Plural Measured Charges In Single Drink Patents (Class 222/129.4)
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Patent number: 8978928Abstract: An apparatus for producing a drink, for example milk, from mixing a powder formula with a liquid, preferably water, the apparatus preferably being an automated baby-milk machine. The apparatus is configured to prepare a drink concentrate by mixing the amount of formula necessary for the total amount of drink in a certain amount of hot liquid, and to add the right amount of liquid of a certain low temperature to the concentrate in order to reach the end volume of the drink at a safe drinking temperature.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 2008Date of Patent: March 17, 2015Assignee: Koninklijke Philips N.V.Inventors: Anke Sinnema, Martijn Oversteegen, Peter Sofrides Viet, Bernardus Lubbertus Kuiper
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Patent number: 8973785Abstract: Embodiments of the invention include systems and methods for priming or purging a product dispenser. In one embodiment, a product dispenser can include a plurality of beverage ingredient sources comprising a respective beverage ingredient; a plurality of beverage supply lines in respective communication with the plurality of ingredient sources; at least one pump in communication with the plurality of beverage supply lines; and a controller in communication with the at least one pump and operable to execute a set of instructions operable to: receive a command to prime or purge the product dispenser; and activate the at least one pump, wherein a predefined amount of the respective beverage ingredients is simultaneously introduced into each of the plurality of beverage supply lines.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 2010Date of Patent: March 10, 2015Assignee: The Coca-Cola CompanyInventors: David R. Newman, Gene M. Farrell
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Patent number: 8960500Abstract: A beverage dispenser for combining a number of micro-ingredients, one or more macro-ingredients, and one or more water streams. The beverage dispenser may include a micro-mixing chamber for mixing a number of the micro-ingredients and the water into a micro-ingredient stream and a macro-mixing chamber for mixing the micro-ingredient stream, the macro-ingredients, and the water into a combined stream.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2007Date of Patent: February 24, 2015Assignee: The Coca-Cola CompanyInventors: Edwin Petrus Elisabeth van Opstal, Arthur G. Rudick, Mark Andrew Wilcock, Andrew Zipsin
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Patent number: 8881948Abstract: An automated mixing drink dispenser (10) establishes a preselected feed rate of concentrate from a concentrate hopper (42) and ratio of concentrate to mixing water fed into a mixing chamber (42) through the Venturi effect created by swirling water fed into a mixing chamber (42) at a preselected water pressure (66) and preselected regulated flow rate (68) associated with the preselected feed rate of the concentrate. Concentrate is fed to a mixing chamber (42) from a concentrate hopper (42) having an open drain hole (50) openly connected to the mixing chamber (42). A stirring mechanism (106, 100, 101, 102, 104) mechanically mixes the concentrate within the concentrate hopper (42) to maintain a uniform density and viscosity and a gas pressure mechanism (92, 94, 96, 86) maintains a uniform head pressure of concentrate to facilitate maintenance of the preselected concentrate flow rate over time.Type: GrantFiled: November 23, 2010Date of Patent: November 11, 2014Assignee: Food Equipment Technologies Company, Inc.Inventor: Zbigniew G. Lassota
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Patent number: 8851329Abstract: 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: July 26, 2012Date of Patent: October 7, 2014Assignee: The Coca-Cola CompanyInventors: Arthur G. Rudick, Annie T. Ellis
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Patent number: 8839989Abstract: 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: January 9, 2012Date of Patent: September 23, 2014Assignee: DEKA Products Limited PartnershipInventors: Russell Herbert Beavis, James Jason Dattolo
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Patent number: 8814000Abstract: 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 front 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: May 6, 2013Date of Patent: August 26, 2014Assignee: The Coca-Cola CompanyInventor: Arthur G. Rudick
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Patent number: 8807393Abstract: 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: May 20, 2013Date of Patent: August 19, 2014Assignee: 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: 8798799Abstract: Systems and methods for dispensing compositions, such as beverages, are provided. Beverage dispensers may be configured to receive one or more physiological parameters regarding a user, and in response, formulate at least one beverage recipe for dispensing. A beverage dispenser may wirelessly receive data from a biosensor. Environmental or biological data from the biosensor may be used to alter the recipe to another existing beverage or a custom beverage. Non-physiological data may also be considered. Exertion data may be calculated. The calculation of exertion data may receive inputs regarding at least one physiological parameter and/or non-physiological parameters to derive a second physiological parameter not being measured.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 2013Date of Patent: August 5, 2014Assignee: PepsiCo, Inc.Inventors: Indrani Deo, Steven Jersey
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Patent number: 8783513Abstract: A product dispensing system includes a flow control device configured to regulate a first ingredient. A pump module is configured to be coupled to a supply of a second ingredient. A controller is configured to provide a first control signal to the flow control device for controlling the supply of a first quantity of the first ingredient based upon, at least in part, a predetermined recipe. The controller is further configured to provide a second control signal to the pump module for controlling the supply of a first quantity of the second ingredient based upon, at least in part, the predetermined recipe.Type: GrantFiled: December 3, 2012Date of Patent: July 22, 2014Assignee: DEKA Products Limited PartnershipInventors: Russell H. Beavis, Benjamin W. Jones, John M. Kerwin, Larry B. Gray, Casey P. Manning, Felix Winkler, Robert A. Charles
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Patent number: 8721162Abstract: A method of controlling an integrated beverage system that comprises a dispensing module that dispenses one or more ingredients into a beverage container and a blending/mixing module that blends and/or mixes the ingredients in the beverage container, the method comprising: controlling the dispensing module and the blending/mixing module to prepare first and second beverages concurrently or sequentially.Type: GrantFiled: July 3, 2012Date of Patent: May 13, 2014Assignee: Enodis CorporationInventors: Jan Claesson, William E. Smith, Roberto Nevarez
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Patent number: 8701937Abstract: A fountain beverage dispenser for constituting a beverage by mixture of a beverage syrup and a diluent for the syrup is characterized by use of a highly concentrated beverage syrup supply and at least one diluent and syrup blending station for diluting the highly concentrated syrup with diluent before the diluted syrup is mixed with diluent in the final mixture of syrup and diluent delivered to a dispensing nozzle.Type: GrantFiled: October 7, 2013Date of Patent: April 22, 2014Assignee: IMI Cornelius, Inc.Inventor: George H. Hoover
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Patent number: 8651333Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: June 21, 2011Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Smart Bar USA LLCInventors: William Metropulos, Wayne Alpert, Tim Knecht
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Patent number: 8584901Abstract: A powder dispensing apparatus for dispensing a powder either with or without a liquid is presented. The apparatus includes a base, a dispenser, and a tower. The base is adapted for receiving a container. The dispenser includes a rotatable carriage contacting a support element with an opening. The carriage includes a plurality of compartments horizontally disposed above an optional funnel and rotatable about a central axis. A hopper is disposed above the carriage and communicates with less than all compartments. Each compartment is capable of separately dispensing a powder from the hopper through the opening into the funnel and thereafter into the container resting on the base. The tower is disposed between and attached at opposing ends to the base and the dispenser. The apparatus is useful, for example, in preparing baby formula and other food for infants, as well as in preparing food and drink for children and adults.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 2011Date of Patent: November 19, 2013Assignees: Product Spring, LLC, Taylored Concepts, LLC, Hartdesign! Ltd.Inventors: Christopher Dooley, Loren Taylor, Mark E. Hartelius
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Patent number: 8584900Abstract: A beverage dispenser for providing mixed beverages. The beverage dispenser has a housing containing a plurality of first liquids, a plurality of second liquids, and a water supply, wherein the first liquids comprise liquors, and wherein the second liquids comprise mixer syrup. The beverage dispenser also has an interface, a dispensing spout and a server. The interface is provided on the housing to input variable data and receive variable instructions. The server electrically operates valves to control the flow of first liquids, second liquids and water to the beverage dispenser spout based on instructions entered at the interface and a pouring schema stored in memory.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 2010Date of Patent: November 19, 2013Assignee: Smart Bar USA LLCInventors: William Metropulos, Tim Knecht, John Sugrue, Wayne Alpert, Kevin Hinterlong
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Patent number: 8567642Abstract: A fountain beverage dispenser for constituting a beverage by mixture of a beverage syrup and a diluent for the syrup is characterized by use of a highly concentrated beverage syrup supply and at least one diluent and syrup blending station for diluting the highly concentrated syrup with diluent before the diluted syrup is mixed with diluent in the final mixture of syrup and diluent delivered to a dispensing nozzle.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2008Date of Patent: October 29, 2013Assignee: IMI Cornelius, Inc.Inventor: George H. Hoover
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Patent number: 8511221Abstract: A machine for preparing coffee and milk based beverages having a steam generator, a first apparatus for producing coffee as well as a source of liquid milk and a second apparatus for preparing and dispensing a beverage from a concentrated fluid product. The second apparatus includes a beverage preparation device associated with a second dispenser connected via first line to a first connector unit of the second apparatus to receive a concentrated fluid product pre-diluted in the first connector unit and, via a second line, to the source of liquid milk to complete dilution and obtain a diluted product to be dispensed from the beverage preparation device.Type: GrantFiled: November 5, 2009Date of Patent: August 20, 2013Assignee: Gruppo Cimbali S.p.A.Inventors: Dario Sala, Andrea Coccia
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Publication number: 20130200101Abstract: A powder dispensing apparatus for dispensing a powder either with or without a liquid is presented. The apparatus includes a base, dispenser, and tower. The base is adapted for receiving a container. The dispenser includes a rotatable or slidable carriage. The carriage includes at least one compartment horizontally disposed above an optional funnel. The carriage is rotatable about a central axis or translatable parallel to and below the hopper. A hopper is disposed above the carriage and communicates with less than all compartments. Each compartment is capable of separately dispensing a powder from the hopper into the funnel and thereafter into the container resting on the base. The tower is disposed between and attached at opposing ends to the base and the dispenser. The apparatus is useful, for example, in preparing baby formula and other food for infants, as well as in preparing food and drink for children and adults.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 15, 2013Publication date: August 8, 2013Applicants: Product Spring, LLC, Hartdesign! Ltd., Taylored Concepts, LLCInventors: Product Spring, LLC, Taylored Concepts, LLC, Hartdesign! Ltd.
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Patent number: 8490829Abstract: Systems and methods for dispensing compositions, such as beverages, are provided. Beverage dispensers may be configured to receive one or more physiological parameters regarding a user, and in response, formulate at least one beverage recipe for dispensing. A beverage dispenser may wirelessly receive data from a biosensor. Environmental or biological data from the biosensor may be used to alter the recipe to another existing beverage or a custom beverage. Non-physiological data may also be considered. Exertion data may be calculated. The calculation of exertion data may receive inputs regarding at least one physiological parameter and/or non-physiological parameters to derive a second physiological parameter not being measured.Type: GrantFiled: February 9, 2010Date of Patent: July 23, 2013Assignee: PepsiCo, Inc.Inventors: Indrani Deo, Steven Jersey
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Patent number: 8490834Abstract: 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: July 23, 2013Assignee: Lancer CorporationInventors: William A. Edwards, Roger Anthony Kolodziejcyk
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Patent number: 8463447Abstract: Systems and methods for dispensing a product are provided. A plurality of product ingredients are associated with a product dispenser that is operable to form a plurality of selectable products from the plurality of products ingredients. Input for a selected product is received and a recipe that defines the ratio of product ingredients for forming the selected product is identified. The dispense of each of the respective product ingredients is commenced based at least in part on the identified recipe, and the dispense of each of the respective product ingredients is independently monitored during the dispense of the selected product.Type: GrantFiled: September 4, 2008Date of Patent: June 11, 2013Assignee: The Coca-Cola CompanyInventors: David Roy Newman, Paul Anderson Phillips
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Patent number: 8453879Abstract: 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 22, 2012Date of Patent: June 4, 2013Assignee: 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: 8453881Abstract: A mounting system for securing inverted bottles to a refrigerated dispensing apparatus housing, which system includes a valve body with external locking splines and grooves to secure a bottle to which it is threadedly connected to a socket in the housing having mating splines and grooves.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2008Date of Patent: June 4, 2013Assignee: Tap Machine Inc.Inventor: Michael L. Chapin
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Patent number: 8444016Abstract: An apparatus for dispensing milk-based beverages comprises a milk container (4), a pump (8) for conveying the milk from the milk container (4) to a milk outlet (20), supply means (13, 14) for supplying at least one flavoring agent to the milk and means for mixing the at least one flavoring agent with the milk. To this end, a coolable cabinet (2), into which the milk container (4) can be inserted, is arranged in a housing (1). Via a hose line (7), the milk in the milk container (4) reaches a mixing apparatus (9) in a meterable quantity, conveyed by the pump (8) disposed in the hose line (7). At least one flavoring agent is able to be additionally supplied in a metered manner into the mixing apparatus via the supply means (13, 14), and is able to be mixed with the milk; the mixed beverage thus obtained reaches, via an outlet (20), a vessel (21) which can be provided beneath this outlet (20). Flavored cold milk-based beverages can thereby be produced in an optimal way.Type: GrantFiled: July 4, 2008Date of Patent: May 21, 2013Assignee: Schaerer AGInventor: André Lüssi
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Patent number: 8434642Abstract: 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: April 4, 2012Date of Patent: May 7, 2013Assignee: The Coca-Cola CompanyInventor: Arthur G. Rudick
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Patent number: 8403179Abstract: A conventional frozen carbonated beverage freezer is modified to eliminate the draw handle to facilitate better performance at the hands of an untrained customer in a serve yourself setting. A conventional FCB freezer, with or without a draw handle, is modified to enable dispensing different flavors of frozen carbonated beverages by a customer for a self-serve setting.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2008Date of Patent: March 26, 2013Assignee: Flavor Burst Co., L.L.P.Inventor: Ernest C. Gerber
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Patent number: 8371477Abstract: A device (3) for metering a base liquid and mixing this base liquid with a diluent to prepare a food product, has a connecting portion for connecting it with a container (4) containing the base liquid, the device (3) including: a diluent inlet (71), a mixing chamber (80) for mixing the base liquid with the diluent. An actively controlled air inlet is provided for selectively having ambient air enter the device and guiding it to the container (4). A controller is provided for selectively metering the base liquid into the mixing chamber and for selectively enabling an air flow through the air inlet only during periods when no base liquid is metered into the mixing chamber.Type: GrantFiled: January 5, 2007Date of Patent: February 12, 2013Assignee: Nestec S.A.Inventors: Andre Klopfenstein, Elmar Mock, Christoph Rusch, Naomi Bitmead
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Publication number: 20130032611Abstract: A powder dispensing apparatus for dispensing a powder either with or without a liquid is presented. The apparatus includes a base, a dispenser, and a tower. The base is adapted for receiving a container. The dispenser includes a rotatable carriage contacting a support element with an opening. The carriage includes a plurality of compartments horizontally disposed above an optional funnel and rotatable about a central axis. A hopper is disposed above the carriage and communicates with less than all compartments. Each compartment is capable of separately dispensing a powder from the hopper through the opening into the funnel and thereafter into the container resting on the base. The tower is disposed between and attached at opposing ends to the base and the dispenser. The apparatus is useful, for example, in preparing baby formula and other food for infants, as well as in preparing food and drink for children and adults.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 3, 2011Publication date: February 7, 2013Inventors: Christopher Dooley, Loren Taylor, Mark E. Hartelius
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Publication number: 20130032612Abstract: An apparatus for preparing infant formula to be supplied to a bottle, and methods and circuits for operating the same, are disclosed. The apparatus includes a housing having a shape for integrating together components of the apparatus. A fluid reservoir for holding fluid and configured to be coupling to the housing is provided. Further provided is a formula disc disposed at a first location of the housing. The first location defined above a dispense location of the bottle, and the formula disc having a top end and a dispense end, the formula disc further includes a plurality of slots for holding the infant formula in a powder state. The apparatus has an end plate that is coupled to the dispense end of the formula disc, and the end plate has a dispense hole, such that the end plate is rotatable relative to the formula disc.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 2, 2012Publication date: February 7, 2013Inventors: Cara A. Armstrong, Robin D. Richards
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Patent number: 8365959Abstract: A drink dispensing tap water dispenser, kit and method of converting a tap water dispenser to a drink dispenser is disclosed. The dispenser includes an adaptor having a central body portion connectable inline to a domestic tap water dispenser. A dispensing nozzle is supported by the central body portion of the adaptor and includes at least one liquid connection to a liquid source for dispensing liquid separate from the tap water dispenser.Type: GrantFiled: February 15, 2008Date of Patent: February 5, 2013Assignee: Whirlpool CorporationInventor: Stefano Tavolazzi
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Patent number: 8365956Abstract: 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: May 27, 2008Date of Patent: February 5, 2013Assignee: Lancer CorporationInventors: William A. Edwards, Roger Anthony Kolodziejcyk
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Patent number: 8360279Abstract: An automatic home appliance that performs the preparation, mixing, and heating of infant formula bottles provides a reservoir on top that holds an amount of powdered formula. Connection to a household water supply provides a flow of water to an internal water heating reservoir. A central front opening is provided in which the infant bottle is placed. A digital display and a plurality of programming buttons are arranged upon a front panel to allow the user to select operating parameters. Once programmed, internal electronic controls perform dispensing and mixing of the necessary ingredients in the proper ratio and dispensing of mixed formula into the proper sized bottle. The mixture is also kept warm at the proper temperature by a hot plate. An indicator light then illuminates to communicate to a user that the bottle is ready to be removed and the mixture consumed.Type: GrantFiled: November 25, 2009Date of Patent: January 29, 2013Inventor: Matthew L. Giles
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Patent number: 8333301Abstract: A method for the preparation of a beverage by mixing water and at least one powdered product in a mixing chamber and dispensing the mixture to a final container. The method includes preparation and delivery of at least a first portion of beverage by mixing a first soluble product with water, either in the absence of mechanical stirring or with rotating a rotor at a rotor rotation speed of less than 500 rpm. The method also includes the preparation and delivery of at least a second portion of beverage by mixing a second soluble product with water in the presence of mechanical stirring and for the delivery of further portions of beverage to the final container.Type: GrantFiled: October 3, 2006Date of Patent: December 18, 2012Assignee: Rhea Vendors S.p.A.Inventor: Luca Doglioni Majer
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Patent number: 8322570Abstract: A product dispensing system includes a flow control device configured to regulate a first ingredient. A pump module is configured to be coupled to a supply of a second ingredient. A controller is configured to provide a first control signal to the flow control device for controlling the supply of a first quantity of the first ingredient based upon, at least in part, a predetermined recipe. The controller is further configured to provide a second control signal to the pump module for controlling the supply of a first quantity of the second ingredient based upon, at least in part, the predetermined recipe.Type: GrantFiled: September 5, 2008Date of Patent: December 4, 2012Assignee: DEKA Products Limited PartnershipInventors: Russell Beavis, Benjamin W. Jones, John M. Kerwin, Larry B. Gray, Casey Patrick Manning, Felix Winkler, Robert A. Charles
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Patent number: 8276787Abstract: A combination beverage and water dispenser includes a housing having a liquid-beverage-concentrate storage reservoir, a hot water storage tank and a cold water storage tank received therein. The cold water storage tank is in fluid communication with both a domestic water supply line and a dispensing cavity for receiving an inverted water bottle. Level sensors within the cold water storage tank communicate with a control valve on the domestic water supply line to control incoming domestic water supply. Alternatively, the domestic water supply may be disabled and a water bottle may be installed within the cavity to use bottled water in lieu of domestic water, if desired. The hot water tank, the cold water tank and the beverage concentrate reservoir are in selective communication with a mixing valve wherein hot or cold water and beverage concentrate are mixed to produce a desired hot or cold beverage.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 2008Date of Patent: October 2, 2012Inventors: Paul J. Gremillion, Gary V. Triola, Jane Triola, Benjamin Triola
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Publication number: 20120228328Abstract: The present application provides a beverage dispenser. The beverage dispenser may include a number of micro-ingredients, a water stream, and a rotary chamber. The rotary chamber may include a first element in communication with the micro-ingredients and the water stream and a second element maneuverable to a dispense position and a sealed position.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 22, 2012Publication date: September 13, 2012Applicant: THE COCA-COLA COMPANYInventors: Christopher Thomas Ryan, Edwin Petrus Elisabeth van Opstal, Kenneth Heng-Chong Ng, Sasha Miu
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Publication number: 20120228327Abstract: A dispensing machine for producing beverages from a beverage ingredient powder comprising: a diluent supply member, a powder storing member, a dosing member for metering a dose of powder from the powder storing member, a guide for delivering the dose of powder from the dosing member to a container, and a valve that is able to close or open the bottom extremity of the guide.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 7, 2011Publication date: September 13, 2012Applicant: NESTEC S.A.Inventors: Yann Brunner, Hans Wuergler
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Patent number: 8261656Abstract: An apparatus for preparing a beverage from water and an instant product includes a water supply system for supplying water, a heating device for sterilizing water by heating it; and a cooling device for cooling water heated in the heating device. The cooling device uses water from the water supply system as cooling-water. The water that is sterilized in the heating device has preferably previously been used in the cooling device as cooling-water. The cooling device includes a counter flow heat exchanger.Type: GrantFiled: May 11, 2007Date of Patent: September 11, 2012Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.Inventors: Marie Sybien Nijboer, Klaas Kooijker, Joldert Maria Boersma, Fred Fraij, Peter Sofrides Viet
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Patent number: 8230774Abstract: An all-in-one home appliance that performs the preparation, mixing and heating of multiple infant bottles, is herein disclosed. The apparatus comprises a countertop appliance with three (3) reservoirs comprising water, formula, and cereal, respectively. Inside the base of the appliance is a turnstile that holds up to five (5) empty bottles that have been previously sterilized by the user. In operation, the user would select the bottle size and the necessary recipe of water, formula, and cereal, respectively, using an integral control panel. At this point, internal control circuitry dispenses pre-heated water and dry ingredients in proper ratios into a mixing chamber. After mixing of the ingredients, the mixture is delivered into the proper sized bottle. Finally, internal heaters maintain the bottles at a constant selected temperature. An automatic alarm is then sounded when the prepared bottles are ready. This apparatus ensures preparation of baby bottles having consistent ingredients, mixing, and heating.Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 2009Date of Patent: July 31, 2012Inventor: Karen A. Hunte
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Patent number: 8220660Abstract: A system for supplying at least two fluids in proportioned quantities may include a first and second intake passages configured to be in flow communication with sources of first and second fluids, respectively. The system may include a fluid transfer device in flow communication with the first intake passage and the second intake passage, and a pump in flow communication with the first intake passage. Operation of the pump is configured to supply a quantity of the first fluid to a first chamber of the fluid transfer device such that a quantity of the second fluid is expelled from a second chamber of the fluid transfer device. When operation of the pump is ceased, a quantity of the second fluid enters the second chamber and a quantity of the first fluid is expelled from the first chamber.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2008Date of Patent: July 17, 2012Inventor: Clyde M. Smith
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Patent number: 8224481Abstract: A miniaturized fluid dispensing system for dispensing customized fluids. The dispenser may include first and second reservoirs containing constituent fluids; a drive motor; at least two pump assemblies commonly driven by the drive motor and in communication with the first and second reservoirs; first and second valve assembly in communication with the first and second pump assemblies; and a control system for selectively controlling the valve assemblies to blend and discharge a composition from the constituent fluids. The system may include a dispensing header to house the valves and to define ‘discharge’ and ‘recirculation’ flow paths for each constituent fluid. The present invention also provides a method for dispensing a fluid regimen (e.g. a plurality of compositions) by periodically blending and discharging varying compositions over time.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 2009Date of Patent: July 17, 2012Assignee: Access Business Group International LLCInventors: Richard B. Bylsma, David W. Baarman, Mark G. Marshall, Pierre Becker
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Patent number: 8201712Abstract: A dispenser for combining a number of ingredients. The dispenser may include a laminated container with one of the number of ingredients therein and a pump in communication with the laminated container.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2008Date of Patent: June 19, 2012Assignee: The Coca-Cola CompanyInventors: T. Edwin Freeman, Robert Hughes, Daniel S. Quartarone
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Publication number: 20120140590Abstract: The present application provides a dispensing system for mixing a first fluid and a second fluid. The dispensing system may include a first fluid source with the first fluid therein, a volumetric dosing chamber in communication with the first fluid source, a vent tube extending from within the volumetric dosing chamber to about the first fluid source such that a dose of the first fluid from the first fluid source flows into the volumetric dosing chamber under the force of gravity until the first fluid reaches the vent tube, a first fluid dispensing line in communication with the volumetric dosing chamber, a second fluid source with the second fluid therein, and a second fluid dispensing line in communication with the second fluid source. The dose of the first fluid may flow through the first fluid dispensing line and the second fluid may flow through the second fluid dispensing line.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 2, 2010Publication date: June 7, 2012Applicant: THE COCA-COLA COMPANYInventor: Jonathan Kirschner
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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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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: 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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Publication number: 20120074168Abstract: Embodiments of the invention include systems and methods for priming or purging a product dispenser. In one embodiment, a product dispenser can include a plurality of beverage ingredient sources comprising a respective beverage ingredient; a plurality of beverage supply lines in respective communication with the plurality of ingredient sources; at least one pump in communication with the plurality of beverage supply lines; and a controller in communication with the at least one pump and operable to execute a set of instructions operable to: receive a command to prime or purge the product dispenser; and activate the at least one pump, wherein a predefined amount of the respective beverage ingredients is simultaneously introduced into each of the plurality of beverage supply lines.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 28, 2010Publication date: March 29, 2012Applicant: THE COCA-COLA COMPANYInventor: David R. Newman
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Publication number: 20120006850Abstract: The invention concerns a dosing device for dosing a metered amount of a powdered product comprising: a fixed body (2) made of at least a disc presenting a single pierced aperture (5), a rotary top disk (1) disposed on the top of the fixed body (2) and presenting a taking out pierced aperture (4), a rotary bottom disk (3) disposed on the bottom of the fixed body and presenting a discharging pierced aperture (6), a rotary shaft (7) connecting the bottom disk (1) and the top disk (3), wherein in the stand-by position of the device the metered pierced aperture (5) is empty and closed to the atmosphere. The invention also concerns a beverage preparation apparatus implementing such a dosing device.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 27, 2009Publication date: January 12, 2012Applicant: NESTEC S.A.Inventors: Raphael Bernhardsgruetter, Cedric Beausire, Lucio Scorrano
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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