CA2080415A1 - Mixing valve and dispensing system - Google Patents
Mixing valve and dispensing systemInfo
- Publication number
- CA2080415A1 CA2080415A1 CA002080415A CA2080415A CA2080415A1 CA 2080415 A1 CA2080415 A1 CA 2080415A1 CA 002080415 A CA002080415 A CA 002080415A CA 2080415 A CA2080415 A CA 2080415A CA 2080415 A1 CA2080415 A1 CA 2080415A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- mixing
- flow
- primary conduit
- mixing chamber
- restricting plate
- 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.)
- Abandoned
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
- B67D99/00—Subject matter not provided for in other groups of this subclass
-
- 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
- B67D1/0043—Mixing devices for liquids
- B67D1/0044—Mixing devices for liquids for mixing inside the dispensing nozzle
- B67D1/0045—Venturi arrangements; Aspirators; Eductors
-
- 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
- B67D1/0043—Mixing devices for liquids
Abstract
(GF-19736) MIXING VALVE AND DISPENSING SYSTEM
ABSTRACT
Liquid beverage components are mixed with enhanced consistency by a mixing valve having a flow-restricting plate configured to split a stream of liquid into a plurality of radially-spaced jets for introduction into a mixing chamber. In a preferred embodiment, a dilution liquid such as water flows into the mixing chamber in radially-spaced jets and a beverage concentrate is metered into the mixing chamber transversely to the axis of the chamber to cause the degree of turbulence necessary to intimately mix the two liquids. A dispensing spout preferably extends downwardly and transversely of the axis of the mixing chamber.
ABSTRACT
Liquid beverage components are mixed with enhanced consistency by a mixing valve having a flow-restricting plate configured to split a stream of liquid into a plurality of radially-spaced jets for introduction into a mixing chamber. In a preferred embodiment, a dilution liquid such as water flows into the mixing chamber in radially-spaced jets and a beverage concentrate is metered into the mixing chamber transversely to the axis of the chamber to cause the degree of turbulence necessary to intimately mix the two liquids. A dispensing spout preferably extends downwardly and transversely of the axis of the mixing chamber.
Description
Case 19736 MIXING VA~ AND DI8P~:N~3ING SY8TE~
D133CR~.PTION
: . .
Technical Field The present invention is directed to a system which S enables liquid beverage components to be mixed with enhanced consistency, and particularly to an improved mixing and dispensing system.
The preparation of beverages from concantrates has made it possible to improve shipping and storing efficiencies by eliminating large amounts of water. At the point o~ service, concentrates have proven to be easy to handle and mix with water to prepare beverages for serving. Among the many improvements in mixing and dispensing these beverages, has been the provision of devices directly attached to a flexible conduit integral with a concentrate container which seal the container during storage, mix the concentrate with water, and dispense the completed beverage into a serving container.
Due to their necessary simplicity, however, problems 2~8~ 5 remain in their mi~ing efficiency and they often cause ~plash and splatter during dispensing.
Dilution of concentrates could be achieved with uniformity by the addition of a mechanical agitator;
however, that would add expense and can create sanitation problems unless a rigid cleaning regimen were adhered to.
There is a need to improve the completeness of mixing consistent with the goals of convenience, sanitation and cost. There is also a need to reduce the splash or splatter which can result during dispensing.
.
~ac~aroun~ Art , The preparation of ready-to-drink beverages from - beverage concentrates is essential to modern food service operations. Both hot and cold beverages are prepared by mixer-dispenser units. Typically, these devices mix a beverage concentrate with water at a ratio of about 3:1 to 6:1 by volume water to concentrate. Beverage concentrates for cold beverages include juice and juice-drink concen-tra~es such as orange, lemon-lime, yrape, grapefruit, lemonade, cranberry, cherry, and the liXe as well as tea and coffee. Hot ready-to-drink beverages are prepared by reconstituting beverage concentrates such a~ coffee or tea with hot water. The concentrates can contain soluble as well as dispersible ingredients. It is known to package - 25 the concentrates in containers having integral dispensing tubes which can be sealed until the time of use.
In U.S. Patent No. 4,750,645, Wilson and Godfrey disclose a beveraye mixing and dispensing system designed for operation with packaged beverage concentrates of the type described. Their system utilizes a simple mixing 2 ~
valve which enables preparing beverages from concentrates ; with a high degree of convenience with maximum sanita-tion. That mixing valve comprised an inner rotatable member, an outer casing, and a flow restrictor within the inner member positioned between an inlet for water and an inlet for the beverage concentrate. By virtue of a - centrally-located orifice in the flow restrictor, the water was directed into contact with the incoming concen-trate as a jet. The inner member was formed into a dispensing spout at one end and was rotatable within the outer member to close off the opening to the concentrate, thereby enabling the valve assembly to be attached to a dispensing tube on the concentrate container and to effectively stopper it for shipment.
In practice, however, there have been instances where beverages prepared with the Wilson and Godfrey system did not create as effective mixing as would be desired.
Moreover, at higher pressures or flow rates, there was sometimes a greater degrea of splash or splatter at the dispenser opening than was acceptable to some users.
There remains a nesd ~or a valve of this type which can provide improved operation.
Disclosure of Inv~ntio~
It is an object of the invention to enable the rapid and complete mixing of liquid beverage components.
It is another obj~ct of the invention to provide an improved mixing valve for preparing a beverage by diluting a liquid concentrate.
2 ~ g ~
It is an object of the invention, in another of its more particular aspects, to provide an improved mixing and dispensing valve for preparing beverages by diluting con-centrates with water and dispensing them with a minimum of splash or splatter.
It is another and related object of the invention to provide an improved mixing and dispensing valve for pre-paring beverages by diluting concentrates with water to - provide beverages with decreased tendency to separate as by settling.
It is a further object of the invention, in one of its more particular aspects, to provide an improved mixing and dispensing valve for preparing beverages such as juice drinks by diluting a juice concentrate with water at high mix ratios of water to concentrate to achieve enhanced mixing of ingredients and homogeneity in the beverage.
It is yet another object of the invention to provide a method for preparing and dispensing beverages from liquid concentrates with speed, simplicity, and effective mixing with a minimum of splash and splatter.
These and other objects are achieved by the present invention which provides an improved mixing valve, an improved mixing and dispensing system, and an improved method for preparing mixed beverages.
The mixing valve according to the invention com prises: a primary conduit; a first liquid inlet into the primary conduit: a second liquid inlet into the primary conduit; a flow-restricting plate configured to split a stream of liquid from the first inlPt into a plurality of jets for introduction into a mixing chamber and a mixing 2~8~
chamber defined as the axial space within the primary conduit extending between the flow-restricting plate and an angularly-displaced dispensing nozzle. The jets each originate from openings which are radially spaced from the center of the flow-restricting plate. Accordinq to a preferred embodiment, the second liquid inlet is trans-verse to the longitudinal axis of the primary conduit.
Also preferred is a dispensing spout which extends downwardly from the mixing chamber.
The improved mixing and dispensing system of the invention comprises an outer casing within which the valve - described above is rotatably positioned. Thus, the pri-mary conduit forms an inner rotatable member which fits within the outer casing to enable opening and closing of the second inlet. In operation the second inlet is con-nected to a supply line for beverage concentrate through a male fitting on the outer casing.
The improved method for preparing beverages com-prises: supplying water to a first liquid inlet into a primary conduit; supplying a beverage concentrate through a second liquid inlet into the primary conduit; passing the water through a flow-restricting plate conPigured to split the water into a plurality of radially-spaced jets and to direct them into a mixing chamber which is defined as an axial space within the primary conduit extending betwe~n the flow-restricting plate and an an~ularly-displaced dispensing nozzla; and flswing the resulting mixture through a dispensing nozzle which is angularly displaced from the longitudinal axis of the primary conduit.
2 ~ g ~
srie~ Des~ription o~ the Dr~in~s The invention will be better understood and its advankages will be more fully appreciatad from the . following detailed description, especially when read in light of the accompanying drawings wherein:
Figure 1 i5 an exploded perspective view showing a preferred embodiment of the mixing and dispensing system of the in~ention;
Figure lA is view showing the rear portion of the inner member shown in Figure 1, as viewed ~rom underneath and behind;
Figure 2 is a perspective view with the parts shown in Figure 1 in fully-assembled and operable position;
Figure 3 is a sectional view taken along line 3-3 in Figure 1;
Figure 4 is a front elevation of a flow restrictor element of the invention showing a plurality o~ radially-spaced cut outs around its periphery;
Figure 5 is a side elavation of the flow restrictor element shown in Figure 4;
Figure 6 is a sectional view in expanded scale of a mixing chamber of the valve in Figura 1 showing the mixing of a dilution liquid sntering a3 an array of radially-spaced jets with a beverage concentrate; and Figure 7 is a sectional view of a system o~ the invention with the dispensing nozzle in closed position.
2~8~
Description_of the Preferrod Embodiment The invention will be described below with reference to seyeral representative embodiments with particular emphasis placed on the preparation and dispensing of juice drinks prepared by mixing concentrates and water. It will be understood, however, that ~ther uses are contemplated.
It is in fact an advantage of the invention that the invention can be employed with other liquids. The con-centrates include dissolved solids and can include sus-pended solids such as present in natural juice drinks suchas orange juice and those employed for cloud and the like. The concentrates are desirably high in solids con-tent and are intended typically for dilution at a ratio of 3:1 to 6:1 with water. The high concentration of solids and the resulting high viscosities (e.g., typically on the order of from 1500 to about 3500 centipoise) create mixing difficulties.
Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a prePerred embodiment of the mixing valve and dispensing system lO of the invention in exploded form. The system lO is here shown as comprised of two principal elements the mixing valve section 12 and the outer casing 14~ Figure 2 illustrates how the mixing valve section 12 fits within the outer casing 14 and is rotatable within it. The inner and outer members are preferably constructed of the same material which is preferably a thermoplastic polymer capable of injection molding, e.g., polypropylene or polystyrene. Alternatively, other plastics and even metals can be employed singly or in combination.
The mixing valve section is formed primarily of a primary conduit 16 and a dispensing nozzle 18 angularly displaced from the longitudinal axis o~ the primary 208a.~
conduit 16. The angle shown in the figures is essentially a right angle or transverse relation which works well in many embodiments. Others will permit different angles.
The primary conduit 16 has a first liquid inlet 20 and a S second liquid inlet 22. The second liquid inlet is shown here formed with its central axis transverse to the longi-tudinal axis of the primary conduit 12. A flow-restricting plate 24 is placed within the primary conduit and between the first liquid inlet 20 and the second liquid inlet 22. This can be better seen in Figures 3 and 6. The flow-restricting plate 24 is configured to split a stream of liquid from the first inlet 20 into a plurality of radially-spaced jets for contact and mixing with the liquid entering from the second liquid inlet 22. Pre-ferably, the jets are each radially spaced from the centerof the flowrestricting plate and the center of the plate 24 i~ on the longitudinal axis of the primary conduit.
The majority of mixing will take place internally of the primary conduit, between the flow-restricting plate 24 and the dispensing nozzle 18. This space defines the mixing chamber 30 which can be better seen in Figures 3 and 6. In the preferred embodiment, water will be supplied to the first liquid inlet 20 and a beverage concentrate will be supplied through the second beverage inlet 22. The water is passed through the flow-restricting plate 24 to split it into a plurality of radially-spaced jets ~shown as 32 in Figure 6). The jets of water 32 conv~rge with the concentrate in the mixing chamber 30 to prepare a mixed bQverage which is flowed to th~ dispensing nozzle 18. Mixing preferably continues in the dispensing nozzle which is of-a length effective to consume a substantial amount of the turbulent energy of the fluids for mixing such that the liquid is dispensed with a minimum of splash and spray without reducing 2 ~
in-glass mixing. It is in fact an advantage of the inven-tion that splash and splatter can be reduced but mixing action in the serving container can actually be enhanced.
The direction of liquid flows are preferred as shown with water incoming horizontally, the concentrate entering vertically and the mixed beverage being dispensed ver-tically.
Figure 3 shows the flow-restricting plate 24 in operable position within the primary conduit 16. This is accomplished in the preferred embodiment by provision of an annular ridge or seat 34 against which the plate 24 can abut. If desired, this seat can be chamfered or otherwise shaped to improve flow past it, but this is not required.
The flow-restricting plate is shown to have a plurality o~
radially-spaced cut out areas 36. This can be better seen in the enlarged front and side elevatio~al views of Figures 4 and 5. In the drawing these are shown as radially spaced an equal amount from the center and positioned around the periphery. In other embodiments, they can be spaced from the periphery and if desired be spaced at different radial extents from the center.
The cutouts, by virtue of the placement of the plate 24 against seat 34, will form openings the area of which is defined as the area between the cutout periphery and the inner edge of the seat 34. The total open area of the ; flow-restricting pIate 24 is the su~ of the areas of the individual openings. The open area will gènerally be less than 50% of the cross-sectional area of the mixing chamber, preferably less than 25~ and typically from about 5 to about 15%. The drawings show five cut out areas 36.
The number chosen will however vary and can be any reasonable number, e.g., from three to ten. Similarly, the shape may vary from rounded or circular to square or 2 ~
otherwise. The shape and arrangement shown, however, work well with water for diluting juice concentrates.
Reference to Figure 6 shows a mixing operation in progress. A water supply pipe 40 fitted with a nipple 42 is shown (in phantom lines) inserted into the primary conduit 16. Water pres~ures of at least 10 p5ig, typi-cally from 30 to 60 psig are employed. Bcth the primary conduit and the outer casing have cut out areas, 44 and 46 respectively, which form a keyway for engagement in the preferred embodiment of a pin 44' on the nipple 42. As can be seen from Figures 1, lA, and 7, the cutouts will align when the nozzle 18 is inverted as for shipping.
This permits the nipple 42 and pin 44' to slide into place. once in place, the nozzle 18 can be rotated down from the position shown in Figure 7 to operable position as shown in Figures 1, 2 and 6, locking the nipple 42 in place.
The length to diameter ratio of the mixing cha~ber will ~e sufficient to permit turbulent break-up of the incoming stream of concentrate into droplets which can be essentially completely mixed with and dissolved in the water by the time the mixed beverage exits nozzle 18.
Typically, this ratio is with the range of 2:1 to 5:1, preferably from 3:1 to 4:1. For some sugar-free beverage concentrates, the mix ratios will be higher, e.g., 10:1 or even higher. Similarly, the spacing of the plate 24 from the inlet 22 will have an effect on mixing.
Desirably, the mixing chamber side of the plate 24 is from 3 to 10 mm from the center of the inlet 22. The length of nozzle 18 is important for effective dispensing with a minimum of splash and splatter. Typically the nozzle will have a length to diameter ratio of from 3:1 to 10:1, preferably from 3:1 to 6:1 e.g., 3.5:1. Thus, for a nozzle having an internal diameter of about 7 mm, the ..
2 ~
length will be from about 21 to about 42 mm in its pre-ferred form.
Figure 6 also shows a tube 48 from a supply of beverage concentrate. The tube is preferably flexible and resilient and can be made for example of polyethylene, silicona or surgical-type rubber or plastic tubing. The tube 48 is shown telescoped over male fitting 50 which provides a central channel 52. The channel 52 is in communication with the inlet 22 in operable position shown in Figure 6, but is opposite to it and closed from com-munication with inlet 22 in closed position shown in Figure 7. This configuration enables the valve and dis-pensing assembly to be affixed to the supply tube 48 at the location that the beverage concentrate is packaged to seal the tube ~ffectively until use is desired. The use of a flexible resilient tubing 48 permits feeding of material by peristaltic pump means which progressively compress the exterior of the tubing to move liquid through it without the need for the liquid to come in~o direct contact with the pump parts. Thus, the arrangement pro-vides high conveni~nce along with sanitation.
Figure 6 shows one liquid entering the mixing chamber 30 as a plurality of jets 32, each radially spaced from the center of the flow-restricting plate 24, formed by openings 36 in the plate 24 and tha wall of mixing chamber 30 at the seat 34, and the other entering transverse~y to the longitudinal axis of the primary conduit. The liquids are turbulently mixed as they flow through the mixing chamber 30 toward the dispensing nozzla 18. The degree of mixing depends on the presence of a reasonable back pressure of the water at the plate 24 and this is generally maintained within the range of from 10 to 80 psig. Mixing is vigorous within the mixing chamber ~ n ~
and continues in the dispensing nozzle which is of a length effective to consume a substantial amount of the turbulent ener~y of the fluids for mixing such that the liquid is dispensed with a minimum of splash and platter.
In a preferred embodiment, a dilution liquid such as water flows into the mixing chamber in radially-spaced jets and a beverage concentrate is metered, such as by paristaltic pump, into the mixing chamber transversely to the axis of the chamber to cause the degree of turbulence necessary to intimately mix the two liquids. The beverage concentrate will typically measure from 40 to 65 degrees brix and in some cases contain up to 15 weight %, e.g., 4 to 12%, suspended solids. Viscosities typically fall within the range of from about 500 to about 6000, lS more narrowly from 1500 to about 3500 centipoise, as measured by a ~rookfield Model LVT viscometer employing a number 3 spindle at 12 rpm with a sample temperature of 40F. The watex will be mixed with the concentrate typically in the ratio of 3:1 to 6:}. These high mix ratios and high solids contents stress earlier mixing and dispensing systems but can be handled efficiently by the pr~sent invention, especially at low flow rates. Beve~
rages, such as prepared from juice concentrates show better uniformity in the glass or other dispensing container, both initially and over time.
':
The above description is for the purpose of teaching the person o~ ordinary skill in the art how to practice the present invention, and it is not intended to detail all of those obvious modi~ications and variations of it which will become apparent to the skilled worker upon . reading the description. It is intended, howevex, that all such obvious modifications and variations be included .
`:
2 ~
within the scope of the present invention which is defined by the following claims. The claims are meant to cover the claimed elements and steps in any arrangement or sequence which is effective to meet the objectives there intended, unless the context specifically indicates the contrary.
~' .
D133CR~.PTION
: . .
Technical Field The present invention is directed to a system which S enables liquid beverage components to be mixed with enhanced consistency, and particularly to an improved mixing and dispensing system.
The preparation of beverages from concantrates has made it possible to improve shipping and storing efficiencies by eliminating large amounts of water. At the point o~ service, concentrates have proven to be easy to handle and mix with water to prepare beverages for serving. Among the many improvements in mixing and dispensing these beverages, has been the provision of devices directly attached to a flexible conduit integral with a concentrate container which seal the container during storage, mix the concentrate with water, and dispense the completed beverage into a serving container.
Due to their necessary simplicity, however, problems 2~8~ 5 remain in their mi~ing efficiency and they often cause ~plash and splatter during dispensing.
Dilution of concentrates could be achieved with uniformity by the addition of a mechanical agitator;
however, that would add expense and can create sanitation problems unless a rigid cleaning regimen were adhered to.
There is a need to improve the completeness of mixing consistent with the goals of convenience, sanitation and cost. There is also a need to reduce the splash or splatter which can result during dispensing.
.
~ac~aroun~ Art , The preparation of ready-to-drink beverages from - beverage concentrates is essential to modern food service operations. Both hot and cold beverages are prepared by mixer-dispenser units. Typically, these devices mix a beverage concentrate with water at a ratio of about 3:1 to 6:1 by volume water to concentrate. Beverage concentrates for cold beverages include juice and juice-drink concen-tra~es such as orange, lemon-lime, yrape, grapefruit, lemonade, cranberry, cherry, and the liXe as well as tea and coffee. Hot ready-to-drink beverages are prepared by reconstituting beverage concentrates such a~ coffee or tea with hot water. The concentrates can contain soluble as well as dispersible ingredients. It is known to package - 25 the concentrates in containers having integral dispensing tubes which can be sealed until the time of use.
In U.S. Patent No. 4,750,645, Wilson and Godfrey disclose a beveraye mixing and dispensing system designed for operation with packaged beverage concentrates of the type described. Their system utilizes a simple mixing 2 ~
valve which enables preparing beverages from concentrates ; with a high degree of convenience with maximum sanita-tion. That mixing valve comprised an inner rotatable member, an outer casing, and a flow restrictor within the inner member positioned between an inlet for water and an inlet for the beverage concentrate. By virtue of a - centrally-located orifice in the flow restrictor, the water was directed into contact with the incoming concen-trate as a jet. The inner member was formed into a dispensing spout at one end and was rotatable within the outer member to close off the opening to the concentrate, thereby enabling the valve assembly to be attached to a dispensing tube on the concentrate container and to effectively stopper it for shipment.
In practice, however, there have been instances where beverages prepared with the Wilson and Godfrey system did not create as effective mixing as would be desired.
Moreover, at higher pressures or flow rates, there was sometimes a greater degrea of splash or splatter at the dispenser opening than was acceptable to some users.
There remains a nesd ~or a valve of this type which can provide improved operation.
Disclosure of Inv~ntio~
It is an object of the invention to enable the rapid and complete mixing of liquid beverage components.
It is another obj~ct of the invention to provide an improved mixing valve for preparing a beverage by diluting a liquid concentrate.
2 ~ g ~
It is an object of the invention, in another of its more particular aspects, to provide an improved mixing and dispensing valve for preparing beverages by diluting con-centrates with water and dispensing them with a minimum of splash or splatter.
It is another and related object of the invention to provide an improved mixing and dispensing valve for pre-paring beverages by diluting concentrates with water to - provide beverages with decreased tendency to separate as by settling.
It is a further object of the invention, in one of its more particular aspects, to provide an improved mixing and dispensing valve for preparing beverages such as juice drinks by diluting a juice concentrate with water at high mix ratios of water to concentrate to achieve enhanced mixing of ingredients and homogeneity in the beverage.
It is yet another object of the invention to provide a method for preparing and dispensing beverages from liquid concentrates with speed, simplicity, and effective mixing with a minimum of splash and splatter.
These and other objects are achieved by the present invention which provides an improved mixing valve, an improved mixing and dispensing system, and an improved method for preparing mixed beverages.
The mixing valve according to the invention com prises: a primary conduit; a first liquid inlet into the primary conduit: a second liquid inlet into the primary conduit; a flow-restricting plate configured to split a stream of liquid from the first inlPt into a plurality of jets for introduction into a mixing chamber and a mixing 2~8~
chamber defined as the axial space within the primary conduit extending between the flow-restricting plate and an angularly-displaced dispensing nozzle. The jets each originate from openings which are radially spaced from the center of the flow-restricting plate. Accordinq to a preferred embodiment, the second liquid inlet is trans-verse to the longitudinal axis of the primary conduit.
Also preferred is a dispensing spout which extends downwardly from the mixing chamber.
The improved mixing and dispensing system of the invention comprises an outer casing within which the valve - described above is rotatably positioned. Thus, the pri-mary conduit forms an inner rotatable member which fits within the outer casing to enable opening and closing of the second inlet. In operation the second inlet is con-nected to a supply line for beverage concentrate through a male fitting on the outer casing.
The improved method for preparing beverages com-prises: supplying water to a first liquid inlet into a primary conduit; supplying a beverage concentrate through a second liquid inlet into the primary conduit; passing the water through a flow-restricting plate conPigured to split the water into a plurality of radially-spaced jets and to direct them into a mixing chamber which is defined as an axial space within the primary conduit extending betwe~n the flow-restricting plate and an an~ularly-displaced dispensing nozzla; and flswing the resulting mixture through a dispensing nozzle which is angularly displaced from the longitudinal axis of the primary conduit.
2 ~ g ~
srie~ Des~ription o~ the Dr~in~s The invention will be better understood and its advankages will be more fully appreciatad from the . following detailed description, especially when read in light of the accompanying drawings wherein:
Figure 1 i5 an exploded perspective view showing a preferred embodiment of the mixing and dispensing system of the in~ention;
Figure lA is view showing the rear portion of the inner member shown in Figure 1, as viewed ~rom underneath and behind;
Figure 2 is a perspective view with the parts shown in Figure 1 in fully-assembled and operable position;
Figure 3 is a sectional view taken along line 3-3 in Figure 1;
Figure 4 is a front elevation of a flow restrictor element of the invention showing a plurality o~ radially-spaced cut outs around its periphery;
Figure 5 is a side elavation of the flow restrictor element shown in Figure 4;
Figure 6 is a sectional view in expanded scale of a mixing chamber of the valve in Figura 1 showing the mixing of a dilution liquid sntering a3 an array of radially-spaced jets with a beverage concentrate; and Figure 7 is a sectional view of a system o~ the invention with the dispensing nozzle in closed position.
2~8~
Description_of the Preferrod Embodiment The invention will be described below with reference to seyeral representative embodiments with particular emphasis placed on the preparation and dispensing of juice drinks prepared by mixing concentrates and water. It will be understood, however, that ~ther uses are contemplated.
It is in fact an advantage of the invention that the invention can be employed with other liquids. The con-centrates include dissolved solids and can include sus-pended solids such as present in natural juice drinks suchas orange juice and those employed for cloud and the like. The concentrates are desirably high in solids con-tent and are intended typically for dilution at a ratio of 3:1 to 6:1 with water. The high concentration of solids and the resulting high viscosities (e.g., typically on the order of from 1500 to about 3500 centipoise) create mixing difficulties.
Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a prePerred embodiment of the mixing valve and dispensing system lO of the invention in exploded form. The system lO is here shown as comprised of two principal elements the mixing valve section 12 and the outer casing 14~ Figure 2 illustrates how the mixing valve section 12 fits within the outer casing 14 and is rotatable within it. The inner and outer members are preferably constructed of the same material which is preferably a thermoplastic polymer capable of injection molding, e.g., polypropylene or polystyrene. Alternatively, other plastics and even metals can be employed singly or in combination.
The mixing valve section is formed primarily of a primary conduit 16 and a dispensing nozzle 18 angularly displaced from the longitudinal axis o~ the primary 208a.~
conduit 16. The angle shown in the figures is essentially a right angle or transverse relation which works well in many embodiments. Others will permit different angles.
The primary conduit 16 has a first liquid inlet 20 and a S second liquid inlet 22. The second liquid inlet is shown here formed with its central axis transverse to the longi-tudinal axis of the primary conduit 12. A flow-restricting plate 24 is placed within the primary conduit and between the first liquid inlet 20 and the second liquid inlet 22. This can be better seen in Figures 3 and 6. The flow-restricting plate 24 is configured to split a stream of liquid from the first inlet 20 into a plurality of radially-spaced jets for contact and mixing with the liquid entering from the second liquid inlet 22. Pre-ferably, the jets are each radially spaced from the centerof the flowrestricting plate and the center of the plate 24 i~ on the longitudinal axis of the primary conduit.
The majority of mixing will take place internally of the primary conduit, between the flow-restricting plate 24 and the dispensing nozzle 18. This space defines the mixing chamber 30 which can be better seen in Figures 3 and 6. In the preferred embodiment, water will be supplied to the first liquid inlet 20 and a beverage concentrate will be supplied through the second beverage inlet 22. The water is passed through the flow-restricting plate 24 to split it into a plurality of radially-spaced jets ~shown as 32 in Figure 6). The jets of water 32 conv~rge with the concentrate in the mixing chamber 30 to prepare a mixed bQverage which is flowed to th~ dispensing nozzle 18. Mixing preferably continues in the dispensing nozzle which is of-a length effective to consume a substantial amount of the turbulent energy of the fluids for mixing such that the liquid is dispensed with a minimum of splash and spray without reducing 2 ~
in-glass mixing. It is in fact an advantage of the inven-tion that splash and splatter can be reduced but mixing action in the serving container can actually be enhanced.
The direction of liquid flows are preferred as shown with water incoming horizontally, the concentrate entering vertically and the mixed beverage being dispensed ver-tically.
Figure 3 shows the flow-restricting plate 24 in operable position within the primary conduit 16. This is accomplished in the preferred embodiment by provision of an annular ridge or seat 34 against which the plate 24 can abut. If desired, this seat can be chamfered or otherwise shaped to improve flow past it, but this is not required.
The flow-restricting plate is shown to have a plurality o~
radially-spaced cut out areas 36. This can be better seen in the enlarged front and side elevatio~al views of Figures 4 and 5. In the drawing these are shown as radially spaced an equal amount from the center and positioned around the periphery. In other embodiments, they can be spaced from the periphery and if desired be spaced at different radial extents from the center.
The cutouts, by virtue of the placement of the plate 24 against seat 34, will form openings the area of which is defined as the area between the cutout periphery and the inner edge of the seat 34. The total open area of the ; flow-restricting pIate 24 is the su~ of the areas of the individual openings. The open area will gènerally be less than 50% of the cross-sectional area of the mixing chamber, preferably less than 25~ and typically from about 5 to about 15%. The drawings show five cut out areas 36.
The number chosen will however vary and can be any reasonable number, e.g., from three to ten. Similarly, the shape may vary from rounded or circular to square or 2 ~
otherwise. The shape and arrangement shown, however, work well with water for diluting juice concentrates.
Reference to Figure 6 shows a mixing operation in progress. A water supply pipe 40 fitted with a nipple 42 is shown (in phantom lines) inserted into the primary conduit 16. Water pres~ures of at least 10 p5ig, typi-cally from 30 to 60 psig are employed. Bcth the primary conduit and the outer casing have cut out areas, 44 and 46 respectively, which form a keyway for engagement in the preferred embodiment of a pin 44' on the nipple 42. As can be seen from Figures 1, lA, and 7, the cutouts will align when the nozzle 18 is inverted as for shipping.
This permits the nipple 42 and pin 44' to slide into place. once in place, the nozzle 18 can be rotated down from the position shown in Figure 7 to operable position as shown in Figures 1, 2 and 6, locking the nipple 42 in place.
The length to diameter ratio of the mixing cha~ber will ~e sufficient to permit turbulent break-up of the incoming stream of concentrate into droplets which can be essentially completely mixed with and dissolved in the water by the time the mixed beverage exits nozzle 18.
Typically, this ratio is with the range of 2:1 to 5:1, preferably from 3:1 to 4:1. For some sugar-free beverage concentrates, the mix ratios will be higher, e.g., 10:1 or even higher. Similarly, the spacing of the plate 24 from the inlet 22 will have an effect on mixing.
Desirably, the mixing chamber side of the plate 24 is from 3 to 10 mm from the center of the inlet 22. The length of nozzle 18 is important for effective dispensing with a minimum of splash and splatter. Typically the nozzle will have a length to diameter ratio of from 3:1 to 10:1, preferably from 3:1 to 6:1 e.g., 3.5:1. Thus, for a nozzle having an internal diameter of about 7 mm, the ..
2 ~
length will be from about 21 to about 42 mm in its pre-ferred form.
Figure 6 also shows a tube 48 from a supply of beverage concentrate. The tube is preferably flexible and resilient and can be made for example of polyethylene, silicona or surgical-type rubber or plastic tubing. The tube 48 is shown telescoped over male fitting 50 which provides a central channel 52. The channel 52 is in communication with the inlet 22 in operable position shown in Figure 6, but is opposite to it and closed from com-munication with inlet 22 in closed position shown in Figure 7. This configuration enables the valve and dis-pensing assembly to be affixed to the supply tube 48 at the location that the beverage concentrate is packaged to seal the tube ~ffectively until use is desired. The use of a flexible resilient tubing 48 permits feeding of material by peristaltic pump means which progressively compress the exterior of the tubing to move liquid through it without the need for the liquid to come in~o direct contact with the pump parts. Thus, the arrangement pro-vides high conveni~nce along with sanitation.
Figure 6 shows one liquid entering the mixing chamber 30 as a plurality of jets 32, each radially spaced from the center of the flow-restricting plate 24, formed by openings 36 in the plate 24 and tha wall of mixing chamber 30 at the seat 34, and the other entering transverse~y to the longitudinal axis of the primary conduit. The liquids are turbulently mixed as they flow through the mixing chamber 30 toward the dispensing nozzla 18. The degree of mixing depends on the presence of a reasonable back pressure of the water at the plate 24 and this is generally maintained within the range of from 10 to 80 psig. Mixing is vigorous within the mixing chamber ~ n ~
and continues in the dispensing nozzle which is of a length effective to consume a substantial amount of the turbulent ener~y of the fluids for mixing such that the liquid is dispensed with a minimum of splash and platter.
In a preferred embodiment, a dilution liquid such as water flows into the mixing chamber in radially-spaced jets and a beverage concentrate is metered, such as by paristaltic pump, into the mixing chamber transversely to the axis of the chamber to cause the degree of turbulence necessary to intimately mix the two liquids. The beverage concentrate will typically measure from 40 to 65 degrees brix and in some cases contain up to 15 weight %, e.g., 4 to 12%, suspended solids. Viscosities typically fall within the range of from about 500 to about 6000, lS more narrowly from 1500 to about 3500 centipoise, as measured by a ~rookfield Model LVT viscometer employing a number 3 spindle at 12 rpm with a sample temperature of 40F. The watex will be mixed with the concentrate typically in the ratio of 3:1 to 6:}. These high mix ratios and high solids contents stress earlier mixing and dispensing systems but can be handled efficiently by the pr~sent invention, especially at low flow rates. Beve~
rages, such as prepared from juice concentrates show better uniformity in the glass or other dispensing container, both initially and over time.
':
The above description is for the purpose of teaching the person o~ ordinary skill in the art how to practice the present invention, and it is not intended to detail all of those obvious modi~ications and variations of it which will become apparent to the skilled worker upon . reading the description. It is intended, howevex, that all such obvious modifications and variations be included .
`:
2 ~
within the scope of the present invention which is defined by the following claims. The claims are meant to cover the claimed elements and steps in any arrangement or sequence which is effective to meet the objectives there intended, unless the context specifically indicates the contrary.
~' .
Claims (20)
1. A mixing valve comprising:
a primary conduit;
a first liquid inlet into the primary conduit;
a second liquid inlet into the primary conduit;
a flow-restricting plate configured to split a stream of liquid from the first inlet into a plurality of jets for introduction into a mixing chamber;
a mixing chamber defined as the axial space within the primary conduit extending between the flow-restricting plate and an angularly-displaced dispensing nozzle; and a dispensing nozzle angularly displaced from the longitudinal axis of the primary conduit.
a primary conduit;
a first liquid inlet into the primary conduit;
a second liquid inlet into the primary conduit;
a flow-restricting plate configured to split a stream of liquid from the first inlet into a plurality of jets for introduction into a mixing chamber;
a mixing chamber defined as the axial space within the primary conduit extending between the flow-restricting plate and an angularly-displaced dispensing nozzle; and a dispensing nozzle angularly displaced from the longitudinal axis of the primary conduit.
2. A mixing valve according to claim 1, wherein the second liquid inlet is transverse to the longitudinal axis of the primary conduit.
3. A mixing valve according to claim 1 wherein the flow-restricting plate provides a total open area of less than 50% of the cross section of the mixing chamber.
4. A mixing valve according to claim 3 wherein the total open space is within the range of from 5 to 15%.
5. A mixing valve according to claim 1 wherein the length to diameter ratio of the mixing chamber is within the range of from 2:1 to 5:1.
6. A mixing valve according to claim 1 wherein the dispensing nozzle has a length to diameter ratio within the range of from 3:1 to 10:1.
7. A mixing valve according to claim 1 wherein the distance from the flow-restricting plate to the center of the second inlet is within the range of from 3 to 10 mm.
8. A mixing valve according to claim 1 wherein the flow-restricting plate comprises a disk which includes from three to ten cut out areas around its periphery.
9. A mixing valve according to claim 8 wherein:
the flow-restricting plate provides a total open area of less than 50% of the cross section of the mixing chamber;
the length to diameter ratio of the mixing chamber is within the range of from 2:1 to 5:1;
the dispensing nozzle has a length to diameter ratio within the range of from 3:1 to 10:1; and the distance from the flow-restricting plate to the center of the second inlet is within the range of from 3 to 10 mm.
the flow-restricting plate provides a total open area of less than 50% of the cross section of the mixing chamber;
the length to diameter ratio of the mixing chamber is within the range of from 2:1 to 5:1;
the dispensing nozzle has a length to diameter ratio within the range of from 3:1 to 10:1; and the distance from the flow-restricting plate to the center of the second inlet is within the range of from 3 to 10 mm.
10. A mixing and dispensing system comprising:
(a) an outer casing comprising a cylindrical body, open at both ends, and an integral male member adapted for attachment to a flexible tubing; and (b) an inner rotatable member comprising a primary conduit;
a first liquid inlet into the primary conduit;
a second liquid inlet into the primary conduit;
flow-restricting plate configured to split a stream of liquid from the first inlet into a plurality of radially-spaced jets for intro-duction into a mixing chamber;
a mixing chamber defined as the axial space within the primary conduit extending between the flow-restricting plate and an angularly-displaced dispensing nozzle; and a dispensing nozzle angularly displaced from the longitudinal axis of the primary conduit.
(a) an outer casing comprising a cylindrical body, open at both ends, and an integral male member adapted for attachment to a flexible tubing; and (b) an inner rotatable member comprising a primary conduit;
a first liquid inlet into the primary conduit;
a second liquid inlet into the primary conduit;
flow-restricting plate configured to split a stream of liquid from the first inlet into a plurality of radially-spaced jets for intro-duction into a mixing chamber;
a mixing chamber defined as the axial space within the primary conduit extending between the flow-restricting plate and an angularly-displaced dispensing nozzle; and a dispensing nozzle angularly displaced from the longitudinal axis of the primary conduit.
11. A mixing and dispensing system according to claim 10, wherein the second liquid inlet is transverse to the longitudinal axis of the primary conduit.
12. A mixing and dispensing system according to claim 10 wherein the flow-restricting plate provides a total open area of less than 50% of the cross section of the mixing chamber.
13. A mixing and dispensing system according to claim 10 wherein the total open space is within the range of less than 25%.
14. A mixing and dispensing system according to claim 10 wherein the mixing chamber has a length to diameter ratio within the range of from 2:1 to 5:1.
15. A mixing and dispensing system according to claim 10 wherein the dispensing nozzle has a length to diameter ratio within the range of from 3:1 to 10:1.
16. A mixing and dispensing system according to claim 15 wherein:
the flow-restricting plate comprises a disk which includes from three to ten cut out areas around it's periphery;
the flow-restricting plate provides a total open area of from 5 to 25% of the cross section of the mixing chamber; and the length to diameter ratio of the mixing chamber is within the range of from 2:1 to 5:1.
the flow-restricting plate comprises a disk which includes from three to ten cut out areas around it's periphery;
the flow-restricting plate provides a total open area of from 5 to 25% of the cross section of the mixing chamber; and the length to diameter ratio of the mixing chamber is within the range of from 2:1 to 5:1.
17. An improved method for preparing beverages com-prising:
supplying water through a first liquid inlet into a primary conduit;
supplying a beverage concentrate through a second liquid inlet into the primary conduit;
passing the water through a flow-restricting plate configured to split the water into a plurality of radially-spaced jets and to direct them into a mixing chamber which is defined as an axial space within the primary conduit extending between the flow-restricting plate and an angularly-displaced dispensing nozzle; and flowing the resulting mixture along the longitudinal axis of the primary conduit and out of a downwardly depending dispensing nozzle.
supplying water through a first liquid inlet into a primary conduit;
supplying a beverage concentrate through a second liquid inlet into the primary conduit;
passing the water through a flow-restricting plate configured to split the water into a plurality of radially-spaced jets and to direct them into a mixing chamber which is defined as an axial space within the primary conduit extending between the flow-restricting plate and an angularly-displaced dispensing nozzle; and flowing the resulting mixture along the longitudinal axis of the primary conduit and out of a downwardly depending dispensing nozzle.
18. A method according to claim 17 wherein the flow-restricting plate provides a total open area of from 5 to 25% of the cross section of the mixing chamber.
19. A method according to claim 17 wherein the viscosity of the beverage concentrate is within the range of from 500 to 6000 centipoise as measured by a Brookfield Model LVT viscometer employing a number 3 spindle at 12 rpm and 40°F, and has a brix of from 40 to 65 degrees.
20. A method according to claim 19 wherein water is mixed with the concentrate at a mix ratio within the range of from 3:1 to 6:1.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US79029891A | 1991-11-08 | 1991-11-08 | |
| US790,298 | 1991-11-08 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2080415A1 true CA2080415A1 (en) | 1993-05-09 |
Family
ID=25150260
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002080415A Abandoned CA2080415A1 (en) | 1991-11-08 | 1992-10-13 | Mixing valve and dispensing system |
Country Status (6)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| JP (1) | JPH05212260A (en) |
| KR (1) | KR930009912A (en) |
| CN (1) | CN1074988A (en) |
| AU (1) | AU2730192A (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2080415A1 (en) |
| DE (1) | DE4237010A1 (en) |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US20140377428A1 (en) * | 2011-12-29 | 2014-12-25 | Nestec S.A. | Dispenser for producing beverages by dissolution of a soluble ingredient |
Families Citing this family (7)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN105240574B (en) * | 2015-11-10 | 2016-08-17 | 山东科技大学 | A kind of Flow-rate adjustment mixing valve and application thereof |
| US11090479B2 (en) * | 2016-02-19 | 2021-08-17 | Fresenius Kabi Deutschland Gmbh | Valve unit for an installation for producing a medical preparation |
| JP6730666B2 (en) * | 2016-03-23 | 2020-07-29 | Toto株式会社 | Hot and cold water mixing faucet |
| US10465803B2 (en) | 2016-10-05 | 2019-11-05 | Johnson Controls Technology Company | Multipurpose valve assembly tool |
| US10895326B2 (en) | 2017-03-17 | 2021-01-19 | Yamada Manufacturing Co., Ltd. | Control valve |
| CN109915358B (en) * | 2019-03-14 | 2024-03-08 | 天津清润博润滑科技有限公司 | Folding liquid-gas dual-purpose cleaning pump |
| CN109987417B (en) * | 2019-04-28 | 2024-03-12 | 江苏沃尔夫智能科技有限公司 | Rotary valve |
-
1992
- 1992-10-13 CA CA002080415A patent/CA2080415A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 1992-10-23 AU AU27301/92A patent/AU2730192A/en not_active Abandoned
- 1992-10-31 KR KR1019920020321A patent/KR930009912A/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 1992-11-02 DE DE4237010A patent/DE4237010A1/en not_active Withdrawn
- 1992-11-07 CN CN92113246A patent/CN1074988A/en active Pending
- 1992-11-09 JP JP4298756A patent/JPH05212260A/en active Pending
Cited By (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US20140377428A1 (en) * | 2011-12-29 | 2014-12-25 | Nestec S.A. | Dispenser for producing beverages by dissolution of a soluble ingredient |
| US9642489B2 (en) * | 2011-12-29 | 2017-05-09 | Nestec S.A. | Dispenser for producing beverages by dissolution of a soluble ingredient |
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| CN1074988A (en) | 1993-08-04 |
| JPH05212260A (en) | 1993-08-24 |
| KR930009912A (en) | 1993-06-21 |
| AU2730192A (en) | 1993-05-13 |
| DE4237010A1 (en) | 1993-05-13 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| FZDE | Discontinued | ||
| FZDE | Discontinued |
Effective date: 19981013 |