CA2058786C - Carbonated beverage dispensing apparatus - Google Patents
Carbonated beverage dispensing apparatusInfo
- Publication number
- CA2058786C CA2058786C CA002058786A CA2058786A CA2058786C CA 2058786 C CA2058786 C CA 2058786C CA 002058786 A CA002058786 A CA 002058786A CA 2058786 A CA2058786 A CA 2058786A CA 2058786 C CA2058786 C CA 2058786C
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- water
- pressure
- temperature
- valve
- temperature sensing
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired - Fee Related
Links
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
- B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B67D1/00—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught
- B67D1/0042—Details of specific parts of the dispensers
- B67D1/0057—Carbonators
- B67D1/0069—Details
- B67D1/0074—Automatic carbonation control
- B67D1/0076—Automatic carbonation control by sensing temperature
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
- B01F23/00—Mixing according to the phases to be mixed, e.g. dispersing or emulsifying
- B01F23/20—Mixing gases with liquids
- B01F23/23—Mixing gases with liquids by introducing gases into liquid media, e.g. for producing aerated liquids
- B01F23/236—Mixing gases with liquids by introducing gases into liquid media, e.g. for producing aerated liquids specially adapted for aerating or carbonating beverages
- B01F23/2363—Mixing systems, i.e. flow charts or diagrams; Arrangements, e.g. comprising controlling means
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
- B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B67D1/00—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught
- B67D1/0042—Details of specific parts of the dispensers
- B67D1/0057—Carbonators
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
- B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B67D1/00—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught
- B67D1/0042—Details of specific parts of the dispensers
- B67D1/0057—Carbonators
- B67D1/0069—Details
- B67D1/0074—Automatic carbonation control
- B67D1/0075—Automatic carbonation control by sensing gas pressure
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
- B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B67D1/00—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught
- B67D1/08—Details
- B67D1/12—Flow or pressure control devices or systems, e.g. valves, gas pressure control, level control in storage containers
- B67D1/1252—Gas pressure control means, e.g. for maintaining proper carbonation
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
- B01F35/00—Accessories for mixers; Auxiliary operations or auxiliary devices; Parts or details of general application
- B01F35/20—Measuring; Control or regulation
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
- B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B67D2210/00—Indexing scheme relating to aspects and details of apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught or for controlling flow of liquids under gravity from storage containers for dispensing purposes
- B67D2210/00146—Component storage means
- B67D2210/00149—Fixed containers to be filled in situ
- B67D2210/00152—Automatically
- B67D2210/00157—Level detected electrically by contact with sensors
Landscapes
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Chemical Kinetics & Catalysis (AREA)
- Devices For Dispensing Beverages (AREA)
Abstract
CARBONATED BEVERAGE DISPENSING APPARATUS
Abstract of the Disclosure In a carbonated beverage dispensing apparatus including a dispensing valve, carbon dioxide gas is introduced into a liquid to be dispensed through the dispensing valve, and a temperature sensor is arranged to sense the temperature of the liquid, either in a carbonation tank or in the path through which the liquid is fed to the carbonation tank. A control, responsive to the temperature sensor,controls a valve which regulates the pressure at which carbon dioxide is introduced into the liquid. The carbon dioxide pressure increases with increasing liquid temperature, so that the carbonation level in the liquid dispensed through the dispensing valve is maintained at a substantially constantlevel. Both mechanical and electronic controls are disclosed.
Abstract of the Disclosure In a carbonated beverage dispensing apparatus including a dispensing valve, carbon dioxide gas is introduced into a liquid to be dispensed through the dispensing valve, and a temperature sensor is arranged to sense the temperature of the liquid, either in a carbonation tank or in the path through which the liquid is fed to the carbonation tank. A control, responsive to the temperature sensor,controls a valve which regulates the pressure at which carbon dioxide is introduced into the liquid. The carbon dioxide pressure increases with increasing liquid temperature, so that the carbonation level in the liquid dispensed through the dispensing valve is maintained at a substantially constantlevel. Both mechanical and electronic controls are disclosed.
Description
2~78~
t 3row C~BON~EU BE~R~ DX~P~NSIN~ AppARp~us ~ lnvent~on rela~es generally to ~rbonal:or~, and in pa~tic:ular to a carbon~tor ~ppZIr~u8 utllizQd in a po~t-:~ix bc~erage diap~nsi~g 8~rsta~ls. I~ ~lat~8 pa~ti~ularly to a c:~rbon~to~ 7n whic~ thQ lev~l o~ carbona~ion ~-q control~.~d in 8UCI~ a way ag ~o avo1d ~rarious probla~s which ~esul~ ~rom exc~s~ive carbonation. ~:
The ~cl~at~on orq carbon dioxide ga8 into t~ater iS
enhancad a~ colder ~a~p~ratu~eg and h~gher E)~e~sures. Ga~ : ;
pre88Url~ i9 not ~ cul~ ~o r~3gulate~ ~owe~er, ~he aJnbient teInp~rature, and the tempQ~atur~ o~ th~ water supply in a c~rbonat1ng apparatug ~nd to ~rary. a~cau~ o~ these . .
~e~Qperaturc ~tzlria~cion~, co~trol o~ th~ temperature o~ the water supplled to ~ carbona.ting appa~atu~ llas been di~:~iCUlt il~ co~n3rcial carbonat~ng ~ulp~ent, and ~n many instance~
ecorlomlcally infaa~ible, par~icula~ly in t}le carbonators or~ ; . -po~t ~ix b~veragQ d~3p2n3ers. Cor~seguently t~e c0;~ aontsnt `-o~ dispensed beverag~s ha~ beQ2~ alr~icul~ ~o cont~ol.
Rithe~to, the acc~3pted pract~ce ~ to ~at ths pressure ~ C2 ente~ng the carbonz~t~ng chamber at a l~v~l high eno~tg}~ to achieve ~d~quata level s o~ carbonat~on at the highest no~ally arltic~pated wa~er temperature~ Reduced ., ~ -water supply ~empe~ ur~3 due to daily~ 3ea~0nal ~ or `~ -geographlc~l tr~3nds, cauæ~3~; exces~i~e le~els o~ ca~bonation -~ ~; -.
CARBONATED BEVERAGE DISPENSING APPARATUS
Brief Sum~ary_of the Invention This invention relates generally to carbonators, and in particular to a carbonator apparatus utilized in a post-mix beverage dispensing system. It relates particularly to a carbonator in which the level of carbonaticn is controlled in such a way as to avoid various problems which result from excessive carbonation.
The solution of carbon dioxide gas into water is enhanced at colder temperatures and higher pressures. Gas pressure is not di-fficult to regulate However, the ambient temperature, and the temperature of the water supply in a carbonating apparatus tend to vary. Because of these temperahlre variations, control of the temperature of the water supplied to a carbonating apparatus has been difficult in commercial carbonating equipment, and in many instances economically infeasible, particularly in the carbonators of post-mix beverage dispensers. Consequently the CO2 content of dispensed beverages has been difficult to control.
Hitherto, the accepted practice was to set the pressure of C2 entering the carbonating chamber at a level high enough to achieve adequate levels of carbonation at the highest nornally anticipated water temperature. Reduced water supply temperature due to daily, seasonal, or geographical trends, causes excessive levels of carbonation to be produced, giving rise to various undesirable conditions described below.
One of the problems resulting from the inability to control water supply temperature is CO2 wastage due to out-gassing of excess carbonation at the point of release to atmospheric pressure (usually at ~e beverage mixing dispensing valve output).
Another problem is that excessive levels of carbonation at the point of dispensing cause irregular and inconsistent operation of the fluid flow controlsFurthermore, excessive carbonation levels at the point of dispensing causes the inconvenience of high foarn levels in the beverage receptacle, and product wastage due to overflow and repeated topping-off cycles. The undesirable , ..- . . - - .... .. .
. . . , . . ..:
t 3row C~BON~EU BE~R~ DX~P~NSIN~ AppARp~us ~ lnvent~on rela~es generally to ~rbonal:or~, and in pa~tic:ular to a carbon~tor ~ppZIr~u8 utllizQd in a po~t-:~ix bc~erage diap~nsi~g 8~rsta~ls. I~ ~lat~8 pa~ti~ularly to a c:~rbon~to~ 7n whic~ thQ lev~l o~ carbona~ion ~-q control~.~d in 8UCI~ a way ag ~o avo1d ~rarious probla~s which ~esul~ ~rom exc~s~ive carbonation. ~:
The ~cl~at~on orq carbon dioxide ga8 into t~ater iS
enhancad a~ colder ~a~p~ratu~eg and h~gher E)~e~sures. Ga~ : ;
pre88Url~ i9 not ~ cul~ ~o r~3gulate~ ~owe~er, ~he aJnbient teInp~rature, and the tempQ~atur~ o~ th~ water supply in a c~rbonat1ng apparatug ~nd to ~rary. a~cau~ o~ these . .
~e~Qperaturc ~tzlria~cion~, co~trol o~ th~ temperature o~ the water supplled to ~ carbona.ting appa~atu~ llas been di~:~iCUlt il~ co~n3rcial carbonat~ng ~ulp~ent, and ~n many instance~
ecorlomlcally infaa~ible, par~icula~ly in t}le carbonators or~ ; . -po~t ~ix b~veragQ d~3p2n3ers. Cor~seguently t~e c0;~ aontsnt `-o~ dispensed beverag~s ha~ beQ2~ alr~icul~ ~o cont~ol.
Rithe~to, the acc~3pted pract~ce ~ to ~at ths pressure ~ C2 ente~ng the carbonz~t~ng chamber at a l~v~l high eno~tg}~ to achieve ~d~quata level s o~ carbonat~on at the highest no~ally arltic~pated wa~er temperature~ Reduced ., ~ -water supply ~empe~ ur~3 due to daily~ 3ea~0nal ~ or `~ -geographlc~l tr~3nds, cauæ~3~; exces~i~e le~els o~ ca~bonation -~ ~; -.
CARBONATED BEVERAGE DISPENSING APPARATUS
Brief Sum~ary_of the Invention This invention relates generally to carbonators, and in particular to a carbonator apparatus utilized in a post-mix beverage dispensing system. It relates particularly to a carbonator in which the level of carbonaticn is controlled in such a way as to avoid various problems which result from excessive carbonation.
The solution of carbon dioxide gas into water is enhanced at colder temperatures and higher pressures. Gas pressure is not di-fficult to regulate However, the ambient temperature, and the temperature of the water supply in a carbonating apparatus tend to vary. Because of these temperahlre variations, control of the temperature of the water supplied to a carbonating apparatus has been difficult in commercial carbonating equipment, and in many instances economically infeasible, particularly in the carbonators of post-mix beverage dispensers. Consequently the CO2 content of dispensed beverages has been difficult to control.
Hitherto, the accepted practice was to set the pressure of C2 entering the carbonating chamber at a level high enough to achieve adequate levels of carbonation at the highest nornally anticipated water temperature. Reduced water supply temperature due to daily, seasonal, or geographical trends, causes excessive levels of carbonation to be produced, giving rise to various undesirable conditions described below.
One of the problems resulting from the inability to control water supply temperature is CO2 wastage due to out-gassing of excess carbonation at the point of release to atmospheric pressure (usually at ~e beverage mixing dispensing valve output).
Another problem is that excessive levels of carbonation at the point of dispensing cause irregular and inconsistent operation of the fluid flow controlsFurthermore, excessive carbonation levels at the point of dispensing causes the inconvenience of high foarn levels in the beverage receptacle, and product wastage due to overflow and repeated topping-off cycles. The undesirable , ..- . . - - .... .. .
. . . , . . ..:
3 2~78~ ~
results of excessive carbonation levels in beverage dispensing equipment are exacerbated with faster beverage dispensing rates, as found in modern beverage dispensing equipment. - ~ `
It is the principal object of the present inven~ion, therefore, to provide an apparatus to control carbonation level over a widely varying range of temperatures in the water used in the carbon~tion process.
It is a further object of the invention to provide an improved apparatus for effecting carbonation of water in post-mix b~verage dispensers and in other equipment requiring carbonated water at controlled C2 levels.
It is yet another object of this invention to conserve carbon dioxide, and thereby reduce operating costs, by limiting carbonation level to a predetermined . . ~
range, and to eliminate C2 wastage due to out-gassing at the point of release to atmospheric pressure.
Among other objects of the invention are the improvement of the performance of beverage dispensing equipment, and especially the beverage mlxmg valve, and the avoldance of such problems as mconslstent operatlon of the fluid flow controls, high foam levels in the beverage receptacle, and product wastage.
These and other objects of the invention are addressed in accordance with the invention by providing a control system in which a temperature sensor is arranged to sense the temperature of the water, and control means, responsiveto the temperature sensing means control the pressure at which carbon dioxide is introduced into the water, the pressure increasing with increasing water temperature. The relationship between water temperature and CO2 pressure, as determined by the control means, is preferably such that the carbonation level in the dispensed carbonated beverage is maintained within a limited range, and preferably at a substantially constant level.
The temperature sensor senses the temperature of the supply water being provided to the carbonator tank, or of the carbonated water within the tank itself. The CO2 pressure can be controlled by a temperature sensing gas regulator, or an electronically controlled regulator responsive to a temperature -,,,~"'-. ~,.
20~87~6 transducer. The desired carbonation level or range of carbonation levels can be selected, and with the apparatus set for the desired carbonation level, the level will be automatically maintained even though the temperature of the water supplied to or within the carbonator tank may vary. -~
S Brief Descri~tion of the Drawin~s FIG. I is a diagram showing the relationship between C02 pressure and water temperature for a specific carbonation level;
FIG. 2 is a schematic diagrarn of a beverage dispenser in accordance with a first embodiment of ehe invention, wherein a C2 pressure regul~tor is mechanically controlled in response to the temperature of the liquid in a . ~ ... ,,.. ~, carbonation tank;
FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of a beverage dispenser in accordance with a second embodiment of the invention, wherein a C2 presswe regulator is mechanically controlled in response to the temperature of water being fed IS toward a carbonation tank;
FIG. 4 is a schematic diagrarn of a beverage dispenser in accordance with a third embodiment of the invention, wherein a CO2 pressure regulator is electronically controlled in response to the temperature of the liquid in a carbonation tank;
FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of a beverage dispenser in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the invention, wherein a CO2 pressure regulator - . ~ ,:. . ...
is electronically controlled in response to the temperature of water being fed toward a carbonation tank;
FIG. 6 is an elevational view of a temperature sensor and a first -mechanically controlled CO2 pressure regulation valve, the latter being shown ~ ;
in section;
FIG. 7 is a se~tional view of an electroni~ally controlled CO2 pressure . ~-regulation valve; i-FIG. 8 is a sectional view of an alternative mechanically controlled valve; and ;
FIG. 9 is a sectional view of an alternative electrically con~rolled valve. ` ~ .
... ~...., .;; .
, ... .. :
2 ~ ~ 8 7 ~
results of excessive carbonation levels in beverage dispensing equipment are exacerbated with faster beverage dispensing rates, as found in modern beverage dispensing equipment. - ~ `
It is the principal object of the present inven~ion, therefore, to provide an apparatus to control carbonation level over a widely varying range of temperatures in the water used in the carbon~tion process.
It is a further object of the invention to provide an improved apparatus for effecting carbonation of water in post-mix b~verage dispensers and in other equipment requiring carbonated water at controlled C2 levels.
It is yet another object of this invention to conserve carbon dioxide, and thereby reduce operating costs, by limiting carbonation level to a predetermined . . ~
range, and to eliminate C2 wastage due to out-gassing at the point of release to atmospheric pressure.
Among other objects of the invention are the improvement of the performance of beverage dispensing equipment, and especially the beverage mlxmg valve, and the avoldance of such problems as mconslstent operatlon of the fluid flow controls, high foam levels in the beverage receptacle, and product wastage.
These and other objects of the invention are addressed in accordance with the invention by providing a control system in which a temperature sensor is arranged to sense the temperature of the water, and control means, responsiveto the temperature sensing means control the pressure at which carbon dioxide is introduced into the water, the pressure increasing with increasing water temperature. The relationship between water temperature and CO2 pressure, as determined by the control means, is preferably such that the carbonation level in the dispensed carbonated beverage is maintained within a limited range, and preferably at a substantially constant level.
The temperature sensor senses the temperature of the supply water being provided to the carbonator tank, or of the carbonated water within the tank itself. The CO2 pressure can be controlled by a temperature sensing gas regulator, or an electronically controlled regulator responsive to a temperature -,,,~"'-. ~,.
20~87~6 transducer. The desired carbonation level or range of carbonation levels can be selected, and with the apparatus set for the desired carbonation level, the level will be automatically maintained even though the temperature of the water supplied to or within the carbonator tank may vary. -~
S Brief Descri~tion of the Drawin~s FIG. I is a diagram showing the relationship between C02 pressure and water temperature for a specific carbonation level;
FIG. 2 is a schematic diagrarn of a beverage dispenser in accordance with a first embodiment of ehe invention, wherein a C2 pressure regul~tor is mechanically controlled in response to the temperature of the liquid in a . ~ ... ,,.. ~, carbonation tank;
FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of a beverage dispenser in accordance with a second embodiment of the invention, wherein a C2 presswe regulator is mechanically controlled in response to the temperature of water being fed IS toward a carbonation tank;
FIG. 4 is a schematic diagrarn of a beverage dispenser in accordance with a third embodiment of the invention, wherein a CO2 pressure regulator is electronically controlled in response to the temperature of the liquid in a carbonation tank;
FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of a beverage dispenser in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the invention, wherein a CO2 pressure regulator - . ~ ,:. . ...
is electronically controlled in response to the temperature of water being fed toward a carbonation tank;
FIG. 6 is an elevational view of a temperature sensor and a first -mechanically controlled CO2 pressure regulation valve, the latter being shown ~ ;
in section;
FIG. 7 is a se~tional view of an electroni~ally controlled CO2 pressure . ~-regulation valve; i-FIG. 8 is a sectional view of an alternative mechanically controlled valve; and ;
FIG. 9 is a sectional view of an alternative electrically con~rolled valve. ` ~ .
... ~...., .;; .
, ... .. :
2 ~ ~ 8 7 ~
Detailed Description Carbonation level in soft drink dispensing is defined in terms of the ratio of the volume of carbon dioxide to the vol~e of water. As shown in FIG. 1, as temperature increases, it is necessary to increase CO2 pressure to maintain agiven carbonation level. Conversely, at lower temperatures, a lower CO2 pressure is required to maintain a given carbonation level. The relationship between temperature and pressure is approximately linear. FIG. 1 shows a typical relationship between gas pressure and water temperature -for a carbonation level of 5.25. In practice, the relationship between gas pressure and water temperature may depart from the graph of FIG. 1 for various reasons such as losses in the system.
Typically, when water temperature is at 68F., 100 ml. of water can dissolve 90 ml. of CO2 gas when the gas is under one atmosphere of pressure.
If the CO2 is pressurized to 5.25 atmospheres or 77.175 PSIG, then 5.25 times as much CO2 will dissolve in the water at the same temperature. That is, 472.5 ml. of CO2 (measured at one atrnosphere) will dissolve in 100 ml of water, when the pressure is raised to S.25 a nospheres. The solubility of CO2 decreases with increasing water temperature, requiring a still higher pressure to force the same amount of CO2 into solution.
The apparatus of FIG. 2 makes it possible to maintain any desired ,, . ..~: -. . .
carbonation level in the carbonated water in carbonation tank 10. Water, from a water supply line 12, is supplied to tank 10 throu~ a motor-driven pump 14 and a check valve 16. The check valve is required to maintain CO2 pressure in ta~ 10. A double check valve ~s preferably used in order to insure ag~nst flow of liquid or gas back to the water supply through line 12. The motor of motor-driven p~p 14 is controlled by a level sensor 18, which starts ~e motor when the liquid level in the ta~ falls below a first predeterrnined level, and shuts of ~ the motor when the liquid level reaches a second predetermined level which exceeds the first predeterrnined level. Carbon dioxide from supply ta~
20 is delivered to t~ 10 ~rough a pressure regulator 22, a temperature~
controlled va ve 24 ~d a check valve 26. Carbonated water is delivered to - 6 - 2C35878~
dispensing valve 28 through line 30.
A temperature sensor 32~ imsnersed in the liquid 34 in t~mk 10, operates valve 24 through line 34, controlling the pressure regulation in the valve so that, at higher temperatures, the flow of CO2 through the valve is less restricted. Inthe valve, a sensor bias spring (not shown in FIG. 2) controls the flow of C2 into tank 10 in such a way that the CO2 pressure increases with increasing temperature in a predetermined manner to maintain a substantially constant carbonation Icvel.
The temperature sensor 32 can be a bulb type device in which an expanding fluid flows through tube 34, to operate a diaphragm within valve 24.
The expanding fluid can be a liquid such as an alcohol or glycol, or one of the several fluorocarbons available under the trademark FREON. Alternatively, the fluid can be a gas such as nitrogen or carbon dioxide.
Details of the temperature sensor 32 and valve 24 are shown in FIG. 6 Valve 24 comprises a fluid chamber 36 connected through tube 34 to sensor 32.
The chamber is closed by a flexible diaphragrn 38. A spring 52 (the sensor bias spring referred to above) is located between diaphragm 38 and a second diaphragm 54, which fvrms part of the boundary of an outlet chamber in communication with outlet 42. A valve element 44 is mechanically connected to a center rivet 56 on the bottom of diaphragm 54, and cooperates with a valve seat 46 to provide a restricted, closable passage between inlet 40 and outlet 42.
Valve element 44 is urged toward its closed condition by a weak spIing 48 which is in compression between the valve element and an adjustable plate 50.
Plate 50 has an opening 51 allowing flDw of CO2 from inlet 40 toward the valve orifice. CV2 flows through valve 24 from inlet 40 to outlet 42, and is controlled by the restriction between valve element 44 and valve seat 46. W~en pressure is reduced at outlet 42 as a result of CO2 consumption, spring 52 moves diaphragm 54 downward. Rivet 56 on the bottom of the diaphragm forces valve element 44 to an open condition, allowing CO2 to flow from inlet 40 to outlet 42 to restore pressure on the outlet side of valve 24, whereupon diaphragm 54 allows valve element 44 to reclose under the urging of spring 48.
;; ~ ~`~'``
. .. :
20~7~6 ;~
Typically, when water temperature is at 68F., 100 ml. of water can dissolve 90 ml. of CO2 gas when the gas is under one atmosphere of pressure.
If the CO2 is pressurized to 5.25 atmospheres or 77.175 PSIG, then 5.25 times as much CO2 will dissolve in the water at the same temperature. That is, 472.5 ml. of CO2 (measured at one atrnosphere) will dissolve in 100 ml of water, when the pressure is raised to S.25 a nospheres. The solubility of CO2 decreases with increasing water temperature, requiring a still higher pressure to force the same amount of CO2 into solution.
The apparatus of FIG. 2 makes it possible to maintain any desired ,, . ..~: -. . .
carbonation level in the carbonated water in carbonation tank 10. Water, from a water supply line 12, is supplied to tank 10 throu~ a motor-driven pump 14 and a check valve 16. The check valve is required to maintain CO2 pressure in ta~ 10. A double check valve ~s preferably used in order to insure ag~nst flow of liquid or gas back to the water supply through line 12. The motor of motor-driven p~p 14 is controlled by a level sensor 18, which starts ~e motor when the liquid level in the ta~ falls below a first predeterrnined level, and shuts of ~ the motor when the liquid level reaches a second predetermined level which exceeds the first predeterrnined level. Carbon dioxide from supply ta~
20 is delivered to t~ 10 ~rough a pressure regulator 22, a temperature~
controlled va ve 24 ~d a check valve 26. Carbonated water is delivered to - 6 - 2C35878~
dispensing valve 28 through line 30.
A temperature sensor 32~ imsnersed in the liquid 34 in t~mk 10, operates valve 24 through line 34, controlling the pressure regulation in the valve so that, at higher temperatures, the flow of CO2 through the valve is less restricted. Inthe valve, a sensor bias spring (not shown in FIG. 2) controls the flow of C2 into tank 10 in such a way that the CO2 pressure increases with increasing temperature in a predetermined manner to maintain a substantially constant carbonation Icvel.
The temperature sensor 32 can be a bulb type device in which an expanding fluid flows through tube 34, to operate a diaphragm within valve 24.
The expanding fluid can be a liquid such as an alcohol or glycol, or one of the several fluorocarbons available under the trademark FREON. Alternatively, the fluid can be a gas such as nitrogen or carbon dioxide.
Details of the temperature sensor 32 and valve 24 are shown in FIG. 6 Valve 24 comprises a fluid chamber 36 connected through tube 34 to sensor 32.
The chamber is closed by a flexible diaphragrn 38. A spring 52 (the sensor bias spring referred to above) is located between diaphragm 38 and a second diaphragm 54, which fvrms part of the boundary of an outlet chamber in communication with outlet 42. A valve element 44 is mechanically connected to a center rivet 56 on the bottom of diaphragm 54, and cooperates with a valve seat 46 to provide a restricted, closable passage between inlet 40 and outlet 42.
Valve element 44 is urged toward its closed condition by a weak spIing 48 which is in compression between the valve element and an adjustable plate 50.
Plate 50 has an opening 51 allowing flDw of CO2 from inlet 40 toward the valve orifice. CV2 flows through valve 24 from inlet 40 to outlet 42, and is controlled by the restriction between valve element 44 and valve seat 46. W~en pressure is reduced at outlet 42 as a result of CO2 consumption, spring 52 moves diaphragm 54 downward. Rivet 56 on the bottom of the diaphragm forces valve element 44 to an open condition, allowing CO2 to flow from inlet 40 to outlet 42 to restore pressure on the outlet side of valve 24, whereupon diaphragm 54 allows valve element 44 to reclose under the urging of spring 48.
;; ~ ~`~'``
. .. :
20~7~6 ;~
Spring 52 is biased by the fluid in charnber 36, acting against diaphragm 38.
When the water temperature being sensed by sensor 32 is higher, the sensor fluid pressure in chamber 36 increases the downward force on spring 52. This ......................................................................................... .... , -, . .~ .,,,. . ,~j increased downward force, in turn, produces an increased C2 pressure in the S carbonator. A reduction in the temperature sensecl by sensor 32 has the opposite e-ffect, producing a decrease in the C2 pressure in the carbonator.
The carbonator of FIG. 3 is similar to that of FIG. 2 Pxcept that, instead of sensing the temperature of the carbonated water 34 within tank 10, it senses the temperature OI the water being supplied to the tank by means of a temperature sensor 58 in line 60 between motor-driven pump 14 and double check valve 16. Temperature sensor 58 is also of the expanding fluid type.
Operation of the carbonator of FIG. 3 is essentially the same as that of F]EG. 2in that CO2 pressure applied to the carbonator tanlc is regulated in accordance with water temperature.
The carbonator of FIG. 4 uses an electrical temperature sensor 60 immersed in the c~rbonated water 34 in tank 10. Sensor 60 is preferably of the thennistor type. The electrical signal from the sensor is delivered through electrical lines 62 to an electronic control 64, which delivers operating current to an electrically controlled valve 66. The electronic co~trol 64 can be any oneof a variety of well-known and available servo amplifiers or other control .-. :, ;~ . - - ~ .
devices capable of providing an output, the voltage or current of which has a predetermined relationship to the level of the input signal. Alternatively, the electronic control can be a more elaborate analog or digital servo controller The essential requirement is that the output signal of the electronic controllerbe such that the restriction in valve 66 regulates the C2 pressure in tank 10 so that it bears the desired relationship to the sensed temperature. With an electronic control, the desired relationship between temperature and pressure can be easily achieved. Fur~errnore, the carbonation level can be set electrically . . ~ . ~...
in the controller itself, instead of mechanically by adjustrnent of valve springcompression. -~
As shown in FIG. 7, valve 66 is sirnilar to valve 24 in that it comprises ` ,' ', 20~7~6 a valve element 68 urged by a coil spring 70 toward a valve seat 72. The valve provides a variable restriction for flow of C2 from inlet 74 to outlet 76.
Movement of valve element 68 against the force of spring 70 is controlled by a proportioning solenoid 78, the armature of which is mechanically connected to element 68 through center rivet 80 and spring 82, which presses against diaphragm 84.
The carbonator of FIC;. S is similar to that of FIG. 4 except that, instead of sensing the temperature of the carbonated water 34 within tank 10, it senses the temperature of the water being supplied to the tank by means of an electronic temperature sensor 86 in line 88 between motor-driven pump 14 and double check valve 16. Temperature sensor 86 is preferably of the the~nistor type. Operation of the carbonator of FIG. S is essentially the same as that of FIG. 4 in that CO2 pressure applied to the carbonator tank is regulated in accordance with water temperature.
lS The valve of FIG. 8 takes the place of temperature-controlled valve 24 and check valve 26 in FIG. 2. The structure of the valve is similar to that of the valve of FIG. 6, except that the valve includes a eherk ball arranged to prevent reverse flow of CO2. As shown in FIG. 8, valve 90 is controlled by fluid flowing to and from sensor 92 through tube 94. The valve comprises a CO2 inlet 96, and a CO2 outlet 98, the inlet being connectable to the gas supply, and the outlet being connected to the carbonator tanlc. The hllet is normally closed by a check valve comprising a ball 100 urged against a seat 102 by a small spring 104. Spring 104 is held in the chamber containing seating element 106, and i5 trapped between valve element 108 and check ball 100. Spring 104 is weaker than spring 114, and allows both the check ball 100 and valve element 108 to be open simultaneously. This allows flow of CO2 through the valve from inlet 96 toward outlet 98 when increased force applied to spring 114 causes diaphragm 116 to press against center rivet 118, forcing valve element 1 18 open.
The electrically controlled valve of FIG. 9 is similar to the valve of FIG
8, except that it uses a proportional solenoid 120 to press downward on -, . ,, .~:
When the water temperature being sensed by sensor 32 is higher, the sensor fluid pressure in chamber 36 increases the downward force on spring 52. This ......................................................................................... .... , -, . .~ .,,,. . ,~j increased downward force, in turn, produces an increased C2 pressure in the S carbonator. A reduction in the temperature sensecl by sensor 32 has the opposite e-ffect, producing a decrease in the C2 pressure in the carbonator.
The carbonator of FIG. 3 is similar to that of FIG. 2 Pxcept that, instead of sensing the temperature of the carbonated water 34 within tank 10, it senses the temperature OI the water being supplied to the tank by means of a temperature sensor 58 in line 60 between motor-driven pump 14 and double check valve 16. Temperature sensor 58 is also of the expanding fluid type.
Operation of the carbonator of FIG. 3 is essentially the same as that of F]EG. 2in that CO2 pressure applied to the carbonator tanlc is regulated in accordance with water temperature.
The carbonator of FIG. 4 uses an electrical temperature sensor 60 immersed in the c~rbonated water 34 in tank 10. Sensor 60 is preferably of the thennistor type. The electrical signal from the sensor is delivered through electrical lines 62 to an electronic control 64, which delivers operating current to an electrically controlled valve 66. The electronic co~trol 64 can be any oneof a variety of well-known and available servo amplifiers or other control .-. :, ;~ . - - ~ .
devices capable of providing an output, the voltage or current of which has a predetermined relationship to the level of the input signal. Alternatively, the electronic control can be a more elaborate analog or digital servo controller The essential requirement is that the output signal of the electronic controllerbe such that the restriction in valve 66 regulates the C2 pressure in tank 10 so that it bears the desired relationship to the sensed temperature. With an electronic control, the desired relationship between temperature and pressure can be easily achieved. Fur~errnore, the carbonation level can be set electrically . . ~ . ~...
in the controller itself, instead of mechanically by adjustrnent of valve springcompression. -~
As shown in FIG. 7, valve 66 is sirnilar to valve 24 in that it comprises ` ,' ', 20~7~6 a valve element 68 urged by a coil spring 70 toward a valve seat 72. The valve provides a variable restriction for flow of C2 from inlet 74 to outlet 76.
Movement of valve element 68 against the force of spring 70 is controlled by a proportioning solenoid 78, the armature of which is mechanically connected to element 68 through center rivet 80 and spring 82, which presses against diaphragm 84.
The carbonator of FIC;. S is similar to that of FIG. 4 except that, instead of sensing the temperature of the carbonated water 34 within tank 10, it senses the temperature of the water being supplied to the tank by means of an electronic temperature sensor 86 in line 88 between motor-driven pump 14 and double check valve 16. Temperature sensor 86 is preferably of the the~nistor type. Operation of the carbonator of FIG. S is essentially the same as that of FIG. 4 in that CO2 pressure applied to the carbonator tank is regulated in accordance with water temperature.
lS The valve of FIG. 8 takes the place of temperature-controlled valve 24 and check valve 26 in FIG. 2. The structure of the valve is similar to that of the valve of FIG. 6, except that the valve includes a eherk ball arranged to prevent reverse flow of CO2. As shown in FIG. 8, valve 90 is controlled by fluid flowing to and from sensor 92 through tube 94. The valve comprises a CO2 inlet 96, and a CO2 outlet 98, the inlet being connectable to the gas supply, and the outlet being connected to the carbonator tanlc. The hllet is normally closed by a check valve comprising a ball 100 urged against a seat 102 by a small spring 104. Spring 104 is held in the chamber containing seating element 106, and i5 trapped between valve element 108 and check ball 100. Spring 104 is weaker than spring 114, and allows both the check ball 100 and valve element 108 to be open simultaneously. This allows flow of CO2 through the valve from inlet 96 toward outlet 98 when increased force applied to spring 114 causes diaphragm 116 to press against center rivet 118, forcing valve element 1 18 open.
The electrically controlled valve of FIG. 9 is similar to the valve of FIG
8, except that it uses a proportional solenoid 120 to press downward on -, . ,, .~:
9 20a~78~
diaphragm 122 through spring 124, to open valve element 126.
Various modifications can be made to the carbonators described. For example, while expanding fluid sensors 32, 58 and 92 are shown in FIGs. 2, 3 and 7 respectively, it is possible to use other means, including solid mechanical linkages for example, to connect the temperature sensor to the pressure regulating valve. The desired relationship between temperature and pressure ;n the regulation valve can be achieved in various ways, such as by choosing appropriate shapes for the valve element and valve seat, or by using special mechanical linkages between the valve element and the diaphragm. The CO2 check valve and the incoming water check valve can be integrated in a single housing along with a temperature-responsive valve in the CO2 path and a temperature sensor in the water path. Another cost-effective variation of the device is a simple, electronically actuated shut-off valve which is triggered open and closed by a microprocessor circuitry responsive to pressure and temperature transducers within the carbonator tank. These and other modifications can, of course, be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the following claims.
- ., .. ~ j. .
: : ... ,. ~
~, . . ' .,,.'.` ,' '.""''~
-,.,;..'`:
, ~, :,.
: ' .
~ . , ~ . . - . . .
2 ~ ~ ~ 7 ~
~ .
ou~put ~ig~l o~ the elnc~onlc con~olle~ he ~u~ the ,, -~e~tr~ction $n valve ~ ~egul2~ .hE~ COz pr~Bsure ln tan}c 10 .
~o that it bea~s ~e d~lred r~la~ionship to the ~en~ed ~-~emperatu~e, Wlth ~n ~lactron~s: con~rol~ th~ de~ired :
5 rel~t~on~hlp ~twe~n ~empe~ature and pr~tl2~ can be ~a~ily achie~ed. Fur~ or~, ~h~ car~onation le~ l can be 3et electrical}y in ~ha controller lt8elr, ~ngtoad 0 ~ch~aically by ad~u~m~nt o~ valvQ ~pril~g compre8~ion~
As shown ln FIG. 7, ~ ve 66 i~ simllar to valv~ 24 ln .; .
that it comprlses a valvb alemen'c ~8 u~ged by ~ coil spring ~;
70 toward a ~ral~e ~eat 72 . ~he valv~ pro~id~ a v~ariable re~tric~ion r~or ~low o~ C02 ~ro~ inlet 74 to outlet 76. . ;.
~ov~ent Or v~lv~ ment 68 against ~ I!orce o~ sprlng 70 i5 controlled by a proportioning ~olenold 78, 'ch~ armature 15 o~ whlc~ lg m~chanlcall~ connec~ed to element 68 ~hrough cent~ ri~et 80 ~nd ~pring 82, wh$ch presse~ aga~2~st ~ ;
d~aphrag~ 84 .
~ h~ carbonato~ o~ ~IG. S i~ si~ila~ to ~hat o~ ~IG. 4 except th~t, i~n~tead ~ sonslng tha ~e~pera~u~e o~ the 20 ca~bor~at d wat~t~ 34 wlthin tank lO, it ~en~es the temperattl~ o~ th~ wa~er ~elng supplLed to the tank by ~eans ~:
o~ an ~leatronlc temperature sensor 86 ln l~ne 88 between motor-d2iv~ll pump 14 and doubl~ checX val~.re 16. I~emperature sensor 86 i~ pre~erably o~ thQ th~r~ls~or type. Operatlon 2 ~ o~ the c~rbonator o~ ~IG. 5 1~ a~n~i~lly t}~e ~am~ ~ tha~
1' ' `~ ., 2~8~8~
o~ F~ 4 in that CO;Z p2 e~lare ~pl ~ ed to ~Q ~arbon2tor ~ank i3 rQgulated in accordarlc~ w~ bra~er t~m~a u~e. .; ~-I~h~ valve o~ F~ t XG~ ths pl ace ~ pe~ature- - -oontroll~d ~alv~ 24 ~nd ch~ck ~alve ~6 in '~I~. 2. ~he ~tru~ur~ o~ the ~alv~ iB ~mil~x to th~t ~ th~ valv~ o~
~IG. 6, ~XGept ~ha~ th~ valvo inclu~e~ a c~cX ball arranged to p~e~nt r3verse ~lo~ ~ ~02~ Ag sho~n ~n ~IG. 8, ~al~Q 90 ; ;
ls sontrolled by ~1u1d ~lowlng to and rrom R~nsor 92 throug~
tube 94. The v~lve comprises a CO2 lnlet 95, and a CO2 outlet 98, t~e lnle~ being connectabl~ to the ga~ ~upply, and t~a outl~t be~ng connected to ~o ~arbo~ato~ ta~k. The lnlet i~ no~lly clo~ed by a check ~al~e co~pri~ing a bal1 -- -lOo u~ged aga1n~ a ~eat ~02 by ~ small s~ring 104. Spring 10~ i~ h~ld in the chamber ~onta~nin~ s~ating 61~ment 106, and is trapp~d betwe0n valve el~ment 108 and chQc~ ball lOo.
Sprin~ 104 i9 weak~r t~an ~p~ing 1~4, an~ allo~ bot~ t~e c~ck ball 100 a~d valvo element 108 to be open , ~
slmulta~eously, Th~ allows ~low o~ C0~ through the ~alve ~om inlQt 96 toward outlat 98 when ~ncrea~d ~orc~ applied to ~pr~ng 1~4 cause3 ~iaphr~g~ 116 ~o p~ again~t c~nter ~v~t 118, ~orcin~ val~e element 118 open.
Th~ electrlcally co~trolled v~lvo o~ F~G. 9 i~ slmilar to tha Yalve o~ FIG. 8, ~xcept ~at lt U8es a proportlonal ~oleno~d 120 ~o pr~sa dow~war~ on di~phragm 12~ through ~pring 124, to op~n ~alv~ element 126. `~
'', ~ ~"' .: ' :
P. 13 - 2~78~
Va~lous ~odi~ica,~ on~ c~n b~ ma~de to ~he c:arbon~tor~
desar~bed. For examplo, ~hile ~xpandlJ)g ~luld ~en~ox~ 32, 58 and ga a~e sl~ot~m itl FIG3. 2, 3 and 7 re~ec~ively, it i~
po~slble to u~e oth~r m2an~, inclu~ing~ ~l~l mechanlcal linkag~ ~or ex~pl~ to cor~ ct thel ~p~ cur~ en o~ 'co t~e prQs~ure r~2gulating valve. ~8 d~sire~l re~l~tlon~h~p betw~Qn ~emparatu:re and p~e8~ure ln ~ x~gula~lon valve can be zlchia~red ~n various way~, such as by c~oo~ing appropriate ~hapes ~or th~ ~al~rQ ~lement and valve ~eat, or by uslng speclal ~chanical linkag~s bet~ en the v21ve ele:nent and the dlaphxagm. ~he co2 c~e~X valve ~nd t~ incomlng ~ater check val~3 can b~ lntegra.ted ln ~ glngle housing along with a temporatu~e-r~spons~e ~alv~ ln the C2 ~ath and a temperature sensor ~n th~ wa~er p~th. Another cost- r ef:eQctiY~ Yariation o~ the davic~ ls a ~imple, ~l~ct~onlazllly ac~uated shut-ora~ valve brhich i8 ~riggered open and closed by a lalcroE~roces~or clrcultry ~Q~pon~vG to .t;~ .
pr~s~ura an~ t~mparature t~ansduc~ thtn ~hs carbonator tank. ~he~e and othzr ~odi~ications can, or~ cours~, be made ::
~ out daparting ~ro~ t~o ~cope Or the lnvention as degilled in the ~ollowing al~
. : ~
diaphragm 122 through spring 124, to open valve element 126.
Various modifications can be made to the carbonators described. For example, while expanding fluid sensors 32, 58 and 92 are shown in FIGs. 2, 3 and 7 respectively, it is possible to use other means, including solid mechanical linkages for example, to connect the temperature sensor to the pressure regulating valve. The desired relationship between temperature and pressure ;n the regulation valve can be achieved in various ways, such as by choosing appropriate shapes for the valve element and valve seat, or by using special mechanical linkages between the valve element and the diaphragm. The CO2 check valve and the incoming water check valve can be integrated in a single housing along with a temperature-responsive valve in the CO2 path and a temperature sensor in the water path. Another cost-effective variation of the device is a simple, electronically actuated shut-off valve which is triggered open and closed by a microprocessor circuitry responsive to pressure and temperature transducers within the carbonator tank. These and other modifications can, of course, be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the following claims.
- ., .. ~ j. .
: : ... ,. ~
~, . . ' .,,.'.` ,' '.""''~
-,.,;..'`:
, ~, :,.
: ' .
~ . , ~ . . - . . .
2 ~ ~ ~ 7 ~
~ .
ou~put ~ig~l o~ the elnc~onlc con~olle~ he ~u~ the ,, -~e~tr~ction $n valve ~ ~egul2~ .hE~ COz pr~Bsure ln tan}c 10 .
~o that it bea~s ~e d~lred r~la~ionship to the ~en~ed ~-~emperatu~e, Wlth ~n ~lactron~s: con~rol~ th~ de~ired :
5 rel~t~on~hlp ~twe~n ~empe~ature and pr~tl2~ can be ~a~ily achie~ed. Fur~ or~, ~h~ car~onation le~ l can be 3et electrical}y in ~ha controller lt8elr, ~ngtoad 0 ~ch~aically by ad~u~m~nt o~ valvQ ~pril~g compre8~ion~
As shown ln FIG. 7, ~ ve 66 i~ simllar to valv~ 24 ln .; .
that it comprlses a valvb alemen'c ~8 u~ged by ~ coil spring ~;
70 toward a ~ral~e ~eat 72 . ~he valv~ pro~id~ a v~ariable re~tric~ion r~or ~low o~ C02 ~ro~ inlet 74 to outlet 76. . ;.
~ov~ent Or v~lv~ ment 68 against ~ I!orce o~ sprlng 70 i5 controlled by a proportioning ~olenold 78, 'ch~ armature 15 o~ whlc~ lg m~chanlcall~ connec~ed to element 68 ~hrough cent~ ri~et 80 ~nd ~pring 82, wh$ch presse~ aga~2~st ~ ;
d~aphrag~ 84 .
~ h~ carbonato~ o~ ~IG. S i~ si~ila~ to ~hat o~ ~IG. 4 except th~t, i~n~tead ~ sonslng tha ~e~pera~u~e o~ the 20 ca~bor~at d wat~t~ 34 wlthin tank lO, it ~en~es the temperattl~ o~ th~ wa~er ~elng supplLed to the tank by ~eans ~:
o~ an ~leatronlc temperature sensor 86 ln l~ne 88 between motor-d2iv~ll pump 14 and doubl~ checX val~.re 16. I~emperature sensor 86 i~ pre~erably o~ thQ th~r~ls~or type. Operatlon 2 ~ o~ the c~rbonator o~ ~IG. 5 1~ a~n~i~lly t}~e ~am~ ~ tha~
1' ' `~ ., 2~8~8~
o~ F~ 4 in that CO;Z p2 e~lare ~pl ~ ed to ~Q ~arbon2tor ~ank i3 rQgulated in accordarlc~ w~ bra~er t~m~a u~e. .; ~-I~h~ valve o~ F~ t XG~ ths pl ace ~ pe~ature- - -oontroll~d ~alv~ 24 ~nd ch~ck ~alve ~6 in '~I~. 2. ~he ~tru~ur~ o~ the ~alv~ iB ~mil~x to th~t ~ th~ valv~ o~
~IG. 6, ~XGept ~ha~ th~ valvo inclu~e~ a c~cX ball arranged to p~e~nt r3verse ~lo~ ~ ~02~ Ag sho~n ~n ~IG. 8, ~al~Q 90 ; ;
ls sontrolled by ~1u1d ~lowlng to and rrom R~nsor 92 throug~
tube 94. The v~lve comprises a CO2 lnlet 95, and a CO2 outlet 98, t~e lnle~ being connectabl~ to the ga~ ~upply, and t~a outl~t be~ng connected to ~o ~arbo~ato~ ta~k. The lnlet i~ no~lly clo~ed by a check ~al~e co~pri~ing a bal1 -- -lOo u~ged aga1n~ a ~eat ~02 by ~ small s~ring 104. Spring 10~ i~ h~ld in the chamber ~onta~nin~ s~ating 61~ment 106, and is trapp~d betwe0n valve el~ment 108 and chQc~ ball lOo.
Sprin~ 104 i9 weak~r t~an ~p~ing 1~4, an~ allo~ bot~ t~e c~ck ball 100 a~d valvo element 108 to be open , ~
slmulta~eously, Th~ allows ~low o~ C0~ through the ~alve ~om inlQt 96 toward outlat 98 when ~ncrea~d ~orc~ applied to ~pr~ng 1~4 cause3 ~iaphr~g~ 116 ~o p~ again~t c~nter ~v~t 118, ~orcin~ val~e element 118 open.
Th~ electrlcally co~trolled v~lvo o~ F~G. 9 i~ slmilar to tha Yalve o~ FIG. 8, ~xcept ~at lt U8es a proportlonal ~oleno~d 120 ~o pr~sa dow~war~ on di~phragm 12~ through ~pring 124, to op~n ~alv~ element 126. `~
'', ~ ~"' .: ' :
P. 13 - 2~78~
Va~lous ~odi~ica,~ on~ c~n b~ ma~de to ~he c:arbon~tor~
desar~bed. For examplo, ~hile ~xpandlJ)g ~luld ~en~ox~ 32, 58 and ga a~e sl~ot~m itl FIG3. 2, 3 and 7 re~ec~ively, it i~
po~slble to u~e oth~r m2an~, inclu~ing~ ~l~l mechanlcal linkag~ ~or ex~pl~ to cor~ ct thel ~p~ cur~ en o~ 'co t~e prQs~ure r~2gulating valve. ~8 d~sire~l re~l~tlon~h~p betw~Qn ~emparatu:re and p~e8~ure ln ~ x~gula~lon valve can be zlchia~red ~n various way~, such as by c~oo~ing appropriate ~hapes ~or th~ ~al~rQ ~lement and valve ~eat, or by uslng speclal ~chanical linkag~s bet~ en the v21ve ele:nent and the dlaphxagm. ~he co2 c~e~X valve ~nd t~ incomlng ~ater check val~3 can b~ lntegra.ted ln ~ glngle housing along with a temporatu~e-r~spons~e ~alv~ ln the C2 ~ath and a temperature sensor ~n th~ wa~er p~th. Another cost- r ef:eQctiY~ Yariation o~ the davic~ ls a ~imple, ~l~ct~onlazllly ac~uated shut-ora~ valve brhich i8 ~riggered open and closed by a lalcroE~roces~or clrcultry ~Q~pon~vG to .t;~ .
pr~s~ura an~ t~mparature t~ansduc~ thtn ~hs carbonator tank. ~he~e and othzr ~odi~ications can, or~ cours~, be made ::
~ out daparting ~ro~ t~o ~cope Or the lnvention as degilled in the ~ollowing al~
. : ~
Claims (11)
1. In a post-mix beverage dispensing system having a carbonator apparatus for introducing carbon dioxide gas into water, the improvement comprising:
a carbonation tank and a supply line for conducting water into said tank, temperature sensing means arranged to sense the temperature of the water within said supply line; and control means responsive to said temperature sensing means for controlling the pressure at which said gas is introduced into the water, the pressure varying with the water temperature according to a predetermined substantially linear function for producing a substantially constant carbonationlevel in the water.
a carbonation tank and a supply line for conducting water into said tank, temperature sensing means arranged to sense the temperature of the water within said supply line; and control means responsive to said temperature sensing means for controlling the pressure at which said gas is introduced into the water, the pressure varying with the water temperature according to a predetermined substantially linear function for producing a substantially constant carbonationlevel in the water.
2. In a post-mix beverage dispensing system having a carbonator apparatus for introducing carbon dioxide gas into water, the improvement comprising:
a carbonation tank and a supply line for conducting water into said tank;
temperature sensing means arranged to sense the temperature of the water within said supply line; and control means responsive to said temperature sensing means for controlling the pressure at which said gas is introduced into the water, the pressure varying with the water temperature according to a predetermined substantially linear function for producing a preselected, substantially constant carbonation level in the water.
a carbonation tank and a supply line for conducting water into said tank;
temperature sensing means arranged to sense the temperature of the water within said supply line; and control means responsive to said temperature sensing means for controlling the pressure at which said gas is introduced into the water, the pressure varying with the water temperature according to a predetermined substantially linear function for producing a preselected, substantially constant carbonation level in the water.
3. In a post-mix beverage dispensing system having a carbonator apparatus for introducing carbon dioxide gas into water, the improvement comprising:
temperature sensing means arranged to sense the temperature of the water; and control means responsive to said temperature sensing means for controlling the pressure at which said gas is introduced into the water, the pressure varying with the water temperature according to a predetermined substantially linear function for producing a substantially constant carbonationlevel in the water, said control means comprising:
valve means for regulating the flow of said gas to the water;
diaphragm means operatively connected to said valve means with one side exposed to the pressure at which said gas is introduced to said liquid;
and bias means operatively connected between said temperature sensing means and the other side of said diaphragm means for opposing said pressure.
temperature sensing means arranged to sense the temperature of the water; and control means responsive to said temperature sensing means for controlling the pressure at which said gas is introduced into the water, the pressure varying with the water temperature according to a predetermined substantially linear function for producing a substantially constant carbonationlevel in the water, said control means comprising:
valve means for regulating the flow of said gas to the water;
diaphragm means operatively connected to said valve means with one side exposed to the pressure at which said gas is introduced to said liquid;
and bias means operatively connected between said temperature sensing means and the other side of said diaphragm means for opposing said pressure.
4. A carbonator according to claim 3 including means for adjusting the resistance of said bias means.
5. In a post-mix beverage dispensing system having a carbonator apparatus for introducing carbon dioxide gas into water, the improvement comprising:
temperature sensing means arranged to sense the temperature of the water; and control means responsive to said temperature sensing means for controlling the pressure at which said gas is introduced into the water, the pressure varying with the water temperature according to a predetermined substantially linear function for producing a preselected, substantially constant carbonation level in the water, said control means comprising:
valve means for regulating the flow of said gas to the water;
diaphragm means operatively connected to said valve means with one side exposed to the pressure at which said gas is introduced to said liquid;
and bias means operatively connected between said temperature sensing means and the other side of said diaphragm means for opposing said pressure.
temperature sensing means arranged to sense the temperature of the water; and control means responsive to said temperature sensing means for controlling the pressure at which said gas is introduced into the water, the pressure varying with the water temperature according to a predetermined substantially linear function for producing a preselected, substantially constant carbonation level in the water, said control means comprising:
valve means for regulating the flow of said gas to the water;
diaphragm means operatively connected to said valve means with one side exposed to the pressure at which said gas is introduced to said liquid;
and bias means operatively connected between said temperature sensing means and the other side of said diaphragm means for opposing said pressure.
6. A carbonator according to claim 5 including means for adjusting the resistance of said bias means.
7. In a post-mix beverage dispensing system having a carbonator apparatus for introducing carbon dioxide gas into water, the improvement comprising:
temperature sensing means arranged to sense the temperature of the water;
control means responsive to said temperature sensing means for controlling the pressure at which said gas is introduced into the water, the pressure varying with the water temperature according to a predetermined substantially linear function for maintaining a substantially constant carbonation level in the water, said control means further comprising:
an inlet;
an outlet;
a flow path between said inlet and said outlet;
a valve seat located in said flow path;
a valve element arranged to cooperate with said seat;
a movable diaphragm operatively connected to said valve element and having one side exposed to fluid pressure at said outlet;
means located between said diaphragm and said valve element for urging said valve element away from said seat and toward its open condition when said diaphragm moves in response to a decrease in fluid pressure at said outlet;
first spring means urging said valve element toward said seat;
means movable in response to said temperature sensing means; and second spring means located between said movable means and said diaphragm for transmitting a force from said movable means to said diaphragm according to said predetermined function;
whereby the pressure at said outlet is regulated in response to movement of said diaphragm, and movement of said diaphragm is influenced both by pressure at said outlet and by the temperature sensed by said temperature sensing means.
temperature sensing means arranged to sense the temperature of the water;
control means responsive to said temperature sensing means for controlling the pressure at which said gas is introduced into the water, the pressure varying with the water temperature according to a predetermined substantially linear function for maintaining a substantially constant carbonation level in the water, said control means further comprising:
an inlet;
an outlet;
a flow path between said inlet and said outlet;
a valve seat located in said flow path;
a valve element arranged to cooperate with said seat;
a movable diaphragm operatively connected to said valve element and having one side exposed to fluid pressure at said outlet;
means located between said diaphragm and said valve element for urging said valve element away from said seat and toward its open condition when said diaphragm moves in response to a decrease in fluid pressure at said outlet;
first spring means urging said valve element toward said seat;
means movable in response to said temperature sensing means; and second spring means located between said movable means and said diaphragm for transmitting a force from said movable means to said diaphragm according to said predetermined function;
whereby the pressure at said outlet is regulated in response to movement of said diaphragm, and movement of said diaphragm is influenced both by pressure at said outlet and by the temperature sensed by said temperature sensing means.
8. A carbonator according to claim 7 including check valve means located in said inlet for preventing flow from said outlet toward said inlet.
9. A carbonator according to claim 7 in which said means movable in response to said temperature sensing means is a second diaphragm.
10. A carbonator according to claim 7 in which said means movable in response to said temperature sensing means is an electrically operated proportional solenoid.
11. A carbonator according to claim 7 including means for adjusting the stress on said first spring.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US63812591A | 1991-01-07 | 1991-01-07 | |
| US638,125 | 1991-01-07 |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2058786A1 CA2058786A1 (en) | 1992-07-08 |
| CA2058786C true CA2058786C (en) | 1994-10-25 |
Family
ID=24558751
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002058786A Expired - Fee Related CA2058786C (en) | 1991-01-07 | 1992-01-06 | Carbonated beverage dispensing apparatus |
Country Status (4)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2058786C (en) |
| DE (1) | DE4200168A1 (en) |
| FR (1) | FR2671268A1 (en) |
| GB (1) | GB2252513A (en) |
Families Citing this family (6)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DE4229618A1 (en) * | 1992-09-04 | 1994-03-10 | Manfred P Theke Ok Service Man | Carbonated soft drink dispenser - has carbon di:oxide connection on inside of container leading below liq. surface level of beverage |
| US5518666A (en) * | 1994-09-21 | 1996-05-21 | The Coca-Cola Company | Device and method for temperature-regulation of a gas-liquid absorption system particularly CO2 water absorption |
| AU5849599A (en) * | 1998-07-17 | 2000-02-07 | Hans-Peter Mitschke | Water processing facility for potable water with a dispenser (drinking water fountain facility) |
| EP1092673A1 (en) * | 1999-10-15 | 2001-04-18 | Richard P. Bilskie | High-pressure pneumatic beverage dispensing system |
| WO2016120836A1 (en) | 2015-01-30 | 2016-08-04 | Anheuser-Busch Inbev S.A. | Pressurized beverage concentrates and appliances and methods for producing beverages therefrom |
| CN111616594B (en) * | 2019-02-28 | 2023-12-29 | 浙江绍兴苏泊尔生活电器有限公司 | Soda water machine and soda water manufacturing method |
Family Cites Families (6)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US2884946A (en) * | 1955-12-19 | 1959-05-05 | Honeywell Regulator Co | Control apparatus |
| US3335952A (en) * | 1965-07-15 | 1967-08-15 | Universal Match Corp | Regulator |
| DE3307029A1 (en) * | 1983-02-28 | 1984-08-30 | Samson Ag, 6000 Frankfurt | Device for drawing off beer or the like by means of carbon dioxide |
| JPS63225800A (en) * | 1987-03-11 | 1988-09-20 | Asahi Breweries Ltd | Automatic regulating method of gas pressure in draft beer ejecting system for draft beer container |
| US4869396A (en) * | 1987-08-24 | 1989-09-26 | Kirin Beer Kabushiki Kaisha | Draught beer dispensing system |
| US4903862A (en) * | 1987-10-13 | 1990-02-27 | Abc/Sebrn Tech. Corp., Inc. | Soft drink dispenser |
-
1992
- 1992-01-06 CA CA002058786A patent/CA2058786C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 1992-01-07 FR FR9200092A patent/FR2671268A1/en active Pending
- 1992-01-07 GB GB9200244A patent/GB2252513A/en not_active Withdrawn
- 1992-01-07 DE DE4200168A patent/DE4200168A1/en not_active Withdrawn
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| DE4200168A1 (en) | 1992-07-09 |
| CA2058786A1 (en) | 1992-07-08 |
| GB9200244D0 (en) | 1992-02-26 |
| GB2252513A (en) | 1992-08-12 |
| FR2671268A1 (en) | 1992-07-10 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEER | Examination request | ||
| MKLA | Lapsed |