Self-monitoring, intelligent fountain dispenser
US6550642B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 5, 2002 |
| Grant date | Apr 22, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 5, 2022 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB67D2210/00157
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An intelligent fountain dispenser performs automated control and systems diagnostics in real time. The intelligent fountain dispenser includes a controller in electrical communication with a syrup valve, a water valve, a carbonator valve, a water level sensor, a flowmeter, and an input panel. The intelligent fountain dispenser also includes a dispenser housing and a carbonator tank. Water and carbon dioxide mix in the carbonator tank to produce carbonated water. The carbonator valve supplies water to the carbonator tank in accordance with instructions received from the controller. The controller also instructs the syrup valve and the water valve in the supply of syrup and carbonated water, respectively, to the dispenser housing. The controller provides the instructions to the valves based on information received from the water level sensor, flowmeter, and input panel. The controller performs systems diagnostics by monitoring the voltage drop across current-sensing resistors associated with each of the valves. The controller can also perform system diagnostics based on information supplied by a signature resistor associated with the input panel.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.