NL1012922C2 - Container with pressure control device for fluid delivery. - Google Patents

Description

Title: Container soot pressure control device for fluid delivery.

The invention relates to a container of the type described in the preamble of the main claim. Such a container is known from FR-A-2 690 142.

This known container comprises an inner space in which a fluid to be dispensed is received, in which inner space a pressure vessel with pressure control means is received.

A first chamber is formed in the pressure vessel in which a gas is introduced under relatively high pressure, wherein an outflow opening is provided, which is closed by a closing member. This closing member is slightly rod-shaped and is surrounded in the outflow opening by a tightly sealing O-ring. A circumferential groove is provided in the rod-shaped element. A second chamber is formed in the pressure vessel opposite the first chamber, which is closed on the side facing the first chamber by a membrane to which the rod-shaped element with one end is attached. A control pressure is applied in the second chamber using a gas. A third chamber is received between the first and the second chamber, through which the rod-shaped element extends and which is provided with an opening which forms a fluid connection between the third chamber and the inner space of the container.

In this known device, when a desired pressure prevails in the third chamber, for instance equal to the control pressure, the groove is located in the third chamber and the outflow opening is closed by the rod-shaped element. When fluid is released from the inner space, the pressure therein will drop, resulting in the same pressure drop in the third chamber. As a result, the membrane-shaped wall part of the second chamber will deform in the direction of the first chamber, moving the rod-shaped element axially further into the first chamber. When the groove is brought to the O-ring, pressurized gas will be able to escape from the first chamber through the groove along the O-ring to the third chamber and from there to the interior of the container. As a result, the pressure in the third chamber increases such that the membrane-shaped wall part is deformed against the control pressure 5, thereby moving the rod-shaped element out of the first chamber. When the rod-shaped element is again clampingly clamped by the O-ring, gas will no longer be able to escape from the first chamber, in which state the pressure in the third chamber and in the inner space will again be approximately equal to the desired pressure, ie the control pressure.

The drawback of this known container is that the closing member and the control means for it, in this case the second chamber, the membrane-shaped wall part and the rod-shaped element must already be arranged before the gas is introduced under pressure into the first chamber. The first chamber is filled by pressing gas under particularly high pressure through the opening in the third chamber, such that the membrane-shaped element deforms in the direction away from the first chamber. The rod-shaped element is thereby pulled out of the first chamber so far that a slightly tapering end thereof is located in the outflow opening. The gas can then pass this end under high pressure and be introduced into the first chamber. When the high gas pressure is removed, the rod-shaped element will be brought back into the outflow opening under the influence of the control pressure and close it. This has the drawback that the introduction of the gas under pressure is relatively complicated and must take place through relatively small openings. In addition, if the filling pressure is too high, there is a risk that the rod-shaped element will be completely withdrawn from the first chamber and will not return to the outflow opening when the gas pressure is removed, for instance because the rod-shaped element 35 pivots slightly while the closing O-ring is removed from the opening can be printed. Moreover, when filling 101 2922 3, relatively large deformations of the membrane-shaped wall part will occur. When this known device is stored for some time after the gas has been introduced into the first chamber, the control pressure will continuously act on the membrane-shaped element, without a desired back pressure prevailing in the third chamber. After all, the pressure in the third chamber will then be almost atmospheric. As a result, the membrane will be kept in a relatively highly deformed state for a relatively long time, which is disadvantageous for its elastic properties. In addition, there is a risk that the control pressure will change due to gas leakage from the second chamber along or due to the highly deformed membrane.

Moreover, in the event of leakage of the membrane, the control pressure can drop, whereby the seal will be lost and the gas from the first chamber will flow freely to the container, as a result of which it will be under too high a pressure.

A further drawback of this known device is that the rod-shaped body closes the outflow opening of the second chamber by means of an O-ring. The high gas pressure in the second chamber is constantly on this O-ring. This means that if the O-ring and / or the rod-shaped element are not positioned exactly and / or are dimensioned, gas can easily flow away between the rod-shaped element and the O-ring. This will also eventually cause the gas to flow from the first chamber to the container and build up too high a pressure therein. This is undesirable, both because of too high a pressure build-up and because of poor functioning of the fluid delivery.

The object of the invention is a container of the type described in the opening paragraph, wherein the drawbacks of the known container are avoided, while the advantages thereof are retained. In particular, the invention contemplates a container with a pressure regulating device for maintaining a substantially constant, preset pressure in the 101 2922 4 container, wherein the pressure regulating device allows simple filling with a pressure fluid and retains its pressure-regulating effect for relatively long times. To this end, a container according to the present invention is characterized by the measures according to claims 1.

In a container according to the present invention, pressure fluid can be received and held in the first chamber, without the control means and / or the second chamber being arranged. After all, the closing member is biased in the closed position and will always keep the passage opening closed when the control member, at least the second chamber, has been removed, or at least the pressure-regulating effect thereof has been deactivated. This achieves the advantage that the control means can be fitted after the first chamber has been filled, while the control means can moreover be stored and transported separately from the first chamber. In addition, the advantage is obtained that, starting from the same first chamber, different control means can be used, depending on for instance the desired control pressure, a desired stroke of the operating member and the like. This also prevents the closing member from being operated prematurely. After all, the closing member can only be operated by the control means after assembly. The first chamber is preferably filled along the closure member with gas or other high pressure pressure fluid, but the first chamber may also be filled prior to positioning of the closure member.

In an advantageous elaboration, a device 30 according to the present invention is characterized by the measures according to claim 2.

Positioning of the closing member, at least substantially on the side of the passage opening facing the first chamber, offers the advantage that during use the closing member under the influence of the pressure prevailing in the first chamber towards the passage opening and 1 D1 90 9 9 * 5 will be forced against the seat in order to close the passage. By providing limiting means which limit the maximum stroke of the closing member, it is simply prevented that the closing member 5 can come loose in the first chamber. By designing the limiting means in a suitable manner, care is taken here that compressed gas can be introduced into the first chamber via the passage opening, thereby passing the closing member in a simple manner. To that end, the limiting means can for instance be provided with ridges, slots or passage openings, such that the closing member can abut against at least a part of said ridges or material present between said slots or openings in a position moved away from the passage opening, thereby leaving fluid connections free. between the passage opening and the closing member on the one hand and recesses located between said ribs or the slots or passage openings on the other. Such ridges, slots or openings can also be included in a side of the closing member itself remote from the seat.

It is preferred that spring means are used as biasing means which bias the closing member into the closed position, even when no overpressure is present in the first chamber. As a result, contamination of the inner space of the first chamber is simply prevented, while, moreover, no gases or solids can escape from it.

In a further advantageous embodiment, a container according to the present invention is characterized by the measures according to claim 3.

With such a container the advantage is achieved that the main direction of movement of the control means will not coincide with the main direction of movement of the closing member, whereby a greater freedom of design is obtained and, moreover, greater tolerances are permissible. After all, with coinciding main movement direction JO; The position of the second chamber, at least of the control means, must be determined particularly accurately with respect to the closing member in at least the closed position. A further advantage of such a container 5 can be that an unintentional movement of the control means in the main direction of movement of the closing member does not, at least not directly, result in a movement of the closing member. This prevents accidental release of gas even better.

The control means preferably extends at least almost entirely outside the first chamber, so that it can be easily removed. After all, this does not leave an opening in the first room.

In a particularly advantageous embodiment, a container according to the present invention is further characterized by the measures according to claim 5.

The use of at least a part of a valve as a closing member offers the advantage that a closing member prestressed in the closed position can easily be obtained. By arranging this in such a way that it can be opened with the aid of at least the control means, the advantage is achieved that with the aid of such a valve a self-regulating pressure control device can be obtained in a container according to the present invention. In a further advantageous embodiment, a container according to the present invention is characterized by the measures according to claim 7.

Loosely connecting the control means to the closing member enables positioning of the closing member relative to the control means relatively easily, while movement of the closing member with the aid of the control means can be easily obtained. A snap connection makes such a coupling relatively easy. Moreover, this can easily prevent the control means from being detached from the closing member, so that malversations can be prevented.

In a preferred embodiment, a container according to the present invention is characterized by the measures according to claim 9.

By accommodating the first chamber in a first housing and accommodating the second chamber in a second housing, which housings can be coupled via coupling means, a container according to the present invention can be obtained in a constructionally simple manner. The use of a snap connection in particular makes such a coupling particularly easy. Such a snap connection is preferably designed in such a way that it cannot simply be removed again. It will moreover be clear that other coupling means can also be used, for instance bayonet closing means, threaded connections or the like.

In an alternative embodiment, a filling opening for the first chamber is provided, located at a distance from the passage opening. This achieves the advantage that the first chamber does not have to be filled through the passage opening.

In a further alternative embodiment, a container according to the invention is characterized by the measures according to claim 11.

By collecting gas leaving the first chamber in a balloon-shaped or otherwise expandable element, the advantage is achieved that contact between and mixing of the fluid to be delivered and the pressure fluid is prevented.

This is particularly advantageous when, for example, for toxic or chemical reasons, the printing fluid may not be released, at least not together with the fluid to be delivered.

1012922 8

The invention further relates to a pressure regulating device for use in a container according to the invention.

Such a pressure control device according to the invention is preferably characterized by the measures according to claim 13.

By using an intermediate part, which can be coupled to the first chamber, which intermediate part comprises at least the passage opening and the closing member, a relatively simple housing for the first chamber can be obtained with a suitable passage opening. At the desired moment, the second chamber can then be placed with the control member and coupled to the intermediate part, such that the desired pressure control device is obtained, or at least brought into a ready-to-use state. Depending on the application, a suitable second chamber with suitable control element can always be selected.

The invention furthermore relates to a method for preparing a container for supplying a fluid under substantially constant pressure, characterized by the measures according to claim 14.

With such a method a container is obtained in a simple manner which is immediately ready for use for a user. When a part of the fluid contained therein is withdrawn from the container, in principle the pressure in the container will decrease. With the aid of the pressure control device, an amount of pressure fluid, in particular a gas, will be dispensed therefrom from the first chamber to compensate for said pressure drop. Preferably, the pressure in the container inner space is controlled such that it is sufficient to push the fluid out of the container at a desired pressure. It will be clear, however, that it is also possible to control the pressure in the inner space at a relatively low level, for example atmospheric or sub-atmospheric, whereby the fluid introduced into the inner space can for instance serve as shielding gas or can be used to prevent an underpressure from occurring in the inner space, as a result of which discharge of the fluid will after all be prevented, or at least made more difficult.

The invention also relates to the use of a container or a pressure control device according to the invention for dispensing carbonated drink, in particular beer, under substantially constant pressure, and to the use of a method according to the present invention for this purpose.

In a device or method according to the invention, preferably a gas, in particular CO2 or CO2-containing gas, is used as the pressure fluid. However, other pressure fluid can also be used, for instance a liquid. A printing fluid can also be obtained in a chemical manner, for example by bringing together lime, (bi) carbonate and an acid such as citric acid. A pressure gas, in particular CO2, is hereby obtained. Many variations thereof are possible. For example, the (bi) carbonate or other calcareous product can enter the third chamber, at least on the opposite side of the closing member.

Further advantageous embodiments of a container, pressure control device and method according to the present invention are given in the subclaims.

To clarify the invention, a number of exemplary embodiments of a container, pressure control device, method and use according to the invention will be further elucidated with reference to the drawing. In it shows:

Figure 1 is a schematic sectional side view of a container with a pressure control device according to the present invention; Figure 2 schematically shows, in cross-sectional side view, a pressure control device in a first embodiment; 1012922 10

Figure 3 is a cross-sectional side view of a detail of a pressure control device according to the invention in a first alternative embodiment;

Figure 4 is a sectional side view of a detail of a pressure control device in a second alternative embodiment;

Figure 5 is a sectional side view of a detail of a pressure control device in a third alternative embodiment; Figure 6 shows a detail of a pressure control device in a fourth alternative embodiment;

Figure 7 is a sectional side view of a pressure control device according to the invention in a fifth alternative embodiment; In this description the invention is mainly described with reference to a container with a pressure control device for dispensing drink, in particular soft drink, more in particular carbonated drink such as beer, but it will be clear that with such a device other fluids can also be released, for example cosmetic products, foaming products, gases and the like. In this description, reference will primarily be made to the delivery of a fluid under pressure. However, it is also possible with the aid of the pressure control device in the container to maintain a constant pressure, for instance at the level of the environment of the container, for instance to prevent deformation of the container or blocking of the delivery or to increase the content of protect the container from external contamination. In this description, like or corresponding parts have like or corresponding reference numerals.

Figure 1 shows in a very schematic cross-sectional side view a container 1, in the form of a substantially cylindrical can in which beverage 2 is accommodated in the inner space 4. A head space 6 may be present in the container 1, for example filled with carbon dioxide. The container 1 furthermore contains a pressure control device 8, which comprises a pressure vessel 10, a valve assembly 12 and an outlet opening 14. In the pressure vessel 10, in a manner to be described further, a gas is stored under relatively high pressure. With the aid of the valve assembly 12, gas from the pressure vessel 10 can be introduced into the inner space 4 of the container 1 via the pressure control device 8 in a manner to be described in more detail yet, to regulate the pressure therein. In the embodiment shown in figure 1, a tap 16 is arranged in the side wall of the container 1, with which beverage 2 can be discharged from the inner space 4.

Figure 2 shows a pressure control device 8 in a first embodiment, comprising a cylindrical first housing 18 forming the pressure vessel 10, with a filling opening 20 near the top end, in which an intermediate part 22 is fixed in a manner to be described in more detail yet. Within the first housing 18, a first 20 chamber 24 is formed, largely filled with activated carbon, for example activated carbon fiber 26 with a high ad- and absorption capacity for the compressed gas, such as CO2. As a result, a particularly large amount of the compressed gas can be introduced into the first chamber 24 in proportion to the pressure obtained thereby. This offers the advantage that the first chamber 24 can be relatively small and still contain sufficient gas. Such use of activated carbon is described in Netherlands Patent Application 1009654 previously filed by Applicant, which application is deemed to be incorporated herein by reference.

Instead of or in addition to the CO2, another pressure fluid can also be included in the first chamber, for example a pressurized liquid. Optionally, a reactive material may also be incorporated in the first chamber, which may react with a second reactive material to form a pressure medium such as CO2. This can be, for example, an acid and a lime product, such as citric acid and (bi) carbonate, in which the second reactive component can be stored in the first chamber and reacts only when the pressure is reduced, or in the third chamber, at least at the side of the closing member remote from the first chamber. Then, the reaction between the component only takes place when the closing member is temporarily opened when the pressure in the interior of the container is reduced and the components are brought together or undergo sufficient pressure change to form the desired gas.

Other reactions can also be suitably used, to be chosen depending on, inter alia, the medium to be released.

The intermediate part 22 comprises a passage opening 28, 15 which is partially closed near the bottom end by an inwardly extending flange 30, provided with a number of bypass openings 32. From the top end, a seat 34 is slid into the passage opening 28, which seat 34 the side facing the flange 30 is provided with a convex surface, to which an axial bore 36 connects. Between the convex surface 35 and the flange 30 d, a cavity 38 is formed in which a ball-shaped closing member 40 is movably received, which closing member 40 is biased against the convex surface 35 and 25 by biasing means 42 and the axial bore 36 in closes the said prestressed position in a gas- and liquid-tight manner. In the embodiment shown, the biasing means 42 are designed as a compression spring supporting against the flange 30.

As can be seen from Figure 2, the intermediate part 22 is provided with first coupling means 44 in the form of click fingers or a click ring, which can be pressed under deformation through the filling opening 20 and can be secured under the longitudinal edge thereof. A support edge 46 is provided which abuts against the top side of the longitudinal edge of the filling opening 20. As a result, the 101 2922 13 intermediate part 22 is coupled in a position-fixed manner with the first housing 18, wherein the first coupling means 44 and the support edge 46 for a gas and ensure a liquid-tight seal. Packing means 5 (not shown), such as a rubber ring, liquid packing, deformation means or the like, can optionally be arranged for this purpose. A second further coupling means 48 is arranged at some distance above the support edge 46, in the form of an outwardly extending longitudinal edge, parallel to the support edge 46. Under these second coupling means 48 counter-coupling means 50 of a second housing 52 can be fixed . This second housing 52 comprises a cylindrical longitudinal wall 54, closed on one side by an end wall 56, while on the opposite side the counter-coupling means 50 are provided in the form of click fingers or a click edge or the like. Within the second housing 52, a circular membrane 58 is arranged, which with its longitudinal edge is secured gas-and liquid-tightly in the longitudinal wall 54. Between the end wall 56, the longitudinal wall 54 and the membrane 58, a second chamber 60 is enclosed, the membrane 58 of which forms a deformable wall part. Between the membrane 58, the longitudinal wall 54 and the first chamber 24, a third chamber 62 is accommodated, which fluid communication with the inner space 4 of the container 1 is via at least one outflow opening 64. From the membrane 58 extends a rod-shaped control means 66 through the axial bore 36 to near the closure member 40. The control means 66 is secured with a first end to the center of the diaphragm 58 such that the control means 66 is moved in the axial direction upon deformation of the diaphragm 58. The length of the control means 66 is chosen such that with a preselected increase in the volume of the second chamber 60, by deformation of the membrane 58, the free end 35 of the control means 66 remote from the membrane 58, the closure member 40 of the seat 34, causing pressurized gas to pass through the passages. 10. J92? 14 28 and the bypass openings 32, the cavity 38 and the axial bore 36 can flow into the third chamber 62 and from there through the outflow opening 64 to the inner space 4 of the container 1. In this way, the pressure in the inner space 4 5 of the container, for example, in order to bring this pressure to a desired level when drink has been discharged from the container 1.

In the second chamber 60, prior to use, a pressure medium, for instance a gas, is applied under a control pressure to be called primary pressure, for instance slightly higher than the pressure which is desired in the inner space 4 of the container 1. The degree to which this control pressure is higher Then the desired pressure for the inner space 4 is mainly determined by the bias supplied by the biasing means 42. When the control pressure prevails in the second chamber 60, the membrane 58 extends flat and parallel to the end wall 56, the free end of the control means 66 is located near the closing member 40. When drink 2 is discharged from inner space 4 via tap 16, the pressure in the container will decrease. This means that the pressure in the third chamber 62 will also decrease, as a result of which the difference in pressure between the second chamber 60 and the third chamber 62 will deform the membrane 58, increasing the volume of the second chamber. 60. Thereby the control means 66 is moved against the closing member 40 and presses it from the seat 34 against the biasing means 42. Pressurized gas then flows from the first chamber 24 past the shut-off member 40 in the third chamber 62 and into the inner space 4. When the pressure 30 in the third chamber 62 and thus in the inner space 4 is brought back to the desired level, diaphragm 58 forced back into the flat position, as shown in figure 2, taking control means 66 with it. The closing member 40 is pressed back by the biasing means 42 against the seat 34 in the closing position. In this way, whenever the pressure in the interior space 4 falls below a desired level below 1012922, gas will be supplied from the first chamber 24 to the interior space, whereby automatic pressure control is obtained. Optionally, the membrane may be slightly dish-shaped, the control pressure in the second chamber overeenkomt 0 corresponding to the primary, desired pressure when the convex side of such a membrane 58 faces the second chamber. In such an embodiment, an additional pressure difference is required between the second and third chambers to obtain sufficient displacement of the control means 66 to push the closure member 40 of the seat 34. In addition, with reverse movement of the membrane 58, the pressure in the third chamber 62 will have to be increased slightly further than when using a flat membrane 58, in order to deform the membrane seen from the second chamber 60 back to the convex shape, concave. This means that when the shut-off element 40 is open, the pressure in the inner space 4 will be raised slightly above the desired pressure, while gas will only be supplied from the first chamber 24 to the inner space 4 when the pressure in the inner space 4 falls below the desired level. has fallen.

In the second chamber 60, as pressure medium, a combination of, for example, a gas and another fluid or a gas and a solid can be included, such that the control pressure is related to, for example, the temperature of the drink 2 in the container 1. Thus, for example, in the second chamber 60 an amount of the beverage 2 or a corresponding fluid is received, wherein depending on the temperature in the second chamber, gas from the beverage contained therein will cause an increase in pressure or a decrease in pressure in the second chamber. A similar effect can be achieved by incorporating gas adsorbing or absorbing agents into the second chamber 60, the ad-35 of which is absorbed depending on, inter alia, the temperature. In this way an even better control of the pressure in the inner space 4 can be obtained.

A pressure control device 8 according to the invention can be used as follows. Into the first chamber 24, via the filling opening 20, a suitable amount of filling material 26 is introduced, for example activated carbon fibers, activated carbon powder or like gas adjuvants and / or absorbents, known for example from EP 5 692 381, which is herein referred to by reference. deemed to be included.

Subsequently, the intermediate part 22 is closed in the filling opening with the aid of the first coupling means 44, after which a filling head (not shown) can be connected to the intermediate part 22, such that gas under pressure via the axial bore 36 along the closing member 40 can be brought into the first 15 chamber 24. The gas pressure is so high that the closing member 40 is moved against the biasing means 42 of the seat 34. Said filling head can be provided with coupling means, comparable to the counter-coupling means 50, so that the filling head can be connected to the second coupling means 48 of the intermediate part. When the gas pressure in the filling head is released, the closing member 40 will be pressed back against the seat 34 by the biasing means 42 and close the axial bore 36, such that the gas is enclosed under pressure in the first chamber 24. Then, preferably immediately prior to use, the second housing 52 can be connected to the intermediate part 22 by means of the second coupling means 48, in the manner previously described, after which the pressure control device is ready for use.

In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the closure member 40 is spaced below the top surface 68 of the intermediate portion 22, so that the closure member 40 cannot be accidentally pushed from the seat 34. The first housing 18 with the intermediate part 22 can be stored and transported, with filled first chamber 24, separate from the second housing 52. This offers 1012922 17 logistical advantages, while moreover it is simply prevented that unintentional gas can escape from the first chamber 24. escape. After all, only after coupling of the first housing 18 and the second housing 52 will the pressure control 5 be initiated. A further advantage is that, depending on the desired application, in particular the pressure to be regulated, a suitable second housing 52 can be coupled to the first housing 18, at least the intermediate part 22, depending on, for example, the desired control pressure. Moreover, undesired loading of the membrane 58 can be easily prevented, for example by closing the bottom of the third chamber by a suitable cap when the second housing 52 is disconnected from the intermediate part 22. The control means 66 can then support 15 against the inside of said cap. A further special advantage of a pressure control device according to the present invention is that the filling means for introducing the gas into the first chamber 24 can be made relatively simple, comparable to filling devices for existing aerosol containers and the like. Since the gas does not have to be introduced under pressure via the relatively small outflow opening 64 and the third chamber 62, filling can be carried out relatively quickly, in particular also because the control means 66 does not extend into the axial bore during filling.

Figure 3 shows a part of an alternative embodiment of a pressure control device according to the present invention, wherein an intermediate part 122 is again fixed in the filling opening 120 of the first housing 118 with the aid of first coupling means 144 and an associated supporting edge 146. The second housing 152 is secured to the intermediate portion 122 in the manner previously described. In this embodiment, in the second housing 152, a piston 158 is provided, connected to the control means 166. The piston is provided with an O-ring 170 or the like piston ring, whereby a second chamber 160 is closed off in a gas- and liquid-tight manner. obtained on the side of piston 158 remote from first chamber 124, with intermediate third chamber 162.

Figure 4 shows a second alternative embodiment of a pressure regulating device according to the invention, wherein the first housing 218 near the top end 219 is provided with outer screw thread 221, which can co-act with inner screw thread 223, near the bottom end of the second housing 252. The second housing 252 is cap-shaped, provided with a cylindrical longitudinal wall 254 and a closed end wall 256. Within the second housing 252 a piston 258 with piston ring 270 is again accommodated, thereby separating the second housing 252 into a second chamber 260 and a third chamber. 262. In the first chamber 224, ad- and / or absorbent material 226 is again included.

In this second alternative embodiment, a substantially cylindrical depression 272 extends from the top end 219 of the first housing 218 toward the bottom 274 of the first housing, coaxial with the first housing 218. The depression 272 is at the top open, comprises a longitudinal wall 276 and a bottom 278. A passage opening 228 is provided in the longitudinal wall 276, which comprises an axial bore 236, which connects on the side facing away from the depression to a seat 234.

A substantially ball-shaped closing member 240 is pressed against the seat 234 by means of spring-shaped biasing means 242 which rest against, for example, the inner side of the longitudinal wall of the first housing 218. A pin 280 is fixedly connected to the closure member 240 and 30 extends through the axial bore 236 into the depression 272. In the biased position, the closure member 240 is pressed sealingly against the seat 234. In the first chamber 224, between the longitudinal wall 276 of the depression 272 and the outer wall of the first housing 35 218, a filter 282 is provided which is gas permeable, but 101 PQ 90 19 prevents the material 226 from reaching the closure member 240 and the passage opening 228. .

A rod-shaped control member 266 extends from the bottom of the piston 258 into the depression 5 272. Within the depression, a disc-shaped pressure element 284 is arranged around the controller 266, which extends parallel to the piston 258 and has a diameter D such that upon axial movement of the control member 266, the pressure element 284 is brought into contact with the free end of the pin 280. Moving the pressure element 284 further from the position shown in Figure 4 towards the bottom 278 will result in that the pin 236 is moved in the axial direction, further into the axial bore 236, wherein the closure member 240 will be moved against the biasing means 242 of the seat 234. This achieves the advantage that gas can flow from the first chamber 224 past the seat 234 and the closing member 240 through the passage 280 into the depression 272, which connects to or forms part of the third chamber 262. From the third chamber the gas can flow out through the outflow opening 264. Axial movement of the controller 266 is again obtained by a pressure difference between a control pressure in the second chamber 260 and the pressure in the third chamber 262. Preferably, a recess 272 contains a spacer ring 286 which can guide the controller 266. Bypass openings 233 may be included in the spacer ring for passage of the gas. The spacer 286 preferably has a diameter approximately corresponding to the inner diameter of the depression 272.

The spacer can move or guide with the control member 266. It is of course also possible to design the pressure element with a diameter which is approximately equal to the inner diameter of the depression 272, such that the pressure element simultaneously fulfills the function of the spacer ring 35, so that the spacer ring can be omitted.

1012922 20

In a pressure control device according to figure 4, the first housing 218 is screwed, for example, with the external thread 221 into the filling head of a filling device, after which gas is introduced under pressure in the first chamber 224 in the manner described above. After detaching the first housing 218 from the filling head, the second housing 252 with piston 258 and controller 266 can be screwed onto the first housing 218, after which the pressure control device 208 is ready for use. It will moreover be clear that, instead of a compression spring, other types of biasing means 242 can also be used in pressure control devices according to the present invention, for instance resilient fingers, flexible elements, or the like. The shut-off member can also be partly designed as a piston and be accommodated in a suitable cylinder, whereby the compression of a suitable fluid within the cylinder can provide the desired bias.

Figure 5 shows a part of a third alternative embodiment of a pressure control device 308.4 according to the invention, somewhat comparable to an embodiment according to figure 4. In this embodiment, a passage opening 328 in the first housing 318 again has a passage opening 328. received, with axial bore 334. A closure member 340 is forced against seat 334 by biasing means 342, with pin 380 extending through axial bore 336 into recess 372. In this embodiment, the biasing means 342 and the closing member 340 are contained in a fourth chamber 386 with inflow openings 388. As a result, the depression 372 can be located at a relatively great distance from the wall of the first housing 218.

In this third alternative embodiment, the second housing 352 is received in the depression 372 such that it rests with the end wall 356 against the depression bottom 378 of the depression. The piston 358 in this embodiment is configured as a cylinder with an outer circumference 101 2922 21 approximately corresponding to the inner circumference of the second housing 252, through a suitable piston ring 370 or the like gas and liquid tight sealants. The second chamber 360 is again formed between the piston 358 and the end wall 356. At the end of the piston 358 remote from the second chamber 360 is arranged a control member 366, which is designed as a disc 367 with frusto-conical longitudinal edges 390, 392. The disc 367 has an outer diameter which, for example, corresponds approximately to the inner diameter of the well 372, while the smallest cross-section of the frusto-conical longitudinal edges 390, 392 is approximately equal to the cross-section of the piston 358. At the piston 358 in a neutral position, ie in a state where the pressure in the second chamber 360 equal to the desired pilot pressure, the pin 380 with the free end abuts the outer truncated conical longitudinal edge 390, preferably near the free end thereof. When the pressure in the third chamber 362, which in the embodiment shown is formed by the inner space 4, decreases, the piston 358 will be moved upwards by the pressure in the second chamber 360, i.e. in the direction away from the end wall 356. . Thereby, the first truncated conical longitudinal edge 390 pushes the pin 380 and thereby the shut-off member 340 outwardly, such that a gas flow path is released from the first chamber 324 via the inflow openings 388, the fourth chamber 386 and the passage opening 328 to the third chamber 362. .

The end wall 356 of the second housing 352 is beveled on the outside such that when the second housing 352 is pressed into the depression 372 it can easily pass the pin 380. For the same reason, the second truncated conical longitudinal edge 392 of the disc 367 is provided. Incidentally, a groove can be provided in the longitudinal wall 354 of the second housing 352 for allowing the free end of the pin to pass without being pushed away.

10t 2922 22

In this embodiment, gas can be introduced into the first chamber 324 through the passage opening 328, after which the second housing 352 can be pressed into the depression 372, in order to make the device suitable for use. Incidentally, it will be appreciated that in this embodiment, the second housing 252 may be placed prior to the introduction of the gas into the first chamber 224. However, this means that the piston 358 will have to be secured in a position in which the second chamber 360 the control pressure prevails, also when in the third chamber, at least in the vicinity of the pressure control device, a pressure prevails lower than the pressure desired in the inner space 4 of the container 1.

Figure 6 shows a part of a fourth alternative embodiment of a pressure control device 408 according to the invention, provided with a first housing 418, an intermediate part 422 and a second housing 452. In the intermediate part 422 a valve 494 of a type is included. is usually used in aerosol cans, such as aerosol containers and the like. Such a valve is known from practice. Figure 6 shows a suitable embodiment of a valve 494, but it will be clear that valves of different design can also be used in a pressure control device according to the present invention. In the shown embodiment, the valve comprises a third housing 495 fixedly connected to the intermediate part 422, containing a fourth chamber 486 in which a compression spring 442 is included as a biasing means. A rod-shaped member 496 is sandwiched with a collar 498 between the coupling member 422 and the upper end of the spring 442 and extends beyond the coupling member 422. In the part located outside the coupling part 422, an axial bore 436 is provided in the form of a blind hole. Above the collar 498, a radial bore 437 is provided, which opens into the axial bore 436. In the position shown in figure 6, the radial bore 437 is closed by a sealing ring 439 in 1012922 23, the intermediate part 422. The intermediate part 422 is previously described, the second housing 452 is secured with suitable coupling means 448, 450, in which second housing 452 a piston 458 is accommodated axially displaceable.

Within the second housing 452, the second chamber 460 is separated from the third chamber 462 by the piston 458. The third chamber 462 communicates with interior space 4 of the container via the outflow opening 464. On the underside of the piston 458, a cylindrical part 495 10 is formed with an axial bore 498 which can be fitted appropriately over the top end of the rod-shaped element 496. On the side facing the piston 458, a collar 499 is provided in the axial bore 498 which abuts against the top end of the bar-shaped member. Radial bores 497 extend from the axial bore 498, which fluidize the axial bore 498 with the third chamber 462.

In this embodiment, an increase in the volume of the second chamber 460, which will be accomplished in the manner previously described, results in a displacement of the piston 458 toward the first chamber 424, axially displacing the rod-shaped element 496 in the direction of said first chamber 424, against the pretension of the spring 442. Thereby, the fluid connection is obtained between the first chamber 424 and the third chamber 462 through the passage 428, the fourth chamber 486, the radial bore 437, the axial bore 436, 498 and the radial bore 497. advantage that suitable per se known valves 494 or the like can be used, while in addition use per se known aerosol cans, aerosol containers and the like can be used as part of a pressure control device according to the present invention. It will be understood that the first chamber 424 can be filled with gas when the second housing 452 with the piston 458 is removed, 101292? 24 while the second housing 452 can be easily placed.

Figure 7 shows a fifth alternative embodiment for a pressure control device according to the present invention, wherein the passage opening 528 with the axial bore 536 and the seat 534 are included in the outer wall of the first housing 518, for example in the top wall thereof. A clamping ring 581 is mounted on the pin 580, which extends from the closing member 540 through the axial bore 536. A spring 542 is included as a biasing means between the clamping ring 581 and the longitudinal edge of the axial bore 536. The second housing 552 is fixed to the relevant wall part of the first housing 518 at some distance from the passage opening 528, for instance with the aid of suitable click fingers 544 or comparable suitable coupling means. The first housing 518 includes a longitudinal wall 554 and an end wall 556, which extends approximately perpendicular to the respective wall parts of the first housing 518. The longitudinal wall 554 can, for example, determine a substantially rectangular cross-section of the inner space of the second housing. In the second housing 552, a membrane 558 is secured with its longitudinal edge in the manner described with respect to Figure 2. From the center of the membrane 558, a control member 566 extends approximately parallel to said wall portion of the first housing, up to an upright edge 567 extending through a guide opening 565 in a wall portion of the first housing 518. it is ensured that the control member 566 can only move axially, under the influence of volume changes of the second chamber 560. On the control member 566, a frusto-conical pressure element 584 is fixed coaxially, which abuts with the frusto-conical surface against the free end of the pin 580 The frusto-conical pressure element 35 584 tapers in the direction of the upright edge 567. As the volume of the second chamber 560 increases, the pin 580 and thus the closing member 540 in Fig. 7 will therefore go downwards, ie in the direction. of the first chamber 524 are forced against the biasing means 542, the passage opening 528 at least partly 5 releasing. The directions of movement of the pressure element and the control member include an angle of approximately 90 °.

In a device according to figure 7, gas can be introduced via the passage opening 528 into the first chamber 524 with the second chamber and controller removed.

Before use, the controller 566 is then inserted with the first end through the guide opening 565, after which the second housing 552 is coupled to the first housing 518 with the aid of the snap fingers 544.

Operating device according to the present invention in principle have the important additional advantage that when the control pressure in the second chamber drops, for example due to leakage, the operating member is forced to a closed position. This simply and effectively prevents gas from flowing out of the first chamber in an uncontrolled manner into the third chamber and will result in too great a pressure in the container, at least in the third chamber. The safety of the container according to the present invention, at least of a pressure control device to be used therewith, is hereby further increased.

The invention is by no means limited to the exemplary embodiments shown in the description and the drawing: many variations thereof are possible within the scope of the invention, as outlined in the appended claims.

For example, a secondary filling opening can be provided at a distance from the outlet opening, through which gas can be introduced into the first chamber. Such a secondary filling opening can for instance have the advantage that it can be of relatively large design, so that filling of the first chamber can be obtained even faster, while an outlet opening of suitable, relatively small size can be retained. Furthermore, a pressure control device can be secured and positioned in a container in various ways, depending on the application. Also parts of the pressure control device, in particular the first housing, can form part of the container, for instance as a fixed compartment thereof. Of course, different embodiments as shown 10 can also be combined. Pre-tensioning means for a device according to the present invention can be arranged separately from the closing member, but can also form an integral part thereof, whereby the number of parts required is further reduced. It will be clear that when the pressure in the container is set relatively high, the beverage or any other fluid or even, for example, powder or granular product can be expelled from the container via an opening which can be arranged at any desired position in the container, 20 for example in a side or top surface. It is also possible to use other discharge means than a tap 16. It will furthermore be clear that the pistons and membranes used in devices according to the present invention can have any desired, suitable shape, for instance round, rectangular or polygonal in cross-section and of any desired suitable material. can be made, for example, plastic or metal. The same applies to the different housings, intermediate part, control member and closing member. In the exemplary embodiments shown, a substantially ball-shaped element is always used as closing member 30. It will be clear, however, that differently shaped closing members can also be used, for instance truncated conical, disc-shaped and the like. In the case of non-ball-shaped closing members, the closing member can always be positioned such that the gas pressure in the first chamber will exert an additional pressure on the closing member in the direction of the seat co-acting therewith for an increase in the pre-tension. The coupling means for a pressure regulating device according to The present invention can be reversible, but it is preferred that these cannot be detached without damage, so that they cannot be manipulated undesirably.

These and many comparable variations are considered to fall within the scope of the invention, as described in the claims.

012922

Claims (16)

1. Container with pressure control device for maintaining a substantially constant pre-set pressure in the container, which container is arranged for delivering a fluid, the pressure control device being provided with a first chamber for containing a pressure fluid, a second chamber in which there is a control pressure and a third chamber which is formed by or communicates with, or is at least partly received in an interior of the container, wherein a passage opening is provided between the first chamber and the third chamber, in which a sealing member is included for closing the passage opening during normal use when the pressure in the third chamber is lower than the control pressure, wherein a control means is movable through a movable or deformable part of the wall of the second chamber and is adapted for the at least partial displacement of the closure member when the pressure in the third chamber is lower than the stud pressure, such that pressurized fluid can flow from the first chamber to the third chamber under pressure, characterized in that at least the control member and / or the second chamber are at least partially removable from the first chamber and in which biasing means are provided for keeping the closing member in the closed position when at least the control member and / or the second chamber have been at least partially removed. 2. Container according to claim 1, wherein the closing member is positioned at least substantially on the side of the passage opening facing the first chamber and can close the passage opening by abutting a seat around the passage opening, wherein limiting means are provided for limiting the passage opening. possible stroke of the valve body, such that at the valve body moved maximally away from the passage opening, a fluid can be introduced into the first chamber along the valve body. 3. Container as claimed in any of the foregoing claims, wherein the control means has a main direction of movement which includes an angle with the main direction of movement of the closing member, which angle is preferably between 90 and 175 degrees, more in particular between 90 and 135 degrees and at preferred is about 90 degrees. 4. Container as claimed in any of the foregoing claims, wherein the second chamber and the control means are at least largely removable, wherein the closing member is situated in closed position under an outer surface of the pressure control device of the first chamber in which the passage opening is located. Container as claimed in any of the foregoing claims, wherein the closing member is designed as part of a valve, adapted to be brought from a closed position to an open position using at least the control means. 6. Container as claimed in any of the foregoing claims, wherein the control means comprises a rod-shaped element which is provided with at least a part which protrudes in a direction approximately perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the relevant element outside an adjacent part, wherein axial movement of the In respect of the rod-shaped element, the protruding part can be brought into and out of contact with the closing member, whereby the closing member is pressed into the open position when the protruding part is in contact with it and is forced into the closed position when the protruding part does not contact it is. 7. Container as claimed in any of the foregoing claims, wherein the control means is detachably connected to the closing member, in particular by means of a snap connection. 101292? Container according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the closing member comprises a membrane-shaped element which biases the closing member in the closed position. 9. A container according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first chamber is accommodated in a first housing, while the second chamber is accommodated in a second housing, wherein coupling means are provided - for coupling the first housing with the second housing, in the special coupling means for forming a snap connection. 10. Container as claimed in claim 9, wherein the first housing is bus-shaped and is provided with a filling opening, the coupling means comprising an intermediate part which can be fixed in said filling opening and comprises at least the closing member and the passage opening, wherein the intermediate part is provided with further coupling means which can cooperate with mating coupling means on the second housing. 11. Container as claimed in any of the foregoing claims, wherein the third chamber is at least substantially accommodated in a balloon-shaped or otherwise expandable element, such that gas emerging from the first chamber is received in said expandable element and is kept separate from contained in the container. and fluid to be dispensed therefrom. Pressure control device for use in a container according to any one of the preceding claims. 13. Pressure control device, connectable to or provided with a first chamber for containing a pressure fluid, a second chamber in which a control pressure prevails and a passage opening, situated during use between the first chamber and the environment, wherein a closing member is incorporated in the passage opening for closing the passage opening during normal use when the pressure in the environment is lower than the control pressure, wherein a control means is movable through a displaceable or deformable part of the wall of the second chamber and 1012922 is adapted for at least partial displacement of the shut-off member when the pressure in the environment is lower than the control pressure, such that pressure fluid can flow under pressure from the first chamber to the environment, the pressure control device comprising an intermediate part comprising at least the passage opening and the closing member, which intermediate part can be coupled with a first chamber, with at least the controller and / o f the second chamber are at least partly removable from said intermediate part, and wherein biasing means are provided for keeping the closing member in the closed position when at least the control member and / or the second chamber are at least partly removed. 14. A method for preparing a container for supplying a fluid 15 under substantially constant pressure, wherein a can-shaped container is provided with a first part of a pressure control device, the first part comprising at least a closing member which is prestressed in a closed position and can be opened by an overpressure applied thereto from the outside, wherein a pressure fluid under said overpressure is introduced into the container under said closing member under relatively high pressure and, when the overpressure is removed, the closing member is brought into said closed position, after which the first part a second part of the pressure control device is arranged, the second part comprising control pressure-controlled control means which force the closing member to an open position against said bias when a pressure 30 is lower in the vicinity of the container than said control pressure, wherein the holder with linked first and second part in d The container is brought, which container is filled with a fluid to be delivered and then closed. Use of a container according to any one of claims 1 to 11 or a pressure control device according to any one of claims 12 to 13 for dispensing carbonated drink, in particular beer, under substantially constant pressure. 18. Use of a method according to claim 14 for preparing a container of carbonated drink, in particular beer, for delivery. 1012922