Liquid dispenser, dispensing system with liquid dispenser and liquid container and method for inserting a liquid container

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a liquid dispenser for receiving a liquid container, a dispensing system comprising a liquid dispenser and a liquid container, and a method for inserting a liquid container into a liquid dispenser.

[0002] Dispensing systems are well-known for dispensing beverages such as fruit juice, vegetable juice, or wine. These typically use beverage pouches with a tap, stabilized by a cardboard box, with the tap protruding through an opening in the box (https: / / www.derkarton.net / Lebensmittel-und-Getraenkeversand / Bag-in-Box / Komplettsets-Bag-in-Box.html).

[0003] Furthermore, a system for dispensing a viscous, edible product is known from US Patent 2002 / 121527 A1. The system accommodates a bag containing the viscous, edible product. The bag has a body and a nozzle. The system includes a dispenser with a body that defines a chamber for receiving the bag. The chamber has a surface with an opening formed therein, suitable for receiving the nozzle. A first projection is arranged near the circumference of the opening. The first projection generally extends inward from the surface into the chamber and is configured to abut the bag body and bend it into a shape that facilitates the flow of the viscous food product from it.

[0004] Furthermore, US Patent 6,708,741 B1 discloses a beverage dispenser comprising a beverage cabinet, a mechanically actuated, gravity-fed piston valve that can be opened and closed in a controlled manner to dispense beverages in a generally downward direction, a valve actuator that is mounted on the cabinet below the valve and coupled to the valve, and a beverage flow path to direct the beverage from the valve to a container.

[0005] The object of the present invention is to provide a liquid dispenser, a dispensing system with a liquid container that can be inserted into a liquid dispenser, and a method for inserting a liquid container into a liquid dispenser, thereby improving the storage of a liquid to be dispensed and / or the dispensing of the liquid.

[0006] The problem is solved by the subject matter of the respective independent patent claim. The respective dependent patent claims relate to preferred embodiments of the subject matter of the present invention.

[0007] One aspect concerns a liquid dispenser for receiving a liquid container and dispensing a liquid from the liquid container, wherein the liquid dispenser has a housing into which the liquid container can be inserted and wherein the housing has in a liquid dispensing area: a guiding device by means of which a liquid dispensing device of the liquid container can be guided when the liquid container is inserted into the housing; and an actuating device by means of which the liquid dispensing device can be actuated to dispense the liquid from the liquid container.

[0008] An advantage of the present invention is the simplified and precise positioning of the liquid container within the liquid dispenser, thereby improving the storage and / or dispensing of the liquid. Furthermore, the liquid can be dispensed in such a way that it does not come into contact with the liquid dispenser. This ensures hygienically sound dispensing of the liquid and reduces or prevents any potential adhesion of the liquid to the dispenser.

[0009] The liquid dispensing area can be a region of the housing designed for dispensing the liquid and comprising at least one configuration for dispensing the liquid. In particular, the liquid dispensing area can extend over a spatially defined section of the housing.

[0010] For example, the liquid dispensing area of ​​a substantially rectangular housing, including the liquid dispensing area, can be formed at a preferably beveled corner of the housing. Preferably, the housing can have a receiving chamber, wherein, in the operating position of the liquid dispenser, the liquid container can preferably be inserted into the receiving chamber in a vertical downward direction.

[0011] Furthermore, the receiving space can be bounded vertically downwards by a base, on which the liquid container inserted into the dispenser preferably rests. Viewed in the operating position of the dispenser, the receiving space is bounded laterally or horizontally, at least partially, by side walls of the housing, with the liquid container inserted in the receiving space resting at least partially against the inside of the side walls. In particular, a first side wall and a second side wall of the receiving space can be arranged opposite each other, preferably essentially parallel to each other and / or running vertically. Viewed in the operating position of the dispenser, the first and second side walls can be of different lengths in the horizontal direction.Furthermore, a preferably vertical third side wall of the receiving space can include the guide device and connect the first side wall to the second side wall. Additionally, a preferably vertical fourth side wall of the receiving space can be arranged opposite the third side wall and connect the first side wall to the second side wall. Preferably, the third and fourth side walls are not arranged parallel to each other in order to form the chamfered corner. In particular, the third side wall can be aligned or arranged with respect to the first and second side walls such that the corresponding planes formed by the first, second, and third side walls are not perpendicular to each other. Furthermore, the fourth side wall can be aligned or arranged with respect to the first and second side walls such that...The corresponding planes, each formed by the first, second, and fourth side walls, should be arranged so that they are perpendicular to one another. Preferably, the transitions between the side walls and / or towards the bottom are rounded. This ensures improved accessibility to the liquid dispensing area. Furthermore, it allows the liquid reservoir to fit more snugly against the inside of the housing.

[0012] Preferably, the side walls and / or the bottom can be made at least partially and / or completely from a thermally insulating material. Advantageously, this allows for thermal insulation of the liquid container, thereby reducing, for example, the energy consumption required to reach and maintain a target temperature of the liquid within the container.

[0013] The guide device can be designed to guide, in particular transversely, a liquid dispensing device. For example, the guide device can be designed as a linear guide.

[0014] The liquid dispensing device can be designed as a valve with a valve housing and a valve opening element, wherein the valve opening element protrudes from the valve housing and is connected to a valve body arranged in the valve housing - in particular in one piece.

[0015] In particular, the liquid dispensing device can be designed as a mechanically or electromechanically opening and / or closing valve, for example as a tap with a mechanically or electromechanically movable valve body for sealing or releasing a dispensing opening of the valve, i.e., for opening or closing the tap.

[0016] For example, the liquid dispensing device can be actuated – viewed in its operating position – by pushing upwards or moving the valve opening element relative to the valve body. This lifts the valve body from its sealed position – which is often spring-loaded – with a dispensing opening in the valve body, into a release position. Alternatively, actuation can be achieved by pushing downwards on the valve body relative to the valve opening element.

[0017] The actuating device can be designed as a mechanical, electromechanical, hydraulic, or pneumatic actuator. Furthermore, the actuating device can be designed to allow for the slow opening of the liquid dispensing device, thus enabling particularly precise metering of the liquid. The actuating device can, for example, include a linkage that mechanically transmits an actuating force to the liquid dispensing device. Alternatively, actuation can be achieved by means of a control element that is electrically connected to an actuator that operates the liquid dispensing device. The actuator can, for example, be a servo motor or a hydraulic cylinder, whereby the liquid dispensing device can be actuated, for example, by means of a piston or a camshaft.

[0018] The terms "above", "above", or "up" and the like, used below, mean, within the meaning of the present invention, a direction and / or a position of an element relative to another element opposite to the direction of gravity. The terms "below", "below", or "down" and the like, used below, mean, within the meaning of the present invention, a direction and / or a position of an element relative to another element in the direction of gravity.

[0019] The guide system is designed as guide rails arranged opposite each other and spaced apart. This allows for the simple implementation of effective longitudinal guidance, particularly vertical guidance.

[0020] For example, the guide rails can essentially have a U-shaped cross-section.

[0021] Advantageously, the respective openings of the guide rails can face each other.

[0022] Alternatively or additionally, the guide rails can have a substantially rectangular cross-section and preferably a width (facing sides of the guide rails) of about 6 mm to 10 mm and preferably of about 8.5 mm.

[0023] Advantageously, the narrower sides of the guide rails can face each other.

[0024] The above configuration can further contribute to the simple realization of an effective longitudinal guidance of the liquid dispensing device.

[0025] The guide rails can have an effective distance of approximately 25 mm to 40 mm, preferably approximately 30 mm to 35 mm, and particularly preferably approximately 33 mm from each other. Furthermore, the guide rails can have a length of at least 100 mm. Preferably, the length of the guide rails is a maximum of 200 mm, and particularly preferably a maximum of 160 mm.

[0026] For example, with guide rails that have a U-shaped cross-section, the effective distance is measured down to the bottom of the U-shaped opening. Particularly with guide rails that have a rectangular cross-section, the effective distance can correspond to the clear distance between the guide rails.

[0027] The actuating device can be mounted on a removable cover of the housing for repositioning between an insertion position for inserting the liquid container and an actuating position for actuating the liquid dispensing device.

[0028] Alternatively, the actuating device for moving between the insertion position and the actuating position can be pivotably mounted on the housing.

[0029] In particular, the actuating device can be attached to the lid in such a way that the guide mechanism can be released from the housing for inserting the liquid container by removing the lid. Furthermore, the actuating device can be arranged to actuate the liquid dispensing device by placing the lid onto the housing.

[0030] Advantageously, when the lid is in place on the housing, the liquid dispensing device can be blocked from moving against the insertion direction of the liquid container, particularly by the actuating device. In other words, when the lid is in place, the actuating device can prevent the liquid container from being removed from the housing.

[0031] In particular, the actuating device can be attached to the housing in such a way that the guide device can be released for inserting the liquid container by pivoting the actuating device open. Furthermore, the actuating device can be arranged to actuate the liquid dispensing device by pivoting it closed.

[0032] Advantageously, the liquid dispensing device can be blocked from moving against the insertion direction of the liquid container by the pivoted actuating device. In other words, the liquid container and / or the liquid dispensing device can be prevented from being removed from the housing by means of the pivoted actuating device.

[0033] Regardless of the design of the actuating device, in one embodiment the cover can have a circumferential side wall that, when the cover is in place, at least partially—and preferably completely—covers the housing. Preferably, the cover can cover or at least partially enclose the receiving space. Furthermore, the cover can be made of a thermally insulating material to insulate the receiving space.

[0034] The liquid dispensing device can be operated mechanically or electromechanically by the actuating device.

[0035] Regardless of the specific design of the operating mechanism, the operating mechanism can be controlled by means of a control element located on the lid. For example, the control element can be a push button, the actuation of which, for example by a user, results in the dispensing of liquid. In particular, the operating mechanism can be controlled by the control element in such a way that liquid is dispensed for the duration of the actuation of the control element or the push button. Alternatively, the liquid dispenser can be designed so that a predefined or a definable quantity of liquid is dispensed when the control element is actuated. In other words, the dispensed quantity of liquid is not primarily determined by the duration of the actuation of the control element, but simply by the actuation itself.

[0036] The base of the housing, on which the liquid container inserted into the liquid dispenser preferably rests, may have a slope in the direction of the liquid dispensing area.

[0037] The floor can have a gradient of at least approximately 2%, preferably at least approximately 4%, and particularly preferably at least approximately 8%. Furthermore, the gradient can be a maximum of approximately 18%.

[0038] In particular, the slope can be formed in several, especially three, levels or in a funnel shape. For example, the floor can slope in a V-shape or in the form of a longitudinally cut cylinder or cone towards the liquid discharge area.

[0039] Advantageously, the dispensing opening of the liquid container inserted into the liquid dispenser, to which the liquid dispensing device is connected, is the lowest point of the liquid container in the housing.

[0040] Thus, any residual amount of liquid from the liquid container inserted into the liquid dispenser can collect at the lowest point of the housing in the liquid dispensing area and be available for the final emptying of the liquid container.

[0041] Advantageously, the sloping floor allows the liquid container inserted into the liquid dispenser to be almost completely emptied.

[0042] Advantageously, a recess can be formed on the floor in the liquid dispensing area to create space in the liquid dispensing area for the valve housing of the liquid dispensing device, which is pressed down particularly when the liquid dispensing device is activated.

[0043] The above configuration can further contribute to improving the storage and / or dispensing of the liquid in a simple manner.

[0044] Advantageously, a cooling and / or heating element, for example a Peltier element, can be arranged on, and especially under, the base to cool or heat the liquid in the liquid container inserted into the housing. This allows the temperature of the liquid to be stored and / or dispensed to be controlled, thus further improving its storage and / or dispensing. Preferably, the surface of the inner side of the housing facing the inserted liquid container can have a thermal conductivity of at least [value missing in original text]. 15 λ W mK at 20°C, preferably with a thermal conductivity of at least 100 λ at 20°C. Advantageously, this allows for good temperature distribution around the liquid container, based on the temperature set by the cooling and / or heating element. For example, the surface of the side walls and / or the bottom can be made, at least partially, from an alloy containing aluminum.

[0045] In particular, the power supply for the Peltier element can be housed in a base, with the liquid dispenser housing being mountable on the base. Thus, the height of the housing, and consequently the height of the liquid dispensing mechanism of the liquid container inserted within it, can be adjusted by varying the height of the base, further improving the storage and / or dispensing of the liquid. The liquid dispenser or the base can also incorporate an energy storage device for power, enabling operation without mains power. This allows for portable operation and maintains cooling or heating even when mains power is unavailable.

[0046] Preferably, the target temperature for controlling the heating and / or cooling element can be precisely set. It is also preferably possible to provide that the temperature control is automatically interrupted when the cover is removed from the housing and / or automatically resumed when the cover is replaced.

[0047] In particular, the housing of the liquid dispenser can be arranged at such a height by means of the base housing that a collection container for collecting the liquid dispensed by the liquid dispenser can be placed under the housing - in particular under the liquid dispensing device.

[0048] The power supply can also power a residual quantity indicator and / or a temperature indicator for the liquid in the container. For example, a mass sensor can be located at the bottom of the housing to provide the residual quantity, and / or a temperature sensor can be located at the bottom of the housing or at another suitable location on the housing to provide the temperature. The residual quantity indicator and / or the temperature indicator can be located on the housing and / or the lid.

[0049] Advantageously, the housing of the liquid dispenser can be detachably attached to the base housing.

[0050] An end stop can be provided in the liquid dispensing area, by means of which the liquid dispensing device of the liquid container can be positioned in its end position.

[0051] In other words, an end stop can be formed in the liquid dispensing area, by means of which the liquid dispensing device of the liquid container can be prevented from moving further in the insertion direction of the liquid container.

[0052] Advantageously, the end stop can be formed on the housing or the guide device.

[0053] The above configuration can further help to easily ensure the suitable positioning of the liquid dispensing device of the liquid container inserted into the liquid dispenser for liquid dispensing, thereby improving the storage of the liquid to be dispensed and / or the dispensing of the liquid.

[0054] Furthermore, a liquid container is disclosed from which liquid can be extracted by means of a liquid dispensing device, wherein a guide flange is provided on the liquid dispensing device, by means of which the liquid container can be guided into a previously described liquid dispenser, wherein the guide flange cooperates with a guide device of the liquid dispenser.

[0055] The advantages mentioned for the previously described liquid dispenser apply analogously to the liquid container.

[0056] The guide flange of the liquid container can have a rectangular cross-section on its outer circumference.

[0057] Alternatively, the guide flange of the liquid container can be designed with a U-shaped cross-section.

[0058] In particular, the guide flange, when viewed from the front, can be substantially round or substantially oval. Preferably, the guide flange can be designed to complement the guide rails and have an effective outer diameter of about 25 mm to 40 mm, more preferably 30 mm to 35 mm, and most preferably about 33 mm. Furthermore, the effective outer diameter of the guide flange can be slightly smaller than the effective distance between the guide rails.

[0059] Particularly in the case of a guide flange with a rectangular cross-section, the effective outer diameter can correspond to the outer diameter of the guide flange. For example, in the case of a guide flange with a U-shaped cross-section, the effective outer diameter is measured down to the base of the U-shaped opening.

[0060] The liquid dispensing device of the liquid container can have at least one valve opening element by means of which the liquid dispensing device can be positioned in its end position in the liquid dispenser at an end stop of the liquid dispenser.

[0061] In other words, the liquid dispensing device can have at least one valve opening element by means of which, in conjunction with the end stop, the liquid dispensing device can be prevented from further movement in the insertion direction of the liquid container.

[0062] In particular, the valve opening element can be prevented from moving further in the insertion direction of the liquid container by means of a positive locking mechanism with the end stop.

[0063] The above configuration can further help to easily ensure the suitable positioning of the liquid dispensing device of the liquid container inserted into the liquid dispenser for liquid dispensing, thereby improving the storage of the liquid to be dispensed and / or the dispensing of the liquid.

[0064] For example, the at least one valve opening element can be designed to project laterally from the liquid dispensing device and rest against the end stop in the end position of the liquid dispensing device. In one embodiment, the valve opening element can have a positioning section with which the liquid dispensing device can be aligned with a complementary positioning section of the end stop. Advantageously, the positioning section of the valve opening element and the complementary positioning section enable the liquid dispensing device to be positioned precisely with respect to the guide and / or actuating device. This makes it possible to prevent displacement of the liquid dispensing device and to actuate the liquid dispensing device precisely.The positioning section of the valve opening element can further comprise at least two positioning elements which interact with complementary positioning elements of the end stop to additionally stabilize the liquid dispensing device in its horizontal position relative to the end stop. In particular, the positioning elements can be arranged symmetrically with respect to the valve housing and / or interlock with one another.

[0065] The positioning section of the valve opening element can, for example, have a positively conical positioning element, and at the end stop a correspondingly negatively conical receiving section or positioning element can be formed in which the valve opening element with its positioning section is received in the end position of the liquid dispensing device.

[0066] Furthermore, the actuating device, particularly if pivotably mounted on the housing, is designed to fix the position of the liquid dispensing device relative to the housing when the actuating device is in its operating position. Specifically, in the actuating position, the actuating device may contact the top of the valve housing to prevent movement of the liquid dispensing device against its insertion direction. To dispense the liquid, the actuating device is designed to move the valve opening element of the liquid dispensing device upwards, as viewed from the operating position of the liquid dispenser. It may also be provided that the valve housing rests against the end stop in the end position of the liquid dispensing device, and that the valve opening element is movable relative to the housing.

[0067] Furthermore, the actuating device can comprise an operating lever rotatably mounted about a first axis of rotation, a rocker arm rotatably mounted about a second axis of rotation which runs substantially parallel to the first axis of rotation, and a force transmission element. The force transmission element can be moved in position by the operating lever and, viewed from the second axis of rotation, can be connected to a first side of the rocker arm. Furthermore, viewed from the second axis of rotation, a second side of the rocker arm can actuate the valve opening element of the liquid dispensing device. In particular, the force transmission element can be displaced by the operating lever substantially along the insertion direction. The operating lever can, in particular, be operated by a user to effect the dispensing of the liquid.To dispense the liquid, it can be provided, in particular, that the operating lever, preferably designed as a single-sided lever, is moved in the direction of insertion or downwards, thereby causing a corresponding shift in the position of the force transmission element. As a result, the second side of the rocker arm is displaced opposite to the insertion direction, which also displaces the valve opening element opposite to the insertion direction, thus dispensing the liquid.

[0068] Preferably, the force transmission element may have an operating lever opening or passage through which the operating lever extends from the housing. Furthermore, a force transmission element-side contact surface of the operating lever, which exerts a force on an operating lever-side contact surface of the force transmission element formed at the operating lever opening to dispense the liquid, may be essentially straight, while the operating lever-side contact surface may have a curved profile. When the operating lever is actuated to dispense the liquid, the force transmission element-side contact surface can be guided along the operating lever-side contact surface, at least partially. The curved profile of the operating lever-side contact surface allows it to slide particularly smoothly along the force transmission element-side contact surface, thus improving the ease of use of the actuating device.

[0069] Preferably, the liquid dispenser can have a quick-release nozzle coupling for connecting a nozzle, the nozzle being designed as a splash guard against the liquid dispensed by the liquid dispensing device. In particular, the nozzle can be arranged below the liquid dispensing device and can be detached from and connected to the quick-release nozzle coupling by a rotary movement. Furthermore, the length of the nozzle can be longer near the housing than on the outside.

[0070] Preferably, the liquid dispenser can have a base with a contact surface which, when the liquid dispenser is positioned as intended on a substantially flat positioning surface, contacts this surface. The contact surface, viewed from a top view of the liquid dispenser, is located outside the plan view of the top of the liquid dispenser. The positioning surface can, for example, be a tabletop or kitchen worktop. Furthermore, the liquid dispenser can have at least three, preferably at least four, additional contact points on its underside, with which the liquid dispenser contacts the positioning surface. These additional contact points are distributed within the plan view.The support surface is located particularly in the area of ​​the operating device in order to stabilize the liquid dispenser on the positioning surface and to prevent the liquid dispenser from tipping over when the operating device is activated, and especially when the operating lever is activated.

[0071] The liquid container can be highly flexible in shape, particularly as a bag. For example, the bag can be made of two or more film elements joined together, e.g., by welding and / or gluing, to form the liquid container. The film elements forming the wall of the liquid container can be, for example, multi-layered and / or made of plastic film. The liquid container or the film elements can also have an oxygen barrier to reduce the diffusion of oxygen into the container or the liquid it contains. In particular, the film elements can be made of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), aluminum, and / or low-density polyethylene (LDPE).

[0072] Furthermore, the liquid container, particularly when empty, can be rectangular in shape, with the liquid dispensing device – viewed from above – preferably being located in a corner area of ​​the liquid container.

[0073] This further contributes to ensuring that any residual amount of liquid from the liquid container inserted into the liquid dispenser can collect at the lowest point of the housing in the liquid dispensing area and be available for the final emptying of the liquid container.

[0074] Furthermore, the liquid container can hold at least 1 liter of liquid, preferably at least 1.5 liters, and particularly preferably at least 2 liters. Preferably, the maximum capacity of the liquid container is limited to approximately 10 liters, more preferably to approximately 5 liters, and most preferably to approximately 3 liters.

[0075] The above configuration can further contribute to improving the storage and / or dispensing of the liquid in a simple manner.

[0076] The liquid to be stored and / or dispensed may preferably be a liquid suitable for human consumption, such as fruit juice, vegetable juice or wine.

[0077] Another aspect concerns a dispensing system with a previously described liquid dispenser, into which a previously described liquid container is inserted.

[0078] The advantages of the dispensing system with the liquid dispenser and the liquid container result analogously from the features and advantages mentioned above for the liquid dispenser and liquid container.

[0079] The direction of actuation of a liquid dispensing device of the liquid container – as seen in its position of use – and the direction of dispensing of the liquid can be vertically oriented.

[0080] Another aspect of the invention relates to a method for inserting a previously described liquid container into a previously described liquid dispenser, comprising the step of: inserting the liquid container into the housing, wherein the guide flange of the liquid container is guided by means of the guide device of the housing.

[0081] The advantages of the method for inserting the liquid container into the liquid dispenser result analogously from the features and advantages mentioned above for the liquid dispenser and liquid container.

[0082] Advantageously, the following step is performed before inserting the liquid container into the housing: Moving the actuating device into the insertion position of the liquid container or ensuring that the actuating device is moved into the insertion position of the liquid container.

[0083] In particular, the following step can be performed before inserting the liquid container into the housing: Swiveling the actuating device into the insertion position of the liquid container or ensuring that the actuating device is swiveled into the insertion position of the liquid container. take place.

[0084] Furthermore, in particular, after inserting the liquid container into the housing, the following step can be taken: swiveling the actuating device into the actuating position of the liquid dispensing device.

[0085] Alternatively, before inserting the liquid container into the housing, the following step can be performed: Removing the lid with the operating device from the liquid container or ensuring that the lid with the operating device has been removed from the liquid container, take place.

[0086] Alternatively, after inserting the liquid container into the housing, the following step can be taken: placing the lid on the housing and thus bringing the actuating device into the actuating position of the liquid dispensing device.

[0087] Exemplary embodiments of the liquid dispenser, liquid container, and dispensing system according to the invention are explained in more detail below with reference to the drawings. Corresponding objects or elements are provided with the same reference numerals in all figures. It is understood that the present invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments described below and that individual features thereof can be combined to form further exemplary embodiments.

[0088] They show: Fig. 1 a spatial view of a liquid dispenser according to an embodiment of the invention; Fig. 2 a top view of a filled liquid container according to an embodiment of the invention; Fig. 3 a side view of a sectioned liquid dispenser according to a further embodiment of the invention, wherein the liquid container is inserted according to Fig. 2 depicted in a first stage Fig. 4 a side view of the liquid dispenser according to Fig. 3 , the insertion of the liquid container according to Fig. 2 is depicted in a second stage Fig. 5 a side view of the liquid dispenser according to Fig. 3 , the insertion of the liquid container according to Fig. 2 depicted in a third stage Fig. 6 a spatial view of a half-section of the dispensing system according to Fig. 5 , Fig. 7 a side view of the half-section of the dispensing system according to Fig. 5 with unactivated liquid dispensing device, Fig. 8 a side view of the half-section of the dispensing system according to Fig. 5 with activated liquid dispensing device, Fig. 9 another embodiment of a liquid dispenser according to the invention, Fig. 10 another embodiment of a liquid dispensing device for use with the in Fig. 9 shown liquid dispensers, Fig. 11 und 12 an actuation process of an actuating device of the in Fig. 9 shown liquid dispenser, Fig. 13 a view of the underside of the liquid dispenser, Fig. 14 a view of the top of the liquid dispenser, and Fig. 15 A quick-release coupling with an attached nozzle.

[0089] At the in Fig. 1 The spatial view shown of a liquid dispenser 1 according to an embodiment of the invention depicts a housing 2 of the liquid dispenser 1, which has a guide device 4 and an actuating device 8 in a liquid dispensing area 6.

[0090] The housing 2 is essentially rectangular in shape and chamfered at one corner in the liquid dispensing area 6.

[0091] Preferably, the housing 2 can have a receiving chamber 3, wherein in the operating position of the liquid dispenser 1, a Fig. 2 The liquid container 14 shown can preferably be inserted into the receiving space 3 in a vertical downward movement.

[0092] Furthermore, the receiving space 3 can be bounded vertically downwards by a base 34, on which the liquid container 14 inserted into the liquid dispenser 1 preferably rests. Viewed in the operating position of the liquid dispenser 1, the receiving space 3 is bounded laterally or horizontally, at least partially, by a first side wall 60, a second side wall 62, a third side wall 64, and a fourth side wall 66 of the housing 2, wherein the liquid container 14 inserted in the receiving space 3 abuts the inside of the side walls 60 to 66, at least partially. In particular, the first side wall 60 and the second side wall 62 of the receiving space 3 can be arranged opposite each other, preferably substantially parallel to each other and / or vertically.In the operating position of the liquid dispenser 1, the first side wall 60 and the second side wall 62 can be of different lengths in the horizontal direction. Furthermore, the preferably vertically extending third side wall 64 of the receiving chamber 3 can have the guide device 4 and connect the first side wall 60 with the second side wall 62. Additionally, the preferably vertically extending fourth side wall 66 of the receiving chamber 3 can be arranged opposite the third side wall 64 and connect the first side wall 60 with the second side wall 63. Preferably, the third and fourth side walls 64 and 66 are not arranged parallel to each other in order to form the chamfered corner. In particular, the third side wall 64 can be aligned with respect to the first 60 and second side wall 62 in such a way as to...The corresponding planes formed by the first, second, and third side walls 60-64 are not perpendicular to each other. Furthermore, the fourth side wall 66 can be aligned or arranged with respect to the first 60 and second side walls 62 such that the corresponding planes formed by the first, second, and fourth side walls 60 / 62 / 66 are perpendicular to each other. Preferably, the transitions between the side walls 60 to 66 and / or to the base 34 are rounded. This ensures improved accessibility to the liquid dispensing area 6. It also allows the liquid reservoir 14 to fit more snugly against the inside of the housing 2.

[0093] Preferably, the side walls 60 to 66 and / or the base 34 can be made at least partially and / or completely of a thermally insulating material. Advantageously, this allows thermal insulation of the liquid container, which, for example, reduces the energy consumption required to reach and maintain a target temperature of the liquid in the container.

[0094] According to the illustrated embodiment, the guide device 4 is designed as two guide rails 12 spaced apart from each other by an effective distance 10, wherein the guide rails 12 have a rectangular cross-section. The effective distance 10 corresponds here to a clear distance between the guide rails 12.

[0095] Between the guide rails 12 is a liquid container 14 (not shown here) with its liquid dispensing device 22 (see Fig. 2 ) can be guided during insertion.

[0096] In the illustrated embodiment, the actuating device 8 is pivotably mounted on the housing 2 and can be pivoted between an insertion position for inserting the liquid container 14 and an actuating position for actuating the liquid dispensing device 22.

[0097] Furthermore, the housing 2 has an end stop 16 by means of which the liquid dispensing device 22 of the liquid container 14 can be positioned in its end position.

[0098] The end stop 16 has a positioning section 18 that is complementary to a positioning section 32 of the liquid dispensing device 22 in order to define the position of the liquid dispensing device 22 in relation to the guide device 4 and / or the actuating device 8. The complementary positioning section 18 can have two negatively conical receiving sections 18 in which the Fig. 2 The described valve opening elements 28 of the liquid dispensing device 22 with their positioning sections 32 are to be received in the end position of the liquid dispensing device 22.

[0099] The housing 2 is mounted on a base housing 20, whereby the height of the liquid dispensing device of the liquid container inserted into the housing 2 can be influenced in such a way that a (not shown) container for filling with the liquid can be placed under the housing 2.

[0100] The in Fig. 2 The filled liquid container 14, shown in a top view, is rectangular in shape, as illustrated in the exemplary embodiment, particularly in its empty state, with its liquid dispensing device 22 being located in a corner region of the liquid container 14 when viewed from above. A dispensing opening 48 of the liquid dispensing device 22 can be oriented towards the nearest edge region of the liquid container 14.

[0101] As further described, the liquid container 14 is largely flexible in shape, for example as a bag made of plastic film. For example, the liquid container can be made of two or more film elements which are joined together at their edges, e.g. by welding and / or gluing, to form the liquid container 14.

[0102] A guide flange 24 of the liquid dispensing device 22 is round in the front view and has a U-shaped cross-section on its outer circumference to prevent the liquid container 14 from being inserted into the housing 2. Fig. 1 to be guided by the described guide device 4. Here, an effective outer diameter of 26 (see Fig. 3 ) measured down to the bottom of the U-shaped opening.

[0103] The liquid dispensing device 22 has two valve opening elements 28 by means of which the liquid dispensing device 22 can be positioned in its end position in the liquid dispenser 1 at an end stop 16 of the liquid dispenser 1.

[0104] As shown in this embodiment, the valve opening elements 28 are designed to project laterally beyond a valve housing 30 of the liquid dispensing device 22 and have a positively conical positioning section 32.

[0105] In this embodiment, the valve opening elements 28 are integrally connected to a valve body (not shown) arranged in the valve housing 30. A relative movement between the valve opening elements 28 and the valve housing 30 displaces the valve body (not shown) from its sealing seat to release a dispensing opening 48 of the liquid dispensing device 22.

[0106] In Fig. 3 Figure 1 shows a side view of a sectioned liquid dispenser 1 according to a further embodiment of the invention, wherein the liquid container 14 is inserted according to Figure 1. Fig. 2 it is depicted in a first stage.

[0107] In the liquid dispenser 1 according to the further embodiment, in contrast to the liquid dispenser 1 according to the one in Fig. 1 In the illustrated embodiment, the actuating device 8 is not attached to the housing 2, but to a component in Fig. 3 lid 38 not shown (see Fig. 6 ), which is removed from the housing 2 for the insertion of the liquid container 14. Continued in Fig. 3 The mounting housing 20 is not shown.

[0108] The housing 2 of the liquid dispenser 1 according to the in Fig. 3 The further embodiment shown, like the housing 2 of the liquid dispenser 1 according to the one shown in Fig. 1 In the illustrated embodiment, a base 34 is provided which slopes down in the direction of the liquid discharge area 6.

[0109] The floor can have a gradient of at least approximately 2%, preferably at least approximately 4%, and particularly preferably at least approximately 8%. Furthermore, the gradient can be a maximum of approximately 18%.

[0110] The liquid reservoir 14 is positioned above the housing 2 such that the liquid dispensing device 22 is located above the guide device 4. Furthermore, the guide flange 24 is aligned with the guide device 4.

[0111] At the in Fig. 4 Side view of liquid dispenser 1 shown according to Fig. 3 is the insertion of the liquid container according to Fig. 2 depicted therein in a second stage.

[0112] The liquid container 14 is partially inserted into the housing 2, with the liquid dispensing device 22 being guided with its guide flange 24, which here has a U-shaped cross-section, between the guide rails 12 of the guide device 4, which here have a rectangular cross-section.

[0113] The largely flexible liquid container 14 adapts to the inner shape of the housing 2 when it is inserted into the housing 2.

[0114] At the in Fig. 5 Side view of liquid dispenser 1 shown according to Fig. 3 is the insertion of the liquid container according to Fig. 2 depicted therein in a third stage. In other words, it is in Fig. 5 A side view of a dispensing system 36 according to an embodiment of the invention is shown, wherein the liquid container 14 according to Fig. 2 into the liquid dispenser 1 according to Fig. 3 is used.

[0115] The largely flexible liquid container 14 is specifically adapted to the base 34 with its slope towards the liquid dispensing area 6. This allows any residual liquid in the liquid container 14 to collect at the lowest point of the housing 2 in the liquid dispensing area 6 and be available for emptying the liquid container 14.

[0116] As in the Fig. 6 shown spatial view of a half section of the dispensing system 36 according to Fig. 5 As shown, the liquid dispensing device 22 of the liquid container 14 inserted into the housing 2 is positioned in its end position, with the valve opening elements 28 of the liquid dispensing device 22 resting against the end stop 16.

[0117] The valve opening elements 28, which project laterally from the liquid dispensing device 22, with their positively conical positioning sections 32, are received in the correspondingly negatively conical receiving sections 18 of the end stop 16.

[0118] The actuating device 8 is mounted in the cover 38 of the housing 2, the cover 38 being placed on the housing 2 after the liquid container 14 has been inserted to actuate the liquid dispensing device 22.

[0119] As shown in this embodiment, the actuating device 8 can be operated by means of a control element 40 attached to the cover 38. The control element 40 is designed here as a push button. The cover has a circumferential side wall 50 which completely covers the housing when the cover is in place.

[0120] What's next in Fig. 6 As shown, the control element 40 is electrically connected to an actuator 44, which is designed here as a servo motor, via connecting cables 42. When actuated, the actuator 44 extends an actuating element 46, which is designed here as a piston.

[0121] At the in Fig. 7 Side view of the half-section of the dispensing system 36 shown according to Fig. 5 The unactuated liquid dispensing device 22 is shown.

[0122] The liquid dispensing device 22 is in its end position, with its valve opening elements 28 and their positioning sections 32 being received in the receiving sections 18 of the end stop 16. The actuating device 8 is arranged by means of the cover 38 placed on the housing 2 such that the actuating element 46 is positioned above the valve housing 30 of the liquid dispensing device 22.

[0123] As in the Fig. 8 Side view of the half-section of the dispensing system 36 shown according to Fig. 5 The liquid dispensing device 22 is shown activated.

[0124] The actuating element 46 is extended and presses down the valve housing 30. The valve opening elements 28 are prevented from moving downwards by the end stop 16, and a relative movement occurs between the valve housing 30 and the valve opening elements 28. This relative movement displaces the valve body (not shown) from its sealing seat and releases the dispensing opening 48 of the liquid dispensing device 22, so that the liquid is dispensed from the liquid reservoir 14.

[0125] Fig. 9 Figure 1 shows a further embodiment of a liquid dispenser 1 according to the invention, the following discussion focusing only on the essential differences from the previous embodiments. In particular, the end stop 16 is designed to prevent the liquid from dispensing in the Fig. 10 The liquid dispensing device 22 shown is positioned in its end position, with the valve housing 30 of the liquid dispensing device 22 being positioned on the end stop 16. In contrast to the previously described embodiment, the valve opening element 28 or the valve opening elements 28 are not positioned on the end stop 16. As shown in the figure... Fig. 10 As can be seen, the valve opening elements 28 preferably do not have a positioning section. As is particularly evident in the Fig. 11 and 12 As shown, the valve housing 30 is positioned around the discharge opening 48 on the end stop 16. Furthermore, the end stop 16 can have an opening (see Fig. 15 ), through which the dispensing opening 48 of the liquid dispensing device 22 is passed in the operating position.

[0126] Furthermore, the actuating device 8 is pivotably arranged on the housing 2. In the Fig. 9 In the shown insertion position of the actuating device 8, the liquid dispensing device 22 can be removed from the housing 2 against the insertion direction or inserted into the housing 2 in the insertion direction.

[0127] The Fig. 11 und 12Figure 8 shows the actuating device 8 in its actuated position as a sectional view. The actuating device 8 is designed to fix the position of the liquid dispensing device 22 relative to the housing 2 in its actuated position. In particular, the actuating device 8 prevents the liquid dispensing device 22 from moving against its insertion direction. This can be achieved, for example, by having the actuating device 8 contact a top surface of the valve housing 30, so that the liquid dispensing device 22 is clamped between the end stop 16 and the actuating device 8. Furthermore, the actuating device 8 can be designed to dispense the liquid by moving the valve opening element 28 of the liquid dispensing device 22 upwards, as viewed from the operating position of the liquid dispenser 1.

[0128] In particular, the actuating device 8 can comprise an operating lever 72 rotatably mounted about a first axis of rotation 70, a rocker arm 76 rotatably mounted about a second axis of rotation 74, which runs substantially parallel to the first axis of rotation 70, and a force transmission element 78. The force transmission element 78 can be moved in position by the operating lever 72 and, viewed from the second axis of rotation 74, can be connected to a first side 80 of the rocker arm 76. Furthermore, viewed from the second axis of rotation 74, a second side 82 of the rocker arm 76 can actuate the valve opening element 28 of the liquid dispensing device 22. In particular, the force transmission element 78 can be displaced by the operating lever 72 substantially along the insertion direction. The operating lever 72 can, in particular, be operated by a user to effect the dispensing of the liquid.For dispensing the liquid, it can be provided in particular that the operating lever 72, preferably designed as a one-sided lever, is moved in the direction of insertion or downwards (see . Fig. 12 ), which causes a corresponding positional shift of the force transmission element 78. As a result, the second side 82 of the rocker arm 76 is displaced opposite to the insertion direction, which also displaces the valve opening element 28 opposite to the insertion direction, resulting in the discharge of fluid.

[0129] Preferably, the force transmission element 78 may have an operating lever opening or passage 84 through which the operating lever 72 extends from the housing. Furthermore, a force transmission element-side contact surface 86 of the operating lever 72, with which a force is exerted on an operating lever-side contact surface 88 of the force transmission element 78, which is formed at the operating lever opening 84, may be substantially straight, and the operating lever-side contact surface 88 may have a curved profile. When the operating lever 72 is actuated to dispense the liquid, the force transmission element-side contact surface 86 may be guided at least partially along the operating lever-side contact surface 88.The curved shape of the operating lever-side contact surface 88 allows it to slide particularly well along the force transmission element-side contact surface 86, which promotes good operability of the actuating device 8. The operating lever-side contact surface 88 is preferably formed on the inside of the operating lever guide 84.

[0130] Furthermore, the second side 82 of the rocker arm 76 can act on or press against the underside of the valve opening element 28. It is understood that the actuating device 8 can have a separate rocker arm 76 for each valve opening element 28.

[0131] As in Fig. 13 As shown, the liquid dispenser 1 can have a base 90 with a contact surface 90 which, when the liquid dispenser 1 is positioned as intended on a substantially flat positioning surface, contacts this surface. The base 90 can be provided, in particular, in addition to further support points 92 arranged on the underside of the liquid dispenser 1. The liquid dispenser 1 can be positioned or placed on the positioning surface by means of the support points 92 and the base 90.

[0132] As from Fig. 14 As can be seen in a top view of the liquid dispenser 1, the support surface 90 is located outside the plan view of the top of the liquid dispenser 1. In contrast, the support points 92 are distributed within the plan view. The support surface 90 is located, in particular, in the area of ​​the actuating device 8 in order to stabilize the liquid dispenser 1 on the positioning surface and to prevent the liquid dispenser 1 from tipping over when the actuating device 8 is actuated, and especially when the operating lever 72 is actuated. The support surface 90 can, in particular, be annular and extend at least partially outside the plan view.

[0133] Furthermore, the base 90 can be arranged below the dispensing opening 48 and a drip tray 94 can be located on one side facing the dispensing opening 48 ( Fig. 9 ) to collect the liquid.

[0134] As in Fig. 15 As shown, the liquid dispenser 1 can have a quick-release coupling 96 below the end stop 16 for coupling a nozzle 98, wherein the nozzle 98 is designed as a splash guard against the liquid dispensed by the liquid dispensing device 22. In particular, the nozzle 98 can be angled so that it is longer near the housing than on the outside. Furthermore, the nozzle 98 can be arranged below the liquid dispensing device 22 or the dispensing opening 48.

[0135] Furthermore, the nozzle 98 can be detached from and connected to the nozzle quick coupling 96 by a rotary movement. Bezugszeichenliste

[0136] 1 Liquid dispenser 2 Housing 3 Receiving chamber 4 Guide device 6 Liquid dispensing area 8 Actuating device 10 Effective distance 12 Guide rail 14 Liquid container 16 End stop 18 Receiving section (complementary positioning section) 20 Support housing 22 Liquid dispensing device 24 Guide flange 26 Effective outer diameter 28 Valve opening element 30 Valve housing 32 Positioning section 34 Base 36 Dispensing system 38 Lid 40 Operating element 42 Connection cable 44 Actuator 46 Actuating element 48 Dispensing opening 50 Side wall 60 First side wall 62 Second side wall 64 Third side wall 66 Fourth side wall 70 First pivot axis 72 Operating lever 74 Second pivot axis 76 Toggle lever 78 Power transmission element 80 First side rocker arm 82 Second side rocker arm 84 Operating lever opening or feedthrough 86 Contact surface on power transmission element side 88 Contact surface on operating lever side 90 Base / support surface 92 Support points 94 Drip tray 96 Quick-release nozzle coupling 98 Nozzle

Claims

1. A liquid dispenser (1) for receiving a liquid container (14) and for dispensing a liquid from the liquid container (14), wherein the liquid dispenser (1) has a housing (2), into which the liquid container (14) can be inserted and wherein the housing (2) has, in a liquid dispensing region (6): a guide apparatus (4), by means of which a liquid dispensing apparatus (22) of the liquid container (14) can be guided when inserting the liquid container (14) into the housing (2); and an actuation apparatus (8), by means of which the liquid dispensing apparatus (22) can be actuated to dispense the liquid from the liquid container (14), characterized in that the actuation apparatus (8) is designed, in an actuation position of the actuation apparatus (8) for actuating the liquid dispensing apparatus (22), to fix the position of the liquid dispensing apparatus (22) in relation to the housing (2), wherein the actuation apparatus (8), in order to dispense the liquid, is also designed to move up a valve opening element (28) of the liquid dispensing apparatus (22), when viewed in the use position of the liquid dispenser. wherein the guide apparatus (4) is formed as guide rails (12) arranged opposite each other and at a distance from each other.

2. The liquid dispenser (1) according to claim 1, wherein the guide rails (12) are formed with a substantially U-shaped cross-section and respective openings of the guide rails (12) face each other, or wherein the guide rails (12) are formed with a substantially rectangular cross-section and narrower sides of each of the guide rails (12) face each other.

3. The liquid dispenser (1) according to one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the guide rails (12) have an effective distance (10) of approximately 25 mm to 40 mm, preferably of approximately 30 mm to 35 mm, and particularly preferably of approximately 33 mm from each other.

4. The liquid dispenser (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the actuation apparatus (8), in order to be displaced between an insertion position for inserting the liquid container (14) and an actuation position for actuating the liquid dispensing apparatus (22), is attached to a removable lid (38) of the housing (2) or is attached to the housing (2) in a pivotable manner.

5. The liquid dispenser (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a floor (34) of the housing (2), on which preferably the liquid container (14) inserted into the liquid dispenser (1) rests, has a slope in the direction toward the liquid dispensing region (6).

6. The liquid dispenser (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein an end stop (16), by means of which the liquid dispensing apparatus (22) of the liquid container (14) can be positioned in its end position, is formed in the liquid dispensing region (6), and wherein the end stop (16) optionally has a positioning portion (18) formed complementarily to a positioning portion (32) of the liquid dispensing apparatus in order to define the position of the liquid dispensing apparatus (22) in relation to the guide apparatus (4) and / or the actuation apparatus.

7. The liquid dispenser (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the actuation apparatus (8) has: an operating lever (72) that is mounted so as to be rotatable about a first axis of rotation (70), a tilting lever (76) that is mounted so as to be rotatable about a second axis of rotation (74), which runs substantially parallel to the first axis of rotation (70), and a force transmission element (78), the position of which can be changed by the operating lever (72) and which, when viewed from the second axis of rotation (74), is connected to a first side (80) of the tilting lever (76), wherein, when viewed from the second axis of rotation (74), a second side (82) of the tilting lever (76) actuates the valve opening element (28) of the liquid dispensing apparatus (22).

8. The liquid dispenser (1) according to claim 7, wherein the force transmission element (78) has an operating lever feed-through or else operating lever opening (84), through which the operating lever (76) is guided out of the housing (2), wherein a force transmission element-adjacent contact surface (86) of the operating lever (72), with which a force is exerted on an operating lever-adjacent contact surface (88) of the force transmission element (78) in order to dispense the liquid, runs substantially in a straight line and the operating lever-adjacent contact surface (8) is bent.

9. The liquid dispenser (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the housing (2) has a nozzle quick coupling (96) for coupling a nozzle (98), wherein the nozzle (98) is formed as a splash guard for the liquid dispensed by the liquid dispensing apparatus (22); and / or having a foot (90) with a bearing surface (90), which, when the liquid dispenser (1) is properly positioned on a substantially flat positioning surface, contacts same, wherein the bearing surface (90), when viewed from the top of the liquid dispenser (1), is arranged outside of an outline of the top side of the liquid dispenser (1).

10. A tap system (36) having: a liquid dispenser (1) according to one of claims 1 to 9, and a liquid container (14) that can be inserted in the liquid dispenser and has a liquid dispensing apparatus (22) for removing a liquid located in the liquid container (14), wherein the liquid container (14) has a guide flange (24) that interacts with the guide apparatus of the liquid dispenser (1).

11. The tap system (36) according to claim 10, wherein the actuation direction of the liquid dispensing apparatus (22) - when viewed in its use position - of the liquid container (14) and a dispensing direction of the liquid are oriented vertically.

12. The tap system (36) according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the guide flange (24), when viewed from the front, is substantially round or substantially oval and has an effective outer diameter (26) of approximately 25 mm to 40 mm, preferably approximately 30 mm to 35 mm, and particularly preferably of approximately 33 mm; and / or wherein the outer circumference of the guide flange (24) is formed with a substantially rectangular cross-section or with a substantially U-shaped cross-section.

13. A method for inserting a liquid container (14) into a liquid dispenser (1) according to one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the liquid container has: a liquid dispensing apparatus for removing a liquid from the liquid container, wherein a guide flange (24), by means of which the liquid container (14) can be inserted in a guided manner into the liquid dispenser (1), is provided on the liquid dispensing apparatus (22); wherein the method has the following step: inserting the liquid container (14) into the housing (2), wherein the guide flange (24) of the liquid container (14) is guided by means of the guide apparatus (4) of the housing (2).

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein, before the liquid container (14) is inserted into the housing (2), the step of: displacing the actuation apparatus (8) into the insertion position of the liquid container (14) or ensuring that the actuation apparatus (8) is displaced into the insertion position of the liquid container (14) takes place.