131 is in turn filled with the second secondary liquid.

The arrangements described above provide maximum flexibility achieved in terms of the possible composition of the final product. During the the arrangement described in the first embodiment, in particular for Dosing of secondary liquids to a main liquid under pressure is suitable, the second embodiment provides a simpler, cheaper Variant, which is particularly suitable for metering in secondary liquids to one that is not or only under a slight positive pressure Main liquid is suitable. The second embodiment is particularly suitable also for dosing very small amounts of secondary liquids.

Claims (49)

Method for batch-wise production of a liquid end product formed by at least one main liquid and at least one secondary liquid, characterized in that each secondary liquid is individually dosed and is forcibly supplied to a flowing main liquid. A method according to claim 1, characterized in that each secondary liquid before metering from a main store (22, 33, 48, 53, 58) into a delivery store (28, 37, 50, 55, 60) transferred and from there directly to a flowing main liquid is fed. A method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that a plurality of secondary liquids be metered in, each secondary liquid at a different Place a mixing element (2) through which the main liquid flows becomes. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that that every secondary liquid is dosed volumetrically and under pressure of the flowing Main liquid is supplied. A method according to claim 4, characterized in that each secondary liquid by means of an assigned, working on the displacement principle funding (25, 34, 49, 54, 59) is funded. A method according to claim 5, characterized in that the funding (s) (25, 34, 49, 54, 59) is / are hydraulically operated. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that that the main liquid (s) is / are under pressure and through a mixing element (2) is / are directed and that the secondary liquid (s) the mixing element (2) supplied under a pressure higher than that of the main liquid (s) in the mixing element (2). A method according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that each secondary liquid before metering from the main memory (22, 33, 48, 53, 58) into an as Cylinder chamber (28, 37, 50, 55, 60) of the conveying means (25, 34, 49, 54, 59) is transferred, the conveying means (25, 34, 49, 54, 59) being hydraulic displaceable metering piston (27, 36, 51, 56, 61). Method according to one of claims 5 to 8, characterized in that the Stroke of hydraulically operated foreseen for the addition of a secondary liquid Piston (6, 13, 27) is detected and that the piston (6, 13, 27) Amount of hydraulic fluid displaced per unit of time as a measure of that per unit of time metered volume of secondary liquid is used. Method according to one of claims 5 to 9, characterized in that as Main fluid and the same medium is used as hydraulic fluid. A method according to claim 10, characterized in that both as the main liquid as water is mostly used as hydraulic fluid. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that that the secondary liquid (s) of the flowing main liquid (s) continuously or is added at intervals. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that that the amount of secondary liquid (s) supplied per unit of time during metering depending on the flow rate of the main liquid (s) and / or the absolute amount of main liquid per batch as well as the ratio to be set between main liquid (s) and secondary liquid (s). A method according to claim 13, characterized in that the flow rate the main liquid (s) is measured and / or calculated. Method according to one of claims 12 to 14, characterized in that the secondary liquid (s) of the flowing main liquid (s) are metered in at intervals will / will, the number and / or the length of the intervals depending the flow rate of the main liquid (s) and / or the absolute amount Main liquid per batch and the quantity ratio to be set between Main liquid and secondary liquid is changed. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that that the supply of the secondary liquid (s) before reaching the for the batch necessary amount of main liquid is stopped. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that that two main liquids are supplied, the one main liquid with Carbonic acid is added and by mixing the two main liquids Carbonation content can be varied. A method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the conveyor storage is filled and emptied by means of a pump, the pump being operated by a Flow through the medium, by means of which is exerted by the pump Overpressure or underpressure on the secondary liquid for filling or emptying the conveyor storage can be transferred. A method according to claim 18, characterized in that the respective conveyor storage filled by suction and emptied by overpressure. A method according to claim 18 or 19, characterized in that the feeding of the secondary liquids before reaching those necessary for the batch Amount of main liquid is stopped, taking lines through which of batch Different secondary liquids can be added to the batch after which Stopping the supply of the secondary liquid (s) with main liquid. Method according to claim 18 or 19, characterized in that at the end during the dosing process, the intermediary medium is used to rinse out line parts which are charged with different secondary liquids. Method according to one of claims 19 to 21, characterized in that a gaseous, between the secondary liquid to be supplied and the mediating medium liquid or solid release medium or release agent is introduced. Arrangement for the batchwise generation of a liquid end product formed by at least one main liquid and at least one secondary liquid, characterized in that for each secondary liquid a storage container (22, 33, 48, 53, 58; 110, 130, 150, 170, 171, 172, 173 ) and a storage tank (28, 37, 50, 55, 60; 111, 131, 151, 175, 176, 177, 178) is assigned to each storage container and that individually controllable funding (25, 34, 49, 54, 59; 132, 152, 180) are provided, by means of which the secondary liquid (s) from the respective delivery store (28, 37, 50, 55, 60; 111, 131, 151, 175, 176, 177, 178) of the flowing main liquid (s) (s) can be forcibly added. Arrangement according to claim 23, characterized in that per to be fed Auxiliary liquid is one of the funds (25, 34, 49, 54, 59) is provided, the delivery rate of which can be changed. Arrangement according to claim 24, characterized in that the buffer (28, 37, 50, 55, 60) as an integral part of the respective funding (25, 34, 49, 54, 59) is formed. Arrangement according to one of claims 23 to 25, characterized in that a mixing element (2) for mixing the main liquid (s) with the secondary liquid (s) is provided and that each conveyor (28, 37, 50, 55, 60) over a feed line (31, 46, 52, 57, 62) is connected to the mixing element (2). Arrangement according to claim 26, characterized in that in the region of A check valve is arranged at the mouth of the respective feed line (31, 46, 52, 57, 62) which is the penetration of liquid from the mixing element (2) into the Supply line (s) (31, 46, 52, 57, 62) is intended to prevent. Arrangement according to claim 26 or 27, characterized in that several Feed lines (31, 46, 52, 57, 62) are provided, which at different Place along a mixing section into the one through which the main liquid flows Mixing element (2) open. Arrangement according to one of claims 24 to 28, characterized in that hydraulically actuated funding (25, 34, 49, 54, 59) are provided. Arrangement according to claim 29, characterized in that as the main liquid and the same medium is provided as the hydraulic fluid. Arrangement according to claim 30, characterized in that both as the main liquid as well as water is mostly provided as hydraulic medium. Arrangement according to one of claims 29 to 31, characterized in that each conveying means (25, 34, 49, 54, 59) a hydraulically operated piston (27, 35, 51, 56, 61), by means of which a secondary liquid can be conveyed directly or indirectly is. Arrangement according to one of claims 29 to 32, characterized in that Funding means (34, 49, 54, 59) with two pistons connected by a piston rod (35, 36; 51, 52; 56, 57; 61, 62) are provided, the one piston (35, 51, 56, 61) is designed as an actuating piston on both sides of the hydraulic medium can be acted upon and thus moved in different directions and where the other piston (36, 52, 57, 62) as a metering piston for conveying the respective secondary liquid is trained. Arrangement according to claim 33, characterized in that the surface of the Actuating piston (35, 51, 56, 61) is several times larger than the area of the Dosing piston (36, 52, 57, 62). Arrangement according to claim 29, characterized in that the stroke of for the metering of a secondary fluid provided hydraulically operated pistons (6, 13, 27) can be detected via a displacement sensor (8, 15, 29) and as a measure of the funded Volume of secondary liquid can be used. Arrangement according to claim 33 or 34, characterized in that at least a hydraulic control device (4, 11) for actuating the actuating piston (35, 51, 56, 61) of the respective funding (27, 35, 51, 56, 61) is provided, wherein the control device (4, 11) has a control piston (6, 13), the stroke of which via a displacement sensor (8, 15) and can be used as a measure of the volume delivered Auxiliary fluid is available. Arrangement according to claim 23, characterized in that at least one Funding means (132, 152, 180) is provided, by means of which at least one intermediate store (131, 151, 175, 176, 177, 178) filled with secondary liquid and / or can be emptied, the conveying means (132, 152, 180) being adjustable in such a way that the amount of secondary liquid supplied to the main liquid per unit of time is changeable. Arrangement according to claim 37, characterized in that an intermediary medium is provided, by means of which one of the conveying means (132, 152, 180) Overpressure or underpressure in this way on the secondary liquid for filling and / or Emptying of the buffer store (131, 151, 175, 176, 177, 178) is transferable, that the secondary liquid conveyed from the intermediate store (131, 151, 175, 176, 177, 178) the funding (132, 152, 180) does not flow through. Arrangement according to claim 38, characterized in that a liquid or gaseous mediating medium is provided, and that the conveying means (132, 152, 180) is designed as a pump or compressor. Arrangement according to one of claims 37 to 39, characterized in that the buffer (131, 151, 175, 176, 177, 178) by the suction effect of the Conveying means (132, 152, 180) can be refilled and emptied by its pressure effect is. Arrangement according to one of claims 37 to 40, characterized in that at least one as a dosing cylinder (111) or dosing spiral (131, 151, 175, 176, 177, 178) trained buffer is provided. Arrangement according to one of claims 37 to 41, characterized in that several buffers (175, 176, 177, 178) for different secondary liquids are summarized in sub-groups, with means for selective selection and Dosing of the secondary liquids grouped into subgroups is provided and the subgroup is a common bus line (144) for Feeding the selected secondary liquid. Arrangement according to claim 42, characterized in that a bypass line (183) is provided, via which the mediation medium supported by the funding (180) at the intermediate store or stores (175, 176, 177, 178) can be guided past into the collecting line (144), such that the collecting line (144) can be flushed with the mediating medium. Arrangement according to claim 42 or 43, characterized in that generic Auxiliary fluids are grouped into sub-groups, each Subsidy is assigned a grant (180). Arrangement according to one of claims 38 to 44, characterized in that an air bubble is provided for separating the mediating medium from the secondary liquid is. Use of the method according to one of claims 1 to 22 for the production of beverages, in particular for the production of carbonated cold drinks. Use of the method according to one of claims 1 to 22 for the production of liquid pharmaceutical, chemical or cosmetic preparations. Use of the arrangement according to one of claims 23 to 45 in a drinks machine for the production of beverages, in particular for the production of carbonated cold drinks. Use of the arrangement according to one of claims 23 to 45 in an automatic machine for the production of liquid, pharmaceutical, chemical or cosmetic Preparations.

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