JPWO2019168813A5 - - Google Patents

Description

This application claims the benefit of the filing date of US Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 635,575 filed February 27, 2018, which is incorporated herein by reference.

The present disclosure relates to the field of fluid pumps. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to pumps and related control systems for post-mix beverage dispenser systems.

Post-mix beverage dispensers mix carbonated water with high-concentration beverage syrups to provide the final beverage for weighing, distribution and consumption. Beverage syrup, which is a fluid that is often thick and / or highly viscous, is usually supplied from a bag-in-box syrup container. A syrup pump can be used to move the syrup from the syrup container to the metering distribution nozzle.

Conventionally, this syrup pump is a membrane type pump driven by a compressed gas such as carbon dioxide. The problem is that the rubber film used in such pumps absorbs the flavor from the syrup. Once the membrane in the pump is saturated with the braver of a given syrup, the pump cannot be diverted to pump a beverage of another flavor. The pump is effectively dedicated to a single flavor of beverage syrup. More specifically, membrane pumps are also prone to leak compressed carbon dioxide used to drive the pump, thereby creating a risk of suffocation in confined spaces.

In addition, as a result, membrane pumps require maintenance and / or replacement, and therefore require long downtime when the pump system is maintained by trained technicians.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,237,810 International Publication No. 2018/031844

Therefore, an improved syrup pump for beverage dispensers is desired that eliminates the problem of flavor intercontamination when diverted as a pump for another flavored beverage. It is also desired to provide a syrup pump for beverage dispensers that eliminates the risk of suffocation associated with the use of compressed carbon dioxide or other inert gases.

Further, it is hoped that the syrup pump and ancillary systems can be maintained easily and quickly, preferably without the need for special tools or specially trained technicians. In addition, it is desired to provide an improved system for monitoring and controlling the operation of syrup pumps.
Cited Document 1 discloses a modular mounting block for a beverage dispenser. The modular mounting block includes several pump compartments and several metering and distribution valve compartments integrally formed within the block.
Reference 2 discloses a beverage syrup pump system including a pump housing having an internal pumping chamber, a pump motor, and a pumping mechanism driven by a motor in the pumping chamber. The pumping mechanism receives the syrup fluid at the first pressure and discharges the fluid at a second pressure higher than the first pressure. A pressure transducer adjacent to the sensor port and in contact with a certain amount of fluid at a second pressure produces an electrical signal based on the second pressure. A programmable microcontroller can receive electrical signals from the pressure transducer to start and stop the pump motor. If the second pressure exceeds a predetermined maximum pressure level, the microcontroller immediately shuts off the pump motor. If the second pressure drops and remains below a predetermined minimum pressure level for a predetermined first time interval, the microcontroller also shuts down the pump motor.

The above and other requirements are met by a beverage dispenser system with a removable pump and its associated control system, made in accordance with the present disclosure.
The present disclosure provides a removable pump system for the multiple pumps according to claim 1.
The present disclosure further provides a controlled pump system for the multiple pumps according to claim 9.

In a first aspect, the present disclosure provides a removable pump system for multiple pumps. In one embodiment, the removable pump system for multiple pumps has a pump enclosure for receiving multiple removable pumps. The pump enclosure has at least a front panel, a rear panel, first and second side panels, a bottom panel, and a removable top panel. Therefore, the panel defines the interior space within the pump enclosure. In addition, the rear panel has a plurality of openings and at least one horizontal lip located above the plurality of openings. The lip is formed with a plurality of slots, where one slot is placed above each of the plurality of openings.

In addition, the pump system has multiple removable pumps that are at least partially located within the interior space of the pump enclosure. Each of these removable pumps has a pump housing with an internal pumping chamber, an inlet port and an outlet port, and each of these ports has fluid communication to the pumping chamber. Also, each removable pump has a spring-loaded retainer pin that is received in a retainer pin hole formed on the outer surface of the pump housing.

Each removable pump also has a pump motor and a pump motor driven pumping mechanism that is at least partially located within the pumping chamber. This pumping mechanism can receive the fluid entering the pumping chamber through the inlet port at the first pressure and drain the fluid from the pumping chamber through the outlet port at a second pressure higher than the first pressure. be able to.

For each removable pump, at least a portion of the pump motor and pump housing is located within the internal space of the pump enclosure, whereas the inlet and outlet ports are among the multiple rear panel openings. A portion of the retainer pin extends through one of the rear panel slots, thereby holding at least a portion of the removable pump within the pump enclosure .

In certain embodiments of a removable pump system for multiple pumps, each removable pump preferably has a first portion, a second portion thinner than the first portion, and a lock retainer opening. Further has a sliding lock member having a portion. This sliding lock member can slidably move between the locked position and the unlocked position. Further included is a sliding lock retainer that passes through the sliding lock retainer opening for fixing the sliding lock member to the pump housing at a position between the inlet port and the outlet port.

Each of the inlet and outlet ports has a channel for receiving a first portion of the sliding lock member. When the sliding lock member is in the locked position, a first portion of the sliding lock member is received in the channels of the inlet and outlet ports, thereby providing a removable fixture in the inlet and outlet ports. Engage and hold them. However, when the sliding lock member is in the locked position, a second portion of the sliding lock member is placed adjacent to the inlet and exit port channels, but is removable within the inlet and outlet ports. Do not engage with fittings and hold them.

Preferably, in some examples, for each removable pump, the inlet port has a first cross section and the outlet port has a second cross section that is different from the first cross section. Also, in some examples, preferably for each removable pump, the inlet port has a first cross-section diameter and the outlet port has a second cross-section diameter that is different from the first cross-section diameter. ..

In certain embodiments of a removable pump system for multiple pumps, each removable pump of the pumping mechanism preferably has a drive gear with multiple drive gear teeth and the drive gear is of the pumping chamber. It is placed inside and driven rotatably by a pump motor. Also, the pumping mechanism preferably has a play gear having a plurality of play gear teeth that mesh with the drive gear teeth, the play gear being disposed in the pumping chamber and an idler disposed in the pumping chamber. Attached to the shaft.

In certain embodiments of a removable pump system for multiple pumps, the pump housing for each removable pump is preferably in a sensor port and a sensor port through which fluid is communicated to the pump chamber. It also has a pressure transducer placed adjacent to it. This transducer comes into contact with a certain amount of fluid at a second pressure and generates an electrical signal based on the second pressure.

In certain embodiments of the removable pump system for multiple pumps, the removable pump is preferably a beverage syrup pump.

In a second aspect, the disclosure provides a post-mix beverage dispenser system. In one embodiment, a post-mixed beverage dispenser system is provided with a beverage metering and distribution station having multiple beverage mixing and metering distribution nozzles; It has a plurality of beverage syrup containers, each of which has a high concentration beverage syrup supply.

The post-mix beverage dispenser system further comprises a multi-pump syrup pump system. This syrup pump system also has a pump enclosure for receiving multiple syrup pumps. The pump enclosure has at least a front panel, a rear panel, first and second side panels, a bottom panel, and a removable top panel. Therefore, the panel defines the interior space within the pump enclosure. In addition, the rear panel has a plurality of openings and at least one horizontal lip located above the plurality of openings. The lip is formed with a plurality of slots, where one slot is placed above each of the plurality of openings.

In addition, the syrup pump system has multiple syrup pumps that are at least partially located within the interior space of the pump enclosure. Each of these syrup pumps has a pump housing with an internal pumping chamber, an inlet port and an outlet port, and each of these ports has fluid communication to the pumping chamber. Also, each syrup pump has a spring-loaded retainer pin that is received in a retainer pin hole formed on the outer surface of the pump housing.

Each syrup pump also has a pump motor and a pump motor driven pumping mechanism that is at least partially located within the pumping chamber. This pumping mechanism can receive the fluid entering the pumping chamber through the inlet port at the first pressure and drain the fluid from the pumping chamber through the outlet port at a second pressure higher than the first pressure. be able to.

For each syrup pump, at least a portion of the pump motor and pump housing is located within the internal space of the pump enclosure, whereas the inlet and outlet ports are one of multiple rear panel openings. Extending through one, a portion of the retainer pin extends through one of the rear panel slots, thereby holding at least a portion of the removable pump within the pump enclosure .

In certain embodiments of the post-mixed beverage dispenser system, each syrup pump preferably comprises a first portion, a second portion thinner than the first portion, and a lock retainer opening. Further has a sliding lock member. This sliding lock member can slidably move between the locked position and the unlocked position. Further included is a sliding lock retainer that passes through the sliding lock retainer opening for fixing the sliding lock member to the pump housing at a position between the inlet port and the outlet port.

Each of the inlet and outlet ports has a channel for receiving a first portion of the sliding lock member. When the sliding lock member is in the locked position, a first portion of the sliding lock member is received in the channels of the inlet and outlet ports, thereby providing a removable fixture in the inlet and outlet ports. Engage and hold them. However, when the sliding lock member is in the locked position, a second portion of the sliding lock member is placed adjacent to the inlet and exit port channels, but is removable within the inlet and outlet ports. Do not engage with fittings and hold them.

Preferably, in some examples, for each syrup pump, the inlet port has a first cross section and the outlet port has a second cross section that is different from the first cross section. Also, in some examples, preferably for each syrup pump, the inlet port has a first cross-section diameter and the outlet port has a second cross-section diameter that is different from the first cross-section diameter.

In certain embodiments of the post-mixed beverage dispenser system, each syrup pump of the pumping mechanism preferably has a drive gear with multiple drive gear teeth and the drive gear is located within the pumping chamber. It is driven rotatably by a pump motor. Also, the pumping mechanism preferably has a play gear having a plurality of play gear teeth that mesh with the drive gear teeth, the play gear being disposed in the pumping chamber and an idler disposed in the pumping chamber. Attached to the shaft.

In certain embodiments of the post-mixed beverage dispenser system, the pump housing for each syrup pump is preferably adjacent to the sensor port and the sensor port through which the fluid is communicated to the pumping chamber. It has a pressure transducer and is placed. This transducer comes into contact with a certain amount of fluid at a second pressure and generates an electrical signal based on the second pressure.

In a third aspect, the present disclosure provides a controlled pump system for multiple pumps. In one embodiment, a controlled pump system is adapted to receive multiple removable pumps, and a plurality of removable pumps that are at least partially located within the pump enclosure. Has.

Each removable pump further has a pump housing with an internal pumping chamber, an inlet port, an outlet port, and a sensor port, where each of these ports is fluid communicated to the pumping chamber.

Each removable pump also has a pump motor and a pump motor driven pumping mechanism that is at least partially located within the pumping chamber. This pumping mechanism can receive the fluid entering the pumping chamber through the inlet port at the first pressure and drain the fluid from the pumping chamber through the outlet port at a second pressure higher than the first pressure. be able to.

In addition, each removable pump further has a pressure transducer located adjacent to the sensor port. This transducer comes into contact with a certain amount of fluid at a second pressure and generates an electrical signal based on the second pressure. Further included is a programmable microcontroller, which can receive electrical signals from the pressure transducer and be electrically connected to the pump motor to start and stop the pump motor.

The controlled pump system has a common control panel for controlling each of the multiple removable pumps. This control panel is electrically connected to a programmable microcontroller for removable pumps, at least one reset switch for each removable pump, and at least for each removable pump. It has one pump status indicator. At least one pump status indicator is electrically connected to a programmable microcontroller for removable pumps, and each pump status indicator can indicate multiple pump status.

In certain embodiments of the controlled pump system, the pumping mechanism for each removable pump preferably has a drive gear with multiple drive gear teeth, the drive gear being located within the pump chamber. It is driven rotatably by a pump motor. Also, the pumping mechanism preferably has a play gear having a plurality of play gear teeth that mesh with the drive gear teeth, the play gear being disposed in the pumping chamber and an idler disposed in the pumping chamber. Attached to the shaft. The sensor port is located downstream of the drive and play gears.

In certain embodiments of the controlled pump system, the pressure transducers for each of the plurality of removable pumps preferably have a ceramic piezo disc.

In a particular embodiment of a controlled pump system, the control panel preferably has at least two pump status indicators for each removable pump, where each pump status indicator has multiple pump statuses. Can be shown.

In certain embodiments of the controlled pump system, at least one reset switch for each removable pump is preferably a membrane switch and at least one pump status indicator for each removable pump. It is incorporated in this membrane switch.

In a particular embodiment of a controlled pump system, for each of the plurality of removable pumps, if the second pressure exceeds a first predetermined pressure threshold, the microcontroller will preferably use the pump motor. It is programmed to stop and at least one pump status indicator signals the first pump status.

In certain embodiments of a controlled pump system, for each of the plurality of removable pumps, a microcontroller is preferably a pump motor when the second pressure drops to a second predetermined pressure threshold. Is programmed to stop, and at least one pump status indicator signals a second pump status.

In a particular embodiment of a controlled pump system, for each of the plurality of removable pumps, if the second pressure is between a first predetermined pressure threshold and a second predetermined pressure threshold. The microcontroller is preferably programmed to start the pump motor and at least one pump status indicator signals a third pump status.

In a particular embodiment of a controlled pump system, for each of the plurality of removable pumps, the second pressure has a first predetermined pressure threshold and a second predetermined pressure threshold for a period of time that exceeds a predetermined time threshold. The micro controller is preferably programmed to stop the pump motor, and at least one pump status indicator signals a fourth pump status.

In a particular embodiment of a controlled pump system, for each of the plurality of removable pumps, a second pressure has a third predetermined pressure threshold and a fourth predetermined pressure threshold over a period of time that exceeds a predetermined time threshold. The micro controller is preferably programmed to stop the pump motor, and at least one pump status indicator signals a fourth pump status.

In certain embodiments of the controlled pump system, each of the removable pumps is preferably a beverage syrup pump.

In a fourth aspect, the present disclosure provides a post-mix beverage dispenser system. In one embodiment, the beverage dispenser system has a beverage metering and distribution station with multiple beverage mixing and metering distribution nozzles; and a carbonated water supply that is fluid-permeable to each of the beverage mixing and metering and distribution nozzles; It has a plurality of beverage syrup containers, each of which has a beverage syrup supply.

The post-mix beverage dispenser system further comprises a multi-pump syrup pump system. The syrup pump system further comprises a pump enclosure adapted to receive multiple syrup pumps and multiple syrup pumps that are at least partially located within the pump enclosure.

Each syrup pump further fluidizes to an internal pumping chamber, one of the beverage syrup containers and an inlet port to which the fluid is communicated to the pumping chamber, and one of the pumping chamber and the beverage mixing / weighing and distributing nozzles. It has a pump housing with an outlet port to be pumped and a sensor port to which fluid is communicated to the pumping chamber.

Each syrup pump also has a pump motor and a pump motor driven pumping mechanism that is at least partially located within the pumping chamber. This pumping mechanism can receive the fluid entering the pumping chamber through the inlet port at the first pressure and drain the fluid from the pumping chamber through the outlet port at a second pressure higher than the first pressure. be able to.

In addition, each syrup pump further has a pressure transducer located adjacent to the sensor port. This transducer comes into contact with a certain amount of fluid at a second pressure and generates an electrical signal based on the second pressure. Further included is a programmable microcontroller, which can receive electrical signals from the pressure transducer and be electrically connected to the pump motor to start and stop the pump motor.

The syrup pump system has a common control panel for controlling each of the multiple syrup pumps. This control panel is electrically connected to a programmable microcontroller for removable pumps, at least one reset switch for each removable pump, and at least for each removable pump. It has one pump status indicator. At least one pump status indicator is electrically connected to a programmable microcontroller for the syrup pump, and each pump status indicator can indicate multiple pump status.

In certain embodiments of the post-mixed beverage dispenser system, the pumping mechanism for each syrup pump preferably has a drive gear with multiple drive gear teeth and the drive gear is in the pump chamber. It is placed in and driven rotatably by a pump motor. Also, the pumping mechanism preferably has a play gear having a plurality of play gear teeth that mesh with the drive gear teeth, the play gear being disposed in the pumping chamber and an idler disposed in the pumping chamber. Attached to the shaft. The sensor port is located downstream of the drive and play gears.

In certain embodiments of the post-mix beverage dispenser system, the pressure transducer for each of the plurality of syrup pumps preferably has a ceramic piezo disc.

In certain embodiments of the post-mix beverage dispenser system, the control panel preferably has at least two pump status indicators for each syrup pump, where each pump status indicator has multiple pumps. The state can be indicated.

In certain embodiments of the post-mixed beverage dispenser system, at least one reset switch for each removable pump is preferably a membrane switch and at least one pump for each removable pump. A status indicator is built into this membrane switch.

In certain embodiments of the post-mixed beverage dispenser system, for each of the plurality of syrup pumps, if the second pressure exceeds a first predetermined pressure threshold, a microcontroller is preferred. It is programmed to stop the motor and at least one pump status indicator signals the first pump status.

In certain embodiments of the post-mixed beverage dispenser system, for each of the plurality of syrup pumps, a microcontroller is preferred when the second pressure drops to a second predetermined pressure threshold. -Programmed to stop the motor, at least one pump status indicator signals a second pump status.

In certain embodiments of the post-mixed beverage dispenser system, for each of the plurality of syrup pumps, the second pressure is between a first predetermined pressure threshold and a second predetermined pressure threshold. In addition, the micro controller is preferably programmed to start the pump motor, and at least one pump status indicator signals a third pump status.

In certain embodiments of the post-mixed beverage dispenser system, for each of the plurality of syrup pumps, the second pressure is the first predetermined pressure threshold and the second predetermined for a period of time that exceeds a predetermined time threshold. The microcontroller is preferably programmed to stop the pump motor when it is between the pressure thresholds and at least one pump status indicator signals a fourth pump status.

In certain embodiments of the post-mixed beverage dispenser system, for each of the plurality of syrup pumps, a second pressure is set to a third predetermined pressure threshold and a fourth predetermined time threshold over a period of time exceeding a predetermined time threshold. The microcontroller is preferably programmed to stop the pump motor when it is between the pressure thresholds and at least one pump status indicator signals a fourth pump status.

Accordingly, according to the present disclosure, there is provided a pump system having multiple pumps for beverage syrup and other fluids. Each of the pumps can be quickly and easily installed in or removed from a common pump enclosure without the need for special tools or specially trained technicians.

In addition, the removable pump is preferably driven by an electric motor rather than a gas driven membrane pump. Thus, advantageously, the problem of syrup flavors absorbed by the rubber component of the membrane pump and then leached into other beverage syrups (ie, the problem of flavor intercontamination) is eliminated. Therefore, the syrup pump according to the present disclosure can easily serve the purpose again for a beverage of another flavor if desired. Also, by eliminating the gas-driven membrane pump, leakage of carbon dioxide or other inert gas from the membrane pump is similarly eliminated, along with the risk of suffocation in the accompanying enclosed space.

In addition, the pump system of the present disclosure provides an improved system for monitoring and controlling the operation of syrup pumps.

Another advantage of the present disclosure becomes apparent by reference to the detailed description considered in conjunction with the non-exactly scaled figures to show the details more clearly. Similar reference numerals indicate similar elements throughout multiple figures.

FIG. 3 is a front perspective view showing a pump enclosure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a top perspective view showing a pump system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a top view showing a portion of a pump system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view showing a pump system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view showing a part of a beverage syrup pump according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view showing a step of attaching / detaching a beverage syrup pump according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view showing a step of attaching / detaching a beverage syrup pump according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view showing a step of attaching / detaching a beverage syrup pump according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view showing a step of attaching / detaching a beverage syrup pump according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a front perspective showing the steps of removing a beverage syrup pump from a pump enclosure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a front perspective showing the steps of removing a beverage syrup pump from a pump enclosure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a front perspective showing the steps of removing a beverage syrup pump from a pump enclosure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a front perspective showing the steps of removing a beverage syrup pump from a pump enclosure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. It is a schematic diagram which shows the beverage dispenser system by one Example of this disclosure. It is a flowchart which shows the pump control method by one Example of this disclosure.

The present disclosure relates to a removable pump system for multiple pumps and related control systems. Pumps and control systems are particularly suitable for pumping beverage syrup in post-mixed beverage dispensers.

As shown in FIGS. 1-4, the removable pump system 10 for multiple pumps according to the present disclosure has a pump enclosure 12 for receiving a plurality of removable pumps 14. The pump enclosure 12 is generally made of steel or another metal or plastic, at least the front panel 16, the rear panel 18, the first side panel 20 and the second. It has a side panel 22, a bottom panel 24, and a removable top panel 26. Therefore, these panels define the interior space 28 within the pump enclosure 12. In some examples, the enclosure 12 can also have an internal partition 30 that divides the interior space 28 into two sections. The rear panel 18 also has a plurality of openings 32 and at least one horizontal lip 34 located above the plurality of openings 32. The lip 34 has a plurality of slots 36 formed therein, in which one slot 36 is arranged above each of the plurality of openings 32.

In addition, the pump system 10 has a plurality of pumps 14 that are at least partially located within the interior space 28 of the pump enclosure. Preferably, each pump can be simply inserted into and removed from the pump enclosure 12 without the need for any tools.

Preferably, each of the removable pumps 14 is a beverage syrup pump suitable for use, for example, in a post-mix beverage dispenser system.

Further referring to FIG. 5, each of these removable pumps 14 has a pump housing 40 generally formed from a high-strength material such as brass, stainless steel, or another metal or alloy. Alternatively, the pump housing 40 may be molded from a polymeric material, preferably from a polymeric material in which the fiber reinforcement is embedded, such as carbon fiber or glass fiber filament.

The pump housing 40 has an internal pumping chamber 42, an inlet port 44, an outlet port 46, and preferably a sensor port 48, each of which has fluid communication to the pumping chamber 42. Also, each removable pump 14 has a spring-loaded retainer pin 50 that is preferably moored and received in a retainer pin hole 52 formed on the outer surface of the pump housing 40.

In addition, each removable pump 14 has a pump motor 60 and a pumping mechanism driven by the pump motor 60 that is at least partially located within the pumping chamber 42. The pump motor 60 is preferably an electric motor. Preferably, a common power supply 64 is located within the enclosure 12 and is used to power all of the electric pump motors.

The pumping mechanism is generally driven by a pump motor 60 via a drive shaft 66. In some examples, the drive shaft 66 may be coupled directly to the pumping mechanism. In such cases, the pump housing 40 further has a drive shaft opening, the drive shaft 66 extending through the drive shaft opening into the pump housing 40 and the seal assembly 68, thereby. Prevent fluid leakage through the drive shaft opening. In another example, the drive shaft 66 may be magnetically coupled to the pumping mechanism.

The pumping mechanism can receive the fluid entering the pumping chamber 42 through the inlet port 44 at a first pressure, a pressure higher than the first pressure and a second pressure from the pumping chamber 42 through the outlet port 46. The fluid can be discharged.

For example, in certain embodiments of the removable pump system 10 for multiple pumps, the pumping mechanism for each removable pump 14 is preferably a gear pump mechanism. This gear pump mechanism preferably has a drive gear 70. The drive gear 70 has a plurality of drive gear teeth 72, is arranged in the pumping chamber 42, and is rotatably driven by a pump motor 60. Further, the pumping mechanism preferably has a play gear 74. The play gear also has a plurality of play gear teeth 76 that mesh with the drive gear teeth 72 and is also located in the pumping chamber 42. The play gear 74 is attached to an idler shaft 78 arranged in the pumping chamber 42.

During the operation of the gear pump, the fluid is received from the inlet port 44 into the pumping chamber 42 at the first pressure, the initial pressure. The drive shaft 66 rotates the drive gear 70, and the teeth of the two gears mesh with each other, so that the drive gear 70 rotates the play gear 74. When the two gears rotate, the fluid is captured by the gear teeth. At this time, the fluid moves along the inside of the peripheral edge of the pumping chamber 42 until it is pushed out through the outlet port 46 at a first pressure, that is, a second pressure higher than the initial pressure.

For each removable pump 14, at least a portion of the pump motor 60 and the pump housing 40 is located in the interior space 28 of the pump enclosure, while the inlet port 44 and, as seen in FIG. The exit port 46 extends through one of the plurality of rear panel openings 32. At this position, the removable pump 14 is anchored in place by a portion of the retainer pin 50, which extends through one of the rear panel slots 36 of the enclosure 12. Holds at least a portion of the removable pump 14 within the pump enclosure 12 .

Preferably, each removable pump 14 of the removable pump system 10 of the multiple pumps also quickly connects the inlet and outlet ports 46 to the supply and drain lines in a tool-free manner. Or configured to allow it to be detached from it. As shown in FIG. 6, this can be achieved by providing a sliding lock member 80 that is movably attached to the pump housing 40 adjacent to the inlet port 44 and the outlet port 46. The sliding lock member 80 has a first portion 82, a second portion 84 thinner than the first portion 82, and a lock retainer opening 86. The sliding lock member 80 can slidably move between the locked position and the unlocked position. Further, a sliding lock retainer 88 passing through the sliding lock retainer opening 86 for fixing the sliding lock member 80 to the pump housing 40 at a position between the inlet port 44 and the outlet port 46 is provided. included.

Each of the inlet port 44 and the outlet port 46 preferably has a channel 90 or a groove for receiving the first portion 82 of the sliding lock member 80. Therefore, when the sliding lock member 80 is in the locked position, the first portion 82 of the sliding lock member 80 is received in the channel 90 of the inlet port 44 and the exit port 46, thereby the inlet port 44 and the outlet port. Engage with and hold the removable attachments 92, 94 in 46. However, when the sliding lock member 80 is in the locked position, the second portion 84 of the sliding lock member 80 is arranged adjacent to the channel 90 of the inlet port 44 and the exit port 46, but the inlet port 44 and the outlet. It does not engage with and hold the removable attachments 92, 94 in the port 46. Thus, the inlet port 44 and the outlet port 46 can be connected to or detached from the supply and discharge lines without the use of tools.

Further, for each removable pump, the inlet port 44 preferably has a first cross section and the outlet port 46 preferably has a second cross section that is different from the first cross section. Also, in some examples, preferably for each removable pump 14, the inlet port 44 has a first cross-sectional diameter and the outlet port 46 has a second cross-sectional diameter that is different from the first cross-sectional diameter. Has.

The removable attachment 92 for the supply line has a cross-sectional area and diameter that is adapted to fit into the inlet port 44 rather than the outlet port 46. In contrast, the removable attachment 94 for the discharge line has a cross-sectional area and diameter that is adapted to fit into the outlet port 46 rather than the inlet port 44. It will be appreciated in this way that improper connection of the supply line to the exit port 46 or improper connection of the discharge line to the inlet port 44 can be prevented.

In another aspect, a sensor / control system is further provided for the removable pump 14. This sensor / control system enables safe use of positive displacement pump mechanisms such as the gear pump mechanism mentioned above without damaging the equipment. Referring again to FIGS. 1-5, each removable pump 14 further has a pressure transducer 100 located adjacent to the sensor port 48 in this regard. Each pressure transducer 100 preferably has a ceramic piezo disc. Transducer 100 contacts a certain amount of fluid at a second pressure (ie, drain pressure) and secondly generates an electrical signal proportional to the pressure.

Each removable pump 14 further comprises a separable programmable microcontroller 102, which receives electrical signals from the pressure transducer 100 via an electrical cable 104 and pump motors. It is electrically connected to 60 and can start or stop the pump motor 60. The programmable microcontroller 102 may be sealed, for example, in a housing 106 mounted on the pump motor 60. In some examples, a heat release portion 108, such as a metal plate or metal fin, may be attached to the outer portion of the housing, thereby facilitating cooling.

Further, a common control panel 110 for controlling each of the plurality of removable pumps 14 is provided. The control panel 110 is preferably located on the front panel 16 of the pump enclosure 12. The common control panel 110 is electrically connected to each of the pump microcontrollers via a plurality of wires 116. The control panel 110 has at least one reset switch 112 for each removable pump 14, the reset switch 112 being electrically connected to a programmable microcontroller 102 for the removable pump 14. To.

The control panel 110 further comprises at least one pump status indicator 114 for each removable pump 14. At least one pump status indicator 114 is electrically connected to a programmable microcontroller 102 for the removable pump 14, and each pump status indicator 114 can indicate a plurality of pump states. Preferably, the status indicator 114 is an indicator light such as an LED ride. Alternatively, the status indicator 114 may be provided by an audible alarm device, a video display, or the like. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the at least one reset switch 112 for each removable pump 14 is preferably a membrane switch, with at least one pump status indicator 114 for each removable pump 14. It is incorporated in this membrane switch.

In some examples, the control panel 110 can have at least two pump status indicators 114 for each removable pump 14, and each pump status indicator 114 can indicate multiple pump states.

For each of the plurality of removable pumps 14, the microcontroller 102 generally informs a particular pump state to start or stop the pump and based on the information of the second pressure received from the pressure transducer 100. Programmed to (using the pump status indicator).

For example, if the second pressure exceeds a first predetermined pressure threshold (eg, above 586 kPa (85 psi)), the microcontroller 102 is preferably programmed to stop the pump motor 60. At least one pump status indicator informs the first pump status. This first pump state corresponds to a ready standby state for the pump. This can be signaled on the control panel 110, for example, by a lit green indicator light.

If the second pressure drops below a second predetermined pressure threshold (eg, less than 103 kPa (15 psi)), the microcontroller 102 is preferably programmed to stop the pump motor 60. At least one pump status indicator 114 signals a second pump status. This second pump state corresponds to an empty syrup bag state with respect to the pump. This can be signaled on the control panel 110, for example, by a flashing red light. This will indicate to the operator that the beverage syrup container is empty and needs to be replaced. After replacing the syrup container, it may be necessary to manually reset the pump using the reset switch.

If the third pressure is between a first predetermined pressure threshold and a second predetermined pressure threshold, the microcontroller 102 is preferably programmed to start the pump motor 60. At least one pump status indicator 114 signals a third pump status. This third pump state corresponds to the normal pumping and syrup metering and dispensing conditions for the pump. This can be signaled on the control panel 110, for example, by a fast blinking green light.

If the second pressure is between a first predetermined pressure threshold and a second predetermined pressure threshold for a time exceeding a predetermined time threshold (eg, greater than one minute), the microcontroller 102 may use the microcontroller 102. Preferably, the pump motor 60 is programmed to stop and at least one pump status indicator 114 signals a fourth pump status. This fourth pump condition corresponds to a condition in which the pump is operational but there is trapped air in the discharge line. This can be signaled on the control panel 110, for example, by a slower blinking green light.

Alternatively, if the second pressure is between a third predetermined pressure threshold and a fourth predetermined pressure threshold (eg, 207 kPa) over a time exceeding a predetermined time threshold (eg, greater than 1 minute). (30 psi) to 414 kPa (60 psi)), the microcontroller 102 may be programmed to stop the pump motor 60, with at least one pump state indicator 114 signaling a fourth pump state. Again, this corresponds to the condition where the pump is operational but there is trapped air in the discharge line, but a narrower pressure range is used to define this condition.

The control method mentioned above is outlined in the flowchart of FIG.

Advantageously, this sensor and control system facilitates the replacement of conventional gas-driven membrane pumps with positive displacement pumps such as the motorized gear pumps described above. Specifically, the sensor and control system allows the operation of the positive displacement pump to be monitored and controlled, thereby reducing or preventing overheating conditions and / or excessive pressurization conditions due to deadheads.

In another aspect, the disclosure also relates to a post-mixed beverage dispenser system 120 utilizing the controlled removable pump system 10 of the multiple pumps described above. As shown in FIG. 14, the post-mixed beverage dispenser system 120 is fluid-fed to each of the beverage mixing / weighing distribution station 122 having a plurality of beverage mixing / weighing distribution nozzles 124 and the beverage mixing / weighing distribution nozzle 124. It has a supply of carbonated water. For example, a beverage dispenser can have a system for carbonated water, where a source of uncarbonated water 126 (such as a municipal water supply line) is pumped into a carbonated tank 128 by a water pump 130. Will be done. The mixing tank 128 is further fluid-communicated with a carbon dioxide gas supply source 132 such as a compressed gas cylinder. Water is pumped into the mixing tank 128, and then carbon dioxide gas is mixed with the water in the mixing tank 128 and dissolved in the water, thereby providing carbonated water. Carbonated water may be further passed through the cooling device 134 and then reach the mixing / weighing and distributing nozzle 124.

In addition, the post-mix beverage dispenser system 120 further comprises a plurality of beverage syrup containers 136, each container having a high concentration beverage syrup supply. These beverage syrup containers 136 may be provided, for example, as bag-in-box syrup containers.

The post-mix beverage dispenser system 120 further comprises a multi-pump syrup pump system 10 comprising a separate syrup pump for each beverage mixing / weighing and distributing nozzle 124. Therefore, each metering distribution nozzle 124 is further connected to the same bag-in-box or other beverage syrup container 136 for fluid communication. The controlled pump system 10 described above can be used to move the syrup from the syrup container to the metering distribution nozzle 124. Therefore, the syrup container 136 is connected to the pump inlet port 44 and the pump outlet port 46 is connected to the beverage mixing / weighing and distributing nozzle, thereby supplying the beverage syrup for the nozzle 124.

As mentioned above, each pump in the removable pump system 10 of the multiple pumps can be quickly removed from the pump enclosure 12 or installed in the pump enclosure 12 without tools. Is configured to. It is shown in FIGS. 6 to 13 that the pump can be removed from the enclosure 12 without tools.

During normal operation, the sliding lock member 80 starts from the locked position as shown in FIG. 6, where the first portion 82 of the sliding lock member 80 is in the channel 90 of the inlet port 44 and the exit port 46. And thereby engaging and holding the removable attachments 92, 94 for the supply and discharge lines in the inlet port 44 and the outlet port 46, respectively. The sliding lock member 80 is then moved to the unlocked position as shown in FIG. 7, where the second portion 84 of the sliding lock member 80 is connected to the channel 90 of the inlet port 44 and the exit port 46. Placed next to each other. The second portion 84 is not engaged with and holds the removable fittings 92, 94 in the inlet port 44 and the outlet port 46.

Then, as shown in FIG. 8, the fixture 92 for the supply line may be removed from the inlet port 44 and the fixture 94 for the discharge line may be removed from the outlet port 46. With the supply and drain lines removed, the pump remains attached to the rear panel 18 of the enclosure 12, as shown in FIG.

The wiring 116 forming the electrical connection between the microcontroller 102 and the common control panel 110 is then disconnected as shown in FIG.

Then, as shown in FIG. 11, the spring-loaded retainer pin 50 extends through one of the slots 36 formed in the rear panel 18 of the enclosure 12 under normal conditions as described above. Pushed down, thereby removing the pin from the rear panel slot 36. The pump can then be rotated within the rear panel opening 32 until the retainer pin 50 is separated from the horizontal lip 34 of the rear opening, as shown in FIG. Finally, as shown in FIG. 13, the pump can be pulled out of the rear panel opening 32 and removed from the pump enclosure 12.

By reversing the above steps, it is achieved to install the new pump without tools. Simply put, a portion of the pump is inserted through the rear panel opening 32 of the enclosure 12 and engages with the retainer pin 50 aligned with the slot 36 formed in the lip 34 above the rear panel opening 32. It is rotated until it fits. A wiring connection is established between the microcontroller 102 and the control panel 110. The syrup supply line is attached to the inlet port 44 and the discharge supply line is attached to the outlet port 46. Finally, the sliding lock member 80 is moved from the unlocked position to the locked position, thereby holding the supply / discharge line in place.

Therefore, advantageously disclosed, according to the present disclosure, is a post-mixed beverage dispenser that does not utilize a gas driven membrane pump to pump the beverage syrup.

Therefore, the pumped beverage syrup does not come into contact with the rubber membrane used in this pump, thereby preventing intercontamination of flavors in the pump.

In addition, by eliminating gas-driven membrane pumps (and by providing controlled positive displacement pumps instead), there is a risk of carbon dioxide or other inert gas leaks from the membrane pumps. Eliminate as well. Therefore, the risk of choking in a critical enclosed space caused by such carbon dioxide leaks is also eliminated.

Also, in the case of membrane pumps, as a result, maintenance and / or replacement is required, and therefore long downtime is required when maintaining the pump system by trained technicians.

Moreover, the beverage syrup pumps provided can be easily and quickly maintained without the need for special tools or specially trained technicians.

The above description of preferred embodiments for the present disclosure is provided for purposes of illustration and illustration. It is not intended to be inclusive, that is, it is not intended to limit this disclosure to the exact form disclosed. Obvious modified or modified forms are possible in light of the above teachings. These examples are intended to best illustrate the principles of the present disclosure and their practical uses, thereby making various modifications suitable for the particular intended use of those skilled in the art. Is selected and described for the purpose of making this disclosure available in a variety of embodiments. All such modifications and variations of the attached patent claim where the claims are interpreted in accordance with the scope of the case where the rights are properly, legally and equitably granted to the scope of the attached claims. It is within the scope of the present disclosure as determined by the scope.

Claims (15)

The removable pump system (10) of the multiple pump, wherein the removable pump system of the multiple pump is:
A pump enclosure (12) for receiving a plurality of removable pumps (14) , wherein the pump enclosure (12) is at least a front panel (16) , a rear panel (18) , a first and a first. It has two side panels (20, 22) , a bottom panel (24) , and a removable top panel (26) , which defines the interior space (28) of the pump enclosure.
The rear panel has a plurality of openings (32) and at least one horizontal lip (34) located above the plurality of openings (32) , the lip ( 34) having a plurality. A pump enclosure in which a slot (36) is formed , whereby one slot (36) is located above each of the plurality of openings (32) .
A plurality of removable pumps (14) disposed at least partially in the internal space (28) of the pump enclosure, each removable pump (14) .
A pump housing (40) having an internal pumping chamber (42) , an inlet port (44) , and an outlet port (46) , wherein each of the ports is fluidized to the pumping chamber (42) . housing,
A spring-loaded retainer pin (50) , which is received in a retainer pin hole (52) formed on the outer surface of the pump housing (40) .
A pumping mechanism that is at least partially located within the pump motor (60) and the pumping chamber (42) and is driven by the pump motor (60) , wherein the pumping mechanism is the inlet port ( The fluid that enters the pumping chamber (42) through 44) can be received at a first pressure and at a second pressure higher than the first pressure, from the pumping chamber (42) to the outlet port. With a plurality of removable pumps having a pumping mechanism capable of draining fluid through (46)
Equipped with
At least a portion of the pump motor (60) and the pump housing (40) is located in the internal space (28) of the pump enclosure and the inlet port (44) and the outlet port (46). Extends through one of the plurality of rear panel openings (32) and a portion of the retainer pin (50) extends through one of the rear panel slots (36) . A removable pump system (10) for multiple pumps that is present and thereby holds at least a portion of the removable pump (14) within the pump enclosure (12 ). Each removable pump (14)
A sliding lock member (80) having a first portion (82 ) , a second portion (84) thinner than the first portion (82 ), and a lock retainer opening (86) . A sliding lock member and a sliding lock member capable of slidably moving the dynamic lock member (80) between the lock position and the unlock position.
The sliding lock retainer opening for fixing the sliding lock member (80) to the pump housing (40) at a position between the inlet port (44) and the outlet port (46) . With the sliding lock retainer (88) passing through (86)
Have more
Each of the inlet port (44) and the exit port (46) has a channel (90) for receiving the first portion of the sliding lock member (80) .
When the sliding lock member (80) is in the locked position, the first portion (82) of the sliding lock member (80) is the channel of the inlet port (44) and the exit port (46) . Receiving in (90) , thereby engaging with removable attachments (92,94) in the inlet port (44) and the exit port (46) to hold them.
When the sliding lock member (80) is in the locked position, the second portion (84) of the sliding lock member (80) is the channel of the inlet port (44) and the exit port (46) . Arranged adjacent to (90) , but not engaged with and holding the removable attachments (92,94) in the inlet port (44) and the exit port (46) . The removable pump system (10) of the multiple pump according to claim 1. For each removable pump (14) , the inlet port (44) has a first cross section and the outlet port (46) has a second cross section that is different from the first cross section. The removable pump system (10) of the multiple pump according to claim 2. For each removable pump (14) , the inlet port (44) has a first cross-sectional diameter and the outlet port (46) has a second cross-sectional diameter that is different from the first cross-sectional diameter. The removable pump system (10) of the multiple pump according to claim 2. For each removable pump (14) , the pumping mechanism
A drive gear (70) having a plurality of drive gear teeth (72) , wherein the drive gear is arranged in the pumping chamber (42) and rotatably driven by the pump motor (60) . Drive gear and
A play gear (74) having a plurality of play gear teeth (76) that mesh with the drive gear teeth (72) , wherein the play gear is arranged in the pumping chamber ( 42) and the pumping chamber (42). The removable pump system (10) of the multiple pump according to claim 1, comprising a play gear attached to an idler shaft (78) located within). For each removable pump (14) , the pump housing (40) is located adjacent to a sensor port (48) through which fluid is communicated to the pumping chamber (42) and the sensor port (48) . The pressure transducer (100) is further provided, and the transducer (100) is in contact with a certain amount of fluid at the second pressure to generate an electric signal based on the second pressure. 1. Detachable pump system for multiple pumps according to 1 (10) . The removable pump system (10) of the multiple pump according to claim 1, wherein the removable pump (14) is a beverage syrup pump. A post-mixed beverage dispenser system (120) , wherein the post-mixed beverage dispenser system is:
A beverage weighing and distributing station (122) having a plurality of beverage mixing and measuring and distributing nozzles (124) ,
A supply of carbonated water fluidly communicated with each of the beverage mixing / measuring and distributing nozzles (124) .
Multiple beverage syrup containers (136) , each with a high concentration beverage syrup supply, and
The removable pump system (10) of the multiple pump according to any one of claims 1 to 7 , wherein the removable pump (14) is a syrup pump, and each syrup pump ( For 14), the input port (44) is fluid-fed to one of the beverage syrup containers (136) and is fluid-fed to the pumping chamber (42), and the output port (46) is. Post . Mixed fluid dispenser system (120) . The control pump system (10) of the multiple pump, wherein the control pump system of the multiple pump is
A pump enclosure (12) adapted to receive a plurality of removable pumps (14) having at least one panel (18) , wherein the panel is a plurality of openings (32), and said. It has at least one horizontal lip (34) located above the plurality of openings (32), the lip (34) is formed with a plurality of slots (36), whereby the plurality of openings. With a pump enclosure, one slot (36) is located above each of the portions (32).
A plurality of removable pumps (14) that are at least partially located within the pump enclosure, each removable pump (14) .
A pump housing (40) having an internal pumping chamber (42) , an inlet port (44) , an outlet port (46) , and a sensor port (48) , each of which is in the pumping chamber (42) . Pump housing, fluid communication,
A spring-loaded retainer pin (50), which is received in a retainer pin hole (52) formed on the outer surface of the pump housing (40).
Pump motor (60) ,
A pumping mechanism that is at least partially disposed within the pumping chamber (42) and driven by the pump motor (60) , wherein the pumping mechanism passes through the inlet port (44) to the pumping chamber. The fluid entering (42) can be received at the first pressure and discharged from the pumping chamber (42) through the outlet port (46) at a second pressure higher than the first pressure. Can be a pumping mechanism,
A pressure transducer (100) located adjacent to the sensor port (48) , wherein the pump pump (100) comes into contact with a certain amount of fluid at the second pressure and the second A pressure transducer that generates an electrical signal based on pressure, as well as a programmable microcontroller (102) , wherein the programmable microcontroller receives the electrical signal from the pressure transducer (100) . It has a programmable microcontroller that is electrically connected to the pump motor ( 60) and is capable of starting and stopping the pump motor (60), with at least a portion of the pump (14) being the pump. Placed in the enclosure (12), a portion of the retainer pin (50) extends through one of the panel slots (36), thereby in the pump enclosure (12). With a plurality of removable pumps , which hold at least a portion of the removable pump (14) .
A common control panel (110) for controlling each of the plurality of removable pumps (14) , wherein the control panel (110) is used.
At least one reset switch (112) for each removable pump (14) , electrically connected to the programmable microcontroller (102) for the removable pump (14), and said. At least one pump status indicator (114) for each removable pump (14) , electrically connected to the programmable microcontroller (102) for the removable pump (14). A controlled pump system (10) for multiple pumps, each pump status indicator (114) comprising a common control panel having at least one pump status indicator capable of indicating multiple pump states. For each of the plurality of removable pumps (14) , the pumping mechanism
A drive gear (70) having a plurality of drive gear teeth (72) , wherein the drive gear is arranged in the pumping chamber (42) and rotatably driven by the pump motor (60) . Drive gear and
A play gear (74) having a plurality of play gear teeth (76) that mesh with the drive gear teeth (72) , wherein the play gear is arranged in the pumping chamber ( 42) and the pumping chamber (42). ) Is equipped with a play gear that can be attached to the idler shaft (78) located inside.
The controlled pump system (10) for a multiple pump according to claim 9 , wherein the sensor port (48) is located downstream of the drive gear (70) and the play gear (74 ). The control panel (110) has at least two pump status indicators (114) for each removable pump (14) , and each pump status indicator (114) can indicate a plurality of pump states. The controlled pump system (10) of the multiple pump according to claim 9 . For each of the plurality of removable pumps (14) , the microcontroller (102) stops the pump motor (60) when the second pressure exceeds a first predetermined pressure threshold. The controlled pump system (10) for multiple pumps according to claim 9 , wherein the at least one pump status indicator (114) signals a first pump status. For each of the plurality of removable pumps (14) , the microcontroller (102) stops the pump motor (60) when the second pressure drops to a second predetermined pressure threshold. The controlled pump system (10) for a multiple pump according to claim 9 , wherein the at least one pump status indicator (114) signals a second pump status. The removable pump system (10) of the multiple pump according to claim 9 , wherein the removable pump (14) is a beverage syrup pump. A post-mixed beverage dispenser system (120) , wherein the post-mixed beverage dispenser system is:
A beverage weighing and distributing station (122) having a plurality of beverage mixing and measuring and distributing nozzles (124) ,
A supply of carbonated water fluidly communicated with each of the beverage mixing / measuring and distributing nozzles (124) .
Multiple beverage syrup containers (136) , each with a high concentration beverage syrup supply, and
The controlled pump system (10) for multiple pumps according to any one of claims 9 to 13 , wherein the removable pump (14) is a syrup pump, and each syrup pump (14 ). ) , The input port (44) is fluid-transmitted to one of the beverage syrup containers (136) and the pumping chamber (42), and the output port (46) is. A post-mix system comprising a controlled pump system of multiple pumps that is fluid-transmitted to the pumping chamber (42) and fluid-transmitted to one of the beverage mixing / weighing and distributing nozzles (124). Beverage dispenser system.