Beverage dispensing apparatus with a carbonation system.

(54) Title: BEVERAGE DISPENSER APPARATUS WITH A CARBONATION SYSTEM.

(54) Title: BEVERAGE DISPENSING APPARATUS WITH A CARBONATION SYSTEM.

(57) Summary

The present invention relates to an apparatus for the on-demand preparation of carbonated beverages. The invention further relates to processes for preparing and dispensing carbonated beverages upon demand of a user.

(57) Abstract

Carbonated beverage dispenser comprising a carbonation chamber with a pressure-lowering utility operative after carbonation of the water in said chamber for reducing the carbon dioxide pressure in the carbonation chamber. Carbonated water dispensing apparatus, comprising a carbonation chamber with a circulation pump for circulating water between a circulation outlet and a circulation inlet Processes for providing carbonated beverages. Carbonated beverage dispenser comprising a carbonation chamber with a pressure-lowering utility operative after carbonation of the water in said chamber for reducing the carbon dioxide pressure in the carbonation chamber. Carbonated water dispensing apparatus, comprising a carbonation chamber with a circulation pump for circulating water between a circulation outlet and a circulation inlet Processes for providing carbonated beverages. The slipper is characterized in that the upper (1, 2) has two layers and the interspace is filled exclusively or partially with down. The slipper is preferably of the ballet pump type, where the outside upper (1) advantageously consists of a fine textile fabric or of a fine soft leather, and the inside upper (2) consists of a cotton fabric. The interspace between the outside and inside upper is stuffed preferably exclusively with down, or optionally with a mixture of down and feathers. Goose down, in particular, is suitable.

I Μ Ρ i

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PATENT TITLE No. 356100

Owner (s): STRAUSS WATER LTD.

Address: 49 Hasivim St .. 49517, Petach Tikva, ISRAEL

D nomination: BEVERAGE DISPENSER APPARATUS WITH A CARBONATION SYSTEM.

.....

2nd fraction V, 6th fraction tu, and 59 of the Industrial Property Law.

Classification: CIP: B67D1 / 07; B67D1 / 12

CPC: B67D1 / 0071: B67D1 / 1252

Inventor (s): HAIM WILDER; EYAL KRYSTAL: MORDECHAY MERON: BENNY GORDON; EHUD

EYAL

REQUEST

Number: International Presentation Date:

MX / a / 2015/003180 September 11, 2013

PRIORITY

Country: Date: Number:

IL September 13, 2012 221929

Validity: Twenty years

Expiration Date: September 11, 2033

Expedition card: May 14, 2018 '

and

The reference patent is granted based on the articles Γ

In accordance with article 25 of the Industrial Property Law, this patent has a validity of twenty non-expendable years, counted from the date of filing of the international application and will be subject to the payment of the fee to maintain the rights in force.

Who subscribes to this title does so based on the provisions of articles 6 sections III and 7 bis 2 of the Industrial Property Law (Official Gazette of the Federation (0.0 F.) 06/27/1991 amended O2fQ0 / 1994, 10/25/1996, 12/26/1997, 05/17/1999, 01/26/2004, 06/16/2005, 01/25/2006, 06/05/2009, 06/01/2010 , 18 / 0L / 2010, 06/28/2010, 01/27/2012 and 04/09/2012); articles 1 ”, 3 'fraction V subsection a), 4' and 12 'fractions I and Iii of the Regulations of the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property (D.OF 14/12/1999, amended on 07/01/2002, 15 / 07/2004, 07/28/2004 and 09/07/2007): articles 1, 3, 4, 5, section V, subsection a), 16 sections I and III and 30 of the Organic Statute of the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property (D.OF. 12/27/1999 amended on 10/10/2002 07/29/2004, 08/04/2004 and 09/13/2007); 1, 3 "and 5" item a) of the Agreement that delegates powers to the Deputy Directors General, Coordinator, Divisional Directors, Holders of the Regional Offices, Divisional Deputy Directors, Departmental Coordinators and other subordinates of the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property (DOF) 12/15/1999, amended on 02/04/2000, 07/29/2004, 08/04/2004 and 09/13/2007)

This letter is signed with an advanced electronic signature (FIEL), based on articles 7 BIS 2 of the Industrial Property Law; 3 of its Regulations, and 1 fraction III, 2 fraction V, 26 BIS and 26 TER of the Agreement establishing the guidelines for the use of the Electronic Payment and Services Portal (PASE) of the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property, in the procedures indicated.

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DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OF PATENTS NAHANNY CANAL REYES

Original string:

NAHANNY MARISOL CANAL REYES | 00001000000403252793 | Tax Administration Service11695 || MX / 2018/41524 | MX / a / 2015/003180 (Patent title PCT | 1027 | RGZ¡Pág (s) | a8TwzdsNWuEv3GfQjD5 / DlgqhiA =

Digital stamp:

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MX / 2018/41524

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FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to an apparatus for dispensing a beverage including carbonated beverage.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Water dispensers for providing carbonated water are known.

EP0867219 describes a device for carbonating a liquid comprising a container in which the liquid is contained, the liquid to be carbonated, which can be closed by means of a closure, a pressurized gas container containing the gas and an adapter which is hermetically connected to the container. The adapter comprises means for releasing the overpressure disposed within it.

US 5,992,684 describes a water dispenser that includes a cover containing a water source and a water storage tank located above the water source. A water line connects the water source and the water storage tank and the water is transferred from the source to the tank by means of a vacuum pump. A faucet is attached to the water storage tank.

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MEXICAN INSTITUTE

OF INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY

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Optionally, an ITT 'ttl'ltra tte — carbon dioxide injection can be provided to produce carbonated water.

WO 2003/048027 describes a beverage dispensing apparatus for a home refrigerator that includes a beverage supply container comprising multiple valve actuators, a water dispenser for selectively supplying carbonated water, and non-carbonated water, such as a gas dispenser for supplying gas

CO2 to carbonate the water and a fluid director.

Other carbonated water dispensers are described in

WO 2003/098136, EP1579906, WO 2006/092783 and US 7,861,550.

REFERENCES

The following references are considered relevant to the technological background of the invention:

EP 0867219

US 5,992,684

WO 2003/048027

WO 2003/098136

EP 1579906

WO 2006/092783

US 7,861,550

US 7,987,769

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MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF FROFIEDAD

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W02007 / 017864

WO 2008/0262208

WO 2011/030340

WO 2011/030339

GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a beverage dispensing apparatus having a carbonation subsystem that provides, upon user demand, a quantity of carbonated beverage. The invention has for its purpose to provide an efficient and compact carbonation subsystem, particularly one incorporated in a beverage dispensing apparatus which is intended to provide drinkable amounts of the beverage, e.g. ex. Water. A particular embodiment is a beverage dispensing system that is small and intended for home use, eg. ex. desk or counter size dispensers, which require minimization of internal components to allow for compactness. Some examples of dispensers are those that are adapted to immediately prepare and dispense quantities for a glass of the drink. The system is typically configured to supply carbonated or non-carbonated water on demand. The carbonation subsystem is adapted to carbonate the liquid just

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MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY

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before dispensing and, among others, my n-im-i-7 = r- a unpleasant aftertaste formed as a result of the storage of carbonated liquid between its preparation and its dispensing.

The following description of the term liquid will be used to refer to an aqueous liquid that enters the apparatus from a source of the liquid and is a beverage in its final form (without carbonation), e.g. ex. water to be dispensed as such or as carbonated water, or a beverage intended to be mixed with another ingredient, e.g. ex.

<td> 10</td><td>an essence,</td><td colspan="2">a liquor, a syrup or an ac</td><td colspan="2">flavoring people who</td>

<td></td><td>will mix</td><td>with water</td><td>to convert it</td><td>in a</td><td>final drink</td>

<td></td><td>carbonated</td><td>0 no</td><td>carbonated</td><td>say,</td><td>a drink</td>

<td></td><td>flavored).</td><td>In the</td><td colspan="2">specific modalities</td><td>described more</td>

<td></td><td colspan="2">below with reference</td><td>to the drawings, the</td><td>liquid</td><td>is water and the</td>

<td> 15</td><td colspan="2">dispensed drink is</td><td>Carbonated water</td><td colspan="2">0 not carbonated. I know</td>

You will notice that these examples are non-exhaustive examples of the liquid and the dispensed beverage.

The term beverage will be used herein to refer to the beverage dispensed by the dispensing outlet. Until dispensed, the term liquid will be used to refer to the aqueous liquid that passes through the apparatus and is treated, e.g. ex. filtered, disinfected, heated, cooled, carbonated and / or mixed with other ingredients (eg a flavoring agent,

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MEXICAN INSTITUTE

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an essence, a syrup, etc., to form .....- the final drink, the mixing can be during the passage of the liquid within the flow system in the apparatus or, typically, before the dispensing).

By one aspect, the invention provides a beverage dispensing apparatus comprising a liquid flow system, a carbonation subsystem, a beverage dispensing outlet, and a pressure reducing tool. The liquid flow system defines a liquid flow path between a liquid source and a beverage dispensing outlet. The carbonation subsystem serves to impregnate the liquid with carbon dioxide (CO2). The carbonation subsystem comprises a carbonation chamber attached to the liquid flow system to receive an amount of liquid from the source and is associated with a carbon dioxide source to carbonate that amount of liquid while in the chamber. The chamber is attached to a dispensing outlet. The chamber is also associated with a tool to decrease the operating pressure after carbonation in the chamber to reduce the pressure of the carbon dioxide before dispensing the carbonated beverage.

The aspect related to the previous paragraph, herein will be called the pressure release aspect.

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MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY

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The pressure reducing tool may comprise a regulator to release excess pressure that is in gaseous communication with the chamber. The pressure reducing tool may also comprise an outlet provided with a module, eg. ex. a cyclone, configured for the separation between the gas and the droplets of the liquid that can transport and then circulate the liquid separated from the resulting gas back into the flow system or dispense it, e.g. ex. drain the liquid into a drain.

Reducing the pressure before dispensing the beverage allows control of the residual pressure within the chamber, thereby ensuring sufficient pressure to propel the carbonated liquid into the dispensing outlet and at the same time provide a smooth dispensing of drink from the outlet (i.e. without the unwanted spillage or irregular flow that can come from excessive residual pressure or insufficient residual pressure).

The operating cycle of a pressure relief aspect apparatus may comprise (a) introducing an amount of liquid into the carbonation chamber through a liquid inlet, (b) introducing an amount of carbon dioxide into the carbonation chamber to carbonate the liquid, (c) activate the tool to

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MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF THE mOPlEOAD

INDUSTRY!

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decrease the pressure to reduce the gas pressure in the chamber to a predefined pressure at the end of the carbonation and (d) dispense a quantity of carbonated beverage. The dispensing of a quantity of beverage can be propelled by the gas pressure (i.e. residual pressure) in the carbonation chamber.

In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the beverage dispensing apparatus comprises a liquid flow system, a carbonation subsystem, and a beverage dispensing outlet. The liquid flow system defines a liquid flow path between a liquid source and the beverage dispensing outlet. The carbonation subsystem serves to carbonate a quantity of liquid. The carbonation subsystem comprises a carbonation chamber attached to the liquid flow system to receive an amount of liquid from the source and is associated with a pressurized carbon dioxide source to carbonate that amount while in the chamber.

The chamber, in accordance with this aspect, is also associated with a circulation pump for circulating liquid between a circulation outlet and a chamber circulation inlet during carbonation of the liquid.

The aspect related to the previous paragraph, here will be called as cto de botaba d circulation.

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MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF PROPERTY

INDUSTRIAL

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The circulation mechanism used in the circulation pump aspect comprises a circulation pump associated with the carbonation chamber and adapted to circulate liquid between a circulation outlet and a circulation inlet of the carbonation chamber. However, it should be noted that the invention is not limited to the use of a pump and that other liquid circulation mechanisms can also be used, for example the use of a stirrer.

In accordance with this aspect, the pump is activated during carbonation and the liquid is circulated between the outlet and the inlet, causing a concomitant flow of liquid through the chamber (in the general direction from the inlet to the outlet circulation) and thus circulating a quantity of liquid that will be continuously carbonated through the chamber. Depending on the pumping speed, the liquid may circulate once, sometimes, or may only partially circulate through the chamber.

Liquid circulation allows efficient carbonation while using relatively low pressures of

CO₂, thus maximizing the use of a C0 container₂ and decreasing the risk of malfunctions associated with the application of high pressure systems and

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MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF PROPERTY

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decreasing overall costs al'ptíilLLÍ Lit —- gl use ..... &lt;áe components adapted to reduce gas pressures.

The sequence of operation of the apparatus of the circulation pump aspect typically comprises the following steps: (a) introducing an amount of liquid into the chamber;

(b) carbonate the liquid contained in the chamber during its circulation; and (c) dispense a quantity of carbonated drink.

In accordance with one embodiment of the circulation pump aspect, the operating sequence comprises opening a liquid inlet valve that controls flow through a liquid inlet that feeds liquid into the carbonation chamber. Then a carbonation stage begins that includes two actions that proceed together:

(i) opening a gas valve to introduce a quantity of pressurized carbon dioxide into the chamber to carbonate the liquid in the chamber and (ii) at the same time activating the circulation pump to circulate the liquid during carbonation. At the end of the carbonation stage, the circulation pump stops and then, to dispense, an outlet valve is opened to thereby allow the pressure of the gas within the chamber to propel the carbonated liquid to the dispensing outlet. drinks.

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MEXICAN INSTITUTE Dt THE INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY

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Various modalities are described in the following description with reference to one or both of the above aspects. It will be appreciated that according to the invention these aspects can be combined. For example, an apparatus for dispensing a beverage according to the invention may comprise a carbonation system with a tool to decrease pressure and may also be associated with a liquid circulation pump. Furthermore, the embodiments described with reference to the circulation pump aspect can be implemented in an apparatus of the pressure release aspect; and vice versa.

The amount of liquid introduced into the chamber can be substantially equal to the amount of carbonated drink to be dispensed. The amount of liquid can be a unit amount that has a volume substantially equal to the volume of the carbonation chamber. The unit quantity, ie, a batch, is of a predetermined volume of liquid, typically determined when designing the carbonation subsystem, which provides for the carbonation of a limited amount of liquid in each cycle of system operation. The unit quantity can be, for example, 200 milliliters (for example a volume of one cup),

300 mi, 400 mi (approximately 2 cups), 500 mi, 1 liter, etc. In each cycle of the operation, a unit quantity of

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ICυΤΌ MEXICAN PROPERTY

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Liquid is introduced into the system of c3TBOT3Ta5lÓli, —S'é '^' Jídó of the carbonation and the subsequent dispensing of the entire unit quantity of carbonated drink. The volume of the carbonation chamber, by means of one modality, can be made substantially equal (or slightly more) to said unit quantity of liquid to be carbonated in each batch. This also allows the user to prepare serving amounts of the freshly carbonated liquid for consumption when required relatively quickly, e.g. ex. every few seconds.

However, it should be noted that in an embodiment of the invention, the user can control the amount of a dispensed amount of carbonated beverage. In case the dispensed volume of beverage is less than the total volume of the carbonation chamber, the carbonated liquid remaining in the chamber can be mixed with fresh liquid introduced into the chamber in a subsequent cycle; consequently, less carbon dioxide may be required for carbonation in the next cycle for a given carbonation intensity.

Repeating the carbonation operation several times in a row can cool the chamber, e.g. ex. as a consequence of the release of the gas pressure. Therefore, to avoid an unwanted temperature drop below freezing, you may have

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MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF INDUSTRIAL AMMONITY

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unintended consequences, by means of an embodiment of the invention the carbonation chamber is associated with a heating element, e.g. ex. a heating jacket or tag associated with at least part of the external surface of the carbonation chamber. Said heating element can be operated continuously, it can be operated automatically when the temperature falls below a certain threshold, etc.

Through some embodiments, the carbonated liquid is propelled out of the carbonation chamber to dispense the beverage from the dispensing outlet by the pressure of the residual gas within the chamber. However, it is also contemplated within an embodiment of the invention that the carbonated beverage will be propelled towards the dispensing outlet gravitationally or by means of a pump.

The stages of cycle operation may be followed by release of pressure from the carbonation chamber upon completion of a sequence of operation.

The operating cycle of an apparatus of the circulation pump aspect may also comprise, by other modalities, the following steps: (i) opening a liquid inlet valve that controls the flow of the liquid through the liquid inlet into the chamber to feed liquid into the carbonation chamber, (ii) open a gas valve

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to introduce a quantity of pressurized carbon dioxide into the chamber to carbonate the liquid in the chamber, (iii) induce the circulation of the liquid within the carbonation chamber during carbonation and (iv) open a liquid outlet valve that controls liquid flow from the chamber to the dispensing outlet, thus allowing pressure within the chamber to propel the carbonated beverage to the dispensing outlet. The operating cycle may also comprise the optional step of (v) opening a gas release valve to release the pressure of the C0 gas.₂ of the camera.

By an embodiment of the invention, the amount of pressurized carbon dioxide introduced into the carbonation chamber can be adjusted to prepare carbonated beverage having different concentrations of carbon dioxide, to thereby meet the different preferences of different users. In other modalities, different carbonation levels can be obtained by controlling the CO pressure₂ before introduction into the carbonation chamber.

In some embodiments, an amount of carbonated beverage or an amount of non-carbonated beverage is dispensed through a single dispensing outlet upon user demand. Typically the user can select from

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MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY

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carbonated or non-carbonated drink qu-β — se— ^ iUAcie — ¿üsfiacusax — through the same (preferred) dispensing outlet or each via a different outlet. The term dispensing outlet will be used to denote a carbonated beverage dispensing outlet, a non-carbonated beverage dispensing outlet, or an outlet intended for dispensing both carbonated beverage and non-carbonated beverage.

The carbonated beverage demand initiates a sequence of operation of the carbonation subsystem to provide a quantity of carbonated beverage; the demand for non-carbonated beverage causes the apparatus to dispense an amount of non-carbonated beverage, which may be a predetermined unit amount or a free flow (user-quantified) of non-carbonated beverage. The non-carbonated beverage can be provided by allowing liquid to flow through the carbonation chamber without activation of the carbonation subsystem. Said arrangement allows an efficient use of the internal space of the dispenser and at the same time maintains the compactness of the system.

In other embodiments, the apparatus comprises a bypass conduit, provided with a valve arrangement or other flow control element that prevents the carbonation subsystem from sending liquid directly from the

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cleaning subsystem until dispensing outlet.

A user can select between dispensing carbonated or non-carbonated beverage through known means, for example by pressing an actuation button, selecting the desired option from the options presented by a display panel, etc. The selection initiates the proper sequence of operation to match the selection, as will be described later. Upon demand for carbonated beverage, the operating sequence may provide on-demand (freshly brewed) carbonated beverage. Alternatively, upon request, the carbonated liquid already prepared and stored within the apparatus can be dispensed, followed by carbonation and storage of a new quantity of carbonated liquid.

The carbonation chamber of the invention may comprise a gas release valve to release the CO2 pressure, e.g. ex. between the cycles of the operation or after the demand for non-carbonated drink. The carbonation chamber may also comprise a safety pressure valve designed to automatically release excess pressure that may form within the carbonation chamber during a malfunction of the system.

The carbonation subsystem may comprise a

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liquid level sensor to detect the liquid level in the chamber. The liquid level sensor can be associated with a closed-loop control system to control the level of liquid in the carbonation chamber to thereby regulate the amount of liquid fed into or dispensed out of the carbonation chamber, thus how to calibrate the liquid level in the chamber at any given moment during the operation sequence.

The apparatus usually comprises a valve arrangement to control the ingress and egress of liquid from the carbonation chamber. Said valve arrangement may comprise at least one valve to control the ingress of liquid into said chamber, e.g. ex. mounted on the liquid inlet or mounted somewhere on the liquid supply line; and / or can comprise at least one valve to control the egress of liquid from said chamber, eg. ex.

mounted on the liquid outlet or mounted somewhere on the duct line connecting the chamber to the dispensing outlet. Some typical types of valves suitable for use in the system of the invention may be, for example, flow control valves or on / off valves.

By means of an embodiment of the invention, the apparatus comprises a liquid cleaning subsystem arranged in

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MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY

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the liquid flow system to remove contaminants from the liquid and to feed clean liquid into the carbonation chamber.

The liquid cleaning subsystem is arranged between a liquid source, e.g. ex. running water source, water container, water tank, etc., and the carbonation chamber, and may comprise , by some means, at least one of a liquid filtration unit, a liquid disinfection unit, or a liquid purification unit to filter and / or disinfect and / or purify the liquid before introducing it into the chamber.

Said filter / disinfection units may be, among others, mechanical filters to filter particles from the liquid, for example a carbon filter, woven or non-woven filter paper, etc .; chemical filters, e.g. ex. activated carbon, to adsorb or eliminate chemical contaminants, for example heavy metals, arsenic, sulfur, etc .; bacteriocidal active materials to eliminate the presence of bacteria;

disinfection devices, for example UV-based assemblies; or any combination of these. Some examples of water cleaning subsystems also useful in an apparatus of the invention include (i) those disclosed in US 7,987,769 or (ii) those using filters of the type disclosed in

W02007 / 017864, WO 2008/0262208 or WO 2011/030340.

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MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY

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The liquid cleaning subsystem — can — ^ initiate a disinfection chamber attached to the carbonation chamber, so that the outlet of the disinfection chamber is connected to the liquid inlet of the carbonation chamber. The disinfection chamber and the carbonation chamber can be connected by a conduit or tube and, according to an embodiment of the invention, can be connected to each other, eg. ex. with an upper side of the carbonation chamber associated with a lower side of the disinfection chamber. Said association provides a compact arrangement of the subsystems in a dispensing apparatus comprising them.

The invention also provides in another of its aspects, a liquid treatment system comprising a liquid purification subsystem, a carbonation subsystem and a control unit. The liquid purification subsystem comprises a disinfection chamber and a disinfection module that operates within the disinfection chamber to disinfect the liquid or to pass it through the disinfection chamber. The carbonation subsystem is one of the modalities described above.

In one embodiment, a liquid outlet from the disinfection chamber is connected to a liquid inlet from the

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MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF INDUSTRIAL FROTIETY

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carbonation chamber. The eTesíflÍ'gjblúii 'chamber and the · carbonation chamber can be integrated with each other with at least one wall of the disinfection chamber closely associated with at least one wall of the carbonation chamber.

The two chambers can be integrally formed with each other in a liquid treatment arrangement. In such an embodiment, the liquid treatment arrangement may comprise a first chamber defining the disinfection chamber and a second chamber defining the carbonation chamber. The disinfection chamber in such a treatment arrangement is typically located above the carbonation chamber. By some modalities, the disinfection chamber has a first wide portion and a second narrow portion formed in its lower part that extends into and is enveloped by the carbonation chamber. The liquid outlet from the disinfection chamber may be formed at the bottom of the second portion.

The disinfection module, by means of some modalities, comprises a disinfection UV light source.

The UV light source may be in the form of an elongated tube.

By one embodiment, the disinfection chamber has a lower elongated lumen that houses a lower portion of the UV light source (this lumen is generally cylindrical,

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it is also typically slightly larger (ie, QQQ-s-ne UV light source) with the outlet of the disinfection chamber at the bottom of said lumen. In this way, the leaving liquid flows along the lower portion of the UV light source for proper disinfection. The light source can be replaced through a cover that a user can open / close, typically on top of the camera.

A system as described above can be a part of a beverage dispensing apparatus (or a dispenser). Said apparatus may also comprise a cooling unit for cooling the clean liquid before its introduction into the system of the invention (for example, the cooling unit disclosed in WO 2011/030339).

Through some embodiments, the cleaning subsystem is incorporated into a cooling chamber of a liquid beverage dispensing apparatus unit to simultaneously cool and clean the liquid received from the liquid source prior to carbonation to effectively improve utilization of the internal space of the apparatus and therefore allow a reduction in the external dimensions of the apparatus. In addition to the option of providing the user with cold drinks, said cooling before carbonation allows a better dissolution of carbon dioxide, that is, CO2, in

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MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF PROEIE »AD industrial

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Water. --According to one embodiment, the same liquid flow path used to dispense carbonated beverage can also be used to dispense non-carbonated beverage. According to this embodiment, after the demand for non-carbonated beverage, the sequence of operation comprises introducing liquid into the carbonation chamber and dispensing beverage without introducing pressurized carbon dioxide into the chamber. According to another embodiment, after the demand for non-carbonated drink, the liquid is directed to a bypass duct of the carbonation chamber with the liquid flow control element suitable for feeding non-carbonated liquid to the dispensing outlet.

Additionally, the system may comprise a control module to induce, after the demand for carbonated drink, an operating sequence / cycle, eg. ex. those indicated above. Said control module can control the opening and closing of the respective valves to ensure proper operation of the cycle, the activation and deactivation of a circulation pump and regulate the flow of liquid and CO2 through the entire system.

The control unit works to induce the sequence of operation of introducing a quantity of pressurized CO2 into the carbonation chamber and induce the

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INSTITUTO MtXICANu M THE INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY

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liquid circulation that will be carried out concomitantly with it.

The control mechanism may also be attached to a user-activated dispensing button or other dispensing start trigger included in a user interface, thereby inducing the initiation of a dispensing trigger signal from a dispensing sequence, dispensing a quantity of carbonated or non-carbonated beverage according to a user's choice; which involves opening or closing the respective flow control valves or pumps. In the case of carbonated beverage dispensing, the propelling force is the excess pressure of the gas that remains in the carbonation chamber after the carbonation step.

A beverage dispensing system by some modalities comprises a replaceable CO2 container that is attached to the carbonation system. An alternative arrangement may include a link to a pressurized carbon dioxide feed line. A replaceable container is detachably connected to a connector on the dispenser. The containers are typically elongated pressure vessels containing a pressurized amount of CO2 for multiple operating cycles to dispense carbonated beverage. The container has a

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Mexican Institute of Industrial Property

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C0 compartment₂ pressurized and can is tai 'Conf igur-adc ·, .. with a neck part adapted for connection to the connector. The neck part has an arrangement to seal the CO compartment₂ pressurized container prior to connection to connector and to open fluid link after connection to allow C0₂ pressurized flow into the carbonation subsystem. Typically, the C0 compartment₂ Pressurized the container is sealed by a pierceable or deformable seal that is punctured or deformed, respectively, upon connection of the neck portion to the connector.

The connection from the neck of the container to the connector can be screwed on, eg. ex. with male thread in the neck and female thread in a matching hole in the connector. The connection can also be bayonet-type, it can be a snap-fit ​​connection and others. As will be appreciated, any type of connection can be employed that can connect a neck to a connector within the dispensing device in a manner that also allows for detachment while maintaining the gas tight seal in operation.

Piercing or deformation of a seal causes an abrupt release of pressurized gas out of the CO compartment₂ which may be accompanied by a

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<img file="MX356100B_D0026.tif" />

short noise burst (eg noise similar to uiTA explosion) and to moderate such noise, the connector may be provided with a noise damping seal that absorbs the shock wave of the released gas and blocks the release of this To the exterior.

By an embodiment of the invention, the connector can rotate about an axis normal to a longitudinal axis of the container between an on / off state and an operating state. The container connects to or detaches from the connector when it is in the on / off state and then rotates to the operating state to allow use. In the operational state, the container is typically mounted so that its longitudinal axis is substantially parallel to an external wall of the dispenser, thereby providing a compact arrangement.

Typically (but not exclusively), the connector is mounted on a link member capable of rotational movement of one end thereof, attached to the connector, with respect to the other end that is attached to the apparatus. This degree of freedom of rotation can provide the tilting movement of the connector.

The connector and connecting element together define a sealed gas flow path, from the container to the carbon dioxide inlet. Through

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<img file="MX356100B_D0027.tif" />

one embodiment, a valve-operated arrangement.

electrically, eg ex. Solenoid, is mounted on the flow path to control gas flow. This valve arrangement can be activated upon demand for carbonated drink. The dispenser typically comprises an inlet valve at the carbon dioxide inlet to control the carbonation operation. The valve arrangement can be an addition (eg as an added safety measure) or an alternative to the inlet valve.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In order to understand the invention and to demonstrate how it can be carried out in practice, modalities are described below, by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the attached figures, in which:

Fig. 1 is a side perspective view of a beverage dispensing apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the invention, without a portion of the wall to show the

CO₂ removable mounted in a space created at the rear of the device.

Figure 2 shows a side view of the apparatus of Figure 1 without the side wall to show the internal elements, particularly the elements of the carbonation subsystem.

<img file="MX356100B_D0028.tif" />

OF INDUSTRIAL AMMONITY

Figure 3 is a rear view of Figure 1 with the container tilted in the disconnect / connect position.

Figure 4 is a cross section through the container.

Figure 5 shows a cross section through a container connected to the connector and through the associated link element that provides communication of the gas flow between the connector and the carbonation system within the apparatus.

Figure 6 is an enlarged section of the arrangement designated 116 in Figure 5.

Figure 7 shows a cross section through line VII-VII in Figure 5.

Figure 8 is a longitudinal cross section through the link element.

Figure 9 is a longitudinal cross section through a link element of another embodiment.

Figure 10A is a perspective view of a carbonation subsystem with an associated liquid disinfection unit and wrapped by a cooling jacket in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

Figure 10B is a perspective view of a carbonation subsystem with a disinfection subsystem

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<img file="MX356100B_D0029.tif" />

of liquid associated in accordance with a fashion invention.

Figure 11 shows a perspective view of the lower part of the disinfection chamber and of the carbonation chamber of Figures 10A and 10B.

Figure 12 shows a perspective view of the lower part of a disinfection chamber and an associated carbonation chamber according to an embodiment of the invention.

Figure 13 is a perspective view of a carbonation subsystem with an associated liquid disinfection chamber in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

Figure 14 is a schematic representation of the elements of the system and of the liquid flow lines according to an embodiment of the pressure release aspect.

Figure 15 is a schematic representation of the elements of the system and of the liquid flow lines according to an embodiment of the circulation pump aspect.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE MODALITIES

In the modalities described below, the liquid and

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<img file="MX356100B_D0030.tif" />

the drink is water. The specific reference made to water is to be considered as an example only and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

Reference is first made to Figure 1 and Figure

2 showing a water dispensing apparatus (which will also be referred to as a dispenser} 100 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The apparatus has a water inlet (not shown) attached and in fluid communication with a water source. It includes a filter 102 arranged in the flow path of the water in the apparatus.Water can be propelled through its flow path into the apparatus by a pump (not shown) or by gravitational means. The apparatus includes a UV disinfection module and a water cooling unit (neither of which is shown in this figure but will be described in connection with other embodiments below) which may be, for example, of the type described in WO 2011 / 030339. The apparatus includes a water treatment arrangement 108 (to be described later) and a dispensing outlet 110 for dispensing carbonated or non-carbonated water. A 20 container of C0₂ 104 is housed within a space 112 defined at the rear of the apparatus with its longitudinal axis substantially parallel to the side walls of the apparatus. The container, as can be seen in Figures 4 and 5, has a CO compartment₂ pressurized 118 and

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<img file="MX356100B_D0031.tif" />

a neck part 120 having an external screw 122. The neck part is connected, as can be seen in FIG. 5, in a threaded manner to a connector 114 having a hollow with screw threading that matches threading 122 at neck portion 120. Connector 114 can rotate about an axis defined by lines VII-VII in Figures 5 and 7 which is normal to the container longitudinal axis, of a a way to be described later. Through this pivot, the container can change from its use position shown in the figure to the disconnection / connection position observed in figure 3, in which the used container can be disconnected and a new container can be connected cool instead. Said tilting arrangement allows an easy replacement of the container by a user and at the same time provides compact external dimensions of the apparatus.

The neck portion, as best seen in Figure 6, houses a gas release arrangement, generally designated 116, which seals the container when not in use but is opened by a stop 117 defined within the recess 115, after connecting the container neck with the connector. Arrangement 116 comprises a lumen 130 housing a pin element having a pin portion 132 and a base 134 abutting against a spring

<img file="MX356100B_D0032.tif" />

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150 (see below) that drives the pressurized CO2 into the carbonation subsystem, the operation of which will be described below.

Inside recess 115 is a recess 140 that is biased to extend axially by a spring 141 (which it observes in a retracted state in Figure 6). Before the connection of the neck part 120 of the container 104 with the connector 114, the hollow element 140 extends axially and during the connection retracts to the position shown in Figure 6, where the stop 117 rests against the head of

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<img file="MX356100B_D0033.tif" />

pin 138. This arrangement ensures a gradual harmonization of the pressure in the plunger 137. The interior of the hollow element

140 it is sealed by an O-ring 142 which rests against the walls of the hollow 115 and by a concentric seal element 144 that provides a seal between the upper face of the neck part of the container and the lower face of the hollow element 140. After the deformation of deformable seal 123, an abrupt release of pressurized gas from compartment 118 occurs which can cause a transient loud noise (ie, explosion-like noise). Seal element 144 also has noise damping functionality achieved by its elasticity.

The gear of the connector 114 with the connecting element

150 it can be seen better in figure 7 and the internal structure of the link member in figure 8. The link element has a first block 152 having an externally integral screw threaded gear member 154 protruding from one end of the link element 150 and a second block 156 having an externally integral screw threaded gear member 158 at the opposite end of the link element 150 to mesh with a gas inlet valve (not shown) of the dispenser. Block 152 includes a generally cylindrical extension 160

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<img file="MX356100B_D0034.tif" />

which fits into a matching hole i fi? pn to¹ drive 156 in a way that allows relative axial rotation about the longitudinal axis of the connecting element corresponding to the axis VII-VII indicated above. Block 152 has a coaxial center hole 164 and attached to center hole 165 formed in block 156 that together define a duct that provides a gas flow path. The tip of extension 160 includes a circumferential groove 166 that houses an O-ring 168 that ensures a gas-tight seal that blocks pressurized gas from leaking from holes 164 and 165.

Blocks 152 and 156 are held together by external spanning members 170 and 171 (which constitute the same part). Member 172 is a sliding element between the body of apparatus 100 and connecting element 150. Member 170 has an internal shoulder 178 that rests against skirt 180 of block 156. The circumferential ring 182 partially fits into a partial circumferential groove 174 defined in the member 170 and within the partial circumferential groove 186 of the member

171. This arrangement secures blocks 152 and 156 together, as can be seen in Figure 8 and at the same time allows axial rotation of block 152 with respect to block 156.

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<img file="MX356100B_D0035.tif" />

The circumferential ring 182 is ITITHGR-1 —— tm * fixing pin 183, observed in FIG. 5 to prevent axial movement of the connecting element in the frame of the apparatus 100.

Another embodiment of a link element 1150 is shown in FIG. 9, which element engages connector 114 at one end and a gas inlet valve gear element 1151 at the other end (not shown) . The connecting element 1150 has a general similar structure with components similar to that of the element

150 and the reader can refer to the above description of element 150 to understand the structure and function of said components. The main difference lies in the inclusion of a 1190 solenoid and a 1192 solenoid actuated safety valve arranged in block 152 that separates between center ports 164A and 164B. Safety valve 1192 is housed within space 1200 and includes a cup-shaped plunger 1194, typically made of a magnetic material or a ferromagnetic material, having an end face 1196 that abuts against an internal end face 1202 of space 1200 with intermediate O-ring 1204 to thereby seal duct 164B. The hollow element is biased against the end face 1202 by a spring 1198 which is held against the end face.

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<img file="MX356100B_D0036.tif" />

opposite inner end 1206. Such as nhgorvarsñ. the length of the cup-shaped plunger 1194 is short of the length of the gap 1200, which leaves a small gap for axial retraction of the plunger 1194 away from the end face 1202, induced by the solenoid 1190.

Typically upon demand for carbonated beverage, solenoid 1190 is activated causing plunger 1194 to retract and thereby open the gas link between the duct

164A and the 164B pipeline.

The modalities of a carbonation subsystem assembly 208 are shown in Figures 10A, 10B, and 11.

Figures 10A and 10B differ from each other mainly by the inclusion of a cooling jacket 211 which in this embodiment is a spiral tube winding tightly wound around the disinfection chamber 210. Therefore, while disinfecting, the water also it cools down. Furthermore, the two different modalities are similar and will be described together.

Arrangement 108 comprises a disinfection chamber

210 supplying water (typically cold) through a disinfection chamber inlet 212 mounted with a valve 242 and a disinfection chamber outlet 216.

This disinfection subsystem may comprise a disinfection module, for example a UV disinfection lamp,

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<img file="MX356100B_D0037.tif" />

the base 214 from which it can be observed, 'la · oucil' l «mp'g» »a received inside the disinfection chamber. Said UV lamp is adapted to radiate disinfecting UV radiation into the water contained in chamber 210 to thereby remove bacterial contaminants. In other embodiments, the UV disinfection subsystem may be separate from the carbonation subsystem, for example mounted in the flow path inside or outside the carbonation system; or it may be completely missing.

A carbonation chamber 218, also seen in FIG. 11, is mounted on the bottom of the disinfection chamber 210. The outlet of the disinfection chamber

216 is in fluid communication with the entrance of the

<td>camera</td><td>of</td><td>carbonation</td><td> 222</td><td>through</td><td>a</td><td>pipeline</td><td> 220.</td><td>The</td>

<td>15 camera</td><td>of</td><td>carbonation</td><td> 218</td><td>too</td><td>this</td><td>mounted</td><td>with</td><td>a</td>

<td>departure</td><td>of</td><td>liquid 226,</td><td colspan="2">an output of</td><td colspan="2">Liberation of</td><td>gas</td><td> 228</td>

mounted with a valve 248 (seen in FIG. 10B), a pressurized carbon dioxide inlet 224 associated with a gas valve 244, an excess pressure release relief valve 230 (which may be omitted in some embodiments), and a liquid level sensor 232.

After feeding a quantity of clean and / or disinfected liquid into the carbonation chamber, a quantity of pressurized CO2 is introduced into the chamber through the

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<img file="MX356100B_D0038.tif" />

carbon dioxide inlet proonri j_, tra the liquid. After carbonation, as a result of opening the link between a pressurized CO2 source 300 (which is typically pressurized CO2 container 104) and inlet 224 through the operation of valve 244, the carbonated liquid exits the chamber through liquid outlet 226 and propelled to beverage dispensing outlet 110 (see Figure 1) by means of remaining gas pressure C0₂ inside the carbonation chamber.

After the carbonated liquid is dispensed, the excess CO2 pressure remaining in the carbonation chamber can be released through the gas release outlet

228, which can also function as a vent for the carbonation chamber. As can be further observed in Figure 10A, the carbonation chamber can be associated on at least part of its external face with a heating element 202, which can be in any way known in the art. The element of

<td>heating 202 se</td><td>can</td><td colspan="2">operate</td><td>to prevent</td><td>the</td>

<td>excessive cooling,</td><td colspan="2">that is to say,</td><td>the</td><td>freezing,</td><td>of the</td>

<td>liquid inside the</td><td>camera</td><td>of</td><td colspan="2">carbonation 218</td><td>how</td>

<td>result of expansion</td><td>CO2</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td>

<td>To prevent the</td><td>excess</td><td>of</td><td colspan="3">pressure builds up in the</td>

carbonation chamber, e.g. ex. in case of a failure in the

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<img file="MX356100B_D0039.tif" />

operation, the camera can be mounted- by, nn ?. yeah, Vm! ? pressure safety 230.

Valves are typically controlled by a control unit (not shown), allowing a sequence of stages of operation, enabling on-demand preparation of carbonated beverage and, in some modalities, also a choice between dispensing carbonated beverage and non-carbonated drink. The sequence of steps, for example, may first include an introduction of a quantity of clean liquid into the carbonation chamber through the clean liquid inlet 222. Then gas valve 244 can be activated to allow CO to enter₂ pressurized in the carbonation chamber. Then, the gas valve 244 can be closed and then, by opening an outlet valve, eg. ex. at the dispensing outlet, the carbonated liquid is propelled out of the carbonation chamber by means of the remaining pressure in the chamber, out of outlet 226 to dispensing outlet 110.

Before completing the drainage of the carbonated liquid from the carbonation chamber, a small amount of clean non-carbonated liquid can be introduced into the chamber to wash the remains of the carbonated liquid from the walls of the carbonation chamber, as such the residues can impart a bitter taste in a next batch of liquid that

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<img file="MX356100B_D0040.tif" />

will carbonate. After this, the b'hora ^ An ga.g 248 valve can be opened to release excess gas pressure to thereby prepare the chamber for the next cycle.

As can be seen in Figure 12, the liquid in the carbonation chamber 218 fills the chamber to a level 252 defined by the liquid level sensor 232, leaving a gap 254. To fill the carbonation chamber, valve 242 it opens and the liquid entering the chamber 210 displaces the same amount of liquid in the carbonation chamber 218. Once the liquid level reaches level 252, through a closed-loop control mechanism, valve 242 interrupts flow in the disinfection chamber, and hence thence in the carbonation chamber.

This gap 254 provides some tolerance when a small increase in liquid volume occurs during carbonation. In addition, the safety pressure valve 230 is positioned to open in the upper space so that in case of excess pressure, eg. ex.

<td>caused by a failure in</td><td>the</td><td>functioning,</td><td>it can</td>

<td>release excess pressure</td><td>to</td><td>through the</td><td>valve</td>

<td>safety pressure.</td><td></td><td></td><td></td>

<td>In some modalities,</td><td>a</td><td>user can</td><td>to select</td>

between carbonated drink dispensing and dispensing

Mexicano Mexican institute OF INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY

<img file="MX356100B_D0041.tif" />

of non-carbonated drink. Using a modal'ldád, ld “^ Peill'dIltla of non-carbonated drink can make the liquid clean

<td>go to</td><td>through</td><td>the</td><td>camera</td><td>carbonation</td><td>without</td><td>open the</td>

<td>valve</td><td>244 (that</td><td>of</td><td>other</td><td>carbonation mode</td><td>the</td><td>liquid).</td>

<td colspan="2">5 Alternatively,</td><td>I know</td><td>can</td><td>provide a</td><td colspan="2">duct</td>

bypass for the carbonation chamber to allow the flow of clean liquid to the dispensing outlet without passing through the carbonation chamber.

Figure 12 shows another embodiment of the carbonation chamber. In this embodiment, the carbonated liquid outlet 226 is positioned on the bottom wall 260 of the carbonation chamber 218. The bottom wall 260 is tilted down toward the outlet, allowing better drainage of the remaining carbonated liquid out of the chamber . This configuration allows efficient draining of any carbonated liquid that may remain in the carbonation chamber after dispensing of the carbonated liquid.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 13, disinfection chamber 310 and carbonation chamber 320 are integrally formed with each other in a liquid treatment arrangement. In this arrangement, the disinfection chamber has a first wide portion 312 and a second narrow portion 314 formed at its bottom and

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<img file="MX356100B_D0042.tif" />

defining a lumen 316. The narrow portion 314 '' 345 'ΘΧΓΙδΙΊΑδ in the carbonation chamber and is therefore enveloped by it. Such an arrangement provides a compact spatial configuration of the treatment arrangement within the beverage dispenser.

In this embodiment, the disinfection chamber includes a disinfection UV light source 330 (of which only the outer shell is depicted) typically having the general shape of an elongated tube, the lower outer of which is housed within the lumen 316 . An outlet 318 of the disinfection chamber is formed in the lower part of said lumen and is in fluid communication with the liquid inlet 322 of the carbonation chamber through a flow line (not shown). In this way, the leaving liquid flows along the lower portion of the UV light source and this close proximity of the flowing liquid to the UV light source provides adequate disinfection. It will be understood that, in some embodiment, the UV light source may be housed within a transparent sleeve of UV light having general contours that trace those of UV light source 330.

A schematic representation of the elements of the system and of the liquid flow pathways according to one embodiment of the pressure release aspect is shown in

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<img file="MX356100B_D0043.tif" />

Figure 14. Water is fed into the disinfection chamber.

404 through liquid inlet 402. Disinfection is typically done through UV radiation. From there the water is fed through the disinfected liquid outlet 408 into the carbonation chamber 406 through an inlet 410. If no carbonation is intended, clean and disinfected water is dispensed through the uncarbonated carbonation chamber, outside from the dispensing outlet 412 to the beverage outlet of the dispenser.

If a carbonation operation is started, CO is fed₂ in the carbonation chamber from the CO vessel₂ 414 through C0 input₂ 414A, thus carbonating the amount of liquid within the carbonation chamber. Upon completion of carbonation, valve 421 opens to allow gas to flow through pressure regulator 422 to thereby reduce the pressure within the chamber to a desired residual pressure, defined by the pressure regulator. The gas released from the chamber may have droplets or a water spray that is separated from the gas by a cyclone module 424. The water separated by the cyclone is sent to a liquid collector (not shown). After obtaining a desired pressure in the carbonation chamber, the carbonated liquid is allowed to be dispensed through outlet 412 by gas pressure C0₂ residual and propelled towards the

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<img file="MX356100B_D0044.tif" />

dispenser outlet. - ---------^{- 11,1}

A schematic representation of the elements of the system and the water flow paths according to an embodiment of the circulation pump aspect is shown in figure 15. Water is fed into the disinfection chamber

504 through liquid inlet 502. After disinfection, eg. ex. By UV radiation, liquid is fed through the disinfected liquid outlet 508 into carbonation chamber 506 through inlet 510. If no carbonation is desired, clean and disinfected liquid is dispensed through the uncarbonated carbonation chamber, out of the dispensing outlet 512 towards the beverage outlet of the dispenser. If a carbonation operation is started, CO is fed₂ in the carbonation chamber from the C0 vessel₂ 514 through C0 input₂ 514A, thus carbonizing the amount of liquid within the carbonation chamber. Upon completion of carbonation, the carbonated liquid is dispensed through outlet 516 using the CO gas pressure? residual and propelled towards the dispenser outlet. After draining of the carbonation chamber, vent 518 is opened to thereby release excess CO₂ from the carbonation chamber and allowing a new quantity of liquid to be fed into the carbonation chamber. Optionally, it

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<img file="MX356100B_D0045.tif" />

You can use a S2U duPShté 5T carbonation process circulation pump to allow pressure reduction of C0₂ used to achieve a desired level of carbonation. Circulation pump 520 can be operated at the same time the liquid is charred, after which the liquid is circulated between circulation outlet 520A and circulation inlet 520B. When carbonation is complete, the operation of pump 520 stops, the carbonated liquid is propelled to the dispensing outlet by excess pressure of C0₂ in the carbonation chamber, vent 518 is opened and the system is operational to begin a new cycle of operation.

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<img file="MX356100B_D0046.tif" />