초록 ▼

A system to mix, carbonate, if desired, and dispense beverages in the micro-gravity environment of extra-terrestrial space incorporates chilled sources of beverage syrup, water and CO.sub.2, mixing chambers for receiving the fluid components of the beverages and receptacle interfaces which. selectiv

A system to mix, carbonate, if desired, and dispense beverages in the micro-gravity environment of extra-terrestrial space incorporates chilled sources of beverage syrup, water and CO.sub.2, mixing chambers for receiving the fluid components of the beverages and receptacle interfaces which. selectively communicate with the mixing chambers and which couple with drinking receptacles formed by a pressure-resistant outer shell and a flexible internal liner. Within the mixing chambers, a reciprocable piston is driven by an entering pressurized beverage component to a retracted position and is subsequently driven by compressed air to an extended position with a concurrent expulsion of the mixed beverage from the mixing chamber and into the liner of a drinking receptacle coupled to one of the receptacle interfaces. A formation on the piston reacts with an agitator to enhance mixing of the beverage components. The transfer of the beverage to the drinking receptacle occurs against a compressed air counter-pressure established within the drinking receptacle between the shell and the liner. When the beverage transfer is complete, the counter-pressure is relieved, whereupon the drinking receptacle can be uncoupled from the receptacle interface for consumption of the beverage. The flows of beverage components and mixtures and the establishment and relief of fluid pressures are controlled by a micro-processor which responds to inputs from a crew member entered through a touch screen display panel. The microcomputer also collects data relating to taste perceptions and physiological responses of the crew.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] Apparatus for preparing and dispensing a beverage comprising:sources of fluid beverage components, including syrup and water;a mixing chamber provided with inlet and discharge ports;a piston disposed within the mixing chamber for reciprocal movement between extended and r

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] Apparatus for preparing and dispensing a beverage comprising:sources of fluid beverage components, including syrup and water;a mixing chamber provided with inlet and discharge ports;a piston disposed within the mixing chamber for reciprocal movement between extended and retracted positions;first means for (1) introducing the beverage components under pressure into the mixing chamber and (2) shifting the piston from the extended position to the retracted position in response to the introduction into the mixing chamber of at least one of the beverage components; andsecond means for urging the piston to the extended position to thereby dispense a mixture of the beverage components through the discharge port.