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WO2018191136A1 - Ensemble de distribution de boisson - Google Patents

Ensemble de distribution de boisson Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2018191136A1
WO2018191136A1 PCT/US2018/026651 US2018026651W WO2018191136A1 WO 2018191136 A1 WO2018191136 A1 WO 2018191136A1 US 2018026651 W US2018026651 W US 2018026651W WO 2018191136 A1 WO2018191136 A1 WO 2018191136A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
consumable material
container
flow rate
mixing block
assembly
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Ceased
Application number
PCT/US2018/026651
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Michel BOISSY
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Freshbev LLC
Original Assignee
Freshbev LLC
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from US15/484,760 external-priority patent/US20170283235A1/en
Application filed by Freshbev LLC filed Critical Freshbev LLC
Priority to US16/604,178 priority Critical patent/US11952256B2/en
Publication of WO2018191136A1 publication Critical patent/WO2018191136A1/fr
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Ceased legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A23—FOODS OR FOODSTUFFS; TREATMENT THEREOF, NOT COVERED BY OTHER CLASSES
    • A23B—PRESERVATION OF FOODS, FOODSTUFFS OR NON-ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES; CHEMICAL RIPENING OF FRUIT OR VEGETABLES
    • A23B70/00—Preservation of non-alcoholic beverages
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A23—FOODS OR FOODSTUFFS; TREATMENT THEREOF, NOT COVERED BY OTHER CLASSES
    • A23B—PRESERVATION OF FOODS, FOODSTUFFS OR NON-ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES; CHEMICAL RIPENING OF FRUIT OR VEGETABLES
    • A23B2/00—Preservation of foods or foodstuffs, in general
    • A23B2/10—Preservation of foods or foodstuffs, in general by treatment with pressure variation, shock, acceleration or shear stress
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D1/00—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught
    • B67D1/0015—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught the beverage being prepared by mixing at least two liquid components
    • B67D1/0021—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught the beverage being prepared by mixing at least two liquid components the components being mixed at the time of dispensing, i.e. post-mix dispensers
    • B67D1/0022—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught the beverage being prepared by mixing at least two liquid components the components being mixed at the time of dispensing, i.e. post-mix dispensers the apparatus comprising means for automatically controlling the amount to be dispensed
    • B67D1/0034—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught the beverage being prepared by mixing at least two liquid components the components being mixed at the time of dispensing, i.e. post-mix dispensers the apparatus comprising means for automatically controlling the amount to be dispensed for controlling the amount of each component
    • B67D1/0035—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught the beverage being prepared by mixing at least two liquid components the components being mixed at the time of dispensing, i.e. post-mix dispensers the apparatus comprising means for automatically controlling the amount to be dispensed for controlling the amount of each component the controls being based on the same metering technics
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D1/00—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught
    • B67D1/0042—Details of specific parts of the dispensers
    • B67D1/0043—Mixing devices for liquids
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D1/00—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught
    • B67D1/08—Details
    • B67D1/0801—Details of beverage containers, e.g. casks, kegs
    • B67D1/0807—Openings for emptying, e.g. taped openings
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D1/00—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught
    • B67D1/08—Details
    • B67D1/10—Pump mechanism
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D1/00—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught
    • B67D1/08—Details
    • B67D1/12—Flow or pressure control devices or systems, e.g. valves, gas pressure control, level control in storage containers
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D1/00—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught
    • B67D1/08—Details
    • B67D1/12—Flow or pressure control devices or systems, e.g. valves, gas pressure control, level control in storage containers
    • B67D1/1202—Flow control, e.g. for controlling total amount or mixture ratio of liquids to be dispensed
    • B67D1/1204—Flow control, e.g. for controlling total amount or mixture ratio of liquids to be dispensed for ratio control purposes
    • B67D1/1211—Flow rate sensor
    • B67D1/122—Flow rate sensor modulating a pumping rate
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D1/00—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught
    • B67D1/08—Details
    • B67D1/12—Flow or pressure control devices or systems, e.g. valves, gas pressure control, level control in storage containers
    • B67D1/1277—Flow control valves
    • B67D1/1279—Flow control valves regulating the flow
    • B67D1/1281—Flow control valves regulating the flow responsive to pressure
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D1/00—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught
    • B67D1/08—Details
    • B67D1/0801—Details of beverage containers, e.g. casks, kegs
    • B67D2001/0827—Bags in box
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D2210/00—Indexing scheme relating to aspects and details of apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught or for controlling flow of liquids under gravity from storage containers for dispensing purposes
    • B67D2210/00002—Purifying means
    • B67D2210/00013—Sterilising means
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D2210/00—Indexing scheme relating to aspects and details of apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught or for controlling flow of liquids under gravity from storage containers for dispensing purposes
    • B67D2210/00028—Constructional details
    • B67D2210/00128—Constructional details relating to outdoor use; movable; portable
    • B67D2210/00133—Constructional details relating to outdoor use; movable; portable wheeled

Definitions

  • the subject matter disclosed herein generally relates to the preparation of cold- pressed fresh juice and other liquids having an extended shelf-life achieved via high pressure processing, and more particularly, to various types of packaging for use with a high pressure process.
  • HPP high pressure process
  • HPP is used to pasteurize foods at elevated pressures of approximately 2,068 bar to 8,963 bar for a specified temperature and time. The pressure is applied through a pressure medium such as a liquid or a gas. Under these conditions, HPP has been found to be effective in inactivating many pathogenic microorganisms commonly found in foods. As compared to pasteurized liquids, HPP significantly reduces the process temperature and time, which results in foods with improved characteristics such as better retention of freshness, flavor, texture, color, and nutrients.
  • a system for providing a pre-mixed beverage from a distribution device includes a first container including a first consumable material and a second container including a second consumable material.
  • a mixing block is arranged in fluid communication with the first container, the second container, and the distribution device such that a mixture of the first consumable material and the second consumable material is formed within the mixing block.
  • At least one pump is operably coupled to first container, the second container, and the distribution device.
  • said first consumable material has been pascalized via application of a high pressure to said first container.
  • said at least one pump is a diaphragm pump operable via a compressed gas.
  • said system is operable to mix said first consumable material and said second consumable material in real time.
  • first consumable material is provided to said mixing block at a first flow rate and said second consumable material is provided to said mixing block at a second flow rate.
  • first flow rate and said second flow rate are different.
  • said first flow rate and said second flow rate are the same.
  • said first flow rate and said second flow rate are independently controllable.
  • At least one of said first flow rate and said second flow rate is controlled by a flow regulation device.
  • said flow regulation device includes a set screw.
  • said first consumable material is a mixer and said second consumable material is an alcohol complementary to said mixer.
  • said container assembly is configured to store a plurality of servings of said first consumable material.
  • a method of dispensing a beverage from a beverage assembly includes operating a distribution device, supplying a first consumable material from a first container in response to operation of said distribution device, supplying a second consumable material from a second container in response to operation of said distribution device, mixing said first consumable material and said second consumable material, and dispensing said mixture of first consumable material and second consumable material from said distribution device.
  • said first consumable material has been pascalized via application of a high pressure to said first container.
  • said first consumable material and said second consumable material are supplied in real time.
  • said first consumable material and said second consumable material are supplied to a mixing block.
  • said first consumable material is supplied to said mixing block at a first flow rate and said second consumable material is supplied to said mixing block at a second flow rate.
  • said first flow rate and said second flow rate are independently controllable.
  • a mixing block of a beverage assembly includes a first inlet for receiving a first fluid and a second inlet for receiving a second fluid.
  • An internal cavity is arranged in fluid communication with the first inlet and the second inlet. The first fluid and the second fluid are mixed within the internal cavity.
  • a flow regulation device configured to control a flow of said first fluid through said first inlet.
  • said flow regulation device is operable to adjust a ratio of said first fluid and the second fluid within the mixture.
  • said flow regulation device is a set screw.
  • FIG. 1 is a top view of an example of a container assembly configured for use with a high pressure pasteurization (“UPP”) process;
  • UPP high pressure pasteurization
  • FIG. 1 A is a perspective view of a bag-in-box container assembly according to an embodiment
  • FIG. 2 is a side view of a gland of a portion of the fitment assembly of the container assembly according to an embodiment
  • FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the fitment assembly according to an embodiment
  • FIG. 4 is a side view of the fitment assembly according to an embodiment
  • FIG. 5 is a side view of a sealing element of the fitment assembly according to an embodiment
  • FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a portion of a fitment assembly according to an embodiment
  • FIG. 7 is another view of the fitment assembly of FIG. 6 without the sealing element according to an embodiment
  • FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the chamber defined within the fitment assembly of FIG. 5 according to an embodiment
  • FIG. 9 is a front view of a beverage assembly according to an embodiment
  • FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of a beverage assembly for producing a non- diluted beverage according to an embodiment
  • FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram of a beverage assembly for producing a mixed beverage according to an embodiment
  • FIG. 11 A is a front view of a pump panel of a beverage assembly for producing a mixed beverage according to an embodiment
  • FIG. 12 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a mixing block of the system of FIG. 11 according to an embodiment
  • FIG. 13 is a front view of beverage assembly having a "local" configuration according to an embodiment
  • FIG. 14 is a front view of a portion of the beverage assembly of FIG. 9 having a "local" configuration according to an embodiment
  • FIG. 15 is a front view of a portion of a beverage assembly having a "long run” configuration according to an embodiment; and [0048] FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram of a beverage assembly having a "long run” configuration according to an embodiment.
  • High pressure pasteurization also known as high pressure processing and ultra-high pressure processing, is used to preserve foods and beverages by applying an elevated pressure at a specified low temperature for a predetermined period of time. Pressure within a chamber is created by either reducing the pressure chamber volume or by positively displacing the pressurizing material. Under such conditions, HPP has been effective at inactivating microorganisms commonly found in foods and beverages, making them safe for human consumption, similar to pasteurization. Cold, refrigerated food and beverage products that are processed via HPP have a substantially longer shelf life than their raw un-treated counterparts. As compared to conventionally pasteurized foods and beverages, HPP significantly reduces the process temperature and time, thereby resulting in foods and beverages having enhanced characteristics, such as improved retention of freshness, flavor, color, and nutrients for example.
  • the container assembly 20 includes a flexible container 22 having a hollow internal cavity 24 (see FIG. 2).
  • the container 22 is a large, gusseted barrel-style bag formed by fusing together two or more flexible polymer pieces or bags.
  • the illustrated container 22 is intended as an example only. It should be understood that other types of flexible containers 22 formed via any process and having any geometric configuration, such as a bag in box (BIB) which includes a flexible container 22 positioned within the cardboard box 23 illustrated in FIG. 1 A, doypack, pillow-type container, or barrel bag for example, are within the scope of the disclosure.
  • BIOB bag in box
  • a consumable material intended to be pasteurized via an HPP process is stored within the internal cavities of the container 22.
  • the container 22 is described as having a hollow internal cavity 24, it should be understood that the container 22 may have a plurality of distinct internal cavities 24.
  • the consumable material within the cavities 24 may be the same, or alternatively, may be different.
  • Examples of consumable materials include liquids and other beverages, such as syrups, purees, smoothies, pastes, juices, and wine for example.
  • other consumable food materials like dressings, sauces, salsas etc. are also within the scope of the disclosure.
  • the container 22, and therefore the amount of consumable material stored in an internal cavity 24 thereof, may be formed in any of a variety of sizes.
  • the container 22 is configured to store a single serving of a consumable material, for example between about 88 ml to 591 ml.
  • the container 22 is configured as a bulk container within which multiple servings are stored.
  • the internal cavity 24 may be configured to store between about one liter and about 18.9 liters of consumable material. However, other sizes exceeding 18.9 liters are considered within the scope of the disclosure.
  • the bulk container may be sized to contain the number of servings commonly consumed within the extended-shelf life of the consumable material therein.
  • the internal cavity 24 may be sized to store the approximate number of servings that would be consumed on average, based on the application, within 90 days.
  • the container 22 when intended to provide a large format, is configured as a large bag, such as commonly used in conventional bag-in-box products for example.
  • the container assembly 20 additionally includes a fitment assembly 30 associated with an internal cavity 24 and extending through an opening 26 formed in a portion of the container 22.
  • the fitment assembly 30 is fluidly coupled to the adjacent internal cavity 24 and may allow for quick connection and disconnection with a valve assembly, for example to fill the container 22 with a consumable material, without introducing air into the internal cavity 24.
  • One or more components of the fitment assembly 30 may be selected based on the application of the container 22.
  • the fitment assembly 30 includes a fitment body, also referred to as a gland, 32 extending between a first end 34 and a second, opposite end 36.
  • a fitment body also referred to as a gland
  • the gland 32 may be formed from a durable material, such as plastic, polyethylene, or polypropylene for example.
  • the first end 34 of the gland 32 is disposed within the internal cavity 24 of the container 22, and the second end 36 of the gland 32 extends through the opening 26 and is exposed at an exterior of the container 22.
  • the portion of the gland 32 fused to the container 22 is an outwardly extending flange 38 arranged generally perpendicular to the axis of the gland 32 and having a diameter larger than the opening 26.
  • One or more additional flanges 40 may extend outwardly from the gland 32, such as at the second end 36 thereof or an intermediate portion of the gland 32.
  • An inner surface 42 of the gland 32 is configured to define a passageway 44 arranged in fluid communication with the internal cavity 24 of the container 22.
  • the fitment assembly 30 further includes a valve or fitting 46 at least partially received within the passageway 44.
  • the fitting 46 is configured to block or selectively control a flow of consumable material from the interior cavity 24.
  • a variety of different fittings 46 may be associated with the gland 32.
  • the fitting 46 includes a sealing membrane insertable into the passageway 44.
  • the sealing membrane has a circumferential sidewall 50 extending parallel to the interior surface 42 and a base 52 arranged at the end of the sidewall 50. As shown, one or more holes 51 are formed in the sidewall 50 and a post 53 extends vertically from the base 52 towards the second end 36 of the gland 32.
  • a mounting flange 54 complementary to an adjacent contour formed in the interior surface 42 is arranged at an opposite end of the sidewall 50.
  • the mounting flange 54 may be configured to seat and retain the sealing membrane within the passageway 44, and additionally to form a seal isolating a portion of the passageway 44 from fluid communication with the cavity 24.
  • the holes 51 formed in the sidewall 50 are positioned adjacent the interior surface 42 and are not arranged in coupled to the interior cavity 24.
  • the sealing membrane is illustrated and described as being positioned directly within the passageway 44, in other embodiments, the sealing membrane may be connected to or formed as part of another component, such as a sealing element 70 (FIG. 4) for example.
  • a first end 62 of the fitting body 60 has a diameter complementary to the interior surface 42 of the gland 32 such that the first end 62 is receivable within the passageway 44.
  • the first end 62 may include a coupling mechanism 63, such as a plurality of threads for example, configured to engage a corresponding portion of the surface 42.
  • the fitting body 60 includes an outwardly extending flange 64 configured to contact and abut the second end 36 of the gland 32 when the fitting 46 is mounted thereto.
  • the fitting body 60 has a passageway (not shown) formed therein and extending between the first end 62 and a second end 66.
  • a movable element 68 (FIG. 7) is arranged within the passageway to selectively block the flow of the consumable material from the internal cavity 24 there through.
  • the movable element 68 selectively forms a seal to isolate the passageway of the fitting downstream from the movable element 68 from fluid communication with the internal cavity 24 of the container 20.
  • a plunger-type fitting is illustrated, other types of fittings may be used in the container assembly 20.
  • fittings include, but are not limited to, the Scholle Flextap®, Scholle FTCTM, Scholle 1900TM, Conro VPull®, and CPC UDC 9500000 for example.
  • a fitment assembly 30 including the Conro VPull® fitting 46 is intended for use with a single serving barrel bag, and a fitment assembly 30 include one of the Scholle Flextap®, Scholle FTCTM, Scholle 1900TM, and CPC UDC 9500000 fitting is intended for use with a bulk container, such as an 18.9 liter bag in box for example.
  • a bulk container such as an 18.9 liter bag in box for example.
  • any type of fitting 46 is contemplated with any suitable container 20.
  • the fitment assembly 30 additionally includes a sealing element 70 configured to removably couple to a portion of the gland 32 or the fitting 46, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 7, respectively.
  • the sealing element 70 includes a cap formed from a high density polyethylene, or a polypropylene material, such as through an injection molding process for example.
  • the cap includes a body 72 having a sealed top surface 74 and an inner circumferential flange 76 and an outer circumferential flange 78.
  • the two circumferential flanges 76, 78 are substantially concentric about a central axis of the body 72 and extend downward from the top surface 74.
  • the inner circumferential flange 76 and the outer circumferential flange 78 are separated from one another by a distance to define a channel 80 there between.
  • the channel 80 is sized to engage and retain a second end 36 of the gland 32 in an interference fit. Receipt of the gland 32 within the channel 80 is configured to form a hermetic seal.
  • a portion of the valve 46 is also received within the channel 80.
  • At least one of the second end 36 of the gland 32, the valve 46, and the two circumferential flanges 76, 78 includes a structure, such as the mounting flanges 54 for example, configured to facilitate positive engagement of the distal end 36 of the gland 32 within the channel 80.
  • the sealing element 70 includes a piece of foil attached, such as via a heat and/or hermetic seal for example, at the second end 66 of the passageway within the fitting 46.
  • the foil similarly forms a hermetic seal at the second end 66 of the fitting 46 which prevents fluid and air from passing into the internal cavity 24.
  • a chamber 82 is formed between the fitting 46 and the adjacent sealing element 70.
  • the chamber 82 is isolated from the internal cavity 24 of the container 22.
  • the chamber 82 is defined between the sealing membrane within passageway 44 and an adjacent surface of the sealing element 70, which is mounted at the second end 36 of the gland 32.
  • the chamber 82 is formed between the sealing element 70 mounted at the second end 66 of the fitting 46 and an adjacent surface of the movable element 68 arranged within the passageway of the fitting 46.
  • a pressure relief mechanism 100 is formed in a portion of the fitment assembly 30 to prevent the formation of a vacuum within the chamber 82 when a high pressure is applied to the container assembly 20, such as during HPP for example.
  • the pressure relief mechanism 100 is arranged in fluid communication with the chamber 82 and is selected so as not to affect the pressurization of the internal cavity 24, thereby ensuring pascalization of the consumable material disposed therein.
  • the pressure relief mechanism 100 may include a small hole 102 extending through the sealing element 70.
  • the hole 102 may alternatively be formed in a portion of the fitting 46, downstream from the movable element 68.
  • the hole 102 has a diameter between about .0508 cm and about .254 cm, such as about .127 cm for example; however, it should be understood that holes of other sizes are also within the scope of the disclosure and that the size of the hole 102 may vary based on each application and the total amount of pressure experienced within the chamber 82.
  • pressure relief mechanisms 100 such as a movable seal configured to deform when a pressure within the chamber 82 exceeds a predetermined value for example, are also within the scope of the present disclosure.
  • the seal formed between the gland 32 and one of the inner circumferential flange 76 and outer circumferential flange 78 of the sealing element 70 may loosen to allow a fluid, such as air for example, to vent from within the chamber 82.
  • the sealing element 70 functions as a pressure relief mechanism 100.
  • the sealing element 70 may be formed from a material having a suitable coefficient of expansion such that under pressure the sealing element 70 is configured to elastically deform to increase the size of the chamber 82 and withstand the vacuum produced therein, thereby preventing damage to the fitment assembly 30.
  • any type of pressure relief mechanism 100 enables the use of an existing fitting 46 in HPP.
  • a method of using a container assembly 20 as described herein includes filling an internal cavity 24 of the container 22 with a desired quantity of a consumable material, such as a beverage for example.
  • a fitting 46 and sealing element 70 are connected to the gland 32 to define a chamber 82 isolated from communication with the consumable material within the internal cavity 24 of the container 22.
  • At least one of the fitting 46 and sealing element 70 contains a pressure relief mechanism 100.
  • the container assembly 20 is then installed within an HPP chamber where a uniform pressure is applied to the container assembly 20 and the consumable material therein at a certain temperature for a specific period of time.
  • the beverage assembly 120 includes one or more distribution devices 122, such as taps or fountains for example, operable to provide a perishable beverage therefrom, such as a beverage including a cold-pressed, fresh juice.
  • the assembly 120 includes six distribution devices 122; however, an assembly 120 having any number of distribution devices 122 is contemplated herein.
  • the assembly 120 additionally includes a system 124 for delivering the perishable beverage to a corresponding distribution device 122. It should be understood that in embodiments where the assembly 120 includes a plurality of distribution devices 122, the assembly 120 includes a plurality of systems 124, each of which is configured to provide a distinct beverage to one of the plurality of distribution devices 122.
  • each system 124 includes a container assembly 20 having an internal cavity 24 containing a plurality of servings of a consumable material. Due to the perishable nature of the contents within the cavity 24, the container assembly 20 is located within a refrigerated area.
  • the consumable material is a cold pressed HPP juice which has an improved flavor compared to conventional pasteurized juice.
  • juice or other liquids pascalized via HPP were not available in large format containers, such as 18.9 liter bag in boxes (BIB) for example, due to the manufacturing difficulties previously described.
  • BIOB 18.9 liter bag in boxes
  • the pascalized liquid described herein is intended as an example only, and a container assembly 20 containing another consumable material, such as the syrup used for a fountain soda for example, is also within the scope of the disclosure.
  • the system 124 additionally includes a pump 126 operably coupled to both the container assembly 20 and the distribution device 122 via one or more fluid conduits 128.
  • the pump 126 may be any type suitable for use with consumable materials, such as a high particulate, diaphragm pump operated by a compressed gas, for example air, nitrogen or carbon dioxide. Actuation of the distribution device 122, such as by rotation thereof about an axis, initiates operation of the pump 126. During operation, the pump 126 draws consumable material from the container assembly 20 and supplies it to the distribution device 122.
  • the beverage assembly 120 is configured to output a mixture of two or more consumable materials from a single distribution device 122.
  • the system 124 includes at least one container assembly 20 containing a first consumable material and another container 130 for storing a second consumable material.
  • the container 130 of the second consumable material is a carboy.
  • another container 130 may include a desired type of alcohol, such as tequila for example, and the container assembly 20 may include a mixer complementary to the alcohol, such as lime juice for example.
  • the mixer includes a consumable material that has been pascalized via HPP, such as a cold-pressed Ripe® or a Craft Bar Juice® for example.
  • HPP such as a cold-pressed Ripe® or a Craft Bar Juice® for example.
  • the system 124 includes a pump 126 associated with each consumable material of the beverage to be output from a distribution device 122. As shown in the FIGS. 11 and 11 A, the system 124 includes a first pump 126a associated with the container assembly 20 via a fluid conduit 128 and a second pump 126b associated with the container 130 via a fluid conduit 128.
  • the container assembly 20 and the container 130 are outfitted with fitment assemblies 30 including "quick connect” fittings complementary to “quick connect” fittings mounted at an end of each corresponding fluid conduit 128.
  • the coupling formed by the interface of these "quick connect” fittings allows a user to easily and quickly interrupt or recreate the fluid connection between the containers 20, 130 and the pumps 126, for example when replacing either the container assembly 20 or the container 130.
  • the system 124 may additionally include a mixing block 132 configured to mix the first consumable material and the second consumable material before supplying the mixture to the distribution device 122. In an embodiment, best shown in FIG.
  • the plurality of pumps 126 and the mixing block 132 are physically mounted to a support structure 134 to form a "pump panel" 135.
  • the pump panel 135 is intended to support a portion of the components of a single system 124. However, it should be understood that a pump panel 135 for supporting the components of any number of systems 124 is contemplated herein. Further, in embodiments where multiple systems 124 are mounted to a pump panel 135, the plurality of systems 124 may have the same, or different, configurations.
  • the mixing block 132 is configured to receive a flow of both the first consumable material from the container assembly 20 and the second consumable material from the container 130.
  • Operation of the first pump 126a is configured to supply the first consumable material from the container assembly 20 to a first inlet 136a of the mixing block 132 via one or more fluid conduits 128.
  • operation of the second pump 126b is configured to provide the second consumable material from the container 130 to a second inlet 136b of the mixing block 132 via one or more fluid conduits 128.
  • the first and second consumable materials are supplied to an internal cavity 138 where they are mixed before being supplied, such as via another fluid conduit 129 (FIG. 11) for example, to the distribution device 122.
  • the mixing block 132 is operable to regulate the amount of one or more of the consumable materials provided thereto.
  • the mixing block 132 includes a flow regulation device, such as a set screw for example, arranged adjacent an inlet 136a, 136b for receiving at least one of the first consumable material and the second consumable material.
  • the flow regulation device 140 is adjustable to increase or decrease the flow rate, and therefore the amount of a consumable material provided to the internal cavity 138 of the mixing block 132.
  • a flow regulation device 140 may be positioned adjacent each inlet 136a, 136b to provide independent control of the flow rate associated with each of the plurality of consumable materials provided thereto.
  • the at least one flow regulation device 140 may be adjusted to achieve a desired strength or flavor of the mixed beverage output by the distribution device 122. More specifically, the one or more flow regulation devices 140 may be used to control the ratio of the plurality of consumable materials within the cavity 138 of the mixing block 132 and expelled from the distribution device 122.
  • a portion of the mixing block 132 such as one of the inlets 136 or the internal cavity 138 thereof, includes one or more turbulence-inducing features 142, such as porting, ribs, or any other features suitable to affect the flow of a consumable material into the mixing block 132.
  • turbulence-inducing features 142 such as porting, ribs, or any other features suitable to affect the flow of a consumable material into the mixing block 132.
  • a portion of one or all of the inlets 136 of to the mixing block 132 may have a reduced cross-sectional area such that a venturi-like pressure drop is created within the mixing block 132.
  • the beverage assembly 120 may have either a "local” or “long run” configuration.
  • the assembly includes a self-contained unit 150, as shown in FIGS. 9, 13, and 14.
  • the unit 150 includes at least one refrigerated cavity 152 and the distribution device 122 is mounted directly or indirectly to an exterior of the unit 150.
  • Each system 124 of the assembly 120 including the container assembly 20, the container 130, and pump panel 135, is mounted within the interior of the refrigerated cavity 152.
  • the source of compressed gas 154 associated with the one or more pumps 126 of each system 124 may also be located within the refrigerated cavity 152, as shown in FIG.
  • beverage assembly 120 may be formed via modification of any residential or commercial tap system, such as a kegerator or fountain tap system for example.
  • the beverage assembly 120 has a "long run" configuration, as shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, at least a portion of the system 124 is positioned within a refrigerated cavity 152, such as within a walk-in cooler in the storage area of a restaurant for example, arranged at a different location than the distribution device 122.
  • a refrigerated cavity 152 such as within a walk-in cooler in the storage area of a restaurant for example, arranged at a different location than the distribution device 122.
  • one or more conduits 128, 129 of the system 124 may extend through walls, cabinets, or other components illustrated schematically at 156.
  • the container assembly 20, the container 130, and the pump panel 135 including the pumps 126a, 126b, and the mixing block 132 may be mounted within the refrigerated cavity 152, as shown in FIG. 15.
  • the pump panel 135 is mounted adjacent the distribution device 122, or at a position between the refrigerated cavity 152 and the distribution device 122 are also contemplated herein.
  • the source of compressed gas 154 associated with the one or more pumps 126 may be located within the refrigerated cavity 152, adjacent the distribution device 122, or at any suitable position there between.

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  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Wood Science & Technology (AREA)
  • Zoology (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Food Science & Technology (AREA)
  • Polymers & Plastics (AREA)
  • Devices For Dispensing Beverages (AREA)

Abstract

La présente invention concerne un système pour fournir une boisson pré-mélangée à partir d'un dispositif de distribution, ledit système comprenant un premier récipient comprenant un premier matériau consommable et un second récipient comprenant un second matériau consommable. Un bloc de mélange est disposé en communication fluidique avec le premier récipient, le second récipient et le dispositif de distribution de telle sorte qu'un mélange du premier matériau consommable et du second matériau consommable est formé à l'intérieur du bloc de mélange. Au moins une pompe est accouplée de manière fonctionnelle au premier récipient, au second récipient et au dispositif de distribution.
PCT/US2018/026651 2015-07-07 2018-04-09 Ensemble de distribution de boisson Ceased WO2018191136A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US16/604,178 US11952256B2 (en) 2015-07-07 2018-04-09 Beverage distribution assembly

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US15/484,760 2017-04-11
US15/484,760 US20170283235A1 (en) 2015-07-07 2017-04-11 Beverage distribution assembly

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2018191136A1 true WO2018191136A1 (fr) 2018-10-18

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Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/US2018/026651 Ceased WO2018191136A1 (fr) 2015-07-07 2018-04-09 Ensemble de distribution de boisson

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Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2020150479A1 (fr) * 2019-01-16 2020-07-23 87K Research Llc Procédés et systèmes destinés à un ensemble de distribution de boisson

Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6183800B1 (en) * 1997-09-30 2001-02-06 Sara Lee/De N.V. Method for preparing frothed milk or café crème
US20100224649A1 (en) * 2007-10-15 2010-09-09 Hoover George H Beverage dispensing system using highly concentrated beverage syrup
US20120104024A1 (en) * 2010-10-29 2012-05-03 Whirlpool Corporation Refrigerator with beverage dispenser cleaning system
US20140314918A1 (en) * 2013-04-19 2014-10-23 Dale Wettlaufer Juice Containing Pouch and Press for Extracting Juice from the Pouch
WO2017007896A1 (fr) * 2015-07-07 2017-01-12 Freshbev Craft Juicery Contenant et bec verseur pour utilisation dans un traitement haute-pression

Patent Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6183800B1 (en) * 1997-09-30 2001-02-06 Sara Lee/De N.V. Method for preparing frothed milk or café crème
US20100224649A1 (en) * 2007-10-15 2010-09-09 Hoover George H Beverage dispensing system using highly concentrated beverage syrup
US20120104024A1 (en) * 2010-10-29 2012-05-03 Whirlpool Corporation Refrigerator with beverage dispenser cleaning system
US20140314918A1 (en) * 2013-04-19 2014-10-23 Dale Wettlaufer Juice Containing Pouch and Press for Extracting Juice from the Pouch
WO2017007896A1 (fr) * 2015-07-07 2017-01-12 Freshbev Craft Juicery Contenant et bec verseur pour utilisation dans un traitement haute-pression

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2020150479A1 (fr) * 2019-01-16 2020-07-23 87K Research Llc Procédés et systèmes destinés à un ensemble de distribution de boisson

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