WO2013164779A1

WO2013164779A1 - Beverage dispensing unit for seasonal modularity

Info

Publication number: WO2013164779A1
Application number: PCT/IB2013/053462
Authority: WO
Inventors: Anand ARORA; Gurmeet Singh BHUTANI; Rahul Sadashiv Kamble; Tanmaya VATS
Original assignee: The Concentrate Manufacturing Company Of Ireland
Priority date: 2012-05-02
Filing date: 2013-05-02
Publication date: 2013-11-07
Also published as: EP2844116A1; RU2586824C1; BR112014027221A2

Abstract

A beverage dispensing unit for preparing and dispensing beverages includes both a heating unit and a cooling unit for heating or cooling of a water supply source. The heating unit and cooling unit having a valve disposed therebetween that controls or restricts the flow from either the heating unit or the cooling unit. Such mechanism provides for dispensing hot or cold beverages, including powder based, concentrate or syrup based, and water. In addition, pre-chilled concentrates can be mixed with hot water to provide for warm beverages. The dispensing unit further contains therein a plurality of storage units, which store a shelf stable powder or a concentrate, and a plurality of mixing devices connected to the storage units for mixing the powders or concentrates with hot or cold water.

Description

BEVERAGE DISPENSING UNIT FOR SEASONAL MODULARITY

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to dispensing machines, and, more specifically, to beverage dispensing machines for preparing and dispensing a variety of hot or cold beverages.

BACKGROUND

[0002] The consumption of liquid refreshment beverages, including hot and cold drinks such as coffee, tea, carbonated soft drinks, fruit juices, and energy drinks, is increasing in different countries around the globe. Current beverage dispensing machines include coffee machines for facilitating preparation and dispensing of different hot beverages including coffee, tea with milk, cardamom tea, lemon tea etc. Other dispensing machines are also available for the dispensing of carbonated soft drinks. Further, water dispensing machines are available and are used widely in offices and in homes to dispense hot and cold water. However, none of the conventionally available dispensing machines incorporate a mechanism for dispensing all these hot and cold beverages within the same machine. To be able to offer a variety of hot and cold beverages, one must invest large sums of money and possess unlimited space for each of these different dispensing units. The space constraints in many shops would benefit from a compact, versatile machine for dispensing a wide variety of beverages.

[0003] In addition, a beverage dispenser capable of customizing the beverages dispensed therefrom based on the seasonal demands would also be desirable. Consequently, there exists a need for a low cost unique and consolidated dispensing unit, which can facilitate dispensing of different carbonated and non-carbonated beverages. There is also a need for a beverage dispensing unit that can provide for easily selecting either hot or cold options therefrom, according to the seasonal demands. Such a beverage dispensing unit would reduce the costs incurred, as well as reduce the space occupied, as compared to buying a number of dispensing machines for the offering beverages at different temperatures.

SUMMARY

[0004] A beverage dispensing unit for obtaining a desired proportionate metered mixture of a concentrate or a powder solution with water, to prepare a wide variety of hot and/or cold beverages is disclosed herein.

[0005] A beverage dispensing unit for preparing and dispensing hot or cold beverages, said unit comprises a heating unit in fluid communication with a water supply source, said heating unit comprising a first water supply channel extending therefrom to a first mixing device; a cooling unit in fluid communication with the water supply source wherein said cooling unit comprises a second water supply channel extending therefrom to a second mixing device, wherein said first water supply channel is in fluid communication with said second water supply channel via a third water supply channel; a valve disposed within the third water supply channel to control water flow from at least one of: the heating unit and the cooling unit; a first beverage dispensing tube fluidly communicating with said first mixing device for dispensing a hot beverage; and a second beverage dispensing fluidly communicating with said second mixing device for dispensing a cold beverage.

[0006] In some embodiments, the valve of the beverage dispensing unit prevents water flow from the cooling unit. In such embodiments, the dispensing unit further comprises a powder containing storage unit having an outlet connected to the first mixing device, wherein the powder containing storage unit comprises a powder; the first water supply channel supplies hot water to the first mixing device; and the first beverage dispensing tube is connected to an outlet of the mixing device for dispensing a hot powder-based beverage. The first mixing device may comprise a hopper wherein the powder is mixed with the hot water.

[0007] Alternatively, in some embodiments where the valve prevents water flow from the cooling unit, the dispensing unit further comprises a concentrate containing storage unit having an outlet connected to the second mixing device, wherein the concentrate containing storage unit comprises a pre-chilled concentrate (or syrup); the third water supply channel supplies hot water to the second mixing device; and the second beverage dispensing tube fluidly connects to an outlet of the second mixing device for dispensing a warm concentrate- based beverage. Thus, the pre-chilled concentrate liquid solution is combined and mixed with the hot water within the second mixing device. The second mixing device may comprise a venturi device wherein a concentrate is mixed with hot water.

[0008] In other embodiments, the valve of the beverage dispensing unit prevents water flow from the heating unit. In such embodiments, the dispensing unit further comprises a concentrate containing storage unit having an outlet connected to the second mixing device, wherein the concentrate containing storage unit comprises a pre-chilled concentrate (or syrup); the second water supply channel supplies cold water to the second mixing device; and the second beverage dispensing tube is fluidly connected to an outlet of the second mixing device for dispensing a cold concentrate-based beverage. The second mixing device may comprise a venturi device wherein a concentrate is mixed with cold water.

[0009] In any embodiment, the beverage dispensing unit described herein comprises an electronic control unit for controlling one or more solenoid valves coupled thereto, wherein said solenoid valves are disposed within one or more of the water supply channels. A user interface may be coupled to the electronic control unit, the user interface configured to obtain a user's desired input corresponding to a specific beverage to be dispensed from a beverage dispensing tube.

[0010] In any embodiment, the beverage dispensing unit comprises one or more valves disposed within the third water supply channel.

[0011] In any embodiment, the beverage dispensing unit comprises a plurality of a powder containing storage units; a plurality of first mixing devices, wherein the first mixing devices comprise a hopper connected to an outlet of a powder containing storage unit; and a plurality of dispensing tubes, each connected to an outlet of the hopper.

[0012] In any embodiment, the beverage dispensing unit comprises a plurality of a concentrate containing storage units; a plurality of second mixing devices, wherein the second mixing devices comprise a venturi device in fluid communication with an outlet of a concentrate containing storage unit; and a plurality of dispensing tubes, each connected to an outlet of the venturi device.

[0013] In any embodiment, the water supply channels of the beverage dispensing unit comprise carbonated water. In any embodiment, the water supply channels of the beverage dispensing unit comprise filtered water.

[0014] The present disclosure provides a beverage dispensing unit for dispensing multiple beverages. The dispensing unit includes both a heating unit and a cooling unit to dispense beverages comprising a number of different temperatures. Multiple storage units containing different kinds of concentrates or powders may also be located within the beverage dispensing unit. All components necessary for the preparation of a wide variety of beverages can be found mounted within the housing of the beverage dispensing unit. In addition, a valve provides for a simple mechanism of switching between hot or warm beverages and cold beverages such that the same machine can be used throughout the seasons of the year, whether hot or cold climates exist. [0015] Additional aspects, advantages, features and objects of the present disclosure would be made apparent from the drawings and the detailed description of the illustrative embodiments construed in conjunction with the appended claims that follow.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of a beverage dispensing machine in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure.

[0017] Figure 2 shows a perspective view of the beverage dispensing unit in accordance with the present disclosure, depicting its interior components.

[0018] Figure 3 shows a diagram representing a conventional venturi tube, depicting the fluid flow lines across the tube.

[0019] Figure 4A shows a schematic view of one embodiment of a venturi device used in the beverage dispensing unit of the present disclosure.

[0020] Figure 4B shows a schematic view of another embodiment of a venturi device used in the beverage dispensing unit of the present disclosure.

[0021] Figure 5 shows the venturi device of Figure 4 attached to the other components of the beverage dispensing unit, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure.

[0022] Figure 6 shows the design of the venturi device used in the beverage dispensing unit of the present disclosure, with a conduit molded thereto.

[0023] Figure 7 shows another aspect of the beverage dispensing unit of Figure 1.

[0024] Figure 8 shows another embodiment of the beverage dispensing unit described in Figure 7.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

[0025] The following detailed description elucidates aspects of the disclosure and the ways it can be implemented. However, the description does not define or limit the invention, such definition or limitation being solely contained in the claims appended thereto. Although the best mode of carrying out the invention has been disclosed, those skilled in the art would recognize that other embodiments for carrying out or practicing the invention are also possible.

[0026] Currently, many dispensing machines are available for mixing concentrates or powder with water, to prepare and dispense hot or cold beverages through the machines. These include dispensing machines for preparing and dispensing hot beverages like coffee, tea, lemon tea etc., and cold beverage dispensing machines for dispensing different carbonated drinks. There are also simple hot and cold water dispensing machines that are widely used in houses and office premises. If a shopkeeper, for example, desires to provide all of these different kinds of beverages, he needs to buy the different dispensing machines. The individual machines will occupy significant table space, and are expensive. Generally, a coffee dispenser does not incorporate the capability to dispense cold juice beverages or carbonated beverages, and similarly, a carbonated drinks dispenser does not include all components necessary for coffees and teas. Further, in the current carbonated drinks dispensers, the concentrate to be mixed with water is routed to flow mixers through pumps. These pumps contribute significantly to the overall cost of the dispensing machine.

[0027] The present disclosure provides a consolidated multi-purpose dispensing machine that facilitates dispensing of a variety of hot and cold beverages, including coffee, tea, non- carbonated soft drinks, like juices, and carbonated soft-drinks. Further, the concentrate used in the dispensing machine of the present disclosure, for preparing carbonated and non- carbonated soft drinks, is routed to venturi devices by virtue of gravity and precisely mixed therein with water. This eliminates the need for pumps that are conventionally used for routing the concentrate to flow mixers or hoppers in the dispensing machines.

[0028] Figure 1 shows the schematic diagram representing the components of a beverage dispensing unit 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the dispensing unit 100 (referred to as 'unit 100' hereinafter, for simplicity and economy of expression) includes different storage units 102, 104, 106 and 108, each comprising a powder. While four different storage units containing powder have been shown, the number can be increased to make the unit 100 more versatile. The powder containing storage units 102, 104, 106, 108 are used for preparing both hot and cold powder based beverages, including without limitation tea, coffee, lemon tea. The powder containing storage units disperse powder from therein using a gravity feed system. A channel 118, 120, 128, 130 connects each of the storage units 102, 104, 106, 108 to mixers 122, 124, 132, 134 respectively, where the powder can be mixed up with water before being dispensed through a dispenser 126 provided at the bottom of the unit 100. The mixers 122, 124, 132 and 134 comprise hoppers that are conventionally used in beverage dispensing machines, each having a discharge duct, for delivering the mixture of the powder and water in a desired proportion.

[0029] Another set of storage units 110, 112, 114 and 116 are shown, each of which contains a liquid concentrate or syrup for making cold non-carbonated or carbonated beverages using water or soda water, for example. A channel 136, 138, 140 and 142 connects each of the concentrate containing storage units 110, 112, 114 and 116, respectively, to a venturi device 146, 144, 148 and 150. The channels 136, 138, 140, 142 supply the concentrate or syrup through a cooling unit 170 and to a first inlet of their respective venturi devices. Thus, the concentrates are pre-chilled prior to being pulled into a venturi device. This provides for multi-temperature dispersing wherein the pre-chilled concentrate can slightly lower the temperature of the water to which it is added. For example, water at a temperature of between about 4-8°C can be mixed with pre-chilled syrup of about 14-16°C in a ratio of between about 5: 1 to about 6: 1, to produce a beverage having a final temperature of about 6-10°C. Similarly, water at a temperature of between about 85-90°C can be mixed with pre-chilled syrup of about 14-16°C in a ratio of between about 5: 1 to about 6: 1, to produce a beverage having a final temperature of about 60-65°C. While the concentrate coils are depicted as vertical in the cooling unit 170, it should be noted that the coils may also be horizontal in one embodiment. Further, different orifice valves, as represented by element 152, are disposed within each of the channels 136, 138, 140 and 142. The valves 152 are meant to prevent the backflow of the concentrate from the venturi devices, described below, towards the respective concentrate storage units to which they are connected. Preferably, there is no gap between the venturi device and the orifice, or non-return, valve 152. A set of conduits is also provided at the ends of the channels connecting the concentrate storage units to their respective venturi devices. Specifically, for example, as depicted, a conduit 160 (represented by the inclined arrow leading into the venturi device 144) is attached to an end of the channel 138. With the aid of venturi effects, the conduit 160 routes the concentrate received from the channel 136, towards the diverging portion of a venturi device 144, where the concentrate is thoroughly mixed with water. Similarly, other conduits, as shown by the inclined arrows, route the concentrate received from the different channels towards the diverging portion of the respective venturi devices to which they are attached, as will be further described below.

[0030] Though not clearly interpretable from the schematic diagram of the Figure 1, each of the concentrate storage units is placed with its outlets or opening facing the bottom such that the concentrate flows towards the outlet by force of gravity. Thus, a downwardly facing outlet in the concentrate containing storage units aids in eliminating the need for a pump to route the concentrate. As depicted in Figures 1 and 2, the concentrate storage units 110, 112, 114, 116 are positioned or located at levels below the venturi. Such positioning avoids unwanted flow or dripping of the concentrates. [0031] A water supply source 162 is provided at the top of the unit 100, for supplying water to be mixed with the stored powders or concentrates, for preparing different beverages. A pump 163 pumps the water from the water supply source 162 to different sections of the dispensing unit 100. Preferably, the water pressure is regulated to ensure constant pump flow by any means known in the art including without limitation a pump or a pressure regulator. Such pump or pressure regulator ensures the required pressure from the water source to ensure flow consistency and aid in creating enhanced venturi effects that eliminate the need for pumps to pull in concentrate. A filter 164 is provided to clean the water before it is delivered to the unit 100. While the filter 164 is depicted as following the water supply source 162, it should be noted that the filter may also precede the water supply source such that filtered water is stored and readily available for use. Thus, in one embodiment, the water supply source may comprise filtered water. In another embodiment, the water supply source may comprise carbonated soda water. Optionally, in another embodiment, a water storage container may be placed on top of the unit. Optionally, in one embodiment, filtration units may comprise a TDS detection system, which will cutoff water supply if water quality standards are not met.

[0032] The water supply channel 166 egressing from the filtered water, as shown in Figure 1, divides into three different sub-channels 166(a), 166(b) and 166(c). The subchannel 166 (b) enables dispensing of ambient water through the unit 100, when desired. A heating unit 168 and a cooling unit 170 are also provided within the beverage dispensing machine for heating or cooling water obtained from the water supply source 162. The heating unit 168 comprises a thermostat and a heating element of conventional construction (not shown) for controlling the temperature of the hot water in the heating unit. The cooling unit 170 similarly comprises a thermostat (not shown) and is further connected to a compressor. Sub-channel 166(a) continuously supplies filtered water to the heating unit 168 and similarly, sub-channel 166(c) supplies clean filtered water to the cooling unit 170. Further, the sub-channels 180, 182 and 184 facilitate dispensing of hot water, ambient filtered water, and cold water through the dispensing unit 100.

[0033] As described above, the powders contained within the storage units 102 and 104 can be used for making hot beverages. As an example, the powder within the storage unit 102 can be a dry coffee powder, while the powder within the storage unit 104 can be used for making a tea. For preparing the respective hot beverage, the mixers 122 and 124 obtain powder from the units 102 and 104, respectively, and hot water from the heating unit 168. Specifically, the channel 168(a) emerging from the heating unit and carrying hot water, bifurcates into channels 168(b) and 168(c), which supply hot water to the mixers 122 and 124, respectively. The hot water is mixed with the powder in the respective mixers, and the corresponding hot beverage is dispensed through a dispenser 126 provided at the bottom of the unit 100. Two solenoid valves 172(a) and 172(b) are disposed within the hot water subchannels 168(a) and 168(b), respectively. The purpose of these solenoid valves is to route the hot water obtained from channel 168(a) through either of the two channels 168(b) or 168(c), based on a user's desire. Specifically, if a user is interested in obtaining coffee from the unit 100, with the corresponding powder thereof being contained in storage unit 102, the solenoid valve 172(b) is electronically inactivated and this blocks the routing of hot water obtained from the sub-channel 168(a) through the sub-channel 168(c). Further, the solenoid valve 172(a) disposed within the sub-channel 168(b) is opened electronically, and eventually, the pressurized hot water is directed to flow through the sub-channel 168(b), and gets mixed with the powder in mixer 122, to prepare the desired beverage.

[0034] The dispensing unit 100 includes an electronic control unit 216 (shown in Figure 2) and a user interface on the exterior of the device (not shown) for obtaining a user's desired input corresponding to a specific beverage to be dispensed from the dispensing unit 100. The user interface is coupled to the electronic control unit 216, and controls the opening or closing of the different solenoid valves as represented by valves 172(a) and 172(b) in Figure 1, for example, through the electronic control unit 216, once a user's desired input is obtained. As shown in Figure 1, these solenoid valves are disposed within different sub- channels supplying water. Those skilled in the art will understand that different electromechanically driven solenoid valves are conventionally available, and passage of electric current through these valves can switch the outflow between different outlet ports of the valve, to achieve the purpose. With the passage of electric current into the solenoid of a solenoid valve, the solenoid converts the electrical energy into mechanical energy, and this energy is used to open or close the valve mechanically, to shut-off or turn-on the flow of water through it. Similarly, other solenoid valves represented by similar symbol in the schematic diagram of Figure 1 are disposed in the different sub-channels supplying hot or cold water to the different venturi devices or flow mixers. Specifically, the solenoid valves block the routing of the hot or cold water through specific sub-channels, based on the demand or an instantaneous input. In other less preferred embodiments (not shown), manually operated valves, for example, mechanical ball valves, can be used in place of the disclosed electronically operated solenoid valves.

[0035] The cooling unit 170 continuously obtains water from the water supply source 162, through the sub-channel 166 (c). Depending on the user's desire, this cold water is routed to the mixers 132 and 134 through channel 174 for combination with the powders stored in the powdering containing storage units 106, 108. Alternatively, cold water from the cooling unit 170 is routed through a venturi device 144, 146, 148, or 150 for combination with the concentrates stored in the concentrate containing storage units. In a similar way, as described in the preparation of hot beverages with powder containing storage units 102 and 104, the powder obtained from the storage units 106 and 108 is received by mixers 132 and 134, respectively, through channels 128 and 130, and is mixed with cold water obtained therein from the sub-channel 174, to obtain the desired cold beverages.

[0036] The sub-channel 176 egressing from the cooling unit 170 supplies cold water to the different venturi devices 144, 146, 148 and 150. As noted previously, the channels 136, 138, 140 and 142 supply concentrate from the storage units 110, 112, 114 and 116, respectively, to the venturi devices 146, 144, 148 and 150. Specifically, as an example, the concentrate from the storage unit 110 is routed through the channel 136 towards a conduit 160 attached to the diverging portion of the venturi device 144. This facilitates discharge of the concentrate easily into the diverging portion of the tube 144.

[0037] Cold water is routed through the channel 176 dividing into different sub-channels as shown and previously described, and each of these sub-channels supplies cold water to the tubular passage of a venturi device 144, 146, 148, 150. Thus, cold water and the concentrate are mixed in the desired proportion within a venturi device, and the mixture is eventually dispensed through the dispenser 178 provided at a bottom portion of the unit 100. This facilitates different kinds of cold carbonated and non-carbonated beverages to be dispensed from the dispensing unit 100. The exact process and principle involved in mixing the concentrate with water in the desired proportion within the venturi devices, and the method for controlling the proportion based on the user's desire, will be explained in details hereinafter.

[0038] Figure 2 shows a view of a beverage dispensing unit 200 in accordance with one embodiment, clearly depicting its interior components. A water supply source 208 at the top portion of the dispensing unit 200 supplies water to the different sections of the unit 200. The water is partially routed to a heater tank 210 and to a chilling tank 212, for obtaining hot or cold water. Further, as shown, the beverage dispensing unit 200 includes multiple storage units 202 that contain different concentrates or syrup solutions, preferably of the bag-in-box type. The storage units 202 are mounted within a support frame and placed on a slidable platform over a bottom portion of the support frame to allow for easily removing and replacing bag-in-box concentrates from the unit. Each such storage unit 202 is connected at its outlet to a venturi device 204 and each comprises an outlet that is positioned below the venturi device 204 and preferably facing the ground to allow concentrate to flow under the force of gravity before being suctioned into the venturi device, as further described below. The dispensing unit 100 includes an electronic control unit 216 and a user interface on the exterior of the device (not shown) for obtaining a user's desired input corresponding to a specific beverage to be dispensed from the dispensing unit 200. The user interface is coupled to the electronic control unit 216, which controls the opening or closing of the different solenoid valves, as previously described. Based on a user's demand for any desired carbonated or non-carbonated cold drink, the water obtained from the chiller tank 212 and the concentrate obtained from one of the storage units 202, get mixed in the corresponding venturi device 204, and is eventually dispensed through one of the dispensers 220 provided at the bottom of the unit 200. Each of the dispensers 220 has multiple dispensing holes for dispensing different kinds of beverages, belonging to the same category. For example, one of the dispensers 220 can correspond to a spot for accessing juices, and the different holes provided within that dispenser can facilitate different kinds of juices to be dispensed therefrom, for example, orange juice, lime juice etc. Each of these holes is connected to a specific dispensing tube 230, which in turn is connected to a specific concentrate storage unit 202 having a specific kind of concentrate.

[0039] Multiple dry powder storage units 206 are provided for facilitating preparation of different beverages within the dispensing unit 200. The powder storage units 206 are each connected to different hoppers 214 which obtain powder therefrom, on obtaining a user's command for a specific beverage. In the hoppers 214, for example, the hot water obtained from the heater tank 210 and the powder obtained from the storage units 206, are mixed, and the mixture is dispensed through a corresponding dispenser 220. Multiple dispensing tubes 230 are connected at one end to the outlets of the different venturi devices 204 and the hoppers 208, and are connected at their other ends to the dispensers 220. This allows the flow of the prepared beverage from the venturi devices or hoppers to the dispensers 220. A set of pumps 240 is provided within the dispensing unit 200 for the routing of the hot or cold water to the hoppers 214 or the venturi devces 204.

[0040] The dispensing unit described herein may comprise any number of internal configurations, so long as all of the described components are contained therein. Preferably, however, the outlet of the concentrate storage units should remain positioned below the venturi devices. As apparent from Figures 1 and 2, one of the advantages of the beverage dispensing units described herein is that all consumables are placed within a single compact beverage dispensing unit. By way of contrast, in conventional beverage dispensing machines containing concentrates, the concentrate storage unit is located outside of, or at a distance from the unit. In addition, conventionally, each concentrate storage unit must include its own pump in order to supply a concentrate through a dispensing unit and to an outlet end of a dispenser. However, the presently described embodiments of a beverage dispensing unit eliminate the need for numerous expensive pumps. Only the water flow requires a pumping system. Moreover, the unit provides for both concentrates and powders such that a wide variety of beverages can be prepared within and dispensed from a single beverage dispensing unit.

[0041] The way through which the concentrate emerges from the concentrate storage units of dispensing unit of the present disclosure, without the need for any mechanism (for example, pumps) for compelling the concentrate to flow into the venturi devices, is now explained in conjunction with Figures 3 to 6. First, the general principles of a typical venturi tube are described with reference to Figure 3, which shows a typical venturi tube with a fluid flowing therein in the direction provided by the arrow. The shown streamlines correspond to the case when the fluid flow is substantially laminar. As shown, the tube 300 has a constricted portion 310, a throat 320 and a diverging portion 330. Comparing the fluid flow parameters between the points 1 and 2, as the fluid flows through the converging portion 310 and enters the throat 320, it experiences a sudden increase in its velocity, and hence a drop in its pressure. The amount of pressure drop is obtainable by applying the equation of continuity and the Bernoulli equation between points 1 and 2.

[0042] The equation of continuity implies:

Q = A_lVl = A₂v₂

Application of Bernoulli's equation between points 1 and 2 implies:

Where:

Q = Flow rate of the fluid through the venturi tube

Al = Cross-sectional area of the fluid at point 1

A2 = Cross-sectional area of the fluid at point 2

vi, V2 = Fluid flow velocity at points 1 & 2, respectively

Pressure of the fluid at point 1

P2 = Pressure of the fluid at point 2

p = Density of the fluid

Solving Eq. (i) and (ii), the amount of pressure drop as the fluid passes through the throat 320, is given by:

Due to the pressure drop, there is a vacuum created within the region 332 of the diverging portion 330 of the tube 300, depicted in Figure 3.

[0043] The venturi devices used within the beverage dispensing unit of the present disclosure take the maximum advantage of the vacuum created within a diverging portion of a main tubular passage, utilizing the suction pressure created within it to drawn in the concentrate. The devices further provide for enhanced mixing to effectively combine the concentrate with water within the venturi device. In addition, further features of the venturi devices in conjunction with the components described herein, and further described below, provide for appropriate and precise metering and mixing of the concentrate with water within the venturi device before a beverage is dispensed for consumption.

[0044] Figure 4A shows a schematic diagram representing one embodiment of the venturi devices of the beverage dispensing units described herein. As shown, the venturi device 400 includes a main tubular passage 410 having a converging portion 412, a throat 414, and a diverging portion 416. The converging portion 412 has a substantially constant converging angle θι. Just before the converging portion 412, the tubular passage 410 has a portion of uniform cross-sectional diameter D_{l s} extending for length Li. This portion of the passage 410 is configured to receive water 430 from the water supply source. The converging portion 412 constantly diminishes in cross-section for a length L₂ and transforms into the throat 414 of diameter D₂, which comprises a substantially constant and uniform cross-section, extending for length L3 along a central axis A-A of the tube. In one embodiment, the throat portion comprises a length of between about 4 to about 11 mm. While depicted as substantially straight, the throat portion may comprise a number of shapes. In another embodiment, the throat portion comprises a length of between about 7 to about 8 mm. Just after the throat 414, the tubular passage 410 transforms into the diverging portion 416, which diverges by constant diverging angle θ₂ throughout its length L₄, and widens in cross-section as its diameter changes from D₂ to D₃, as shown. Further, a conduit 420 is fixedly attached to the diverging portion 416 of the tubular passage 410. The conduit 420 has the concentrate 440 flowing through in the direction indicated by the arrow, which is finally discharged into the diverging portion 416. Specifically, the conduit 420 has a discharge outlet connected to its lower end (not shown), and it fluidly communicates with the passage 410 and eventually, discharges the concentrate into it.

[0045] Figure 4B shows a schematic diagram representing another embodiment of the venturi devices of the beverage dispensing units described herein. Again, the venturi device 400 includes a tubular passage 410 having a converging portion 412, a throat 414, and a diverging portion 416. The converging portion 412 has a substantially constant converging angle θι. Just before the converging portion 412, the tubular passage 410 has a portion of uniform cross-sectional diameter D_{l s} extending for length Li. This portion of the passage 410 receives water 430 from the water supply source. The converging portion 412 constantly diminishes in cross-section for a length L₂ and transforms into the throat 414 of diameter D₂, which comprises a substantially constant cross-section, extending for length L₃ along a central axis A-A of the tube. The tubular passage 410 immediately converts into a diverged portion 416, which comprises a diverging angle θ₂ of 90°. Thus, immediately following the throat 414, a diverged portion 416 forms an opening comprising a wall perpendicular to the exterior of the throat 414 around its periphery forming a uniform cross section throughout the remaining length L₄ of the tubular passageway. Such diverged portion widens the passage in cross-section as its diameter changes from D₂ to D₃, as shown. A conduit 420 is fixedly attached to the diverged portion 416 of the tubular passage 410. Concentrate 440 flows through the conduit 420 in the direction indicated by the arrow and is finally discharged into the region 416(a), where it fluidly communicates with the passage 410. It has been found by Applicants that the perpendicular diverging angle provides sufficient suction for the concentrate flow such that concentrate can be introduced directly into the venturi device, where it can be combined and mixed with a water flow therein. The concentrate and water are then thoroughly mixed within the region 416(a) of the diverged portion 416, prior to flowing through the dispenser and into a consumer's receptacle for consumption. This point of entry for the concentrate is somewhat counterintuitive given that the maximum negative pressure is within the throat of the tubular passage 410. Concentrate should be added where there is a minimum obstruction to the water flow. However, at a point within the diverged portion 416, the diverging angle of about 90° provides suction at the corners and a sufficient amount of turbulence, which allows for sufficient mixing.

[0046] As shown in both Figures 4A and 4B, the conduit 420 is positioned at an inclination relative to the central axis of the tubular passage 410, lying between the central axis A- A' of the passage 410 and the line B-B' perpendicular to it. Thus, the conduit is positioned to be inclined at an acute angle with respect to a central axis of the tubular passage 410. Generally, the acute angle is between about 30° to about 90°. At angles less than 30°, the concentrate will no longer mix with water. In one embodiment, the acute angle is about 45°. Making small variations in the inclination of the conduit 420 with respect to the passage 410 lies within the scope of the present disclosure. Positioning and attaching the conduit 420 at the shown acute inclination to the passage 410 ensures that the concentrate 440 unobstructedly flows through the passage 410, and assists the water 430's flow, as soon as it is discharged into the passage 410. Inclining the conduit 420 at an obtuse angle with respect to the central axis B-B', for example, will substantially obstruct and oppose the flow of the water 430 within the passage 410, and is therefore not preferable.

[0047] Due to the sudden divergence of the water flow 430 at the diverging portion 416, a sudden drop in pressure is experienced in the region 416(a) just beneath the diverging angle of the region 416. This creates a suction pressure or vacuum within the region 416(a), which assists in sucking the concentrate 440 within the passage 410. By this virtue, the concentrate 440 is easily sucked into the passage 410 and specifically into the region 416(a) from the conduit 420. Further, swirls are created in the streamlines of water close to the diverging portion 416, beneath the diverging angle, and this swirling motion aids in proper mixing of the water 430 with the concentrate 440, as the concentrate 440 is discharged into that region. The mixture of the two fluids is dispensed through a dispenser attached to the dispensing end of the tubular passage 410.

[0048] The length of the throat 414, i.e. L₃ and its diameter D₃ may be varied and set to a value where maximum pressure drop in the diverging portion 416 can be obtained. Suitable pressures within the venturi device may vary depending on capacity requirements. Generally, a higher pressure provides for more capacity. By way of example, table 1 depicts examples of suitable pressures within the length of the tubular passage in the two embodiments depicted in Figures 4A and 4B, respectively, using a water pressure of about 1.6 liters per minute.

Table 1. Pressures within the tubular passage regions of the venturi device

Region Example 1 Pressures (bar) Example 2 Pressures (bar)

Di 0.668 1.490

D₂ -0.927 -0.104

416(a) -0.171 -0.204

D₃ -0.029 -0.011 [0049] Overall pressures may vary from about -0.1 bar to about 5 barr. In one embodiment, pressure within the diverging portion 416, or in the region 416(a), may range from about -0.204 bar to about -0.171 bar. Suitable pressure within the throat may range from about -0.927 bar to about -0.104 bar. In one embodiment, the ratio of the throat diameter to the inlet diameter Di ranges from about 0.20 to about 0.40. This ensures a smooth and good flow of the concentrate as it is discharged into the diverging portion 416. Generally, the diverging angle θ₂ may range from about 15° to about 165°. In one embodiment, the diverging angle θ₂ is 90°, as depicted in Figure 4B. In one embodiment, the converging angle θι is about 10° to about 70°. In another embodiment, the converging angle θι is about 15° to about 40°. In one embodiment, the converging angle θι is about 21°. To ensure proper flow, for example, the flow of water through the passage may range from about 1 to about 5 liters per minute. In one embodiment, the flow of water through the passage may range from about 1.6 liters per minute to about 3.5 liters per minute.

[0050] Different venturi devices 400, as shown in Figures 4A and 4B, are provided within the beverage dispensing unit of the present disclosure, each attached to an outlet of a concentrate storage unit. Such connections facilitate preparation and dispensing of different beverages within and through the same dispensing unit as shown in Figures 1 and 2. Specifically, each such venturi device 400 has its first inlet connected to, and fluidly communicating with a different concentrate storage unit to facilitate a specific beverage to be prepared. A second inlet of each venturi device 400 is connected to the water supply source of the beverage dispensing unit, for obtaining hot or chilled water, to prepare a specific hot or cold beverage. Further, the outlet of each such venturi device 400 is connected to a different dispensing tube. Each such dispensing tube is connected to a dispenser for obtaining a specific beverage as depicted best in Figure 2. This facilitates preparing and dispensing of different beverages within a single dispensing machine. The components attached to the dispensing end of the venturi device will be explained in more details hereinafter, in conjunction with the figures that follow.

[0051] Figure 5 shows a perspective view of the components of the beverage dispensing unit of the present disclosure that lie proximal to and collaborate with one of its venturi devices, and illustrates how the components collaborate to dispense a desired proportionate mixture of concentrate and water through the dispensing unit. Only the components of the machine in proximity to the venturi device are shown to illustrate how the venturi device functions in cooperation with those components of the dispensing unit.

[0052] As shown, a venturi device 500 is contained within a housing 510, which also incorporates a conduit 530. Similar to the tubular passage 410 depicted in Figures 4A and 4B, the passage 520 of the venturi device 500 has a varying diameter along its longitudinal length, with has a converging portion 522, a throat 524, and a diverging portion 526. The converging portion 522 is preceded by a tubular portion 560 having a substantially constant cross-section. The tubular portion 560 receives the water from a sub-channel connected to a water supply source, as shown in Figure 1. The water inlet 562 may comprise a threaded outer portion to receive the sub-channel connected to the water supply source. However, those in the art will understand that the water inlet 562 can also be welded or molded to the sub-channel, or attached to the sub-channel by any other appropriate conventional means.

[0053] At the other end of the tubular passage 520, its diverging portion 526 extends into another tubular portion 564, which is connected to an outlet 566. The outlet 566 has a threaded outer portion through which it is coupled to a connector 568. The connector 568, at its outlet, is connected to a beverage dispensing tube 572. The dispensing tube 572 has a dispenser 574 provided at its end, to dispense the mixture of the water and the concentrate through the venturi device 500 and into a user's receptacle for consumption. Preferably, the cross-sectional diameter of the dispensing tube 572 following the connector 568 is smaller than the diameter of the connector 568. This assists in creating a suction pressure within the diverging portion 526 of the tubular passage 520. In one embodiment, the venturi device further comprises a small breathing hole or cut such that when the pump is switched off and the water flow stops, the breathing hole will allow for air to enter into the device to promote drying and prevent spoilage of any water or concentrate mixture contained within the venturi device. By way of example, a breathing hole or cut may be located anywhere from the outlet or the exit thereof to the end of the connector. Without intending to limit the beverage dispensing unit, an illustrative breathing hole may comprise a diameter of about 2mm.

[0054] Similar to the conduit passageway 420 shown in Figures 4A and 4B, a conduit 530 is shown in fluid communication with the diverging portion 526 of the tubular passage 520, through which the venturi device 500 receives the concentrate. To facilitate the attachment, the conduit 530 is injection molded into the passage 520, such that the passage 520 and the conduit 530 form a consolidated unit. Further, as shown, the conduit 530 is positioned to be inclined at an acute angle with respect to the central axis of the passage 520. This facilitates unobstructed discharge of the concentrate into the passage 520. Specifically, the concentrate assists the water's flow, as soon as it is discharged into the diverging portion 526 of the venturi device 500. As aforementioned, although the conduit 530 is shown positioned substantially half way angularly, between the central axis of the passage 520 and its perpendicular, variations in the inclination of the conduit 530, with respect to the passage 520, is well within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0055] A discharge outlet 532 is provided at the lower end of the conduit 530, which fluidly communicates with the passage 520 and facilitates easy discharge of the concentrate into the diverging portion 526. A tubular member 580 serves as a fluid entrance channel through which the conduit 530 receives the concentrate. The tubular member 580 is connected to one of the concentrate storage units shown previously in Figure 1, to continuously receive the concentrate. Further, a non-return orifice valve 582 is disposed within the tubular member 580, for precisely controlling the volume of the concentrate entering the conduit 530. The non-return orifice valve 582 is directly connected or attached to the housing 510, forming no gap therebetween.

[0056] The conduit 530 is further provided with a threaded portion at its upper end, to engage with a threaded portion 546 of a plunger 540. The plunger 540 is positioned within the upper portion of the conduit 530 to control the flow rate of the concentrate discharged into the passage 520. The plunger 540 is a screw plunger having a partially threaded outer portion, and the inner surface of the conduit is partially threaded to cooperate with the plunger's threaded portion, and to facilitate movement into and out of the plunger within the conduit 530. Specifically, a tap 549 attached to the top portion of the plunger 540 is rotated to move the plunger within the conduit 530. In one embodiment, the threaded portion restricts movement of the plunger between a top extreme and a bottom extreme position, the top extreme position corresponding to a least volume and the bottom extreme position corresponding to a highest volume of the concentrate or powder solution discharged into the venturi. As shown, the plunger 540 is a screw plunger having a threaded upper portion 546 and a tapered end 542. Any engagement that facilitates movement of the plunger 640 up and down, within the conduit 630 to control the flow of concentrate into the venturi device may be used.

[0057] The plunger is thus used when it is desired to increase or decrease the ratio in which the concentrate and water are mixed. The extent of the threaded portion over the inner surface of the conduit 530, provided at its upper end, restricts the movement of the plunger 540 between two extreme positions with the conduit 530. The top extreme position corresponds to the minimum value of the ratio of water to the concentrate dispensed by the device 500, and similarly, the bottom extreme position corresponds to the maximum value of the ratio of the water to the concentrate dispensed by the device 500. Specifically, when it is desired to increase the proportion of the concentrate in the metered mixture, the plunger 540 can be moved by rotating the tap 549 in a sense moving the plunger downwards, towards the passage 520. Similarly, for decreasing the proportion of the concentrate in the metered mixture, the plunger can be moved upwards by opening the tap 549 in an opposite sense. Generally, the ratio of syrup to water should range from about 2: 1 to about 8: 1. When the conduit 530 is completely open, the syrup to water ratio is about 2: 1. As the plunger is moved down, the ratio will change from about 2: 1 to about 8: 1. Those skilled in the art armed with this disclosure will understand that the extent to which the threads 546 may be provided over the plunger's upper outer portion, and the length of the plunger's tapered portion 542, can be varied in cooperation, to facilitate a broader or a narrower range of variation while controlling the ratio of the water to the concentrate, as desired.

[0058] Multiple slots are provided over the outer portion of the plunger 540. These slots are configured to incorporate different O-rings 544, which help avoid leakage of the second fluid (i.e., the concentrate) from the top or the bottom portion of the conduit 530. When closed, the rings provide for sanitary conditions wherein chemicals within the concentrate line can be avoided. Thus, when not dispensing a desired beverage to a consumer, the plunger provides for a safe and sanitary way of cleaning the mixing line or venturi device. By sealing the concentrate from the tubular passageway 520 with the plunger 540, any necessary cleaning chemicals can be routed through the tubular passageway 520 to clean the device, as it typically required on a periodic basis.

[0059] The components of the venturi device are designed to be composed of materials having properties compatible with the composing constituents of the concentrate. In other words, because the venturi device is a part of a beverage dispensing unit, the material of the conduit and the different portions of the tubular passage, should be selected from food grade materials such as stainless steel, silicon tubing or other food grade plastics or rubbers. In addition, preferably, all materials will also be able to sustain both hot and cold temperatures.

[0060] A further advantage of the beverage dispensing unit stems from the inlet 570, which can receive hot water from the heating unit (shown in Figure 1) to be routed through the system, creating a hot water flushing system. The outlet of the connector 568 coupled to the dispensing tube 572 should not be in communication with the hot water inlet 570 when the venturi device 500 is being flushed, to prevent efflux of the hot water through the dispensing tube 572. For this purpose, a two-way valve or a multi-port valve can be used to serve as the connector 568.

[0061] Similar to the venturi devices of Figures 4A and 4B, the venturi device 500 facilitates proportionate mixing of the concentrate with water. In addition, the plunger controls the amount of concentrate introduced. Briefly, when dispensing a desired beverage from the concentrate storage units, pressurized water is routed through the passage 520 of the venturi device 500. As the water flows, it eventually experiences a constricted flow through the converging portion 522 of the passage 520. Its velocity rises and it experiences a sudden drop in its pressure. When the water reaches the throat 524, it has a minimum pressure value, and as it emerges through it, it creates a suction pressure within the regions of the passage 520 close to the discharge outlet 532 of the conduit 530. Once the water flow is completely established within the passage 520, the concentrate is discharged into the passage 520 through the conduit 530. Specifically, the conduit 530 receives the concentrate through a concentrate storage unit communicating with the tubular member 580. The tubular member 580 directs the concentrate through the conduit 530, towards the discharge outlet 532. Low suction pressure within the diverging portion of the passage 520 sucks the concentrate easily into the passage 520 and the diverging angle ensures suitable mixing of the concentrate with the water, while the plunger 540 controls the flow rate of the concentrate into the passage 520. The metered mixture of the two fluids is directed towards the dispensing tube 572, and is eventually dispensed through the dispenser 574 for consumption.

[0062] A plurality of flow metering devices or venturi devices 500, as shown in Figure 5, may be provided within the beverage dispensing unit of the present disclosure, and attached to the outlets of a plurality of concentrate storage units, to facilitate preparation and dispensing of different beverages within and through the same dispensing unit. Specifically, each such venturi device 500 has its first inlet connected to, and fluidly communicating with a different concentrate storage unit to facilitate a specific beverage to be prepared. A second inlet of each venturi device 500 is connected to the water supply source of the beverage dispensing unit, for obtaining hot or chilled water, to prepare a specific hot or cold beverage. Further, the outlet of each such venturi device 500 is connected to a different dispensing tube. Each such dispensing tube is connected to a dispenser for obtaining a specific beverage. This facilitates preparing and dispensing of different beverages within a single dispensing machine.

[0063] Figure 6 shows the exterior view of the venturi device as described in Figure 5. As shown, the venturi device and the conduit 620 form a single consolidated unit 600 configured to be appropriately positioned at the outlet of a specific concentrate storage unit of the beverage dispensing machine, as illustrated in Figures 1 and 2. The housing 610 includes a conduit 620 injection molded to a tubular passage 630 of the venturi device. The tubular passage 630 has a water inlet 632 connectable to a water supply source (not shown). The conduit 620 has a concentrate inlet 622 connectable to a concentrate storage unit (not shown). A non-return valve 624 is disposed directly and immediately adjacent to the concentrate inlet 622, to precisely control the volume of the concentrate flowing through the conduit 620. The outlet 640 is connectable to a beverage dispenser (best shown in Figure 5), to dispense the metered mixture of the concentrate and water based on a user's selected beverage option.

[0064] The beverage dispensing unit of the present disclosure facilitates preparing and dispensing of wide variety of hot and cold beverages, and hence is an extremely economical and compact unit, saving substantial cost. Further, the mixing of the concentrate and the water is achieved effectively in a desired proportion, and the proportion is controllable within a specific range, based on the user's desire. Also, as aforementioned, the concentrate stored in the different concentrate storage units of the dispensing unit easily flows to the venturi devices by virtue of gravity together with the overall cooperating components of the machine, which enhance the venturi effects and eliminate the need of any pumps for routing the concentrate, and hence, further reduces the overall cost of the unit, while maximizing the space available therein. Although the current invention has been described comprehensively, in considerable details to cover the possible aspects and embodiments, those skilled in the art would recognize that other versions of the invention may also be possible. Further, though the disclosure has been presented with reference to specific embodiments, the description is not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure. It is therefore contemplated that any appropriate modifications can be made, without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

[0065] Figure 7 illustrates a further aspect of the beverage dispensing unit, which makes the components therein extremely versatile and able to dispense both cold and hot beverages. As described above, the beverage dispensing unit described herein may comprise one or more valves throughout its water supply channels or sub-channels in order to dispense a wide variety of beverages. Thus, different solenoid valves may be positioned within the different channels supplying hot or cold water.

[0066] Briefly, Figure 7 depicts an illustrative embodiment wherein the dispensing unit comprises solenoid valves 710, 712, 714, 716, 718, 720 throughout the water supply channels as indicated by the arrows extending downward on which the valves are depicted. These solenoid valves are coupled to, and operable through an electronic control unit, when a user input corresponding to a desired beverage is obtained. The user input is obtainable through a user interface containing user selectable options, as described with reference to Figures 1 and 2, above. In one embodiment, one or more of the solenoid valves can be temporarily closed to increase the capacity of the machine and facilitate seasonal modularity. Different beverages prepared within the different mixers (hoppers or venturi devices) are then supplied to the different dispensers provided at the bottom of the dispensing unit. For example, in the summer season or in hot weather, there is typically a low demand for hot beverages like tea and coffee, while the demand for cold beverages is higher. During such times, the solenoid valve 710 can be closed to block the passage of water towards the heating unit 704, and the water received from the water supply source can be routed towards the cooling unit 706. Suitable user selectable options are provided within the user interface of the dispensing unit 700, described above, to achieve this effect. This will substantially increase the capacity of the dispensing unit 700 in producing cold carbonated and/or non-carbonated beverages during summers. Any of the solenoid valves can be automatically activated through the electronic control unit, which is configured to operate these valves.

[0067] As an explanatory example, if a user enters the option for obtaining an orange juice, and the concentrate for orange juice is stored in a concentrate storage unit in fluid communication with a mixer 708, then the electronic control unit coupled to the user interface interprets the user selection and activates/opens the solenoid valves 712, 718 disposed in the sub-channels supplying water thereto. This allows routing of cold water from the water source 702 to the mixer within the venturi tube, where the orange juice concentrate and water are mixed in a specific proportion, and the orange juice is dispensed through the cold water dispenser 734 at the bottom of the dispensing unit 700. Similarly, other solenoid valves can be activated or deactivated on a different user selection, to facilitate dispensing of any other desired beverage.

[0068] As shown in Figure 7, two channels egressing from the water supply source 702 provides water to a heating unit 704 and a cooling/chilling unit 706 within the dispensing unit 700. The heating unit 704 heats the water to a desired temperature, to facilitate supply of hot water through a first water supply channel to one or more mixing devices, such as the venturi device (described above) 708, within the unit 700. One or more channels or sub-channels may extend from the heating unit in fluid communication with a mixing device. Similarly, water is cooled to a substantially low temperature within the cooling unit 706, which supplies cold or chilled water to one or more mixing devices, or hoppers (as described above), 708 by way of a second water supply channel. One or more channels or sub-channels may extend from the cooling unit.

[0069] One or more storage units (now shown in Figure 7) are in fluid communication with the mixers 708. In one embodiment, a storage unit comprises a powder. In another embodiment, a storage unit comprises a concentrate solution. In some embodiments, the dispensing unit comprises a plurality of mixers, each of which is in fluid communication with a storage unit. As water enters a mixer 708, in one embodiment, a powder is combined into the mixer and a powder based beverage is prepared to be dispensed through a beverage dispenser. In another embodiment, as water enters a mixer 708, a concentrate is combined into the mixer and a concentrate based beverage is prepared to be dispensed through a beverage dispenser.

[0070] A third water supply channel 738 extends between the first and second water supply channels of the heating unit and the cooling unit. A valve 724 is disposed therein, which can be switched to discharge either hot or cold water through the dispensing unit. In one embodiment, the valve may be switched to prevent the flow of water from the cooling unit 706. In such instances, the electronic control unit coupled to the user interface interprets the user selection and activates/opens the corresponding valves disposed in the water supply channels of the dispensing unit. In this manner, the beverage dispensing unit provides for a versatile machine capable of dispensing either hot or warm beverages. For example, in one embodiment, if a user desires a hot beverage, the dispensing unit will provide for the distribution of water through the heating unit to make hot water, which will be metered and mixed with a powder in a mixer 708. Once mixed, a hot beverage can be dispensed through a dispenser 730. By way of example, the term "hot" beverages refer to beverages containing temperatures ranging from between about 80°C to about 95°C.

[0071] In another embodiment, if a user selects or prefers a warm beverage, the dispensing unit will provide for the distribution of water through the heating unit to make hot water in the same manner. However, rather than mix the hot water with a powder, the unit can mix the hot water with a pre-chilled concentrate solution such that the combination of hot temperature with a pre-chilled solution will provide for the dispensing of a warm beverage 732. When combined with the hot water, therefore, the pre-chilled concentrate will provide for a warm beverage. By way of example, the term "warm" beverages refer to beverages containing temperatures ranging from between about 10°C to about 80°C.

[0072] Alternatively, the valve 724 may be switched to dispense cold beverages through the cold beverage dispenser 734. Similar to the mixing system with hot water described above, the dispensing unit will provide for the distribution of water through the cooling unit to provide chilled or cold water, which will be metered and mixed with either a powder or a concentrate in a mixer 708. Once mixed, a cold beverage can be dispensed through a dispenser 734. Thus, a cold beverage may also be produced from either a powder or a concentrate solution. By way of example, the term "cold" beverages refer to beverages containing temperatures ranging from between about 4°C to about 10°C.

[0073] It should be noted that depending on the water supply source, the beverage dispensing unit described herein may provide for both carbonated and non-carbonated beverages. For example, in one embodiment, the water supply source may comprise filtered water, which can provide for non-carbonated beverages. In another embodiment, the water supply source may comprise carbonated soda water, which can provide for carbonated beverages.

[0074] In another embodiment, the water supply source may provide water flow through a channel having solenoid valve 710, through the heating unit 704 to be heated, and then through a channel 714, which is sent into an inlet for a hot water dispenser 728 to provide hot water to a consumer. Similarly, in another embodiment, the water supply channel may pass through the channel having solenoid valve 712, through the cooling unit 706 to be chilled, and then through a separate channel 720, which is sent into an inlet for a cold water dispenser 736 to provide cold water.

[0075] Figure 8 depicts another embodiment of the beverage dispensing unit described in Figure 7, which may be used to prepare and dispense hot or cold beverages at multiple temperatures. Thus, based on a seasonal demand, when the need for a specific category of beverages is high, the beverage dispensing unit described herein can be used to facilitate seasonal modularity. Figure 8 similarly depicts a channel 838 having two ball valves 822 and 826 positioned in fluid communication with a first water supply channel from a heating unit 804 and a second water supply channel from a cooling unit 802. During winter or cold weather situations, for example, the ball valve 826 is closed and ball valve 822 is opened. Thus, hot beverages such as hot chocolate, coffee, or tea can be dispensed using one or more powders from one or more powder containing storage units. Alternatively, beverages such as juices may be prepared from the concentrate containing storage units 806 may also be prepared. In such cases, the hot water from the heating tank 804 will combine with the pre-chilled concentrate to provide for warm beverages as described with reference to Figure 7. For example, if warm juice is desired, the concentrate containing storage unit 806 may contain a juice concentrate to be combined with the hot water in the mixers 808 of the venturi devices. Because the syrups or concentrates are pre-chilled through the coils 810, which pass through the chilling unit, the beverage will be dispensed as warm through the warm beverage dispenser (best shown in Figure 7 as reference numeral 732).

[0076] As apparent from Figures 7 and 8, the beverage dispensing unit described herein is useful in both hot and cold weather scenarios. Consequently, the same beverage dispensing unit may be utilized all year round in virtually every season and/or every climate to prepare beverages at a variety of temperatures. Such a benefit provides savings on warehousing costs for companies that no longer need to store a cold beverage dispensing machine during the winter. In addition, consumers or users are able to become familiar with the same dispensing unit, saving time in determining how to use the unit to select a desired beverage.

[0077] User selectable options provided on the user interface may be categorized in some embodiments, with the selection buttons corresponding to beverages within a specific category distinguishably positioned, in proximity, for ease of navigating through the interface and exploring a desired selectable option. For example, in an embodiment, the selectable options corresponding to non-carbonated beverages, such as different juices, ice-tea, or cold- coffee, are provided in a specific panel, and are positioned close to each other. Similarly, the selectable options corresponding to the different hot beverages like coffee, tea, lemon tea, cardamom tea, etc., are positioned close to each other within a second panel, apparently distinguishable from the first panel. This facilitates ease of selection for the user, without exploring for a desired option on the user interface.

[0078] Although the current invention has been described comprehensively, in considerable details to cover the possible aspects and embodiments, those skilled in the art would recognize that other versions of the invention may also be possible. Further, though the disclosure has been presented with reference to specific embodiments, the description is not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure. It is therefore contemplated that any appropriate modifications can be made, without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

Claims

The Claims:

1. A beverage dispensing unit for preparing and dispensing hot or cold beverages, said unit comprising:

a heating unit in fluid communication with a water supply source, said heating unit comprising a first water supply channel extending therefrom to a first mixing device; a cooling unit in fluid communication with the water supply source wherein said cooling unit comprises a second water supply channel extending therefrom to a second mixing device, wherein said first water supply channel is in fluid communication with said second water supply channel via a third water supply channel;

a valve disposed within the third water supply channel to control water flow from at least one of: the heating unit and the cooling unit;

a first beverage dispensing tube fluidly communicating with said first mixing device for dispensing a hot beverage; and

a second beverage dispensing fluidly communicating with said second mixing device for dispensing a cold beverage.

2. The beverage dispensing unit of claim 1 wherein the valve prevents water flow from the cooling unit.

3. The beverage dispensing unit of claim 1 wherein the valve prevents water flow from the heating unit.

4. The beverage dispensing unit of claim 2 comprising:

a powder containing storage unit having an outlet connected to said first mixing device, the powder containing storage unit comprising a powder;

wherein said first water supply channel supplies hot water to the first mixing device to be mixed with said powder, and wherein the first beverage dispensing tube is connected to an outlet of the hopper for dispensing a hot powder-based beverage.

5. The beverage dispensing unit of claim 4 wherein said first mixing device comprises a hopper.

6. The beverage dispensing unit of claim 2 comprising:

a concentrate containing storage unit having an outlet connected to said second mixing device, said concentrate containing storage unit comprising a pre-chilled concentrate liquid solution;

wherein the third water supply channel supplies hot water to said second mixing device to be mixed with said concentrate, and further wherein the second beverage dispensing tube fluidly connects to an outlet of the second mixing device for dispensing a warm concentrate-based beverage.

7. The beverage dispensing unit of claim 6 wherein said second mixing device comprises a venturi device.

8. The beverage dispensing unit of claim 3 further comprising:

a concentrate containing storage unit having an outlet connected to said second mixing device, said concentrate containing storage unit comprising a concentrate liquid solution;

wherein said second water supply channel further supplies cold water to said second mixing device to be mixed with said concentrate, and wherein the second beverage dispensing tube is fluidly connected to an outlet of the venturi device for dispensing a cold concentrate-based beverage.

9. The beverage dispensing unit of claim 8 wherein second mixing device comprises a venturi device.

10. The beverage dispensing unit of claim 1 comprising an electronic control unit for controlling one or more solenoid valves coupled thereto, said solenoid valves disposed within one or more of the water supply channels.

11. The beverage dispensing unit of claim 7 comprising a user interface coupled to the electronic control unit, said user interface configured to obtain a user's desired input corresponding to a specific beverage to be dispensed from one of: the first beverage dispensing tube or the second beverage dispensing tube.

12. The beverage dispensing unit of claim 1 comprising two valves disposed within the third water supply channel.

13. The beverage dispensing unit of claim 1 comprising:

a plurality of a powder containing storage units;

a plurality of first mixing devices, wherein said first mixing devices comprise a hopper connected to an outlet of a powder containing storage unit; and

a plurality of dispensing tubes, each connected to an outlet of the hopper.

14. The beverage dispensing unit of claim 1 comprising:

a plurality of a concentrate containing storage units;

a plurality of second mixing devices, wherein said second mixing devices comprise a venturi device in fluid communication with an outlet of a concentrate containing storage unit; and

a plurality of dispensing tubes, each connected to an outlet of the venturi device.

15. The beverage dispensing unit of claim 1 wherein said water supply channels comprise carbonated water.

16. The beverage dispensing unit of claim 1 wherein said water supply channels comprise filtered water.