Abstract: An adapter is disclosed that allows simplified connection of thermocouples to a data logger. In one embodiment, multiple thermocouple connectors are positioned within the adapter. The adapter then attaches to a data logger with a simple male/female connection scheme so that the multiple thermocouple connectors are simultaneously coupled to the data logger. The thermocouple connectors are already organized within the adapter so that each thermocouple is plugged into its proper location on the data logger.

Abstract: An apparatus for low volume dispensing of soft drinks preferably uses no mechanical refrigeration equipment, depending instead on heat transfer from a bin of ice to cool water and soft-drink syrup for beverages. A heat-exchange plate desirably includes transfer lines for incoming water to and from a carbonator. A portion of the heat exchange plate, or a second heat exchange plate, includes transfer lines for syrup and for carbonated water. The carbonated water is used to cool the syrup through the second heat exchange plate, and is also mixed with the syrup to dispense a soft drink. Heat from the incoming water and syrup is removed by melting ice in the ice bin, which may be replenished as needed.

Abstract: An apparatus for low volume dispensing of soft drinks preferably uses no mechanical refrigeration equipment, depending instead on heat transfer from a bin of ice to cool water and soft-drink syrup for beverages. A heat-exchange plate desirably includes transfer lines for incoming water to and from a carbonator. A portion of the heat exchange plate, or a second heat exchange plate, includes transfer lines for syrup and for carbonated water. The carbonated water is used to cool the syrup through the second heat exchange plate, and is also mixed with the syrup to dispense a soft drink. Heat from the incoming water and syrup is removed by melting ice in the ice bin, which may be replenished as needed.

Abstract: A beverage mixing and dispensing valve, or a beverage dispenser including the valve, includes an automatic shut-off features. A user presses a cup or container against a lever on a soft-drink dispenser. The lever closes a switch to activate the opening of a solenoid-operated valve. At the same time, a detection circuit is monitored to determine whether overflow of drink or foam has occurred. When drink or foam overflows and bridges a gap between two metal conductors on the lever, resistance is lowered and electricity flows in the detection circuit. The valve then automatically shuts off the flow of beverage. Energy is saved in keeping the valve open using a pulse width modulation (PWM) technique for voltage to the solenoid, rather than using a steady-state voltage.

Abstract: A beverage mixing and dispensing valve, or a beverage dispenser including the valve, includes an automatic shut-off features. A user presses a cup or container against a lever on a soft-drink dispenser. The lever closes a switch to activate the opening of a solenoid-operated valve. At the same time, a detection circuit is monitored to determine whether overflow of drink or foam has occurred. When drink or foam overflows and bridges a gap between two metal conductors on the lever, resistance is lowered and electricity flows in the detection circuit. The valve then automatically shuts off the flow of beverage. Energy is saved in keeping the valve open using a pulse width modulation (PWM) technique for voltage to the solenoid, rather than using a steady-state voltage.

Abstract: An apparatus for low volume dispensing of soft drinks preferably uses no mechanical refrigeration equipment, depending instead on heat transfer from a bin of ice to cool water and soft-drink syrup for beverages. A heat-exchange plate desirably includes transfer lines for incoming water to and from a carbonator. A portion of the heat exchange plate, or a second heat exchange plate, includes transfer lines for syrup and for carbonated water. The carbonated water is used to cool the syrup through the second heat exchange plate, and is also mixed with the syrup to dispense a soft drink. Heat from the incoming water and syrup is removed by melting ice in the ice bin, which may be replenished as needed.