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Abstract

This invention provides a system and a method of mixing and dispensing a beverage from a beverage concentrate. A mixing device receives a beverage concentrate and water, and employs a static mixing device to mix the concentrate and water to produce a beverage in a closed system. Flow regulators precisely control the flows of the beverage concentrate and water to achieve the desired mixing ratio. The carbonation system may include a pump for pumping the beverage from the mixing device to a carbonator, a refrigeration unit, a beverage dispenser, or other. A transformer is coupled with the pump and one or more solenoid valves in the mixing device. The transformer receives power from the pump motor to activate the solenoid valves to allow flow of the beverage out of the mixing device only when the pump is powered. When the pump is shut off, the power to the transformer is terminated and the solenoid valves are switched off to stop the flow of the beverage out of the mixing device. Alternatively, a level sensor is used to sense the liquid level in the carbonator tank. A liquid level control is coupled with the level sensor and with the transformer, and sends a signal to the transformer to activate the solenoid valves to flow beverage into the tank when the level sensor senses a liquid level below a preset minimum level. After the liquid level in the tank reaches a sufficient level, the liquid level control shuts off the transformer to stop the flow of beverage out of the mixing device. A sampling port is provided in a bypass line coupled to the beverage conduit in the mixing device to provide real time monitoring of the beverage for consistency and mixing ratio. The flow regulators can be adjusted in real time to achieve and maintain the desired mixing.

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First Claim