A beverage delivery system

Abstract

A drink dispense container 12 (e.g., glass bottle for spirits alcohol) is automatically refillable from bulk supply 11 (e.g., a keg) to a threshold fill level. A sensor 21 may determine whether such l

Description

Technical field The present invention relates to a beverage delivery system, particularly for dispense of an alcoholic spirit to a consumer in a public house or the like. Background to the invention Alcoholic spirit beverages are commonly distributed in glass bottles, e.g. with a volume of 700mL or greater. A plurality of such bottles may be packed in cardboard boxes and palletised for shipment; ultimately for delivery to a bar, restaurant or public house. It is then common for the beverage to be dispensed directly from the bottle by use of an optic (i.e. a valve dispense device comprising a measuring chamber, coupled to an upended bottle) or a pouring spout (e.g. where multiple bottles, each with a pouring spout attached, may be housed on a speed rail for quick access). A controlled quantity of beverage is normally dispensed from the bottle, via the optic or pourer, to a drinking glass, sometimes through an intermediate measure; often to be mixed with another beverage such as soda / tonic. When the bottle is empty, a replacement from the box or a storage shelf may be retrieved and coupled to the optic or pourer as needed. An empty glass bottle may ultimately be recycled after use in a known way. It will be apparent that there is a cost associated with filling and distributing large quantities of glass bottles, both in financial and environmental terms. While glass is recyclable, the material degrades over multiple reuses, compared to a virgin material. In any event, glass manufacture is carbon intensive, both to make and recycle. Furthermore, glass does not always reach the appropriate waste stream to be recycled into new bottles. It is possible to distribute beverages, including spirits, in a larger volume container such as a keg. However, the traditional and familiar method of delivery expected by a consumer and bar staff is still associated with the use of a glass bottle for display and final dispense. Furthermore, branding is more readily applied and visible on a bottle. Therefore, a dispense 26 03 25 tap supplied with beverage from a keg in an analogous way to beer or soft drink, is not a particularly desirable solution for high value spirits. Maintaining use of a glass bottle, or something functionally similar, is preferable. 5 A glass bottle can be manually refilled from a bulk supply, but such practice is generally not encouraged because it can lead to non-genuine product being delivered to a consumer (e.g. filling a premium brand empty bottle with budget-priced beverage). Manual refilling also requires human time and effort, resulting in additional cost. 10                                Summary of the invention In view of the foregoing, the present invention seeks to provide a beverage delivery system that has improved convenience and environmental benefits, while maintaining one or more familiar dispense characteristics visible to and expected by a consumer. At the least, the 15 invention will provide the public with an alternative delivery system for a beverage particularly, but not limited to, beverages such as high value alcoholic spirits. In a broad aspect of the invention, a beverage delivery system is provided according to claim 1. A corresponding delivery method is outlined by claim 20. Further features are described 20 by the dependent claims. The delivery system preferably comprises: a first container for storage of a bulk supply of beverage; a second container for storage of beverage to be dispensed therefrom, wherein the second container has a lesser storage capacity than the first container; a filling device 25 for receiving the second container and automatically (re)filling same, from the bulk supply of beverage of the first container, based on a signal determining the presence of a second container and / or a threshold fill level of the second container. In this way the filling device, being in fluid communication with the first container, may be configured to detect the presence of the second container, which is removable from the filling device and / or an 30 associated support / holding / docking structure, and fill it to a required level, thereby keeping said second container continually "topped up" with beverage. In most preferred forms, the threshold fill level will be substantially full, but not overfull. In embodiments, fluid communication is facilitated by a pump configured for moving beverage from the first container, toward the filling device. A flow measurement device may be integrated with a delivery line. In this way, fill level of the first container may be monitored. Alternatively, or in addition, a fill level sensor may be integrated with the first container, for monitoring remaining contents and, via a suitable display, recommending replacement. All contents of the first container can be transferred to the second container before recommending replacement, in order to avoid wastage of liquid. In one form, the flow measurement device is configured for collecting use data, but is not necessarily used as a means of deactivating the pump and dispense operation. In most cases pumping will cease when the bulk supply has run dry or when the capacitive / fiIl-level sensor detects that the volume of liquid in the second container has reached a fill-level. However, the flow sensor may also be used as a failsafe; e.g. if the flow sensor detects that a volume of liquid greater than that required to fill a second container has been dispensed, but the capacitive / fiIl-level sensor has not been activated, pumping will stop. In embodiments, a control means is provided. In this way, electronic communication with one or more sensors at the filling device or first container, e.g. to detect a second container and / or fill level, can be used to activate the pump and subsequent filling operation. In embodiments, the second container may be a glass bottle or similar that is refillable, e.g. indefinitely, so long as it maintains a required aesthetic. Meanwhile, the bulk supply at the first container is gradually depleted and, when empty, may be swapped out for a replacement first container. A plurality of first containers, in the form of cartridges, may be connected to the system, e.g. to supply beverage in series or parallel to the filling device. In a parallel configuration, a switchover means may be provided to draw beverage from a specified cartridge. In embodiments, the second container may be docked with the filling device, via a suitable connection and / or holding device. A form of suitable connection may comprise a magnetic contact to locate and register a container in place for filling. In some forms, a shape of a receiving surface of the filling device / holder may be configured to mate with the shape of bottle. In many cases, a particular brand of beverage will have a unique bottle shape, so this is one way to ensure use of a particular intended beverage bottle with the refill function of the invention. In the case of an optic configuration, an interface (i.e. form of the filling device) may be located between the bottle and the optic, where all parts push fit together and are then clamped with a bracket. The interface may have a liquid inlet port and breather pipe. In embodiments, the first container is a refillable keg or the like, e.g. with a volume equal to or greater than 5 L (although it is noteworthy that the exact capacity of the first container is not a limiting factor and any suitable volume could be selected, above or below 5L), that can be returned to a supplier for refilling upon depletion of its liquid contents. Preferably, the first container comprises tamper evident features configured to prevent connection to the system by, and / or refilling from, an unauthorised beverage source. For example, a docking station for the first container may comprise identification means (e.g. RFID tag / reader devices) that logs and identifies the first container and authorises its beverage supply for the filling device. The first container may also comprise tamper evident features intended to prevent the first container from being refilled in an unauthorised manner (including by refilling with an unauthorised beverage) once its original liquid contents have been depleted. The present disclosure provides a keg with a streamlined, stackable design which is easy to transport in bulk, store and carry. By use of suitable control and display electronics, it is possible to monitor exactly how much liquid is left in the keg, for accurate inventory management and in order to avoid waste. Ultimately, according to the disclosure herein, there is no time wasted in replenishing bottles, and no need for glass disposal. In embodiments, the filling device communicates with a filling inlet to the second container. In one form, the inlet may comprise a pouring attachment fitted to a neck of the second container. In this way, the second container is refilled with beverage directly through the pouring attachment, which serves as a dispense outlet during normal use of the second container (e.g. a glass bottle of spirits). In other forms, the filling inlet may be formed through a base of the bottle. In other forms, the filling inlet may be proximate an "optic" 26 03 25 measured dispense device that is coupled with the second container at its normal dispense end, e.g. neck opening. The system may be scaled up, e.g. to include a plurality of first containers and / or a plurality 5 of filling devices or analogous filling stations (each filling device associated with a second container or containers to be filled). In this way as mentioned above, the system may be configured to automatically switch over from a first container to a back-up or further first container, such that topping up of the second container(s) by the filling device is uninterrupted / continuous. Alternatively, multiple second containers, each connected to a 10 filling device, may be filled from a common first container. Alternatively, or in addition, a plurality of first containers may be arranged in a bank, each of which has a delivery line / pump toward a respective filling device and associated second container. In this way, multiple closed subsystems may be provided within a main system, which benefits from common control electronics and display. 15 According to a method described herein, beverages can be dispensed to a drinking vessel, via the following steps; e.g. arranging a first container, for storage of a bulk supply of beverage, in fluid communication with a filling device that is, in turn, configured for fluid communication with a second container that is removeable from the filling device; determining a threshold fill 20 level of the second container; activating a transfer of beverage from the first container to the filling device for dispense to the second container, upon determining that the threshold fill level of the second container is not met, thereby keeping the second container topped up to the threshold fill level; and dispending beverage from an outlet of the second container to the drinking vessel. In this way, beverage is automatically dispensed from the first container to keep 25 a bottle (i.e. the second container) topped up, for subsequent delivery to a drinking vessel, without the need to replenish and / or throw away / recycle multiple bottles. It is noteworthy that the overall disclosure anticipates a system and method of returning a bulk supply container to, for example, a distribution centre for refilling, and a bulk supply 30 container with particular features to facilitate this use. The bulk supply container, as a standalone / separable inventive concept, may define an internal volume and at least two ports in communication therewith. A first port is suitably configured to communicate the internal volume with a gas supply and / or vent to or from atmosphere. A second port is suitably configured to couple with a beverage line (e.g. for liquid delivery to or liquid dispense from the internal volume) and, optionally at the internal side, a dip tube that extends into the internal volume. In one form, the first port may comprise a one-way valve that is ordinarily configured during dispense mode to permit gas into the internal volume only, i.e. through the creation of a vacuum effect when beverage is drawn from the internal volume via the second port. In this way, internal pressure is equalized during the dispense operation. The one-way valve likewise prevents gas from exiting the internal volume, thereby maintaining internal pressure within the bulk supply container in order to inhibit unauthorised filling of beverage into the internal volume, via the second port (or filling of beverage through the first / gas port). Notably, during an authorised (re)filling operation / mode of replacement beverage through the second port, the one-way valve at the first port can be disabled or otherwise actuated by a proprietary tool so as to modify it to permit gas from the internal volume out of the bulk supply container during re-filling. The bulk supply container may include one or more of the following features: identification / location elements (e.g. RFID tag), a geolocation device, integrated handles for convenient lifting, a rectilinear shape for efficient stacking / palletisation, wheels, internal strengthening ribs, protective casing elements at the top and bottom of the container, inbuilt tamper evidence, brand protection features related to hidden valves. A corresponding refilling method involves checking for evidence that the one-way valve of the first port has been tampered with. If no evidence of tampering is found then, since alcohol maintains a sterile / clean environment, the bulk supply container can be re-filled by use of a delivery line connected to the second port and a proprietary tool enabling reverse airflow through the one-way valve. In cases where tampering is found, the bulk supply container should be thoroughly cleaned to ensure any contaminant beverage product is removed. According to the foregoing, the invention may provide a faster, convenient and more cost-effective system for serving spirits, while reducing waste and carbon footprint. The system as a whole simplifies distribution and may enable tracking and return of bulk supply containers for refilling of genuine beverage product and accurate stock management. Electronic communication between devices may be configured to ensure dispense of genuine product and authorised use at each step. In a particular implementation, the kegs / cartridges (i.e. first container for bulk supply) and / or their associated docking station and system controller may be configured to connect and transmit data to a remote software platform, e.g. via a Cloud service. Each keg can be individually identifiable, with the following key data to be made available to a remote user of the software platform: - Keg identifier; - Keg location (e.g. via RFID tag or geo-location in outlet, in transit, or in a distribution centre for (re)filling); - Volume of liquid remaining in the keg; -Trend in dispense (i.e., volume change / sales per hour); - Utilisation per keg (e.g., number of refill cycles); - Volume dispensed from each keg per cycle (e.g., in comparison to stated keg capacity); - Duration of cycle stages (e.g., time spent in outlet storage, fully filled, time spent in outlet in dispensing mode, time spent in transit, etc.); and - Status of keg (e.g., full, partially full, empty (and uncleaned), empty (and cleaned), damaged, etc.). With sufficiently robust volume data per keg, it may be possible to manage inventory within an outlet (e.g., to charge an outlet for the volume of liquid that is actually dispensed from a keg and sold). The behind-the-scenes beverage distribution methodology described herein is new for an operator, although should be implemented with minimum oversight necessary. Particularly, it is not required for an operator to select any dispense modes or amounts and, instead, relies on automatic implementation (except for changing kegs, which is a familiar task). Importantly, from a consumer perspective, final delivery to a glass for consumption is unchanged (i.e. familiar dispense operations are visible with no additional steps or change to style of service). Brief description of the drawings Figures 1 illustrates a schematic view of a first beverage delivery system according to the present disclosure; Figures 2 illustrates a schematic view of a second beverage delivery system according to the present disclosure; Figure 3 illustrates a view of a connection end of a spirit keg for use with the present invention, configured for a (re)filling step; Figure 4 illustrates a view of a connection end of a spirit keg for use with the present invention, configured with anti-tamper features; Figure 5 illustrates a side section view of a spirit keg configured for (re)fi I ling at a supply location; Figure 6 illustrates a side section view of a spirit keg, during normal use, configured for delivery of beverage to a filling device; Figure 7 illustrates a general view of a spirit keg loaded into a docking station accommodating further kegs; Figure 8 illustrates an overview of stacked kegs; Figure 9 illustrates an alternative connection means according to a second embodiment of a spirit keg; Figure 10 illustrates a flow diagram of a stock management, return for bulk refill, process. Detailed description of the invention The following description presents exemplary embodiments and, together with the drawings, serves to explain principles of the invention. However, the scope of the invention is not intended to be limited to the precise details of the embodiments or exact adherence with all components, since variations will be apparent to a skilled person and are deemed also to be covered by the description. Terms for components used herein should be given a broad interpretation that also encompasses equivalent functions and features. In some cases, several alternative terms (synonyms) for structural features have been provided but such terms are not intended to be exhaustive. Descriptive terms should also be given the broadest possible interpretation; e.g. the term "comprising" as used in this specification means "consisting at least in part of" such that interpreting each statement in this specification that includes the term "comprising", features other than that or those prefaced by the term may also be present. Related terms such as "comprise" and "comprises" are to be interpreted in the same manner. Directional terms such as "vertical", "horizontal", "up", "down", "upper" and "lower" may be used for convenience of explanation, usually with reference to the illustrations, and are not intended to be ultimately limiting if an equivalent function can be achieved with an alternative dimension, orientation and / or direction. The description herein refers to embodiments with particular combinations of features, however, it is envisaged that further combinations and cross-combinations of compatible features between embodiments will be possible. Indeed, isolated features may function independently as an invention from other features and not necessarily require implementation as a complete combination to have advantages over prior art. Figures 1 and 2 illustrate alternative, analogous embodiments of a beverage delivery system. Figure 1 relates to automatic re-filling of a spirit bottle associated with a pouring attachment, whereas Figure 2 relates to automatic re-filling of a spirit bottle associated with an optic. Usually, an optic is configured to deliver a specific quantity of spirit, whereas a pouring attachment may be configured for free-flow. Variations may be possible, e.g. use of a portable pre-set measurement device that moves with the bottle, compared to an optic which tends to be fixed behind a bar. Referring firstly to Figure 1, the system 10 comprises a first container 11 for storage of a bulk supply of beverage and a second container 12 for storage of beverage to be dispensed therefrom. The second container has a lesser storage capacity than the first container. In practice, the first container 11 may be in the form of a keg (e.g. with 5L to 20L capacity or any suitable amount) while the second container 12 may be in the form of a bottle. The pouring attachment 13 is of a conventional stopper and spout type which includes a breather opening for allowing air to escape from and enter into the bottle as it is filled / emptied. A filling device 14 receives the bottle 12 on / into a suitable platform or cradle. In the illustrated form, a receiving surface of the platform conforms to a shape of the bottle, as a means to limit use of the system to a particular bottle brand / shape. A delivery head 15 is positioned over and in line with an outlet opening of pourer 13. Delivery head 15 is in fluid communication with the first container, keg 11, via a first delivery line 16 and a pump 17. Upstream of pump 17, a flowmeter 18 monitors total dispense from the keg, in order to calculate the remaining volume by a controller 19. Remaining volume and other data can be displayed digitally on a screen 20, although in most cases beverage will be drawn from first container 11 until it has run dry. When beverage no longer passes through the line 16 (i.e., first container 11 is empty), this can be detected and pump 17 disabled, until a replacement keg is attached. In one implementation, the flowmeter is configured to accurately measure a volume of liquid passing through the line from the keg. The system will, therefore, know when the keg is (or approaches) empty and is also sensitive enough to discern a transition from liquid to air (detecting no flow) in the line as it occurs within its mechanism, signalling to stop the pump. In some forms (not shown in Figure 1 or 2), one or more further first containers may be connected, in series or parallel, to continue supply. It will be apparent from Figure 1 that, downstream of flowmeter 18, the line may branch to a second delivery line, pump and filling device. In this way, the same keg 11 can be used to fill both illustrated bottles 12. Further filling devices 14 may be added to the system on further branches. Alternatively, or in addition, one or more further kegs 11 may be included via a switchover valve or the like, upstream of where the line branches to each delivery line / pump. Filling device 14 includes a sensor 21, e.g. a capacitive sensor, in electronic communication with controller 19 for monitoring a fill level of bottle 12. A convenient location for the fill sensor 21 is proximate an upper end of bottle 12. A further sensor 22, also in electronic communication with controller 19, may monitor for whether a bottle is present in filling device 14. If a bottle is removed / not present, then beverage delivery through filling device 14 is disabled. In preferred forms, the system will engage in monitoring to keep bottle 12 in a "topped up" state and, therefore, pump 17 will be activated whenever sensor 22 detects a bottle and sensor 21 detects that the bottle is not already full. The preferred threshold is "substantially full" which would correspond to at least three quarters of the volume. Below the threshold, filling device 14 automatically begins topping up when a bottle is returned to its cradle. In this way, the barperson does not need to think about this aspect of dispense operation and the bottle is always full for manual dispense. In further forms, a bottle may be retained (i.e. engaged into and locked) by the filling device until the auto-top-up function is complete; i.e. to avoid a barperson from removing the bottle while filling is taking place which may lead to spillage for a brief moment until the controller registers that a bottle is no longer present, via sensor 22. In most situations such control is not critical because there is usually sufficient time between manual uses of the bottle to allow auto-top-up and subsequent deactivation of the auto-filling function. In some embodiments a visual indication means, e.g. LEDs or the like, may provide a prompt for whether the top-up operation is complete or still underway. For example, a red colour scheme could indicate filling is underway and be made a feature of the filling device or shine through the bottle, while a green colour scheme may indicate a state where the bottle can be safely removed from the filling device. According to the above, the second container is automatically filled, and maintained in a topped up state, from the bulk supply of beverage of the first container. This is based on a signal determining a threshold fill level of the second container by a sensor. The bottle 12 may be (re)filled indefinitely, so long as it maintains a required aesthetic. Meanwhile, the bulk supply at the first container 11 will become depleted over time and, when empty, may be manually swapped out for a replacement first container and / or automatically swapped over using a switchover means (e.g., when a plurality of first containers are connected in parallel). Other forms of fill measurement may be employed for both the first and second container. The first container 11 may comprise an inlet valve 23 for atmospheric air or a bottled gas to fill the internal space, i.e. to replace a volume of beverage removed via outlet valve 24 during dispense. Each valve 23 and 24 is likely in an open state when connected to the line 16 for dispense use and closed when dormant for unconnected storage and transit. A dip tube 25 extending toward an internal base of container 11 communicates with line 16 via outlet valve 24, to ultimately supply beverage to the second container 12. Other internal arrangements of first container 11 are possible which would not deviate from the core inventive concept described herein. The configuration of Figure 1 is suited to back bar dispense and / or speed rail dispense (i.e. locating the first container behind / under a bar, and with a first delivery line feeding a second container 12 with spirit from the keg via the pump module). Liquid is pumped from the keg into the bottle via a speed pourer 13 (used as an inlet for re-fill) and then the bottle is removed from the filling device 14 for use like a standard speed pourer. The bottle may be docked securely within the filling device 14 by use of a neck holder and magnet that aligns the bottle in place with the dispenser head 15. Once an empty bottle (or a bottle with a liquid level less than the threshold fill level) is placed on the dispenser, capacitive sensors indicate for the dispenser to top up the bottle and cut the supply when the bottle is full. Figure 2 illustrates a dispense system where common reference numerals from Figure 1 have been used to denote the same or equivalent components. For example, a first container 11 is configured to supply beverage via a delivery line 16 and pump 17, toward a second container 12. An outlet 15 of delivery line 16, located at a filling device 14, delivers beverage to container 12. In this case, the interface of filling device 14 / 15 with second container 12, is at an opening 26 through an upended base of second container 12 (e.g. having a familiar bottle shape). A breather tube in communication with an interior of the bottle provides a vent to atmospheric pressure. The upended bottle 12 is coupled to an optic device 27 which, in the known way, is configured to measure a specified quantity of beverage and deliver same through a push-up-to-open valve 28 into a drinking vessel (not shown). Sensors 21 and 22 provide data to controller 19, such as relating to fill level of bottle 12, e.g. up to a desired threshold fill level, and whether a bottle is present. However, it is noteworthy that a bottle 12 connected to an optic 27 will normally be fixed in place during normal use so there may be no need for a bottle-presence detection sensor. In the illustrated embodiment of Figure 2, bottled gas is provided to first container 11 from a cylinder 29 via inlet 23. This keeps the system isolated from atmospheric air, e.g. to replenish the headspace in the first container with an inert gas, especially in containers with an internal volume of over 5 or 10 litres, in order to eradicate oxygen within the headspace, and remove any associated combustion risk. Beverage is supplied from keg 11, through dip tube 25 and out of outlet 24, to line 16; under motivation of pump 17. According to the system of Figure 2, an auto-filling function integrates with existing back bar optic dispense equipment. Automatic liquid refill is achieved by use of a fill level sensor, e.g. a capacitive sensor, in the bottle to detect when liquid drops below a certain level, triggering automatic refilling from the keg to ensure continuous supply to optic 27, via the volume of bottle 12. In alternative arrangements, line 16, in communication with outlet 15 of filling device 14, may be connected to the internal volume of bottle 12 at any suitable location, such as midway down the bottle or, more likely, at a dispense end proximate its neck, e.g. to fill the bottle from a filling device that sits between bottle and optic. To ensure that the bottle is not subject to vaccuum or pressure, a dip tube may be used to communicate with the headspace of the bottle. Figure 2 shows, in dotted detail, a branch from the delivery line 16 which indicates an alternative entry point to the second container. In this way, auto-filling may occur from the bottom-up rather than top-down as illustrated by the main embodiment of Figure 2. In any event, the bottle 12 is maintained in a topped-up state between uses, in accordance with the present disclosure and common purpose with the system of Figure 1. In an alternative form, it may be the case that a "dummy bottle" is located above the optic for display purposes, but that this dummy bottle is not actually refilled. Instead, the beverage line and filling device may simply refill the optic chamber directly each time it is depleted. In this way, the optic itself may be the "second container" since it is an intermediate / secondary container between the first / buIk container and a drinking vessel. For this reason, the second container can be considered any intermediate container of suitable volume, e.g. 25, 50,100, 200, 500, 700 mL or greater. The second container acts as a buffering, auto-filled container between a bulk supply / first container and the drinking vessel ultimately delivered to a consumer. In either of the embodiments depicted in Figures 1 and 2, the pump module 17 may be located at back of house or under a bar / counter, transferring spirits from a remotely located keg 11 to the bottle 12. It is possible to use standard optics 27, i.e. off-the-shelf optics, to adhere to weights and measures regulations. This also enables bartenders to dispense shots as usual. In further forms, there is an option to use different types of measured shot dispense, such as fast-pour electronic optics. As described earlier with reference to Figure 1, one or more flowmeters 18 may be incorporated, for use in collecting data for stock management purposes. Flow measurement may also be used by the system to disable pump 17 when keg 11 runs dry in order to avoid energy wastage / pump overheating. Data collection by the controller may facilitate the automatic sending of notifications from a venue to a remote location (e.g. a distribution centre) to report when a cartridge is low, in order to flag that a newly-filled cartridge will be required at the venue soon. Furthermore, it is useful to be able to run a report for how many full kegs / empty kegs / in-use kegs there are at a particular location (both for the supplier and for the venue). Ideally, in the future, visibility of this information could drive automated delivery / replenishment of stock and feed back into the production planning processes. Further aspects of the keg and factory refill method are outlined below. For example, Figures 3 and 4 illustrate perspective views of an upper portion of a first container 11, e.g. keg. Figure 3 primarily illustrates a keg during a first filling or refilling operation, such as at a supply location, where a beverage delivery connector is coupled to valve 24. Ordinarily (e.g., during dispense operation), as per Figures 1 and 2 above, valve (or opening) 24 is an outlet for beverage, however, during (re)filling of the first container 11 it serves as an inlet for beverage. Similarly, gas valve (or opening) 23 is an inlet for air / gas during dispense operation, but serves as an outlet for gas during (re)fiIling of the first container 11. Simultaneously, gas valve (or opening) 23 is configured to vent air / gas from the internal volume of container 11 during the (re)filling operation while beverage flows through the delivery connector into container 11 via valve 24. During ordinary dispense operation of the system, air / gas valve 23 is in the form of a oneway valve that only allows gas into the internal volume of container 11 (to equalise the pressure inside container 11 when a volume of beverage is dispensed via pump 17) but, during factory filling of first container 11, the valve is disabled or reconfigured (for example, using a proprietary tool) to allow air / gas out of the internal volume of container 11 (and thereby allowing beverage to be (re)filled into the internal volume). In alternative forms, valve or opening 23 may be used as a fill inlet for beverage, while valve or opening 24 may be used to vent the internal gas volume. In the case of a smaller capacity (e.g. 5L) keg, a "hidden" air vent (with one way valve capability) is sufficient because a connection with an inert gas supply 29 is not necessary. The external appearance of container 11 is completed by a handle 30 which, along with the valves or connector openings 23 / 24, is preferably inset into an external top surface of the container so as to allow convenient stacking (e.g., during transport and / or storage). Figure 4 shows first container 11, following a factory (re)filling operation, with a tamper evident seal cap 31 fitted over the valve / port / opening 23. The tamper evident device 31 may serve to maintain valve 23 as a one-way valve biased toward permitting air / gas into container 11, but not in a reverse direction. A user will not be able to remove air / gas from inside container 11 through valve / opening 23 without breaking / removing cap 31. Such an operation will provide evidence of tampering, e.g in order to (re)fill a non-authorised and undesirable liquid into container 11. Figure 4 further shows cover plates 32 and 33 that serve to hide and protect valves / ports 23 and 24 during transit, e.g. while containers 11 are stacked on a pallet or the like. Notably, cover 32 placed over air / gas valve 23 may be fixed in place with screws because this cover is not intended to be removed (and air / gas valve 23 is not intended to be accessed) by the end-user, while cover 33 over valve 24 may be snap-fit for easy removal to connect first container 11 to the system 10 via a coupler for beverage dispense therefrom. In some forms, cover 32 may include or comprise an adhesive sticker / tamper seal. If removed, this will be a first indication that someone has attempted to interfere with the air / gas valve which may suggest that unauthorized refill of container 11 has been attempted. Figures 5 and 6 provide illustrative views of the above-mentioned functions of ports / valves 23 and 24. Particularly, Figure 5 shows a factory (re)filling operation where valve 23 is configured for permitting air / gas flow in either direction or at least in an outlet direction (indicated by a directional arrow) relative to the internal volume of container 11; while beverage is filled through valve 24, via dip tube 25, into the container 11. While the valve 24 may permit air / gas flow in either direction, it is envisaged that a special adapter may be implemented with features to engage with and open valve 24 in the opposite direction to its normal use during dispense (i.e. to let air out instead of in). By contrast, Figure 6 shows a factory connection (as per Figure 5) to valve 23 removed, so that a one-way air / gas flow direction into the container is restored, indicated by a directional arrow. Meanwhile, valve 24 permits beverage to be removed by pump 17, via dip tube 25, and onwards to ultimately top up a second container 12 according to the present disclosure. Figures 7 and 8 illustrate useful functional features of one or more kegs 11. For example, Figure 7 shows a bank of multiple kegs 11, which may serve as cartridges "plugged" into a receiving framework (i.e. docking station 34) that routes one or more delivery lines to a filling device 14. In the illustrated form, each docking position 34 includes an enclosure and lever 35 configured to, when pressed downwardly, engage an internal connection (not visible) with port 24, thereby connecting it for use with a delivery line (e.g., via a coupler) and / or serving to ground the container 11. In the illustrated form only a centrally located outlet valve 24 is visible, because vent features (e.g. air / gas valve / port 23) need not be accessible (or visible) to the end-user. Any docking or storage arrangement for one or more kegs 11 may include grounding features to ensure any electrical charge is dissipated, thereby avoiding sparks which may otherwise cause combustion of a volatile spirit beverage or associated vapour. Grounding may be achieved through the attachment to the metallic outer layer of keg 11 of suitable contacting means to ground. A preferred material is stainless steel, e.g. 316 stainless steel, for construction of the keg due to its strength, durability, lightweight nature, corrosion resistance, and ease of cleaning. The material ensures the integrity of the stored beverages while maintaining hygienic conditions, essential for preserving flavour and quality. In certain arrangements, each docking station 34 may include an identification reader to register and log a cartridge docked thereinto, e.g. using RFID technology, in order to prevent dispense of an incorrect beverage into a bottle 12. Inventory can generally be tracked by use of suitable identification means. At the least, a visible brand / logo may be used to match a cartridge with a correct docking station that corresponds with a bottle 12 recognisable to a consumer for dispense therefrom. Figure 8 shows a stacked configuration of multiple bulk supply containers 11. Stacking is facilitated by a rectilinear shape which is comparatively more efficient (e.g., for transport and / or storage) than a cylindrical shape. In the illustrated form there are four kegs, stacked two-by-two; however, any suitable number in height / width / depth may be stacked on a pallet or for storage prior to use. Figure 9 illustrates an alternative configuration of connection for a first container 11, where a familiar keg coupler device 36 may be connected to a central opening 24, after removal of a cap 37. Venting features may be built into the dispense device 36, e.g. in the case of a "beer-keg" type spear / coupler, the inlet (gas) and outlet (liquid) valves / ports / openings are contained together in a concentric layout. In the context of the delivery system described herein, it is possible to vent the gas inlet to air (e.g. for 5L containers) or connect to bottled gas (e.g. for those containers greater than 5L). Figure 10 illustrates a factory re-fill procedure that may be followed by a service technician at a "home" base where the keg is returned for filling. At step SI container 11 is inspected for evidence of tampering, such as removal or damage to a sticker proximate the air inlet 23. At step S2, if the sticker is intact, then the container 11 can pass to a normal refilling operation at step S3, e.g. as exemplified by Figure 5. Alternatively, at S4 if the sticker has been damaged or removed, further inspection of tamper-evident seal cap 31 or the like is required at step S5 to determine tampering. If inspection determines damage or removal to the anti-tamper device 31 then, at step S6 the container 11 is cleaned and reconditioned with new tamper evident features. In this way, any contaminated beverage (including different / inferior brand) is removed. On the other hand, if the cap 31 is still secure, with no physical evidence of tampering, steps analogous to S2 and S3 take place where the keg 11 is refilled according to Figure 5. A new tamper evident sticker may be applied at the appropriate time to symbolise completion. By way of summary, the present system and its component aspects enable an environmentally friendly solution for the dispensing of spirit beverages that will significantly increase the service life of a glass bottle for spirits and the like. A return-and-reuse container system is common for higher volume sales such as beer and soft drink, but not commonplace for lower volume spirit sales. It will be apparent that, when underway, empty cartridges (containers 11) can be returned to a distribution centre, etc., via the same vehicle delivering new stock. All major components are reusable so that only limited recycling and use of virgin materials is necessary. In broad terms, a delivery system for beverages is described herein. The system and analogous method comprises a first container (e.g. a keg 11) for a bulk supply of beverage and a second container (e.g. a bottle 12 recognisable to a consumer). A filling device (14 / 15) automatically delivers beverage to the bottle (12) via a pump (17) and line (16) upon a controller (19) determining, via a sensor (21), that a threshold fill level is not met. In this way, the bottle may be continually topped-up and ready for use by bar staff to dispense the beverage directly to a drinking vessel of the consumer in a familiar way, e.g. when making a cocktail or other spirit-based drink. The bottle is effectively reused indefinitely so long as its aesthetic appearance is maintained, thereby avoiding the need to throw away or recycle the bottle (and ultimately reducing the need to manufacture glass bottles in high volumes). Meanwhile, the keg (11) can be returned to, for example, a distribution centre for refilling when empty via available delivery / distribution channels. Independent aspects described herein include the features of the first container, which configure it for use herein, and a refilling method / system. Notably, the customer experience is unchanged at the point of sale and consumption. For example, a bottle fitted with a pouring spout may be manipulated, e.g. flipped, spun, etc, during preparation of a cocktail in a theatrical display by the bar person, in the known way. Such operations are even improved because it is a known phenomenon that movement characteristics of the bottle will change dependent on the remaining volume of liquid. By maintaining a bottle in a topped-up state (e.g. according to Figure 1) the bottle is more predictable in terms of weight distribution and will be easier to handle, compared to an empty or half empty bottle.

Claims

26 03 251. A delivery system for a beverage comprising:a first container configured for storage of a bulk supply of beverage;5 a second container configured for storage of beverage to be dispensedtherefrom, wherein the second container has a lesser storage capacity than the first container;a filling device for communicating with the second container and configured to automatically fill same, from the bulk supply of beverage of the first container;10 wherein automatic filling is activated in response to determining that athreshold fill level of the second container is not met; andwherein the second container is configured to be removable from the filling device and / or an associated docking structure.15 2. The system of claim 1, further including:a controller, for determining if the threshold fill level of the second container is met; anda pump for moving beverage through a line providing fluid communication between the first container and the filling device;20 wherein the controller activates the pump if the threshold fill level is not met,and deactivates the pump when the threshold fill level is met.

3. The system of claim 2, further including a flow sensor for measuring beverage flow through the line, said measurement of beverage flow used by the controller to25 estimate a fill level of the first container.

4. The system of claim 2 or 3, wherein the filling device comprises at least one sensor for collecting data associated with at least detecting a threshold fill level and / or to detect the presence of the second container; said data collected by the controller for30 activation and deactivation of the pump.26 03 255. The system of any preceding claim 2 to 4, wherein the controller is configured to determine if beverage no longer flows through the line and, upon such determination, to deactivate the pump.5 6. The system of any preceding claim 2 to 5, further including a display device fordisplaying information determined by the controller.

7. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the second container is a bottle forcontaining a spirit beverage.

108. The system of claim 7, wherein the bottle, at a neck opening thereof, is coupled with a free-pour attachment or, alternatively, a measured dispense device.

9. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the filling device includes the docking 15 structure to receive the second container and align it for automatic refilling.

10. The system of any preceding claim, wherein there are a plurality of first containers and / or second containers connected in series or in parallel, for providing a plurality of beverages to be dispensed and / or including a switchover means to automatically20 switch between plural first containers, thereby providing continuity of delivery to arespective filling device.

11. The system of any preceding claim, further comprising a cartridge docking station, wherein a first container serves as a cartridge for docking to the cartridge docking25 station, said docking station configured to facilitate connection and disconnection offluid communication between the first container and the filling device.

12. The system of any preceding claim, wherein a storage volume of the first container is equal to or greater than five litres and / or a storage volume of the second container30 is between 500mL and 1.5 litres.

13. The system of any preceding claim 2 to 12, wherein the first container comprises a first port configured for communicating with an internal headspace of the first26 03 25container, and a second port configured for, at one end, communicating with a dip tube extending into an internal volume of the first container and, at the other end, coupling with the beverage line.5 14. The system of claim 13, wherein the first port comprises a one-way valve configuredto, in a dispense mode, permit gas flow in a direction into the first container.

15. The system of claim 14, wherein the one-way valve is configured to, in a (re)fi I ling mode, be switched to permit gas flow in a direction out of the first container.1016. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the first container comprises tamper evident features configured for identifying and / or preventing connection to the system by, and / or refilling from, an unauthorised beverage source.15 17. The system of any one of claims 14 to 16, wherein the first container comprises atamper evident cap for fitting over the one-way valve.

18. The system of any one of claims 14 to 17, when dependent on claim 11, wherein the cartridge docking station comprises reader means to communicate with a first20 container and identify its contents.

19. The system of claim 2, wherein the controller is configured for processing information relating to one or more aspects of the first container, selected from: identification, location, remaining liquid volume, dispense trends, utilisation, shelf-25 life, status.

20. A method of dispensing beverage to a drinking vessel, comprising the steps of: arranging a first container, for storage of a bulk supply of beverage, in fluid communication with a filling device that is, in turn, configured for fluid30 communication with a removeable second container;determining a threshold fill level of the second container;activating a transfer of beverage to the filling device for dispense to the second container, upon determining that the threshold fill level of the second26 03 25container is not met, thereby keeping the second container topped up to the threshold fill level; anddispensing beverage from an outlet of the second container either when the removeable second container has been removed from communication with the5 filling device or while it remains in communication with the filling device.

21. The method of dispensing beverage according to claim 20, including a step of determining if the removeable second container is proximate to the filling device and, if the second container is not proximate to the filling device, disabling transfer10 of beverage to the filling device.

22. The method of dispensing beverage according to claim 20 or 21, wherein the outlet of the removeable second container is coupled to a pouring attachment or a measured dispense device.1523. The method of dispensing beverage according to any preceding claim 20 to 22, comprising a step of verifying contents of the first container, for compatibility with the intended delivered beverage of the drinking vessel.20 24. The method of dispensing beverage according to claim 23, wherein transfer ofbeverage to the filling device is disabled if contents of the first container cannot be verified or are verified as incompatible with the intended delivered beverage of the drinking vessel.25 25. The method of dispensing beverage according to any preceding claim 20 to 24,wherein the second container is a bottle.

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