JPH0786036B2 - Household beverage dispenser device - Google Patents

Abstract

A mechanism (740) useful in a dispenser (11) having a gas cylinder (17). Supports the cylinder rotatably within a hood (741), the hood forming a lever which is biased upwardly by a spring (765). A full cylinder will pull the hood all the way down. As the cylinder is emptied, the hood will begin to move upward and when the cylinder is empty the hood will be fully upward. Mounted inside the hood is a fitting (731) engaging with a mating fitting (709) on the gas cylinder. The mating fitting is equipped with a pair of arms which are aligned with locking slots contained within the mating fitting which are used to engage pins on the fitting inside the hood when mounting the gas cylinder.

Description

Description: TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention relates to a device for dispensing a beverage, and more particularly to dispensing a carbonated beverage consisting of a mixture of a concentrate (eg, syrup) and a diluent (eg, carbonated water). A domestic beverage dispenser device that can be used to dispense.

[Problems to be Solved by Prior Art and Invention]

Prior art U.S. Pat.Nos. 4,408,701 and 4,328,909
Nos. 4,393,298 and 4,363,423, and U.S. patent applications 310,488, 373,299, 508,599, 550,4.
Nos. 55 and 552,428 describe various aspects of household beverage dispensers. The dispensers described in these prior arts, in particular US patent application no.
It is known that an example utilizing gravity feed of the concentrated liquid, such as the device described in 508,599, exerts a sufficiently good function. However, conventional devices also have some problems. One is the problem of maintaining the desired carbon dioxide level of the beverage. Another problem is the splashing of the beverage caused by the increased pressure when the dispensing valve is first opened.

In conventional devices, the diluent flow path was in the form of a manifold. When the carbonator tank is disconnected from the device, the diluent is kept in the area between the connection to the carbonator tank and the distribution valve. If a diluting solution such as carbonated water is left in such a channel for a long time, the carbonated water loses its pressurized state and loses carbon dioxide gas. This is not a big problem, but it is desired to avoid it.

For household beverage dispensers, it is important to clearly indicate the remaining amount of carbonated water and carbon dioxide. Especially when a new cylinder is not readily available, it is very important to clearly indicate that carbon dioxide is almost exhausted. Carbonators can be refilled with water and ice, but if the vendor runs out of carbon dioxide on the day off, it will probably have to wait until the next week to get a new cylinder. Furthermore, when it comes to carbon dioxide cylinders, measures must be taken to protect the cylinder and to facilitate its use and its attachment to and removal from the beverage dispenser, as it is handled by people unfamiliar with it.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a very attractive domestic beverage dispenser that is easy for the user to use and that delivers beverages with proper and reproducible intensity and carbonation levels.

[Means for Solving the Problem and Its Action]

The beverage dispenser of the present invention has several features to achieve the above objectives. First, a new expansion chamber is provided to prevent the reduction of carbonic acid levels during dispensing. This expansion chamber, which is maintained in a cooled state, is a chamber that gradually expands, so that the diluent with a pressure of about 3.5 kg / cm ² (50 psi) in the carbonator tank gradually expands, The pressure is gradually reduced to the atmospheric pressure at the location where it is discharged from the device. This action, in combination with arranging the cup so that the discharge is tangential to the inner surface of the cup to be filled, makes it possible to maintain the high carbon dioxide level obtained inside the carbonator. .

Beverage spatter is avoided during the initial start-up of the device by providing an anti-surge valve in front of the expansion chamber within the device. This anti-surge valve acts to reduce the pressure in the expansion chamber to a level where dispensing can occur without the splashing of the beverage when the dispensing valve is first opened. In the illustrated embodiment described below, the expansion chamber and surge protection valve are located within the carbonator tank.

Furthermore, the dispensing valve, i.e. the valve that opens to infuse carbonated water into the cup, is formed as part of the carbonator rather than part of the dispensing head. That is, the carbonated water will not appear outside the carbonator. The carbonator comprises a connector block connecting it to a source of carbon dioxide for the production of carbonated water, inside which a shuttle valve which acts as a distribution valve is arranged. The shuttle valve comprises a radial inlet connected to the outlet of the carbonator tank and an axial outlet.

The flexible dispensing port made of rubber is held inside the pedestal in the dispensing head and abuts the shuttle valve. As with conventional dispensers, where the shuttle valve is normally biased to a closed position, concentrates such as syrup can be turned by turning the cap of the syrup package and opening the valve formed on the cap. Distributed directly from. The rotation of the cap is performed by a pneumatic actuator that rotates an annular plate that engages with the cap. According to the invention, this actuator is also connected to a pedestal holding a flexible dispensing port. When the pneumatic actuator is actuated, the cradle is moved so that the shuttle valve moves inward to the open position, allowing carbonated water to be dispensed through the dispensing port. Guide means are provided to guide the connector block of the carbonator and to ensure proper alignment of both the gas connection and the water outlet connection that actuates the shuttle valve. The locking device locks the carbonator in place when in proper alignment. Similar to the conventional example, the carbonator simply slides in and out of position to facilitate its attachment and detachment during refilling.

As with conventional devices, carbon dioxide cylinders need to be connected to the device. In that case as well, the connection is performed by the connecting portion that opens the valve to allow carbon dioxide gas to flow out from the gas cylinder when the connection is established. In the connection described in the above-mentioned U.S. patent application, connection means were provided which provided a relatively large mechanical advantage. At that time, it was considered necessary because high pressure acts on the probe that penetrates the cylinder. This pressure was too high and it was generally difficult to insert the cylinder against this pressure. Of course, this made mounting the cylinder more difficult. On the other hand, in the present invention, a very thin probe is used. The probe is so thin that the area of high pressure is significantly reduced and the force generated does not exceed the limit to which an ordinary person can insert the cylinder. That is,
A simple coupling with a fixture is utilized that has a probe with a pin that fits into a suitable slot in a member secured to the top of the cylinder. In the illustrated embodiment described below, the gas tank is suspended from a fixture that includes a probe, the fixture further including a pressure regulator. By suspending the gas cylinder in this manner, it is possible to measure the weight of the gas cylinder by applying an upward biasing force using an appropriate spring for the probe fixture.

According to the invention, the fitting on which the gas cylinder is mounted is rotatably supported inside the hood, which forms a lever which is biased upwards. The hood rotates about a shaft supported by a bracket attached to one of the dispenser walls. The spring acts between the bracket and the hood to bias the hood upward. A mechanism that includes a flat member guided along a curved slot keeps the probe vertical so that the user can easily insert the gas cylinder into the probe in any position. The flat member, which is guided and keeps the pin vertical, is visible through the window and further comprises an indicator that indicates the cylinder's residual level. The full cylinder acts against the spring, pulling down the hood completely. The hood moves upwards as the contents of the cylinder are used, and the hood is fully raised when the cylinder is completely empty. According to the invention, the spring only starts to move the gas cylinder upwards when the last stage of the gas supply has been reached, eg its last 10%. Therefore, as soon as this movement starts, it is possible to know that the gas is almost exhausted.

A pair of arms is formed on the cylindrical member that engages the probe mount. The arm is aligned with the axial slot used to engage a pin located on the probe fixture when locking the two fixtures together. Aligning the arm with the axial slot provides the user with a clue as to whether the gas cylinder is properly aligned for inserting the gas cylinder into the probe mount. Preferably, the hood is provided with alignment marks and arrows to instruct the user in which direction the handle or arm should be rotated so that the gas cylinder is locked in place. In the illustrated embodiment described below, a hole is formed at the end of the arm so that a finger can be inserted to hold the gas cylinder.

Also, in the preferred embodiment, a cover over the fixture is provided for both decoration and protection. The cover has a pull-up knob on its upper portion for breaking the cylindrical member when it is mounted on the probe mounting tool and exposing the cylindrical member, and for mounting. However, the knobbed cover serves a protective function during shipping and keeps the cylinder in place until it is time to use it.

〔Example〕

Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in detail based on its preferred embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a domestic beverage dispenser according to the present invention, the beverage dispenser with the door closed.
Indicates 11. FIG. 2 shows the beverage dispenser 11 with the carbonator door 13 and the CO ₂ compartment door 15 opened and the CO ₂ cartridge 17 and the carbonator tank 18 removed.
Indicates. A syrup cartridge 19 is also shown in FIG. The syrup cartridge 19 is surrounded by a transparent or translucent plastic cover to improve the appearance of the beverage dispenser. The CO ₂ cartridge 17 includes a cover 23 that is useful for making the cartridge easy to handle and for attaching the cartridge to the dispenser as described below. The carbonator tank 18 includes an LCD liquid level gauge 31 and a carbonator connection assembly 33. The carbonator coupling assembly 33 engages an alignment pin 35 in the compartment behind the carbonator door 13. Below the alignment pin 35, a locking mechanism 37 for locking the carbonator tank at a predetermined position after the carbonizer tank is inserted is provided.

3 and 4 show the carbonator coupling assembly 33 and the alignment pin 35.
And are shown in detail together with the locking mechanism 37. Alignment pin 35 and locking mechanism 37 are contained within molded support member 39. The molded support member 39 is mounted between an upper wall 43 that contacts the upper portion of the molded support member 39 and a lower wall 44 that extends downward. The upper wall 43 and the lower wall 44 may be separate members or may be joined along one end, but when joined, the wall structure surrounds the molded support member 39 of the carbonator compartment. To fit. The molded support member 39 has a rear wall 45 from which the alignment piston
35 is extended upright. The molded support member 39 further comprises a bottom wall 47 and a side wall 51. The side wall 51 is the surface of the actuator compartment shown in FIG. As can be seen in FIG. 9, the side wall 51 may be divided into two parts 51a and 51b. The locking mechanism 37 is installed in the recess formed by the L-shaped portion 53 extending downward from the bottom wall 47.
The tubular fitting 55, which extends further from the rear wall 45, includes an O-ring seal 57. A pin 59 extending from the end of the tubular fitting 55 constitutes the tip of the Schrader valve mechanism. The valve mechanism is closed in the position shown, but is opened by pushing pin 59. This tubular fitting is
Carbonator tank 18 is supplied with carbon dioxide gas
In order to carbonate the water contained in 18, it is connected to a CO ₂ cartridge via a suitable pressure reducing valve. The tubular fitting 55 engages the cylindrical fitting 61 of the carbonator coupling assembly 33 shown in FIG. Alignment pin 35 fits into a suitable tapered hole 63 formed in carbonator coupling assembly 33.
The carbonator connected paperless 33 further includes an outlet 65 for passing carbon dioxide which is directed to the carbonator tank 18 as will be described in detail below.
Equipped with. The carbonated water exits the carbonator and then enters an inlet 67 provided in the carbonator coupling assembly 33, from which it engages the carbonator coupling assembly 33, as described in more detail below. You will be led to the exit.

Returning to FIG. 3, the locking mechanism has an L-shaped portion 53.
A handle 69 attached to a cylindrical member 71 having a shaft 73 extending therethrough. The handle 69 and the cylindrical member 71 are rotatably attached with respect to the axis of the shaft 73.
A cam 75 is formed on the surface of the cylindrical member 71, and the cam 75 is L
It engages with a slot 77 provided in the rear wall of the letter-shaped portion 53. The stopper member 79 extending upward from the cylindrical member is a molding instruction member.
Through a suitable opening 81 in the bottom wall 47 of 39. Cam 75
Is formed so that when the handle 69 is rotated in the clockwise direction, the stopper member 79 moves in the direction of the arrow 83 to reach the position shown by the broken line. At that position, the stopper member
Engage the back of the carbonator coupling assembly 33 to lock the carbonator tank in place and prevent the pressure generated in the tubular fitting 55 from blowing the carbonator tank outward. To prevent.

FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the carbonator tank 18 and the carbonator coupling assembly 33. The outer body 25 of the carbonator tank is made of molded plastic, on top of which the molded plastic ring 101 is inserted. Inside the molded plastic ring 101, a carbonator tank body 103 made of stainless steel is inserted. Carbonator tank body 103 has a hole
Equipped with 105 and 107. The holes receive fittings 109, 111 in place. The fixtures 109 and 111 are
A carbon dioxide gas inlet and a carbonated water outlet are formed, respectively. The fittings are respectively inserted into the outlet 65 and the inlet 67 of the carbonator coupling assembly 33 shown in FIG.

The carbonator tank 18 has a portion 29b formed in the outer body 25.
And a handle 29a that is fitted to the other part. The liquid crystal display liquid level gauge strip 31 whose back surface is coated with an adhesive is adhered to the carbonator tank body 103 through an opening 113 provided in the outer body 25 behind the handle portion 29b.

The liquid crystal display level gauge strip 31 responds to various temperatures close to 0 ° C. and changes its color depending on the temperature. The two parts 29a and 29b of the handle have openings so that this strip 31 is visible from the outside. The carbonator is usually filled with water and ice. Therefore, the liquid crystal display level gauge strip 31 can display the water level in the tank.

The molded plastic ring 101 has threads for engaging the lid 27. The edge 115 of the carbonator tank body is molded plastic ring 101 to obtain a good seal.
And the lid 27. A carbonated water outlet hole 117 is provided on the front surface of the carbonator coupling assembly 33. This carbonated water outlet hole 1
A shuttle valve assembly is inserted in 17. At the bottom of the carbonated water outlet hole 117 communicating with the inlet 67 shown in FIG. 4, a biasing spring 119 is inserted, and then an O-ring seal 120 and a shuttle member 121 are inserted. Shuttle member 121 has entrance 12
3 and outlet 125. The guide / stopper member 127 of the shuttle member 121, the biasing spring 129, and the holding disc 131 are
It is inserted from the bottom of the carbonator coupling assembly 33.

This assembly is shown in more detail in FIGS. 6, 7 and 8. FIG. 6 is an enlarged exploded view of the carbonator coupling assembly 33 showing the shuttle member 121 and the O-ring seal 120 in more detail. FIG. 7 is a partial cross-sectional view of carbonator interconnect assembly 33 having carbonated water outlet holes 117. As shown, the inlet 67 from the carbonator tank is connected to a passage 135 terminating in an outlet opening 137. The outlet opening 137 is surrounded by an O-ring seal 120 and has a flat upper portion 13 of the shuttle member 121.
9 slides against this O-ring seal. A seal is formed at the position shown in FIG. Shuttle member 121 entrance 1
The connection to 23 has not been established, and the O-ring seal 120 prevents the carbonated water from flowing out. At this position, the biasing spring 119 biases the shuttle member 121 upward and outward, and abuts against the stopper formed by the guide / stopper member 127.

As shown, the guide / stopper member 127 has a biasing spring 129.
It is biased by and is held at a predetermined place by the holding disc 131. The parts are shown in exploded view in FIG. As shown in cross section in FIG. 7, the shuttle member 121 has a cylindrical recess 141 in its rear part into which a biasing spring 119 is inserted. The biasing spring acts between this portion and the rear wall of the carbonated water outlet hole 117. Slots 143 are formed in the bottom surface of shuttle member 121 to form the necessary stoppers.
When the shuttle member 121 is pushed inwardly against the biasing force of the biasing spring 119, the inlet 123 opens the outlet opening 1 as described in detail below.
Move to a position aligned with 37. Exit opening 137 and entrance 1
23 is sealed by an O-ring seal 120. Therefore,
The carbonated water can flow via outlet 125 to a dispenser device, which is described in detail below.

FIG. 9 is an exploded view of the dispensing assembly in the beverage dispenser of the present invention. The assembly comprises a base part 201 made of molded plastic. The base portion is between the upper wall 43 and the lower wall 44 of FIG. 3 and forms the aforementioned bottom wall 47, rear wall 45 and part of the side wall 51. Further, the L-shaped portion 53 is integrally formed with this base portion. Here the locking mechanism 37
Are again shown with alignment pins 35 and tubular fittings 55.

The base portion 201 is formed with an annular wall 203 having an annular base 205 having an opening 207. Rotatable annular plate 209
Are inserted into the openings thus formed. This annular plate 209 engages a valve mechanism incorporated into the syrup cartridge as described in detail below.

The base portion 201 includes a cylinder assembly 213 having an inlet 215 for receiving carbon dioxide gas for operation, and a cylinder assembly 213.
Further, a pneumatic actuator 211 having a piston 217 inserted into the, a slider member 315 that operates a rotatable annular plate 209, and a biasing return spring 221 is further received. In a preferred embodiment, with or instead of the biasing return spring 221, to return the piston to the inoperative position.
A second inlet 216 through tube 310 of cylinder assembly 213 can be used. The actuator for opening the valve mechanism of the carbonator described with reference to FIGS. 6 to 8 also constitutes a part of this actuator mechanism. The actuator includes a mount made of molded plastic and a rubber insert 225 forming a carbonated water outlet (ie, spout). The cradle and insert member engage the shuttle member 121 of FIGS. 6-8 as described in more detail below. The pedestal 223 is formed on the pedestal 223 such that the carbonated water valve and the syrup are simultaneously distributed by operating the annular plate 209 to open the valve of the syrup cartridge. It is connected to the slider member 315 by a pin 317 inserted into the slot 319 formed.

Spool valve 231 and actuator 233 for this spool valve
Also shown. The actuator 233 introduces carbon dioxide gas, which is supplied to the spool valve via the pipe 309, into the inlet 215 of the cylinder assembly 213 via the pipe 311, thereby causing the spool valve valve rod 235 to operate the actuator. It consists of a working hinge arm. The pneumatic actuator 211, the rotatable annular plate 209, and the pedestal 223 are held in place by a cover 247 that covers the base portion 201. Clips 243 are formed on the base portion 201 so that the cover 247 fits in place while holding the various components in place. Alternatively, the base portion 201
The cover 247 and the cover 247 may be integrally fixed by a screw fixing tool. An additional bottom cover 245 may be provided for both decorative and hygiene considerations.

FIG. 10 is a partially cutaway plan view of the dispenser assembly. On the left side of the figure, the alignment pin 35 is shown with a fitting or tubular fitting 55 with an O-ring seal 57. As shown, the tubular fitting 55 includes a portion 30 formed in the base.
Screwed into 1. At the end of the tubular fitting 55, a T
A supply line 303 extending to the joint 305 is connected. The gas from the CO ₂ cartridge 17 is supplied to the T joint through the supply line 303. The second branch 309 of the T-joint leads to the spool valve 231 whose outlet is through line 311 in the cylinder assembly 213.
Connected to the entrance of. FIG. 10 shows a piston rod 313 forming a part of the piston 217.

FIG. 12 is an exploded view showing the structure of the actuator mechanism. Actuator acting on valve stem 235 of spool valve 231
233 is shown with tubes 309, 310, 311. The tubes 310, 311 connect to the cylinder assembly 213. As shown, the piston rod 313 is connected to the slider member 315. The slider member 315 has a pin 317 extending downward, and this pin
Engage with slot 319 of 3. The pedestal 223 further has another slot 321 as shown in the bottom view of FIG. The slot 321 is also shown in Figure 11 (a cross-sectional view of the dispenser device including the cradle 223). Slot 321 as shown
Is located on rail 325 and straddles this rail. At each end of the slot 321, semi-cylindrical portions 323 that engage rails 325 face each other to guide the cradle 223 and reduce friction.

At the end of the slider member 315, a protrusion 327 having a cross section with a spring fitted therein is provided. As shown in FIG. 10, the spring 221 abuts the wall 331. The spring urges the slider member 315 to the right, thereby urging the piston of the cylinder assembly 213 in the same direction. As a result, the pedestal 223 is biased to the closed position shown in FIG. 10 via the pin 317 and the slot 319. In addition to spring 221 or instead of spring 221, a second inlet 216 in cylinder assembly 213 may be provided. The inlet 216 is supplied with gas from the CO ₂ cartridge 17 through the tube 310 when the spool valve 231 is not activated. This gas is supplied to the side of the piston 217, which is opposite to the side to be supplied through the inlet 215 and the pipe 311, so that the slider member 315 and the pedestal 223 are moved toward the non-operating position.

As shown in FIG. 12, a rubber insert 225 is inserted into the frame formed in the frame 223. This groove is
It comprises a horizontally extending part 333 and a downwardly bent part 355. As a result, carbonated water distribution ports are formed, and the flow of carbonated water is directed into the cup placed immediately below the annular base 205 shown in FIG. The positioning of the outlet, ie its downward angle and its relation to the side of the cup, is important for good mixing and maintenance of CO ₂ levels. The edges of portion 355 are shown in annular plate 209 in FIG.

In the cross section of FIG. 11, the rubber tubular insert 225 is mounted on the pedestal 2
Locked in 23 is shown. Slots in this illustration
Pin 317 within 319 is also shown.

The rotatable annular plate 209 is provided with a slot 351 which engages a tab on the lid of the syrup cartridge. The syrup cartridge body is also provided with another tab that engages the cover 247. (This will be explained in more detail below.) When the cup to be filled is lifted again,
An actuator 233 shown in FIG. 12 and FIG. 14 presses a valve rod 235 which operates the valve 231 to introduce gas into the cylinder assembly 213. The gas in the cylinder assembly 213 moves the piston 217, and the piston 217 cooperates with the piston rod 313 to move the slider member 315 to the left, thereby rotating the annular plate 209 and opening the valve in the syrup cartridge. start. Pin 31
When 7 reaches the other end of the slot 319, the pin also starts moving the pedestal 223. The ends of the tubular insert 225 abut the shuttle member 121 prior to movement. Therefore, when the gantry 223 starts moving, the tubular insert 225 moves the shuttle member 121 inward, the inlet 123 of the shuttle member 121 is moved to just below the outlet 137, and carbonated water is circulated in the rubber tubular insert 225. It The tubular insert 225 is
A seal is formed with the outlet 125 of the shuttle member to prevent leakage (FIGS. 6-8). When the pressure on the actuator 233 is released, the slider member 315 moves to the right by the force of the biasing spring 221, and the gas in the cylinder assembly 213 is discharged here. As mentioned above, this return may be pneumatically instead of or in addition to the spring. Thus, by rotating the annular plate 209, the valve of the cartridge is immediately closed, and when the pin 317 reaches the right side of the slider 319, the pedestal 223 is returned to the position shown in FIG. The end of the rubber insert 225 and its position relative to the carbonator insertion position is shown in FIG.

14 and 15 show details of the actuator mechanism and carbonator lock assembly. Handle 69 and cylindrical member 71 are shown with cam 75 and cam slot 77. As shown, the central shaft 73 is supported by bearings formed in a downwardly extending cylindrical member 361 provided with appropriate bores for internal rotation. A stopper member 79 is attached to the top of the shaft 73. The stopper member 79 rises through the opening and engages the carbonator when the handle 69 is rotated to lock the carbonator in place. Also matching pin
A tubular fitting 55 with a 35 and an O-ring 57 is also shown.
As shown, the alignment pin may be with a head 363 and may be threaded through the wall 365 and held in place with a spring clip retainer. Shown in FIG. 15 is the end of tubular insert 225, which abuts and seals the end of shuttle member 121 at carbonator coupling assembly 33, and the shuttle connecting member. In the above, the shuttle member 121 is opened as described above.

16 to 18 show the syrup cartridge of the present invention. In the illustrated embodiment, the syrup cartridge is composed of three molded parts. One of those molded parts is the bottom,
A body or container with sidewalls and a top having a neck 403. A tab 405 is provided at the base of the neck. The second part is the insert 407. This insert is compensation room 4
It is composed of 09, and a cylindrical portion 410 is formed in the upper part of the compensation chamber. This cylindrical portion forms a groove 411, as shown in the cross sectional view of FIG. A control plug 412 having an arrowhead-shaped cross section is provided inside the groove. A conical portion 413 extends downward from this cylindrical portion, and another conical portion 415 extends slightly downward. Following this is yet another conical portion 417, which extends inwardly to form a baffle. This baffle has multiple legs 419
The legs are extended downward and form part of an annular portion 421 having a U-shaped cross section. An annular groove 423 is formed inside the annular portion 421. An annular cavity 423 receives the neck 403 of the container 401, as shown in cross section in FIG. Three protrusions 425 are formed on the outer wall of the portion 421. Also provided is a component projecting upward in the axial direction, the end of which is provided with a tab 424 extending radially outward. During assembly, the tab 424 of the portion 421 abuts the tab 405 at the base of the neck 403 and the two portions are co-fastened, such as by gluing, welding or mechanical locking.

The last part of the syrup cartridge is the cap member 431
From which the air intake pipe 433 extends upward. In the closed position shown, the top of tube 433 seals groove 411 externally and sagittal control plug 412 internally at the top of compensation chamber 409, respectively. The cap member 431 is formed with three cam slots 439. The slots engage protrusions 425 on portion 421. Further, the tab 441 is formed on the cap 431. As described above, the tab 441 engages with the slot 351 of the annular plate 209 shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, for example. The tabs 405 engage the appropriate slots 352 in the cover 247 shown in FIG. 9 so that the container is held stationary and the cap 431 is rotatable. When the cap 431 rotates, the tube 433 will be in the groove 411
And is moved away from the sagittal control plug 412, allowing airflow to enter the container. At the same time, the cap 431 is moved away from the insert 407, breaking the seal formed at site 451 between these two members and allowing the syrup to flow through the opening 453 in the cap 431. The operation of this type of cartridge is described in the applicant's U.S. Pat.
Details are disclosed in No. 59.

Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, as described above, the fitting 111 and the fitting 109, which are respectively connected to the gas outlet 65 and the water inlet 67 shown in FIG. 4, are provided. As described in connection with FIG. 5, these two fixtures extend through openings 107, 105 in the stainless carbonator tank 103. First
FIG. 9 is an exploded view of the internal structure of the carbonator where these two fittings 111, 109 engage. 19A and 19B are a plan view and a side view of this internal structure, respectively.
The gas inlet 109 is connected to a joint 501 which is an elbow joint. Carbon dioxide gas passes from this fitting through an outlet 503 to a tubular member 50 attached to a cylindrical flange 507 of the base member 509.
Enter 5. The base portion of tubular member 505 is provided with a slow valve of the type disclosed in U.S. Patent Application No. 550,455.
A cover 511 is provided on the base 509. The gas flows between the base and the cover and exits through the two diffusers 513,515. These diffusers are held in place by packing bolts 517, which are screwed into threaded bosses 519 formed in base 509. The packing 521 includes the diffusers 513 and 515 and the cover 511.
The cover 511 is provided with an opening 523 for this purpose. The bolt 517 is provided with packing 518 around it so as to prevent leakage. Diffusers are disclosed in detail in US Patent Application No. 393,299.

Carbonated water in the tank flows out through the resin bed 525.
The outlet 527 of the resin floor is connected to a surge prevention valve assembly inserted in a chamber 647 formed in the member 529. As shown, the resin floor 525 is equipped with a sealed lid 539 so that new resin can be loaded when the resin wears. The outlet 639 of the surge prevention valve is provided adjacent to the inlet 551 (see FIG. 21) of the expansion chamber 533. This expansion chamber consists of an upper half 535 and a lower half 5
37, and a gas inlet joint 501 is molded in the lower half. Preferably all these parts are plastic moldings and are assembled together in a predetermined manner. The expansion chamber 535 has an outlet 54 connected to the fitting 111 shown in FIG.
It ends with 1.

Each half 535, 537 is shown in more detail in Figures 20-26. 20 and 24 show the entire expansion chamber. The expansion chamber begins at the inlet 551 and has a generally spiral shape. The expansion chamber grows larger as the spiral progresses and reaches the outlet 541. The inlet 551 is advanced 180 degrees to dimension 553, further 180 degrees to dimension 555, and further 180 degrees to dimension 557, as shown in cross section in FIG. 21, with dimension 557 being the dimension of outlet 541. Most closely.

The cross-sectional view of FIG. 22 shows the outlet fitting 541, the outlet bore 559, and the expansion chamber portions 561,563. Figures 21 and 22 show
The chamber where the anti-surge valve described later in connection with Fig. 29 is inserted
Also shown is member 529 forming 647. Figures 20, 23 and 24
The figure also shows the structure of the gas inlet 501. The gas flows into the inlet 501, a bore 567, which is closed on the opposite side by the disc 569 shown in FIG. 20, then into the outlet fitting 503 through the hole 571 and then into the tubular member 505. The arriving gas flows through the passage 601 of the tubular member as shown in FIG.
The base of the member 505 is provided with a slow-moving (2-speed feed) valve portion 603. From the bottom of this valve, gas flows out through openings 605, 607 and enters the space between base 509 and lid 511. 19th
As shown, gas flows out of those diffusers that are held in place by packing screws 517 that have packing 521 inserted between cover 511 and diffusers 513, 515. FIG. 27 shows the resin floor entrance 611.
Is shown in cross section along with the diffuser. FIG. 26 shows the diffuser and the resin floor 525. Figure 28 shows the resin floor 5
25 is shown in detail. The cartridge 613 hermetically inserted into the resin bed contains resin beads for filtering water and converting the water into pure water. Water flows through the resin bed 525 to its top and exits through the outlet passage 615. This passage is an axial passage 616 in the base 617 of the member 529 with the anti-surge valve hermetically inserted therein.
Extends radially. Member 529 is attached to component 537 as previously described.

Fig. 29 shows the surge prevention valve. The surge protection valve is
1 and a valve member 623 pushed downward by a spring 625 and held in the main body 621. The insertion member 627 inserted into the open end 629 of the main body 621 acts as a stopper to limit the axial movement of the valve member 623. A plurality of legs 631 extend in the inner axial direction from the insertion member 627, and the ends of the legs are formed as an annular valve seat 633. The valve seat 633 engages a seal ring 635 having a triangular cross section formed on the valve member 623. A hole 637 is provided in the base of the valve member 623 in the center of the seal ring 635. A hole 639 is also provided at the axially inner end of the main body 621.
An O-ring seal 641 is mounted between the valve member 623 and the main body 621. In addition, the O-ring seal 6 is attached to the inner end of the main body 621 in the axial direction.
43 is fitted and seals the body against the wall of the chamber 647 formed by the member 529, as shown in FIG.

When the surge protection valve shown in FIG. 29 is inserted into chamber 647, hole 6
The 39 is aligned with the inlet opening 647 and the diameters of these two elements are substantially equal so that the flow between the two elements is smooth and carbon dioxide losses are avoided. The purpose of the anti-surge valve is to prevent blow-up and bubbling from occurring when the carbonated water valve (ie, the shuttle valve assembly) is first opened. The internal pressure of the carbonator is, for example, 3.5 kg / cm ² (50 ps
i). This pressure drops to atmospheric pressure when the carbonated water is discharged from the outlet distribution port. The purpose of the spiral expansion chamber is to gradually expand the carbonated water flow to gradually reduce its pressure and to cause this pressure reduction without loss of carbonic acid. Moreover, the carbonated water will bubble when it hits a sharp edge, like a turbulent flow, thus ensuring a smooth flow by the spiral expansion chamber. However, when the shuttle valve assembly is closed, the pressure in the expansion chamber rises without the surge protection valve. The sum of the pressure in the expansion chamber and the pressure in the hold-down spring is typically 2.1 kg / cm ² (30 psi), and if this is equal to the internal pressure in the carbonator, the extra pressure created by closing the shuttle valve assembly is Occurrence is prevented by the surge prevention valve. In this way, the expansion chamber is maintained at a reduced pressure of, for example, 1.4 kg / cm ² (20 psi), eliminating the problem of surge.

When sufficient pressure is created in the expansion chamber, the force of the sum of that pressure and the spring pressure pushes up the valve member 623 and presses the ring seal 635 against the valve seal 633, preventing further pressure buildup. To be done. When the shuttle valve assembly is opened, the pressure in the expansion chamber and valve member 623 drops, pressure in the carbonator forces valve 623 out of its valve seat, and carbonated water begins to flow through outlets 637, 639. . Next, carbonated water is the inlet
Flows through the spiral expansion chamber shown in FIG. 22 toward the outlet 541.

30 to 32 show the cover assembly for the CO ₂ cylinder (that is, the CO ₂ cartridge) 17 and the connection state of the cover assembly to the adjusting device which also has a weighing function. Referring to FIG. 30, a member 703 having a first O-ring seal arranged at the end of the CO ₂ cylinder 17 and having a washer-like portion on the inside covers the neck 704 of the cylinder 17, and screws inside the neck are provided. It is held in place by the flange of a threaded fixture 705 that is screwed into. A check valve is attached to the fixture 705, which operates when a properly sized pin is inserted into its opening. The member 703 has a cylindrical portion 711 in the center thereof, two arms projecting from both wings thereof, and rings 715 are provided at the tips of these arms to form a finger grip.
As shown in FIG. 32, inside the cylindrical portion 711, two slots 719 facing the diameter and extending in the axial direction are provided, and these slots horizontally extend also on the circumference, and the key-shaped slots 72 are provided.
Form 0. They are also shown in FIG. Cover 23
When the cylinder is fitted over the member 703, the cylinder has a completed shape as shown in FIG. The cover has a shape that encloses the head of the cylinder and the member 703, and an opening 723 that matches the opening 715.
And a side surface 721 having a. These openings provide handles that facilitate handling of the cylinder. Cover 23 has ears 727
A strippable top 725 having a tab 725 that can be stripped off to easily expose the fixture 709.

The handles 715, 721 also act as alignment means. As shown in FIG. 32, the axial slot 719 is aligned with the handle 721. Therefore, when the adjustment device assembly 729 including the fitting 731 and the pin 733 protruding therefrom is inserted into the adjusting device assembly 729 to engage the slots 719 and 720 with the fitting 731 and the pin 733, the handle is used for the purpose of alignment. Available at. If the handle and the pin 733 are aligned, and the handle 721 is turned to a predetermined position, the cylinder is attached to the metal fitting in the correct position. A hollow probe is attached to the metal fitting 731. The probe fits into the opening 709, seals, and opens the valve there, so that carbon dioxide flows through the regulator to the rest of the dispenser device. However, since this probe is very thin, it is difficult to fit it by hand and connect the cylinder 17 to the metal fitting 731.

FIG. 33 is a view showing the adjusting device 729, and is an exploded view of the adjusting and weighing assembly. The fixture 731 of the adjuster 729 and its pin 733 are shown at the bottom of this figure. A flat portion 737 is provided at the left end of the shaft 735. The member 739 described in detail below is
It is arranged on the flat portion side of the shaft 735. The adjusting and weighing assembly 740 is inserted into the hood 741. The hood has holes 743 on both sides,
The axis 735 is received there. The left end of the shaft 735 is the adjusting device 72.
It is retained in a cylindrical recess 745 that is fastened to the 9 with a split pin 747. When the right end of the shaft 735 is inserted into the hole 743, the recess 745 aligns with the left hole 743, and the left end of the shaft 745 is inserted there,
The split pin 747 securely tightens it in the correct position.
The hole in member 739 can then be fitted to the flattened end of shaft 735. The hood 741 has a collar 749, and circles 751 and 753 are provided on the upper surface of the collar 749 so as to be aligned with the arrow 755. These circles indicate the positions where the handle 721 is aligned with the user for the purpose of accurate centering when the cylinder is inserted and turned and fixed. The hood 741 is held by the assembly 757. This assembly is a U-shaped bracket 7
59, and the base of the bracket is provided with a hole 761 for attaching the assembly to the device. Shaft 763 is U-shaped bracket 75
Penetrate the two legs of 9. A spring 765 is attached to each end of this shaft.
Is installed. This is a coil spring having arms 767, 769, the ends of which are bent to form a part parallel to the axis of the spring. The arm 767 comprises an axially extending portion 771. This portion 771 engages one of a plurality of holes 775 provided in the leg of the bracket 759. The bracket 759 covers the rear of the hood 741 and the shaft 763 extends out through the opening 777. The spring arm 769 is bent inward,
The extending portion 773 engages the hole 779. In this way, the hood 741 becomes rotatable on the shaft 763 and is lifted upward by the spring 765.

34 and 35 show how the weighing mechanism operates. The aforementioned member 739 is a flat member having an arcuate slot 781. The slot 781 slidably engages a pin 782 provided inside the wall of the cylinder chamber adjacent the flat member. The purpose is to keep the axis of the fixture 731 vertical regardless of the rotation of the hood 741. FIG. 34 shows the hood 741 rotated upwards corresponding to the case where the cylinder is empty or not arranged. From the position of the shaft 735 shown in FIGS. 34 and 35, it can be seen that the shaft 735 makes a curvilinear motion. Without a firm connection between the slot 781 and the pin 782 and between the member 739 and the shaft 735, i.e. a firm connection to the adjusting device 729 and the fitting 731, rotation of the adjusting device 729 and the fitting 731 occurs. Importantly, the fixture axis is always kept vertical, which facilitates removal and installation of the CO ₂ cylinder. Spring 765 will always try to lift cover 741 to the position shown in FIG. The weight of the cylinder filled with CO ₂ acts to push the cover down into the position shown in FIG. 35 against the lifting action of this spring.

The member 739 has a display function as a second function. The bottom of member 739 is color coded into two areas 783,785.
For example, area 783 is painted green and area 785 is painted red.
The beverage dispenser housing is provided with a display window 787 from which color coded areas 783, 785 can be viewed. When the cylinder is full, a green area 783 is visible through the display window 787. A red area 785 appears as the cylinder is empty, and when everything is red, the cylinder is substantially empty. The remaining amount of CO ₂ in the cylinder is 1
It is preferable that the lifting force of the spring 765 becomes effective when the pressure falls below 0%. That is, the spring begins to lift the cover 741 upward against the weight of the cylinder only when the contents of the cylinder are, for example, 10% of the full. This is the reason why it is possible to better indicate when the delivery is approaching the end, as compared to linear devices, which are difficult to measure. The lifting force of the spring 765 is set by selecting an appropriate one from the plurality of holes 775 formed in the bracket 759.
User can decide.

Figures 36 and 37a-37c illustrate a method of maintaining a tangential relationship between the inside of the cup and the dispensing port. Such a tangential relationship is preferable because the carbonated water rotates spirally in the cup and the carbonated water and the syrup mix without letting out the carbonic acid. Without such control, for example, if the flow of carbonated water hits the opposite wall of the cup directly,
The bubbles of carbon dioxide gas blow up, causing the loss of carbon dioxide gas, and the beverage loses its original taste. For that purpose, a surface 801 having a complex curved surface is provided. It is provided in the area above the drip tray and below the dispensing head. When the cup is lifted and guided along the compound curved surface and touches the actuator 233, the device is actuated in the manner described above, causing the beverage to flow out of the dispensing port 225. Figure 37a ~
As shown in Figure 37c, the compound curved surface causes the beverage flow to be approximately tangential to the inner surface of the cup, regardless of cup size.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a household beverage dispenser of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a state in which a carbonator compartment and a CO ₂ cartridge compartment of the dispenser of FIG. 1 are opened, FIG. And FIG. 4 is a view showing the engaging assembly of the carbonator of the beverage dispenser with each other, FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the carbonator and the mounting assembly, and FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of the mounting assembly. FIG. 7 is an exploded view, FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the mounting assembly that includes a hole for receiving the shuttle, FIG. 8 is an exploded view of a portion of the mounting assembly that includes the cross-sectional view of FIG. 9 is an exploded view of the dispensing assembly and dispensing head of the beverage dispenser of the present invention, FIG. 10 is a partially cutaway plan view of the dispensing assembly, FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the dispensing head, and FIG. Is an exploded view of the operating configuration of the dispensing head, and FIG. 13 is a guide for the mount. FIG. 14 is a bottom view of a part of the dispensing head showing the method, FIG. 14 and FIG. 15 are detailed views of the actuator, FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the syrup cartridge of the present invention, and FIG. Fig. 18 is an exploded view of each part of the cartridge, Fig. 18 is a cross-sectional view of the cartridge of Fig. 16, Fig. 19 is an exploded view of the assembly inserted into the carbonator, and Fig. 19A is a view of this assembly. Partial cross-section front view, FIG. 19B is a plan view of this assembly, FIG. 20 is a partial cross-section front view of the expansion chamber of FIG. 19, and FIG. 21 is line 21-21 of FIG. A first cross-sectional view of the expansion chamber along, FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 22-22 of FIG. 20, and FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 23-23 of FIG. Figures and 24 are front views of the expansion chamber, Figure 25 is a partial cross-sectional view of the feed pipe and diffuser assembly inside the carbonator, and Figures 26 and 27 are the diffuser assembly and resin bed. Sectional view of each part of the section, No. 28 Figure is a cross-sectional view of the resin bed showing the connection between the resin bed and the chamber containing the surge prevention valve, Figure 29 is a cross-sectional view of the surge prevention valve of the present invention, Figure 30 is a CO ₂ cartridge Fig. 31 is an exploded view of each element mounted on the upper part, Fig. 31 shows a method of mounting the CO ₂ cartridge on the probe mounting tool including the regulator, and a partial cross-sectional front view showing a part of the weighing mechanism, Fig. 32 FIG. 31 is a perspective view showing a cylindrical member used for mounting the probe fixture of FIG. 31, FIG. 33 is an exploded view of the weighing device of the present invention, and FIGS. 34 and 35 are views of the weighing device. FIG. 34 is a partial cross-sectional front view showing a part of the operation in phantom lines, FIG. 34 shows the weighing device when the cartridge is empty, and FIG. 35 shows the weighing device when the cartridge is full. The figure shows one way to maintain a tangential relationship between the dispensing port and the cup, regardless of the cup diameter. And Figures 37a-37c show how the device maintains a tangential relationship for cups of various sizes. 11 …… Beverage dispenser, 17 …… CO ₂ cartridge, 18 …… Carbonator tank, 19 …… Syrup cartridge, 121 …… Shuttle, 123 …… Shuttle exit, 125 …… Shuttle entrance, 209 …… Ring Plate, 211, 233 ... Pneumatic actuator, 213 ... Cylinder assembly, 217 ... Piston, 221 ... Collar, 223 ... Stand, 225 ... Distribution port, 231 ... Valve, 235 ... Rod, 315 ... … Sliding member, 317 …… Pin, 319 …… Slot, 533 …… Expansion chamber, 541 …… Expansion chamber outlet, 551 …… Expansion chamber inlet, 559,567 …… Bore, 621 …… Surge prevention valve Body, 623 ... valve member of anti-surge valve, 633 ... valve seat of anti-surge valve, 704 ... cartridge neck, 739 ... indicator means, 741 ... hood, 749 ... spring, 757 ... flat Parts, 765, 767 ... Arm, 787 ... Display window.

 ─────────────────────────────────────────────────── ─── Continued Front Page (72) Inventor Charles Minott Doll New York, USA 10528, Pardis, Mills Road (No Address) (72) Inventor Gary Lawrence Webster USA, Connecticut 06430, Fairfield, N.E. Benson Rod 594 (72) Inventor George Jay. Andersen United States, New York, Garrison, Chapman Road (no street number)

Claims (50)

[Claims] 1. A post-mixing system comprising: a diluent supply source under pressure; a distribution port for distributing the dilution solution to a container; and a distribution valve between the distribution port and the supply source. The beverage dispenser device of, comprising a curved expansion chamber inserted between the supply source and the distribution port, the expansion chamber having an inlet having a narrow cross section,
A beverage dispenser device comprising: an outlet having a cross section of the same size as the cross section of the distribution port, and the cross section of the expansion chamber gradually increasing from the inlet to the outlet. 2. A beverage dispenser device according to claim 1, wherein the expansion chamber is between the supply source and the dispensing valve. 3. The expansion chamber is formed along a spiral path,
The beverage dispenser device according to claim 2, wherein the inlet is located at a central position of the spiral path and the outlet is located at an edge of the spiral path. 4. The beverage dispenser device according to claim 1, further comprising a surge prevention valve provided in front of the inlet of the expansion chamber to prevent an increase in pressure in the expansion chamber when the distribution valve is closed. 5. The surge prevention valve comprises: (1) a cup-shaped main body having an outlet at the base, (2) a cup-shaped valve member housed in the main body and having an outlet at the base, and (3) at a side portion. A cup-shaped valve seat member that has at least one opening, has a valve seat on the outside of the base, is accommodated in the valve member, and is fixed to the main body, (4) between the main body and the valve member Means for urging the valve member against the valve seat member to close the opening of the valve member, and (5) sealing between the outside of the valve member and the inside of the body. A beverage dispenser device according to claim 4, comprising means. 6. The opening of the base of the body is the same size as the inlet of the expansion chamber, and the base is in abutting relationship with the inlet with the opening aligned with the inlet. Beverage dispenser device according to paragraph 5. 7. The method of claim 6 wherein said source is pressurized to about 3.5 kg / cm ² (50 psi) and said valve is adapted to open at about 1.4 kg / cm ² (20 psi). Beverage dispenser device as described. 8. The source comprises a carbonator tank, the expansion chamber and the surge protection valve are located within the carbonator tank, and the distribution valve is mounted outside the carbonator tank. A beverage dispenser device according to claim 7, further comprising: an inlet connected to a fitting extending through the wall of the carbonator tank to the expansion chamber. 9. A valve main body in which the distribution valve has (1) a bore which is open at one end and closed at the other end, and in which the injection port opens from the side surface to the bore, (2) moves into the bore A shuttle having a passage rotatably supported therein having an axial outlet and a radial inlet and having a sealing surface axially inward of the radial inlet, (3) the sealing surface and the inlet to the bore (4) a seal that encloses the radial inlet and seals against the sealing surface, and (5) of the shuttle. Limiting axially outward movement, pushing the shuttle inward against the force of the biasing means allows alignment of the radial inlet with the inlet opening, thereby allowing flow. Can flow out of the exit through the shuttle Stopping means for, beverage dispenser according to paragraph 8 claims comprising. 10. The dispensing port comprises an extension member having a cross-section corresponding to that of the shuttle, the dispensing port being in axial contact with the shuttle and entering the bore to open the valve. The beverage dispenser device according to claim 9, further comprising a moving means for moving a distribution port. 11. The dispensing port comprises a tubular member made of a flexible material having a flange at its end for contacting the shuttle, and a downward bending for holding the dispensing port and dispensing into a container. 11. The beverage dispenser device according to claim 10, further comprising a strong gantry, and the dispensing port moving means moves the gantry. 12. The shuttle comprises a cylindrical member having a flat portion at the top of the axially inner end thereof, the radial inlet being formed in an axially outer portion of the flat portion, the axially inner portion of the flat portion. 12. A beverage dispenser device according to claim 11, wherein a portion forms the sealing surface. 13. A recess forming a locking surface at the bottom of the shuttle, a radial bore communicating with the axial bore in the body that aligns with the slot, and a slot in the radial bore cooperating with the slot. 13. The beverage dispenser according to claim 12, further comprising: a protruding button that operates to form the locking surface, and a biasing unit that biases the button upward to bring the shuttle into close contact with the seal. apparatus. 14. The carbonator is a removable batch carbonator having a tank and a lid, wherein carbon dioxide is supplied to the carbonator through the body and through the wall of the tank. 14. The beverage dispenser device according to claim 13, further comprising a passage for opening and a check valve in the passage. 15. (1) a compartment having a wall of the carbonator, (2) a dioxide attached to the wall of the compartment, the carbon dioxide inlet bore being slidably engaged and aligned. A carbon fitting, (3) a distribution port extending through the wall of the compartment and aligned with the axial bore when the carbonator is plugged into the carbon dioxide fitting, and (4) the fitting to the fitting 15. The beverage dispenser device according to claim 14, wherein the beverage dispenser device is incorporated in a domestic beverage dispenser, which comprises means for fixing the carbonator in place with the inlet bore inserted. 16. The domestic beverage dispenser comprises a concentrate dispenser including a concentrate valve, the dispense port moving means opening the concentrate valve at the same time the dispense port moves into the axial bore. 16. The beverage dispenser device according to claim 15, which is so connected. 17. The concentrate valve is attached to a disposable concentrate container and is operable by movement of a portion relative to another portion of the container, the dispenser comprising retaining means for retaining the container, The distribution port moving means relatively moves each part of the container.
Item 16. A beverage dispenser device according to item 16. 18. Each of the movable parts comprises a container body and a lid, rotation of the lid opens the concentrate valve, and the holding means rotatably engages the body and the lid. 18. The beverage dispenser device according to claim 17, further comprising means for holding a disc, and the dispensing port moving means rotating the disc. 19. The beverage dispenser device according to claim 18, wherein the dispensing port moving means is a pneumatic actuator. 20. The pneumatic actuator includes a cylinder and a piston, the piston has a rod extending to the outside of the cylinder, and a sliding member is provided at an end portion of the rod, and the sliding member includes the sliding member. 20. The beverage dispenser device according to claim 19, which engages with a gantry and the disc. 21. The sliding member comprises a pin and the gantry comprises a slot, the pin engaging the slot such that upon actuation, the pin initially moves from one end of the slot to the other. 21. The beverage dispenser device according to claim 20, wherein the gantry moves to open the distribution valve after the disc rotates. 22. The actuator means further comprises a valve for supplying gas to the cylinder and an actuator for actuating the valve, the actuator being associated with a container receiving carbonated water supply from the distribution port. 21. The beverage dispenser device according to claim 20, wherein the actuator is moved so as to operate the valve by moving the container to a position for receiving carbonated water from the distribution port. 23. A beverage dispenser device according to claim 22 wherein said sliding member is biased to a closed position by a spring and said valve vents to said cylinder when inactive. 24. A means for positioning the container so that carbonated water is injected substantially tangentially to the inner surface of the container, thereby reducing carbonic acid loss during injection. A beverage dispenser device according to claim 23. 25. A removable carbon dioxide cylinder comprising a check valve extending at its neck and a fitting for engagingly holding and receiving said neck, wherein the probe comprises said check valve. In the carbonated beverage dispenser for opening the gas to discharge the gas to the outside of the cylinder, the fitting includes cam means for engaging the neck with a cam operation, and a thin probe for opening the check valve, thereby A carbonated drink dispenser characterized in that the neck minimizes the force required to engage the fitting against the force of the gas in the cylinder. 26. A carbonated drink dispenser according to claim 25, wherein said cam means comprises cooperating pins and slots, one of which is provided on said neck and the other of which is provided on said fitting. 27. (1) means for distributing and supplying a flow of carbonated water; (2) means for distributing and supplying a concentrated liquid so that carbonated water and a concentrated liquid are mixed in a container; (3) contact with the container By doing so, means for enabling the means for distributing and supplying carbonated water and the means for distributing and supplying concentrated liquid, and (4) injecting a flow of carbonated water into the inner wall of the container in a substantially tangential direction. And a means for holding the container thereby minimizing the loss of carbonic acid in the carbonated water. 28. A concentrate supply source, a concentrate valve, a carbonator tank containing a pressurized diluent, a distribution port for distributing and supplying the diluent into a container, and the distribution port and the distribution port. A post-mix beverage dispenser comprising a dispense valve located between a source and (1) the dispense valve is attached to the outside of the carbonator tank and to a fixture extending through the wall of the tank. (2) a valve main body having an injection port connected thereto, (2) the distribution valve has (1) a bore inside which one side is opened and the other end is closed, and a fitting for the tank is opened in the bore; ) A shuttle that is movably supported in the bore and has therein a passage having an axial outlet and an inlet opening, (iii) urging means for urging the shuttle outward in the axial direction, and (iv) Restricting the shuttle's axially outward movement, Locking means capable of engaging the inlet with a fixture of the tank to push a flow through the shuttle and out of the outlet by pushing inwardly against the biasing means. Beverage dispenser to do. 29. The dispensing port is an extension having a cross-section corresponding to that of the shuttle, moving the dispensing port until it contacts the shuttle and enters the bore to open the valve. 29. The beverage dispenser according to claim 28, further comprising a dispensing port moving means. 30. The distribution port is a tubular body made of a flexible material, and a flange that contacts the shuttle at one end thereof.
A rigid pedestal that holds the distribution port, wherein the gantry bends the distribution port downward to perform distribution supply to the container, and the distribution port moving means moves the gantry. Beverage dispenser as described. 31. The carbonator tank is a removable batch carbonator comprising a tank and a lid, wherein carbon dioxide is passed to the carbonator through the body and through a wall of the tank. 30. The beverage dispenser according to claim 29, further comprising a supply passage and a check valve in the passage. 32. (1) A compartment having a wall of the carbonator tank, (2) attached to the wall of the compartment, the carbon dioxide inlet bore being slidably engaged and aligned. A carbon dioxide fitting, (3) a distribution port extending through the wall of the compartment and aligned with the axial bore when the carbonator is plugged into the carbon dioxide fitting, and (4) on the fitting. 32. A beverage dispenser according to claim 31, comprising means for fixing the carbonator in place with the inlet bore inserted. 33. A beverage dispenser according to claim 32, wherein said dispensing port moving means is coupled to open said concentrate valve as soon as said dispensing port enters said axial bore. 34. The concentrate valve is attached to a disposable concentrate container and is operable by movement of a portion relative to another portion of the container, the dispenser comprising retaining means for retaining the container, The distribution port moving means relatively moves each part of the container.
Beverage dispenser according to paragraph 33. 35. Each of the movable parts comprises a container body and a lid, rotation of the lid opens the concentrate valve, and the holding means rotatably engages the body and the lid. 35. The beverage dispenser according to claim 34, further comprising means for holding the disc, and the dispensing port moving means rotating the disc. 36. The beverage dispenser according to claim 35, wherein the dispensing port moving means is a pneumatic actuator. 37. The pneumatic actuator includes a cylinder and a piston, the piston has a rod extending to the outside of the cylinder, and a sliding member is provided at an end portion of the rod, and the sliding member includes the sliding member. 37. A beverage dispenser according to claim 36, which engages a gantry and the disc. 38. The sliding member comprises a pin and the gantry comprises a slot, the pin engaging the slot such that upon actuation, the pin initially moves from one end of the slot to the other. 38. The beverage dispenser according to claim 37, wherein the gantry moves to open the distribution valve after the disc rotates. 39. The actuator means further comprises a valve for supplying gas to the cylinder and an actuator for operating the valve, the actuator being associated with a container receiving carbonated water supply from the distribution port. 38. The beverage dispenser according to claim 37, wherein the actuator is moved so as to operate the valve by moving the container to a position for receiving carbonated water from the dispensing port. 40. Means for positioning the container so that the carbonated water is injected substantially tangentially to the inner surface of the container, thereby reducing carbonic acid loss during injection. Range Beverage dispenser according to paragraph 37. 41. (1) A probe having a passage for guiding a gas is provided so as to protrude in the center, and a second part of a gas cylinder
A first fixture having a cylindrical member with an outer surface having diametrically opposed means for engaging the fixture; (2) the first fixture is mounted and the first fixture is attached to the gas A gas cylinder mounting and weighing device, comprising: a biasing device that biases upwardly against the downward weight of the cylinder; and a weighing device that includes a display device that indicates the relative position of the second fixture. 42. The biasing means comprises means for forming a rotatable lever having the first fitting attached to an end thereof, and means for biasing the lever upward. Item 41. A gas cylinder mounted weighing device according to item 41. 43. The gas cylinder mount metering set forth in claim 42 further comprising means for mounting the first mount to the lever to maintain the probe vertical when the lever is pivoted. apparatus. 44. The lever has a hood having a top portion, both side walls, a circular front wall, a flange protruding from the front wall, and a hole formed in a portion of the side wall near the front wall, and the hole of the side wall. A shaft that extends from each side surface of the first mounting member that penetrates and that allows the first mounting device to rotate with respect to the hood, and a shaft that is relatively opposed between the first mounting device and the hood when the hood rotates. 44. The gas cylinder mounting / measuring device according to claim 43, further comprising means for holding the first fixture so that the probe stands upright by rotating the probe. 45. The biasing means is provided on a U-bracket having a base attached to an upright wall and two extension arms each having a hole formed therein, and a rear portion of the side wall of the hole and the hood. A shaft extending through the hole, thereby pivotally supporting the hood, and at least one spring acting to bias the hood upward between the arm of the U-bracket and the hood. 45. The gas cylinder mounting and weighing device according to claim 44, further comprising: 46. The gas cylinder mounting and weighing apparatus according to claim 45, wherein the biasing force of the spring is such that only a part of the weight of the gas cylinder is moved upward. 47. The gas cylinder mount metering device of claim 46 wherein said portion is about one-tenth. 48. The means for maintaining the pin upright comprises:
A flat member extending from the first fixture and rigidly connected to one of the shafts at one end and having a curved slot; a wall formed parallel to the flat member; and a flat member extending from the wall. 47. A pin slidably engaging a slot in a member for guiding the flat member to remain upright as the hood pivots, thereby holding the probe upright as well. Item 7. A gas cylinder mounted measuring device according to the item. 49. The invention of claim 49, wherein said wall comprises an indicator hole and said flat member comprises a color marking portion visible through said indicator hole, thereby indicating the position of said flat member and the weight of said gas cylinder. Item 48. A gas cylinder mounted measuring device according to item 48. 50. The gas cylinder mounting / measuring apparatus according to claim 41, further comprising an adjuster integrally formed with the first mounting member.