Dispensing and regulating device for dispensing a liquid from a container

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a dispensing and control device for dispensing a liquid from a container, in particular from a beverage container, preferably for dispensing beer or a beer-based beverage from a beer keg, preferably from a 5L party beer keg. The invention further relates to a container, for example a 5L party beer keg, with such a dispensing and control device.

[0002] Typical dispensing and regulating devices, as well as beverage containers of the type in question, are well known from practical experience. This applies in particular to so-called 5L party beer kegs.

[0003] Party beer kegs come in a wide variety of designs. They are typically made of tinplate and have a tap near the bottom. A vent valve is located in the upper section, preferably in the lid. This valve opens when dispensing, allowing the beer to flow out of the tap by gravity. A disadvantage of this design is that if there is only a small amount of beer left, it will flow slowly from the tap. Furthermore, any beer left in the party keg will spoil very quickly. Therefore, the beer must be consumed as soon as possible.

[0004] From EP 2 009 535, a party beer keg is known in which the tap is located in the upper part of the beverage container, more precisely in the upper part of the side wall of the beverage container. To maintain a minimum pressure required for dispensing, a pressure source in the form of a carbon dioxide cartridge is located inside the container. When beer is dispensed, the pressure source automatically adjusts the pressure inside the keg so that it is sufficient until the very end of the dispensing process to pump the beer up the riser pipe to the tap.

[0005] A 5L party beer keg is also known from DE 10 2019 207 114 A1, where this beer keg also includes a pressurized canister containing carbon dioxide inside the container. Here too, the dispensing unit is located in the upper part of the keg wall and must be pulled out perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the beer keg for dispensing.

[0006] From DE 10 2016 101 555 A1, a closure for a container is also known, wherein the closure comprises a base body with a wall section that can be radially attached to the outside of an opening section of the container, and a lid section with an outer surface facing away from the container and an inner surface facing the container. A recess for receiving a piercing device is provided in the lid section. A hose- or tube-shaped conduit element adjoins this recess on the inner surface of the lid section, wherein the distance between the free end of the conduit element and the lid section of the base body can be reversibly reduced.

[0007] From DE 11 2006 003 934 T5 a beverage dispenser is known with a gas cartridge, a gas cartridge hole mandrel and a pressure regulator, which is initially arranged completely inside a beverage container, but can be removed from it and brought into an operating position.

[0008] Furthermore, WO 2005 / 115873 discloses a beverage dispenser comprising a riser pipe arrangement for dispensing liquid from inside a barrel. The riser pipe is designed to connect to an access opening in the upper wall of the barrel and extends into the barrel's interior. An extension pipe is also provided, which can be coupled to the riser pipe and is adjustable along its longitudinal axis between an extended and a compressed position. The extension pipe is pre-tensioned in the extended position, so that its lower end projects towards the barrel's bottom wall when the riser pipe is inserted into the barrel.

[0009] An activation device is installed in the base of the beer keg to activate the pressure system, allowing it to be activated from outside the keg. A corresponding control valve is provided.

[0010] The familiar 5-liter party beer kegs are problematic in practice because, even with the tap inserted (i.e., in the inactive state), the tap and its operating mechanism protrude slightly and unprotected. This poses a risk, particularly during transport and handling, of damaging the outer part of the tap, especially the operating mechanism, which remains outside the keg even during transport and storage. In such a case, the dispensing unit becomes unusable. Furthermore, the separate components—the pressure unit with its control unit and the dispensing unit—are complex to design and difficult to insert into the keg. Handling is complicated for both the beer bottler and the customer / end consumer.

[0011] The invention is therefore based on the objective of designing and further developing a dispensing and control device for dispensing a liquid from a container, in particular a beverage container, preferably for dispensing beer or a beer-based beverage from a beer keg, preferably a 5L party beer keg, in such a way that handling is simple for both the beverage bottler and the end customer. The risk of leaks in or on the container should be avoided as far as possible. Furthermore, the dispensing and control device should differ from competing products. The aforementioned objective is achieved with regard to the dispensing and control device according to the invention by the features of claim 1. According to this claim, the dispensing and control device comprises a rod- or cylinder-shaped arrangement of a pressure unit, a control unit, and a dispensing unit.The three units are combined in a rod- or cylinder-shaped arrangement within a one- or multi-part housing. This allows the entire assembly to be inserted almost flush into the container through a single opening in the lid, which then needs to be sealed. Unlike prior art, the container requires only one opening, namely for inserting the entire assembly. The effort required for sealing is reduced compared to prior art.

[0012] The dispensing unit can be moved from a transport and storage position, inserted into the assembly, to a working position, removed from the assembly and connected to it in the flow path. This means that the dispensing unit is initially located entirely within the assembly, which is defined as the transport and storage position. A small area, used for handling the dispensing unit or for moving it into the working position, is designed to be so flat that, similar to a flat screw head on a lid, it almost completely seals around the opening. Assuming that this area is significantly lower than the surrounding rim or fold of the beer keg, the part of the dispensing and control mechanism located outside the container in the transport and storage position is protected all around, so that unintentional damage is virtually impossible.

[0013] If the dispensing unit is removed from its transport and storage position, for example by rotating an outer part, it can be moved into a working position by pulling it out of the rod- or cylinder-shaped assembly located inside the container. Naturally, this assembly is pressure-tight, so that removing the dispensing unit does not cause any leakage. The flow connection between the dispensing unit and the control unit enables pressure-controlled dispensing of the liquid or beer at the point where the dispensing unit is positioned. This position is considered the working position.

[0014] For easy and convenient dispensing, the dispensing unit, removed from the rod- or cylinder-shaped assembly, is attached to the container, preferably to its rim or seam. Attachment can be achieved by pushing or clipping it on, such that the actual tap protrudes beyond the side wall of the container, allowing dispensing from the side, similar to a conventional beer keg. It must be ensured that the flow connection from the rod- or cylinder-shaped assembly to the dispensing unit is maintained. The foregoing descriptions make it clear that the dispensing and control device according to the invention offers both the bottler and the end customer simple handling, right up to the dispensing of the beer. The arrangement of the dispensing unit at the very top of the container's rim also allows dispensing into larger glasses / containers.

[0015] The pressure unit comprises, as its lower, first housing part, a cartridge housing containing a gas cartridge. This is typically a CO₂ cartridge. Adjoining the cartridge housing as the second housing part is a sealing housing, which either seals against the cartridge housing or is a single unit with it. Like the cartridge housing, the sealing housing is at least partially sealed to the outside.

[0016] The sealing housing comprises a storage compartment that is not sealed to the outside, into which the dispensing unit, preferably upside down, is inserted as far as possible in its transport and storage position. When inserted, the dispensing unit closes the sealing housing at its free end, although this is not a liquid-tight seal. Rotating the dispensing unit turns a rotary piston inside until an inlet hole in the sealing housing aligns with an inlet hole in the rotary piston. This activates the dispensing device.

[0017] When the dispensing unit is pulled out of its transport and storage position, the "empty" storage space remains, which is sealed to the inside, i.e., against the control unit and pressure unit, so that the pressurized liquid inside the container cannot escape. The entire rod- or cylinder-shaped assembly, when inserted, is sealed against the edge of the opening into which it is inserted into the container, creating a pressure-tight seal corresponding to the internal pressure prevailing in the container.

[0018] It is essential to the invention that a riser pipe extends from the sealing housing, over and beyond the cartridge housing, and is made of a rigid, solid material. This material can be a plastic. Specifically, the riser pipe extends beyond the cartridge housing into a lower region of the container, as close as possible to the bottom or even to the bottom.

[0019] The riser tube can be designed and arranged as desired. Preferably, it is attached to the outside of the cartridge housing or integrated into the cartridge housing. Thus, the riser tube extends along the length of the cartridge housing.

[0020] Specifically, the riser tube extends from the lower end of a through-bend of the sealing housing, across the cartridge housing, and below it, as described above. Below the cartridge housing, preferably on the inner side facing the cartridge housing, the riser tube is equipped with a type of bending function. This bending function is achieved by a material weakening, preferably on the outer side of the riser tube. Specifically, notches can be provided there to implement the bending function, for example, three notches, which are preferably equidistant from each other or can be formed at different intervals.

[0021] At the lower end of the cartridge housing, ideally adjacent to the riser tube, a stiffening element is designed as a support for the riser tube, which acts as a counterweight when force is applied to the riser tube. This promotes buckling of the riser tube. The cartridge housing, the riser tube, and the support can be integral components of a single part.

[0022] In a further advantageous manner, the riser tube has a beveled tip at its free end, which, upon contact with the ground (i.e., when the entire assembly is inserted or locked into place), imparts a preferred bending direction to the riser tube. This facilitates the insertion of the assembly into the container and, at the same time, prevents undefined, unintended kinking or bending of the riser tube that could impair its function.

[0023] To prevent the free end of the riser pipe, through which the fluid flows, from being blocked by contact with the ground, the riser pipe is equipped with two bevels at different angles at its free end. The angled surface of these bevels prevents the riser pipe from being completely blocked by contact with the ground. This angled surface allows fluid to always flow into the riser pipe, regardless of how the free end of the riser pipe comes to rest against the ground.

[0024] The aforementioned measure can be facilitated or replaced by a further measure, namely by providing the single or double angled riser pipe tip with an additional opening. This opening is formed at the free end of the riser pipe, preferably in the form of a recess at the edge, so that even when the angled riser pipe tip is in full contact with the ground, liquid can still enter the riser pipe through this additional opening. This effectively prevents unintentional blockage of the riser pipe's inlet area.

[0025] Between the two housing parts – cartridge housing and sealing housing – a middle housing part or a transition area between the two housing parts may be provided, in which the control unit is formed. The control unit is liquid-tight from the storage space for the dispensing unit, i.e., from the surroundings of the container.

[0026] The control unit can be arranged in a pressure sleeve, which can be designed as an intermediate piece between the cartridge housing and the sealing housing.

[0027] Outside the cartridge housing and, if applicable, the middle housing section or the transition area, a riser pipe is formed for the pressure-induced upward movement of the liquid. The riser pipe can also be an integral part of the housing components. In the area of ​​the sealing housing, the riser pipe opens into it, specifically into an internal flow channel inside the sealing housing. This channel is connected to the dispensing channel of the dispensing unit via an elastic flow connection. Pressure therefore exists exclusively in the flow connection and not in the reservoir of the dispensing unit. This reservoir is sealed off from the interior of the container.

[0028] The elastic flow connection is advantageously an elastic hose that is just long enough to fit into the storage space on the one hand and to extend to the operating position of the dispensing unit on the other, namely in the extended state of the dispensing unit.

[0029] The pressure unit comprises a pressure sleeve with a screw-in sleeve and a valve plunger, which can be actuated via the associated control unit. The pressure cartridge is screwed into the screw-in sleeve and can be actuated via the valve plunger, with initial actuation occurring when the dispensing unit is removed. Only then is the pressure cartridge activated, allowing the gas required to dispense the liquid to flow into the interior of the container. Once a predetermined internal pressure is reached, the control unit automatically closes the pressure unit in the conventional manner. Reference is made to the prior art cited at the outset.

[0030] The control unit comprises a diaphragm acting on the valve stem, which is subjected to the pressure of a pressure chamber formed between the pressure sleeve and the diaphragm. Against the pressure of a spring-loaded pressure clamp, the pressure cartridge opens or closes via the valve stem in the conventional manner.

[0031] Between the control unit and the dispensing unit, preferably in a region of the pressure housing facing the control unit, an overpressure protection device is provided, which may include a spring-loaded rupture disc and a sealing ring. The sealing ring serves as an indicator of a single activation.

[0032] The dispensing unit comprises a dispensing head with a dispensing channel connected to the flexible hose and a dispensing lever for operation. It should be noted that the flow connection of the flexible hose can be achieved on both sides by simply pushing the hose onto the fitting using a clamping action.

[0033] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the dispensing unit includes a type of valve roller that successively opens or closes the dispensing channel when the dispensing lever is actuated. This allows the flow channel to be opened or closed from a completely closed to a completely open state and vice versa. Metering or throttling of the dispensed liquid quantity is also possible.

[0034] The dispensing unit has a handling element at its end face, which serves to pull the dispensing unit out of the pressure-free storage space within the rod- or cylinder-shaped assembly. This moves the dispensing unit from the secured transport position to the operating position, where the dispensing unit is manually moved.

[0035] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the arrangement includes a seal of authenticity. In In the transport position, the tamper-evident seal releasably connects the dispensing head to the sealing housing. Simultaneously, the tamper-evident seal can close the free end of the dispensing channel, i.e., the outlet. When the dispensing unit is pulled out using the handling device, the tamper-evident seal detaches irreversibly from the sealing housing. It may break in the process, for example. This then exposes the dispensing channel to the outlet. It should be noted that removing the dispensing unit activates the control unit on the pressure unit, and the release of gas when the dispensing lever is operated allows dispensing to occur.

[0036] To position the tap head, it has a clamping device, in the simplest case a slot suitable for attaching it to the rim or fold of the container. For secure attachment, the clamping device can be equipped with an undercut so that the tap head can be locked onto the rim. This ensures secure positioning of the tap head.

[0037] The sealing housing can have a flange or circumferential shoulder at its free end for external contact with the edge of the opening in the container lid. This ensures secure positioning of the rod- or cylinder-shaped assembly. Furthermore, the sealing housing can have a locking mechanism with sealing elements below or behind the flange or shoulder for sealing against the opening in the container lid, so that after the filler inserts the rod- or cylinder-shaped assembly into the beer keg, a liquid- and pressure-tight seal is created, advantageously compared to the prior art with a single opening in the container.

[0038] The container according to the invention, which can be any beverage container, in particular a beer keg, and more specifically a 5L party beer keg, comprises the previously discussed dispensing and control device for distributing the liquid. This container is therefore inventive compared to conventional containers of the type under discussion here.

[0039] There are now various ways to advantageously elaborate and further develop the teaching of the present invention. For this purpose, reference should be made, on the one hand, to the claims subordinate to claim 1 and, on the other hand, to the following explanation of a preferred embodiment of the invention with reference to the drawing. In In conjunction with the explanation of the preferred embodiment of the invention with reference to the drawing, generally preferred embodiments and further developments of the teaching are also explained. The drawing shows Fig. 1 in a schematic view of an embodiment of a 5L party beer keg according to the invention with an opening in the lid, without a dispensing and regulating device; Fig. 2 in a schematic, cutaway view, a 5L party beer keg with the dispensing and regulating device according to the invention inserted, wherein the dispensing unit is located in the transport and storage position within a rod- or cylinder-shaped arrangement; Fig. 2a in a schematic, partial, and enlarged view, the pressure and regulating device of the object. Fig. 2 , Fig. 3 in a schematic view the object from Fig. 2 , wherein the dispensing unit is pulled out of the rod- or cylinder-shaped arrangement and is in the operating position clipped to the shank of the beer barrel, Fig. 4 in a schematic view of the object Fig. 3 , with the tap lever used for tapping being raised, Fig. 5 the beer barrel as shown Fig. 2 in a top view, Fig. 6 the beer barrel according to the illustration from Fig. 2 in a perspective view, Fig. 7 the beer barrel according to the illustration from Fig. 2 in a frontal view, Fig. 8 the beer barrel according to the illustration from Fig. 4 In a perspective view, Fig. 9a in a schematic view, partially, the free end of the riser pipe with stiffening web, bend area and doubly chamfered surface together with additional opening, Fig. 9bin in a schematic view the object from Fig. 9a , turned towards the indentations, Fig. 9 in a schematic view of the object Fig. 9a , turned again towards the indentations, Fig. 9 in a schematic view the object from Fig. 9a In section from the side, Fig. 10a in a schematic view the device according to the invention seen from the side facing away from the riser pipe, Fig. 10bin in a schematic view the device according to the invention seen from the side facing the riser pipe, Fig. 10cin in a schematic view the device according to the invention seen from the side, Fig. 11a in a schematic view the object from the Figuren 9a bis 9d , enlarged, viewed from the side facing away from the riser pipe, Fig. 11 is a schematic view of the object from the Figuren 9a bis 9d , enlarged, viewed from the side facing the riser pipe, Fig. 11 in a schematic view of the object from the Figuren 9a bis 9d , enlarged, seen from the side, Fig. 12 in a schematic view the entire arrangement, inserted / mounted in a beer barrel and Fig. 13 in a schematic view the object according to the invention completely inserted and locked into the beer barrel, with bent riser pipe.

[0040] Fig. 1 Figure 1 shows a schematic view of a 5L beer keg 1. An opening 3 is formed in the lid 2 at the top, which is to be understood as the only opening in the beer keg 1. Consequently, only this single opening 3 needs to be sealed on this beer keg 1.

[0041] Fig. 1 further shows that the lid 2 is connected to the wall 5 via a fold 4.

[0042] Fig. 2 shows in a schematic sectional view the beer barrel 1 according to Fig. 1 , wherein the dispensing and regulating device according to the invention is inserted almost flush into the opening 3. From bottom to top, the dispensing and regulating device can be described as follows: A CO₂ cartridge 7 is arranged in a cartridge housing 6. The cartridge 7 is screwed into a screw-in sleeve 8 made of plastic or stainless steel. The screw-in sleeve 8 is in turn located in a pressure sleeve 9, wherein the screw-in sleeve 8 can be screwed into the pressure sleeve 9 or otherwise fastened therein.

[0043] Above the pressure sleeve 9 is a valve plunger 10, the end of which of its shaft is inserted into a flange base 11 of a diaphragm 12. The diaphragm 12 serves to actuate the valve plunger 10.

[0044] A spring compressor 13 is arranged above the diaphragm 12, and a control spring 14 rests against the spring compressor 13. The spring compressor 13 and the control spring 14 are surrounded by the sealing housing 15, which is screwed into the pressure sleeve 9.

[0045] The upper shaft end of the spring compressor 13 protrudes through a through-opening 16 in the sealing housing 15 to a passage at the lower end of the rotary piston 17, in which the spring compressor 13 is locked. The regulating spring 14, or the plate of the spring compressor 13, has no contact with the diaphragm 12. The regulating spring 14 is compressed.

[0046] An overpressure protection device 18 is provided in the free space between the upper shaft end of the spring compressor 13 and the lower end of the rotary piston 17.

[0047] The overpressure protection device 18 comprises a sealing disc 19 with a burst disc 21 sealed by an O-ring 20. This is pressed outwards against the burst disc 21 by a compression spring 22, which is supported inside on the sealing housing 15.

[0048] Opposite the overpressure relief valve 18 is a sealing surface 23 attached to the rotary piston 17, which seals against a through-bend 24 in the sealing housing 15. On the opposite side, along the sealing surface 23, an inlet hole 25 is provided on the sealing housing 15 for the flow channel of the rotary piston 17.

[0049] At the outer lower end of the through-bend 24 of the sealing housing 15, the upper end of a riser tube 27, which is attached to or runs along the cartridge housing 6, engages positively in the housing 1.

[0050] The flow channel 26 and an activation ridge 29 of the rotary piston 17 project into the upper, inner free space 28 of the sealing housing 15.

[0051] A hose 30, attached to the flow channel 26 of the rotary piston 17, and an activation pin 31 of the nozzle head 32, inserted into the activation bridge 29, are connected. Opposite the activation pin 31 is an inlet channel 33, to which the other free end of the hose 30 is attached.

[0052] The inlet channel 33 of the tap head 32 opens into a valve roller 34, to which a tap lever 35 is attached.

[0053] A seal 36 is provided on the flange of the sealing housing 15, which acts against the outer wall of the barrel lid 2 in the area of ​​the opening 3. An authenticity seal 38 is also provided, which is connected to the tap head 32.

[0054] Fig. 2a shows the essentials to Fig. 2 discussed details in enlarged view.

[0055] Fig. 3 differs from Fig. 1 This is achieved by moving the dispensing unit from its transport and storage position to its removed operating position. Specifically, the dispensing head 32 is attached to the flange 4 of the barrel lid 2. It is clearly visible that the hose 30 connects the dispensing head 32 to the riser pipe 27 via the rotary piston 17. The outwardly open storage space 39 is now empty and open to the outside. It is sealed against the inside of the barrel.

[0056] Furthermore, Fig. 3 recognize that the actuating element serving the pin, namely the pin lever 35, is in a flat position.

[0057] According to Fig. 4 The tap lever 35 is in position and can be operated, which rotates the valve roller 34.

[0058] The Fig. 2 bis 4 further show that the tap head 32 comprises a slot-like clamping device 40 with which the tap head 32 is clamped onto the fold 4.

[0059] The figures also show the downward-directed outlet 41 formed in the tap head 32.

[0060] Fig. 5 Figure 1 shows the beer barrel equipped with the dispensing and control device according to the invention from above, with the dispensing unit in the transport and storage position. An arrow 42 indicates the direction of rotation in which the tab or plate 43, visible from above, must be turned so that the dispensing head 32, which is under at least slight tension in the storage space 39, emerges from the storage space 39.

[0061] Fig. 6 The figure shows the barrel equipped with the dispensing and control device according to the invention in a schematic, perspective side view, Fig. 7 shows the object Fig. 6 in a front view.

[0062] According to the representation in Fig. 8 The dispensing unit is in the operating position, and the dispensing head 32 is attached to the upper outer edge, i.e., to the crimp 4 of the beer barrel 1. The dispensing lever 35 is in the position for dispensing. The hose 30 leads from inside the barrel, through the opening 3 to the dispensing head 32. Furthermore, it can be seen that a fastening sleeve or flange 44 is provided at the opening 3, i.e., at the upper end of the storage space 39, to which the dispensing head can be screwed or bayoneted into place within the storage space 39 when inserted.

[0063] The Fig. 9a bis 9d The figures show, in enlarged schematic views, the riser tube 27, which extends over the cartridge housing 9 and, in the installed state, downwards towards the bottom of the container (not shown). A stiffening element 45 is provided at the end of the pressure sleeve 9, against which the riser tube 27 is supported when it is pressed or bent in the direction of the stiffening element 45.

[0064] To facilitate a defined buckling of the riser tube 27, three notches 46 are provided on the side of the riser tube 27 facing the cartridge housing 9 or the stiffening element 45. These notches promote a deliberate or intentional buckling of the riser tube 27 in a direction specified by the notches 46. This occurs when the riser tube 27 is subjected to a force against a chamfer 47.

[0065] The free end of the riser pipe 27 has the chamfer 47. Furthermore, an additional opening 49 is formed next to the opening 48, which allows liquid to flow in even when the chamfer 47 is fully in contact with the bottom of the container.

[0066] Fig. 10a The figure shows the arrangement from the side facing away from the riser pipe 27. The indentations 46, designed to facilitate buckling, are visible. It is also evident that the tip of the riser pipe 27 is equipped with an additional opening 49.

[0067] Regarding other features that are not relevant to the riser pipe 27, to avoid repetition, please refer to the figure description. Figuren 2 and 3 referred.

[0068] Fig. 10b shows the arrangement Fig. 10a Viewed from the rear. The chamfer 47 and the additional opening 49 are also visible here.

[0069] Fig. 10c shows the object from the Fig. 10a and 10b Viewed from the side. Referring to the descriptions of the Fig. 10a and 10b No further explanation is necessary.

[0070] Fig. 11a Figure 1 shows an enlarged representation of the free end of the riser tube 27. The notches 46 for bending the riser tube 27 and the free end of the riser tube 27 with the additional opening 48 are visible.

[0071] Fig. 11b shows the object Fig. 11a Viewed from the other side, that is, viewed from the side of riser pipe 27. Further explanation is unnecessary at this point.

[0072] Fig. 11c shows the object from the Fig. 11a and 11bViewed from the side. Here it is clearly visible that a second chamfer 50 is provided at the free end of the riser pipe 27, so that even if both chamfers 47, 50 are fully in contact with the bottom of the container, no sealing effect occurs and it is possible for the flow medium to enter the riser pipe 27.

[0073] Fig. 12 Figure 1 shows the object according to the invention in its installed state, that is, inserted into a barrel. The entire device is inserted into the barrel just far enough that the riser pipe 27 makes contact with the bottom at its free end.

[0074] Fig. 13 Figure 1 shows a situation in which the device according to the invention is completely inserted into the barrel and locked in place. The free end of the riser tube 27 rests against the bottom of the barrel and is bent towards the notches 46. Liquid flows from the free end of the riser tube 27 into the barrel, namely due to the indentations 46. Fig. 13 the two chamfers 47 and 49 that are not visible and the additional opening 48, as the preceding figures clearly show.

[0075] To better understand the functionality of the features relating to the riser pipe, the following should be explained: The entire unit or device to which the riser pipe is attached is inserted into the container from above. The unit is dimensioned so that the riser pipe rests against the bottom of the container with its tip. In other words, the unit rests on the tip of the riser pipe inside the container.

[0076] As the unit is inserted further into the container, up to a locking position, the riser tube tip is deflected in the preferred bending direction, defined by the notches in the riser tube, according to the angle formed at the tip (resulting in a chamfer). Due to the notches, recesses, or similar features formed in the riser tube, the riser tube is able to bend at the point defined by the notches.

[0077] Directly adjacent to the notches, a stiffening rib acts as a support for the riser pipe. Due to the maximum possible distance between the riser pipe tip and the stiffening rib, the greatest bending moment occurs at the stiffening rib. This is where the buckling of the riser pipe is initiated, from bottom to top up to the last notch.

[0078] As the unit is inserted further into the container, the defined bending continues at the subsequent notches until the unit is in the ready-to-use position. The riser tube is then located inside the container after the defined bending.

[0079] To prevent the end opening of the riser pipe from closing due to contact with the bottom of the container, special precautions have been taken. The riser pipe tip has two differently angled circular annular surfaces at its contact point with the bottom, resulting from two different angles of the chamfers. This prevents the riser pipe tip from lying flat against the bottom of the container.

[0080] Should the riser pipe become compressed at the base due to unfavorable forces during installation, a further measure is provided at the tip of the riser pipe. A second opening is formed there, through which fluid can flow into the riser pipe even when the end-end circular ring surface or slope is fully in place at the base of the container.

[0081] The following points summarize the function of the entire dispensing and control system: The valve plunger pierces the CO₂ cartridge with its tip. This occurs either during assembly by the filler or, depending on the design of the sealing housing, rotary piston, and spring tensioner, by the user. Once the CO₂ cartridge is activated, the pressure required to dispense the liquid is present at the bottom of the valve plunger. The end user rotates the dispensing head, which is in the transport position, between 10 and 120° clockwise or counterclockwise, according to the operating instructions. The dispensing head is connected to the rotary piston via its activation pin in the activation bridge and rotates the piston accordingly. Due to the rotary piston's rotation, the inlet hole on the piston's sealing surface aligns with the outlet hole of the sealing housing's through-bend. The fluid channel (riser pipe, flow channel, hose) is thus opened.Upper recesses on the flange of the sealing housing expose the dispensing head, which can be lifted out of the housing from its transport position. A valve roller is integrated into the dispensing head, which is acted upon by a dispensing lever. The free end of the hose is also attached to the dispensing head. The dispensing head, along with the hose, is pulled out of the sealing housing or its storage compartment. The dispensing head is then pressed down onto the crimp of the drum by a clamping device, specifically at its notch, and can be locked in place by a locking lug beneath the crimp. The dispensing lever is then moved upwards, rotating the valve roller. This opens the flow path between the fluid channel and the dispensing channel, allowing the fluid to flow out through the outlet. During dispensing, the pressure inside the container drops.As soon as the pressure drops below a predetermined level, the regulating spring pushes the diaphragm downwards towards the valve stem. This allows CO₂ to escape from the CO₂ cartridge towards the pressure chamber and flow through the outlet channel under the O-ring towards the reservoir. The pressure in the reservoir then rises again. Pressure equalization occurs between the pressure chamber and the reservoir. Both areas have the same pressure. Atmospheric pressure prevails above the diaphragm. This pressure is created by the free access to the atmosphere through the opening between the spring compressor, the rotary piston, and the sealing housing. The regulating pressure in the pressure chamber is determined by the specific design of the regulating spring, which, at the prevailing pressure, pushes the spring upwards across its contact surface in the pressure chamber and onto the diaphragm. The valve stem is then no longer actively pushed downwards by the regulating spring or the diaphragm. No more CO₂ can flow from the CO₂ cartridge towards the pressure chamber.Pressure equalization is prevented until pressure is released from the container again through the tap. The previously described control process then restarts and repeats indefinitely as long as there is liquid in the container or as long as the CO₂ cartridge provides a pressure medium. Should a malfunction occur during pressure regulation, for example, if CO₂ escapes uncontrollably and too quickly into the container, or if the container reaches a critical pressure state, even approaching the bursting point, due to excessive heat, the integrated overpressure protection allows the CO₂ to escape in a controlled manner without the container bursting.

[0082] The overpressure protection works as follows: A sealing disc with a hole in the center is provided. It is separated from and sealed against the rupture disc by an O-ring. Behind the rupture disc is a spring that presses against it. If the pressure inside the container rises above a predetermined value, the pressure at the hole in the sealing disc causes the rupture disc to lift away from the O-ring. The spring behind it is compressed. Consequently, the hole in the sealing disc is released, and pressure can escape past the rupture disc and through the sealing housing to the outside atmosphere.

[0083] The preceding explanations regarding the function of the dispensing and control device according to the invention do not limit it beyond the specific features of the patent claims. Rather, they serve for discussion purposes.

[0084] Regarding further advantageous embodiments of the device according to the invention, reference is made to the general part of the description and to the attached claims in order to avoid repetition.

[0085] Finally, it should be expressly pointed out that the exemplary embodiment of the teaching according to the invention described above serves only to discuss the claimed teaching, but does not limit it to the exemplary embodiment. Bezugszeichenliste

[0086] 1 Container, barrel, beer keg 2 Lid, keg lid 3 Opening (at the top of the container) 4 Seam 5 Wall (of the container) 6 Cartridge housing 7 Cartridge, pressure cartridge 8 Screw-in sleeve 9 Pressure sleeve 10 Valve plunger 11 Flange base 12 Diaphragm 13 Spring tensioner 14 Control spring 15 Sealing housing 16 Through-hole 17 Rotary piston 18 Overpressure safety device 19 Sealing disc 20 O-ring 21 Burst disc, burst ring 22 Compression spring 23 Sealing surface 24 Through-bend 25 Inlet hole, inlet opening 26 Flow channel 27 Riser pipe 28 Free space 29 Activation bridge 30 Hose 31 Activation pin 32 Tap head 33 Inlet channel 34 Valve roller 35 Tap lever 36 Seal 37 Not assigned 38 Tamper seal 39 Storage space (in sealing housing) 40 Clamping device 41 Outlet 42 Arrow 43 Tab, plate 44 Mounting sleeve, flange 45 Reinforcing element 46 Notches 47 First chamfer 48 Opening 49 Additional opening 50 Second chamfer

Claims

1. A tap and control device for dispensing a liquid from a container (1), in particular a beverage container, preferably for dispensing a beer or beer beverage from a beer keg, preferably from a 5-liter party beer keg, having a rod-shaped or cylindrical assembly composed of a pressure unit, a regulator unit, and a tap unit, which can preferably be inserted almost flush into the container (1) through an opening (48) in the lid (2) of the container (1), wherein the pressure unit comprises a lower, first housing part in the form of a cartridge housing (6) at the end with a gas cartridge (7), preferably a CO2 cartridge, positioned therein, which first housing part is adjoined by a second housing part in the form of a sealing housing (15), in which the tap unit is positioned as far as possible in its transport and storage position and closes off the sealing housing (15) at the free end, wherein in the installed state, a riser pipe (27) fluidically connected to the tap unit extends from the sealing housing (15) beyond the cartridge housing (6) into the container (1) to the lower region in the container (1) close to or directly against the bottom, wherein the riser pipe (27) is made of a rigid, sturdy material, preferably of plastic, and wherein the riser pipe (27) is provided with a bending function below the cartridge housing (6), which, when the device is inserted into the container (1) or when the device is moved into a predetermined locking position and upon contact with the bottom, enables a defined bending of the riser pipe (27).

2. The tap and control device according to claim 1, characterized in that the riser pipe (27) is attached to the outside of the cartridge housing (6) or is integrated into it.

3. The tap and control device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the riser pipe (27) extends from the lower end of a passage bend (24) of the sealing housing (15) beyond the cartridge housing (6) to below the cartridge housing (6) and / or the riser pipe (27) has at least one, preferably three, notches (46) below the cartridge housing (6), preferably on the inside facing the cartridge housing (6), for implementing the bending function.

4. The tap and control device according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that in the lower region of the cartridge housing (6) adjacent to the riser pipe (27), a stiffening element (45) is embodied as an abutment for the riser pipe (27), which, thanks to its function as an abutment, promotes a bending of the riser pipe (27) when force is exerted on the riser pipe (27).

5. The tap and control device according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the riser pipe (27) has a beveled riser pipe tip at the free end, which gives the riser pipe (27) a preferred bending direction when it comes into contact with the bottom and / or the free end of the riser pipe (27) has two bevels (47 and 50) with different angles, which, due to the resulting bent surface, prevent the entire surface of the riser pipe tip from coming into contact with the bottom.

6. The tap and control device according to claim 5, characterized in that the riser pipe (27) has an additional opening (49) in the form of a recess in the region of the single-beveled or double-beveled riser pipe tip, so that liquid can penetrate or be drawn into the riser pipe (27) even when the beveled riser pipe tip is resting flat against the bottom.

7. The tap and control device according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the tap unit can be moved from a transport and storage position, in which it is inserted into the assembly, into a use position, in which it has been removed from the assembly, and can be fluidically connected thereto, and wherein the removed tap unit can be attached to the container (1), preferably to its edge, skirt (4), or the like, for use or actuation.

8. The tap and control device according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that a middle housing part is embodied between the two housing parts or a transition region is embodied in the two housing parts, in which the regulator unit is embodied.

9. The tap and control device according to claim 8, characterized in that outside the cartridge housing (6) and possibly outside the middle housing part or the transition region, possibly as an integral component of the housing parts, a riser pipe (27) is embodied for the pressure-induced rise of the liquid, which riser pipe opens into the sealing housing (15) in the region of the latter and opens into an internal flow channel (26) in the interior of the sealing housing (15), which flow channel is fluidically connected to a tap channel of the tap unit via an elastic fluidic connection, the elastic fluidic connection being embodied as an elastic hose (30) that is just long enough for the tap unit to be brought into its use position.

10. The tap and control device according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the pressure unit comprises a pressure sleeve (9) with a screw-in sleeve and a valve plunger (10), which can be actuated via the regulator unit operatively connected thereto, wherein the pressure cartridge (7) is screwed into the screw-in sleeve and is actuatable via the valve plunger (10), wherein the regulator unit comprises a diaphragm (12), which acts on the valve plunger (10) and is exposed to the pressure of a pressure chamber formed between the pressure sleeve (9) and the diaphragm (12) and opens or closes the pressure cartridge (7) via the valve plunger (10) in opposition to the pressure of a spring-loaded pressure tensioner.

11. The tap and control device according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that between the regulator unit and the tap unit, preferably in a region of the sealing housing (15) facing the regulator unit, an overpressure safety device (18) is provided, which can comprise a spring-loaded rupture disk (21) together with a sealing ring.

12. The tap and control device according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the tap unit comprises a tap head (32) with a tap channel adjoining the elastic hose (30) and a tap lever (35) for actuation, wherein the tap unit can comprise a valve roller (34), which can successively open or close the tap channel upon actuation of the tap lever (35) and / or wherein at its front end, the tap unit comprises a manipulating element for pulling the tap unit out of the transport position into the actuating position, wherein in the transport position, a tamper-evident seal (38) can detachably connect the tap head (32) to the sealing housing (15) and optionally can close the free end of the tap channel, and the tamper-evident seal irreversibly detaches from the sealing housing (15) or breaks when the tap unit is pulled out by means of the manipulating element and optionally, unblocks the tap channel to the open outlet (41).

13. The tap and control device according to claim 12, characterized in that a clamping device (40) is provided in the tap head (32), which is used for sliding the tap head (32) onto the edge or skirt (4) of the container (1) in a clamping fashion.

14. The tap and control device according to one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that at its free end, the sealing housing (15) has a flange (44) or a circumferential shoulder for external contact with the edge of the opening (48) in the lid (2) of the container (1), wherein the sealing housing (15) can have a catch mechanism with sealing means under or behind the flange (44) or the shoulder for sealing against the opening (48) in the lid (2) of the container (1).

15. A container, in particular a beverage container, preferably a beer keg for beer or a beer beverage, for example a 5L party beer keg, that has the tap and control device for dispensing a liquid according to one of claims 1 to 14.