Cabinet-type Dispenser For Single Mixed Drinks Patents (Class 222/129.1)
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Patent number: 8272318Abstract: Apparatuses, methods and systems for liquid flow control and beverage preparation are disclosed. The apparatuses, methods and systems of the present invention include liquid flow control and beverage preparation capsules, pods, cartridges, pouches, systems, and modules for controlling and directing flow streams of liquid through a beverage preparation process. The apparatuses, methods and systems of the present invention may be used in combination with or included as an integral assembly of any apparatus, method or system for liquid dispension.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2008Date of Patent: September 25, 2012Assignee: Whirlpool CorporationInventors: Lukasz D. Skalski, Tiemen T. Van Dillen
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Publication number: 20120223096Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for providing a selectable beverage from a post-mix beverage dispenser are provided. In one embodiment, the method for providing a beverage having a separately selected color from a post-mix beverage dispensing system comprises: (a) providing at least two beverage bases for dispense from the post-mix beverage dispensing system; (b) separately storing at least two colorants in the post-mix beverage dispensing system; (c) receiving a request for a selected beverage base and the separately selected color with a computer processor; and (d) in response to the selection of the selected beverage base and the separately selected color, automatically dispensing through a single faucet of the post-mix beverage dispensing system, continuously in a predetermined ratio for any volume of the beverage dispensed, the selected beverage base and at least one of the colorants to provide the beverage having the separately selected color.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 4, 2012Publication date: September 6, 2012Applicant: THE COCA-COLA COMPANYInventor: Arthur G. Rudick
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Patent number: 8251259Abstract: A product dispenser reconfigurable in the field includes a housing, at least one tower unit, and a removable ambient box. The at least one tower unit includes at least one dispense point, whereby a product or diluent is delivered from a diluent or product source to the dispense point. The ambient box is an insulated product path that is adaptable to at least one external source and the tower units or the dispense points. The external source may be conditioned externally or may deliver an ambient temperature product, wherein the product circuits passing through the ambient box may deliver product to any tower unit, thereby providing increased product variability within a same product dispenser. The product dispenser still further includes a tower structure that is removable without disabling the product circuits, and a method of merchandising on the tower structure.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 2011Date of Patent: August 28, 2012Assignee: Lancer Partnership, LtdInventors: William A. Edwards, Roger Anthony Kolodziejcyk
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Patent number: 8251258Abstract: Embodiments of a dispensing system for dispensing a number of products to a user are disclosed. The dispensing system may include an input/output device and a dispenser. The input/output device may be adapted to receive a selection of one of the products from the user. The dispenser may be adapted to dispense a plurality of diluent components, the diluent components and a ratio of the diluent components corresponding at least in part to the selection of the user.Type: GrantFiled: September 4, 2008Date of Patent: August 28, 2012Assignee: The Coca-Cola CompanyInventors: Arthur G Rudick, Annie T Ellis
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Patent number: 8245739Abstract: A beverage dispensing system comprising a dispensing port for dispensing a beverage, a drip tray located below the dispensing port for collecting the beverage dispensed and an antenna located between the dispensing port and the drip tray is provided. The beverage dispensing system is RFID-enabled by configuring the antenna to receive signals from radio frequency identification (RFID) tag.Type: GrantFiled: May 29, 2009Date of Patent: August 21, 2012Assignee: ValidFill, LLCInventors: Jeremy Wade, Loren Ostema, Ken Kemski, Peter Dorney
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Patent number: 8240522Abstract: A dispensing head incorporates multiple constant flow valves for controlling the flow of multiple liquids, e.g., syrup and carbonated water fed to a dispensing nozzle. The valves are normally closed and are opened by inlet pressures above selected threshold levels. Once open, the valves maintain the liquid flows at substantially constant flow rates and pressures, irrespective of variations of liquid input pressures and viscosities. A closure mechanism serves to close the valves at inlet pressures both above and below the threshold levels. The closure mechanism may be deactivated to simultaneously allow the valves to assume their modulating functions at inlet pressures above the threshold levels.Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 2008Date of Patent: August 14, 2012Assignee: Global Agricultural Technology & Engineering LLCInventors: John R. Newton, Michael E. Cheney, Peter J. Brooke
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Patent number: 8235581Abstract: The present invention relates to a mixing device for mixing a liquid, such as water, with an instant ingredient to form a beverage. The mixing device comprises a mixing chamber and a rotor which, during rotation about the axis of rotation, defines a surface of revolution extending along the circumference of the rotor. The rotor is arranged in the mixing chamber. The mixing chamber comprises a peripheral wall zone having a substantially circular cross section. The peripheral wall zone surrounds the surface of revolution. An outlet duct for discharging the mixture formed is connected to the mixing chamber. The inlet of the outlet duct is provided at the rotor. At least one rotor rib is provided at the peripheral wall zone. This rotor rib extends from the peripheral wall zone in the direction of the surface of revolution of the rotor.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 2007Date of Patent: August 7, 2012Assignee: Bravilor Holding B.V.Inventors: Ramon Eduard Verhoeven, Carlos Nicolaas Jozef Maria Koopman
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Patent number: 8215228Abstract: Apparatuses, methods and systems for liquid flow control and beverage preparation are disclosed. The apparatuses, methods and systems of the present invention include liquid flow control and beverage preparation capsules, pods, cartridges, pouches, systems, and modules for controlling and directing flow streams of liquid through a beverage preparation process. The apparatuses, methods and systems of the present invention may be used in combination with or included as an integral assembly of any apparatus, method or system for liquid dispension.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2008Date of Patent: July 10, 2012Assignee: Whirlpool CorporationInventors: Lukasz D. Skalski, Tiemen T. Van Dillen
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Publication number: 20120168462Abstract: A dispensing nozzle assembly for dispensing a number of micro-ingredients into a fluid stream. The dispensing nozzle assembly may include a micro-ingredient mixing chamber, a number of micro-ingredient lines in communication with the micro-ingredient mixing chamber such that the micro-ingredients mix therein, and a mixed micro-ingredient exit such the mixed micro-ingredients are dispensed into the fluid stream.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 9, 2012Publication date: July 5, 2012Applicant: THE COCA-COLA COMPANYInventor: Lawrence B. Ziesel
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Patent number: 8210396Abstract: A concentrate/extract cartridge for dispensing a liquid concentrate/extract is provided. The cartridge includes a hollow body and a dispensing tube that contains a pumping device. The cartridge includes a valve having a valve stem that passes through a port of a valve seat connected to the dispensing tube. A piston is located at a first end of the valve stem and a valve body is located at a second end of the valve stem in removable contact with the valve seat for alternately opening and closing the port. The piston can also includes a membrane positioned on a side facing the valve stem configured to permit a flow of fluid into the dispensing tube when the valve body is in contact with the valve seat and to permit the fluid to be forcibly expressed from the dispensing tube when the valve body is moved from its contact position. A liquid dispenser suitable for numerous applications, having a removably insertable concentrate/extract cartridge and a method of dispensing a liquid are also provided.Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 2008Date of Patent: July 3, 2012Assignee: Intelligent Coffee Company, LLCInventors: Jeffrey J. Girard, Nasser Pirshafiey, Mario E. Vassaux, Heather B. Kay, Shlomo Greenwald, Zipora Greenwald
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Publication number: 20120160871Abstract: The present application describes a product dispenser. The product dispenser may include at least one macro-ingredient source, at least one micro-ingredient source positioned about the dispenser, a diluent source, a dispensing valve, a number of pumps or metering devices, and a user interface. The user interface receives a request for a product type and instructs the pumps or metering devices to dispense a predetermined type and ratio of macro-ingredients, micro-ingredients, and diluent to the dispensing valve for a predetermined flow rate.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 22, 2012Publication date: June 28, 2012Applicant: THE COCA-COLA COMPANYInventors: Gregg Carpenter, David R. Newman, Nilang Patel, Paul A. Phillips, Arthur G. Rudick, Lawrence B. Ziesel
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Publication number: 20120152981Abstract: The present invention is directed a beverage dispensing machine and beverage dispenser that may be used for mixing and dispensing liquids. The beverage dispenser has a mounting bracket with a carrier that is removably connected to the mounting bracket and a mixing bowl that is removably connected to the carrier. The beverage container also has a first set of fittings extending from the mounting bracket for receiving a first set of liquids and dispensing the first set of liquids into the mixing bowl. The beverage container also has a second set of fittings also extending from the mounting bracket for receiving a second set of liquids and dispensing the second set of liquids into the mixing bowl.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 21, 2011Publication date: June 21, 2012Applicant: 4G Innovations, LLCInventors: William Metropulos, Wayne Alpert, Tim Knecht
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Patent number: 8196776Abstract: An apparatus and a method for controlling a beverage dispensing machine. The apparatus performs the method and the method includes steps of monitoring, through a sensing device, the ingredient amount/level and/or the shape of the surface of the ingredient within the container, comparing the monitored value with a reference value stored in a machine control unit, and changing one or more operative parameters of the beverage dispensing machine, when necessary on the basis of the comparison. The monitoring may include detecting a distance between the sensing device, which is positioned above the ingredient, and at least one point of an upper surface of the ingredient. The operative parameters may be operating time of the machine to draw the ingredient from the container, an amount of ingredient drawn from the container, and an operating time or condition of other machine units.Type: GrantFiled: January 15, 2007Date of Patent: June 12, 2012Assignee: Rhea Vendors, S.p.A.Inventor: Luca Doglioni Majer
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Publication number: 20120138632Abstract: An apparatus and method may be configured for detecting selection between a hot version and a cold version of a beverage, causing opening of a first of a plurality of valves and closing of a second of the plurality of valves for providing water to a first of a plurality of mixing chambers based on the selection, causing delivery of beverage concentrate to the first mixing chamber, controlling a flow rate of the water and a flow rate of the beverage concentrate into the mixing chamber for mixing of the water with the beverage concentrate in a controlled ratio to create the beverage, and dispensing the beverage from the mixing chamber.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 2, 2010Publication date: June 7, 2012Applicant: PEPSICO, INC.Inventors: Xuejun Li, William W. Segiet, Fernando A. Ubidia, John F. Lewis, Aaron M. Stein
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Patent number: 8181824Abstract: A beverage dispensing system using a sweetener. The beverage dispensing system may include a dispensing nozzle, a sweetener source with the sweetener at more than about 65° brix, a first diluent source with a first diluent, a mixing chamber in communication with the sweetener source and the first diluent source so as to dilute the sweetener to less than about 65° brix, and a second diluent source with a second diluent so as to dilute further the sweetener upstream of the dispensing nozzle.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2008Date of Patent: May 22, 2012Assignee: The Coca-Cola CompanyInventors: Lawrence B. Ziesel, Gregg Carpenter, Robert Hughes, Daniel S. Quartarone
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Publication number: 20120118912Abstract: A beverage dispensing system includes a base to which a dispensing head is removably attached without additional fasteners. Beverage-forming liquids are supplied through a plurality of separate conduits in the base. Each base conduit has a normally closed valve that normally blocks fluid flow. The dispensing head has at least one passageway that receives liquid from an associated one of the base conduits. A projection associated with each dispensing head passageway opens the associated conduit valve to allow fluid flow from the base to the head. Dispensing valves in the dispensing head regulate the dispensing of the beverage. By selectively opening the dispensing valves, a plurality of beverages are formed from combinations of one or more liquids. A dispensing head includes an inlet opening and an outlet opening at each end of a passage extending through a body, the inlet opening having a smaller cross-sectional area than the outlet opening.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 23, 2012Publication date: May 17, 2012Applicant: PEPSICO, INC.Inventors: Timothy W. Bethuy, William J. Black, Brian T. Cahill, Ronald Schilling, Paul Novotny, Fabio Nebbia, Giovanni Perucca
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Patent number: 8177103Abstract: A container that dispenses a carbonated drink such as beer has a pressure regulator that controls the pressure of the dispensed fluid with a pressurized carbon dioxide. The carbon dioxide is released to maintain the desired pressure by a pressure regulator that opens a valve when the pressure is too low in the dispensed fluid and closes a valve when the pressure is high enough in the dispensed fluid. The pressure regulator is easily adjusted without the use of a tool during operation by simply rotating the pressure regulator's cap on its threads.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 2004Date of Patent: May 15, 2012Assignee: Heineken Supply Chain B.V.Inventors: Engbert Hermannes Pakkert, Quintijn Innikel
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Publication number: 20120111888Abstract: A system for dispensing fluid may include a first fluid circuit and second fluid circuit. The first fluid circuit may include a first reservoir configured to contain a supply of first fluid for being dispensed and a first variable volume chamber in flow communication with the first fluid circuit. The second fluid circuit may be configured to provide pressure for dispensing the first fluid. The second fluid circuit may include a second reservoir, a pump, fluid passages configured to provide fluid flow within the second fluid circuit, and a second variable volume chamber in flow communication with the second fluid circuit. The second fluid circuit may be a closed-loop circuit, and the first variable volume chamber and the second variable volume chamber are associated with one another, such that flow of fluid in the second circuit controls dispensing and temperature of the first fluid in the first fluid circuit.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 7, 2010Publication date: May 10, 2012Inventor: Clyde M. Smith
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Publication number: 20120111887Abstract: A nozzle system for use with a multi-flavor beverage dispenser includes a mixing chamber having a fluid outlet therefrom; a diluent injector configured to deliver a mixing fluid from without to within the mixing chamber; and a number of concentrate injectors configured to independently deliver a fluid concentrate from without to within the mixing chamber. The concentrate injector each have associated therewith a self-sealing dispensing valve configured to substantially limit fluid flow through its respective concentrate injector to from without the mixing chamber to within the mixing chamber.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 19, 2011Publication date: May 10, 2012Inventors: Donald W. Smeller, Jarrell L. Jennings, III, Robert L. Robinson, Merrill R. Good, George E. Hernandez
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Publication number: 20120102998Abstract: A liquid dispensing apparatus and system for controlling the delivery of liquid additives is disclosed. In one aspect, liquid additives are delivered to a beverage preparation system through a multiple inlet pump for preparing a finished beverage. In another aspect, additives from liquid additive containers are delivered to a beverage preparation system through a multiple inlet and pumping section pump for preparing a finished beverage. Other additives are communicated through the beverage dispensing system for maintaining and cleaning the system and the multiple inlet pump for ensuring the hygienical integrity of the system throughout its use.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 29, 2010Publication date: May 3, 2012Applicant: WHIRLPOOL CORPORATIONInventor: KEVIN M. CHASE
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Patent number: 8167173Abstract: A tap is provided that allows multiple streams of draught beers to be dispersed from one keg handle. The tap has one tap handle, one spigot, at least three fluid streams for connecting to at least three pressurized tanks corresponding with the fluid streams. A floating transfer block functions as a selection valve that aligns with a selected fluid stream no that multiple streams of draught beers to be independently dispersed from said one tap handle.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 2008Date of Patent: May 1, 2012Assignee: 3Habto, LLCInventors: Scott K. Simmonds, Michael D. Calvelage
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Patent number: 8162176Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for providing a selectable beverage from a post-mix beverage dispenser are provided. In one embodiment, the method for providing a beverage having a separately selected color from a post-mix beverage dispensing system comprises: (a) providing at least two beverage bases for dispense from the post-mix beverage dispensing system; (b) separately storing at least two colorants in the post-mix beverage dispensing system; (c) receiving a request for a selected beverage base and the separately selected color with a computer processor; and (d) in response to the selection of the selected beverage base and the separately selected color, automatically dispensing through a single faucet of the post-mix beverage dispensing system, continuously in a predetermined ratio for any volume of the beverage dispensed, the selected beverage base and at least one of the colorants to provide the beverage having the separately selected color.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 2008Date of Patent: April 24, 2012Assignee: The Coca-Cola CompanyInventor: Arthur G. Rudick
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Patent number: 8162181Abstract: The present application describes a product dispenser. The product dispenser may include at least one macro-ingredient source, at least one micro-ingredient source positioned about the dispenser, a diluent source, a dispensing valve, a number of pumps or metering devices, and a user interface. The user interface receives a request for a product type and instructs the pumps or metering devices to dispense a predetermined type and ratio of macro-ingredients, micro-ingredients, and diluent to the dispensing valve for a predetermined flow rate.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2011Date of Patent: April 24, 2012Assignee: The Coca-Cola CompanyInventors: Gregg Carpenter, David R. Newman, Nilang Patel, Paul A. Phillips, Arthur G. Rudick, Lawrence B. Ziesel
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Patent number: 8162177Abstract: A dispensing nozzle assembly for dispensing a number of micro-ingredients into a fluid stream. The dispensing nozzle assembly may include a micro-ingredient mixing chamber, a number of micro-ingredient lines in communication with the micro-ingredient mixing chamber such that the micro-ingredients mix therein, and a mixed micro-ingredient exit such the mixed micro-ingredients are dispensed into the fluid stream.Type: GrantFiled: November 2, 2010Date of Patent: April 24, 2012Assignee: The Coca-Cola CompanyInventor: Lawrence B. Ziesel
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Patent number: 8152024Abstract: A drip tray is attached to a beverage dispenser below a splash panel of the dispenser by a releasable latching mechanism that permits the drip tray to be removed from and replaced on the dispenser while the splash panel remains in place on the dispenser.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 2009Date of Patent: April 10, 2012Assignee: IMI Cornelius Inc.Inventors: David K. Njaastad, Wieslaw Tomzyk
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Publication number: 20120055954Abstract: A manifold for a liquid dispensing system has at least two layers. The first layer has multiple through holes along its thickness direction, and one or more fluid channels perpendicular to the thickness direction. The second layer has one or more through holes along its thickness direction, each communicating with one of the through holes of the first layer. The second layer also has one or more fluid channels perpendicular to the thickness direction. The fluid channels each have an inlet at the edge of the respective layer and an outlet at one of the through holes. The second layer also has one or more holes defining valve bores. A valve in each of the valve bores controls flow of a liquid to a respective one of the fluid channels of the second layer. Also provided are a liquid dispensing system and a method of manufacturing a manifold.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 29, 2011Publication date: March 8, 2012Applicant: Automatic Bar Controls, Inc.Inventor: Thomas R. Hecht
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Patent number: 8127966Abstract: A beverage dispensing system includes a base to which a dispensing head is removably attached without additional fasteners. Beverage-forming liquids are supplied through a plurality of separate conduits in the base. Each base conduit has a normally closed valve that normally blocks fluid flow. The dispensing head has at least one passageway that receives liquid from an associated one of the base conduits. A projection associated with each dispensing head passageway opens the associated conduit valve to allow fluid flow from the base to the head. Dispensing valves in the dispensing head regulate the dispensing of the beverage. By selectively opening the dispensing valves, a plurality of beverages are formed from combinations of one or more liquids. A dispensing head includes an inlet opening and an outlet opening at each end of a passage extending through a body, the inlet opening having a smaller cross-sectional area than the outlet opening.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 2008Date of Patent: March 6, 2012Assignee: PepsiCo, Inc.Inventors: Timothy W. Bethuy, William J. Black, Brian T. Cahill, Ronald Schilling, Paul Novotny, Fabio Nebbia, Giovanni Perucca
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Patent number: 8127805Abstract: A beverage dispensing system has a container with an upper lip, a bottom and a cylindrical sidewall. A read/write radio frequency identification tag is on a container. A beverage dispenser has a plurality of dispensing valves associated with a plurality of different beverages. Each valve has an actuator. A reader is operatively coupled with respect to the tag for communicating with the tag and for communicating with the actuator. An electronic system is operatively coupled to the tag and the actuators and the reader.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2009Date of Patent: March 6, 2012Assignee: ValidFill LLCInventor: Peter Dorney
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Publication number: 20120048886Abstract: A product dispenser reconfigurable in the field includes a housing, at least one tower unit, and a removable ambient box. The at least one tower unit includes at least one dispense point, whereby a product or diluent is delivered from a diluent or product source to the dispense point. The ambient box is an insulated product path that is adaptable to at least one external source and the tower units or the dispense points. The external source may be conditioned through external means or may deliver an ambient temperature product, wherein the product circuits passing through the ambient box may deliver product to any tower unit, thereby providing increased product variability within a same product dispenser. The product dispenser still further includes a tower structure that is removable without disabling the product circuits, and a method of merchandising on the tower structure.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 23, 2011Publication date: March 1, 2012Inventors: William A. Edwards, Roger Anthony Kolodziejcyk
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Publication number: 20120048887Abstract: A product dispenser reconfigurable in the field includes a housing, at least one tower unit, and a removable ambient box. The at least one tower unit includes at least one dispense point, whereby a product or diluent is delivered from a diluent or product source to the dispense point. The ambient box is an insulated product path that is adaptable to at least one external source and the tower units or the dispense points. The external source may be conditioned through external means or may deliver an ambient temperature product, wherein the product circuits passing through the ambient box may deliver product to any tower unit, thereby providing increased product variability within a same product dispenser. The product dispenser still further includes a tower structure that is removable without disabling the product circuits, and a method of merchandising on the tower structure.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 23, 2011Publication date: March 1, 2012Inventors: William A. Edwards, Roger Anthony Kolodziejcyk
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Patent number: 8123080Abstract: A beverage dispensing system includes a base to which a dispensing head is removably attached without additional fasteners. Beverage-forming liquids are supplied through a plurality of separate conduits in the base. Each base conduit has a normally closed valve that normally blocks fluid flow. The dispensing head has at least one passageway that receives liquid from an associated one of the base conduits. A projection associated with each dispensing head passageway opens the associated conduit valve to allow fluid flow from the base to the head. Dispensing valves in the dispensing head regulate the dispensing of the beverage. By selectively opening the dispensing valves, a plurality of beverages are formed from combinations of one or more liquids. A dispensing head includes an inlet opening and an outlet opening at each end of a passage extending through a body, the inlet opening having a smaller cross-sectional area than the outlet opening.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 2008Date of Patent: February 28, 2012Assignee: Pepsico, Inc.Inventors: Timothy W. Bethuy, William J. Black, Brian T. Cahill, Ronald Schilling, Paul Novotny, Fabio Nebbia, Giovanni Perucca
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Patent number: 8123075Abstract: A system and method delaying refilling of a reservoir in a beverage dispensing system or dispensing of a mixed volume to prevent undesirable characteristics in the dispensed beverage. First, a volumetric freezing rate is determined for the product. Next, a volume of frozen product is dispensed. The rate the dispensed volume is refilled is controlled to be no faster than the volumetric freezing rate.Type: GrantFiled: July 25, 2006Date of Patent: February 28, 2012Assignee: Bunn-O-Matic CorporationInventor: Jeff W. Kadyk
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Patent number: 8126589Abstract: A vending machine for the distribution of beverages. The vending machine may also dispense a reusable beverage container. The vending machine may also fill a container purchased from the machine or provided by a user.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2008Date of Patent: February 28, 2012Assignee: Ecowell, Inc.Inventor: Caryn Parker
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Publication number: 20120037662Abstract: A mixer assembly includes a mixer body and a mixer cover coupled to the mixer body. The mixer body includes an inner wall defining a mixing chamber having an inlet and an outlet. The inner wall includes a plurality of protrusions disposed on top of the inner wall that form a plurality of passes therebetween. The mixer body further includes a shell disposed around the inner wall that forms a diluent chamber between the inner wall and the shell. Diluent entering the diluent chamber flows through the plurality of passes and into the mixing chamber for mixing with product entering from the inlet of the mixing chamber. Mixed product exits the mixer body from the outlet of the mixing chamber. The mixer cover includes an angled shelf that closes out the diluent chamber and extends over the plurality of passes such that diluent entering the diluent chamber moves through the plurality of passes along the angled shelf and into the mixing chamber.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 16, 2010Publication date: February 16, 2012Inventors: Michael T. Romanyszyn, Basil Girjis, Donald W. Smeller
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Patent number: 8113384Abstract: A beverage dispensing system includes a base to which a dispensing head is removably attached without additional fasteners. Beverage-forming liquids are supplied through a plurality of separate conduits in the base. Each base conduit has a normally closed valve that normally blocks fluid flow. The dispensing head has at least one passageway that receives liquid from an associated one of the base conduits. A projection associated with each dispensing head passageway opens the associated conduit valve to allow fluid flow from the base to the head. Dispensing valves in the dispensing head regulate the dispensing of the beverage. By selectively opening the dispensing valves, a plurality of beverages are formed from combinations of one or more liquids. A dispensing head includes an inlet opening and an outlet opening at each end of a passage extending through a body, the inlet opening having a smaller cross-sectional area than the outlet opening.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 2008Date of Patent: February 14, 2012Assignee: PepsiCo, Inc.Inventors: Timothy W. Bethuy, William J. Black, Brian T. Cahill, Ronald Schilling, Paul Novotny, Fabio Nebbia, Giovanni Perucca
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Patent number: 8109413Abstract: A bar gun assembly for receiving a multiplicity of fluid carrying tubes carrying a multiplicity of fluids, for example, flavored syrup and soda water, therein. The bar gun assembly has a handle having a handle body. The handle body is a multiplicity of ports and fluid channels therein. A supply line connector assembly engages the supply lines and the handle body. A backing plate assembly engages openings in the fluid chambers of the handle body to seal fluid therein. A nozzle assembly engages at least some of the fluid channels in the handle.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2008Date of Patent: February 7, 2012Inventors: A. A. Jud Schroeder, Dave Santy
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Publication number: 20120006204Abstract: A refillable vend module includes at least one canister configured to contain an ingredient for a beverage, and a connecting mechanism configured to slidably connect to any one of a plurality of modular vend spaces in a vending machine. In some embodiments, the at least one canister comprises a poka-yoke refill connection configured to couple an ingredient cartridge to the canister, where the poka-yoke refill connection matches a type of the canister to a type of the ingredient cartridge. A vending machine includes a plurality of modular vend spaces and a plurality of refillable vend modules.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 8, 2011Publication date: January 12, 2012Applicant: CRANE MERCHANDISING SYSTEMS, INC.Inventors: Michael Eidenschink, Tarcisio Vergani, Matthew Hooper
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Patent number: 8091737Abstract: A multiple flavor beverage dispensing nozzle includes at least one disposable beverage flavor syrup injector for injecting flavor syrup into a mixing fluid. The flavor syrup injector injects flavor syrup at an angle towards the longitudinal axis of the nozzle exit orifice such that the nozzle exit orifice does not come in contact with the syrup, avoiding color and flavor contamination of other dispensed beverages. Also, by injecting the syrup at an angle, the mixing fluid intersects with the syrup in midair below the surface of the nozzle, resulting in a complete and gentle mixing of syrup and mixing fluid, without syrup residue accumulating on any surface in contact with any other flavor. By directing the mixing fluid through and around the housing containing the flavor syrup injectors, a uniform even circular flow of mixing fluid is dispensed from the exit orifice of the nozzle.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2008Date of Patent: January 10, 2012Assignees: Lancer Partnership, Ltd, The Coca-Cola CompanyInventors: Donald W. Smeller, Samuel Escamilla, Robert L. Robinson
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Patent number: 8091736Abstract: A method and computer program product for defining a PWM drive signal having a defined voltage potential. The PWM drive signal has a plurality of “on” portions and a plurality of “off” portions that define a first duty cycle for regulating, at least in part, a flow rate of a pump assembly. At least a portion of the “on” portions of the PWM drive signal are pulse width modulated to define a second duty cycle for the at least a portion of the “on” portions of the PWM drive signal. The second duty cycle regulates, at least in part, the percentage of the defined voltage potential applied to the pump assembly.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2011Date of Patent: January 10, 2012Assignee: DEKA Products Limited PartnershipInventors: Russell Herbert Beavis, James Jason Dattolo
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Patent number: 8087542Abstract: An apparatus, method and vending system mixes a dry mix with water to produce a whipped fluid slurry for a beverage. The mixing apparatus includes an inlet for receiving an unwhipped fluid slurry and an outlet for discharging the whipped fluid slurry. A whipping chamber is connected to the inlet for whipping the unwhipped fluid slurry and further includes an impeller that induces fluid turbulence to produce the whipped fluid slurry when the impeller rotates above one or more indentations in the surface of the whipping chamber.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2007Date of Patent: January 3, 2012Assignee: Crane Merchandising Systems, Inc.Inventor: Gregory G. Stettes
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Patent number: 8087544Abstract: A system for mixing beverage components in a predetermined ratio is characterized by a housing having a mixing chamber therein, first and second inlets to the chamber and an outlet from the chamber. A first beverage component is flowed through the first inlet to the mixing chamber and a second beverage component is flowed through the second inlet to the chamber for mixing of the components in the chamber and exit of the mixture from the chamber through the chamber outlet. The pressure of the second beverage component in the second inlet is sensed upstream from the chamber and the flow of at least one of the first and second beverage components to the chamber is controlled in accordance with the sensed pressure to deliver to the mixing chamber a predetermined ratio of the first and second beverage components.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 2006Date of Patent: January 3, 2012Inventors: Kyle B Elsom, Gregory M Billman
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Publication number: 20110315711Abstract: A beverage dispensing system including a control unit and a touch screen. Inputs are made to the touch screen to dispense beverages and apply system adjustments. The control unit controls a plurality of beverage dispensing valves according to inputs made to the touch screen.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 24, 2011Publication date: December 29, 2011Applicant: Automatic Bar Controls, Inc.Inventors: Thomas R. Hecht, Jun Feng, Boris Brodsky, Richard A. Martindale
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Patent number: 8083104Abstract: A variable temperature dispensing system and method for dispensing a variable temperature controlled fluid in an appliance includes a first fluid storage tank for holding the fluid at one temperature and a second fluid storage tank for holding the fluid at another temperature that is elevated relative to the one temperature of the first fluid storage tank. A dispenser outlet is fluidly connected to the first and second fluid storage tanks by at least one fluid line. A proportioning device is disposed along the at least one fluid line between the dispenser outlet and the first and second fluid storage tanks to proportion the fluid delivered from the first and second fluid storage tanks to the dispenser outlet. The proportioning device allows for the selection of a specific temperature for the fluid to be dispensed through the dispenser outlet and delivers the fluid at the selected specific temperature.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2007Date of Patent: December 27, 2011Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: John J. Roetker, Carl T. Whitaker
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Patent number: 8083100Abstract: A beverage dispenser provides numerous inventive features in its refrigeration system, diluent delivery system, concentrate delivery system, mixing and dispensing system, and control system. The refrigeration system employs a plate heat exchanger to provide on demand refrigeration of an intermittent water flow. The diluent delivery system includes a flowmeter/solenoid/check-valve assembly. The concentrate delivery system employs a positive displacement pump. The mixing and dispensing system includes a mixing nozzle that has a locking feature such that an elevated blocking surface directly faces the inlet of pressurized diluent to create turbulence. The control system receives package-specific information from a scanner and diluent flow rate information from the flowmeter, and then determines the pump speed in order to set a desired mix ratio.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 2010Date of Patent: December 27, 2011Assignee: Carrier CorporationInventors: James J. Minard, Mark E. Bush, Peter F. McNamee
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Patent number: 8079495Abstract: A dispensing head is removably attached to a beverage dispensing system base without additional fasteners, wherein beverage forming liquids are supplied through a plurality of separate conduits in the base. Each base conduit has a normally closed valve that normally blocks fluid flow. The dispensing head has at least one passageway that receives liquid from an associated one of the base conduits. A projection associated with each dispensing head passageway opens the associated conduit valve to allow fluid flow from the base to the head. Dispensing valves in the dispensing head are independently accountable to regulate the dispensing of the beverage. In one version of the invention, four liquids are supplied to the dispensing head through the conduits, namely two liquid concentrates; carbonated water; and noncarbonated water. By selective opening of the dispensing valves, a plurality of beverages are formed from combinations of one or more of the liquids.Type: GrantFiled: October 8, 2010Date of Patent: December 20, 2011Assignee: PepsiCo, Inc.Inventors: Timothy W. Bethuy, William J. Black, Brian T. Cahill, Ronald Schilling, Paul Novotny, Fabio Nebbia, Giovanni Perucca
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Patent number: 8074842Abstract: A dispenser including a plurality of tower sections allows an operator to remove one or more tower sections from the fluid dispenser without removing the fluid dispenser from a dispensing location. A housing of the dispenser includes multiple arrays of outlets from a housing fluid circuit that is connectable to fluid sources. Separate tower sections including complementary arrays are then coupled to arrays of the housing, thereby extending the housing fluid circuits to the dispense points disposed on the tower sections. The tower sections are secured to the fluid dispenser housing. The tower sections may further include mounting members that mate together to provide additional restraint and to ensure that the dispense points of the attached tower sections are aligned, thereby providing a clean, uniform appearance.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 2007Date of Patent: December 13, 2011Assignees: Lancer Partnership, Ltd., The Coca-Cola CompanyInventors: William A. Edwards, Gary V. Paisley, Douglas J. McDougall, Daniel S. Quartarone, Samuel L. Orr, Jr.
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Patent number: 8070019Abstract: An apparatus, method and vending system mixes a dry product mix with liquid to produce a mixed beverage. The apparatus includes a product canister containing the dry product mix. The product canister includes a dispensing mechanism that dispensed a portion of the mix through an outlet. During dispensing, a plurality of agitators positioned within the product canister and in contact with the product mix displaces the product mix, thereby keeping the product mix loose and lifted and resulting in a more evenly distributed product mix feed for dispensing through the outlet.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2007Date of Patent: December 6, 2011Assignee: Crane Merchandising Systems, Inc.Inventor: Gregory G. Stettes
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Patent number: 8069774Abstract: An automated apparatus that sterilizes and refills beverage containers with filtered water and any number of additives or ingredients such as nutrients, health supplements, caffeine, flavorings, vitamins, sweeteners, coloring agents, medicines, etc. The apparatus allows consumers, including home consumers, to produce, customize and “bottle” their own flavored and fortified filtered water.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2008Date of Patent: December 6, 2011Inventor: Robert Mazur
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Patent number: 8047402Abstract: A dispensing nozzle assembly for dispensing a number of micro-ingredients into a fluid stream. The dispensing nozzle assembly may include a micro-ingredient mixing chamber, a number of micro-ingredient lines in communication with the micro-ingredient mixing chamber such that the micro-ingredients mix therein, and a mixed micro-ingredient exit such the mixed micro-ingredients are dispensed into the fluid stream.Type: GrantFiled: February 9, 2010Date of Patent: November 1, 2011Assignee: The Coca-Cola CompanyInventor: Lawrence B. Ziesel
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Patent number: 8038033Abstract: A beverage whipper, including a whipper disk configured for spinning within the whipper and having a radius is disclosed. The whipper disk further includes a front surface and a plurality of forward-facing concave surfaces that divide the front surface into a plurality of front surface sections. The concave surfaces extend generally radially over more than half the radius and have a circumferential width and a depth, wherein the width is larger than the depth. The front surface sections have a total area that is at least 4-times the total area of the concave surfaces. Also, a beverage dispenser that includes the whipper for forming beverages having crema such as espresso or cappuccino.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 2008Date of Patent: October 18, 2011Assignee: Nestec S.A.Inventors: Darren William Crow, Takeshi Masu, Jurgen Leenders, Richard Patrick Egnor, Travis D. Hall