WO2023002082A1 - Beverage dispenser - Google Patents

Beverage dispenser Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2023002082A1
WO2023002082A1 PCT/ES2022/070476 ES2022070476W WO2023002082A1 WO 2023002082 A1 WO2023002082 A1 WO 2023002082A1 ES 2022070476 W ES2022070476 W ES 2022070476W WO 2023002082 A1 WO2023002082 A1 WO 2023002082A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
dispenser
cleaning
valve
tank
beverage
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/ES2022/070476
Other languages
Spanish (es)
French (fr)
Inventor
Gerardo Masegosa Gonzalez
Original Assignee
Gerardo Masegosa Gonzalez
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 Gerardo Masegosa Gonzalez filed Critical Gerardo Masegosa Gonzalez
Publication of WO2023002082A1 publication Critical patent/WO2023002082A1/en

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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D1/00—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D1/00—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught
    • B67D1/07—Cleaning beverage-dispensing apparatus
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E03—WATER SUPPLY; SEWERAGE
    • E03C—DOMESTIC PLUMBING INSTALLATIONS FOR FRESH WATER OR WASTE WATER; SINKS
    • E03C1/00—Domestic plumbing installations for fresh water or waste water; Sinks
    • E03C1/02—Plumbing installations for fresh water

Definitions

  • the present invention refers to a beverage dispenser.
  • the present invention refers to a bulk drink and/or water dispenser.
  • the expression “in bulk” refers to the fact that the liquid is not dispensed in a bottle or in a closed container, but rather from a tank or a supply pipe and is dispensed by the dispenser inside an open container. through a supply or dispensing point.
  • water in the present invention includes water, mains water, mineral water, sparkling or still water, room temperature water, chilled water and/or heated water, as well as any combination thereof.
  • the present invention is especially applicable to dispensers that dispense water from a reservoir, although the invention is not necessarily limited to such an application.
  • a general problem with this type of bulk beverage dispensers is that of cleaning. Drink remains can be retained in the pipe that goes to the supply point (especially in non-vertical sections). Usually, the exit point of the container that contains the bulk drink to be supplied gives access to a non-vertical section, although the liquid can also stagnate in other parts of the route. Said retained drink is a breeding ground for germs. The existence of germs in the supply conduit affects the organoleptic properties of the supplied beverage and can potentially pose a health problem.
  • the present invention provides a bulk beverage dispenser comprising a water supply conduit that supplies beverage to a supply point (also called a dispensing point) and a dispenser control system, and is characterized by comprising a cleaning substance tank, a conduit that communicates the outlet of the cleaning substance tank with a point of said beverage supply conduit and at least one opening/closing valve of the cleaning substance tank, providing the control system for an automatic control module of said valve.
  • the drink can preferably be water and more preferably mineral water, but it can also be any other type of drink, such as coffee, infusions, milk, emulsions such as those called "milk", juices, etc.
  • the present invention provides for the provision of a cleaning tank and an automatic control module that controls the supply of cleaning substance to at least one point of the beverage supply conduit.
  • the integration of the automatic control module in the dispenser control system allows to control the times between cleanings, for example by having the cleaning carried out periodically or depending on the number of times the dispenser is used, or if a certain time passes without that the dispenser has been used.
  • the supply line has a branch for directing the cleaning substance to a cleaning waste container.
  • An access valve to said bypass can, for example, be controlled from the control module.
  • the supply conduit connects a water tank with the supply point.
  • the dispenser comprises a valve for connecting the reservoir with the beverage supply conduit.
  • the beverage container is of the "bag-in-box” type.
  • the tank of the dispenser of the invention can be of any type, the drink tanks, and especially those for water, of the "bag-in-box” type, have the advantage of being able to supply high-quality mineral water without quality variations during the process of emptying the tank, since, as the water is retained between flexible walls, they do not require the entry of air into the tank for emptying.
  • the present invention also provides for a special connection valve for special application to "bag-in-box" tanks and, in particular, to those tanks that have taps that are opened by means of a piece with wings or blades that must be pressed.
  • the aforementioned valve preferably comprises a connection piece to the tank, a connection piece to the conduit and a device for fixing the position of the connection, said device comprising two recesses to receive respective wings of a tank outlet tap .
  • said fixing device has a U-shape.
  • the fixing device can also have a pin that collaborates in fixing the position.
  • the outlet of the "bag-in-box” tank there is a valve sealed to the inlet of air from the outside.
  • a quick connector-type stem valve that gives access to the water supply conduit.
  • Quick connector type stem valves are commonly used for tire inflation and there are several types.
  • the combination of "bag-in-box” and quick connector or sealed valve facilitates the lower placement of the water tank, and a pump can be placed at a point higher than the tank to extract the water.
  • said point of the water supply conduit is located at the outlet of the tank, in said conduit, and/or its corresponding outlet valve.
  • said point comprises a distributor valve controlled from the control module.
  • Said valve can be located in said supply conduit.
  • the distributor valve is a four-way valve. This valve can receive water or cleaning substance and its output is the water supply point (or the section to that point) and the cleaning waste tank (or a bypass to that point).
  • the cleaning waste container may consist of a bucket, allowing any user to periodically empty it.
  • the water dispenser object of the present invention can preferably have a water cooling device and/or a water heating device. You can also have several water tanks. In this case, the cleaning system can be unique, or each tank can have its own cleaning system, depending on each application.
  • the dispenser control system object of the present invention has means to determine the number of times the dispenser has been used, as well as the time and date of at least the last use. This information makes it possible to optimize the time of cleaning.
  • the control module or system may have a set of orders that allows it to decide when to perform a cleaning (for example, during the following night after completing a number of uses, or once a certain time has elapsed), and/or it may have means of communication with a remote central, in such a way that the moment of carrying out the cleaning can be determined from a remote location.
  • the cleaning substance is preferably liquid and for food use.
  • the substance may be edible citric acid.
  • it could be any type of substance that fulfills its assigned cleaning function.
  • bulk beverage dispensers that comprise a water supply conduit that supplies beverage to a supply point (also called a dispensing point) and a dispenser control system, and are characterized in that they comprise a device container cleaning.
  • the dispensers with a container cleaning device according to the present invention may or may not comprise the cleaning substance reservoir, the conduit that communicates the outlet of the cleaning substance tank with a point of said beverage supply conduit and said opening/closing valve of the cleaning substance tank.
  • it is preferable that bulk beverage dispensers with container cleaning device also have said cleaning substance reservoir connected to the supply conduit, as well as any of the aforementioned preferred and alternative embodiments.
  • the container cleaning device uses steam to clean the containers.
  • the container cleaning device has nozzles for supplying steam or another distributed container cleaning substance to clean both the inside and the outside of the containers.
  • the container cleaning device comprises a tray for receiving the container to be cleaned, said tray being provided with a lid to close the tray.
  • the container cleaning device has a lock that must be unlocked prior to use.
  • Figure 1 is a perspective view of a bulk drink dispenser object of the present invention.
  • Figure 2 is a schematic view of a first example of the exemplary cleaning system of the present invention.
  • Figure 3 is a schematic view of a second embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 4 is an example of a connector valve that can be used in the present invention, and that is used to connect the installation to a vitop®-type tap with which "bag-in-box" tanks are usually equipped.
  • Figure 5 is an example of a safety lock for the example connector valve shown in the previous figure.
  • Figure 6 schematically shows a third embodiment of the present invention.
  • Fig. 7 schematically shows a fourth embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 8 shows a detailed schematic of the container cleaner of the present invention.
  • Figures 1 and 2 show a first embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 1 shows an example of dispenser 1.
  • the dispenser 1 has a supply point 3, which in this case is a hole into which the user can provide his open container and into which the selected water falls.
  • the dispenser in the example also has an interface screen 2, a contactless payment terminal 4, selector buttons 5 and a coin mechanism 6 for making payments with coins.
  • the buttons 5 can, for example, make it possible to select different types of drink, such as different types of water, or, for example, cold, hot and/or room temperature water, or coffee or infusion, for example.
  • the dispenser could have only one supply point and a control that allows actuating the supply of water towards the supply point. More complex configurations are also possible.
  • FIG. 2 shows a diagram of a cleaning system applicable to the dispenser. shown in the figure above.
  • a water tank 10 has been schematically represented, which contains the water supplied by the dispenser.
  • the deposit could be, for example, a "bag-in-box" type deposit.
  • the outlet may or may not have its own valve, or it may coincide with the distribution valve 12.
  • the outlet of the tank 10 gives way to a supply conduit 11 that gives access to the supply point.
  • the dispenser also has a cleaning substance reservoir 13, which via a valve 131 controlled by the control system (not shown) supplies cleaning substance to the supply line 11 .
  • the cleaning substance is collected in a bucket 15 or waste container.
  • a distributor valve 12 that allows the control system to select whether the liquid flows from the tank 10 to the supply point or from the cleaning substance tank 13 to the basin 15.
  • the system is completed with the pumps 14 that are necessary, having been represented in the figure in a merely schematic and non-constructive manner.
  • the cleaning system could have a pump to drive the cleaning substance, the water, or both.
  • the control system (not shown in the figures) can consist of a board, or a computer device with the appropriate programming, connected to the corresponding actuators and the necessary sensors.
  • the control system decides when to clean by actuating the valve 131 of the cleaning substance tank and/or the distributor valve 12. This order can be determined in advance (number of uses, time since last use, time of day ), and/or be received externally, for which the control system has a corresponding means of communication (communications modem for cable or wireless communication) to send data and/or readings and receive orders.
  • the distributor valve 12 shown is a four-way valve, and could be replaced by two three-way distributor valves separated from each other by a section of supply conduit 11, which is the one that would be cleaned.
  • the basin 15 could also be placed under the supply point 3, in which case the cleaning liquid would pass through the supply point, after running through the supply conduit 11.
  • the control system can also comprise a sensor to warn that the bucket 15 or waste tank is full. In this way, the dispenser can warn that the waste container or bucket 15 must be emptied. For example, it could have a level, or a weight sensor.
  • a usable cleaning fluid is edible citric acid. Other substances are also possible.
  • Figure 3 shows an alternative scheme to that of Figure 2. In Figure 3 elements that are the same or equivalent to those shown in the previous figures have been identified with identical numerals and, therefore, they will not be described in detail.
  • the water tank 10 is a "bag-in-box” tank to which a poppet valve 18 or quick connector has been connected.
  • the stem valve 18 is a valve similar to the valves used to inflate tires (Presta, Schrader, Dunlop or Regina type valves), but preferably made of plastic material. This type of valve has the advantage of being airtight. In this way, the pump 14 can be placed above the "bag-in-box" without priming problems.
  • the valve 131 that controls the supply of cleaning substance from the cleaning substance reservoir 13 is a three-way valve.
  • the valve could also be arranged similar to Figure 2.
  • a pump 14 draws liquid from the water tank 10 or the cleaning substance tank 13, depending on the position of the cleaning substance tank valve 131 .
  • the pump 14 forces the liquid upwards, towards a distribution valve 12, which, in this case, is a three-way valve.
  • the distribution valve 12 leads the water to the supply point 3 or the cleaning liquid to the basin 15.
  • the distribution valve 12 could be omitted, in which case the surplus water reception basin 19 would also act as a tank of cleaning waste.
  • the valve 131 being three-way, would act as a distribution valve.
  • said three-way valve can be replaced by another one that simply opens or closes the supply of cleaning liquid from the cleaning liquid tank 13 .
  • the valves in the examples shown are governed from the control system.
  • FIGS 4 and 5 show an example of a valve 18 applied to vitop®-type taps that are common in the case of "bag-in-box" type tanks.
  • the valve does not need to be strictly a stem valve, since the opening of the vitop® faucet is produced by pressure on a moving part that usually has two wings or blades, although the operation can be considered similar.
  • the valve 18 of the example of figures 4 and 5 comprises an area 181 for connecting to the pipe and another area 182 for connecting to the faucet outlet, which in the example are made up of different parts. Both zones can be made of different materials, since their functions are different (connection to the faucet and connection to the pipe, with different requirements). Additionally, the valve has a U-shaped part 183, which acts as a fixing device for the position of the connection.
  • each free arm of the U there are two recesses 184 that receive or fix the wings or blades of the faucet. These recesses can serve, for example, to keep said wings or blades in the pressed position.
  • the valve also comprises a safety pin shown in figure 5.
  • Said safety pin has respective pins 195 conjugate with through holes 185 arranged in the U-shaped piece (see figure 4).
  • the pin also includes a stop 196 that helps to keep the tap in its open position, fixing the position of the head of the tap.
  • a pair of nuts or plugs 197 to prevent accidental removal of the pin.
  • stop 196 is cup-shaped, giving the pin a general ⁇ ” shape.
  • valve can vary, for example, depending on the application, the type of tank and its connection.
  • FIG 6 shows another embodiment of the present invention.
  • elements that are the same or equivalent to those of the previous embodiments shown in figures 2 and 3 have been identified with identical numerals and, therefore, they will not be described in detail.
  • the supply conduit 11 presents a branch in the 132 three-way valve.
  • Said bifurcation offers the beverage two paths to reach the supply point 3.
  • Each path has a beverage preparation device 101, 102.
  • Said drink preparation devices 101, 102 can be, for example, a device for heating water, for cooling, for preparing coffee, tea or another drink from an extract or powder, etc.
  • one of the paths may lack the beverage preparation device 101, 102. Both paths, in the embodiment shown, end at the same supply point 3, although they could also end at physically different supply points 3.
  • the tub 19 has a device for disposing of the liquids and beverages that reach the tub 19 from the supply point.
  • the disposal device comprises a drawer 150 located in the lower part of the dispenser.
  • the drawer comprises, in this case, two bags 151, 152.
  • a three-way valve 133 selects which bag 151, 152 receives the liquid coming from the tray 19.
  • the use of a bag 151, 152 for receiving the liquids coming from the bowl allows for simplified cleaning and maintenance.
  • the fact of using two bags allows to increase the reception capacity, either one bag can be used to receive the cleaning liquid and another to receive drink waste, or each bag can receive the waste of a different type of drink prepared or dispensed by the dispenser.
  • the cleaning system of the Figure 6 embodiment is similar to that shown in the Figures 2 and 3 embodiments.
  • the control system of the Figure 6 device will preferably have means to ensure that the cleaning liquid coming from the cleaning substance tank 13 passes through the different paths available for the water and/or drink coming from the tank 10 to point 3 or points of supply of the dispenser.
  • Figures 7 and 8 show another embodiment of the present invention.
  • the embodiment of figure 7 is similar to that of figure 6, with the addition of a device 9 for cleaning containers.
  • the device 9 for cleaning containers can be located, for example, in the upper part of the dispenser. Its function is to clean containers 2000 that users use to collect the drink dispensed in the dispenser.
  • the device 9 of the example consists of a receptacle or bucket with a lid, into which the container 2000 to be cleaned is inserted, upside down in this case.
  • a nozzle 93 is arranged in the receptacle from which liquid flows out. In the embodiment shown, the nozzle can receive cleaning liquid from a branch 91 of conduit 11, or else receive mains water from a water supply conduit 92.
  • the passage of one liquid or another is likewise governed by an electrovalve 134.
  • the cleaning device could be supplied, for example, solely from the water supply conduit 92 . It could also be powered by mineral water.
  • steam can be used to clean the container. To do this, for example, tap water and/or mineral water can be heated and even steamed before being introduced into the receptacle for cleaning the container.
  • the device can have several nozzles or outlets for steam, water or cleaning liquid in order to clean the containers both inside and outside.
  • nozzles or outlets for steam, water or cleaning liquid for cleaning the interior there is a central and lower nozzle 93, for cleaning the exterior, perimeter nozzles can be placed at the base level or, to obtain a more uniform cleaning of the outside of the container, perimeter nozzles can be placed at a distance from the base. .
  • the device also comprises an actuator 931 that is pressed by the container 2000 when it is inserted into the receptacle. Activation of the actuator 931 causes the escape of water, cleaning liquid and/or steam.
  • Actuator 931 can be, for example, a piston that opens a shut-off valve, or simply send a signal that causes valve 134 and/or nozzle 93 to unlock. In a preferred embodiment, actuator 931 actuation causes the unblocking of the system and lets out pressurized cleaning water for 10 seconds, to clean the inside and outside of the container 2000.
  • the device includes a small fan 94 or turbine that can, through an air inlet 941, introduce air to dry the container 2000.
  • the receptacle includes slots 99 and/or holes to help dry the container after washing. .
  • the system proceeds to perform the following sequential cleaning cycle: water cleaning, cleaning liquid or steam cleaning, water rinsing, and drying.
  • the system can have a lock, in such a way that it can only be used by certain users.
  • the blocking can be lifted by bringing an RFID tag close to an RFID reader, or a visual code (eg QR) readable by an optical reader, or by entering a code.
  • the lock can only consist of an actuator that must be actuated before using the container cleaning device.
  • the actuator could be, for example, a pedal.
  • the container cleaning device 9 can be integrated into the dispenser, for example in its upper part, on a side or on a front.
  • the cleaning device 9 can be connected to the cleaning system of the rest of the dispenser or be fed from its own tank or from mains water.
  • the system only comprises a receptacle for receiving a container, a tube connected to mains water or to the dispenser cleaning system, and an actuator that unlocks the system by making water enter the tube from the tube to the receptacle for cleaning the dispenser. bowl.
  • any of the embodiments shown allows the cleaning system or systems of the dispenser to be activated telematically, remotely, or by the automatic control system that can be integrated into the dispenser or be remote.
  • the dispenser object of the present invention can also comprise one or several electronic scales to control the weight of at least one of the deposits of the dispenser. These scales allow the control system to decide (remote or not, automatic or not) if a cleaning and/or maintenance operation is necessary. Preferably, a balance is provided that weighs d10. This allows performing, if desired, cleaning actions with cleaning liquid only when a certain amount of water or drink from the tank 10 has been consumed. Alternatively or additionally, scales can be arranged in any of the waste tanks 15, 150, 151, 152 and/or in tray 19 also with the purpose of determining if a cleaning operation and/or a maintenance operation is necessary.

Abstract

The present invention relates to a bulk beverage dispenser comprising a beverage supply conduit that leads to a supply point and a dispenser control system, as well as comprising a cleaning substance reservoir, a conduit that connects the outlet of the cleaning substance reservoir to a point of the aforementioned beverage supply conduit, and at least one opening/closing valve in the cleaning substance reservoir, the control system having an automatic control module for the automatic control of the aforementioned valve.

Description

DISPENSADOR DE BEBIDA DRINK DISPENSER
DESCRIPCIÓN DESCRIPTION
La presente invención hace referencia a un dispensador de bebida. En una realización preferente, la presente invención hace referencia a un dispensador de bebida y/o agua a granel. En esta solicitud la expresión “a granel” hace referencia a que el líquido no se dispensa embotellado o en un envase cerrado, sino que parte de un depósito o de una tubería de suministro y es dispensado por el dispensador en el interior de un envase abierto a través de un punto de suministro o dispensación. El término “agua” en la presente invención comprende agua, agua de red, agua mineral, agua con gas o sin gas, agua a temperatura ambiente, agua refrigerada y/o agua calentada, así como cualquier combinación de las mismas. La presente invención es de especial aplicación a dispensadores que dispensan agua a partir de un depósito, si bien la invención no queda limitada necesariamente a dicha aplicación. The present invention refers to a beverage dispenser. In a preferred embodiment, the present invention refers to a bulk drink and/or water dispenser. In this application, the expression "in bulk" refers to the fact that the liquid is not dispensed in a bottle or in a closed container, but rather from a tank or a supply pipe and is dispensed by the dispenser inside an open container. through a supply or dispensing point. The term "water" in the present invention includes water, mains water, mineral water, sparkling or still water, room temperature water, chilled water and/or heated water, as well as any combination thereof. The present invention is especially applicable to dispensers that dispense water from a reservoir, although the invention is not necessarily limited to such an application.
Un problema general de este tipo de dispensadores de bebida a granel es el de su limpieza. Restos de bebida pueden quedar retenidos en la conducción que se dirige al punto de suministro (especialmente en tramos no verticales). Habitualmente, el punto de salida del recipiente que contiene la bebida a granel a suministrar da acceso a un tramo no vertical, aunque el líquido también puede estancarse en otras partes del recorrido. Dicha bebida retenida es un punto de cultivo de gérmenes. La existencia de gérmenes en el conducto de suministro afecta a las propiedades organolépticas de la bebida suministrada y puede, potencialmente, suponer un problema de salud. A general problem with this type of bulk beverage dispensers is that of cleaning. Drink remains can be retained in the pipe that goes to the supply point (especially in non-vertical sections). Usually, the exit point of the container that contains the bulk drink to be supplied gives access to a non-vertical section, although the liquid can also stagnate in other parts of the route. Said retained drink is a breeding ground for germs. The existence of germs in the supply conduit affects the organoleptic properties of the supplied beverage and can potentially pose a health problem.
Actualmente, este problema se soluciona mediante mantenimiento (higienización) manual. Dicho mantenimiento es habitualmente realizado por las empresas de “vending” que suministran dicho dispensador. Sin embargo, esta solución no resulta siempre satisfactoria. En primer lugar, un periodo de vacaciones o inactividad facilita la proliferación de gérmenes. Sin embargo, existe necesariamente un tiempo de retardo entre el reinicio de la actividad y la aparición del equipo de mantenimiento que higieniza el dispensador. Durante dicho tiempo, el suministro que proporciona el dispensador puede no ser seguro. En segundo lugar, el tiempo de paso del equipo de mantenimiento puede no ser adecuado en función de la utilización del dispensador de agua a granel. Currently, this problem is solved by manual maintenance (sanitization). Said maintenance is usually carried out by the "vending" companies that supply said dispenser. However, this solution is not always satisfactory. First of all, a period of vacation or inactivity facilitates the proliferation of germs. However, there is necessarily a delay time between the restart of the activity and the appearance of the maintenance team that sanitizes the dispenser. During such time, the supply provided by the dispenser may not be safe. Second, the passage time of the maintenance team may not be adequate depending on the use of the dispenser. bulk water.
Es un objetivo de la presente invención dar a conocer medios que facilitan una solución al problema anteriormente planteado. It is an objective of the present invention to provide means that provide a solution to the problem previously posed.
Más concretamente, la presente invención da a conocer un dispensador de bebida a granel que comprende un conducto de suministro de agua que suministra bebida a un punto de suministro (también denominado punto de dispensación) y un sistema de control del dispensador, y se caracteriza por que comprende un depósito de sustancia limpiadora, un conducto que comunica la salida del depósito de sustancia limpiadora con un punto del citado conducto de suministro de bebida y al menos una válvula de apertura/cierre del depósito de sustancia limpiadora, disponiendo el sistema de control de un módulo de control automático de la citada válvula. La bebida, preferentemente, puede ser agua y más preferentemente agua mineral, pero también puede tratarse de cualquier otro tipo de bebida, como por ejemplo, café, infusiones, leche, emulsiones como por ejemplo las denominadas “leche”, zumos, etc. More specifically, the present invention provides a bulk beverage dispenser comprising a water supply conduit that supplies beverage to a supply point (also called a dispensing point) and a dispenser control system, and is characterized by comprising a cleaning substance tank, a conduit that communicates the outlet of the cleaning substance tank with a point of said beverage supply conduit and at least one opening/closing valve of the cleaning substance tank, providing the control system for an automatic control module of said valve. The drink can preferably be water and more preferably mineral water, but it can also be any other type of drink, such as coffee, infusions, milk, emulsions such as those called "milk", juices, etc.
En definitiva, la presente invención prevé la disposición de un depósito limpiador y de un módulo de control automático que controla el suministro de sustancia limpiadora a, al menos, un punto del conducto de suministro de bebida. La integración del módulo de control automático en el sistema de control del dispensador permite controlar los tiempos entre limpiezas, por ejemplo haciendo que la limpieza se realice periódicamente o en función del número de veces que se usa el dispensador, o si pasa un determinado tiempo sin que el dispensador haya sido usado. In short, the present invention provides for the provision of a cleaning tank and an automatic control module that controls the supply of cleaning substance to at least one point of the beverage supply conduit. The integration of the automatic control module in the dispenser control system allows to control the times between cleanings, for example by having the cleaning carried out periodically or depending on the number of times the dispenser is used, or if a certain time passes without that the dispenser has been used.
Preferentemente, el conducto de suministro presenta una derivación para dirigir la sustancia limpiadora a un depósito de desecho de limpieza. Una válvula de acceso a dicha derivación puede, por ejemplo, estar gobernada desde el módulo de control. Preferably, the supply line has a branch for directing the cleaning substance to a cleaning waste container. An access valve to said bypass can, for example, be controlled from the control module.
Preferentemente, el conducto de suministro conecta un depósito de agua con el punto de suministro. Asimismo de manera preferente, el dispensador comprende una válvula para conectar el depósito con el conducto de suministro de bebida. Más preferentemente, el depósito de bebida es de tipo “bag-in-box”. Si bien el depósito del dispensador de la invención puede ser de cualquier tipo, los depósitos de bebida, y en especial los de agua, de tipo “bag-in-box” presentan la ventaja de poder suministrar agua mineral de gran calidad sin variaciones de calidad durante el proceso de vaciado del depósito, puesto que, al quedar el agua retenida entre paredes flexibles, no requieren la entrada de aire en el depósito para su vaciado. Preferably, the supply conduit connects a water tank with the supply point. Also preferably, the dispenser comprises a valve for connecting the reservoir with the beverage supply conduit. More preferably, the beverage container is of the "bag-in-box" type. Although the tank of the dispenser of the invention can be of any type, the drink tanks, and especially those for water, of the "bag-in-box" type, have the advantage of being able to supply high-quality mineral water without quality variations during the process of emptying the tank, since, as the water is retained between flexible walls, they do not require the entry of air into the tank for emptying.
La presente invención también prevé una válvula especial de conexión de especial aplicación a depósitos “bag-in-box” y, en particular, a aquellos depósitos que disponen de grifos que se abren mediante una pieza con alas o palas que han de ser presionadas. Para ello, preferentemente, la válvula citada comprende una pieza de conexión al depósito, una pieza de conexión al conducto y un dispositivo de fijación de la posición de la conexión, comprendiendo dicho dispositivo dos entrantes para recibir sendas alas de un grifo de salida del depósito. Preferentemente, dicho dispositivo de fijación dispone de forma de U. Preferentemente, el dispositivo de fijación puede disponer también de un pasador que colabora en la fijación de la posición. The present invention also provides for a special connection valve for special application to "bag-in-box" tanks and, in particular, to those tanks that have taps that are opened by means of a piece with wings or blades that must be pressed. To this end, the aforementioned valve preferably comprises a connection piece to the tank, a connection piece to the conduit and a device for fixing the position of the connection, said device comprising two recesses to receive respective wings of a tank outlet tap . Preferably, said fixing device has a U-shape. Preferably, the fixing device can also have a pin that collaborates in fixing the position.
Preferentemente, a la salida del depósito “bag-in-box” se sitúa una válvula estanca a la entrada de aire desde el exterior. Preferably, at the outlet of the "bag-in-box" tank there is a valve sealed to the inlet of air from the outside.
Preferentemente, a la salida del depósito “bag-in-box” se dispone una válvula de vástago tipo conector rápido que da acceso al conducto de suministro de agua. Las válvulas de vástago tipo conector rápido son utilizadas habitualmente para el inflado de neumáticos y existen de varios tipos. En este caso, la combinación de “bag-in-box” y conector rápido o válvula estanca facilita la colocación inferior del depósito de agua, pudiendo colocarse en un punto superior al depósito una bomba para la extracción del agua. Preferably, at the outlet of the "bag-in-box" tank there is a quick connector-type stem valve that gives access to the water supply conduit. Quick connector type stem valves are commonly used for tire inflation and there are several types. In this case, the combination of "bag-in-box" and quick connector or sealed valve facilitates the lower placement of the water tank, and a pump can be placed at a point higher than the tank to extract the water.
Más preferentemente, el citado punto del conducto de suministro de agua se sitúa a la salida del depósito, en dicho conducto, y/o de su correspondiente válvula de salida. More preferably, said point of the water supply conduit is located at the outlet of the tank, in said conduit, and/or its corresponding outlet valve.
En realizaciones especialmente preferentes, el citado punto comprende una válvula distribuidora controlada desde el módulo de control. Dicha válvula puede estar situada en el citado conducto de suministro. En una realización preferente, la válvula distribuidora es una válvula de cuatro vías. Esta válvula puede recibir agua o sustancia limpiadora y tiene como salida el punto de suministro de agua (o el tramo de conducción hacia dicho punto) y el depósito de desecho de limpieza (o una derivación hacia dicho depósito). In especially preferred embodiments, said point comprises a distributor valve controlled from the control module. Said valve can be located in said supply conduit. In a preferred embodiment, the distributor valve is a four-way valve. This valve can receive water or cleaning substance and its output is the water supply point (or the section to that point) and the cleaning waste tank (or a bypass to that point).
Preferentemente, el depósito de desecho de limpieza puede consistir en una cubeta, lo que permite que cualquier usuario la vacíe de manera periódica. Preferably, the cleaning waste container may consist of a bucket, allowing any user to periodically empty it.
El dispensador de agua objeto de la presente invención puede, preferentemente, presentar un dispositivo refrigerador de agua y/o un dispositivo calentador de agua. También puede disponer de varios depósitos de agua. En este caso, el sistema de limpieza puede ser único, o cada depósito disponer de su propio sistema de limpieza, en función de cada aplicación. The water dispenser object of the present invention can preferably have a water cooling device and/or a water heating device. You can also have several water tanks. In this case, the cleaning system can be unique, or each tank can have its own cleaning system, depending on each application.
Preferentemente, el sistema de control del dispensador objeto de la presente invención dispone de medios para determinar un número de veces que se ha utilizado el dispensador, así como el tiempo y fecha de, al menos, la última utilización. Dicha información permite optimizar el momento de la limpieza. Preferably, the dispenser control system object of the present invention has means to determine the number of times the dispenser has been used, as well as the time and date of at least the last use. This information makes it possible to optimize the time of cleaning.
El módulo o sistema de control puede disponer de un conjunto de órdenes que le permite decidir cuándo realizar una limpieza (por ejemplo, durante la noche siguiente tras cumplir un número de usos, o una vez pasado un determinado tiempo), y/o bien puede disponer de medios de comunicación con una central remota, de tal manera que el momento de realización de la limpieza puede determinarse desde una ubicación remota. The control module or system may have a set of orders that allows it to decide when to perform a cleaning (for example, during the following night after completing a number of uses, or once a certain time has elapsed), and/or it may have means of communication with a remote central, in such a way that the moment of carrying out the cleaning can be determined from a remote location.
La sustancia limpiadora es preferentemente líquida y de uso alimentario. En una realización preferentemente, la sustancia puede ser ácido cítrico alimentario. Sin embargo, podría ser cualquier tipo de sustancia que cumpla con la función asignada de limpieza. The cleaning substance is preferably liquid and for food use. In a preferred embodiment, the substance may be edible citric acid. However, it could be any type of substance that fulfills its assigned cleaning function.
También se dan a conocer dispensadores de bebida a granel que comprenden un conducto de suministro de agua que suministra bebida a un punto de suministro (también denominado punto de dispensación) y un sistema de control del dispensador, y que se caracterizan por que comprenden un dispositivo de limpieza de recipientes. Los dispensadores con dispositivo de limpieza de recipientes según la presente invención pueden comprender, o no, el depósito de sustancia limpiadora, el conducto que comunica la salida del depósito de sustancia limpiadora con un punto del citado conducto de suministro de bebida y la citada válvula de apertura/cierre del depósito de sustancia limpiadora. No obstante, resulta preferente que los dispensadores de bebida a granel con dispositivo de limpieza de recipientes presenten también el citado depósito de sustancia limpiadora conectado al conducto de suministro, así como cualquiera de las realizaciones preferentes y alternativas anteriormente citadas. Also disclosed are bulk beverage dispensers that comprise a water supply conduit that supplies beverage to a supply point (also called a dispensing point) and a dispenser control system, and are characterized in that they comprise a device container cleaning. The dispensers with a container cleaning device according to the present invention may or may not comprise the cleaning substance reservoir, the conduit that communicates the outlet of the cleaning substance tank with a point of said beverage supply conduit and said opening/closing valve of the cleaning substance tank. However, it is preferable that bulk beverage dispensers with container cleaning device also have said cleaning substance reservoir connected to the supply conduit, as well as any of the aforementioned preferred and alternative embodiments.
Preferentemente, el dispositivo para limpieza de recipientes utiliza vapor para limpiar los recipientes. Preferably, the container cleaning device uses steam to clean the containers.
Preferentemente, el dispositivo para limpieza de recipientes presenta boquillas de suministro de vapor u otra sustancia para limpieza de recipientes distribuidos para limpiar tanto el interior como el exterior de los recipientes. Preferably, the container cleaning device has nozzles for supplying steam or another distributed container cleaning substance to clean both the inside and the outside of the containers.
Preferentemente, el dispositivo para limpieza de recipientes comprende una cubeta para la recepción del recipiente a limpiar, estando dicha cubeta provista de una tapa para cerrar la cubeta. Preferably, the container cleaning device comprises a tray for receiving the container to be cleaned, said tray being provided with a lid to close the tray.
Preferentemente, el dispositivo de limpieza de recipientes presenta un bloqueo que debe ser desbloqueado previamente a su utilización. Preferably, the container cleaning device has a lock that must be unlocked prior to use.
Para su mejor comprensión se adjuntan, a título de ejemplo explicativo, pero no limitativo, unos dibujos representativos de unos ejemplos de realización de la presente invención. For a better understanding, by way of an explanatory but not limiting example, some representative drawings of some embodiments of the present invention are attached.
La figura 1 es una vista en perspectiva de un dispensador de bebida a granel objeto de la presente invención. Figure 1 is a perspective view of a bulk drink dispenser object of the present invention.
La figura 2 es una vista esquemática de un primer ejemplo del sistema de limpieza del ejemplo de la presente invención. Figure 2 is a schematic view of a first example of the exemplary cleaning system of the present invention.
La figura 3 es una vista esquemática de un segundo ejemplo de realización de la presente invención. La figura 4 es un ejemplo de válvula conectora utilizable en la presente invención, y que sirve para conectar la instalación a un grifo tipo vitop® con los que suelen ir equipados los depósitos “bag-in-box”. Figure 3 is a schematic view of a second embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 is an example of a connector valve that can be used in the present invention, and that is used to connect the installation to a vitop®-type tap with which "bag-in-box" tanks are usually equipped.
La figura 5 es un ejemplo de cierre de seguridad para el ejemplo de válvula conectora mostrado en la figura anterior. Figure 5 is an example of a safety lock for the example connector valve shown in the previous figure.
La figura 6 muestra esquemáticamente una tercera realización de la presente invención. Figure 6 schematically shows a third embodiment of the present invention.
La figura 7 muestra esquemáticamente una cuarta realización de la presente invención. Fig. 7 schematically shows a fourth embodiment of the present invention.
La figura 8 muestra un esquema de detalle del limpiador de recipientes de la presente invención. Figure 8 shows a detailed schematic of the container cleaner of the present invention.
Las figuras 1 y 2 muestran un primer ejemplo de realización de la presente invención. En la figura 1 se observa un ejemplo de dispensador 1. Figures 1 and 2 show a first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 shows an example of dispenser 1.
El dispensador 1 presenta un punto 3 de suministro que en este caso es un hueco en el que el usuario puede aportar su recipiente abierto y en el que cae el agua seleccionada. El dispensador del ejemplo también dispone de una pantalla de interfaz 2, un terminal 4 de pago contactless, unos botones 5 selectores y un monedero 6 para realizar pagos con monedas. Los botones 5 pueden, por ejemplo, permitir seleccionar diferentes tipos de bebida, como por ejemplo diferentes tipos de agua, o bien, por ejemplo, agua fría, caliente y/o a temperatura ambiente, o bien café o infusión, por ejemplo. Por supuesto, otras configuraciones son posibles. En una realización más básica, el dispensador podría presentar únicamente un punto de suministro y un mando que permitiese accionar el suministro de agua hacia el punto de suministro. Configuraciones más complejas son también posibles. Por ejemplo, se podría proporcionar más opciones de suministro, o bien el dispensador podría suministrar vasos u otro tipo de envases, de tal manera que el usuario no tendría que aportarlo. La figura 2 muestra un esquema de un sistema de limpieza aplicable al dispensador mostrado en la figura anterior. En la figura 2 se ha representado esquemáticamente un depósito 10 de agua, el cual contiene el agua que suministra el dispensador. El depósito podría ser, por ejemplo, un depósito de tipo “bag-in-box”. La salida podría disponer o no de su propia válvula, o bien ser ésta coincidente con la válvula 12 de distribución. La salida del depósito 10 da paso a un conducto 11 de suministro que da acceso al punto de suministro. El dispensador presenta también un depósito 13 de sustancia limpiadora, que mediante una válvula 131 controlada por el sistema de control (no mostrado) proporciona sustancia limpiadora al conducto 11 de suministro. Posteriormente, la sustancia limpiadora se recoge en una cubeta 15 o depósito de desecho. En particular, esto se consigue mediante una válvula distribuidora 12 que permite que el sistema de control seleccione si el líquido circula desde el depósito 10 al punto de suministro o del depósito 13 de sustancia limpiadora a la cubeta 15. El sistema se completa con las bombas 14 que resulten necesarias, habiéndose representado en la figura de manera meramente esquemática y no constructiva. Por ejemplo, el sistema de limpieza podría tener una bomba para impulsar la sustancia limpiadora, para el agua o para ambos. The dispenser 1 has a supply point 3, which in this case is a hole into which the user can provide his open container and into which the selected water falls. The dispenser in the example also has an interface screen 2, a contactless payment terminal 4, selector buttons 5 and a coin mechanism 6 for making payments with coins. The buttons 5 can, for example, make it possible to select different types of drink, such as different types of water, or, for example, cold, hot and/or room temperature water, or coffee or infusion, for example. Of course, other configurations are possible. In a more basic embodiment, the dispenser could have only one supply point and a control that allows actuating the supply of water towards the supply point. More complex configurations are also possible. For example, more supply options could be provided, or the dispenser could supply glasses or other types of containers, in such a way that the user would not have to provide it. Figure 2 shows a diagram of a cleaning system applicable to the dispenser. shown in the figure above. In figure 2 a water tank 10 has been schematically represented, which contains the water supplied by the dispenser. The deposit could be, for example, a "bag-in-box" type deposit. The outlet may or may not have its own valve, or it may coincide with the distribution valve 12. The outlet of the tank 10 gives way to a supply conduit 11 that gives access to the supply point. The dispenser also has a cleaning substance reservoir 13, which via a valve 131 controlled by the control system (not shown) supplies cleaning substance to the supply line 11 . Subsequently, the cleaning substance is collected in a bucket 15 or waste container. In particular, this is achieved by means of a distributor valve 12 that allows the control system to select whether the liquid flows from the tank 10 to the supply point or from the cleaning substance tank 13 to the basin 15. The system is completed with the pumps 14 that are necessary, having been represented in the figure in a merely schematic and non-constructive manner. For example, the cleaning system could have a pump to drive the cleaning substance, the water, or both.
El sistema de control (no mostrado en las figuras) puede consistir en una placa, o bien en un dispositivo informático con la adecuada programación, conectado a los actuadores correspondientes y a los sensores necesarios. El sistema de control decide cuándo realizar una limpieza mediante la actuación de la válvula 131 del depósito de sustancia limpiadora y/o de la válvula distribuidora 12. Esta orden puede venir determinada de antemano (número de usos, tiempo desde último uso, hora del día), y/o bien ser recibida de manera externa, para lo cual el sistema de control dispone de un correspondiente medio de comunicación (módem de comunicaciones para comunicación por cable o inalámbrica) para enviar datos y/o lecturas y recibir órdenes. The control system (not shown in the figures) can consist of a board, or a computer device with the appropriate programming, connected to the corresponding actuators and the necessary sensors. The control system decides when to clean by actuating the valve 131 of the cleaning substance tank and/or the distributor valve 12. This order can be determined in advance (number of uses, time since last use, time of day ), and/or be received externally, for which the control system has a corresponding means of communication (communications modem for cable or wireless communication) to send data and/or readings and receive orders.
Existen numerosas posibles variantes del sistema de limpieza mostrado en las figuras. Por ejemplo, la válvula distribuidora 12 mostrada es de cuatro vías, y podría ser sustituida por dos válvulas distribuidoras de tres vías separadas entre sí por un tramo de conducto 11 de suministro que es el que sería limpiado. También podría colocarse la cubeta 15 bajo el punto 3 de suministro, en cuyo caso el líquido de limpieza pasaría por el punto de suministro, tras recorrer el conducto 11 de suministro. El sistema de control también puede comprender un sensor para avisar de que la cubeta 15 o depósito de desecho está lleno. De esta manera, el dispensador puede avisar de que el depósito de desecho o cubeta 15 debe ser vaciado. Por ejemplo, podría disponer de un nivel, o bien de un sensor de peso. There are numerous possible variants of the cleaning system shown in the figures. For example, the distributor valve 12 shown is a four-way valve, and could be replaced by two three-way distributor valves separated from each other by a section of supply conduit 11, which is the one that would be cleaned. The basin 15 could also be placed under the supply point 3, in which case the cleaning liquid would pass through the supply point, after running through the supply conduit 11. The control system can also comprise a sensor to warn that the bucket 15 or waste tank is full. In this way, the dispenser can warn that the waste container or bucket 15 must be emptied. For example, it could have a level, or a weight sensor.
Un líquido de limpieza utilizable es ácido cítrico alimentario. Otras sustancias también son posibles. La figura 3 muestra un esquema alternativo al de la figura 2. En la figura 3 elementos iguales o equivalentes a los mostrados en las figuras anteriores han sido identificados con idénticos numerales y, por tanto, no serán descritos en detalle. A usable cleaning fluid is edible citric acid. Other substances are also possible. Figure 3 shows an alternative scheme to that of Figure 2. In Figure 3 elements that are the same or equivalent to those shown in the previous figures have been identified with identical numerals and, therefore, they will not be described in detail.
En esta realización, el depósito 10 de agua es un depósito “bag-in-box” al que se ha conectado una válvula de vástago 18 o conector rápido. La válvula de vástago 18 es una válvula similar a las válvulas utilizadas para el inflado de neumáticos (válvulas tipo Presta, Schrader, Dunlop o Regina), pero realizada preferentemente en material plástico. Este tipo de válvula presenta la ventaja de ser estanca al aire. De esta manera, la bomba 14 puede disponerse superiormente al “bag-in-box” sin problemas de cebado de la misma. In this embodiment, the water tank 10 is a "bag-in-box" tank to which a poppet valve 18 or quick connector has been connected. The stem valve 18 is a valve similar to the valves used to inflate tires (Presta, Schrader, Dunlop or Regina type valves), but preferably made of plastic material. This type of valve has the advantage of being airtight. In this way, the pump 14 can be placed above the "bag-in-box" without priming problems.
En este caso, la válvula 131 que controla la aportación de sustancia limpiadora desde el depósito 13 de sustancia limpiadora es una válvula de tres vías. También podría disponerse la válvula de manera similar a la de figura 2. Una bomba 14 extrae líquido del depósito 10 de agua o del depósito 13 de sustancia limpiadora, en función de la posición de la válvula 131 del depósito de sustancia limpiadora. La bomba 14 impulsa el líquido hacia arriba, hacia una válvula distribuidora 12 que, en este caso, es una válvula de tres vías. La válvula distribuidora 12 lleva el agua hacia el punto 3 de suministro o bien el líquido de limpieza hacia la cubeta 15. En una realización, podría suprimirse la válvula distribuidora 12, en cuyo caso la cubeta 19 de recepción de agua sobrante actuaría también como depósito de desecho de limpieza. En dicho caso, la válvula 131, al ser de tres vías, actuaría como válvula distribuidora. No obstante, como ya se ha citado, dicha válvula de tres vías puede ser sustituida por otra que simplemente abre o cierra la aportación de líquido de limpieza desde el depósito 13 de líquido de limpieza. En todo caso, las válvulas de los ejemplos mostrados quedan gobernadas desde el sistema de control. In this case, the valve 131 that controls the supply of cleaning substance from the cleaning substance reservoir 13 is a three-way valve. The valve could also be arranged similar to Figure 2. A pump 14 draws liquid from the water tank 10 or the cleaning substance tank 13, depending on the position of the cleaning substance tank valve 131 . The pump 14 forces the liquid upwards, towards a distribution valve 12, which, in this case, is a three-way valve. The distribution valve 12 leads the water to the supply point 3 or the cleaning liquid to the basin 15. In one embodiment, the distribution valve 12 could be omitted, in which case the surplus water reception basin 19 would also act as a tank of cleaning waste. In this case, the valve 131, being three-way, would act as a distribution valve. However, as already mentioned, said three-way valve can be replaced by another one that simply opens or closes the supply of cleaning liquid from the cleaning liquid tank 13 . In any case, the valves in the examples shown are governed from the control system.
Las figuras 4 y 5 muestran un ejemplo de válvula 18 aplicado para los grifos tipo vitop® que son habituales en el caso de depósitos de tipo “bag-in-box”. En este caso, la válvula no requiere ser estrictamente una válvula de vástago, puesto que la apertura del grifo vitop® se produce mediante presión sobre una pieza móvil que dispone, habitualmente, de dos alas o palas, si bien el funcionamiento puede considerarse similar. La válvula 18 del ejemplo de las figuras 4 y 5 comprende una zona 181 de conexión a tubería y otra zona 182 de conexión a la salida del grifo, que en el ejemplo están conformadas por piezas distintas. Ambas zonas pueden estar realizadas en materiales diferentes, puesto que sus funciones son diferentes (conexión a grifo y conexión a tubería, con requerimientos diferentes). Adicionalmente, la válvula dispone de una pieza en forma de forma de U 183, que actúa como dispositivo de fijación de la posición de la conexión. En cada brazo libre de la U se disponen dos entrantes 184 que reciben o fijan las alas o palas del grifo. Estos entrantes pueden servir, por ejemplo, para mantener las citadas alas o palas en la posición presionada. No obstante, en el ejemplo mostrado, la válvula comprende también un pasador de seguridad mostrado en la figura 5. Dicho pasador de seguridad presenta sendos pasadores 195 conjugados con orificios pasantes 185 dispuestos en la pieza en forma de U (ver figura 4). El pasador comprende también un tope 196 que colabora en mantener el grifo en su posición de apertura, fijando la posición de la cabeza del grifo. También se han dispuesto, si bien son opcionales, un par de tuercas o tapones 197 para evitar la retirada accidental del pasador. En el ejemplo, el tope 196 tiene forma de cazoleta, confiriendo al pasador una forma general de Έ”. Figures 4 and 5 show an example of a valve 18 applied to vitop®-type taps that are common in the case of "bag-in-box" type tanks. In this case, the valve does not need to be strictly a stem valve, since the opening of the vitop® faucet is produced by pressure on a moving part that usually has two wings or blades, although the operation can be considered similar. The valve 18 of the example of figures 4 and 5 comprises an area 181 for connecting to the pipe and another area 182 for connecting to the faucet outlet, which in the example are made up of different parts. Both zones can be made of different materials, since their functions are different (connection to the faucet and connection to the pipe, with different requirements). Additionally, the valve has a U-shaped part 183, which acts as a fixing device for the position of the connection. In each free arm of the U there are two recesses 184 that receive or fix the wings or blades of the faucet. These recesses can serve, for example, to keep said wings or blades in the pressed position. However, in the example shown, the valve also comprises a safety pin shown in figure 5. Said safety pin has respective pins 195 conjugate with through holes 185 arranged in the U-shaped piece (see figure 4). The pin also includes a stop 196 that helps to keep the tap in its open position, fixing the position of the head of the tap. Also provided, although optional, are a pair of nuts or plugs 197 to prevent accidental removal of the pin. In the example, stop 196 is cup-shaped, giving the pin a general Έ” shape.
Por supuesto, la válvula puede variar, por ejemplo, en función de la aplicación, del tipo de depósito y de la conexión de este. Of course, the valve can vary, for example, depending on the application, the type of tank and its connection.
La figura 6 muestra otra realización de la presente invención. En la figura, elementos iguales o equivalentes a los de las anteriores realizaciones mostradas en las figuras 2 y 3 han sido identificados con idénticos numerales y, por ello, no serán descritos en detalle. Figure 6 shows another embodiment of the present invention. In the figure, elements that are the same or equivalent to those of the previous embodiments shown in figures 2 and 3 have been identified with identical numerals and, therefore, they will not be described in detail.
En esta realización, el conducto 11 de suministro presenta una bifurcación en la válvula 132 de tres vías. Dicha bifurcación ofrece a la bebida dos caminos para llegar al punto 3 de suministro. Cada camino dispone de un dispositivo 101, 102 de preparación de bebida. Dichos dispositivos 101 , 102 de preparación de bebida puede tratarse de, por ejemplo, un dispositivo de calentamiento de agua, de enfriamiento, de preparación de café, té u otra bebida a partir de un extracto o polvo etc. Alternativamente, uno de los caminos puede carecer del dispositivo 101, 102 de preparación de bebida. Ambos caminos, en la realización mostrada, acaban en un mismo punto 3 de suministro, si bien podrían acabar también en puntos 3 de suministro físicamente diferentes. In this embodiment, the supply conduit 11 presents a branch in the 132 three-way valve. Said bifurcation offers the beverage two paths to reach the supply point 3. Each path has a beverage preparation device 101, 102. Said drink preparation devices 101, 102 can be, for example, a device for heating water, for cooling, for preparing coffee, tea or another drink from an extract or powder, etc. Alternatively, one of the paths may lack the beverage preparation device 101, 102. Both paths, in the embodiment shown, end at the same supply point 3, although they could also end at physically different supply points 3.
En la realización mostrada en la figura 6, además, la cubeta 19 dispone de un dispositivo para desecho de los líquidos y bebidas que llegan a la cubeta 19 desde el punto de suministro. En el caso mostrado, el dispositivo para desecho comprende un cajón 150 situado en la parte inferior del dispensador. El cajón comprende, en este caso, dos bolsas 151, 152. Una válvula 133 de tres vías elige qué bolsa 151, 152 recibe el líquido procedente de la cubeta 19. La utilización de una bolsa 151, 152 para recepción de los líquidos procedentes de la cubeta permite una limpieza y mantenimiento simplificados. El hecho de utilizar dos bolsas permite aumentar la capacidad de recepción, o bien se puede utilizar una bolsa para recibir el líquido de limpieza y otra para recibir desechos de bebida, o bien cada bolsa puede recibir los desechos de un tipo de bebida diferente preparada o dispensada por el dispensador. También podría disponerse sólo una bolsa, o varias, o bien cualquier otro tipo de contenedor. El conducto entre la cubeta y la bolsa o bolsas podría disponer de un medio de impulsión, si este se considera necesario o ventajoso. Por lo demás, el sistema de limpieza de la realización de la figura 6 es similar al mostrado en las realizaciones de las figuras 2 y 3. No obstante, el sistema de control del dispositivo de la figura 6, preferentemente, dispondrá de medios para asegurarse de que el líquido de limpieza procedente del depósito 13 de sustancia limpiadora pasa por los diferentes caminos disponibles para el agua y/o bebida procedente del depósito 10 hasta el punto 3 o puntos de suministro del dispensador. In the embodiment shown in figure 6, in addition, the tub 19 has a device for disposing of the liquids and beverages that reach the tub 19 from the supply point. In the case shown, the disposal device comprises a drawer 150 located in the lower part of the dispenser. The drawer comprises, in this case, two bags 151, 152. A three-way valve 133 selects which bag 151, 152 receives the liquid coming from the tray 19. The use of a bag 151, 152 for receiving the liquids coming from the bowl allows for simplified cleaning and maintenance. The fact of using two bags allows to increase the reception capacity, either one bag can be used to receive the cleaning liquid and another to receive drink waste, or each bag can receive the waste of a different type of drink prepared or dispensed by the dispenser. It could also have only one bag, or several, or any other type of container. The conduit between the trough and the bag or bags could have a drive means, if this is considered necessary or advantageous. Otherwise, the cleaning system of the Figure 6 embodiment is similar to that shown in the Figures 2 and 3 embodiments. However, the control system of the Figure 6 device will preferably have means to ensure that the cleaning liquid coming from the cleaning substance tank 13 passes through the different paths available for the water and/or drink coming from the tank 10 to point 3 or points of supply of the dispenser.
Las figuras 7 y 8 muestran otra realización de la presente invención. La realización de la figura 7 es similar a la de la figura 6, con la adición de un dispositivo 9 para limpieza de recipientes. El dispositivo 9 para la limpieza de recipientes puede situarse, por ejemplo, en la parte superior del dispensador. Su función es la de limpiar recipientes 2000 que usan los usuarios para recoger la bebida dispensada en el dispensador. El dispositivo 9 del ejemplo consiste en un receptáculo o cubeta con tapa, en el que se introduce, boca abajo en este caso, el recipiente 2000 a limpiar. En el receptáculo se dispone una boquilla 93 de la que sale líquido. En la realización mostrada, la boquilla puede recibir líquido de limpieza a partir de una bifurcación 91 del conducto 11 , o bien recibir agua de red a partir de un conducto 92 de alimentación de agua. El paso de un líquido u otro queda igualmente gobernado por una electroválvula 134. En otra realización, el dispositivo de limpieza podría quedar alimentado, por ejemplo, únicamente a partir del conducto 92 de alimentación de agua. También podría ser alimentado por agua mineral. En una realización especialmente preferente se puede utilizar vapor para limpiar el recipiente. Para ello, por ejemplo el agua de red y/o el agua mineral pueden ser calentadas e incluso pasadas a estado vapor antes de ser introducidas en el receptáculo para la limpieza del recipiente. Figures 7 and 8 show another embodiment of the present invention. The embodiment of figure 7 is similar to that of figure 6, with the addition of a device 9 for cleaning containers. The device 9 for cleaning containers can be located, for example, in the upper part of the dispenser. Its function is to clean containers 2000 that users use to collect the drink dispensed in the dispenser. The device 9 of the example consists of a receptacle or bucket with a lid, into which the container 2000 to be cleaned is inserted, upside down in this case. A nozzle 93 is arranged in the receptacle from which liquid flows out. In the embodiment shown, the nozzle can receive cleaning liquid from a branch 91 of conduit 11, or else receive mains water from a water supply conduit 92. The passage of one liquid or another is likewise governed by an electrovalve 134. In another embodiment, the cleaning device could be supplied, for example, solely from the water supply conduit 92 . It could also be powered by mineral water. In an especially preferred embodiment, steam can be used to clean the container. To do this, for example, tap water and/or mineral water can be heated and even steamed before being introduced into the receptacle for cleaning the container.
El dispositivo puede disponer de varias boquillas o bocas de salida de vapor, agua o líquido de limpieza con objeto de limpiar los recipientes tanto por su interior como por el exterior. Para la limpieza del interior se dispone una boquilla 93 central e inferior, para la limpieza del exterior pueden disponerse boquillas perimetrales a nivel de la base o, para obtener una limpieza más uniforme del exterior del recipiente, pueden disponerse boquillas perimetrales a distancia de la base. The device can have several nozzles or outlets for steam, water or cleaning liquid in order to clean the containers both inside and outside. For cleaning the interior there is a central and lower nozzle 93, for cleaning the exterior, perimeter nozzles can be placed at the base level or, to obtain a more uniform cleaning of the outside of the container, perimeter nozzles can be placed at a distance from the base. .
El dispositivo también comprende un accionador 931 que es presionado por el recipiente 2000 cuando es introducido en el receptáculo. El accionamiento del accionador 931 provoca la salida de agua, líquido de limpieza y/o vapor. El accionador 931 puede ser, por ejemplo, un pistón que abra una válvula de cierre, o bien simplemente enviar una señal que provoque el desbloqueo de la válvula 134 y/o de la boquilla 93. En una realización preferente, el accionamiento del accionador 931 provoca el desbloqueo del sistema y deja salir agua a presión de limpieza durante 10 segundos, para limpieza del interior y exterior del recipiente 2000. The device also comprises an actuator 931 that is pressed by the container 2000 when it is inserted into the receptacle. Activation of the actuator 931 causes the escape of water, cleaning liquid and/or steam. Actuator 931 can be, for example, a piston that opens a shut-off valve, or simply send a signal that causes valve 134 and/or nozzle 93 to unlock. In a preferred embodiment, actuator 931 actuation causes the unblocking of the system and lets out pressurized cleaning water for 10 seconds, to clean the inside and outside of the container 2000.
Además, el dispositivo comprende un pequeño ventilador 94 o turbina que puede, a través de una entrada de aire 941 , introducir aire para el secado del recipiente 2000. El receptáculo comprende ranuras 99 y/o orificios para favorecer el secado del recipiente tras el lavado. En una realización especialmente preferente, el sistema procede a realizar el siguiente ciclo secuencial de limpieza: limpieza con agua, limpieza con el líquido de limpieza o con vapor, aclarado con agua y secado. In addition, the device includes a small fan 94 or turbine that can, through an air inlet 941, introduce air to dry the container 2000. The receptacle includes slots 99 and/or holes to help dry the container after washing. . In a particularly preferred embodiment, the system proceeds to perform the following sequential cleaning cycle: water cleaning, cleaning liquid or steam cleaning, water rinsing, and drying.
El sistema puede disponer de un bloqueo, de tal manera que sólo pueda ser utilizado por determinados usuarios. El bloqueo puede levantarse mediante la aproximación de un tag RFID a un lector RFID, o de un código visual (p.ej. QR) legible por un lector óptico, o bien mediante la introducción de un código. El bloqueo puede consistir únicamente en un accionador que debe ser accionado antes de utilizar el dispositivo de limpieza de recipientes. El accionador podría tratarse de, por ejemplo, un pedal. The system can have a lock, in such a way that it can only be used by certain users. The blocking can be lifted by bringing an RFID tag close to an RFID reader, or a visual code (eg QR) readable by an optical reader, or by entering a code. The lock can only consist of an actuator that must be actuated before using the container cleaning device. The actuator could be, for example, a pedal.
El dispositivo 9 para la limpieza de recipientes puede quedar integrado en el dispensador, por ejemplo en su parte superior, en un lateral o en un frontal. El dispositivo 9 de limpieza puede quedar conectado al sistema de limpieza del resto de dispensador o bien quedar alimentado de un depósito propio o de agua de red. En una realización básica, el sistema comprende únicamente un receptáculo de recepción de un recipiente, un tubo conectado a agua de red o al sistema de limpieza del dispensador y un accionador que desbloquea el sistema haciendo que entre agua desde el tubo al receptáculo para limpieza del recipiente. The container cleaning device 9 can be integrated into the dispenser, for example in its upper part, on a side or on a front. The cleaning device 9 can be connected to the cleaning system of the rest of the dispenser or be fed from its own tank or from mains water. In a basic embodiment, the system only comprises a receptacle for receiving a container, a tube connected to mains water or to the dispenser cleaning system, and an actuator that unlocks the system by making water enter the tube from the tube to the receptacle for cleaning the dispenser. bowl.
Cualquiera de las realizaciones mostradas permite que el sistema o sistemas de limpieza del dispensador sea accionado telemáticamente, a distancia, o bien por el sistema de control automático que puede quedar integrado en el dispensador o ser remoto. Any of the embodiments shown allows the cleaning system or systems of the dispenser to be activated telematically, remotely, or by the automatic control system that can be integrated into the dispenser or be remote.
El dispensador objeto de la presente invención también puede comprender una o varias balanzas electrónicas para controlar el peso de al menos uno de los depósitos del dispensador. Estas balanzas permiten decidir al sistema de control (remoto o no, automático o no) si es necesaria una operación de limpieza y/o una de mantenimiento. De manera preferente, se dispone una balanza que pesa el d10. Esto permite realizar, si se desea, acciones de limpieza con líquido de limpieza únicamente cuando se ha consumido una cantidad determinada de agua o bebida del depósito 10. De manera alternativa o adicional, se pueden disponer balanzas en cualquiera de los depósitos de desecho 15, 150, 151, 152 y/o en la cubeta 19 igualmente con el propósito de determinar si es necesaria una operación de limpieza y/o una operación de mantenimiento. The dispenser object of the present invention can also comprise one or several electronic scales to control the weight of at least one of the deposits of the dispenser. These scales allow the control system to decide (remote or not, automatic or not) if a cleaning and/or maintenance operation is necessary. Preferably, a balance is provided that weighs d10. This allows performing, if desired, cleaning actions with cleaning liquid only when a certain amount of water or drink from the tank 10 has been consumed. Alternatively or additionally, scales can be arranged in any of the waste tanks 15, 150, 151, 152 and/or in tray 19 also with the purpose of determining if a cleaning operation and/or a maintenance operation is necessary.
Si bien la invención se ha descrito y representado basándose en un ejemplo representativo, se deberá comprender que dicha realización a título de ejemplo no es en modo alguno limitativa para la presente invención, por lo que cualesquiera de las variaciones que queden incluidas de manera directa o por vía de equivalencia en el contenido de las reivindicaciones adjuntas, se deberán considerar incluidas en el alcance de la presente invención. Although the invention has been described and represented based on a representative example, it should be understood that said exemplary embodiment is in no way limiting for the present invention, therefore any of the variations that are included directly or by way of equivalence in the content of the attached claims, they should be considered included in the scope of the present invention.

Claims

REIVINDICACIONES
1. Dispensador de bebida a granel que comprende un conducto de suministro de bebida que se dirige hacia un punto de suministro y un sistema de control del dispensador, caracterizado por que comprende un depósito de sustancia limpiadora, un conducto que comunica la salida del depósito de sustancia limpiadora con un punto del citado conducto de suministro de bebida y al menos una válvula de apertura/cierre del depósito de sustancia limpiadora, disponiendo el sistema de control de un módulo de control automático de la citada válvula. 1. Bulk beverage dispenser comprising a beverage supply conduit that is directed towards a supply point and a dispenser control system, characterized in that it comprises a cleaning substance tank, a conduit that communicates the outlet of the cleaning substance with a point of said beverage supply conduit and at least one valve for opening/closing the cleaning substance reservoir, the control system having an automatic control module for said valve.
2. Dispensador, según la reivindicación 1, caracterizado por que el conducto de suministro presenta una derivación para dirigir la sustancia limpiadora a un depósito de desecho de limpieza. A dispenser according to claim 1, characterized in that the supply conduit has a branch for directing the cleaning substance to a cleaning waste container.
3. Dispensador, según la reivindicación 2, caracterizado por que presenta una válvula de acceso a dicha derivación gobernada desde el módulo de control. 3. Dispenser, according to claim 2, characterized in that it has an access valve to said bypass controlled from the control module.
4. Dispensador, según la reivindicación 2 o 3, caracterizado por que presenta un sensor para detectar el llenado del depósito de desecho de limpieza. 4. Dispenser, according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that it has a sensor for detecting the filling of the cleaning waste tank.
5. Dispensador, según cualquiera de las reivindicaciones anteriores, caracterizado por que comprende una válvula para conectar el depósito con el conducto de suministro de bebida. 5. Dispenser, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises a valve to connect the tank with the beverage supply conduit.
6. Dispensador, según cualquiera de las reivindicaciones anteriores, caracterizado por que el depósito de bebida es de tipo “bag-in-box”. 6. Dispenser, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the beverage tank is of the "bag-in-box" type.
7. Dispensador, según las reivindicaciones 5 y 6, caracterizado por que a la salida del depósito “bag-in-box” se sitúa una válvula de vástago tipo conector rápido que da acceso al conducto de suministro de bebida. 7. Dispenser, according to claims 5 and 6, characterized in that at the outlet of the "bag-in-box" tank there is a quick-connector-type stem valve that gives access to the beverage supply conduit.
8. Dispensador, según la reivindicación 5 y 6, o la reivindicación 7, caracterizado por que la válvula comprende una pieza de conexión al depósito, una pieza de conexión al conducto y un dispositivo de fijación de la posición de la conexión, comprendiendo dicho dispositivo dos entrantes para recibir sendas alas de un grifo de salida del depósito. 8. Dispenser, according to claim 5 and 6, or claim 7, characterized in that the valve comprises a connection piece to the tank, a connection piece to the conduit and a device for fixing the position of the connection, said device comprising two inlets to receive respective wings of a faucet outlet of the Deposit.
9. Dispensador, según cualquiera de las reivindicaciones anteriores, caracterizado por que el citado punto del conducto de suministro de bebida se sitúa a la salida del depósito de bebida, en dicho conducto. 9. Dispenser according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that said point of the beverage supply conduit is located at the outlet of the beverage tank, in said conduit.
10. Dispensador, según cualquiera de las reivindicaciones anteriores, caracterizado por que el citado punto comprende una válvula distribuidora situada en el citado conducto de suministro y controlada desde el módulo de control. 10. Dispenser, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that said point comprises a distributor valve located in said supply conduit and controlled from the control module.
11. Dispensador, según cualquiera de las reivindicaciones anteriores, caracterizado por que dispone de medios para determinar un número de veces que se ha utilizado el dispensador, así como el tiempo y fecha de, al menos, la última utilización. 11. Dispenser, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that it has means for determining the number of times the dispenser has been used, as well as the time and date of at least the last use.
12. Dispensador, según cualquiera de las reivindicaciones anteriores, caracterizado por que dispone de un conjunto de órdenes que le permite decidir cuándo realizar una limpieza (por ejemplo, durante la noche siguiente tras cumplir un número de usos, o una vez pasado un determinado tiempo), y/o de medios de comunicación con una central remota, de tal manera que el momento de realización de la limpieza puede determinarse desde una ubicación remota. 12. Dispenser, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that it has a set of commands that allows it to decide when to clean (for example, during the following night after completing a number of uses, or once a certain time has elapsed). ), and/or means of communication with a remote central, in such a way that the moment of carrying out the cleaning can be determined from a remote location.
13. Dispensador, según cualquiera de las reivindicaciones anteriores, caracterizado por que la sustancia de limpieza es líquida y de uso alimentario. 13. Dispenser, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cleaning substance is liquid and for food use.
14. Dispensador, según cualquiera de las reivindicaciones anteriores, caracterizado por que presenta, además, un dispositivo refrigerador de bebida y/o un dispositivo calentador de bebida, pudiendo disponer de uno o más depósitos de bebida. 14. Dispenser, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that it also has a drink cooling device and/or a drink heating device, being able to have one or more drink tanks.
15. Dispensador, según cualquiera de las reivindicaciones anteriores, caracterizado por que dispone de un dispositivo de limpieza de recipientes. 15. Dispenser according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that it has a container cleaning device.
PCT/ES2022/070476 2021-07-21 2022-07-20 Beverage dispenser WO2023002082A1 (en)

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Citations (6)

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WO2007053665A2 (en) * 2005-10-31 2007-05-10 Ecolab Inc. Controller-based management of a fluid dispensing system
US20170079468A1 (en) * 2015-09-18 2017-03-23 Starbucks Corporation Beverage dispensing systems and methods
GB2542601A (en) * 2015-09-25 2017-03-29 John Molloy Anthony Callibrating and monitoring fluid flows for liquids and pre mix syrups with communication to remote databases, online till systems and product distribution
WO2021079801A1 (en) * 2019-10-23 2021-04-29 富士電機株式会社 Cleaning device

Patent Citations (6)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE4025624A1 (en) * 1989-08-11 1991-02-14 Frank Maldonado Cleaning system for pressure fed beer dispenser - has programmable control unit, 3 way valve and cleaning fluid container for efficient hygiene routine
US5762096A (en) * 1997-02-12 1998-06-09 Pnm, Inc. Computer controlled portable gravity flow conduit cleaner
WO2007053665A2 (en) * 2005-10-31 2007-05-10 Ecolab Inc. Controller-based management of a fluid dispensing system
US20170079468A1 (en) * 2015-09-18 2017-03-23 Starbucks Corporation Beverage dispensing systems and methods
GB2542601A (en) * 2015-09-25 2017-03-29 John Molloy Anthony Callibrating and monitoring fluid flows for liquids and pre mix syrups with communication to remote databases, online till systems and product distribution
WO2021079801A1 (en) * 2019-10-23 2021-04-29 富士電機株式会社 Cleaning device

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