Patent Description:
Carbonated beverages (also known as carbonated drinks or fizzy drinks) are beverages that contain dissolved carbon dioxide. An example of a carbonated beverage is a soda drink, which comprises a soda base (i.e., carbonated water) mixed with additives. Tonic water is one such soda drink. Tonic water has acquired a huge amount of popularity in recent years, particularly in view of a revival of cocktails such as a gin and tonic. Tonic water is often flavoured with additives in the form of citric acid, quinine and sugar which give it a distinct sour-bitter-sweet taste. Other flavourings such as botanicals or fruit flavourings may be added to provide flavoured tonic waters.

One way to serve carbonated beverages in high volume is to make use of a soda gun. A soda gun typically involves mixing soda with at least one additive, and then dispensing the mixture into a drinking receptacle for consumption. Different additives can be selected and added to select different carbonated beverages. Since only one tool, i.e., the soda gun, can be used to dispense a large variety of different carbonated beverages, there are huge savings in space at the bar, and in time for the barperson.

However, when using soda guns, it is difficult to maintain the characteristics of carbonated beverages, and especially a high-quality tonic water. A high-quality tonic water typically has a high carbonation level: higher than the carbonation level of many other carbonated beverages. For example, premium tonic waters and other premium (non-alcoholic) soda drinks have a carbonation of at least <NUM> volumes of CO<NUM>, while typical non-premium soda drinks and non-premium tonic waters have a carbonation of <NUM> - <NUM> volumes of CO<NUM>, and beers typically <NUM> - <NUM> volumes of CO<NUM>. Carbonation can be maintained at a relatively high level when the tonic water is stored in bottles or cans in relatively small quantities. However, when dispensing large volumes of tonic water through a soda gun maintaining high carbonation levels is more challenging.

This is because when soda guns are used to dispense carbonated drinks into a drinking receptacle, outgassing occurs in the carbonated drinks, i.e., a foaming of the dispensed drink, which leads to an undesirable and unwanted drop in carbonation in the dispensed drink. The dispensed carbonated drink is therefore flatter and less desirable to the consumer.

As a result, high quality tonic waters have typically only been served by way of bottles or cans.

<CIT> describes a compensator tap for beverages such as beers, which allows a gradual drop of pressure of the beer. The compensator is adjustable via a hand lever. <CIT> describes a flow restrictor for a beer line, having a frusto-conical plug member that is adjustably located in a frusto-conical flow passage in a body part.

The carbonated beverage dispenser according to the present invention aims to solve at least some of the problems associated with the prior art.

According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a carbonated beverage dispenser for dispensing a carbonated beverage comprising soda and at least one additive, the carbonated beverage dispenser comprising a compensator for regulating the flow rate of soda, the compensator comprising:.

Precise control of the gap between the inner body and the outer body in this way can be used to ensure a high level of carbonation in the dispensed soda drink. Such precise control is more important for soda drinks, compared to, say, beer, because soda is less viscous than beer, and because the carbonation requirements for high-quality soda are often higher than beer.

In a preferred embodiment, the carbonated beverage dispenser is a soda drink dispenser for dispensing soda drinks, and in particular for dispensing non-alcoholic drinks.

The first extent is optionally larger than to the second extent. In one embodiment, the gap between the inner body and the outer body is fixed.

The control element is optionally rotatable. The user input may be a rotation of the control element.

In one embodiment, the control element takes the form of a differential screw. The differential screw may have a first portion comprising a first thread for engaging the outer body and a second portion comprising a second thread for engaging the inner body. The first thread may have a different thread pitch to the second thread. In one embodiment, the first thread has a smaller thread pitch than the second thread.

Preferably, the first thread has a pitch of between <NUM> and <NUM>, and / or the second thread has a pitch of between <NUM> and <NUM>. When the first thread has a pitch of <NUM> and the second thread has a pitch of <NUM>, when the screw is rotated such that the differential screw travels <NUM> down relative to the outer body, the inner body is moved <NUM> up relative to the differential screw. Accordingly, the inner body only moves <NUM> relative to the outer body. The first thread has an ISO Metric thread dimension M8, and the second thread has an ISO Metric thread dimension M6.

For a full rotation of the control element, the control element preferably causes relative longitudinal displacement between the inner and outer bodies of between <NUM> and <NUM>.

In the middle region of the compensator, this relative longitudinal displacement between the inner and outer bodies brings about a change of a few microns in the gap between the inner body and the outer body, where said gap is measured at a right angle with respect to the outer surface of the inner body and/ or the inner surface of the outer body and/ or the flow of soda through said gap.

The inner body may be non-rotational with respect to the outer body.

The carbonated beverage dispenser may comprise a rotation stop. The rotation stop may be configured to rotationally fix the inner body with respect to the outer body. Optionally, the rotation stop comprises a grub screw that may connect the inner body to the outer body.

The control element may extend along the same axis as the inner body.

In one embodiment, the control element comprises an engagement portion that protrudes out of the outer body to define an engagement feature for engagement by a user. The engagement portion preferably takes the form of a grip and may be provided at the first portion of the rotatable control element.

The compensator preferably further comprises a cooling conduit arranged within the outer body. Said cooling conduit may be configured to receive a cooling liquid.

Cooling the compensator further reduces outgassing in dispensed soda. Also, it helps to ensure a constant liquid velocity of the dispensed soda, and hence the liquid dispense volume is made more consistent. The cooling liquid may be the soda, which may be circulated through the cooling conduit before or after it is passed through the compensator chamber. Alternatively, instead of using recirculated soda, a cooling conduit separate to the compensator chamber can be used, with a separate cooling liquid. In one embodiment, the outer body is made of a thermally conductive metal such as steel, although other metals or plastics may also be used. Plastic may be preferred because it results in a simplified manufacturing process and reduced costs - all plastic parts may be moulded separately and then welded together. Also, plastic has been found to ensure sufficient heat transfer, and it can be easier to achieve a much smoother finish on plastic parts than on metal counterparts.

Additionally or alternatively, the inner body may be made of steel or plastic. Again, plastic may be preferred because it results in a simplified manufacturing process and reduced costs.

The compensator may comprise a first region proximal to the inlet, a second region proximal to the outlet, and/ or a middle region therebetween. The first region may be an upstream region and the second region may be a downstream region of the compensator, relative to the direction of soda flow through the compensator. In one example the upstream region is also arranged above the downstream region, since the direction of flow in this embodiment is downward, but this need not be the case and in other embodiments the flow may be in other directions, with the upstream and downstream regions arranged accordingly.

In the first region, a diameter of the inner body and a diameter of the compensator chamber are preferably approximately constant between the inlet and the middle region.

In this way, in the first region, the gap between the inner and outer bodies is fixed. This is because, regardless of any relative movement between the inner and outer bodies along longitudinal axis L, the gap between the two remains the same. This advantageously provides a fixed pressure drop to fluid passing over.

In the middle region, the or a diameter of the inner body and the or a diameter of the compensator chamber increase at substantially the same fixed rate between the first and the second region.

In this way, in the middle region, the gap between the inner and outer bodies is variable and changes in dependence on the relative lateral movement between the inner and outer bodies along longitudinal axis L. Hence, by way of such longitudinal relative movement between the inner and outer bodies, the pressure drop provided by the compensator can be precisely tuned. This variable pressure drop in the middle region ensures high precision in flow rate calibration.

In the second region, the or a diameter of the inner body and the or a diameter of the compensator chamber preferably decrease at different fixed rates between the middle region and the outlet.

In this way, in the second region, the gap between the inner and outer bodies increases moving down the longitudinal axis L. There is therefore no substantial pressure drop, but the fluid is advantageously decelerated without outgassing. Hence when the fluid can be dispensed at an appropriate rate without losing any carbonation.

The inner body may be substantially cylindrical in the first region, substantially frustoconical in the middle region, and/ or substantially conical in the second region.

In one preferred embodiment, an outer surface of the inner body, and/or an inner surface of the inlet and/ or an inner surface of the outlet has a maximum surface roughness of <NUM> microns Ra. This smoothness reduces nucleation sites for bubble formation, hence reduces outgassing in the dispensed soda.

In one embodiment, the carbonated beverage dispenser further comprises a soda delivery system comprising a chiller-carbonator for chilling and carbonating soda for the compensator.

Preferably, the soda delivery system further comprises a first soda delivery conduit for transporting soda from the chiller-carbonator to the cooling conduit for cooling the compensator. In this way, chilled and carbonated soda water, which can be regulated by the compensator and then dispensed, is used to cool the compensator itself.

The soda delivery system may further comprise a third soda delivery conduit for transporting soda from the cooling conduit back to the chiller-carbonator for re-cooling and re-carbonisation.

The soda delivery system may further comprise a second soda delivery conduit for transporting soda water from the chiller-carbonator to the compensator for flow-regulation, preferably when selectively operated by a user.

The chiller-carbonator is preferably configured to pressurise soda to between <NUM> bar and <NUM> bar, and more preferably <NUM> bar. The soda is preferably pressured to between <NUM> and <NUM> PSI, and more preferably <NUM> PSI, i.e., between <NUM> bar and <NUM> bar, and more preferably <NUM> bar.

In one embodiment, the carbonated beverage dispenser further comprises an additive dispensing system for dispensing at least one additive. The carbonated beverage dispenser may further comprise a mixing chamber for receiving soda from the compensator and at least one additive from the additive dispensing system and mixing the soda with at least one additive to form a soda-based drink.

The soda and additive(s) are mixed before dispersion - perception is therefore of one liquid being dispensed, as when a bottle is used to serve.

An inner surface of the mixing chamber preferably has maximum roughness of <NUM> microns Ra. This smoothness reduces nucleation sites for bubble formation, hence reducing outgassing in the dispensed mixed soda.

In one particularly preferred embodiment, the mixing chamber further comprises a first opening arranged in the mixing chamber. In this embodiment, the additive dispensing system preferably comprises at least one additive dispenser arranged to dispense at least one additive into the mixing chamber through the first opening. Advantageously, a spacing may be defined between the at least one additive dispenser and the mixing chamber.

In this way, the additive dispensing nozzles never touch the liquids in mixing chamber, and so will never be contaminated thereby. Hence, the additive dispensers do not need to be cleaned. Volume of mixing chamber is preferably sufficient such that the mixing chamber does not overflow depending on pour volume and dispense time.

The first opening may be defined in an upper wall of the mixing chamber and/ or the at least one additive dispenser may be arranged above the mixing chamber.

The at least one additive dispenser may advantageously be arranged at an angle with respect to the direction in which the mixing chamber extends such that the least one additive dispenser dispenses soda along the direction of soda flowing through the mixing chamber. This avoids splash back/ liquid being splashed out the top of the mixing chamber.

The mixing chamber may further comprise a second opening for receiving soda from the outlet of the compensator, and/ or a third opening for delivering carbonated beverage out of the mixing chamber. Each of the first, second and third openings are preferably distinct.

The additive dispensing system may comprise a plurality of additive dispensers each arranged to dispense an additive, a plurality of additive stores for storing each additive, and a plurality of additive delivery conduits for transporting additive from each additive store to the respective additive dispenser for dispensing. This configuration is preferable as it avoids contamination of additives, and hence reduces the need for cleaning.

In one embodiment, the carbonated beverage dispenser comprises a control unit for controlling the carbonated beverage dispenser during dispensing operations. Preferably the control unit is configured to control a dispensing flow of soda and additive such that, at the end of each dispensing operation, the last liquid that passes through the mixing chamber is soda, with no dispensed additive(s).

The control unit is preferably configured to stop the additive dispensing system dispensing an additive into the mixing chamber before the control unit stops the compensator dispensing soda into the mixing chamber. This final amount of soda water acts to clean the mixing chamber, to prevent flavour cross-over with the additive being present in the mixing chamber.

To this end, the inlet of the compensator may be provided with a controller valve to control whether soda is delivered to the compensator, and then to the mixing chamber, and the or each additive dispensers may be provided with a dispenser valve and/ or pump to control whether additive is delivered to the mixing chamber. The control unit may be electrically coupled to the controller valve and/ or the or each dispenser valve.

In one preferred embodiment, the mixing chamber is removable from the carbonated beverage dispenser. This allows the mixing chamber to be cleaned with ease. Preferably, the mixing chamber is made of material such that it is fully dishwasher safe.

The compensator may comprise a first connection part about the outlet. The mixing chamber may comprise a second connection part about the second opening. One of the first and second connection parts may be male and the other may be female. Preferably, the first and second connection parts fit with a frictional fit.

The carbonated beverage dispenser may comprise the or a control unit for controlling the operation of the carbonated beverage dispenser. The control unit is preferably configured to detect whether the mixing chamber has been removed from the carbonated beverage dispenser, and/ or to prevent the compensator and/ or the additive dispensing system from dispensing when the mixing chamber has been removed from the carbonated beverage dispenser.

A magnetic interlock between the mixing chamber and the compensator can be used to facilitate this.

The interlock may comprise a magnetic element on one or more of the first and second connection parts and may further comprise a sensor for sensing when the magnetic interlock is engaged. The sensor may be configured to communicate with the controller. Alternatively, the mixing chamber and the compensator can be attached by way of a rubber seal.

The carbonated beverage dispenser may further comprise a carbonated beverage outlet for dispensing carbonated beverage from the mixing chamber. The carbonated beverage outlet is preferably connected to the mixing chamber such that both the mixing chamber and the carbonated beverage outlet are removable from the carbonated beverage dispenser.

This allows the carbonated beverage outlet to be cleaned with ease. Preferably, the carbonated beverage outlet is made of material such that it is fully dishwasher safe. The carbonated beverage outlet may comprise a spout. The carbonated beverage outlet may be fixedly connected to the mixing chamber.

An inner surface of the carbonated beverage outlet preferably has a maximum surface roughness of <NUM> microns Ra. This smoothness reduces nucleation sites for bubble formation, hence reducing outgassing in the dispensed mixed soda.

In the figures, the carbonated beverage dispenser is illustrated in an up-right configuration, i.e., in the orientation in which the carbonated beverage dispenser would be used by a user. In the first embodiment, when the dispenser is oriented for use a longitudinal axis L of the compensator extends generally downwards. In the second embodiment, when the dispenser is oriented for use, a longitudinal axis L of the compensator extends upwards at an angle to the vertical. All references to 'upper', 'lower', 'upward', 'downward', 'up', 'down' etc are with reference to these up-right orientations of the dispensers. However, it will be appreciated that other orientations are possible. An L, P co-ordinate system is used to refer to particular directions and axes relative to the compensator body, and the co-ordinate system is shown in the figures.

<FIG> shows a carbonated beverage dispenser <NUM>, exemplified in the form of a (non-alcoholic) soda drink dispenser, according to an embodiment of the invention. The carbonated beverage dispenser <NUM> is configured to dispense carbonated beverages such as soda drinks including tonic water.

A soda drink is any drink comprising soda, i.e., carbonated water, and at least one additive such as citric acid, sugar, quinine, botanicals and/ or other flavourings. At least one additive is preferably in the form of a water-based or alcohol-based liquid. For example, the water-based liquid may contain sugar dissolved therein. Soda and additive(s) are mixed together to form any soda drink of choice.

The carbonated beverage dispenser <NUM> comprises a compensator <NUM> that is configured to regulate the flow rate of liquids, i.e., the soda, passing therethrough. This is to ensure a high level of carbonation in the dispensed drink. This compensator <NUM> is particularly effective at providing resistance to offset the increased pressure needed for highly pressured drinks such as high-quality tonic waters. Without a compensator <NUM>, a turbulent water out-flowing causes an unwanted and undesirable flattening in dispensed carbonated beverage.

In addition to the compensator <NUM>, the carbonated beverage dispenser <NUM> comprises a soda delivery system <NUM> for delivering soda to the compensator <NUM>, i.e. for flow regulation, an additive dispensing system <NUM> for dispensing at least one additive, and a mixing chamber <NUM> for receiving soda from the compensator <NUM> and at least one additive from the additive dispensing system <NUM>, and mixing the soda with the at least one additive to form a soda drink (see <FIG>). The carbonated beverage dispenser <NUM> further comprises a carbonated beverage outlet <NUM> for dispensing the soda drink mixed in the mixing chamber <NUM> into, for example, a drinking receptacle (not shown) for consumption. The carbonated beverage dispenser <NUM> is also provided with a control unit (not shown) for controlling the operation thereof.

<FIG> shows the general flow of liquids through the carbonated beverage dispenser <NUM>. Soda (solid arrow D) is directed from the soda delivery system, through the compensator <NUM> and into the mixing chamber <NUM>. The additive dispensing system <NUM> dispenses at least one additive or additive mixture (dotted arrow A) into the mixing chamber <NUM>. In the mixing chamber <NUM>, the soda and the at least one additive are mixed together to form a soda drink. The soda drink (dashed arrow S) then passes through the carbonated beverage outlet <NUM> for dispensing.

It can therefore be understood how the carbonated beverage dispenser <NUM> both (i) prepares the carbonated beverage (by mixing the soda and the additive(s) in together), and (ii) dispenses the carbonated beverage with minimal undesirable reduction in carbonation in the dispensed product. Since the soda and additive(s) are mixed before dispersion, there is the perception that only one liquid is being dispensed from the carbonated beverage dispenser <NUM>, and so gives the same impression of when a bottle is used to serve a soda drink.

The dispense unit <NUM>, and especially the compensator arrangement, is specifically designed to control the flow and carbonation of the soda drink during the dispense process, to maintain the premium characteristics of the soda drink, whilst allowing for high volume dispensing.

To regulate the flow rate of soda, the compensator <NUM> comprises an outer body <NUM> defining a compensator chamber <NUM>, an inlet <NUM> for delivering soda into the compensator chamber <NUM>, and an outlet <NUM> for delivering soda out of the compensator chamber <NUM>. The compensator <NUM> also comprises an inner body <NUM> arranged within the compensator chamber <NUM> and between the inlet <NUM> and the outlet <NUM>, as best seen in <FIG>. Between the inner body <NUM> and the outer body <NUM>, the compensator <NUM> defines a narrow gap <NUM> which regulates the flow rate of soda passing between the inlet <NUM> and the outlet <NUM>.

The size of the gap <NUM> affects the flow rate of the liquid through the compensator <NUM>, which affects the amount of outgassing, and hence the carbonation of the final carbonated beverage. Careful control of the gap <NUM> is therefore important in controlling flow rate, and quality of the dispensed drink.

To control the size of this gap <NUM>, the compensator <NUM> further comprises a control element <NUM>, as will be described in more detail below, the control element <NUM> is configured to receive a user input from a user and to control the size of the gap <NUM> in dependence on said user input. The control element <NUM> is configured such that, for a given user input, the control element <NUM> moves the inner body <NUM> relative to the control element <NUM> to a first extent and the outer body <NUM> relative to the control element <NUM> to a second extent, the first extent being non-equal to the second extent. This provides a relative movement between the inner body <NUM> and the outer body <NUM>, which changes the size of the gap.

This particular arrangement of the control element <NUM> allows for precise control of the gap <NUM> between the inner body <NUM> and the outer body <NUM>, and in particular allows for more precise control than if the control element only moved the inner body <NUM> or outer body <NUM> directly. In this way, the compensator <NUM> is able to ensure a high level of carbonation in the dispensed carbonated beverage. This is particularly important for soda, compared to, say, beer, because soda is less viscous than beer, such that the flow rate is more sensitive to changes in flow restriction, and because the carbonation requirements for soda are often higher than beer, meaning that quality is more affected by outgassing.

To simplify cleaning, the mixing chamber <NUM> comprises a first opening <NUM> and the additive dispensing system <NUM> comprises at least one additive dispenser <NUM> arranged to dispense at least one additive into the mixing chamber <NUM> through the first opening <NUM>. A spacing S is provided between the at least one additive dispenser <NUM> and the mixing chamber <NUM>.

In this way, the at least one additive dispenser <NUM> never touch the liquids in mixing chamber <NUM>, and so will never be contaminated thereby. Hence, the additive dispensers <NUM> do not need to be cleaned regularly.

More detail about each of the components of the carbonated beverage dispenser <NUM> will now be discussed in turn.

Turning to the compensator <NUM> first, as best shown in <FIG>, the inner and outer bodies <NUM>, <NUM> of the compensator <NUM> both extend along longitudinal axis L, and are preferably symmetrical about that longitudinal axis L. The outer body <NUM> encloses the inner body <NUM> on all sides along the longitudinal axis L. In this embodiment, the longitudinal axis L is arranged vertically.

The inner and outer bodies <NUM>, <NUM> define first or upstream, middle and second or downstream regions <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> in the compensator chamber <NUM>. The first and middle regions <NUM>, <NUM> are joined by an upstream intermediate region <NUM>. The middle and downstream regions <NUM>, <NUM> are joined by a downstream intermediate region <NUM>, which corresponds to the widest point of the inner body <NUM> and of the compensator chamber <NUM>. In this embodiment, the first region <NUM> is an upper region <NUM> and is arranged above the second region <NUM> which is a lower region <NUM>.

In the first region <NUM>, the inner body <NUM> and the compensator <NUM> extend substantially downwards, with parallel walls. In other words, a diameter of the inner body <NUM> and a diameter of the compensator chamber <NUM> are approximately constant when moving downwardly along the longitudinal axis L. In this way, the angle defined between the outer surface of the inner body <NUM> and the longitudinal axis L is substantially the same as the angle defined between the inner surface of the outer body <NUM> at each point along the L axis in the first region <NUM>, and these angles are each approximately <NUM>°.

In the first region <NUM>, the gap <NUM> between the inner and outer bodies <NUM>, <NUM> is fixed at around <NUM> microns. This is because, regardless of any relative movement between the inner and outer bodies <NUM>, <NUM> along the longitudinal axis L, the gap <NUM> between the two remains the same. This advantageously provides a fixed pressure drop to fluid passing thereover.

In the middle region <NUM>, the inner body <NUM> and the compensator <NUM> flare out at the same fixed rate. In other words, the diameter of the inner body <NUM> and the diameter of the compensator chamber <NUM> increase at substantially the same fixed rate when moving downwardly along the longitudinal axis L. In this way, the angle defined between the outer surface of the inner body <NUM> and the longitudinal axis L is substantially the same as the angle defined between the inner surface of the outer body <NUM> at each point along the L axis in the middle region <NUM>. In one embodiment, the angle defined between the outer surface of the inner body <NUM> and the longitudinal axis L, and the angle defined between the inner surface of the outer body <NUM> and the longitudinal axis L, are both fixed at between <NUM>° and <NUM>°, and preferably approximately <NUM>°, at each point along the L axis.

In the middle region <NUM>, the gap <NUM> between the inner and outer bodies <NUM>, <NUM> is variable in that it changes in dependence on the relative lateral positions of the inner and outer bodies <NUM>, <NUM> along the longitudinal axis L. Hence, by way of longitudinal relative movement between the inner and outer bodies <NUM>, <NUM>, the gap <NUM> can be changed, and hence the pressure drop provided by the compensator can be precisely tuned.

It should be appreciated that in the middle region <NUM> the gap <NUM> between the inner and outer bodies <NUM>, <NUM> is constant along the length of the middle regions when the inner and outer bodies <NUM>, <NUM> are fixed in place, and is altered only by relative movement between the inner and outer bodies <NUM>. It should also be appreciated that references to the gap <NUM> here are references to the perpendicular gap, i.e., the perpendicular spacing between the inner and outer bodies <NUM>, <NUM>, taken at right angles to the respective surfaces.

In the second region <NUM>, the inner body <NUM> and the compensator <NUM> taper inward at different fixed rates. In other words, the diameter of the inner body <NUM> and of the compensator chamber <NUM> decrease at different fixed rates when moving downwardly along the longitudinal axis L. In particular, the angle defined between the outer surface of the inner body <NUM> and longitudinal axis L is slightly less than the angle defined between the inner surface of the outer body <NUM> at each point along the L axis in the second region <NUM> of the compensator <NUM>, so that the gap <NUM> increases moving down the longitudinal axis L. In one embodiment, the angle defined between the outer surface of the inner body <NUM> and the longitudinal axis L is fixed between <NUM>° and <NUM>°, and preferably approximately <NUM>°, while the angle defined between the inner surface of the outer body <NUM> and the longitudinal axis L is fixed between <NUM>° and <NUM>°, and preferably approximately <NUM>°.

In the second region <NUM>, there is no substantial pressure drop, but the fluid is advantageously decelerated without outgassing. Hence when the fluid can be dispensed at an appropriate rate without losing any carbonation. In this way, the inner body <NUM> is substantially cylindrical in the first region <NUM>, substantially frustoconical in the middle region <NUM>, and substantially conical in the second region <NUM>.

Between the middle and second regions <NUM>, <NUM> of the inner body <NUM> is the lower intermediate region <NUM>. The lower intermediate region <NUM> is a short region with substantially straight vertical sides. The inner body <NUM> and outer body <NUM> are shaped so that in the lower intermediate region <NUM> the outer surface of the inner body <NUM> sits against the inner surface of the outer body <NUM>, with no circumferential gap therebetween. This close fit ensures that the inner body <NUM> is centred within the outer body <NUM>.

To allow fluid to flow from the middle region <NUM> to the second region <NUM> and across the lower intermediate region <NUM>, despite the close fit described above, at least one flute <NUM> is defined in the inner body <NUM> extending across the intermediate region. The flute <NUM> provides an access channel between the middle region <NUM> and the second region <NUM>, so that fluid can pass between these regions to be dispensed.

The inlet <NUM> is fluidly connected to the first region <NUM> of the compensator chamber <NUM>, while the outlet <NUM> is fluidly connected to the second region <NUM> of the compensator chamber <NUM>. Soda therefore travels downwards, at least partially under the influence of gravity, through the above-described gap <NUM> defined between the inlet <NUM> and outlet <NUM>, particularly in the second region <NUM> of the compensator. However, it is the pressure differential across the compensator <NUM> which accounts for the majority of the movement of soda therethrough.

The inlet <NUM> is L shaped and includes first and second inlet channels <NUM>, <NUM> that are integrally connected at a right-angled section <NUM>. The first inlet channel <NUM> is fluidly connected to the soda delivery system <NUM> and receives soda therefrom. The first inlet channel <NUM> extends upwards and parallel to the longitudinal axis L. The second inlet channel <NUM> is fluidly connected to the first region <NUM> of the compensator chamber <NUM>. The second inlet channel <NUM> extends along perpendicular axis P through the outer body <NUM> of the compensator <NUM> and into the compensator chamber <NUM>.

The outlet <NUM> is likewise L shaped and includes first and second outlet channels <NUM>, <NUM> that are integrally connected at another right-angled section <NUM>. The first outlet channel <NUM> is fluidly connected to the second region <NUM> of the compensator chamber <NUM> and receives regulated soda therefrom. The first outlet channel <NUM> extends downwards and parallel to the longitudinal axis L. The second outlet channel <NUM> is fluidly connected to the mixing chamber <NUM>. The second outlet channel <NUM> extends along perpendicular axis P and through the outer body <NUM> of the compensator <NUM> and into the mixing chamber <NUM>.

As stated above, it is the control element <NUM> that controls the size of the gap <NUM> between the inner and outer bodies <NUM>, <NUM>. It does this by moving the inner and outer bodies <NUM>, <NUM> along the longitudinal axis L, i.e., in this embodiment up and down, at different rates in dependence on a given user input. In a preferred embodiment, the user input is rotation of the control element that is effected by a user.

As best shown in <FIG>, the control element <NUM> preferably takes the form of a differential screw, although other forms of the control element <NUM> are possible.

The control element <NUM> extends along longitudinal axis L and defines an elongate body. The control element <NUM> has a first portion <NUM> for engaging the outer body <NUM> and a second portion <NUM> for engaging the inner body <NUM>. In this embodiment, the second portion <NUM> is arranged below the first portion <NUM> within the compensator <NUM>. In the embodiment shown, the first portion <NUM> has a greater diameter than the second portion <NUM>, and a narrowed neck region <NUM> is defined between the first and second portions <NUM>, <NUM>, which acts as a thread relief and facilitates manufacture of the element <NUM>.

The first portion <NUM> and second portion <NUM> of the control element <NUM> define screw-thread surfaces for engagement with the outer and inner bodies <NUM>, <NUM> respectfully. As best seen in <FIG>, the outer and inner bodies <NUM>, <NUM> define corresponding first and second openings that receive the control element, with the openings having corresponding screw-thread surfaces respectively to facilitate this engagement. The first opening of the outer body <NUM> is defined in a first cavity <NUM> at the top of the outer body <NUM>, while the second opening of the inner body <NUM> is defined in a second cavity <NUM> at the top of the inner body <NUM>. Hence, the control element <NUM> extends through the first and second cavities <NUM>, <NUM> in this way.

While a first part <NUM> of the first portion <NUM> is arranged within the outer body <NUM> where it engages with the outer body <NUM>, a second part <NUM> of the first portion <NUM> (i.e., above the first part <NUM>) can be arranged outside the outer body <NUM> for engagement by a user. To facilitate this, the second part <NUM> of the first portion <NUM> may define an engagement portion <NUM>, for example in the form of a grip, for engagement/ rotation by a user. The second portion <NUM> of the control element <NUM> is wholly arranged within the inner and outer bodies <NUM>, <NUM>.

In a preferred embodiment, the inner body <NUM> is non-rotational with respect to the outer body <NUM>, i.e., it does not rotate along with the rotation of the control element <NUM>. This can be achieved by way of rotation stop that rotationally fixes the inner body <NUM> relative to the outer body <NUM>: for example, via a grub screw <NUM> connecting the inner and outer bodies <NUM>, <NUM>, best seen in <FIG>. In these ways, the inner body <NUM> can be prevented from rotating with the outer body <NUM>, thereby facilitating relative movement of the inner and outer bodies <NUM>, <NUM>.

Referring back to <FIG>, the first portion <NUM> of the differential screw control element <NUM> has a smaller thread pitch than the second portion <NUM>. This difference in thread pitch means that rotation of the control element <NUM> brings about a greater relative movement between the control element <NUM> and the inner body <NUM> than between the control element <NUM> and the outer body <NUM>. This means that the differential screw control element <NUM> is to be rotated clockwise to move the inner and outer bodies <NUM>, <NUM> closer together, thus reducing flow rate which would be intuitive to the operator. The first portion <NUM> preferably has a thread pitch of between <NUM> and <NUM>, and more preferably <NUM>, while the second portion <NUM> preferably has a thread pitch of between <NUM> and <NUM>, and more preferably <NUM>. These thread pitches are preferable since they are easily machined, though other pitches may be used.

In other embodiments, the first portion <NUM> of the differential screw control element <NUM> has a larger thread pitch than the second portion <NUM>. This means that the differential screw control element <NUM> is to be rotated anti-clockwise to move the inner and outer bodies <NUM>, <NUM> closer together. In this embodiment, the first portion <NUM> preferably has a thread pitch of between <NUM> and <NUM>, and more preferably <NUM>, while between the second portion <NUM> has a thread pitch of between <NUM> and <NUM>, and more preferably <NUM>.

By virtue of the screw thread engagement, rotation of the control element <NUM> causes relative displacement along the longitudinal axis L of the outer body <NUM> relative to the control element <NUM>, and of the inner body <NUM> relative to the control element <NUM>. Because the screw threads have a different pitch, the relative displacement is correspondingly different. For example, when the first portion <NUM> has a thread pitch of <NUM> and the second portion <NUM> has a thread pitch of <NUM>, a single rotation of the control element means that the differential screw travels <NUM> down relative to the outer body <NUM>, while the inner body <NUM> moves only <NUM> up relative to the differential screw. Accordingly, the inner body <NUM> moves <NUM> relative to the outer body <NUM>. Thus, a relatively large movement of the control element causes a very small relative movement of the inner body <NUM> and outer body <NUM>.

In this way, it is clear how precisely the gap <NUM> can be controlled by way of a turn of the differential screw. In particular, the control element <NUM> is configured such that one full rotation of the control element <NUM> causes a relative longitudinal displacement between the inner and outer bodies <NUM>, <NUM> of between <NUM> and <NUM>. It should be appreciated that the change in the gap <NUM> (i.e., the perpendicular gap between the inner and outer bodies <NUM>, <NUM>) is of a lower magnitude than the magnitude of the lateral movement. This is because in the middle region <NUM> of the compensator, the outer surface of the inner body <NUM> and the inner surface of the outer body <NUM> are angled with respect with respect to the L axis (to the same degree). This relative longitudinal displacement between the inner and outer bodies <NUM>, <NUM> therefore provides only a change in a few microns in the perpendicular gap <NUM> between the inner body <NUM> and the outer body <NUM>, providing particularly fine control of the gap size.

In addition to having a different pitch, the screw threads may have other properties that differ. For example, the screw threads may be of different diameters. In one particular example, the screw thread of the first portion <NUM> has an ISO Metric thread dimension M8 and the screw thread of the second portion <NUM> has an ISO Metric thread dimension M6.

To fix the screw <NUM> in position after manual adjustment, a locknut may be used. Alternatively, a stopping device may be applied to the screw to hold the screw in place and prevent it from rotating except for when the screw is being manually adjusted by a user. Such a device may be preferable over a locknut because access to the screw is limited and so using a locknut can be challenging. In one embodiment the stopping device takes the form of a "clicker" comprising three sprung plastic clips that are applied to the top of the screw <NUM> and hold it in place.

The compensator <NUM> is preferably provided with a cooling circuit <NUM> arranged within the outer body <NUM> to cool the compensator <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. Chilled soda is perpetually circulated through the cooling conduit <NUM> to keep the outer body <NUM> and compensator <NUM> at a constant temperature, which is preferably at or close to <NUM>, and to prevent stagnation of the soda within the carbonated beverage dispenser <NUM>.

The cooling further helps to reduce outgassing in the dispensed carbonated beverage. Also, the constant temperature helps to ensure a constant liquid viscosity of the dispensed soda, and hence a constant flow rate. This is important to ensure that the liquid dispense volume is consistent with every dispense. Instead of using recirculated soda, a cooling circuit separate to the compensator <NUM> can be used.

The cooling circuit <NUM> comprises a cooling inlet <NUM>, a cooling outlet <NUM>, and a cooling conduit <NUM> extending between the cooling inlet <NUM> and the cooling outlet <NUM>. The cooling conduit <NUM> takes the form a channel that extends at least partially around the compensator chamber <NUM> through the outer body <NUM>. In use, as shown in <FIG>, soda enters through the cooling inlet <NUM>, then passes around the cooling conduit <NUM>, and then exits out the cooling outlet <NUM>.

In one preferred embodiment, the outer body <NUM> is made up of upper and lower outer bodies 110a, 110b. These are preferably shaped such that when the upper outer body 110a is arranged on top of the lower outer body 110b in use, the two define the cooling conduit <NUM> therebetween. This arrangement is easily manufactured since it would not be easy to access the inside of the outer body <NUM> to machining the cooling conduit <NUM> if they were formed as one.

The cooling inlet <NUM> and the cooling outlet <NUM> are connected to the cooling circuit from underneath the lower outer body 110b. The cooling inlet <NUM> and the cooling outlet <NUM> are preferably removably attachable to the lower outer body 110b and hence are removably connectable to the cooling conduit <NUM>. In one embodiment, the cooling inlet <NUM> and the cooling outlet <NUM> screw into the lower outer body 110b. This positioning of the cooling inlet and cooling outlet underneath advantageously minimises the overall space envelope of the compensator <NUM>,.

Each of the upper outer body 110a and lower outer body 110b define a flat meeting surface which contact each other and are flush with each other when the upper outer body 110a is arranged on top of lower outer body 110b. Furthermore, each of the upper outer body 110a and lower outer bodies 110b are made of a thermally conducive metal such as steel, although plastics may also be used. This flush arrangement and the material of the outer body <NUM> both facilitate the cooling effect of the cooling circuit <NUM> through the compensator <NUM>.

The upper outer body 110a and lower outer body 110b are held together by a fixing means such as screws. Without said fixing means, the high pressures of the soda passing through the compensator <NUM> could force the upper outer body 110a and lower outer body 110b apart.

The cooling conduit <NUM> is sealed by a sealing means. Preferably, the sealing means takes the form of upper and lower O-rings <NUM>, <NUM>, each arranged between the upper and lower outer bodies110a, 110b. The upper O-ring <NUM> may be arranged at the meeting of the upper and lower outer bodies 110a, 110b above the cooling conduit <NUM>, while the lower O-ring <NUM> may be arranged at the meeting of the upper and lower outer bodies 110a, 110b below the cooling conduit <NUM>. In this way, the upper O-ring <NUM> seals the cooling conduit <NUM> from the outside, while the lower O-ring <NUM> seals the cooling conduit <NUM> from the flow path of soda through the compensator <NUM>.

Now the compensator <NUM> has been described, other aspects of the unit <NUM> will be described, beginning with the soda delivery system <NUM>.

The soda delivery system <NUM> delivers cooled and carbonated soda to the compensator <NUM> both for cooling of the compensator <NUM> and for flow regulation by the compensator <NUM> for dispensing.

To this end, the soda delivery system <NUM> comprises a chiller-carbonator <NUM> for chilling and carbonating soda. The chiller-carbonator <NUM> maintains all the soda at the right temperature and carbonation both for cooling of the compensator via the cooling circuit <NUM>, and also for dispensing and consumption.

The soda delivery system <NUM> comprises a first soda delivery conduit <NUM>, a second soda delivery conduit <NUM>, a third soda delivery conduit <NUM>, a fourth soda delivery conduit <NUM>, and a controller valve <NUM>. Any suitable components may be used for these purposes.

The first soda delivery conduit <NUM> couples the chiller-carbonator <NUM> to the controller valve <NUM> and is for transporting cooled and carbonated soda water from the chiller-carbonator <NUM> to the controller valve <NUM>.

The second delivery conduit <NUM> couples the controller valve <NUM> to the cooling inlet <NUM> and is for transporting cooled soda water from the controller valve <NUM> to the cooling inlet <NUM>, for passage through the cooling conduit <NUM> and hence for cooling the compensator <NUM>.

The third soda delivery conduit <NUM> couples the cooling outlet <NUM> to the chiller-carbonator <NUM> and is for transporting compensator-warmed soda that has passed through the cooling conduit <NUM> from the cooling outlet <NUM> to the chiller-carbonator <NUM> for re-cooling (and re-carbonation) thereby.

The fourth soda delivery conduit <NUM> couples the controller valve <NUM> to the inlet <NUM> of the compensator <NUM> and is for transporting cooled and carbonated soda water from the controller valve <NUM> to the inlet <NUM> of the compensator <NUM> for flow regulation by the compensator <NUM> and then dispensing.

The controller valve <NUM> is configurable in a first configuration and a second configuration. In the first configuration, the controller valve <NUM> directs soda water from the first soda delivery conduit <NUM> to the second delivery conduit <NUM> for circulation around the cooling circuit <NUM> and back towards the chiller-carbonator <NUM> for re-cooling and re-carbonation. In the second configuration, soda is still directed around the cooling circuit, and the controller valve <NUM> additionally directs soda water from the first soda delivery conduit <NUM> to the inlet <NUM> of the compensator <NUM> for flow regulation by the compensator <NUM> and then dispensing.

The controller valve <NUM> is arranged in the first configuration unless configured otherwise by the controller. When operated on by the controller, the controller valve <NUM> is arranged in the second configuration. In this way, soda is usually circulating the cooling circuit <NUM> to maintain coolness of the compensator <NUM> and also to prevent stagnation of the soda within the compensator <NUM>, thereby keeping the carbonated beverage dispenser <NUM> ready for use. When operated on by the controller, for example because a user has provided a 'dispense' input, soda is then also directed to the inlet <NUM> of the compensator <NUM> for flow regulation by the compensator <NUM> and then dispensing.

The chiller-carbonator is preferably configured to pressurise the soda to between <NUM> and <NUM> PSI, and preferably <NUM> PSI, i.e., between <NUM> bar and <NUM> bar, and preferably <NUM> bar. This provides a sufficient level of carbonation in the dispensed carbonated beverage for high quality carbonated beverages. This differs from the typical pressure of a soda gun, which is typically less than <NUM> PSI (<NUM>,<NUM> bar).

The mixing chamber <NUM> will now be described in more detail, with reference <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG>.

As best seen in <FIG>, the mixing chamber <NUM> extends in a perpendicular axis P away from the outlet <NUM> of the compensator <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, the mixing chamber <NUM> defines a body that is substantially cuboid in shape, and in this example is elongate along the perpendicular axis P. In other words, the body of the mixing chamber <NUM> has lower and upper walls <NUM>, <NUM>, front and back walls <NUM>, <NUM> and first and second side walls <NUM>, <NUM>. The first and second side walls <NUM>, <NUM> are longer than the front and back walls <NUM>, <NUM>.

The mixing chamber defines a cavity <NUM> therein, which receives and mixes carbonated water from the compensator <NUM>, and additives from the additive dispensing system <NUM>.

The cavity <NUM> has first, second and third distinct openings <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> defined therein. The first opening <NUM> extends across a length of the upper wall <NUM> of the mixing chamber <NUM> such that the mixing chamber <NUM> takes the form of a trough, being open at its top. The additive dispensing system <NUM> dispenses at least one additive into the mixing chamber <NUM> through the first opening <NUM>. The volume defined by the mixing chamber <NUM> is sufficient such that liquids of the mixing chamber <NUM> do not overflow through the first opening <NUM>.

The second opening <NUM> is defined in the back wall <NUM> for receiving soda from the outlet <NUM> of the compensator <NUM>, and the third opening <NUM> is defined in the front wall <NUM> for delivering soda drink out of the mixing chamber <NUM>. The second and third openings <NUM>, <NUM> are therefore located on opposite ends of the mixing chamber <NUM>.

As best seen in <FIG>, opposite to the first opening <NUM> is a base surface <NUM> that defines a base of the cavity <NUM>. The base surface <NUM> slopes downwardly moving from the second opening <NUM> to the third opening <NUM>, thereby encouraging a flow of liquid towards the third opening.

The mixing chamber <NUM> is preferably removable from the compensator <NUM> of the carbonated beverage dispenser <NUM>. This allows the mixing chamber <NUM> to be cleaned with ease. It is particularly beneficial that the mixing chamber <NUM> is easily cleanable, because the mixing chamber is in contact with the soda drink mixture (i.e., the mixture of carbonated water and syrup), which typically provides an environment in which mould can grow and is therefore particularly in need of regular cleaning.

To this end, the compensator <NUM> comprises a first connection part <NUM> defined by the second outlet channel <NUM> of the outlet <NUM>, and the mixing chamber <NUM> comprises a second connection part <NUM> extending from the back wall and around the second opening. In this example, the second connection part <NUM> is male, i.e., comprises a projection in the form of a collar <NUM>, while the first connection part <NUM> is female, i.e., comprises a receptacle in the form of a socket <NUM>, although alternative arrangements are foreseen too. The two connection parts <NUM>, <NUM> are configured such that they are connectable with a frictional fit. This therefore ensure a firm coupling of the mixing chamber <NUM> to the compensator <NUM>, where the coupling can be quickly and easily connected and disconnected.

In this example, an O-ring <NUM> is used to enhance the frictional fit. As best seen in <FIG>, the collar <NUM> of the second connection part comprises a circumferential channel <NUM> in its outer surface that houses an O-ring <NUM>. As best seen in <FIG>, when the mixing chamber <NUM> is arranged so that the collar <NUM> is inserted into the socket <NUM>, the O-ring <NUM> provides a tight sealing contact against an internal surface of the collar <NUM> to hold the mixing chamber <NUM> in place.

The connection between the mixing chamber <NUM> and the compensator arrangement <NUM> is also magnetised: to this end, one or more first magnetic elements may be housed in or adjacent to the collar <NUM> and/or socket <NUM>. The magnetisation provides a particularly secure fit and can also guide the collar <NUM> into the socket <NUM>, to assist the user in fitting the mixing chamber in place.

The magnetic connection can also be combined with a sensor to detect whether the mixing chamber is in place, and thus can be used as a 'switch'. To this end, the sensor can take the form of one or more second magnetic elements that are also housed in or adjacent to the collar <NUM> and/or socket <NUM> and which sense when a magnetic connection has not been made. In some embodiments, the first and second magnetic element(s) are the same, in others they are separate. Alternatively, the sensor may be a touch sensor or any other suitable type of sensor. Regardless, the control unit will not permit the unit to dispense any liquid when the mixing chamber is detected to be not in place, thereby avoiding accidental use of the unit without the mixing chamber being in place.

Alternatively, the mixing chamber <NUM> and the compensator arrangement <NUM> can be attached by way of a rubber seal. In this embodiment, a mechanical (instead of magnetic) switch can be provided on the compensator <NUM>. In this embodiment, the control unit will not permit the compensator <NUM> to dispense any liquid unless the mechanical switch is operated by the user (i.e., to indicate that the mixing chamber <NUM> is correctly arranged in place with respect to the compensator <NUM>).

The mixing chamber <NUM> is preferably thermally coupled to the outer body <NUM> of the compensator <NUM> when attached thereto. In this way, the cooling of the compensator <NUM> can be used to cool the mixing chamber <NUM> too, thus reducing the likelihood of outgassing. To this end the mixing chamber <NUM> may be made of a thermally conducive metal such as steel, although plastics may also be used. Plastic may be preferred because it results in a simplified manufacturing process and reduced costs - all plastic parts may be moulded separately and then welded together. Also, plastic has been found to ensure sufficient heat transfer, and it can be easier to achieve a much smoother finish on plastic parts than on metal counterparts. Preferably, the mixing chamber <NUM> is made of material such that it is also dishwasher safe, since this is the part that is to be cleaned.

The additive dispensing system <NUM> will now be described, with further reference to <FIG>.

To dispense at least one additive into the mixing chamber <NUM> through the first opening <NUM>, the additive dispensing system <NUM> comprises at least one additive dispenser <NUM> preferably in the form of at least one dispensing nozzle extending vertically downward. The additive dispensing system <NUM> further comprises at least one additive store <NUM> for storing the additive(s), and at least one additive delivery conduit <NUM> for transporting additive from the additive store(s) <NUM> to the respective additive dispenser <NUM> for dispensing.

The at least one additive dispenser <NUM> is arranged above the first opening <NUM> of the mixing chamber <NUM> such that the spacing S is defined therebetween. In this way, the additive dispenser <NUM> never touches the liquids in mixing chamber <NUM>, and so will never be contaminated thereby. Hence, the additive dispensers <NUM> do not need to be cleaned as frequently as the mixing chamber.

Preferably, the additive dispensing system <NUM> comprises a plurality of additive dispensers <NUM> each arranged to dispense an additive into the mixing chamber <NUM> through the first opening <NUM>, a plurality of additive stores <NUM> for storing each additive, and a plurality of additive delivery conduits <NUM> for transporting additive from each additive store <NUM> to the respective additive dispenser <NUM> for dispensing. This configuration is preferable as it avoids contamination of additives, and hence reduces the need for cleaning.

Turning now to the carbonated beverage outlet <NUM>, with reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, the carbonated beverage outlet <NUM> takes the form of a circular spout that extends away from the third opening of the mixing chamber <NUM> along the perpendicular axis P, and curves downwards towards its end.

The carbonated beverage outlet <NUM> is preferably fixedly connected to the front wall <NUM> of the mixing chamber <NUM> such that both the mixing chamber <NUM> and the carbonated beverage outlet <NUM> are removable from the carbonated beverage dispenser <NUM>. The two components <NUM>, <NUM> can instead be integrally formed. This allows the carbonated beverage outlet <NUM> to be cleaned with ease along with the mixing chamber <NUM>.

The carbonated beverage outlet <NUM> is preferably thermally coupled to the mixing chamber <NUM> and the outer body <NUM> of the compensator <NUM>. In this way, the cooling of the compensator <NUM> can be used to cool the carbonated beverage outlet <NUM> too, thus reducing the likelihood of outgassing in the dispensed carbonated beverage. To this end the carbonated beverage outlet <NUM> may be made of a thermally conducive metal such as steel, although other materials such as other metals, or plastics may also be used too. Plastic may be preferred because it results in a simplified manufacturing process and reduced costs - all plastic parts may be moulded separately and then welded together. Also, plastic has been found to ensure sufficient heat transfer, and it can be easier to achieve a much smoother finish on plastic parts than on metal counterparts. Preferably, the carbonated beverage outlet <NUM> is made of material that is fully dishwasher safe, since it is to be cleaned regularly.

In reference to the above-described components of the carbonated beverage dispenser <NUM>, it should be noted that the outer surface of the inner body <NUM>, an inner surface of the inlet <NUM>, an inner surface of the outlet <NUM>, an inner surface of the mixing chamber <NUM>, and an inner surface of the carbonated beverage outlet <NUM> all preferably have a surface roughness of no more than <NUM> microns Ra. This smoothness reduces nucleation sites for bubble formation, hence reducing outgassing in the dispensed mixed soda. By ensuring that these surfaces in particular have a high degree of smoothness, outgassing can be minimised.

Finally, the control unit (not shown) of the carbonated beverage dispenser <NUM> will be described.

The control unit provides electrical control of the carbonated beverage dispenser <NUM>. The carbonated beverage dispenser <NUM> is also provided with a user input interface electrically coupled to the control unit. By way of this input, a user can input a selection of variables, including for example which carbonated beverage to dispense, and what volume of such beverage. On this basis, the control unit controls the operation of a control valve in the or each additive dispenser <NUM> to produce a particular carbonated beverage, and to dispense a particular volume.

During each dispensing operation, i.e., the production and dispensing of a particular soda drink, the control unit controls dispense of the carbonated water and the additive into the mixing chamber <NUM> separately. The control unit is configured to stop the additive being dispensed from additive dispensing system <NUM> a short time before it stops soda being dispensed the compensator <NUM>. This means that at the end of any dispense cycle, the final liquid present in the mixing chamber <NUM> is only carbonated water, rather than the soda drink mixture. This final amount of carbonated water acts to clean the mixing chamber <NUM> at the end of every dispense cycle, to prevent flavour cross-over with the next soda drink being prepared, and to keep the mixing chamber <NUM> as clean as possible during use of the unit.

To this end, the inlet <NUM> of the compensator <NUM> may be provided with the controller valve <NUM> to control whether soda is delivered to the compensator <NUM>, and hence to the mixing chamber <NUM>. A control valve (not shown) in the or each additive dispenser <NUM> controls whether additive is delivered to the mixing chamber <NUM>. The control unit is electrically coupled to each of the controller valve <NUM> and/ or the or each additive dispenser valve <NUM>, to control dispense of the carbonated water and the additives.

The same control unit may also be configured to detect the magnetic interlock <NUM> between the mixing chamber <NUM> and the compensator <NUM>, and to prevent the dispense of liquids if the mixing chamber <NUM> is disconnected, as has already been described.

Variations on the carbonated beverage dispenser <NUM> described above will also be apparent to the skilled person that do not depart from the scope of the appended claims.

<FIG> and <FIG> show an alternative embodiment of the carbonated beverage dispenser <NUM>, This embodiment is the same as the above embodiment, except that (<NUM>) the compensator <NUM> of the carbonated beverage dispenser <NUM> is arranged at a different, non-vertical orientation, (<NUM>) the control element <NUM> has a different configuration, (<NUM>) the cooling circuit <NUM> has a different configuration, and (<NUM>) at least one additive dispenser <NUM> is arranged at a different, non-vertical orientation, as will be described below. The skilled person appreciates that these features are not interrelated - there are other embodiments that include one or some of these features in every combination.

In relation to the orientation of the compensator <NUM>, the longitudinal axis L, along which the compensator <NUM>, and the inner and outer bodies <NUM>, <NUM> extend, is not arranged vertically but is instead arranged to extend upwardly and at angle θ with respect to the vertical. In other words, compensator <NUM> is arranged/ tilted/ slanted at angle θ with respect to the vertical direction. Angle θ is preferably between around <NUM> and <NUM>°, more preferably between around <NUM> and <NUM>°, more preferably between around <NUM> and <NUM>°, more preferably around <NUM> and <NUM>°, and more preferably around <NUM>°.

In this embodiment, because the compensator <NUM> extends upwardly at an angle, the first region or upstream region <NUM> of the compensator body <NUM> is a lower region <NUM> and the second region or downstream region <NUM> of the compensatory body <NUM> is an upper region <NUM>. The inlet <NUM> opens into the first region <NUM> and the outlet <NUM> opens into the second region <NUM>: in this way, the inlet <NUM> is arranged below the outlet <NUM>, so that soda therefore travels upwards (instead of downwards) through the gap <NUM> defined between the inlet <NUM> and outlet <NUM>. The pressure differential across the compensator <NUM> provides this movement of soda therethrough. In this embodiment, the outlet <NUM> of the compensator <NUM> is not L shaped and instead only extends in one direction, namely along perpendicular axis P. The outlet <NUM> of the compensator <NUM> extends out the side of the second region <NUM> of the compensator chamber <NUM>. In other words, one end of the outlet <NUM> is fluidly connected to the second region <NUM> of the compensator chamber <NUM> and receives regulated soda therefrom. The other end of the outlet <NUM> is fluidly connected to the mixing chamber <NUM> and delivers regulated soda therein. The mixing chamber <NUM> and the carbonated beverage outlet <NUM> both extend along perpendicular axis P away from the outlet <NUM> of the compensator <NUM>.

The inlet <NUM> remains L shaped in this embodiment, but in this embodiment the inlet <NUM> delivers fluid into the first region <NUM> of the compensator chamber <NUM> along longitudinal axis L. To this end, the first inlet channel <NUM> extends upwards at an angle perpendicular to longitudinal axis L, while the second inlet channel <NUM> extends upwards along longitudinal axis L through the outer body <NUM> of the compensator <NUM> and into the compensator chamber <NUM>. In this way, the configuration of the inlet <NUM> is tilted/ slanted compared to the first embodiment.

In this embodiment, the shape of the inner and outer bodies <NUM>, <NUM> is the same, but inverted. In other words: In the first region <NUM>, the diameter of the inner body <NUM> and the diameter of the compensator chamber <NUM> are preferably approximately constant when moving upwardly along the longitudinal axis L. In the middle region <NUM>, the diameter of the inner body <NUM> and the diameter of the compensator chamber <NUM> increase at substantially the same fixed rate when moving upwards along the longitudinal axis L. In the second region <NUM>, the diameter of the inner body <NUM> and of the compensator chamber <NUM> decrease at different fixed rates when moving upwards along the longitudinal axis L. In particular, the angle defined between the outer surface of the inner body <NUM> and longitudinal axis L is slightly less than the angle defined between the inner surface of the outer body <NUM> and longitudinal axis L at each point along the longitudinal axis L in the upper region <NUM> of the compensator <NUM>, so the gap <NUM> between the inner and outer bodies <NUM>, <NUM> increases moving up along longitudinal axis L in the upper region <NUM>.

In this embodiment, the control element <NUM> is arranged at a downstream end of the compensator <NUM>, i.e., downstream of the second region <NUM> of the compensator body <NUM>.

The control element <NUM> takes the form of a differential screw in the manner described above but has a different configuration. In this example, the control element <NUM> comprises a collar <NUM> having an outer surface <NUM> and an inner surface <NUM>. The outer surface <NUM> defines a first portion that is configured to engage with the outer body <NUM> of the compensator assembly <NUM>, and the inner surface <NUM> defines a second portion that is configured to engage with the inner body <NUM> of the compensator <NUM>. In this way, the collar <NUM> is located between the inner and outer bodies <NUM>, <NUM> of the compensator <NUM>.

The differential screw of the control element <NUM> operates in substantially the same way described above. The outer surface <NUM> is provided with a first thread and the inner surface <NUM> is provided with a second thread, with the first and second threads each having a different pitch. The outer body <NUM> and inner body <NUM> are each provided with corresponding threads. Due to the different pitches, rotation of the control element <NUM> causes the inner and outer bodies <NUM>, <NUM> to move along the longitudinal axis L by different amounts, causing relative displacement between the inner and outer bodies <NUM>, <NUM>, thereby adjusting the size of the gap <NUM> between the bodies <NUM>, <NUM> in the manner already described above. Other features of the control element <NUM>, such as the sizes and pitch of the screw thread may be the same as the embodiment above.

The control element <NUM> may also be provided with an engagement portion <NUM> that protrudes out of the outer body <NUM> to facilitate engagement by a user. In this embodiment, the engagement portion <NUM> may be an end region of the collar <NUM>.

The above-described tilted arrangement of the compensator <NUM> and collar arrangement of the control element are advantageous because they provide a particularly compact and simple arrangement of the compensator system.

In relation to the cooling circuit <NUM>, the cooling circuit <NUM> also has a different configuration in <FIG> compared to <FIG>. In more detail, the cooling inlet <NUM> still extends into the outer body <NUM> through the base of the outer body <NUM>; however, instead of exiting through the base of the outer body <NUM>, the cooling outlet <NUM> exits the outer body <NUM> through the top of the outer body <NUM>. Locating the outlet <NUM> at the top (as opposed to at the bottom) of the outer body <NUM> is advantageous since it reduces the incidence of bubbles getting trapped in the cooling circuit <NUM>.

Turning to the additive dispenser <NUM>, the additive dispenser <NUM> still takes the form of one or more dispensing nozzles. In this embodiment, the or each nozzle is tilted at an angle with respect to the vertical such that it dispenses an additive into the mixing chamber <NUM> along the direction of flow through the mixing chamber <NUM>, i.e., along axis P. Additionally or alternatively, each dispensing nozzle may be tilted with respect to angle P such that it dispenses an additive inwardly (i.e., laterally) into the mixing chamber <NUM> from outside of the mixing chamber <NUM> from either side of the mixing chamber <NUM> about axis P.

As shown in <FIG>, in an example where there is a plurality of dispensing nozzles, half of the dispensing nozzles are arranged to dispense an additive from one side of the mixing chamber <NUM> and half from the other side. The nozzles are arranged symmetrically about axis P. These tilted arrangements of the additive dispenser <NUM> are advantageous because they avoid liquid being splashed out of the top of the mixing chamber <NUM> as the additives are dispensed.

Claim 1:
A carbonated beverage dispenser (<NUM>) for dispensing a carbonated beverage comprising soda and at least one additive, the carbonated beverage dispenser (<NUM>) comprising a compensator (<NUM>) for regulating the flow rate of soda, the compensator (<NUM>) comprising:
an outer body (<NUM>) defining a compensator chamber (<NUM>),
an inlet (<NUM>) for delivering soda into the compensator chamber (<NUM>), and an outlet (<NUM>) for delivering soda out of the compensator chamber (<NUM>),
an inner body (<NUM>) arranged within the compensator chamber (<NUM>) and between the inlet (<NUM>) and the outlet (<NUM>), wherein a gap (<NUM>) is defined between the inner body (<NUM>) and the outer body (<NUM>) for regulating the flow rate of soda passing between the inlet (<NUM>) and the outlet (<NUM>), and
a control element (<NUM>) configured to receive a user input from a user and to control the size of the gap (<NUM>) in dependence on said user input, wherein, for a given user input, the control element (<NUM>) moves the inner body (<NUM>) relative to the control element (<NUM>) to a first extent and the outer body (<NUM>) relative to the control element (<NUM>) to a second extent, the first extent being non-equal to the second extent.