JP2020114750A - Fixed quantity supply apparatus of beverage - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a fixed quantity supply apparatus of beverage capable of always supplying a fixed quantity of Miso soup, soup stock of Japanese wheat noodle, buck wheat and Chinese noodles, and dipping source for dipping noodles or food into a container automatically as well as at uniform concentration.SOLUTION: There is provided a fixed quantity supply apparatus of beverage comprising a raw material shortage detecting apparatus 40, between a mixed supply part 32 and a raw material beverage container 14, for detecting shortage of a raw material of raw material beverage liquid supplied from the raw material beverage container 14, in which the raw material shortage detecting apparatus 40 comprises an electrode-type raw material shortage detecting sensor 42 arranged in a supply pipe 16 of the raw material, and is configured to stop a raw material supply pump 28 when detection results of the raw material shortage detecting sensor 42 indicate that a potential difference between electrodes of the raw material shortage detecting sensor 42 is a predetermined potential difference threshold S or less.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

The present invention, beverages, for example, miso soup, udon, soba, soup stock such as ramen, soup stock and soup sauce for pickling noodles and dishes, and to supply a constant amount in a container at a uniform concentration The present invention relates to an apparatus for quantitatively supplying beverages (so-called "dispenser apparatus") capable of producing.

Conventionally, as such a quantitative beverage supply device, various types of quantitative beverage supply devices have been proposed.

For example, as a constant quantity supply device for soup stock, a constant quantity supply device for soup stock as disclosed in Patent Document 1 (Japanese Patent No. 5435425) has been proposed. FIG. 10 is a schematic side view of the constant-dose soup stock supply device of Patent Document 1.

As shown in FIG. 10, the beverage quantitative supply device 100 of Patent Document 1 includes a quantitative supply device main body 102, and the fixed amount supply device main body 102 includes, for example, a paper pack or a resin container. The concentrating container 104 is arranged so as to be removable and replaceable.

Note that the concentration container 104 is configured so that the pipe tube 114 can be easily removed and replaced when the concentration container is exhausted.

Further, as the concentration container 104, for example, a commercially available container with a cap, a paper pack, a transparent bottle, or the like is used as it is, and the piping tube 114 is passed through the cap portion to attach the piping tube 114. It may be configured as described above.

Further, a hot water tank 106 is provided inside the fixed quantity supply device main body 102, and hot water is supplied to the soup stock mixing section 110 via a piping tube 112.

Then, for example, by operating an operation button or an operation handle of a control device (not shown), the concentrated supply from the concentration container 104 is quantitatively supplied to the soup stock mixing section 110 by the raw material supply pump 108 via the piping tube 114. It is supposed to be done.

Then, in the soup stock mixing section 110, the hot water supplied from the hot water tank 106 and the concentrated stock supplied from the concentrated stock container 104 in a fixed amount are mixed and placed on a mounting table 116, for example, a miso soup bowl or ramen. The mixed soup stock is supplied into a container 120 such as a bowl.

The hot water tank 106 is not shown in detail because it has a conventionally known configuration, but a lower limit float for preventing emptying, an upper limit float for detecting that the hot water tank is full, and heating to a predetermined temperature. It is equipped with a heater for heating and a temperature sensor for measuring temperature.

Furthermore, a water supply pipe from the tap water can be attached, and this supply pipe is provided with a solenoid valve so that when the upper limit float operates, the solenoid valve is closed to stop the water supply. It is configured.

Although not shown, an exchangeable soup pack made of a natural material such as bonito flakes or kelp is placed inside the soup stock mixing section 110, and the handle is used to squeeze out the stock soup to give flavors such as aroma. Is added to the mixed soup stock.

The soup stock mixed in this way is placed on a placing table 116 arranged below the constant quantity beverage supply device 100, for example, in a container 120 made of miso soup bowl, udon, soba, bowl of ramen, etc. In addition, a fixed amount set in advance is supplied.

Japanese Patent No. 5435425 Japanese Patent No. 4020687 Patent No. 5985955 Japanese Patent No. 3373275

By the way, in such a fixed-quantity supply device for beverages, regarding the residual amount of concentrated concentrate in the concentrate container 104, which is a raw material container, at present, for example, the concentrate container 104 is a transparent bottle or a transparent pack. In this case, the presence/absence of concentration of the raw material liquid in the concentration container 104 is visually confirmed.

However, in this case, the operator does not notice such a shortage of raw material and unintentionally operates the operation button and the operation handle of the control device, for example, from miso soup bowls, udon, soba, bowls for ramen, etc. There is a possibility that a predetermined fixed amount may not be supplied into the container 120.

When the concentration container 104, which is a raw material container, is covered with, for example, a cover (not shown) of the constant quantity supply device main body 102 and the remaining amount cannot be seen, such a shortage of raw material is not noticed and the control device is operated. There is a possibility that the buttons and the operation handle may be operated unintentionally, and a predetermined fixed amount may not be supplied into the container 120 made of, for example, miso soup bowl, udon, soba, or bowl for ramen.

In such a beverage quantitative supply device, as a method for coping with a raw material shortage, conventionally, liquid shortage detection is performed by detecting impedance as disclosed in Patent Document 2 (Japanese Patent No. 4020687). A method has been proposed.

That is, since the easiness of frothing varies depending on the type of beer, depending on the type of beer, the detection of the empty barrel is delayed, and the timing of switching the barrel is delayed. This is a method of detecting liquid shortage with a voltage based on the above.

Further, in Patent Document 3 (Japanese Patent No. 5985955), a beverage supply pipe is provided with a liquid shortage detection sensor including a photosensor that detects liquid shortage of a passing beverage.

Then, there is disclosed a configuration in which a display device that displays the liquid shortage of the beverage supply pipe detected by the liquid shortage detection sensor is detachably attached to the pouring cock.

However, the beverage quantitative supply device of Patent Document 2 is, in the first place, characterized in that the target of the raw material beverage is beer and that the detection of different types of beer is detected by the temperature of the sparkling beverage and the voltage based on the impedance. Which is applicable to all beverages such as miso soup, udon, soba, ramen, etc., and soups for dipping noodles and dishes, tsukedare etc. is not.

In addition, a special measuring device for measuring the temperature of the sparkling beverage and the voltage based on the impedance is required, and a special control method, that is, the complicated temperature between the temperature of the sparkling beverage and the voltage based on the impedance is required. The relational expression must be used, which is complicated.

Further, in Patent Document 4 (Japanese Patent No. 3373275), one electrode is provided on a suction pipe inserted into a storage tank, and the other electrode is brought into contact with the outer bottom portion of the storage tank made of a conductive material. It is provided in the state.

Then, the remaining amount of concentrated soup in the storage tank is detected based on the energization state between these electrodes.

That is, when the liquid level of the concentrated soup in the storage tank drops to the position of the nozzle, which is an insulator provided at the tip of the suction pipe, both electrodes are de-energized, and the residual soup in the storage tank remains. It is configured to detect when the quantity is low.

However, in Patent Document 4, a storage tank having a special structure has to be used, resulting in high cost.

Further, in Patent Document 4, for example, it is impossible to replace and use a concentrating container made of a paper pack or a resin container, and open the upper lid of the storage tank to inject concentrated soup into the storage tank for replenishment. This is extremely inconvenient.

In view of such a present situation, the present invention, for example, miso soup, udon, soba, soup stock such as ramen, tsukeru and soup sauce for pickling noodles and dishes, automatically, and in a uniform concentration in a container It is an object of the present invention to provide a fixed-quantity supply device for beverages, which can always supply a constant amount.

Further, the present invention does not need to visually confirm the presence or absence of the concentrated raw material liquid in the raw material beverage container, and the operator does not notice such a shortage of the raw material, the operation button of the control device, the operation. It is an object of the present invention to provide a fixed-quantity supply device for beverages, which can always supply a preset fixed amount without unintentionally operating a handle.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a quantitative supply device for beverages, which can temporarily stop the raw material supply pump and replace the raw material beverage with a new raw material liquid when it detects that the raw material beverage has run out.

The present invention was invented in order to achieve the problems and objects in the prior art as described above, the beverage quantitative supply device of the present invention,
A raw beverage container for storing the raw beverage liquid,
A raw material beverage liquid supplied from the raw material beverage container and a diluting liquid are mixed, and a mixing and supplying unit for supplying a fixed amount of diluted mixed beverage,
From the raw material beverage container, a raw material supply pump for supplying the raw material beverage liquid to the mixing and supply unit,
A quantitative supply device for beverages, comprising:
Between the mixing and supplying unit and the raw material beverage container, a raw material shortage detection device for detecting a raw material shortage of the raw material beverage liquid supplied from the raw material beverage container is provided,
The raw material shortage detection device includes an electrode type raw material shortage detection sensor arranged in a raw material supply pipe,
The raw material supply detection pump is configured to stop the raw material supply pump when the potential difference between the electrodes of the raw material shortage detection sensor becomes equal to or less than a predetermined potential difference threshold S. ..

With such a configuration, the raw material shortage detection device for detecting the raw material shortage of the raw material beverage liquid supplied from the raw material beverage container is provided between the mixing supply unit and the raw material beverage container.

Further, the raw material shortage detection device is provided with an electrode type raw material shortage detection sensor arranged in the raw material supply pipe, the detection result of the raw material shortage detection sensor, the potential difference between the electrodes of the raw material shortage detection sensor, a predetermined When the potential difference threshold value S or less is reached, the raw material supply pump is stopped.

Therefore, by setting the predetermined potential difference threshold value S as a potential difference (voltage) capable of detecting the liquid depletion of the raw material without malfunction, it is possible to reliably detect the liquid depletion of the raw material.

With this, when the raw material shortage detection device detects the raw material shortage of the raw material beverage liquid, the raw material supply pump is temporarily stopped and a new raw material beverage liquid is replenished in the raw material beverage container, or a new raw material beverage container and It is possible to exchange.

Therefore, for example, a stock of miso soup, udon, soba, ramen, etc., a soup stock for dipping noodles and dishes, and a soup stock can be automatically and constantly supplied in a constant concentration in a fixed amount.

In addition, it is not necessary to visually confirm the presence or absence of concentrated liquid, which is the raw material liquid in the raw material beverage container, and the operator does not notice such a shortage of raw material, and unconsciously operates the operation buttons and operation handle of the control device. It is possible to provide a beverage quantitative supply device that can constantly supply a predetermined fixed amount without any operation.

Further, the present invention can provide a quantitative beverage supply device that can temporarily stop the raw material supply pump and replace the raw material beverage with a new raw material liquid when detecting the shortage of the raw material beverage.

Further, as the raw material shortage detection device, only the electrode type raw material shortage detection sensor arranged in the raw material supply pipe needs to be arranged, so the number of parts is small, and the beverage quantitative supply device itself is compact, which reduces the cost. It is possible to reduce.

Further, the beverage quantitative supply device of the present invention is characterized in that the raw material shortage detection device is provided in the raw material supply path on the upstream side of the raw material supply pump between the mixing supply part and the raw material beverage container. And

As described above, it is preferable that the raw material shortage detection device is provided in the raw material supply path on the upstream side of the raw material supply pump between the mixing supply unit and the raw material beverage container.

This makes it possible to provide a beverage quantitative supply device capable of promptly and surely detecting a liquid depletion of a raw material and constantly supplying a predetermined fixed amount.

Further, the beverage quantitative supply device of the present invention is characterized in that the electrodes of the raw material shortage detection sensor are arranged such that the mutual positions of the electrodes are different from each other in the raw material flow direction.

With this configuration, the electrodes of the raw material shortage detection sensor are arranged such that the mutual positions of the electrodes are different from each other in the position in the raw material flow direction.

Therefore, for example, when the raw material supply pipe and the raw material shortage detection sensor are arranged in the vertical direction, and when the two electrodes of the raw material shortage detection sensor are at the same height position, the same condition in the pipe is used. Since the raw material liquid remains, power is supplied, and it is difficult to detect the raw material shortage.

On the other hand, if the electrodes of the raw material shortage detection sensor are arranged so that the mutual positions of the electrodes are different from each other in the position of the raw material flow direction, the raw material liquid does not remain on one electrode. Therefore, the power supply is stopped and it is possible to reliably detect the material shortage.

This makes it possible to provide a beverage quantitative supply device capable of promptly and surely detecting a liquid depletion of a raw material and constantly supplying a predetermined fixed amount.

Further, the beverage quantitative supply device of the present invention is characterized in that the electrodes of the raw material shortage detection sensor are arranged such that the mutual positions of the electrodes are opposed to each other in the cross section of the raw material supply pipe. ..

As described above, the electrodes of the raw material shortage detection sensor may be arranged such that the mutual positions of the electrodes are opposed to each other in the cross section of the raw material supply pipe.

As a result, the raw material liquid does not remain on one of the electrodes, so that the power supply is stopped and the raw material can be surely detected.

Further, the beverage quantitative supply device of the present invention is characterized in that the electrodes of the raw material shortage detection sensor, mutual positions between the electrodes are arranged at deviated positions in the cross section of the raw material supply pipe. To do.

As described above, the electrodes of the raw material shortage detection sensor may be arranged such that the mutual positions of the electrodes are deviated in the cross section of the raw material supply pipe.

As a result, the distance between the electrodes is increased, the potential difference is increased, the detection capability is further improved, and the raw material shortage can be reliably detected.

Further, the beverage quantitative supply device of the present invention is characterized in that a raw material supply pipe in which an electrode of the raw material shortage detection sensor is arranged is arranged in a vertical direction.

In this way, the raw material supply pipe in which the electrode of the raw material shortage detection sensor is disposed may be disposed in the vertical direction.

Further, the beverage quantitative supply device of the present invention is characterized in that a raw material supply pipe in which electrodes of the raw material shortage detection sensor are arranged is arranged in a horizontal direction.

In this way, the raw material supply pipe in which the electrodes of the raw material shortage detection sensor are arranged may be arranged in the horizontal direction.

In this case, since the raw material liquid does not remain in the electrode of the raw material shortage detection sensor located in the upper direction and no current is applied, the raw material shortage can be reliably detected.

In this case, since the raw material liquid does not remain in the electrode of the raw material shortage detection sensor located in the upper direction and current does not flow, the electrode of the raw material shortage detection sensor is positioned so that the mutual position between the electrodes is the flow of raw material. The position in the direction may or may not be different.

Further, the beverage quantitative supply device according to the present invention is characterized in that a raw material supply pipe in which an electrode of the raw material shortage detection sensor is arranged is arranged in an inclined direction.

In this way, the raw material supply pipe in which the electrode of the raw material shortage detection sensor is disposed may be disposed in the inclined direction.

Further, the quantitative supply device of the beverage of the present invention,
The raw material shortage detection sensor includes a raw material shortage detection sensor unit,
The raw material shortage detection sensor unit,
A pipe-shaped detection sensor unit main body in which the electrodes of the raw material shortage detection sensor are arranged,
An inlet-side connection portion that is formed on the inlet side of the detection sensor unit body and is detachably attached to the raw material supply pipe,
An outlet-side connection portion that is formed on the outlet side of the detection sensor unit body and is detachably attached to the raw material supply pipe,
It is characterized by including.

With such a configuration, for example, the inlet-side connection portion formed on the inlet side of the detection sensor unit main body is connected to the raw material supply container side raw material supply pipe, and is formed on the outlet side of the detection sensor unit main body. By connecting the outlet side connection portion to the raw material supply pump side raw material supply pipe, the raw material shortage detection sensor of the raw material shortage detection device can be easily arranged between the mixing supply portion and the raw material beverage container. ..

Further, even if the raw material shortage detection sensor of the raw material shortage detection device fails, it is easy to replace the raw material shortage detection sensor of the raw material shortage detection device.

Further, the beverage quantitative supply device of the present invention is characterized in that the tip of the electrode of the raw material shortage detection sensor is formed so as to be flush with the inner surface of the pipe of the main body of the detection sensor unit.

In this way, the tip of the electrode of the raw material shortage detection sensor is formed so as to be flush with the inner surface of the pipe of the main body of the detection sensor unit. Do not project into the pipe.

Therefore, the raw material liquid does not adhere and remain on the tip of the electrode of the raw material shortage detection sensor, which is hygienic and does not hinder the flow of the raw material liquid.

With this, it is possible to immediately and surely detect the liquid depletion of the raw material and always supply a preset fixed amount.

Further, the beverage quantitative supply device of the present invention is characterized in that the electrode of the raw material shortage detection sensor is configured to be movable in position.

By configuring in this way, the electrode of the raw material shortage detection sensor is configured to be movable in position, so by changing the positions of the electrodes according to the type of raw material liquid (viscosity, salt content, etc.), The predetermined potential difference threshold S can be set as a potential difference (voltage) capable of detecting the liquid shortage of the raw material without malfunction, and the liquid shortage of the raw material can be reliably detected.

According to the present invention, between the mixing supply part and the raw material beverage container, the raw material shortage detection device which detects the raw material shortage of the raw material beverage liquid supplied from the raw material beverage container is provided.

Further, the raw material shortage detection device is provided with an electrode type raw material shortage detection sensor arranged in the raw material supply pipe, the detection result of the raw material shortage detection sensor, the potential difference between the electrodes of the raw material shortage detection sensor, a predetermined When the potential difference threshold value S or less is reached, the raw material supply pump is stopped.

Therefore, by setting the predetermined potential difference threshold value S as a potential difference (voltage) capable of detecting the liquid depletion of the raw material without malfunction, it is possible to reliably detect the liquid depletion of the raw material.

With this, when the raw material shortage detection device detects the raw material shortage of the raw material beverage liquid, the raw material supply pump is temporarily stopped and a new raw material beverage liquid is replenished in the raw material beverage container, or a new raw material beverage container and It is possible to exchange.

Therefore, for example, a stock of miso soup, udon, soba, ramen, etc., a soup stock for dipping noodles and dishes, and a soup stock can be automatically and constantly supplied in a constant concentration in a fixed amount.

In addition, it is not necessary to visually confirm the presence or absence of concentrated liquid, which is the raw material liquid in the raw material beverage container, and the operator does not notice such a shortage of raw material, and unconsciously operates the operation buttons and operation handle of the control device. It is possible to provide a beverage quantitative supply device that can constantly supply a predetermined fixed amount without any operation.

Further, the present invention can provide a quantitative beverage supply device that can temporarily stop the raw material supply pump and replace the raw material beverage with a new raw material liquid when detecting the shortage of the raw material beverage.

Further, as the raw material shortage detection device, only the electrode type raw material shortage detection sensor arranged in the raw material supply pipe needs to be arranged, so the number of parts is small, and the beverage quantitative supply device itself is compact, which reduces the cost. It is possible to reduce.

FIG. 1 is a front view of a beverage quantitative supply device of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the raw material shortage detection device 40 of FIG. FIG. 3 is a sectional view of the raw material shortage detection device 40 of FIG. 2 in the A direction. FIG. 4 is Table 1 showing the measurement results according to the type of soup stock. FIG. 5 is a graph 1 showing the relationship between the inter-electrode distance and the voltage in the case of the presence of dashi. FIG. 6 is a sectional view of another embodiment of the raw material shortage detection device 40 of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a sectional view of another embodiment of the raw material shortage detection device 40 of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a schematic view of another embodiment of the material shortage detection device 40 of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a vertical sectional view of another embodiment of the raw material shortage detection device 40 of the present invention. It is a side view of the fixed amount supply apparatus 100 of the drink of patent document 1.

Hereinafter, an embodiment (example) of the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings.
(Example 1)

1 is a front view of a beverage quantitative supply device of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the raw material shortage detection device 40 of FIG. 1, and FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the raw material shortage detection device 40 of FIG. 2 in the A direction. It is a figure.

In FIG. 1, reference numeral 10 generally indicates a beverage quantitative supply device of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 1, the fixed-quantity beverage supply device 10 includes a supply device body 12, and inside the supply device body 12, for example, a paper pack or a resin container for a raw material beverage liquid A1 such as dashi stock. A first raw material beverage container 14a made of (plastic bottle) (in this embodiment, a paper pack is illustrated) is arranged so as to be removable and replaceable.

It should be noted that the first raw material beverage container 14a is configured such that when the raw material beverage liquid A1 is exhausted, the first piping tube 16a can be removed and easily replaced.

As the first raw material beverage container 14a, for example, a commercially available container with a cap, which is commercially available, is used as it is, and the first piping tube 16a is attached to the cap portion by passing the first piping tube 16a. It may be configured to.

Then, by operating the operation button 26 of the control unit 24, the raw material beverage liquid A1 from the first raw material beverage container 14a is, for example, by the first raw material supply pump 28a formed of a tube pump, the first delivery tube 30a. A fixed amount is supplied to the mixing and supplying unit 32 via the.

Similarly, on the side of the supply device main body 12, for example, a paper pack for the raw material beverage liquid A2 and a resin container (plastic bottle) (in this embodiment, a paper pack is illustrated). The second raw material beverage container 14b is arranged in the raw material setting section 11 in a removable and replaceable manner.

It should be noted that the second raw material beverage container 14b is configured so that when the raw material beverage liquid A2 is used up, the second piping tube 16b can be removed and easily replaced.

Further, as the second raw material beverage container 14b, for example, a commercially available container with a cap used for business is used as it is, and the second piping tube 16b is attached to the cap portion by passing the second piping tube 16b through the cap portion. It may be configured to.

Then, by operating the operation button 26 of the control unit 24, the raw material beverage liquid A2 from the second raw material beverage container 14b is supplied to the second delivery tube 30b by the second raw material supply pump 28b, which is a tube pump, for example. A fixed amount is supplied to the mixing and supplying unit 32 via the.

In this embodiment, by operating the operation button 26 of the control unit 24, the raw material beverage liquid A1 from the first raw material beverage container 14a for the raw material beverage liquid A1 and the second raw material for the raw material beverage liquid A2 are obtained. The raw material beverage liquid A2 from the beverage container 14b is selectively supplied to the mixing and supplying unit 32 in a fixed amount.

In this case, in this embodiment, two types of raw material beverage containers 14 are arranged: the first raw material beverage container 14a for the raw material beverage liquid A1 and the second raw material beverage container 14b for the raw material beverage liquid A2. One type of raw material beverage container 14 may be arranged, or three or more types of raw material beverage container 14 may be arranged.

Further, by operating the operation button 26 under the control of the control unit 24, the operating time and the delivery amount of the raw material supply pump 28 (the first raw material supply pump 28a and the second raw material supply pump 28b) are changed, You may make it mix two or more types of raw material drink liquids.

On the other hand, although not shown, a hot water tank is provided inside the supply device main body 12 on the rear side thereof, and a fixed amount of hot water is supplied to the mixing and supplying unit 32 via a piping tube and a solenoid valve (not shown). It is like this.

Then, in the mixing and supplying unit 32, the hot water supplied from the hot water tank and the raw material beverage liquid A1 from the first raw material beverage container 14a for the raw material beverage liquid A1, which is quantitatively supplied from the raw material beverage container 14, or the raw material The raw material beverage liquid A2 from the second raw material beverage container 14b for the beverage liquid A2 is mixed.

In this case, the liquid supplied from the hot water tank is not limited at all, and a diluting liquid that is a liquid obtained by diluting a stock solution of hot water, hot water, cold water, or any substance with a certain amount of water. And the like, and in the present specification, these are collectively referred to as “diluent”.

As a result, for example, a mixed beverage such as dashi stock is supplied into the container 38 such as a miso soup bowl or ramen bowl placed on the mounting table 34 through the nozzle 36 of the mixing and supplying unit 32. It has become so.

The hot water tank is not shown in detail because it has a conventionally known configuration, but a lower limit float for preventing emptying, an upper limit float for detecting that the hot water tank is full, and heating to a predetermined temperature. It is equipped with a heater and a temperature sensor for temperature measurement.

Furthermore, a water supply pipe from the tap water can be attached, and this supply pipe is provided with a solenoid valve so that when the upper limit float operates, the solenoid valve is closed to stop the water supply. It is configured.

By the way, as described above, in the conventional beverage quantitative supply device, with respect to the remaining amount of concentrated concentrate in the concentrated concentrate container 104 which is a raw material container, at present, for example, the concentrated concentrate container 104 is a transparent bottle, or, In the case of a transparent pack, the presence/absence of concentration of the raw material liquid in the concentration container 104 is visually confirmed.

However, in this case, the operator does not notice such a shortage of raw material and unintentionally operates the operation button and the operation handle of the control device, for example, from miso soup bowls, udon, soba, bowls for ramen, etc. There is a possibility that a predetermined fixed amount may not be supplied into the container 120.

When the concentration container 104, which is a raw material container, is covered with, for example, a cover (not shown) of the constant quantity supply device main body 102 and the remaining amount cannot be seen, such a shortage of raw material is not noticed and the control device is operated. There is a possibility that the buttons and the operation handle may be operated unintentionally, and a predetermined fixed amount may not be supplied into the container 120 made of, for example, miso soup bowl, udon, soba, or bowl for ramen.

Therefore, in the beverage quantitative supply device 10 of the present invention, the raw material shortage detection device 40 for detecting the raw material shortage of the raw material beverage liquid supplied from the raw material beverage container 14 between the mixing supply part 32 and the raw material beverage container 14. Are arranged.

That is, in the beverage quantitative supply device 10 of this embodiment, the raw material shortage detection device 40 is provided in the raw material supply path on the upstream side of the raw material supply pump 28 between the mixing supply part 32 and the raw material beverage container 14. There is.

Specifically, a first ingredient breakage detection device 40a that detects the ingredient breakage of the ingredient drink liquid A1 supplied from the first ingredient drink container 14a between the mixing supply unit 32 and the first ingredient drink container 14a. Are arranged.

That is, in the beverage quantitative supply device 10 of this embodiment, the first raw material shortage detection device 40a is located upstream of the first raw material supply pump 28a between the mixing supply part 32 and the first raw material beverage container 14a. It is provided on the side raw material supply path (first piping tube 16a).

Similarly, a second ingredient breakage detection device 40b for detecting the ingredient breakage of the ingredient drink liquid A2 supplied from the second ingredient drink container 14b between the mixing supply unit 32 and the second ingredient drink container 14b. Are arranged.

In other words, in the beverage quantitative supply device 10 of this embodiment, the second raw material shortage detection device 40b is located between the mixing supply part 32 and the second raw material beverage container 14b and upstream of the second raw material supply pump 28b. It is provided on the side raw material supply path (second piping tube 16b).

As shown in FIGS. 2 to 3, the raw material shortage detection device 40 (the first raw material shortage detection device 40a, the second raw material shortage detection device 40b) is configured as follows.

That is, as shown in FIGS. 2 to 3, the raw material shortage detection device 40 includes a raw material shortage detection sensor 42. The raw material shortage detection sensor 42 includes a raw material shortage detection sensor unit 45.

Further, the raw material shortage detection sensor unit 45 includes a pipe-shaped detection sensor unit main body 46 in which the electrodes 44 (first electrode 44a, second electrode 44b) of the raw material shortage detection sensor 42 are arranged.

That is, in this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 2 to 3, the detection sensor unit main body 46 has a quadrangular prism-shaped outer shape and is provided with a pipe 50 having a circular cross-section inside.

Then, on one side surface 46 a of the detection sensor unit main body 46, a screw hole-shaped first electrode hole portion 52 a communicating with the inside of the pipe 50 is formed.

A detachable screw-shaped first electrode 44a is attached to the first electrode hole 52a. The tip portion 44c of the first electrode 44a is formed so as to be flush with the pipe inner surface 50a of the detection sensor unit main body 46.

Further, the first electrode 44a is configured to be electrically connected to the control device (control unit 24) via a wiring (not shown).

Further, the inlet side connecting portion 54 (first inlet) which is formed on the inlet side of the detection sensor unit main body 46 and is detachably attached to the raw material supply pipe 16 (first pipe tube 16a, second pipe tube 16b). A side connecting portion 54a and a second inlet side connecting portion 54b) are formed.

Similarly, on the other side surface 46b of the detection sensor unit main body 46, a screw hole-shaped second electrode hole portion 52b communicating with the inside of the pipe 50 is formed.

A detachable screw-shaped second electrode 44b is attached to the second electrode hole 52b. The tip portion 44d of the second electrode 44b is formed so as to be flush with the pipe inner surface 50a of the detection sensor unit main body 46.

Further, the second electrode 44b is configured to be electrically connected to the control device (control unit 24) via a wiring (not shown).

Further, the raw material supply pipe 16 (first piping tube 16a, which is formed on the inlet side of the detection sensor unit main body 46 and is on the side of the raw material beverage container 14 (first raw material beverage container 14a, second raw material beverage container 14b). An inlet side connecting portion 54 (first inlet side connecting portion 54a, second inlet side connecting portion 54b) that is detachably attached to the second piping tube 16b) is formed.

Further, the raw material supply pipe 16 (first piping tube 16c, which is formed on the outlet side of the detection sensor unit main body 46 and is located on the side of the raw material supply pump 28 (first raw material supply pump 28a, second raw material supply pump 28b). An outlet side connecting portion 56 (first outlet side connecting portion 56a, second outlet side connecting portion 56b) that is detachably attached to the second piping tube 16d) is formed.

Further, in the case of this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the electrodes 44 (first electrode 44a, second electrode 44b) of the raw material shortage detection sensor 42 are arranged such that the mutual positions of the electrodes are the raw materials. Are arranged so that their positions in the flow direction are different (separated by an inter-electrode distance T).

In this embodiment, the first electrode 44a is arranged above, on the downstream side in the raw material flow direction.

Then, in the control device (control unit 24), the detection result by the electrode 44 (first electrode 44a, second electrode 44b) of the raw material shortage detection sensor 42 is determined by the electrodes (first electrode 44a) of the raw material shortage detection sensor 42. When the potential difference between 44a and the second electrode 44b) becomes equal to or less than a predetermined potential difference threshold S, the raw material supply pump 28 (the first raw material supply pump 28a, the second raw material supply pump 28b) is stopped. Is configured.

In this case, the method of setting the predetermined potential difference threshold value S and the inter-electrode distance T can be appropriately selected depending on the type (salt concentration, viscosity) of the raw material liquid. ), and the graph 1 in FIG. 5 (relationship between the distance between the electrodes and the voltage in the case of the presence of the protrusion) may be determined.

That is, in Table 1 and Graph 1, the viscosity was measured using a B-type viscometer (rotor No. 1, rotation speed 20 rpm (manufactured by Tokimec Co., Ltd.)) at a temperature of 15 degrees, and a digital salt meter (SO-304(SO-304( (Tanita Co., Ltd.)) is used to measure the salt concentration, and using a tube φ5×9, for the dashi A to dashi D, electrodes when a DC voltage is applied to the first electrode 44a and the second electrode 44b It is the result of measuring the relationship between the distance [mm] and the voltage [V].

From this measurement result, the predetermined potential difference threshold value S and inter-electrode distance T can be set as follows.

In the case of A, the voltage value decreases when the inter-electrode distance T is 0 to 2 mm, and the voltage value increases from 3 mm.

When the distance T between the electrodes is 2 mm, the difference between the case where the tube is exposed and the case where the tube is not present is only 1.54-1.44=0.10 V, and there is a risk of malfunction.

On the other hand, when the inter-electrode distance T is 3 mm, the difference between the presence and absence of the bare electrode is 1.76-1.45=0.31V.

Therefore, with the stock A, if there is a difference of 0.3 V, it can be detected. Therefore, the predetermined potential difference threshold value S can be set to 0.3 V and the threshold value of the interelectrode distance T can be set to 3 mm.

Similarly, the thresholds of the stock B, the stock C, and the stock D are the thresholds of the inter-electrode distance T at which the difference between the presence and absence of the stock becomes a detectable voltage difference (a predetermined potential difference threshold S of 0.3 V). ..

Therefore, the stock B may have a threshold value of the interelectrode distance T of 3 mm, the stock C may have a threshold value of the interelectrode distance T of 5 mm, and the stock D may have a threshold value of the interelectrode distance T of 6 mm.

From this result, if the inter-electrode distance T is 10 mm or less, the voltage value (0.3 V which is the predetermined potential difference threshold S) is the same even if the types of dashi are different. It can be seen that the distance can be detected without changing the threshold value.

From the results of Table 1 and Graph 1, for example, the salt A with a salt content of 4.3 [%] is 3 mm, and the salt B with a salt content of 4.0 [%] is 3 mm, the higher the salt concentration is, the higher the electrode is. It can be seen that the threshold value of the inter-distance T tends to be smaller.

With such a configuration, the raw material beverage liquid supplied from the raw material beverage container 14 between the mixing and supplying unit 32 and the raw material beverage container 14 (the first raw material beverage container 14a and the second raw material beverage container 14b). The raw material shortage detecting device 40 (first raw material shortage detecting device 40a, second raw material shortage detecting device 40b) for detecting the raw material shortage is provided.

Further, the raw material shortage detection device 40 includes an electrode-type raw material shortage detection sensor 42 arranged in the raw material supply pipe 16 (first piping tube 16a, second piping tube 16b). When the potential difference between the electrodes 44 (first electrode 44a, second electrode 44b) of the raw material shortage detection sensor 42 becomes equal to or less than a predetermined potential difference threshold S, the raw material supply pump 28 (first The raw material supply pump 28a and the second raw material supply pump 28b) are stopped.

Therefore, by setting the predetermined potential difference threshold value S as a potential difference (voltage) capable of detecting the liquid depletion of the raw material without malfunction, it is possible to reliably detect the liquid depletion of the raw material.

With this, when the raw material shortage detection device detects the raw material shortage of the raw material beverage liquid, the raw material supply pump 28 (the first raw material supply pump 28a, the second raw material supply pump 28b) is temporarily stopped, and the raw material beverage container is 14 (first raw material beverage container 14a, second raw material beverage container 14b) can be replenished with a new raw material beverage liquid or replaced with a new raw material beverage container 14.

Therefore, for example, a stock of miso soup, udon, soba, ramen, etc., a soup stock for dipping noodles and dishes, and a soup stock can be automatically and constantly supplied in a constant concentration in a fixed amount.

Further, it is not necessary to visually confirm the presence or absence of concentration of the raw material liquid in the raw material beverage container 14, and the operator does not notice such a shortage of the raw material and unconsciously operates the operation buttons and the operation handle of the control device. It is possible to provide a fixed-quantity supply device for beverages, which can always supply a predetermined fixed amount without performing any operation.

Further, when it is detected that the raw material beverage is out of raw material, the raw material supply pump 28 can be temporarily stopped to replace the raw material beverage with a new raw material liquid.

Further, as the raw material shortage detection device 40, only the electrode type raw material shortage detection sensor 42 (raw material shortage detection sensor unit 45) arranged in the raw material supply pipe is required to be arranged, so that the number of parts is small and the beverage is quantitatively determined. The supply device itself is compact, and the cost can be reduced.

Further, for example, the inlet side connecting portion 54 (first inlet side connecting portion 54a, second inlet side connecting portion 54b) formed on the inlet side of the detection sensor unit main body 46 is connected to the raw beverage container 14 (first side). The raw material beverage container 14a and the second raw material beverage container 14b) can be connected to the raw material supply piping 16 (first piping tube 16a, second piping tube 16b).

Further, the outlet side connecting portion 56 (first outlet side connecting portion 56a, second outlet side connecting portion 56b) formed on the outlet side of the detection sensor unit main body 46 is connected to the raw material supply pump 28 (first raw material supply). It can be connected to the raw material supply pipe 16 (first pipe tube 16c, second pipe tube 16d) on the side of the pump 28a and the second raw material supply pump 28b.

Thereby, the raw material shortage detection sensor of the raw material shortage detection device can be easily arranged between the mixing supply unit 32 and the raw material beverage container 14.

Further, even if the raw material shortage detection sensor 42 of the raw material shortage detection device 40 fails, the raw material shortage detection sensor 42 (raw material shortage detection sensor unit 45) of the raw material shortage detection device 40 can be easily replaced.

Furthermore, the tip ends (44c, 44d) of the electrodes 44 (first electrode 44a, second electrode 44b) of the raw material shortage detection sensor 42 are formed so as to be flush with the pipe inner surface 50a of the detection sensor unit main body 46. Therefore, the tip portion of the electrode 44 of the raw material shortage detection sensor 42 does not project inside the pipe inner surface 50a of the detection sensor unit main body 46.

Therefore, the raw material liquid does not adhere and remain on the tip of the electrode 44 of the raw material shortage detection sensor 42, which is hygienic and does not hinder the flow of the raw material liquid.

With this, it is possible to immediately and surely detect the liquid depletion of the raw material and always supply a preset fixed amount.

In addition, as in this embodiment, it is preferable that the raw material shortage detection device 40 be provided in the raw material supply path 16 on the upstream side of the raw material supply pump 28 between the mixing supply unit 32 and the raw material beverage container 14. ..

With this, it is possible to immediately and surely detect the liquid depletion of the raw material and always supply a preset fixed amount.

In addition, the electrodes 44 (first electrode 44a, second electrode 44b) of the raw material shortage detection sensor 42 are arranged such that the mutual positions of the electrodes are different from each other in the raw material flow direction.

Therefore, for example, when the raw material supply pipe and the raw material shortage detection sensor 42 are arranged in the vertical direction, and when the two electrodes of the raw material shortage detection sensor are at the same height position, the same condition in the pipe is used. Since the raw material liquid remains, the power is supplied and it is difficult to detect the raw material shortage.

On the other hand, the electrodes 44 (first electrode 44a and second electrode 44b) of the raw material shortage detection sensor 42 are arranged such that the mutual positions of the electrodes are different from each other in the raw material flow direction. In this case, since the raw material liquid does not remain on one of the electrodes, the power supply is stopped and the raw material shortage can be reliably detected.

This makes it possible to provide a beverage quantitative supply device capable of promptly and surely detecting a liquid depletion of a raw material and constantly supplying a predetermined fixed amount.

In addition, in this embodiment, the electrodes 44 (first electrode 44a, second electrode 44b) of the raw material shortage detection sensor 42 are positioned such that the mutual positions of the electrodes are opposed to each other in the cross section of the raw material supply pipe. It may be arranged.

As a result, the raw material liquid does not remain on one of the electrodes, so that the power supply is stopped and the raw material can be surely detected.

Further, as shown in FIG. 6, the electrodes 44 (first electrode 44a, second electrode 44b) of the raw material shortage detection sensor 42 are arranged such that the mutual positions between the electrodes are uneven in the cross section of the raw material supply pipe. It may be placed in a position.

For example, FIG. 6 shows an elliptical shape of the pipe 50 of the detection sensor unit main body 46, in which the first electrode 44a and the second electrode 44b are arranged with their center angles displaced.

As a result, the distance between the electrodes 44 (the first electrode 44a and the second electrode 44b) of the raw material shortage detection sensor 42 becomes large, so that the potential difference becomes large, the detection capability is further improved, and the raw material is surely cut off. Can be detected.

Further, as shown in FIG. 7, even if the raw material supply pipe 16 in which the electrode 44 (first electrode 44a, second electrode 44b) of the raw material shortage detection sensor 42 is arranged is arranged horizontally. good.

In this case, since the raw material liquid does not remain in the electrode 44 (first electrode 44a) of the raw material shortage detection sensor located in the upper direction and no current is supplied, the raw material shortage can be reliably detected.

In this case, since the raw material liquid does not remain in the electrode 44 (first electrode 44a) of the raw material shortage detection sensor which is located in the upper direction and current is not applied, the electrode of the raw material shortage detection sensor is connected between the electrodes. The mutual positions may or may not be the positions in the flow direction of the raw material.

Further, as shown in FIG. 8, the raw material supply pipe 16 in which the electrode 44 (first electrode 44a, second electrode 44b) of the raw material shortage detection sensor 42 is arranged is arranged in an inclined direction. Is also good.

Further, as shown in FIG. 9, the electrode 44 (first electrode 44a, second electrode 44b) of the raw material shortage detection sensor 42 is configured to be movable in position.

That is, on one side surface 46a of the detection sensor unit main body 46, a plurality of screw hole-shaped first electrode hole portions 52a communicating with the inside of the pipe 50 are formed at regular intervals.

Similarly, on the other side surface 46b of the detection sensor unit main body 46, a plurality of screw hole-shaped second electrode hole portions 52b communicating with the inside of the pipe 50 are formed at regular intervals.

As a result, the first electrode hole 52a is selected to mount the screw-shaped first electrode 44a, and the second electrode hole 52b is selected to screw the second electrode. 44b is attached.

As a result, the electrode 44 (first electrode 44a, second electrode 44b) of the raw material shortage detection sensor 42 is configured to be movable in position.

In addition, a sealing screw (not shown) may be attached to the first electrode hole 52a and the second electrode hole 52b that have not been selected in order to prevent liquid leakage.

Further, for example, the first electrode 44a and the second electrode 44b, which are separately prepared and are not connected to the wiring, may be attached.

Thus, by reconnecting the wiring, the electrode 44 (first electrode 44a, second electrode 44b) of the raw material shortage detection sensor 42 can be configured to be movable in position.

With this configuration, the electrode 44 (first electrode 44a, second electrode 44b) of the raw material shortage detection sensor 42 is configured to be movable in position, so that the type of raw material liquid (viscosity, salt content, etc.) ), the predetermined potential difference threshold S can be set as a potential difference (voltage) that can detect the liquid shortage of the raw material without malfunction, and the liquid shortage of the raw material can be surely performed. Can be detected.

The pipe 50 formed inside the detection sensor unit main body 46 has a straight columnar shape in this embodiment, but the distance between the first electrode 44a and the second electrode 44b is increased. Therefore, for example, although not shown, a spiral shape or a zigzag shape can be used.

Although the embodiment of the present invention has been described above, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, in the above embodiment, the detection sensor unit main body 46 has a quadrangular prism-shaped outer shape and the inside thereof. Although the pipe 50 having a circular cross-section is provided in the detection sensor unit main body 46, the outer shape of the detection sensor unit main body 46 can be appropriately changed to a triangular prism shape, a cylindrical shape, an elliptic cylinder shape, a polygonal cylinder shape, or the like. The shape is also not particularly limited, such as an elliptical shape or a combination of two circular shapes.

Further, for example, in addition to miso soup, udon, soba, soup stock such as ramen, tsukeru soup for pickling noodles or dishes, for example, it can be applied to other beverages such as juice, coffee, tea, etc. Various changes can be made without departing from the purpose.

The present invention, beverages, for example, miso soup, udon, soba, soup stock such as ramen, soup stock and soup sauce for pickling noodles and dishes, and to supply a constant amount in a container at a uniform concentration The present invention can be applied to a fixed-quantity beverage feeder.

10 Quantitative Supply Device 11 Raw Material Setting Section 12 Supply Device Main Body 14 Raw Material Beverage Container 14a First Raw Material Beverage Container 14b Second Raw Material Beverage Container 16 Supply Pipe (Raw Material Supply Route)
16a 1st piping tube 16b 2nd piping tube 16c 1st piping tube 16d 2nd piping tube 24 Control device (control part)
26 Operation Button 28 Raw Material Supply Pump 28a First Raw Material Supply Pump 28b Second Raw Material Supply Pump 30a First Delivery Tube 30b Second Delivery Tube 32 Mixing Supply Section 34 Mounting Table 36 Nozzle 38 Container 40 Raw Material Outage Detection Device 40a First raw material shortage detecting device 40b Second raw material shortage detecting device 42 Raw material shortage detecting sensor 44 Electrode 44a First electrode 44b Second electrode 44c Tip part 44d Tip part 45 Detection sensor unit 46 Detection sensor unit main body 46a Side surface 46b Side surface 50 Piping 50a Piping inner surface 52a First electrode hole portion 52b Second electrode hole portion 54 Inlet side connecting portion 54a First inlet side connecting portion 54b Second inlet side connecting portion 56 Outlet side connecting portion 56a Outlet-side connection portion 56b of No. 1 Second outlet-side connection portion 100 Quantitative supply device 102 Quantitative supply device body 104 Concentration container 106 Hot water tank 108 Raw material supply pump 110 Juice mixing part 112 Piping tube 114 Piping tube 116 Mounting table 120 Container A1 Raw beverage liquid A2 Raw beverage liquid S Potential difference threshold T Electrode distance

Claims (11)

A raw beverage container for storing the raw beverage liquid,
A raw material beverage liquid supplied from the raw material beverage container and a diluting liquid are mixed, and a mixing and supplying unit for supplying a fixed amount of diluted mixed beverage,
From the raw material beverage container, a raw material supply pump for supplying the raw material beverage liquid to the mixing and supply unit,
A quantitative supply device for beverages, comprising:
Between the mixing and supplying unit and the raw material beverage container, a raw material shortage detection device for detecting a raw material shortage of the raw material beverage liquid supplied from the raw material beverage container is provided,
The raw material shortage detection device includes an electrode type raw material shortage detection sensor arranged in a raw material supply pipe,
The raw material supply detection pump is configured to stop the raw material supply pump when the potential difference between the electrodes of the raw material supply detection sensor becomes equal to or lower than a predetermined potential difference threshold value S. Beverage supply device. The quantitative supply of beverage according to claim 1, wherein the raw material shortage detection device is provided in the raw material supply path on the upstream side of the raw material supply pump between the mixing supply unit and the raw material beverage container. apparatus. 3. The beverage according to claim 1, wherein the electrodes of the raw material shortage detection sensor are arranged such that the mutual positions of the electrodes are different from each other in the flow direction of the raw material. Quantitative feeding device. 4. The beverage according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the electrodes of the raw material shortage detection sensor are arranged such that the mutual positions of the electrodes are opposed to each other in the cross section of the raw material supply pipe. Quantitative feeding device. 5. The beverage according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the electrodes of the raw material shortage detection sensor are arranged such that the mutual positions of the electrodes are offset from each other in the cross section of the raw material supply pipe. Quantitative supply device. 6. The beverage quantitative supply device according to claim 1, wherein a raw material supply pipe in which an electrode of the raw material shortage detection sensor is arranged is arranged in a vertical direction. The quantitative supply device for beverage according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein a raw material supply pipe in which electrodes of the raw material shortage detection sensor are arranged is arranged in a horizontal direction. The quantitative supply device for a beverage according to claim 1, wherein the raw material supply pipe in which the electrode of the raw material shortage detection sensor is arranged is arranged in an inclined direction. The raw material shortage detection sensor includes a raw material shortage detection sensor unit,
The raw material shortage detection sensor unit,
A pipe-shaped detection sensor unit main body in which the electrodes of the raw material shortage detection sensor are arranged,
An inlet-side connection portion that is formed on the inlet side of the detection sensor unit body and is detachably attached to the raw material supply pipe,
An outlet-side connection portion that is formed on the outlet side of the detection sensor unit body and is detachably attached to the raw material supply pipe,
The quantitative supply device for beverage according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising: The quantitative supply of beverage according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the tip of the electrode of the raw material shortage detection sensor is formed to be flush with the inner surface of the pipe of the main body of the detection sensor unit. apparatus. 11. The quantitative supply device for a beverage according to claim 1, wherein the electrode of the raw material shortage detection sensor is configured to be movable in position.

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