WO2018183209A1 - Appareil sous pression pour distribuer des boissons - Google Patents

Appareil sous pression pour distribuer des boissons Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2018183209A1
WO2018183209A1 PCT/US2018/024388 US2018024388W WO2018183209A1 WO 2018183209 A1 WO2018183209 A1 WO 2018183209A1 US 2018024388 W US2018024388 W US 2018024388W WO 2018183209 A1 WO2018183209 A1 WO 2018183209A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
container
beverage
liquid
tube
gas
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2018/024388
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Henry SALZARULO
Philip J. Schneider
Nicholas Michael EADIE
David Stephen SCHNEGGENBURGER
Original Assignee
Salzarulo Henry
Priority date (The priority date 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 date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Salzarulo Henry filed Critical Salzarulo Henry
Publication of WO2018183209A1 publication Critical patent/WO2018183209A1/fr

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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
    • B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
    • B05B9/00—Spraying apparatus for discharge of liquids or other fluent material, without essentially mixing with gas or vapour
    • B05B9/03—Spraying apparatus for discharge of liquids or other fluent material, without essentially mixing with gas or vapour characterised by means for supplying liquid or other fluent material
    • B05B9/04—Spraying apparatus for discharge of liquids or other fluent material, without essentially mixing with gas or vapour characterised by means for supplying liquid or other fluent material with pressurised or compressible container; with pump
    • B05B9/08—Apparatus to be carried on or by a person, e.g. of knapsack type
    • B05B9/0805—Apparatus to be carried on or by a person, e.g. of knapsack type comprising a pressurised or compressible container for liquid or other fluent material
    • B05B9/0811—Apparatus to be carried on or by a person, e.g. of knapsack type comprising a pressurised or compressible container for liquid or other fluent material comprising air supplying means actuated by the operator to pressurise or compress the container
    • 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
    • B67D1/02—Beer engines or like manually-operable pumping apparatus
    • 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
    • B67D1/04—Apparatus utilising compressed air or other gas acting directly or indirectly on beverages in storage containers
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D1/00—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught
    • B67D1/08—Details
    • B67D1/12—Flow or pressure control devices or systems, e.g. valves, gas pressure control, level control in storage containers
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D1/00—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught
    • B67D1/08—Details
    • B67D1/12—Flow or pressure control devices or systems, e.g. valves, gas pressure control, level control in storage containers
    • B67D1/14—Reducing valves or control taps
    • 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
    • B67D1/0801—Details of beverage containers, e.g. casks, kegs
    • B67D2001/0822—Pressurised rigid containers, e.g. kegs, figals
    • 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
    • B67D2210/00—Indexing scheme relating to aspects and details of apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught or for controlling flow of liquids under gravity from storage containers for dispensing purposes
    • B67D2210/00028—Constructional details
    • B67D2210/00047—Piping
    • B67D2210/0006—Manifolds

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a pressurized beverage dispensing apparatus and, in particular, to a pressurized beverage dispensing apparatus for use by multiple participants during a social event in order to enhance the social experience.
  • Beverage consumption is often associated with social interaction for individuals of all legal drinking ages, but especially amongst younger adults.
  • a variety of devices have been developed to deliver alcoholic beverages in a novel fashion that enhance the social interaction aspect of the experience.
  • One such device is referred to as a "bong", in which an alcoholic beverage (such as beer) is placed into a reservoir (such as a funnel) and allowed to flow freely down a tube that is placed in the mouth of an individual consuming the beverage.
  • Some bongs have multiple tubes extending from the reservoir, each tube being used by an individual, to allow multiple individuals to receive a portion of the beverage from the reservoir.
  • An example of a common, commercially available beer bong is depicted in Figure 1.
  • the beer bong depicted in Figure 1 includes a funnel 200, dispensing tube 204, valve 206, and nozzle 208. Additionally, a splitter 202 can be used to add an additional dispensing tube 204.
  • an improved apparatus should be easy to use, for example, resting on a table top in front of the individuals consuming the beverage, without the need to physically mount or hold the liquid reservoir above the individual.
  • Such an improved apparatus might have an automatic means of dispensing the liquid beverage to several individuals by the activation of a single button or trigger, thereby having a single event that can be associated with the "start" of the drinking, which does not exist in the prior art apparatuses.
  • an improved apparatus may be portable from one group of individuals to another group of individuals, allowing them to consume the beverage, without needing to refill the reservoir, a shortcoming of the existing prior art.
  • the invention may be embodied as a beverage dispensing apparatus.
  • the apparatus may include a container for gas (the "G-container"), a container for liquid beverage (the “L-container”), and a pump in gas-communication with the G-container.
  • the pump may be configured to raise the pressure of the gas in the G-container.
  • the apparatus may include a first tube (the "G-tube") operatively arranged between the G-container and the L-container to convey pressurized gas from the G-container to the L-container.
  • the G-tube may have a valve configured to selectively allow gas to flow from the G-container to the L-container.
  • the apparatus may include a second tube (the "L-tube") operatively arranged with the L-container to convey liquid from the L-container.
  • the L-tube may have a first end and a second end, the first end being secured within the L-container and the second end being outside the L-container.
  • the apparatus may include a nozzle in fluid communication with the second end of the L-tube.
  • the nozzle may be configured to convey liquid from the second tube to a user of the apparatus.
  • the beverage dispensing apparatus may include a pressure regulator arranged to maintain the L-container at a desired pressure. In this manner, gas from the G-container may be used to cause liquid to flow from the L-container to the nozzle.
  • the beverage dispensing apparatus may include a valve operatively arranged with the L- tube to selectively allow liquid to flow through the L-tube toward the nozzle.
  • a quick release mechanism may be arranged between the nozzle and the L-tube in order to permit the nozzle to be removed from the apparatus.
  • the beverage dispensing apparatus may include a multi-port coupler having an inlet and a plurality of outlets. The multi-port coupler inlet may be in fluid communication to receive liquid from the L-tube tube, and then provide that liquid to a plurality of dispensing extensions.
  • Each dispensing extension may be (a) in fluid communication to receive liquid from a different one of the multi-port coupler's outlets, and (b) in fluid communication with a different nozzle so that the liquid may be delivered to a plurality of users via the nozzles.
  • a plurality of valves may be included, each valve being associated with a different one of the dispensing extensions so as to enable selective flow of liquid through each of the dispensing extensions. Such an embodiment of the invention would facilitate drinking by a plurality of individuals simultaneously.
  • the beverage dispensing apparatus has a first container for gas (the "G-container"), a second container for liquid beverage (the “L- container”), and a pressure chamber in gas-communication with the G-container.
  • a tube for conveying liquid (the "L-tube”) has a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is disposed within the L-container, and the second end is in fluid communication with a nozzle.
  • the L-container may have a removable manifold and a reservoir.
  • the L-container is operatively arranged to allow for transfer of the beverage from the L-container to the L-tube to the nozzle using the gas of the G-container to drive the liquid toward the nozzle.
  • gas from the G-container may be used to cause liquid to flow from the L-container to the nozzle.
  • the removable manifold may be selectively attached to the reservoir to form a gas-tight interface. When the manifold and reservoir are not attached, the reservoir may be filled with liquid.
  • the beverage dispensing apparatus also may include a pressure regulator to maintain a pressure in the L-container.
  • any of the embodiments described herein may include (a) one or more gas chambers that provide a source of pressurized gas, and/or (b) a plurality of light emitting diodes for indicating whether the apparatus is ready to dispense the liquid beverage; and/or (b) an air pump for pressuring the G-container.
  • the G-container may be a pressurized gas canister.
  • a beverage dispensing apparatus may include:
  • the first ends of the dispensing tubes may be in in liquid-communication with the L-container so as to facilitate delivery of liquid from the L-container to the nozzles using pressurized gas from the pump to cause the liquid to flow from the L-container to the dispensing tubes, and ultimately to the nozzles.
  • the nozzles of the used in a beverage dispensing apparatus may have an inlet in fluid communication with the second end of the L-tube, and may have one or more outlets positioned to require liquid from the L-container to travel in a non-linear manner from the nozzle inlet to the nozzle outlet.
  • the nozzle outlets may be positioned to release the liquid beverage in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to a primary direction of fluid flow through the nozzle inlet.
  • the invention may be embodied as a method of providing a beverage.
  • a first container may be provided, and a liquid beverage may be placed in the first container.
  • a plurality of liquid delivery tubes may be provided, and placed in fluid communication with the first container. Each of the delivery tubes may have a means for controlling a flow rate of the liquid beverage from the container.
  • a second container may be provided, and placed in gas-communication with the first container in order to supply gas to the first container. In this manner, gas from the second container may be used to apply pressure within the first container cause liquid to flow from the first container to the delivery tubes, and ultimately to individuals interested in drinking simultaneously from the first container.
  • Figure 1 depicts a prior art beer bong
  • Figure 2 is a schematic view of an embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 3 is a schematic view of another embodiment, which adds an external pressure chamber and pressure regulator for improved safety and user experience;
  • Figure 4A is a side-view schematic of a personal flow tip
  • Figure 4B is a side-view schematic of a different type of personal flow tip from that depicted in Figure 4A;
  • Figure 4C is an end-view schematic of the flow tip depicted in Figure 4B;
  • Figure 5 is a schematic view of yet another embodiment having a pressure chamber with multiple liquid reservoirs
  • Figure 6 is a perspective view that depicts an embodiment of a device that is in
  • Figure 7 is another view of the device depicted in Figure 6;
  • Figure 8 is a top view of the device depicted in Figures 6 and 7;
  • Figure 9 is a side view of the device depicted in Figures 6 and 7;
  • Figure 10 is another side view of the device depicted in Figures 6 and 7;
  • Figure 11 is a perspective view of a bucket
  • Figure 12 depicts the device of Figures 6 and 7 wherein at least a portion of the
  • Figure 13 is a side view of the bucket with the device therein;
  • Figure 14 depicts a nozzle depicted in Figures 6 and 7, and a dispensing tube, which can be joined together using a quick-release mechanism;
  • Figure 15 depicts a nozzle and dispensing tube of Figure 14 when they are attached to each other via the quick-release mechanism
  • Figure 16 is a flow diagram depicting a method that is in keeping with the invention. Like numbers on different figures identify identical, or functionally similar, structural elements of the invention. The following is a list of the reference numbers.
  • a drinking apparatus dispenses a beverage when pressurized gas (such as air) is released into a reservoir in order to force a beverage to flow from the reservoir to one or more individuals.
  • the reservoir may be used to hold the liquid to be dispensed.
  • the size of the reservoir can be selected to accommodate particular needs. For example, the size of the reservoir can be selected to enable storage of enough beverage to accommodate several consumption events without the need to refill the reservoir. This concept improves the usability of the device for the individuals, and enhances their social experience.
  • the reservoir may have a removable top lid or manifold. The lid/manifold may be used to create a gas-tight seal with the reservoir in order to prevent the liquid from spilling out during transport, as well as allowing pressurization to force the beverage to flow out of the reservoir to the individual consumers of the beverage.
  • Each tube can have an individual flow control valve.
  • the flow control valve may serve at least two purposes.
  • a first purpose may be to allow an individual to restrict the flow of beverage in their particular tube. This may enhance the social experience for that individual by ensuring they are consuming the beverage at a rate that they are comfortable with.
  • each tube can be a removable tip or mouth piece.
  • a tip/mouthpiece provides for an improved sanitary condition by allowing each consumer to have their own tip/mouthpiece, thereby avoiding exposure to germs left behind by the previous consumer.
  • the orifice on the end of the removable tip can be designed in such a manner as to disperse the liquid in a way that minimizes the possibility of choking or aspiration. This can be accomplished by dispersing the liquid in an umbrella-like fashion, having many streams of liquid exiting around the circumference of the removable tip, rather than a single stream of liquid coming out the end of the removable tip.
  • gas pressure regulators can be used to control the gas pressure in the reservoir, and thereby maintain the gas pressure as the liquid-height drops, so as to enhance the quality of the social experience by providing a more constant flow rate, and also may provide increased safety.
  • a gas pressure regulator can be placed in-line with a pressurized gas source.
  • a purpose of the gas regulator may be to supply a constant gas pressure to the reservoir throughout the entire consumption event. This not only improves the user experience, but also prevents an over pressure condition from occurring, which could cause the liquid to flow too quickly, thereby increasing the risk of causing harm to one or more of the individuals, for example, by choking.
  • a flow regulator could be placed in-line with each individual supply tube to the user. Such a flow regulator may be used to provide a desired flow rate throughout the entire drinking period to a particular user.
  • One way to initiate flow of the beverage to the individuals is to enable the flow of gas into the reservoir when the user activates a valve.
  • Another way is to have the user enable the flow of liquid by activating a valve on the beverage supply tube. In either case, flow of liquid to the user ceases due to either the reservoir pressure dropping low enough so as to no longer be able to force liquid out of the reservoir, or, by the user closing the liquid flow control valve.
  • a timer could be used. That is, rather than the user activating a switch for the duration of time during which beverage is to flow, an electronic timer can be used to dispense the beverage to the individual during a predetermined time.
  • This time can be adjustable so as to control the length of time the individual is consuming the beverage in any one given consumption event, which ultimately determines the amount of beverage they consume.
  • the timer could control an electronic relay which in turn would open or close a valve to enable or disable the flow of gas or liquid, as the case may be.
  • the apparatus 100 may be configured to have multiple reservoirs.
  • each reservoir could be filled with the beverage of choice for that particular individual, yet all reservoirs could be controlled simultaneously to enable all users to enjoy a drinking experience at the same time.
  • feedback to the users can be delivered during the time in which beverage is flowing. This feedback can be in the form of audio, visual, haptic, or other form of feedback to the user to signify that flow of the beverage is about to occur, is occurring, is about to end, or has ended, or any combination thereof. " . t.
  • a source of gas pressure may be needed.
  • a gas source could take several forms including pre- pressured gas canisters, such as those used for dispensing soda pop, electric pumps that produce pressurized air suitable for human consumption (i.e. oil-less), or hand pumps.
  • Hand pumps very similar to hand pumps used for inflating sports balls or bicycle tires, could also be used. A hand pump may be especially useful since it could add to the social experience of the event for all involved.
  • Pressurized liquid dispensing apparatus 100 includes a liquid reservoir 1 for holding the beverage la to be dispensed, a manifold 2, a means for pressurizing 3 the reservoir 1 such as a pump, a feed tube 4 for delivering the beverage la from the reservoir 1, a label 5 for customizing the apparatus 100 for a particular user-group such as a fraternity or university logo, a gas release mechanism 6 for controlling the pressurized gas in order to begin the flow of the beverage la, a universal flow control mechanism 7, a multi-port coupler 8, individual liquid dispensing tubes 9, individual flow control valves 10, individual flow tips 11, and a pressurized gas delivery hose 12.
  • the pressurized reservoir 1 may be implemented as one or more containment vessels to achieve the desired volume.
  • the liquid reservoir 1 is strong enough that the space above the liquid la can be pressurized adequately to dispense the liquid la at the desired rate.
  • the pressurized volume of gas could be contained in one or more gas containers 3 that may be connected to the liquid reservoir 1 by one or more tubes 12.
  • the additional gas containers 3 may be low-pressure gas containers sized to provide an ample volume of low- pressure gas in order to provide a substantially consistent flow rate of the liquid la from the liquid reservoir 1.
  • an external gas source 3 may be connected to the liquid reservoir 1 via a gas hose 12, which allows the pressurized gas to flow into the liquid reservoir 1.
  • the gas hose 12 may include a button/valve 6 which can be used to block the flow of pressurized gas to the liquid reservoir 1 if a user chooses to do so.
  • the valve 6 may be used to keep residual pressure in the external gas source 3 while a user refills the liquid reservoir 1 with the liquid beverage la. Having a large volume gas source 3 separate from the liquid reservoir 1 allows a user to pressurize the gas source 3 fewer times when compared to refilling the liquid reservoir 1 with the liquid beverage la.
  • the reservoir 1 can be a container suitable for holding liquids to be consumed by humans.
  • the reservoir 1 may be sized to hold a desired amount of beverage la, and may be constructed to withstand the maximum pressure needed for dispensing the desired volume of beverage la at the desired maximum flow rate across the maximum number of dispensing tubes 9.
  • the reservoir 1 can be constructed using plastics, metals, glass or other materials. Size, shape, and wall thickness can be varied based on many factors beyond minimum design criteria such as product cost, reliability, durability, and user experience.
  • the manifold 2 may be removable from the reservoir 1 in order to allow for cleaning and/or filling of the reservoir 1.
  • the reservoir 1 or the manifold 2 could be constructed to have an access port in order to enable refilling of the reservoir 1 without removing the manifold 2.
  • Attachment of the manifold 2 to the reservoir 1 should create a gas-tight seal.
  • the creation of a gas-tight, seal may be accomplished using a compressible gasket, such as an O-ring.
  • a compressible gasket such as an O-ring.
  • other types of sealing devices can be used, such as Teflon tape or precision- fitting components.
  • Pressurized gas may be delivered to the reservoir 1 through a gas hose 12 mounted to the manifold 2.
  • a force is exerted on the beverage la and thereby pushes the beverage la up the feed tube 4.
  • a multi-port coupler 8 can be attached to the top of the feed tube 4. This allows the beverage la to be dispensed to more than one individual at a time.
  • Figure 2 depicts a multi-port coupler 8 that allows three individuals to use the apparatus 100 simultaneously.
  • Multi-port couplers 8 can come in various configurations enabling a single user, or up to as many users as desired.
  • a feed tube flow control valve 7 may be placed in-line with the multi-port coupler 8 to control the flow of beverage la to the multi-port coupler 8.
  • the control valve 7 can be adjusted to be completely closed, completely open, or partially open in order to customize the flow rate of beverage la according to the drinking group's desire.
  • individual flow control valves 10 can be placed in-line with each individual dispensing tube 9. This enables each individual drinker to customize the flow rate to their particular desire.
  • a pressurized gas source 3 is depicted in Figure 2.
  • gas source 3 can be a simple piston pump in which the user manually pumps air using a plunger to build up enough pressure in the space lb of the reservoir 1 above the beverage la.
  • a gas cartridge such as C02 or Nitrogen cartridges may be used.
  • a motorized air compressor which may be powered by electricity from a battery or the electric utility, may be used.
  • Gas from the gas source 3 may be delivered to the reservoir 1 via a gas hose 12.
  • a gas flow trigger valve 6 In line with the gas source 3 may be a gas flow trigger valve 6. Activation of this valve 6 allows the pressurized gas to flow to the reservoir 1.
  • This valve 6 may be activated by an electric solenoid, which itself may be activated by a switch or button in order to initiate the flow of liquid to all participants.
  • the gas flow valve 6 can be configured to provide pressurized gas to the space lb of the reservoir 1 as long as the user continues to press the activation button/switch and there is pressurized gas to be supplied, thereby indicating that the beverage la should be allowed to flow to the users.
  • Gas flow valve 6 can also be configured to remain in an open position without the need of a user to hold the button/switch open, thereby freeing up a user's hands.
  • a label 5 can be placed on the reservoir 1 or manifold 2, or both, in order to personalize the apparatus 100 to a particular group, thereby further enhancing the social experience.
  • FIG. 3 is a schematic view of another embodiment of the pressurized liquid dispensing apparatus 100.
  • This embodiment includes an external pressure chamber 13 and a gas pressure regulator 14 for improved safety and user experience.
  • the pressure chamber 13 may be used to store pressurized gas so that the users, if they so desire, do not need to pump the gas source 3 between each consumption event.
  • the pressure chamber 13 may be replaced by a motorized compressor (which may be powered by electricity), or other alternate source of pressurized gas.
  • the pressure in chamber 13 may be raised higher than the minimum needed to accommodate a single user or dispensing event.
  • the pressure in the chamber 13 may be raised to a level that is twice as high for two dispensings, three times as high for three dispensings, and so on.
  • a gas regulator 14 which may be set to achieve a desired pressure in the space 1 b when the pressure in the pressure chamber 13 is higher.
  • the beverage la may flow at different rates from the beginning of the flow period until the end of the flow period, based on the decreasing pressure in the pressure chamber 13. And, if the pressure in the pressure chamber 13 were to be increased so as to have a desired flow rate at the end of the flow-period, then it may be that the flow rate would be too high at the beginning, thereby creating a dangerous situation for the user.
  • the gas regulator 14 solves both of these problems by allowing ample pressure to be built up in the pressure chamber 13 and controlling (i.e. regulating) the amount of gas delivered to the reservoir 1.
  • the gas regulator 14 can be either fixed or adjustable.
  • An adjustable gas regulator 14 allows the user or users to adjust the reservoir pressure to within limits they are comfortable with.
  • Figure 4A is a schematic view of an individual flow tip 11 and an improved flow tip 15 for improved safety and user experience.
  • the individual flow tip 11 allows fluid to flow with relatively little obstruction and may direct the beverage la to parts of the user's anatomy that are not ideal.
  • the improved flow tip 15 depicted in Figures 4B and 4C avoids a situation in which beverage la flows directly from the apparatus 100 toward the back of the user's mouth, thereby avoiding a situation in which the beverage la is forced too quickly down the throat of the user, and/or causing choking or aspiration of the beverage la.
  • This improved flow tip 15 disperses the beverage la around the mouth, as opposed to directly at the throat, thereby minimizing the possibility of choking or aspiration.
  • Figures 4B and 4C depict another type of nozzle 15.
  • a nozzle 15 may have an inlet 90 in fluid communication with the second end of the L-tube, and may have one or more outlets 92 positioned to require liquid from the L-container to travel in a non-linear manner from the nozzle inlet 90 to the nozzle outlet 92.
  • the nozzle outlets 92 may be positioned to release the liquid beverage in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to a primary direction 98 of fluid flow through the nozzle inlet 90.
  • Figure 5 is a schematic view of another embodiment of a liquid dispensing apparatus 100, which has a pressure chamber and multiple liquid reservoirs separated by a dividing wall 54.
  • a multi-chamber liquid reservoir 16 can be used so multiple beverages can be dispensed from the apparatus 100 simultaneously.
  • the ability to store multiple beverages within the same apparatus 100 allows each user to consume a different beverage while participating simultaneously in a consumption event.
  • Figure 6 through Figure 1 1 depict another embodiment of pressurized liquid dispensing apparatus 100.
  • the embodiment shown in Figures 6-1 1 includes pressure chambers 13a-13e, upper structure 17, lower structure 18, gas valve 20, pump 22, liquid reservoir 25, and a plurality of nozzles 30.
  • the pressure chambers 13a- 13e may be positioned around a centrally-located reservoir 25. See Figs. 6-10.
  • Upper structure 17 and lower structure 18 may be used not only to hold components of the apparatus 100 (e.g. reservoir 25 and pressure chambers 13a-13e), but to enable thermal insulation of liquid reservoir 25.
  • Multiple pressure chambers 13a-13e may be employed in order to obtain enough gas volume at an appropriate pressure to enable multiple dispensing events without the need to pump gas after each dispensing event.
  • the pressure chambers 13a-13e can be connected using standard low pressure union tee fittings, which are currently commercially available through several suppliers.
  • a separate cooling ice pack can be placed beneath (or above) the liquid reservoir 25 in order to assist with keeping liquid in the reservoir 25 cool.
  • Upper structure 17 and lower structure 18 may be operatively arranged to contain and secure components of apparatus 100 within various partial through-bores and structural features integral with upper structure 17 and lower structure 18.
  • Upper structure 17 and lower structure 18 can be constructed from stacked layers that may be secured together, but one or more of structures 17, 18 may be a single component.
  • Upper structure 17 and lower structure 18 can be made from many types of materials including plastic, wood, metal, and/or a highly insulative material such as Styrofoam.
  • a pump 22 may be connected to pressure chambers 13a- 13e via a gas tube (not shown) which extends from gas port 23 of pump 22.
  • Pump 22 may be pivotably secured to lower structure 18 and may be held in place when not in use by clip 24.
  • Clip 24 may be secured to post 19, which may be fixedly secured to lower structure 18.
  • Pressure chambers 13a-13e may be connected via tubing that allows gas pressure to equalize across the pressure chambers 13a-13e.
  • Gas valve 20 may be arranged on surface 17a of upper structure 17 and tubing may extend from the gas valve 20 to the pressure chambers 13a-13e via an inlet, which in turn may be connected to liquid reservoir 25 via tubing that allows pressurized gas to flow from pressure chambers 13a-13e to the liquid reservoir 25.
  • gas valve 20 is shown having a button for actuating the gas valve 20, but the actuator of gas valve 20 can be another type, such as a dial or lever.
  • Nozzles 30 may be stored by placing nozzle tips 33 (shown in Figure 14) within partial through-bores arranged on surface 17a of upper structure 17.
  • Nozzles 30 also may include an internal valve (not shown), which may be actuated by handle 32, and which may be pivotably secured to nozzle 30. The handle 32 may be used to allow a user to personalize the amount of liquid which is dispensed via their nozzle 30.
  • liquid reservoir 25 may be centrally located within the dispensing apparatus 100. Liquid reservoir 25 may be removed from apparatus 100 by lifting reservoir 25 through aperture 17b of upper structure 17. Arranged on lid 25a of liquid reservoir 25 may be multi-port coupler 25b and pressure inlet 25c. Pressure inlet 25c may be connected to pressure chambers 13a-13e via tubing and gas valve 20 (not shown). Multi-port coupler 25b may allow for multiple nozzles to be connected to liquid reservoir 25. Connected to multi-port coupler 25b may be a feed tube 4 which extends toward the bottom of liquid reservoir 25 to allow liquid to flow up the tube 4, through the coupler 25b, and then to the nozzles 30.
  • Nozzles 30 may be connected to multi-port coupler 25b via tubing (not shown). It should be appreciated that other inlets or outlets can be arranged on lid 25a of the apparatus 100, such as a filing apparatus like funnel 34 (shown in Figure 12) or a hinged cap.
  • Figure 1 1 through Figure 13 depict a pressurized liquid dispensing apparatus
  • Bucket 40 may be used as a protective storage container and transportation carrier for apparatus 100. Bucket 40 may include aperture 42 which allows all or part of the apparatus 100 to be placed selectively within bucket 40.
  • the bucket 40 may be a standard 5 gallon or 6 gallon bucket. However, other types of storage and transportation means can be used in conjunction with apparatus 100.
  • bucket 40 may include a handle and a lid (not shown).
  • Label 50 can be a sticker secured to the outside of bucket 40 or can be integral with bucket 40, such as paint or a printed surface.
  • the diameter and height of the apparatus 100 can be selected so that the apparatus 100 fits within a standard 5 or 6 gallon utility bucket.
  • Such a bucket 40 can be low cost and rugged, and yet provides protection that facilitates transportation of the apparatus 100, while also allowing it to be decorated, for example with logos, colors, or a label 50. Transporting the bucket with the apparatus 100 inside is easy, and the bucket may be configured so as not to negatively impact the user experience when the apparatus 1 10 is being used.
  • Figure 14 and Figure 15 depict nozzle 30 connected to dispensing tubes 76a and
  • the quick-release mechanism 60 permits the tubes 76a and 76b to be quickly attached to each other, and quickly detached from each other, and thereby facilitates storage and use.
  • the quick-release mechanism 60 includes two components, a female component 61 and a male component 70, each containing a corresponding through-bore 62, 72 to allow fluid to flow through each.
  • the male component 70 fits securely within the through-bore 62 of the female component 61 to create a seal which can withstand the pressure of the liquid flowing through dispensing tubes 76a and 76b.
  • the male component 70 also includes a seal 74 which can engage with the through-bore 62 of the female component 61 to aid in the sealing of the quick-release mechanism 60.
  • a securing tab 64 may be operatively arranged within the female component 61 and engages with a channel 73 on the male component 70 to further secure the male component 70 within the female component 61 of the quick-release mechanism 60. To disconnect the male component 70 from the female component 61, a user pushes down on securing tab 64 while simultaneously pulling the components away from each other.
  • the present invention can be arranged as a competitive game.
  • Such an apparatus 100 may be similar to the previously described embodiments, but could include a plurality of separate beverage chambers (e.g. see Fig. 5), each with a corresponding feed tube 4.
  • the plurality of chambers could be pressurized individually or simultaneously to the same pressure.
  • a predetermined amount of beverage la may be consumed by the teammate before the next person on the team can begin drinking from their dispensing tube 9.
  • the first team to have all their members complete their drinks may be deemed the winner.
  • light . and/or sound features can be included, for example, light emitting diodes (LED) and/or speakers.
  • LED light emitting diodes
  • different colored LEDs could be illuminated in order to communicate information about the pressure within the reservoir 1. For example, to indicate no pressure in the reservoir 1, green LEDs could be illuminated. To indicate moderate pressure in the reservoir 1, yellow LEDs could be illuminated, and to indicate that the pressure in the reservoir 1 may be too high, red LEDs could be illuminated. The LEDs could also blink in predetermined patterns in order to communicate information to a user.
  • a speaker could be included to announce certain phrases depending on the pressure level within the reservoir 1 or chamber 13.
  • color-coded lights such as LEDs may add to the user experience.
  • the lights could be placed in any one of a number of arrangements, lighting the pressurized external canisters, lighting the liquid reservoir, or just free standing.
  • LEDs can be operatively arranged to shine through pressure chambers 13a-13e, for example from bottom to top of pressure chamber 13a-13e.
  • different light sources can be used and arranged in other areas of the apparatus.
  • the colors of the lights can be selected to address different demographic groups or themes. For example, a green color-coded light could mean all is good, calm, and be shown when there is no pressure in the chamber. As the user increases the pressure through pumping, the green light could transition to yellow, then orange, and then red.
  • Red may signify danger, indicating that the apparatus 100 is at maximum pressure, and pressure should be released. This could be the cue to the user to activate the release button and allow the beverage to flow.
  • Another combination of colors could indicate other information. For example, the color red might indicate a malfunction in order to warn users that the apparatus 100 is not ready for use, such as there is no pressure in the chamber. As the user pressurizes the chamber, the user may be informed that the apparatus 100 is ready to dispense liquid when a green LED illuminates.
  • additional effects could be created such as rotating lights, flashing lights, etc., all to improve the user experience.
  • the packaging may be configured to enhance social interaction among such people.
  • the packaging may be low cost, durable, easy to carry, provide adequate protection for the actual dispensing device, able to be decorated with artwork associated with colleges, sport teams, fraternity or sorority logos, etc., all while looking appealing to the target demographic.
  • Figure 16 is a flow chart depicting a method that is in keeping with the invention.
  • the invention may be embodied as a method of providing a beverage.
  • a first container may be provided 310, and a liquid beverage may be placed in the first container.
  • a plurality of liquid delivery tubes may be provided 320, and placed in fluid communication with the first container. Each of the delivery tubes may have a means for controlling a flow rate of the liquid beverage from the container.
  • a second container may be provided, and placed in gas-communication with the first container in order to supply gas to the first container.
  • gas from the second container may be used to apply pressure 330 within the first container cause the liquid beverage to flow 340 from the first container to the delivery tubes, and ultimately to individuals interested in drinking simultaneously from the first container.

Landscapes

  • Devices For Dispensing Beverages (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention concerne un appareil de distribution de boisson sous pression qui fournit une boisson liquide à un ou plusieurs membres d'un groupe sous l'effet d'un gaz sous pression introduit dans un réservoir. De nouveaux systèmes de commande électronique peuvent surveiller ou déduire la quantité de boisson consommée par un individu en fonction du temps, de façon à aider des individus à boire de façon responsable et à ne pas consommer une quantité de boisson alcoolisée au-delà des limites légales recommandées. La distribution d'une boisson simultanément à des utilisateurs multiples peut améliorer considérablement l'interaction et l'expérience de chaque participant à un événement ou rassemblement social. L'appareil peut distribuer la boisson d'une manière qui est facile à initier et commander. Une pluralité d'éléments audio, visuels, haptiques, boutons poussoirs, et d'autres formes de rétroaction et d'interaction d'utilisateur peuvent être inclus.
PCT/US2018/024388 2017-03-26 2018-03-26 Appareil sous pression pour distribuer des boissons WO2018183209A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US201762476822P 2017-03-26 2017-03-26
US62/476,822 2017-03-26

Publications (1)

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WO2018183209A1 true WO2018183209A1 (fr) 2018-10-04

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Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP3929541A1 (fr) * 2020-06-26 2021-12-29 Astraveus Dispositif de distribution de liquide microfluidique
WO2022068171A1 (fr) * 2020-09-30 2022-04-07 塔罗斯科技股份有限公司 Mécanisme de sortie de liquide de distributeur de liquide

Citations (8)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3563266A (en) * 1968-11-21 1971-02-16 Harry E Berry Quick-connect conversion adapter for beer kegs
US3865276A (en) * 1973-11-26 1975-02-11 Hank A Thompson Portable keg tapper
US5332132A (en) * 1992-12-29 1994-07-26 John Schuske Multi spout beer valve
US5857590A (en) * 1997-04-07 1999-01-12 Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company, Ltd. Controlled multi-nozzle liquid dispensing system
US20050150912A1 (en) * 2004-01-12 2005-07-14 Christopher Casey Multiple-tap adapter for drink dispenser
US20060138177A1 (en) * 2002-11-29 2006-06-29 Wauters Albert W Beer dispensing system with gas pressure reservoir
US20110240170A1 (en) * 2010-02-26 2011-10-06 Manitowoc Foodservice Companies, Llc Dispensing system and method of controlling the system
US20120285998A1 (en) * 2009-12-18 2012-11-15 Ab Inbev Nv Beverage dispensing apparatus comprising an integrated pressure reducing channel

Patent Citations (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3563266A (en) * 1968-11-21 1971-02-16 Harry E Berry Quick-connect conversion adapter for beer kegs
US3865276A (en) * 1973-11-26 1975-02-11 Hank A Thompson Portable keg tapper
US5332132A (en) * 1992-12-29 1994-07-26 John Schuske Multi spout beer valve
US5857590A (en) * 1997-04-07 1999-01-12 Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company, Ltd. Controlled multi-nozzle liquid dispensing system
US20060138177A1 (en) * 2002-11-29 2006-06-29 Wauters Albert W Beer dispensing system with gas pressure reservoir
US20050150912A1 (en) * 2004-01-12 2005-07-14 Christopher Casey Multiple-tap adapter for drink dispenser
US20120285998A1 (en) * 2009-12-18 2012-11-15 Ab Inbev Nv Beverage dispensing apparatus comprising an integrated pressure reducing channel
US20110240170A1 (en) * 2010-02-26 2011-10-06 Manitowoc Foodservice Companies, Llc Dispensing system and method of controlling the system

Cited By (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP3929541A1 (fr) * 2020-06-26 2021-12-29 Astraveus Dispositif de distribution de liquide microfluidique
WO2021259956A1 (fr) * 2020-06-26 2021-12-30 Astraveus Dispositif de distribution de liquide microfluidique
WO2022068171A1 (fr) * 2020-09-30 2022-04-07 塔罗斯科技股份有限公司 Mécanisme de sortie de liquide de distributeur de liquide

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