CA2414870A1 - Beverage dispensing system and apparatus - Google Patents
Beverage dispensing system and apparatus Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2414870A1 CA2414870A1 CA 2414870 CA2414870A CA2414870A1 CA 2414870 A1 CA2414870 A1 CA 2414870A1 CA 2414870 CA2414870 CA 2414870 CA 2414870 A CA2414870 A CA 2414870A CA 2414870 A1 CA2414870 A1 CA 2414870A1
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- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- beverage
- dispensing apparatus
- dispensing
- container
- serving
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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
-
- 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
- B67D1/1202—Flow control, e.g. for controlling total amount or mixture ratio of liquids to be dispensed
- B67D1/1234—Flow control, e.g. for controlling total amount or mixture ratio of liquids to be dispensed to determine the total amount
- B67D1/124—Flow control, e.g. for controlling total amount or mixture ratio of liquids to be dispensed to determine the total amount the flow being started or stopped by means actuated by the vessel to be filled, e.g. by switches, weighing
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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
- B67D1/0888—Means comprising electronic circuitry (e.g. control panels, switching or controlling means)
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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
- B67D3/00—Apparatus or devices for controlling flow of liquids under gravity from storage containers for dispensing purposes
- B67D3/0003—Apparatus or devices for controlling flow of liquids under gravity from storage containers for dispensing purposes provided with automatic fluid control means
- B67D3/0006—Apparatus or devices for controlling flow of liquids under gravity from storage containers for dispensing purposes provided with automatic fluid control means responsive to coded information provided on the neck or spout of the storage container, e.g. bar-code, magnets or transponder
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Devices For Dispensing Beverages (AREA)
Abstract
In one embodiment, an apparatus and system are provided for dispensing only a beverage which is of a designated or authorized type from a storage container such as a beer keg. In another embodiment the invention provides for the dispensing of a beverage into a serving container only of a designated or authorized type. The containers carry an authorizing device such as a mechanical key, chip, tag or the like coded with information relating generally to characteristics describing the designated beverage. An information retrieval device is provided to read the information from either or both of the containers and prevent the system from dispensing the beverage unless the read information identifies a designated beverage. The invention may be utilized in a permanent facility or a portable dispenser, for example, a mobile dispensing station in the form of a trailer which is readily towed to any desired location.
Description
BEVERAGE DISPENSING S~'STEM AND APPARATUS
FIELD OF THE INVENTII~N
The present invention relates to a beverage dispensing system and apparatus and, in particular, the dispensing of beverages from a prior-filled keg, tank or similar container into a serving vessel or container such as a glass or pitcher.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Many popular beverages such as beer and soft drinks are delivered to fixed or permanent retail facilities or outlets such as bars, restaurants etc. in tanks or kegs. Such facilities have established delivery systems, generally including a refrigeration system, to deliver a usually cooled beverage to the consumer.
In such facilities, the beer kegs are usually stored in a refrigE;rated room or a cabinet or the like (traditionally, called a "cellar"). The beverage dispensing apparatus conventionally includes an outlet, usually in the form of a nozzle, and a tap or other means by which beer is discharged from the nozzle. A beverage serving container in the form of a beer glass pitcher or the like is located under the outlet and a support may be provided for the container. The beverage container is typically filled with draft beer from a particular beer supplier and in many instances the clientele is made aware of the draft beer "on tap" by signs or indicia on the tap handle.
In these taverns, it is common practice for the patrons to consume the beverage also from glass bottles having a standardized industry shape. It is important for these glass bottles to have a standardized industry shape for the purposes of mass filling of bottles at the brewery and packaging of these bottles into cartons for shipment to taverns and other beer retailing outlets.
However, many patrons in the tavern prefer to drink from a battle rather than from a glass and as a consequence do not have access t~ the draft beer whiclh may only be available on draft provided on tap.
While theoretically, it may be possible to provide empty bottles to a tavern to be filled with draft for the purposes of consumption by the patrons in the tavern, but this would be inconvenient and relatively expensive. Also it would provide no real advantage to one brewer over a competitive brewing company, particularly in view of the industry standardization of glass bottles containers for beer beverages. In some countries, for example Belgium, a tavern is provided with a specific glass for each brand of beer sold and only that brand is served in that glass.
There are many occasions, events and activities which take place in locations remote from such a permanent facility where beverages would normally be dispensed. For example, sporting events or outdoor concerts which frequently take place in open areas away from permanent facilities. Another such a location is a golf course, where golfers far away from the clubhouse may require cool beverage service, and parks and beaches where permanent facilities may not be economic or commercially practical for other reasons. There are many known mobile or portable devices adapted to dispense a cool beverage from a non-refrigerated or a refrigerated keg. In fact, the refrigeration may be provided by simply placing the beverage containing keg in an ice bath as described in U.S. Patent 5,079,927 and other portable dispensers are described in for example, U.S. Patents, 4,437,319; 6,010,043; 5,584,188 and 4,225,059.
In any event, all the dispensing systems fixed or portable, which utilize a pressurized or unpressurized container which is removably connected to the delivery system have inter czlia, an essential requirement namely the keg being inserted into the device, must contain the desired product. Kegs are generally marked with codes and sometimes with removable "dust caps"
covering the keg neck housing to identify the product contents. However, there is still some room for mistakes in connecting a filled keg to the system. Also, it may be desired that only kegs of a certain size or type or those filled with the product of a particular manufacturer be used in a system for safety commercial or other reasons.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a system and an apparatus which would ensure that only a designated beverage can be dispensed. A designated beverage as used herein means a beverage which meets certain criteria and is therefore permitted to be dispensed through a beverage dispensing system adapted to preclude the dispensing of beverages which do not meet said criteria. A storage container containing a designated beverage is herein referred to as an "authorized container" as is a seining container which is adapted to accept only a designated beverage.
It is further objective of the invention to provide a beverage dispensing apparatus which will only accept and dispense beverage from and/or to an authorized container.
A further objective is to provide a recognition system for authorized containers insertable into a beverage dispensing system and which provides for unamlbiguous control of the dispensing system so that only a designated beverage is dispensed.
SUMMARY OF THE INVEN'.CION
The present invention provides a dispensing apparatus for dispensing a designated beverage, said apparatus comprising a dispensing tap, a storage container containing a beverage, a conduit for carrying said beverage from said storage container to said tap which dispenses same to a serving container, information retrieval means adapted to read beverage identification information carried by one or both said containers and means to prevent flow of said beverage to said serving container unless said read identifying information identifies a designated beverage.
FIELD OF THE INVENTII~N
The present invention relates to a beverage dispensing system and apparatus and, in particular, the dispensing of beverages from a prior-filled keg, tank or similar container into a serving vessel or container such as a glass or pitcher.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Many popular beverages such as beer and soft drinks are delivered to fixed or permanent retail facilities or outlets such as bars, restaurants etc. in tanks or kegs. Such facilities have established delivery systems, generally including a refrigeration system, to deliver a usually cooled beverage to the consumer.
In such facilities, the beer kegs are usually stored in a refrigE;rated room or a cabinet or the like (traditionally, called a "cellar"). The beverage dispensing apparatus conventionally includes an outlet, usually in the form of a nozzle, and a tap or other means by which beer is discharged from the nozzle. A beverage serving container in the form of a beer glass pitcher or the like is located under the outlet and a support may be provided for the container. The beverage container is typically filled with draft beer from a particular beer supplier and in many instances the clientele is made aware of the draft beer "on tap" by signs or indicia on the tap handle.
In these taverns, it is common practice for the patrons to consume the beverage also from glass bottles having a standardized industry shape. It is important for these glass bottles to have a standardized industry shape for the purposes of mass filling of bottles at the brewery and packaging of these bottles into cartons for shipment to taverns and other beer retailing outlets.
However, many patrons in the tavern prefer to drink from a battle rather than from a glass and as a consequence do not have access t~ the draft beer whiclh may only be available on draft provided on tap.
While theoretically, it may be possible to provide empty bottles to a tavern to be filled with draft for the purposes of consumption by the patrons in the tavern, but this would be inconvenient and relatively expensive. Also it would provide no real advantage to one brewer over a competitive brewing company, particularly in view of the industry standardization of glass bottles containers for beer beverages. In some countries, for example Belgium, a tavern is provided with a specific glass for each brand of beer sold and only that brand is served in that glass.
There are many occasions, events and activities which take place in locations remote from such a permanent facility where beverages would normally be dispensed. For example, sporting events or outdoor concerts which frequently take place in open areas away from permanent facilities. Another such a location is a golf course, where golfers far away from the clubhouse may require cool beverage service, and parks and beaches where permanent facilities may not be economic or commercially practical for other reasons. There are many known mobile or portable devices adapted to dispense a cool beverage from a non-refrigerated or a refrigerated keg. In fact, the refrigeration may be provided by simply placing the beverage containing keg in an ice bath as described in U.S. Patent 5,079,927 and other portable dispensers are described in for example, U.S. Patents, 4,437,319; 6,010,043; 5,584,188 and 4,225,059.
In any event, all the dispensing systems fixed or portable, which utilize a pressurized or unpressurized container which is removably connected to the delivery system have inter czlia, an essential requirement namely the keg being inserted into the device, must contain the desired product. Kegs are generally marked with codes and sometimes with removable "dust caps"
covering the keg neck housing to identify the product contents. However, there is still some room for mistakes in connecting a filled keg to the system. Also, it may be desired that only kegs of a certain size or type or those filled with the product of a particular manufacturer be used in a system for safety commercial or other reasons.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a system and an apparatus which would ensure that only a designated beverage can be dispensed. A designated beverage as used herein means a beverage which meets certain criteria and is therefore permitted to be dispensed through a beverage dispensing system adapted to preclude the dispensing of beverages which do not meet said criteria. A storage container containing a designated beverage is herein referred to as an "authorized container" as is a seining container which is adapted to accept only a designated beverage.
It is further objective of the invention to provide a beverage dispensing apparatus which will only accept and dispense beverage from and/or to an authorized container.
A further objective is to provide a recognition system for authorized containers insertable into a beverage dispensing system and which provides for unamlbiguous control of the dispensing system so that only a designated beverage is dispensed.
SUMMARY OF THE INVEN'.CION
The present invention provides a dispensing apparatus for dispensing a designated beverage, said apparatus comprising a dispensing tap, a storage container containing a beverage, a conduit for carrying said beverage from said storage container to said tap which dispenses same to a serving container, information retrieval means adapted to read beverage identification information carried by one or both said containers and means to prevent flow of said beverage to said serving container unless said read identifying information identifies a designated beverage.
It will be appreciated that there are three aspects to the present invention namely; it can be configured to (i) dispense only an authorized beverage into any type of serving container;
(ii) dispense any type of beverage only into authorized serving containers; or (iii) dispense only an authorized beverage only into an authorized serving container The system may be used in fixed or permanent facilities such as bars, restaurants or hotels and may also be used to advantage in portable of mobile beverage dispensers.
The information retrieval means an authenticating device may be of any convenient type including:
1) An optical reader device for example of the bar code type. In this system the product-defining or identification information is in the form of a string of alphanumeric characters or a bar code on a label tag or sticker carried by the container or vessel.
The device reads the information from the label and compares it to stored information. A
positive or matching comparison results in the system being authorized to dispense the beverage and vice versa. The tag or the like may be adapted to be permanent but, in most cases, it will be temporary and be removed when the container is returned to the production facility to be cleaned and refilled. Depending on whether the container is filled with the same beverage or not, the new tag will be marked accordingly. Devices to read and provide the required bar code labels are commercially available and will not be described further.
2) A microchip tagging system in which a passive transponder microchip is hidden in the container, such as by being embedded in a plastic skirt of the container. The microchip contains identification information that can be read by a radio frequency (RF) scanner or reader which is preferable located in the vacinity of the chip (to avoid possible interference). An alternative form of this system uses conductive ink or a label or the like attached thereto to carry the information to the container. The label or the like may be quite small: for example, in one available system a postage-size label can be read at a distance of about one inch at a frequency in the 125 ~:hz range and this is quite practical especially for portable systems since it can be ensured that the reader and the label can be so closely placed.
In some of these systems, the information-containing chip or tag can be reprogrammed to reflect which product is placed in the associated storage container upon its return to the beverage producer to be cleaned and filled.
3} A mechanical system involves fitting the beverage storage container with a mechanical identifier or key, which, when the container is placed in a specific location, acts to permit the flow of beverage through the system. It can effect this result by opening a valve mechanically via a system of levers or via an electronic replay following positive mechanical identification of the container and its contents.
In summary, there are a number of commercially available; systems and devices capable of reading information provided on a container, determining if set criteria are met and acting accordingly to produce the desired result, namely, act on the beverage delivery system to allow beverage to be dispensed or not depending on the information read.
The flow of beverage through the system may be controlled in several ways for example:
(i) locate simple valve means on the conduit carrying the beverage, especially adjacent to the connection of the conduit to the beverage container. This valve can be opened or closed to control beverage flow in response to a signal from the information retrieval device.
Preferably, the valve remains in a biased closed position preventing beverage from being dispensed until a positive comparison signal is communicated to it. This also has the advantage, that the system remains inoperative in the absence of a container and, as containers are being changed, the conduit remains at least partially, depending upon the location of the valve, filled with liquid. Preferably, t:he valve when closed prevents any beverage from exiting the conduit.
(ii) In a system using a gas to pressurize the container and propel the beverage to and through the dispensing head, a control valve may be included on the conduit carrying the pressurized gas to the beverage-containing container. Again, it is preferred that it be located adjacent the conduit connection with the beverage container. The gas may be contained in a pressure cylinder or tank or produced by a suitable compressor or even by hand pump. In the case of the compressor, cutting power to the compressor would also achieve the desired result of preventing beverage flow through the system.
The containers referred to above will generally be kegs of various sizes. For example, in the beer industry in Canada the kegs would usually have a volume of from 20 to about 117 litres.
Many dispensing systems now use a "standard" keg having only one opening adapted to accept an easily used fitting called a "tavern head" which provides for the ingress of a pressurized gas which subsequently forces the beverage out of the container. Such kegs are made of metal and, frequently the base and the top portion of the keg arc provided with caustic resistant polyurethane skirts for protection. In the case of soft drinks, kegs may be used or even smaller containers such as four-litre PET beverage bottles, these being preferred for smaller portable units.
The beverage contents will generally be pressurized by the application of a gas such as nitrogen, carbon dioxide or mixtures thereof which is contained in a pressurized tank which communicates with the interior of the beverage container via a suitable conduit.
Alternatively, a hand-pump providing air under pressure may be used especially for smaller units. In such cases, a control valve assembly is conveniently included in the pressurized gas conduit, this being adapted to be activated in response to a positive signal from the information detecting means described above.
However, it is preferred that the valve be positioned in the conduit supplying beverage from its container to the dispensing tap and especially adjacent to, or as a part of, the connection device or fitting which connects the beverage container to the beverage conduit.
In one embodiment, the present invention relates to a beveravge dispensing apparatus where the beverage is dispensed into authorized serving containers. In particular, the invention is directed to a draft beer dispenser for dispensing draft beer into authorized serving bottles. By permitting the dispensing of draft beer only into authorized serving bottles, the brewer of the draft beer is able to control the style, shape or labeling of the serving bottle used in the tavern as well as insure that the brewers draft is Bald in its serving bottles preventing possible brand confusion with competitors draft beer sold at the tavern.
The serving bottles may have various novelty shapes, ihdicicc, or are labeled in manners that differ from the long neck bottle standard in the Canadian beer industry. In addition the serving bottle provides a bottle neck mouth opening from which consumers who prefer drinking from bottles over regular draft glasses may now have an opportunity to drink draft beer beverages extracted from a keg or the like.
The beverage dispensing apparatus of the present invention is provided with an authenticating device that distinguishes an authorized serving bottle or the like from a non-authorized serving bottle and permits the draft beer to be dispensed only into the authorized serving bottle or the like.
In accordance with an other aspect of the present invention there is provided a beverage dispensing apparatus for dispensing a beverage into an authorized serving container comprising a serving container authenticating device carried by the dispensing apparatus and operable to permit the dispensing apparatus to dispense beverage. The authenticating device, upon identifying placement of the authorized serving container relative to the dispensing apparatus for receiving beverage, permits flow of beverage from the dispensing apparatus into the authorized serving container.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention there is provided a beverage dispensing apparatus for dispensing a beverage into an authorized serving container. The beverage dispensing apparatus comprises a beverage tank filled with beverage and a dispensing fluid path through which the beverage may flow. The dispensing fluid path comprises a dispensing head attachable to the beverage tank, a fluid conduit path connected at one end to the dispensing head and at another end to a spigot, and a control valve positioned along the dispensing fluid path to normally prevent flow of beverage along the dispensing fluid path. The dispenser comprises a serving container authenticating device carried by the dispensing apparatus and operable to open the control valve, wherein the authenticating device, upon identifying placement of the authorized serving container relative to the spigot, opens the control valve to permit flow of beverage along the dispensing fluid path.
The spigot preferably includes a lever actuated valve which is manually operated to dispense beverage from the dispensing apparatus when the control valve is open.
Preferably, the control valve closes when the authorized serving container is removed. from the dispensing apparatus.
In yet another embodiment, the present invention therefore provides a dispensing apparatus for dispensing a designated beverage from a container containing a beverage, said apparatus comprising: a dispensing tap, a conduit for carrying said beverage from said container to said tap, information retrieval means adapted to read beverage identification information carried by said container and means to prevent flow of said beverage uni~ess said read information identifies a designated beverage.
Preferably the information retrieval device is an optical reader and the information carried by said vessel is in optical readable form, the housing is a container having a top, front, rear, bottom and opposed sidewalk, one wall being provided with an opening closed by a hinged and latchable door to provide access to said housing, a valued dispensing tap mounted on an exterior of one of said walls, a conduit extending from said tap into tlhe housing for operable connection to a beverage- from said vessel to said tap; and refrigerating means are provided to cool the beer prior to it being dispensed.
In yet another embodiment the present invention provides a beverage dispensing system for dispensing a designated beverage, said system having a dispensing tap, a conduit for connecting a vessel containing a beverage to said tap and providing for the flow of beverage from said vessel to said tap for dispensing only when said vessel ha s been recognized as containing a designed beverage including connecting such a vessel identifying vessel characteristics, means for reading said characteristics and determining if any such vessel is acceptable and, if it is, only then allowing passage of beverage from said vessel to said tap.
optical reader and the information earned by said container i;> in optical readable form; and it is portable.
The present invention further provides a portable or mobile dispensing apparatus for dispensing a designated beverage from a vessel containing a beverage, said apparatus comprising a housing provided with wheels and a hitch, a dispensing tap, a conduit for carrying said beverage from said container to said tap, information retrieval means adapted to ready identification information carried by said container and means to prevent flow of beverage unless said read information identifies a designated beverage.
It is another object of the present invention to provide a beverage dispensing apparatus for the purposes of dispensing draft beer into authorized serving bottles which are approved by a brewery or glass supplier to a tavern to insure that no brand confusion occurs between competing brewers.
The authenticating device may co-operate with a mechanical key carried by the serving container. This key may activate the control valve directly or through a relay switch. The control valve may comprise a valve that controls fluid flow therethrough or controls any motive means that acts to pump fluid through the dispensing apparatus. The. control valve may be embodied as the lever actuated spigot valve. Alternatively, the authenticating device may comprise an optical scanner which has memory and processing capability operable therewith for storing information relating to authorized serving containers and wherein the verifying means upon scanning of information comparable to information stored in memory permits flow of beverage from the dispensing apparatus. The information stored in memory may relate to indicia marked on the container or the container shape. It is also contemplated that the scanner recognize or capture standardized or non-authorized shapes which can be later interrogated by the brewer for determining attempts at non-sanctioned use of the dispensing apparatus.
to BRIEF DESCRIPTION GF THE D:I~AWINGS
For a better understanding of the nature and objects of the present invention reference may be had to the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying diagrammatic drawings wherein:
FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional side elevation of one embodiment of a beer dispensing apparatus of the present invention;
FIG. 2 is a part schematic cross-sectional side elevation of a second embodiment of the beer dispensing apparatus of the present invention;
FIG. 3 is a part schematic cross-sectional side elevation of a third embodiment of the beer dispensing apparatus of the present invention.
FIG. 4 is a part schematic cross-section of the product storage container, associated pressuring apparatus and dispensing tap of a fourth embodiment of thc; beer dispensing apparatus of the present invention.
FIGS. 5 and 6 are each a cross-sections of two different beer kegs adapted for use in the system of the present invention.
Throughout the drawings, for convenience, the same number may be used to identify the same item or part.
DETAILED DESCIaIPTI~N ~F EMBODIMENTS
In FIG. l, a beverage dispensing apparatus 10 is shown having a cooling water tank 11 that stores cooling water 12. One end of a cooling pipe 13 for beverage, arranged in the cooling water tank 11, is connected to a spigot 15, serving as a beverage pourer, through heat insulating material 14 which forms a wall of the water tank. The other end of the cooling pipe 13 is connected to a hose 16 outside the cooling water tank 11 also through the heat insulating material 14. A tavern head 18 of a beverage tank 17 is connected to an upstream end of the hose 16. An evaporator 23 connected to a refrigerator 19 is arranged in the cooling water tank 11. The cooling water 12 is cooled by operating the refrigerator 19. P;rrct of the cooling water 12 is frozen and a substantially constant amount of ice is stored in a perix>heral portion of the evaporator 23.
An agitator 24 is provided within the cooling water tank 11. The cooling water 12 is stirred by the agitator 24, so that beverage flowing through the cooling pipe 13 can be efficiently cooled.
Normally, when the spigot 15 is opened, beverage 25 in the beverage tank 17 is caused to flow through a dispensing fluid path that includes through an inductor tube (not shown) in the draft beer beverage tank 17, the tavern head 18, the hose 16 and the cooling pipe 13 in that order, and poured out through the spigot 15 by a pressure of carbon dioxide gas supplied from a carbon dioxide gas cylinder 26. The beverage 25 is cooled while it is flowing through the cooling pipe 13 by heat exchange with the cooling water 12 around the pipe. I-Iowever, in accordance with the present invention, the flow of beverage 25 through the dispensing fluid path is controlled by control valve 20. Control valve 20 is shown located between the spigot 15 and connecting plumbing connector 22 so as to provide easy installment with the dispensing apparatus 10. It should be understood that the control valve 20 may be located anywhere along the beverage flow path to control the flow of beverage therein or the control valve 20, in embodiments where motive means such as gas in cylinder 26 are used to pressurize the beverage, may be located to control the motive means. The control valve 20 of the present invention normally prevents flow of draft beer along the dispensing fluid path. The spigot 15 has a lever actuated valve 27 which is manually operated to dispense draft beer from the dispensing apparatus when the control valve 20 is open, permitting beverage to flow.
In FIG. l, a serving bottle authenticating device 30 is carried by the dispensing apparatus 10 and in particular by the spigot 15. The authenticating device, upon identifying placement of the authorized serving bottle 28 relative to the spigot 15, opens the control valve 20 to permit flow of draft beer along the dispensing fluid path. The control valve 20 preferably closes when the authorized serving bottle 28 is removed from the dispensing apparatus 10.
Alternatively, the control valve 20 may be time sensitive or volume sensitive to close respectively after a predetermined time interval has elapsed or after a predetermined volume of beverage has passed through the control valve 20.
In the embodiment of FIG. 1, the authenticating device 30 co-operates or matingly engages with a mechanical key 32 carried by the serving bottle 28. When the serving bottle 28 has it's head 29 adjacent the spigot 15 which carries authenticating device 30, the mechanical key 32 matingly engages the authenticating device 30 and causes the authenticating device 30 to open the control valve 20 through control line 21.
Referring to FIG. 2, an alternative embodiment is shown of the present invention. In this embodiment the dispensing apparatus 10 has a support base 34 below the spigot 15 bar carnes the authenticating device 30 which includes a mechanical key 31 and the serving bottle 28 has a base portion 36 which has a cavity 32 corresponding to key 31. Placement of the serving container 28 on the base portion 34 causes the mechanical key 31 to matingly engage the cavity 32 and thereby authorize via line 35 the authenticating device 30 to open the control valve 20.
Referring to FIG. 3, a third embodiment is shown where the authenticating device generally designated 37 comprises an optical scanner 39 which has memory and a processor operable therewith for storing information relating to authorized serving bottles 28.
The identifying or authenticating device upon scanning of information which correctly corresponds to information stored in the memory 39 opens the control valve 20 via line 35. The information stored in its memory 39 may relate to indicia 33 marked on the bottle, such as for example, bar code information, the product batch number or the shape of the botale. Further, the optical scanner 39 is positioned on the dispensing apparatus 10 and focused to read a specific small target area of the serving bottle 28 and hence may be a relatively inexpensive instrument.
Turning to FIG. 4, there is shown part of the keg cellar, generally designated 40 which has a wall 42 and a floor 20.
The number of such kegs obviously depends on the size of the housing volume 22 and of the containers. A keg 17 is equipped with a fitting 18 such as the device known as a tavern head -shown in more detail in FIG. 4 - such a fitting being available from Tap-Rite Company of Hackensack, New Jersey under the brand "TAP-RITE", for connecting keg 17 to flexible dispensing conduit or hose 16, the other end of which is connected to a spigot 15 dispensing nozzle 44. Located in hose 16 is a standard valve assembly ~44 operable in response to a signal from an optical reader 45 (see below).
Note that valve 64 is located in close proximity to the tavern head 18. The latter has also provision for connection to a second conduit or hose 46 the other end of which is connected to propellant gas cylinder 26, hose 46 being provided with pressure gauge 47. The gas cylinder 26 - contains a gas which may be carbon dioxide or a mixture oil carbon dioxide and nitrogen such as "beer gas".
Located in a recess 48 in the interior surface of cellar wall 12 is an optical reader 45 which is connected to valve assembly 44 via cable 49. The reader is connected to the main power (not shown). Keg 17 or other vessel to be used in this system is provided with a label or tag 50 which is coded using a bar code or the like to carry the desired information, for example, product type, brand, manufacturer, etc. Since an optical system is involved, the position o f the keg must ensure that the tag 50 is positioned in a line of sight of the reader to be easily "seen" and read by the reader 45. Upon activation of reader 45, it reads the coded information on tag 50 and, if the read information is accepted by the programmed reader as denoting a designated beverage, an authorization signal is sent via cable 49 to biased closed valve 44 which then opens in response thereto. Beer may then flow through conduit 16 to be dispensed through nozzle 44 of spigot 15.
If the read information does not match a designated beverage, no such signal is sent and beer cannot be dispensed. The reader 45 is arranged to send a signal to an indicator (not shown) to advise why the system cannot dispense beer.
In an alternative embodiment, refer SIG. 6, a lceg 17, simiilar to the keg shown F'IG. 4, is provided with protective upper skirt 51 and lower skirt 52 made of a polyurethane of a non-fading green colour. The upper skirt has two hand-holes, one shown as 53 and, embedded therein, a programmable radio frequency identification (RFI) tag 54. The system is completed by a suitable radio frequency scanner or reader (not shown) equivalent to optical reader 45, replacing the latter in the recess 50. Such readers and associated readable microchips are available commercial items and will not be described further. Again, positioning of the keg is important to ensure no metal, such as part of the metal keg, is positioned between the tag and the reader (since radio waves will not then pass through). Also, the reader and the keg should be maintained dry since radio waves at certain frequencies are adsorbed by water and a false reading may result.
The present invention does not specifically call for the refrigeration of the beer, for example, either during transit or when being dispensed via a mobile unit. However, it is preferred in such cases that the housing be at least ventilated by, for example, providing means and vents through the walls of the housing. Alternatively a refrigeration unit can be included preferably external of the housing but with access to the housing to cool same. In addition, if it is desired to cool the beverage prior to dispensing, there are a number of commercially available means and devices to do so from using a simple cold or ice bath arrangement to devices such as is described in the U.S. Patents mentioned herein above.
In summary, the present invention provides an improved apparatus and system for dispensing beverages and, in particular, one which ensures the correct and authorized product is the only one which can be dispensed. The present invention can be practiced in the usual retail establishments as well as in mobile dispensing devices which provide for delivery and dispensing of liquid refreshment at remote locations such as picnic areas etc.
x6
(ii) dispense any type of beverage only into authorized serving containers; or (iii) dispense only an authorized beverage only into an authorized serving container The system may be used in fixed or permanent facilities such as bars, restaurants or hotels and may also be used to advantage in portable of mobile beverage dispensers.
The information retrieval means an authenticating device may be of any convenient type including:
1) An optical reader device for example of the bar code type. In this system the product-defining or identification information is in the form of a string of alphanumeric characters or a bar code on a label tag or sticker carried by the container or vessel.
The device reads the information from the label and compares it to stored information. A
positive or matching comparison results in the system being authorized to dispense the beverage and vice versa. The tag or the like may be adapted to be permanent but, in most cases, it will be temporary and be removed when the container is returned to the production facility to be cleaned and refilled. Depending on whether the container is filled with the same beverage or not, the new tag will be marked accordingly. Devices to read and provide the required bar code labels are commercially available and will not be described further.
2) A microchip tagging system in which a passive transponder microchip is hidden in the container, such as by being embedded in a plastic skirt of the container. The microchip contains identification information that can be read by a radio frequency (RF) scanner or reader which is preferable located in the vacinity of the chip (to avoid possible interference). An alternative form of this system uses conductive ink or a label or the like attached thereto to carry the information to the container. The label or the like may be quite small: for example, in one available system a postage-size label can be read at a distance of about one inch at a frequency in the 125 ~:hz range and this is quite practical especially for portable systems since it can be ensured that the reader and the label can be so closely placed.
In some of these systems, the information-containing chip or tag can be reprogrammed to reflect which product is placed in the associated storage container upon its return to the beverage producer to be cleaned and filled.
3} A mechanical system involves fitting the beverage storage container with a mechanical identifier or key, which, when the container is placed in a specific location, acts to permit the flow of beverage through the system. It can effect this result by opening a valve mechanically via a system of levers or via an electronic replay following positive mechanical identification of the container and its contents.
In summary, there are a number of commercially available; systems and devices capable of reading information provided on a container, determining if set criteria are met and acting accordingly to produce the desired result, namely, act on the beverage delivery system to allow beverage to be dispensed or not depending on the information read.
The flow of beverage through the system may be controlled in several ways for example:
(i) locate simple valve means on the conduit carrying the beverage, especially adjacent to the connection of the conduit to the beverage container. This valve can be opened or closed to control beverage flow in response to a signal from the information retrieval device.
Preferably, the valve remains in a biased closed position preventing beverage from being dispensed until a positive comparison signal is communicated to it. This also has the advantage, that the system remains inoperative in the absence of a container and, as containers are being changed, the conduit remains at least partially, depending upon the location of the valve, filled with liquid. Preferably, t:he valve when closed prevents any beverage from exiting the conduit.
(ii) In a system using a gas to pressurize the container and propel the beverage to and through the dispensing head, a control valve may be included on the conduit carrying the pressurized gas to the beverage-containing container. Again, it is preferred that it be located adjacent the conduit connection with the beverage container. The gas may be contained in a pressure cylinder or tank or produced by a suitable compressor or even by hand pump. In the case of the compressor, cutting power to the compressor would also achieve the desired result of preventing beverage flow through the system.
The containers referred to above will generally be kegs of various sizes. For example, in the beer industry in Canada the kegs would usually have a volume of from 20 to about 117 litres.
Many dispensing systems now use a "standard" keg having only one opening adapted to accept an easily used fitting called a "tavern head" which provides for the ingress of a pressurized gas which subsequently forces the beverage out of the container. Such kegs are made of metal and, frequently the base and the top portion of the keg arc provided with caustic resistant polyurethane skirts for protection. In the case of soft drinks, kegs may be used or even smaller containers such as four-litre PET beverage bottles, these being preferred for smaller portable units.
The beverage contents will generally be pressurized by the application of a gas such as nitrogen, carbon dioxide or mixtures thereof which is contained in a pressurized tank which communicates with the interior of the beverage container via a suitable conduit.
Alternatively, a hand-pump providing air under pressure may be used especially for smaller units. In such cases, a control valve assembly is conveniently included in the pressurized gas conduit, this being adapted to be activated in response to a positive signal from the information detecting means described above.
However, it is preferred that the valve be positioned in the conduit supplying beverage from its container to the dispensing tap and especially adjacent to, or as a part of, the connection device or fitting which connects the beverage container to the beverage conduit.
In one embodiment, the present invention relates to a beveravge dispensing apparatus where the beverage is dispensed into authorized serving containers. In particular, the invention is directed to a draft beer dispenser for dispensing draft beer into authorized serving bottles. By permitting the dispensing of draft beer only into authorized serving bottles, the brewer of the draft beer is able to control the style, shape or labeling of the serving bottle used in the tavern as well as insure that the brewers draft is Bald in its serving bottles preventing possible brand confusion with competitors draft beer sold at the tavern.
The serving bottles may have various novelty shapes, ihdicicc, or are labeled in manners that differ from the long neck bottle standard in the Canadian beer industry. In addition the serving bottle provides a bottle neck mouth opening from which consumers who prefer drinking from bottles over regular draft glasses may now have an opportunity to drink draft beer beverages extracted from a keg or the like.
The beverage dispensing apparatus of the present invention is provided with an authenticating device that distinguishes an authorized serving bottle or the like from a non-authorized serving bottle and permits the draft beer to be dispensed only into the authorized serving bottle or the like.
In accordance with an other aspect of the present invention there is provided a beverage dispensing apparatus for dispensing a beverage into an authorized serving container comprising a serving container authenticating device carried by the dispensing apparatus and operable to permit the dispensing apparatus to dispense beverage. The authenticating device, upon identifying placement of the authorized serving container relative to the dispensing apparatus for receiving beverage, permits flow of beverage from the dispensing apparatus into the authorized serving container.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention there is provided a beverage dispensing apparatus for dispensing a beverage into an authorized serving container. The beverage dispensing apparatus comprises a beverage tank filled with beverage and a dispensing fluid path through which the beverage may flow. The dispensing fluid path comprises a dispensing head attachable to the beverage tank, a fluid conduit path connected at one end to the dispensing head and at another end to a spigot, and a control valve positioned along the dispensing fluid path to normally prevent flow of beverage along the dispensing fluid path. The dispenser comprises a serving container authenticating device carried by the dispensing apparatus and operable to open the control valve, wherein the authenticating device, upon identifying placement of the authorized serving container relative to the spigot, opens the control valve to permit flow of beverage along the dispensing fluid path.
The spigot preferably includes a lever actuated valve which is manually operated to dispense beverage from the dispensing apparatus when the control valve is open.
Preferably, the control valve closes when the authorized serving container is removed. from the dispensing apparatus.
In yet another embodiment, the present invention therefore provides a dispensing apparatus for dispensing a designated beverage from a container containing a beverage, said apparatus comprising: a dispensing tap, a conduit for carrying said beverage from said container to said tap, information retrieval means adapted to read beverage identification information carried by said container and means to prevent flow of said beverage uni~ess said read information identifies a designated beverage.
Preferably the information retrieval device is an optical reader and the information carried by said vessel is in optical readable form, the housing is a container having a top, front, rear, bottom and opposed sidewalk, one wall being provided with an opening closed by a hinged and latchable door to provide access to said housing, a valued dispensing tap mounted on an exterior of one of said walls, a conduit extending from said tap into tlhe housing for operable connection to a beverage- from said vessel to said tap; and refrigerating means are provided to cool the beer prior to it being dispensed.
In yet another embodiment the present invention provides a beverage dispensing system for dispensing a designated beverage, said system having a dispensing tap, a conduit for connecting a vessel containing a beverage to said tap and providing for the flow of beverage from said vessel to said tap for dispensing only when said vessel ha s been recognized as containing a designed beverage including connecting such a vessel identifying vessel characteristics, means for reading said characteristics and determining if any such vessel is acceptable and, if it is, only then allowing passage of beverage from said vessel to said tap.
optical reader and the information earned by said container i;> in optical readable form; and it is portable.
The present invention further provides a portable or mobile dispensing apparatus for dispensing a designated beverage from a vessel containing a beverage, said apparatus comprising a housing provided with wheels and a hitch, a dispensing tap, a conduit for carrying said beverage from said container to said tap, information retrieval means adapted to ready identification information carried by said container and means to prevent flow of beverage unless said read information identifies a designated beverage.
It is another object of the present invention to provide a beverage dispensing apparatus for the purposes of dispensing draft beer into authorized serving bottles which are approved by a brewery or glass supplier to a tavern to insure that no brand confusion occurs between competing brewers.
The authenticating device may co-operate with a mechanical key carried by the serving container. This key may activate the control valve directly or through a relay switch. The control valve may comprise a valve that controls fluid flow therethrough or controls any motive means that acts to pump fluid through the dispensing apparatus. The. control valve may be embodied as the lever actuated spigot valve. Alternatively, the authenticating device may comprise an optical scanner which has memory and processing capability operable therewith for storing information relating to authorized serving containers and wherein the verifying means upon scanning of information comparable to information stored in memory permits flow of beverage from the dispensing apparatus. The information stored in memory may relate to indicia marked on the container or the container shape. It is also contemplated that the scanner recognize or capture standardized or non-authorized shapes which can be later interrogated by the brewer for determining attempts at non-sanctioned use of the dispensing apparatus.
to BRIEF DESCRIPTION GF THE D:I~AWINGS
For a better understanding of the nature and objects of the present invention reference may be had to the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying diagrammatic drawings wherein:
FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional side elevation of one embodiment of a beer dispensing apparatus of the present invention;
FIG. 2 is a part schematic cross-sectional side elevation of a second embodiment of the beer dispensing apparatus of the present invention;
FIG. 3 is a part schematic cross-sectional side elevation of a third embodiment of the beer dispensing apparatus of the present invention.
FIG. 4 is a part schematic cross-section of the product storage container, associated pressuring apparatus and dispensing tap of a fourth embodiment of thc; beer dispensing apparatus of the present invention.
FIGS. 5 and 6 are each a cross-sections of two different beer kegs adapted for use in the system of the present invention.
Throughout the drawings, for convenience, the same number may be used to identify the same item or part.
DETAILED DESCIaIPTI~N ~F EMBODIMENTS
In FIG. l, a beverage dispensing apparatus 10 is shown having a cooling water tank 11 that stores cooling water 12. One end of a cooling pipe 13 for beverage, arranged in the cooling water tank 11, is connected to a spigot 15, serving as a beverage pourer, through heat insulating material 14 which forms a wall of the water tank. The other end of the cooling pipe 13 is connected to a hose 16 outside the cooling water tank 11 also through the heat insulating material 14. A tavern head 18 of a beverage tank 17 is connected to an upstream end of the hose 16. An evaporator 23 connected to a refrigerator 19 is arranged in the cooling water tank 11. The cooling water 12 is cooled by operating the refrigerator 19. P;rrct of the cooling water 12 is frozen and a substantially constant amount of ice is stored in a perix>heral portion of the evaporator 23.
An agitator 24 is provided within the cooling water tank 11. The cooling water 12 is stirred by the agitator 24, so that beverage flowing through the cooling pipe 13 can be efficiently cooled.
Normally, when the spigot 15 is opened, beverage 25 in the beverage tank 17 is caused to flow through a dispensing fluid path that includes through an inductor tube (not shown) in the draft beer beverage tank 17, the tavern head 18, the hose 16 and the cooling pipe 13 in that order, and poured out through the spigot 15 by a pressure of carbon dioxide gas supplied from a carbon dioxide gas cylinder 26. The beverage 25 is cooled while it is flowing through the cooling pipe 13 by heat exchange with the cooling water 12 around the pipe. I-Iowever, in accordance with the present invention, the flow of beverage 25 through the dispensing fluid path is controlled by control valve 20. Control valve 20 is shown located between the spigot 15 and connecting plumbing connector 22 so as to provide easy installment with the dispensing apparatus 10. It should be understood that the control valve 20 may be located anywhere along the beverage flow path to control the flow of beverage therein or the control valve 20, in embodiments where motive means such as gas in cylinder 26 are used to pressurize the beverage, may be located to control the motive means. The control valve 20 of the present invention normally prevents flow of draft beer along the dispensing fluid path. The spigot 15 has a lever actuated valve 27 which is manually operated to dispense draft beer from the dispensing apparatus when the control valve 20 is open, permitting beverage to flow.
In FIG. l, a serving bottle authenticating device 30 is carried by the dispensing apparatus 10 and in particular by the spigot 15. The authenticating device, upon identifying placement of the authorized serving bottle 28 relative to the spigot 15, opens the control valve 20 to permit flow of draft beer along the dispensing fluid path. The control valve 20 preferably closes when the authorized serving bottle 28 is removed from the dispensing apparatus 10.
Alternatively, the control valve 20 may be time sensitive or volume sensitive to close respectively after a predetermined time interval has elapsed or after a predetermined volume of beverage has passed through the control valve 20.
In the embodiment of FIG. 1, the authenticating device 30 co-operates or matingly engages with a mechanical key 32 carried by the serving bottle 28. When the serving bottle 28 has it's head 29 adjacent the spigot 15 which carries authenticating device 30, the mechanical key 32 matingly engages the authenticating device 30 and causes the authenticating device 30 to open the control valve 20 through control line 21.
Referring to FIG. 2, an alternative embodiment is shown of the present invention. In this embodiment the dispensing apparatus 10 has a support base 34 below the spigot 15 bar carnes the authenticating device 30 which includes a mechanical key 31 and the serving bottle 28 has a base portion 36 which has a cavity 32 corresponding to key 31. Placement of the serving container 28 on the base portion 34 causes the mechanical key 31 to matingly engage the cavity 32 and thereby authorize via line 35 the authenticating device 30 to open the control valve 20.
Referring to FIG. 3, a third embodiment is shown where the authenticating device generally designated 37 comprises an optical scanner 39 which has memory and a processor operable therewith for storing information relating to authorized serving bottles 28.
The identifying or authenticating device upon scanning of information which correctly corresponds to information stored in the memory 39 opens the control valve 20 via line 35. The information stored in its memory 39 may relate to indicia 33 marked on the bottle, such as for example, bar code information, the product batch number or the shape of the botale. Further, the optical scanner 39 is positioned on the dispensing apparatus 10 and focused to read a specific small target area of the serving bottle 28 and hence may be a relatively inexpensive instrument.
Turning to FIG. 4, there is shown part of the keg cellar, generally designated 40 which has a wall 42 and a floor 20.
The number of such kegs obviously depends on the size of the housing volume 22 and of the containers. A keg 17 is equipped with a fitting 18 such as the device known as a tavern head -shown in more detail in FIG. 4 - such a fitting being available from Tap-Rite Company of Hackensack, New Jersey under the brand "TAP-RITE", for connecting keg 17 to flexible dispensing conduit or hose 16, the other end of which is connected to a spigot 15 dispensing nozzle 44. Located in hose 16 is a standard valve assembly ~44 operable in response to a signal from an optical reader 45 (see below).
Note that valve 64 is located in close proximity to the tavern head 18. The latter has also provision for connection to a second conduit or hose 46 the other end of which is connected to propellant gas cylinder 26, hose 46 being provided with pressure gauge 47. The gas cylinder 26 - contains a gas which may be carbon dioxide or a mixture oil carbon dioxide and nitrogen such as "beer gas".
Located in a recess 48 in the interior surface of cellar wall 12 is an optical reader 45 which is connected to valve assembly 44 via cable 49. The reader is connected to the main power (not shown). Keg 17 or other vessel to be used in this system is provided with a label or tag 50 which is coded using a bar code or the like to carry the desired information, for example, product type, brand, manufacturer, etc. Since an optical system is involved, the position o f the keg must ensure that the tag 50 is positioned in a line of sight of the reader to be easily "seen" and read by the reader 45. Upon activation of reader 45, it reads the coded information on tag 50 and, if the read information is accepted by the programmed reader as denoting a designated beverage, an authorization signal is sent via cable 49 to biased closed valve 44 which then opens in response thereto. Beer may then flow through conduit 16 to be dispensed through nozzle 44 of spigot 15.
If the read information does not match a designated beverage, no such signal is sent and beer cannot be dispensed. The reader 45 is arranged to send a signal to an indicator (not shown) to advise why the system cannot dispense beer.
In an alternative embodiment, refer SIG. 6, a lceg 17, simiilar to the keg shown F'IG. 4, is provided with protective upper skirt 51 and lower skirt 52 made of a polyurethane of a non-fading green colour. The upper skirt has two hand-holes, one shown as 53 and, embedded therein, a programmable radio frequency identification (RFI) tag 54. The system is completed by a suitable radio frequency scanner or reader (not shown) equivalent to optical reader 45, replacing the latter in the recess 50. Such readers and associated readable microchips are available commercial items and will not be described further. Again, positioning of the keg is important to ensure no metal, such as part of the metal keg, is positioned between the tag and the reader (since radio waves will not then pass through). Also, the reader and the keg should be maintained dry since radio waves at certain frequencies are adsorbed by water and a false reading may result.
The present invention does not specifically call for the refrigeration of the beer, for example, either during transit or when being dispensed via a mobile unit. However, it is preferred in such cases that the housing be at least ventilated by, for example, providing means and vents through the walls of the housing. Alternatively a refrigeration unit can be included preferably external of the housing but with access to the housing to cool same. In addition, if it is desired to cool the beverage prior to dispensing, there are a number of commercially available means and devices to do so from using a simple cold or ice bath arrangement to devices such as is described in the U.S. Patents mentioned herein above.
In summary, the present invention provides an improved apparatus and system for dispensing beverages and, in particular, one which ensures the correct and authorized product is the only one which can be dispensed. The present invention can be practiced in the usual retail establishments as well as in mobile dispensing devices which provide for delivery and dispensing of liquid refreshment at remote locations such as picnic areas etc.
x6
Claims (34)
1. A beverage dispensing apparatus for dispensing an authorized beverage into an authorized serving container comprising a beverage storage container and a serving container authenticating device associated with the dispensing apparatus and operable to permit the dispensing apparatus to dispense beverage, wherein the authenticating device, upon identifying a serving container as an authorized serving container when placed relative to the dispensing apparatus for receiving beverage, permits flow of beverage from the dispensing apparatus into the authorized serving container.
2. The beverage dispensing apparatus of Claim 2 which includes a dispensing fluid path through which the beverage may flaw comprising a fluid conduit path connected at one end to the storage tank and at another end to a spigot, and a control valve positioned along the dispensing fluid path to normally prevent flow of beverage along the dispensing fluid path;
unless said authenticating device, upon identifying placement of the authorized serving container relative to the spigot, and/or that the storage tank is the authorized container, opens the control valve to permit flow of beverage along the dispensing fluid path and into said serving container.
unless said authenticating device, upon identifying placement of the authorized serving container relative to the spigot, and/or that the storage tank is the authorized container, opens the control valve to permit flow of beverage along the dispensing fluid path and into said serving container.
3. The dispensing apparatus of Claim 2 wherein the control valve closes when the authorized serving container is removed from the dispensing apparatus.
4. The beverage dispensing apparatus of Claim 2 wherein the dispensing apparatus has a support base below the spigot, that base carries the authenticating device and the serving container has a base portion which carries a mechanical key, and wherein placement of the serving container on the base portion causes the mechanical key to authorize the authenticating device to open the control valve.
5. The beverage dispensing apparatus of Claim 1 wherein the authenticating device comprise an optical scanner which has memory operable therewith for storing information relating to authorized storage and serving containers and wherein the identifying device upon scanning of information comparable to information stored in memory permits flow of beverage from the dispensing apparatus.
6. A beverage dispensing apparatus for dispensing a beverage into an authorized serving container, comprising a container authenticating device associated with the dispensing apparatus and operable to permit the dispensing apparatus to dispense beverage, wherein the authenticating device, upon identifying a serving container as an authorized serving container when placed relative to the dispensing apparatus for receiving beverage, permits flow of beverage from the dispensing apparatus into the authorized serving container.
7. The beverage dispensing apparatus of Claim 6 which a beverage storage container filled with beverage; and, includes a dispensing fluid path through which the beverage may flow comprising a fluid conduit path connected at one end to the storage tank and at another end to a spigot, and a control valve positioned along the dispensing fluid path to normally prevent flow of beverage along the dispensing fluid path unless the authenticating device, upon identifying placement of the authorized serving container relative to the spigot, opens the control valve to permit flow of beverage along the dispensing fluid path and into the serving container.
8. The beverage dispensing apparatus of Claim 2 wherein the spigot includes a lever actuated valve which is manually operated to dispense beverage from the dispensing apparatus when the control valve is open.
9. The dispensing apparatus of Claim 7 wherein the control valve closes when the authorized serving container is removed from the dispensing apparatus.
10. The beverage dispensing apparatus of Claim 6 wherein the authenticating device co-operates with a mechanical key carried by the serving container.
11. The beverage dispensing apparatus of Claim 7 wherein the dispensing apparatus has a support base below the spigot that carries the authenticating device and the serving container carries a mechanical key, and wherein placement of the serving container on the base portion causes the mechanical key to authorize the authenticating device to open the control valve.
12. The beverage dispensing apparatus of Claim 6 wherein the authenticating device comprise an optical scanner which has memory operable therewith for storing information relating to authorized serving containers and wherein the identifying device upon scanning of information comparable to information stored in memory permits flow of beverage from the dispensing apparatus.
13. The beverage dispensing apparatus of Claim 12 wherein the information stored in memory relates to indicia marked on the container.
14. The beverage dispensing apparatus of Claim 12 wherein the information stored in the memory relates to container shape.
15. The beverage dispensing apparatus of Claim 12 wherein the optical scanner is positioned on the dispensing apparatus and focused only to read a specific target area of the serving container.
16. The dispensing apparatus of Claim 7 which is volume sensitive and closes said control valve after a predetermined volume of beverage has passed therethrough.
17. A beverage dispensing apparatus for dispensing a draft beer into an authorized serving bottle comprising:
a beverage storage container filled with draft beer;
a dispensing fluid path through which the draft beer may flaw comprising a fluid conduit path connected at one end to the storage container and at another end to a spigot, and a control valve positioned along the dispensing fluid path to normally prevent flow of draft beer along the dispensing fluid path; and, a serving bottle authenticating device associated with the dispensing apparatus and operable to open the control valve; only when the authenticating device, upon identifying placement of the authorized serving bottle relative to the spigot, opens the control valve to permit flow of draft beer along the dispensing fluid path and into said serving vessel.
a beverage storage container filled with draft beer;
a dispensing fluid path through which the draft beer may flaw comprising a fluid conduit path connected at one end to the storage container and at another end to a spigot, and a control valve positioned along the dispensing fluid path to normally prevent flow of draft beer along the dispensing fluid path; and, a serving bottle authenticating device associated with the dispensing apparatus and operable to open the control valve; only when the authenticating device, upon identifying placement of the authorized serving bottle relative to the spigot, opens the control valve to permit flow of draft beer along the dispensing fluid path and into said serving vessel.
18. The dispensing apparatus of Claim 17 wherein the control valve closes when the authorized serving bottle is removed from the dispensing apparatus.
19. The beverage dispensing apparatus of Claim 14 wherein the authenticating device co-operates with a mechanical key carried by the serving bottle.
20. The beverage dispensing apparatus of Claim 19 wherein the dispensing apparatus has a support base below the spigot and wherein placement; of the serving bottle on the base portion causes the mechanical key to authorize the authenticating device to open the control valve.
21. The beverage dispensing apparatus of Claim 17 wherein the authenticating device comprise an optical scanner which has memory operable therewith for storing information relating to authorized serving bottles and wherein the identifying device upon scanning of information comparable to information stored in memory opening the control valve.
22. The beverage dispensing apparatus of Claim 20 wherein the information stored in memory relates to indicia marked carried by the bottle.
23. The beverage dispensing apparatus of Claim 20 wherein the optical scanner is positioned on the dispensing apparatus and focused only to read a specific target area of the serving bottle.
24. A dispensing apparatus for dispensing only a designated beverage from a storage container containing a beverage, said apparatus comprising a dispensing tap, a conduit for transporting said beverage from said storage container to said tap, information retrieval means adapted to read identification information, if any, carried by said container and means to preclude flow of said beverage unless read identification information identifies a designated beverage.
25. A dispensing apparatus according to Claim 24 wherein pressure means are proved to apply pressure to the beverage in the vessel to propel same therefrom.
26. An apparatus according to Claim 1 wherein said information retrieval means is an optical reader and the information carried by said container is in optical readable form.
27. An apparatus according to Claim 1 which is portable.
28. A dispensing apparatus according to Claim 4 comprising a housing provided with wheels and a hitch, and carrying a dispensing tap, a storage container containing a beverage, conduit for carrying said beverage from said container to said tap, information retrieval means adapted to read identification information if any carried by said container and means to prevent flow of beverage unless said read information identifies a designated beverage.
29. An apparatus according to Claim 28 wherein said information retrieval device is an optical reader and the information carried by said vessel is in optical readable form.
30. An apparatus according to Claim 28 wherein said housing is a container having a top, front, rear bottom and opposed sidewalk, one wall being provided with an opening closed by a door to provide access to said housing, a valued dispensing tap mounted on an exterior of one of said walls, a conduit extending from said tap into the housing for operable connection to a beverage containing storage container located therein.
31. An apparatus according to Claim 30 which includes a beverage pressurizing means to urge the beverage from said storage container and to said tap 28.
32. An apparatus according to Claim 31 wherein a valve is provided for controlling the flow of beverage from said container to said tap.
33. An apparatus according to Claim 32 wherein said valve is located on the conduit through which beverage flows from said vessel to said tap.
34. An apparatus as claimed in Claim 28 wherein refrigerating means are provided to cool the beer in said housing.
Priority Applications (3)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2414870 CA2414870A1 (en) | 2002-12-20 | 2002-12-20 | Beverage dispensing system and apparatus |
| AU2003294537A AU2003294537A1 (en) | 2002-12-20 | 2003-12-22 | Beverage dispenser with authenticating key |
| PCT/CA2003/002000 WO2004056695A1 (en) | 2002-12-20 | 2003-12-22 | Beverage dispenser with authenticating key |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2414870 CA2414870A1 (en) | 2002-12-20 | 2002-12-20 | Beverage dispensing system and apparatus |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2414870A1 true CA2414870A1 (en) | 2004-06-20 |
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| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2414870 Abandoned CA2414870A1 (en) | 2002-12-20 | 2002-12-20 | Beverage dispensing system and apparatus |
Country Status (3)
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|---|---|
| AU (1) | AU2003294537A1 (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2414870A1 (en) |
| WO (1) | WO2004056695A1 (en) |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2010093747A3 (en) * | 2009-02-11 | 2010-12-02 | Pepsico, Inc. | Beverage dispense valve controlled by wireless technology |
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| DE202004002163U1 (en) * | 2003-10-02 | 2004-04-22 | Trinczek, Wolfgang | Vending Machine |
| EP1897071A1 (en) * | 2005-06-10 | 2008-03-12 | Tenacta Group S.p.A. | Method for controlling the production of an apparatus for making drinks |
| DE102006047524A1 (en) * | 2006-10-07 | 2008-04-17 | Khs Ag | Method and device for serving and / or storing products, in particular drinks |
| US8511348B2 (en) * | 2008-02-14 | 2013-08-20 | Insight Beverages, Inc. | Beverage identification system and method |
| WO2015044731A1 (en) * | 2013-09-26 | 2015-04-02 | Blupura S.R.L. | Combination of dispenser and container for a plurality of containers, having a system for the correct placing |
| EP3049364B1 (en) | 2013-09-26 | 2016-12-21 | Blupura S.R.L. | Combination of dispenser and container with system for the correct placing and identification of the container |
| ITAN20130174A1 (en) * | 2013-09-26 | 2015-03-27 | Blupura S R L | CONTAINER FOR BEVERAGE DISPENSER WITH IDENTIFICATION SYSTEM |
| ITAN20130173A1 (en) * | 2013-09-26 | 2015-03-27 | Blupura S R L | DISPENSER FOR THE DELIVERY OF DRINKS WITH A CONTAINER IDENTIFICATION SYSTEM |
| GB2555970A (en) * | 2015-05-28 | 2018-05-16 | Automatic Bar Controls Inc | Beverage dispensing apparatus with smartcup tag identification and verification |
| MX2017015141A (en) * | 2015-05-28 | 2018-03-28 | Automatic Bar Controls Inc | Beverage dispensing apparatus with smartcup tag identification and verification. |
| US11498826B2 (en) | 2019-09-25 | 2022-11-15 | Evigia Systems, Inc. | Systems, devices, and methods for pairing kegs and taps |
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| US4745853A (en) * | 1987-06-02 | 1988-05-24 | The Coca-Cola Company | System for improving carbonation in post-mix dispenser carbonators |
| US5158793A (en) * | 1988-07-12 | 1992-10-27 | Edward Helbling | Coffee machine with product selectivity |
| US4929818A (en) * | 1988-11-15 | 1990-05-29 | Rainbarrel Corporation | Method and apparatus for vending a containerized product on multiple occasions following at least one refill of the container with the product |
| DE4021790A1 (en) * | 1990-07-09 | 1992-01-16 | Wella Ag | Fluid dispenser for bottle filling - has dispensing head on storage container with lock engaged by bottle key |
| DE4130665A1 (en) * | 1991-09-14 | 1993-03-18 | Feuerloescher Bauanstalt Bensh | Container filling method e.g. with corrosive detergents - has various sensors allowing filling only if container is of permitted size and automatic shut-off when full |
| DE9113538U1 (en) * | 1991-10-30 | 1992-02-06 | Schreuer, Uwe H., 6900 Heidelberg, De | |
| DE4342270A1 (en) * | 1993-12-10 | 1995-06-14 | Rainer Merdonig | Filling point for filling specific small container |
| US5584188A (en) * | 1995-05-25 | 1996-12-17 | Tippmann; Joseph R. | Refrigerated beverage trailer |
| CA2276927A1 (en) * | 1998-07-07 | 2000-01-07 | Thermoplan Ag | Dispenser as well as associated containers |
-
2002
- 2002-12-20 CA CA 2414870 patent/CA2414870A1/en not_active Abandoned
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2003
- 2003-12-22 WO PCT/CA2003/002000 patent/WO2004056695A1/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 2003-12-22 AU AU2003294537A patent/AU2003294537A1/en not_active Abandoned
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| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2010093747A3 (en) * | 2009-02-11 | 2010-12-02 | Pepsico, Inc. | Beverage dispense valve controlled by wireless technology |
| US8910674B2 (en) | 2009-02-11 | 2014-12-16 | Pepsico, Inc. | Beverage dispense valve controlled by wireless technology |
| US9212040B2 (en) | 2009-02-11 | 2015-12-15 | Pepsico, Inc. | Beverage dispense valve controlled by wireless technology |
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| AU2003294537A1 (en) | 2004-07-14 |
| WO2004056695A1 (en) | 2004-07-08 |
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