US20050236435A1 - Sanitary faucet with improved flow restriction feature and foam control feature - Google Patents
Sanitary faucet with improved flow restriction feature and foam control feature Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20050236435A1 US20050236435A1 US10/907,555 US90755505A US2005236435A1 US 20050236435 A1 US20050236435 A1 US 20050236435A1 US 90755505 A US90755505 A US 90755505A US 2005236435 A1 US2005236435 A1 US 2005236435A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- assembly
- fluid
- valve body
- plunger
- faucet
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- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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Classifications
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
- B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B67D1/00—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught
- B67D1/08—Details
- B67D1/12—Flow or pressure control devices or systems, e.g. valves, gas pressure control, level control in storage containers
- B67D1/14—Reducing valves or control taps
- B67D1/1405—Control taps
- B67D1/145—Control taps comprising a valve shutter movable in a direction perpendicular to the valve seat
- B67D1/1466—Control taps comprising a valve shutter movable in a direction perpendicular to the valve seat the valve shutter being opened in a direction opposite to the liquid flow
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
- B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B67D1/00—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught
- B67D1/08—Details
- B67D1/12—Flow or pressure control devices or systems, e.g. valves, gas pressure control, level control in storage containers
- B67D1/14—Reducing valves or control taps
- B67D1/1405—Control taps
- B67D1/1411—Means for controlling the build-up of foam in the container to be filled
- B67D1/1416—Means for controlling the build-up of foam in the container to be filled comprising foam inducing means
Definitions
- the present invention relates to faucets for use with beer tappers and other pressurized dispensers and, more particularly, relates to a sanitary flow control faucet configured to dispense materials in a regulated manner with a foam control feature.
- Dispensing faucets are used in a variety of applications in which materials are dispensed from pressurized containers or other pressurized sources. Dispensing faucets of this type are widely used in beverage dispensing applications in which beer, soda, or another beverage is dispensed from a pressurized container such as a keg. They are also sometimes used to dispense condiments such as relish or mustard from containers under pressure. Indeed, the applications are many and may vary widely.
- a typical prior art faucet includes a valve operated by a pivotable lever. Specifically, a valve element is mounted on a plunger that is slidable longitudinally through a bore. When the lever is pivoted forwardly, towards the user, to open the valve element, the valve element moves rearwardly through the bore, thereby permitting dispensed materials to flow from the inlet of the valve to the outlet. The entire valve is exposed to flowing fluid during dispensation, but when the valve is not dispensing, major portions of wet valve elements are exposed to air. Standing fluid in the valve and exposure of the wet valve elements to air can give rise to undesirable bacterial growth within the valve. Some prior art faucets have overcome undesirable bacterial growth by positioning the plunger substantially at the outlet of the faucet, such that the great majority of the wet valve components are not exposed to air at any time.
- Foaming is produced in the process of dispensing certain pressurized fluids through these faucets. Foaming however, occasionally alters the taste and appearance of certain fluids, such as beers. Further, foaming may not be desirable when the fluid is being dispensed, but may be desirable when the fluid needs to be to topped off in a container, such as a mug. Therefore, the need has arisen to improve the design of a faucet to introduce controlled foaming in dispensed fluid, while not exposing the wet portions of the faucet to bacterial growth.
- Dispensable fluids for example beers
- Dispensable fluids are at times stored in sealed kegs, that is, under conditions that can lead to changes in pressure.
- many kegs that are put under pressure when filled with draft beer are stored in rooms with frequent temperature changes. Variation in temperature results in variation in pressure inside these kegs.
- certain prior art dispensing faucets have compensator units. These compensator units, however, have limited control over balancing and regulating pressurized dispensing fluids. Uncontrolled or poorly controlled pressure exerted by these fluids ultimately leads to greater wear and tear of the faucet equipment.
- regulating pressure via the use of compensators is not effective because these regulators may be positioned in limited orientations, resulting in limited regulation of pressure. Therefore, the need has arisen to improve the design of a faucet to provide improved regulation of pressure.
- the present invention provides a sanitary dispensing faucet with a number of advantages.
- One advantage of the present invention is that the interior of the valve does not contain substantial amounts of air under normal usage, thereby limiting bacterial growth inside the faucet.
- Another advantage of one embodiment of the present invention is a push-back foam feature, such that controlled foam may be created, when required or as desirable.
- Another advantage of the present invention is a flow restrictor with a flow adjustment screw such that the pressure created by the contained fluid may be graduated and regulated at numerous levels.
- Yet another advantage of the present invention is that valve elements may be cleaned efficiently without significant disassembly of the valve.
- the sanitary faucet includes (a) a valve body having a valve bore that has axially aligned inlet and outlet ports; (b) a plunger assembly substantially disposed in the valve body between the inlet and outlet ports; (c) a flow restrictor assembly; and (d) an adjusting screw assembly.
- the flow restrictor assembly includes a shank that has a first and second shank end.
- the first shank end is removably attached to the inlet port of the valve body, while the second shank end is removably attached to a source of the dispensing fluid.
- the flow restrictor assembly further includes a flow restrictor member movably disposed within the shank.
- the flow restrictor has a funnel head that communicates with the plunger assembly, and a fluted tail having at least one groove or channel for permitting flow of inflowing dispensing fluids from the source.
- the adjusting screw assembly regulates movement of the flow restrictor assembly within the shank.
- Another aspect of the present invention includes a method for reducing foam from a dispensing liquid.
- the method is practiced by first attaching a source of the dispensing fluid to the inlet port of the valve body.
- the adjusting screw assembly is then rotated so as to move the flow restrictor such that the fluid entering the valve body has a desired level of pressure. Fluid at a desired pressure is then permitted to enter the plunger assembly.
- the handle assembly is moved to open and close the valve as desired. When the handle assembly is moved forwardly, the plunger assembly in turn is moved rearwardly.
- This movement opens the valve by opening a passage for the fluid that flows through at least one groove or channel of the fluted tail, over the funnel head, around the plunger assembly, towards the outlet port and out of a spout attached to the outlet port.
- Fluid dispensed by use of this method has a closely controlled pressure, and therefore results in the fluid being dispensed substantially without foam.
- Another embodiment of the method aspect of present invention provides a method for creating foam from a dispensing liquid that has the capability of forming foam, such as beer.
- a source of the dispensing fluid is attached to the inlet port of the valve body. Fluid is permitted to enter the faucet at a desired pressure.
- the handle assembly is then moved rearwardly, which results in the plunger assembly being moved forwardly, which results in the larger passage for the fluid being closed.
- the handle assembly is then moved even further rearwardly against the force of a spring, which has the effect of exposing a transverse hole in a retaining screw beyond the valve seat.
- the beer being forced through a small opening, becomes foamy.
- FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of a faucet constructed according to one embodiment of the invention, depicting a flow restrictor with a flow adjustment screw and push-back foam feature.
- FIG. 2 is a sectional view of the valve body of the faucet shown in FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 3 ( a ) is a plan sectional view of the faucet shown in FIG. 1 showing a flow adjustment screw in a certain position, and a push back foam feature in an activated position.
- FIG. 3 ( b ) is a plan sectional view of the faucet shown in FIG. 1 showing the flow adjustment screw in a different position than FIG. 3 ( a ) and the faucet in its closed position.
- FIG. 4 ( a ) is a sectional view of the faucet shown in FIG. 1 , showing the faucet shown in FIG. 1 in its foam generating mode,
- FIG. 4 ( b ) is a sectional view of the faucet shown in FIG. 1 showing the faucet in a closed position.
- FIG. 4 ( c ) is a sectional view of the faucet shown in FIG. 1 , shown in an open position.
- a dispensing faucet is provided that is usable in any system in which a faucet is selectively operated to dispense materials from a pressurized source. For instance, it is applicable to “tapper” faucets configured to dispense beer or another pressurized liquid from a keg or another pressurized container. It is also applicable to condiment faucets configured to dispense ketchup, mustard or relish from a container. For the purposes of describing this invention, both non-viscous and viscous materials, such as beer and hot dog relish, shall be considered fluids or liquids.
- the faucet comprises a valve body and a plunger which is mounted in a bore in the valve body for reciprocating movement therein.
- the bore has an inlet port that opens into a passage adapted for connection to a pressurized container or other source of pressurized fluid, and an outlet port that opens into a dispensing spout adapted to deliver the fluid from the faucet.
- a handle having a pivotable lever is disposed partially within the valve body and terminates within a socket provided for that purpose in the plunger. The lever thus engages the plunger to drive the plunger to reciprocate longitudinally through the bore.
- a plug on the plunger interacts with a valve seat inside the valve body to control the flow of fluid through the valve.
- a faucet 10 constructed in accordance with a first embodiment of the invention includes a valve body 12 having a bore 14 within it, a spout 16 that is mounted on the valve body 12 , and a handle 18 that is operable by an operator to move a plunger 20 within the bore 14 to open the faucet 10 and dispense fluids through the spout 16 .
- the valve body 12 may be formed from any material capable of withstanding the pressures involved, slidably receiving the plunger assembly 20 and pivotably supporting the handle 18 . It preferably is formed from stainless steel, a food-grade plastic or another moldable material.
- the bore 14 which is most preferably circular in cross-section, is formed axially through the valve body.
- an inlet port 22 comprises the upstream axial end of the bore 14 for connecting the faucet 10 to a pressurized fluid container (not shown).
- An outlet port 24 comprises the opposite end of the bore 14 for delivering dispensed fluid to the spout 16 .
- a valve seat 26 is located at a reduced-diameter portion of the bore 14 located adjacent or at the outlet port 24 .
- a bonnet bore 28 extends radially from the bore 14 , through a boss 30 on the upper surface of the valve body 12 , and to the outer surface of the valve body 12 for receiving the handle 18 .
- the lower end of the handle 18 forms a pivotable lever 32 that includes a partial ball 34 which engages a corresponding socket 36 of the plunger assembly 20 .
- the lever 32 is pivotably mounted in the bonnet bore 28 by a pivot mount, preferably formed from a second ball 38 and a bonnet socket 40 . Both balls 34 and 38 are preferably molded integrally with the lever 32 .
- the plunger socket 36 preferably is formed of a slot in the plunger 20 .
- the bonnet socket 40 is formed from a bonnet washer 42 , an upper bearing cup 44 , a lower bearing cup 46 , and at least one O-ring 48 .
- the plunger assembly 20 includes a plunger member 60 , slidably mounted in the bore 14 .
- the plunger member 60 is formed generally in the shape of a geometric solid, of a cross-sectional shape different than the cross-section of the bore 14 , so that the differences in cross-section create openings for permitting the passage of the fluid.
- the plunger member 60 includes an outer peripheral surface 54 and upstream and downstream axial ends 56 , 58 .
- the above-described slot or socket 36 extends radially into the plunger 20 between the ends 56 and 58 .
- the entire plunger 20 is arranged within the bore 14 such that nearly the entire plunger 20 is always immersed in the liquid being dispensed, even when the faucet 10 is not in use. This is advantageous because no part located within the bore 14 is exposed to the air outside the faucet when constantly surrounded by fluid and enclosed within the valve body 12 .
- the plunger assembly 20 of this embodiment is contemplated for use with non-viscous fluid, such as beer or another beverage.
- the plunger assembly 20 is therefore configured to facilitate fluid flow through and past the plunger assembly and the interconnection between the plunger member 60 and the lever 32 so that the plunger assembly is washed clean of any particulate matter during dispensing.
- the plunger member 60 is formed with a substantially square cross-section, creating four gaps between itself and the circular-shaped inside cross-section of the bore 14 . These gaps act as four channels of passage for the fluid to flow. Other shapes may also be used for both of these elements, so long as sufficiently substantial channels of passage are still formed thereby.
- One embodiment of the present invention includes an assembly to provide a foam control feature, for use with a beer dispensing faucet in those instances where foam is desirable.
- the foam control feature provides only foam, in such instances as where the user has dispensed nearly a full beer, without raising much foam, and wants to provide an attractive head to a glass of beer.
- the plunger 20 is constructed of a valve stem 60 with a recoiling system that comprises a seal 62 , a seal retainer screw 64 which passes through the seal, a spring cup 66 and a coil spring 68 .
- the seal retainer screw 64 is threaded into an axial boss 70 at the end of the valve stem that faces toward the valve seat 26 inside the valve body 12 .
- the boss 70 includes an axial hole 71 formed therein, which aligns with an axial hole 64 a formed in retainer screw 64 .
- the axial hole 64 a enters the retainer screw 64 at the threaded end, but dead ends just before the head of the retainer screw 64 .
- a transverse hole 64 b is formed just under the head of the retainer screw 64 , to intersect with the axial hole 64 a and provide an exit from the axial hole.
- the retainer screw 64 and the seal 62 function as the valve closure.
- the seal 62 is mounted on the downstream end portion of the plunger member 60 for sealing against the valve seat 26 on the valve body 12 when the plunger member is in the non-dispensing, valve-closed position.
- the seal 62 is a deformable elastomeric O-ring (on the order of 70-90 durometer) sized so as to matingly fit with the valve seat 26 .
- the retainer screw 64 and the seal 62 may be manufactured from any food grade material.
- the retainer screw 64 is made of stainless steel and the seal is made from any food grade polymer.
- the recoiling system of the plunger is effected when the seal 62 and the retainer screw 64 are inserted into the axial boss 70 as described above, through the spring cup 66 and coil spring 68 .
- the spring 68 is fitted such that it is capable of compression and expansion between the spring cup 66 and the downstream valve stem end 58 . As shown in FIG.
- the spout 16 is removably mounted on the downstream end of the valve body 12 , preferably by being threaded onto a threaded boss 76 extending downstream from the downstream end of the valve body 12 .
- the spout 16 is sealed against the valve body 12 by an O-ring 78 , which is mounted in a groove 80 on the upstream axial end of the spout 16 . Due to this rotation relationship, removal of the spout 16 renders all components of the faucet 10 that are exposed to fluid but not permanently immersed in it (namely, the valve seat 26 , the end of the retainer screw 64 , and the interior of the boss 76 ) accessible for easy cleaning by use of a simple swab or sprayer (not shown).
- the faucet 10 further includes a flow control mechanism, to closely control the flow of the dispensed fluid.
- the flow control mechanism includes a flow control shank 82 , having formed therein a shank bore 84 , which is capable of being connected to a pressurized fluid container (not shown) via a boss 85 .
- the boss 85 is connected to the pressurized container via a threaded connection.
- the interior of the bore 82 is essentially funnel-shaped and is designed to substantially fit a flow restrictor 86 , which has a narrow solid funnel head 88 and a solid fluted tail 90 .
- the shank 82 and the flow restrictor 86 are both preferably made of stainless steel.
- the head 88 of the flow restrictor 86 further comprises at least one orifice 92 providing an opening through the solid funnel head 88 and leading into a central chamber 94 of the funnel head 88 . It is preferred that head 88 further comprises at least four equally spaced orifices 92 , all in fluid communication with the central chamber 94 .
- the shank 82 containing the flow restrictor 86 is positioned relative to the bore 14 in the upstream end of the inlet port 22 with the aid of a keeper spring 96 , a keeper ring 102 and a ferrule 100 .
- the ferrule 100 is preferably connected to the inlet port 22 by any suitable removable connection such as threading, thereby trapping the head of the flow restrictor 86 inside the valve body 12 .
- the inlet valve 22 further comprises an angled bore 105 for receiving a flow adjusting screw 106 .
- the bore 105 is positioned, and the screw 106 sized, so that the end of the screw may contact the head of the flow restrictor 86 . In this manner, rotation of the flow adjustment screw 106 controls the amount of axial displacement of the flow restrictor 86 to a very fine degree of adjustment, providing very closely regulated flow control.
- the adjusting screw 106 may be of a conventional type with a knurled head, or, alternatively, may be provided with a tamper resistant flow adjustment screw head 108 and an adjusting key 112 , which are axially fitted with each other.
- An O-ring 110 may also be provided to reduce leakage around the adjusting screw 106 .
- the screw end 108 and the adjusting key are made from stainless steel and the O-ring is made from elastomeric material.
- the angled bore 105 on the inlet valve 22 is positioned at a slanting angle, preferably 45o to the inlet valve.
- the flow restrictor 86 In operation, as illustrated in the preferred embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 , 3 ( a ) and 3 ( b ), when the shank 82 containing the flow restrictor 86 is coupled with the inlet valve 22 , then the flow restrictor 86 is positioned such that it may partially slide inside the bore 14 in the valve. As the adjusting key 112 is rotated, the adjusting screw 106 enters further inside the bore 14 of the inlet valve 22 via the angled bore 105 . The screw 106 constricts the movement of the flow restrictor 86 inside the bore 14 . When the adjusting screw 106 is gradually rotated clockwise, as shown in FIG. 3 ( a ), the movement of the flow restrictor 86 is gradually constricted. The adjusting screw 106 is capable of at least 360-degree rotation, thereby allowing for very finely controlled movement of the flow restrictor 86 .
- the adjustment screw 106 When the pressurized fluid coming from upstream into the inlet port 22 has higher than desirable pressure, the adjustment screw 106 is rotated clockwise to constrict the movement of the flow restrictor 86 , which in turn restricts the fluid flow. On the other hand, if the pressure of the fluid is lower than desirable, then more fluid can be allowed to flow through the faucet 10 by simply gradually turning the adjustment screw 106 counter-clockwise to effect a desirable pressure-flow of the fluid, as shown in FIG. 3 ( b ).
- the fluid will enter the shank 82 , will pass along the fluted tail 90 , will enter the central chamber 94 of the head 88 via the orifices 92 and then will pass through bore 14 into the channels of passage surrounding the plunger assembly 20 .
- the valve 10 would open and fluid of desirable pressure and clarity will be dispensed, as shown in FIG. 4 ( c ).
- the plunger assembly 20 is a non-dispensing position, the fluid would fill the bore 14 , and the plunger assembly, including its parts as described above, will be immersed in the fluid without any exposure to air or bacterial growth, as shown in FIG. 4 ( b ).
- the fluid entering the shank 82 may be forced through the plunger assembly 20 in a partially open foam-making position.
- Positioning the handle 18 in a push back foam generating mode creates foam to top off fluids, such as beer with a head.
Abstract
A sanitary faucet with a foam control feature adaptable for dispensing pressurized fluids. The sanitary faucet includes a valve body, a plunger assembly, a flow restrictor assembly and an adjusting screw assembly. Also disclosed is a method of variably regulating fluid flow pressure and the production of foam in the sanitary faucet.
Description
- The present application seeks priority from a Patent Cooperation Treaty Application PCT/US03/036036, which was filed on Nov. 12, 2003 with the United States Receiving Office, which in turn seeks priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/425,528 filed on Nov. 12, 2002, both of which are incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes.
- The present invention relates to faucets for use with beer tappers and other pressurized dispensers and, more particularly, relates to a sanitary flow control faucet configured to dispense materials in a regulated manner with a foam control feature.
- Dispensing faucets are used in a variety of applications in which materials are dispensed from pressurized containers or other pressurized sources. Dispensing faucets of this type are widely used in beverage dispensing applications in which beer, soda, or another beverage is dispensed from a pressurized container such as a keg. They are also sometimes used to dispense condiments such as relish or mustard from containers under pressure. Indeed, the applications are many and may vary widely.
- A typical prior art faucet includes a valve operated by a pivotable lever. Specifically, a valve element is mounted on a plunger that is slidable longitudinally through a bore. When the lever is pivoted forwardly, towards the user, to open the valve element, the valve element moves rearwardly through the bore, thereby permitting dispensed materials to flow from the inlet of the valve to the outlet. The entire valve is exposed to flowing fluid during dispensation, but when the valve is not dispensing, major portions of wet valve elements are exposed to air. Standing fluid in the valve and exposure of the wet valve elements to air can give rise to undesirable bacterial growth within the valve. Some prior art faucets have overcome undesirable bacterial growth by positioning the plunger substantially at the outlet of the faucet, such that the great majority of the wet valve components are not exposed to air at any time.
- Foaming is produced in the process of dispensing certain pressurized fluids through these faucets. Foaming however, occasionally alters the taste and appearance of certain fluids, such as beers. Further, foaming may not be desirable when the fluid is being dispensed, but may be desirable when the fluid needs to be to topped off in a container, such as a mug. Therefore, the need has arisen to improve the design of a faucet to introduce controlled foaming in dispensed fluid, while not exposing the wet portions of the faucet to bacterial growth.
- Dispensable fluids, for example beers, are at times stored in sealed kegs, that is, under conditions that can lead to changes in pressure. In fact, many kegs that are put under pressure when filled with draft beer are stored in rooms with frequent temperature changes. Variation in temperature results in variation in pressure inside these kegs. In order to re-balance the pressure and control the fluid flow during dispensing, certain prior art dispensing faucets have compensator units. These compensator units, however, have limited control over balancing and regulating pressurized dispensing fluids. Uncontrolled or poorly controlled pressure exerted by these fluids ultimately leads to greater wear and tear of the faucet equipment. Also, regulating pressure via the use of compensators is not effective because these regulators may be positioned in limited orientations, resulting in limited regulation of pressure. Therefore, the need has arisen to improve the design of a faucet to provide improved regulation of pressure.
- Traditional faucets also require a fairly elaborate method for cleaning the valve elements, including taking the valve elements out of the valve body and washing them at another location. The need has arisen to provide valve elements that not only remain clean, but that also can be cleaned effectively without disassembling the valve.
- The present invention provides a sanitary dispensing faucet with a number of advantages. One advantage of the present invention is that the interior of the valve does not contain substantial amounts of air under normal usage, thereby limiting bacterial growth inside the faucet.
- Another advantage of one embodiment of the present invention is a push-back foam feature, such that controlled foam may be created, when required or as desirable.
- Another advantage of the present invention is a flow restrictor with a flow adjustment screw such that the pressure created by the contained fluid may be graduated and regulated at numerous levels.
- Yet another advantage of the present invention is that valve elements may be cleaned efficiently without significant disassembly of the valve.
- Generally the sanitary faucet includes (a) a valve body having a valve bore that has axially aligned inlet and outlet ports; (b) a plunger assembly substantially disposed in the valve body between the inlet and outlet ports; (c) a flow restrictor assembly; and (d) an adjusting screw assembly.
- In one embodiment, the flow restrictor assembly includes a shank that has a first and second shank end. The first shank end is removably attached to the inlet port of the valve body, while the second shank end is removably attached to a source of the dispensing fluid. The flow restrictor assembly further includes a flow restrictor member movably disposed within the shank. The flow restrictor has a funnel head that communicates with the plunger assembly, and a fluted tail having at least one groove or channel for permitting flow of inflowing dispensing fluids from the source. In a preferred embodiment, the adjusting screw assembly regulates movement of the flow restrictor assembly within the shank.
- Another aspect of the present invention includes a method for reducing foam from a dispensing liquid. The method is practiced by first attaching a source of the dispensing fluid to the inlet port of the valve body. The adjusting screw assembly is then rotated so as to move the flow restrictor such that the fluid entering the valve body has a desired level of pressure. Fluid at a desired pressure is then permitted to enter the plunger assembly. Finally, the handle assembly is moved to open and close the valve as desired. When the handle assembly is moved forwardly, the plunger assembly in turn is moved rearwardly. This movement opens the valve by opening a passage for the fluid that flows through at least one groove or channel of the fluted tail, over the funnel head, around the plunger assembly, towards the outlet port and out of a spout attached to the outlet port. Fluid dispensed by use of this method has a closely controlled pressure, and therefore results in the fluid being dispensed substantially without foam.
- Another embodiment of the method aspect of present invention provides a method for creating foam from a dispensing liquid that has the capability of forming foam, such as beer. According to this method, a source of the dispensing fluid is attached to the inlet port of the valve body. Fluid is permitted to enter the faucet at a desired pressure. The handle assembly is then moved rearwardly, which results in the plunger assembly being moved forwardly, which results in the larger passage for the fluid being closed. The handle assembly is then moved even further rearwardly against the force of a spring, which has the effect of exposing a transverse hole in a retaining screw beyond the valve seat. The beer, being forced through a small opening, becomes foamy.
- These and other advantages and features of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the detailed description and the accompanying drawings. It should be understood, however, that the detailed description and accompanying drawings, while indicating preferred embodiments of the present invention, are given by way of illustration and not of limitation. Many changes and modifications may be made within the scope of the present invention without departing from the spirit thereof, and the invention includes all such modifications.
-
FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of a faucet constructed according to one embodiment of the invention, depicting a flow restrictor with a flow adjustment screw and push-back foam feature. -
FIG. 2 is a sectional view of the valve body of the faucet shown inFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 3 (a) is a plan sectional view of the faucet shown inFIG. 1 showing a flow adjustment screw in a certain position, and a push back foam feature in an activated position. -
FIG. 3 (b) is a plan sectional view of the faucet shown inFIG. 1 showing the flow adjustment screw in a different position thanFIG. 3 (a) and the faucet in its closed position. -
FIG. 4 (a) is a sectional view of the faucet shown inFIG. 1 , showing the faucet shown inFIG. 1 in its foam generating mode, -
FIG. 4 (b) is a sectional view of the faucet shown inFIG. 1 showing the faucet in a closed position. -
FIG. 4 (c) is a sectional view of the faucet shown inFIG. 1 , shown in an open position. - A dispensing faucet is provided that is usable in any system in which a faucet is selectively operated to dispense materials from a pressurized source. For instance, it is applicable to “tapper” faucets configured to dispense beer or another pressurized liquid from a keg or another pressurized container. It is also applicable to condiment faucets configured to dispense ketchup, mustard or relish from a container. For the purposes of describing this invention, both non-viscous and viscous materials, such as beer and hot dog relish, shall be considered fluids or liquids.
- The faucet comprises a valve body and a plunger which is mounted in a bore in the valve body for reciprocating movement therein. The bore has an inlet port that opens into a passage adapted for connection to a pressurized container or other source of pressurized fluid, and an outlet port that opens into a dispensing spout adapted to deliver the fluid from the faucet. A handle having a pivotable lever is disposed partially within the valve body and terminates within a socket provided for that purpose in the plunger. The lever thus engages the plunger to drive the plunger to reciprocate longitudinally through the bore. A plug on the plunger interacts with a valve seat inside the valve body to control the flow of fluid through the valve.
- Referring specifically now to
FIGS. 1, 2 , 3 and 4, afaucet 10 constructed in accordance with a first embodiment of the invention includes avalve body 12 having abore 14 within it, aspout 16 that is mounted on thevalve body 12, and ahandle 18 that is operable by an operator to move aplunger 20 within thebore 14 to open thefaucet 10 and dispense fluids through thespout 16. - The
valve body 12 may be formed from any material capable of withstanding the pressures involved, slidably receiving theplunger assembly 20 and pivotably supporting thehandle 18. It preferably is formed from stainless steel, a food-grade plastic or another moldable material. Thebore 14, which is most preferably circular in cross-section, is formed axially through the valve body. In one embodiment of the present invention, aninlet port 22 comprises the upstream axial end of thebore 14 for connecting thefaucet 10 to a pressurized fluid container (not shown). Anoutlet port 24 comprises the opposite end of thebore 14 for delivering dispensed fluid to thespout 16. A valve seat 26 is located at a reduced-diameter portion of thebore 14 located adjacent or at theoutlet port 24. A bonnet bore 28 extends radially from thebore 14, through aboss 30 on the upper surface of thevalve body 12, and to the outer surface of thevalve body 12 for receiving thehandle 18. - The lower end of the
handle 18 forms apivotable lever 32 that includes apartial ball 34 which engages a correspondingsocket 36 of theplunger assembly 20. Thelever 32 is pivotably mounted in the bonnet bore 28 by a pivot mount, preferably formed from asecond ball 38 and a bonnet socket 40. Bothballs lever 32. Theplunger socket 36 preferably is formed of a slot in theplunger 20. The bonnet socket 40 is formed from abonnet washer 42, anupper bearing cup 44, a lower bearing cup 46, and at least one O-ring 48. The assembly is held in place by acompression bonnet 47 threaded onto theboss 30 so as to capture thebonnet washer 42, bearing cups 44, 46 and O-ring 48 beneath itself and within the bonnet bore 28. This construction is described in more detail in the specification of application Ser. No. 10/142,751, filed May 9, 2002, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference. - The
plunger assembly 20 includes aplunger member 60, slidably mounted in thebore 14. Theplunger member 60 is formed generally in the shape of a geometric solid, of a cross-sectional shape different than the cross-section of thebore 14, so that the differences in cross-section create openings for permitting the passage of the fluid. Theplunger member 60 includes an outerperipheral surface 54 and upstream and downstream axial ends 56, 58. The above-described slot orsocket 36 extends radially into theplunger 20 between theends entire plunger 20 is arranged within thebore 14 such that nearly theentire plunger 20 is always immersed in the liquid being dispensed, even when thefaucet 10 is not in use. This is advantageous because no part located within thebore 14 is exposed to the air outside the faucet when constantly surrounded by fluid and enclosed within thevalve body 12. - The
plunger assembly 20 of this embodiment is contemplated for use with non-viscous fluid, such as beer or another beverage. Theplunger assembly 20 is therefore configured to facilitate fluid flow through and past the plunger assembly and the interconnection between theplunger member 60 and thelever 32 so that the plunger assembly is washed clean of any particulate matter during dispensing. Most preferably theplunger member 60 is formed with a substantially square cross-section, creating four gaps between itself and the circular-shaped inside cross-section of thebore 14. These gaps act as four channels of passage for the fluid to flow. Other shapes may also be used for both of these elements, so long as sufficiently substantial channels of passage are still formed thereby. - One embodiment of the present invention includes an assembly to provide a foam control feature, for use with a beer dispensing faucet in those instances where foam is desirable. The foam control feature provides only foam, in such instances as where the user has dispensed nearly a full beer, without raising much foam, and wants to provide an attractive head to a glass of beer. In this embodiment, the
plunger 20 is constructed of avalve stem 60 with a recoiling system that comprises a seal 62, aseal retainer screw 64 which passes through the seal, a spring cup 66 and acoil spring 68. Theseal retainer screw 64 is threaded into an axial boss 70 at the end of the valve stem that faces toward the valve seat 26 inside thevalve body 12. The boss 70 includes anaxial hole 71 formed therein, which aligns with anaxial hole 64 a formed inretainer screw 64. Theaxial hole 64 a enters theretainer screw 64 at the threaded end, but dead ends just before the head of theretainer screw 64. A transverse hole 64 b is formed just under the head of theretainer screw 64, to intersect with theaxial hole 64 a and provide an exit from the axial hole. - The
retainer screw 64 and the seal 62 function as the valve closure. The seal 62 is mounted on the downstream end portion of theplunger member 60 for sealing against the valve seat 26 on thevalve body 12 when the plunger member is in the non-dispensing, valve-closed position. In the most preferred embodiment, the seal 62 is a deformable elastomeric O-ring (on the order of 70-90 durometer) sized so as to matingly fit with the valve seat 26. - The
retainer screw 64 and the seal 62 may be manufactured from any food grade material. In one preferable embodiment, theretainer screw 64 is made of stainless steel and the seal is made from any food grade polymer. The recoiling system of the plunger is effected when the seal 62 and theretainer screw 64 are inserted into the axial boss 70 as described above, through the spring cup 66 andcoil spring 68. Thespring 68 is fitted such that it is capable of compression and expansion between the spring cup 66 and the downstream valve stemend 58. As shown inFIG. 4 (c), in a preferred embodiment, when thehandle 18 by means of thepivotable lever 32 is positioned inside thesocket 36 of theplunger member 60 and moved to a dispensing or forward position, theplunger assembly 20 moves away from the valve seat 26, allowing a clear, foam-free fluid to be dispensed. On the other hand, as shown inFIG. 4 (b), when thehandle 18 is moved rearwardly to a non-dispensing position, theplunger assembly 20 moves forward to engage the valve seat 26 and substantially close thevalve 10, thereby preventing the flow of fluids. In this embodiment, as shown inFIG. 4 (a), thehandle 18 may also be positioned in a further backward position. When thehandle 18 is put in the further backward position, the recoiling system is engaged and thespring 68 compresses axially between the bushing 66 anddownstream valve end 58. This action has the effect of exposing the transverse hole 64 b in the retainingscrew 64 beyond the valve seat 26, as shown in FIGS. 3(a) and 4(a). The beer, being forced through the small openings ofholes holes - The
spout 16 is removably mounted on the downstream end of thevalve body 12, preferably by being threaded onto a threadedboss 76 extending downstream from the downstream end of thevalve body 12. Thespout 16 is sealed against thevalve body 12 by an O-ring 78, which is mounted in agroove 80 on the upstream axial end of thespout 16. Due to this rotation relationship, removal of thespout 16 renders all components of thefaucet 10 that are exposed to fluid but not permanently immersed in it (namely, the valve seat 26, the end of theretainer screw 64, and the interior of the boss 76) accessible for easy cleaning by use of a simple swab or sprayer (not shown). - In one embodiment of the present invention, the
faucet 10 further includes a flow control mechanism, to closely control the flow of the dispensed fluid. As shown in FIGS. 1, 3(a) and 3(b), the flow control mechanism includes aflow control shank 82, having formed therein a shank bore 84, which is capable of being connected to a pressurized fluid container (not shown) via aboss 85. Preferably, theboss 85 is connected to the pressurized container via a threaded connection. The interior of thebore 82 is essentially funnel-shaped and is designed to substantially fit aflow restrictor 86, which has a narrowsolid funnel head 88 and a solidfluted tail 90. Theshank 82 and theflow restrictor 86 are both preferably made of stainless steel. Thehead 88 of theflow restrictor 86 further comprises at least oneorifice 92 providing an opening through thesolid funnel head 88 and leading into acentral chamber 94 of thefunnel head 88. It is preferred thathead 88 further comprises at least four equally spacedorifices 92, all in fluid communication with thecentral chamber 94. - The
shank 82 containing theflow restrictor 86 is positioned relative to thebore 14 in the upstream end of theinlet port 22 with the aid of akeeper spring 96, akeeper ring 102 and aferrule 100. Theferrule 100 is preferably connected to theinlet port 22 by any suitable removable connection such as threading, thereby trapping the head of theflow restrictor 86 inside thevalve body 12. - The
inlet valve 22 further comprises anangled bore 105 for receiving aflow adjusting screw 106. Thebore 105 is positioned, and thescrew 106 sized, so that the end of the screw may contact the head of theflow restrictor 86. In this manner, rotation of theflow adjustment screw 106 controls the amount of axial displacement of the flow restrictor 86 to a very fine degree of adjustment, providing very closely regulated flow control. - The adjusting
screw 106 may be of a conventional type with a knurled head, or, alternatively, may be provided with a tamper resistant flowadjustment screw head 108 and an adjustingkey 112, which are axially fitted with each other. An O-ring 110 may also be provided to reduce leakage around the adjustingscrew 106. Preferably, thescrew end 108 and the adjusting key are made from stainless steel and the O-ring is made from elastomeric material. Theangled bore 105 on theinlet valve 22 is positioned at a slanting angle, preferably 45o to the inlet valve. When the adjusting key 112 or knurled head is rotated clockwise, thescrew end 108 enters further inside thebore 14 of theinlet valve 22. - In operation, as illustrated in the preferred embodiment shown in FIGS. 1, 3(a) and 3(b), when the
shank 82 containing theflow restrictor 86 is coupled with theinlet valve 22, then theflow restrictor 86 is positioned such that it may partially slide inside thebore 14 in the valve. As the adjustingkey 112 is rotated, the adjustingscrew 106 enters further inside thebore 14 of theinlet valve 22 via theangled bore 105. Thescrew 106 constricts the movement of theflow restrictor 86 inside thebore 14. When the adjustingscrew 106 is gradually rotated clockwise, as shown inFIG. 3 (a), the movement of theflow restrictor 86 is gradually constricted. The adjustingscrew 106 is capable of at least 360-degree rotation, thereby allowing for very finely controlled movement of theflow restrictor 86. - When the pressurized fluid coming from upstream into the
inlet port 22 has higher than desirable pressure, theadjustment screw 106 is rotated clockwise to constrict the movement of theflow restrictor 86, which in turn restricts the fluid flow. On the other hand, if the pressure of the fluid is lower than desirable, then more fluid can be allowed to flow through thefaucet 10 by simply gradually turning theadjustment screw 106 counter-clockwise to effect a desirable pressure-flow of the fluid, as shown inFIG. 3 (b). - Preferably, as shown in
FIGS. 1 and 4 , the fluid will enter theshank 82, will pass along thefluted tail 90, will enter thecentral chamber 94 of thehead 88 via theorifices 92 and then will pass through bore 14 into the channels of passage surrounding theplunger assembly 20. If theplunger assembly 20 is in a dispensing position, thevalve 10 would open and fluid of desirable pressure and clarity will be dispensed, as shown inFIG. 4 (c). If theplunger assembly 20 is a non-dispensing position, the fluid would fill thebore 14, and the plunger assembly, including its parts as described above, will be immersed in the fluid without any exposure to air or bacterial growth, as shown inFIG. 4 (b). Further, as shown inFIG. 4 (a), the fluid entering theshank 82 may be forced through theplunger assembly 20 in a partially open foam-making position. Positioning thehandle 18 in a push back foam generating mode, creates foam to top off fluids, such as beer with a head. - Thus, although the invention has been herein shown and described in what is perceived to be the most practical and preferred embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention is not intended to be limited to the specific embodiments set forth above. Rather, it is recognized that modifications may be made by one of skill in the art of the invention without departing from the spirit or intent of the invention and, therefore, the invention is to be taken as including all reasonable equivalents to the subject matter of the present invention.
Claims (18)
1. A sanitary faucet for dispensing fluids comprising:
(a) a valve body having a valve bore and in inlet port;
(b) a plunger assembly substantially disposed in the valve bore;
(c) a flow restrictor assembly which includes:
(i) a shank that has a first shank end removably attached to the inlet port of the valve body and a second shank end removably attached to a source of the dispensing fluid;
(ii) a flow restrictor member disposed within the shank having a head that communicates with the plunger assembly; and
(d) an adjusting screw assembly that regulates movement of the flow restrictor member within the shank.
2. A sanitary faucet according to claim 1 , wherein the valve bore is oriented axially and further comprising a radial bore communicating with the axially oriented valve bore.
3. A sanitary faucet of claim 1 , wherein the faucet further comprises a handle assembly threadedly connected to the radial bore of the valve body.
4. A sanitary faucet of claim 1 , wherein the handle assembly comprises a pivotable lever that engages the plunger assembly, whereby the plunger assembly moves forwardly when the handle assembly is moved rearwardly and moves rearwardly when the handle assembly is moved forwardly.
5. A sanitary faucet of claim 1 , wherein the plunger assembly further comprises:
a plunger member with a socket on a top surface thereof for receiving the handle assembly;
an axial boss with an axial hole at a front end of the plunger member;
a biasing member; and
a seal retainer attached through the biasing member to the axial hole of the valve stem.
6. A sanitary faucet of claim 1 , wherein the faucet further comprises a spout removably attached to the outlet port of the valve body.
7. A sanitary faucet of claim 1 , wherein the adjusting screw assembly further comprises:
(i) an angularly positioned adjusting screw bore communicating with the valve bore; and
(ii) an adjusting key capable of at least one 360° rotation.
8. A sanitary faucet of claim 7 , wherein the angle between the screw bore and the valve bore is about 45°.
9. A sanitary faucet of claim 5 , wherein the seal retainer further comprises at least one orifice located adjacent to a head of the seal retainer.
10. A sanitary faucet of claim 9 , wherein the diameter of the orifice is about 0.005 to 0.09 inches.
11. A sanitary faucet of claim 1 , wherein the valve body, the plunger assembly, the flow restrictor assembly and the screw adjusting assembly, or parts thereof are made of stainless steel.
12. A sanitary faucet of claim 1 , wherein the valve body, the plunger assembly, the flow restrictor assembly and the screw adjusting assembly, or parts thereof, are made of food grade plastics.
13. A sanitary faucet according to claim 1 , wherein the adjusting screw assembly is rotated clockwise to restrict movement of the flow restrictor when the dispensing fluid source has increased pressure.
14. A sanitary faucet according to claim 1 , wherein the adjusting screw assembly is rotated counter-clockwise to permit increased movement of the flow restrictor when the dispensing fluid source has reduced pressure.
15. A method of dispensing a fluid that is capable of foaming, the method comprising:
(I) providing a faucet having:
(a) a valve body having a valve bore;
(b) a plunger assembly substantially disposed in the valve body;
(c) a flow restrictor assembly which includes:
(i) a shank that has a first shank end removably attached to the inlet port of the valve body and a second shank end removably attached to a source of the dispensing fluid;
(ii) a flow restrictor member disposed within the shank having a head that communicates with the plunger assembly; and
(d) an adjusting screw assembly that regulates movement of the flow restrictor assembly within the shank;
(II) attaching a source of the dispensing fluid to fluid communication with the valve body;
(III) rotating the adjusting screw assembly, wherein movement of the flow restrictor is regulated such that the fluid entering the valve body has a desired pressure sufficiently low to avoid causing foaming in the liquid;
(IV) permitting fluid of a desired pressure to enter the valve body, thereby immersing the plunger assembly with fluid;
(V) forwardly moving a handle assembly, resulting in the plunger assembly being rearwardly moved, thereby opening a passage for the fluid to flow over the head, around the plunger assembly, and out of the valve body, the fluid being dispensed substantially without foam.
16. A method according to claim 15 , wherein the adjusting screw assembly is rotated clockwise to restrict movement of the flow restrictor when the source of the dispensing fluid has increased pressure.
17. A method according to claim 15 , wherein the adjusting screw assembly is rotated counter-clockwise to permit increased movement of the flow restrictor when the source of the dispensing fluid has reduced pressure.
18. A method of creating foam for a sanitary faucet for dispensing fluids, comprising:
(I) using a faucet that includes:
(a) a valve body having a valve bore and an inlet port;
(b) a plunger assembly substantially disposed in the valve body, and having:
(i) a plunger member with a socket for receiving a handle assembly on a top surface thereof;
(ii) an axial boss with an axial hole at a front end of the plunger member;
(iii) a biasing member; and
(iv) a seal retainer connected through the biasing member to the axial hole of the valve stem, and having a transverse hole communicating with the axial hole
(II) attaching a source of the dispensing fluid to the inlet port of the valve body;
(III) immersing the plunger assembly with fluid of desirable pressure;
(IV) rearwardly moving a handle assembly whereby the plunger assembly is forwardly moved thereby largely closing a passage for the fluid, resulting in the fluid being forced to flow through the axial hole and the transverse hole of the seal retainer, towards the outlet port and out of a spout attached to the outlet port, wherein fluid is dispensed is with foam.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10/907,555 US20050236435A1 (en) | 2003-11-12 | 2005-04-05 | Sanitary faucet with improved flow restriction feature and foam control feature |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
WOPCT/US03/36036 | 2003-11-12 | ||
PCT/US2003/036036 WO2004044339A2 (en) | 2002-11-12 | 2003-11-12 | Sanitary faucet with flow restriction and foam control |
US10/907,555 US20050236435A1 (en) | 2003-11-12 | 2005-04-05 | Sanitary faucet with improved flow restriction feature and foam control feature |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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US20050236435A1 true US20050236435A1 (en) | 2005-10-27 |
Family
ID=35135431
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/907,555 Abandoned US20050236435A1 (en) | 2003-11-12 | 2005-04-05 | Sanitary faucet with improved flow restriction feature and foam control feature |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
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US (1) | US20050236435A1 (en) |
Cited By (11)
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WO2007083181A2 (en) * | 2006-01-23 | 2007-07-26 | Vin Service S.R.L. | Delivery spout for beverages |
US20070193653A1 (en) * | 2005-12-15 | 2007-08-23 | Thomas Gagliano | Beverage dispenser |
US20080142115A1 (en) * | 2006-12-15 | 2008-06-19 | Niagara Dispensing Technologies, Inc. | Beverage dispensing |
US7823411B2 (en) | 2006-12-15 | 2010-11-02 | Niagara Dispensing Technologies, Inc. | Beverage cooling system |
US7861740B2 (en) | 2005-12-15 | 2011-01-04 | Niagara Dispensing Technologies, Inc. | Digital flow control |
US8833405B2 (en) | 2005-12-15 | 2014-09-16 | DD Operations Ltd. | Beverage dispensing |
US20160031693A1 (en) * | 2014-08-01 | 2016-02-04 | James A. Trulaske | Apparatus and method for enhancing presentation of a beverage |
WO2018190925A1 (en) * | 2017-04-14 | 2018-10-18 | Sestra Systems, Inc. | Touchless tap handle for beverage dispensing |
GB2572153A (en) * | 2018-03-19 | 2019-09-25 | Victors Drinks Ltd | Fermentation vessel |
US10589978B2 (en) | 2017-10-13 | 2020-03-17 | Cornelius, Inc. | Beverage dispensers with dual flow dispensing valves |
WO2023000035A1 (en) * | 2021-07-21 | 2023-01-26 | Keg X Holdings Pty Ltd | Flow control faucet for a beverage dispensing system |
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US7861740B2 (en) | 2005-12-15 | 2011-01-04 | Niagara Dispensing Technologies, Inc. | Digital flow control |
US20070193653A1 (en) * | 2005-12-15 | 2007-08-23 | Thomas Gagliano | Beverage dispenser |
US8833405B2 (en) | 2005-12-15 | 2014-09-16 | DD Operations Ltd. | Beverage dispensing |
WO2007083181A3 (en) * | 2006-01-23 | 2007-11-22 | Vin Service Srl | Delivery spout for beverages |
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US20160031693A1 (en) * | 2014-08-01 | 2016-02-04 | James A. Trulaske | Apparatus and method for enhancing presentation of a beverage |
WO2018190925A1 (en) * | 2017-04-14 | 2018-10-18 | Sestra Systems, Inc. | Touchless tap handle for beverage dispensing |
US10589978B2 (en) | 2017-10-13 | 2020-03-17 | Cornelius, Inc. | Beverage dispensers with dual flow dispensing valves |
GB2572153A (en) * | 2018-03-19 | 2019-09-25 | Victors Drinks Ltd | Fermentation vessel |
GB2572153B (en) * | 2018-03-19 | 2022-06-08 | Victors Drinks Ltd | Fermentation vessel |
WO2023000035A1 (en) * | 2021-07-21 | 2023-01-26 | Keg X Holdings Pty Ltd | Flow control faucet for a beverage dispensing system |
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