EP3016903B1 - A dispensing font device and dispensing system - Google Patents
A dispensing font device and dispensing system Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP3016903B1 EP3016903B1 EP14736373.3A EP14736373A EP3016903B1 EP 3016903 B1 EP3016903 B1 EP 3016903B1 EP 14736373 A EP14736373 A EP 14736373A EP 3016903 B1 EP3016903 B1 EP 3016903B1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- dispensing
- guide channel
- channel
- font device
- closing
- Prior art date
- 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.)
- Not-in-force
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Classifications
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
- B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B67D1/00—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught
- B67D1/06—Mountings or arrangements of dispensing apparatus in or on shop or bar counters
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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
- B67D1/0857—Cooling arrangements
- B67D1/0858—Cooling arrangements using compression systems
- B67D1/0861—Cooling arrangements using compression systems the evaporator acting through an intermediate heat transfer means
- B67D1/0865—Cooling arrangements using compression systems the evaporator acting through an intermediate heat transfer means by circulating a cooling fluid along beverage supply lines, e.g. pythons
- B67D1/0868—Cooling arrangements using compression systems the evaporator acting through an intermediate heat transfer means by circulating a cooling fluid along beverage supply lines, e.g. pythons the cooling fluid being a gas
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a dispensing font device and dispensing system for dispensing a beverage.
- a dispensing font device comprising:
- the first part may comprise a second channel extending from the second lower end to the first upper end and being in fluid communication with the first channel at the first upper end.
- the guide channel may extend past the second lower end.
- the second part may comprise a lower part and an upper part, the lower and upper parts being movable in relation to each other to allow for opening of the second part.
- the lower and upper parts may be displaceable, slidable or turnable in relation to each other or be hingedly connected.
- the upper part may be adapted to be moved in relation to the lower part to provide access to the guide channel from above.
- tapping handle may be connected with the upper part.
- the second part may be arranged above the first part and may extend outwards in a direction horizontal to the first part.
- the second part may be provided with room along its extension to enable air circulation substantially along the section of the dispensing line being positioned in the second part during use.
- first channel may extend into the second part and end at an end opposite the first upper end of the first part.
- an additional closing part may be arranged for substantially closing off a fluid communication to the guide channel at the second lower end of the first part during use of the font device.
- the closing part may be adapted to be mounted around the dispensing line.
- the closing part may be made of a flexible material.
- the closing part may have an outer diameter being equal to or larger than the inner diameter of the guide channel.
- the closing part may be hingedly connected with the first part and may be movable between an open position, wherein access to the guide channel is provided, and a closed position, wherein the closing part closes off the guide channel.
- the upper part may comprise the closing part, and the closing part may be arranged in a position enabling it to close off the guide channel at the first upper end when the upper part is positioned in relation to the lower part so that the second part is closed.
- the guide channel may project up into the second part and may comprise an opening arranged at the first upper end of the first part in the projected part of the guide channel, the opening being arranged opposite the second part, allowing the dispensing line, when positioned, to extend from the guide channel into the second part via the opening, the closing part being arranged in connection with the upper part in a position where it abuts the guide channel and thereby closes off the guide channel, and when the upper part is positioned in a closed position in relation to the lower part, the closing part comprises a projecting element facing the guide channel and comprising a slot, and being positioned so that when the upper part is positioned in a closed position in relation to the lower part, the projecting element closes off the opening except for the dispensing line which is being in the slot.
- closing part and the projecting element may comprise a flexible material on their faces facing the guide channel and the opening for sealing off the guide channel and around the dispensing line in the opening.
- the closing part may be disc-shaped, truncated, hemispherically shaped or ball-shaped.
- the closing part may comprise an opening for letting the dispensing line pass the closing part.
- the opening may comprise sealing means for sealing off an area around the dispensing line when the dispensing line is present in the opening.
- first and second channels may be separate tubes extending on an outside face of the guide channel.
- the first channel may be arranged concentrically outside the guide channel.
- first channel may be divided into a longitudinal direction of the first part, thereby comprising the second channel.
- first channel may be arranged concentrically outside the second channel
- second channel may be arranged concentrically outside the guide channel
- the first part may comprise a third channel.
- first and second channels may be isolated to minimise heat loss along their extensions.
- the font device may comprise a cover arranged outside the guide channel.
- first channel and/or the second channel may be arranged outside the cover.
- the cooling unit may be arranged in the second part.
- the font device may be arranged on a housing, and the first channel and/or the second channel and the guide channel may be in fluid communication with an inside of the housing.
- the cooling unit may be arranged in the housing.
- the font device may comprise a plurality of cooling units.
- the cooling unit may comprise an air circulation unit, such as a blower, a fan, a ventilator and/or a pump.
- an air circulation unit such as a blower, a fan, a ventilator and/or a pump.
- the second part may comprise a deflector or guide for guiding an airstream into an opposite end of the second part in relation to the first part.
- the first channel may extend past the first upper end of the first part and may comprise a bend so that an opening of the first channel faces the opposite end of the second part in relation to the first part.
- the dispensing line may be guided through the guide channel from the first upper end or the second lower end.
- the cooling unit may comprise a control unit adapted to stop the circulation of air when the upper part is being moved in relation to the lower part and/or when the housing is being opened.
- the first part may comprise an air guidance element arranged at the second lower end, the air guidance element being arranged around the guide channel and being in fluid communication with the first and second channels and the cooling unit, and the air guidance element comprising partitioning walls dividing the air guidance element into separate sections so that the air stream from the second channel may be led away from the first channel and the cooling unit, whereby the air stream coming from the second channel is not led directly into the first channel.
- the guide channel may be made of metal, such as aluminum.
- the cooling unit may comprise a control unit adapted to stop the circulation of air when the upper part is being moved in relation to the lower part and/or when the housing is being opened.
- the present invention furthermore relates to a dispensing system for dispensing a beverage, comprising:
- the dispensing line may be exchanged at the same time as the beverage container.
- the dispensing line may be adapted to be guided through the guide channel from the first upper end of the first part.
- Fig. 1 shows a dispensing font device 1 according to the present invention.
- the dispensing font device comprises a vertical first part 2 having a first upper end 3 and a second lower end 4, and a substantially horizontal second part 5 being in fluid communication with the first upper end 3, the second part 5 comprising a tapping handle 6 being adapted to open and close an outlet 7 of a dispensing line 8 extending through the font device 1 during use.
- the first part 2 in this embodiment comprises a first channel 9 and a second channel 10 both extending from the second lower end 4 to the first upper end 3 and being in fluid communication with each other at the first upper end 3.
- the first part may comprise only a first channel.
- the first and second channels 9, 10 may be separate tubes extending on an outside face of the guide channel 11.
- the first part 2 also comprises a guide channel 11 in which the dispensing line 8 is adapted to be guided to extend through the guide channel 11, the guide channel 11 extending in the first part 2 from the first upper end 3 to at least the second lower end 4, and the guide channel 11 having an inner diameter D I .
- the font device 1 comprises a cooling unit 12 adapted to circulate a cooling medium (indicated by arrows in the first and second channels) inside the first and second parts 2, 5.
- a closing part 13 is arranged for substantially closing off a fluid communication to the guide channel 11 at the first upper end 3 of the first part 2 during use of the font device 1. In this way, cooling of the beverage in the dispensing line in the second part 5 is ensured. Studies have shown that it is important for the quality of the beverage, especially beer, and for the consumer experience that especially the section of the dispensing line arranged just before the outlet of the dispensing line is cooled properly.
- the circulated cooling medium i.e. air or gases
- the closing part 13 may be arranged as part of the dispensing line so that when the dispensing line is being guided through the font device 1 and being connected with a beverage container and the tapping handle, the closing part 13 is positioned in the guide channel 11 to provide an obstruction in the guide channel, whereby fluid flow into the guide channel is substantially avoided.
- the closing part may also be integrated with the font device and be a lid which is positioned around the dispensing line after it has been guided through the guide channel. Different embodiments of the closing part will be described further below.
- the second part 5 may comprise a lower part 14 and an upper part 15, the lower and upper parts 14, 15 being movable in relation to each other so that the second part 5 can be opened to guide and position the dispensing line in the font device.
- the upper part 15 may be displaceable, slidable or turnable in relation to the lower part 14, or they may be hingedly connected. In the shown embodiments, the upper and lower parts 15, 14 are hingedly connected. Furthermore, the upper part 15 is adapted to be moved in relation to the lower part 14 to provide access to the guide channel 11 and the inside of the second part 5 from above, which facilitates handling both in relation to guiding the dispensing line but also to positioning the dispensing line in the second part.
- the second part 5 is arranged above the first upper end 3 of the first part 2 and extends outwards in a horizontal direction from the first part 2.
- the second part 5 is provided with room along its extension for enabling air circulation substantially along the section of the dispensing line being positioned in the second part 5 during use, as described above.
- the second part 5 may comprise a deflector 30, as shown in Fig. 4 , or a guide for guiding an airstream into an opposite end of the second part in relation to the first part.
- the first channel 9 may extend past the first upper end of the first part and may comprise a bend so that an opening of the first channel faces the opposite end of the second part in relation to the first part.
- the first channel extends into the second part and ends at an opposite end of the first upper end of the first part.
- an air guidance element 40 is arranged at the second lower end 4, the air guidance element 40 being arranged around the guide channel 11 and being in fluid communication with the first channel 9 and second channel 10 and the cooling unit 12.
- the air guidance element 40 comprises partitioning walls dividing the air guidance element 40 into separate sections so that the air stream from the second channel 10 may be led away from the first channel 9 and the cooling unit 12, whereby the air stream coming from the second channel 10 is not led directly into the first channel 9, as shown by the arrows.
- the air stream from the second channel 10 returning from the top of the font device 1, thereby having a higher temperature than the air stream blown from the cooling unit 12 into the first channel, will not be directly recirculated into the first channel 9 without being cooled to a lower temperature in the cooling unit 12 first.
- closing off the guide channel 11 also prevents the air stream having a higher temperature from being recirculated directly up into the top of the font device 1 without first being cooled.
- Fig. 2 shows another embodiment of the font device 1, wherein the closing part 13 is part of the font device 1 and is positioned at the first upper end 3 across from the guide channel 11.
- the closing part 13 is in this embodiment disc-shaped and made of a flexible material, such as plastic or rubber.
- the disc-shaped closing part 13 comprises a plurality of slits arranged around the periphery of the closing part, and each slit extends from the periphery towards the center of the disc.
- the disc may also comprise a circular opening at the center, having a diameter equal to an outer diameter of the dispensing line. During mounting of the dispensing line in the font device, the dispensing line may be pushed past the closing part 13 and be positioned in the circular opening.
- the slits ensure that if the dispensing line comprises elements being larger than its outer diameter, they may pass the closing part 13.
- the closing part 13 is arranged in connection with the upper part 15 of the second part 5.
- the closing part 13 is arranged in a position enabling it to close off the guide channel 11 at the first upper end 3 when the upper part 15 is positioned in relation to the lower part 14 in a closed position, as shown in Fig. 3 .
- the closing part 13 is made of a flexible material, such as rubber or foam rubber, allowing it to be pressed down against the guide channel 11, thereby closing it off.
- the dispensing line will be displaced up against the inner face of the guide channel, however, due to the flexible material of the closing part, it will not be damaged since the flexible material will be pressed together and provide room for the dispensing line and at the same time seal off around the dispensing line.
- the upper part 15 is open, and it is shown how the closing part 13 is lifted away from the guide channel 11 at the same time as the upper part 15 is opened.
- Fig. 5 shows a top view of the first part 2 and the second part 5 of the dispensing font device 1.
- the guide channel 11 is arranged in the centre of the first part 2 to obtain easy access.
- the guide channel 11 has an inner diameter D I being large enough to allow guidance of the dispensing line and dispensing line elements through the font device.
- the first channel 9 terminates between the guide channel 11 and the horizontal extension of the second part 5 to lead the cold airstream into the second part.
- the second channel 10 is placed on the opposite side of the guide channel 11 next to the hinge 16.
- An additional closing part (not shown) may be arranged for substantially closing off a fluid communication to the guide channel at the second lower end of the first part during use of the font device.
- Figs. 6a-6g show different embodiment of the closing part 13.
- the embodiments shown in Figs. 6a-6e are all adapted to be part of the dispensing line. In situations where the closing part is mounted on the dispensing line, the dispensing line is preferably guided through the guide channel from the first upper end of the first part.
- the closing part 13 is disc-shaped.
- the closing part 13 has a truncated cone-shape.
- the closing part 13 is hemispherically shaped.
- the closing part is again disc-shaped, however, with a larger thickness than in the embodiment shown in Fig. 6a .
- the closing part 13 is ball-shaped.
- the closing part may have an outer diameter being equal to or larger than the inner diameter of the guide channel. If the guide channel has another cross-sectional design, the closing part may be adapted to correspond to that design.
- Figs. 6f-6g show two embodiments of the closing part 13, wherein the closing part 13 may be part of the font device.
- the disc-shaped closing part 13 comprises a plurality of slits 17 arranged around the periphery 18 of the closing part 13, and each slit 17 extends from the periphery 18 towards the center of the closing part 13.
- the closing part 13 also comprises a circular opening 19 at the center, having a diameter being equal to an outer diameter of the dispensing line.
- the opening 19 is adapted to let the dispensing line pass the closing part.
- the closing part 13 of Fig. 6f may be securely fastened across from the guide channel at the first upper end.
- FIG. 6g another embodiment of the closing part 13 is shown.
- the closing part 13 is hingedly connected with the first part and is movable between an open position, wherein access to the guide channel is provided, and a closed position, wherein the closing part closes off the guide channel.
- the closing part 13 comprises two semicircles 20, 21 overlapping each other at the center. Each semicircle comprises a hinge 22.
- an opening 23 is provided which may comprise sealing means (not shown) for sealing off an area around the dispensing line when the dispensing line is present in the opening.
- Figs. 7a-7c show cross-sectional top views of different embodiments of the first part 2 of the dispensing font device 1.
- the guide channel 11 is positioned in the centre of the first part 2.
- the first and second channels 9, 10 surround the guide channel 11 in that a single tubular is divided into the two channels.
- Fig. 7b another embodiment is shown. Again, the guide channel 11 is arranged at the centre of the first part 2, and a tubular is arranged concentrically around the guide channel 11.
- the tubular is divided into four sections, two of which comprise the first and second channels 9, 10. The two remaining sections may also be used as channels for circulating air in the font device.
- the first channel 9 is arranged concentrically outside the second channel 10 and the second channel is arranged concentrically outside the guide channel 11.
- the first channel may be arranged concentrically outside the guide channel.
- the font device may comprise a cover arranged outside the guide channel.
- the first channel and/or the second channel may be arranged outside the cover.
- first and second channels may be isolated to minimise heat loss of the circulating cold air stream.
- the cooling unit may be arranged in the second part to provide cold air circulation in the second part.
- the font device is arranged on a housing 24, and the first channel and/or the second channel and the guide channel are in fluid communication with an inside of the housing 24.
- the cooling unit 12 is arranged in the housing 24.
- the font device 1 may comprise a plurality of cooling units 12.
- the housing 24 may function as a fridge for keeping the temperature of a beverage contained in a beverage container in the housing low.
- the cooling unit 12 comprises an air circulation unit, such as a blower, a fan, a ventilator and/or a pump, for creating an air flow.
- a blower may be connected with the first channel 9 for blowing air into the channel.
- the cooling unit 12 may also comprise a control unit adapted to stop the circulation of air when the upper part is being moved in relation to the lower part and/or when the housing is being opened.
- the invention also relates to a dispensing system 100 for dispensing a beverage, as shown in Figs. 8 and 9 .
- the system 100 comprises a dispensing font device 1 as described above, a housing 24 comprising a beverage container 25, and a dispensing line 8 extending from the beverage container 25 via the guide channel 11 to the tapping handle 6, facilitating dispensing of cold beverage from the beverage container 25.
- the dispensing line 8 is exchanged at the same time as the beverage container 25.
- the dispensing line may be guided through the guide channel 11 from the first upper end of the first part, however, it may also be guided through the guide channel from the second lower end.
- the dispensing system 100 is shown in a cross-sectional side view.
- the dispensing system 100 comprises the housing 24 adapted to house the beverage container 25.
- the housing 24 is provided with a cooling unit 12 for keeping the beverage at a predetermined temperature and is further provided with circulating means for circulating the cool air in the housing 24.
- the housing 24 may also comprise propelling means, or propelling means may be connected to the beverage container 25 in the housing.
- the propelling means may be a gas, such as CO 2 , or it may be a pressure chamber utilising a pneumatic or mechanical pressure means to force the beverage out of the beverage container 25.
- the propelling means is a gas contained in a gas cylinder 31 which is connected via a gas line 32 to a dispense head 33 to be connected with the container 25.
- the dispensing line 8 extends from the beverage container 25 up through the guide channel 11 to the second part 5 of the font device 1 where the dispensing line 8 terminates at the outlet 7.
- the second part 5 furthermore comprises the tapping handle 6.
- the guide channel 11 is in this embodiment closed off at the top by the closing part 13 according to the inventive idea.
- the dispensing line may be made of a non-rigid material to facilitate handling and guiding.
- the dispensing line may comprise a valve at the outlet end, which valve is adapted to be opened and closed by the tapping handle when the dispensing line and the valve is positioned in the second part.
- the dispensing valve may comprise a section made of a flexible material, such as rubber or silicone. The section is positioned opposite a pinch device arranged in the second part in connection with the tapping handle. The pinch device is adapted to pinch the section of the dispensing line and thereby close off the dispensing line.
- Figs. 11-15 show further embodiments of the dispensing font device 1 according to the invention.
- a top part of the dispensing font device 1 is shown in a cross-sectional view.
- the dispensing font device 1 comprises a vertical first part 2 having the first upper end 3, and the substantially horizontal second part 5 is in fluid communication with the first upper end 3, the second part 5 comprising the tapping handle 6 which is adapted to open and close the outlet 7 of the dispensing line 8 extending through the font device 1 during use.
- the first part 2 comprises a first channel 9 and a second channel (not shown), both extending from the second lower end to the first upper end 3 and being in fluid communication with each other at the first upper end 3.
- the first part 2 also comprises the guide channel 11 in which the dispensing line 8 is adapted to be guided to extend through the guide channel 11, the guide channel 11 extending into the first part 2 from the first upper end 3 to at least the second lower end.
- the font device 1 also comprises a cooling unit (not shown) adapted to circulate a cooling medium (indicated by arrows in the first channel) inside the first and second parts 2, 5.
- the guide channel 11 projects up into the second part 5 and comprises an opening 52 arranged at the first upper end 3 of the first part 2 in the projected part 53 of the guide channel 11.
- the opening 52 is arranged opposite the second part 5, allowing the dispensing line 8, when positioned, to extend from the guide channel 11 into the second part 5 via the opening 52.
- the closing part 13 is arranged in connection with the upper part 15 in a position where it abuts the guide channel 11 from above, as seen in Fig. 11 , and thereby closes off the top of the guide channel 11 when the upper part 15 is positioned in a closed position in relation to the lower part 14.
- the closing part is in this embodiment fastened to the upper part 15 by means of a screw 51.
- the closing part 13 also comprises a projecting element 50 facing the guide channel 11 and comprising a slot (not shown), and being positioned so that when the upper part 15 is positioned in a closed position, as shown in Fig. 11 , in relation to the lower part 14, the projecting element 50 closes off the opening 52, except for the dispensing line 8 which is positioned in the slot.
- the closing part 13 and the projecting element 50 substantially closes off a fluid communication to the guide channel 11 at the first upper end 3 of the first part 2 during use of the font device 1. This ensures cooling of the beverage in the dispensing line 8 in the second part 5.
- the upper part 15 is opened so that the inside of the font device 1 is accessible.
- the guide channel 11 has a projected part 53 projecting upwards.
- the opening 52 is positioned at the top of the projected part 53 of the guide channel 11 and faces the horizontal second part 5.
- the closing part 13 is lifted away from the guide channel 11 to allow for replacement of the dispensing line.
- the projecting element 50 is arranged, and the projecting element 50 has a slot 54 which is adapted to extend around the dispensing line in the opening 52 when the upper part is closed.
- the dispensing font device 1 is shown in a perspective view in Fig. 13 and in a side view in Fig. 14 , in which a part of the font device around the opening 52 is removed to make the area visible.
- Fig. 15 shows the font device 1 in a cross-sectional view taken along the A-A line in Fig. 14 .
- the upper part is in the closed position, whereby the projecting element 50 is closing off the opening, only leaving room for the dispensing line 8.
- the projecting element 50 and slot abut around the dispensing line 8, thereby sealing off the opening, whereby the closing part and the projecting element together are closing off the fluid communication to the guide channel.
- the closing part 13 and the projecting element 50 comprise a flexible material on their faces facing the guide channel 11 and the opening for sealing off the guide channel and around the dispensing line in the opening.
- the projecting element 50 may comprise a plurality of strands, wires or bristles projecting from a base part so that the strands, wires or bristles are displaced by the dispensing line when the projecting element is positioned in the opening.
- the strands, wires or bristles will allow the dispensing line to extend through them while they still close off the rest of the opening.
- the strands, wires or bristles may be arranged in several rows on the projecting element.
- the strands, wires or bristles may be made of a synthetic material, such as nylon, however, other plastic materials may also be used.
- Figs. 16-21 show another dispensing font device 1 according to the invention.
- the dispensing font device 1 is shown in a side view indicating where the cross-sectional views B-B (cf. Fig. 19 ), C-C (cf. Fig. 20 ) and D-D (cf. Fig. 21 ) are taken.
- the dispensing font device 1 is shown in a top view indication where the cross-sectional view A-A (cf. Fig. 18 ) is taken.
- Fig. 18 shows the dispensing font device 1 in a cross-sectional view taken along the A-A line in Fig. 17 .
- the dispensing font device 1 comprises a vertical first part 2 having the first upper end 3 and a second lower end 4, and the substantially horizontal second part 5 is in fluid communication with the first upper end 3.
- the first part 2 comprises a first channel 9 and a second channel 10, both extending from the second lower end 4 to the first upper end 3 and being in fluid communication with each other at the first upper end 3.
- the first part 2 also comprises the guide channel 11 in which the dispensing line 8 is adapted to be guided to extend through the guide channel 11, the guide channel 11 extending into the first part 2 from the first upper end 3 to at least the second lower end 4.
- the closing part 13 is arranged in connection with the upper part 15 of the substantially horizontal second part 5 in a position in which it abuts the guide channel 11 from above, as seen in Fig. 11 , and thereby closes off the top of the guide channel 11 when the upper part 15 is positioned in a closed position in relation to the lower part 14 of the substantially horizontal second part 5.
- the dispensing font device 1 of Figs. 16-21 is adapted to be mounted on a bar counter 60 having a housing 24 arranged a distance below the bar counter 60.
- the dispensing font device 1 extends downwards past the bar counter 60 and past the housing 24.
- the second lower end 4 of the first part 2 is arranged in the housing 24.
- the font device 1 also comprises a cooling unit 12 adapted to circulate a cooling medium inside the first part 2 and the second part 5.
- the first channel 9 is extending from the first lower end 4 up to the second part 5 for circulating cooling medium to the second part 5.
- the second channel 10 is the return channel for leading the cooling medium back to the housing and away from the second part 5.
- the second channel 10 is in the extension of the first part 2 being above the bar counter 60 arranged concentrically outside the guide channel 11. At the first upper end 3 and above the bar counter 60, the second channel 10 has a larger diameter than the rest of the extension between the first upper end 3 and the bar counter 60, so that the cooling medium has a higher flow rate in the extension having a smaller diameter. Since the return cooling medium flows opposite and around the guide channel 11, it may cool the guide channel 11 and thereby the beverage in the dispensing line 8.
- the guide channel 11 may be made of a metal, such as aluminum, for facilitating heat transfer between the second channel 10 and the guide channel 11.
- Fig. 19 shows the dispensing font device 1 in a cross-sectional view when seen from the second lower end 4 taken along the B-B line in Fig. 17 .
- the cross-sectional view is taken in the extension between the first upper end and the bar counter where the concentric second channel 10 is close to the guide channel 11.
- the first channel 9 is arranged outside the second channel 10 but within the first part 2.
- the closing part 13 is seen closing off the guide channel 11.
- Fig. 20 shows the dispensing font device 1 in a cross-sectional view when seen from the second lower end 4 taken along the C-C line in Fig. 17 .
- the cross-sectional view is taken in the extension between the bar counter 60 and the housing.
- the second channel 10 is in this extension divided into two second channels 10 and the first channel 9 is arranged between the two second channels 10. Again the closing part 13 is seen closing off the guide channel 11.
- Fig. 21 shows the dispensing font device 1 in a cross-sectional view when seen from the second lower end 4 taken along the D-D line in Fig. 17 .
- the cross-sectional view is taken below the housing 24.
- the second channel 10 is still divided into two second channels 10, and the first channel 9 is arranged between the two second channels 10.
- the closing part 13 is still seen closing off the guide channel 11.
- the cooling unit 12 is arranged in connection with the first channel 9.
- Fig. 22 shows a side view of the cooling unit 12 being in fluid communication with the first channel for leading the cooling medium up to the second part.
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- Devices For Dispensing Beverages (AREA)
Description
- The present invention relates to a dispensing font device and dispensing system for dispensing a beverage.
- Systems for dispensing beverages requiring frequent replacement of the dispensing line are well-known. These systems have incorporated guide channels for facilitating the replacement of the dispensing line in the font. The systems are often used for dispensing beer, and cooling units for keeping the beer at a low temperature before and during dispensing are therefore incorporated. A prior solution is known from for instance
WO 01/92144 A1 independent claim 1. However, since the guide channel of this solution has a considerable size and diameter to facilitate handling, a high heat loss is often seen in the font, which sometimes renders the cooling of the beverage insufficient. As a result, the consumers' experience of the dispensed beverage may be bad and not as intended. - There is therefore a need for an improved way of cooling off the beverage dispensed from the above-mentioned dispensing systems.
- It is an object of the present invention to wholly or partly overcome the above disadvantages and drawbacks of the prior art. More specifically, it is an object to provide a dispensing font device and a dispensing system with improved cooling.
- The above objects, together with numerous other objects, advantages and features, which will become evident from the below description, are accomplished by a solution in accordance with the present invention by a dispensing font device comprising:
- a vertical first part having a first upper end and a second lower end,
- a substantially horizontal second part being in fluid communication with the first part, the second part comprising a tapping handle being adapted to open and close an outlet of a dispensing line extending through the font device during use,
- the first part comprising a first channel extending from the second lower end to the first upper end, and a guide channel in which the dispensing line is adapted to be guided, thereby extending through the guide channel, the guide channel extending in the first part from the first upper end to at least the second lower end, and the guide channel having an inner diameter, and
- a cooling unit adapted to circulate a cooling medium inside the first and second parts,
- Furthermore, the first part may comprise a second channel extending from the second lower end to the first upper end and being in fluid communication with the first channel at the first upper end.
- Moreover, the guide channel may extend past the second lower end.
- In addition, the second part may comprise a lower part and an upper part, the lower and upper parts being movable in relation to each other to allow for opening of the second part.
- Also, the lower and upper parts may be displaceable, slidable or turnable in relation to each other or be hingedly connected.
- Additionally, the upper part may be adapted to be moved in relation to the lower part to provide access to the guide channel from above.
- Further, the tapping handle may be connected with the upper part.
- Moreover, the second part may be arranged above the first part and may extend outwards in a direction horizontal to the first part.
- Additionally, the second part may be provided with room along its extension to enable air circulation substantially along the section of the dispensing line being positioned in the second part during use.
- Furthermore, the first channel may extend into the second part and end at an end opposite the first upper end of the first part.
- Also, an additional closing part may be arranged for substantially closing off a fluid communication to the guide channel at the second lower end of the first part during use of the font device.
- In addition, the closing part may be adapted to be mounted around the dispensing line.
- In an embodiment, the closing part may be made of a flexible material.
- Furthermore, the closing part may have an outer diameter being equal to or larger than the inner diameter of the guide channel.
- Moreover, the closing part may be hingedly connected with the first part and may be movable between an open position, wherein access to the guide channel is provided, and a closed position, wherein the closing part closes off the guide channel.
- Additionally, the upper part may comprise the closing part, and the closing part may be arranged in a position enabling it to close off the guide channel at the first upper end when the upper part is positioned in relation to the lower part so that the second part is closed.
- Furthermore, the guide channel may project up into the second part and may comprise an opening arranged at the first upper end of the first part in the projected part of the guide channel, the opening being arranged opposite the second part, allowing the dispensing line, when positioned, to extend from the guide channel into the second part via the opening, the closing part being arranged in connection with the upper part in a position where it abuts the guide channel and thereby closes off the guide channel, and when the upper part is positioned in a closed position in relation to the lower part, the closing part comprises a projecting element facing the guide channel and comprising a slot, and being positioned so that when the upper part is positioned in a closed position in relation to the lower part, the projecting element closes off the opening except for the dispensing line which is being in the slot.
- In addition, the closing part and the projecting element may comprise a flexible material on their faces facing the guide channel and the opening for sealing off the guide channel and around the dispensing line in the opening.
- In one embodiment, the closing part may be disc-shaped, truncated, hemispherically shaped or ball-shaped.
- In addition, the closing part may comprise an opening for letting the dispensing line pass the closing part.
- Further, the opening may comprise sealing means for sealing off an area around the dispensing line when the dispensing line is present in the opening.
- In an embodiment, the first and second channels may be separate tubes extending on an outside face of the guide channel.
- Furthermore, the first channel may be arranged concentrically outside the guide channel.
- Additionally, the first channel may be divided into a longitudinal direction of the first part, thereby comprising the second channel.
- Moreover, the first channel may be arranged concentrically outside the second channel, and the second channel may be arranged concentrically outside the guide channel.
- Further, the first part may comprise a third channel.
- Also, the first and second channels may be isolated to minimise heat loss along their extensions.
- Additionally, the font device may comprise a cover arranged outside the guide channel.
- Moreover, the first channel and/or the second channel may be arranged outside the cover.
- In an embodiment, the cooling unit may be arranged in the second part.
- Furthermore, the font device may be arranged on a housing, and the first channel and/or the second channel and the guide channel may be in fluid communication with an inside of the housing.
- Also, the cooling unit may be arranged in the housing.
- In addition, the font device may comprise a plurality of cooling units.
- Further, the cooling unit may comprise an air circulation unit, such as a blower, a fan, a ventilator and/or a pump.
- In an embodiment of the invention, the second part may comprise a deflector or guide for guiding an airstream into an opposite end of the second part in relation to the first part.
- Moreover, the first channel may extend past the first upper end of the first part and may comprise a bend so that an opening of the first channel faces the opposite end of the second part in relation to the first part.
- Also, the dispensing line may be guided through the guide channel from the first upper end or the second lower end.
- In addition, the cooling unit may comprise a control unit adapted to stop the circulation of air when the upper part is being moved in relation to the lower part and/or when the housing is being opened.
- The first part may comprise an air guidance element arranged at the second lower end, the air guidance element being arranged around the guide channel and being in fluid communication with the first and second channels and the cooling unit, and the air guidance element comprising partitioning walls dividing the air guidance element into separate sections so that the air stream from the second channel may be led away from the first channel and the cooling unit, whereby the air stream coming from the second channel is not led directly into the first channel.
- The guide channel may be made of metal, such as aluminum.
- Also, the cooling unit may comprise a control unit adapted to stop the circulation of air when the upper part is being moved in relation to the lower part and/or when the housing is being opened.
- The present invention furthermore relates to a dispensing system for dispensing a beverage, comprising:
- a dispensing font device according to any of the preceding claims,
- a housing comprising a beverage container, and
- a dispensing line extending from the beverage container via the guide channel to the tapping handle, facilitating dispensing of cold beverage from the beverage container.
- In an embodiment, the dispensing line may be exchanged at the same time as the beverage container.
- Furthermore, the dispensing line may be adapted to be guided through the guide channel from the first upper end of the first part.
- The invention and its many advantages will be described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings, which for the purpose of illustration show some non-limiting embodiments and in which
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Fig. 1 shows a dispensing font device in a perspective, partly cross-sectional view, -
Fig. 2 shows another embodiment of a dispensing font device in a perspective, partly cross-sectional view, -
Fig. 3 shows an additional embodiment of a dispensing font device in a perspective, partly cross-sectional view, -
Fig. 4 shows an enlarged part of the dispensing font device shown inFig. 3 , -
Fig. 5 shows a top view of the first and second parts of the dispensing font device, -
Figs. 6a-6g show different embodiments of the closing part, -
Figs. 7a-7c show cross-sectional top views of different embodiments of the first part of the dispensing font device, -
Fig. 8 shows a dispensing system, -
Fig. 9 shows an enlarged view of the top of the dispensing font device of the dispensing system ofFig. 8 , -
Fig. 10 shows the dispensing system ofFig. 8 in a cross-sectional side view having gas cylinder, -
Figs. 11-15 show further embodiments of a dispensing font device according to the present invention, and -
Figs. 16-22 show another dispensing font device according to the present invention. - All the figures are highly schematic and not necessarily to scale, and they show only those parts which are necessary in order to elucidate the invention, other parts being omitted or merely suggested.
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Fig. 1 shows a dispensingfont device 1 according to the present invention. The dispensing font device comprises a verticalfirst part 2 having a firstupper end 3 and a secondlower end 4, and a substantially horizontalsecond part 5 being in fluid communication with the firstupper end 3, thesecond part 5 comprising atapping handle 6 being adapted to open and close anoutlet 7 of adispensing line 8 extending through thefont device 1 during use. - The
first part 2 in this embodiment comprises afirst channel 9 and asecond channel 10 both extending from the secondlower end 4 to the firstupper end 3 and being in fluid communication with each other at the firstupper end 3. In another, not shown, embodiment, the first part may comprise only a first channel. The first andsecond channels guide channel 11. - The
first part 2 also comprises aguide channel 11 in which thedispensing line 8 is adapted to be guided to extend through theguide channel 11, theguide channel 11 extending in thefirst part 2 from the firstupper end 3 to at least the secondlower end 4, and theguide channel 11 having an inner diameter DI. - In addition, the
font device 1 comprises acooling unit 12 adapted to circulate a cooling medium (indicated by arrows in the first and second channels) inside the first andsecond parts part 13 is arranged for substantially closing off a fluid communication to theguide channel 11 at the firstupper end 3 of thefirst part 2 during use of thefont device 1. In this way, cooling of the beverage in the dispensing line in thesecond part 5 is ensured. Studies have shown that it is important for the quality of the beverage, especially beer, and for the consumer experience that especially the section of the dispensing line arranged just before the outlet of the dispensing line is cooled properly. By closing off the fluid communication of cold air at the firstupper end 3 of thefirst part 2 to thelarge guide channel 11, it is obtained that the circulated cooling medium, i.e. air or gases, in thefont device 1 is directed to thesecond part 5 without substantial heat loss. - The closing
part 13 may be arranged as part of the dispensing line so that when the dispensing line is being guided through thefont device 1 and being connected with a beverage container and the tapping handle, the closingpart 13 is positioned in theguide channel 11 to provide an obstruction in the guide channel, whereby fluid flow into the guide channel is substantially avoided. The closing part may also be integrated with the font device and be a lid which is positioned around the dispensing line after it has been guided through the guide channel. Different embodiments of the closing part will be described further below. - Advantageously, the
second part 5 may comprise alower part 14 and anupper part 15, the lower andupper parts second part 5 can be opened to guide and position the dispensing line in the font device. Theupper part 15 may be displaceable, slidable or turnable in relation to thelower part 14, or they may be hingedly connected. In the shown embodiments, the upper andlower parts upper part 15 is adapted to be moved in relation to thelower part 14 to provide access to theguide channel 11 and the inside of thesecond part 5 from above, which facilitates handling both in relation to guiding the dispensing line but also to positioning the dispensing line in the second part. - Furthermore, the
second part 5 is arranged above the firstupper end 3 of thefirst part 2 and extends outwards in a horizontal direction from thefirst part 2. Thesecond part 5 is provided with room along its extension for enabling air circulation substantially along the section of the dispensing line being positioned in thesecond part 5 during use, as described above. - In addition, the
second part 5 may comprise adeflector 30, as shown inFig. 4 , or a guide for guiding an airstream into an opposite end of the second part in relation to the first part. Moreover, thefirst channel 9 may extend past the first upper end of the first part and may comprise a bend so that an opening of the first channel faces the opposite end of the second part in relation to the first part. In another embodiment, the first channel extends into the second part and ends at an opposite end of the first upper end of the first part. - Moreover, an
air guidance element 40 is arranged at the secondlower end 4, theair guidance element 40 being arranged around theguide channel 11 and being in fluid communication with thefirst channel 9 andsecond channel 10 and thecooling unit 12. Theair guidance element 40 comprises partitioning walls dividing theair guidance element 40 into separate sections so that the air stream from thesecond channel 10 may be led away from thefirst channel 9 and thecooling unit 12, whereby the air stream coming from thesecond channel 10 is not led directly into thefirst channel 9, as shown by the arrows. In this way, the air stream from thesecond channel 10 returning from the top of thefont device 1, thereby having a higher temperature than the air stream blown from the coolingunit 12 into the first channel, will not be directly recirculated into thefirst channel 9 without being cooled to a lower temperature in thecooling unit 12 first. This has the advantage that air with a higher temperature than intended will not be recirculated in the font device, which prevents the cooling temperature from increasing and thereby prevents the beverage from not being cooled sufficiently. Furthermore, closing off theguide channel 11 also prevents the air stream having a higher temperature from being recirculated directly up into the top of thefont device 1 without first being cooled. -
Fig. 2 shows another embodiment of thefont device 1, wherein the closingpart 13 is part of thefont device 1 and is positioned at the firstupper end 3 across from theguide channel 11. The closingpart 13 is in this embodiment disc-shaped and made of a flexible material, such as plastic or rubber. The disc-shapedclosing part 13 comprises a plurality of slits arranged around the periphery of the closing part, and each slit extends from the periphery towards the center of the disc. The disc may also comprise a circular opening at the center, having a diameter equal to an outer diameter of the dispensing line. During mounting of the dispensing line in the font device, the dispensing line may be pushed past the closingpart 13 and be positioned in the circular opening. The slits ensure that if the dispensing line comprises elements being larger than its outer diameter, they may pass the closingpart 13. - In
Fig. 3 , the closingpart 13 is arranged in connection with theupper part 15 of thesecond part 5. The closingpart 13 is arranged in a position enabling it to close off theguide channel 11 at the firstupper end 3 when theupper part 15 is positioned in relation to thelower part 14 in a closed position, as shown inFig. 3 . The closingpart 13 is made of a flexible material, such as rubber or foam rubber, allowing it to be pressed down against theguide channel 11, thereby closing it off. Furthermore, the dispensing line will be displaced up against the inner face of the guide channel, however, due to the flexible material of the closing part, it will not be damaged since the flexible material will be pressed together and provide room for the dispensing line and at the same time seal off around the dispensing line. InFig. 4 , theupper part 15 is open, and it is shown how the closingpart 13 is lifted away from theguide channel 11 at the same time as theupper part 15 is opened. -
Fig. 5 shows a top view of thefirst part 2 and thesecond part 5 of the dispensingfont device 1. Theguide channel 11 is arranged in the centre of thefirst part 2 to obtain easy access. Theguide channel 11 has an inner diameter DI being large enough to allow guidance of the dispensing line and dispensing line elements through the font device. In this embodiment, thefirst channel 9 terminates between theguide channel 11 and the horizontal extension of thesecond part 5 to lead the cold airstream into the second part. Thesecond channel 10 is placed on the opposite side of theguide channel 11 next to thehinge 16. - An additional closing part (not shown) may be arranged for substantially closing off a fluid communication to the guide channel at the second lower end of the first part during use of the font device.
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Figs. 6a-6g show different embodiment of the closingpart 13. The embodiments shown inFigs. 6a-6e are all adapted to be part of the dispensing line. In situations where the closing part is mounted on the dispensing line, the dispensing line is preferably guided through the guide channel from the first upper end of the first part. InFig. 6a , the closingpart 13 is disc-shaped. InFig. 6b , the closingpart 13 has a truncated cone-shape. InFig. 6c , the closingpart 13 is hemispherically shaped. InFig. 6d , the closing part is again disc-shaped, however, with a larger thickness than in the embodiment shown inFig. 6a . InFig. 6e , the closingpart 13 is ball-shaped. In the different embodiments of the closing part shown, the closing part may have an outer diameter being equal to or larger than the inner diameter of the guide channel. If the guide channel has another cross-sectional design, the closing part may be adapted to correspond to that design. -
Figs. 6f-6g show two embodiments of the closingpart 13, wherein the closingpart 13 may be part of the font device. InFig. 6f , the embodiment of the closingpart 13 shown in connection withFig. 2 is shown. The disc-shapedclosing part 13 comprises a plurality ofslits 17 arranged around theperiphery 18 of the closingpart 13, and each slit 17 extends from theperiphery 18 towards the center of the closingpart 13. The closingpart 13 also comprises acircular opening 19 at the center, having a diameter being equal to an outer diameter of the dispensing line. Theopening 19 is adapted to let the dispensing line pass the closing part. The closingpart 13 ofFig. 6f may be securely fastened across from the guide channel at the first upper end. - In
Fig. 6g , another embodiment of the closingpart 13 is shown. The closingpart 13 is hingedly connected with the first part and is movable between an open position, wherein access to the guide channel is provided, and a closed position, wherein the closing part closes off the guide channel. The closingpart 13 comprises twosemicircles hinge 22. In the center of the closingpart 13, anopening 23 is provided which may comprise sealing means (not shown) for sealing off an area around the dispensing line when the dispensing line is present in the opening. -
Figs. 7a-7c show cross-sectional top views of different embodiments of thefirst part 2 of the dispensingfont device 1. InFig. 7a , theguide channel 11 is positioned in the centre of thefirst part 2. The first andsecond channels guide channel 11 in that a single tubular is divided into the two channels. InFig. 7b , another embodiment is shown. Again, theguide channel 11 is arranged at the centre of thefirst part 2, and a tubular is arranged concentrically around theguide channel 11. In this embodiment, the tubular is divided into four sections, two of which comprise the first andsecond channels - In
Fig. 7c , thefirst channel 9 is arranged concentrically outside thesecond channel 10 and the second channel is arranged concentrically outside theguide channel 11. In situations where the font device only comprises a first channel, the first channel may be arranged concentrically outside the guide channel. - Furthermore, the font device may comprise a cover arranged outside the guide channel. The first channel and/or the second channel may be arranged outside the cover.
- In addition, the first and second channels may be isolated to minimise heat loss of the circulating cold air stream.
- The cooling unit may be arranged in the second part to provide cold air circulation in the second part. Moreover, the font device is arranged on a
housing 24, and the first channel and/or the second channel and the guide channel are in fluid communication with an inside of thehousing 24. The coolingunit 12 is arranged in thehousing 24. Thefont device 1 may comprise a plurality of coolingunits 12. Furthermore, thehousing 24 may function as a fridge for keeping the temperature of a beverage contained in a beverage container in the housing low. - The cooling
unit 12 comprises an air circulation unit, such as a blower, a fan, a ventilator and/or a pump, for creating an air flow. A blower may be connected with thefirst channel 9 for blowing air into the channel. The coolingunit 12 may also comprise a control unit adapted to stop the circulation of air when the upper part is being moved in relation to the lower part and/or when the housing is being opened. - The invention also relates to a
dispensing system 100 for dispensing a beverage, as shown inFigs. 8 and9 . Thesystem 100 comprises a dispensingfont device 1 as described above, ahousing 24 comprising abeverage container 25, and adispensing line 8 extending from thebeverage container 25 via theguide channel 11 to thetapping handle 6, facilitating dispensing of cold beverage from thebeverage container 25. - Advantageously, the dispensing
line 8 is exchanged at the same time as thebeverage container 25. The dispensing line may be guided through theguide channel 11 from the first upper end of the first part, however, it may also be guided through the guide channel from the second lower end. - In
Fig. 10 , thedispensing system 100 is shown in a cross-sectional side view. Thedispensing system 100 comprises thehousing 24 adapted to house thebeverage container 25. Thehousing 24 is provided with acooling unit 12 for keeping the beverage at a predetermined temperature and is further provided with circulating means for circulating the cool air in thehousing 24. Thehousing 24 may also comprise propelling means, or propelling means may be connected to thebeverage container 25 in the housing. The propelling means may be a gas, such as CO2, or it may be a pressure chamber utilising a pneumatic or mechanical pressure means to force the beverage out of thebeverage container 25. In the shown embodiment, the propelling means is a gas contained in agas cylinder 31 which is connected via agas line 32 to a dispensehead 33 to be connected with thecontainer 25. The dispensingline 8 extends from thebeverage container 25 up through theguide channel 11 to thesecond part 5 of thefont device 1 where thedispensing line 8 terminates at theoutlet 7. Thesecond part 5 furthermore comprises thetapping handle 6. Theguide channel 11 is in this embodiment closed off at the top by the closingpart 13 according to the inventive idea. - The dispensing line may be made of a non-rigid material to facilitate handling and guiding. The dispensing line may comprise a valve at the outlet end, which valve is adapted to be opened and closed by the tapping handle when the dispensing line and the valve is positioned in the second part. Instead of a valve, the dispensing valve may comprise a section made of a flexible material, such as rubber or silicone. The section is positioned opposite a pinch device arranged in the second part in connection with the tapping handle. The pinch device is adapted to pinch the section of the dispensing line and thereby close off the dispensing line.
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Figs. 11-15 show further embodiments of the dispensingfont device 1 according to the invention. InFig. 11 , a top part of the dispensingfont device 1 is shown in a cross-sectional view. The dispensingfont device 1 comprises a verticalfirst part 2 having the firstupper end 3, and the substantially horizontalsecond part 5 is in fluid communication with the firstupper end 3, thesecond part 5 comprising the tapping handle 6 which is adapted to open and close theoutlet 7 of thedispensing line 8 extending through thefont device 1 during use. Thefirst part 2 comprises afirst channel 9 and a second channel (not shown), both extending from the second lower end to the firstupper end 3 and being in fluid communication with each other at the firstupper end 3. Thefirst part 2 also comprises theguide channel 11 in which thedispensing line 8 is adapted to be guided to extend through theguide channel 11, theguide channel 11 extending into thefirst part 2 from the firstupper end 3 to at least the second lower end. Thefont device 1 also comprises a cooling unit (not shown) adapted to circulate a cooling medium (indicated by arrows in the first channel) inside the first andsecond parts - In this embodiment, the
guide channel 11 projects up into thesecond part 5 and comprises anopening 52 arranged at the firstupper end 3 of thefirst part 2 in the projectedpart 53 of theguide channel 11. Theopening 52 is arranged opposite thesecond part 5, allowing thedispensing line 8, when positioned, to extend from theguide channel 11 into thesecond part 5 via theopening 52. The closingpart 13 is arranged in connection with theupper part 15 in a position where it abuts theguide channel 11 from above, as seen inFig. 11 , and thereby closes off the top of theguide channel 11 when theupper part 15 is positioned in a closed position in relation to thelower part 14. The closing part is in this embodiment fastened to theupper part 15 by means of ascrew 51. - The closing
part 13 also comprises a projectingelement 50 facing theguide channel 11 and comprising a slot (not shown), and being positioned so that when theupper part 15 is positioned in a closed position, as shown inFig. 11 , in relation to thelower part 14, the projectingelement 50 closes off theopening 52, except for thedispensing line 8 which is positioned in the slot. In this way, the closingpart 13 and the projectingelement 50 substantially closes off a fluid communication to theguide channel 11 at the firstupper end 3 of thefirst part 2 during use of thefont device 1. This ensures cooling of the beverage in thedispensing line 8 in thesecond part 5. As mentioned above, studies have shown that it is important for the quality of the beverage, especially beer, and for the consumer experience that especially the section of the dispensing line arranged just before the outlet of the dispensing line is cooled properly. By closing off the fluid communication of cold air at the firstupper end 3 of thefirst part 2 to thelarge guide channel 11, it is obtained that the circulated cooling medium, i.e. air or gases, in thefont device 1 is directed to thesecond part 5 without substantial heat loss. - In
Fig. 12 , theupper part 15 is opened so that the inside of thefont device 1 is accessible. As may be seen, theguide channel 11 has a projectedpart 53 projecting upwards. Theopening 52 is positioned at the top of the projectedpart 53 of theguide channel 11 and faces the horizontalsecond part 5. The closingpart 13 is lifted away from theguide channel 11 to allow for replacement of the dispensing line. In connection with the closingpart 13, the projectingelement 50 is arranged, and the projectingelement 50 has aslot 54 which is adapted to extend around the dispensing line in theopening 52 when the upper part is closed. - The dispensing
font device 1 is shown in a perspective view inFig. 13 and in a side view inFig. 14 , in which a part of the font device around theopening 52 is removed to make the area visible. -
Fig. 15 shows thefont device 1 in a cross-sectional view taken along the A-A line inFig. 14 . The upper part is in the closed position, whereby the projectingelement 50 is closing off the opening, only leaving room for thedispensing line 8. As may be seen fromFig. 15 , the projectingelement 50 and slot abut around thedispensing line 8, thereby sealing off the opening, whereby the closing part and the projecting element together are closing off the fluid communication to the guide channel. Furthermore, the closingpart 13 and the projectingelement 50 comprise a flexible material on their faces facing theguide channel 11 and the opening for sealing off the guide channel and around the dispensing line in the opening. - In another not shown embodiment, the projecting
element 50 may comprise a plurality of strands, wires or bristles projecting from a base part so that the strands, wires or bristles are displaced by the dispensing line when the projecting element is positioned in the opening. Hereby, the strands, wires or bristles will allow the dispensing line to extend through them while they still close off the rest of the opening. The strands, wires or bristles may be arranged in several rows on the projecting element. Furthermore, the strands, wires or bristles may be made of a synthetic material, such as nylon, however, other plastic materials may also be used. -
Figs. 16-21 show another dispensingfont device 1 according to the invention. InFig. 16 , the dispensingfont device 1 is shown in a side view indicating where the cross-sectional views B-B (cf.Fig. 19 ), C-C (cf.Fig. 20 ) and D-D (cf.Fig. 21 ) are taken. InFig. 17 , the dispensingfont device 1 is shown in a top view indication where the cross-sectional view A-A (cf.Fig. 18 ) is taken. -
Fig. 18 shows the dispensingfont device 1 in a cross-sectional view taken along the A-A line inFig. 17 . The dispensingfont device 1 comprises a verticalfirst part 2 having the firstupper end 3 and a secondlower end 4, and the substantially horizontalsecond part 5 is in fluid communication with the firstupper end 3. Thefirst part 2 comprises afirst channel 9 and asecond channel 10, both extending from the secondlower end 4 to the firstupper end 3 and being in fluid communication with each other at the firstupper end 3. Thefirst part 2 also comprises theguide channel 11 in which thedispensing line 8 is adapted to be guided to extend through theguide channel 11, theguide channel 11 extending into thefirst part 2 from the firstupper end 3 to at least the secondlower end 4. In the same manner as described in connection withFigs. 11-15 above, the closingpart 13 is arranged in connection with theupper part 15 of the substantially horizontalsecond part 5 in a position in which it abuts theguide channel 11 from above, as seen inFig. 11 , and thereby closes off the top of theguide channel 11 when theupper part 15 is positioned in a closed position in relation to thelower part 14 of the substantially horizontalsecond part 5. - The dispensing
font device 1 ofFigs. 16-21 is adapted to be mounted on abar counter 60 having ahousing 24 arranged a distance below thebar counter 60. The dispensingfont device 1 extends downwards past thebar counter 60 and past thehousing 24. The secondlower end 4 of thefirst part 2 is arranged in thehousing 24. - The
font device 1 also comprises acooling unit 12 adapted to circulate a cooling medium inside thefirst part 2 and thesecond part 5. Thefirst channel 9 is extending from the firstlower end 4 up to thesecond part 5 for circulating cooling medium to thesecond part 5. Thesecond channel 10 is the return channel for leading the cooling medium back to the housing and away from thesecond part 5. Thesecond channel 10 is in the extension of thefirst part 2 being above thebar counter 60 arranged concentrically outside theguide channel 11. At the firstupper end 3 and above thebar counter 60, thesecond channel 10 has a larger diameter than the rest of the extension between the firstupper end 3 and thebar counter 60, so that the cooling medium has a higher flow rate in the extension having a smaller diameter. Since the return cooling medium flows opposite and around theguide channel 11, it may cool theguide channel 11 and thereby the beverage in thedispensing line 8. Theguide channel 11 may be made of a metal, such as aluminum, for facilitating heat transfer between thesecond channel 10 and theguide channel 11. -
Fig. 19 shows the dispensingfont device 1 in a cross-sectional view when seen from the secondlower end 4 taken along the B-B line inFig. 17 . The cross-sectional view is taken in the extension between the first upper end and the bar counter where the concentricsecond channel 10 is close to theguide channel 11. - The
first channel 9 is arranged outside thesecond channel 10 but within thefirst part 2. In addition, the closingpart 13 is seen closing off theguide channel 11. -
Fig. 20 shows the dispensingfont device 1 in a cross-sectional view when seen from the secondlower end 4 taken along the C-C line inFig. 17 . The cross-sectional view is taken in the extension between thebar counter 60 and the housing. Thesecond channel 10 is in this extension divided into twosecond channels 10 and thefirst channel 9 is arranged between the twosecond channels 10. Again the closingpart 13 is seen closing off theguide channel 11. -
Fig. 21 shows the dispensingfont device 1 in a cross-sectional view when seen from the secondlower end 4 taken along the D-D line inFig. 17 . The cross-sectional view is taken below thehousing 24. Thesecond channel 10 is still divided into twosecond channels 10, and thefirst channel 9 is arranged between the twosecond channels 10. InFig. 21 , the closingpart 13 is still seen closing off theguide channel 11. Furthermore, the coolingunit 12 is arranged in connection with thefirst channel 9. -
Fig. 22 shows a side view of the coolingunit 12 being in fluid communication with the first channel for leading the cooling medium up to the second part. - Although the invention has been described in the above in connection with preferred embodiments of the invention, it will be evident for a person skilled in the art that several modifications are conceivable without departing from the invention as defined by the following claims.
Claims (15)
- A dispensing font device (1) comprising:- a vertical first part (2) having a first upper end (3) and a second lower end (4),- a substantially horizontal second part (5) being in fluid communication with the first part (2), the second part (5) comprising a tapping handle (6) being adapted to open and close an outlet (7) of a dispensing line (8) extending through the font device (1) during use,- the first part (2) comprising a first channel (9) extending from the second lower end (4) to the first upper end (3), and a guide channel (11) in which the dispensing line (8) is adapted to be guided, thereby extending through the guide channel, the guide channel (11) extending in the first part (2) from the first upper end (3) to at least the second lower end (4), and the guide channel (11) having an inner diameter (DI), and- a cooling unit (12) adapted to circulate a cooling medium inside the first and second parts (2, 5),characterized by a closing part (13) is arranged for substantially closing off a fluid communication to the guide channel (11) at the first upper end (3) of the first part (2) during use of the font device.
- A dispensing font device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the first part (2) comprises a second channel (10) extending from the second lower end (4) to the first upper end (3) and being in fluid communication with the first channel (9) at the first upper end (3).
- A dispensing font device (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the second part (5) comprises a lower part (14) and an upper part (15), the lower and upper parts (14, 15) being movable in relation to each other to allow for opening of the second part (5).
- A dispensing font device (1) according to claim 3, wherein the lower part and upper part are displaceable, slidable or turnable in relation to each other or are hingedly connected.
- A dispensing font device (1) according to claims 3 or 4, wherein the upper part (15) is adapted to be moved in relation to the lower part (14) to provide access to the guide channel from above.
- A dispensing font device (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the second part (5) is provided with room along its extension to enable air circulation substantially along a section of the dispensing line (8) being positioned in the second part (5) during use.
- A dispensing font device (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first channel (9) extends into the second part (5) and ends at an end opposite the first upper end (3) of the first part (2).
- A dispensing font device (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein an additional closing part is arranged for substantially closing off a fluid communication to the guide channel (11) at the second lower end of the first part during use of the font device.
- A dispensing font device (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the closing part (13) has an outer diameter equal to or larger than the inner diameter (DI) of the guide channel (11).
- A dispensing font device (1) according to any of the claims 1-8, wherein the closing part (13) is hingedly connected with the first part (2) and is movable between an open position, wherein access to the guide channel (11) is provided, and a closed position, wherein the closing part (13) closes off the guide channel (11).
- A dispensing font device (1) according to claim 3, wherein the upper part (15) comprises the closing part (13), and the closing part (13) is arranged in a position enabling it to close off the guide channel (11) at the first upper end (3) when the upper part (15) is positioned in relation to the lower part (14) so that the second part (5) is closed.
- A dispensing font device (1) according to claim 11, wherein the guide channel (11) projects up into the second part (5) and comprises an opening (52) arranged at the first upper end of the first part in the projected part (53) of the guide channel, the opening being arranged opposite the second part, allowing the dispensing line, when positioned, to extend from the guide channel into the second part via the opening, the closing part (13) being arranged in connection with the upper part in a position where it abuts the guide channel (11) and thereby closes off the guide channel, and when the upper part (15) is positioned in a closed position in relation to the lower part (14), the closing part (13) comprises a projecting element (50) facing the guide channel and comprising a slot (54), and being positioned so that when the upper part is positioned in a closed position in relation to the lower part, the projecting element (50) closes off the opening, except for the dispensing line which is positioned in the slot.
- A dispensing font device (1) according to claim 12, wherein the closing part (13) and the projecting element (50) comprise a flexible material on their faces facing the guide channel (11) and the opening (52) for sealing off the guide channel (11) and around the dispensing line in the opening.
- A dispensing font device (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the closing part (13) comprises an opening for letting the dispensing line pass the closing part.
- A dispensing system (100) for dispensing a beverage, comprising:- a dispensing font device (1) according to any of the preceding claims,- a housing (24) comprising a beverage container (25), and- a dispensing line (8) extending from the beverage container (25) via the guide channel (11) to the tapping handle (6), facilitating dispensing of cold beverage from the beverage container (25).
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
EP14736373.3A EP3016903B1 (en) | 2013-07-05 | 2014-07-03 | A dispensing font device and dispensing system |
Applications Claiming Priority (4)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
EP13175229.7A EP2821363A1 (en) | 2013-07-05 | 2013-07-05 | A dispensing font device and dispensing system |
EP13185126 | 2013-09-19 | ||
PCT/EP2014/064165 WO2015001011A1 (en) | 2013-07-05 | 2014-07-03 | A dispensing font device and dispensing system |
EP14736373.3A EP3016903B1 (en) | 2013-07-05 | 2014-07-03 | A dispensing font device and dispensing system |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP3016903A1 EP3016903A1 (en) | 2016-05-11 |
EP3016903B1 true EP3016903B1 (en) | 2017-12-27 |
Family
ID=51136470
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP14736373.3A Not-in-force EP3016903B1 (en) | 2013-07-05 | 2014-07-03 | A dispensing font device and dispensing system |
Country Status (3)
Country | Link |
---|---|
EP (1) | EP3016903B1 (en) |
ES (1) | ES2663711T3 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2015001011A1 (en) |
Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US11034569B2 (en) | 2018-02-14 | 2021-06-15 | Taphandles Llc | Cooled beverage dispensing systems and associated devices |
Families Citing this family (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US9862589B2 (en) | 2016-05-31 | 2018-01-09 | Starbucks Corporation | Chilled beverage dispenser |
EP3601148B1 (en) * | 2017-03-27 | 2021-08-18 | Carlsberg Breweries A/S | Beverage dispensing system for dispensing a carbonated beverage and a method of dispensing a carbonated beverage |
JP7379483B2 (en) * | 2018-11-12 | 2023-11-14 | マイクロ・マティック・エー/エス | beer tap with foam control |
Family Cites Families (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
NL1015359C2 (en) * | 2000-05-31 | 2001-12-03 | Heineken Tech Services | Tapping device and holder therefor, as well as a method of manufacturing the same. |
MY163766A (en) * | 2005-08-12 | 2017-10-31 | Carlsberg Breweries As | An assembly for dispensing beverage |
-
2014
- 2014-07-03 ES ES14736373.3T patent/ES2663711T3/en active Active
- 2014-07-03 WO PCT/EP2014/064165 patent/WO2015001011A1/en active Application Filing
- 2014-07-03 EP EP14736373.3A patent/EP3016903B1/en not_active Not-in-force
Cited By (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US11034569B2 (en) | 2018-02-14 | 2021-06-15 | Taphandles Llc | Cooled beverage dispensing systems and associated devices |
US11981556B2 (en) | 2018-02-14 | 2024-05-14 | Taphandles Llc | Cooled beverage dispensing systems and associated devices |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
ES2663711T3 (en) | 2018-04-16 |
WO2015001011A1 (en) | 2015-01-08 |
EP3016903A1 (en) | 2016-05-11 |
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