Automatic or semi-automatic cleaning-in-place system and method of use thereof

Abstract

An automatic or semi-automatic in-situ cleaning system and a method for using the same, the automatic or semi-automatic in-situ cleaning system (1; 1a; 1b) being used for cleaning at least one distribution pipeline (6a, 6b, 6c, 6d, 6e, 6f; 6a', 6b', 6c'; 6a", 6b", 6c") between a take-out station (2) and a distribution station (3), the distribution station (3) being arranged in the distribution pipeline (6a, 6b, 6c, 6d, 6e, 6f; 6a', 6b', 6c'; 6a", 6b", 6c") ', 6c'; 6a", 6b", 6c") have distributors (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e, 5f) at the ends thereof, and the automatic or semi-automatic in-situ cleaning system (1; 1a; 1b) is operated by an electronic control system (17), an ozone water source (10) provides ozone water via an ozone water valve (OWV) through an ozone water pipe (12), and clean water (CW) is provided via a water valve (WV) through a water pipe (15), and the main pipe (14) sequentially receives water from the water pipe (15) and ozone water from the ozone water pipe (12), the main pipe (14) extending to the flow distribution units (13; 13.2: 13.2: 13', 13.1', 13.2': 13", 13.1", 13.2") arranged in series, each flow distribution unit comprising branch pipes (C1, C2; C1.1, C2.1; C2.2) arranged in series on the main pipe (14). 1.2; C2.2), a second connector (16a, 16b, 16c, 16d; 16e, 16f) is suitable for connecting with a first connector (8a, 8b; 8c, 8d; 8e, 8f; 9a, 9b; 8a', 8a", 8b', 8b", 8c', 8c") at the end of a distribution line (6a, 6b, 6c, 6d, 6e, 6f; 6a', 6b', 6c'; 6a", 6b", 6c").

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an automatic or semi-automatic cleaning-in-place (CIP) system suitable for cleaning at least one distribution line between a take-out station comprising at least one take-out container and a distribution station comprising at least one distributor, wherein the distribution line has: a take-out end provided with a first connector configured to be connected to the take-out container; and an opposite distributor end suitable for being connected to the distributor, wherein an ozone water source is connected to an ozone water conduit and a cleaning water supply is connected to a water conduit.

[0002] In particular, the invention relates to a cleaning-in-place method and a cleaning-in-place system for cleaning a dispensing line of a draft beer system comprising a plurality of withdrawal containers in the form of beer kegs and a dispensing station comprising a plurality of taps arranged in a dispensing tower.

[0003] However, it should be emphasized that the present invention is not limited to being used to disinfect draft beer dispensing lines. The present invention is applicable to disinfecting any kind of dispensing system, including but not limited to drinking water and potable beverage dispensing systems, as well as dispensing systems in factory environments, such as liquid dispensing systems for dairy products, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics and virtually any kind of fluid, liquid, viscous or creamy products.

[0004] In the context of the present invention, the term cleaning-in-place (CIP) refers to the at least partially automated cleaning of the interior surfaces of components including one or more of pipes and hoses, vessels, equipment, filters and related accessories without the need for major disassembly of these components and without the need to substantially remove these components from their place of use. Background Art

[0005] Beer and many other beverages contain alcohol, carbon dioxide, finished proteins, carbohydrates, and many other organic compounds. Yeast and bacteria often find their way into keg systems where they feed on these organic compounds and attach to the dispense lines. Another issue that requires frequent cleaning of dispense lines is that minerals settle out of the beer, leaving deposits in the dispense lines, kegs, and fixtures. Within weeks of installing a new keg system, deposits begin to build up on beer contact surfaces. Without proper cleaning, these deposits can quickly affect the flavor of the beer and ruin the system’s ability to pour quality beer.

[0006] Perlick's Draught Beer Reference Manual (Perlick Corporation, 8300 W. Good Hope Rd. Milwaukee, WI 53223) and Draught Beer Quality Manual (4th Edition, ISBN 9781938469602) are published by the Brewers Association, address: 1327 Spruce Street Boulder, CO 80302, website: https: / / www.brewersassociation.org / .

[0007] These references discuss the conventional manner of cleaning the draft beer dispensing lines by manual cleaning using caustic or acidic chemicals and recommend that the dispensing lines be cleaned and maintained preferably every 2-4 weeks or at each keg change.

[0008] The beer in the keg will retain its full flavor for approximately 30-45 days after tapping; however, the "shelf life" of the keg will depend on the storage conditions and the brand / style of beer; however, bacteria will eventually spoil unpasteurized keg beer. Therefore, the interval at which the beer keg must be cleaned depends on many different factors.

[0009] It is explained that corrosive chemicals can remove organic matter from inside the draft beer dispensing pipelines, hardware and accessories. Removing this deposit prevents the growth of beer-destroying bacteria such as lactobacilli, pediococci and tricholoma. Typical corrosive chemicals are sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide or a combination of the two. Some corrosive pipeline cleaning solutions add EDTA or other chelating agents to help remove calcium oxalate (beer stone) in the draft beer dispensing pipelines. Acidic chemicals can also remove inorganic materials such as calcium oxalate and calcium carbonate (hydrotalcite) inside the draft beer dispensing pipelines, hardware and accessories. Acid-based distribution pipeline cleaners suitable for cleaning draft beer dispensing pipelines contain phosphoric acid solutions, but do not include hydrochloric acid, which can corrode stainless steel, and nitric acid, which is incompatible with nylon products. Corrosive chemicals and acidic chemicals are used warm at temperatures of approximately 26°C and 38°C, and must remain in contact with the keg pipeline for at least 15 minutes when the solution is recirculated, and must remain in contact for 20 minutes when static or pressure tank cleaning. Due to the presence of hazardous chemicals, draft beer dispensing line cleaning should only be performed by trained personnel. Personal protective equipment including rubber gloves and goggles must be used whenever handling such harsh cleaning chemicals. Material Safety Data Sheets must be followed to avoid violent and dangerous splashes or eruptions of mixed chemicals due to the rapid increase in temperature when mixing chemicals.

[0010] Other line cleaning devices to mention for cleaning draft beer dispensing lines are electric or sonic cleaning devices, but these devices are not suitable for replacing chemical line cleaning. Although some sonic cleaning devices may inhibit the growth of bacteria and yeast, they have little or no cleaning effect on draft beer dispensing hardware and accessories.

[0011] Japanese patent application JP H03236850A discloses an automatic or semi-automatic cleaning-in-situ system, which includes an ozone water source connected to an ozone water pipe and a clean water source connected to a water pipe.

[0012] International patent application WO 02 / 100766 A1 discloses a method and a device for cleaning and purifying a beer production line. Oxidants and oxidant radicals are generated electrically in an air stream and the resulting gas is injected into a water stream.

[0013] US patent US5762096 relates to a pipe cleaning device for a beverage delivery system, wherein a disinfectant (eg detergent) and pressurized water are applied to flush and clean the beverage pipe. Summary of the invention

[0014] A primary aspect of the present invention is to provide an alternative system and method for cleaning and / or disinfecting one or more dispensing lines between a take-out station and a dispensing station.

[0015] Another primary aspect of the present invention is to provide a system and method for cleaning and / or disinfecting one or more dispensing lines between a take-out station and a dispensing station that is environmentally friendly.

[0016] Another aspect of the present invention is to provide systems and methods for cleaning and / or sanitizing one or more dispensing lines between a take-out station and a dispensing station with minimal human intervention.

[0017] Another aspect of the present invention is to provide a system and method for cleaning and / or disinfecting one or more dispensing lines between a take-out station and a dispensing station that reduces the workload on personnel.

[0018] Another aspect of the present invention is to provide systems and methods for cleaning and / or sanitizing one or more dispensing lines between a takeout station and a dispensing station that reduce the chance of human error that could result in unsafe cleaning.

[0019] Another aspect of the present invention is to provide systems and methods for cleaning and / or disinfecting one or more dispensing lines between a take-out station and a dispensing station that eliminate or at least significantly reduce chemical exposure to the human body.

[0020] Another aspect of the present invention is to provide systems and methods for cleaning and / or sanitizing one or more dispensing lines between a take-out station and a dispensing station that minimize the time that the dispensing lines are shut down.

[0021] Another aspect of the present invention is to provide a system and method for cleaning and / or sanitizing one or more dispensing lines between a take-out station and a dispensing station that is reliable and repeatable.

[0022] Another aspect of the present invention is to provide systems and methods for cleaning and / or sanitizing one or more draft beer dispensing lines between a keg coupler and a tap.

[0023] These and other aspects are achieved by the present invention, wherein an automated or semi-automated cleaning-in-place system comprises:

[0024] -Ozone water valve, which is inserted into the ozone water pipeline,

[0025] - a water valve, which is inserted into the water pipe,

[0026] - a main pipeline configured to sequentially receive water from the water pipeline and ozone water from the ozone water pipeline,

[0027] - the main conduit extends into a first plurality of flow distribution units n≥1 arranged in series,

[0028] - a flow distribution unit of the first plurality of flow distribution units comprises a second plurality of branch pipes arranged in series, m≥2, on the main pipe,

[0029] - At least one of the at least two branch pipes has:

[0030] o at least one flow control valve disposed between the free branch end and its connection to the main conduit, and

[0031] o a second coupler disposed at the free branch end, the second coupler being adapted to be coupled in fluid communication with the first coupler, and

[0032] - an electronic control system configured to operate and control at least the operating states of an ozone water valve, a water valve and a flow control valve, the ozone water source being an electrolytic ozone generator configured to generate ozone water as needed by electrolyzing water from a clean water supply (CW).

[0033] The automatic or semi-automatic cleaning-in-place system and method of the present invention utilizes ozone instead of caustic or acidic chemicals to clean distribution lines. Therefore, the only resources required to operate the system are access to electricity and water. The waste generated by the system and method is only water and oxygen, which can be discharged directly into the sewer. No special collection containers are required to collect the waste.

[0034] Ozone dissolves directly in running water. Ozone water does not require chemical storage facilities and handling that could cause safety issues. Ozone water does not contribute to the toxic effects of ozone gas. In addition, by using ozone water, a post-rinse step is not mandatory (although it may be preferred) because ozone water does not leave any residual chemicals other than water and oxygen. Therefore, no harmful byproducts need to be handled or observed at the end of the cleaning process.

[0035] Ozone water has instant antimicrobial properties and removes biofilm, fungus, mold, yeast and beer stones. Another advantage is the reduction of water consumption for cleaning. The clean water supply can be used to initially remove debris, sediment and organic deposits from the distribution lines, after which the ozone water is used to disinfect the distribution lines.

[0036] The second coupler is a convenient means of coupling the flow distribution system to the distribution line system to be cleaned and sanitized using ozone water.

[0037] The automatic or semi-automatic in-situ cleaning system has one flow distribution unit or a plurality of flow distribution units arranged in series, which are connected to the distribution lines connected to the distribution station. In the context of the present invention, the first plurality can be exactly n=1. Then, the water valve and the selected number of flow control valves (which are used to open and close the flow through the distribution line to be cleaned) are opened to flush the distribution line within a predetermined time period. In the same cleaning process, all or only some of the flow control valves can be cleaned. The operator can simply input the flow control valves to be cleaned that he / she selects into the electronic control system. The operator can also enter a specific user-set water cleaning time period, or the electronic control system of the automatic or semi-automatic in-situ cleaning system can be pre-programmed with a fixed water cleaning time period.

[0038] After the water valve is closed, the ozone water valve is opened so that the distribution line is then flushed with ozone water to disinfect and kill microorganisms.

[0039] In this embodiment, the branch pipes of the flow distribution units are arranged in series along the main pipe, and each branch unit has at least one flow control valve that can be individually operated by an electronic control system.

[0040] In the context of the present invention, the term "flow control valve" includes any kind of valve adapted to open and / or close a flow path in response at least in part to instructions from an electronic control system. The term "flow control valve" includes, for example, simple on / off valves and check valves, such as solenoid valves.

[0041] Preferably, each branch conduit has a flow control valve.

[0042] In an alternative embodiment, the sub-branch pipes of the flow distribution unit may be arranged in parallel on a common branch pipe, and one or more flow control valves are used to operate all the sub-branch pipes simultaneously, thereby operating several distribution lines simultaneously.

[0043] Branch pipelines and sub-branch pipelines can be operated individually, sequentially and in any order selected.

[0044] In an alternative embodiment, the flow control valve of the flow distribution unit may be arranged upstream of the connection between the main pipe and the branch pipe.

[0045] The electronic control system can be configured to sequentially operate and control at least the ozone water valve, the water valve and the flow control valve in any selected order and number of times to deliver water through at least one distribution pipeline within a water cleaning time period of, for example, 5-10 minutes to flush the distribution pipeline, and to deliver ozone water to the at least one selected distribution pipeline within an ozone water disinfection time period of, for example, 5-20 minutes to disinfect the distribution pipeline.

[0046] Therefore, the electronic control system can be configured to operate and control the cleaning process, such as the water cleaning time period, the ozone water disinfection time period, the valve, the generation of ozone water, and the distribution pipeline to be cleaned and disinfected. The automatic or semi-automatic in-situ cleaning system may include one or more flow sensors and / or pressure sensors located at any appropriate position along any pipeline to monitor whether the flow rate is maintained at a set value, and whether the distributor is open during the flushing of the distribution pipeline. The automatic or semi-automatic in-situ cleaning system can also monitor various electrodes for measuring data, such as the ozone concentration, water temperature, and pH value of the ozone water at any stage or position of the cleaning process. In order to monitor and control various operating devices and operating data, the electronic control system is equipped with a suitable computer device, including software and a graphical user interface (GUI). The user can customize the cleaning, for example, by inputting to the GUI on a touch screen away from the CIP system.

[0047] The source of ozone water may be any type of electrolytic ozone generator. The ozone water produced by the electrolytic ozone generator is produced as required, for example by electrolysis of water from a clean water supply. Optionally, the water supply for the electrolytic ozone generator is also simply the water supply for clean water. However, it is preferred that, where the ozone water is produced by the electrolytic ozone generator, the water passes through a filter before entering the electrolytic cell. Preferably, the clean water supply may be tap water.

[0048] If the number of flow distribution units is n=1 and the number of branch pipes of the flow distribution unit is m=2, two distribution lines can be cleaned simultaneously. On the other hand, the automatic or semi-automatic in-situ cleaning system of the present invention can be customized according to current needs by selecting an appropriate number n of flow distribution units according to the number m of branch pipes of such flow distribution units. The flow distribution units can be connected in series to easily increase the ability to clean and disinfect simultaneously. Therefore, the automatic or semi-automatic in-situ cleaning system of the present invention is a modular system, to which more flow distribution units can be added in a very simple manner as time goes by and the need for cleaning and disinfecting more distribution lines increases.

[0049] However, CIP systems having one flow distribution unit per distribution line are also within the scope of the invention.

[0050] The outlet end of the main pipeline at the nth position in the flow distribution unit arranged in series can be connected to the ozone water source recirculation fluid via a recirculation valve to avoid the retention of ozone water in the pipeline and other parts of the automatic or semi-automatic in-situ cleaning system when the system is out of use, and this way reduces the risk of corrosion and erosion. For example, when at least one flow control valve is opened, the recirculation valve can be closed to allow all ozone water to flow through the selected distribution pipeline. At the end of the cleaning and disinfection process, all valves, including the flow control valve, the ozone water valve and the water valve, will be closed, after which the first connector and the second connector are disengaged, and the first connector is again connected to the removal container to establish the flow of the contents of the removal container through the distribution pipeline to the distributor. Before the disengagement of the connector, the electronic control system can open the recirculation valve to empty the pipeline of dissolved ozone.

[0051] In advantageous embodiments, flow sensors may be provided in the main conduit and / or one or more branch conduits and operatively coupled to the electronic control system to ensure that the flow rate of ozone water, in particular, is sufficient to deliver the appropriate amount of ozone required for the desired disinfection level.

[0052] In yet another advantageous embodiment, pressure sensors may be disposed, for example, in the main conduit and / or the branch conduits and operatively coupled to the electronic control system to monitor and record whether the dispensers are open and remain open as the water and ozone water flow through the main conduit and the branch conduits. If the water pressure or ozone water pressure is high or suddenly becomes high, this will be considered an indication that one or more dispensers are closed or have been closed and may need to be opened.

[0053] Commercial establishments such as bars, restaurants and breweries need to offer a variety of beers that are readily available. They also need a place to store and refrigerate their kegs in an easily accessible area so that kegs can be quickly replaced. Keg beer is usually not pasteurized, so it must be kept colder to keep it fresh, so the beer is usually passed through cooling coils and / or glycol cooling hoses. Cooling usually keeps the beer at 1-2°C, which is very important to keep the beer fresh and delicious. If the draft beer dispensing line is not properly disinfected, the beer that flows out will taste bad. Beer dispensing stations usually have 5 to 20 dispensing lines, in some cases only one or two dispensing lines, or up to 40 dispensing lines, or even more. The present invention can be customized to any number of dispensing lines simply by adding additional flow distribution units.

[0054] Beer kegs are usually placed in cellars with 5-50m long distribution lines to corresponding distributors, taps, and when the lines of beer kegs are to be cleaned using conventional methods, cleaning personnel must lift and move many heavy objects at many different locations, including collecting, using and handling irritating chemicals. This takes time and is a heavy and very unsafe job. The present invention only requires the keg coupler to be connected to the second coupler, the tap is turned on and the electronic control system is started to clean and disinfect within the specified duration. There is no need to move and handle irritating chemicals because the ozone water is directly discharged into the discharge device and decomposed there, and the ozone water can be produced as needed.

[0055] A discharge manifold having a plurality of discharge hoses corresponding to a plurality of distribution lines to be cleaned and disinfected can conveniently be part of the automatic or semi-automatic cleaning-in-place system of the present invention. During the cleaning and disinfection method, the discharge hoses of the discharge manifold can be fitted to the distributor. The discharge manifold can terminate in a common discharge hose into which the discharge hose discharges the waste clean water and the waste ozone water.

[0056] During cleaning, the dispenser may discharge directly into a drain, such as a sewer, sink, floor drain, or drain tray at a dispensing station or into a remote drain facility, such as by using a drain manifold and placing a common drain hose in the drain.

[0057] Alternatively, each discharge hose or common discharge hose can have a certain length, and this length enables these hoses to extend at least into the discharge tray of the distribution station, to discharge flushing clean water and disinfection ozone water to the discharge outlet of the discharge tray without splashing. The discharge hose or common discharge hose can preferably be transparent so that the liquid substance can be observed. Optionally, the turbidity of the liquid flowing in the distribution line and the pipeline can be monitored by a turbidity sensor (e.g., a turbidity meter suitable for rapid turbidity analysis and color monitoring). Monitoring the turbidity in beer, wastewater, biotechnology and chemical production applications is known to the technician. If the turbidity of the contents in the liquid distribution line becomes high, the distribution line may need a longer cleaning period and / or a longer disinfection period than other cleaning lines.

[0058] In order to extend the life of the automatic or semi-automatic in-situ cleaning system, it is preferred that at least the pipe, the second coupler and the valve in the in-situ cleaning system are made of ozone-resistant materials, preferably, the ozone-resistant materials are selected from the group consisting of stainless steel 316, stainless steel 304, ceramics, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene (PE), polycarbonate (PC), polytetrafluoroethylene PTFE, Teflon, silicone and / or titanium. Preferably, the distributor, the distribution line and / or the first coupler can also be made of one of these materials.

[0059] The inventors of the present invention have determined that the optimal concentration of dissolved ozone in the ozone water for disinfection of draft beer dispensing lines is between at least 5 ppm, preferably at least 8 ppm, and more preferably at least 10 ppm. For most types of beer dispensing lines, 6 ppm may be preferred, but fruity or very sweet, uneven or cloudy beer types may require higher concentrations to clean and disinfect the dispensing lines.

[0060] The water cleaning time period and the ozone water disinfection time period can be adjusted based on the ozone concentration in the ozone water, the pressure / velocity of the ozone water and the cleaning water, the degree of contamination of the distribution line, the frequency of cleaning and disinfection, and the types of substances that typically flow in the distribution line. This list is not exhaustive and should not be construed as limiting when determining the operating parameters for cleaning and disinfection.

[0061] Depending on the ozone concentration, the ozone water disinfection time period for disinfecting the draft beer dispensing line can be, for example, between 5 and 20 minutes, preferably between 5-15 minutes, and more preferably between 6-10 minutes. For example, at an ozone concentration of 6 ppm, the draft beer dispensing line can be flushed with ozone water for about 15 minutes, and the main water pressure is a minimum of 1 bar, typically about 2-4 bar, for example 8 liters per minute. However, it is preferred to use a higher ozone concentration for a shorter period of time.

[0062] The electronic control system may include an operating module that takes these parameters into account, for example based on measurements of the contamination state and condition of the distribution lines, and / or data of recent cleaning and disinfection operations that have been recorded by the electronic control system.

[0063] The present invention arises from the desire to provide a method and system for maintaining a draft beer dispensing system, but as described above, the present invention is equally applicable to embodiments of any type of dispenser system that requires frequent cleaning of deposits in dispensing system components (including for removing microorganisms and organic matter deposited in the system).

[0064] Thus, the automatic or semi-automatic cleaning-in-place system of the present invention is suitable for cleaning and / or disinfecting an infinite variety of dispensing systems, including but not limited to dispensing systems for dispensing liquids and other types of beverages, and dispensing systems for dispensing many different types of food, including but not limited to dispensing systems for dispensing food in the food industry (e.g., dispensing dairy products, dough in baking lines, and any other type of food), and dispensing systems for dispensing drugs in the pharmaceutical industry, etc. This list is not exhaustive, as the automatic or semi-automatic cleaning-in-place system of the present invention can be used to clean and / or disinfect any conceivable dispensing pipeline system of small, medium or large scale (including industrial level), due to its ability to be easily scaled up (including scaling up as needed).

[0065] The automatic or semi-automatic cleaning-in-place system may include an electronically controlled switch adapted to verify that the first coupler and the second coupler are fluid-tightly coupled together, thereby making the automatic or semi-automatic cleaning-in-place system safe and keeping both the water valve and the ozone water valve closed when the system is deactivated.

[0066] In some embodiments, the second coupler may have a spring-biased cover to protect its opening when the automatic or semi-automatic cleaning-in-place system is in a non-operating state. The spring inherently causes the cover to cover the opening in the second coupler, such as when the second coupler is not coupled to the first coupler. Thus, when the automatic or semi-automatic cleaning-in-place system is not in use, the spring-biased cover prevents residual liquid from dripping from the flow distribution system.

[0067] Because in some locations the distance between the storage portion of the retrieval station and the dispensing station may be quite long, the electronic control system may be configured to operate via a wireless network.

[0068] As previously mentioned, the clean water supply used to provide filtered water to the electrolytic ozone generator can be tap water. However, it is preferred that the filtered tap water is warm, for example at a temperature between 20°C and 25°C, at which temperature the generation of ozone is very effective. However, the filtered water can have any suitable temperature, including being cold.

[0069] Additionally, the cleaning water may be warm to initially dissolve and / or break down larger deposits, such as organic deposits, in the distribution lines.

[0070] The present invention also relates to a method of a system for cleaning a dispensing line between a take-out station and a dispensing station by means of the above-mentioned automatic or semi-automatic in-situ cleaning system.

[0071] The method comprises providing an automatic or semi-automatic cleaning-in-place system according to any one of the preceding claims, and performing the following steps:

[0072] a) disconnecting the selected one or more first couplings at the end of the respective dispensing line from their respective withdrawal container,

[0073] b) coupling the second coupling to each free first coupling,

[0074] c) opening the dispenser associated with the corresponding dispense line,

[0075] d) operating the electronic control system to operate the ozone water valve, water valve and flow control valve to perform a disinfection cycle, the disinfection cycle comprising:

[0076] d1) Open the selected number of flow control valves,

[0077] d2) during a water cleaning period, opening the water valve and flushing the associated distribution line between the first coupling and the discharge opening of the distributor associated with the distribution line with water,

[0078] d3) Close the water valve,

[0079] d4) during the ozone water disinfection period, opening the ozone water valve and disinfecting the distribution line between the first connector and the discharge opening of the distributor with ozone water generated by the electrolytic ozone generator,

[0080] d5) Close the ozone water valve,

[0081] d6) optionally, repeating steps d2) and d3); or optionally, repeating steps d2) to d5),

[0082] e) Close the flow control valve, and

[0083] f) Optionally, disconnecting the first connector and the second connector.

[0084] It should be emphasized that not all distribution lines need to be cleaned and / or disinfected at the same time. Multiple distribution lines can be treated and completed at the same time. However, one option is to partially treat some distribution lines with water or ozone water.

[0085] In an exemplary embodiment, step d1) is performed for all flow control valves and the distribution lines are passed through step d2). Then, step d4) is performed for one or more distribution lines, optionally on all distribution lines. How many distribution lines will undergo step d4) may be a user input by an operator. In step d5), once the distribution lines have been filled with ozone water, the ozone water valves may have been closed to allow the introduced volume of ozone water to react inside the distribution lines. In such an embodiment, step d2) is repeated.

[0086] The residence time of the introduced ozone water inside the distribution line saves production costs and only a minimum amount of ozone water is required.

[0087] In an alternative embodiment, the ozone water can also be used to flush the distribution lines simultaneously during the reaction period, so that the time for subsequent flushing of the waste decomposition products by clean water as in step d2) can be significantly reduced.

[0088] Step d4) performed on the first selected distribution line may, for example, have a dwell time of 2 minutes and thus a disinfection period of 2 minutes, while the other distribution line may be flushed for 2 minutes. Step d2) is then repeated, for example for 90 seconds for the first distribution line and for 45 seconds for the other distribution line.

[0089] The electronic control system facilitates various combinations of the above. For example, flushing some distribution lines with ozone water and allowing other distribution lines to be subjected to ozone water for a residence time can also be foreseen by management of the electronic control system.

[0090] Therefore, by operating the flow control valves on the various branch pipelines in any desired order, state and on demand, the in-situ cleaning system and its method of use provide users with a variety of options that have not been available heretofore, thereby saving time, cost, and being much more user-friendly than conventional systems and methods known heretofore for the same purpose.

[0091] A clean and sanitized dispensing environment can be reestablished by following these steps:

[0092] g) coupling the first coupler to the withdrawal container to establish fluid communication to the opened dispenser,

[0093] h) during a final flushing period, allowing the contents of the container to be removed to flush the dispensing line between the first coupling and the discharge opening, and

[0094] i) Close the dispenser.

[0095] The method may further comprise: a step b1) between steps b) and c), wherein step b1) comprises connecting a discharge hose to a discharge opening of the dispenser; and a step j) performed after step i), wherein step j) comprises disconnecting the discharge hose from the discharge opening of the dispenser to place the dispenser in a ready-to-dispense state, such as a barreled state.

[0096] The method may further comprise the additional step of recycling the remaining produced ozone water to any one of the ozone water source, ozone water supply or exhaust facility after at least step e).

[0097] The method may further comprise in step d) one or more of the following: adjusting the temperature of water supplied to the electrolytic ozone generator to between 20°C and 25°C during electrolysis; and cooling the produced ozone water using a cooling facility of the at least one distribution line.

[0098] The present invention also relates to a draft beer system, comprising the above-mentioned automatic or semi-automatic in-situ cleaning system, wherein:

[0099] - the removal container is a keg, optionally a beer keg,

[0100] -The distribution station is a distribution tower,

[0101] - the dispenser is a draft beer tap, and

[0102] - The first coupling is a barrel coupling. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0103] The automatic or semi-automatic cleaning-in-place system and method of using the same will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0104] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of an automatic or semi-automatic cleaning-in-place system, which is connected to a dispensing station. Figure 1 Shown from the beginning,

[0105] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a first embodiment of an automatic or semi-automatic cleaning-in-place system is shown in , wherein in a water cleaning step, a first embodiment of a flow distribution unit is coupled to a distribution line of a distribution station;

[0106] Figure 3 The flow distribution unit in the ozone water disinfection step is shown.

[0107] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing three series-connected flow distribution units of a first embodiment coupled to a common distribution station in an ozone water disinfection step,

[0108] Figure 5Clean water and ozone water are Figure 4 Schematic diagram of a public distribution station discharging to a public discharge facility,

[0109] Figure 6 is a perspective front view of a design of a first embodiment of a flow distribution unit configured to be suspended from a surface such as a wall,

[0110] Figure 7 shows a first embodiment of a flow distribution unit seen from the rear side,

[0111] Figure 8 is a perspective front view of the first embodiment of the flow distribution unit without the housing,

[0112] Fig. 9 The first embodiment of the flow distribution unit without the housing is shown as seen from the rear side,

[0113] Fig.10 is a perspective front view of a second embodiment of a flow distribution unit configured to be placed on a surface such as a tabletop,

[0114] Fig.11 is a schematic diagram of a second embodiment of an automated cleaning-in-place system in a mode in which a first coupler remains on a removal station during a cleaning and / or disinfecting process;

[0115] Fig.12 is a schematic diagram of a second embodiment of an automated clean-in-place system for cleaning and / or disinfecting only a portion of the length of the entire dispensing line between a take-out station and a dispensing station, and

[0116] Fig.13 is a schematic diagram of a third embodiment of an automated cleaning-in-place system in a mode in which a first coupler remains on a removal station during a cleaning and / or sanitizing process. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0117] In the detailed description that follows, for simplicity, an automatic or semi-automatic cleaning-in-place system is referred to as a "CIP system" and, purely by way of example, a CIP system is described as being used to clean and sanitize a draft beer dispensing system.

[0118] The distribution tower of the draft beer distribution system shown in the figure has two, three or six taps, and the flow distribution unit is shown as having two or three second couplers. Therefore, one flow distribution unit of the CIP system can clean more than one distribution line at the same time. It should be emphasized that any number of taps of the distribution system is within the scope of the present invention, because more and more flow distribution units can be placed in series. The flow distribution unit can have any appropriate number m of branch pipes, and flow distribution units with different m values ​​can be connected in series.

[0119] In the figure, a black flow control valve indicates that the valve is closed, while a white valve indicates that the flow control valve is open.

[0120] Although not shown in the figures, it will be appreciated that the electrical and electronic components are connected to a power source and the CIP system may have a backup power source, such as a battery, to deliver emergency power.

[0121] The term "pipeline" includes hoses, tubes and pipes. However, this list is not exhaustive.

[0122] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a CIP system 1 with a schematic diagram of a take-out station 2 connected to a distribution station 3 Figure 1 The dispensing station is a draft beer dispensing tower 4 with two taps 5a, 5b. The dispensing lines 6a, 6b have a dispenser end 7a, 7b opposite a take-off end 7a', 7b', which is connected to the taps 5a, 5b and to a first coupling 8a, 8b in the form of a keg coupling 9a, 9b. Figure 1 In the case shown, the drum couplers 9a, 9b are disconnected from the corresponding drums (not shown) and are ready to be connected to the CIP system 1 for cleaning and disinfecting the distribution lines 6a, 6b, respectively. Figure 2 (step d2 is shown)) and Figure 3 (Step d4) is shown.

[0123] The CIP system 1 has an ozone water source 10, such as an electrolytic ozone generator, which receives filtered water from a clean water supply (such as tap water) via a filter unit 11 when a water supply valve SWV is opened. Figure 3 The generated ozone water can flow into the ozone water pipe 12 through the ozone water valve OWV, and then enter the flow distribution unit 13 through the main pipe 14. Figures 1 to 3 , n=1 and m=2.

[0124] like Figure 2As shown, when the water supply valve SWV is closed, clean water can flow into the water pipe 15 through the water valve WV inserted into the water pipe 15 to enter the main pipe 14 and then enter the first embodiment of the flow distribution unit 13.

[0125] The flow distribution unit 13 has two branch pipes C1, C2 arranged in series, which branch pipes C1, C2 branch from the main pipe 14 in the flow distribution unit 13. Each branch pipe C1, C2 has a flow control valve CV1, CV2, which is arranged between the free branch end C1a, C2a and its connection C1b, C2b with the main pipe 14. Each free branch end C1a, C2a has a corresponding second coupler 16a, 16b, a so-called cleaning adapter, which is suitable for coupling in fluid communication with the first coupler 8a, 8b of the distribution station 3 and therefore with the barrel coupler 9a, 9b (such as Figure 2 and Figure 3 ) so that the barrel couplings 9a, 9b are also cleaned and disinfected in the same step as when the entire dispensing lines 6a, 6b are cleaned. Clean water or ozone water passes through the dispensing lines 6a, 6b into the faucets 5a, 5b to be discharged into the discharge device 18.

[0126] The electronic control system 17 comprises a suitable programmed control device (e.g. a PLC provided with a suitable PLC program), or other types of computers or computing devices (including devices such as suitable software programs running on a computer and developed and customized for operating and controlling the CIP system). Controlling the CIP system 1 comprises at least controlling the opening and closing of the ozone water valve OWV, the water valve WV and the flow control valves C2, C1, and optionally also controlling the cleaning water valve and the water supply valve, the ozone water disinfection time period T1 and the water cleaning time period T2. Via a user interface UI (e.g. a handheld device), the operator can customize the cleaning process to set the aforementioned time periods T1, T2, and open and close, for example, the flow control valves C1, C2 when cleaning only some of the distribution lines 6a, 6b. Electronic communication with the CIP system 1 can be achieved using a user interface UI (e.g. a graphical user interface GUI) via a wireless network (e.g. using WI-FI) to allow the operator to input operating data to the CIP system from a remote location, thereby saving valuable maintenance time.

[0127] A flow sensor F and a pressure sensor P are inserted in the main pipe 14 to monitor the flow velocity and pressure of the clean water and ozone water respectively through the flow path formed by the main pipe 14, the second coupler 16a, 16b, the first coupler 8a, 8b, the distribution line 6a, 6b and the tap 5a, 5b. If the flow velocity is too high or too low, and therefore exceeds the predetermined interval, the ozone water disinfection time period T1 may be too short or take too much time. If the pressure is too high, it may indicate that one or more taps are not open, so that the clean water and ozone water cannot be freely discharged into the common discharge device 18 as shown by the arrow A. More sensors and different sensors can be set at any position in one or more pipes of the CIP system 1, and only one of the flow sensor F and the pressure sensor P may be required. If the main pressure proves that the method of the present invention cannot be satisfactorily implemented, the CIP system may include one or more pumps arranged in the relevant pipes.

[0128] exist Figure 4 In the arrangement shown, n=3, the flow distribution units 13, 13.1, 13.2 are arranged in series to serve a maximum total of six taps 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e, 5f of the distribution station 3. Accordingly, the total number of branch pipes C1, C2; C1.1, C2.2; C1.2, C2.2 is m=6. The second couplers 16a, 16b, 16c, 16d, 16e, 16f at the ends of the branch pipes C1, C2; C1.1, C2.2; C1.2, C2.2 are connected to the first couplers 8a, 8b, 8c, 8d, 8e, 8f of the distribution lines 6a, 6b, 6c, 6d, 6e, 6f, which are connected to the taps 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e, 5f on the opposite ends. Thus, Figure 4 The CIP system shown in is a modularly constructed system comprising several flow distribution units 13 utilizing the same clean water supply and the same ozone water source. It should be emphasized that the CIP system can be scaled up to any desired size and need.

[0129] At the last flow distribution unit 13.2 of a series of flow distribution units 13, 13.1, 13.2, after the flow control valves CV1, CV1.1, CV1.2 have been closed, the main pipeline 14 can recycle its residual amount of ozone water to the ozone water source 10 or to the ozone water pipeline 15 via the recirculation pipeline 19 at the end of step d4). In this case, the residual amount of ozone water is recycled to the electrolytic ozone generator 10, so that the flow distribution units 13, 13.1, 13.2 and the corresponding branch pipelines 14, C1, C2, C1.1, C2.1, C1.2, C2.2 are substantially free of ozone water, thereby reducing the time that the flow distribution units 13, 13.1, 13.2 are exposed to ozone water and extending the life of their structural components. The recirculation line 19 has a recirculation valve RV which is closed until the cleaning method is completed, for example when the electronic control system registers that the flow control valves CV1, CV1.1, CV1.2 have been closed or that the first coupling 8a, 8b and the second coupling 16a, 16b have been disconnected. Figure 4 In the schematic diagram shown, the flow control valve CV2.1 of the middle flow distribution unit 13.1 is closed, and the tap 5d, the distribution line 6d and the first connector 8d are not cleaned or disinfected. Figure 4 Shown is the option of customizing the dispensing lines to be cleaned.

[0130] Figure 5 2 is a schematic diagram of a discharge manifold 20 having a plurality of m=6 discharge hoses 21a, 21b, 21c, 21d, 21e, 21f, which are fixed to the outlets of m=6 taps 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e, 5f. As shown by arrow B, the discharge hoses 21a, 21b, 21c, 21d, 21e, 21f are discharged via a manifold body 22 into a common discharge hose 23, which can have any suitable convenient length to reach a selected discharge facility 24.

[0131] Figure 6 and Figure 7 A flow distribution unit suspended from a wall is shown, hereinafter referred to as a wall plate 25. Figure 6 In FIG. 2 , the wall panel 25 is seen from the front with the second couplings 16a, 16b exposed. Figure 7 In FIG. 2 , the same panel 25 is seen from the rear side.

[0132] The wall plate 25 has a housing 26, which accommodates the arrangement of the main pipeline 14, the branch pipelines C1, C2 and the flow control valves CV1, CV2, as shown in FIG. Figure 8 , Fig. 9 and Fig.10 is shown in more detail in a partial view of FIG.

[0133] The housing 26 has a rear suspension device 27, which is suitable for engaging a connecting rail 28 mounted on the wall. The wall plate 25 can therefore be easily hung on the wall. The wall plate 25 can be placed in a fixed position, for example fixed to the connecting rail 28 with screws, or can slide freely along the connecting rail 28. The housing 26 has a lower housing part 26a with a lower front wall 29, and the second coupler 16a, 16b is protrudingly mounted to the lower front wall 29. The second coupler 16a, 16b protrudes from the lower front wall 29 and defines a flow path leading to the branch pipe C1, C2, which extends from the upper housing part 26b of the housing 26. When the second coupler 16a, 16b is to be connected and disconnected from the second coupler 8a, 8b (for example, the barrel coupler 9a, 9b), the lower housing part 26a provides a solid support for the second coupler 16a, 16b. The lower housing part 26a extends upwardly into the upper housing part 26b, which is bent away from the wall on which the housing is suspended by an angle of ≤90°, so that the front face 30 of the upper housing part 26b is turned to facilitate visual inspection during the cleaning and disinfection process, such as checking and monitoring indicators 31a, 31b provided at the front face 30 of the upper housing part 26b, so as to visually identify whether the dispensing lines 6a, 6b are open. When viewed from the front of the housing, the angle between the upper housing part 26b and the lower housing part 26a is ≥90°. Suitable indicators 31a, 31b can be, for example, RGB LEDs operated by an electronic control system.

[0134] like Figure 8 As shown, water or ozone water flows through the main pipe 14 as shown by arrow F1, and enters the wall plate 13 at the top of the upper shell part 26b of the shell 26 as shown by arrow F2. At the first connection portion C1a, the main pipe 14 has a first branch pipe C1, as shown by arrow F3.1, and at the subsequent downstream second connection portion C2a, the main pipe 14 has a second branch pipe C2, as shown by arrow F3.2, after which the main pipe 14 leaves the wall plate 25 as shown by arrow F5, and optionally extends to the recirculation pipe 19 or another wall plate.

[0135] The first branch conduit C1 and the second branch conduit C2 have respective in-line flow control valves CV1, CV2 downstream of the respective connections C1a, C1b. The first branch conduit C1 and the second branch conduit C2 then turn several times until they enter the second couplings 16a, 16b and thus the cleaning adapter. The turns of the branch conduits C1, C2 allow a compact arrangement of the flow paths within the housing 26 and thus provide a very compact wall panel 25 that does not take up much space when hung on a wall (not shown).

[0136] The free branch end C1a of the first branch pipe C1 is fixed to the first inlet 32 ​​of the second coupler 16a, and the free branch end C2a of the second branch pipe C2 is fixed to the second inlet 33 of the next second coupler 16b, so that the second couplers 16a, 16b are arranged in series along the main pipe 14. Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, when the first coupler 8a, 8b (eg, tub coupler 9a, 9b) is coupled to the second coupler 16a, 16b, the clean water or ozone water may then flow out of the second coupler 16a, 16b, as indicated by arrows F4.1, F4.2.

[0137] The second couplers 16a, 16b each have a respective rear mounting flange 34a, 34b, a free front flange 35a, 35b and a tubular flow body 36a, 36b located between the flanges 35a, 35b; 36a, 36b. The free front flanges 35a, 35b have respective inlet openings 37a, 37b, which lead to cleaning passages 38a, 38b in fluid communication with the inlets 32, 33. The rear mounting flanges 34a, 34b are portions of the second couplers 16a, 16b for fixing the second couplers 16a, 16b to the housing 26, and the free front flanges 35a, 35b are adapted to be coupled to the first couplers 8a, 8b.

[0138] Fig.10 A bench model of a flow distribution unit 39 is shown, in which the ozone water valve OWV and the water valve WV are concealed in a housing 40. The ozone water pipe 12 and the clean water pipe 15 also merge into the main pipe 14 in the housing 40. The functional principle otherwise corresponds to that of the wall plate 25. The handles 41a, 41b make it easy to move the distribution unit 39 around, so that the hoses and pipes of the CIP system can be shortened, since the CIP system can be brought to the distribution line.

[0139] The front flanges 35a, 35b may conveniently be of a universal design configured to couple with any desired second coupler 8a, 8b (eg, a barrel coupler 9a, 9b).

[0140] However, in case the barrel coupler design changes, the second coupler can be easily removed from the housing and replaced with another suitable second coupler adapted to engage this new design of the barrel coupler. In an alternative, an intermediate coupling component can be used as a transition member between the existing second coupler and the newly designed first coupler. The CIP system of the present invention can include several intermediate replacement coupling components to match any conceivable design of the first coupler, making the CIP system of the present invention versatile and independent of a specific first coupler design.

[0141] The flow paths F1, F2, F3.1, F3.2, F4.1, F4.2, F5 are assembled from hoses, tubes and / or other types of pipes of appropriate length assembled by tight fittings. Such fittings are known to the skilled person and will not be discussed in detail.

[0142] Fig.11 is a schematic diagram of a second embodiment of a cleaning-in-place (CIP) system 1a according to the invention. The second embodiment of the CIP system 1a is a modification of the first embodiment of the automatic and / or semi-automatic cleaning-in-place system 1 and the same reference numerals are used for the same parts.

[0143] A second embodiment of the cleaning-in-place (CIP) system 1a has n=3 modified flow distribution units 13', 13.1', 13.2', each of which operates on a distribution line 6a', 6a", 6b', 6b", 6c', 6c" and associated distributors 5a, 5b, 5c. The modified flow distribution units 13', 13.1', 13.2' constitute a second embodiment of the flow distribution unit according to the present invention.

[0144] The CIP system 1a is highly automated since the first couplings 8a, 8b, 8c at the respective withdrawal ends 7a', 7b', 7c' of the distribution lines 6a', 6a", 6b', 6b", 6c', 6c" can remain on the respective withdrawal containers 2a, 2b, 2c during the cleaning and / or sterilization process.

[0145] The modified flow distribution unit 13', 13.1', 13.2' has n=2 branch pipes C1, C2; C1.1, C2.1; C1.2, C2.2 on the main pipe 14, that is, the first branch pipe C1, C1.1, C1.2 and the second branch pipe C2, C2.1, C2.2 connected in series with the first branch pipe C1, C1.1, C1.2. The first branch pipe C1, C1.1, C1.2 has a first check valve 42a, 42a1, 42a2, followed by a first flow control valve CV1, CV1.1, CV2.1, and ends at the first and second couplers 16a, 16c, 16e. The flow direction of the first check valve 42a, 42a1, 42a2 is toward the first flow control valve CV1, CV1.1, CV2.1, so that backflow into the main pipe 14 does not occur. The second branch pipes C2, C2.1, C2.2 have second check valves 43a, 43a1, 43a2 and terminate at second second couplers 16b, 16d, 16f. The flow direction of the second check valves 43a, 43a1, 43a2 is toward the main pipe 14. The branch pipes DC1, DC2, DC3 are connected to the first branch pipes C1, C1.1, C1.2 between the first check valves 42a, 42a1, 42a2 and the flow control valves CV1, CV1.1, CV2.1 and terminate at third second couplers 16g, 16h, 16i. The second flow control valves CV2, CV1.2, CV2.2 are arranged in the branch pipes DC1, DC2, DC3.

[0146] The distribution lines 6a', 6a", 6b', 6b", 6c', 6c" of the CIP system 1a have first distribution line sections 6a', 6b', 6c', which have withdrawal ends 7a', 7b', 7c' with first couplers 8a, 8b, 8c. The ends of the first distribution line sections 6a', 6b', 6c' opposite to the withdrawal ends 7a', 7b', 7c' are intermediate coupling ends, which are provided with another first coupler 8a', 8b', 8c', and the other first coupler 8a', 8b', 8c' is constructed to be connected to the third second coupler 16g, 16h, 16i of the flow distribution unit 13', 13.1', 13.2'.

[0147] The second distribution line sections 6a", 6b", 6c" have distributor ends 7a, 7b, 7c connected to the distributors 5a, 5b, 5b. The ends of the second distribution line sections 6a", 6b", 6c" opposite to the distributor ends 7a, 7b, 7c have yet another first connector 8a", 8b", 8c". The second distribution line sections 6a', 6b', 6c' are connected to the distributors 5a, 5b, 5c in liquid communication with the flow distribution units 13', 13.1', 13.2', and the first distribution line sections 6a', 6b', 6c' are connected to the removal containers 2a, 2b, 2c in liquid communication with the flow distribution units 13', 13.1', 13.2'.

[0148] Therefore, whether it is the content of the withdrawal container 2a, 2b, 2c, clean water or ozone water, the liquid flows through the modified flow distribution unit 13', 13.1', 13.2'.

[0149] exist Fig.11 In the mode shown, the CIP system 1a is operating to disinfect the first distribution line sections 6a', 6b', 6c' and the distributors 5a, 5b, 5c with ozone water supplied via the ozone water valve OWV. The first check valves 42a, 42a1, 42a2 and the flow control valves CV1, CV1.1, CV2.1 are open and allow ozone water to pass through the first distribution line sections 6a', 6b', 6c' and the distributors 5a, 5b, 5c. Fig.11 In the mode shown, the second flow control valves CV2, CV1.2, CV2.2 are closed and the second distribution line sections 6a", 6b", 6c" are not disinfected. The same procedure can be carried out with clean water and flushing with ozone water and clean water can be repeated as long as necessary to meet cleaning and disinfection requirements (e.g. bacteria count standards).

[0150] After satisfactory cleaning and / or disinfection, the ozone water valve and the water valve are closed. The second flow control valve CV2, CV1.2, CV2.2 (not shown) is then opened, thereby allowing the contents of the withdrawal containers 2a, 2b, 2c to flow through the first distribution line portions 6a', 6b', 6c' through another first coupler 8a', 8b', 8c' and the third second coupler 16g, 16h, 16i connected to each other, and through the opened second flow control valve CV2, CV1.2, CV2.2 and the diversion conduits DC1, DC2, DC3. As shown by arrow A, in response to opening the distributors 5a, 5b, 5c, the fluid is diverted from the diversion pipes DC1, DC2, DC3 to the first branch pipes C1, C1.1, C1.2, and flows through the flow control valves CV1, CV1.1, CV2.1, out of the interconnected first and second connectors 16a, 16c, 16e and another first connector 8a", 8b", 8c", into the second distribution pipeline sections 6a', 6b', 6c' and out of the distributors 5a, 5b, 5c.

[0151] Since each distribution line has a modified flow distribution unit 13', 13.1', 13.2' (having a more complex valve system than the first embodiment of the flow distribution unit 13, 13.1, 13.2 of the first embodiment of the CIP system 1), the second embodiment of the CIP system 1a makes it possible to clean selected distribution lines while the remaining distribution lines are in an operational distribution mode. The remotely placed withdrawal container 2a, 2b, 2c can have a very long second distribution line portion 6a", 6b", 6c", which according to the second embodiment of the CIP system 1a can be cleaned and disinfected in response to an instruction from another location away from the location of the withdrawal container 2a, 2b, 2c, which makes the CIP system 1a essentially automatic in cleaning the second distribution line portions 6a", 6b", 6c" (and therefore cleaning most of the distribution lines 6a, 6b, 6c).

[0152] However, the first distribution line sections 6a', 6b', 6c' Fig.11 The method of cleaning the first distribution line sections 6a', 6b', 6c' is as follows: Fig.12 It is shown in Fig.12 and Fig.11The difference is that the first coupler 8a, 8b, 8c has been moved and connected to the second second coupler 16b, 16d, 16f. The ozone water can flow into the branch pipes DC1, DC2, DC3 and pass through the first annular distribution line section 6a', 6b', 6c' through another first coupler 8a', 8b', 8c' and the third second coupler 16g, 16h, 16i connected to each other, and enter the second branch pipes C2, C2.1, C2.2 through the first coupler 8a, 8b, 8c and the second second coupler 16b, 16d, 16f connected to each other, so as to be recirculated to the main pipe 14 through the second check valve 43a, 43a1, 43a2. At the same time, as described above, the second distribution line portions 6a", 6b", 6c" are disinfected with ozone water or cleaned with clean water for comprehensive cleaning. Therefore, all of these first connectors, second connectors, flow distribution units and distribution lines are cleaned in this semi-automatic procedure.

[0153] exist Fig.12 In the embodiment, all flow control valves CV1, CV1.1, CV1.2; CV2, CV2.1, CV2.2 are open so that the first couplings 8a, 8b, 8c and the first distribution line sections 6a', 6b', 6c' can also be cleaned and disinfected. Fig.12 In the embodiment, the recirculation valve RV is closed, but it can be opened to allow the residual ozone water or clean water flowing in the main pipe 14 to flow out from the outlet end 14' to leave through the last flow distribution unit 13.2" in series.

[0154] Fig.13 A third embodiment of a CIP system 1 b is shown, which is a modification of the second embodiment of the automatic and / or semi-automatic CIP system 1 a and of the first embodiment of the automatic and / or semi-automatic CIP system 1 a. For similar parts, the same reference numerals are used.

[0155] In a third embodiment of the CIP system 1 b, the first distribution line sections 6a', 6b', 6c' (comprising the first couplings 8a, 8b, 8c at the withdrawal ends 7a', 7b', 7c' and the further first couplings 8a", 8b", 8c" at the opposite ends) are intended to be cleaned and sterilized in a separate process from the CIP system 1 b, and therefore without major stops in the operation of the distribution system, but requiring manual replacement. Thus, when cleaning and sterilization of the contaminated first distribution line sections 6a', 6b', 6c' is required, the first distribution line sections The first distribution line sections 6a', 6b', 6c' and the associated first couplers 8a, 8b, 8c; 8a", 8b", 8c" are simply replaced with another cleaned and disinfected first distribution line section 6a', 6b', 6c' (which has similar first couplers 8a, 8b, 8c; 8a", 8b", 8c" at the opposite ends). The first distribution line sections 6a', 6b', 6c', the first couplers 8a, 8b, 8c and the further first couplers 8a", 8b", 8c" can be cleaned and disinfected when convenient and reused after appropriate cleaning and disinfection.

[0156] The flow distribution unit 13", 13.1", 13.2" of the third embodiment of the CIP system 1b is a third embodiment of the flow distribution unit 13", 13.1", 13.2", and its difference from the construction of the third embodiment of the flow distribution unit 13', 13.1', 13.2' is that the first flow control valve CV1, CV1.1, CV2.1 is arranged in the main pipeline 14 upstream of the connection C1b, C1b', C1b" between the main pipeline 14 and the first branch pipeline C1, C1.1, C1.2 of the flow distribution unit 13", 13.1", 13.2", and the second flow control valve CV2, CV1.2, CV2.2 is arranged in the main pipeline 14 downstream of the connection C2b, C2b', C2b" between the main pipeline 14 and the second branch pipeline C2, C2.1, C2.2 of the flow distribution unit 13", 13.1", 13.2".

[0157] exist Fig.13 In the mode shown, the second control valves CV2, CV21, C2.2 at the second branch pipes C2, C2', C2" are closed, and the ozone water flows through the first branch pipes C1, C1', C1" via the main pipe 14 and enters the second distribution line sections 6a", 6b", 6c", and flows out of the distributors 5a, 5b, 5c. The first distribution line sections 6a', 6b', 6c' are not disinfected.

[0158] Once cleaning and / or disinfection has been completed, the electronic control system 17 places the third embodiment of the CIP system in a dispensing mode (not shown). In the dispensing mode, the first flow control valve CV1, CV1.1, CV2.1 is closed and the second flow control valve CV2, CV1.2, CV2.2 is opened, whereby dispensing of the contents of the withdrawal container 2a, 2b, 2c, such as beer, can begin. In response to opening the dispenser, the contents will be sucked into the first dispensing line portion 6a', 6b', 6c', through the further first coupling 8a', 8b', 8c' and the second coupling 16b, 16d, 16f connected to each other into the second branch conduit C2, C2.1, C2.2 and through the non-return valve 43a, 43a1, 43a.2 back through the portion of the main conduit 14 extending in the flow distribution unit 13, 13.1, 13.2 and further into the first branch conduit C1, C1.1, C1.2. The flowing contents then leave the flow distribution units 13, 13.1, 13.2 via the interconnected further first connectors 8a", 8b", 8c" and second connectors 16a, 16c, 16e, from which the contents flow into the second distribution line sections 6a", 6b", 6c" and out of the distributors 5a, 5b, 5c. The electronic control system 17 is responsible for operating the flow control valves.

[0159] The automatic or semi-automatic cleaning-in-place system and method of the present invention provides an appropriate solution and procedure for cleaning and sanitizing the dispensing lines, thereby preventing the accumulation of organic matter and mineral deposits while eliminating taste-altering microorganisms. Together with a well-designed and diligent maintenance program executed by an electronic control system for operating and controlling cleaning, a trouble-free draft beer dispensing system is ensured to dispense fresh, delicious draft beer in operation.

[0160] In contrast to many other chemical disinfectants, ozone is more effective at low temperatures due to its increased stability. Thus, when the ozone water flows through the cooled draft beer dispensing line, the ozone water is inherently cooled, so that cooling is applied, whereby the concentration of dissolved ozone in the ozone water remains high during the entire cooling flow path to the discharge of the at least one dispensing line, whereby energy costs can be significantly reduced and the disinfection efficiency is particularly high and reliable.

Claims

1. An automatic or semi-automatic cleaning-in-place system (1; 1a; 1b), the automatic or semi-automatic cleaning-in-place system (1; 1a; 1b) being suitable for cleaning at least one dispensing line (6a, 6b, 6c, 6d, 6e, 6f) between a take-out station (2) comprising at least one take-out container (2a, 2b, 2c) and a dispensing station (3) comprising at least one dispenser (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e, 5f); 6a', 6b', 6c'; 6a", 6b", 6c") are cleaned and disinfected, wherein the distribution pipeline (6a, 6b, 6c, 6d, 6e, 6f; 6a', 6b', 6c'; 6a", 6b", 6c") has: a removal end portion (7a', 7b'), the removal end portion (7a', 7b') being provided with a first coupler (8a, 8b; 8c, 8d; 8e, 8f; 9a, 9b; 8a', 8a", 8b', 8b", 8c', 8c",) configured to be coupled to the removal container (2a, 2b, 2c); and Opposite distributor ends (7a, 7b), the distributor ends (7a, 7b) being adapted to be connected to the distributors (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e, 5f); an ozone water source (10), the ozone water source (10) being connected to an ozone water pipeline (12); as well as a clean water supply (CW) connected to a water pipe (15), The automatic or semi-automatic in-situ cleaning system (1; 1a; 1b) includes: an ozone water valve (OWV), the ozone water valve (OWV) being inserted into the ozone water pipeline (12), a water valve (WV), said water valve (WV) being inserted into said water conduit (15), a main pipeline (14), the main pipeline (14) being configured to sequentially receive water from the water pipeline (15) and ozone water from the ozone water pipeline (12), The main pipeline (14) extends to a first plurality of flow distribution units (13; 13.1; 13.2; 13'; 13.1'; 13.2'; 13"; 13.1"; 13.2") arranged in series, wherein n≥1 The flow distribution units in the first plurality of flow distribution units (13; 13.1; 13.2; 13'; 13.1'; 13.2'; 13", 13.1", 13.2") arranged in series include a second plurality of branch pipes (C1, C2; C1.1, C2.1; C1.2; C2.2) arranged in series on the main pipe (14) of m≥2, so as to sequentially receive water from the water pipe (15) and ozone water from the ozone water pipe (12) via the main pipe (14), At least one of the at least two branch pipes (C1, C2; C1.1, C2.1; C1.2, C2.2) has: at least one flow control valve (CV1, CV2; CV1.1, CV1.2; CV2.1, CV2.2), the at least one flow control valve (CV1, CV2; CV1.1, CV1.2; CV2.1, CV2.2) being arranged between the free branch end (C1a, C2a) and its connection (C1b, C2b; C1b', C2b'; C1b", C2b") with the main pipeline (14), and a second coupler (16a, 16b; 16c, 16d; 16e, 16f), the second coupler (16a, 16b; 16c, 16d; 16e, 16f) being arranged at the free branch end (C1a, C2a), the second coupler (16a, 16b; 16c, 16d; 16e, 16f) being adapted to be coupled in fluid communication with the first coupler (8a, 8b; 8c, 8d; 8e, 8f; 9a, 9b; 8a', 8a", 8b', 8b", 8c', 8c"), and An electronic control system (17) configured to operate and control at least the operating states of the ozone water valve (OWV), the water valve (WV) and the flow control valve (CV1, CV2; CV1.1, CV1.2; CV2.1, CV2.2), wherein The ozone water source is an electrolytic ozone generator (10) configured to generate ozone water as needed by electrolyzing water from a clean water supply (CW), the concentration of dissolved ozone in the ozone water being at least 5 ppm.

2. The automatic or semi-automatic in-situ cleaning system (1; 1a; 1b) according to claim 1, characterized in that: The electronic control system (17) is configured to operate and control the ozone water valve (OWV), the water valve (WV) and the flow control valve (CV1, CV2; CV1.1, CV1.2; CV2.1, CV2.2) sequentially and in any selected order and number of times to: During a water cleaning period (T2), water is conveyed through the at least one distribution line (6a, 6b, 6c, 6d, 6e, 6f; 6a', 6b', 6c'; 6a", 6b", 6c") to flush the distribution lines (6a, 6b, 6c, 6d, 6e, 6f; 6a', 6b', 6c'; 6a", 6b", 6c"), and delivering ozone water to the at least one selected distribution line (6a, 6b, 6c, 6d, 6e, 6f) during an ozone water disinfection time period (T1); 6a', 6b', 6c'; 6a", 6b", 6c"), to the distribution lines (6a, 6b, 6c, 6d, 6e, 6f; 6a', 6b', 6c'; 6a", 6b", 6c") for disinfection.

3. The automatic or semi-automatic cleaning-in-place system (1; 1a; 1b) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 or 2, characterized in that The clean water supply (CW) to the electrolytic ozone generator (10) is filtered water (11) from the clean water supply (CW).

4. The automatic or semi-automatic in-situ cleaning system (1; 1a; 1b) according to claim 3, characterized in that: The clean water supply is tap water.

5. The automatic or semi-automatic cleaning-in-place system (1; 1a; 1b) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 or 2, characterized in that In the flow distribution unit (13; The outlet end (14') of the main pipeline (14) at the nth one of the main pipelines (13', 13.1', 13.2': 13", 13.1", 13.2") is connected to the ozone water source (10) or to the ozone water pipeline in recirculating fluid communication via a recirculation valve (RV), the recirculation valve (RV) being configured to be closed when at least one of the water valve (WV), the ozone water valve (OWV) and the flow control valves (CV1, CV2; CV1.1, CV1.2; CV2.1, CV2.2) is opened, and the recirculation valve (RV) can be opened by the electronic control system (17) when at least some of the flow control valves (CV1, CV2; CV1.1, CV1.2; CV2.1, CV2.2) are closed.

6. The automatic or semi-automatic in-situ cleaning system (1; 1a; 1b) according to claim 5, characterized in that: When all flow control valves (CV1, CV2; CV1.1, CV1.2; CV2.1, CV2.2) are closed, the recirculation valve (RV) can be opened by the electronic control system (17).

7. An automatic or semi-automatic cleaning-in-situ system (1; 1a; 1b), characterized in that include: a flow sensor (F), the flow sensor (F) being arranged in one or more main pipes in the main pipe (14) and / or in one or more branch pipes in the branch pipes (C1, C2; C1.1, C2.1; C1.2, C2.2), and / or a pressure sensor (P), the pressure sensor (P) being arranged in one or more main pipelines in the main pipeline (14) and / or one or more branch pipelines in the branch pipelines (C1, C2; C1.1, C2.1; C1.2, C2.2), or a combination thereof, These sensors (F, P) are operatively connected to the electronic control system (17).

8. An automatic or semi-automatic cleaning-in-place system (1; 1a; 1b), characterized in that The invention comprises a discharge manifold (20) having a plurality of distribution lines (6a, 6b, 6c, 6d, 6e, 6f; 6a', 6b', 6c'; 6a", 6b", 6c"), wherein the discharge hoses (21a, 21b, 21c, 21d, 21e, 21f) are discharged into a common discharge hose (23).

9. The automatic or semi-automatic cleaning-in-place system (1; 1a; 1b) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 or 2, characterized in that The system is configured to discharge directly into a drain (18; 24) during cleaning of the dispenser (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e, 5f).

10. The automatic or semi-automatic cleaning-in-situ system (1; 1a; 1b) according to claim 9, characterized in that: The discharge device (18; 24) is a sewer, a sink, a floor drain or a discharge tray of the dispensing station or a remote discharge facility.

11. An automatic or semi-automatic cleaning-in-place system (1; 1a; 1b) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 or 2, characterised in that It comprises at least one check valve (42a, 43a; 42a1, 43a1; 42a2, 43a2), wherein the check valve (42a, 43a; 42a1, 43a1; 42a2, 43a2) is inserted into one or more of the branch pipes (C1, C2; C1.1, C2.1; C1.2, C2.2), the main pipe (14), the ozone water pipe (12), the water pipe (15) and the recirculation pipe (19).

12. The automatic or semi-automatic cleaning-in-place system (1; 1a; 1b) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 or 2, characterized in that At least the main pipe (14), the branch pipes (C1, C2; C1.1, C2.1; C1.2, C2.2), the second connector (16a, 16b; 16c, 16d; 16e, 16f) and the valve (OWV, CV1, CV2; CV1.1, CV1.2; CV2.1, CV2.2; RV; 42a, 43a; 42a1, 43a1; 42a2, 43a2) of the in-situ cleaning system (1; 1a; 1b) are made of ozone-resistant material.

13. The automatic or semi-automatic cleaning-in-situ system (1; 1a; 1b) according to claim 12, characterized in that: The ozone resistant material is selected from the group consisting of stainless steel 316, stainless steel 304, ceramic, polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene, polycarbonate, polytetrafluoroethylene, Teflon, silicone and / or titanium.

14. The automatic or semi-automatic cleaning-in-place system (1; 1a; 1b) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 or 2, characterized in that The system is configured to provide, when in use, a method for dispensing draft beer in the draft beer dispensing pipeline (6a, 6b, 6c, 6d, 6e, 6f; 6a', 6b', 6c'; 6a", 6b", 6c") The concentration of dissolved ozone in the ozone water for disinfection is at least 8 ppm.

15. The automatic or semi-automatic cleaning-in-situ system (1; 1a; 1b) according to claim 14, characterized in that: The concentration of dissolved ozone is at least 10 ppm.

16. The automatic or semi-automatic cleaning-in-place system (1; 1a; 1b) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 or 2, characterized in that When in use, the system is configured to include an ozone water disinfection time period (T1) for disinfecting the draft beer dispensing pipeline (6a, 6b, 6c, 6d, 6e, 6f; 6a', 6b', 6c'; 6a", 6b", 6c"), and the ozone water disinfection time period (T1) lasts for 5 to 20 minutes.

17. The automatic or semi-automatic cleaning-in-situ system (1; 1a; 1b) according to claim 16, characterized in that The ozone water disinfection time period (T1) lasts from 5 to 15 minutes.

18. The automatic or semi-automatic cleaning-in-situ system (1; 1a; 1b) according to claim 16, characterized in that: The ozone water disinfection time period (T1) lasts from 6 to 10 minutes.

19. An automatic or semi-automatic cleaning-in-place system (1; 1a; 1b) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 or 2, characterised in that An electronically controlled switch is included, which is suitable for verifying that the first connector (8a, 8b; 8c, 8d; 8e, 8f; 9a, 9b; 8a', 8a", 8b', 8b", 8c', 8c") and the second connector (16a, 16b; 16c, 16d; 16e, 16f) are fluid-tightly connected together.

20. The automatic or semi-automatic cleaning-in-place system (1; 1a; 1b) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 or 2, characterized in that The electronic control system (17) is configured to operate via a wireless network.

21. The automatic or semi-automatic cleaning-in-place system (1b) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 or 2, characterized in that is reshaped so that: At least one first flow control valve (CV1; CV1.1; CV2.1) of the flow distribution unit (13", 13.1", 13.2") is arranged in the main pipeline (14) upstream of a connection portion (C1b; C1b'; C1b") between the main pipeline (14) and a first branch pipeline (C1; C1.1; C1.2) of the flow distribution unit (13", 13.1", 13.2"), and at least one second flow control valve (CV2; CV1.2; CV2.2) of the flow distribution unit (13", 13.1", 13.2") is arranged in the main pipeline (14) downstream of a connection portion (C2b; C2b'; C2b") between the main pipeline (14) and a second branch pipeline (C2; C2.1, C2.2) of the flow distribution unit (13", 13.1", 13.2") 22. The automatic or semi-automatic cleaning-in-place system (1a) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 or 2, characterized in that A flow distribution conduit (DC1; DC2; DC3) provides liquid communication between a second connector of a first flow distribution unit (13", 13.1", 13.2") and at least one of subsequent second connectors connected in series with the second connector of a second flow distribution unit (13'; 13.1': 13.2').

23. A distribution pipeline (6a, 6b, 6c, 6d, 6e, 6f; 6f) between a take-out station (2) and a distribution station (3); 6a', 6b', 6c'; 6a", 6b", 6c") system for cleaning and / or disinfecting, characterized in that An automatic or semi-automatic cleaning-in-place system (1; 1a; 1b) according to any one of the preceding claims is provided and performs the following steps: a) disconnecting the selected one or more first couplings (8a, 8b; 8c, 8d; 8e, 8f; 9a, 9b; 8a', 8a", 8b', 8b", 8c', 8c") at the end of the respective dispensing line (6a, 6b, 6c, 6d, 6e, 6f; 6a', 6b', 6c'; 6a", 6b", 6c") from its respective withdrawal container (2a, 2b, 2c), b) coupling the second couplings (16a, 16b; 16c, 16d; 16e, 16f) to the respective free first couplings (8a, 8b; 8c, 8d; 8e, 8f; 9a, 9b; 8a', 8a", 8b', 8b", 8c', 8c", c) opening the distributor (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e, 5f) associated with the corresponding distribution line (6a, 6b, 6c, 6d, 6e, 6f; 6a', 6b', 6c'; 6a", 6b", 6c"), d) operating the electronic control system (17) to operate at least the ozone water valve (OWV), the water valve (WV) and the flow control valves (CV1, CV2; CV1.1, CV1.2; CV2.1, CV2.2) to perform a disinfection cycle, including: d1) Open the selected number of flow control valves (CV1, CV2; CV1.1, CV1.2; CV2.1, CV2.2), d2) during the water cleaning time period (T2), opening the water valve (WV) and flushing with water the associated distribution line (6a, 6b, 6c, 6d, 6e, 6f; 6a', 6b', 6c'; 6a", 6b", 6c") between the first coupling (8a', 8a", 8b', 8b", 8c', 8c") and the discharge opening of the distributor (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e, 5f) associated with the distribution line (6a, 6b, 6c, 6d, 6e, 6f; 6a', 6b', 6c'; 6a", 6b", 6c"), d3) closing the water valve (WV), d4) during an ozone water disinfection time period (T1), opening the ozone water valve (OWV) and disinfecting a distribution line (6a, 6b, 6c, 6d, 6e, 6f; 6a', 6b', 6c'; 6a", 6b", 6c") between the first connector (8a, 8b; 8c, 8d; 8e, 8f; 9a, 9b; 8a', 8a", 8b', 8b", 8c', 8c") and the discharge opening of the distributor (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e, 5f) with ozone water generated by an electrolytic ozone generator (10), the electrolytic ozone generator (10) being configured to generate ozone water by electrolyzing water from a clean water supply (CW) as needed, d5) closing the ozone water valve (OWV), and e) Close the flow control valves (CV1, CV2; CV1.1, CV1.2; CV2.1, CV2.2).

24. The method according to claim 23, characterized in that The method further comprises: d6) repeating steps d2) and d3); or repeating steps d2) to d5).

25. The method according to claim 23, characterized in that The method further comprises: f) disconnecting the first connector (8a, 8b; 8c, 8d; 8e, 8f; 9a, 9b; 8a', 8a", 8b', 8b", 8c', 8c") and the second connector (16a, 16b; 16c, 16d; 16e, 16f).

26. The method according to claim 23, characterized in that The method further comprises: a step b1) between steps b) and c), wherein said step b1) comprises coupling a discharge hose (21a, 21b, 21c, 21d, 21f) to a discharge opening of a dispenser (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e, 5f), and Step j) is performed after step i) of closing the dispenser, wherein step j) comprises disconnecting the discharge hose (21a, 21b, 21c, 21d, 21f) of the discharge opening of the dispenser (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e, 5f).

27. The method according to any one of claims 23 to 26, characterized in that The method further comprises the additional step of recycling the remaining produced ozone water to any one of the ozone water source (10), the ozone water pipeline (12) or the discharge facility (18) at least after step e).

28. The method according to any one of claims 23 to 26, characterized in that The method further comprises the additional step of flushing the dispensing line (6a, 6b, 6c, 6d, 6e, 6f; 6a', 6b', 6c'; 6a", 6b", 6c") with the content of the withdrawal container (2a, 2b, 2c).

29. The method according to any one of the preceding claims 23 to 26, characterized in that The method further comprises one or more of the following in step d): during electrolysis, adjusting the temperature of water supplied to the electrolytic ozone water generator (10) to 20°C-25°C; and using the at least one distribution pipeline (6a, 6b, 6c, 6d, 6e, 6f; 6a', 6b', 6c'; 6a", 6b", 6c") cooling facilities are used to cool the generated ozone water.

30. A draft beer system comprising an automatic or semi-automatic cleaning-in-place system (1; 1a; 1b) according to any one of the preceding claims 1-22, characterized in that: The removal container (2a, 2b, 2c) is a barrel, The distribution station (3) is a distribution tower, The dispensers (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e, 5f) are draft beer taps, and The first coupler (8a, 8b; 8c, 8d; 8e, 8f; 9a, 9b; 8a', 8a", 8b', 8b", 8c', 8c") is a barrel coupler (9a, 9b).

31. The draft beer system according to claim 30, characterized in that: The barrel is a beer barrel.

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