WO2018218258A2 - Appareil, systèmes et procédés de distribution de boissons, d'aliments et d'autres liquides - Google Patents

Appareil, systèmes et procédés de distribution de boissons, d'aliments et d'autres liquides Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2018218258A2
WO2018218258A2 PCT/US2018/043569 US2018043569W WO2018218258A2 WO 2018218258 A2 WO2018218258 A2 WO 2018218258A2 US 2018043569 W US2018043569 W US 2018043569W WO 2018218258 A2 WO2018218258 A2 WO 2018218258A2
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
container
coupling
beverage
keg
illustrates
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2018/043569
Other languages
English (en)
Other versions
WO2018218258A3 (fr
Inventor
Edward Showalter
Original Assignee
Edward Showalter
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
Priority claimed from US15/607,395 external-priority patent/US9994437B2/en
Application filed by Edward Showalter filed Critical Edward Showalter
Priority to RU2019141331A priority Critical patent/RU2019141331A/ru
Priority to CA3065150A priority patent/CA3065150A1/fr
Priority to EP18806707.8A priority patent/EP3630647A4/fr
Priority to GB1919277.2A priority patent/GB2578052A/en
Priority to JP2020515842A priority patent/JP2021513934A/ja
Publication of WO2018218258A2 publication Critical patent/WO2018218258A2/fr
Publication of WO2018218258A3 publication Critical patent/WO2018218258A3/fr
Priority to ZA2019/07747A priority patent/ZA201907747B/en
Priority to CONC2019/0014499A priority patent/CO2019014499A2/es

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D83/00—Containers or packages with special means for dispensing contents
    • B65D83/0055—Containers or packages provided with a flexible bag or a deformable membrane or diaphragm for expelling the contents
    • B65D83/0072—Containers or packages provided with a flexible bag or a deformable membrane or diaphragm for expelling the contents the contents of a flexible bag being expelled by a piston or a movable bottom or partition provided in the container or the package
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D77/00—Packages formed by enclosing articles or materials in preformed containers, e.g. boxes, cartons, sacks or bags
    • B65D77/04—Articles or materials enclosed in two or more containers disposed one within another
    • B65D77/06—Liquids or semi-liquids or other materials or articles enclosed in flexible containers disposed within rigid containers
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D65/00—Wrappers or flexible covers; Packaging materials of special type or form
    • B65D65/38—Packaging materials of special type or form
    • B65D65/46—Applications of disintegrable, dissolvable or edible materials
    • B65D65/466—Bio- or photodegradable packaging materials
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D83/00—Containers or packages with special means for dispensing contents
    • B65D83/0055—Containers or packages provided with a flexible bag or a deformable membrane or diaphragm for expelling the contents
    • B65D83/0077—Containers or packages provided with a flexible bag or a deformable membrane or diaphragm for expelling the contents moves by a spring-like mechanism
    • 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
    • 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
    • B67D1/0001—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught by squeezing collapsible or flexible 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
    • B67D1/0003—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught the beverage being a single liquid
    • B67D1/0004—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught the beverage being a single liquid the beverage being stored in a container, e.g. bottle, cartridge, bag-in-box, bowl
    • 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
    • B67D1/0003—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught the beverage being a single liquid
    • B67D1/0004—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught the beverage being a single liquid the beverage being stored in a container, e.g. bottle, cartridge, bag-in-box, bowl
    • B67D1/0005—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught the beverage being a single liquid the beverage being stored in a container, e.g. bottle, cartridge, bag-in-box, bowl the apparatus comprising means for automatically controlling the amount to be dispensed
    • 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
    • B67D1/0003—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught the beverage being a single liquid
    • B67D1/0004—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught the beverage being a single liquid the beverage being stored in a container, e.g. bottle, cartridge, bag-in-box, bowl
    • B67D1/0005—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught the beverage being a single liquid the beverage being stored in a container, e.g. bottle, cartridge, bag-in-box, bowl the apparatus comprising means for automatically controlling the amount to be dispensed
    • B67D1/0006—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught the beverage being a single liquid the beverage being stored in a container, e.g. bottle, cartridge, bag-in-box, bowl the apparatus comprising means for automatically controlling the amount to be dispensed based on the timed opening of a valve
    • 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
    • B67D1/0015—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught the beverage being prepared by mixing at least two liquid components
    • B67D1/0021—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught the beverage being prepared by mixing at least two liquid components the components being mixed at the time of dispensing, i.e. post-mix dispensers
    • 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
    • B67D1/0042—Details of specific parts of the dispensers
    • B67D1/0057—Carbonators
    • 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
    • B67D1/0042—Details of specific parts of the dispensers
    • B67D1/0078—Ingredient cartridges
    • 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
    • B67D1/0412—Apparatus utilising compressed air or other gas acting directly or indirectly on beverages in storage containers the whole dispensing unit being fixed to the container
    • B67D1/0418—Apparatus utilising compressed air or other gas acting directly or indirectly on beverages in storage containers the whole dispensing unit being fixed to the container comprising a CO2 cartridge for dispensing and carbonating the beverage
    • 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
    • B67D1/0412—Apparatus utilising compressed air or other gas acting directly or indirectly on beverages in storage containers the whole dispensing unit being fixed to the container
    • B67D1/0425—Apparatus utilising compressed air or other gas acting directly or indirectly on beverages in storage containers the whole dispensing unit being fixed to the container comprising an air pump system
    • 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
    • B67D1/0412—Apparatus utilising compressed air or other gas acting directly or indirectly on beverages in storage containers the whole dispensing unit being fixed to the container
    • B67D1/0425—Apparatus utilising compressed air or other gas acting directly or indirectly on beverages in storage containers the whole dispensing unit being fixed to the container comprising an air pump system
    • B67D1/0431—Apparatus utilising compressed air or other gas acting directly or indirectly on beverages in storage containers the whole dispensing unit being fixed to the container comprising an air pump system power-operated
    • 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
    • B67D1/0462—Squeezing collapsible or flexible beverage containers, e.g. bag-in-box 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
    • B67D1/0801—Details of beverage containers, e.g. casks, kegs
    • B67D1/0804—Shape or materials
    • 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
    • B67D1/0809—Opening means, e.g. means for assisting the opening
    • 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
    • B67D1/0829—Keg connection means
    • 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
    • B67D1/0829—Keg connection means
    • B67D1/0841—Details
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D1/00—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught
    • B67D1/08—Details
    • B67D1/0857—Cooling arrangements
    • B67D1/0858—Cooling arrangements using compression systems
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D1/00—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught
    • B67D1/08—Details
    • B67D1/0857—Cooling arrangements
    • B67D1/0858—Cooling arrangements using compression systems
    • B67D1/0861—Cooling arrangements using compression systems the evaporator acting through an intermediate heat transfer means
    • 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
    • B67D1/0871—Level gauges for beverage 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
    • B67D1/0888—Means comprising electronic circuitry (e.g. control panels, switching or controlling means)
    • 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
    • B67D1/1247—Means for detecting the presence or absence of liquid
    • 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
    • B67D1/1252—Gas pressure control means, e.g. for maintaining proper carbonation
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D2203/00—Decoration means, markings, information elements, contents indicators
    • B65D2203/10—Transponders
    • 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
    • B67D2001/0095—Constructional details
    • B67D2001/0096—Means for pressurizing liquid
    • B67D2001/0097—Means for pressurizing liquid using a pump
    • 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
    • B67D2001/0095—Constructional details
    • B67D2001/0096—Means for pressurizing liquid
    • B67D2001/0098—Means for pressurizing liquid using a gas
    • 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
    • B67D2001/0811—Details of beverage containers, e.g. casks, kegs provided with coded information
    • 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
    • B67D2001/0812—Bottles, cartridges or similar containers
    • B67D2001/0821—Bottles, cartridges or similar containers having different compartments for different components
    • 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
    • B67D2001/0827—Bags in box
    • 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
    • B67D2001/0827—Bags in box
    • B67D2001/0828—Bags in box in pressurised housing
    • 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
    • B67D2210/00031—Housing
    • 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
    • B67D2210/00099—Temperature control
    • B67D2210/00104—Cooling only

Definitions

  • the invention relates generally to apparatuses, systems and methods for making and dispensing liquids and more particularly to apparatuses, systems and methods for making and dispensing drinks and soft serve foods (e.g., soup, yogurt, etc.).
  • soft serve foods e.g., soup, yogurt, etc.
  • a V-friction coupling is provided that establishes airtight seal that allows beverage pumps to pump the beverage or food and that also prevents air
  • the air tight seal also stops beverage spoilage by oxidation or beverage to go flat in taste. Further, it may prolong the life of beverage in some cases, like in the case of wine, beer or soda.
  • Another advantage is that the same beverage pour spout of the provided dispensers may be operated with hot or chilled, carbonated or non-carbonated beverage.
  • beverage flavor pods are provided, which could be coffee, tea, coco, soda, flavored powder for fruit flavored beverage, and so on, so that the user could use for example coffee flavored pod in a spout pour housing to mix with soda for example.
  • the beverage flavor pods may have a bar code that can be scanned by the dispenser to retrieve for example pour instructions.
  • the dispenser may have spikes (e.g., four spikes) to pierce the pod, allowing water/beverage to absorb flavor from the pod, and pour resulting beverage in a user's glass.
  • the beverage pour housing of the dispenser can be used with or without the flavored pod.
  • the user could place a wine keg in a bay chamber of the dispenser, set the temperature for that chamber at preferred level and dispense wine. If user decides to remove the wine box from that chamber and install a box of spring water, the user can make and dispense hot beverage or cold beverages.
  • the beverage heater and the pump are part of top lift lid of dispenser, such that the beverage pump draws the beverage from the keg/beverage container and pushes it through the heater.
  • User can select hot or chilled beverage via dispenser's controls or via smart phone app controls. If chilled beverage is selected, the beverage heater is not turned on. If user selects hot beverage, heater turns on making the beverage hot.
  • a C02 control valve selector is provided allowing for carbonation to flow into beverage keg, or stopping flow of C02 gas, allowing for the dispensing of a non-carbonated beverage, such as milk or wine.
  • each chamber of the dispenser is independently controlled, so that each chamber can be set to maintain different temperatures.
  • the beverage container is a disposable, one-way container, made of biodegradable materials.
  • this provides the advantage of lower shipping cost due to less weight of packaging.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates a front sectional view of a drink container, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 2 illustrates a side sectional view of the drink container from FIG. 1, according to an aspect.
  • FIGs. 3 - 5 illustrate top sectional views of the drink container from FIG. 1, depicting certain aspects, according to several embodiments.
  • FIG. 6 illustrates a top-side perspective view of the drink container from FIG. 1, depicting certain aspects, according to several embodiments.
  • FIG. 7 illustrates a fixed, non-adjustable comer brace for the drink container from FIG. 1, according to an aspect.
  • FIGs. 8 - 9 illustrate front sectional views of alternative embodiments of a drink container.
  • FIG. 10 illustrates top views of alternative embodiments of a drink container.
  • FIG. 11 illustrates a side sectional view of a countertop drink dispenser, according to several embodiments.
  • FIG. 12 illustrates the countertop drink dispenser from FIG. 11 in a different state.
  • FIG. 13 illustrates a front sectional view of a drink dispenser having two chambers, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 14 illustrates a front view of a drink dispenser having two chambers, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 15 illustrates a top view of a drink dispenser having two chambers, according to an aspect.
  • FIGs. 16 - 19 illustrate sectional views of male-female couplings, according to several embodiments.
  • FIG. 20 illustrates a side sectional view of a dispenser system having a mixer and other features, according to several embodiments.
  • FIG. 21 illustrates a side sectional view of a countertop drink dispenser having a CC line for the beverage glass, and other features, according to several embodiments.
  • FIG. 22 illustrates a side sectional view of a countertop drink dispenser having a CO2 sensor, and other features, according to several embodiments.
  • FIG. 23 illustrates a top view of a drink dispenser having two chambers, according to another embodiment.
  • FIG. 24 illustrates a top sectional view of a drink dispenser having four chambers, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 25 illustrates a front sectional view of a drink dispenser having four chambers, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 26 illustrates the perspective view of a drink container equipped with a coupling adapter, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 27 illustrates the side sectional view of a spout housing of a drink dispenser, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 28 illustrates the process of loading the spout housing from FIG. 27 with beverage pods, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 29 illustrates a side sectional view of a drink container during filling at factory, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 30 illustrates a side sectional view of the drink container from FIG. 29 ready for shipping, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 31 illustrates a side sectional view of the drink container from FIG. 30 placed in a dispenser, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 32 illustrates a side sectional view of the drink container from FIG. 31 in a different state, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 33 illustrates a side sectional view of a drink container, ready for shipping or storage, according to another embodiment.
  • FIG. 34 illustrates a side sectional view of the drink container from FIG. 33, in use, according to an aspect.
  • FIGs. 35A- 35D illustrate side sectional views of four examples of a drink container, having parts such as a water filter, mixing paddles, sloped floor, and an auger lift, according to an aspect.
  • FIGs. 36A- 36B illustrate side views of a drink container or keg with a screw-on cap, two couplings, two safety valves, and well tube, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 36C illustrates a side view of a drink container or keg with a screw-on cap and female cylindrical coupling, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 36D illustrates a side view of a drink container or keg with a V-shape male friction coupling that may be a part of a factory filling line, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 36E illustrates a perspective view of a drink container or keg showing examples of where a V-shaped or cylindrical couplings may be placed, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 36F illustrates a detailed perspective view of the corner brace of FIG. 36E.
  • FIGs. 37A - 37K show sectional top perspective views of examples of a bioplastic pressure relief safety valve, which may be manually adjusted for different PSI, and may be reset if activated to release pressure inside of the keg, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 38 illustrates a side sectional view of a keg that may self-propel beverages or foods without the need for electricity or carbon dioxide pressure, according to an aspect.
  • FIGs. 39A - 39C illustrate various examples of a keg that may self-propel liquids or soft- serve foods with or without an external energy source, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 40A illustrates an example of layered board that may be used for the construction of a keg.
  • FIG. 40B illustrates an example of a keg that may self-propel beverages or foods using side wall pressure plates, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 40C illustrates an example of a keg that may self-propel beverages or foods using a gravity flow sloping floor plate to lift one end of the beverage bag at the bottom of the keg, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 40D illustrates a self-emptying keg having a lifting floor plate, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 40E illustrates a self-emptying keg having side walls, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 40F illustrates a self-emptying keg having a moveable top plate at the top and a stationary bottom plate, and a flexible hose, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 40G illustrates another example of a self-emptying keg with a flexible hose connected to a bottom coupling, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 41A illustrates a self-emptying keg having telescoping legs and in a filled state, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 41B illustrate three examples of telescoping legs, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 41C illustrates an example of a keg in an empty state, with a frame having legs, showing the telescoping feature of the legs, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 42A illustrates a motor and motor shaft that may be associated with the auger screw conveyer shaft or paddle shaft, according to an aspect.
  • FIGs. 42B - 42D illustrate a side top perspective view, a top perspective view, and a top plan view, respectively, of an example of a motor coupling having a ridged cylinder design, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 42E illustrates a side perspective view of a motor coupling having a rough surface funnel design, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 42F illustrates a side perspective view of a motor coupling having teeth on the surface for gripping, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 43A illustrates a detailed partial side view of the keg of FIG. 35C, which may include an alternative example of a top opening and friction coupling, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 43B illustrates a detailed partial side view of the keg as shown in FIG. 43 A, with a motor and upper auger coupling associated with the auger, according to an aspect.
  • FIGs. 44A- 44B illustrate a box, with the top unfolded and partially folded, respectively, constructed of bio-cardboard that may make up the outer shell of a keg, which may have a bio-plastic bag or bio-plastic bottle inside, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 45A illustrates a partial sectional side view of a keg connected to a beverage dispenser by a flexible bio-plastic or rubber hose/tube, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 45B illustrates a bio-plastic elbow, which may be used where space is limited in the beverage dispenser, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 45C illustrates a partial side view of a hose that may be attached to a screw-on cap, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 45D illustrates a partial side view of an elbow that may be used for connecting a dispenser with a keg, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 46A illustrates a side view of a bottle fitted with a bio-plastic gate valve pour spout with a manually operated nozzle, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 46B illustrates a bottle with a bio-plastic screw-on top that may be used with a bottle for storing or shipping, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 46C illustrates a male friction coupling pour spout, which may be V-shaped or cylindrical, having a gate valve, which may include a petcock valve, and finger pull tabs, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 46D illustrates an airtight seal bottle cap and pour spout that may be used with any existing bottle, such as, for example, a wine, champagne, or water bottle, according to an aspect.
  • FIGs. 47A - 47C illustrate a side view of a female V-friction coupling adapter, a detailed view, and a side view, respectively, of the adapter inside of a bottle, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 47D illustrates a side view of a bottle with a bio-plastic bladder bag liner having an expansion membrane top, such that the opening of the bio-plastic bag liner may be able to stretch over the top of any size container, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 47E illustrates the side view of the bottle with a bio-plastic bladder bag liner having an expansion membrane top of FIG. 47D, also having a magazine for holding extra bladder bag liners, according to an aspect.
  • FIGs. 48A- 48C illustrate a bladder liner in various states of being stretched, which may be used inside of a water bottle, according to an aspect.
  • FIGs. 48D - 48E illustrate side views of examples of a bladder liner having a V-shaped neck, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 48F illustrates a keg having an air pump and rubber balloon bladder, according to an aspect.
  • FIGs. 49A- 49B illustrate side views of a cylindrical friction coupling in a coupled state and uncoupled state, respectively, that may be used with a keg, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 49C illustrates a side view of another example of cylindrical friction coupling in an uncoupled state that may be used with a keg, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 49D illustrates a cylindrical coupling having a female friction coupling and a corresponding male friction coupling, with friction plates that may be used with a keg, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 49E illustrates a detailed view of the cylindrical coupling of FIG. 49D showing friction plates with a gasket, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 49F illustrates a detailed view of the cylindrical coupling of FIGs. 49A - 49B having a female bull nose or dolphin nose coupling and a corresponding male bull nose or dolphin nose coupling.
  • FIG. 50 illustrates a multi-use keg that may include multiple pods, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates a front sectional view of a drink container, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 2 illustrates a side sectional view of the drink container from FIG. 1, according to an aspect.
  • the container 10 will be described herein as a drink container, its uses may be expanded to other liquids (e.g., cooking oil, motor oil), pastes or viscous materials (e.g., liquid soap, ketchup), or soft serve foods (e.g., soups, smoothies, ice cream, yogurt, etc.) to take advantage of its unique features, such as the V-coupling.
  • the drink container 10 may be a rectangular box or keg having an exterior surface 23 and an interior surface 24.
  • the drink container 10 may also be square.
  • the drink container 10 may be made from biodegradable cardboard or recyclable plastic that is strong enough to maintain the container's shape. It should be understood that the container 10 and all other components described herein may be made from biodegradable materials.
  • the drink container 10 may have a spout 12, which, after filling the container with the drink, is preferably air tight sealed by a foil seal 19 and more preferably also using a petcock valve 102 (see FIG. 29).
  • the valve 102 holds the seal until user installs container 10 into the dispenser, as shown, and as it will be described in more details later when referring to FIGs. 29 - 32.
  • the foil seal 19 may be removed by a user by pulling on the seal tab 20.
  • the spout 12 may have threads 13 corresponding with the threads of a cap 11, such that to allow a user to fasten the cap 11 onto the spout 12 or to remove it when necessary.
  • the container 10 further includes a V-shaped female coupling 15 made of hard plastic for example, which communicates at its upper end with the spout 12 and at its lower end with a beverage well tube 22.
  • the V-shape e.g., funnel shape
  • the V-shape female coupling 15 is configured to receive a corresponding V-shape male coupling 15b (see FIG. 16 for example) to quickly create a friction air tight seal under the influence of a weight load applied to the V-shape male coupling.
  • a plastic liner bag 14, preferably biodegradable, is also preferably provided to receive and hold the drink (e.g., wine) stored in container 10.
  • the plastic liner bag 14 is preferably fasten, using glue for example, to the interior wall 24 of the container 10 at several fastening locations 18, including the corners of the container 10.
  • the liner bag 14 may have the tendency to move away from the interior wall 24 of container 10, as shown at 14a.
  • the liner bag 14 may clog the well tube 22.
  • the container 10 may be equipped with a beverage level sensor strip 17, which, as it will be described in more detail later when referring to FIG. 22, may assist a user in knowing the level of beverage remaining in the container 10 during use and/or alert the user to acquire a new/filled container.
  • the container 10 may be also equipped with a container CO2 line 21 for use with carbonated beverages. The operation and functions of these two features of the container 10 will also be described in more details later in this disclosure.
  • the container 10 may be used as a mini keg ranging in size from, for example, 1/2 gallons to 2.5 gallons, or 6 or 10 gallons, or it may be used as larger kegs.
  • the container 10 may be for example 4 inch wide, 12 inch long and 8 inch high.
  • FIGs. 3 - 5 illustrate top sectional views of the drink container from FIG. 1, depicting certain aspects, according to several embodiments.
  • FIG. 6 illustrates a top-side perspective view of the drink container from FIG. 1, depicting certain aspects, according to several embodiments.
  • FIG. 7 illustrates a fixed, non-adjustable corner brace for the drink container from FIG. 1, according to an aspect.
  • the corner brace may also be provided in an adjustable form, and may fit into different sizes of containers.
  • CO2 carbon dioxide
  • other gases such as compressed air
  • right angles in gas containers are typically avoided also because, for example, the gas can be trapped in right angle pockets. Round corners allow the gas to flow easily out of the container.
  • the container 10 when the container 10 is intended to be used for example for carbonated drinks, it may be constructed with fixed or adjustable interior curved comers (see FIGs. 3-7) that are reinforced to hold for example up to 35 PSI. This creates a cylinder effect inside the container/box/keg 10.
  • the container 10 may be constructed with right angles on the outside, which may be useful for stacking and transportation purposes for example, and round corners on the inside to accommodate the equal distribution of the gas inside.
  • the inside of the box 10 may be cylinder (see FIG. 3) or oblong (see FIGs. 4-5) shaped, depending on the configuration of the outer skeleton of the container (square, rectangular, etc).
  • plastic 25 and/or corrugated cardboard 26, or a combination thereof, preferably bio-degradable, may be used to fill the corners as shown in FIGs. 3-4 and/or to construct fixed or adjustable braces.
  • the fixed or adjustable corner braces may have solid walls made from plastic and/or cardboard, sample structures of which are shown in FIG. 5 at 27 and in FIG. 7 at 27a.
  • a container may be made with all corners having fixed corner braces 27, 27a, fastened (e.g., by glue) to them, to obtain inside the cylinder or oblong shape needed to protect the right angle interior corners of the container from gas pressure.
  • the exterior surface 23of the container has a square shape while the interior surface 24 has a cylindrical shape.
  • the corner braces may also be adjustable to accommodate various container sizes.
  • they may be constructed from a plurality of solid walls 29 made from plastic or cardboard that can slide with the aid of the sliding braces 28.
  • the sliding braces 28 also keep the movable walls 29 in place after their sliding in or out.
  • the adjustable corner braces offer the advantage of being capable of being used in different size boxes. Thus, a manufacturer would need only to manufacture a universal, one-size-fits-all adjustable corner brace.
  • container 10 having a rectangular (or square) shape on the outside and round corners on the inside has the advantage of having more interior volume than a container/box/keg that is round inside and outside (see FIG. 10).
  • container 10 can carry more beverage than a container/box/keg that is round inside and outside.
  • the manufacturing costs are likely lower for container 10 than a container that is round inside and outside.
  • the plastic liner or bladder 14 takes the shape of a balloon which forms a cylinder like beverage packaging similar to a traditional steel keg, plastic soda or beverage bottle, glass bottle, can, etc.
  • the unique rounded and reinforced corners of the container 10 prevent collapse of the container's walls and corners.
  • FIGs. 8-9 illustrate front sectional views of alternative embodiments of a drink container.
  • the drink container 10a has the V-shape female coupling 15 extending out of the container, above the upper surface 32 of the container 10a.
  • the thread element 13 for fastening cap 11 is provided as shown outside and around the portion 15a of the V-shape female coupling extending out of the container.
  • This configuration may be advantageous for, for example, making it easier for the corresponding V-shape male coupling to slide into the V-shape female coupling 15, without the interference of spout 12 (FIG. 1).
  • the drink container 10b has a recess 32b, which has the thread element 13 on its vertical surface to enable the receipt and fastening of cap lib for closing the container 10b.
  • the cap lib may have a concave portion llba divided by a separator llbb to enable a user to screw/unscrew cap lib.
  • V-shape female coupling 15 extends upwards only to the bottom of recess 32b. This configuration may be advantageous for, for example, maximizing the space inside drink dispensers' chambers and for easy stacking of the containers during transportation or storage. This is facilitated by the fact that, as shown, the upper surface of cap lib is even in this configuration with the upper surface 32 of the container.
  • V-shape e.g., funnel shape
  • V-shape male coupling 15b see FIG. 16 for example
  • FIG. 10 illustrates top views of alternative embodiments of a drink container.
  • the drink container may have various sizes and shapes, such as a rectangular (or square) box shape 10, a cylindrical shape 10' and 10" and other shapes as shown in FIG. 10 for
  • a rectangular box may be adopted for example for a flat drink, while a container having round corners (e.g., a cylindrical container) may be adopted to carry carbonated drinks, to accommodate the pressurized gas inside as described earlier when referring to FIGs. 3-7.
  • the container may be equipped with a guiding fin 33a to be received by a guiding slot 33b associated with the interior wall of the dispenser's chamber which receives the container (see 33 in FIG. 13).
  • the guiding mechanism 33 including the guiding fin 33a and the guiding slot 33b ensures alignment of the V-shape couplings in a direction (Y), while the central location widthwise of the V-shape female coupling 15 in the container 10 ensures alignment in another, perpendicular direction (X). The combined effect is to ensure proper alignment between the female and male coupling.
  • FIG. 11 illustrates a side sectional view of a countertop drink dispenser, according to several embodiments.
  • FIG. 12 illustrates the countertop drink dispenser from FIG. 11 in a different state.
  • dispenser 50 may have a housing 51, a front door 54, a top lid housing 53 and a power source 65. Inside the housing 51, dispenser 50 may have one or more chambers 52 for receiving one or more containers 10 filled with liquid 75.
  • front door 54 will have to be open and top lid housing 53 lifted up (see FIG. 12) high enough, such that the V-shape male coupling 15b escapes from the V-shape female coupling 15, in order for container 10 to be pushed in or pulled out of dispenser chamber 52 successfully.
  • adjustable lateral guide fins 69 may be provided to ensure that irrespective of the width of the container 10, the V-shape female coupling 15 is aligned widthwise with the V-shape male coupling 15b, to make an air tight seal.
  • the guide fins are adjustable on the sides 69 as well as rear/back 71, to accommodate different sizes of beverage keg boxes or packaging and ensure that the V-shape female coupling 15 is aligned widthwise and lengthwise with the V-shape male coupling 15b, to make an air tight seal. Guide fins also allow cool air to flow easily around beverage box/keg 10 by holding box/keg 10 away from the walls of chamber 52.
  • the guide fins 69 may have a pin latch 69a (see FIG. 20) fitting in corresponding holes 69b, to allow guide fin adjustment to be locked in place.
  • guiding apertures 70a-70c (see FIG. 11) corresponding with for example the standardized lengths of container 10 may be provided, to receive guiding pin 71 behind the back of container 10.
  • a back to front downward slope (e.g., 1/4 inches per each 12 inches) is provided for the floor 74 of chamber 52 (it should be observed that floor 74 sits higher in the back with respect to bottom 73 of dispenser 50; this ensures that when dispenser 50 sits on a horizontal surface the desired slope of floor 74 is obtained).
  • the liquid 75 will have the tendency to flow toward the well tube 22, thus aiding pump 56 to draw all or substantially all liquid 75 from container 10.
  • FIG. 11 A separation between the V-shape female coupling 15 and the V-shape male coupling 15b may be observed in FIG. 11 and in other figures of this disclosure. It should be understood that the separation is depicted only to properly illustrate the individuality of the two V-shape couplings. However, in reality, when the top lid housing 53 is closed as seen in FIG. 11, there is no separation between the V-shape female coupling 15 and the V-shape male coupling 15b. They engage each other to create a friction seal. The force necessary to create the friction seal is preferably provided by the weight of the top lid housing 53 and of all the elements (e.g., pump 56) house into it.
  • the coefficient of friction between the two couplings and the weight applied to the V- shape male coupling 15b by the top lid housing 53 and of all of its elements have to be coordinated with the pressure necessary to be maintained inside container 10.
  • a greater weight will be needed for a greater pressure needed inside container 10 (e.g. for carbonated drinks).
  • the dispenser 50 may be equipped with a replaceable C02 tank 65, which, as shown, may communicate through a C02 duct 67 with the V-shape male coupling 15b and further with the C02 line 21 of the container 10, when the V-shape male coupling 15b engages the V-shape female coupling 15 to create the friction seal described above.
  • the friction seal between the two V- shape couplings also create a friction seal between the C02 duct 67 and C02 line 21.
  • the C02 may be used to carbonate the beverage 75 inside container 10.
  • the dispenser 50 may be also equipped with a refrigeration unit 68 (including a compressor, and evaporator and a condenser, similar to that of a refrigerator) for providing cool air inside chamber 52 for keeping the container 10 and the beverage in it 75 cool.
  • a seal 61 e.g., rubber seal
  • the top lead housing 53 may be lockable with a latch 62b, which can be actuated (e.g., for release purposes) from a button 62a.
  • Similar sealing and locking means may be provided for the door 54.
  • the top lid housing 53 may have as shown the V-shape male coupling attached to it, so that the two lift and close together (see FIG. 12).
  • the V-shape male coupling 15b escapes from the V-shape female coupling 15 of the container 10, so that for example an empty container may be removed by a user from chamber 52 and a new, full one inserted therein.
  • This is a quick process by a user and thus an advantage of this coupling and dispensing system. A user does not need to go through the cumbersome and time consuming process of for example screwing couplings together.
  • the top lid housing 53 may be associated with the dispenser housing 51 through a hinge 53a (see FIG. 12), which may facilitate the opening and closing of the top lid housing 53.
  • a lifting shock 76 may also be provided to aid the user in lifting the top lid housing 53.
  • the C02 duct 67 may need to be flexible enough, or a flexible joint 67a may need to be provided, such that to allow the lifting of the top lid housing 53.
  • the top lid housing 53 may house a pump 56, which can draw the liquid 75 from container 10 via well tube 22 and further through male coupling's pipe 22b and then push it toward drink dispensing/pour spout 57 via spout conduit 22c. It should be noted that the friction seal between the V-shape couplings 15, 15b, described earlier, also creates a seal between well tube 22 and pipe 22b.
  • the liquid 75 e.g., water
  • a beverage pod 58 e.g., coffee or tea pod
  • the pod lid 59 may have similar sealing and locking means (not shown to prevent drawing clutter) as those shown (61, 62a, 62b) and described earlier for the top lid housing 53.
  • the dispenser 50 may have also a power switch 64 and a control panel 63 to give the option to the user to make several selections (e.g., temperature selection, carbonated/non-carbonated drink, etc).
  • FIG. 13 illustrates a front sectional view of a drink dispenser having two chambers, according to an aspect.
  • a dispenser 50 may have one or more chambers 52. It should be apparent that a dispenser 50 that has more than one chamber 52 may receive a container 10 in each chamber and thus offer more options to a user.
  • a container may contain flat cold water, another may contain a carbonated drink, another may contain a juice, and so on.
  • one or more chambers 52 may be filled with cold air 68a provided by a refrigeration system 68 (FIG. 11) to keep the respective drink at a set temperature or at a temperature selected by a user.
  • the walls 51a of the dispenser housing 51 may be thermally insulated.
  • FIG. 14 illustrates a front view of a drink dispenser having two chambers, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 15 illustrates a top view of a drink dispenser having two chambers, according to an aspect. It should be understood that a dispenser may have one chamber only, or it may have three, four (see FIG. 24 for example), six or more chambers.
  • each of the two chambers 52 has its door to allow for independent replacement of containers 10 (see FIG. 13).
  • one spout module 57a may be larger to accommodate the housing of the flavor beverage pod 58 and other elements (e.g., heating elements; see 78 in FIG. 20), while the other may be smaller (57b).
  • the user may get the unmodified drink (e.g., juice) from the respective container and chamber.
  • spouts modules are configured to accommodate the housing of a beverage or flavor pod 58, and/or heating.
  • the spout module(s) 57a may be configured to also allow for the option of pouring the drink out of container 10 without adding flavor and/or heating and/or cooling.
  • each chamber 52 of dispenser 50 has its own flow controls, or other controls described herein 63a-b, for a user to select for example how much drink to pour, and/or temperature control and reader/display 63c-d to display for example the temperature in each chamber.
  • the refrigeration unit 68, C02 tank 66 and power supply 65 are preferably located in the back portion 77 (FIG. 14) of housing 51.
  • FIGs. 16-19 illustrate sectional views of male-female couplings, according to several embodiments.
  • the V-shape female 15 and male 15b coupling is depicted as earlier described when referring to the precedent figures.
  • FIG. 17 an alternative embodiment is depicted in which a ridge system 34 may be employed to create the seal between the male and female coupling.
  • a ridge 34a may be present all around the interior surface of the V-shape female coupling 15, and similarly, ridge 34b may be present all around the exterior surface of the V-shape male coupling 15b.
  • ridge 34b is preferably configured to pass ridge 34a, such that the two ridges sit next to each other, to create a seal. It should be noted also that the two ridges 34a-b are squeezed between the two couplings proportionally with the weight applied to the male coupling. This is because the V-shape (e.g., funnel) is narrower at the bottom. Thus, in this embodiment as well, the seal is stronger if more weight is applied to the male coupling 15b.
  • V-shape e.g., funnel
  • a channel 35a may be present all around the interior surface of the V-shape female coupling 15, and a ridge 35b may be present all around the exterior surface of the V-shape male coupling 15b.
  • channel 35a is preferably configured to receive ridge 35b, to lock the couplings and create a seal in addition to the seal between the interior surface of the V-shape female coupling 15 and the exterior surface of the V-shape male coupling 15b.
  • This embodiment may be preferred when for example the strength of the seal between the two couplings has to be controlled.
  • the locking aspect of the channel -ridge system 35 makes that possible.
  • FIG. 19 is offered as an example to illustrate that the male-female friction coupling described herein may have other shapes, besides the V-shapes (e.g., funnel shape).
  • the male-female friction couplings may have a U-shape or bullet shape as shown in FIG. 19.
  • Other shapes may be adopted, such as cylindrical shape, prism shape, and so on.
  • An advantage of the V- shape is that it also aids to guide and center the V-shape male coupling 15b as it enters the V-shape female coupling 15. Further, the V-shape coupling lends itself to a tighter seal.
  • the male coupling's pipe 22b has a beveled lower end or is extended with a beveled nose 22bb (see FIG. 16), it can slide inside well tube 22 creating an even tighter seal, and thus allowing better suction for the pump 56 (see FIG. 11).
  • FIG. 20 illustrates a side sectional view of a dispenser system having a mixer and other features, according to several embodiments.
  • a mix/stir motor 79 may be part of lift lid housing 53 and may be placed next to beverage pump 56 and behind the beverage heater 78.
  • the mix/stir motor 79 may be controlled via dispenser controls (see for example 63a in FIG. 14) or a smart phone app communicating with a computer 82 of the dispenser 50.
  • dispenser controls see for example 63a in FIG. 14
  • a smart phone app communicating with a computer 82 of the dispenser 50.
  • motor 79 spins a shaft 80.
  • two or more drive pins 81 may be provided.
  • the motor 79, the shaft 80 and drive pins 81 will rise together with the top/lift lid housing 53 to allow the insertion of container 10 into chamber 52. Similarly, they will descend when the lift lid housing 53 will be lowered for closing (see FIGs. 11 -12), such that the drive pins 81 can engage the corresponding apertures 30e of a top fin bar 3 Of, which can rotate inside a recess 30c at the top of container 10. It should be noted that other coupling means between drive shaft 80 and fin bar 30f may be used, such as friction/clutch means.
  • the fin bar 3 Of may be attached to a mix/stir shaft 30a that goes down as shown into the container 10.
  • the mix/stir shaft 30a may have several rotating paddle blades 30b to properly mix/stir beverages, cocktails or soft serve-food, ice cream, yogurt, soup, smoothie, juice, cocktails and so on.
  • the rotation of the mix/stir shaft 30a may be eased by the use of bearings 30d and 30g.
  • Bearing 30d will preferably be configured to provide also the sealing level corresponding to the pressure level desired to be maintained in the container 10 (i.e., higher pressure for carbonated drinks).
  • the container 10 may also be equipped with an ingredient access 31, which may be closed using an ingredient/screw cap 31b fastenable with the aid of, for example, threads 31a.
  • the screw cap 3 lb is preferably air tight preventing beverage from going flat or being spoiled.
  • screw cap 31b When screw cap 31b is opened, there is a possibility that a carbonated beverage could lose some of its carbonation. This is not a problem.
  • a C02 sensor 86 (FIG. 22) may be provided to read the carbonation levels in the beverage container 10 an cause computer 82 to automatically add C02 to container 10, via direction valve 85a (see FIG. 21), to re-carbonate to the proper level of carbonation for the beverage type in the respective container 10.
  • a user may, before inserting container 10 into chamber 52, remove ingredient cap 31b from top of box/container 10, which allows user to add ingredients (e.g., juice, cut up fruit, etc) into the beverage (e.g., spirit, etc) present inside container 10.
  • ingredients e.g., juice, cut up fruit, etc
  • the user would fasten ingredient cap 31b, thus closing ingredient access 31.
  • a user would insert container 10 into chamber 52, while lift lid housing 53 is lifted up (see FIG. 12).
  • the user would close the lift lid housing 53, which will cause drive pins 81 to engage the apertures 30e of the top fin bar 3 Of.
  • the user would actuate the motor 80 via dispenser controls (see for example 63a in FIG. 14) or a smart phone app as described above. That would cause the stir shaft 30a and paddles 30b to spin and thus mix the added ingredient with the beverage inside containerlO.
  • the dispenser 50 may be equipped with cup controls sensors 84a-b that, via for example light beam 84c, can read if a beverage container/cup/glass 83 is in place for automatic pour when, for example, user sets dispenser 50 to pour at a certain time, in commercial use setting or home use. For example, the night before user goes to bed, user may set dispenser 50 via dispenser controls (see for example 63a in FIG. 14) or a smart phone app to pour coffee and/or chilled orange juice at 7:00 am. If the glass/container 83 is in place to receive the beverage, dispenser 50 will pour the beverage at 7:00 am. Further, computer 80 may be configured to notify user via your smartphone app or flashing light on control panel and/or audio signal that beverage is ready.
  • FIG. 21 illustrates a side sectional view of a countertop drink dispenser having a CO2 line for the beverage glass, and other features, according to several embodiments.
  • the C02 from the C02 tank 66 may be passed through a direction valve 85a (e.g., a solenoid valve) electrically-actuable for example by computer 82 based on for example instructions received from a user via controls 63 or a scanner 90 of a bar code 89 on pod 58 (see FIG. 22).
  • the direction valve 85a may send C02 either to glass/cup 83 via cup C02 line 85 or to container 10 via container C02 line 21. This versatility of dispenser 50 is very important.
  • the container 10 is filled with spring (flat) water, to make coffee, tea or other non-carbonated drinks using drink/flavor pod 58. If now the user wants a glass 83 of carbonated water, user can for example press the appropriate control 63 to send C02 just into the glass of water 83, leaving container 10 with non- carbonated water.
  • FIG. 22 illustrates a side sectional view of a countertop drink dispenser having a CO2 sensor, and other features, according to several embodiments.
  • a C02 sensor 86 may be provided to read the carbonation levels in the beverage container 10 an cause computer 82 to automatically add C02 to container 10, via direction valve 85a (see FIG. 21), to re-carbonate and maintain the proper level of carbonation for the beverage type in the respective container 10.
  • the C02 sensor 86 may be connected to a male C02 sensor strip 86b, which may reside as shown inside V-shape male coupling 15b.
  • the male C02 sensor strip 86b is preferably configured to connect with a C02 sensor strip 86a, with which container 10 may be equipped, if, for example, the beverage 75 inside container 10 is a carbonated beverage.
  • the dispenser 50 may have a smart beverage volume pour flow control valve 88 (e.g., a solenoid valve) controlled by computer 82, so that for example the user can set, from controls 63 or a smartphone app, the volume of beverage desired to be poured in user's cup 83 (FIG. 21).
  • Dispenser 50 may also have a beverage volume level sensor 87 which may communicate with computer 82 to alert the user when for example beverage volume is low in container 10. The alert may be communicated to user via user's smart phone app and/or visual and/or audio alert signal on/from the front of control panel 63.
  • the beverage volume sensor 88 may be connected to a male volume sensor strip 87b which may reside as shown inside V-shape male coupling 15b.
  • the male volume sensor strip 87b is preferably configured to connect with the beverage level sensor strip 17 of container 10.
  • the container 10 may be equipped with a beverage level sensor strip 17, which may assist a user as described above, in knowing the level of beverage remaining in the container 10 during use and/or alert the user to acquire a new/filled container.
  • each beverage flavor pod 58 may have a scannable bar code 89.
  • the dispenser 50 may have a bar code scanner 90 that can read the bar code 89 and then
  • the bar code 89 may contain data regarding to, for example, what kind of beverage to pour: hot, cold, carbonated, non-carbonated, ounces of beverage, and so on.
  • the bar code may contain data of interest to user, such as nutrition data, which computer 82 may communicate to user, for example, on a display (see for example 63c-d, FIG. 14) of the dispenser 50 and/or on user's smart phone.
  • all bay chambers 52 have a floor 74 that can slide out on roller wheels 91 (FIG. 22), similarly to, for example, a kitchen cabinet drawer.
  • This feature of dispenser 50 allows easier loading of beverage container 10 into chamber 52.
  • top lid 53 may not be able to open to a 90 degree angle because of various restrictions, such as the upper kitchen cabinets, when dispenser 50 is used on a kitchen countertop. However, as described earlier, top lid 53 will lift/open enough to disconnect the male and female V-shape couplings, 15b, 15, allowing a beverage box 10 to slide into chamber 52 when front cabinet door 54 is open.
  • FIG. 23 illustrates a top view of a drink dispenser having two chambers, according to another embodiment.
  • each dispenser 50 may have one, two or more chambers 52.
  • two chambers are shown, each having an independent C02 supply via C02 lines 67 from C02 tanks 66.
  • the C02 supply is controlled via a directional/smart valve 85a by computer 82.
  • each spout housing 57a may accommodate a beverage pod 58.
  • FIG. 24 illustrates a top sectional view of a drink dispenser having four chambers, according to an aspect.
  • This dispenser can be used as a larger floor model or countertop model.
  • This two-side access may be advantageous in a commercial setting for example, when the dispenser may be a floor model accommodating larger containers/kegs.
  • FIG. 25 illustrates a front sectional view of a drink dispenser having four chambers, according to an aspect.
  • the dispenser 50 may be configured such that to provide the option of pouring at the same time via two spouts 57 from each beverage container 10.
  • eight glasses could be filled at the same time.
  • This arrangement may be advantageous in a commercial setting for example, when a bartender needs to serve several customers at the same time.
  • This dispenser can also be used as a larger floor model or as countertop model, too.
  • FIG. 26 illustrates the perspective view of a drink container equipped with a coupling adapter, according to an aspect.
  • the cost of a commercial size container/keg 10 as described herein, versus the cost of traditional stainless steel kegs is significantly lower. This is because the container 10 is preferably made from biodegradable materials and as such is a one-way keg. There is no need to return the container/keg 10 to the drink manufacturer. Further, there is no need to or expense with washing the keg. The container 10 can simply and safely be discarded after use.
  • a coupling adapter 97 may be provided, which can be configured to adapt to any existing keg systems, the uniqueness being the adapter's V- friction male coupling 15b, creating a friction seal with the V-friction female coupling 15 of container 10 as described earlier in this disclosure.
  • the coupling adapter 97 may include a strap 95, made from stainless steel for example, and having hinges 93 on all four corners of container 10 and snap closed/open buckles 94 on one of the corners, to close/lock the strap 95. Preferably, eight hinges 93 total are provided.
  • the coupling adapter 97 may include a traditional keg system coupling 92 (tri-clove) on top, so that existing line couplings can fasten into it.
  • the traditional coupling 92 communicates preferably with a V-shape male coupling 15b placed underneath of strap 95 and secured by it after entering the V-shape female coupling 15 of container 10.
  • a plate 96 may also be provided to provide depth and to reinforce the fastening of the traditional keg coupling 92 to the adapter strap 95.
  • the corner hinges 93, snap closed/open buckles 94 and strap 95 create pressure on the underside V-shape male coupling 15b to create the friction seal with the V-shape female coupling 15 of the container 10.
  • FIG. 27 illustrates the side sectional view of a spout housing of a drink dispenser, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 28 illustrates the process of loading the spout housing from FIG. 27 with beverage pods, according to an aspect.
  • a spout housing 57a of dispenser 50 accommodating one beverage or flavor pod 58 (see FIG. 15 for example).
  • the spout housing 57a may be adapted to accommodate two beverage/flavor pods, 58a, 58b, preferably in a stacked arrangement as shown.
  • spout housing 57a may be adapted to accommodate three or more pods, stacked similarly as shown in FIGs. 27-28.
  • the spout housing 57a has to have the appropriate height.
  • the pod lid 59 preferably have two protrusions 98, such that, upon closure of pod lid 59, the two protrusions 98 push down onto the flange 100a located at the top of a preferably perforated basket 100.
  • the pod lid 59 may be locked into the spout housing frame 101 via a latch 59a.
  • the basket 100 preferably has two double spikes 99b that can pierce the upper pod 58b and the lower pod 58a. As shown the two double spikes 99b have an upper end extending into the basket 100 and a lower end extending away from the bottom of basket 100.
  • a user may first place the lower beverage/flavor pod 58a into the spout housing 57a and on top of lower spikes 99a located at the bottom of spout housing 57a and oriented upwards as shown.
  • the sharpness of the lower spikes 99a may be such that to prevent the piercing of the bottom of lower pod 58a yet.
  • the user may place the upper beverage/flavor pod 58b into the basket 100.
  • the basket 100 with upper pod 58b may be lowered on top of lower pod 58a.
  • the sharpness of the double spikes 99b may be such that to prevent the piercing of the top of lower pod 58a and bottom of upper pod 58b yet.
  • basket 100 has preferably a square shape (in cross-section), while the pods are preferably of round shape. This would allow more space at the corners of the basket 100 for the beverage to flow.
  • the basket wall and bottom may be perforated and the bottom of basket 100 may also have a flow opening 100b.
  • the user can add to the existing beverage (e.g., water, juice, beer, wine, spirit, etc) in the container 10 any two flavors or beverages users want (e.g., tea, coffee, soft drink (e.g., PepsiTM, CokeTM), cherry flavor, etc) to create their own concoction.
  • the existing beverage e.g., water, juice, beer, wine, spirit, etc
  • any two flavors or beverages users want e.g., tea, coffee, soft drink (e.g., PepsiTM, CokeTM), cherry flavor, etc) to create their own concoction.
  • the height of the spout housing 57a is smaller, such that the upper spikes 99c can reach the top of pod 58a upon closure of pod lid 59.
  • FIG. 29 illustrates a side sectional view of a drink container during filling at factory, according to an aspect.
  • certain drinks such as wine are sensitive to air.
  • the taste of the drink may be negatively affected if air is allowed to mix with the drink.
  • air may contain chemical and/or biological elements that may contaminate the drink inside container 10.
  • container 10 may be equipped with means that can be selectively engaged to prevent the air from entering container 10 and spoil the drink inside it.
  • container 10 may be equipped with a valve (e.g., a petcock valve) 102, which can close and open the well tube 22 of container 10.
  • a valve e.g., a petcock valve
  • the well tube 22 may be extended above the upper surface 23 of container 10, to accommodate a placement of the valve 102 such that it can be easily accessed by a user for example.
  • lever 102a of valve 102 may be moved up for example, to open the valve 102, and thus well tube 22 (see valve opening 102b being aligned with well tube 22), such that liquid/beverage can be inserted in container 10 by factory equipment 103.
  • valve 102 should be opened after the air tight friction seal is achieved between the V-shape female coupling 15 of container 10 and the V-shape male coupling 15b (similar to that of dispenser 50) with which the factory equipment 103 is preferably equipped.
  • valve 102 at the factory or when in the dispenser, may be opened or closed manually by a user, automatically through a mechanical leverage system (not shown), or, if the valve 102 is a solenoid valve, it could be actuated electrically (e.g., automatic command by computer 82).
  • FIG. 30 illustrates a side sectional view of the drink container from FIG. 29 ready for storage and/or shipping, according to an aspect.
  • valve 102 is preferably closed, by for example turning lever 102a down (see FIG. 30), such that to prevent air from entering via well tube 22 into container 10.
  • factory V-shape male coupling 15b is disconnected.
  • container 10 is preferably sealed with foil seal 19 (see FIGs. 1-2) and with cap 11, fastenable using threads 13 for example.
  • the filled container 10 can now be shipped and/or stored.
  • FIG. 31 illustrates a side sectional view of the drink container from FIG. 30 placed in a dispenser, according to an aspect.
  • foil seal 19 see FIGs. 1-2
  • cap 11 may be removed and container 10 may be placed in the chamber 52 of a dispenser 50 as earlier described herein, while the valve 102 is still closed (see FIG. 31).
  • the dispenser 50 (see FIG. 11 for example) preferably has a corresponding V-shape male coupling 15b, associated preferably with the top lid housing 53 of dispenser 50.
  • valve 102 may be opened (see FIG. 32) by for example turning lever 102a upward as shown.
  • the opening 102b of valve 102 is again aligned with the well tube 22 and thus pump 56 can draw the beverage from container 10 and pour it into user's glass 83 (see FIG. 20 for example).
  • FIG. 32 illustrates a side sectional view of the drink container from FIG. 31 in a different state (i.e., valve 102 open), according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 33 illustrates a side sectional view of a drink container, ready for shipping or storage, according to another embodiment.
  • the drink container 10 may be adapted to be used for example for a picnic or a pool party, without the need of using a dispenser 50 described earlier in this disclosure.
  • container 10 may have two bags inside, 14 and 103.
  • Liner bag 14 was described earlier when referring for example to FIGs. 1 -2.
  • the inner bag 103 is sealed at the top as shown to a shortened well tube 22 and it is the bag that holds the beverage 75.
  • Container 10 may be equipped also with an air valve 104 (e.g., a typical bicycle air valve), which may be used to pump air in the space 109 between the liner bag 14 and inner bag 103, and thus force out the beverage 75 inside the inner bag 103.
  • Any commonly available air pump e.g., hand air pump, tire pump or compressor, etc
  • liner bag 14 may be eliminated in this embodiment.
  • well valve 102 is closed at this time, to prevent air from entering inside inner bag 103 and thus prevent spoilage or contamination of beverage 75, as earlier described when referring to FIG. 29-32.
  • FIG. 34 illustrates a side sectional view of the drink container from FIG. 33, in use, according to an aspect.
  • container 10 as described when referring to FIG. 33 is configured to be used without a dispenser 50. This may be very useful for example for limited budget parties, such as family picnics or pool parties, student parties, and so on.
  • user may first remove cap 11 (FIG. 33) and replace it with the picnic coupling 105.
  • the picnic friction coupling 105 may include a male coupling's pipe 22b, a V-shape male coupling 15b and a picnic cap l ib.
  • the picnic friction coupling 105 may be fastened to the container 10 by simply screwing picnic cap l ib onto the threads 13. It should be noted that an air tight seal is created between V-shape male coupling 15b of the picnic coupling 105 and the V-shape female coupling 15 of the container 10, as earlier described in this disclosure.
  • the user may connect one end of a hose 107, using joint 106, to the upper end of male coupling's pipe 22b.
  • the other end of hose 107 as shown, may have a beverage valve 108 associated with it.
  • the beverage valve 108 may have a gate 108c, which may be lifted to allow beverage flow to picnic beverage spout 109, by pressing down a lever 108a, which is loaded with a spring 108b, to cause the lever 108a to return upon its release, and close the gate 108c.
  • the user may open well valve 102, such that well valve opening 102a is aligned with the male coupling's pipe 22b. It should be noted that because of the previously established air tight seal between the V-shape couplings 15 and 15b, air will be prevented from entering inner bag 103 and beverage 75.
  • the user may connect an air pump (shown as 120 in FIG. 38) to air valve 104, and use the pump to push air in the space 109, between the inner bag 103 and liner bag 14.
  • the pumped air in the space 109 will press against inner beverage bag 103, propelling beverage 75 outward via male coupling's pipe 22b and hose 107.
  • Beverage can now be poured via picnic spout 109 by simply pressing down lever 108a of beverage valve 108.
  • picnic container 10 can be reusable, disposable and/or recyclable. Same may be true for the picnic friction coupling 105, hose 107 and/or picnic valve 108.
  • the beverage container 10 disclosed herein can be made from cardboard, plastic, glass, metal or any combination of these or other suitable materials.
  • Dispenser's computer 82 may then automatically calculate expiration date taking into account longer life of beverage because of airtight male and female V-friction coupling and/or not taking the beverage container in and out as it is the case when using a standard refrigerator. For example, open soda, wine, beer, will go flat after a short period when using a standard refrigerator. As another example, milk going in and out of refrigerator shortens beverage life.
  • the airtight system and process disclosed herein extends the life of beverage.
  • dispenser controls 63 of each chamber 52 or the smart phone app described earlier in this disclosure may be configured to control a variety of functions and display a variety of data, such as:
  • beverage chamber temperature control setting (each chamber may be individually controlled for temperature); chamber temperature reading display; beverage selection (e.g., carbonated or non- carbonated; hot as in coffee or cold as in soda); beverage low volume alarm; beverage expiration date controls alarm; beverage container in place ready to pour (communicates to users that a mug, glass, cup, travel container or pitcher is in place to receive beverage; if no beverage container is in place dispenser will not dispense selected beverage); two station control valve and sensor for flow direction to pour spout (this multiple pour control allows one beverage keg box, packaging to supply beverage to move than one pour spout); auto select beverage, hot or cold (a hot beverage selection, causes pump to circulates beverage from chamber through element heating coils to heat beverage before entering cabinet housing where flavor pods are positioned, allowing flavored beverages, such as coffee, tea, hot cocoa, or even hot milk to be poured); C02 PSI pressure control selector switch and gauge system showing PSI; child lock out control preventing children from pouring soda or energy drinks without parent permission; displaying
  • 25 may be set up to self-serve driver's license reading for age appropriate alcohol requirements (reader determines if self-serve customer is old enough to purchase alcohol; it can also accept self- serve customers credit card or beverage ticket for automated payment for beverage to relieve long beverage line at big event venues such as sporting events and concerts).
  • FIGs. 35A- 35D illustrate side sectional views of four examples of a drink container 10, according to an aspect.
  • the drink container 10 may be a rectangular box or keg.
  • the keg 10 may be constructed of plant-based bio-plastic, bio-cardboard, regular plastic, regular cardboard, or steel.
  • the keg 10 is preferably constructed from biodegradable materials.
  • FIG. 35A illustrates a keg 10 that may be used for water or another beverage that does not need to be mixed or stirred.
  • a well tube 22 may extend down into the keg 10, through which liquids or soft serve foods may be drawn.
  • FIG. 35B illustrates a keg 10 with a mix/stir shaft 30a that may be used for beverages that may need to be stirred or mixed, such as, for example, juices, energy drinks, chocolate milk, pre- mixed cocktails, coffee, tea, lemonade, and so on.
  • the mix/stir shaft 30a may extend down as shown into the container 10.
  • the mix/stir shaft 30a may have several rotating paddle blades 30b to properly mix/stir beverages, cocktails or soft serve-food, ice cream, yogurt, soup, stews, pasta, rice and meat, poultry, fish, smoothies, juice, cocktails and so on.
  • FIG. 35C illustrates a keg 10 that may be used for soft serve foods such as, for example, ice cream, yogurt, soups, stews, macaroni and cheese, and so on.
  • the keg 10 may include a mix/stir shaft 30a having paddle blades 30b and may have an auger conveyor/lifting silo 110, which may be capable of vertical or horizontal ushering of the food or liquid.
  • the keg 10 may also have a sloped floor 125, which may assist in guiding the soft serve foods to the auger conveyor/lifting silo 110.
  • the keg 10 may also include horizontal ushering 125 -a to move soft serve food.
  • FIG. 35D illustrates a keg 10 that may be used for dispensing tap water, or water found at, for example, a camping site.
  • the keg 10 may be fitted with a biodegradable water filter 111, such that water is poured into the keg 10 through the filter 111 and the keg 10 may then be closed with a removable cap 11. After water is poured into the keg 10 through the filter 111, it may be drawn out through the well tube 22.
  • the well tube 22 may also include a second water filter (not shown), for added protection.
  • the biodegradable water filter 111 may be single use or multiple use. An advantage of the single use filter may be that using the same water filter for an extended period of time may be unhealthy, and may collect impurities.
  • the keg 10 may be constructed in sizes ranging from 1 ⁇ 2 gallon or smaller to 10 gallons or larger.
  • a keg may include a plurality of chambers, each of which may include the components shown in FIGs. 35A - 35D.
  • Each chamber may house a different type of liquid or food, and may include various components for mixing, for example.
  • a keg may include two or four chambers with a beverage in some and soft serve food in the other chambers.
  • the various chambers may be used with a dispenser, which may include a bar code reader, a microphone for voice commands, or a user ID scanner, for example.
  • the various chambers may include barriers in between, such that heat or cold are shielded from other nearby chambers.
  • FIGs. 36A- 36B illustrate side views of a drink container or keg with a screw-on cap, two couplings, two safety valves, and well tube 22, according to an aspect.
  • the keg 10 may include a pressure relief safety valve 133, and another pressure relief safety valve 113-a at the pour spouts 57.
  • the keg 10 may also include an air valve 104. Again, the user may connect one end of a hose 107, using joint 106, to the upper end of male coupling's pipe 22b. The other end of hose 107, as shown, may have a beverage valve 108 associated with it.
  • the keg may include two pour spouts 57, a pour spout at the top, and another pour spout at the bottom.
  • FIG. 36C illustrates a side view of a drink container or keg 10 with a screw-on cap 11 and female cylindrical coupling 215, according to an aspect.
  • the cylindrical coupling 215 may be a U-shaped channel as shown, which may accommodate a bull-nose male coupling (not shown), for example.
  • the channel may have a concave bottom, or may have a flat horizontal level bottom, as shown.
  • the keg may also include an air valve 104 for, again, pumping air in the space 109 between the liner bag 14 and inner bag 103, and thus force out the beverage 75 inside the inner bag 103.
  • 36D illustrates a side view of a drink container or keg 10 with a V-shape male friction coupling 15-b that may be a part of a factory filling line, according to an aspect.
  • the V-shape male friction coupling may be used with a cylindrical female coupling 215.
  • the lid and coupling may also be a male cylindrical coupling 215-b which may correspond to a female cylindrical coupling 215 as shown in FIG. 36C, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 36E illustrates a perspective view of a drink container or keg 10 showing examples of where a V-shaped or cylindrical coupling may be placed, according to an aspect.
  • the female coupling for a receiving a corresponding male coupling, shown by 215-a, may be either V-shaped or cylindrical.
  • the keg 10 may also include handles 132.
  • the keg 10 may also include at least a corner brace 132-a (with some portions not shown for visual clarity, shown in more detail in FIG. 36F), which may be provided at one corner of the keg 10 or more than one corner.
  • FIG. 36F illustrates a detailed perspective view of the corner brace 132-a of FIG. 36E.
  • the corner brace 132-a may include sliding portions 132-b for extending or adjusting the size of the brace such that the corner brace may be used in different sizes or models of kegs, for example.
  • the sliding portions 132-b may be locked into place with a pin 132-c, for example, or any other suitable means.
  • the corner brace may also include teeth 132-d (not shown in all areas for visual clarity) for the sliding portions 132-b to grip with the main corner brace 132-a.
  • FIGs. 37A - 37K show sectional top perspective views of examples of a bioplastic pressure relief safety valve 113, preferably biodegradable, which may be manually adjusted for different PSI, and may be reset if activated to release pressure inside of the keg, according to an aspect.
  • the resetting may be automatic, and the pressure relief safety valve may "self-reset.”
  • the weight of the top of the safety valve may cause the top portion to be pushed downwards when not forced upwards by pressure inside of the keg.
  • an actuator within the keg may reset the safety valve cap, and may do so when a sensor detects that the safety valve has been used to relieve pressure.
  • the resetting may be performed manually by the user.
  • the safety valve may be configured to maintain the same PSI as previously, or a different PSI. More than one safety valve may be used in one container. For example, one safety valve may be used to release excess pressure in the beverage cavity of the keg 10 where the beverage is stored, and a second safety valve may be in an air cavity where air pressure is used to self-propel the beverage from the keg 10.
  • the pressure relief safety valve 113 may be constructed in a variety of ways, and preferably constructed from the same material as the keg. An advantage may be that this aids in the ease of recycling, and single-stream regenerative recycling may be possible with the components of the safety valve, including springs and rubber bands, constructed entirely of the same bio-plastic material, for example. The user may recycle the entire container without separation of its parts.
  • FIGs. 37A- 37B illustrate side views of a pressure relief safety valve 113-a in a closed sealed position and activated open position, respectively, according to an aspect.
  • High pressure may force the valve open, by raising the lid 114 into the activated open position of FIG. 36B to release the excess high pressure.
  • the lid 114 may include spring hinges 115 that may hold arms 116 against the side of the valve 113-a.
  • the arms 116 may clip onto a padded or ridged area 117 attached to the side of the valve 113-a.
  • the inside of the valve 113-a housing may have ridges 118, which may create a friction hold for the lid 114, which may extend down into the housing by a shaft 114-a.
  • the lid 114 may also have hooks 114-b which may hook into the ridges 118, holding the lid 114 in place. This may also help to hold the lid 114 against seal rings 119.
  • either the hooks 114-b or the ridges 118 may be flexible, such that the hooks 114-b may move upwards or downwards past the ridges 118 as needed.
  • FIGs. 37C - 37D illustrate a side view in a closed state and front view in an open state, respectively, of a pressure relief safety valve 113-b, according to an aspect.
  • the keg may include two pressure relief safety valves, such that one may be for releasing air and another may be for releasing gas resulting from fermentation.
  • a pressure relief safety valve 113-b may include a long hook or rod 114-c that may hook into the ridges 118, holding the lid 114 in place. Again, as the long hook 114-c or the ridges 118 may be flexible, such that the long hook 114-c may move upwards or downwards past the ridges 118 as needed.
  • FIG. 37E - 37F illustrate a side view and a front view, respectively, of another example of a pressure relief safety valve 113-c, according to an aspect.
  • the pressure relief safety valve 113-c may include ridges 118 along the sides of the walls, which may catch a rod to keep the safety relief valve open or closed in a desired open or closed position.
  • FIG. 37G illustrates a front view of another example of a pressure relief safety valve 113-d, according to an aspect.
  • the hooks 114-c of the safety valve may be raised and lowered by springs 114-d.
  • FIG. 38 illustrates a side sectional view of a keg 10 that may self-propel beverages or foods 75 without the need for electricity, according to an aspect.
  • An advantage may be that additional expense for electricity may not be needed, and the keg may thus be portable.
  • the keg may also reduce the carbon footprint by not using electricity or gas to propel a beverage.
  • a user may pump an air pump handle 120, which may force air into the keg in the space 109, between the inner bag 103 (also "beverage bag") and liner bag 14. The pumped air in the space 109 will press against inner beverage bag 103, propelling beverage 75 outward via well tube 22.
  • the air bag may keep air in the air bladder chamber, which may create air pressure against the beverage bag.
  • the air pump 120 may be held in place by straps 122, and may be built in to the keg and may be a part of the keg.
  • the air pump 120 may have an intake hole 121 which provides the air needed for the air pump plunger action to fill the air bag inside of the keg.
  • An air exit hole 123 and air pump gate flap 124 may restrict air from leaking out of the air bladder, which may maintain pressure against the beverage bag. This may aid in strong propulsion of the beverage.
  • One-way air flow may also be provided by the air gate flap 124 as shown, or by a one-way air valve, or ball valve air lock, for example.
  • the keg 10 may have an outer liner bag 14, or the outer shell may be rigid.
  • the outer liner bag 14 may create a hermetically sealed chamber and may be connected to the keg's inner walls by glue or any other suitable means, and the keg may also include safety pressure relief valves 113.
  • the keg may include a plastic, solid container instead of an outer liner bag, with a beverage bag 103 inside of it. As the beverage is emptied from the beverage bag 103, the beverage bag 103 will be reduced in volume and may slide up the wall of the keg, forcing the beverage towards the opening in the female V-friction coupling 15, or cylindrical coupling (as shown in FIG. 49A as 215).
  • the plastic liner bag 14 is preferably fastened, using glue for example, to the interior wall (as shown as 24 in FIG. 2) of the container 10 at several fastening locations 18, including the corners of the container 10.
  • An air nipple or air valve 104 may be used in order to automatically keep air pressure in the air chamber at a constant automated pressure.
  • the air nipple or valve 104 may be used in a keg with or without an air pump 120. It should be understood that the keg may be used with or without an electric air compressor, or with or without a hand air pump.
  • FIGs. 39A- 39C illustrate various examples of a keg 10 that may self-propel liquids or soft-serve foods with or without an external energy source, according to an aspect.
  • the keg 10 may include a pour spout opening 57 (not shown in FIG. 39B for clarity), which may accommodate a V- or cylindrically-shaped friction coupling (not shown for clarity).
  • the keg may have a sloped floor 125 directing liquids or foods to the pour spout opening and an auger conveyer/lifting silo 110. As shown in FIG. 39A, the sloped floor 125 may be in a V-shape such that the liquid or food is directed to the center point of the pour spout.
  • the sloped floor 125 may be fixed or may move. As shown in FIG. 39B, the interior of the keg 10 may be cone-shaped as shown by 125-a to direct food or liquids towards the auger screw conveyor 110. As shown in FIG. 39C, the sloped floor may also be raised by a spring 128. To lift and create a sloped adjustable floor inside of the keg 10 for gravity flow of liquids or foods, the bottom plate may increase its slope as the liquids or foods are drained from the keg. The lifting pressure may be created by the rubber bands or springs to lift the bottom plate.
  • the examples of kegs shown in FIGs. 39A - 39B may need an external energy source to power the auger, and the example of the keg shown in FIG. 39C may not need an external energy source.
  • FIG. 40A illustrates an example of layered board 150 that may be used for the construction of a keg 10.
  • the layered board 150 may be constructed from bio-plastic, wood, cardboard, steel, or any other suitable materials.
  • the layered board 150 may be used as a lifting pressure plate, and may be used to hold the top plate of the keg 10, coupled together for lifting strength.
  • the layered board 150 (shown without layers in FIGs. 40B - 40D for clarity) may form the top of the keg 10.
  • FIG. 40B illustrates an example of a keg 10 that may self-propel beverages or foods using side wall pressure plates 24-a, according to an aspect.
  • the side wall pressure plates 24-a may be bio-plastic or any other suitable material.
  • the keg 10 may include a V-shaped or cylindrical friction female coupling 215-a for receiving a corresponding male coupling.
  • the coupling 215-a may include a safety relief valve 113-a and may include a petcock valve 102. It should be understood that all friction couplings may include a safety relief valve 113-a and may include a petcock valve 102.
  • the side-to-side propulsion may be achieved by the side wall pressure plates 24-a pressing against the beverage bag 103.
  • the side wall pressure plates 24-a may be fitted with, for example wheels 140, or as another example, skis (not shown).
  • the side wall pressure plates 24-a may also be assisted in sliding by fitting into guide pins (not shown), or be free floating, as shown.
  • Side-to-side propulsion may also be achieved by springs 151 applying pressure to the beverage bag 103, which may be, for example, a plastic bag, or a balloon bladder, which may be similar to a water balloon.
  • the springs 151 may push between the outer walls of the keg 10 and the side wall pressure plates 24-a.
  • a second bio-plastic outer side wall 24-b (shown on the right side of FIG. 40B only for clarity) may be needed on the inside of the keg wall to press against the side wall pressure plates 24-a inside of the keg wall.
  • FIG. 40C illustrates an example of a keg 10 that may self-propel beverages or foods using a gravity flow sloping floor plate 152 to lift one end of the beverage bag 103 at the bottom of the keg 10, according to an aspect.
  • the floor plate 152 may be lifted, such that the elevation may create a sloping floor to direct the liquid or food in the beverage bag 103 towards the pour spout 57, which may also include a safety relief valve 113-a and may include a petcock valve 102.
  • the floor plate may be lifted using elastic bands 139 which may be bio-rubber or any other suitable material.
  • the elastic bands 139 may be attached to eyehooks 139-a, which may be round as shown, or may any other suitable shape.
  • the elastic bands 139 may, through pressure, lift the sloping floor plate 152 as the weight of the beverage bag 103 decreases when beverage is removed from the container.
  • the beverage bag 103 may be pressed against a stationary top plate 152-c, to help release the bag's contents.
  • FIG. 40D illustrates a self-emptying keg 10 having a lifting floor plate 152-a, according to an aspect.
  • the lifting floor plate 152-a may be positioned at the bottom of the keg 10 as a bottom plate, and may be raised and push the contents of the beverage bag 103 by pressure applied by elastic bands 139-a, which may be connected to eye hooks 139-a, as discussed when referring to FIG. 40C.
  • the eye hooks 139-a may be attached to the top plate 152-c on the other end of the keg, which may be stationary.
  • the weight of the beverage inside of the beverage bag 103 may be lessened as the petcock valve 102 of the coupling 215-a is opened, and thus the lifting floor plate 152-a may be raised. Again, when the lifting floor plate 152-a is raised, the beverage bag 103 may be pressed against a stationary top plate 152-c, to help release the bag's contents.
  • FIG. 40E illustrates a self-emptying keg 10 having side walls 24-a, according to an aspect.
  • the keg 10 may contain a bio-plastic bladder-type bag 103 upon which the side walls 24-a may push from two sides, to evenly push liquid or beverage out from the friction coupling 215-a, which may be associated with a pour spout for pouring out the contents of the keg.
  • the two side walls 24-a may be held together by elastic bands 139 hooked into eye hooks 139-a, for example, and be held in place by the inner bag 103
  • the side walls 24-a may then squeeze together as the contents of the inner bag 103 are released and the volume of the bag 103 decreases.
  • the side walls 24-a may be on skis 140-a in order to facilitate sliding across the bottom of the keg 10.
  • wheels 140 (as shown in FIG. 40B) may also be used for the side walls 24-a.
  • FIG. 40F illustrates a self-emptying keg 10 having a moveable top plate 152-c at the top and a stationary bottom plate 152-a, and a flexible hose 180, according to an aspect.
  • the keg 10 may include a V-shaped or cylindrical friction female coupling 215-a for receiving a
  • the coupling 215-a may include a safety relief valve 113-a (as seen in FIG. 40B) and may include a petcock valve 102. Similar to the keg shown in FIG. 40D, the beverage bag 103 may be pressed downwards onto the bottom plate 152-a, by the downward force of the top plate 152-c moving downwards. The top plate 152-c and the bottom plate 152-c may be held together by eye hooks 139-a and bands 139 (shown only in rear of FIG. 40F for visual clarity, and also shown in the example of FIG. 40G) such that the keg 10 may self-propel the contents of the bag 103 as it is emptied.
  • eye hooks 139-a and bands 139 shown only in rear of FIG. 40F for visual clarity, and also shown in the example of FIG. 40G
  • the contents of the bag may be propelled through a flexible hose 180, which may be attached to the bag 103 at a joint or hole 181.
  • the hose 180 may then connect to a female coupling 215-a through which the contents of the bag 103 may be dispensed.
  • the flexible hose 180 may, as an example, connect to a coupling at the top of the keg 10 with another outer flex hose, which may connect to a gate valve (as shown in FIG. 40G).
  • the flexible hose 180 may be included inside of the keg 10.
  • FIG. 40G illustrates another example of a self-emptying keg 10 with a flexible hose 180 connected to a bottom coupling 215-a, according to an aspect.
  • the keg 10 may self-propel by a downward-pressing top plate 152-c, for example, exerting pressure onto a bag 103.
  • the downward pressure may push a beverage or food out of a coupling petcock valve 215-a, which may be located towards the bottom of the keg 10.
  • the coupling 215-a may have a flexible hose 180 attached to it, through which a beverage or food may be dispensed as the weight of the bag 103 contents are pushed down by gravity and by the downward force of top plate 152-c.
  • the bands 139 and eyehooks 139-a may be provided at one end of the keg 10 or may be provided at more than one end of the keg 10 (shown only in rear of FIG. 40G for visual clarity).
  • the end of the hose 180 may be attached to a pour spout having a gate valve, which may then dispense a food or beverage into a cup 181.
  • the bag 103 may be capable of holding 10 gallons, the weight of which may be
  • the flexible hose 180 may be outside of the keg 10.
  • the beverage bag 103 of FIGs. 40B - 40G may be of an elastic type material that may expand.
  • the elasticity may add propulsion force, which may help to lift or push the beverage towards the pour spout 57 or coupling 215-a.
  • the keg 10 may have multiple pour spouts 57 such that the user may position the keg 10 in different ways. No external energy source may be needed to propel or dispense a beverage or food from the container when pressure is applied to the beverage bag 103.
  • any keg 10 may include any combination of couplings, pressure relief safety valves, mixing paddles, and any other feature described herein.
  • FIG. 41A illustrates a self-emptying keg 10 having telescoping legs 129 and an accordion outer shell 10-a, in a filled state, according to an aspect.
  • a keg having telescoping legs may or may not have an accordion outer shell 10-a.
  • the keg 10 having telescoping legs 129 may also include any of the other features described herein, such as, for example, a coupling 215, and elastic bands 139 and eyehooks 139-a.
  • the keg may include a top plate 152-c and a bottom plate 152-d. The plates may squeeze the inner bag 103 that may contain a liquid or food.
  • the telescoping legs 129 may allow for the keg to be collapsible, to be stored and shipped flat.
  • the outer shell 10-a may be flattened or collapsed by using the accordion folds, and then the keg may also be folded into a smaller shape by folding along seams such as seam 153.
  • the telescoping legs 129 may act as stanchion posts, supporting the structure of the keg 10, by connecting to the top plate and the bottom plate inside of the keg 10. In another example, posts that are fixed in length may be used in place of the telescoping legs 129.
  • the legs 129 When fully extended, the legs 129 may be used to support the vertical stacking of the keg when it is full of products such as beverages or food.
  • the keg 10 may be constructed of any suitable material that may be folded or collapsed, and again, may include seams for collapsing the keg 10, such as at 153.
  • the outer shell 10-a of the box may expand similarly to an accordion, due to its accordion-like folds (shown on two edges of outer shell only for clarity), when the legs telescope and extend. When the legs collapse, the accordion box may compress.
  • the accordion box and telescoping legs may assist in the keg taking up less space than a traditional steel or plastic keg.
  • a keg 10 may be constructed by folding full folds of box sides over one another, such that an entire side of the keg 10 has two layers of cardboard or any other suitable material the keg may be constructed from. Multiple pieces of the adhesive used to secure the folds may be overlapping with each other for added durability.
  • FIG. 41B illustrate three examples of telescoping legs 129-a - 129-c, according to an aspect.
  • the telescoping legs may be constructed in a variety of ways as shown, or in any other suitable design.
  • the legs may also be fixed as an alternative to telescoping.
  • the legs may be constructed from any suitable materials, such as metal, cardboard, bamboo, and so on.
  • the telescoping legs 129-a - 129-c may be locked into a desired length by fitting pegs or pins (not shown) that may be pushed into a hole 129-d.
  • the pegs or pins may be spring-loaded and may snap or lock into place when inserted into a hole 129-d.
  • the legs may be extendable without being telescoping, such as, for example, by having accordion folds, or any other suitable means.
  • FIG. 41C illustrates an example of a keg 10 in an empty state, with a frame having legs, showing the telescoping feature of the legs, according to an aspect.
  • the telescoping legs 129 may be used for collapsing or folding the keg 10 such that the keg may be shipped or stored in a flat state, in an accordion box or flat packed in a folding box.
  • FIG. 42A illustrates a motor 79 and motor shaft that may be associated with the auger screw conveyer shaft or paddle shaft, according to an aspect.
  • Motors may be connected to shafts or fixtures that they are to drive by hard connections. These type of connections may not be quick release or quick engage. Some other types of motors may be connected to a clutch, which may wear down after prolonged usage.
  • the coupling may be made with a friction shaft fin 134 ("fin" or "fin pin”).
  • the friction motor to shaft coupling may be a pin-fin friction coupling wherein the driving fin shaft may either slide into two pins on the end of the auger or paddle shaft, or the opposite may occur where the driving shaft may have two pins.
  • the top of the fin 134 may be beveled to a pointed or triangular tip, as shown.
  • An advantage of the beveled tips of the fin and pin may be that the fin and pin are prevented from butting together. If this occurs, then friction coupling cannot be completed.
  • the motor driving shaft and the work-utility shaft may be free-wheeling, able to move and rotate to the side, which may allow the wedges to drive past each other to create a friction coupling.
  • Another advantage may be that the container of food or drink in the keg 10 may be quick-change, and easily removed by the user so that it may be replaced with a new one.
  • Another advantage may be that the inclusion of paddles within the keg itself may reduce mess and the need for cleaning, as a beverage or food may no longer need to be transferred into a separately container that has paddles.
  • FIGs. 42B - 42D illustrate a side top perspective view, a top perspective view, and a top plan view, respectively, of an example of a motor coupling 135-a having a ridged cylinder design, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 42E illustrates a side perspective view of a motor coupling having a rough surface funnel design, according to an aspect.
  • the motor 79 may through the coupling 135-b drive the auger
  • FIG. 42F illustrates a side perspective view of a motor coupling having teeth on the surface for gripping, according to an aspect.
  • the coupling powered by a motor 79, may drive a paddle shaft 30a.
  • FIG. 43A illustrates a detailed partial side view of the keg 10 of FIG. 35C, which may include an alternative example of a top opening and friction coupling 215, according to an aspect.
  • FIG. 43B illustrates a detailed partial side view of the keg 10 as shown in FIG. 43 A, with a motor 79 and upper auger 110-a coupling associated with the auger 110, according to an aspect.
  • the motor 79 may be associated with a fin pin 134, which may connect with an upper auger 110-a.
  • the upper auger 110-a may be the driving auger, and may drive the auger 110.
  • the friction coupling may be a vertical slot and may be cylindrical, with a sleeve where the top fin-pump male friction coupling glides into the sleeve slot 154 of the keg 10, similar to a male coupling into a female coupling.
  • the wide opening of the fin male vertical coupling may be needed to allow the auger screw conveyer 110 to move in and out of the keg and connect to the lifting auger screw conveyor, and may also allow the driving auger to connect to the lifting auger in the keg.
  • FIGs. 44A - 44B illustrate a box 131 , with the top unfolded and partially folded, respectively, constructed of bio-cardboard that may make up the outer shell 131 of a keg, which may have a bio-plastic bag or bio-plastic bottle inside (shown only in FIG. 44B for clarity), according to an aspect.
  • the bio-cardboard keg may be printed with eco-friendly ink and eco-friendly glue or tape strips.
  • a protective film may be placed over it and removed when the adhesive is needed.
  • the protective film may be biodegradable.
  • An advantage of the box may be that the beverage contained inside may be protected from UV sunlight.
  • An advantage of the adhesive may be that boxes may be flat-packed for storage or shipping and later easily assembled.
  • An advantage of having overlapping strips of adhesive 131-a and 131-b may be that the strength of the box is increased.
  • the boxes may be constructed such that a user may assemble the boxes when needed, and may be folded along seams and glued or taped together with pre-applied glue or tape strips, for example. The folds of the box may overlap such that the strength of the box is increased.
  • the box may include telescoping legs (as shown by 129-a in FIGs. 41B - 41C) that allow for the box to be collapsed flat, and then re-assembled by the user.
  • An advantage may be that a separate tape dispenser and/or knife for tape is not needed by the user.
  • FIG. 45A illustrates a partial sectional side view of a keg 10 connected to a beverage dispenser by a flexible bio-plastic or rubber hose/tube 107, according to an aspect.
  • the bio-plastic friction coupling of the hose/tube 107 on the keg 10 may be pushed on or pulled off.
  • FIG. 45B illustrates a bio-plastic elbow 130, which may be flexible, which may be used where space is limited in the beverage dispenser, connecting a dispenser 50 with a keg 10, according to an aspect.
  • An advantage may be that the elbow allows flow of liquids where a hose/tube 107 may restrict liquid flow if bent at an angle.
  • the keg 10 may include a straight twist lock coupling as part of the pump housing or as part of the keg pour spout opening.
  • FIG. 45C illustrates a partial side view of a hose 107 that may be attached to a screw-on cap 11, according to an aspect.
  • the hose 107 may allow for both horizontal and vertical product flow
  • FIG. 45D illustrates a partial side view of an elbow 130-a that may be used for connecting a dispenser 50 with a keg 10, according to an aspect.
  • a fixed vertical elbow piece 130-b may allow for vertical product flow, and a bent elbow 130-a may be used for horizontal and vertical product flow between a dispenser 50 and a keg 10.
  • Individual pieces used for connecting a dispenser 50 with a keg 10 may snap together and lock, for example, or may be connected by any other suitable means.
  • FIG. 46 A illustrates a side view of a bottle 127 fitted with a bio-plastic pour spout with a manually operated nozzle 138 having a gate valve 108, according to an aspect.
  • the pour spout may be connected to a bio-plastic or bio-rubber hose 107 which may be connected to a screw on male V- friction coupling which may be received by a corresponding female V-friction coupling.
  • the male coupling may include a petcock valve 102.
  • This gate valve 108 pour spout 138 with gate valve 108 may be used with any keg whether the keg operates by gravity flow or self-propulsion.
  • a keg or water bottle may also use a bio-plastic bladder bag liner ("bladder bag,” “bladder bag liner,” “balloon bladder,” or “bladder liner”) 133 inside of the keg or water bottle, to create a self-propulsion system.
  • the keg or bottle using a rubber balloon self-propulsion system may be capable of holding 1 ⁇ 2 gallon to 10 gallons, for example, and or may be shaped and sized like small bottle and be capable of holding 12 ounces to 24 ounces, for example.
  • the bio-plastic pour spout may be used with any existing bottle or container in standard market packaging.
  • FIG. 46B illustrates a bottle 127 with a bio-plastic screw-on top that may be used with a bottle 127 for storing or shipping, according to an aspect.
  • the bottle may include a petcock valve, and may include a rubber balloon bag 133 for self-propulsion.
  • FIG. 46C illustrates an airtight seal such as a male friction coupling pour spout, which may be V-shaped or cylindrical, having a gate valve, which may include a petcock valve 102, and finger pull tabs 127-a for pulling over a spout, according to an aspect.
  • the hose may include a bio- plastic ribbed surface, such as, for example, ribbed ridges, to accommodate a tight connection of the hose to the fitting, and may be pulled over another container, such as, for example, the opening and threads of a bottle neck, and may be used, for example, with any existing bottle such as for soda, water, beer, wine, and so on.
  • FIG. 46D illustrates an airtight seal bottle cap and pour spout 136 that may be used with any existing bottle, such as, for example, a wine, champagne, or water bottle, according to an aspect.
  • the bottle cap pour spout 136 may include a gate valve 108 and a lever 137 for manual operation of the spout.
  • the pour spout 136 may also include finger pull tabs 127-a.
  • FIGs. 47A- 47C illustrate a side view of a female V-shaped or cylindrical friction coupling adapter 97-a, a detailed view, and a side view, respectively, of the adapter 97-a inside of a bottle 127, according to an aspect.
  • the female V-shaped or cylindrical friction coupling adapter 97-a may accommodate any size beverage container opening, such as, for example, a milk carton, 2 liter soda bottle, juice bottle, and so on.
  • the hard V-shape coupling 15 may have a well tube 22-a attached to it, which may be telescopic.
  • the female V-friction coupling 15 funnel may have a rubber boot or stretchable expansion membrane 126 that may stretch over the top of the neck of a container (shown as 127 in FIG. 47C), fitting snugly over the neck and giving a perfect seal.
  • An advantage may be that the existing shape of bottles may not need to be altered and existing bottles may be able to use this coupling.
  • Bottlers may, at the time of packaging, insert the adapter 97-a after filling the bottle, or users may insert it after removing a storage cap. This may allow users to use any existing packaging inside of the dispenser, by allowing the male V-friction coupling that is a part of the pump lead or pour spout housing to connect to existing bottles or other packaging via the female V-friction coupling.
  • the adapter 97-a may also be a permanent part of bottle packaging.
  • the adapter 97-a may, on the expansion membrane 126, include finger pull tabs 127-a which may aid in putting the adapter on a bottle, or pulling it off a bottle.
  • An adapter with a stretchable expansion membrane 126 may also be used with, for example, aluminum cans and may assist in the opening of the cans, and the stretchable expansion membrane 126 may be used to keep a beverage airtight.
  • a carbonated beverage may be covered using an expansion membrane 126 thus reducing the carbonation loss in the beverage.
  • FIG. 47B illustrates another example of a telescopic well tube of the adapter 97-a.
  • the telescoping friction sleeve 22-a may slide to extend or retract and may be held in place by side-to- side friction.
  • the telescopic well tube 22-a may include friction ridges 22-b along the sides, which may be flexible, and may assist in holding the well tube 22-a in position at a desired length.
  • the friction ridges 22-b may also be used with a friction fin 22-c, for example, or may be used without a friction fin.
  • a friction fin 22-c may be used as a larger flexible stopper for holding the well tube 22-a in place.
  • FIG. 47C illustrates a standard bottle 127 with its cap removed.
  • the expansion membrane 126 of the adapter 97-a may allow any existing container to be adapted to use the V- shaped coupling.
  • An existing bottle 127 may be placed into the dispenser, and the female adapter may be used with the coordinating male V- or cylindrical-shaped friction coupling of the dispenser.
  • the well tube 22-a of the adapter 97-a may include friction ridges 22-b which may assist in holding the well tube at a desired position.
  • FIG. 47D illustrates a side view of a bottle 127 with a bio-plastic bladder bag liner 133 having an expansion membrane top 126, similar to the adapter 97-a of FIG. 47A, such that the opening of the bio-plastic bag liner 133 may be able to stretch over the top of any size container 127, such as a bottle, growler, and so on, according to an aspect.
  • the bio-plastic bag 133 may be thermally protective such that it may withstand temperatures below the freezing point of water and above the boiling point of water.
  • a balloon bladder 133 may be stretched over top of a plastic bottle, with a snap or screw on cap placed on top, with a bio-rubber nipple in the top.
  • the balloon bladder 133 may be used with, for example, a baby bottle, which may also be used with a double cap, having a top cap and a bottom cap.
  • the bottom cap may have a female V-friction coupling
  • the top cap may have a male V-friction coupling that may go into the female V-friction coupling when the top cap is screwed or snapped on over the bottom cap.
  • the female cap may have friction tabs, which may be nipples that the balloon bladder top opening can stretch over.
  • the nipple may create a friction hold and air barrier.
  • the friction nipples may be around the bottom and sides of the coupling.
  • a removable baby bottle nipple may go onto the top cap.
  • a rubber flange may stop the nipple from pulling off into the baby's mouth, which may prevent choking.
  • FIG. 47E illustrates the side view of the bottle 127 with a bio-plastic bladder bag liner 133 having an expansion membrane top 126 of FIG. 47D, also having a storage unit 155 for holding extra bladder bag liners 133, according to an aspect.
  • the storage unit 155 may be screwed on to the bottle 127 by threads 166 or attached by any other suitable means, and may hold extra bladder bag liners 133 such that the user may be able to keep extras with the container or bottle 127 and may not need to search for them.
  • any container that may use a bio-plastic bladder bag or rubber balloon bladder may also include a magazine or holder for spare bags, which may be attached to the container by any suitable means. The user may store extra bags in this magazine or holder, such that they can easily find replacement bags.
  • FIGs. 48A- 48C illustrate a bladder liner in various states of being stretched, which may be used inside of a water bottle or keg of any size such as 1 ⁇ 2 gallon to 10 gallons, according to an aspect.
  • a bladder liner 133-a may be that the liner may be disposable, such that water scum or bacteria does not accumulate inside of the bottle.
  • the balloon liner may be made of bio-plastic material, and may be stretched over the top of the container. The flexibility may allow one type of liner to be used for a variety of sizes of containers or bottles and may also allow for self-propulsion in personal bottles.
  • the balloon liner may also expand when being filled with a beverage, such that the elasticity of the liner may help to self-propel a beverage out when a user takes a drink.
  • the self- emptying may be used for individuals with mobility issues, or athletes in competitive situations who are not able to tilt their head back to drink.
  • FIGs. 48D - 48E illustrate side views of examples of a bladder liner 133-b having a V- shaped neck 133-c, according to an aspect.
  • the V-shaped neck 133-c may aid in fitting the bladder liner or rubber balloon into any type of container for allowing the container to self-propel its contents.
  • FIG. 48F illustrates a keg 10 having an air pump 120 and rubber balloon bladder 133, according to an aspect.
  • the air pump 120 may be used to pump air into the space within the keg to propel liquid or food out of the flexible bladder 133.
  • any keg may be constructed to be able to use a balloon bladder 103 to hold liquid or food, such that the balloon bladder 133 may be replaceable with a new bladder at any time.
  • FIGs. 49A- 49B illustrate side views of a cylindrical friction coupling, having a male coupling 215-a and female coupling 215 in a coupled state and uncoupled state, respectively, that may be used with a keg, according to an aspect.
  • the male cylindrical coupling 215-a may be inserted into the female cylindrical coupling 215 and also may slide into a channel sleeve 167 that is deeper inside of the female cylindrical coupling 215.
  • the channel sleeve 167 may be even with the leading edge of the female cylindrical coupling 215.
  • An advantage may be that the cylindrical coupling may be more adaptive to the operation of the petcock valve and auger shaft, which may allow for better control of soft serve food, for example.
  • the coupling may also be a rounded bull nose type coupling, as shown by 215-b, which may be in a U- shape, for better airtightness.
  • the cylindrical coupling may include metal plates where a metal -to-metal seal may take place, between a stainless steel male cylindrical coupling and a female stainless steel cylindrical coupling.
  • the components may also be constructed from polymer plastic materials, for example, and may have flexible semi-plastic rubber seals where the male and female components meet.
  • FIG. 49C illustrates a side view of another example of cylindrical friction coupling with a female friction coupling 215 and a corresponding male friction coupling 215-a in an uncoupled state that may be used with a keg 10, according to an aspect.
  • the coupling may for example snap and lock into place into a receiving channel.
  • Snap pins 215-d may fit into snap pin cavities 215-e.
  • Flexible rubber washers which may be constructed from rubber, for example, may be placed at the top of the channel to create an airtight barrier. Pins may also be used or a sleeve in the channel to create airtightness.
  • FIG. 49D illustrates a cylindrical coupling having a female friction coupling 215 and a corresponding male friction coupling 215-a, with friction plates 170 that may be used with a keg 10, according to an aspect.
  • the male coupling may not need to go into the female coupling, and instead, a seal may be provided by weight and friction.
  • the airtight seal may be caused by a side shaft gasket plate on the male coupling and a bottom rubber seal or gasket at the end of the male coupling adjacent to a female flat plate.
  • the friction plates 170 may be sandwiched between other elements in order to ensure a tighter seal, such as, for example, a gasket 169, a rubber seal 168, or any other suitable means for an airtight seal.
  • the two friction plates 170 may be pressed together by weight, and the gasket 169 and rubber seal 168 may be flexible.
  • the presence of the friction plates 170 may also allow for the channel of the female coupling 215 to be smaller.
  • FIG. 49E illustrates a detailed view of the cylindrical coupling of FIG. 49D showing friction plates with a gasket 169, according to an aspect.
  • the gasket 169 may allow for a tighter seal of the coupling.
  • the bottom seal created by the friction plate 170 is also shown, and the rubber seal 168 at the top of the channel.
  • FIG. 49F illustrates a detailed view of the cylindrical coupling of FIGs. 49 A - 49B having a female bull nose or dolphin nose coupling 215-c and a corresponding male bull nose or dolphin nose coupling 215-b.
  • the bull nose or dolphin nose shape may allow for better guiding of the male friction coupling 215-b while entering the female bull nose or dolphin nose friction coupling 215-c.
  • the rounded U-shape of the bull nose or dolphin nose may have more surface area at the point than a V-shaped point, which may allow for a better and tighter seal. The better and tighter seal by a bull nose or dolphin nose may also prevent liquids from spilling out around the point of contact.
  • FIG. 50 illustrates a multi-use keg 10-a that may include multiple pods ("pods" or "chambers") 404-a - 404-d, according to an aspect. As shown as an example, one multi-use keg 10-a may, as an example, include four pods 404-a - 404-d.
  • a pod 404-a may include a chamber 402 having a petcock gate valve 102 (shown only in pod 404-a for visual clarity), and may include two petcock valves 102, which may be automatically opened by, for example, a stepper motor and may regulate flow of the keg contents.
  • the gate valve may allow added flavor ingredients to flow from the main reservoir of the keg 10-a into a second reservoir chamber for mixing, which may be, as an example 1 ⁇ 2 ounce to 2 ounces in capacity.
  • the gate valve may include a fin 102-a, which may jut out as a plate, and may be at a 90 degree angle to the gate valve 102, and may perform the action of a handle at the end of the petcock valve.
  • Each pod 404-a - 404-d may also include an auger to assist in keeping product thoroughly mixed, as shown in FIG. 35C.
  • An auger may be omitted for liquids, or may be included when using a keg 10-a for thicker foods.
  • the keg 10-a may include a lift lid that may be secured or opened with any suitable means, such as, for example, a hinge with a push button locking latch, for opening a pod 404-a and inserting a beverage or food to be dispensed.
  • a lift lid that may be secured or opened with any suitable means, such as, for example, a hinge with a push button locking latch, for opening a pod 404-a and inserting a beverage or food to be dispensed.
  • the keg 10-a may include at least a scannable tag 172 for reading or providing data or information about the contents of the keg 10-a.
  • the scannable tag 172 may be similar to the scannable bar code (shown by 89 in FIG. 22), and may, for example, be tags such as bar codes, QR codes, radio-frequency identification (RFID) near field communication (NFC), and any other similar machine-readable data.
  • the scannable tag 172 may therefore be able to provide information about the contents of each chamber 404-a to a dispenser, for example, such as, for example, ingredients, the amount of sugar, recipes including the contents of the chamber, volume of each ingredient, and so on.
  • the information contained in the scannable tag may be read by a scanner on a dispenser of the food or beverage (such as, for example, a scanner shown by 90 in FIG. 22).
  • any of the materials used for constructing the keg may be biodegradable, such as, for example, bio-plastic that may be recycled by single-stream recycling processes.
  • a friction coupling in any of the above examples may be V- shaped or cylindrical, the male and female couplings corresponding with one another.
  • Couple and its derivatives refer to any direct or indirect communication between two or more elements, whether or not those elements are in physical contact with one another.
  • the term "or” is inclusive, meaning and/or.
  • the phrases "associated with” and “associated therewith,” as well as derivatives thereof, may mean to include, be included within, interconnect with, contain, be contained within, connect to or with, couple to or with, be communicable with, cooperate with, interleave, juxtapose, be proximate to, be bound to or with, have, have a property of, or the like.
  • plural means two or more.
  • a “set” of items may include one or more of such items.
  • the terms “comprising,” “including,” “carrying,” “having,” “containing,” “involving,” and the like are to be understood to be open-ended, i.e., to mean including but not limited to. Only the transitional phrases “consisting of and “consisting essentially of,” respectively, are closed or semi-closed transitional phrases with respect to claims.

Abstract

Un récipient à vidage automatique comprend : une partie supérieure; une partie inférieure; une pluralité de parois verticales s'étendant entre la partie inférieure et la partie supérieure; une poche interne permettant de contenir un contenu à distribuer; un raccord femelle conçu pour recevoir et établir un joint par une force de friction avec un raccord mâle d'un dispositif externe pour insérer ou extraire le contenu vers ou depuis le récipient après l'établissement du joint par la force de friction entre les raccords femelle et mâle; et au moins un panneau indépendant positionné à l'intérieur du récipient; un élément compressible associé audit panneau indépendant. Pendant le remplissage de la poche interne, l'élément compressible est comprimé, amenant ainsi ledit panneau indépendant à exercer une pression sur la poche interne, et, par conséquent, à aider à vider la poche interne.
PCT/US2018/043569 2017-05-26 2018-07-24 Appareil, systèmes et procédés de distribution de boissons, d'aliments et d'autres liquides WO2018218258A2 (fr)

Priority Applications (7)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
RU2019141331A RU2019141331A (ru) 2017-05-26 2018-07-24 Устройство, системы и способы выдачи напитков, пищи и других жидкостей
CA3065150A CA3065150A1 (fr) 2017-05-26 2018-07-24 Appareil, systemes et procedes de distribution de boissons, d'aliments et d'autres liquides
EP18806707.8A EP3630647A4 (fr) 2017-05-26 2018-07-24 Appareil, systèmes et procédés de distribution de boissons, d'aliments et d'autres liquides
GB1919277.2A GB2578052A (en) 2017-05-26 2018-07-24 Apparatus, systems and methods for dispensing drinks, food, and other liquids
JP2020515842A JP2021513934A (ja) 2017-05-26 2018-07-24 飲み物、食べ物およびその他の液体を所要量出す装置、システムおよび方法
ZA2019/07747A ZA201907747B (en) 2017-05-26 2019-11-22 Apparatus, systems and methods for dispensing drinks, food, and other liquids
CONC2019/0014499A CO2019014499A2 (es) 2017-05-26 2019-12-20 Aparato, sistemas y metodos para dispensar bebidas, alimentos, y otros liquidos

Applications Claiming Priority (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US15/607,395 US9994437B2 (en) 2014-12-30 2017-05-26 Apparatus, systems and methods for dispensing drinks, food, and other liquids
US15/607,395 2017-05-26
US15/975,700 US10259699B2 (en) 2014-12-30 2018-05-09 Apparatus, systems and methods for dispensing drinks, food, and other liquids
US15/975,700 2018-05-09

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WO2018218258A2 true WO2018218258A2 (fr) 2018-11-29
WO2018218258A3 WO2018218258A3 (fr) 2019-02-21

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JP (1) JP2021513934A (fr)
CA (1) CA3065150A1 (fr)
CO (1) CO2019014499A2 (fr)
GB (1) GB2578052A (fr)
RU (1) RU2019141331A (fr)
WO (1) WO2018218258A2 (fr)
ZA (1) ZA201907747B (fr)

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GR20190100015A (el) * 2019-01-14 2020-08-31 Παναγιωτης Ιωαννη Μπιλιας Κουτι φορεας ασκων με ποτα και κρουνους διανομης
EP3907143A1 (fr) * 2019-05-06 2021-11-10 ChooMee Inc. Station de remplissage de sachets

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CN110292875A (zh) * 2019-08-05 2019-10-01 李嘉莹 一种纺织染料搅拌设备

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RU2019141331A3 (fr) 2021-11-17
CO2019014499A2 (es) 2020-01-17
WO2018218258A3 (fr) 2019-02-21
EP3630647A2 (fr) 2020-04-08
JP2021513934A (ja) 2021-06-03
CA3065150A1 (fr) 2018-11-29
RU2019141331A (ru) 2021-06-28
EP3630647A4 (fr) 2021-09-15
GB201919277D0 (en) 2020-02-05
GB2578052A (en) 2020-04-15
ZA201907747B (en) 2021-04-28

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