CN216494874U

CN216494874U - Multifunctional refrigerator

Info

Publication number: CN216494874U
Application number: CN202122548809.6U
Authority: CN
Inventors: 林佩珊; 张子伟
Original assignee: Jiewei Holdings Pte Ltd
Current assignee: Jiewei Holdings Pte Ltd
Priority date: 2021-10-22
Filing date: 2021-10-22
Publication date: 2022-05-13
Anticipated expiration: 2031-10-22
Also published as: TWM630065U

Abstract

The utility model discloses a multifunctional refrigerator, which comprises a refrigerated cabinet and a main door for sealing a storage area of the refrigerated cabinet, wherein the storage area is sealed with a plurality of storerooms; a heat exchanger connected to the refrigerated cabinet for controlling the temperature of the storage area within a predetermined temperature range; and a transfer mechanism adapted to be coupled to at least one of the plurality of storage compartments to select and transfer the plurality of components stored in the plurality of storage compartments outside the multi-function cooler. In addition, the transfer mechanism includes a coupler for automatically releasing the ingredients stored in the plurality of storage compartments. In addition, the transfer mechanism is adapted to simultaneously transfer two or more components from a plurality of reservoirs in predetermined quantities; in addition, one or more of the plurality of storage compartments are adapted for independent access. Since the plurality of storage rooms of the present invention can be individually accessed, a plurality of different ingredients stored therein can be simultaneously stored and dispensed, and the present invention is very suitable for use in a store or a vending system.

Description

Multifunctional refrigerator

Technical Field

The present invention relates to systems and devices for beverage making and dispensing, and more particularly to a multi-functional refrigerator for use in an in-store or vending system.

Background

Beverage production and dispensing devices are well known in the industry and are one of the most commonly used. Common beverage making and dispensing devices include coffee and espresso devices (e.g., tea or coffee dispensers, etc.), carbonated beverage dispensers, non-carbonated beverage dispensers (juices, tea, gravy), and the like. These devices are often installed in different locations, such as restaurants, transfer stations (airports, train stations, bus stations, etc.), markets, office buildings, residential buildings, etc. Generally, beverage makers and dispensers are mainly composed of a refrigerator (storing the ingredients to be dispensed at the required temperature), a dispensing mechanism, a display unit, a user interface, a number of sensors and auxiliary components, etc.

However, the use of these devices is limited to certain specific beverages due to the functional limitations provided by existing dispensing devices and refrigerators.

Most existing refrigerators in beverage dispensers and dispensers cool only a limited number of ingredients. It cannot be individually entered into each storage room to flexibly replenish the ingredients stored in the storage room at any time. Furthermore, existing freezer designs do not provide multiple components simultaneously to the dispensing mechanism of an in-store or vending system.

SUMMERY OF THE UTILITY MODEL

In view of the above problems with the prior art, the present invention is directed to a multi-functional refrigerator for an in-store or vending system having an independently accessible modular storage compartment and capable of simultaneously storing and dispensing a plurality of different ingredients stored therein.

In order to achieve the purpose, the utility model adopts the following technical scheme:

a multi-functional refrigerator, comprising: a refrigerated cabinet having a main door enclosing a storage area therein, the storage area enclosing a plurality of storage compartments; a heat exchanger connected to the refrigerator for controlling a temperature in the storage area to a predetermined temperature; a removable transfer mechanism capable of coupling with at least one of the plurality of storage compartments to select and transfer the components stored in the plurality of storage compartments external to the multi-function freezer.

In addition, the transfer mechanism includes a coupler for automatically releasing the ingredients stored in the plurality of storage compartments.

In addition, the delivery mechanism is configured to simultaneously deliver one or more components to the multiple storage compartments in predetermined quantities.

Further, one or more storage compartments are configured to be independently accessible.

In one embodiment, the plurality of reservoirs includes at least one sensor capable of detecting the amount of a component in one of the plurality of reservoirs. Here, the sensor is configured to alert a user (e.g., send a signal to the user) when the amount of the ingredient in at least one of the plurality of storage compartments reaches a predetermined value. This is advantageous in that it provides the user with time to replenish the ingredients in the plurality of storage compartments in time, thereby preventing the automatic vending system from being shut down due to exhaustion of the ingredients.

In one embodiment, the multi-functional refrigerator further comprises a regulator (e.g., a tube/pipe with an electromagnetic lock) coupled to at least one of the plurality of storage compartments, the regulator allowing for control of the amount of the respective ingredient flowing from the at least one of the plurality of storage compartments.

In one embodiment, at least one of the plurality of storage compartments removably receives a plurality of racks therein. In addition, a plurality of racks are stacked in parallel with each other in the storage area, and at least one rack is partitioned to receive the plurality of storage compartments. The advantages of the design are as follows: multiple storage compartments may be received in a single rack and one or more of the multiple storage compartments may be independently accessed, i.e.: can be removed/replaced independently without disturbing the other storage compartments.

In one embodiment, the heat exchanger includes a phase change material to achieve, provide, regulate and/or maintain a predetermined temperature within the storage area.

In one embodiment, the multi-function refrigerator further comprises a refrigeration mechanism including at least a condenser, a compressor, an evaporator and an expansion valve connected by one or more high pressure and low pressure conduits through which refrigerant flows. The refrigeration mechanism described herein may achieve, provide, regulate, and/or maintain a predetermined temperature of the storage area.

In one embodiment, the transfer mechanism has a plurality of transfer tubes (connected by one or more valve couplings) and tube clamps connected to the storage chamber, each having a liquid probe check valve at one end and a dispensing mechanism, either in the store or in an automated vending system, at the other end, either together or separately.

In one embodiment, the predetermined temperature is in the range of-5 ℃ to 50 ℃, preferably in the range of 2 ℃ to 7 ℃.

In one embodiment, the plurality of ingredients is selected from the group consisting of liquids, flavors, mousses, creams, syrups, milks, wines, alcohols, juices, sugar, powder mixes, air and carbon dioxide. Such a configuration is advantageous because it allows the present invention to be used with a variety of hot and cold beverages.

In one embodiment, the refrigerated case further comprises at least one opening (e.g., one or more gaps and grooves) positioned on the top, edge or corner side of the freezer for securing the transport mechanism; a plurality of wheels located at the bottom of the refrigerator to provide mobility; and a handle (e.g., a slotted handle) coupled to a frame lock on the refrigerator, the frame lock disposed adjacent to the plurality of wheels for pulling the refrigerator.

In one embodiment, a slotted handle is provided at the bottom of the refrigerator and is configured to assist a user in pulling the multi-function refrigerator with minimal effort.

In one embodiment, the frame locks are disposed at two front corners of the multi-function cooler.

In one embodiment, the frame lock is configured to be rotated 90 ° to apply pressure to a frame lock pad disposed on a front wheel of the refrigeration machine.

In one embodiment, the main door has an insulating glass for visual inspection of the interior of the refrigerator.

One embodiment selects a plurality of reservoirs from a plurality of liquid reservoirs, a plurality of flavor reservoirs, and a plurality of pressurized mousse/creamer reservoirs. This allows the present invention to have multiple ingredients simultaneously to make different beverages using different combinations of one or more of the available ingredients.

In one embodiment, each liquid storage compartment has a first tray in the form of an open top having one or more apertures; a liquid container provided in the first tray to contain a predetermined amount of liquid; locking the liquid container in a slot on the first tray; a valve cover is also provided to prevent leakage while allowing the liquid probe to be connected for replenishment.

The liquid container comprises milk in the range of 0 to 10 liters.

In one embodiment, the liquid container is removable from the liquid storage compartment, thereby facilitating replacement/replenishment of the liquid container.

In one embodiment, each of the plurality of flavor reservoirs comprises an open-topped second plastic tray having one or more apertures, the one or more flavor containers in the second plastic tray each having a respective magnetic stirrer to ensure homogeneity of the liquid stored therein; and a flavor reservoir adapter assembly.

In one embodiment, one or more flavor containers comprise a lidded container enclosing a space for receiving flavor; a magnetic stirrer enclosed within the flavor container stirrer enclosure; and a faucet arranged on the container and used for connecting the silicone tube with the container. Here, the one or more flavor containers may store flavors in the range of 0 to 3 liters.

In one embodiment, the flavor reservoir adapter assembly comprises one or more electrically heated plates disposed on a second plastic tray adapter; a plurality of check valves for regulating flavor flow; a plurality of valve couplings; and a plurality of silicon tubes for delivering flavor.

In one embodiment, each of the plurality of pressurized mousse/creamer storage compartments comprises an open-topped third plastic tray having one or more apertures; a cream reservoir adapter assembly disposed on the third plastic tray; and a plurality of cream tanks mounted on the cream tray adapter assembly, each cream tank having a control rod at the top and a metal probe inside.

In one embodiment, the cream reservoir adapter assembly includes a plastic tray adapter configured with one or more slots; the adjustable milk oil tank comprises a plurality of adjustable metal clamping rails, metal clamps for fixing a plurality of milk oil tanks and rubber sleeves; and one or more flow sensors, valve couplings, silicone tubing, and solenoid valves. Furthermore, a plurality of adjustable metal clamping rails are used to squeeze a control lever on each cream tank to dispense the pressurized cream contained in each cream tank, the dispensing amount of the cream being controlled by a solenoid valve.

Drawings

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a multi-function freezer for use in an in-store or vending system;

fig. 2 is an exploded view of the multi-functional refrigerator shown in fig. 1.

Figure 3 shows the storage area of the refrigerated cabinet.

FIG. 4 shows a pass gate of an electromagnetic lock coupled to each of a plurality of storage compartments;

FIG. 5 shows one of the storage compartments exiting the refrigerator;

FIGS. 6 and 7 show liquid storage compartments of a plurality of storage compartments in a refrigerator;

FIGS. 8 to 10 show flavour reservoirs of a refrigerator having a plurality of reservoirs;

FIG. 11 is an exploded view of the flavor container of the flavor reservoir of FIGS. 8-10;

FIG. 12 shows an exploded view of the flavor reservoir adapter assembly of the flavor reservoir shown in FIGS. 8-10;

FIGS. 13 to 15 show a cream storage chamber of a plurality of storage chambers in a refrigerator;

fig. 16 shows an exploded view of the cream tank of the cream reservoir shown in fig. 13 to 15;

fig. 17 shows an exploded view of the cream reservoir adapter assembly of the cream reservoir shown in fig. 13-15.

The numbers in the figures are as follows:

100. a multipurpose refrigerator; 102. a refrigerated cabinet; 104. a storage area; 106. a plurality of storage compartments; 1062. a liquid storage chamber; 1064. a flavor storage chamber; 1066. a cream storage chamber; 108. a heat exchanger; 110. a main door; 112. a plurality of wheels; 114. a frame lock; 116. a transport mechanism; 1162. a plurality of transfer tubes; 1164. a pipe clamp; 1166. foaming; 1168. a liquid probe; 1170. valve coupling; 118. a metal grating door; 120. multiple racks/a single rack; 122. rack supports within the refrigerated cabinet;

202. a first tray; 2022. one or more holes (in the first tray); 204. a liquid tank; 206. valve coupling; 208. a card slot;

302. a second plastic tray; 3022. one or more holes (in the second tray); 304. a flavor can; 3042. a cover; 3044. a hood-type stirrer; 3046. a magnetic stirrer; 3048. containers (such as plastic cans); 3050. a seal ring; 3052. a faucet; 306. a plurality of valve couplings; 308. a flavor reservoir adapter assembly; 3082. an electric hot plate; 3084. a plastic tray adapter; 3086. a plurality of check valves; 310. a plurality of silicone tubes;

402. a third plastic tray; 4022. one or more holes (in a third plastic tray); 404. a cream tank; 4042. a metal probe; 4044. a cream tank base; 4046. a control lever; 4048. a pipe thread adapter; 4050. a threaded reducing pipe; 406. valve coupling; 408. a cream reservoir adapter assembly; 4082. a metal clip guide rail; 4084. a plurality of adjustable metal clip rail bars; 4086. a rubber sleeve; 4088. a metal clip; 4090. a solenoid valve bracket; 4092. a flow sensor support; 4094. an electromagnetic valve; 4096. a pipe thread adapter; 4098. a plastic tray adapter; 410. a silicone tube.

Detailed Description

The present invention is described below in terms of various embodiments and the accompanying drawings, wherein reference numerals used in the drawings correspond to like elements throughout the description. It is to be understood, however, that the drawings are designed solely for purposes of illustrating embodiments and illustrating the principles of the disclosed embodiments and are not intended as a definition of the limits of the associated application.

While the utility model is described herein by way of examples using embodiments and schematic illustrations, those skilled in the art will recognize that the utility model is not limited to the embodiments of one or more of the figures described, and is not intended to represent the scale of various components. Moreover, for ease of illustration, certain components that may form part of the present application may not be illustrated in certain figures, and such omissions are not intended to limit the embodiments summarized in any way. It should be understood, that the drawings and detailed description thereto are not intended to limit the utility model to the particular form disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents and alternatives falling within the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.

Examples

Shown in fig. 1-5 is a multi-function freezer 100 for use in a store or vending system. Such in-store or vending systems are understood to be beverage makers and dispensers, such as, but not limited to, coffee and espresso apparatuses (such as tea or coffee vending machines, etc.), carbonated beverage dispensers, non-carbonated beverage dispensers (juices, tea, fruit juices). The equipment is usually deployed in restaurants, transfer stations (airports, train stations, bus stations, etc.), markets, office buildings, houses, etc. in various locations for convenient use by the user. Generally, beverage makers and dispensers basically comprise a refrigerator (storing the ingredient to be dispensed at the desired temperature), a dispensing mechanism, a display unit, a user interface, a number of sensors and auxiliary components.

To understand the various components of multi-function chiller 100 and its various embodiments, reference can be made to fig. 1-5, either alone or in combination. As can be seen in the perspective view of multi-function chiller 100 shown in FIG. 1, multi-function chiller 100 includes, but is not limited to, refrigerated cabinet 102 having main door 110; to the heat exchanger 108 of the refrigerated cabinet 102 and to the transport mechanism 116. This can be more clearly understood by referring to the exploded view of multi-function refrigerator 100 shown in FIG. 2. As shown in fig. 2, the refrigerated case 102 may be understood as a hollow box cabinet having a front opening and enclosing a storage area 104 therebetween.

Although the size of the refrigerated case 102 varies with the application and vending machine with which it will be used, for ease of explanation, some exemplary dimensions are provided within the preferred ranges. For example: the width of the refrigerated case 102 may be, but is not limited to, between 545-610mm, the depth may be between 980-1050mm, and the height may be between 775-785 mm. The wall thickness of the refrigerated case 102 may vary between 50-60 mm. Preferably having a top and a bottom. Furthermore, the thickness of the rear wall may even exceed 50mm, since the rear wall may be designed to accommodate other components of the multi-functional refrigerator. In addition, the refrigerated case 102 may be made from, but is not limited to, sheet metal enclosures and liners, metal racks, and metal grated doors. Between these components there may be a layer of rigid polyurethane foam, both as a structural material and as an insulating material. The insulating material helps to maintain the low temperatures needed for the operation of multi-functional refrigerator 100.

In addition, the refrigerated case 102 includes a main door 110 to cover the front opening of the refrigerated case 102. In one embodiment, the main door 110 has an insulated clear glass panel that can be used to visually inspect the interior of the refrigerated case 102. The glass provides a clear view of the interior of the refrigerated case 102 so that the user does not have to open the refrigerated case 102 for inspection. In fig. 1-5, the main door 110 is shown hinged in the left side wall of the refrigerated case 102, however, the main door 110 may be hinged to any one of the four edges (upper, lower, left, right) of the refrigerated case 102.

Referring again to fig. 1-5, the refrigerated case 102 further includes at least one opening located on a side selected from a top side, edge, or corner of the refrigerated case 102 for securing the transport mechanism 116. For example: the at least one opening may be in the form of, but is not limited to, one or more gaps and grooves. For example, a 20-40mm recess may be provided near the upper edge of the refrigerated case 102. An insulating material such as urethane foam 1166 may be used to cover any gaps left after the transfer mechanism 116 is placed in the opening. In addition, a plurality of wheels 112 are disposed at the bottom of the refrigerated case 102 to provide mobility. The number of wheels required for the cabinet 102 is preferably four (one at each corner), but may vary depending on the size and weight of the cabinet 102.

In addition, a handle (e.g., a slot handle) coupled to a frame lock 114 on the refrigerated case 102 may be disposed adjacent to the plurality of wheels 112 for pulling the refrigerated case 102. A handle is provided at the bottom of the refrigerated case 102 and is configured to assist a user in pulling the multi-function cooler with minimal effort. In addition, frame locks 114 are provided at both front corners of the multifunction cooler. The rack lock 114 may be configured to rotate, for example, 90 degrees, to apply pressure to the rack lock 114 pads disposed at the front wheels of the refrigerated case 102.

Referring again to fig. 1-5, the multi-function refrigerator further includes a heat exchanger 108 coupled to the rear wall of the refrigerated cabinet 102 for controlling the temperature within the storage area 104 to a predetermined temperature. In one embodiment, the predetermined temperature is in the range of-5 ℃ to 50 ℃, preferably in the range of 0 ℃ to 5 ℃. As shown, the heat exchanger 108 is shown as a dashed block in the rear wall of the refrigerated case 102, indicating that it is hidden. The heat exchanger 108 may be disposed behind the rear wall or inside the hollow rear wall. Additionally, the heat exchanger 108 may be equipped with a phase change material to achieve, provide, regulate, and/or maintain a predetermined temperature within the storage region 104. Generally, Phase Change Materials (PCMs) store thermal energy through a phase change from a liquid to a vapor, because the latent heat of evaporation or condensation is at least 1-2 orders of magnitude higher than the energy stored by heat. The PCM material used may be any refrigerant suitable for use in refrigerators such as non-toxic hydrocarbons, hydrofluorocarbons, hydrochlorofluorocarbons, chlorofluorocarbon halomethanes, and the like.

In another embodiment, an air circulation mechanism within a refrigerated cabinet (not shown) may be provided with the heat exchanger 108 behind the refrigerated cabinet 102. The air circulation mechanism at least comprises a propeller, a tubular shaft and a blade axial flow fan system, and is connected through one or more high-low pressure pipelines in which refrigerants flow. Here, the refrigeration mechanism may achieve, provide, regulate, and/or maintain a predetermined temperature uniformly within the storage area 104.

In addition, referring again to fig. 1-5, as previously described, the refrigerated case 102 encloses the storage area 104 therein, as best seen in fig. 2 and 3. The storage area 104 is intended to removably receive a plurality of storage compartments 106. To this end, the interior side walls of the refrigerated cabinet 102 are provided with frame supports 122. The rack bracket members 122 may be understood as minute protrusions symmetrically disposed on both inner sidewalls of the refrigerator cabinet 102 to accommodate a plurality of racks 120 (e.g., metal grills, etc.). The edges of the rack may rest on rack supports 122 on both inner side walls. The ends of the projections may be folded upwardly to secure the edges of the bracket mounted thereon.

Thus, as shown in fig. 3, a plurality of racks 120 are stacked in parallel with each other in the storage area 104, and at least one of the plurality of racks 120 is partitioned to receive the plurality of storage compartments 106. Once the plurality of racks 120 are stacked, the plurality of storage areas 106 are inserted therein. This is also illustrated in fig. 4. Since each rack is partitioned in fig. 4, there are two storage compartments in each rack. It is noted here that both the plurality of storage compartments 106 and the plurality of racks 120 are removable when desired. Furthermore, one or more of the plurality of storage compartments 106 are configured to be independently accessible, i.e., independently removable/replaceable without disturbing the other compartments. This is also illustrated in fig. 5. This is one of the unique features of the present invention. In addition, a metal grille door 118 (hinged on a side wall of the refrigeration cabinet 102) is provided with each of the plurality of storage compartments. Each metal grille door 118 may be equipped with an electromagnetic lock to further secure multiple storage compartments 106. Fig. 1 and 2 show the metal-grated door 118 closed/locked, while fig. 3-5 show the metal-grated door 118 open.

The plurality of storage compartments 106 are adapted to store a plurality of ingredients that may be used to make different beverages. The various ingredients are selected from the group consisting of, but not limited to, liquids, flavors, mousses, creams, syrups, milks, wines, alcohols, juices, sugars, powder mixes, air and carbon dioxide. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that different compositions have different storage and dispensing requirements and thus the present invention provides different types of storage compartments that can be placed in the refrigerated case 102. It should be noted that each of the plurality of storage compartments 106 includes at least one sensor adapted to detect the amount of the ingredient in one of the plurality of storage compartments 106, although different storage compartments may be used. The at least one sensor is further configured to alert a user when the amount of the ingredient within the plurality of storage compartments 106 reaches a predetermined value. The alert may be in the form of a visual or audio indicator, such as a flashing light emitting diode, buzzer, voice message, or any electronic communication device, indicating which of the plurality of storage compartments 106 needs replenishment.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of reservoirs 106 are selected from a plurality of liquid reservoirs 1062, a plurality of flavor reservoirs 1064, and a plurality of pressurized mousse/creamer reservoirs 1066. In the example shown in fig. 4-5, there can be seen six liquid reservoirs 1062, three flavor reservoirs 1064, and one pressurized mousse/creamer reservoir 1066. The arrangement and numbering can be rearranged according to the requirements and applications of the user. The various types of the plurality of storage chambers 106 are described in turn below.

Fig. 6 shows a liquid storage chamber 1062 of the plurality of storage chambers 106 in the refrigerated cabinet 102. Fig. 7 is an exploded view illustrating the same components to show each component separately and more clearly. As shown in fig. 6 and 7, each of the plurality of liquid storage chambers 1062 includes an open-top first tray 202 (e.g., a plastic tray) with one or more holes 2022 along a side wall. Further, a liquid container 204 is provided in the first tray 202 to contain a predetermined amount of liquid.

The predetermined amount of liquid may be in the range of 0 to 10 liters. For example, the liquid may be selected from, but not limited to, milk, powder mix, wine, alcohol, and the like. A snap groove 208 is then provided to lock the fluid container to the first tray 202, and a valve cap 206 is provided to prevent leakage while allowing the fluid probe 1168 to be connected for replenishment. It should be noted that the liquid container 204 is removable from the liquid storage chamber 1062. Thus, when the liquid is below a predetermined level (amount), it can be replenished or directly replaced.

Fig. 8-10 show a flavor reservoir 1064 of the plurality of reservoirs 106 in the refrigerated merchandiser 102. As can be seen in fig. 8-10, each of the plurality of flavor reservoirs 1064 includes an open-topped second plastic tray 302 with one or more apertures 3022 along the side walls. Further, one or more flavor containers 304 are disposed in the second plastic tray 302. Fig. 11 shows an exploded view of one or more flavor containers 304. Each of the one or more flavor containers 304 has a container (e.g., plastic container) 3048 with a lid 3042 that encloses a space to receive a liquid. A magnetic stirrer 3046 is then provided within the container 3048, enclosed by a stirrer cage 3044, to ensure uniformity of the liquid (flavor) stored therein. In embodiments, the one or more flavor containers 304 are configured to store flavors in the range of 0 to 3 liters. In addition, a tap 3052 (along with a seal 3050) may be provided on the container 3048 to connect the silicone tube 310 with the container 3048.

Referring again to fig. 10, the flavor reservoir 1064 also includes a flavor reservoir adapter assembly 308 sandwiched between the second plastic tray 302 and one or more flavor containers 304. This is also shown in figure 12. As shown in FIG. 12, the flavor reservoir adapter assembly 308 includes one or more electric hot plates 3082 disposed on a second plastic tray adapter 3084; a plurality of check valves 3086 for regulating the flow of flavor; a plurality of valve couplings 306; and a plurality of silicone tubing 310 configured to deliver flavor. As previously described, the silicone tubing 310 is coupled to the faucet 3052 of the one or more flavor containers 304 to deliver flavor. Although the exemplary drawings illustrate two flavor containers 304 in each flavor repository 1064, indicating that two flavors may be stored at a time, it should be understood that the number may be increased/decreased depending on the size and application requirements without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Fig. 13-15 show a pressurized mousse/creamer reservoir 1066 in the plurality of reservoirs 106 in the refrigerated cabinet 102. As can be seen in fig. 13-15, each of the plurality of creamer storage chambers 1066 comprises an open-topped third plastic tray 402 with one or more apertures 4022 along the side walls; a pressurized mousse/creamer reservoir adapter assembly 408 disposed on the third plastic tray 402; and a plurality of cream tanks 404 received on a cream reservoir adapter assembly 408. As shown in fig. 13-15, two 1-liter cream tanks 404 are secured to a third plastic tray 402.

Fig. 16 is an exploded view of the cream tank 404 of the pressurized mousse/cream reservoir 1066 shown in fig. 13-15. As can be seen from fig. 16: each cream tank 404 has a tank base 404, a top lever 4046 and a metal probe 4042 disposed within the cream tank base 4044. A metal probe 4042 (with a seal) is disposed in the cream tank base 4044 to feed out of the cream tank base 4044 horizontally rather than vertically. Other components, such as, but not limited to, a tube threaded adapter 4048, a threaded reduced diameter tube 4050, a can lid, etc., may be provided for secure connection with other components of the creamer reservoir adapter assembly 408, such as the silicone tube 410 for dispensing the creamer/cream.

Fig. 17 is an exploded view of the creamer reservoir adapter assembly of the creamer reservoir shown in fig. 13-15. As shown in fig. 17, the creamer reservoir adapter assembly 408 comprises a plastic tray adapter 4098 having one or more slots; a plurality of adjustable metal clip rails 4084, metal clips 4088 and rubber boots 4086 for securing a plurality of cream tanks; and one or more flow sensors, valve couplings 406, silicone tubing 410, and solenoid valve 4094. Auxiliary components such as, but not limited to, a metal clip guide 4082, a solenoid valve bracket 4090, a flow sensor bracket 4092, a tube threaded adapter 4096, a Y-joint bracket, etc. may be provided for secure connection with other components. During this operation, the control rod 4046 on each cream jar 404 is squeezed using a plurality of adjustable metal clips 4088 to deliver the cream contained in each cream jar 404. The amount of milk to be delivered is controlled by solenoid valve 4094.

Referring again to FIG. 2, multi-functional refrigerator 100 further comprises transfer mechanism 116, wherein transfer mechanism 116 is adapted to removably couple to at least one of the plurality of storage compartments 106. Transfer mechanism 116 is configured to select and deliver a plurality of ingredients stored in a plurality of storage compartments 106 external to multi-function cooler 100 (e.g., to a beverage maker, a dispensing mechanism of an in-store or vending system, etc.). To this extent, the transfer mechanism 116 includes a coupler for automatically releasing the components stored within the plurality of storage compartments 106. In addition, the transfer mechanism 116 includes a plurality of transfer tubes 1162 connected to the plurality of storage compartments 106 by one or more valve couplings 1170, tube clamps 1164 and liquid probes 1168, each having a check valve at one end and a common and/or separate in-store or vending system transfer mechanism at the other end. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the delivery mechanism 116 is configured to simultaneously deliver one or more components stored within the plurality of storage compartments 106 in predetermined amounts.

In an exemplary method of operation, a user may select a beverage (e.g., cold brew tea) and some other instructions/preferences from a vending machine (beverage machine and dispenser). Assuming that the vending machine has a pre-stored bubble tea recipe, the recipe is selected and edited according to the further instructions/preferences of the user and finally sent to the output mechanism 116. The transfer mechanism 116 then drives the refrigerator to automatically and simultaneously deliver predetermined amounts of liquid, flavor and cream (in this case milk, flavor, mousse) according to the formula and user preferences. The delivery mechanism 116 delivers the ingredients to the in-store or vending system and, accordingly, produces the desired beverage (hot or cold brew tea) according to the user's preferences.

In addition, if the amount of ingredients in any of the plurality of storage compartments is below a predetermined level, the user is alerted by sending an audio or visual signal (e.g., flashing light emitting diode, buzzer, voice prompt, electronic communication system) to replenish or replace when needed.

One of the main technical advantages of the present invention is that all of the plurality of storage compartments 106 are individually accessible. Therefore, the authorized user only needs to open the required storeroom and does not affect other storerooms. For example, to replenish the liquid reservoir 1062, the user may follow the simple steps of:

opening the main door 110;

pulling the liquid probe 1068 to separate it from the storage chamber 1062;

snapping the liquid tube 1162 onto the metal grill door 118 of the storage chamber 1062;

opening the metal grid door 118 and accessing the storage chamber 1062;

the storage chamber 1062 is pulled out;

replacing the liquid container or the complete first tray;

the procedure is repeated back to reinsert the storage chamber 1062.

In the prior art, all the storage rooms have only one common door, and even if a user only wants to enter one of the storage rooms, other storage rooms are exposed to the outside air, thereby affecting the cooling effect and temperature maintained by the storage rooms. The present invention eliminates all such problems; including safety issues, i.e., limited access to specific racks or trays.

In the present invention, unless otherwise indicated, the term "comprising" and grammatical variants thereof are intended to mean "open" or "inclusive" language, i.e.: they include both the recited elements and also allow for the inclusion of additional, non-explicitly recited elements.

In addition, principles related to various embodiments described herein may be applied to other embodiments. Thus, the present description is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown in the drawings, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel inventive features disclosed or suggested herein. Accordingly, it is contemplated that the present invention shall embrace all other such alternatives, modifications and variations as falling within the scope of the present invention and the appended claims.

Claims

1. A multi-functional refrigerator, comprising:

a refrigerator having a main door enclosing a storage area, the storage area enclosing a plurality of storage compartments;

a heat exchanger connected to the refrigerator to control the temperature of the storage region to a predetermined temperature; and

a transfer mechanism adapted to removably couple at least one of the plurality of storage compartments to selectively transfer different ingredients stored in the plurality of storage compartments within the multi-function freezer to outside the multi-function freezer;

wherein said transfer mechanism comprises couplers for automatically releasing the components stored in the plurality of storage compartments, respectively, to be adapted to simultaneously and asynchronously transfer two or more components in a predetermined number of said plurality of storage compartments; and

wherein two or more of said plurality of reservoirs are capable of separately operating and delivering said two or more components.

2. A multi-functional refrigerator according to claim 1, characterized in that: wherein the storage compartment comprises at least one sensor adapted to detect the amount of the ingredient in the plurality of storage compartments; and

at least one sensor is configured to alert a user when the quantity of ingredients within the plurality of storage compartments reaches a predetermined value.

3. A multi-functional refrigerator according to claim 1, characterized in that: also included is a regulator connected to at least one of the plurality of storage compartments.

4. A multi-functional refrigerator according to claim 1, characterized in that: wherein at least one of the plurality of storage compartments is adapted to removably receive a plurality of racks within the storage area; wherein the plurality of racks are stacked in parallel with each other in the storage area, and at least one of the plurality of racks is partitioned to receive the plurality of storage compartments.

5. A multi-functional refrigerator according to claim 1, characterized in that: wherein the heat exchanger comprises a heat exchanger that achieves, provides, regulates and/or maintains a predetermined temperature in the storage area.

6. A multi-functional refrigerator according to claim 1, characterized in that: the refrigeration mechanism at least comprises an air circulation mechanism, a condenser, a compressor, an evaporator and an expansion valve which are connected through one or more high-low pressure pipelines in which condensing agents flow, and the refrigeration mechanism can realize, provide, adjust and/or maintain preset temperature in a storage area.

7. A multi-functional refrigerator according to claim 1, characterized in that: wherein the transfer mechanism comprises a plurality of transfer tubes connected to the plurality of storage compartments by one or more valve couplings, tube clamps and liquid probe check valves, respectively, at one end and connected at the other end to a dispensing mechanism, either collectively and/or individually, of the in-store or vending system.

8. A multi-functional refrigerator according to claim 1, characterized in that: wherein the predetermined temperature is in the range of-5 ℃ to 50 ℃.

9. A multi-function refrigerator as defined in claim 1 wherein said refrigerated cabinet further comprises:

at least one opening selected from a top, edge, or corner to secure the transport mechanism;

a plurality of wheels at the bottom of the cabinet to provide mobility; and

a handle connected to a frame lock on the refrigerated case is disposed adjacent the plurality of wheels for pulling the refrigerated case.

10. A multi-functional refrigerator according to claim 1, characterized in that: the plurality of reservoirs are selected from the group consisting of a plurality of liquid reservoirs, a plurality of flavor reservoirs, and a plurality of pressurized mousse/creamer reservoirs.

11. A multifunction refrigerator according to claim 10, wherein each of the plurality of liquid storage compartments comprises:

a first tray with an open top, the tray having one or more apertures;

a liquid container provided in the first tray to contain a predetermined amount of liquid;

locking the liquid container to the slot on the first tray; and

a valve cover for preventing leakage and connecting the liquid probe when replenishing the components.

12. A multi-functional refrigerator according to claim 11, characterized in that: the liquid container is removable from the liquid storage chamber.

13. A multi-functional refrigerator according to claim 10, wherein each of the plurality of flavor reservoirs comprises:

a second tray with an open top, the tray having one or more apertures;

one or more of the flavor containers in the second tray have respective magnetic stirrers to ensure homogeneity of the liquid stored therein; and

a flavor reservoir adapter assembly.

14. A multi-functional refrigerator according to claim 13, wherein the one or more flavor containers comprise:

a lidded container enclosing a lid mixer within the flavor container; and

the magnetic stirrer is sealed in the flavor container by a stirring cover; and

the tap arranged on the container is connected with the silicone tube and the flavor container.

15. A multifunction freezer according to claim 13, wherein the flavor reservoir adapter assembly comprises:

one or more electric heating plates disposed on the second tray adapter;

a plurality of check valves configured to regulate flavor flow;

a plurality of valve couplings; and

a plurality of silicone tubes configured to convey flavor.

16. A multi-functional refrigerator according to claim 10, wherein each of the plurality of pressure mousse/cream reservoirs comprises:

a second tray with an open top, said tray having one or more apertures;

a cream storage compartment adapter assembly disposed on the third tray; and

a plurality of cream tanks are received on the pressure mousse/cream reservoir adapter assembly, each having a control rod at the top and a metal probe inside.

17. A multi-function freezer as recited in claim 16, wherein the pressure mousse/cream reservoir adapter assembly comprises:

a tray adapter having one or more slots;

a plurality of adjustable metal clip rails, metal clips and rubber sleeves for fixing a plurality of cream tanks; and

one or more flow sensors, valve couplings, silicone tubing, and solenoid valves.