WO2024051893A1

WO2024051893A1 - Arrangement for tapping a beverage, equipped with sensors and internal connection for further preparing the information

Info

Publication number: WO2024051893A1
Application number: PCT/DE2023/100645
Authority: WO
Inventors: Mirco Wolter; Philipp Sommer; Stefan Sültrop; Giulio Guadalupi
Original assignee: Dsi Micro Matic Gmbh; Vinservice Micro Matic S.R.L.
Priority date: 2022-09-08
Filing date: 2023-09-04
Publication date: 2024-03-14

Abstract

The invention relates to an arrangement (1) for detecting the flow rate and/or the fill level of at least one keg (2), wherein a sensor is arranged in a tapping arrangement, wherein the sensor detects at least the state of flow or the state of no flow, wherein a central electronics unit (8) is provided that is connected in a wireless and/or wired manner to the at least one sensor, wherein the sensor is arranged remotely from the electronics unit (8). The invention also relates to a tapping arrangement (1) for connection to a keg, wherein a keg coupler (3) is provided in which a sensor (20) for determining the flow and/or a pressure sensor (21) and/or an antenna (26) is/are provided. The invention also relates to a tap arrangement, wherein a tap (4) has an outlet spout and in the outlet spout at least one sensor (10, 11, 12) for determining the temperature and/or the flow is arranged. The invention also relates to a fitting arrangement (1) for a keg (13), wherein an electronic data carrier (22) is arranged on, below or in a seal (4).

Description

ARRANGEMENT FOR DRINKING A DRINK. EQUIPPED WITH SENSORS AND INTERNAL CONNECTION FOR FURTHER PROCESSING OF THE INFORMATION

The present invention relates to an arrangement for detecting the flow rate and/or the filling status of a beverage keg and/or the temperature of the beverage and/or the pressure of the tension gas line.

It is known from the prior art to store drinks in containers for consumption. This enables transport from the beverage production point, for example a brewery, to the place of consumption, for example a restaurant.

Common containers for drinks are bottles, cans and kegs. In the latter case, it is possible to have larger quantities of the respective drink,

REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) for example, more than 10 liters, in particular more than 20 liters and preferably more than 30 liters of the beverage in a beverage barrel.

In order to fill the beverage into the beverage barrel at the filling location and to extract it at the removal location, it is known that the beverage can be tapped from the beverage barrel under pressure with the aid of a gas in particular. CO2 in particular is used for this. For this purpose, the beverage barrels have a barrel body with an outer shell. The barrel body is usually made of a metallic material. The barrel body usually has an opening in the middle of its top into which a fitting is inserted. The fitting serves as a coupling point for filling the barrel. Once the filling process has been completed, the fitting remains on the barrel and has a seal or a sealing arrangement so that the beverage filled into the beverage barrel remains sealed and, if necessary, under pressure.

At the point of removal, the beverage keg is connected to a dispensing system. On the one hand, there is a gas line for introducing the gas into the beverage barrel and a beverage line for dispensing or extracting the beverage from the barrel. For this purpose, a dispensing head is used, which is connected to the fitting, in particular positively and fluid-tight, but releasably coupled.

Since the barrel body itself is usually made of a metallic, i.e. a non-transparent and opaque material, and the barrels are often cleaned after the initial filling and refilled many dozens of times, it is necessary to know about the respective barrel contents and, if necessary, further information about the barrel and /or the fitting. Particularly due to the reuse of the fitting, external inscriptions, for example with stickers, labels or even permanent inscriptions, for example by engraving using a laser, are only suitable to a limited extent.

For example, from DE 10 2006 047 524 A1 and DE 199 48 471 C2 a tap arrangement is known in which a central electronic unit is coupled to a sensor wirelessly or by cable.

REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) The present invention has the object of providing a possibility to improve the monitoring capability of a dispensing system or dispensing arrangement and thus to improve the ease of use and the quality of the drinks to be dispensed.

The aforementioned task is solved with the features in claim 1.

Advantageous design variants are described in dependent patent claims.

The arrangement for detecting the flow rate and/or the filling state of at least one beverage keg in a dispensing arrangement has at least one sensor, the sensor detecting at least in the “flow” state and/or the “no flow” state. According to the invention, it is characterized in that a central electronics unit is provided, which is coupled wirelessly and/or by cable to the at least one sensor, the sensor being arranged at a distance from the electronics unit.

The electronic unit can also be described below as a gateway. The electronic unit is a printed circuit board (also called PCB) with corresponding chips so that at least raw data from sensors can be recorded.

In the simplest embodiment, a dispensing arrangement is a dispensing system to which a beverage keg is connected. The beverage keg itself has a fitting onto which a tap head is placed and a tap is connected to the tap head via a beverage line. However, the arrangement according to the invention is preferably used in larger companies. These are, for example, restaurants where there are several taps in a bar, with each tap having its own beverage keg connected to it. A gas can also then be used with which the respective drink is extracted from the drinks barrel.

The aim is to monitor the dispensing operation in real time. The fill level quantities of the respective beverage barrels, the temperature of the beverage dispensed, and the quantities of beverages taken or served as well as the respective gas pressure can be recorded via a conversion.

REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) The advantage is that it is possible for the user, i.e. the bartender, to monitor his connected beverage kegs in real time and to recognize, for example, an impending keg change at an early stage. He can also monitor the gas pressure of the respective tension gas line for each dispensing head/barrel as well as the temperature of the respective drinks and has an overview of the quantities of drinks served. This means that the higher-level innkeeper has a good opportunity to evaluate and control how many drinks are served and can therefore carry out logistical and business evaluations, for example with regard to the stocking of quantities of drinks, the ordering of quantities of drinks and the billing of quantities of drinks.

A beverage supplier or even a brewery that is superior to the innkeeper can also, for example, receive access to data and thus also carry out logistical and business evaluations. By encrypting the data, this can be done anonymously so that the data protection regulations in each country are complied with.

In order for the system to be operationally reliable and simply designed at the site of use, only the raw data is initially recorded, in particular by the electronic unit. The raw data can then be passed on to a cloud via the electronics unit. This ensures small amounts of data due to the sharing of raw data. In particular, sensors can communicate wirelessly with the electronic unit, in which case sensors and/or electronic unit can then be operated via an independent power supply, for example batteries or accumulators. However, it is also possible, in particular, to connect the electronic unit to a fixed power supply, but especially in the low-voltage range, for example 5, 12 or 24 volts, in order to ensure operational reliability. Due to the small data size and preferably a triggered data query, for example not continuously but every few seconds, low energy consumption of the sensors and electronic unit is also guaranteed.

REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) The raw data is then particularly preferably imported into an evaluation unit remote from the electronic unit, for example a cloud storage or similar. This is where the raw data is converted into, for example, evaluation data. Furthermore, the cloud storage can then be accessed via a display device. However, it is also conceivable that the conversion takes place in the gateway itself, using integrated software, and then the raw data is converted in the cloud for direct transmission to the display device. The display device is, for example, a tablet or smartphone or another screen device that can be set up in the guest room of the restaurant and thus gives the user, i.e. bartender, the opportunity to monitor the connected beverage kegs or the drinks being served in real time and to signal an impending keg change or similar. However, the display device can log into a cloud and therefore also provide the bartender with the information. However, the data can also be read out or visualized in a higher-level system center in the restaurant or in a brewery.

The sensors themselves are preferably at least one flow sensor, which is arranged, for example, in the dispensing head. However, the flow sensor can also be arranged in the tap itself. At least one pressure sensor and/or one temperature sensor is preferably also provided. The pressure sensor is preferably also arranged in the area of the tap head, the temperature sensor is preferably arranged in the area of the tap.

The previously described sensor system is then used to monitor a connected beverage keg. However, it is also possible to use several sensors and to use several beverage barrels at the same time, so that previously described sensors, i.e. flow sensor, pressure sensor and/or temperature sensor, are arranged per beverage line/installation.

For this purpose, it has proven to be particularly preferred if the electronic unit monitors up to six tap arrangements. If there are more than six tap arrangements, it has again turned out to be preferable that two electronic units can be connected in series and thus up to 12

REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) Tap arrangements or with three electronic units up to 18 tap arrangements can be monitored. It is particularly preferred that the gateways are not locally connected to one another, but that the data is then assigned to a common operation/installation in the WebApp/Cloud.

The electronic unit has a wireless receiver to communicate with the sensors via wireless communication. This can be, for example, WLAN, Bluetooth, or Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) but would preferably be a radio connection, for example in the 868 MHz range. This has proven to be particularly energy saving.

The electronic unit itself is then preferably connected via a wired structure, for example to the Internet, in order to establish communication with, for example, a cloud. However, it has also preferably turned out that the electronic unit itself could have a WiFi connection or a GSM connection, for example 4G or 5G, and thus provide data in an intranet or an Internet. This is particularly advantageous if the electronic unit is arranged, for example, in a drinks cellar that itself does not have a wired Internet connection. The electronic unit can therefore connect via a router located in the house, with the connection to the Internet then being established via the router. In the event of poor GSM coverage, an antenna connection on the gateway can be used to connect an external antenna directly or to lead it outside a building or room using a cable. From there the GSM connection can then be used.

The electronic unit itself is splash-proof and moisture-proof.

Furthermore, a display device can be present on the electronic unit, in the simplest case LED or LCD displays, to signal the status of the sensors.

In particular if the beverage keg is provided with a data record, for example via a data carrier, also called a tag or NFC TAG in the fitting

REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) Data can also be provided about the brand of the content, i.e. about the drink and the manufacturer of the content of the struck beverage keg.

With this information, the WebApp can preferably automatically set the connected beverage brand and the barrel volume and compare it with the best-before date and link the ID of the TAG with the tapped volume. This means that if the same ID is recognized within a defined short period of a few days, an opened barrel can be identified with the individual filling level when it is reconnected.

In turn, the dispensing head preferably has a readout unit, for example an antenna, in order to read out this data. The data can then be passed on to the electronic unit or gateway described here via sensors or electronics in/on the tap head.

The WebApp can also, thanks to the raw data available, suppress an update of the measured temperature on the dashboard if the tapped volume/duration was not large or long enough to overcome the natural inertia of the temperature sensor.

Furthermore, maintenance times or maintenance intervals for the beverage lines can be both displayed and documented so that hygiene regulations and manufacturer regulations are met.

It would also be conceivable for the electronics unit to carry out a direct conversion of the raw data using a further chip unit and then to carry out and pass on the information either via an LCD display or its own connection to a display device, for example via Bluetooth or WLAN. However, this increases the energy consumption in the electronic unit itself. However, the results converted in the gateway are preferably also transferred to the cloud to the WebApp.

The electronic unit can in particular be arranged in a splash-proof plastic housing and then has plug connections

REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) Connect various sensors power supply, antenna(s) or a display or a serial gateway connection.

Further advantages, features, properties and aspects of the present invention are the subject of the following description. Preferred design variants are the subject of the following description. These serve to make the invention easier to understand. Show it:

Figure 1a arrangement for recording the flow rate and the fill level of a beverage barrel,

Figure 2a Electronics unit in detail view.

In the figures, the same reference numbers are used for the same or similar components, even if a repeated description is omitted for reasons of simplicity.

Figure 1 a shows an arrangement 1 for recording the flow rate and the filling status of a beverage barrel 2. Four beverage barrels 2 are shown for this purpose. A tap head 3 is placed on each beverage keg 2 itself. The beverage kegs 2 are connected to gas bottles 4 via the tap head 3. Furthermore, a beverage line 5 extends from each tap head 3. These beverage lines 5 are led to a respective tap 6. A drink can then be tapped at the tap 6, for example into a glass 7. A central electronics unit 8 is provided. The electronic unit 8 is each wired 9 coupled to at least one sensor in the dispensing head 3. This sensor can, for example, record the flow or non-flow of the amount of beverage removed. With any stored information that a barrel change has taken place, the fill level can then be calculated back.

Furthermore, the central electronics unit 8 also has a wireless communication 10 or wireless communication module via a further sensor, for example a temperature sensor 12. A temperature sensor 12 is assigned to each tap 6, which can then in turn communicate with the electronics unit 6 via a wireless communication 10. The electronics unit 6 itself can, for example

REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) Communicate wired via Internet 13, but also via WLAN 14 or a GSM module 15 with a cloud 16. The raw data from the sensors can then be analyzed or converted in the cloud 16. Various data can then be read out via various display devices, for example smartphone 17, computer 18 or laptop or a tablet 19, such as the filling status of the beverage keg 2, the brand and manufacturer of the beverage present in a beverage keg 2, the temperature of the tapped beverage and the Gas pressure of the respective tension gas line. Furthermore, conclusions can be drawn about upcoming cleaning of the beverage lines and these cleaning processes can also be documented. The display devices can be read, for example, by a user, a bartender who also operates the tap 6, but also by a restaurateur who also runs several restaurants, for example the system catering, but also by a brewery superordinate to this, which in turn evaluates data can. There may be different security clearances so that data can be read anonymously in order to ensure the respective data protection guidelines of the individual countries.

Figure 2a shows an electronics unit 8 in a detailed view. The electronics unit 8 can, for example, have a plastic housing 20 and a printed circuit board or a PCB board 21 is arranged in the plastic housing 20 itself. Wireless communication units 10 can in turn be arranged on the PCB board 21 itself, for example Bluetooth or WLAN 14. Furthermore, a power connection 22 can be present for, for example, an external power supply, for example in the low-voltage range. Furthermore, a bus line 23 can be arranged, so that it is possible to connect several electronic units 8 in series. A respective electronic unit 8 preferably has, as shown here, six wired connections 24 to connect sensors. Furthermore, the electronic unit 8 has a GSM antenna 15 in order to be able to communicate with a cloud 16 wirelessly, i.e. without the Internet 13 or Ethernet connection.

Individual or all features of this invention can be combined with individual or all features of the inventions listed below.

REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) The present invention further relates to a tap head arrangement for connection to a beverage keg according to the features in the preamble of claim 6.

The present invention also relates to a method for determining the filling status of a beverage keg.

It is known from the prior art to provide drinks in beverage barrels, especially in catering establishments. Common beverage barrel sizes are 10 liters, 20, 25, 30 liters, but also 50 liter beverage barrels. The beverage kegs are delivered through delivery logistics and are usually stored in an area away from the taproom or the tap that is not visible. This area usually also needs to be cooled so that the drink can be provided chilled. Beverage kegs are often stored in a beverage cellar.

There is a need to know the fill level of a struck beverage keg. Especially when different beverage kegs with different drinks are attached to a dispenser.

This knowledge is necessary in three ways. Especially at peak times, a corresponding keg change can take several minutes, which, however, a single owner, a single person operating a dispensing system, cannot spare.

A second need is to know the respective filling level in order to be able to order the quantities of drinks required for the next few days or weeks in an ordering process.

A third option is to use respective filling level tables to ultimately record how high the respective quantities taken from a respective beverage barrel were over a respective time period.

Various inline measuring systems are known from the prior art, for example a measuring arrangement is known from DE 20 207 334 U1. A flow meter is used here, which makes it possible to read or reset the meter reading in a control unit and to read the amount of drinks dispensed for certain periods of time. The disadvantage here is that a

REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) Such a flow rate sensor is operated, for example, via an impeller. The impeller engages directly in the beverage line. However, the beverage lines must be cleaned regularly, using so-called cleaning beads. Measuring systems that intervene in the beverage line are disadvantageous and require special cleaning.

The object of the present invention is therefore to provide an option that is as low-maintenance and error-prone as possible in order to enable fill level monitoring and information about the contents of the tapped or struck beverage kegs with little use of measurement technology.

The aforementioned object is achieved according to the invention in the arrangement for detecting the flow rate and / or the filling state of a beverage keg with the features in claim 6.

Advantageous embodiment variants of the present invention are described in the dependent claims.

The arrangement for detecting the flow rate and/or the filling state of a beverage keg has at least one tap head and one beverage keg. The tap head is connected or attached to the beverage keg. A sensor is assigned to the dispensing head, the sensor detecting at least the “flow” state or the “no flow” state.

The sensor itself is either integrated directly into the dispensing head or attached to the dispensing head.

According to the invention, it is now provided that the sensor detects the “flow” state or the “no flow” state. With the help of a stored database, which either consists of an algorithm and/or a stored table, a conclusion can be made based on the time in which flow is detected as to what amount of drink has flowed through the tap head or the line. This can then be used to calculate the remaining filling level of the beverage keg. For this purpose, the flow rate, e.g. in liters per minute, is preferably stored in the system once in each measuring/tap point. This happens

REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) preferably by measuring/measuring by the system operator, e.g. B. by measuring the time during the withdrawal of a specific and known amount of drink. Alternatively, a learning program is conceivable using the electronics software so that after the start, the times of all tapping processes are added up and the operator can then simply enter the total quantity removed. This in turn calculates the flow rate in liters per minute. With fixed control variables, this is usually constant for each beverage line/installation. The flow rate only needs to be re-determined if the operator makes changes to the installation (e.g. the delivery pressure or the compensator on the dispensing tap). This can also be done by adding up all the times to completely remove an entire barrel. Since the operator selects the barrel change in the software anyway by selecting the new volume, this is also possible semi-automatically. Or the volume of the tapped drink is entered in the web app for the last measurement recorded for calibration.

If the system is then e.g. For example, if a flow rate of 2.5 l/min is stored and the tapping process takes 12 seconds, it can be converted that a volume of 0.5 liters was taken, which is subtracted from the total fill level of the barrel.

The present invention has many advantages over variants known from the prior art. First of all, only a minimal use of sensor technology is required, which is therefore cost-effective, simple and not prone to failure. Because the data is recorded and processed, it is stored in an external server or in a cloud and can therefore be accessed. It is therefore possible for the operator of the dispensing system to call up the individual fill level for one or more beverage kegs at any time, so that he is warned about a keg change. A forecast can also be created for the ordering of beverage kegs required in the future, as the withdrawal quantities are logged over time.

In a particularly preferred embodiment variant, the sensor is integrated directly into the dispensing head. The sensor is in particular a reed sensor or reed switch

REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) or reed contact and/or capacitive sensor and/or inductive sensor. There is a tap head plunger in the tap head. There is usually a non-return safety device inside the tap head plunger. This kickback protection is designed, for example, as a magnetic rod or ball, in particular made of a metallic material. This can therefore be used to switch a magnetic contact and thus detect the “flow” or “no flow” status.

In the sense of the invention, a first sensor is therefore designed in such a way that a signal body, in particular as a magnetic rod or ball, but in other embodiments, is integrated into the beverage line. This signal body is moved into a different position when the beverage flows through, in particular in relation to the vertical direction. The signal body comes into the position of a sensor, in particular a reed sensor, which thus detects the “flow” state of beverages or fluid in the beverage line. The signal body can be cleaned together with the dispensing head or can simply be removed for cleaning and then reinserted. Furthermore, such backflow preventers are known on the tap heads.

For this purpose, in particular, the tap head itself can be made of a plastic material. Such a dispensing head is known, for example, from EP 2 730 537 A2, the entire disclosure of which is included here.

It can now happen in applications that if the tap head is broken, for example when changing a barrel, the tap head is not stored vertically, but rather lying horizontally. The “flow” contact can be accidentally triggered. To avoid this, a second sensor is preferably arranged which detects that the dispensing head is properly placed on the barrel and locked. This can be done, for example, by a second sensor which detects that the tap head lock is lowered and thus detects that the tap head is attached to the barrel. This can also be done via a reed contact. Only when the sensor detects that the tap head has hit the barrel does the actual first sensor also recognize the “flow” status.

REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) Furthermore, an inductive or capacitive sensor is conceivable, arranged in the dispensing head in such a way that it detects the metallic fitting of the beverage keg as soon as the dispensing head is struck. In a preferred embodiment variant, the flow signal from the tap head is validated in the electronics or the web app with the flow signal from the dispensing tap.

Additionally or alternatively, a pressure sensor is provided in the dispensing head. The pressure sensor and/or capacitive sensor and/or inductive sensor is designed in particular as a plug-in sensor. The pressure sensor is thus sealed in a fluid-tight and/or gas-tight manner with an 0-ring, for example. Due to the plug connection, it is possible to rotate the wired sensor completely around its own axis.

In a preferred embodiment variant, it is also possible to determine a flow using two pressure sensors connected in series in the axial direction according to the Venturi principle.

The pressure sensor can be arranged in the dispensing head, preferably in the gas output. To determine a flow, two pressure sensors can be arranged in series in the gas line. When tension gas is introduced into the gas, it automatically means that extraction is taking place elsewhere. In the case of a flow meter, formed by two pressure sensors, these can also be arranged in the beverage line of the tap head.

Particularly preferred is an electronic unit that is assigned to the dispensing head or is arranged directly on the dispensing head or is integrated into the dispensing head. In particular, if the dispensing head is made of a plastic material, an electronic circuit board can be arranged directly on the dispensing head. The pressure sensor and reed sensor can then be wired directly to the electronic unit. The electronic unit can either be connected to a higher-level evaluation unit via a cable connection. The electronic unit could also communicate with a higher-level evaluation unit via wireless communication.

In a further, particularly preferred or additional design variant, the dispensing head has an antenna for reading out information. This is

REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) integrated in particular at the bottom or the foot of the tap head. In particular, this antenna is designed as an NFC antenna or RFID in any frequency range. This makes it possible to read out information that is present on a barrel or in particular a fitting of a barrel and here again preferably on a data carrier in a fitting of a barrel. For example, data on the filling date, contents and type of beverage of the barrel can be stored on such a data carrier of the fitting, which in turn is designed, for example, as NFC or RFID in any frequency range. This data could then be read by the antenna of the tap head and transmitted to the electronic unit and in turn transmitted to a higher-level evaluation unit. The electronic unit and the antenna are able to read and process various NFC standards, such as ISO 14443 and ISO 15693.

The system is preferably constructed in such a way that an electronic unit or an electronic evaluation system is present. This is particularly preferably connected by cable to the sensors in the tap heads. The sensors in the tap heads then send the signal “flow” or “no flow” to the electronic evaluation unit. The electronic evaluation unit can then directly calculate the flow rate, in particular based on the time window in which the sensor reports “flow”. If necessary, the incorrect measurement when the tap head is lying down can also be avoided by means of an additional temperature sensor in the dispensing tap in such a way that the flow measurement is validated by measuring the temperature drop as the drink flows through. A pressure sensor on the so-called Gas pressure reducer of the dispensing system delivers by validating the measurement of the flow through the expected pressure drop. However, the electronic evaluation unit can only record the raw data.

The raw data and/or the calculated flow rates are then preferably passed on to an external database. In particular, this is a cloud. The required data can then be retrieved from the cloud, for example via a mobile device, in particular a tablet or a smartphone. This can be arranged at the host himself or near the dispensing system, so that the operator of the dispensing system is informed about the

REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) respective fill level of a beverage barrel. However, the data can also be forwarded to a central evaluation point in a larger hospitality chain with several geographically distant branches or similar, so that a central ordering process can be carried out from here. Furthermore, the data collected is very helpful for breweries' marketing purposes, for example, because it can then be seen which brands are served well or poorly in which places and at what times.

Particularly preferably, an algorithm and/or data table or a data matrix can be stored in the evaluation unit. The “flow” or “no flow” signal as well as the respective time window can then be readjusted if the measured values differ from the real values. This can be the case, for example, if an existing tapping infrastructure enables an increased or lower flow, so that a respective readjustment is necessary.

In particular, the system can also be designed to be self-learning. By specifying in the data matrix or entering the respective filling quantity of a beverage keg, a self-learning process can then take place, so that, for example, when any keg is connected, the flow rate is determined by recording and adding up all the flow times, since the system starts from an almost completely empty keg when changing a keg and the measured delivery value of the beverage quantity then correlates with the real barrel change, i.e. the barrel used.

The sensors of the dispensing heads are connected to the electronic evaluation unit in particular by cable. However, wireless data transmission is also possible. Wired, however, makes it possible to connect the electronic evaluation unit centrally to a permanent energy supply, for example an existing power grid. This then feeds the sensors in the tap heads with energy. The sensors, preferably the NFC antenna, do not have to be connected to the electronics unit in a wired manner, but can also be connected to the electronics unit by means of a pluggable or therefore detachable connection (pin and socket).

REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) Furthermore, the cable connection from the electronic unit to the evaluation unit (gateway) can be designed as an integral part of the electronic unit by means of a cable, but the electronic unit preferably has a commercially available plug-in connection for data transmission, so that any cable length can be connected.

The data from the evaluation unit can in turn be passed on wirelessly, for example via a WiFi connection or a GSM connection, so that no data line to another external evaluation unit or the cloud is necessary. A wired Internet connection (Ethernet) is also possible.

The present invention therefore also relates to a method for operating the arrangement described above. In particular, the method can be used to determine the flow rate and/or the filling state of the beverage barrel.

For this purpose, the method is operated in such a way that the above-described sensors are used to detect whether a drink is being taken from a respective beverage barrel, i.e. whether “flow” or “no flow” is established. The quantity withdrawn from the beverage barrel is calculated via a stored database, whereby the database can be an algorithm or a database table, based on the time window for which the sensor reports that there is a flow. This can then be used to determine or calculate the remaining fill level of the beverage keg.

Further advantages, features and aspects of the present invention are the subject of the following description. Preferred design variants are shown in schematic figures. These serve to make the invention easier to understand. Show it:

Figure 1b is a simplified representation of the arrangement and the

procedure for operating this,

Figures 2b and 3b show a tap head with an integrated sensor, which signals "flow" according to Figure 2b and which signals "no flow" according to Figure 3b,

REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) Figure 4b shows a tap head with a pressure sensor,

Figure 5b shows a tap head with a gas adapter, attached via spring tongues,

Figure 6b shows a pressure sensor, attached via locking hooks,

Figures 7ab and bb show a tap head with an antenna for reading out data.

Figures 8ab and bb show an alternative design variant of the antenna and

Figures 9ab and bb show a further alternative design variant of the antenna.

Figure 1 b shows an arrangement 1 according to the invention for detecting the flow rate and / or the filling state of a beverage keg 2. For this purpose, a dispensing head 3 is arranged on the keg 2 and a sensor, not shown, is integrated in the dispensing head 3. The tap head 3 is connected to a tap 5 via a beverage line 4. The beverage barrel 2 is, shown here, in a cellar 6 of a building 7. The tap 5 is located in a taproom 8. The cellar 6 and the taproom 8 can then be separated from each other by a floor ceiling 9. It is now desirable that the operator of the tap 5 is aware of the individual filling level 10 or the filling level 10 of the beverage barrel 2 shown. Several beverage barrels 2 can be arranged to provide different beverages at different taps 5, but this is no longer shown here. The sensor of the dispensing head 3 is now connected to an electronic evaluation unit 12. This can be done wirelessly, but also wired 11. The electronic evaluation unit 12 preferably communicates via a wireless signal with an external database, shown here in the form of a cloud 14. Either only raw data is transmitted, so that the filling level 10 is calculated via an algorithm of a web-based program within the cloud 14. However, the calculation can also take place in the electronic evaluation unit 12. From there or from the cloud 14, via a terminal 15,

REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) For example, a tablet or a PDA or smartphone can query or display the filling level 10. This then enables the necessary information to be provided for the further organizational process, for example for re-ordering drinks or the upcoming barrel change. The barrel change is then entered by the operator either on the unit 12 or via a terminal 15 if the equipment variant with the NFC antenna is not available and a barrel with a tag can be read. For example, an alarm signal can also be given when a barrel change is imminent or when the temperature sensor on the dispensing tap 5 or when the pressure sensor on the pressure reducer detects a deviation. At peak times in taproom 8, it can be ensured that all guests are provided with drinks without major downtime.

The advantage described is that the measurement technology can be reduced to a minimum, so that the cleaning of beverage line 4 and the provision of food-compliant measurement technology is also optimized.

A preferred embodiment is shown in Figures 2b and 3b. Here a dispensing head 3 is shown, which is shown in the attached and locked state in Figure 2b and in the open state in Figure 3b. The dispensing head 3 itself has a lever 16. If the lever 16 is pressed down and locked, a tap head plunger 17 is moved downwards in the axial direction onto the image plane into a fitting (not shown) of a beverage keg 2. The drink can then be directed in the direction of arrow 18 through the beverage line 4 towards the tap 5, not shown. For this purpose, a non-return safety device is designed in particular as a magnetic rod 19, or magnetic rod 19 with a food-compliant casing, arranged in the tap head plunger 17. The magnetic rod 19 is moved upwards in the axial direction, in particular due to the fluid flowing through. A sensor 20 is arranged here in the form of a reed sensor 20 in or on the dispensing head 3. This detects the position of the magnetic rod 19 and can therefore emit the “flow” sensor signal. In Figure 3b, the magnetic rod 19 is arranged downwards in relation to the vertical direction and not in the vicinity of the reed sensor 20. The signal “no flow” is therefore given. Optionally can be over

REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) a sensor, not shown, which is arranged in the area of the lever 16 or detects the lever position, can still be ensured that, for example, horizontal storage of the dispensing head 3 and thus an inadvertent upward sliding of the magnetic rod 19 still emits the signal "no flow". , since in this state, for example when changing a barrel, there is no flow of fluid.

4b shows the dispensing head with a pressure sensor 21, which is arranged in a gas line 22 or the dispensing head 3 contained in the gas tap. The pressure sensor 21 is coupled via a cable 23 to an electronic unit 24 arranged on the dispensing head 3. Furthermore, the reed sensor 20 is also connected to the electronics unit 24 via a connecting cable and the antenna 26, further described in the following figures, is also coupled to the electronics unit 24. The electronics unit 24 can be integrated directly into a dispensing head made of plastic material, in particular. For example, a lockable cover can then only be clipped onto the electronics unit 24 or, preferably, the electronics are cast using resin after assembly in order to protect them.

Also shown are two spring tongues 27. The spring tongues 27 enable a gas adapter 28 to be plugged onto the dispensing head in the axial direction A. Furthermore, 28 locking hooks 29 for receiving the pressure sensor 21 are arranged on the gas adapter. A screw thread for connecting a receptacle of the pressure sensor 21 of a gas adapter 28 can be omitted. Easier handling is therefore possible.

Figures 5b and 6b show this again. In Figure 5b, a gas adapter 28 is inserted over the spring tongues 27 on the gas side. For this purpose, the gas adapter 28 can simply be inserted and locked in the axial direction A. This is then sealed gas-tight via an O-ring 30.

Figure 6b shows a pressure sensor 21. This is inserted into the gas adapter 28. For this purpose, locking hooks 28 are arranged and the pressure sensor 21 is sealed via a further O-ring 30. The cable 23 of the pressure sensor 21 can thus rotate around its own axis, so that assembly is simplified and not one

REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) Pressure sensor 21 would cause a corresponding twisting of the cable via a thread.

Figures 7ab and bb show a further advantageous embodiment variant of the invention. Here, in the area of an underside of the tap head 2, an antenna 26 is integrated into it. The antenna 26 is used to read out data that is arranged on the data carrier of a fitting or a barrel that is not specified. The antenna 26 is connected to the electronic unit. This can be used to read out the data from the data carrier of the barrel and/or the data from the data carrier of the fitting, for example the filling location, filling date, contents of the barrel or barrel volume and the type of beverage contained in the barrel. Figure 7bb shows a detailed sectional view of Figure 7ab.

Figures 8ab and 8bb show an alternative design variant. Here, the antenna 26 is inserted, for example, as a circumferential partial circle into a groove 31 running around the bottom in the tap head 3, in the case of Figure 8ab. Figure 8bb shows an exploded view.

Figures 9ab and 9bb show further alternative design variants. Here, in relation to the vertical direction, the antenna 26 is not inserted on the underside of the tap head 3, but in a central area, according to Figure 9ab. According to Figure 9bb, which represents an exploded view, it is shown that the antenna is pulled out of a corresponding groove and is shown in a top view. The antenna 26 is not designed to be circular or as a ring, but rather U-shaped, for example, so the antenna can be inserted from the side.

Any or all of the features of this invention may be combined with any or all of the features of the inventions listed above and/or listed below.

REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) The present invention further relates to a tap arrangement for a dispensing system for connection to a beverage keg according to the features in the preamble of claim 16.

Common containers for beverages are bottles, cans and beverage kegs. In the latter case, it is possible to provide larger quantities of the respective beverage, for example more than 10 liters, in particular more than 20 liters and preferably more than 30 liters of the beverage, in a beverage barrel.

In the tap arrangement, a beverage barrel is brought to a location, for example in a cold store or a beverage cellar of a restaurant, then this is connected to a dispensing system. The drink can then be extracted from the struck barrel at a tap. A tap usually points to this

REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) a swivel lever. This pivoting lever is used to open and close the flow of the drink. In the most common and simplest design variant, the pivoting lever can be pivoted between the “closed” position = no flow and the “open” position = completely open to the beverage flow. The beverage is then extracted from the beverage keg via a beverage line and flows through the tap into a container, such as a glass or jug.

So that the drink flows from the tap into the container, a spout is provided on the tap. The outlet nozzle is a tubular nozzle or a piece of pipe. This is arranged essentially oriented in a vertical direction. The outlet spout itself can be slightly curved and does not have to have the same pipe diameter over its entire course; the pipe diameter can also vary slightly.

From US 2009/0248643 A1 a tap arrangement is known in which a temperature sensor for measuring the beverage liquid can be arranged in the tap.

The object of the present invention is, based on the prior art, to obtain more precise data on the drink to be drawn or on the struck beverage keg while operating a dispensing system and/or while dispensing a beverage.

The aforementioned object is achieved according to the invention with the features in claim 16.

Advantageous design variants are described in the dependent claims.

The tap arrangement according to the invention is intended for a tap system for connection to a beverage keg. The tap has a pivoting lever for adjusting the flow of a drink through the tap and a spout from which the drink flows into a container. It's in the tap

REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) A valve is therefore provided which opens or closes a beverage line running through the tap and optionally partially opens it. The tap is connected to a tap head via the beverage line described. A beverage keg is attached to the tap head. The beverage line can be several meters long, so that it runs, for example, across a floor in a restaurant from a ground floor to a beverage cellar or from a tap to a cold store.

According to the invention, the tap arrangement is now characterized in that at least one sensor is arranged in the outlet spout to determine the temperature and/or the flow of the beverage to be tapped.

The temperature is preferably measured via a temperature sensor and output in an electrical signal, which can later be converted into any temperature unit, e.g. B. Degrees Celsius or Fahrenheit.

The flow is preferably dimensioned in such a way in the sense of the invention that flow takes place or not, and therefore the sensor in the outlet spout detects whether the tap is open or closed.

For this purpose, customer-specific evaluation electronics are assigned to the tap. As an option, a wireless communication unit is also assigned to the tap. The wireless communication unit or customer-specific evaluation electronics is in particular arranged directly on the tap or integrated into the tap. The electronics are preferably only connected to the outlet pipe and can be completely removed from the actual tap using the outlet pipe. The preferred location of the batteries is on the bottom of the housing to allow for easy battery replacement while the housing is installed on the tap.

A housing is provided. This housing is made in particular from a plastic material. The housing at least partially surrounds the tap. This makes it possible to retrofit existing taps in installations with the solution according to the invention. The outlet spout is designed to be removable from a tap, particularly for cleaning purposes. Thus can

REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) the outlet spout can be exchanged for an outlet spout with sensor according to the invention. According to the invention, the outlet spout is integrated into the housing, in particular releasably integrated, so that the outlet spout is replaceable for cleaning or maintenance purposes or also for repair purposes. However, because the outlet spout is integrated into the housing, the sensor or several sensors are directly connected to a customer-specific evaluation electronics and/or wireless communication unit in a wired manner in the housing.

Particularly preferably, an energy source is arranged in the housing, for example an accumulator or batteries. However, the housing can also be powered via an external power connection. A low-voltage energy source is preferably used here, so that occupational safety is guaranteed.

The flow is particularly preferably measured by a sensor which is integrated in the outlet spout. This sensor is designed in particular in such a way that two opposing contact elements are arranged in the outlet spout. The contact elements are arranged at the same height, in particular in the axial direction or longitudinal direction of the outlet spout, but are spaced apart radially, in particular on opposite sides. If a drink is now drawn through the spout, the liquid in the drink itself conducts electricity. The two opposite contacts of the sensor are thus electrically connected to one another and determine that a flow is taking place. Another way to check the flow is to network the sensors by using only one contact of the first sensor and another contact of the second sensor. The flow can be measured, for example, via a resistance value to be measured or via a conductivity that results. This makes it possible to rule out that if there is residual moisture, for example on the inner surface of the outlet spout, a flow would still be measured, even though there is only a film on the inner surface, but in reality there is no flow through the outlet spout.

In a particularly preferred embodiment variant, it is further provided that a second sensor for determining the flow is downstream of a first sensor for determining the flow in the longitudinal direction of the outlet spout,

REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) so that the two sensors are spaced apart from one another in the longitudinal direction. This makes it possible for a time delay to occur between the beverage passing through the first sensor and the second sensor when multiple measurements or the generation of multiple sensor signals occur. Based on the respective flow time and the flow rate, a conclusion can be drawn about the fill level of the barrel or the amount of drink dispensed via the spout. For example, the sensor system according to the invention can be combined with a higher-level computing unit, which can also be part of the installation, with the computing unit storing when a new barrel is struck.

On the one hand, this enables inventory control or consumption measurement of various drinks to be tapped, for example in a restaurant. Furthermore, it enables quality control of the temperature at which a respective drink is served and therefore reaches the guest, which in turn provides the guest with a conclusion about the quality of the tapped drink.

The present invention therefore also relates to a method for operating the tap arrangement according to the invention with a spout.

Furthermore, an optical display or a display is preferably arranged on the housing, in particular on the front side. The display makes it possible to provide the tap operator with various data in real time. For example, the temperature of the tapped drink can be displayed. Furthermore, it is possible to display the filling level of the barrel or to issue a warning signal, for example a red LED, when a certain remaining amount of the barrel is reached, so that the operator of the tap can better determine a barrel change, especially during peak periods for beverage dispensing, and not in case of doubt Dispenser “runs empty”.

Figure 1c is a perspective view of a tap arrangement;

REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) Figure 2c shows a housing of the tap arrangement;

Figure 3c is a partial detail representation of Figure 1c;

Figure 4c shows an outlet spout;

Figure 5c the outlet spout in a side view and sensor positions and

Figure 6c shows a longitudinal sectional view through the outlet spout according to the invention

Figure 1c shows a perspective view of a tap arrangement 1. Shown is a pivoting lever 2 and an outlet spout 3, with which the tap 4 is connected via a beverage line 5, indicated as an example, to a further dispensing system (not shown) or a dispensing head and a beverage keg. The tap 4 is at least partially surrounded by a plug-in housing 6. The housing 6 itself is shown again in Figure 2c. The outlet spout 3 is integrated into the housing 6.

Furthermore, a partial detail representation of Figure 1c is shown in Figure 3c. A customer-specific evaluation electronics 7/wireless communication unit is arranged in the housing 6 itself. This can, for example, communicate via radio, for example Bluetooth, with a gateway or higher-level computing unit (not shown) or can also work autonomously without this. The evaluation electronics 7 is connected via cable to sensors 10, 11, 12 arranged in the outlet spout 3. Furthermore, a battery 8 for powering the evaluation electronics 7/wireless communication unit is arranged in the housing 6. A display 9, for example an LCD display, can be arranged on a front side, so that the temperature of the beverage 13 to be dispensed and/or the flow rate of the beverage 13 to be dispensed can be read during the dispensing process. In addition, the display 9 can be used to show the filling level of the barrel or an upcoming barrel change as well as the battery capacity. Another possible solution is to have one in addition to the display

REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) To have multifunction button, for example to send a message to the cloud or other functions.

The outlet spout 3 is shown in Figure 4c. This is detachably connected to the tap 4. On the one hand, the outlet spout 3 can be removed for replacement or cleaning. Furthermore, commercially available outlet spouts are also plugged into the taps, so that the outlet spout 3 according to the invention with sensors 10, 11, 12 can be subsequently attached to a tap 4.

Figure 5c shows the outlet spout 3 in a side view. A temperature sensor 10 is provided as well as two flow sensors 11, 12.

Figure 6c shows a longitudinal sectional view through the spout 3 according to the invention. The drink 13 to be tapped passes through the spout 3 in its longitudinal direction 14. The first flow sensor 11 is formed by two opposite contacts

11.1 and 11.2. If the drink 13 has reached the two contacts 11.1, 11.2, an electrical connection is established here. The first flow sensor 11 is connected to the customer-specific evaluation electronics 7 via a connection cable. This detects a flow. Furthermore, the drink 13 can be measured in terms of its current temperature via the temperature sensor 10, which is also connected to the evaluation electronics 7, although not shown in more detail. The drink 13 then passes the second flow sensor 12 in the longitudinal direction 14. This also has two opposite contacts 12.1 and

12.2 on. A flow rate or a volume flow in the evaluation electronics 7 can be determined by the two flow sensors 11, 12. With the information that comes from an external computing unit about when a new barrel is struck, a conclusion can be drawn in the evaluation electronics 7 about the fill level of the barrel. The display of the housing 6 can therefore show, for example, what the filling level of the barrel is or an impending barrel change can be signaled by a simple visual display, for example a red LED.

REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) Any or all of the features of this invention may be combined with any or all of the features of the inventions listed above and/or listed below.

REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) The present invention further relates to a fitting arrangement for a beverage barrel with the features in the preamble of claim 26.

Common containers for drinks are bottles, cans and kegs. In the latter case, it is possible to provide larger quantities of the respective beverage, for example more than 10 liters, in particular more than 20 liters and preferably more than 30 liters of the beverage, in a beverage barrel.

Since the barrel body itself is usually made of a metallic, i.e. a non-transparent and opaque material, and the barrels are often cleaned after the initial filling and refilled many dozens of times, it is necessary to know about the respective barrel contents and, if necessary, further information about the barrel and /or the fitting. Especially due to

REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) When reusing the fitting, external markings, for example with stickers, labels or permanent markings, for example by engraving with a laser, are only suitable to a limited extent.

From GB 383 900 A a riser pipe is known into which a transponder is cast using a sealing mass, for example rubber material.

The present invention therefore has the task of providing a beverage keg, with information about the beverage keg and optionally about the drink remaining on the beverage keg in a rewritable and captive manner.

The aforementioned object is achieved according to the invention with a fitting arrangement according to the features in claim 26.

Advantageous design variants are described in the dependent claims.

The fitting arrangement for a beverage keg has a fitting sleeve with a riser pipe arranged therein, preferably spring-elastic and, depending on the design variant, sometimes also relatively movable, as well as a seal. The fitting arrangement, in particular the sleeve and the riser pipe, are made of metallic material, in particular of food-grade material, for example stainless steel. The seal is located in particular between the fitting housing, in particular on the inner surface of the fitting housing and the riser pipe, and thus seals the riser pipe from the fitting housing.

According to the invention, the fitting arrangement is characterized in that an electronic data carrier is arranged on or in the seal or a cover located above it. The data carrier is in particular an RFID tag or an NFC tag. This makes it possible to store information on the electronic data carrier, which contains, in particular, individually or cumulatively, but not exhaustively, the following data:

- Age of the gasket and/or fitting

- Information about the barrel, in particular age and/or fitting changes and/or fillings of the barrel.

REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) - Furthermore, the filling capacity of the barrel can be stored. In particular, however, the age, type or brand and/or bottling location of the barrel contents, i.e. the beverage contained in the barrel, is listed.

- Furthermore, for example, information relating to the barrel pressure can be specified. With coupled additional sensors, conclusions about temperature, barrel pressure and/or the transport of the barrel and the beverage contents contained therein can be saved or evaluated.

- Expiry date of the drink

- Description/name of the drink

- Brewery / manufacturer.

The data carrier itself is designed, in particular, to be energy-free. This means that it does not have an active energy source.

The data carrier itself is particularly rewritable. For this purpose, the data carrier particularly preferably has coding protection or password protection. This means that it is only possible to write to the data carrier with special technical tools and authentication. This can prevent misuse or incorrect overwriting.

The fitting arrangement is particularly suitable for reading with appropriate reading hardware. This can already consist of a smartphone with the appropriate software or app, so that when beverage kegs are delivered to a wholesaler's transshipment point or to a delivery point for an event or restaurant, the respective keg is randomly sampled with regard to contents, filling date, type of drink, etc. to be controlled. The barrels can also be recorded at least partially or fully automatically at the breweries or transshipment points. This means that information such as the number of times the barrel has been rinsed or the data and contents of the filling are stored. And the manufacturer can integrate the writing of the tag fully automatically in his filling plant or a downstream point in the process chain.

REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) However, the fitting arrangement is particularly suitable in conjunction with a sensor system in a tap head. This means that it is fundamentally possible for a broken barrel to be identified, for example by the innkeeper or a higher-level brewery, where a specific barrel with the bottled drink is in the bar or is connected to a tap system.

So that the electronic data carrier can be integrated according to the invention, it has proven to be advantageous that the data carrier is preferably arranged either in the seal, and here in particular in an upper region of the seal in the vertical direction or towards the dispensing head, or that the data carrier is on the seal is arranged. If the data carrier is arranged on the seal, a cover is arranged over it again. The data carrier can preferably be designed to be self-adhesive and can thus be arranged on the seal or the cover. The seal is made of a rubber-like material, in particular an elastomeric material. The cover is preferably made of a non-electronically shielding material, for example a plastic material. This makes it possible, despite the fact that the data carrier itself does not have an active energy source, to read out the data from the data carrier or to write on the data carrier, and to do so wirelessly. As an alternative to the arrangement on the top side of the seal, the data carrier can also be arranged on the underside of the seal, in particular connected to the seal by an additional means (so-called bonding).

Because the data carrier is either arranged in the upper area in the seal or is covered by a cover, the data carrier is not in direct contact with the beverage or with cleaning media. Furthermore, when filling or striking a dispensing head, the data carrier is also not exposed to abrasive wear or direct mechanical contact. This makes it possible for the data carrier to be particularly long-lasting and to be readable or rewritable, particularly for the product period of the seal or fitting.

For the production of the data carrier, for which food-grade material should preferably be used, it has proven to be particularly preferred, especially in

REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) In the case of an RFID tag or NFC tag, electronic conductor tracks are to be provided on a plastic film or a dimensionally stable material such as a plastic ring or a PCB (so-called FR-4 glass fiber composite material) and then the data carrier is poured into the seal or the cover onto the seal to be poured on or attached to the seal cover. This process is called overmolding. During the overmolding process, the circuit board or the conductor foil of the data carrier can at least partially, in particular completely, melt. Because the seal or the cover is electrically non-conductive, the conductor tracks of the data carrier are electrically insulated from one another, in particular from direct contact, so that the functions are retained after the seal has been produced or after a cover has been applied to the seal. The data carrier according to the invention can therefore have a construction height of less than 0.5 mm.

It has proven to be particularly advantageous to build the data carrier on a dimensionally stable ring carrier and then attach it to the underside of the sealing cover using epoxy resin. This creates a chemical/non-positive connection, which is particularly suitable for food use without gaps or other irregularities. If the arrangement is outside the barrel, the use of bonding material approved for food contact is recommended. This connection must of course withstand the thermal, chemical and mechanical stresses of a barrel's life cycle. And the installation space taken up by the data carrier and bonding material can be compensated for by optimizing the design of the elastomeric seal in such a way that the assembly consisting of the seal and data carrier, including TAG, is interchangeable 1:1 with the seal and carrier assembly as before and on the market.

For other design variants of fittings (in particular A and G types: Figure 8d), the arrangement of the data carrier in the main seal is particularly effective. This means that it is also conceivable to integrate the data carrier into the overall product by replacing the seal on fittings available on the market. The design can therefore take place during the manufacturing process of the seal by inserting the data carrier into the production tool of the seal,

REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) in such a way that the data carrier is inserted/held in the tool and encapsulated with elastomer. Alternatively, the data carrier is attached to/into the seal after the production process or is subsequently inserted into the top of the seal in a separate carrier part or arranged on the underside of the seal.

Figure 1d shows a fitting arrangement in a cross-sectional view,

Figure 2d shows a cross-section of a fitting arrangement with a data carrier in the

Parting plane between carrier and seal,

Figure 3d is an exploded view of Figure 2d with the housing 2 in

Cross-section,

Figure 4d is a cross-sectional view with the seal cast into it

data carrier,

Figure 5d shows an alternative design variant with one in the

cover molded data carrier,

Figure 6d shows an alternative design variant with a

U-type fitting assembly with the tag applied to the seal carrier and

Figure 7d shows a D-type fitting arrangement with the tag applied to the seal carrier,

Figures 8d to 11d different cross-sectional views through an A-type fitting arrangement.

REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) In Figure 1d, the fitting arrangement 1 is shown in a cross-sectional view. A fitting housing 2 has an outer seal 3 in order to be arranged in a fluid-tight manner in a beverage barrel 13 (not shown). The seal 4 is arranged in the fitting housing 2 and is inserted in a form-fitting, fluid-tight manner into an upper end 5 of a riser pipe 6. For this purpose, a sealing body in the form of a ball 7 with a helical compression spring 9 is inserted, so that the ball 7 is brought into positive contact with an internal sealing surface of the seal 4 against a spring force. For this purpose, curvatures 8 directed into the riser pipe 6 are formed, which hold the helical compression spring 9 in a form-fitting manner in the riser pipe 6. Furthermore, a helical compression spring 10 encompassing the riser pipe 6 and a retaining ring 11 are arranged, which press the entire riser pipe 6 into the fitting housing 2 from the inside. Furthermore, the fitting housing 2 has recesses 12 in its lateral surface. Furthermore, the seal 4 is arranged between the fitting housing 2, here specifically an inside of the fitting housing 2 on a sealing surface 17 and the riser pipe 6. The seal 4 thus seals the fitting housing 2 from the riser pipe 6. The riser pipe 6 can itself be arranged in the fitting housing 2 in a relatively movable manner. However, the riser pipe 6 can also be fixed in the fitting housing 2, with another valve body then being mounted in the riser pipe 6.

Figure 2d shows a cross-sectional view through an assembled fitting arrangement 1, the fitting arrangement 1 being inserted into a beverage barrel 13. For this purpose, a gas side 14 is formed in the beverage barrel 13 itself and a beverage side 15 is formed in the riser pipe ß itself and below the fitting arrangement 1, provided that the beverage barrel 13 is aligned upwards in relation to the vertical direction V. In particular, the gas side 14 is formed between the fitting housing 2 and the riser pipe 6, which is realized by the recesses 12 in the fitting housing 2. In the closed sealing state, the spring force F9 presses the ball 7 against an internal sealing surface 16 of the seal 4. A drink present on the beverage side 15 is thus prevented from escaping into the environment U.

The upper end 5 of the riser pipe 6 is expanded, whereby the second helical compression spring 10 comes into contact in a form-fitting manner and the entire riser pipe 6 with the seal 4 against an internal sealing surface against a spring force F10

REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) 17 of the fitting housing 2 presses. This also means that when the beverage is closed, it is sealed from the environment U from the gas side 14.

In the event of activation, a dispensing head (not shown) would be inserted in a form-fitting manner into a dispensing head receptacle 18 and would press the riser pipe 6 with seal 4 downwards in relation to the vertical direction V. As a result, a gas would be conveyed into the beverage barrel 13 via the gas side 14, so that when the dispensing head is connected, the ball 7 or sealing plate is also moved downwards relative to the seal 4 in relation to the vertical direction V and thus the beverage can flow out and out of it Beverage barrel 13 is removed.

The seal 4 itself is formed from a reinforcing ring 19 and an elastic sealing material 20 surrounding it. The seal 4 has an overhead head section K and a web section S.

This is an S-Type fitting. A data carrier 22 is arranged on the seal 4, specifically on the top of the seal 4. This electronic data carrier 22 is arranged in the form of a circular ring or circular ring section around the seal 4 or on the seal 4. Above the seal 4 in the direction of a possible outlet 23 of the fitting arrangement 1, a cover 24 is arranged, which at least partially overlaps the seal 4. The cover 24 also extends over the electronic data carrier 22 so that it does not come into contact with the liquid or drink located in the barrel 13. To produce the seal 4 with cover 24, in particular the data carrier 22 is positioned on the material of the seal 4 or the material of the cover 24 and the two components are then plugged together. Furthermore, it is possible to spray or pour the cover 24 made of a plastic-like material onto the seal 4, in particular in the form of an overmolding process. The data carrier 22 is thus cast between the cover 24 and the seal 4 and is therefore also sealed. The data carrier 22 can then be read out through the cover 24 using an appropriate reading device.

Figure 3d shows an exploded view of Figure 2d. Here it can be seen that the data carrier 22 is designed as a circular ring running around it.

REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) Figure 4d shows a cross-sectional view, analogous to Figure 2d. Here, however, the data carrier 22 is cast into the seal 4 itself. The cover 24 is additionally applied to the seal 4. However, the seal 4 is first produced with the data carrier 22. The tag is held or positioned in the tool of the seal 4 and then the seal 4 is cast in one piece and in one step.

Figure 5d shows an alternative design variant. Here, the data carrier 22 is cast into the cover 24. The data carrier 22 is therefore located on the seal 4, but is completely encapsulated or cast into the cover 24 itself.

Figure 6d shows an alternative design variant. A fitting arrangement 1 of the II type is shown here. The data carrier 22 is arranged here on a circumferential ring 25, preferably made of metal or alternatively plastic. The metal ring 25 is at least partially cast into the seal 4. Here too, the data carrier 22 can first be arranged on the metal ring 25 or the metal reinforcement of the sealing body and then be overmolded with the sealing material 20, also in an overmolding process. The data carrier 22 is thus sealed from the beverage at least with regard to the outlet 23. The data carrier 22 can be partially formed laterally beyond the metal ring 25 in order to facilitate positioning in the tool.

Figure 7d shows a D-type fitting arrangement 1 already described in Figure 1d. Here too, a metallic reinforcing ring 19 is arranged in the seal 4 itself. Here, the electronic data carrier 22 is applied to a reinforcing ring 19, metallic or plastic, but sufficiently dimensionally stable, and then encapsulated with the sealing material 20 in the overmolding process, so that here too the data carrier 22 is arranged sealed from a drink to be removed.

Figure 8d shows a cross-sectional view through a fitting arrangement. The seal 4 is arranged between the riser pipe 6 and on the inside of the fitting. The data carrier 22 itself is arranged centrally in the seal 4 and was coated with elastomer for manufacturing purposes.

REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) 9d alternatively shows that the data carrier 22 is inserted into an upper side of the seal 4. For this purpose, it can also be injected directly into the seal 4, but can also be subsequently inserted into a groove.

In an alternative embodiment variant according to FIG. 10d, the data carrier 22 is arranged below the seal 4. It rests on an upper sleeve 26.

According to Figure 11d, the data carrier 22 is completely integrated into the seal 4, and is therefore completely encapsulated by the sealing material 20, in particular elastomer.

Any or all of the features of this invention may be combined with any or all of the features of the inventions listed above.

REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) Reference symbols to Figures 1a and 2a:

1 - arrangement

2 - Drink barrel

3 - tap head

4 - gas bottle

5 - Beverage line

6 - tap

7 - glass with drink

8 - electronic unit

9 - wired

10 - Wireless communication

12 - temperature sensor

13 - Internet

14 - WiFi

15 - GSM

16 - clouds

17 - smartphone

18 - computers

19 - tablet

20 - plastic case

21 - PCB

22 - Power connection

23 - bus line

24 - Wired connection

REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) Reference symbols for Figures 1b to 9bb:

1 - arrangement

2 - Drink barrel

3 - tap head

4 - Beverage line

5 - tap

6 - basement

7 - building

8 - Taproom

9 - floor ceiling

10 - level/level height

11 - wired

12 - electronic evaluation unit

13 - wireless

14 - clouds

15 - mobile device

16 - lever

17 - tap head plunger

18 - arrow direction

19 - magnetic rod

20 - Sensor/Reed Sensor

21 - pressure sensor

22 - gas pipe

23 - cable to 21

24 - electronic unit

25 - cable of 20

26 - antenna

27 - spring tongues

28 - gas adapter

29 - locking hook

30 - O-ring

31 - groove

REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) A - Axial direction

REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) Reference symbols for Figures 1c to 6c:

1 - Tap arrangement

2 - swing lever

3 - outlet spout

4 - tap

5 - Beverage line

6 - housing

7 - Analysis electronics (PCB)

8 - battery

9 - display

10 - temperature sensor

11 - first flow sensor

11.1 - first contact with 11

11.2 - second contact to 11

12 - second flow sensor

12.1 - first contact with 12

12.2 - second contact to 12

13 - drink

14 - longitudinal direction to 3

REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) Reference symbols for Figures 1d to 11d:

1 - Fitting arrangement

2 - fitting housing

3 - sealing ring

4 - gasket

5 - top end to 6

6 - riser pipe

7 - Sealing body or ball

8 - bulge

9 - helical compression spring

10 - helical compression spring

11 - retaining ring

12 - recess for 2

13 - Drink barrel

14 - gas side

15 - Drinks page

16 - inner sealing surface for 4

17 - sealing surface

18 - tap head holder

19 - reinforcement ring

20 - elastic sealing material

21 - material recess on 19

22 - disk

23 - outlet

24 - cover

25 - metal ring

26 - sleeve

REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26)

Claims

Claims Arrangement (1) for detecting the flow rate and/or the filling state of at least one beverage keg (2), wherein a sensor is arranged in a tap arrangement, the sensor detecting at least the flow state or the no flow state and a central electronic unit (8) is provided, which is coupled wirelessly and / or wired to the at least one sensor, the sensor being arranged away from the electronic unit (8), characterized in that at least one sensor is wired (9) on the beverage keg (2) or tap head ( 3) is arranged and at least one further sensor is arranged on a tap (6) via wireless communication (10). Arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the electronic unit (8) is connected and readable via an Internet connection to a cloud (16) and associated web app. Arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the electronic unit (8) collects raw data and transmits it to a cloud storage (16), the raw data being evaluated in the cloud storage (16) and converted into display data. Arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the electronic unit (8) is assigned up to 6 beverage barrels (2), with two or more electronic units (8) preferably being switchable in series. Arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a sensor is a pressure sensor and/or that a sensor is a temperature sensor (12). Dispensing head arrangement (1) for connection to a beverage keg (2), a dispensing head (3) being provided which can be placed on a beverage keg (2), characterized in that a sensor (20) is provided in the dispensing head (3).

REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) Determination of the flow and/or a pressure sensor (21) and/or an antenna (26) is/are arranged for reading out data. Dispensing head arrangement (1) according to claim 6, characterized in that the antenna (26) is an NFC antenna and/or RFID, which is intended in particular to read out data from a memory of a fitting of a beverage keg (2). Dispensing head arrangement (1) according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that the pressure sensor (21) is integrated directly into the dispensing head (3) in the gas line or that the pressure sensor (21) is arranged in the beverage line (4) of the dispensing head (3). is. Dispensing head arrangement (1) according to one of claims 6 to 8, characterized in that the dispensing head (3) is assigned an electronic unit, which is arranged directly on the dispensing head (3). Dispensing head arrangement (1) according to one of claims 6 to 9, characterized in that the sensor (20) for determining the flow is designed as a reed sensor and/or as a capacitive sensor and/or inductive sensor (20). Dispensing head arrangement (1) according to one of claims 6 to 10, characterized in that in the dispensing head (3) a check valve element is arranged as a magnetic rod (19), preferably a food-safe coated magnet, which activates the reed sensor. Dispensing head arrangement (1) according to one of claims 6 to 11, characterized in that the pressure sensor (21) is inserted into the dispensing head (3), and can preferably be arranged by means of locking hooks. Dispensing head arrangement (1) according to one of claims 6 to 12, characterized in that the flow sensor is formed by two pressure sensors (21) arranged one behind the other in a row.

REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) Dispensing head arrangement (1) according to one of claims 6 to 13, characterized in that a gas adapter (28) is connected directly to the dispensing head (3), in particular with a plug connection. Dispensing head arrangement (1) according to one of claims 6 to 14, characterized in that the dispensing head (3) is at least partially made of a plastic material. Dispensing tap arrangement (1) for a dispensing system for connection to a beverage keg, wherein a dispensing tap (4) has a pivoting lever (2) for opening and closing the flow of a beverage (13) through the dispensing tap (4) and an outlet spout (3). which the drink (13) flows out into a container, and that at least one sensor (10, 11, 12) is arranged in the outlet spout (3) to determine the temperature and / or the flow of the drink (13) to be tapped, characterized in that the tap (4) has a housing (6) which at least partially surrounds it, the evaluation electronics (7), the wireless communication unit and/or an energy source (8) being arranged in the housing (6). Tap arrangement (1) according to claim 16, characterized in that the sensors (11) and (12) measure a time offset, which is converted into a volume flow in the customer-specific electronics. Tap arrangement (1) according to claim 16 or 17, characterized in that the tap (4) is assigned customer-specific evaluation electronics (7). Tap arrangement (1) according to one of claims 16 to 18, characterized in that the tap (4) is assigned a wireless communication unit, in particular the wireless communication unit is integrated in a housing (6). Tap arrangement (1) according to one of claims 16 to 19, characterized in that the housing (6) can be detachably plugged onto the tap (4) in a form-fitting manner.

REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) Tap arrangement (1) according to one of claims 16 or 20, characterized in that the housing (6) has the outlet spout (3), such that the sensor (10, 11, 12) in the outlet spout (3) with the customer-specific evaluation electronics (7) and/or

Wireless communication unit (7) is connected. Tap arrangement (1) according to one of claims 16 to 21, characterized in that a sensor is designed as a temperature sensor (10). Tap arrangement (1) according to one of claims 16 to 22, characterized in that a sensor is designed to detect a flow (11, 12). Tap arrangement (1) according to claim 23, characterized in that two sensors (11, 12) are designed to detect a flow, the two sensors (11, 12) being spaced apart from one another in the longitudinal direction (14) of the outlet spout (3). Tap arrangement (1) according to one of claims 16 to 24, characterized in that the housing (6) has an optical display (9), in particular an LED or LCD display and/or a front button. Fitting arrangement (1) for a beverage keg (13), comprising a fitting housing (2) with a riser pipe (6) arranged therein and in particular also relatively movable, and a seal (4) arranged between the fitting housing (2) and the riser pipe (6), thereby characterized in that an electronic data carrier (22) is arranged on, under or in the seal (4) and/or in a cover (24) of the seal (4). Fitting arrangement (1) according to claim 26, characterized in that the data carrier (22) is an RFID tag or an NFC tag. Fitting arrangement (1) according to claim 26 or 27, characterized in that the data carrier (22) is designed as an at least partially encircling circular ring section, preferably as a fully encircling circular ring section.

REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) Fitting arrangement (1) according to one of claims 26 to 28, characterized in that when a data carrier (22) is arranged on the seal (4), it is covered by a cover (24), the cover (24) is made of a plastic-like material, in particular a non-wireless wave-shielding material. Fitting arrangement (1) according to one of claims 26 to 29, characterized in that the data carrier (22) is cast into the seal (4) and / or that the data carrier (22) is under the cover (24). the seal (4) and/or the cover (24) is cast. Fitting arrangement (1) according to one of claims 26 to 30, characterized in that the electronic data carrier (22) is operated without energy. Fitting arrangement (1) according to one of claims 26 to 31, so I note that the data carrier (22) has coding protection. Fitting arrangement (1) according to one of claims 26 to 32, characterized in that at least one of the following information is recorded on the data carrier (22): type and age of the seal and/or the fitting, age and/or or filling capacity of the beverage barrel, age, brand and/or bottling location of the barrel contents, unique ID number, capacity of the barrel, expiry date of the beverage, description/name of the beverage, brewery/manufacturer, bottling location. Fitting arrangement (1) according to one of claims 26 to 33, characterized in that the fitting housing (2) has a conical inner sealing surface (17) which tapers towards an upper end and between the inner sealing surface (17) and a seal (4) is integrated into the upper end (5) of the riser pipe (6) and the riser pipe (6) is pressed with the seal (4) against the sealing surface (17) due to a spring force (F10) and the seal (4) on the inside is arranged in the upper end (5) of the riser pipe (6), a sealing body (7) being arranged in the upper end (5) of the riser pipe (6) in a resilient, relatively movable manner, which is located on a

REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) Inner sealing surface (16) of the seal (4) comes into positive contact due to a spring force (F9).

REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26)