Dispensing and regulating device as well as container with such a dispensing and regulating device

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] 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.

[0007] DE 11 2006 003934 T5 shows, in isolation, a disposable beverage dispenser with an integrated gas cartridge. The gas cartridge is pierced by a gas cartridge punch to supply pressurized gas to a pressure regulator. The pressure regulator has a pressure regulator outlet configured to connect to the inside of a beverage container.

[0008] US 5,110,012 A discloses a dispensing and control device for dispensing a liquid from a container, wherein the device known therein is relatively large due to the lack of a rod- or cylinder-shaped arrangement of the functional elements.

[0009] 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.

[0010] 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 from a beverage container, preferably for dispensing beer or a beer-based beverage from a beer keg, preferably from 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.

[0011] The aforementioned problem is solved 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. In contrast to the prior art, the three units are combined in a rod- or cylinder-shaped arrangement within a one-piece or multi-piece housing. This makes it possible to insert the entire arrangement almost flush into the container through a single opening in the lid, which then needs to be sealed. Unlike the prior art, the container requires only a single opening, namely for inserting the entire arrangement. The effort required for sealing is reduced compared to the 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 completely 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] Between the control unit and the dispensing unit, in an area of ​​the sealing housing facing the control unit, an overpressure relief device is provided, which may comprise a spring-loaded burst disc along with a sealing disc or sealing ring. The sealing ring serves as an indicator of a single activation of the overpressure relief device.

[0016] The overpressure relief device is a compact assembly. As described above, it comprises a sealing disc with a sealing ring positioned beneath or behind it. The rupture disc is located beneath or behind the sealing ring, extending on one side towards the sealing disc and sealing ring. On the other side, the rupture disc extends towards a spring, which then presses the rupture disc against it. The entire assembly, including the sealing disc, the seal, the rupture disc, and the spring, is housed in a specially designed casing.

[0017] The overpressure protection works as follows: If the internal pressure in the container rises, the pressure at an inlet opening of the rupture disc also increases. If the pressure there exceeds a predetermined threshold, the spring is no longer able to press the rupture disc against the seal. The specific spring force thus defines the back pressure. As soon as this occurs, the rupture disc lifts off the seal.

[0018] A centering and positioning star is formed in the center of the rupture disc. Inlet channels are provided around this centering and positioning star, through which the fluid (e.g., the beer) flows into the interior of the overpressure protection device.

[0019] If the rupture disc lifts only slightly from the seal, namely when the pressure in the container rises slowly, the rupture disc does not reach the system at its travel limit. In this case, the fluid flows around the rupture disc and passes through the spring into an atmospheric outlet and escapes via the housing of the overpressure relief device.

[0020] If the pressure in the container rises rapidly, the rupture disc reaches its travel limit. For this eventuality, the overpressure relief device housing incorporates rapid venting grooves, allowing the fluid to escape more or less unimpeded through the spring and then through the atmosphere outlet, despite the rupture disc reaching its travel limit.

[0021] As previously explained, the specific spring force allows the trigger pressure of the overpressure protection to be specified or set.

[0022] The rupture disc of the overpressure protection device is preferably symmetrically designed. This allows it to accommodate the spring on one side or to form a support for the spring. On the other side, the rupture disc is centered in the sealing disc, or vice versa.

[0023] Assembly of the overpressure protection component is facilitated because the rupture disc does not need to be separately guided into position. The interlocking design of the components significantly simplifies assembly.

[0024] Furthermore, it is essential that when the pressure in the container drops again, the spring is able to press the rupture disc against the seal once more. Consequently, the overpressure protection remains active for the duration of the device's use, e.g., a beer keg, and reseals the container after the pressure is released. Thus, the device automatically returns to its factory settings. Safe handling is guaranteed.

[0025] Advantageously, the pressure unit comprises, as its lower housing part, an end-mounted cartridge housing containing a gas cartridge. This is preferably a CO₂ cartridge. A sealing housing, which either seals against the cartridge housing or is integral with it, adjoins the cartridge housing as a second housing part. Like the cartridge housing, the sealing housing is at least partially sealed to the outside.

[0026] 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.

[0027] 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.

[0028] 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.

[0029] 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.

[0030] 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.

[0031] 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.

[0032] 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.

[0033] 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.

[0034] Between the control unit and the dispensing unit, preferably in a region of the sealing housing facing the control unit, an overpressure protection device is provided, which may comprise a spring-loaded burst disc and a sealing ring. The sealing ring serves as an indicator of a single activation.

[0035] 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.

[0036] 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.

[0037] The flow channel can be opened or closed from a completely closed to a completely open state and vice versa. The amount of liquid dispensed can be metered or throttled.

[0038] 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.

[0039] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the assembly includes a tamper-evident seal. 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 a handling device, the tamper-evident seal detaches irreversibly from the sealing housing. It may, for example, break in the process. 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 actuated allows dispensing to occur.

[0040] 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.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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 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 the overpressure safety device in the closed position, Fig. 9b in a schematic view the overpressure safety device in the open position, Fig. 10a in a schematic view, enlarged and in section, the essential components of the overpressure safety device in the closed position, Fig. 10b in a schematic view, enlarged and in section, the essential components of the overpressure safety device in the open position, Fig. 11a in a schematic view the object made of Fig. 10a enlarged, Fig. 11 is a schematic view of the object Fig. 10b Fig. 12 is an enlarged schematic representation of the housing for the overpressure protection device, Fig. 13 is an enlarged side view of the housing for the overpressure protection device and the essential components of the overpressure protection device in an exploded view, Fig. 13 is a schematic front view of the housing with the inserted components of the overpressure protection device, and Fig. 14 is a schematic view of the essential components of the overpressure protection device.

[0044] 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.

[0045] Fig. 1 further shows that the lid 2 is connected to the wall 5 via a fold 4.

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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.

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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.

[0050] In the space between the upper end of the shaft of the spring compressor 13 and the lower end of the rotary piston 17, an overpressure safety device 18 is provided. The overpressure safety 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 internally by the sealing housing 15.

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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.

[0053] 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.

[0054] 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.

[0055] The inlet channel 33 of the tap head 32 opens into a valve roller 34, to which a tap lever 35 is attached.

[0056] 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.

[0057] Fig. 2a shows the essentials to Fig. 2 discussed details in enlarged view.

[0058] 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.

[0059] Furthermore, Fig. 3 recognize that the actuating element serving the pin, namely the pin lever 35, is in a flat position.

[0060] According to Fig. 4 The tap lever 35 is in position and can be operated, which rotates the valve roller 34.

[0061] 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.

[0062] The Fig. 2 bis 4 further show the downward-directed outlet 41 formed in the tap head 32.

[0063] 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.

[0064] 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.

[0065] 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.

[0066] Fig. 9a Figure 1 shows a schematic view of the overpressure protection device 18 with its respective components, inserted into a specially provided housing 45. The overpressure protection device 18 includes a spring 46, a burst disc 21, which is designed in the sense of a burst ring, and a centering / positioning star 47.

[0067] Furthermore, a seal 48 in the form of a sealing ring is provided. A sealing disc 19 adjoins it on the outside.

[0068] An atmosphere outlet 49 is formed on the inside.

[0069] Fig. 9b Figure 1 shows the arrangement of the overpressure relief device 18 in the open state, whereby the rupture disc 21 with the centering / positioning star 47 is pressed against the spring 46, so that there is no longer any contact with the seal 48. A flow path 55 is thus free.

[0070] The Fig. 10a und 10b show the situation from the Figuren 9a und 9b Regarding the overpressure protection device 18, an enlarged view is shown, which makes the individual relevant components easier to see. Furthermore, the Fig. 10a und 10b The provision of rapid venting grooves 50 is clearly shown. For information on the function, please refer to the general section of the description to avoid repetition.

[0071] Furthermore, the provision for a welding or bonding point 51 is indicated, whereby the sealing disc 19 is attached to the housing 45. The attachment can also be designed as a detent mechanism for the sealing disc 19.

[0072] The Fig. 11a and 11b show the arrangement from the Fig. 10a und 10b in an even larger representation, so that further explanations are unnecessary.

[0073] Fig. 12 The housing 45, as configured, is shown without the individual elements of the overpressure protection. The provision for rapid venting grooves 52 is clearly visible.

[0074] Fig. 13a Figure 1 shows the housing 45 for the overpressure safety device 18 from the side in an exploded view. The individual components of the overpressure safety device are visible, namely the spring 46, the burst disc 21 with the centering / positioning star 47, the seal 48 and, on the outermost side, the sealing disc 19.

[0075] Fig. 13b shows the arrangement of the overpressure protection device 18 from the front, i.e. in a top view, with the respective components.

[0076] Furthermore, it shows Fig. 14 The schematic views show possible embodiments of the sealing disc 19 and the bursting disc 21, in which the centering / positioning star 47 is inserted or integrated. Inlet channels 53 are indicated.

[0077] The central inlet opening 54 is shown on the sealing disc 19.

[0078] The following points should be noted regarding the basic function of the previously discussed dispensing and control device: 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.

[0079] 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.

[0080] 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.

[0081] 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.

[0082] 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. Reference symbol list

[0083] 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-evident seal 39 Storage space (in sealing housing) 40 Clamping device 41 Outlet 42 Arrow 43 Tab, shield 44 Mounting sleeve, flange 45 Housing (of the overpressure relief device) 46 Spring 47 Centering / positioning star 48 Seal (also 20) 49 Atmospheric outlet 50 Rapid vent groove 51 Weld / glue joint, detent 52 Rapid vent groove 53 Inlet channel 54 Inlet opening 55 Flow path

Claims

1. Tapping and regulating device for dispensing a liquid from a container (1), in particular from a beverage container, preferably for dispensing a beer or a beer beverage from a beer keg, preferably from a 5 liter party keg, with a rod-shaped or cylindrical arrangement composed of a pressure unit, a regulating unit, and a tapping unit, which arrangement can preferably be inserted almost flush into the container (1) through an opening (3) in the lid (2) of the container (1), wherein the tapping unit can be transferred from a transport and storage position, in which it is inserted into the arrangement, to a use position, in which it is withdrawn from the arrangement and fluidically connected thereto, and wherein the withdrawn tapping unit can be mounted on the container (1), preferably to its edge, fold (4) or the like, for handling or actuation, characterized in that an overpressure safety device (18) is provided between the regulating unit and the tapping unit.

2. Tapping and regulating device according to claim 1, characterized in that the overpressure safety device (18) comprises a spring-loaded bursting disc (21) together with a sealing ring.

3. Tapping and regulating device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the overpressure safety device (18) comprises a centering and positioning star (47), on the inside of which the spring (46) and on the outside of which a sealing disc (19) are provided, possibly with a seal (36) arranged between them, wherein fluid can penetrate into the interior of the overpressure safety device (18) around the centering and positioning star (47) of the bursting disc (21) when the bursting disc (21) lifts off from the seal (36).

4. Tapping and regulating device according to claim 2 or 3, if referring back to claim 2, characterized in that the bursting disc (21) is designed and arranged in such a way that, when a predetermined pressure inside the container (1) is exceeded, it lifts from the seal (36) and thereby enables a flow and thus a pressure escape via inflow channels (53) around a centering and positioning star (47) of the bursting disc (21).

5. Tapping and regulating device according to one of claims 2 or 3 or 4, if referring back to claim 2, characterized in that an atmospheric outlet (49) is provided through which fluid can flow or escape to the outside around the bursting disc (21) when the pressure is exceeded.

6. Tapping and regulating device according to claim 2 or one of claims 3 to 5, if referring back to claim 2, characterized in that quick venting grooves (52) are provided through which fluid can escape via the atmospheric outlet (49) when the bursting disc (21) is abutting a travel limit, despite contact of the bursting disc (21).

7. Tapping and regulating device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the pressure unit comprises, as a lower housing part, an end-side cartridge housing (6) with a gas cartridge (7) arranged therein, preferably a CO2 cartridge, to which a sealing housing (15) is connected as a second housing part, in which the tapping unit is largely arranged in its transport and storage position and closes the sealing housing (15) at the free end, wherein a middle housing part or a transition region in the two housing parts with the regulating unit can be formed between the two housing parts.

8. Tapping and regulating device according to claim 7, characterized in that outside the cartridge housing (6) a riser pipe (27) is formed for the pressure-induced rise of the liquid, which opens into the sealing housing (15) in its region and opens into an internal flow channel (26) inside the sealing housing (15), which is connected to a tapping channel of the tapping unit via an elastic flow connection, wherein the flow connection is designed as an elastic hose (30) which is just long enough to allow the tapping unit to be moved into its position of use.

9. Tapping and regulating device according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the pressure unit comprises a pressure sleeve (9) with a screw-in sleeve (8) with a valve tappet (10), which can be actuated via the regulating unit connected to it, wherein the pressure cartridge (7) is screwed into the screw-in sleeve (8) and can be actuated via the valve tappet (10), wherein the regulating unit comprises a diaphragm (12) acting on the valve tappet (10), which 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 tappet (10) against the pressure of a spring loaded tensioner.

10. Tapping and regulating device according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the tapping unit comprises a tapping head (32) with a tapping channel connected to the elastic hose (30) and a tapping lever (35) for actuation, wherein the tapping unit can comprise a valve roller (34) which successively opens or closes the tapping channel when the tapping lever (35) is actuated.

11. Tapping and regulating device according to claim 10, characterized in that the tapping unit comprises a handling device at its front end for pulling the tapping unit out of the transport position into the operating position.

12. Tapping and regulating device according to claim 11, characterized in that, in the transport position, a tamper-evident seal (38) detachably connects the tapping head (32) to the sealing housing (15) and, if necessary, closes the free end of the tapping channel, which irreversibly detaches or breaks away from the sealing housing (15) when the tapping unit is pulled out by means of the handling device and, if necessary, opens the tapping channel to the free outlet (41).

13. Tapping and regulating device according to one of claims 10 to 12, characterized in that a clamping device (40) is provided in the tapping head (32), which serves to clamp the tapping head (32) onto the rim or fold (4) of the container (1).

14. Tapping and regulating device according to claim 7 or any one of claims 8 to 13, if backreferencing claim 7, characterized in that the sealing housing (15) has a flange or a circumferential shoulder at its free end for external contact with the edge of the opening (3) in the lid (2) of the container (1), wherein the sealing housing (15) has a locking device with sealing means below or behind the flange or shoulder for sealing against the opening (3) in the lid (2) of the container (1).

15. Container (1), in particular a beverage container, preferably a beer keg for beer or for a beer beverage, for example a 5 liter party beer keg, with a tapping and regulating device for dispensing a liquid according to any one of claims 1 to 14.