EA038515B1 - Beverage container having a pressure-relief device and method of manufacturing a beverage container having a pressure-relief device - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a container assembly for accommodating a beverage. The container assembly comprises a collapsible beverage container having a body part for accommodating the beverage and a cylindrical neck part defining a gas-filled headspace. The container assembly further comprises a closure sealing off an opening of the cylindrical neck part. The closure comprises a closure disc, an inner cylindrical part and an outer cylindrical part. The closure disc comprises a beverage outlet for extracting the beverage. The closure further comprises a pressure-relief device located at the closure disc or the inner cylindrical part. The pressure-relief device is capable of establishing a permanent or reclosable opening through the closure or between the closure and the neck part for allowing a flow of fluid from the headspace to an external space when a pressure difference exceeds a predetermined pressure value being lower than the burst pressure of the container.

Description

The present invention relates to a beverage container having a pressure relief device and to a method for manufacturing a beverage container having a pressure relief device.

The technical field to which the invention relates

In the past, beverages have been transported from place of production to place of consumption in containers such as glass bottles or, alternatively, in kegs made of wood or metal, preferably steel. Increasingly, new light and flexible materials such as plastics and preferably polyethylene terephthalate (PET) are being used to transport beverages, replacing both glass bottles and metal and wooden containers.

One of the advantages of using plastic containers instead of glass, metal or wooden containers is the significantly lighter weight of the plastic containers. Another advantage of using plastic containers is the fact that such containers are flexible and can be blow molded from small preforms just prior to filling with the beverage. After the container has been emptied of the beverage at the point of consumption, the beverage container can be folded, i. E. compressed or compressed to a much smaller size than the original filled size. Many modern beverage dispensing systems compress containers even during dispensing. In addition, the use of a modern beverage dispensing system makes it possible to exclude any contact between the user and the beverage.

In addition, plastic containers can be recycled in an environmentally friendly way, either by melting to reuse raw materials, or by incineration, which provides - in addition to creating carbon dioxide and water - renewable energy. Containers made of glass, metal or wood are more difficult to recycle and generally need to be transported back to the beverage manufacturer for cleaning, or alternatively to the manufacturer to be melted at high temperature and reused as raw material, both of which are harmful to the environment from the use of energy and the possible use of toxic substances.

To save material and to allow easy folding of the container, it is desirable to use containers as thin as possible. On the other hand, storing pressurized beverages, such as a carbonated beverage, in thin-walled containers will increase the risk of container rupture. In addition to completely losing the beverage stored in the container, rupture can also result in personal injury or property damage due to debris from the torn container. Ruptures can occur due to accidental puncturing of the container, however, the most severe ruptures can be caused by pressure build-up inside the container.

Since the pressure inside the container is directly related to the temperature of the beverage, rupture can occur due to a fire near the container or if the container is left in a warm place, such as in direct sunlight or inside an enclosed space that is heated by sunlight. In addition, fermented beverages such as beer emit large amounts of carbon dioxide during fermentation. When the beverage is sealed in a container, fermentation must be stopped or at least not continued in an uncontrolled or unpredictable manner. In the event that fermentation continues in an uncontrolled manner while the beverage is sealed in the container, the pressure build-up caused by the gas generated by the uncontrolled fermentation may rupture the container. Thus, there is a need for the safety of such pressurized containers.

Bursting due to pressure build-up inside the container can be avoided with an overpressure valve, which can limit the pressure in the beverage container by opening at a certain pressure limit and freeing the interior of the beverage container from any overpressure. However, any additional details will add to the overall complexity and overall cost of the beverage container. Since beverage containers are produced in very large quantities, it is imperative to keep manufacturing costs as low as possible.

Thus, it is an object of the present invention to provide techniques for avoiding overpressure rupture of beverage containers while maintaining low unit costs.

Prior art

US 2008/0078769 A1 discloses a high pressure gas cylinder comprising a throat having an elongated passage and a neck at the end of the passage. The plug and pierceable membrane are located within the passageway at a significant distance from the neck. The high-pressure gas cylinder additionally contains a transport cap removably mounted on the neck. The shipping hood includes at least two gas vent ports extending radially outward therethrough.

If the seal provided by the plug is broken, compressed gas exiting the gas cylinder through the passage exits the bell through opposing radial vent ports. Since the vent ports are substantially the same configuration, exhaust gas will exit each of the vent ports at substantially equal volumetric flows and rates.

- 1 038515 exits. Accordingly, the ventilation ports of the transport hood prevent the damaged bottle structure from becoming a rocket.

CN 2378333 Y refers to a beer bottle washer made of plastic. A plastic washer is resiliently clamped between the neck of the bottle and the cap. When the pressure inside the bottle rises to a level close to the critical burst pressure, the plastic washer loosens slightly and some of the gas inside the bottle can be released to reduce the likelihood of rupture.

WO 2016/169951 A1, claimed by the applicant company of the present application, relates to a very simple and effective method of embedding a safety valve in a beverage container using a flexible O-ring compressed between the lid and the neck of the container. The o-ring can be moved to a second position, in which a large part of the o-ring is compressed between the lid and the neck of the container, and a smaller part of the o-ring is not compressed in the groove, allowing fluid communication between the gas-filled headspace and the outside of the beverage container. The above system allows the headspace to be released when the pressure rises, however, there is a risk that the o-ring will return to its original position after the excess pressure is released, making it difficult for the user to detect whether the pressure has increased or not. In addition, it is difficult to accurately determine the critical pressure at which the O-ring moves to the second position, since the critical pressure depends not only directly on the pressure difference inside and outside the beverage container, but also on the elasticity of the O-ring. This elasticity of the O-ring is dependent on various pressure-independent factors such as temperature.

EP 1066215 B1 refers to a safety release device specially adapted for use with a piercer attached to a keg. The safe release device comprises a resiliently deformable member comprising a substantially annular end portion having an opening through which, in use, an inner lancing device is passed and a plurality of legs extending in use from the end portion, typically upward or toward the neck of the keg.

US 2,969,161 A relates to a plug for beer kegs and the like, comprising a partially breakable cap attached to the inner end of said connecting tube and typically sealing the contents of the barrel. When the valve fitting is inserted through the connecting tube into the bell, the bell will partially detach from the tube enough to allow the fitting to pass into the interior of the barrel to dispense its contents.

EP 2129616 B1 relates to a diaphragm for use in a valve assembly comprising at least one sealing segment and a retaining segment. The securing segment and at least one sealing segment are connected by a flexible segment.

US2016137478 A1 relates to a withdrawal tube assembly for a beverage container comprising a gas valve and a beverage valve adapted to cooperate with each other and comprising a ring-shaped spacer. The gasket is made of an elastomeric material and contains a rigid material insert.

An elastomeric material surrounds the insert and a segment of the top of the napkin is adapted to release from the insert when the pressure in the beverage container exceeds a predetermined level so that fluid communication is maintained between the interior of the beverage container and the environment and the pressure in the beverage container is released. The pad further comprises identification means readable from the top surface of the pad so that it is easy to read if the pad pressure relief function has been partially or completely triggered.

US 9016333 B2 relates to a liquid dispensing system comprising a container having a one-way valve built into the wall of the container. The one-way valve can be a flexible member made of any suitable material, such as silicone, and configured to open to allow liquid to flow from the outlet of the valve body through the opening of the container. The one-way valve may be a duck-beak valve that defines a slit created by the edges of the plastic member. The flow of liquid through the outlet port exposes the plastic member and slot to allow liquid flow to enter the container. When the liquid does not exit the outlet port, the slit is closed as the edges of the plastic element close together to form a seal.

US 5433242 A relates to a valve structure or assembly including a reservoir valve base, a duck beak valve holder, a duck beak valve, a disc valve stem, a tension spring, and a valve body.

Disclosure of the essence of the invention

At least the specified advantage, need and object, or at least one of numerous additional advantages, needs and objectives that will be apparent from the following description of the present invention, correspond to the first aspect of the present invention, related to a container assembly for containing beverage, and the assembled container comprises: a collapsible beverage container having a body part defining an internal volume for containing a drink and a cylindrical neck part defining a gas-filled free space, while the cylindrical neck part additionally defines an opening, an inward-oriented surface and an outward-oriented surface, and the beverage container additionally defines burst pressures and a lid sealing the opening of the cylindrical neck portion and comprising a lid disc facing the free space of the collapsible beverage container, an inner cylindrical portion facing the oriented inside the surface of the cylindrical neck part, and the outer cylindrical part facing the outwardly oriented surface of the cylindrical neck part, the lid disk comprises a beverage outlet for discharging the beverage from the container, the lid further comprises a pressure relief device located on the lid disk or the inner cylindrical part, wherein the pressure relief device is capable of creating a permanent or closable opening through the lid or between the lid and the neck portion to allow liquid to flow from the headspace of the collapsible beverage container into the outer space when the pressure difference between the headspace and the outer space exceeds a predetermined pressure value, the pressure setpoint being lower than the burst pressure.

The beverage container is preferably blown from a lightweight and flexible polymeric material that is self-supporting and capable of containing the carbonated beverage contained therein, closed from the environment under internal pressure. When opening the container, the beverage container may collapse when pressure is applied from the outside that is greater than the internal pressure. The material can be, for example, PET, polyethylene, polypropylene. The container is preferably in the form of a preform which is blow molded to fill size just before filling in the brewery.

The beverage container is generally in the shape of a bottle, i.e., a large body portion to receive all or most of the beverage, and a cylindrical neck portion having an opening that defines a beverage outlet and is closed by a lid. The lid is permanently attached to the neck of the beverage container after filling. The purpose of the lid is primarily to seal the opening of the beverage container and provide a beverage outlet for discharging. The beverage outlet is closed during transport and handling and is opened for beverage dispensing, typically when a beverage container is installed in a beverage dispensing system. It may include a one-way valve. The beverage outlet is preferably located in the center of the lid disk. In some embodiments, the lid is also used as a base for mounting and sealing the beverage container within the pressure chamber of the beverage dispensing system.

The inner barrel and the outer barrel are used to secure and seal the lid to the neck of the beverage container. Preferably, the inner cylindrical portion is sealed relative to the inwardly oriented surface of the neck, while the outer cylindrical portion is secured to the outwardly oriented surface of the neck. Fastening can be done by crimping, locking mechanism, snapping, melting, screwing, or any other technique deemed food safe. The seal can be made of an elastomeric material in the form of an O-ring. The presence of the inner cylindrical part and the outer cylindrical part makes it possible to protect the lid disk, since the lid disk can be located inside the neck part of the beverage container. Thus, the inner cylindrical portion and the outer cylindrical portion will act as flanges to protect the lid disk including the beverage outlet.

The pressure relief device is provided as a safety device in case the pressure inside the beverage container rises to a level that could cause the beverage container to rupture or deform. The pressure relief device provides a predetermined location where excess pressure can be relieved, thereby preventing an uncontrolled rupture or explosion that could result in property damage or serious injury to persons in the vicinity of the beverage container. The increase in pressure can be caused, for example, by an increase in temperature inside the beverage container or uncontrolled fermentation inside the container.

When the pressure relief device is opened, liquid exits the beverage container through the opening, and thus the pressure inside the beverage container is reduced. Depending on the orientation of the beverage container, gas or beverage (liquid) will pass through the opening. The pressure relief device is usually formed by a part of the lid disk or an inner cylindrical part, and may be entirely or substantially made of the same material as the lid disk and the inner cylindrical part. The use of a lid disk or inner cylindrical portion allows the pressure relief device to be independent of the beverage container while allowing the pressure release device to directly contact the interior of the beverage container. This ensures that pressure is directly applied to the pressure relief device inside the beverage container.

The pressure relief device is preferably located on the lid next to the beverage outlet or on the inner cylindrical part, so that the pressure relief device is protected in the same way as the beverage outlet, i. E. avoids the user accidentally opening the pressure relief device during handling and transport. Alternatively, it can also be located between the lid and the throat part, or directly in the sealing part of the lid.

Preferably, the pressure relief device will still be operational and facing outward when the container is inside the pressure chamber. Thus, in the event of overpressure inside the pressure chamber in the container for any of the above reasons or due to a malfunction of the pressure chamber, the pressure relief device will open and release the pressure in the entire pressure chamber and prevent a possible rupture of the pressure chamber. The position of the pressure relief device on the cover will also reduce the effect of a malfunction of the pressure relief device itself, that is, if the pressure relief device breaks down, most of the fragments will be in the space of the inner cylindrical part or the cover, and they will not scatter in the direction of the user.

The pressure relief device has a predetermined opening pressure, and upon opening, the pressure relief device forms a permanent orifice to release all excess pressure from the container to the outside, or alternatively a closure orifice that can be closed when sufficient liquid has been removed. The hole should be formed in a controlled manner, that is, without the formation of fragments that could cause damage. Thus, a pressure relief device is usually made of a flexible but inelastic material that opens and remains open as soon as the pressure difference between the inside and outside of the container exceeds a predetermined opening pressure.

The preset opening pressure is selected to be a pressure that is higher than the pressures that typically occur in a beverage container due to internal pressurization at standard pressures and ambient temperatures, but lower than the maximum safe pressure in the beverage container. The maximum safe pressure in a beverage container, in turn, depends on the thickness and material properties of the walls of the container, and it is clear that the walls will be thick enough to allow the beverage container to be as light as possible while still being able to withstand standard handling.

The opening can preferably be permanent, which means that the pressure relief device remains open, that is, it is inelastic. Thus, the pressure relief device does not close again when the pressure in the beverage container is reduced, and remains open even when the pressure in the beverage container is equal to the pressure outside the container, that is, atmospheric pressure. Consequently, the user will easily find that the pressure relief device has been activated either visually or by realizing that the beverage container is much easier to squeeze, for example, by the user's hand when the pressure relief device is open, compared to when the pressure relief device is closed and the container for the drink is under pressure. When the pressure relief device is open, essentially only the flexibility and thickness of the beverage container will provide resistance, while a filled and closed beverage container will only allow slight compression since the liquid is not substantially compressed and the headspace is pressurized. Thus, there is no risk that the user consumes a beverage that is not drinkable.

Alternatively, the opening can be closed, typically by providing a pressure relief device with a resilient material that automatically closes the opening when the pressure inside the beverage container has dropped, i. E. when enough liquid has been removed.

According to a further embodiment, the pressure relief device is at least partially visible from the outside of the assembled container. Thus, it will be easier for the user to detect if the pressure relief device has been activated.

According to a further embodiment, the pressure relief device comprises a weakened portion of the inner cylindrical portion, the weakened portion being permanently and / or elastically deformed inwardly when the pressure difference between the free space in the container and the outside exceeds a predetermined pressure value, thereby forming an opening, i.e. fixed or overlapping hole. When the inner cylindrical portion is sealed with respect to the neck portion of the container, the inner cylindrical portion may contain a portion that is weakened, for example, being thinner than the surrounding portions, and when there is a strong differential pressure between the inside and outside of the beverage container, the weakened portion will bend inwardly, breaking tightness and allowing gas to pass between the neck and the lid. The weakened part is usually made of an inelastic polymer and thus will not regain its original shape when the pressure is equalized, but it can also be made at least partly of an elastomer so that it regains its original shape. when the pressure inside the beverage container decreases. Combinations of permanent and elastic deformations are also possible, that is, not all, but some part of the deformation is restored with a decrease in pressure.

In a further embodiment, the pressure relief device comprises an elastomeric O-ring disposed between the inner cylindrical portion of the lid and the inwardly oriented surface of the cylindrical neck portion, wherein the weakened portion of the inner cylindrical portion and the elastomeric O-ring may be integral. When the weakened portion deforms internally, the elastomeric ring may move into the bulge, which deteriorates the seal between the cap and the throat. By having the weakened inner barrel and the elastomeric o-ring integral, the o-ring and cover assembly will be simplified.

According to a further embodiment, the pressure relief device comprises an elongated hollow protrusion extending outwardly from the lid disk and having a predetermined break point at the distal end of the elongated hollow protrusion to create a permanent opening when the pressure difference between the headspace in the container and the external space exceeds a predetermined pressure value ... The increased pressure acts on the inside of the hollow protrusion, and as soon as the pressure difference and the corresponding pressure force is large enough, the predetermined rupture zone opens and releases the excess pressure in the beverage container. The protrusion usually opens to form two or more wall portions that extend from the cover disk. Even in the unlikely event that parts of the walls are detached from the outer surface, they will not be thrown towards the user, but directed to the sides. The opening thus opens will be permanent.

This embodiment of the pressure relief device resembles a duck-beak valve with some exceptions. A duck beak valve is a type of one-way valve that resembles a duck's beak. However, while a typical duck beak valve is of the elastic type and closes again after equalizing the pressures, the present pressure relief device is made of a substantially inelastic material and remains open when a predetermined rupture zone is opened. In addition, in a typical duck beak valve, the predetermined rupture zone actually opens and seals simply by the resilience of the valve material; whereas in the present case, the predetermined rupture zone is a closed but weakened wall segment.

According to a further embodiment, the pressure relief device comprises a rupture plate disposed in the lid disk to create a permanent opening when the pressure difference between the headspace in the container and the outside is greater than a predetermined pressure value. In the simplest implementation, a rupture plate may be provided that has a predetermined rupture zone and which creates a constant opening that remains unchanged when the pressure difference exceeds a predetermined rupture pressure. The rupture plate may be a disc having a weakened notch portion or the like.

According to a further embodiment, the pressure relief device comprises:

a flexible film located on the lid disk facing the free space of the beverage container and covering the opening of the lid disk, a piercing mechanism located between the flexible film and the opening and facing the flexible film, and a movable plate located in a first position between the flexible film and the piercing mechanism , for supporting the flexible film, and the movable plate is made with the possibility of irreversible movement to a second position remote from the flexible film when the pressure difference between the free space of the container and the outer space exceeds a predetermined pressure value, with the provision of contact of the flexible film with the piercing mechanism, with opening thereby flexible film and opening.

Thus, the pressure relief device is located completely under the outer surface of the cover disk. The only visible part of the pressure relief device is the opening. This substantially eliminates the risk that the user will inadvertently activate and open the pressure relief device and / or that the user will be injured by fragments of a faulty pressure relief device. The flexible film can, for example, be made from aluminum or similar thin and flexible material. The piercing mechanism is usually made of plastic or similar material and must be capable of piercing the flexible film on contact.

Under normal pressure conditions, that is, when the movable plate is in the first position, the piercing mechanism will not come into contact with the flexible film as the movable plate will prevent any contact. In the event of a potentially hazardous overpressure situation within the beverage container, the movable plate moves to a second position so that the film can deform towards the piercing mechanism due to the pressure difference. When the film comes into contact with the piercing mechanism, an opening is created that will allow the gas to escape and thus reduce the pressure in the beverage container. The hole is permanent and thus the pressure inside the beverage container will equalize with the outside pressure. The predetermined rupture zone is a position on the film with which the piercing mechanism contacts; however, the film does not have to be weaker than the rest, since the break is performed by a piercing mechanism.

The flexible film seals the opening of the lid disk and is therefore subjected to a pressure differential between the inside of the beverage container and the outside. The movable plate is initially placed in a removable position between the flexible film and the piercing mechanism and supports the film in such a way that the film is prevented from bending or bending outward towards the piercing mechanism due to pressure differences. The movable plate can be released when a pressure force is exerted on it in excess of a predetermined opening pressure. The movable plate can, for example, be positioned in the first position by an interference fit or the like. This allows the overpressure in the container to be relieved very accurately.

In a further embodiment, the piercing mechanism is hollow. According to one preferred embodiment, the piercing mechanism also comprises an opening through the lid disk. Thus, when the flexible film is pierced, a straight channel is established between the inside of the beverage container and the outside, which cannot be closed.

In a further embodiment, the piercing mechanism forms part of the movable plate. The piercing mechanism can, for example, be part of the elastic section of the movable plate. By combining the piercing mechanism and the movable plate, the manufacture and installation of the cover plate (cover) is simplified, since the movable plate itself can be a standard component, and the combined movable plate and piercing mechanism are made separately and installed in one operation.

In a further embodiment, the movable plate is ring-shaped and may include an auxiliary opening to receive the piercing mechanism. Since the movable plate is in the shape of a ring, it will be easier to install because it is symmetrical. The auxiliary openings accommodate the piercing mechanism, and when the plate is in the first position, the piercing mechanism is completely covered by the hole of the hole, while when the movable plate is moved to the second position, the piercing mechanism protrudes from the hole and pierces the flexible film that is not supported by the plate, deforms and pierces mechanism.

According to a further embodiment, the movable plate is snapped-on or spring-loaded onto the cover plate. Snap latches and spring latches are two alternatives to an interference fit that allow very precise actuation of the movable plate to move from a first position to a second position at a predetermined opening pressure. A snap-on latch has two mating parts that move apart at a predetermined opening pressure. The spring retainer can be made using a flexible part of the plate abutting against the cover plate.

In a further embodiment, a flexible film covers the beverage outlet. The same flexible film can also be used to cover the beverage outlet, giving this part a dual purpose. Thus, in addition to providing the pressure relief device with an opening element, it is used to seal the beverage container during transport and storage. When a beverage container is used, for example, installed in a beverage dispensing system, the flexible film breaks at the beverage outlet, but remains intact at the pressure relief device, maintaining its function.

In a further embodiment, the bonnet disc comprises a valve seat and the pressure relief device comprises a valve body pressed against the valve seat by a spring. A spring-loaded valve may be preferable because its behavior can be accurately predicted due to the high predictability of the springs as opposed to predefined burst zones for which burst pressure cannot be predicted with the same high accuracy.

According to a further embodiment, the pressure relief device comprises a housing for housing a valve body and a spring, the housing preferably includes a slotted hole, the housing optionally further including a guide hole for guiding a guide portion of the valve body, the guide portion being flexible and optionally have a stopper. These features allow the spring loaded valve to operate more reliably.

In a further embodiment, the beverage contains dissolved CO2 and / or N2, wherein the beverage creates a temperature dependent increased pressure within the beverage container, the temperature dependent increased pressure being lower than the burst pressure at room temperature.

As used herein, the term room temperature means 0 to 60 ° C, preferably 10 to 40 ° C, more preferably 15 to 30 ° C, most preferably 20 to 25 ° C, such as 22 ° C.

According to a further embodiment, the pressure relief device comprises a plurality of piercing elements arranged in a circumferential manner around the beverage outlet, preferably 2-20, more preferably 3-15, or 4-10. In order to make the pressure relief device fail-safe and to provide a faster release of pressure in the beverage container, a plurality of piercing mechanisms can be used to create a plurality of holes when the movable plate is in the second position. Consequently, the flexible film is opened at a plurality of locations when the pressure drop exceeds a predetermined opening pressure. Accordingly, a plurality of openings can also be provided, but not necessarily the same plurality.

In a further embodiment, the beverage outlet comprises a one-way valve. The one-way valve preferably allows liquid to flow from the beverage container to the outside, but not back. In this case, the drink cannot be directed into the container.

In a further embodiment, the beverage outlet comprises a connector extending outwardly from the outer surface and surrounding the beverage outlet, the pressure relief device being disposed between the connector and the outer circumferential flange. Thus, a connector is provided to connect the beverage container to the dispensing line and an additional flange to protect the pressure relief device.

In another embodiment, the predetermined opening pressure is 3 to 15 atm, preferably 5 to 10 atm, more preferably 7 to 8 atm. The pressures indicated are the corresponding maximum pressures for the beverage container, since the normal internal pressure in the beverage at standard temperatures is about 2 to 3 atmospheres above atmospheric pressure.

At least the indicated advantage, need and object, or at least one of numerous additional advantages, needs and objectives that will become apparent from the following description of the present invention, correspond to a second aspect of the present invention related to a beverage dispensing system comprising a flexible pressure chamber. and a collapsible beverage container according to any of the previous embodiments for placement in the pressure chamber, and a cap for closing the pressure chamber and sealing the flange of the beverage container lid plate, wherein the beverage dispensing system further comprises a beverage faucet, a keg connector for connection to an outlet the beverage container and a return line extending between the beverage tap and the keg connector.

At a point of consumption, such as a bar, restaurant or the like, a beverage container is positioned in a pressure chamber and the beverage is pushed out of the beverage container by applying an overpressure inside the pressure chamber. The overpressure usually corresponds to the internal pressure of the beverage, for example about 2-3 atm above atmospheric. The pressure chamber cap is used to close the pressure chamber and seal against the flange of the beverage container lid plate so that the beverage outlet is exposed to atmospheric pressure. By connecting the keg connector to the beverage outlet and operating the beverage taps, the beverage is forced from the container to the tap while the container is squeezed. In the event of overpressure, which could be considered dangerous, the pressure relief device will still function and will provide an opening between the beverage container and the environment.

At least the above advantage, need and object, or at least one of numerous additional advantages, needs and objectives that will be apparent from the description of the present invention below, correspond to a third aspect of the present invention related to a method for filling and handling a beverage container. with it, including:

providing a collapsible beverage container having a body portion defining an internal volume and a cylindrical neck portion defining a gas-filled free space, the cylindrical neck portion further defines an opening, an inwardly oriented surface and an outwardly oriented surface, while the beverage container additionally defines burst pressure, placing the beverage in the inner volume of the beverage container, plugging the opening of the cylindrical neck portion with a lid containing the lid disc facing the free space of the collapsible beverage container, the inner cylindrical portion facing the inwardly oriented surface of the cylindrical neck portion, and the outer cylindrical portion, facing the outwardly oriented surface of the cylindrical neck portion, wherein the lid disk comprises a beverage outlet for discharging beverage from the beverage container and a pressure relief device located on the disc of the lid or on the inner cylindrical part, and providing a pressure differential between the free space of the container and the outer space to exceed the predetermined pressure value, thereby creating a permanent or occluding opening through the lid or between the lid and the neck part using pressure relief devices for allowing fluid to flow from the headspace of the collapsible beverage container to the outside, the predetermined pressure being below the burst pressure.

Said method according to a third aspect may be used in conjunction with a beverage dispensing system according to a second aspect and / or an assembled container according to a first aspect. The method describes the use of a lid plate on a beverage container.

Brief Description of Drawings

FIG. 1A shows an exploded view of a container according to the prior art.

FIG. 1B shows an assembled container according to the prior art.

FIG. 2A shows a lid having an outwardly oriented projection.

FIG. 2B shows a close-up of the outwardly oriented projection when pressurized.

FIG. 2C shows a close-up of the outward-facing protrusion when open.

FIG. 2D shows a close-up of an outward-facing protrusion when open.

FIG. 3A shows a lid having a pressure relief device with a piercing mechanism.

FIG. 3B is a side view of a pressure relief device having a piercing mechanism.

FIG. 3C shows a close-up of the pressure relief device when pressurized.

FIG. 3D shows a close-up of the pressure relief device when it is open.

FIG. 3E shows a close-up of the pressure relief device when it is open.

FIG. 4A shows a lid having a pressure relief device having a weakened portion.

FIG. 4B is a side view of a pressure relief device including a weakened portion.

FIG. 4C shows a close-up of the pressure relief device when pressurized.

FIG. 4D shows a close-up of the pressure relief device when open.

FIG. 4E shows a close-up of the pressure relief device when open.

FIG. 5A shows a cover having an O-ring with an integral weakened portion.

FIG. 5B is a perspective view of the O-ring and cover.

FIG. 5C is a side view of a cover including a pressure relief device.

FIG. 5D shows a close-up of the pressure relief device when pressurized.

FIG. 5E shows a close-up of the pressure relief device when open.

FIG. 5F shows a close-up of the pressure relief device when open.

FIG. 6A shows a cover having an annular pressure relief device.

FIG. 6B is a perspective view of parts of the pressure relief device.

FIG. 6C is a view of the film, the ring-shaped piercing mechanism and the O-ring.

FIG. 6D1 and 6D2 show a close-up of a pressurized pressure relief device.

FIG. 6E1 and 6E2 show a close-up of the pressure relief device when open.

FIG. 6F1 and 6F2 show a close-up of the pressure relief device when open.

FIG. 7A is a side view of a cover including a pressure relief device.

FIG. 7B is a close-up of a cover including a pressure relief device.

FIG. 7C shows a close-up of the pressure relief device when pressurized.

FIG. 7D shows a close-up of the pressure relief device when open.

FIG. 7E shows a close-up of the open-state pressure relief device.

FIG. 8A shows a lid having a flexible film and a movable plate including a piercing mechanism.

FIG. 8B is a perspective view showing the movable plate including the piercing mechanism.

FIG. 8C shows a close-up of the pressure relief device when pressurized.

FIG. 8D shows a close-up of the pressure relief device when open.

FIG. 9A is a perspective view of a lid according to another alternative embodiment.

FIG. 9B is a close-up view of a spring-loaded overpressure valve.

FIG. 10A is a side view of a spring-loaded overpressure valve in a closed state.

FIG. 10B is a side view of a spring-loaded overpressure valve in an open state.

FIG. 10C is a side view of a spring-loaded overpressure valve in a re-energized state.

FIG. 11 shows the body of a spring-loaded overpressure valve in different views.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a spring-loaded overpressure valve body.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an alternative housing having a large slit.

Implementation of the invention

FIG. 1A is an exploded perspective view of a prior art container including lid 2. The lid 2 illustrated herein is of the type used for large containers of about 5 liters or more. The beverage container comprises a neck portion 4 defining a gas-filled space and a body portion (not shown) usually filled with a carbonated beverage. The assembled container containing the beverage container and the lid 2 additionally contains an O-ring 6.

FIG. 1B shows an assembled container according to the prior art. The O-ring 6 is compressed or compressed in the circular cavity formed between the cover 2 and the throat part 4. This achieves a tight seal when the O-ring 6 is resiliently compressed by the surfaces that form the said cavity.

A groove 8 is formed in the neck portion 4, which occupies a smaller part of the periphery defined by the neck portion 4. When the pressure inside the beverage container rises above the equilibrium pressure of the carbonated beverage at room temperature, for example, when the beverage temperature rises to approach the burst pressure of the beverage container, the increased pressure causes elastic deformation and stretching of the O-ring 6 at the location of the groove 8, so that the O-ring 6 at the location of the groove 8 will move into the groove 8. The absence of sealing compression between the throat part 4 at the groove 8 will allow some gas from the free space from the inside of the beverage container to the outside.

When the pressure inside the beverage container is reduced to a safe level, the elastomeric O-ring 6 should preferably not restore the compression position between the lid 2 and the neck 4, but should maintain an uncompressed position in the groove 8. Thus, it can be determined whether the container has been exposed to pressure build-up caused, for example, by high temperatures or uncontrolled fermentation. In practice, however, it has been observed that since nothing prevents the O-ring from restoring the sealing position instead of the unidirectional operation of the O-ring, the O-ring may more or less accidentally remain in the open position or restore the closed position when the pressure decreases.

FIG. 2A shows a lid 10 forming part of an assembled container in accordance with the present invention. The lid 10 is made of a rigid plastic such as polyethylene or PET and contains a lid disc 12 including a centrally located beverage outlet 14. The lid disk faces a gas-filled void (not shown) in the neck of the beverage container. The lid disk further comprises a pressure relief device 16 in the form of a hollow protrusion 18 extending outwardly from the lid disk 12.

The lid 10 additionally comprises an inner cylindrical part 20, made in one piece with the disc 12 of the lid, and an outer cylindrical part 22, made in one piece with the inner cylindrical part 20. The inner cylindrical part 20 and the outer cylindrical part 22 are intended for fixing and sealing the neck part (not shown) a beverage container. The lid 12 is provided with optional auxiliary flanges 24 to protect the beverage outlet 14 and safety valve 16 to seal the beverage dispensing system and facilitate maintenance.

FIG. 2B shows a close-up of the outwardly oriented projection 18 in the closed state and under pressure, with the pressure force indicated by the arrows. The outwardly oriented protrusion substantially comprises outwardly oriented wall portions 26, 26 'which together form a predetermined opening zone 28 at a distant location.

As can be seen, the pressure force acts to push the outwardly oriented wall portions 26, 26 'away from each other. The outwardly oriented wall portions 26 are held together by a predetermined opening zone 28. As long as the internal pressure of carbonating the beverage is lower than the predetermined pressure value at which the predetermined zone 28 is opened, the pressure relief device 16 will not open. The preset pressure should be selected so that it is significantly higher than the internal carbonation pressure at room temperature, but significantly lower than the burst pressure of the beverage container. The burst pressure of a container is the expected differential pressure allowed before the container bursts.

FIG. 2C shows a close-up of an outwardly oriented protrusion in an open state. When the internal pressure in the beverage container exceeds a predetermined pressure value, the predetermined tamper zone 28 will open and the wall portions 26, 26 'will be pulled apart to create an opening at the predetermined tamper zone 28. Then gas from free space

- 9 038515 of the beverage container will flow out through the opening as shown by the arrow.

FIG. 2D shows a close-up of the outwardly oriented protrusion 18 in an open state.

The wall portions 26, 26 'will plastically deform such that the opening remains even when the pressure inside the beverage container is substantially equal to the pressure outside the beverage container so that the user can easily detect that the pressure relief device 16 has been activated.

FIG. 3A is a perspective view of a cover 10I having a pressure relief device 16I. The pressure relief device 16I is located on the lid disc 12 and has a piercing mechanism 30 located so that its intended position faces the inside of the beverage container. The piercing mechanism 30 is surrounded by an opening 32 in the lid disc 12.

FIG. 3B is a side perspective view of a pressure relief device 16I having a piercing mechanism 30. The piercing mechanism 30 and opening 32 are covered with a flexible but tear-off film 34 on the side facing the inside of the beverage container. Film 34 can be made from, for example, a metal such as aluminum or a polymer material such as plastic.

FIG. 3C shows a close-up of the pressure relief device 16I when closed, under the pressure indicated by the arrows. A flexible film 34 covers the opening 32, preventing any gas from escaping. As the pressure inside the beverage container increases, the flexible film 34 flexes towards the piercing mechanism 30.

FIG. 3D shows a close-up of the pressure relief device 16I when open. When the internal pressure in the beverage container exceeds a predetermined pressure value, the pressure force will cause the film 34 to bend further towards the piercing mechanism 30 and the film 34 will be opened when pierced by the piercing mechanism 30, creating a permanent hole allowing gas to flow, as indicated by the arrows.

FIG. 3E shows a close-up of the pressure relief device 16I when it is open. Since the film 34 is broken, the hole is permanent and remains so even after the gas escapes.

FIG. 4A shows a lid 10 ⁿ having a ^{pressure relief device 16 n} in the open state containing a weakened portion (not shown). The weakened part is located on the inner cylindrical part 20 and runs along part of the circumference of the cover 10 ^p .

FIG. 4B shows a side view of a ^{pressure relief device 16 n} including a weakened portion 36. Also shown is a neck portion 38 of a beverage container and an O-ring 40 made of resilient material. The sealing ring 40 serves as a seal between the inner cylindrical portion 20 and cover 10 ⁿ throat portion 38 of the beverage container.

FIG. 4C shows a close-up of the pressure relief device 16 ⁿ when it is closed, and the pressure difference between the inner and outer sides of the beverage container is below a predetermined pressure value. It can be seen that the O-ring 40 serves as a seal between the weakened portion 36 of the inner cylindrical portion 20 and cover 10 ⁿ throat portion 38 of the beverage container. The weakened portion 36 resists the pressure force.

FIG. 4D shows a close-up of the ^{pressure relief device 16 p} when the pressure difference between the inside and outside of the beverage container exceeds a predetermined pressure value. The force of pressure will act on the weakened portion 36, as indicated by the arrows, causing the weakened portion 36 to deform, forming an inward bulge. The O-ring will move inwardly into the bulge and an opening is formed between the inner cylindrical portion 20 and the neck portion 38 to allow gas to escape.

FIG. 4E shows a close-up of the pressure relief device 16 when the pressure difference between the inside and outside of the beverage container has been equalized. Since the deformation causing a bulge represents the plastic deformation of the substantially rigid plastic parts, the bulge will be largely maintained even after the differential pressure equalization, allowing the user to easily detect that the pressure relief device 16 ⁿ has been activated. In an alternative embodiment, the deformation is substantially elastic and the bulge disappears, restoring the state of FIG. 4C, whereby the O-ring 40 will seal between the weakened portion 36 of the inner cylindrical portion 20 of the lid 10 ^p and the neck portion 38 of the beverage container.

FIG. 5A shows a cover 10 ^w having an o-ring with an integral weakened portion 42. Thus, the ^{pressure relief device 16 w is} integrated into the o-ring 42.

FIG. 5B is an exploded perspective view of the seal ring 42 and cover 10 ^w. The portion of the seal ring 42 forming the ^{pressure relief device 16 w} is an extension of the seal ring 42 that covers the opening 32 '.

FIG. 5C is a side view of a cover 10 ^w including a pressure relief ^{device 16 w.} As can be seen, the O-ring 40 forms a seal between the inner cylindrical portion 20 of the lid 10 ^w and the neck portion 38 of the beverage container.

FIG. 5D shows a close-up device 16 ^br pressure relief when it is closed. As can be seen, the O-ring 42 at the location of the pressure relief device 16 consists of the O-ring 40I itself, made of a resilient material such as rubber, and a weakened

- 10 038515 of part 36, made of rigid plastic and inseparably connected to the sealing ring 40I itself at the location of the ^{pressure relief device 16 III} , which blocks and seals the opening. The pressure force acts at an angle inward as indicated by the arrows.

FIG. 5E is a close-up of the pressure relief device when it is pressurized and open and the pressure difference between the inside and outside of the beverage container exceeds a predetermined pressure value. The pressure force will act on the weakened portion 36I of the sealing ring 42, as indicated by arrows, causing the weakened portion 36 ^I deform inwardly directed convexity. All sealing ring 42 at the location of the device 16 ^w depressurization and aperture 32 is displaced inward, and between the inner cylindrical portion 20 and neck portion 38 is formed an opening, allowing gas to escape, as shown by the arrow.

FIG. 5F shows a close-up of the ^{pressure relief device 16 w} when it is open and the pressure difference between the inside and outside of the beverage container has been equalized. Since the deformation causing a bulge represents the plastic deformation of the substantially rigid plastic part, the bulge is largely retained even after equalizing the pressure differential that allows the user to easily find that the device 16 ^w depressurization have been activated, as in the previous embodiment. In an alternative embodiment, the deformation is substantially elastic and the bulge disappears, restoring the state of FIG. 5C so that the O-ring 40 forms a seal between the weakened portion 36 of the inner cylindrical portion 20 of the lid 10 ^w and the neck portion 38 of the beverage container.

FIG. 6A shows a cover 10 ^IV having a flexible film 34I forming part of a pressure relief ^{device 16 IV.} Flexible film 34 covers the area of the lid 10 ^IV , including an inner cylindrical flange facing the headspace of a beverage container (not shown). In addition, the beverage outlet (not shown) is covered with a flexible film 34 and is opened when the beverage container is installed in a beverage dispensing system (not shown).

FIG. 6B is a perspective view of the cover 10 ^IV and parts of the pressure relief ^{device 16 IV.} The device 16 ^{IV of} pressure relief of the lid 10 ^IV contains a plurality of hollow piercing mechanisms 30 ^I inside the arcuate cavity 44 on the inner cylindrical flange 20. The device 16 ^{IV of the} pressure relief of the lid 10 ^IV additionally contains an O-ring 46 made of rigid plastic for placement in the annular cavity 44. O-ring 46 has a plurality of holes 48 corresponding to hollow piercing mechanisms 301. The washer 42 further comprises tabs 50 for engaging with the inner cylindrical flange (inner cylindrical portion) 20 to provide a distance between the bottom of the cavity 44 and the washer 46. Both cavity 44 and O-ring 46 covered with flexible film 341

FIG. 6C shows a view of the film 34 ^I , the piercing mechanisms 30 ^I and the O-ring 46. The holes 48 of the O-ring 46 prevent the piercing mechanisms 301 from piercing the film 34.

FIG. 6D1 and 6D2 show a close-up of the ^{pressure relief device 16 IV} when closed and pressurized as indicated by the arrows. The tabs 50 ensure that the distance between the bottom of the cavity and the O-ring 46 is maintained by preventing contact between the film 34 ^I and the hollow piercing mechanisms 301 The pressure acts on the film 321 and the film 34 ^I , in turn, rests on the O-ring 46. The distance between the O-ring 46 and the bottom of the cavity 44 is supported by tabs 50, which engage with the inner cylindrical flange 20 and thereby prevent opening of the film 34 ^{I by} hollow piercing mechanisms 301

FIG. 6E1 and 6E2 show a close-up of the open pressure relief ^{device 16 IV.} As soon as the pressure in the container exceeds a predetermined pressure value, the tabs 50 break or bend so that the O-ring 46 is moved to the bottom of the cavity 44, eliminating the distance between them and exposing the hollow piercing mechanisms 30 ^I through the holes 48. Thus, the hollow piercing mechanisms 30 ^I can break through the film 34 ^I and gas inside the container can escape through the hollow piercing mechanisms 30 ^I and the opening (not shown) of the lid 16 ^IX .

FIG. 6F1 and 6F2 show a close-up of the ^{pressure relief device 16 IV} in the open state. Since the film 34 is broken, the hole is permanent.

FIG. 7A shows a cover 10 ^V similar to the previous embodiment having a flexible film 34 forming part of the pressure relief ^{device 16 V.} Flexible film 34 covers the area of the lid 10 ^V , including an inner cylindrical flange 20 facing the headspace of a beverage container (not shown). In addition, the beverage outlet is covered with a flexible film 34 and is opened when the beverage container is installed in a beverage dispensing system (not shown).

FIG. 7B is a close-up view of the ^{lid 10 V} including the pressure relief ^{device 16 V.} The O-ring 46 ^{I is} held in place by tabs 50. The piercing mechanism 30 ^II is disposed adjacent to the O-ring 46 ^I. The 16 ^V cover pressure relief ^{device 10 V} contains one or

- 11 038515 more openings 32 and an O-ring 46 ¹ made of hard plastic for placement in the annular cavity 44 on the inner cylindrical flange 20. The O-ring 46I does not contain any openings and is thus completely flat, however it contains tabs 50 for interaction with the inner cylindrical flange 20 to ensure that there is a distance between the washer 46 and the piercing mechanisms 3ο ¹¹ forming part of the inner cylindrical flange. Both the 3 ο ¹¹ lancing devices and the O-ring 46 are covered with a flexible film 34. The 3 ο ¹¹ lancing devices are fully integrated into the 10 ^V cover and can vary from one or more.

FIG. 7C shows a close-up of the ^{pressure relief device 16 V} when closed and pressurized as indicated by the arrows. The tabs 50, which engage with the inner cylindrical flange 20, ensure that the distance between the film 34 and the piercing mechanisms 3ο ^{11 is} maintained, preventing contact between them. The pressure acts on the film 34, and the film 34, in turn, rests on the O-ring 46. The tabs 50, thus preventing the opening of the film 34 by the piercing mechanisms 3ο ¹¹ , maintain the distance between the film 34 and the piercing mechanisms ZO ¹¹ .

FIG. 7D shows a close-up view of the 16 ^V pressure relief device when open. As soon as the pressure in the container exceeds the predetermined pressure value, the tabs 50 break or bend so that the washer 46I moves further into the cavity 44, and thus the film 34 is no longer supported by the washer 46. Thus, the hollow piercing mechanisms ZO ¹¹ can open the film 34, and the gas inside the container can escape through the opened film 34 and the opening (not shown) of the lid 16 ^V.

FIG. 7E is a close-up view of the 16 ^V pressure relief device in the open state. Similar to the previous embodiment, the ^{pressure relief device 16 V} remains open after the film 34 has been opened.

FIG. 8A shows a cover 10V \ similar to the previous embodiment having a flexible film 34 forming part of a pressure relief ^{device 16 VI.} Flexible film 34 covers the area of the cover 10 ^VI including an inner cylindrical flange 20 facing the headspace of a beverage container (not shown). In addition, the beverage outlet (not shown) is covered with a flexible film 34 and is opened when the beverage container is installed in a beverage dispensing system (not shown).

The device 16 ^{V of} pressure relief of the cover 10 ^ contains one or more openings 32 and an O-ring 46 ^II made of rigid plastic for placement in the annular cavity 44 on the inner cylindrical flange 20. The O-ring 46 ^p does not contain any tabs; however, it contains openings 48 for air passage. The annular spacer 46 ^II further comprises flexible arms 52 extending into the cavity 44 and including piercing mechanisms 30II located opposite the holes 48. The arms 52 ensure that there is a distance between the film 34 and the piercing mechanisms ZO ¹¹¹ .

The annular gasket comprises a flexible 46II console 52 connected at one end with an annular gasket 46 acting ⁿ and ^w lancing mechanism 30 at the distal end. Each of the piercing mechanisms 30 ^w is located in the hole 48 and is able to protrude through the hole thanks to the flexible arm 52. In addition, additional auxiliary arms 52 ^I can be provided to provide additional support.

FIG. 8B shows a close-up of the ^{pressure relief device 16 V} when closed and pressurized as indicated by the arrows. An annular gasket 46 ^II , which includes flexible arms 52 and a piercing mechanism 30 ^w , is enclosed within the cavity 44 and covered with a film 34. An annular gasket 46 ⁿ prevents contact between the film 34 and the piercing mechanism 30 ^w . The pressure acts on the film 34, and the film 34, in turn, bears on the O-ring 46 ^N. The flexible arms 52 of the annular spacer 46 ⁿ abut against the cover 10 ^VI inside the cavity 44 and will flex when exposed to force, however, as long as the pressure inside the container does not exceed a predetermined pressure, the force will be insufficient for the piercing mechanisms 30 ^{W to} come out through the hole 48, and the breakage of the film 34 by the piercing mechanisms 30 ^{w is} prevented.

FIG. 8C shows a close-up of the ^{pressure relief device 16 VI} when it is open. Once the pressure in the container exceeds a predetermined pressure value, flexible console 52 an annular gasket 46 ^II will flex or bend sufficiently to allow piercing mechanism 30 ^w exit through the opening 48 and the film 34 and, thus, the film 34 is no longer maintained with an O-ring 46 ^I I, and therefore the piercing mechanisms 30 II can break through the film 34 and gas inside the container can escape through the broken film 34 and the opening 32 of the pressure relief ^{device 16 VI.}

FIG. 8D shows a close-up of the ^{pressure relief device 16 VI} when it is open. As in the previous embodiment, the ^{pressure relief device 16 VI} remains open after the film 34 has been broken.

FIG. 9A shows a cover 10 ^VI I according to another alternative embodiment.

- 12 038515

The lid ΙΟ ^ ¹ comprises a lid disc 12 including a centrally located beverage outlet 14 as in the previous embodiments. The lid disc 12 further comprises a ^{pressure relief device 16 V} in the form of a spring-loaded overpressure valve 54 located on the lid disc 12 and passing through the disc 12.

FIG. 9B shows a close-up of a spring-loaded overpressure valve 54. The spring-loaded overpressure valve 54 includes a valve body 56 that is pressed against the valve seat 58 by means of a spring 60. The valve body 56 and spring 60 are located in a housing 62 extending from the empty space of the container. The valve seat 58 faces the free space of the beverage container.

In the event that the pressure inside the beverage container exceeds a predetermined pressure value, the valve body 56 moves away from the valve seat when the spring is compressed until the valve body 56 opens a slot 64 in the housing 62, allowing excess gas to escape. The preset pressure, as indicated above, should be selected so that it is significantly higher than the internal carbonation pressure at room temperature, but significantly lower than the burst pressure of the beverage container.

The body 62 further comprises a guide hole 66 through which a guide portion 68 of the valve body 56 passes. The pilot hole 66 and the guide portion 68 serve to maintain the alignment of the valve body 56 with the valve seat 58 and to prevent the valve body 56 from breaking the valve seat 58 due to the applied spring force. In addition, the guide portion 68 allows the valve body 56 to be manually operated from the outside. The valve body 56 has a rounded surface facing the free space of the container and defines sealing lips 70 that seal the valve seat 58. Polymeric materials are preferably used, especially for the valve body 56 and valve seat 58.

FIG. 10A shows a close-up of a spring-loaded ^{overpressure valve 54 (16V} ) in a closed state. The pressure within the headspace acts on the surface of the valve body 56 as indicated by the arrows. In normal operation, the gassing pressure within the headspace of the container cannot overcome the resilient force of the spring 60, and thus a sealing bond is maintained between the valve body 56 and the valve seat 58, preventing any gas from escaping from the headspace.

FIG. 10B shows a close-up of a spring-loaded ^{overpressure valve 54 (16V} ) in the open state. When the pressure within the headspace increases and exceeds a predetermined pressure value, the spring 60 is compressed, allowing the valve body 56 to move away from the valve seat 60, as shown by the bold arrow, thereby opening a slot 64 allowing excess gas to escape into the headspace of the container, as shown by the thin arrow. At the same time, the guide portion 68 extends outwardly, and this movement of the guide portion 68 can further be used to indicate that the spring-loaded overpressure valve 54 has been activated, for example, by connecting it to the rupture portion.

FIG. 10C shows a close-up view of a spring-loaded ^{overpressure valve 54 (16V} ) in a resealable state. Typically, the spring 60 causes the valve body to move, as shown by the thick arrow, to its original position of contact with the valve seat 58 when the headspace pressure returns below the predetermined pressure, i.e., returns to normal pressure, as shown by the thin arrows. The optionally open state can be maintained permanently even if the headspace pressure returns to below the preset pressure. This can be done by bringing the guide part to its outwardly projecting position, for example using a locking part.

FIG. 11 shows the body 56 of a spring-loaded overpressure valve in different views, that is, top view, perspective view, side view, sectional view and bottom view. Thus, details such as the lips 70 for sealing the valve seat 58 and the guide portion 68 are clearly visible. The guide portion 68 includes a stop 68 ', which in this case is in the form of a wedge clip, which prevents the valve body 56 from being pushed through the valve seat 58. The guide portion 68 is preferably divided into two parts, which allows some flexion relative to each other, allowing easy insertion of the stopper into the guide hole 66.

FIG. 12 shows a spring-loaded positive pressure valve body 62 as part of a bonnet disc 12. A slot 64 is clearly visible, extending as a hole along the side of the housing 62, as well as a guide hole 66.

FIG. 13 shows an alternative housing 62 having a large slot 64 'opening along the side of housing 62.

It will be apparent to a person skilled in the art that the above described embodiments disclose only one of the many embodiments contemplated by the present invention, and that these embodiments may be modified in a variety of ways without departing from the scope of the invention as described in the appended claims. inventions.

- 13 038515

List of reference symbols

- cover (prior art),

- throat part (prior art),

- O-ring (prior art),

- groove (prior art),

- lid,

- cover disc,

- outlet for a drink,

- pressure relief device,

- hollow protrusion,

- inner cylindrical part,

- outer cylindrical part,

- auxiliary flanges,

- parts of the walls,

- predetermined rupture zone,

- piercing mechanism,

- opening,

- flexible film,

- weakened part,

- throat part,

- sealing ring,

- an o-ring (combined with a part of the wall),

- cavity,

- O-ring,

- holes,

- paws,

- flexible consoles,

- spring-loaded overpressure valve,

- valve body,

- valve seat,

- spring,

- frame,

- gap,

- guide hole,

- guiding part,

- edges.

Claims (19)

CLAIM 1. An assembled container for containing a beverage, wherein said assembled container contains: a collapsible beverage container having a body portion defining an internal volume for containing said beverage and a cylindrical neck portion (38) defining an opening, an inwardly oriented surface and an outwardly oriented surface, wherein said beverage container additionally defines a burst pressure, and a lid ( 10), sealing said opening of said cylindrical neck portion and comprising a lid disc (12) facing said inner volume of said collapsible beverage container, an inner cylindrical part (20) facing said inwardly oriented surface of said cylindrical neck portion, and an outer cylindrical a portion (22) facing said outwardly oriented surface of said cylindrical neck portion, wherein said lid disc comprises a beverage outlet (14) for discharging said beverage from said beverage container, characterized in that said lid (10) is additional It additionally comprises a pressure relief device (16) located on said cover disc or said inner cylindrical part, and said pressure relief device is capable of creating a permanent or closable opening through said cover or between said cover and said throat part to enable fluid flow from said internal volume of said collapsible beverage container into an outer space when the pressure difference between said inner volume and said outer space exceeds a predetermined pressure value, and said predetermined pressure value is lower than said burst pressure. 2. A container assembly according to claim 1, wherein said pressure relief device (16) is at least partially visible from the outside of said container assembly. 3. Container assembly according to any one of claims 1, 2, and the specified device (16) pressure relief co- 4. A container assembly according to claim 3, wherein said pressure relief device (16) comprises an elastomeric O-ring (40; 42) located between said inner cylindrical part (20) of said cap (10) and said inwardly oriented surface of said cylindrical neck part (38), wherein said weakened part (36) of said inner cylindrical part (20) and said elastomeric sealing ring are optionally integral. 5. A container assembly according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said pressure relief device (16) has an elongated hollow protrusion (18) extending outwardly from said lid disc (12) and having a predetermined opening zone (28) at the distal end of said an elongated hollow protrusion to create a constant hole when the specified pressure difference between the specified internal volume and the specified external space exceeds the specified predetermined pressure value. 6. Container assembly according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said pressure relief device (16) comprises a rupture plate disposed in the lid disk (12) to create a permanent opening when said pressure difference between said internal volume and said external space exceeds specified preset pressure value. 7. A container assembly according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said pressure relief device (16) comprises: flexible film (34) located on said lid disk (12) facing the specified inner volume of said beverage container and covering the opening of said lid disk, piercing mechanism (30) located between said flexible film and said opening and facing said flexible film, and a movable plate located in a first position between said flexible film and said piercing mechanism for supporting said flexible film, said movable plate being capable of irreversible movement to a second position distant from said flexible film when said pressure difference between said the internal volume and the specified external space exceeds the specified predetermined pressure value, with the provision of the contact of the specified flexible film with the specified piercing mechanism, thereby opening the specified flexible film and creating the specified permanent hole. 8. A container assembly according to claim 7, wherein the piercing mechanism (30) is hollow or the piercing mechanism is part of said movable plate. 9. A container assembly according to any one of claims 7 to 8, wherein said movable plate is ring-shaped and optionally includes an auxiliary opening for receiving said piercing mechanism (30). 10. A container assembly according to any one of claims 7-9, wherein the movable plate is snapped or spring-loaded onto said lid plate and / or said flexible film (34) covers said beverage outlet (14). 11. A container assembly according to any one of claims 7-10, wherein said pressure relief device (16) comprises a plurality of piercing elements arranged circumferentially around said beverage outlet (14), preferably 2-20, more preferably 3-15 , for example 4-10. 12. A container assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein said cover disc (12) comprises a valve seat (58), said pressure relief device (16) comprising a valve body (56) pressed by a spring (60) against valve seat. 13. A container assembly according to claim 12, wherein said pressure relief device (16) comprises a housing (62) for receiving said valve body (58) and a spring, said housing preferably including a slotted opening (64), said the housing optionally includes a guide hole (66) for guiding a guiding part (68) of said valve body, said guiding part being optionally flexible and optionally having a stopper. 14. A container assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein said beverage contains dissolved CO2 and / or N ₂ , said beverage creating a temperature-dependent pressure increase within said beverage container, said temperature-dependent pressure increase being lower, than the specified burst pressure at room temperature. - 14 038515 holds a weakened part (36) of said inner cylindrical part (20), said weakened part being permanently and / or elastically deformed inwardly when said pressure difference between said internal volume and said external space exceeds a specified predetermined pressure value, creating thus the indicated hole. 15 038515 connected pressure chamber and sealing flange of the lid plate of said beverage container, wherein said beverage dispensing system further comprises a beverage tap for dispensing said beverage, a keg connector for connection to said beverage outlet (14) of said beverage container, and a return line extending between said beverage faucet and said keg connector. 15. A container assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein said predetermined pressure is 3 to 15 atm, preferably 5 to 10 atm, more preferably 7 to 8 atm. 16. A beverage dispensing system comprising a pressure chamber, a flexible and collapsible beverage container according to any one of claims 1-15 for placement in said pressure chamber, and a cap for closing said 17. A method for relieving excess pressure in a beverage container, comprising the steps of: provide a collapsible beverage container having a body part defining an internal volume and a cylindrical neck part (38) defining an opening, an inwardly oriented surface and an outwardly oriented surface, while the specified beverage container additionally sets the burst pressure, the beverage is placed in the specified internal volume of the specified container for a drink, and clogging the specified opening of the specified cylindrical neck part with a lid (10) containing a disc (12) of the lid facing the specified internal volume of the specified collapsible container for the drink, the inner cylindrical part (20) facing the specified inwardly oriented surface said cylindrical neck portion, and an outer cylindrical portion (22) facing said outwardly oriented surface of said cylindrical neck portion, wherein said lid disc comprises a beverage outlet (14) for discharging said beverage from said th beverage container, and a pressure relief device (16), characterized in that it further comprises the step of: providing a pressure drop between the specified internal volume and the external space to exceed a predetermined pressure value, thereby creating a constant or closable opening through said lid or between said lid and said neck portion by said pressure relief device to allow fluid to flow from said inner volume of said collapsible beverage container to said outer space, said predetermined pressure value being lower than said burst pressure, while the device ( 16) the pressure relief is located on the specified disc (12) of the cover or the specified inner cylindrical part (20). 18. The method of claim 17, wherein said collapsible beverage container further includes any of the features disclosed in any one of claims 1-15. 19. A lid (10) for a collapsible beverage container, wherein the beverage container has a body portion defining an internal volume for containing a beverage, and a cylindrical neck portion (38) defining an opening, an inwardly oriented surface and an outwardly oriented surface, said lid is made with the possibility of sealing the specified opening of the specified cylindrical neck part, while the lid defines the inner surface configured to face the specified inner volume of the specified container for the drink and the outer surface configured to face the outer space, and the lid contains a disc (12 ) a cover configured to face the specified internal volume of said collapsible beverage container, an internal cylindrical portion (20) configured to face the specified inwardly oriented surface of said cylindrical neck portion, and an external cyclone a lindrical part (22) configured to face said outwardly oriented surface of said cylindrical neck portion, wherein said lid disc comprises a beverage outlet (14) for discharging said beverage from said beverage container, characterized in that said lid additionally comprises a pressure relief device (16) located on said cover disk or said inner cylindrical part, wherein said pressure relief device is capable of creating a permanent or closable opening through said cover or is configured to create a permanent or closable opening between said cover and said throat part to allow fluid to flow from said inner surface, through said hole, and to said outer surface, when the pressure difference between said inner surface and said outer surface exceeds the preliminaries set pressure value.