AU2013203208A1 - Dispensing nozzle assembly - Google Patents
Dispensing nozzle assembly Download PDFInfo
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- AU2013203208A1 AU2013203208A1 AU2013203208A AU2013203208A AU2013203208A1 AU 2013203208 A1 AU2013203208 A1 AU 2013203208A1 AU 2013203208 A AU2013203208 A AU 2013203208A AU 2013203208 A AU2013203208 A AU 2013203208A AU 2013203208 A1 AU2013203208 A1 AU 2013203208A1
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- Prior art keywords
- stream
- ingredient
- micro
- dispensing nozzle
- assembly
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- 239000004615 ingredient Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 121
- 239000003085 diluting agent Substances 0.000 claims description 43
- 235000013361 beverage Nutrition 0.000 claims description 33
- 239000002253 acid Substances 0.000 claims description 17
- 239000000654 additive Substances 0.000 claims description 10
- 239000000796 flavoring agent Substances 0.000 claims description 10
- 235000019634 flavors Nutrition 0.000 claims description 9
- 239000002585 base Substances 0.000 claims description 4
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 abstract description 22
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 20
- 235000019534 high fructose corn syrup Nutrition 0.000 description 19
- 239000000203 mixture Substances 0.000 description 10
- 238000004140 cleaning Methods 0.000 description 4
- 229920001971 elastomer Polymers 0.000 description 4
- 239000000806 elastomer Substances 0.000 description 4
- 235000003599 food sweetener Nutrition 0.000 description 4
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 4
- 239000003765 sweetening agent Substances 0.000 description 4
- 239000002518 antifoaming agent Substances 0.000 description 3
- KRKNYBCHXYNGOX-UHFFFAOYSA-N citric acid Chemical compound OC(=O)CC(O)(C(O)=O)CC(O)=O KRKNYBCHXYNGOX-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 3
- 235000008504 concentrate Nutrition 0.000 description 3
- 235000020357 syrup Nutrition 0.000 description 3
- 239000006188 syrup Substances 0.000 description 3
- RZVAJINKPMORJF-UHFFFAOYSA-N Acetaminophen Chemical compound CC(=O)NC1=CC=C(O)C=C1 RZVAJINKPMORJF-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 150000007513 acids Chemical class 0.000 description 2
- 230000000712 assembly Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000000429 assembly Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000003795 chemical substances by application Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000012141 concentrate Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000002347 injection Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000007924 injection Substances 0.000 description 2
- 235000020374 simple syrup Nutrition 0.000 description 2
- 235000014214 soft drink Nutrition 0.000 description 2
- 238000011144 upstream manufacturing Methods 0.000 description 2
- 241000167854 Bourreria succulenta Species 0.000 description 1
- 235000005979 Citrus limon Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 244000131522 Citrus pyriformis Species 0.000 description 1
- 235000010469 Glycine max Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 240000007594 Oryza sativa Species 0.000 description 1
- 235000007164 Oryza sativa Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 150000001298 alcohols Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 239000007961 artificial flavoring substance Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000008122 artificial sweetener Substances 0.000 description 1
- 235000021311 artificial sweeteners Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 230000015556 catabolic process Effects 0.000 description 1
- 235000019693 cherries Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 239000003086 colorant Substances 0.000 description 1
- KWGRBVOPPLSCSI-UHFFFAOYSA-N d-ephedrine Natural products CNC(C)C(O)C1=CC=CC=C1 KWGRBVOPPLSCSI-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 235000013365 dairy product Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 238000006731 degradation reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 235000005911 diet Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 230000037213 diet Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000010790 dilution Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000012895 dilution Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000003814 drug Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229940079593 drug Drugs 0.000 description 1
- 230000003670 easy-to-clean Effects 0.000 description 1
- 235000013399 edible fruits Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 239000013536 elastomeric material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000000284 extract Substances 0.000 description 1
- 235000013355 food flavoring agent Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 239000013538 functional additive Substances 0.000 description 1
- -1 gaseous Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000012676 herbal extract Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910052500 inorganic mineral Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000013011 mating Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000011707 mineral Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000003921 oil Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000003960 organic solvent Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229960005489 paracetamol Drugs 0.000 description 1
- 239000001508 potassium citrate Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229960002635 potassium citrate Drugs 0.000 description 1
- QEEAPRPFLLJWCF-UHFFFAOYSA-K potassium citrate (anhydrous) Chemical compound [K+].[K+].[K+].[O-]C(=O)CC(O)(CC([O-])=O)C([O-])=O QEEAPRPFLLJWCF-UHFFFAOYSA-K 0.000 description 1
- 235000011082 potassium citrates Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 239000000843 powder Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000003755 preservative agent Substances 0.000 description 1
- KWGRBVOPPLSCSI-WCBMZHEXSA-N pseudoephedrine Chemical compound CN[C@@H](C)[C@@H](O)C1=CC=CC=C1 KWGRBVOPPLSCSI-WCBMZHEXSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 229960003908 pseudoephedrine Drugs 0.000 description 1
- 235000009566 rice Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 238000011012 sanitization Methods 0.000 description 1
- 235000013616 tea Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 239000011782 vitamin Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229940088594 vitamin Drugs 0.000 description 1
- 229930003231 vitamin Natural products 0.000 description 1
- 235000013343 vitamin Nutrition 0.000 description 1
Abstract
A dispensing nozzle assembly for dispensing a number of micro-ingredients into a fluid stream. The dispensing nozzle assembly may include a micro-ingredient mixing chamber, a number of micro-ingredient lines in communication with the micro ingredient mixing chamber such that the micro-ingredients mix therein, and a mixed micro-ingredient exit such the mixed micro-ingredients are dispensed into the fluid stream.
Description
1 DISPENSING NOZZLE ASSEMBLY The present application is a divisional application from Australian Patent Application No. 2008279565, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. TECHNICAL FIELD [0101] The present application relates generally to nozzles for beverage dispensers and more particularly relates to multi-flavor or multi-fluid dispensing nozzles. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0101a] The following discussion of the background to the invention is intended to facilitate an understanding of the invention. However, it should be appreciated that the discussion is not an acknowledgement or admission that any of the material referred to was published, known or part of the common general knowledge as at the priority date of the application. [0101b] Throughout the description and claims of this specification the word "comprise" and variations of that word, such as "comprises" and "comprising", are not intended to exclude other additives, components, integers or steps. [0102] Current post-mix beverage dispenser nozzles generally mix streams of syrup, concentrate, sweetener, bonus flavors, other types of flavoring, and other ingredients with water or other types of diluent by flowing the syrup stream down the center of the nozzle with the water stream flowing around the outside. The syrup stream is directed downward with the water stream such that the streams mix as they fall into a cup. [0103] There is a desire for a beverage dispensing system as a whole to provide as many different types and flavors of beverages as may be possible in a footprint that may be as small as possible. Preferably, such a beverage dispensing system can provide as many beverages as may be available on the market in prepackaged bottles or cans. [0104] In order to accommodate this variety, the dispensing nozzles themselves need to accommodate fluids with different viscosities, flow rates, mixing ratios, temperatures, and other variables. Current nozzles may not be able to accommodate multiple beverages with a single nozzle design and/or the nozzle may be designed for specific types of fluid flow. One known means of accommodating differing flow characteristics is shown in commonly owned U.S. Patent Application No. 10/233,867 2 (U.S. Publication Number U.S. 2004/0040983A1) that shows the use of replaceable fluid modules that are sized and shaped for specific flow characteristics. Even more variety and fluid streams may be employed in commonly owned U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 11/276,551 that shows the use of a number of tertiary flow assemblies. [0105] There is a desire, however, for a dispensing nozzle to accommodate even more and different types of fluids that may pass therethrough. The dispensing nozzle preferably should be able to accommodate this variety while still providing good mixing and easy cleaning. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0106] The present application thus describes a dispensing nozzle assembly for forming a beverage from a plurality of micro-ingredient streams, a macro-ingredient stream, and a diluent stream, comprising: a nozzle tip assembly for the macro-ingredient stream and the diluent stream; the nozzle tip assembly comprising a target such that the macro-ingredient stream and the diluent stream flow down the target; and an injector ring assembly positioned about the nozzle tip assembly; wherein the injector ring assembly comprises a plurality of cavities therein to mix two or more of the plurality of micro ingredient streams to form a mixed stream and to direct the mixed stream towards the target. [0107] The dispensing nozzle assembly may further include a plurality of micro ingredient lines in communication with plurality of cavities and the plurality of micro ingredient streams. [0108] The plurality of micro-ingredient streams may include an acid component stream and a non-acid component steam. [0109] The plurality of micro-ingredient streams may include a plurality of beverage component streams. [0110] The plurality of beverage component streams can include beverage bases, flavors, additives, and/or nonnutritive ingredients. [0111] According to an embodiment, the injector ring may include a plurality of removable parts. [0112] The plurality of removable parts may be downstream of a check valve.
3 [0113] The dispensing nozzle assembly may further include a main body surrounded by the injector ring and wherein the macro-ingredient stream and the diluent stream pass therethrough. [0114] The main body may include a diversion path between the macro ingredient stream and the diluent stream for a partial volume of the diluent stream to mix with the macro-ingredient stream to form a diluted stream such that the diluent stream and the diluted stream exit the main body. [0115] The main body may include an annular chamber for the diluent stream. [0116] The present application further provides a dispensing nozzle assembly for forming a beverage comprising: a plurality of micro-ingredient streams; a macro ingredient stream; a diluent stream; a nozzle tip assembly for the macro-ingredient stream and the diluent stream; the nozzle tip assembly comprising a target such that the macro-ingredient stream and the diluent stream flow down the target; and an injector ring assembly positioned about the nozzle tip assembly; wherein the injector ring assembly comprises a plurality of cavities therein to mix two or more of the plurality of micro ingredient streams to form a mixed stream and to direct the mixed stream towards the target. [0117] The plurality of micro-ingredient streams may include micro-ingredients with reconstitution ratios of about ten to one or higher. The plurality of micro-ingredient streams can include micro-ingredients with reconstitution ratios of about twenty to one or higher. The plurality of micro-ingredient streams can also include micro-ingredients with reconstitution ratios of about fifty to one or higher. [0118] The dispensing nozzle assembly may further include a plurality of micro ingredient lines in communication with plurality of cavities and the plurality of micro ingredient streams. [0119] In a particular embodiment, the plurality of micro-ingredient streams comprises an acid component stream and a non-acid component steam. [0120] The plurality of micro-ingredient streams may include a plurality of beverage component streams. The plurality of beverage component streams can include beverage bases, flavors, additives, and/or nonnutritive ingredients. [0121] In a particular embodiment, the dispensing nozzle assembly further includes a main body surrounded by the injector ring and wherein the macro-ingredient 4 stream and the diluent stream pass therethrough. The main body may include a diversion path between the macro-ingredient stream and the diluent stream for a partial volume of the diluent stream to mix with the macro-ingredient stream to form a diluted stream such that the diluent stream and the diluted stream exit the main body. [0122] The invention further provides a dispensing nozzle assembly for forming a beverage comprising: a plurality of micro-ingredient streams; wherein the plurality of micro-ingredient streams comprises micro-ingredients with reconstitution ratios of about ten to one or higher; a macro-ingredient stream; a diluent stream; a main body for the macro-ingredient stream and the diluent stream to flow therethrough; and an injector ring assembly surrounding the main body; wherein the injector ring assembly comprises a plurality of cavities therein to mix two or more of the plurality of micro-ingredient streams to form a mixed stream. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0123] In order that the invention may be more fully understood, some embodiments will now be described with reference to the figures in which: [0124] Fig. 1 is a side plan view of a dispensing nozzle assembly as is described herein. [0125] Fig. 2 is a top plan view of the dispensing nozzle assembly of Fig. 1. [0126] Fig. 3 is a bottom plan view of the dispensing nozzle assembly of Fig. 1. [0127] Fig. 4 is a perspective view of the nozzle tip assembly as used with the dispensing nozzle assembly of Fig. 1. [0128] Fig. 5 is a top plan view of the nozzle tip assembly of Fig. 4. [0129] Fig. 6 is a bottom plan view of the nozzle tip assembly of Fig. 4. [0130] Fig. 7A is a side cross-sectional view of the nozzle tip assembly of Fig. 4. [0131] Fig. 7B is a further side cross-sectional view of the nozzle tip assembly of Fig. 4. [0132] Fig. 8 is an exploded view of the nozzle tip assembly of Fig. 4. [0133] Fig. 9 is a perspective view of the upper chamber and the target of the nozzle tip assembly of Fig. 4. [0134] Fig. 10 is an exploded view of the injector plate assembly.
5 [0135] Fig. 11 is a perspective view of the top injector plate of the injector ring assembly of Fig. 10. [0136] Fig. 12 is a bottom perspective view of the top injector plate of Fig. 11. [0137] Fig. 13 is a top perspective view of the lower injector plate of the injector ring assembly of Fig. 10. [0138] Fig. 14 is a lower perspective view of the lower injector plate of Fig. 13. [0139] Fig. 15 a side cross-sectional view of the lower injector plate of Fig. 13. [0140] Fig. 16 is a top plan view of the injector ring gasket of the injector ring assembly of Fig. 10. [0141] Fig. 17 is a perspective view of the lower injector ring collar of the injector ring assembly of Fig. 10. [0142] Fig. 18 is a perspective view of the quad tube assembly. [0143] Fig. 19 is a bottom perspective view of the quad tube assembly of Fig. 17. [0144] Fig. 20 is a perspective view of the quad tube adapter elastomer of the quad tube assembly of Fig. 17. DETAILED DESCRIPTION [0145] Referring now to the drawings, in which like numerals refer to like elements throughout the several views, Figs. 1-3 show an example of a dispensing nozzle assembly 100 as is described herein. The dispensing nozzle assembly 100 may be used as part of a beverage dispenser for dispensing many different types of beverages or other types of fluids. Specifically, the dispensing nozzle assembly 100 may be used with diluents, macro-ingredients, micro-ingredients, and other types of fluids. The diluents generally include plain water (still water or non-carbonated water), carbonated water, and other fluids. [0146] Generally described, the macro-ingredients may have reconstitution ratios in the range from full strength (no dilution) to about six (6) to one (1) (but generally less than about ten (10) to one (1). The macro-ingredients may include sugar syrup, HFCS ("High Fructose Corn Syrup"), concentrated extracts, purees, and similar types of ingredients. Other ingredients may include dairy products, soy, and rice concentrates. Similarly, a macro-ingredient base product may include the sweetener as well as flavorings, acids, and other common components. The sugar, HFCS, or other macro- 6 ingredient base product generally may be stored in a conventional bag-in-box container remote from the dispenser. The viscosity of the macro-ingredients may range from about 1 to about 10,000 centipoise and generally over 100 centipoises. [0147] The micro-ingredients may have reconstitution ratios ranging from about ten (10) to one (1) and higher. Specifically, many micro-ingredients may have reconstitution ratios in the range of about 20:1 to 300:1 or higher. The viscosities of the micro-ingredients typically range from about one (1) to about six (6) centipoise or so, but may vary from this range. Examples of micro-ingredients include natural or artificial flavors; flavor additives; natural or artificial colors; artificial sweeteners (high potency or otherwise); antifoam agents, nonnutritive ingredients, additives for controlling tartness, e.g., citric acid or potassium citrate; functional additives such as vitamins, minerals, herbal extracts, nutricuticals; and over the counter (or otherwise) medicines such as pseudoephedrine, acetaminophen; and similar types of ingredients. Various types of alcohols may be used as either macro or micro-ingredients. The micro-ingredients may be in liquid, gaseous, or powder form (and/or combinations thereof including soluble and suspended ingredients in a variety of media, including water, organic solvents and oils). [0148] The dispensing nozzle assembly 100 may include a nozzle tip assembly 110. An example of the nozzle tip assembly 110 is shown in Figs. 4-9. The nozzle tip assembly 110 may include a main body 120. The main body 120 may be largely circular in shape and may have a number of conduits extending therethrough, in this case a first conduit 130 and a second conduit 140. The main body 120 also may have a lower central aperture 150. The central aperture 150 may be largely circular in shape. [0149] The main body 120 may include a first port 160 in communication with the first conduit 130 and the central aperture 150. The first conduit 130 and the first port 160 may be used with a macro-ingredient line 165 such as for use with the HFCS. Likewise, the main body 120 may include an annular water chamber 170 that surrounds the bottom of the main body 120 and is in communication with the second conduit 140 via a water channel 175. The annular chamber 170 also may include one or more diversion channels 180 that extend into the central aperture 150. The diversion channels 180 may allow a small volume of fluid to be diverted from the annular chamber 170 into the central aperture 150 and the HFCS stream. The second conduit 140 may be in communication with the annular chamber 170 via a second port 190 positioned on top of 7 the main body 120. The second conduit 140 and the second port 190 may be used with a diluent line 195 such as for use with water or other diluents. [0150] As is shown in Figs. 7A and 7B, a first stage mixture housing 200 and a check valve 210 may be positioned within the central aperture 150 of the main body 120. The check valve 210 prevents the HFCS from dripping so as to prevent carry over from one beverage to the next, particularly in the context of a HFCS drink to a diet drink. Further, the check valve 210 provides easy cleaning to the dispensing nozzle 100 as a whole in that the elements downstream of the check valve 210 may be removable for cleaning. The diversion channel 180 also may extend through the first stage mixer housing 200. A pair of nozzle fitments 220 may be positioned within the first port 160 and the second port 190. [0151] The nozzle tip assembly 110 also may include a flow director 230. An example of the flow director 230 is shown in Fig. 9. The flow director 230 may include an upper chamber 240. The upper chamber 240 may include a raised shelf 250 that encircles an inner wall 255 of the chamber 240. The upper shelf 250 extends from a bottom wall 270 of the chamber 240. A number of shelf apertures 280 may extend through the shelf 280 and out through the bottom of the chamber 240. Likewise, a number of floor apertures 290 may extend along the bottom wall 270 and connect with the shelf apertures 280. In this embodiment, there may be only about half as many floor apertures 290 as there are shelf apertures 280. Any number of apertures 280, 290, however, may be used. [0152] The flow director 230 further may include a target 300. The target 300 may be positioned below the upper chamber 240. The target 300 may include a number of vertically extending fins 310 that extend into a largely star-shaped appearance as seen from the bottom. The fins 310 may form a number of U or V-shaped channels 320. The channels 320 may align with the shelf apertures 280 and the floor apertures 290 for fluid flow therethrough. [0153] The nozzle tip assembly 110 further may include a lower ring 330. The lower ring 330 may surround the bottom of the upper chamber 240 and may be positioned partially underneath the shelf apertures 280 so as to deflect the streams therethrough towards the target 300.
8 [0154] The dispensing nozzle assembly 100 also may include an injector ring assembly 400. The injector ring assembly 400 may be positioned about the nozzle tip assembly 110. The injector ring assembly 400 may dispense a large number of different fluids. The nozzle tip assembly 110 may extend through a central aperture 410 of the injector ring 400. Other positions may be used herein. [0155] Figs. 10-17 show one example of the injector ring assembly 400. Figs. 11 and 12 show a top injector plate 420. The top injector plate 420 may be largely circular in shape. The top injector plate 420 may include a number of injector ports 430 positioned on a top side 440 thereof. In this example, forty-four (44) injector ports 430 are shown although any number of injector ports 430 may be used. The injector ports 430 may be used with a number of different micro-ingredients as will be described in more detail below. The top side 440 also includes a number of bosses 450 positioned thereon as also will be described in more detail below. Eleven (11) bosses 450 are show although any number may be used. In this example, one boss may be provided for every four (4) injector ports 430 although other configurations may be used. [0156] The injector ports 430 extend through the top injector plate 420 to a bottom side 460 thereof. The bottom side 460 also may be largely circular in shape and may include a number of outer threads 470 for use as will be described in more detail below. [0157] As is shown in Figs. 13-14, a lower injector plate 480 may mate with the top injector plate 420. The lower injector plate 480 also may be largely circular in shape. The lower injector plate 480 may have a number of dispensing cavities 490 on a top side 500 thereof. Each or several of the dispensing cavities 490 may be elongated such that each cavity 490 may mate with two or more of the injector ports 430 of the top injector plate 420. The cavities 490 may be configured to ensure that the fluid from the desired group of injector ports 430 is combined. Several of the cavities 490 also may be used with a single fluid and a single injector port 490. Likewise, a single type of fluid may use multiple ports 490. As is described in more detail below, the larger cavities 490 may be used with beverage brands while the smaller cavities 490 may be used with additives or other types of fluids. The configuration of the lower injection plate 420 may be changed depending upon the desired beverages. A replacement lower injector plate 420 may be easily inserted.
9 [0158] Fig. 14 also shows the lower injector plate 480 that may include a key 485. The key 485 may mate with a similar structure that may form part of the top injector plate or otherwise. The use of the key 485 insures that the respective plate 420, 480 are properly aligned when assembled. [0159] As is shown in Fig. 15, each or several of the dispensing cavities 490 may include a top channel 510, a lower mixing area 520, and an exit port 530. The fluid from the injector ports 490 enters the cavity 490 via the top channel 510 and then mixes in the lower mixing area 520. The mixed fluids then leave the cavity 490 via the exit port 530. Thirty (30) exit ports 530 are shown although any number may be used. The exit ports 530 may be positioned on a bottom side 540 of the lower injection plate 480. [0160] As is shown in Fig. 16, a gasket 550 may be positioned between the top injector plate 320 and the lower injector plate 480. The gasket 550 may be made out of elastomeric material. The gasket 550 may be a distinct element or it may be co-molded with either the top injector plate 320 or the lower injector plate 480. The gasket 550 may include a number of dispensing cavity apertures 560. The dispensing cavity apertures 560 may be substantially similar in shape to the dispensing cavities 490 of the lower injector plate 480 and may align therewith. [0161] The injector ring assembly 400 also may include a lower injector ring collar 580 as is shown in Fig. 17. The lower injector collar 580 includes a number of lower injector ring collar threads 590 thereon. The lower injector ring collar threads 590 mate with the top injector plate threads 470 and the lower injector plate threads 550 so at form the completed injector ring assembly 500. The injector ring assembly 500 likewise may be unscrewed and taken apart for cleaning, replacement, and the like. [0162] The dispensing nozzle assembly 100 further may include a number of quad tube assemblies 600. An example of the quad tube assembly 600 is shown in Figs. 18-20. As the name implies, each quad tube assembly 600 may provide mating means for four (4) ingredient tubes 610 to mate with four injector ports 430 of the injector ring assembly 400. Individual connections and/or other groupings of tubes 610 also may be used herein (e.g., one tube, three tubes, five tubes, etc.). Each quad tube assembly 610 may include a quad tube adapter body 620 with four (4) adapter body ports 630 therein. The quad tube adapter 620 may be enclosed by a quad tube retainer 640. The connection means may be provided by a quad tube adapter elastomer 650. The quad tube elastomer 10 650 may be molded as a single piece as is shown in Fig. 19 and then cut in half. One half of the quad tube elastomer 640 includes the connectors 660 for the injector ports 430 while the other half includes the top connectors 670 for the ingredient tubes 610. Other materials may be used herein. [0163] As described above, the dispensing nozzle assembly 100 may be used with diluents, macro-ingredients, micro-ingredients, and other materials. The first port 160 of the nozzle tip assembly 110 may be in communication with the HFCS line 165. Alternatively, a sugar syrup or other type of macro-ingredient may be used. Likewise, the second port 190 of the nozzle tip assembly 110 may be in communication with the diluent line 195. As above, the diluent may be plain water or carbonated water. A plain water line and a carbonated water line may merge upstream of the dispensing nozzle assembly 100. Each of the injector ports 430 may be in communication with one of the ingredient tubes 610 via the quad tube adapters 620. As described above, each of the ingredient tubes 610 may be in communication with a micro-ingredient source or other type of material source. [0164] The micro-ingredients may include beverage concentrate, such as for teas, soft drinks, sport drinks, fruit drinks, and the like as well as flavorings such as cherry, lemon, etc. and also other ingredients such as anti-foam additives. The ingredient tubes 610 on the injector ring 400 preferably may be arranged such that the darker micro ingredients are positioned at the front of the dispensing nozzle assembly 100 while the substantially clear ingredients and the additives may be positioned at the rear and the side of the dispensing nozzle assembly 100. By placing the lighter colored brands in back, the consumer generally will not see any off color fluid streams as the various fluid streams flow through the dispensing nozzle assembly 100 and into a consumer's cup. [0165] Many of the brands that flow through the dispensing nozzle assembly 100 may be combinations of several components. For example, a soft drink may have a first component and a second component. These components may be, for example, acid and non-acid components. An example of such is shown in commonly owned U.S. Patent Application No. 11/276,553 entitled "Methods and Apparatuses for Making Compositions Comprising an Acid and an Acid Degradable Component and/or Compositions a Plurality of Selectable Components." 11 [0166] These acid and non-acid components generally should not be mixed upstream of dispensing nozzle assembly 100 so as to delay degradation. The acids and the non-acid flavor components therefore may be separated until they reach the injector ring assembly 400. The two components may flow from the injector ports 430 and into the dispensing cavities 490 via the top channel 510, mix in the mixing area 520, and exit via the exit port 530. The mixed streams then may mix with the water and sweetener about the target 300. Carry over in the next beverage is largely limited by the fact that the streams largely air mix. Use of the two streams also limits the possibility that an exit port 530 will clog and there is again less opportunity for color or flavor carryover because only one exit port 530 is used for each injector port 430. [0167] In use, the components of the base beverage flow through the injector ring assembly 400 as described above. Likewise, other injector ports 430 may be activated so as to add additives such as flavors, anti foam agents, and other types of micro ingredients. While the micro-ingredients are flowing, the water or other diluent and the sweetener or other macro-ingredient may flow through the nozzle tip assembly 110. For example, the HFCS flows through the first port 160 and through the lower central aperture 150 via the check valve 210 while the water generally flows through the second conduit 190 and into the annular chamber 170. [0168] The HFCS stream that enters the first port 160 is generally above about sixty-five percent (65%) in concentration. Such concentrations and higher generally ensure an uncontaminated supply. (The concentration may be less, about fifty percent (50%), if preservatives or aseptic loading is used.) In order to provide for good mixing, however, a small amount of the water stream is diverted from the annular chamber 170 via the diversion channel 180 towards the lower central aperture 150 and the HFCS stream therein. This diversion slightly dilutes the HFCS stream by about five percent (5%) or more, with about twenty percent (20%) or so shown herein, and brings the HFCS stream to a concentration of less than about sixty-five percent (65%). The water stream then exits the nozzle tip assembly 110 via the shelf apertures 280 while the diluted HFCS stream exits via the floor apertures 290 and into the shelf apertures 280. The water stream and the diluted HFCS stream then mix with the micro-ingredients as they flow down the target 300.
12 [0169] The use of the diluted HFCS stream simplifies sanitation in that those areas that are exposed to HFCS below a sixty-five percent (65%) concentration can be sanitized. The predilution also provides good mixing performance and good carbonation even using a high brix HFCS. Likewise, there is minimal carryover in that the potential for HFCS to be washed into the following drink after a dispense is minimal. [0170] The dispensing nozzle assembly 100 thus may provide any number of different and varying beverages in a small foot print. The dispensing nozzle assembly 100 provides good mixing while having limited carryover. The dispensing nozzle assembly 100, and the nozzle tip assembly 110 in particular, also are easy to clean.
Claims (22)
1. A dispensing nozzle assembly for forming a beverage from a plurality of micro-ingredient streams, a macro-ingredient stream, and a diluent stream, comprising: a nozzle tip assembly for the macro-ingredient stream and the diluent stream; the nozzle tip assembly comprising a target such that the macro-ingredient stream and the diluent stream flow down the target; and an injector ring assembly positioned about the nozzle tip assembly; wherein the injector ring assembly comprises a plurality of cavities therein to mix two or more of the plurality of micro-ingredient streams to form a mixed stream and to direct the mixed stream towards the target.
2. The dispensing nozzle assembly of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of micro-ingredient lines in communication with plurality of cavities and the plurality of micro-ingredient streams.
3. The dispensing nozzle assembly of claim 1 or 2, wherein the plurality of micro-ingredient streams comprises an acid component stream and a non-acid component steam.
4. The dispensing nozzle assembly of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the plurality of micro-ingredient streams comprises a plurality of beverage component streams.
5. The dispensing nozzle assembly of claim 4, wherein the plurality of beverage component streams comprises beverage bases, flavors, additives, and/or nonnutritive ingredients. 14
6. The dispensing nozzle assembly of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the injector ring comprises a plurality of removable parts.
7. The dispensing nozzle assembly of claim 6, wherein the plurality of removable parts are downstream of a check valve.
8. The dispensing nozzle assembly of any one of claims I to 7, further comprising a main body surrounded by the injector ring and wherein the macro ingredient stream and the diluent stream pass therethrough.
9. The dispensing nozzle assembly of claim 8, wherein the main body comprises a diversion path between the macro-ingredient stream and the diluent stream for a partial volume of the diluent stream to mix with the macro-ingredient stream to form a diluted stream such that the diluent stream and the diluted stream exit the main body.
10. The dispensing nozzle assembly of claim 8 or 9, wherein the main body comprises an annular chamber for the diluent stream.
11. A dispensing nozzle assembly for forming a beverage comprising: a plurality of micro-ingredient streams; a macro-ingredient stream; a diluent stream; a nozzle tip assembly for the macro-ingredient stream and the diluent stream; the nozzle tip assembly comprising a target such that the macro-ingredient stream and the diluent stream flow down the target; and an injector ring assembly positioned about the nozzle tip assembly; wherein the injector ring assembly comprises a plurality of cavities therein to mix two or more of the plurality of micro-ingredient streams to form a mixed stream and to direct the mixed stream towards the target. 15
12. The dispensing nozzle assembly of claim 11, wherein the plurality of micro-ingredient streams comprises micro-ingredients with reconstitution ratios of about ten to one or higher.
13. The dispensing nozzle assembly of claim 11, wherein the plurality of micro-ingredient streams comprises micro-ingredients with reconstitution ratios of about twenty to one or higher.
14. The dispensing nozzle assembly of claim 11, wherein the plurality of micro-ingredient streams comprises micro-ingredients with reconstitution ratios of about fifty to one or higher.
15. The dispensing nozzle assembly of claim 11, further comprising a plurality of micro-ingredient lines in communication with plurality of cavities and the plurality of micro-ingredient streams.
16. The dispensing nozzle assembly of any one of claims 11 to 15, wherein the plurality of micro-ingredient streams comprises an acid component stream and a non acid component steam.
17. The dispensing nozzle assembly of any one of claims 11 to 16, wherein the plurality of micro-ingredient streams comprises a plurality of beverage component streams.
18. The dispensing nozzle assembly of claim 17, wherein the plurality of beverage component streams comprises beverage bases, flavors, additives, and/or nonnutritive ingredients.
19. The dispensing nozzle assembly of any one of claims 11 to 18, further comprising a main body surrounded by the injector ring and wherein the macro ingredient stream and the diluent stream pass therethrough. 16
20. The dispensing nozzle assembly of claim 19, wherein the main body comprises a diversion path between the macro-ingredient stream and the diluent stream for a partial volume of the diluent stream to mix with the macro-ingredient stream to form a diluted stream such that the diluent stream and the diluted stream exit the main body.
21. A dispensing nozzle assembly for forming a beverage comprising: a plurality of micro-ingredient streams; wherein the plurality of micro-ingredient streams comprises micro-ingredients with reconstitution ratios of about ten to one or higher; a macro-ingredient stream; a diluent stream; a main body for the macro-ingredient stream and the diluent stream to flow therethrough; and an injector ring assembly surrounding the main body; wherein the injector ring assembly comprises a plurality of cavities therein to mix two or more of the plurality of micro-ingredient streams to form a mixed stream.
22. A dispensing nozzle assembly to any one of the embodiments substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying drawings.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
AU2013203208A AU2013203208B2 (en) | 2007-07-25 | 2013-04-09 | Dispensing nozzle assembly |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/782,833 | 2007-07-25 | ||
AU2008279565A AU2008279565B2 (en) | 2007-07-25 | 2008-06-26 | Dispensing nozzle assembly |
AU2013203208A AU2013203208B2 (en) | 2007-07-25 | 2013-04-09 | Dispensing nozzle assembly |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
AU2008279565A Division AU2008279565B2 (en) | 2007-07-25 | 2008-06-26 | Dispensing nozzle assembly |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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AU2013203208A1 true AU2013203208A1 (en) | 2013-05-02 |
AU2013203208B2 AU2013203208B2 (en) | 2015-05-14 |
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Family Applications (3)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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AU2013203208A Ceased AU2013203208B2 (en) | 2007-07-25 | 2013-04-09 | Dispensing nozzle assembly |
AU2013203206A Ceased AU2013203206B2 (en) | 2007-07-25 | 2013-04-09 | Dispensing nozzle assembly |
AU2013205067A Ceased AU2013205067B2 (en) | 2007-07-25 | 2013-04-13 | Dispensing nozzle assembly |
Family Applications After (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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AU2013203206A Ceased AU2013203206B2 (en) | 2007-07-25 | 2013-04-09 | Dispensing nozzle assembly |
AU2013205067A Ceased AU2013205067B2 (en) | 2007-07-25 | 2013-04-13 | Dispensing nozzle assembly |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
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AU (3) | AU2013203208B2 (en) |
Families Citing this family (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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WO2014196951A1 (en) * | 2013-06-03 | 2014-12-11 | Nestec S.A. | Mixing nozzle |
Family Cites Families (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US5203474A (en) * | 1990-06-16 | 1993-04-20 | Alco Standard Corporation | Beverage dispensing nozzle |
US5842600A (en) * | 1996-07-11 | 1998-12-01 | Standex International Corporation | Tankless beverage water carbonation process and apparatus |
US6321938B1 (en) * | 1999-10-22 | 2001-11-27 | Lancer Partnership, Ltd. | Nozzle assembly for a beverage dispenser |
US7383966B2 (en) * | 2002-09-03 | 2008-06-10 | The Coca-Cola Company | Dispensing nozzle |
US6983863B2 (en) * | 2003-08-28 | 2006-01-10 | Lancer Partnership, Ltd. | Method and apparatus for beverage dispensing nozzle |
US7445133B2 (en) * | 2003-10-12 | 2008-11-04 | Daniel Ludovissie | Multiple beverage and flavor additive beverage dispenser |
-
2013
- 2013-04-09 AU AU2013203208A patent/AU2013203208B2/en not_active Ceased
- 2013-04-09 AU AU2013203206A patent/AU2013203206B2/en not_active Ceased
- 2013-04-13 AU AU2013205067A patent/AU2013205067B2/en not_active Ceased
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AU2013203208B2 (en) | 2015-05-14 |
AU2013203206B2 (en) | 2015-08-20 |
AU2013205067B2 (en) | 2015-04-30 |
AU2013203206A1 (en) | 2013-05-02 |
AU2013205067A1 (en) | 2013-05-16 |
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MK14 | Patent ceased section 143(a) (annual fees not paid) or expired |