WO2016014584A1 - Dispositif de distribution de boisson avec unité modulaire de stérilisation et de filtration d'eau - Google Patents

Dispositif de distribution de boisson avec unité modulaire de stérilisation et de filtration d'eau Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2016014584A1
WO2016014584A1 PCT/US2015/041401 US2015041401W WO2016014584A1 WO 2016014584 A1 WO2016014584 A1 WO 2016014584A1 US 2015041401 W US2015041401 W US 2015041401W WO 2016014584 A1 WO2016014584 A1 WO 2016014584A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
fluid
filter
permeate
crossflow membrane
activated carbon
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2015/041401
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Sriram Tharmapuram
Gary Katz
Cathy LAMB
Nagendra Rangavajla
Original Assignee
Abbott Laboratories
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Abbott Laboratories filed Critical Abbott Laboratories
Publication of WO2016014584A1 publication Critical patent/WO2016014584A1/fr

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A23—FOODS OR FOODSTUFFS; TREATMENT THEREOF, NOT COVERED BY OTHER CLASSES
    • A23L—FOODS, FOODSTUFFS, OR NON-ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES, NOT COVERED BY SUBCLASSES A21D OR A23B-A23J; THEIR PREPARATION OR TREATMENT, e.g. COOKING, MODIFICATION OF NUTRITIVE QUALITIES, PHYSICAL TREATMENT; PRESERVATION OF FOODS OR FOODSTUFFS, IN GENERAL
    • A23L3/00—Preservation of foods or foodstuffs, in general, e.g. pasteurising, sterilising, specially adapted for foods or foodstuffs
    • A23L3/001—Details of apparatus, e.g. for transport, for loading or unloading manipulation, pressure feed valves
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A23—FOODS OR FOODSTUFFS; TREATMENT THEREOF, NOT COVERED BY OTHER CLASSES
    • A23L—FOODS, FOODSTUFFS, OR NON-ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES, NOT COVERED BY SUBCLASSES A21D OR A23B-A23J; THEIR PREPARATION OR TREATMENT, e.g. COOKING, MODIFICATION OF NUTRITIVE QUALITIES, PHYSICAL TREATMENT; PRESERVATION OF FOODS OR FOODSTUFFS, IN GENERAL
    • A23L3/00—Preservation of foods or foodstuffs, in general, e.g. pasteurising, sterilising, specially adapted for foods or foodstuffs
    • A23L3/26—Preservation of foods or foodstuffs, in general, e.g. pasteurising, sterilising, specially adapted for foods or foodstuffs by irradiation without heating
    • A23L3/28—Preservation of foods or foodstuffs, in general, e.g. pasteurising, sterilising, specially adapted for foods or foodstuffs by irradiation without heating with ultraviolet light
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47J—KITCHEN EQUIPMENT; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; APPARATUS FOR MAKING BEVERAGES
    • A47J31/00—Apparatus for making beverages
    • A47J31/44—Parts or details or accessories of beverage-making apparatus
    • A47J31/60—Cleaning devices
    • A47J31/605—Water filters

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a beverage dispensing device, and more particularly to a beverage dispensing device for dispensing a nutritional beverage and configured with a modular water filtration and sterilization unit.
  • a beverage dispensing device for producing a beverage from a pre-packaged beverage powder or liquid concentrate has a housing including a fluid inlet port and a fluid motive device in fluid communication with the fluid inlet port.
  • a fluid purification assembly is in fluid communication with the fluid motive device.
  • a fluid dispensing outlet is configured to expel at least a portion of fluid passing through the fluid purification assembly for mixing with the pre-packaged beverage powder or liquid concentrate.
  • a method of dispensing a fluid to produce a beverage from a pre-packaged beverage powder or liquid concentrate includes purifying a portion of the fluid and heating at least some of the portion of the fluid to at least 100° F. The method also includes expelling the at least some of the portion of the fluid from a fluid dispensing outlet for mixing with the pre-packaged beverage powder or liquid concentrate.
  • a particle filter is in fluid communication with the fluid inlet port and an activated carbon filter is in fluid communication with the particle filter.
  • a crossflow membrane filter is in fluid communication with the pump outlet.
  • a fluid dispensing outlet is configured to expel at least a portion of fluid passing through the crossflow membrane filter for mixing with the pre-packaged beverage powder or liquid concentrate.
  • FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of a beverage dispensing system having a heat exchanger within a fluid container.
  • FIG. 2 is a schematic representation of a beverage dispensing system having a heat exchanger positioned external to a fluid container.
  • FIG. 3 a is a schematic representation of a beverage dispensing system including a secondary dispensing tube.
  • FIG. 3b is a schematic representation of the beverage dispensing device of FIG. 3a including a heat exchanger in line with the secondary dispensing tube.
  • FIG. 4a is another schematic representation of a beverage dispensing system including a secondary dispensing tube.
  • FIG. 4b is a schematic representation of the beverage dispensing device of FIG. 4a including a heat exchanger in line with the secondary dispensing tube.
  • FIG. 5a is a schematic representation of another beverage dispensing system.
  • FIG. 5b is a schematic representation of another beverage dispensing system including a secondary dispensing tube.
  • FIG. 5c is a schematic representation of another beverage dispensing system including a secondary dispensing tube.
  • FIG. 6 is a schematic representation of a water purification subassembly.
  • FIG. 7 is a schematic representation of another water purification subassembly including an ultraviolet light.
  • FIG. 8 is a schematic representation of a beverage dispensing system with the water purification subassembly of FIG. 6.
  • FIG. 9a is a schematic representation of a beverage dispensing system with the water purification subassembly of FIG. 7.
  • FIG. 9b is a schematic representation of a beverage dispensing system including an ultraviolet light within a fluid container.
  • FIG. 9c is a schematic representation of a beverage dispensing system having an ultraviolet light positioned external to the fluid container.
  • FIG. 10 is a schematic representation of a beverage dispensing system with an integrated water purification subassembly having an ultraviolet light within a fluid container.
  • FIG. 11 is a schematic representation of a beverage dispensing system with an integrated water purification subassembly having an ultraviolet light positioned external to a fluid container.
  • FIG. 12 is a schematic representation of another beverage dispensing system having an integrated water purification subassembly.
  • FIG. 13 is a schematic representation of a beverage dispensing system with another integrated water purification subassembly having differently configured filtration pretreatment components.
  • FIG. 14 is a schematic representation of a beverage dispensing system without a filtration system and having an ultraviolet light within a fluid container.
  • FIG. 15 is a schematic representation of a beverage dispensing system without a filtration system and having an ultraviolet light positioned external to a fluid container.
  • FIG. 1 is a schematic of a beverage dispensing device 10 according to one embodiment.
  • the beverage dispensing device 10 is configured to combine a fluid, such as water, with a pre-packaged nutritional powder or liquid concentrate to produce a fluid, such as water, with a pre-packaged nutritional powder or liquid concentrate to produce a fluid, such as water, with a pre-packaged nutritional powder or liquid concentrate to produce a fluid, such as water, with a pre-packaged nutritional powder or liquid concentrate to produce a
  • the pre-packaged powder or liquid concentrate is provided in a disposable container or pod 20 having a container body and a flexible lid that collectively define an enclosed volume ranging from approximately 60 milliliters (ml) to approximately 170 ml in one or more chambers.
  • the container body includes a bottom wall and a side wall extending from and integrally formed as one piece with the bottom wall and terminating in a generally flat rim or flange at an open upper end of the container.
  • at least a portion of the bottom wall and/or side wall may have a generally arcuate shape.
  • the pod 20 is sized to receive from approximately 2 grams to approximately 150 grams of a nutritional powder or liquid concentrate through the open upper end, after which the lid is hermetically sealed to the flange.
  • the container body is molded, thermoformed, or otherwise constructed from a food-safe plastic material, such as polypropylene or polyethylene, and may include additional materials in a multi-layer structure.
  • a gas barrier material such as ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) may constitute a portion of the container body.
  • the lid can be made of a polymer film, metal foil, or any other material suitable for affixing to the flange.
  • At least one of the lid and the container body is configured to receive an injector or similar device through which water, air, or other fluids may be introduced to facilitate mixing and dissolution within the enclosed volume.
  • the introduced fluid(s) may be pre-filtered or alternatively pass through a filtration unit disposed within the container.
  • An outlet member integrally formed as part of or movably coupled to the container body is positioned for dispensing from the pod 20, with the assistance of the introduced fluid(s), a nutritional product incorporating the powder or liquid concentrate.
  • the dispensed product volume can range from approximately 5 ml to approximately 1000 ml.
  • the temperature of the dispensed nutritional product is product dependent and can range from approximately 5° C to approximately 50° C. [0032] Referring again to FIG.
  • the beverage dispensing device 10 includes a housing 30, a first storage tank or fluid container 40, a pump or first fluid motive device 50, a second storage tank or fluid container 60, a heat exchanger 70, an air pump, compressor, or second fluid motive device 80, a fluid dispenser or dispensing outlet 90, a purification system 100, and a controller 110.
  • Associated interconnecting fluid piping or tubing, as well as control or power wiring, not specifically described herein is assumed and will not be further detailed.
  • the housing 30 defines an interior space for compactly containing some or all of the above-mentioned components of the beverage dispensing device 10.
  • a platform, tray, or other receptacle 120 cooperates with the housing 30 to manually or automatically receive the aforementioned pod 20 for engagement with the fluid dispenser 90.
  • the housing 30 can be constructed from any number of suitable rigid materials (e.g. plastic or metal).
  • the housing 30 can be constructed from an opaque plastic and configured to fit on a residential user's kitchen counter.
  • the first storage tank 40 is sized to receive a quantity of fluid, e.g., 4-12 fluid ounces of water, for mixing with the pre-packaged nutritional powder.
  • the first storage tank 40 is removably coupled within a peripheral recess 130 of the housing 30 and accessible to the user for the introduction of water or other fluid through an open upper end, either in place or as a separable component.
  • a discharge port 140 formed at a lower portion of the first storage tank 40 engages an inlet port 150 formed in the housing 30 to connect the storage tank contents with the pump 50 when the first storage tank 40 is coupled to the housing 30.
  • the first storage tank 40 is generally constructed of a clear food-grade plastic to permit visual inspection of the fluid level in the tank 40 and includes a fluid sensing element, such as a pressure or float switch (not shown).
  • a fluid sensing element such as a pressure or float switch (not shown).
  • the inlet port 150 can be connected directly to a potable water line and properly metered to provide a source of mixing fluid.
  • the pump 50 can be, for example, a centrifugal, diaphragm, solenoid-operated, or other type of pump and motor assembly suitable for transporting some or all of the quantity of water from the first storage tank 40 through a suction tube 160.
  • a discharge tube 170 which may include a valve and/or other metering device 180 to regulate discharge flow and/or pressure from the pump 50, exits the high pressure side of the pump 50.
  • additional components e.g., a vent, may be necessary for proper pump operation.
  • Other valves and fluid control components (not shown), such as check valves, may be incorporated as necessary.
  • the pump 50 is constructed of a suitable food-grade material.
  • the heat exchanger 70 is situated within or surrounds a portion of the second storage tank 60.
  • the heat exchanger 70 can be a heating device, such as an arrangement of one or more electric resistance elements, a thermoelectric heater, or other device operable to raise the temperature of the fluid within the storage tank 60.
  • the second storage tank 60 is constructed of a material capable of repeatedly undergoing heating cycles without degradation, such as a stainless steel or other metal.
  • the heat exchanger 70 can be a cooling device, such as a thermoelectric cooler (using the Peltier effect), a vapor compression cycle refrigeration device, a piezoelectric cooler, or other device operable to reduce the temperature of the contained fluid.
  • a dip tube or tank discharge tube 190 having a first end within the second storage tank 60 leads to the dispensing outlet 90.
  • the dispensing outlet 90 is positionable to introduce the water or fluid into the previously described pod 20.
  • the air pump or compressor 80 is operable to pressurize the contents of the second storage tank 60 for dispensing and includes a filter or other hygienic device 200 at or near the air pump inlet.
  • the air pump 80 may further include variable speed functionality.
  • an additional air tube (not shown) connected to the air pump discharge extends to the dispensing outlet 90 to provide additional mixing options.
  • a heat exchanger 204 is positioned in thermal communication with the discharge tube 190 of the second storage tank 60, rather than within the tank 60.
  • Heat exchanger 204 may include any of the technologies associated with heat exchanger 70 and may be in any form suitable for efficient and rapid heat exchange with discharge tube 190, for example, a sleeve or wrap.
  • the discharge tube 190 can have a serpentine or other tortuous configuration to enhance fluid residence time and overall heat transfer.
  • the second storage tank 60 includes a secondary tube 210 in parallel with the storage tank discharge tube 190. With this configuration, the heat exchanger 204 is again external to the second storage tank 60 and in direct contact with only the tank discharge tube 190.
  • One or both of the tank discharge tube 190 and the secondary tube 210 may include an inline flow control element 180 and/or temperature sensing elements 220, and each may lead to a separate dispensing outlet 90.
  • the secondary tube 210 may be in a heat exchange relationship with a heat exchanger 214.
  • one of heat exchangers 204, 214 serves as a heating device and the other of heat exchangers 204, 214 serves as a cooling device.
  • the discharge tube 190 and secondary tube 210 may alternatively unite prior to the dispensing outlet 90.
  • the pump discharge tube 170 in the absence of a second storage tank, is in a direct heat exchange relationship with a heat exchanger 224 serving as a heating or cooling device.
  • the aforementioned pump discharge tube 170 may separate into first and second conduits, with one of the conduits in a heat exchange relationship with the heat exchanger 224 in an arrangement similar to that of FIGS. 3a or 4a.
  • the second conduit may be in a heat exchange relationship with a heat exchanger 228 in a form as previously described, as illustrated in FIGS. 5b and 5c.
  • a transfer pump 234 may be required downstream of the purification system 100 components. In all orientations, one or more temperature sensing elements 220 are positioned to determine the temperature the fluid temperature.
  • the beverage dispensing device 10 may include various configurations of the pump discharge tube 170, with or without a second storage tank 60, and with a heat exchanger 70, 204, 214, 224, 228 and temperature sensing elements 220 positioned at one or more locations.
  • the beverage dispensing device 10 further includes a modular fluid purification system 100, which can include a filtration system with or without a sanitization system.
  • the term “purification” or “purify” does not require that the product water or fluid quality meet a particular quality standard.
  • the fluid purification system 100 can be in the form of a removable subassembly with a separate enclosure 230 securable to the housing 30 for treating the fluid introduced into the first storage tank 40.
  • a subassembly includes an inlet port 240 for receiving water from the discharge of the pump 50, an outlet port 250, and a drain port 260.
  • the housing 30 is equipped with receiving ports 270 for engaging the inlet port 240 and outlet port 250 of the enclosure 230.
  • the receiving ports 270 are in fluid communication with the components within the housing 30 as illustrated.
  • a bypass line 280 interconnecting a pair of mechanically actuated three-way valves 290 permits the dispensing device 10 to operate either with or without the modular fluid purification system 100.
  • the three-way valves 290 may be adjustable manually from outside the housing 30 or automatically in response to coupling or uncoupling of the fluid purification system 100.
  • the purification system 100 includes a particle filter 300, such as a cartridge filter, in fluid communication with the inlet port 240.
  • the particle filter 300 may be in the form of a disposable matrix of natural or synthetic fibers of uniform density or of a progressively increasing density and designed to retain particles from approximately 0.5 microns to approximately 5 microns.
  • the particle filter 300 can be an encapsulated sediment filter with various grades of coarse to fine media.
  • the particle filter 300 is positioned upstream of an activated carbon filter 310, which adsorbs dissolved organic material, including low molecular weight organics (below ⁇ 100 MW) and removes chlorine and other halogens from the processed fluid.
  • a second activated carbon filter (not shown) can be positioned in series with the first activated carbon filter 310.
  • the particle filter 300 and activated carbon filter(s) 310 operate as a pretreatment phase of the filtration system.
  • the discharge of the activated carbon filter 310 may connect to a feedwater inlet 320 of a crossflow membrane element 330, for example a reverse osmosis membrane element.
  • the crossflow membrane element 330 further includes both a permeate outlet port 340 for water which has passed through the membrane, and a concentrate outlet port 350 for the rejected crossflow water.
  • a single pass system with one membrane element is contemplated for the fluid dispensing device 10, but in some applications, the incoming water quality may require a two-pass reverse osmosis design, in which the permeate outlet port 340 of the first pass membrane element is connected to the feedwater inlet of a second pass membrane element, in some applications with a fluid motive device in between (not shown).
  • the reverse osmosis membrane is a semi-permeable membrane, for example a thin film composite semi-permeable membrane, capable of removing organic compounds and ions from the feed stream.
  • the crossflow membrane element 330 may require a minimum 30-60 psi differential across a reverse osmosis membrane, depending on various factors.
  • alternative crossflow filtration membranes may be satisfactory, such as nano filtration (removal of particles greater than approximately 1 nanometer) or ultrafiltration (removal of particles greater than approximately 3-5 nanometers) membranes.
  • nanofiltration or ultrafiltration may be desired based on more favorable incoming fluid quality or may be necessary depending on the available pressure developed by the pump 50.
  • crossflow microfiltration may also be considered for particle removal of approximately 0.1 microns.
  • a permeate tube 360 coupled to the permeate outlet port 340 of the crossflow membrane 330 leads to the outlet port 250 and a concentrate tube 370 coupled to the concentrate outlet port 350 of the crossflow membrane 330 and having an orifice or other flow restrictor 380 leads to the drain port 260.
  • the permeate outlet port 340 is connected to the second storage tank 60, and a water quality meter, for example a conductivity meter (not shown), located within the housing 30 to assess the water quality of the permeate.
  • a water quality meter for example a conductivity meter (not shown) located within the housing 30 to assess the water quality of the permeate.
  • the drain port 260 of the enclosure 230 is interconnected to a drain port 390 formed in the housing 30.
  • the particle filter 300, activated carbon filter 310, and crossflow membrane element 330 are designed for routine replacement, and the subassembly enclosure 230 includes a cover, cap, or lid to facilitate removal of these elements.
  • an additional activated carbon filter 310 can be connected to the permeate tube 360 within the enclosure 230 for post-crossflow filtration treatment.
  • the purification system 100 may also include a sanitization subsystem in the form of ultraviolet light to deactivate the DNA of microorganisms in the water and render them unable to replicate.
  • An inline ultraviolet light 400 is positioned at the permeate outlet 340 prior to the outlet port 250.
  • one or more ultraviolet lights 400 is positioned adjacent and/or about a clear portion of the permeate tube 360 prior to the outlet port 250 of the enclosure 230.
  • the ultraviolet light 400 may include a sensor for signaling its operable readiness.
  • a particle filter 300 and activated carbon filter 310 may together comprise the entirety of the filtration system within the enclosure 230 (i.e., with no crossflow membrane element 330).
  • FIGS. 9b and 9c also illustrate an embodiment in which the ultraviolet light 400 may exist externally to the purification system enclosure 230, such as within second storage tank 60, or be effectively positioned near the discharge tube 190 (or near both tubes 190, 210 if applicable). In other embodiments, only one of the particle filter 300 and activated carbon filter 310 may be present.
  • the purification system 100 is meant to be modular to the user, with various combinations of filtration components available based on the desired water quality.
  • the controller 1 10 receives signals from a plurality of sensors, including the fluid sensing element, the temperature sensing element(s) 220, and the conductivity or similar water quality -based meter, and actuates numerous components, including the pump 50, the air pump 80, the heat exchanger(s) 70, 204, 214, 224, 228, and any controllable valves.
  • a power cord draws electrical power from a conventional A/C outlet (e.g., a 1 10V or 220V outlet) and a power supply converts A/C power drawn from the outlet to low-voltage D/C power suitable for powering the electronic controller 110.
  • the device 10 may draw power from an on-board power source (e.g., a battery).
  • the interactive panel 410 may comprise a separate display (e.g., a liquid crystal display) and a key pad (e.g., a membrane key pad).
  • the panel 410 may comprise one or more touchscreens. The panel 410 displays messages to concurrently alert the user as to system operation and may further identify for the user issues relating to system maintenance.
  • the beverage dispensing device 10 commences a reconstitution process that combines fluid with a beverage base (e.g., a solid powder or liquid concentrate) to produce a drinkable beverage.
  • a beverage base e.g., a solid powder or liquid concentrate
  • the device 10 may produce infusion-type beverages including coffee and tea, mixed beverages such as sports drinks, specialty beverages or formulas for infants or toddlers, or other beverages types.
  • a user selects a pod 20 for a particular beverage, pours a quantity of fluid (e.g., water) into the first storage tank 40, and initiates operation of the system through the user interface 410.
  • the controller 1 10 operates the pump 50 to transport water from the first storage tank 40 to downstream components.
  • the water enters the inlet port 240 of the purification subassembly 100 and flows through the cartridge filter 300 and the activated carbon filters 310.
  • Water exiting the activated carbon filter 310 enters the crossflow membrane element 330 and is split into a filtered permeate stream and the rejected concentrate stream, which exits the subassembly 100 through the drain port 260 and flows to drain via the housing 30.
  • the permeate stream exits the subassembly 100 through the outlet port 250, enters the housing 30 through the receiving port 270, and flows to the second storage tank 60.
  • the permeate stream first passes through or adjacent to the ultraviolet light 400 before exiting through the outlet port 250 and entering the second storage tank 60.
  • the controller 110 can operate the pump 50 for a certain amount of time to transfer a predetermined amount of water from the first storage tank 40 through the purification subassembly 100 to the second storage tank 60, or such operation can be accomplished by sensing the relative water level or pressure in the first storage tank 40, or using another suitable technique.
  • the controller 1 10 activates the heat exchanger 70 to adjust the permeate water to a predetermined temperature.
  • One or more temperature sensors 220 provide feedback to the controller 1 10 to regulate the water temperature.
  • the controller 1 10 operates the air pump 80. As the contents of the second storage tank 60 are pressurized, water flows from the tank 60 through the tank discharge tube 190 to the dispensing outlet 90 for mixing with the nutritional powder within the pod 20.
  • the controller 1 10 can operate the air pump or compressor 80 for a predetermined time, or in some embodiments, a flow or pressure sensing device can send signals to the controller 1 10 to identify when air pump operation is no longer required or to vary the air pump output if a variable speed air pump or compressor 80 is used. Additionally, pressurized air may flow directly to the dispensing outlet 90 for mixing with the dispensing water prior to or at the point of introduction into the container or pod 20.
  • the controller 110 operates the air pump 80 and the heat exchanger 204 concurrently when dispensing is desired and continually monitors the temperature of the water after contact with the heat exchanger 204.
  • the controller 110 adjusts the heat exchanger 204, air pump 80, and any flow control devices 180 as necessary to achieve the proper dispensed water temperature.
  • the controller 110 additionally monitors the secondary tube 210 water for proper mixing with the heated water stream.
  • the pump 50 and/or transfer pump 234, both of which may include variable speed control, are operated to transport water through the system as previously described.
  • the filtration system and sanitization system are not configured as a removably attachable subassembly, but instead the system components are integrated within the housing 30.
  • an integrated purification assembly can be implemented with the peripheral tank 40 as illustrated, it is also shown in FIG. 12 with an alternatively oriented first storage tank 40, which is positioned not peripherally, but at a top portion of the housing 30 above the downstream components of the fluid dispensing device 10.
  • the particle filter 300 and activated carbon filter 310 can be arranged within the housing 30 between the first storage tank 40 and the pump 50 if the minimum suction pressure rating of the pump 50 permits it, or the particle filter 300 can be located on the suction side of the pump 50 with the activated carbon filter 310 disposed on the pump discharge side (not shown). Otherwise, as shown in FIG. 13, both the particle filter 300 and the activated carbon filter 310 can be located downstream of the existing pump 50.
  • the crossflow membrane element 330 is positioned within the housing 30 to receive the discharge from the pump 50.
  • the ultraviolet light 400 may be oriented within the second storage tank 60 (FIGS. 10 and 13) or, alternatively, positioned to treat the water exiting the second storage tank 60 (FIG.
  • the ultraviolet light 400 can be positioned as shown in FIGS. 10 and 1 1, but without prior filtration (see FIGS. 14 and 15).
  • the housing 30 selectively incorporates one or more lids or hatches to facilitate removal and replacement of the cartridges 300, 310, the crossflow membrane element 330, and the ultraviolet lights 400. Again, various filtration and purification combinations are available beyond those described to address particular water quality needs.
  • the controller 1 10 operates the pump 50, air pump 80, and heat exchanger 70 at the direction of the user.
  • Fluid in the first storage tank 40 flows through the cartridge filter 300 and the activated carbon filter 310, located either on the suction or discharge sides of the pump 50, upon pump operation.
  • Fluid exiting the activated carbon filter 310 enters the crossflow membrane element 330 and is split into a purified permeate stream and the rejected concentrate stream, which exits the housing 30 through the drain port 390.
  • the permeate stream flows to the second storage tank 60 and the process proceeds as described with respect to any and all of the previous embodiments.
  • the controller 110 operates the ultraviolet lights 400 within the second storage tank 60 to treat the fluid entering the second storage tank 60 and residing therein. Fluid can be stored in the second storage tank 60 with intermittent activation of the ultraviolet light 400 providing a continuous or semi-continuous sanitization of the stored water. Alternatively, the controller 110 operates ultraviolet lights 400 at the discharge tube 190 of the second storage tank 60 prior to or at the point of introduction into the container or pod 20.
  • the controller 1 10 can operate the heat exchanger(s) 70, 204, 214, 224, 228 to heat water to a specified temperature (e.g., 180° F) to neutralize pathogens and cool that water through a heat exchange relationship with discharge water from the pump 50 to produce a temperate water stream suitable for dispensing.
  • a specified temperature e.g. 180° F
  • Such heat treatment can be used in addition to, or in some instances in place of, sanitization with ultraviolet light.
  • the invention provides a beverage dispensing device for producing a beverage from a pre-packaged beverage powder or liquid concentrate.
  • the beverage dispensing device includes a housing including a fluid inlet port, a fluid motive device in fluid communication with the fluid inlet port, a fluid purification assembly in fluid communication with the fluid motive device, and a fluid dispensing outlet configured to expel at least a portion of fluid passing through the fluid purification assembly for mixing with the pre-packaged beverage powder or liquid concentrate.
  • the fluid purification assembly is removably couplable to the housing.
  • the fluid purification assembly includes an enclosure having an inlet port and an outlet port.
  • the housing further includes a drain port.
  • the fluid purification assembly includes a particle filter.
  • the particle filter is comprised of synthetic polymer fibers.
  • the particle filter is a sediment filter.
  • the fluid purification assembly includes an activated carbon filter.
  • the activated carbon filter is positioned downstream of a particle filter.
  • the activated carbon filter is a first activated carbon filter
  • the beverage dispensing device further includes a second activated carbon filter in fluid communication with the first activated carbon filter.
  • the fluid purification assembly includes a crossflow membrane filter.
  • the crossflow membrane filter includes an inlet port in fluid communication with an activated carbon filter.
  • the crossflow membrane filter is a reverse osmosis filter.
  • the crossflow membrane filter is a nanofiltration filter.
  • the crossflow membrane filter is an ultrafiltration filter.
  • the crossflow membrane filter is a microfiltration filter.
  • the crossflow membrane filter is a first crossflow membrane filter, and the beverage dispensing device further includes a second crossflow membrane filter in fluid communication with the first crossflow membrane filter.
  • the first crossflow membrane filter is in a fluid series relationship with the second crossflow membrane filter.
  • the fluid purification assembly includes an enclosure having an inlet port and an outlet port, and wherein the crossflow membrane filter includes a permeate port in fluid communication with the outlet port.
  • the enclosure includes a removable cover.
  • the removable cover renders accessible for removal the crossflow membrane filter.
  • the beverage dispensing device includes a particle filter in fluid communication with the inlet port and an activated carbon filter in fluid communication with the particle filter.
  • the enclosure includes a removable cover, wherein the removable cover renders accessible for removal the crossflow membrane filter, the particle filter, and the activated carbon filter.
  • the fluid purification assembly further includes a source of ultraviolet light.
  • the fluid purification assembly includes a permeate tube connected to a permeate port of the crossflow membrane filter, wherein at least a portion of the permeate tube is adjacent to the source of ultraviolet light.
  • the fluid purification assembly includes a permeate tube connected to a permeate port of the crossflow membrane filter, wherein the source of ultraviolet light is an inline ultraviolet light in fluid communication with the permeate tube.
  • the fluid purification assembly includes an enclosure having an inlet port and an outlet port, wherein the crossflow membrane filter includes a permeate port in fluid communication with the outlet port, and further wherein the housing includes a first receiving port configured to engage the inlet port and a second receiving port configured to engage the outlet port.
  • the inlet port is configured for fluid communication with the fluid motive device.
  • the beverage dispensing device further includes a fluid container within the housing, wherein the outlet port is configured for fluid communication with the fluid container.
  • the fluid container is in thermal communication with a heat exchanger.
  • the fluid motive device is configured to transfer fluid from the fluid container.
  • the fluid motive device is a variable speed fluid motive device.
  • the beverage dispensing device includes a tank discharge tube in a fluid parallel relationship with a secondary tube, wherein the tank discharge tube and the secondary tube are configured to permit passage of fluid from the fluid container to the fluid dispensing outlet.
  • the tank discharge tube is in direct contact with a heat exchanger.
  • the invention provides a method of dispensing a fluid to produce a beverage from a pre-packaged beverage powder or liquid concentrate.
  • the method includes purifying a portion of the fluid, heating at least some of the portion of the fluid to at least 100° F, and expelling the at least some of the portion of the fluid from a fluid dispensing outlet for mixing with the pre-packaged beverage powder or liquid concentrate.
  • the method includes transferring the fluid from a fluid container to a fluid purification assembly.
  • transferring is effected by a pump.
  • transferring the fluid from a fluid container to a fluid purification assembly means transferring the fluid from the container to a separable enclosure containing the fluid purification assembly.
  • the separable enclosure includes an inlet port and an outlet port.
  • the separable enclosure further includes a drain port.
  • purifying a portion of the fluid includes filtering the portion of the fluid with a particle filter.
  • the particle filter is comprised of synthetic polymer fibers. [00102] In some aspects, the particle filter is a sediment filter.
  • purifying a portion of the fluid includes filtering the portion of the fluid with an activated carbon filter.
  • purifying a portion of the fluid includes filtering the portion of the fluid with an activated carbon filter positioned downstream of a particle filter.
  • purifying a portion of the fluid includes filtering the portion of the fluid with a crossflow membrane filter.
  • the method includes passing the portion of the fluid through an activated carbon filter.
  • the crossflow membrane filter is a reverse osmosis filter.
  • the crossflow membrane filter is a nanofiltration filter.
  • the crossflow membrane filter is an ultrafiltration filter.
  • the crossflow membrane filter is a microfiltration filter.
  • purifying a portion of the fluid includes filtering the portion of the fluid with a first crossflow membrane filter to produce a permeate fluid and filtering the permeate fluid with a second crossflow membrane filter.
  • purifying a portion of the fluid includes sequentially filtering the portion of the fluid with a particle filter, an activated carbon filter, and a crossflow membrane filter.
  • purifying a portion of the fluid includes exposing the portion of the fluid to a source of ultraviolet light.
  • purifying a portion of the fluid includes filtering the portion of the fluid with a crossflow membrane filter to produce a permeate fluid and exposing the permeate fluid to a source of ultraviolet light.
  • purifying a portion of the fluid includes filtering the portion of the fluid with a crossflow membrane filter to produce a permeate fluid and passing the permeate fluid through a permeate tube and through an inline ultraviolet light.
  • the method includes producing a permeate fluid from the portion of fluid with the crossflow membrane filter and transferring the permeate fluid to a second fluid container for heating.
  • the method includes transferring the permeate fluid to the dispensing outlet.
  • transferring the permeate fluid means transferring a portion of the permeate fluid in a first tube and transferring another portion of the permeate fluid in a second tube.
  • the invention provides a beverage dispensing device for producing a beverage from a pre-packaged beverage powder or liquid concentrate.
  • the beverage dispensing device includes a housing including a fluid inlet port, a pump including a pump inlet in communication with the fluid inlet port and a pump outlet, a particle filter in fluid communication with the fluid inlet port, an activated carbon filter in fluid
  • a crossflow membrane filter in fluid communication with the pump outlet, and a fluid dispensing outlet configured to expel at least a portion of fluid passing through the crossflow membrane filter for mixing with the pre-packaged beverage powder or liquid concentrate.
  • the housing further includes a drain port.
  • the particle filter is comprised of synthetic polymer fibers.
  • the particle filter is a sediment filter.
  • the beverage dispensing device includes an activated carbon filter in fluid communication with the particle filter.
  • the activated carbon filter is positioned downstream of the particle filter.
  • the activated carbon filter is a first activated carbon filter
  • the beverage dispensing device further includes a second activated carbon filter in fluid communication with the first activated carbon filter.
  • the crossflow membrane filter includes an inlet port in fluid communication with the activated carbon filter.
  • the crossflow membrane filter is a reverse osmosis filter.
  • the crossflow membrane filter is a nanofiltration filter.
  • the crossflow membrane filter is an ultrafiltration filter.
  • the crossflow membrane filter is a microfiltration filter.
  • the crossflow membrane filter is a first crossflow membrane filter
  • the beverage dispensing device further includes a second crossflow membrane filter in fluid communication with the first crossflow membrane filter.
  • the housing includes a removable cover that renders accessible for removal the crossflow membrane filter.
  • the housing includes a removable cover that renders accessible for removal the crossflow membrane filter, the particle filter, and the activated carbon filter.
  • the beverage dispensing device includes a permeate tube connected to a permeate port of the crossflow membrane filter, wherein at least a portion of the permeate tube is adjacent to a source of ultraviolet light.
  • the beverage dispensing device includes a permeate tube connected to a permeate port of the crossflow membrane filter and an inline ultraviolet light in fluid communication with the permeate tube.
  • the beverage dispensing device includes a fluid container within the housing, wherein the permeate tube is in fluid communication with the fluid container.
  • the fluid container is in thermal communication with a heat exchanger.
  • the beverage dispensing device includes an air pump configured to transfer fluid from the fluid container.
  • the air pump is a variable speed air pump.
  • the beverage dispensing device includes a fluid container discharge tube in a fluid parallel relationship with a secondary tube, wherein the fluid container discharge tube and the secondary tube are configured to permit passage of fluid from the fluid container to the fluid dispensing outlet.
  • the fluid container discharge tube is in direct contact with a heat exchanger.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Food Science & Technology (AREA)
  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Nutrition Science (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Polymers & Plastics (AREA)
  • Water Treatment By Sorption (AREA)
  • Separation Using Semi-Permeable Membranes (AREA)

Abstract

La présente invention concerne un dispositif de distribution de boisson destiné à produire une boisson à partir d'un concentré de boisson liquide ou pulvérulent préemballé, qui présente un boîtier comportant un orifice d'entrée de fluide et un dispositif moteur fluidique en communication fluidique avec l'orifice d'entrée de fluide. Un ensemble de purification de fluide est en communication fluidique avec le dispositif moteur fluidique. Une sortie de distribution de fluide est conçue de façon à expulser au moins une partie du fluide passant par l'ensemble de purification de fluide aux fins de mélange avec le concentré de boisson liquide ou pulvérulent préemballé.
PCT/US2015/041401 2014-07-21 2015-07-21 Dispositif de distribution de boisson avec unité modulaire de stérilisation et de filtration d'eau WO2016014584A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US201462027091P 2014-07-21 2014-07-21
US62/027,091 2014-07-21

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WO2016014584A1 true WO2016014584A1 (fr) 2016-01-28

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EP3338561A1 (fr) * 2016-12-20 2018-06-27 Tetra Laval Holdings & Finance S.A. Dispositif de transfert d'un ingrédient alimentaire
CN109527992A (zh) * 2017-09-22 2019-03-29 清湖乃思株式会社 带隐现式取水部的饮用水供给装置
EP3862312A1 (fr) * 2020-02-10 2021-08-11 Riprup Company S.A. Distributeur de boissons avec filtration d'eau efficace
SE544267C2 (en) * 2018-05-18 2022-03-22 Crem Int Aktiebolag Device for the preparation of tea or coffee beverages and a corresponding method for preparing a beverage

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EP2082670A1 (fr) * 2008-01-24 2009-07-29 Nestec S.A. Filtre interchangeable pour dispositif de production de boissons et dispositif de production de boissons comportant un tel filtre
WO2010028282A1 (fr) * 2008-09-04 2010-03-11 Razbaby Innovative Baby Products, Inc. Appareil et procédé de préparation de lait infantile
WO2012136220A1 (fr) * 2011-04-04 2012-10-11 Pure H2O A/S Système de purification d'eau mobile
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US5860354A (en) * 1993-07-29 1999-01-19 Moulinex S.A. Infusion machine including a water purification device
WO2006077259A1 (fr) * 2005-01-24 2006-07-27 Nestec S.A. Procede de preparation d'une composition nutritionnelle
WO2008012314A1 (fr) * 2006-07-25 2008-01-31 Nestec S.A. Distributeur pour préparation d'une compositions alimentaire
EP2082670A1 (fr) * 2008-01-24 2009-07-29 Nestec S.A. Filtre interchangeable pour dispositif de production de boissons et dispositif de production de boissons comportant un tel filtre
WO2010028282A1 (fr) * 2008-09-04 2010-03-11 Razbaby Innovative Baby Products, Inc. Appareil et procédé de préparation de lait infantile
WO2012136220A1 (fr) * 2011-04-04 2012-10-11 Pure H2O A/S Système de purification d'eau mobile
US20130068109A1 (en) * 2011-09-21 2013-03-21 Christopher C. Pribus Single serve beverage capsule including a mixing chamber with beverage media

Cited By (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP3338561A1 (fr) * 2016-12-20 2018-06-27 Tetra Laval Holdings & Finance S.A. Dispositif de transfert d'un ingrédient alimentaire
WO2018114201A1 (fr) * 2016-12-20 2018-06-28 Tetra Laval Holdings & Finance S.A. Dispositif de transfert d'ingrédient alimentaire
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CN109527992A (zh) * 2017-09-22 2019-03-29 清湖乃思株式会社 带隐现式取水部的饮用水供给装置
SE544267C2 (en) * 2018-05-18 2022-03-22 Crem Int Aktiebolag Device for the preparation of tea or coffee beverages and a corresponding method for preparing a beverage
EP3862312A1 (fr) * 2020-02-10 2021-08-11 Riprup Company S.A. Distributeur de boissons avec filtration d'eau efficace

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