MULTIFLAVOR BEVERAGE DISPENSER CONTROL VALVE ASSEMBLY AND RATIO CONTROL SYSTEM THEREFOR

摘要

2033099 9014303 PCTABScor01 A multiflavor beverage dispenser comprises a microprocessor system (CB) for controlling the ratio of diluent to concentrate of a post-mix beverage. The system includes a compact flow rate control module (22) for selectively controlling the flow rates of liquids in a plurality of flow passages (14A, 14B) leading to nozzle assemblies of the dispenser. Each flow rate control module includes a single stepper motor (MSW, MF) connected to a rotary spool valve (VSW, VF) for selectively controlling the flow rate of the liquids. The microprocessor system utilizes variable reference signals which are ramped to approximately correspond to the actual flow rate of the liquid towards a target in order to reduce overshoot values of the flow rates. A scaling function is provided by the microprocessor system to adjust target flow rates between pours in order to achieve consistent controlled ratios of the beverage being dispensed.