Product container comprising a product discharge device and method of use

Abstract

A product container (1), in particular for food products, wherein the product container (1) comprises a product discharge device (2) for discharging a product from the container (1), the discharge device comprising: a spout unit (3) for product discharge, wherein the spout unit (3) is rotatable about a spout rotation axis (K) from a first position into an operating position, wherein the spout unit (3) preferably comprises a handle (4) for rotating the spout unit (3) from the first position into the operating position, wherein the handle (4) preferably extends substantially radially outward from the spout rotation axis (K); and a sealing unit (5) configured to enter from a sealing state into an open state, wherein in the sealing state the sealing unit (5) is configured to substantially airtightly close a first product flow-through passage (6) of the discharge device (2), wherein in the open state the sealing unit (5) is configured to convey a product flow through the first product flow-through passage (6), wherein the discharge device (2) is configured such that the sealing unit (5) is able to enter from the sealing state into the open state by rotating the spout unit (3) from the first position into the operating position.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a product container, particularly a product container for food, wherein the product container includes a product discharge device for discharging product from the container.

[0002] Such product containers are known in practice and are provided by the applicant. A portion of the system is sold. Known product containers include flexible bags for containing the product. The product may be, for example, a liquid food or a concentrate thereof, such as milk concentrate. The discharge device includes a valve component or the like for controllably releasing the product from the container.

[0003] The known container discharge device includes a nozzle unit for dispensing the product, wherein the nozzle unit is rotatable from a first position (e.g., a transport position) to an operating position, wherein in the operating position, the nozzle unit extends further outward from the bottom side of the container compared to the first position. In this way, the product can be dispensed substantially at a distance from the container, while when the nozzle unit is in the first position, the container can be transported compactly, safely, and easily.

[0004] To protect the contained product from environmental threats such as bacteria before use (e.g., during transport and storage), the discharge device includes an openable sealing unit configured to hermetically close the internal product-containing space of the container from a downstream portion of the discharge device. It is generally desirable to prevent the sealing unit from being accidentally opened, for example, during transport. It is further desirable that the sealing unit be easily opened by the user to achieve, for example, initial release of the product when desired.

[0005] It has been found that meeting the conflicting requirements of preventing accidental opening of the seal and enabling easy opening by the user is difficult. For example, the sealing unit should not be difficult for the user to open. Excessive force required to release or damage the sealing unit's structure should be prevented. The sealing unit may also be difficult for the user to access. Furthermore, the user's effort in opening the sealing unit should not accidentally damage the product container and / or cause other unintended adverse consequences.

[0006] US 2019 / 0152657 A1 discloses a dispensing assembly for a liquid container having an open configuration, wherein an opening in an elastic membrane is automatically closed in an idle position but can be pushed to an open position to provide passage to the interior of the container.

[0007] WO 2019 / 053210 A1 discloses a system for aerating liquid food, wherein the system includes a bubble generator for generating bubbles in a liquid food stream.

[0008] US 2013 / 0213493 A1 discloses a dispensing device for at least one "bag-in-a-box" package, the dispensing device being equipped with a dispensing valve and including at least one receiving area for the "bag-in-a-box" package.

[0009] US 2017 / 0273500 A1 discloses an injector suitable for use in a component for preparing liquid products.

[0010] In general, it is desirable to provide a product container that is easy to use, especially requiring minimal user effort and maneuverability to handle and operate it. Furthermore, reliable seal opening and durable sealing are desired.

[0011] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide an improved product container, particularly a product container for food, wherein the container can be used efficiently, easily, safely and reliably by the user, wherein the container can be transported compactly, and wherein the product contained in the container can be protected from environmental threats such as bacteria, at least before initial use.

[0012] Therefore, a product container, particularly a product container for food, is provided, wherein the product container includes a product discharge device for discharging product from the container, the discharge device comprising: a nozzle unit for discharging product, wherein the nozzle unit is rotatable about a nozzle rotation axis from a first (idle) position to an operating position, wherein the nozzle unit preferably includes a handle for rotating the nozzle unit from the first position to the operating position, wherein the handle preferably extends substantially radially outward from the nozzle rotation axis; and a sealing unit configured to move from a sealed state to an open state, wherein in the sealed state, the sealing unit is configured to substantially airtightly close a first product flow channel of the discharge device, wherein in the open state, the sealing unit is configured to allow product to flow through the first product flow channel, wherein the discharge device is configured such that the sealing unit can move from the sealed state to the open state by rotating the nozzle unit from the first position to the operating position.

[0013] Using the nozzle unit in the first position, the container can be transported compactly. Using the nozzle unit in the operating position, the product can be ejected from the container along the discharge direction of the respective nozzle unit (e.g., into a product receiver, cup, or the like). The sealing unit provides protection for the product contained within the container from environmental threats such as bacteria. A single, easy user action, namely rotation of the nozzle unit, moves the nozzle unit into the operating position and opens the sealing unit in an easy, well-controlled, and reliable manner. Therefore, the user can use the container efficiently, easily, safely, and reliably. Preferably, the movement (i.e., rotation) of the nozzle unit relative to the remainder of the container is specifically transmitted or translated into the opening of the sealing unit via a mechanical transmission device (following the embodiments explained below).

[0014] The rotation axis of the nozzle is preferably substantially coincident with the central axis of the second product flow channel (e.g., substantially tubular) of the discharge device, which is downstream of the first product flow channel and preferably extends from the sealing unit into the nozzle unit.

[0015] This allows for efficient manufacturing. Furthermore, this method prevents leakage from the product flow channels.

[0016] The first position and the operating position of the nozzle unit can differ by a rotation angle about the nozzle rotation axis, which is between 10 degrees and 275 degrees, preferably between 30 degrees and 185 degrees, preferably between 45 degrees and 130 degrees, preferably between 70 degrees and 110 degrees, and preferably about 90 degrees. For example, in the operating position, the nozzle unit preferably extends significantly further outward from one side of the product container compared to the first position.

[0017] Such a rotation angle can achieve the advantages of the first position and the operating position mentioned above, while the rotation from the first position to the operating position can be easily achieved by the user.

[0018] The mechanical transmission for the rotation of the nozzle unit can be achieved in various ways. For example, in a preferred embodiment, the discharge device is configured to convert the rotation of the nozzle unit from a first position to an operating position into a corresponding translation of the driven element, wherein the sealing unit is configured to move from a sealed state to an open state by the translation of the driven element, wherein the translation direction of the driven element preferably extends substantially radially outward from the nozzle rotation axis.

[0019] This configuration provides a robust and simple solution for converting rotation into translation, where translation may affect the opening of the sealing unit.

[0020] The nozzle unit may include a cam, particularly a disc cam, for moving the sealing unit from a sealed state to an open state, wherein the cam can rotate about the nozzle rotation axis by rotating the nozzle unit about the nozzle rotation axis.

[0021] This approach provides a relatively simple and robust transmission.

[0022] The sealing unit may include a plug that is received by the shaft of the sealing unit in a sealed state to substantially hermetically close the first product flow channel of the discharge device, wherein the sealing unit is configured such that the plug can be at least partially removed from the shaft to allow the sealing unit to enter an open state.

[0023] Advantageously, such embodiments provide a simple and robust solution in which reliable sealing units can be easily manufactured, for example, using injection molding.

[0024] The sealing unit may include a cuttable sealing material for substantially airtightly closing a first product flow channel of the discharge device, wherein the sealing unit includes a cutter for cutting the sealing material, and wherein the sealing unit is configured such that the cutter can move through the sealing material in a cutting manner.

[0025] In such embodiments, it is advantageous to combine a reliable and durable sealing solution with a user-friendly and reliable method of opening, i.e., destroying the seal (i.e., cutting the sealing material).

[0026] The discharge device can be configured to convert the actuation of a cutter, for example, received from a nozzle unit, into a substantially helical motion of the cutter, wherein the sealing unit includes engagement structures for engaging with corresponding engagement structures of the cutter, wherein at least one of these engaging structures includes a substantially helical profile, such as a spindle thread or the like.

[0027] The spiral motion of the cutter ensures a smooth and virtually complete cut to the material (as opposed to, for example, piercing or tearing the material).

[0028] The nozzle unit may include a microfiltration device having a product inlet for product supply, wherein the microfiltration device may be connected to a fluid supply source (i.e., a gas supply source) for supplying gas, such as air, to the product during product discharge, wherein the nozzle unit preferably includes a processing device arranged downstream of the microfiltration device for mixing and / or depressurizing the product supplied with gas, wherein the nozzle unit preferably includes a microfiltration device having a filter wall having gas transmission pores having a pore size in the range of 0.1-10 micrometers, particularly at least 0.1 micrometers and less than 2 micrometers, wherein the length of the filter wall is preferably at most 5 cm, and more particularly in the range of about 0.5 cm to 5 cm, for example about 2 cm, the length being measured in the product flow direction parallel to the wall and flowing along the wall during use, wherein the pore size is preferably in the range of 0.2 micrometers to 1.5 micrometers.

[0029] It has been found that using the above configuration can produce a product with uniform foaming.

[0030] Product containers can be configured to be interchangeably received by the assigned machine.

[0031] In this way, it is advantageous that essentially empty (used) containers can be replaced with new containers filled with product, allowing the corresponding dispensing machines to be used multiple times.

[0032] The discharge device may include a mixing device upstream of the microfiltration device, wherein the mixing device is configured to mix a diluent, preferably water, into the product, and wherein the mixing device may be connected to a diluent supply source for receiving the diluent.

[0033] This configuration allows for an increase in the volume of discharged product and / or a decrease in the concentration of one or more product components. For example, the product container can contain product concentrate, thereby providing efficient transportation and storage.

[0034] The mixing device can be configured such that supplying a diluent to the mixing device will cause the product to be pumped into the mixing device, wherein the mixing device preferably includes a flow contraction in the flow path of the diluent to form a suction pump for pumping the product into the mixing device.

[0035] In this way, a relatively simple and robust configuration is achieved, which combines multiple functions (supplying diluent and pumping product). In particular, by integrating these functions, a relatively reliable and predictable ratio of supplied diluent to pumped product can be obtained.

[0036] The mixing device may include a valve member for selectively blocking the product flow into the mixing device, wherein the valve member is movable between a blocking state and a passage-providing state, in which the product flow is blocked and in which a passage for product to flow into the mixing device is provided.

[0037] Such valve components can therefore be used to selectively block the flow of product through the discharge device, and in particular through the mixing device.

[0038] The valve component preferably includes a diluent flow channel for conveying a diluent stream through the valve component, wherein the valve component is preferably connectable to a diluent supply source, and wherein the valve component is preferably movable by the diluent supply source.

[0039] In this manner, the valve actuator can actuate the valve component via the actuation of a diluent supply source, particularly via the actuation of a connector of the diluent supply source. This configuration advantageously reduces the number of connections to the discharge device and provides a compact and robust system. As another advantage, the diluent can therefore be supplied to and / or through the discharge device substantially independent of the state of the valve component, so that, for example, the downstream portion of the discharge device can be flushed with the diluent, for example, for cleaning the downstream portion.

[0040] The nozzle unit may include a handle, particularly a torsion handle, for rotating the nozzle unit from a first position to an operating position, wherein the handle extends radially outward from the nozzle rotation axis for more than 1 cm, preferably more than 2 cm, more preferably at least 4 cm (e.g., at least 5 cm or at least 6 cm).

[0041] Such a handle provides users with a way to overcome the rotational resistance of the nozzle unit, especially by providing a lever in the form of a handle.

[0042] The nozzle unit may include an outlet channel for conveying product to a product outlet of the nozzle unit, wherein the outlet channel extends substantially in the direction of the handle extension.

[0043] This approach provides a compact and efficient configuration, combining the advantages of spraying the product at a distance from one side of the product container and providing a lever to rotate the nozzle unit in a compact manner.

[0044] The discharge device can be configured such that the angular position of the nozzle unit about the nozzle rotation axis is substantially limited to an angular position ranging from the first position to, and including, the operating position.

[0045] This configuration can limit the likelihood of malfunctions during transportation and use.

[0046] The discharge device can be configured such that when the nozzle unit is in the operating position, the position of the nozzle unit is substantially fixed in the operating position.

[0047] This prevents the discharge device with its sealed unit open from being visually confused with a device where the sealed unit is in a sealed state. This can help further improve the safe handling of the product, especially food safety.

[0048] The discharge device may be equipped with a transport lock configured to substantially lock, for example, clamp the nozzle unit in a first position, wherein the transport lock is preferably manually removable from the discharge device, for example, pulled out.

[0049] This transport lock can therefore provide additional protection for the discharge device during transport.

[0050] The discharge device can be configured to provide user feedback, preferably tactile feedback, after the nozzle unit leaves the first position. Preferably, the discharge device is further configured to provide user feedback, preferably tactile feedback, after the nozzle unit reaches the operating position.

[0051] This user feedback can provide additional ease of use and security by guiding users on how to use the device properly.

[0052] The discharge device can be configured such that the cam engages with the driven element, thereby causing the sealing unit to move from a sealed state to an open state.

[0053] This approach provides a relatively simple and robust transmission.

[0054] The discharge device can be configured such that the cam engages with the plug, thereby moving the sealing unit from a sealed state to an open state.

[0055] This approach provides a relatively simple and robust transmission.

[0056] Especially when the sealing unit includes a plug, the cam of the nozzle unit can have a stroke between 1 mm and 6 mm, preferably between 2 mm and 4 mm, for example about 3 mm.

[0057] This approach provides a relatively simple and robust transmission.

[0058] The sealing unit can be configured such that the cutter can be moved through the sealing material in a cutting manner by translation of the driven element, wherein the driven element is preferably configured to engage with the cutter, wherein the cam of the nozzle unit preferably has a stroke between 2 mm and 10 mm, preferably between 4 mm and 8 mm, for example about 6 mm.

[0059] In such embodiments, it is advantageous to combine a reliable and durable sealing solution with a user-friendly and reliable method of opening, i.e., destroying the seal (i.e., cutting the sealing material).

[0060] The present invention also provides a combination of the product container described herein with a product dispensing machine configured to receive the product container and cooperate with the product container to discharge product from the container, wherein, in particular, the product container is received by the product dispensing machine. The machine preferably includes at least one, more preferably both, and more preferably all of the following: a fluid supply source for supplying a gas, such as air, preferably at atmospheric pressure, to the product discharge device; a diluent supply source for supplying a diluent, preferably water, to the product discharge device at a temperature above room temperature; and a valve actuator for moving a valve member of the product discharge device.

[0061] This type of product dispensing machine in this combination can be advantageously used to dispense products from product containers, particularly foamed products, such as foamed diluted product concentrates. The reliable and efficient operation of the machine is provided by the characteristics of the aforementioned product containers.

[0062] The present invention also provides a method for moving a sealing unit of a product discharge device for a product container from a sealed state to an open state, the method comprising: providing a product container, wherein the sealing unit is in a sealed state and a nozzle unit is in a first position; and rotating the nozzle unit about a nozzle rotation axis from the first position to an operating position, thereby moving the sealing unit from a sealed state to an open state.

[0063] This method provides the aforementioned advantages. Further advantageous interpretations of the invention are provided by the features of the appended claims.

[0064] The invention will be further explained with reference to exemplary embodiments and accompanying drawings. In the drawings:

[0065] Figure 1 A schematic cross-section of the product distribution system is shown;

[0066] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 A schematic cross-section showing details of the product dispensing system, particularly including the product discharge device, wherein the valve component is in the open position;

[0067] Figure 3 It shows something similar to Figure 2 A schematic cross-section showing the valve component in a flow-blocking state;

[0068] Figure 4 A cross-section of the product discharge device is shown in more detail, with the valve component in the open position;

[0069] Figure 5 It shows something similar to Figure 4 The cross-section of which the valve component is in a blocked state;

[0070] Figure 6a It shows Figure 4 A perspective view of the product discharge device;

[0071] Figure 6b It shows a comparison with Figure 6a From different perspectives, Figure 6a A perspective view of the product discharge device;

[0072] Figure 7 A cross-section of a product discharge device according to another embodiment is shown, wherein the driven element is not shown;

[0073] Figure 8a A product discharge device including a driven element is shown along... Figure 7 The open view of lines VIII-VIII in the middle, with the nozzle unit in the first position;

[0074] Figure 8b It shows something similar to Figure 8a The open view shows the nozzle unit in the operating position;

[0075] Figure 9a It shows Figure 8a An open view of the nozzle unit;

[0076] Figure 9b It shows Figure 8a A partial perspective view of the nozzle unit;

[0077] Figure 10a An open view of the sealing unit according to an embodiment is shown, wherein the plug of the sealing unit is not shown;

[0078] Figure 10b It shows Figure 10a An open view of the plug of the sealing unit;

[0079] Figure 11a An open view of a product discharge device including a cutter is shown, with the nozzle unit in a first position and the sealing unit in a sealed state.

[0080] Figure 11b It shows something similar to Figure 11a The open view shows the nozzle unit in the operating position and the sealing unit in the open state;

[0081] Figure 12a It shows Figure 11a An open view of the nozzle unit;

[0082] Figure 12b It shows Figure 11a A partial perspective view of the nozzle unit;

[0083] Figure 13 It shows Figure 11a An open view of the sealing unit, wherein the driven element and cutter of the sealing unit are not shown;

[0084] Figure 14a It shows Figure 11a A perspective view of the cutter for the sealing unit;

[0085] Figure 14b It shows Figure 11a A perspective view of the driven element of the sealing unit;

[0086] Figure 15a A perspective view of a product discharge device equipped with a transport lock is shown;

[0087] Figure 15b It shows Figure 15a A perspective view of the transport lock.

[0088] In the accompanying drawings, similar or corresponding features are indicated by similar or corresponding reference numerals.

[0089] Figure 1 An exemplary product dispensing system 26 is shown, comprising a machine M and a replaceable container 1 having a product discharge device 2 for dispensing product from the container 1. System 26 can be configured such that a receiver 28, such as a cup or jar, can be placed near, preferably below, the discharge device 2 to receive product dispensed from the discharge device 2 into the container 28. The dispensed product can be food, such as foamed food, such as foamed dairy products, such as foamed milk. It will be understood that the invention can be implemented with other products, and these products can be foamed or unfoamed.

[0090] Figure 1 An example of a product dispensing system 26 described in PCT / NL2010 / 050556 (the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference) is illustrated. System 26 includes a container 1 containing a product P to be dispensed, and a product discharge device 6 (e.g., provided with a product discharge channel) for discharging the product P from the container 1. Corresponding to or similar to... Figure 1 The system can be used, for example, in a distribution system described below (in which case the product processing device and the container (i.e., the container) are integrated into a "product processing unit CPU"), i.e., in the product discharge device 2.

[0091] The container 1 can be designed and formed in different ways. For example, the outer wall of the container 1 can be made of, for example, metal, alloy, plastic, or the like. The outer wall can have a rigid or flexible design. The container 1 can have, for example, a cylindrical or angular design, or different designs. In a preferred embodiment, the container is a bag-in-a-box type container, wherein the product is contained in a flexible bag located within an outer shell (box).

[0092] For example, if container 1 is provided with a propellant (see below), container 1 can be designed to withstand, for example, a maximum internal pressure of 12 bar, particularly 10 bar. According to an advantageous embodiment, container 1 is designed to withstand a much lower maximum pressure (e.g., at most 2 bar), thus allowing the container to have a relatively lightweight (and for example, relatively simple and inexpensive) design (e.g., a bag-in-a-box design).

[0093] According to a favorable interpretation, product P present in a container is a product that can be uniformly foamed, particularly food, milk, cream, cappuccino milk, spray cream, (fruit) juice / drinks, alcoholic beverages or beverage bases (e.g., beer or wine), dairy beverages or dairy-based beverages (e.g., whey drinks or permeate-based drinks), (milk) milkshakes, chocolate drinks, (drinking) yogurt, sauces, ice cream or desserts, juices, and more particularly dairy products. Product P can be, for example, cream.

[0094] The product can be, for example, a mixture of several of the aforementioned products, a mixture of one of the aforementioned products with a liquid (e.g., water), a mixture of a concentrated product (e.g., concentrated milk) with a liquid (e.g., water), or a different mixture. To obtain such a mixture, various product containers are available to provide the corresponding product to be mixed, which is then fed to a downstream portion of the system (i.e., to product discharge device 6). Alternatively, for example, the system can be a product container 1 and include one or more liquid supply sources (e.g., a diluent supply source 22, such as a water supply source) to allow the product / liquid mixture to be fed to the discharge device.

[0095] Product P may optionally contain, for example, a propellant or a foaming agent (e.g., under conditions where it is at least partially dissolved in the product), particularly a propellant consisting of one or more of the following: air, N2, N2O, and / or CO2. Such a propellant or foaming agent is particularly safe in food technology. The propellant or foaming agent can maintain the internal space of container 1 at, for example, a specific ultra-atmospheric pressure.

[0096] In addition, product P may not include, for example, products that can be uniformly foamed and / or are consumable.

[0097] The system may include a dispensing machine M configured to receive a replaceable product container 1. In this example, the product container 1 is a bag-in-a-box type container, wherein the product P is contained in a flexible bag located within the box 1. The dispensing machine M includes, for example, a product container receiving recess for receiving the container 1 and holding it in the depicted operating position.

[0098] Container 1 includes, for example, a product outlet for feeding product P from the bag to the downstream product processing unit 2, i.e., a first product flow channel 6. The processing unit 2 can be integrally connected to the corresponding product container 1, and in particular, installed together with the product container 1 into and removed from the machine (after use).

[0099] Product processing unit 2 is configured to process and discharge products from container 1, particularly to inject gas into product P.

[0100] Product container 1 can contain product concentrate, such as milk concentrate, wherein system 26 is configured to dilute the product concentrate during dispensing. For this purpose, system 26 may include a diluent supply source 22 for supplying diluent, preferably water, at a temperature preferably above room temperature, to product discharge device 2, particularly to mixing device 21 of discharge device 2, wherein discharge device 2, particularly mixing device 21, is configured to mix the diluent with the product concentrate to dilute the product concentrate.

[0101] The system may include a valve actuator 27 for moving a valve member 24 of the discharge device 2, particularly the mixing device 21, by actuation of the diluent supply source 22, such as rotational actuation, to controllably close the first product flow channel 6 of the discharge device 2. For this purpose, the valve member 24 can be in a flow-provided state (see...). Figure 2 , Figure 4 ) and blocking state (see Figure 3 , Figure 5 The valve member 24 is movable between the two, providing a passage for flow through the first flow channel 6 in the provided state and blocking the product flow in the blocked state. Such a valve member 24 can therefore be used to selectively block the product flow through the discharge device 2, and in particular through the mixing device 21.

[0102] Valve member 24 preferably includes a diluent flow passage 25 for conveying a diluent flow through valve member 24, wherein valve member 24 is preferably connectable to diluent supply source 22 and is preferably movable by diluent supply source 22.

[0103] In this manner, valve actuator 27 can actuate valve member 24 via actuation of diluent supply source 22, particularly via actuation of connector 29 of diluent supply source 22. This configuration advantageously reduces the number of connections to discharge device 2 and provides a compact and robust system 26. As another advantage, diluent can therefore be supplied to and / or through discharge device 2 substantially regardless of the state of valve member 24, so that, for example, the downstream portion of discharge device 2 can be flushed with diluent, for example, for cleaning said downstream portion.

[0104] The discharge device 2, and particularly the mixing device 21, is preferably configured such that the product can be pumped from the container 1 into the discharge device 2, and particularly into the mixing device 21, by supplying a diluent to the discharge device 2, wherein the diluent is preferably supplied at atmospheric pressure. For this purpose, the mixing device 21 preferably includes a flow contraction section 23 in the flow path of the diluent (particularly in the second flow channel 7) to form a suction pump for pumping the product into the mixing device 21, particularly via the first flow channel 6.

[0105] The exemplary system 26 further includes a fluid supply source 18 for supplying gas, such as air, to the product during product discharge, particularly for foaming and / or agitating the product, such as a diluted product concentrate. For this purpose, the discharge device 2 may include a microfiltration device 16, preferably positioned downstream of the mixing device 21, wherein the microfiltration device 16 has a product inlet 17 for product supply. The microfiltration device 16 is preferably connected to the fluid supply source 18 for receiving gas, such as air, from the fluid supply source.

[0106] The microfiltration device 16 preferably has a filter wall 20 with gas transport pores. Fluid, such as air, can be introduced into the product through the filter wall 20 as the product flows along the wall 20, wherein the fluid is supplied from the fluid supply source 18 at preferably atmospheric pressure.

[0107] The gas transport pores can have a pore size in the range of 0.1-10 micrometers, particularly at least 0.1 micrometers and less than 2 micrometers, wherein the length of the filter wall is at most 5 cm, and more particularly in the range of about 0.5-5 cm, for example about 2 cm, which is measured in the product flow direction F parallel to the wall and flowing along the wall during use, wherein the pore size is preferably in the range of 0.2 micrometers to 1.5 micrometers.

[0108] The processing device 19 may be located downstream of the microfiltration device 16 for processing foamed products, performing mixing and / or depressurization on products supplied with gas (i.e., foamed or bubbly products).

[0109] It has been found that using the above configuration can produce a product with uniform foaming.

[0110] The product discharge device 2 may include a nozzle unit 3 for product discharge. The nozzle unit 3, which may include a microfiltration device 16 and / or a treatment device 19, can rotate about a nozzle rotation axis K between a first position and an operating position. The nozzle rotation axis K preferably coincides with the centerline L of a product flow channel (e.g., a second product flow channel 7) extending into the nozzle unit 3. In this way, leakage from the product flow channel can be prevented.

[0111] To enable easy manual rotation of the nozzle unit 3, the nozzle unit 3 preferably includes a handle 4 (see [link]). Figures 6a to 6b The handle 4 preferably extends substantially radially outward from the nozzle rotation axis K. The handle 4 may include one or more irregular surfaces 33 to provide the user with an improved grip on the handle 4.

[0112] The first position of nozzle unit 3 can be the transport position (see...) Figure 8a , Figure 11a , Figure 15a This includes the product container 1 of the discharge device 2 being in the operating position relative to the nozzle unit 3 (see...). Figures 4 to 7 , Figure 8b , Figure 11b It has a more compact form. For example, in the operating position, compared with the first position, the nozzle unit 3 can extend significantly further outward from one side of the product container 1.

[0113] The first position and the operating position of the nozzle unit 3 can differ by a rotation angle about the nozzle rotation axis K. This rotation angle is between 10 degrees and 275 degrees, preferably between 30 degrees and 185 degrees, preferably between 45 degrees and 130 degrees, preferably between 70 degrees and 110 degrees, and preferably about 90 degrees.

[0114] Such a rotation angle can achieve the advantages of the first position and the operating position mentioned above, while the rotation from the first position to the operating position can be easily achieved by the user.

[0115] The nozzle unit 3 may include a handle 4, particularly a torsion handle 4, for rotating the nozzle unit 3 from a first position to an operating position, wherein the handle 4 extends radially outward from the nozzle rotation axis K by more than 1 cm, preferably more than 2 cm (in Figure 7 (At the distance indicated by arrow Q).

[0116] Such a handle provides the user with a way to overcome the rotational resistance of the nozzle unit 3, particularly by providing a lever in the form of a handle. It has been found that good results can be achieved if the handle 4 extends radially outward from the nozzle rotation axis by at least about 4 cm, for example at least 5 cm or at least 6 cm (i.e., at the distance Q), thereby allowing relatively high torque and resulting high torque with relatively low user pressure / force when operating the handle.

[0117] The nozzle unit 3 preferably includes an outlet channel 34 for conveying product to the product outlet 35 of the nozzle unit 3, wherein the outlet channel 34 extends substantially in the direction in which the handle 4 extends.

[0118] This approach provides a compact and efficient configuration, combining the advantages of spraying the product at a distance from one side of the product container and providing a lever to rotate the nozzle unit in a compact manner.

[0119] In an embodiment of the invention, the product discharge device 2 includes a sealing unit 5, which is configured to exit a sealed state (see [reference]). Figure 8a , Figure 11a ) Enter the open state (see Figure 8b , Figure 11b In the sealed state, the sealing unit 5 is configured to substantially airtightly close the first product flow channel 6 of the discharge device 2. In the open state, the sealing unit 5 is configured to allow product to flow through the first product flow channel 6 (i.e., the sealing unit 5 no longer seals the channel 6). In this embodiment, the discharge device 2 is configured such that by rotating the nozzle unit 3 from the first position to the operating position, the sealing unit 5 moves from the sealed state to the open state.

[0120] Therefore, the number of user actions can be reduced, and a user-friendly, efficient, and robust solution can be provided to bring the sealing unit 5 into the open state.

[0121] To provide further improvements in these aspects, and in particular to limit the possibility of failure during transport and use, the discharge device 2 can be configured such that the angular position of the nozzle unit 3 about the nozzle rotation axis K is substantially limited to an angular position ranging from the first position to and including the operating position.

[0122] The discharge device 2 can be configured such that when the nozzle unit 3 is in the operating position, the position of the nozzle unit 3 is substantially fixed in the operating position, preventing the discharge device 2 from being visually confused with the device 2 in which the sealing unit 5 is open, thus preventing the sealing unit 5 from being visually confused with the device 2 in which the sealing unit is in a sealed state. This can help to further improve the safe handling of products, especially improve food safety.

[0123] The discharge device 2 can be configured to provide user feedback, preferably tactile feedback, after the nozzle unit 3 leaves the first position. Preferably, the discharge device 2 is further configured to provide user feedback, preferably tactile feedback, after the nozzle unit 3 reaches the operating position.

[0124] This user feedback can provide additional ease of use and security by guiding users on how to use device 2 properly.

[0125] It will be understood that the angular position limitation, fixation to the operating position, and provision of tactile feedback mentioned above can be achieved in different ways by appropriate blocking and / or blocking structures in the discharge device 2, which are not explicitly shown in the accompanying drawings.

[0126] The discharge device 2 can be configured to convert the rotation of the nozzle unit 3 from the first position to the operating position into a driven element 8 (in some embodiments, this driven element may be a plug 10, see...) Figures 8a to 8b The corresponding translation of the sealing unit 5, wherein the sealing unit 5 is configured to move from a sealed state to an open state by translation of the driven elements 8, 10, wherein the translation direction T of the driven elements 8, 10 preferably extends substantially radially outward from the nozzle rotation axis K.

[0127] This configuration provides a robust and simple solution for converting rotation into translation, where translation may affect the opening of sealing unit 5.

[0128] The nozzle unit may include a cam 9, particularly a disc cam 9, for moving the sealing unit 5 from a sealed state to an open state, wherein the cam 9 can rotate about the nozzle rotation axis K by rotating the nozzle unit 3 about the nozzle rotation axis K.

[0129] like Figures 8a to 8b and Figures 11a to 11b As shown, the discharge device 2 can be configured such that the cam 9 engages with the driven elements 8 and 10, thereby causing the sealing unit 5 to move from a sealed state to an open state.

[0130] This approach provides a relatively simple and robust transmission.

[0131] The two exemplary embodiments according to the present invention differ at least in the configuration of their sealing unit 5.

[0132] In a first embodiment of such an exemplary embodiment, as shown in Figures 8 to 10, the sealing unit 5 includes a plug 10, which may also act as a driven element (although this is not strictly necessary). In the sealed state, the plug 10 is received by the shaft 11 of the sealing unit 5 to substantially hermetically close the first product flow channel 6 of the outflow device 2, wherein the sealing unit 5 is configured such that the plug 10 can be at least partially removed from the shaft 11 to allow the sealing unit 5 to enter the open state. In this embodiment, the cam 9 of the nozzle unit 3 preferably has a stroke S between 1 mm and 6 mm, preferably between 2 mm and 4 mm, for example, about 3 mm.

[0133] Advantageously, such embodiments provide a simple and robust solution in which reliable sealing units can be easily manufactured, for example, using injection molding.

[0134] In a second embodiment of such an exemplary embodiment, as shown in Figures 11 to 14, the sealing unit 205 includes a cutable sealing material 212, such as aluminum and / or plastic, preferably comprising an aluminum layer and a PET (polyethylene terephthalate) layer, for substantially hermetically sealing the first product flow channel 206 of the discharge device 202. The sealing unit 205 includes a cutter 213 for cutting the sealing material 212, wherein the sealing unit 205 is configured such that the cutter 213 moves through the sealing material 212 in a cutting manner, for example by translation of the driven element 208. In this embodiment, the driven element 208 is preferably configured to engage the cutter 213, wherein the cam 209 of the nozzle unit preferably has a stroke S between 2 mm and 10 mm, preferably between 4 mm and 8 mm, for example, about 6 mm.

[0135] In such embodiments, it is advantageous to combine a good sealing solution with a user-friendly and reliable method of opening, i.e., destroying the seal (i.e., cutting the sealing material).

[0136] In the second exemplary embodiment, the driven element 208 may be at least partially received in the shaft 211, wherein the discharge device 202, in particular the sealing unit 205, is configured to convert the actuation of the cutter 213 received, for example, from the nozzle unit 203, into a substantially helical motion of the cutter 213, wherein the sealing unit includes an engagement structure 214 for engaging with a corresponding engagement structure 215 of the cutter 213, wherein at least one of the engaging structures 214, 215 includes a substantially helical profile, such as a spindle thread or the like, for constraining the motion of the cutter 213 to a substantially helical motion.

[0137] The spiral motion of the cutter ensures a smooth and virtually complete cut to the material (as opposed to, for example, piercing or tearing the material).

[0138] See Figures 15a to 15b The discharge device 2 may be equipped with a transport lock 30, which is configured to prevent rotation of the nozzle unit 3 by engaging, for example, clamping the corresponding receiving structure 31 of the nozzle unit 3, to prevent the sealing unit 5 from being accidentally brought into the open state. The transport lock 30 may be further configured to block movement of the valve member 24. For this purpose, the transport lock 30 may be equipped with a valve member engagement structure 32. The transport lock 30 is preferably manually removable from the discharge device 2 by the user, for example, by pulling it out.

[0139] This transport lock can therefore provide additional protection for the discharge device during transport.

[0140] Therefore, an improved product container specifically designed for food is provided, which can be used efficiently, easily, safely and reliably by the user, wherein the product can be ejected substantially at a certain distance from one side of the container, wherein the container can be transported compactly, and wherein the product contained in the container can be protected from environmental threats such as bacteria.

[0141] Although the invention has been explained with reference to exemplary embodiments, it will be understood that the invention may be practiced with variations and alternatives falling within the scope of the claims.

[0142] For example, the rotation of the nozzle unit can be converted into the opening of the sealing unit in other ways than those described above, such as using gears in a rack and pinion configuration or using interlocking helical gears.

[0143] The discharge device may or may not include a microfiltration device, and may or may not include a mixing device.

[0144] Product P may include, for example, edible or inedible proteins, protein mixtures, or protein solutions. Edible protein solutions may include, for example, milk proteins, whey proteins and casein, egg white proteins, yeast isolates, soy proteins, hemoglobin, plant protein isolates, meat proteins, collagen, gelatin, and the like.

[0145] The product can be, for example, uniformly or non-uniformly foamed.

[0146] The product can be food, or cosmetics, cleaning agents, and / or different types of products.

[0147] The product may further contain various substances, such as thickeners, colorants, flavorings, and the like.

[0148] Furthermore, the product is specifically a food, such as milk, cream, cappuccino milk, whipped cream, (fruit) juice / drinks, alcoholic beverages or beverage bases (e.g., beer or wine), dairy products or dairy-based beverages (e.g., whey drinks or osmotic drinks), (milk) milkshakes, chocolate drinks, (drinking) yogurt, sauces, ice cream, desserts, or the like. The product may further contain, for example, vegetable or animal fats or oils, thickeners, sugars, sweeteners, flavorings, colorings, and / or the like, and / or various other ingredients as known to those skilled in the art. The product may also include, for example, non-consumable products, body care products, hair treatments, or the like.

[0149] Furthermore, the product being dispensed can be, for example, a heated product. For this purpose, the product may have been heated before being placed in the container using methods known for this purpose (e.g., microwave, steam, electricity, convection, or other methods). Moreover, the method and system according to the invention can utilize or include, for example, heating devices (e.g., heating systems) to heat the product.

[0150] According to further explanation, product heating can be performed, for example, upstream of the microfiltration device by supplying heat to the product container 1 and / or therein, and / or by heating the product at a location between the product container and the microfiltration device. This heating can be performed, for example, between 20°C and 90°C, preferably between 40°C and 75°C. Alternatively, product heating can be performed downstream of the microfiltration device, for example, in the outflow line 66 and / or upstream of it. Heating devices can be designed, for example, to heat the product flowing through the product discharge device 6, and / or to heat the gas to be supplied to the product, and / or to heat optional mixing devices and / or the microfiltration device, etc. According to further explanation, heating devices can be designed, for example, to bring the microfiltration device to a temperature suitable for heating the product flowing through it (i.e., increasing the temperature). According to further explanation, heating devices can be designed to bring the processing device or product processing unit to a temperature suitable for heating the product flowing through it.

[0151] Additionally, the method (and system) can utilize at least two product streams (two product portions), wherein a first product portion is foamed by the method (and correspondingly, the system) and then (correspondingly by the method and system) combined (and, for example, mixed with) a second unfoamed product portion. The product discharge device or product processing unit may be branched to provide the first product stream and a second product stream separate from the first product stream from the branch. The first product stream is then foamed and subsequently combined (and, for example, mixed with) the second product stream again. In product heating, the first product stream mentioned above may be heated, or conversely, the second product stream mentioned above may be heated, or both may be heated.

[0152] Additionally, the product processing unit should include a downstream mixing device, preferably utilizing static devices such as static microfiltration filters and optionally static diaphragms. In alternative embodiments, for example, moving filters (and / or optionally dynamic diaphragms) may be used.

[0153] The present invention (method and system) can be used to provide a variety of products, such as milk, cream, cappuccino milk, whipped cream, (fruit) juice / drinks, alcoholic beverages or beverage bases (e.g., beer or wine), dairy products or dairy-based beverages (e.g., whey drinks or osmotic drinks), (milk) milkshakes, chocolate drinks, (drinking) yogurt, sauces, ice cream, desserts or other products.

[0154] This invention can prepare hot, pourable foams with or without flavoring additives, such as cappuccinos, lattes, chocolate drinks, and other hot (milk) beverages. Additionally, it can prepare non-dairy beverages or products intended for consumption. In another interpretation, the product is foamed to a minimum expansion rate of 10% and immediately reaches / has a temperature between 20°C and 90°C, preferably between 40°C and 70°C, after dispensing. The product can be, for example, significantly pourable (e.g., with an expansion rate below 100%). The mentioned heating device can be used to dispense the pourable product at the desired temperature. The pourable product can be obtained, for example, by combining an unfoamed portion with a foamed portion.

[0155] Alternatively, the present invention can be used to prepare cold and chilled beverages, such as milk drinks, milkshakes, chocolate drinks, lunch drinks, yogurt drinks, fruit drinks, and alcoholic beverages (such as beer or wine). In this case, the product may have, for example, a minimum expansion rate of 10% and a temperature below 20°C, preferably between -5°C and 10°C. The chilled dispensed product may be significantly pourable and may contain sweet (or conversely salty) products, fermented milk products, juices, or other products.

[0156] Furthermore, the present invention can be used to provide hot and cold foamed sauces, such as sweet sauces, sour sauces, savory sauces, and / or other sauces. Such sauces obtained by means of the present invention can have a minimum expansion rate of 1% and a temperature range of -20°C to 80°C.

[0157] Desserts prepared using this invention, such as mousse, vla, or yogurt, can have a minimum overrun of 10% and a temperature, for example, from 1°C to 40°C (preferably, below 10°C). Sprayed whipped cream is a specific use of cream that achieves a higher overrun (preferably above 300%) and improved stability compared to conventional products.

[0158] This invention is particularly well suited for preparing ice cream or (milk) smoothies. The ice cream or (milk) smoothie products may have an overrun in the range of 10% to 200% and a temperature of 0°C or lower (preferably, in the range of -10°C to -2°C).

[0159] The present invention (method, system, or both) can be used, for example, to cause the mentioned product to undergo an expansion rate greater than 100% (particularly about 150% or more, and more particularly about 200% or more), thereby utilizing a relatively low pressure (particularly the pressure of the gas supplied to the space of the mentioned gas supply source), for example, a pressure below 2 bar. The present invention (method, system, or both) can be used, for example, to cause the mentioned product to undergo an expansion rate greater than 100% (particularly about 150% or more, and more particularly about 200% or more), while the dispensed product has a relatively low temperature, for example, about 0°C or lower.

[0160] Furthermore, the present invention (method, system, or both) can be configured such that the product P downstream of the microfiltration device does not undergo any mixing process and does not undergo any controlled decompression. For example, semi-skimmed milk or its concentrate can be used as a product. Other products can also be processed according to a method (and / or a system) configured such that the product P downstream of the microfiltration device does not undergo any mixing process and does not undergo any controlled decompression, such as food, cream, cappuccino milk, whipped cream, (fruit) juice / drinks, alcoholic beverages or beverage bases (e.g., beer or wine), dairy products or dairy-based beverages (e.g., whey drinks or osmotic drinks), (milk) milkshakes, chocolate drinks, (drinking) yogurt, sauces, ice cream or desserts (especially dairy products), or products not intended for consumption.

[0161] According to the preferred embodiment, following the above, the system does not have a processing device downstream of the microfiltration device 16 (therefore the system does not perform mixing or depressurization processing on the product supplied with gas). However, in an alternative embodiment, such an additional downstream processing device is provided in the system.

[0162] In addition, the product processing unit 2 may include a plurality of microfiltration devices 16, such as at least two or more tubular microfiltration elements 20 in the respective processing space, for increasing throughput.

[0163] List of reference numerals

[0164] 1: Product Container

[0165] 2.202: Product discharge device

[0166] 3.203: Nozzle Unit

[0167] 4. 204: Handle

[0168] 5.205: Sealing unit

[0169] 6.206: First product distribution channel

[0170] 7: Second product distribution channel

[0171] 8, 208: Driven element

[0172] 9, 209: Cam

[0173] 10: Plug

[0174] 11: Axis

[0175] 212: Cuttable material

[0176] 213: Cutter

[0177] 214: Joint structure of the sealing unit

[0178] 215: Joint structure of the cutter

[0179] 16: Microfiltration device

[0180] 17: Product inlet of microfiltration device

[0181] 18, 218: Fluid (gas) supply source

[0182] 19: Processing device

[0183] 20: Filter wall

[0184] 21: Mixing device

[0185] 22: Diluent Supply Source

[0186] 23: Flow contraction section

[0187] 24: Valve components

[0188] 25: Diluent flow channel

[0189] 26: Product Distribution System

[0190] 27: Valve Actuator

[0191] 28: Storage container

[0192] 29, 229: Diluent supply connector

[0193] 30: Transport Lock

[0194] 31: Transport lock engagement structure of the nozzle unit

[0195] 32: Valve component engagement structure of transport lock

[0196] 33: Irregularly shaped surface of the handle

[0197] 34: Exit channel of the nozzle unit

[0198] 35: Product export of nozzle units

[0199] F: Product flow direction

[0200] P: Product

[0201] K: Nozzle rotation axis

[0202] L: The central axis of the second product distribution channel

[0203] M: Assignment Machine

[0204] S: Stroke of the cam

[0205] T: Translation direction of the driven element

Claims

1. A product container (1), wherein the product container (1) includes a product discharge device (2; 202) for discharging product from the product container (1), the product discharge device comprising: - Nozzle unit for product discharge (3; 203), wherein the nozzle unit is rotatable about the nozzle rotation axis (K) from a first position to an operating position, the nozzle unit (3; 203) includes a handle (4) for rotating the nozzle unit (3; 203) from the first position to the operating position, the handle (4) extending radially outward from the nozzle rotation axis (K); as well as - A sealing unit (5; 205) configured to move from a sealed state to an open state, wherein in the sealed state, the sealing unit (5; 205) is configured to airtightly close the first product flow channel (6; 206) of the product discharge device (2; 202), wherein in the open state, the sealing unit (5; 205) is configured to allow product to flow through the first product flow channel (6; 206). The product discharge device (2; 202) is configured such that the sealing unit (5; 205) can move from the sealed state to the open state by rotating the nozzle unit (3; 203) from the first position to the operating position. The nozzle unit (3; 203) includes a microfiltration device (16) having a product inlet (17) for product supply, wherein the microfiltration device (16) is connectable to a fluid supply source (18) for supplying gas to the product during product discharge; The product discharge device (2; 202) includes a mixing device (21) upstream of the microfiltration device (16), wherein the mixing device (21) is configured to mix the diluent into the product, and wherein the mixing device (21) is connectable to a diluent supply source (22) for receiving the diluent; The mixing device (21) includes a valve member (24) for selectively blocking the product flow into the mixing device (21), wherein the valve member (24) is movable between a blocking state and a passage-providing state, in which the product flow is blocked and in which a passage for product to flow into the mixing device (21) is provided. The product discharge device (2; 202) is configured to convert the rotation of the nozzle unit (3; 203) from the first position to the operating position into a corresponding translation of the driven element (8, 10; 208, 211), wherein the sealing unit (5; 205) is configured to move from the sealed state to the open state by the translation of the driven element (8, 10; 208, 210). The nozzle unit (3; 203) includes a cam (9; 209) for moving the sealing unit (5; 205) from the sealed state to the open state, wherein the cam (9; 209) is rotatable about the nozzle rotation axis (K) by rotating the nozzle unit (3; 203) about the nozzle rotation axis (K).

2. The product container according to claim 1, wherein, The rotation axis (K) of the nozzle coincides with the central axis (L) of the second product flow channel (7) of the product discharge device (2; 202), which is downstream of the first product flow channel (6; 206).

3. The product container according to claim 1, wherein, The first position of the nozzle unit (3; 203) and the operating position of the nozzle unit (3; 203) differ by a rotation angle about the nozzle rotation axis (K), the rotation angle being between 10 degrees and 275 degrees.

4. The product container according to claim 3, wherein, The sealing unit includes a plug (10), which is received by the shaft (11) of the sealing unit in the sealed state to hermetically close the first product flow channel of the product discharge device. The sealing unit is configured such that the plug (10) can be at least partially removed from the shaft (11) to bring the sealing unit into the open state.

5. The product container according to claim 1, wherein, The sealing unit includes a cutable sealing material (212) for airtightly closing a first product flow channel of the product discharge device, wherein the sealing unit includes a cutter (213) for cutting the sealing material (212). The sealing unit is configured such that the cutter (213) can move through the sealing material (212) in a cutting manner.

6. The product container according to claim 5, wherein, The product discharge device is configured to convert the actuation of the cutter (213) received from the nozzle unit into a helical motion of the cutter (213), wherein the sealing unit includes an engagement structure (214) for engaging with a corresponding engagement structure (215) of the cutter (213), wherein at least one of these engaging structures includes a helical profile.

7. The product container of claim 1, wherein the product container is configured to be interchangeably received by the distributing machine (M).

8. The product container according to claim 1, wherein, The mixing device (21) is configured such that supplying the diluent to the mixing device (21) will cause the product to be pumped into the mixing device (21).

9. The product container according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, The handle (4) extends radially outward more than 1 cm from the nozzle rotation axis (K).

10. The product container according to claim 9, wherein, The nozzle unit (3; 203) includes an outlet channel (34) for conveying product to the product outlet (35) of the nozzle unit (3; 203), wherein the outlet channel (34) extends in the direction in which the handle (4) extends.

11. The product container according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, The product discharge device (2; 202) is configured such that the angular position of the nozzle unit (3; 203) about the nozzle rotation axis (K) is limited to an angular position ranging from the first position to and including the operating position.

12. The product container according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, The product discharge device (2; 202) is configured such that when the nozzle unit (3; 203) is in the operating position, the position of the nozzle unit (3; 203) is fixed in the operating position.

13. The product container according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, The product discharge device (2; 202) is equipped with a transport lock (30) configured to lock the nozzle unit (3; 203) in the first position.

14. The product container according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, The product discharge device (2; 202) is configured to provide user feedback after the nozzle unit (3; 203) leaves the first position.

15. The product container according to claim 1, wherein, The product discharge device (2; 202) is configured such that the cam engages with the driven element, thereby moving the sealing unit from the sealed state to the open state.

16. The product container according to claim 4, wherein, The product discharge device (2; 202) is configured such that the cam (9; 209) engages with the plug (10; 210), thereby moving the sealing unit (5; 205) from the sealed state to the open state.

17. The product container according to claim 1, wherein, The cam (9; 209) of the nozzle unit has a stroke (S) between 1 mm and 6 mm.

18. The product container according to claim 5, wherein, The sealing unit is configured such that the cutter (213) can move through the sealing material (212) in a cutting manner by translation of the driven element.

19. The product container according to claim 1, wherein, The product container is a product container used for food.

20. The product container according to claim 2, wherein, The second product flow channel extends from the sealing unit (5; 205) to the nozzle unit (3; 203).

21. The product container according to claim 3, wherein, The rotation angle is between 30 degrees and 185 degrees.

22. The product container according to claim 3, wherein, The rotation angle is between 45 degrees and 130 degrees.

23. The product container according to claim 3, wherein, The rotation angle is between 70 and 110 degrees.

24. The product container according to claim 3, wherein, The rotation angle is approximately 90 degrees.

25. The product container according to claim 3, wherein, In this operating position, compared to the first position, the nozzle unit (3; 203) extends significantly further outward from one side of the product container (1).

26. The product container according to claim 1, wherein, The translational direction (T) of the driven element (8, 10; 208, 210) extends radially outward from the nozzle rotation axis (K).

27. The product container according to claim 1, wherein, The cam is a disc cam.

28. The product container according to claim 6, wherein, The helical profile includes a spindle thread.

29. The product container according to claim 1, wherein, The gas is air.

30. The product container according to claim 1, wherein, The nozzle unit includes a processing device (19) arranged downstream of the microfiltration device (16) for mixing and / or depressurizing the product supplied with gas.

31. The product container according to claim 1, wherein, The microfiltration device (16) is provided with a filter wall (20) having gas transmission pores, the gas transmission pores having a pore size in the range of 0.1-10 micrometers.

32. The product container of claim 31, wherein the gas transmission pores have a pore size of at least 0.1 micrometers and less than 2 micrometers.

33. The product container according to claim 31, wherein the length of the filter wall (20) is at most 5 cm, the length being measured in the product flow direction (F) of the product flowing along the filter wall (20) during use, parallel to the filter wall (20).

34. The product container according to claim 33, wherein the length of the filter wall (20) is in the range of 0.5-5 cm.

35. The product container according to claim 34, wherein the length of the filter wall (20) is approximately 2 cm.

36. The product container of claim 31, wherein the pore size is in the range of 0.2 micrometers to 1.5 micrometers.

37. The product container according to claim 1, wherein the diluent is water.

38. The product container according to claim 8, wherein the mixing device (21) includes a flow contraction section (23) in the flow path (7) of the diluent to form a suction pump for pumping the product into the mixing device (21).

39. The product container of claim 1, wherein the valve member (24) includes a diluent flow channel (25) for conveying a diluent flow through the valve member (24).

40. The product container of claim 1, wherein the valve component (24) is connectable to the diluent supply source (22).

41. The product container according to claim 40, wherein the valve component (24) is movable by the diluent supply source (22).

42. The product container of claim 9, wherein the handle is a twist handle.

43. The product container according to claim 9, wherein the handle (4) extends radially outward from the nozzle rotation axis (K) by more than 2 cm.

44. The product container according to claim 9, wherein the handle (4) extends radially outward from the nozzle rotation axis (K) by at least 4 cm.

45. The product container of claim 13, wherein the transport lock is configured to clamp the nozzle unit (3; 203) in the first position.

46. ​​The product container according to claim 13, wherein the transport lock (30) is manually removable from the product discharge device (2; 202).

47. The product container according to claim 46, wherein the transport lock (30) is pullable from the product discharge device (2; 202).

48. The product container of claim 14, wherein the user feedback is tactile feedback.

49. The product container of claim 14, wherein the product discharge device (2; 202) is further configured to provide user feedback after the nozzle unit (3; 203) reaches the operating position.

50. The product container of claim 49, wherein the user feedback is tactile feedback.

51. The product container of claim 17, wherein the stroke is between 2 mm and 4 mm.

52. The product container of claim 17, wherein the stroke is about 3 mm.

53. The product container of claim 18, wherein the driven element is configured to engage with the cutter.

54. The product container of claim 18, wherein the cam of the nozzle unit has a stroke between 2 mm and 10 mm.

55. The product container of claim 54, wherein the cam of the nozzle unit has a stroke between 4 mm and 8 mm.

56. The product container of claim 54, wherein the cam of the nozzle unit has a stroke of about 6 mm.

57. A product discharge device (2; 202), which is a product discharge device for a product container according to any one of claims 1-56.

58. A product dispensing system comprising a product container according to any one of claims 1 to 56, and a product dispensing machine (M) configured to receive the product container (1) and cooperate with the product container (1) to dispense product from the container (1). in, The product dispensing machine (M) includes at least one of the following: - A fluid supply source (18) for supplying gas to the product discharge device (2; 202); - A diluent supply source (22) for supplying the diluent to the product discharge device (2; 202); and - A valve actuator (27) for moving the valve component of the product discharge device (2; 202).

59. The product distribution system according to claim 58, wherein, A fluid supply source is used to supply gas to the product discharge device (2; 202) at ultra-atmospheric pressure.

60. The product distribution system according to claim 59, wherein, The gas is air.

61. The product distribution system according to claim 58, wherein, The diluent supply source (22) is used to supply the diluent to the product discharge device (2; 202) at a temperature above room temperature.

62. The product distribution system according to claim 61, wherein, The diluent is water.

63. A method for moving a sealing unit of a product discharge device (2; 202) of a product container (1) from a sealed state to an open state, the method comprising: - Provides a product container (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 56, wherein the sealing unit (5; 205) is in the sealed state and the nozzle unit is in the first position; and - Rotate the nozzle unit (3; 203) about the nozzle rotation axis (K) from the first position to the operating position, thereby moving the sealing unit from the sealed state to the open state.

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