EP4303172A1 - Récipient, capuchon et système de distribution de boisson à multiples doses - Google Patents

Récipient, capuchon et système de distribution de boisson à multiples doses Download PDF

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Publication number
EP4303172A1
EP4303172A1 EP23180917.9A EP23180917A EP4303172A1 EP 4303172 A1 EP4303172 A1 EP 4303172A1 EP 23180917 A EP23180917 A EP 23180917A EP 4303172 A1 EP4303172 A1 EP 4303172A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
container
liquid
membrane
casing
aperture
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Pending
Application number
EP23180917.9A
Other languages
German (de)
English (en)
Inventor
Marc SCHAAL
Clement BOULAND
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Bello Solutions Inc
Original Assignee
Bello Solutions Inc
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from GBGB2209989.9A external-priority patent/GB202209989D0/en
Application filed by Bello Solutions Inc filed Critical Bello Solutions Inc
Publication of EP4303172A1 publication Critical patent/EP4303172A1/fr
Pending legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D1/00—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught
    • B67D1/0042—Details of specific parts of the dispensers
    • B67D1/0078—Ingredient cartridges
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D1/00—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught
    • B67D1/08—Details
    • B67D1/0801—Details of beverage containers, e.g. casks, kegs
    • B67D1/0807—Openings for emptying, e.g. taped openings
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D1/00—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught
    • B67D1/0015—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught the beverage being prepared by mixing at least two liquid components
    • B67D1/0021—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught the beverage being prepared by mixing at least two liquid components the components being mixed at the time of dispensing, i.e. post-mix dispensers
    • B67D1/0022—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught the beverage being prepared by mixing at least two liquid components the components being mixed at the time of dispensing, i.e. post-mix dispensers the apparatus comprising means for automatically controlling the amount to be dispensed
    • B67D1/0034—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught the beverage being prepared by mixing at least two liquid components the components being mixed at the time of dispensing, i.e. post-mix dispensers the apparatus comprising means for automatically controlling the amount to be dispensed for controlling the amount of each component
    • B67D1/0035—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught the beverage being prepared by mixing at least two liquid components the components being mixed at the time of dispensing, i.e. post-mix dispensers the apparatus comprising means for automatically controlling the amount to be dispensed for controlling the amount of each component the controls being based on the same metering technics
    • B67D1/0037—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught the beverage being prepared by mixing at least two liquid components the components being mixed at the time of dispensing, i.e. post-mix dispensers the apparatus comprising means for automatically controlling the amount to be dispensed for controlling the amount of each component the controls being based on the same metering technics based on volumetric dosing
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D1/00—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught
    • B67D1/07—Cleaning beverage-dispensing apparatus
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D1/00—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught
    • B67D1/08—Details
    • B67D1/0888—Means comprising electronic circuitry (e.g. control panels, switching or controlling means)
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D1/00—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught
    • B67D1/08—Details
    • B67D1/12—Flow or pressure control devices or systems, e.g. valves, gas pressure control, level control in storage containers
    • B67D1/1202—Flow control, e.g. for controlling total amount or mixture ratio of liquids to be dispensed
    • B67D1/1204—Flow control, e.g. for controlling total amount or mixture ratio of liquids to be dispensed for ratio control purposes
    • B67D1/1231—Metering pumps
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D1/00—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught
    • B67D1/08—Details
    • B67D1/0801—Details of beverage containers, e.g. casks, kegs
    • B67D2001/0811—Details of beverage containers, e.g. casks, kegs provided with coded information
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D1/00—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught
    • B67D1/08—Details
    • B67D1/0801—Details of beverage containers, e.g. casks, kegs
    • B67D2001/0812—Bottles, cartridges or similar containers
    • B67D2001/0814—Bottles, cartridges or similar containers for upside down use
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D1/00—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught
    • B67D1/08—Details
    • B67D1/0801—Details of beverage containers, e.g. casks, kegs
    • B67D2001/0812—Bottles, cartridges or similar containers
    • B67D2001/0814—Bottles, cartridges or similar containers for upside down use
    • B67D2001/0817—Bottles, cartridges or similar containers for upside down use with a venting orifice

Definitions

  • the present disclosure relates to the field of beverage dispensing systems. More specifically, the present disclosure presents a container, a cap and a multi-servings beverage dispensing system.
  • Viscous liquids such as drink concentrates and syrups
  • Too much concentrate may make a drink too strong, while too little concentrate may make the drink too weak.
  • a bottle containing syrup is shaken too hard, too much syrup is released.
  • the present disclosure provides a container for storing a liquid and allowing extraction of the liquid on-demand.
  • the container comprises a casing for storing the liquid, the casing defining an aperture.
  • the container comprises a resealable membrane covering the aperture of the casing.
  • the resealable membrane is adapted for receiving a liquid extraction tube therethrough for on-demand liquid extraction from the casing.
  • the resealable membrane automatically reseals the aperture upon withdrawal of the liquid extraction tube.
  • the container comprises an air permeable membrane for balancing a pressure in the casing upon extracting liquid by the liquid extraction tube.
  • the resealable membrane and the air permeable membrane are provided as a cap for closing the aperture of the casing.
  • the casing, the resealable membrane and the air permeable membrane are provided as a capsule.
  • the resealable membrane and the air permeable membrane form a single membrane.
  • the resealable membrane and the air permeable membrane are concentric.
  • the casing comprises an outlet port, the outlet port being adapted for releasable engagement into a corresponding inlet port of a beverage dispensing system, the aperture being defined by the outlet port.
  • the container comprises a tag storing data related to the container, the tag allowing reading and optionally writing of the data by a contactless data reader.
  • the present disclosure provides a cap for a container.
  • the cap comprises a body adapted for being affixed to the container.
  • the body defines a complementary aperture, the complementary aperture covering an aperture of the container when the body is affixed to the container.
  • the cap comprises a releasable membrane covering the complementary aperture of the body, the resealable membrane being adapted for receiving a liquid extraction tube therethrough for on-demand liquid extraction of a liquid stored in the container, the resealable membrane automatically resealing the complementary aperture upon withdrawal of the liquid extraction tube.
  • the cap comprises an air permeable membrane for balancing a pressure in the container upon extracting liquid by the liquid extraction tube.
  • the body defines a second complementary aperture, the air permeable membrane covering the second complementary aperture of the body.
  • the resealable membrane and the air permeable membrane form a single membrane.
  • the resealable membrane and the air permeable membrane are concentric.
  • the cap comprises a tag storing data related to the container, the tag allowing reading and optionally writing of the data by a contactless data reader.
  • the present disclosure provides a multi-servings beverage dispensing system.
  • the beverage dispensing system comprises a container engaging inlet port adapted for removably engaging a container.
  • the beverage dispensing system comprises the container engaged in the container engaging inlet port.
  • the container comprises a casing storing an ingredient liquid, the casing defining an aperture.
  • the container comprises a resealable membrane covering the aperture of the casing, the resealable membrane being adapted for receiving a liquid extraction tube therethrough for on-demand ingredient liquid extraction from the casing, the resealable membrane automatically resealing the aperture upon withdrawal of the liquid extraction tube.
  • the container comprises an air permeable membrane for balancing a pressure in the casing upon extracting ingredient liquid by the liquid extraction tube.
  • the beverage dispensing system further comprises the liquid extraction tube slidably movable between a retracted position and an extended position, the liquid extraction tube not being in contact with the resealable membrane when in the retracted position, an end portion of the liquid extraction tube being received through the resealable membrane when in the extended position.
  • the beverage dispensing system comprises an actuator adapted for moving the liquid extraction tube between the retracted position and the extended position.
  • the beverage dispensing system also comprises means for transferring the ingredient liquid extracted from the casing by the liquid extraction tube to a mixing unit, a tank for storing another liquid, and means for transferring the other liquid from the tank to the mixing unit.
  • the beverage dispensing system comprises the mixing unit for receiving and mixing the ingredient liquid transferred to the mixing unit and the other liquid transferred to the mixing unit.
  • the beverage dispensing system also comprises a mixing unit outlet for pouring a content of the mixing unit.
  • the means for transferring the ingredient liquid extracted from the casing by the liquid extraction tube to the mixing unit and the means for transferring the other liquid from the tank to the mixing unit respectively comprise an ingredient pump and another pump.
  • the beverage dispensing system comprises a controller, the controller comprising electronic means for controlling operations of the beverage dispensing unit.
  • the container further comprises a tag storing data related to the container, the beverage dispensing system further comprising a contactless data reader adapted for reading and optionally writing the data stored by the tag.
  • the resealable membrane and the air permeable membrane are provided as a cap for closing the aperture of the casing; or the casing, the resealable membrane and the air permeable membrane are provided as a capsule.
  • Figures 1 and 2 are respective top and front views of a beverage dispensing system 100.
  • Figure 3 is a perspective view comprising additional components of the beverage dispensing system 100 not represented in Figures 1 and 2 for simplification purposes.
  • Figures 4 and 5 are functionals view of interactions between components of the beverage dispensing system 100.
  • the beverage dispensing system 100 comprises a housing 102 (illustrated in Figures 1 , 2 and 3 ), a water tank 230 (illustrated in Figure 1 ), a water pump 160 (illustrated in Figures 1 , 2 , 4 and 5 ), a filter 210 (illustrated in Figures 1 and 2 ), an ingredient container 110 (illustrated in Figures 1 , 2 and 5 ), an ingredient pump 170 illustrated in Figures 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 and 5 ), a mixing unit 140 (illustrated in Figures 1 , 2 and 4 ), a mixing unit outlet 150 (illustrated as a faucet in Figures 1 , 2 and also illustrated in Figure 4 ), a controller 180 (illustrated in Figures 1 , 2 and 5 ), a user control interface 190 (illustrated in Figure 5 ), a liquid extraction tube 120 (illustrated in Figure 3 ) and an actuator 130 (illustrated in Figure 3 ).
  • the arrows in Figures 1 and 3 schematically illustrate the respective flows of water and ingredient liquid between components of the beverage dispensing system 100.
  • the arrows in Figure 4 schematically illustrate the respective flows of water, ingredient liquid and beverage involving the water pump 160, the ingredient pump 170 and the mixing unit 140.
  • the water tank 230 is generally a removable and refillable water tank, the housing 102 being adapted for receiving and removing the water tank 230, as is well known in the art (e.g. in a manner similar to water tanks used for pod based coffee infusers).
  • a water tank engaging port (not represented in the Figures for simplification purposes) is mounted on the housing 102 and connected in liquid communication with a water pump inlet 162 (schematically represented in Figure 4 ) of the water pump 160.
  • the water tank 230 comprises a bottom port (not represented in the Figures for simplification purposes) configured for saleably and removably engaging the water tank engaging port on the housing 102.
  • the removable water tank 230 also comprises a reclosable top opening for allowing a user to fill the water tank 230 with water.
  • the water contained in the water tank 230 is made available to the beverage dispensing system 100 via the water pump 160.
  • the water tank 230 is directly connected to a municipal water network.
  • the beverage dispensing system 100 further comprises the water filter 210 in serial liquid communication between the water pump 160 and the mixing unit 140 (more specifically in serial liquid communication between the previously mentioned water pump outlet 164 of the water pump 160 and the previously mentioned mixing unit water inlet 142 of the mixing unit 140).
  • the water filter 210 is a user selectively removable water filter
  • the beverage dispensing system 100 comprises a removable filter mounting arrangement for removably receiving the water filter 210.
  • the filter mounting arrangement is generally located along a rear portion of the housing 102.
  • the ingredient container 110 is a removable, single-use or refillable ingredient container.
  • the ingredient container 110 comprises a casing 114 (represented in Figure 3 ) having a sufficient capacity for storing ingredient liquid for one serving or for multi-servings of the custom beverage served by the beverage dispensing system 100.
  • the ingredient container 110 (in particular the casing 114) can be made of a recyclable material or material(s).
  • the beverage dispensing system 100 further comprises a container engaging inlet port (not represented in the Figures for simplification purposes).
  • the container engaging inlet port is generally mounted along an upper portion of the housing 102.
  • the container engaging inlet port is adapted for removably engaging the ingredient container 110.
  • the respective design of a container engaging inlet port and corresponding ingredient container 110 allowing removable engagement of the ingredient container 110 into the container engaging inlet port is well known in the art of beverage dispensing systems.
  • the liquid extraction tube 120 comprises a substantially elongated tubular member defining a liquid extraction inlet 122 (represented in Figure 3 ), a liquid extraction outlet 124 (represented in Figure 3 ), and a liquid extraction passageway extending there between (not represented in the Figures for simplification purposes).
  • the liquid extraction tube 120 is a plunger.
  • the liquid extraction tube 120 is slidably mounted inside the housing 102, so as to be slidably movable between a retracted position and an extended position.
  • the liquid extraction inlet 122 In the retracted position, the liquid extraction inlet 122 is retracted within the container engaging inlet port.
  • the liquid extraction inlet 122 In the previously mentioned implementation of the container engaging inlet port, the liquid extraction inlet 122 is retracted within the previously mentioned inlet port guide opening of the container engaging inlet port.
  • an end portion of the liquid extraction tube 120 including the liquid extraction tube 122, protrudes from the container engaging inlet port.
  • the actuator 130 is mounted inside the housing 102.
  • the actuator 130 comprises an actuator drive member 134 (represented in Figure 3 ).
  • the actuator drive member 134 is connected to the liquid extraction tube 120, and is adapted for moving the liquid extraction tube 120 between its retracted position and its extended position.
  • the actuator 130 in cooperation with the liquid extraction tube 120 and the container engaging inlet port, are suitably sized and configured such that, when the ingredient container 110 is engaged in the container engaging inlet port and the liquid extraction tube 120 is in the retracted position, the liquid extraction tube 122 does not contact the ingredient container 110.
  • the ingredient container 110 comprises the container outlet port 112
  • the liquid extraction tube 122 does not contact the container outlet port 112.
  • the liquid extraction inlet 122 longitudinally engages through the ingredient container 110, so as to be in liquid communication with the interior of the ingredient container 110.
  • the ingredient container 110 comprises the container outlet port 112
  • the liquid extraction inlet 122 longitudinally engages through the container outlet port 112.
  • the ingredient pump 170 is mounted inside the housing 102.
  • the ingredient pump 170 comprises an ingredient pump inlet 172 (represented in Figures 3 and 4 ) in liquid communication with the liquid extraction outlet 124 of the liquid extraction tube 120.
  • the ingredient pump 170 also comprises an ingredient pump outlet 174 (schematically represented in Figure 4 ) in liquid communication with a mixing unit ingredient inlet 144 (schematically represented in Figure 4 ) of the mixing unit 140.
  • the ingredient pump 170 is a peristaltic pump.
  • Peristaltic pumps are well known in the art, particularly in medical contexts.
  • Peristaltic pumps generally comprise a flexible and resilient liquid conduit in liquid communication between the ingredient pump inlet 172 and ingredient pump outlet 174.
  • Peristaltic pumps further comprise a rotating actuator applying a cyclical pressure in a direction along a portion of the flexible conduit, so as to force a liquid flow in the ingredient liquid present in the conduit.
  • the peristaltic pump is used in the context of the present beverage dispensing system 100 for its capability to controllably deliver a relatively small an precise flow of ingredient liquid, as well as for its ease of cleaning (since there is no turbine, piston or moving parts in contact with the pumped liquid).
  • the mixing unit 140 is mounted inside the housing 102.
  • the mixing unit 140 comprises an internal mixing unit chamber 148 (schematically represented in Figure 4 ), the mixing unit water inlet 142, the mixing unit ingredient inlet 144.
  • the mixing unit 140 further comprises the mixing unit outlet 150 (schematically represented in Figure 4 ) connected to the mixing unit 140 and extending forwardly from a front surface portion of the housing 102.
  • Figures 1 and 2 illustrate an exemplary implementation of the mixing unit outlet 150 consisting of a faucet.
  • Each one of the mixing unit water inlet 142, mixing unit ingredient inlet 144 and mixing unit outlet 150, is in liquid communication with the interior of the mixing unit chamber 148.
  • the mixing unit outlet 150 comprises an output opening that is suitably adapted for pouring the content of the mixing unit chamber 148 into an underlying user cup or bottle.
  • the controller 180 is mounted inside the housing 102.
  • the controller 180 is suitably operatively connected and adapted for operatively controlling the water pump 160, the ingredient pump 170, and the actuator 130.
  • Figure 5 provides a schematic representation of the interactions of the controller 180 with other components (e.g. the water pump 160, the ingredient pump 170 and the actuator 130) of the beverage dispensing system 100.
  • the controller 180 consists of any suitable electronic microcontroller.
  • the controller 180 comprises at least some of the following components (not represented in Figure 5 for simplification purposes): one or more processor, memory, interface inputs and outputs (I/O), and communication capabilities that are generally found in known beverage dispensing systems.
  • Examples of communication capabilities comprise a wireless communication interface (e.g. Bluetooth ® , Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), Wi-Fi, Near Field Communication (NFC), etc.), a wired communication interface (e.g. Ethernet, etc.), or a combination thereof.
  • the user control interface 190 (schematically represented in Figure 5 , but not represented in Figures 1 and 2 for simplification purposes) is mounted on the housing 102 and is in operative communication with the controller 180.
  • the user control interface 190 comprises at least one of a button and Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs), a touch actuated user interface located on the housing 102, a voice actuated user interface mounted inside the housing 102, a remote user interface accessible through a mobile application or equivalent executed on a remote computing device 400 and communicating with the controller 180 through a wired or wireless communication link, or a combination thereof.
  • the user control interface 190 may also comprise a display (e.g. a basic screen, a touch screen allowing interactions with the user, etc.) for displaying information related to the operations of the beverage dispensing system 100.
  • the user control interface 190 (comprising buttons and LEDs) is partly accessible along a front surface portion of the housing 102 and the mixing unit outlet (e.g. faucet) 150.
  • the user control interface 190 and the controller 180 are suitably adapted and configured for at least enabling the user to select a custom beverage, and actuate a start command, either simultaneously or consecutively with the selection of the custom beverage, so as to efficiently mix and deliver the desired custom beverage through the mixing unit outlet (e.g. faucet) 150.
  • the mixing unit outlet e.g. faucet
  • Additional information is usually selectable by the user through the user control interface 190 such as, but not limited to, a desired volume of beverage, a desired intensity of flavor, selecting to be simply served water, etc.
  • a remote computing device 400 (schematically represented in Figure 5 ) interfaces with the controller 180 and/or user control interface 190 via the communication interface of the controller 180.
  • Examples of remote computing devices 400 comprise a smartphone, a tablet, a laptop, a table top computer, etc.
  • beverage dispensing system 100 managed via the user control interface 190 and the controller 180.
  • a user may position a cup or bottle under the mixing unit outlet (e.g. faucet) 150, select a custom beverage through the user control interface 190, and actuate a start command of the beverage dispensing system 100 (the selection and actuation are performed either consecutively or simultaneously).
  • the mixing unit outlet e.g. faucet
  • the controller 180 automatically calculates a suitable time and speed of operation of the water pump 160, and suitable time and speed of operation of the ingredient pump 170, according to the custom beverage selected by the user.
  • the controller 180 also automatically calculates suitable operating parameters of the actuator 130 (e.g. direction of movement, suitable time and speed of operation for each movement, etc.).
  • suitable operating parameters of the actuator 130 e.g. direction of movement, suitable time and speed of operation for each movement, etc.
  • a user may advantageously select to be served a differently flavored custom beverage as desired, by simply engaging in the container engaging inlet port of the beverage dispensing system 100 a removable ingredient container 110 corresponding to the desired flavor.
  • the user may simply select to be served plain water of the water tank 230 (in which case the ingredient pump 170 is not activated by the controller 180).
  • the beverage dispensing system 100 further comprises liquid flow measuring means capable of providing a liquid flow measure of the ingredient liquid entering the mixing unit 140 through the mixing unit ingredient inlet 144.
  • the liquid flow measuring means consists of a time based liquid measuring algorithm executed by the controller 180, based on the operating time of the ingredient pump 170 and a predetermined viscosity value of the ingredient liquid in the ingredient container 110.
  • the liquid flow measuring means consists of a liquid flow meter (not represented in the Figures for simplification purposes) in operative communication with the controller 180.
  • the liquid flow meter measures the flow of liquid circulating from the ingredient container 110 towards the mixing unit 140.
  • the liquid flow meter is coupled in serial liquid communication between the liquid extraction inlet 122 of the liquid extraction tube 120 and the mixing unit 140.
  • the controller 180 instantly actuates the ingredient pump 170 at a predetermined speed of operation following the start command, and calculates the remaining time and speed of operation of the ingredient pump 170, based on the real time liquid flow measurements provided by the liquid flow meter.
  • the estimated ingredient liquid volume actually delivered into the mixing unit 140 takes into account the current viscosity, fluidity and/or temperature of the ingredient liquid contained in the removable ingredient container 110.
  • consumer data, operational data, statistics and/or maintenance information are exchanged between the controller 180 and a customer database on a remote computing device 400 (e.g. a server), via the communication capabilities provided by the controller 180.
  • a remote computing device 400 e.g. a server
  • the beverage dispensing system 100 comprises a contactless data reader 195 (schematically represented in Figure 5 , but not represented in Figures 1 and 2 for simplification purposes) in operative communication with the controller 180 (or directly integrated to the controller 180).
  • the contactless data reader 195 allows the controller 180 to read data from the ingredient container 110 engaged in the container engaging inlet of the beverage dispensing system 100.
  • the ingredient container 110 comprises a component 115 (schematically represented in Figure 5 ) capable of storing the data and allowing reading of the data by the contactless data reader 195.
  • the component 115 will be referred to as a tag in the following
  • the contactless data reader 195 comprises a barcode reader or a quick response (QR) code reader.
  • the reader is mounted on the housing 102 and is substantially adjacent to the container engaging inlet port.
  • a compatible bar code tag 115 or QR code tag 115 is integrated to the ingredient container 110.
  • the tag 115 is located along a plane portion of the ingredient container 110. The tag 115 is further positioned so as to allow reading by the bar code reader or QR code reader mounted on the housing 102.
  • the contactless data reader 195 comprises a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) reader.
  • RFID Radio Frequency Identification
  • a corresponding read or read/write RFID tag 115 is integrated to the ingredient container 110.
  • Examples of data stored by the tag 115 comprise at least some of the following information related to the ingredient liquid present in the ingredient container 110: type of ingredient liquid, flavor, viscosity, density, temperature, remaining level of ingredient liquid in the ingredient container 110, etc.
  • the contactless data reader 195 integrated to the beverage dispensing system 100 is capable of reading the information stored via the tag.
  • the tag 115 provides the capability of modifying the information stored by the tag 115.
  • the contactless data reader 195 is also capable of transferring data to the tag 115, to modify at least some of the information stored by the tag 115.
  • the information collected from or exchanged with the tag 115 can be used by the controller 180 to more accurately determine the appropriate time and speed of operation of the ingredient pump 170, to simplify the choices or information needed to be entered by the user via the user control interface 190, etc. Furthermore, some of the information collected from or exchanged with the tag 115 can be displayed on the display of the user control interface 190 (when the user control interface 190 comprises one).
  • the controller 180 implements a machine learning algorithm (e.g. a neural network) to take decision(s) based on (at least) some of the information stored by the tag 115.
  • a machine learning algorithm e.g. a neural network
  • a predictive model of the neural network is stored in the memory of the controller 180.
  • the predictive model has been generated during a training phase, using a large amount of training data.
  • the predictive model is transmitted to the controller 180 via its communication interface and stored in its memory.
  • the neural network is capable of predicting the most effective time and / or speed of operation of the ingredient pump 170 based on relevant information read from the tag 115 (e.g. at least some of the type of ingredient, viscosity, density, temperature, remaining level of ingredient liquid, etc.).
  • the data stored by the tag 115 comprise security information. If the required security information is not present or does not have the expected value, the controller 180 prevents the beverage dispensing system 100 from operating.
  • the security information can be used to detect a counterfeit ingredient container 110, to detect an ingredient container 110 that is not compatible with the currently used beverage dispensing system 100, etc.
  • the tag 115 is comprised in a cap (which will be detailed later in the description) for the ingredient container 110.
  • an electrical power source powers the components of the beverage dispensing system 100 which need power to operate (the water pump 160, the ingredient pump 170, the controller 180, the user control interface 190, etc.).
  • the electrical power source may be any suitable electrical power source such as, for example, a 110 Volts Alternative Current (AC) outlet providing electrical power to the components of the system 100 through a conventional control switch and extension cord arrangement, a rechargeable battery mounted inside the housing 102, or a combination thereof.
  • AC Alternative Current
  • suitable tubing, molded liquid networks, or a combination thereof may provide the liquid communications between the various components of the beverage dispensing system 100 as described above.
  • the beverage dispensing system 100 is further adapted to being cleaned and purged after each serving of a beverage.
  • the cleaning and purging avoid the risks of having ingredient liquid remaining in the beverage dispensing system 100 (more specifically, remaining in other components than the ingredient container 110) between two servings of a beverage.
  • the cleaning and purging also prevents microbiological development in the beverage dispensing system 100.
  • all components of the beverage dispensing system 100 which have been in contact with the ingredient liquid are either rinsed with water (e.g. the ingredient pump 170), or diluted with water (e.g. all components in liquid communication between the mixing unit 140 and the mixing unit outlet 150, including the mixing unit 140 and the mixing unit outlet 150).
  • a motor of the ingredient pump 170 is adapted to rotate in two opposite directions.
  • a suction effect towards the ingredient container 110 is generated, to prepare the beverage.
  • a suction effect towards the mixing unit 140 filled with water is generated, to clean the ingredient pump 170.
  • the suction of water in the ingredient pump 170 allows to rinse with water the ingredient pump 170, in particular the ingredient pump inlet 172 in contact with the ingredient liquid.
  • alternating a direction of rotation of the motor of the ingredient pump 170 can be used to circulate water in the ingredient pump 170, then evacuate the water from the ingredient pump 170.
  • a container 110 containing a cleaning product can be used to clean the beverage dispensing system 100.
  • Figures 6A , 6B and 6C illustrate an exemplary implementation of the ingredient container 110.
  • Figures 6A and 6B are front views of the ingredient container 110, also representing the liquid extraction tube 120 respectively in the retracted an extended positions.
  • Figures 6C is a bottom view of the ingredient container 110.
  • the ingredient container 110 comprises the casing 114 for storing the ingredient liquid.
  • the casing 114 defines an aperture 116 (illustrated in Figure 6C ) through which the ingredient liquid is extracted from the casing 114.
  • the ingredient container 110 also comprises the previously mentioned container outlet port 112.
  • the aperture 116 is defined on the container outlet port 112 (e.g. on a bottom surface of the container outlet port 112).
  • the ingredient container 110 comprises a resealable membrane 200 (illustrated in Figures 6A-C ) covering the aperture 116.
  • the resealable membrane 200 is adapted for receiving the liquid extraction tube 120 therethrough for on-demand liquid extraction from the casing 114 (in the extended position illustrated in Figure 6B ). More specifically, at least a portion of the liquid extraction inlet 122 of the liquid extraction tube 120 is received through the resealable membrane 200.
  • the releasable membrane 200 is generally made of silicon, but may be made of another material (or combination of materials).
  • the resealable membrane 200 automatically reseals the aperture 116 upon withdrawal of the liquid extraction tube 120 (in the retracted position illustrated in Figure 6A ). More specifically, the resealable membrane 200 automatically reseals the aperture 116 upon withdrawal of the liquid extraction inlet 122 of the liquid extraction tube 120.
  • the ingredient container 110 also comprises an air permeable membrane 202 (illustrated in Figures 6A-C ) for balancing a pressure in the casing 114 upon extracting ingredient liquid by the liquid extraction tube 120.
  • the air permeable membrane 202 is made of any material (or combination of materials) having the property of being permeable to air.
  • the casing 114, the resealable membrane 200 and the air permeable membrane 202 are provided as a capsule.
  • Figures 6A-C illustrate a first configuration where the resealable membrane 200 and the air permeable membrane 202 form a single membrane.
  • the aperture 116 and the single membrane respectively form a disc having the same center, the single membrane covering the aperture 116.
  • the resealable membrane 200 forms a disc located at the center of the single membrane.
  • the air permeable membrane 202 forms a taurus located at a periphery of the single membrane, and is concentric to the resealable membrane 200.
  • Figures 6A-C also illustrate a second configuration where the resealable membrane 200 and the air permeable membrane 202 are independent from one another, but are concentric.
  • the aperture 116 forms a disc.
  • the resealable membrane 200 forms a disc located at the center of the aperture 116.
  • the air permeable membrane 202 forms a taurus located at a periphery of the aperture 116, and is concentric to the resealable membrane 200.
  • Figures 6A-C illustrate a configuration where the aperture 116 is covered by both the resealable membrane 200 and the air permeable membrane 202.
  • the casing 114 defines a second aperture (independent of the aperture 116) which is covered by the air permeable membrane 202 (as will be illustrated later in the description).
  • Figures 6A-C illustrate a configuration where the resealable membrane 200 and the air permeable membrane 202 are located outside the casing 114 (more specifically outside the container outlet port 112). Alternatively, the resealable membrane 200 and the air permeable membrane 202 are located inside the casing 114 (more specifically inside the container outlet port 112). This configuration is not represented in the Figures.
  • the content of the ingredient container 110 being generally a viscous liquid
  • the design of the releasable membrane 200 is adapted to prevent any leak to occur when the ingredient pump 170 (illustrated in Figures 1 and 2 ) is stopped and, substantially concurrently, the liquid extraction tube 120 is moved back to its retracted position, thus saleably closing the releasable membrane 200.
  • an ingredient container 110 still having some ingredient liquid therein may be removed from the beverage dispensing system 100 (illustrated in Figures 1 and 2 ) in wait of future usage(s) thereof until it is emptied.
  • the removed ingredient container 110 is not subject to leaking of the remaining ingredient liquid therein.
  • the releasable membrane defines a cross-slit valve structure, or equivalent, suitably configured for allowing the liquid extraction tube 120 to be selectively inserted and retracted through the membrane 200, without provoking any loss of ingredient liquid from the ingredient container 110, even when the ingredient container 110 still comprises liquid after retraction of the liquid extraction tube 120.
  • the cross-slit valve structure has an overall diameter that is at least slightly greater than the diameter of the liquid extraction tube 120. Thus, when the liquid extraction tube 120 is moved to its extended position into the cross-slit valve structure, the latter is at least slightly spread open.
  • this spreading of the cross-slit valve structure in the membrane 200 inherently creates a plurality of relatively small triangular vent openings in an equidistantly spaced apart relationship around the liquid extraction tube 120.
  • These relatively small triangular vent openings allow ambient air to enter the otherwise airtight ingredient container 110 when its content is actively vacuumed into the liquid extraction tube 120 introduced therein.
  • the small triangular vent openings may be sufficient for balancing the pressure in the ingredient container 110 upon extracting liquid by the liquid extraction tube 120, in which case the air permeable membrane 202 is not used.
  • the liquid extraction tube 120 includes a vent conduit (not represented in the Figures) extending proximally parallelly relative to substantially the whole longitudinal length of the liquid extraction passageway of the liquid extraction tube 120, so as to prevent a vacuum build-up into the ingredient container 110, particularly when the ingredient in the ingredient container 110 is a syrup-like viscous liquid.
  • the vent conduit allows ambient air to be vacuumed into the ingredient container 110 as its viscous liquid is extracted through the liquid extraction inlet 122 of the liquid extraction tube 120.
  • such a vent conduit may be implemented by a tubular member extending along an inner longitudinal surface of the liquid extraction passageway of the liquid extraction tube 120, by a vent passageway integrally formed into and along a sidewall of the liquid extraction tube 120, or along an outer longitudinal surface portion thereof.
  • vent conduit In an embodiment of the vent conduit, likewise well known in the art of olive spouts, an elongated end portion thereof extends longitudinally parallelly, and at least slightly distally further away, relative to the liquid extraction inlet 122 of the liquid extraction tube 120, such that once the vent conduit and the liquid extraction inlet 122 are cooperatively inserted through the cross-slit of the ingredient container 110, the air vacuumed through the vent tube and into the ingredient container 110 is not simultaneously sucked into the adjacent liquid extraction inlet 122 of the liquid extraction tube 120.
  • the vent conduit may be sufficient for balancing the pressure in the ingredient container 110 upon extracting liquid by the liquid extraction inlet 122, in which case the air permeable membrane 202 is not used.
  • Figures 7A , 7B and 7C illustrate another exemplary implementation of the ingredient container 110.
  • Figures 7A and 7B are front views of the ingredient container 110, also representing the liquid extraction tube 120 respectively in the retracted an extended positions.
  • Figures 7C is a bottom view of the ingredient container 110.
  • the ingredient container 110 illustrated in Figures 7A-C is similar to the one illustrated in Figures 6A-C , except for the casing 114 defining a second aperture 118.
  • the air permeable membrane 202 covers the secondary aperture 118.
  • the ingredient container 110 comprises the container outlet port 112.
  • the second aperture 118 is defined on the container outlet port 112 (e.g. on a bottom surface of the container outlet port 112).
  • Figures 7A-C illustrate a configuration where the resealable membrane 200 and the air permeable membrane 202 are independent from one another, and are not concentric.
  • the aperture 116 and the second aperture 118 form respective discs.
  • the aperture 116 is located at a center of a bottom surface of the container outlet port 112.
  • the second aperture 118 is located at a periphery of the bottom surface of the container outlet port 112.
  • the resealable membrane 200 forms a disc covering the aperture 116.
  • the air permeable membrane 202 forms a disc covering the second aperture 118.
  • Figure 8A is a front view and Figure 8B is a bottom view of the ingredient container 110, also representing a cap 300 currently not affixed to the ingredient container 110.
  • Figures 8C and 8D are front views of the ingredient container 110 and cap 300 currently affixed to the ingredient container 110, also representing the liquid extraction tube 120 respectively in the retracted an extended positions.
  • the ingredient container 110 illustrated in Figures 8A-D is similar to the one illustrated in Figures 6A-C , except for the releasable membrane 200 and the air permeable membrane 202 being provided as the cap 300 for closing the aperture 116 of the casing 114 of the ingredient container 110.
  • the cap 300 comprises a body 314 (illustrated in Figures 8A-D ) adapted to be affixed to the ingredient container 110.
  • the ingredient container 110 also comprises the previously mentioned container outlet port 112.
  • the body 314 is adapted to be affixed to container outlet port 112 of the ingredient container 110.
  • the body 314 comprises an inner threading adapted for affixing at least a portion of the container outlet port 112 inside the body 314 (as illustrated in Figures 8A-D ).
  • the body 314 comprises an outer threading adapted for affixing at least a portion of the body 314 inside the container outlet port 112.
  • the body 314 defines a complementary aperture 316 (illustrated in Figure 8B ).
  • the complementary aperture 316 is adapted to cover the aperture 116 of the ingredient container 110 when the body 314 of the cap 300 is affixed to the ingredient container 110.
  • the ingredient liquid is extracted from the casing 114 through the aperture 116 of the ingredient container 110 and the complementary aperture 316 of the cap 300.
  • the cap 300 comprises the resealable membrane 200 (illustrated in Figures 8A-D ) covering the complementary aperture 316 of the cap 300.
  • the resealable membrane 200 is adapted for receiving the liquid extraction tube 120 therethrough for on-demand liquid extraction from the casing 114 (in the extended position illustrated in Figure 8D ). More specifically, at least a portion of the liquid extraction inlet 122 of the liquid extraction tube 120 is received through the resealable membrane 200.
  • the resealable membrane 200 automatically reseals the complementary aperture 316 of the cap 300 upon withdrawal of the liquid extraction tube 120 (in the retracted position illustrated in Figure 8C ). More specifically, the resealable membrane 200 automatically reseals the complementary aperture 316 of the cap 300 upon withdrawal of the liquid extraction inlet 122 of the liquid extraction tube 120.
  • the cap 300 also comprises the air permeable membrane 202 (illustrated in Figures 8A-D ) for balancing a pressure in the casing 114 upon extracting ingredient liquid by the liquid extraction tube 120.
  • Figures 8A-D illustrate a first configuration where the resealable membrane 200 and the air permeable membrane 202 form a single membrane.
  • the complementary aperture 316 of the cap 300 and the single membrane respectively form a disc having the same center, the single membrane covering the complementary aperture 316.
  • the resealable membrane 200 forms a disc located at the center of the single membrane.
  • the air permeable membrane 202 forms a taurus located at a periphery of the single membrane, and is concentric to the resealable membrane 200.
  • Figures 8A-D also illustrate a second configuration where the resealable membrane 200 and the air permeable membrane 202 are independent from one another, but are concentric.
  • the complementary aperture 316 of the cap 300 forms a disc.
  • the resealable membrane 200 forms a disc located at the center of the complementary aperture 316.
  • the air permeable membrane 202 forms a taurus located at a periphery of the complementary aperture 316, and is concentric to the resealable membrane 200.
  • Figures 8A-D illustrate a configuration where the complementary aperture 316 of the cap 300 is covered by both the resealable membrane 200 and the air permeable membrane 202.
  • the body 314 of the cap 300 defines a second complementary aperture (independent of the complementary aperture 316) which is covered by the air permeable membrane 202.
  • the configuration of the cap 300 with both the complementary aperture 316 and second complementary aperture is not represented in the Figures, but can be easily adapted by a person skilled in the art from the configuration illustrated in Figures 7A-C .
  • the second complementary aperture defined in the body 314 of the cap 300 covers the second aperture 118 (illustrated in Figure 7C ) of the ingredient container 110.
  • Figures 8A-D illustrate a configuration where the resealable membrane 200 and the air permeable membrane 202 are located outside the body 314 of the cap 300. Alternatively, the resealable membrane 200 and the air permeable membrane 202 are located inside the body 314 of the cap 300. This configuration is not represented in the Figures.
  • the tag 115 illustrated in Figure 5 may be integrated to the body 314 of the cap 300 instead of the casing 114 of the ingredient container 110.
  • the usage of the resealable membrane 200 without the cap 300 (as illustrated in Figures 6A-C and 7A-C ) or in combination with the cap 300 (as illustrated in Figures (8A-D) provides the following advantages: the ingredient container 110 can be easily cleaned, refilled and/or have its membrane 200 replaced with a new one. Furthermore, a user may selectively replace a first ingredient container 110 actively engaged in the container engaging inlet port with another ingredient container 110 having a different content, even though the first ingredient container 110 is not yet empty.
  • removable container engaging arrangements may be used in place of the container engaging inlet port (for example, a bayonets engaging arrangement, a threaded engaging arrangement, a releasable press-and-lock engaging arrangement, etc.).
  • FIGS 9A , 9B , and 9C provide different perspective views of an exemplary ingredient container 110 and exemplary cap 300, based on the implementation illustrated in Figures 8A-D .
  • the ingredient container 110 comprises the container outlet port 112.
  • the ingredient container 110 also comprises a top removable member 111, which can be removed as illustrated in Figure 9C , and which is otherwise secured to the ingredient container 110 as illustrated in Figure 9A .
  • Figures 9A-C are illustrative of the aforementioned exemplary configuration where the resealable membrane 200 and the air permeable membrane 202 form a single membrane.
  • Figures 9A-C are also illustrative of the aforementioned exemplary configuration where the resealable membrane 200 and the air permeable membrane 202 are independent from one another, but are concentric.
  • the resealable membrane 200 and the air permeable membrane 202 are positioned inside the cap 300, and are adapted to cover the secondary aperture 316 of the cap 300 and the aperture 116 of the container outlet port 112.

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  • Devices For Dispensing Beverages (AREA)
EP23180917.9A 2022-07-07 2023-06-22 Récipient, capuchon et système de distribution de boisson à multiples doses Pending EP4303172A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GBGB2209989.9A GB202209989D0 (en) 2022-07-07 2022-07-07 Container-based system for preparing and dispensing a custom beverage
US18/063,156 US20240010421A1 (en) 2022-07-07 2022-12-08 Container, cap and multi-servings beverage dispensing system

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP4303172A1 true EP4303172A1 (fr) 2024-01-10

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ID=86942766

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP23180917.9A Pending EP4303172A1 (fr) 2022-07-07 2023-06-22 Récipient, capuchon et système de distribution de boisson à multiples doses

Country Status (1)

Country Link
EP (1) EP4303172A1 (fr)

Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20120255950A1 (en) * 2009-10-20 2012-10-11 Sara Lee/De B.V. Fluid packaging container
US20140231427A1 (en) * 2011-10-13 2014-08-21 Advanced Technology Materials, Inc. Liner-based shipping and dispensing containers for the substantially sterile storage, shipment, and dispense of materials
EP3178356A1 (fr) * 2015-12-10 2017-06-14 Fernando Gabriele Giorgio Tateo Système de garantie hygiénique pour fournir du liquide à partir d'un réservoir d'un distributeur de boissons instantanées
US20200031657A1 (en) * 2016-03-01 2020-01-30 'r Products Ab Adapter and adapter assembly for connecting a removable liquid container to a liquid dispenser and also a method of installing and using an adapter assembly

Patent Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20120255950A1 (en) * 2009-10-20 2012-10-11 Sara Lee/De B.V. Fluid packaging container
US20140231427A1 (en) * 2011-10-13 2014-08-21 Advanced Technology Materials, Inc. Liner-based shipping and dispensing containers for the substantially sterile storage, shipment, and dispense of materials
EP3178356A1 (fr) * 2015-12-10 2017-06-14 Fernando Gabriele Giorgio Tateo Système de garantie hygiénique pour fournir du liquide à partir d'un réservoir d'un distributeur de boissons instantanées
US20200031657A1 (en) * 2016-03-01 2020-01-30 'r Products Ab Adapter and adapter assembly for connecting a removable liquid container to a liquid dispenser and also a method of installing and using an adapter assembly

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