DK180565B1

DK180565B1 - A cleaning device and a method for cleaning beverage lines

Info

Publication number: DK180565B1
Application number: DKPA201970194A
Authority: DK
Inventors: Ditlevsen Peter; Jappa Andersen Kenneth
Original assignee: Royal Unibrew As; V Loewener As
Priority date: 2019-04-01
Filing date: 2019-04-01
Publication date: 2021-07-06
Also published as: EP3946765C0; DK201970194A1; WO2020200384A1; EP3946765B1; EP3946765A1; CA3135524A1

Abstract

Disclosed is a cleaning device (1) for cleaning at least one beverage line (2), the cleaning device (1) comprising a water supply inlet (3) for providing a water flow, an outlet (4), a cleaning fluid inlet (26) fluidly connectable to a cleaning fluid container (5), a cleaning fluid pump (6) for providing a cleaning fluid flow from the cleaning fluid container (5), a flow meter (7) for providing a measure of the water flow, a controller (8) for controlling the cleaning fluid pump (6) and thereby the cleaning fluid flow on the basis of the measure of water flow, wherein - in a cleaning mode (CM) directing a mixed fluid flow comprising cleaning fluid from the cleaning fluid container (5) as provided by the cleaning fluid pump (6) and water as provided from the water supply inlet (3) to the outlet (4), -wherein the cleaning fluid pump (6) in the cleaning mode injects the cleaning fluid into the water flow to obtain a predetermined concentration of cleaning fluid in the mixed fluid flow under control by the controller (8), and - in a flushing mode (FM), directing the water as provided from the water supply inlet (3) to the outlet (4) without mixing it with the cleaning fluid. Furthermore, a method for cleaning at least one beverage line (2) is disclosed.

Description

DK 180565 B1 1

A CLEANING DEVICE AND A METHOD FOR CLEANING BEVERAGE LINES Field of the invention The invention relates to a cleaning device for cleaning beverage lines, wherein the cleaning device comprises a pump, a cleaning fluid inlet, a flow meter and a controller. The invention also relates to a method for cleaning beverage lines. Background of the invention Beverages may be served from different kind of sources such as bottles, cans, kegs or other kind of containers for containing a beverage in e.g. a certain temperature. The process of serving the beverage to a customer may involve leading the beverage from the container through a beverage line and dispensing the beverage from e.g. a tap. Over time, the beverage flowing through the beverage lines results in the buildup of bacteria, yeast and mold within the beverage lines whereby the taste of the beverage may be influenced such that it becomes undrinkable. Therefore, it is important that the beverage lines are kept sufficiently clean. Thus, from US 2008/0223410 Al it is known to clean supply lines by using a cleaning apparatus which pumps a mixture of cleaning fluid through the supply lines and by monitoring the fluid before and after it is fed through the supply lines. From EP3067311 Al it is known to clean supply lines using a cleaning apparatus with a water supply inlet, an outlet, a cleaning fluid inlet connected to a cleaning fluid container, a pump for providing cleaning fluid flow — from the cleaning fluid container, and a flow meter for providing a measure of water flow. From GB2242181 A it is known to clean supply lines using a cleaning apparatus configured for directing a mixed fluid flow comprising cleaning fluid from a cleaning fluid container as provided by a cleaning fluid pump and water as provided from a water supply inlet to an outlet, wherein the cleaning fluid pump in a cleaning mode is configured to inject the cleaning fluid into a the water to obtain a concentration of cleaning fluid in a mixed fluid flow under control by a controller. However, the cleaning of beverage lines according to these document is very complex and the system may itself may, despite attempt to the contrary result in use of substantial amount of cleaning fluid and the complexity may under certain conditions have an undesirable down-time. It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide for an apparatus and method for cleaning beverage lines — which solves the above-mentioned problems.

DK 180565 B1 2 The invention The invention provides for a cleaning device for cleaning at least one beverage line, the cleaning device comprising a water supply inlet for providing a water flow, an outlet, a cleaning fluid inlet fluidly connectable to a cleaning fluid container, a cleaning fluid pump for providing a cleaning fluid flow from the cleaning fluid container, a flow meter for providing a measure of the water flow, a controller for controlling the cleaning fluid pump and thereby the cleaning fluid flow on the basis of the measure of water flow, wherein - in a cleaning mode directing a mixed fluid flow comprising cleaning fluid from the cleaning fluid container as provided by the cleaning fluid pump and water as provided from the water supply inlet to the outlet, -wherein the cleaning fluid pump in the cleaning mode injects the cleaning fluid into the water flow to obtain a predetermined concentration of cleaning fluid in the mixed — fluid flow under control by the controller, and - in a flushing mode, directing the water as provided from the water supply inlet to the outlet without mixing it with the cleaning fluid.

Itis advantageous to provide a cleaning device wherein a cleaning fluid is mixed with a water flow in a predetermined proportion in relation to the water flow in that the concentration of the cleaning fluid in the water flow may be held constant even if water pressure/water flow varies over time or due to location. Thus, the amount of cleaning fluid used may be reduced or optimized which again makes the cleaning of a beverage line according to an embodiment of the invention more efficient and/or the system more robust and reliable. Also, the cleaning device is simple in its design in that only a few and most necessary components are selected to achieve a specific and simple function. As a result of this, highly skilled, external personnel or expensive and complex equipment for operating the cleaning device is not needed.

DK 180565 B1 3 Moreover, the present system has shown itself valuable in real-life in the sense that downtime may be kept at an absolute minimum, thereby increasing the efficiency and return of investment.

It should be emphasized that “predetermined concentration” should be understood as an amount of cleaning fluid relative to an amount of water. The aim is to generate a mixed fluid with a certain concentration of cleaning fluid automatically under control of the applied controller. The programming/setup of the controller is may be based on a theoretical approach by computing the expected concentration from the water flow — and the injected amount of cleaning fluid, or it could be determined experimentally by monitoring the mixed fluid and adjusting the cleaning fluid injections such that the desired predetermined concentration of cleaning fluid in the mixed fluid is obtained. The injections of cleaning fluid may e.g. be adjusted or calibrated by adjusting the injection speed of the cleaning fluid pump or by adjusting the value of the predetermined concentration which may selected on a controller of the cleaning fluid pump. This may preferably just be a matter of a simple setting as the controller, and optionally combined with a calibration, if needed.

— The cleaning fluid container may be incorporated in the cleaning device or it could be separate from the cleaning device. For example, the cleaning device may connect to the externally positioned cleaning fluid container via a hose. In an advantageous embodiment, the cleaning fluid container is separate from the cleaning device, e.g. position on the floor, thereby making replacement easy for the operator. In other — words, attractive embodiments of the invention may include a "one-device” setup, with all components such as pump(s), valve(s), controller(s) etc. in one box, including connections to power supply, water supply, cleaning liquid supply. Such as one-box implementation is robust and easy to maintain, install and transport.

DK 180565 B1 4 It should also be emphasized that in this context, the term “cleaning device” should be understood as equipment which may be a device by itself or be built or formed by a number of components mutually interacting for the intended purpose. Such components may include e.g. pump(s), cleaning fluid container, sensors, connecting pipes, valve, controller, etc. In other words, in the present context the device, when used in the very specific context of “cleaning device”, should be understood as equipment which is not necessarily incorporated as one singular device or in on single casing.

Mixing the fluid could obtained by joining the cleaning fluid line with the water supply line such that these are in fluid communication with each other, optionally via a T- pipe, a Y-piece hose joiner, Y-tube hose joiner, 3-way corner joiner or other kind of way for joining the two fluid flows.

In this context, the term “water supply” should be understood as water from regular water sources such as tap water, municipal water or city water. The water supply may typically be used without local supplemental pumps associated with the cleaning device/equipment but simply rely on the water pressure provide by the public water supply system. In an embodiment of the invention, the cleaning device will only obtain — water pressure such as provided by the municipal water or city water system.

In this context, the term “controller” should be understood as a device which may control the output pressure, volume flow, temperature, revolutions per minute or other parameters of a pump. The controller may do so in a wired or a wireless fashion such — as Bluetooth, wi-fi, cellular network and/or via wires or cables. The controller may be electrically connected to the grid or it may be powered by means of a battery or other local energy storage.

The controller may advantageously be communicatively coupled with a display of the device or e.g. with a display of an external device such as a mobile device, thereby

DK 180565 B1 offering a user of the device to operate the device and e.g. read and perceive relevant process parameters such as concentration setting(s), cleaning progress, alarms, start stop times, temperature, pressure, time to service, etc. The device may also comprise a user interface e.g. an input device or a keyboard by means of which a user may 5 — operate the device Both user interface and display may also be completely external, preferably communicatively coupled wirelessly with the controller of the device to facilitate the necessary user interface and communication with the user. Some or all of this interfacing may e.g. be implemented in a smartphone.

If the controller is externally operated, it should preferably incorporate a wireless dual- way interface. If the controller is operated by relevant interface part incorporated as a part of the stand-alone device, such communication may also be hard-wired.

The controller should also include or control the cleaning fluid pump via a suitable driver circuitry allowing sufficient power for automatic control of the controlled pump. In an alternative embodiment, a pump driver may be included with the cleaning fluid pump, thereby allowing a pure low power signal communication between the — controller and the cleaning fluid pump.

In this context, the term “line” should be understood as a hose, a pipe, tube or other kind of hollow body for conducting a fluid.

— It should also be emphasized, that the “flushing mode” should be understood as a mode in which the cleaning device will only provide water from the water supply to the outlet of the cleaning device for the purpose of flushing any cleaning fluid or beverage remaining within the beverage line prior to or after the cleaning process. Thus, the flushing mode is distinguished from the "cleaning mode” in that it is not suited for

DK 180565 B1 6 cleaning bacteria, mold or yeast within the beverage lines, although some cleaning of course may be obtained.

In an embodiment of the invention, the cleaning device comprises a non-return valve positioned between said cleaning fluid pump and said water supply inlet.

It is advantageous, in some instances even important, to provide a non-return valve between the cleaning fluid pump and the water supply inlet in that the cleaning fluid may not accidentally be pumped into the water supply and contaminate the water therein.

In an embodiment of the invention, the cleaning device comprises a non-return valve positioned between the cleaning fluid pump and the flow meter.

Tt is advantageous to provide the cleaning device with a non-return valve positioned between the cleaning fluid pump and the flow meter in that the cleaning fluid may not be accidentally mixed with the water in the flushing mode.

In an embodiment of the invention, the cleaning device further comprises a manifold — connected to the outlet for distributing the mixed fluid flow or the water flow to a plurality of beverage lines.

It is advantageous to provide the cleaning device with a manifold connected to the outlet in that a plurality of beverage lines may be cleaned at a time whereby the cleaning of the beverage lines of an entire beverage serving system may be performed faster.

When applying e.g. a manifold with the aim of cleaning a plurality of beverage lines at the same time, it should be noted that the device features a robustness to e.g. pressure

DK 180565 B1 7 drops or pressure variations when variating the number of beverage lines to be cleaned at the same time.

In an embodiment of the invention, the cleaning device further comprises a pulsation — dampener Fluid circuits are often driven by e.g. a reciprocating pump which, due to the cyclic pumping, generates a flow with pulsations. Such a pulsing flow may cause pipe vibrations, water hammering, noise and pressure fluctuations which may damage the components of the cleaning device and even the beverage lines. Thus, providing the cleaning device with a pulsation dampener is advantageous in that a steady fluid flow is obtained. In some embodiments, the obtained concentration may also be more predictable and it may thereby by easier to configure the controller for accurate and automatic control of the cleaning fluid pump and thereby the concentration of cleaning — fluid in the water.

In this context, the term “pulsation dampener” should be understood as any type of device for dampening fluid pulsations such as a membrane pulsation dampener, bladder pulsation dampener, bellows pulsation dampener or other. And the pulsation dampener is positioned in a downstream side and in the vicinity of the cleaning fluid pump such that the pulsations are dampened as soon as possible and such that a steady flow is flowing through the remaining lines of the cleaning device.

In an embodiment of the invention, the flow meter communicates wirelessly with the — controller.

If the cleaning fluid pump and the flow meter are arranged far from each other it may be inconvenient and expensive to set up wires or cables. Therefore, it may be advantageous to provide for wireless communication between the flow meter and the

DK 180565 B1 8 controller in that no additional costs for wiring is needed and the setup of the cleaning device may be more flexible.

In an embodiment of the invention, the cleaning device comprises a flow control valve for shifting between the cleaning mode and the flushing mode.

The setup of the cleaning device is such that it comprises two fluid circuits.

The first fluid circuit represents the cleaning mode and the second fluid circuit represents the flushing mode.

Therefore, providing the cleaning device with a flow control valve is advantageous in that the operator may safely switch between two fluid circuits and thereby the two programmable modes without physically reconfiguring the fluid lines in the cleaning device.

The flow control valve may be actuated automatically or manually.

It should be emphasized that the flow control valve only enables shifting between the cleaning mode and the flushing mode.

In an embodiment of the invention, the flow control valve is an L-port valve.

It is advantageous if the flow control valve is an L-port valve in that it may be used to draw fluids from several sources and it is easy to switch between the two fluid sources.

In an embodiment of the invention, the cleaning device comprises a pH-meter for measuring a pH value at the beverage dispenser output or beverage line and/or the — water supply inlet.

Providing the cleaning device with pH-meters is advantageous in that information regarding the cleaning process may be obtained.

DK 180565 B1 9 In this context, a “pH-meter” should be understood as a pH electrode, litmus paper, phenolphthalein or other means for measuring the pH value of a fluid. In an embodiment of the invention, the cleaning device comprises a detector for detecting characteristics of said mixed fluid flow and an alarm for alerting variations in said characteristics. It is advantageous to provide the cleaning device with a detector and an alarm in that the service personnel may be notified when the cleaning process should be terminated — for example fluid characteristics such as temperature or cleaning fluid concentration is too high/low. It may also be an option to configure the device for automatic control based on input from the detector, such as automatic shift between cleaning mode and flushing mode and automatic termination of cleaning/flushing mode.

In this context, a “detector” should be understood as a visual detector, electronic detector, heat detector or other kind of detector for detecting changes in fluid characteristics such as temperature, color, particle size or other.

In this context, an “alarm” should be understood as a vibratory alarm, a siren, optical warning light or other types of devices for alerting an operator.

In an embodiment of the invention, the pressure in the water supply inlet is between between 1.2 and 15 bar, such as between 1.3 and 13 bar, such as between 1.4 and 11 bar, and such as between 1.5 to 7 bar.

If the water pressure from the water supply is too low the fluid may not clean the beverage lines sufficiently. And if the pressure is too high, the system may consume a lot of energy and the components of the system may be damaged due to the pressure.

DK 180565 B1 10 The pressure in the water supply inlet is determined by the location of the water supply. As mentioned, the water supply may be tap water, municipal water or city water and therefore the driving pressure in the system is provided hereby. The cleaning device of the invention is designed such that the mixing of the water and cleaning fluid is not necessarily dependent on a particular system pressure, rather it is adjustable to the available pressure in the water supply. This is advantageous in that the cleaning device thereby may be used in a broad range of locations where some locations may be able to only provide water with a low pressure and some locations may be able provide water with a larger pressure. Thus, the cleaning device may be used with all types of water supply.

Thus, the present pressure ranges present an advantageous relationship between cleaning level, energy consumption, flexibility and damage minimization.

In an embodiment of the invention, the pumping pressure of the cleaning fluid pump is 0.5 bar higher than the water supply pressure at the water inlet of the device. Other pressures may be applied within the scope of the invention as long as it is ensured that the pressure is high enough to induce cleaning fluid to the outlet when needed, but also considering structurally or process-wise that cleaning fluid should not back-flow into — the water supply.

It should also be noted that the relative requirement of providing a pump pressure is important as a water pressure which is higher than the pump pressure could have an unpredictable impact on the dosing of the cleaning fluid.

In an embodiment of the invention, the pumping pressure delivered by the cleaning fluid pump is between 1 and 20 bar, preferably between 4 and 16 bar and most preferably between 7 and 10 bar.

DK 180565 B1 11 If the pumping pressure is too low, the cleaning fluid may not be injected in the water flow. And if the pumping pressure is too high, the system may be damaged, or the energy consumption may be too large. Thus, the above-mentioned ranges present an advantageous relationship between functionality, safety and/or economy.

In an aspect of the invention a method for cleaning at least one beverage line is provided. The method comprising the steps of: e releasing at least one beverage line from a beverage container, e connecting the beverage line to an outlet of a cleaning device, the cleaning device comprising a cleaning fluid pump, a flow meter, a controller, a water supply inlet and a cleaning fluid container, e providing a water flow from the water supply inlet to the at least one beverage line via said outlet, e measuring water flow from the water supply inlet with the flow meter, e automatically controlling the cleaning fluid pump by means of the controller to generate a flow of cleaning fluid into the water flow thereby providing mixed fluid flow of cleaning fluid and water, e wherein the mixed fluid flow has a predetermined concentration of cleaning fluid, e and wherein the predetermined concentration of cleaning fluid in the mixed fluid flow is obtained by controlling by means of the controller the proportion of cleaning fluid being pumped into the water flow on the basis of water flow measured by the flow meter, and e disconnecting said beverage line from the outlet of the cleaning device.

If the cleaning line is connected directly (e.g. for automatic switching between cleaning mode and operation mode) to the beverage line, optionally via a coupling part, while it is still attached to the beverage container, the final e.g. 5 cm of the beverage line measured from the outlet of the beverage container may not be in contact — with the cleaning fluid and therefore not cleaned properly. However, even a minor

DK 180565 B1 12 contamination in the beverage line may in a short period of time spread throughout the entire beverage line and contaminate the line within the first beverage servings. Therefore, it is advantageous to initially release the at least one beverage line from the beverage container and connect it to a cleaning device whereby the total length of the beverage line is cleaned. Furthermore, providing the cleaning fluid in a predetermined concentration in relation to the water flow enables easier control of the cleaning fluid concentration and therefore optimization of cleaning fluid consumption. In an embodiment of the invention, the mixed fluid flow is stagnated in the beverage — lines in a period of between 0.3 and 10 minutes, preferably between 0.6 and 8 minutes and most preferably between 1 and 6 minutes. The step is performed before the step of disconnecting the beverage line from the cleaning device.

Stagnating the mixed fluid in the beverage tubes for too short results in an insufficient cleaning. And if the fluid is stagnated in the beverage tubes for too long the cleaning process is simply not efficient time-wise or the tubes may be damaged due to the alkalinity (or acidity) of the cleaning fluid. Thus, the present time periods present an advantageous relationship between cleaning efficiency and damage consideration.

In an embodiment of the invention, the method further comprises the step of flushing the beverage line(s) with water. The step is performed before the step of disconnecting the beverage line from the cleaning device.

After the cleaning process is finished it is important that the beverage lines are free — from cleaning fluid as it may affect the beverage taste of the following beverage and even be unhealthy in too large doses. Therefore, it is advantageous if the beverage lines are flushed with water after the cleaning process in that cleaning fluid leftovers in the beverage lines are removed. Furthermore, using water is particularly advantageous in that it may be flushed out through regular drains.

DK 180565 B1 13 In an embodiment of the invention, the method further comprises the step of flushing the beverage lines with water. The step is performed after the step of stagnating the mixed fluid in the at least one beverage line and before the step of disconnecting the beverage line from the cleaning device.

Flushing the at least one beverage line with water after the stagnation of the mixed fluid in the beverage line and before the step of disconnecting the beverage line from the cleaning device is advantageous in that leftovers are removed. Furthermore, the step of stagnating and flushing may be repeated several times for ensuring the complete removal of leftovers. In an embodiment of the invention, the method further includes the step of injecting a gas in the beverage lines for emptying the beverage line(s). The step is performed before the step of disconnecting the beverage line from the cleaning device.

After the cleaning process is finished it is important that the beverage lines are free from cleaning fluid and/or water as this may affect the beverage taste or even be unhealthy. Therefore, it is advantageous to use a gas for emptying the beverage lines in that the majority of the fluid remains are blown out of the beverage hoses. It should be emphasized that the step of injecting the gas in the beverage lines may be performed after flushing the beverage lines. In an embodiment of the invention, the predetermined portion of the cleaning fluid is between 1 and 30 percent, preferably between 2 and 25 percent and most preferably between 3 and 20 percent. If the cleaning fluid concentration is too low, the cleaning is not efficient. And if the concentration is too high, it may result in an unnecessary large consumption of cleaning fluid. Furthermore, if the cleaning fluid portion is too high only specially trained personnel may be allowed to operate the cleaning fluid which is inconvenient

DK 180565 B1 14 and expensive.

Thus, the present predetermined portion intervals present an advantageous relationship between safety and efficiency.

In an embodiment of the invention, the method further comprises the step of leading the flow of mixed fluid through the at least one beverage line whereby the at least one beverage line is cleaned, the step being performed before the step of disconnecting the beverage line from said cleaning device.

In an aspect of the invention a cleaning device according to the earlier described cleaning devices is used for cleaning at least one beverage line.

Using the cleaning device according to the earlier described cleaning devices is advantageous in that it provides for an efficient cleaning of the beverage lines and which is also easy to operate and maintain.

Furthermore, the cleaning device according to an embodiment of the invention is adjustable to water supplies at different locations and is therefore also adjustable to said different water supplies.

In an aspect of the invention, the method for cleaning at least one beverage line according to the earlier described methods is performed by means of a cleaning device according to any of the previously described cleaning devices.

Using the previously described cleaning device to carry out the method for cleaning at least one beverage line is advantageous in that the cleaning device is suited for carrying out the method.

DK 180565 B1 15 Figures The invention will be described in the following with reference to the figures in which fig. 1. illustrates a flow-diagram of a cleaning device in an operating mode. fig. 2 illustrates a flow-diagram of a cleaning device in a cleaning mode, fig3 illustrates a flow-diagram of a cleaning device in flushing mode, fig. 4 illustrates a flow-diagram of a cleaning device in a cleaning mode.

The cleaning device further comprising a pulsation dampener, a detector and an alarm, fig. 5 illustrates a flow-diagram of a cleaning device in a flushing mode.

The cleaning device further comprising a pulsation dampener, a detector and an alarm, and fig. 6 illustrates the operating mode, cleaning mode and the flushing mode.

Detailed description Fig.

I illustrates a diagram of an exemplary cleaning device 1 within the scope of the invention when associated to a beverage dispensing system and when the system is in an operating mode OM, i.e. under normal use and at a time where no cleaning liquid is processed thought the dispensing lines.

In other words, the term “operating” is referring to the dispensing system’s normal operating mode at a time where no cleaning is performed.

DK 180565 B1 16 It is noted that solid lines illustrate active lines in which a fluid flows and dashed lines illustrate inactive lines in which a fluid does not flow.

When the cleaning device 1 is in operating mode OM, the cleaning device is not connected to any beverage line 2, i.e. no cleaning or flushing is performed on the beverage line 2. The beverage lines 2 are connected to the beverage container 16 and may be serving beverages through the beverage dispenser output 25 of the beverage dispensers 18 (see fig. 4-5). The beverage may usually be dispensed from the beverage — container 16 via a pressure difference between the inside of the beverage container 16 and the outside. This pressure difference could be obtained either by an external source such as a pressure bottle (for example CO2 gas) or the beverage container 16 could itself be pressurized. The beverage may also be dispensed from the beverage keg 16 via a pump (not shown).

In this embodiment, two beverage lines 2 are connected to the same beverage container 16. However, in another embodiment, a beverage container 16 may receive a single beverage line 2. For example, one beverage container may contain a beverage X for serving the beverage X via one beverage dispenser and another beverage container may contain a beverage Y for serving beverage Y via another beverage dispenser.

When the beverage lines 2 is to be cleaned, the beverage lines 2 are completely disconnected from the beverage container 16 and afterwards connected to the cleaning device I for cleaning the beverage lines 2. This process is described in the following sections under reference to the figures. The complete disconnection facilitates that the cleaning, i.e. a kind of semi-automatic operation, may be performed without use of complicated valves, which may be more or less reliable but also by design serve as reservoirs of bacteria cultures which are difficult to clean.

DK 180565 B1 17 Fig. 2-3 illustrate a flow-diagram of cleaning device 1 in a cleaning mode and a flushing mode, respectively. When cleaning of a beverage line 2 is to be performed, the beverage line 2, which is connected to a beverage dispenser 18 and a beverage container 16, is released from the beverage container 16 and connected to an outlet 4 of the cleaning device 1, e.g. via a manifold 10. Once the beverage line 2 is connected to the cleaning device 1, the cleaning process may begin. The operator may, prior to the releasing of the beer line 2 from the beverage container 16, preprogram the cleaning device to the type of beverage or the operator may program the cleaning once the beverage line 2 is connected to the cleaning device 1. To do so, a controller 8 of a cleaning fluid pump 6 may be provided with a touch screen or a suitable interface for customizing the cleaning process to the specific beverage. The operator may also select a cleaning program among a number of cleaning programs which could already be preprogrammed in the cleaning device 1. To begin the cleaning process, the operator may open a water flow inlet 3 such that water from a water supply runs through a water flow line 17. A valve handle 12a may be set in cleaning mode or flushing mode. If the valve handle 12a is in flush mode the water from the water supply inlet 3 may only flow through line 17 and 21 and towards the flow control valve 12 which in the flushing mode may direct the water towards the outlet 4 and flush the beverage lines

2. In this embodiment, the flow control valve 12 is actuated manually. However, in another embodiment (not shown) it may be automatically actuated and/or automatically controlled, e.g. by a controller and an electrically controlled valve. It may for example communicate with a detector 14 (see fig. 3-4) and automatically — switch between cleaning or flushing mode. It may also be time based, i.e. switch after a certain time period. If, the valve handle 12a is set to cleaning mode, the water may be directed through water flow line 17, water clean line 22 and via a flow meter 7. At this point the flow — meter will measure e.g. the volume flow of the water flowing in the water clean line

DK 180565 B1 18 22 and transmit water flow data to the controller 8 which controls the cleaning fluid pump 6. The cleaning fluid pump 6 then injects portions of cleaning fluid drawn from a cleaning fluid container 5 via a cleaning fluid inlet 26 and through a cleaning fluid line 24. The portions of cleaning fluid may be a portion proportional to the water flow (WF) which is measured by the flow meter 7. Thus, the cleaning fluid pump 6 may inject a cleaning fluid flow in the water flow such that a concentration of cleaning fluid of for example 10% is obtained.

The water flowing through lines 17,22 and cleaning fluid in cleaning fluid line 24 will mix in a mixed fluid line 23. The mixed fluid may then be led towards the flow control valve 12 which may direct the mixed fluid towards — the outlet 4 and through the at least one beverage line 2, whereby the at least one beverage line 2 may be cleaned.

The cleaning fluid may be injected in a predetermined mass portions or volume portions.

For example, the portions of cleaning fluid being injected in the water flow (WF) may be constant such that if the concentration of cleaning fluid in the mixed fluid flow (MFF) is too low, the cleaning fluid pump 6 may increase the injection speed and vice versa if the concentration of cleaning fluid is too high.

It is thus noted that the illustrated embodiment of the invention in principle provides for the use of a water supply having a water pressure varying over time.

In other words, the cleaning fluid pump 6 is controlled to deliver a varying amount of cleaning fluid depending on the water pressure or water flow, thereby ensuring a — reliable and accurate amount of cleaning fluid.

This slave configuration of the cleaning fluid pump 6 in dependency of the water pressure is a simple and extremely reliable system and control configuration in the special environments where the present system is used, e.g. pubs, bar and restaurants, where the personnel may not be experts on process operations but where at the same time where the processes are extremely — critical as failures or technical malfunctioning may lead to health hazards.

In this embodiment, the flow meter 7 is a turbine flow meter.

More specifically the flow meter 7 is a Digmesa FFC 40 Amite flow meter.

However, in another embodiment, the flow meter 7 could be an ultrasonic flow meter, rotameter, vortex — meter or other type of device for measuring a fluid flow.

DK 180565 B1 19 In an embodiment, the flow control valve 12 may comprise a stop-position such that it blocks the flow from either the water flush line 21 or the mixed fluid line 23. This may be carried out automatically, for example in an emergency situation, or it may be — carried out manually.

As mentioned, the water supply inlet 3 may be supplied with water from a regular water tap installation.

Therefore, the water pressure of the water tap installation is the primary driving force in the fluid circuit whereby a pump may not be necessary for pumping the mixed fluid (MFF) through the beverage line 2. Furthermore, cleaning and servicing such a driving pump may likewise not be necessary.

The cleaning fluid pump 6 injects cleaning fluid in the water flow at a larger pressure than the water supply inlet to ensure that the cleaning fluid is injected in the water flow.

The cleaning fluid pump 6 could for example be set to pump cleaning fluid at a pressure of 0.5 bar higher than the water supply pressure.

However, depending on the size of the fluid- and beverage lines the pressure drop along the lines would result in a different differential pressure between the cleaning fluid and water supply at the point of mixture between the cleaning fluid and water supply.

It is therefore important to — ensure that the cleaning fluid pressure is for example 0.5 bar larger than the water supply at the injection point i.e. the point of mixing the cleaning fluid and water.

However, injecting cleaning fluid in the water clean line 22 at a higher pressure than the pressure in the water clean line 22 may result in the cleaning fluid being pumped through the water clean line 22, water flow line 17 and towards the water supply inlet 3, which may contaminate the water supply.

Obviously, this is not desirable.

Therefore, a non-return valve 9 may be positioned between the cleaning fluid pump 6 and the flow-meter 7 for ensuring that the cleaning fluid is not pumped to the water supply inlet.

Another benefit of this non-return valve 9 is that the cleaning fluid may not squirt out from the water flow line 17 and thereby risk contacting and thereby injuring an operator for example if the water flow line 17 was not attached properly to

DK 180565 B1 20 the water supply. And a non-return valve 9 may be positioned between the cleaning fluid pump 6 and the water supply inlet 3 for preventing cleaning fluid from being pumped in the water supply inlet 3 for example if the flow control valve 12 should malfunction such that the mixed fluid (MFF) is pumped through lines 23, 21, 17.

In this embodiment, the cleaning device comprises a manifold 10 with two outputs for cleaning two beverage lines at once. This will naturally demand a larger water flow and consequently the flow meter 7 will measure a higher water flow whereby the cleaning fluid pump 6, via control inputs from the controller 8, will pump a larger amount of cleaning fluid from cleaning fluid container 5. Thus, even if the number of beverage lines 2 is increased, the cleaning device may, via the frequency of cleaning fluid injections by the cleaning fluid pump 6, automatically adjust the fluid flows such that the concentration of the cleaning fluid flow in the water flow is always at the predetermined value, e.g. 2, 5, 10 percent or however much is needed for the specific cleaning process of a particular beverage line 2. In this embodiment, a pH-meter 13 is positioned at the water supply inlet 3 and beverage dispenser outlet 25 for measuring the pH value of the fluid. For example, by knowing the pH value of the fluid at the water supply inlet 3 and at the beverage dispenser output 25 the operator may obtain information on the flushing process. If the pH value at the water supply inlet 3 is around 7 (the approximate pH value of tap water) and a same pH value is measured at the beverage dispenser output 25, the operator may assume that pure water is flowing through the cleaning device 1 and beverage line 2 whereby the flushing is completed. In another embodiment, the pH meter 13 could be positioned at mixed fluid line 23 and the beverage output 25. In such an embodiment, the measured pH value would be higher due to the added cleaning fluid in the water flow. The pH value of the mixed fluid in the mixed fluid line 23 could for example be approximately 12. Thus, when a corresponding pH value is measured at the beverage dispenser output 25, the operator may assume that the beverage lines 2 are substantially clean because the pH value of the mixed fluid will

DK 180565 B1 21 usually change as it reacts with the mold, yeast or bacteria within the beverage lines 2. Thus, when the beverage lines 2 are clear, the pH value of the mixed fluid should be identical before and after it has passed the beverage line 2.

In an embodiment, pH meters may be positioned at the water supply inlet 3, beverage dispenser output 25, output side of cleaning fluid pump 6 and in mixed fluid line 23. However, in another embodiment, a pH meter could be positioned at just one of the said positions. In another embodiment, a pH meter may also be positioned at the outlet 4, for example in the manifold 10.

Furthermore, fig. 1 illustrates the basic concept of the cleaning device 1. The cleaning fluid (CF) which is pumped by the pumped 6 in a predetermined portion in relation to the water flow and is mixed with the water flow (WF) to obtain the mixed fluid flow (MFF) which is directed towards the outlet 4 via the mixed fluid line 23, flow control valve 12 and it may finally flow through the at least one beverage line 2 whereby the at least one beverage line 2 is cleaned. It should be noted that the coupling to the water supply and the way the cleaning fluid is injected into the water stream to form mixed cleaning fluid and the feeding into the beverage lines to be cleaned may be configured in different valve configurations and with different degrees of automation as long as the cleaning fluid is injected with an accurate concentration. Moreover, the coupling and de-coupling of the cleaning device should preferably be performed as a completely manual and complete coupling and decoupling as illustrated herein.

Fig. 4-5 illustrates a diagram of a cleaning device 1 in a cleaning mode and a flushing mode, respectively. The cleaning device 1 further comprising a pulsation dampener 11, a detector 14 and an alarm 15.

DK 180565 B1 22 The mixed fluid is usually drawn through the beverage dispenser 18 to ensure complete cleaning.

To help service personnel determine when the cleaning process may be terminated the cleaning device may comprise a detector 14 and an alarm 15. The detector could for example detect changes in color, transparency, particle sizes or other characteristics in the fluid.

For example, the detector could be set up to measure changes in a particular color channel (red, green or blue) for detecting changes in e.g. the red channel.

When a deviation from a certain standard value is measured the detector 14 may trigger the alarm 15. For example, if the detector 14 detects a certain color in the fluid flowing out of the beverage dispenser output 25 the alarm 15 may be triggered such that the service personnel are notified.

The cleaning fluid pump 6 is controlled by the controller 8 which receives water flow data from the flow meter 7. The control of the cleaning fluid pump 6 may be achieved by a 4-20 mA current loop as known to the skilled person.

In this example, 4-20 mA — current loop may represent 0-300 injections per minute.

Depending on the received control signal, the cleaning fluid pump 6 injects a certain number of injections per minute such that the desired predetermined portion of cleaning fluid in the water flow is achieved.

Thus, for example, a 20 mA value would correspond to a large water flow which in turn could result in 300 injections per minute such that the desired portion of e.g. 10% cleaning fluid is obtained.

If the cleaning fluid pump 6 operates at 300 injections per minute, severe fluid pulsations may occur.

It should be mentioned, that fluid pulsations could occur at any pumping rate.

Therefore, a pulsation dampener 11 may be used for dampening any pulsations in the fluid flow which may arise from the cleaning fluid pump 6. In this embodiment, the cleaning fluid pump 6 is a positive displacement pump.

More specifically, in this embodiment the pump 6 is a AQUA electromechanical diaphragm dosing pump model HC151-6 PI-MA.

However, in another embodiment, the pump 6 could be a centrifugal pump, axial flow pump, rotary pump or other type of pump for pumping the cleaning fluid from the cleaning fluid container 5.

DK 180565 B1 23 In this embodiment, the cleaning fluid pump 6 and controller 8 are separate units. However, in another embodiment, the controller 8 and cleaning fluid pump 6 could be integrated in one unit which communicate together wirelessly or via a wire, cable or other.

Furthermore, in this embodiment the controller 8 is a frequency converter. More specifically, it is a Phoenix Contact frequency converter of model MINI-MCR. However, in another embodiment, the controller could be a PID controller, phase — compensation controller, phase lead controller or any other type of controller. Also, in this embodiment, the pulsation dampener 11 is an Aquasystem water shock absorber model WSA016. However, in another embodiment, the pulsation dampener 11 could be any other kind of pulsation dampener as described earlier.

If the beverage lines 2 are flushed with water after the cleaning process, any water remains may affect taste of the first few portions of beverage. Therefore, in an embodiment, a gas may be led through the beverage lines 2 for drying these before new beverages are served.

In this embodiment, the alarm 15 is a siren. However, in another embodiment the alarm 15 could be vibratory or an optical warning light. For example, the operator may be alerted by a vibrating phone, smartwatch, bracelet or other kind of wearable device which may vibrate for alerting the operator.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, the detector 14 and alarm 15 communicate by a wire. However, in another embodiment, the detector 14 and alarm 15 could communicate wirelessly.

DK 180565 B1 24 In an embodiment the cleaning device may therefore further comprise a bleed line 20 for releasing any air or gas, which is trapped inside the cleaning device, through the bleed line 20.

Fig. 6 illustrates some principle modes of the device according to an embodiment of the invention. The modes include the operating mode, cleaning mode and the flushing mode.

A typical mode cycle would be a normal operating mode OM, where beverage/beer is dispensed, e.g. as illustrated in the embodiment of fig. 1. When time for cleaning, a cleaning mode CM is entered, where cleaning fluid is injected into the beverage line(s) in question. This is obtained through a preferably manual disconnection of the beverage line from the beverage container and a manual connection to a device according to the provision of the invention. See. e.g. fig. 2. When the appropriate — amount of cleaning fluid has been injected into the beverage line(s) the injection may be paused for a certain amount of time allowing the desired cleaning. When the cleaning mode CM is finalized, the flushing mode FM may be entered for the purpose of emptying the beverage line(s) of cleaning fluid. This may e.g. be performed by means of water as illustrated in fig. 3.

The flushing is sufficient, flushing mode may be terminated and the operation mode is entered. Whereas the switching between cleaning mode CM and flushing mode may be performed securely and reliably both manually or automatically, it is presently preferred to perform the transition from flushing mode FM to operation OM manually by manually disconnecting the beverage line(s) from the cleaning device and manually connecting the beverage line(s) to the beverage container(s). The switching between the operating mode OM and the cleaning mode CM may also preferably be performed manually by disconnecting the beverage containers from the beverage line(s) and manually connecting the beverage line(s) to the cleaning device.

DK 180565 B1 25 It should be noted that further modes, e.g. a further flushing mode, may be applied within the scope of the invention, e.g. a further flushing mode applied between operating mode OM and the cleaning mode CM.

Other method variants of modes may be applied within the scope of the invention. The invention has been exemplified above with reference to specific examples of cleaning fluid pump 6, flow-meter 7, controller 8 or other. However, it should be — understood that the invention is not limited to the particular examples described above but may be designed and altered in a multitude of varieties within the scope of the invention as specified in the claims.

DK 180565 B1 26 List

1. Cleaning device

2. Beverage line

3. Water supply inlet

4. Outlet

5. Cleaning fluid container

6. Cleaning fluid pump

7. Flow meter

8. Controller — 9. Non-return valve

10. Manifold

11. Pulsation dampener

12. Flow control valve 12a. Valve handle

13. pH-meter

14. Detector

15. Alarm

16. Beverage container

17. Water flow line

18. Beverage dispenser

19. Cleaning fluid line

20. Bleed line

21. Water flush line

22. Water clean line

23. Mixed fluid line

24. Cleaning fluid line

25. Beverage dispenser output

26. Cleaning fluid inlet CF. Cleaning fluid CM. Cleaning mode

DK 180565 B1 27 FM.

Flushing mode MFF.

Mixed fluid flow OM.

Operating mode WF.

Water flow

Claims

DK 180565 B1 1 Patentkrav

A cleaning device (1) configured to clean at least one beverage line (2), said cleaning device (1) comprising: a water supply inlet (3) for providing a water flow, - one outlet (4), a cleaning fluid inlet (26). ), which can be fluidly connected to a cleaning fluid container (5), a cleaning fluid pump (6) for providing a cleaning fluid flow from said cleaning fluid container (5), a flow grinder (7) for providing a measure of said water flow, a control unit (8 ) for controlling said cleaning fluid pump (6) and thereby said cleaning fluid flow on the basis of said water flow target, wherein - in a cleaning state (CM) the device is configured to conduct a mixed fluid flow (MFF) comprising cleaning fluid (CF) from said cleaning fluid container (5) as provided by said cleaning fluid pump (6) and water as provided from said water supply inlet (3), to said outlet (4), - wherein said cleaning fluid pump (6) in said cleaning state is configured to inject said cleaning fluid into said water stream in order to obtain a - predetermined concentration of cleaning fluid in said mixed fluid stream under the control of said control unit (8), and - characterized in that in a rinsing state (FM) is the device configured to direct said water as provided from said water supply inlet (3) to said outlet (4) by bypassing said cleaning fluid pump.

A cleaning device (1) for cleaning at least one beverage line (2) according to claim 1, wherein said cleaning device comprises a non-return valve (9) located between said cleaning fluid pump (6) and said water supply inlet (3).

DK 180565 B1 2

A cleaning device (1) for cleaning at least one beverage line (2) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said cleaning device comprises a non-return valve (9) located between said cleaning fluid pump (6) and said flow meter (7).

A cleaning device for cleaning at least one beverage line according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said cleaning device (1) further comprises a manifold (10) connected to said outlet (4) for distributing said mixed flow stream. (MFF) or said water flow (WF) to a plurality of beverage lines (2).

A cleaning device (1) for cleaning at least one beverage line according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said cleaning device (1) comprises a flow control valve (12) for switching between said cleaning state (CM) and said rinsing state (FM).

A cleaning device (1) for cleaning at least one beverage line according to claim 5, wherein said flow control valve (12) is an L-port valve.

A cleaning device (1) for cleaning at least one beverage line according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said cleaning device comprises a pH meter (13) for measuring a pH value at a beverage dispenser outlet (25) or a beverage line ( And / or the said water supply inlet (3).

A cleaning device (1) for cleaning at least one beverage line according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said cleaning device comprises a detector (14) for detecting characteristics of said mixed fluid flow (MFF) and an alarm (15) for alarming by variations in said characteristics.

A cleaning device (1) for cleaning at least one beverage line according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the pressure in said water supply inlet (3) is at

DK 180565 B1 3 between 1.2 and 15 bar, such as between 1.3 and 13 bar, such as between 1.4 and 11 bar, and such as between 1.5 and 7 bar.

A method of cleaning at least one beverage line (2), said - method comprising the steps of: e releasing at least one beverage line (2) from a beverage container (16), e connecting said beverage line (2) to an outlet (4) of a cleaning device (1), said cleaning device (1) comprising a cleaning fluid pump (6), a flow meter (7), a control unit (8), a water supply inlet (3) and a cleaning fluid container (5), e providing a water flow (WF) from said water supply inlet (3) to said at least one beverage line (2) via said outlet (4), e measurement of water flow from said water supply inlet (3) with said flow meter (7), e automatic control of said cleaning fluid pump (6) by means of said control unit (8) in order to generate a flow of cleaning fluid (CF) into said water flow, thereby providing a mixed fluid flow (MFF) of cleaning fluid (CF) and water (W), e where the mixed fluid flow (MFF) has a precursor tuned concentration of cleaning fluid (CF), e and wherein the predetermined concentration of cleaning fluid in the mixed flow stream (MFF) is obtained by controlling, by means of said control unit (8), the proportion of cleaning fluid pumped into said water stream (WF) , on the basis of the water flow measured by said flow meter (7), the method for cleaning at least one beverage line being further characterized by steps for rinsing said beverage line (2) by simultaneously bypassing said cleaning fluid pump (6), and disconnecting said beverage line (2) from the outlet (4) of said cleaning device (1).

DK 180565 B1 4

A method of cleaning at least one beverage line (2) according to claim 10, wherein said mixed fluid is stagnated in said beverage lines (2) for a period of between 0.3 and 10 minutes, preferably between 0.6 and 8 minutes and in particular between 1 and 6 minutes, said step being performed before the step of disconnecting said beverage line (2) from said cleaning device (1).

A method of cleaning at least one beverage line (2) according to claim 10 or 11, wherein said method further comprises the step of rinsing said beverage lines (2) with water, said step being performed before the step of disconnecting said at least one beverage line (2). ) from said cleaning device (1).

A method of cleaning at least one beverage line (2) according to any one of claims 10-12, wherein said method further comprises the step of injecting a gas into said beverage lines (2) for emptying said beverage lines (2). ), said step being performed before the step of disconnecting said at least one beverage line (2) from said cleaning device (1).

A method of cleaning at least one beverage line (2) according to any one of claims 10-13, wherein said predetermined concentration of said cleaning fluid in the mixed fluid stream (MFF) is between 1 and 30 percent, preferably between 2 and 25 percent. percent and especially between 3 and 20 percent.

Use of a cleaning device (1), according to any one of claims 1-9, for cleaning at least one beverage line (2).

A method of cleaning at least one beverage line according to claims 11-14, wherein said method is performed by means of a cleaning device (1) according to claims 1-9.