Michael Wayne Horner

US Patent:

59473347, Sep 7, 1999

Filed:

May 17, 1997

Appl. No.:

8/858094

Inventors:

Arthur G. Rudick - Atlanta GA
Ashis Gupta - Marietta GA
Michael J. Myers - Lawrenceville GA
Christopher C. Kjorlaug - Alpharetta GA
Alexander Hoehn - Boulder CO
Louis S. Stodieck - Boulder CO
Michael B. Horner - Boulder CO
Mark T. Edwards - Boulder CO
Kirsten S. Sterrett - Westminster CO
Jon A. Genova - Boulder CO
Mark A. Rupert - Boulder CO

Assignee:

The Coca-Cola Company - Atlanta GA

International Classification:

B67D 556
G01F 1104

US Classification:

2221292

Abstract:

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.