Beverage container

Abstract

To provide a beverage dispensing assembly that is comparatively easy to manufacture and to perform maintenance.SOLUTION: The beverage dispensing assembly includes a dispenser and a beverage container. The beverage container has a neck portion and a shoulder portion adjacent to the neck portion. The neck portion is provided with at least an outflow opening part and at least one gas inlet opening part. The dispenser includes a housing. The housing is provided with a reception part for receiving at least a portion of the container. The container is positioned inside the dispenser such that the neck portion and the shoulder portion face downward, and the neck portion and at least a portion of the shoulder portion are received inside the reception part. At least a portion of the shoulder portion extends close to a wall of the reception part, and / or contacts the wall of the reception part. A lid is provided that covers the container, and surrounds a portion of the container extending outside the reception part.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3B

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a beverage dispensing assembly. In particular, the present invention relates to a beverage dispensing assembly for dispensing a carbonated beverage from a plastic container. The present invention further relates to a container for use in the beverage dispensing assembly of the present invention. [Background technology]

[0002] EP1003686 discloses a beverage dispensing assembly, comprising a dispenser and a beverage container, the beverage container having a neck portion and a shoulder portion adjacent the neck portion, the neck portion being provided with an outflow opening for the beverage. The container is a compressible container, which is inserted into an inner space of the dispenser and closed by a lid portion attached to the container. During use, pressure builds up inside said inner space, compressing the container and thus pressurizing the beverage for dispensing. EP2448858 discloses a similar dispensing assembly, which has an outflow opening facing upwards, and a closure for the pressure space sealingly connects to the neck portion of the container and at the same time suspends the container in said space.

[0003] WO2004099060, similar to that of NL1006949, discloses a beverage dispensing assembly in which during use the container is inverted so that the outflow opening faces downwards. Again the container is provided with a closure ring which cooperates with closure means of the dispenser to close a pressure space within which the container is compressed to pressurise and dispense the beverage.

[0004] Such an assembly is complex in design and use because it requires a suitable container and dispenser to cooperate to close the pressure space.

[0005] EP2448734 discloses a BIC type container having a closure provided with a beverage valve. A gas inlet opening is provided in the closure for connecting a gas supply to the container, in particular to the space between the inner and outer containers of the BIC type container. The container has an outflow opening and is positioned with the closure facing upwards.

[0006] It is further known to dispense beverages from bag-in-container type containers, in which the beverage is contained inside a flexible inner container that is suspended within a less flexible outer container, for example as known from Heineken's BeerTender® and as disclosed in WO 00 / 03944. In such a system, pressurized gas may be inserted into the container, between the inner and outer containers, thereby compressing the bag or inner container and squeezing the beverage out without the pressurized gas coming into direct contact with the beverage.

[0007] EP2148771 discloses an integrally blown bag-in-container for holding and dispensing a beverage, with at least one vent running parallel to the interface between the inner and outer containers, the vent opening to the atmosphere adjacent the mouth of the bag-in-container and oriented approximately coaxially with the mouth of the bag-in-container. EP2148771 does not disclose how this container might be used in a dispensing assembly, and in particular does not disclose how it might be connected to a tapping line or tapping device.

[0008] WO2011 / 002294 discloses an integrally blow-molded bag-in-container type container, in which an opening is provided in the neck region of the inner container and opens into the space between the inner container and the outer container. A closure is provided with a valve and a gas feed channel and connects to said opening for feeding gas under pressure into said space. The total gas pressure is exerted therein in the neck region on the neck region of the outer container. In an alternative embodiment, the opening can also be in the neck of the outer preform or the container. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0009] The present invention aims to provide a beverage dispensing assembly which is an alternative to known assemblies. The present invention aims to provide a beverage dispensing assembly which is relatively easy to use. The present invention aims to provide a beverage dispensing assembly which is relatively easy to manufacture and maintain. The present invention aims to provide a suitable container for a dispensing assembly as claimed. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] In one embodiment, a beverage dispensing assembly may be characterized by a dispenser and a beverage container. The beverage container has a neck portion and a shoulder portion adjacent the neck portion, the neck portion being provided with at least an outlet opening and at least one gas inlet opening. The dispenser includes a housing and preferably a lid. The housing is provided with a receptacle for receiving at least a portion of the container, such that the container is positioned in the dispenser with the neck portion and the shoulder portion facing downward. The neck portion and at least a portion of the shoulder portion are received in the receptacle, with a portion of the shoulder portion extending near and / or in contact with a wall of the receptacle. A lid may be provided over the container, enclosing a portion of the container extending outside the receptacle.

[0011] The container may be provided with a dispensing unit including at least a dispensing line, and the housing may include a tap for connecting to and / or cooperating with the dispensing line. The dispensing line is preferably a disposable line. Disposable should be understood as at least meaning that it is designed for use with a limited number, in particular only one, of containers to be emptied. In an embodiment, the dispensing unit may be connected to a container and / or to an adapter that is connected to a container such that it cannot be removed from the container without being damaged to the extent that it cannot be reused with another container.

[0012] The housing may include a cooling device for cooling at least a part of the wall of the receptacle. Preferably, the cooling device is for contact cooling of at least a part of the shoulder portion of the container. The receptacle may be substantially bowl-shaped, preferably hemispherical. In an embodiment, the container may be supported by at least a part of the wall of the receptacle. In an embodiment, the receptacle may be provided with an indentation at its lower end for receiving a neck portion of the container. If an adapter is provided in the neck portion of the container, the indentation may also receive said adapter.

[0013] In embodiments having a lid, the lid can be at least partially transparent such that at least a portion of the container extending outside the receptacle can be seen through the lid. In embodiments, the lid can be placed on the housing and seals the space between the lid and the outer surface of the container, the lid isolating the container from the surrounding space. The lid can be a double-walled lid, the lid can be made of plastic and / or glass. In embodiments, lighting can be provided to illuminate at least a portion of the lid, the lighting preferably being provided in the housing and emitting light into the lid from its lower end that is placed on said housing.

[0014] The container may be provided with a closure ring closing the outflow opening. A beverage valve may be provided in and / or on the closure ring. Preferably, the closure ring and / or the neck portion of the container is provided with at least one gas inlet opening for introducing a fluid, preferably a gas, under pressure into the container, preferably between an inner container and an outer container of the container.

[0015] In an embodiment, an adapter is provided at the neck portion of the container. The adapter may be an adapter that fits over at least a portion of the neck portion of the container, the adapter constituting at least a part of the dispensing unit. In an embodiment, the dispensing unit may include at least a dispensing line, the dispensing line being provided at a first end with a connector or dispense adapter for connecting to a beverage dispensing valve provided at or in said outlet opening, and at an opposite end with a beverage dispensing opening. The beverage dispensing opening is preferably provided by a dispense valve, the dispense valve being integral with or connected to the dispense line, more preferably being disposable together with the dispense line. The adapter may be provided for connecting a gas connector of the dispenser with at least one gas inlet opening.

[0016] In an embodiment, the beverage dispensing assembly may include a container, which may be a BIC type container, including an outer container and an inner container. At least one gas inlet opening may be provided in a neck portion of the container, in a peripheral wall portion of the container, preferably in a peripheral wall portion of the neck portion of the outer container. The gas inlet opening may open into a space between the inner container and the outer container. An adapter at least covers said at least one gas inlet opening and is provided with at least one adapter opening and at least one The adapter opening extends radially outwardly in fluid communication with the at least one gas inlet opening and in fluid connection with a gas connector of the dispenser. In such an embodiment, the housing may be provided with a supply for gas under pressure, in particular a gas compressor, which is connected to the gas connector.

[0017] In an embodiment, the receiver may be provided with a recess at its lower end for receiving the neck portion of the container with the adapter, the adapter and the recess being preferably provided with orientation-defining elements such that the position of the adapter in said recess defines a desired orientation with respect to the gas connector of the dispenser.

[0018] In an embodiment, the dispenser may be provided with at least one gas connector, which is movable relative to the container and / or receptacle, preferably substantially radially relative to a longitudinal axis of the neck portion of the container, and preferably is mechanically, more preferably electromechanically, movable.

[0019] In an embodiment, the dispenser may be provided with at least one sensing element, movable relative to the container and / or receptacle, which engages with the container and / or an adapter mounted on the neck of the container in order to sense the correct position of the container and / or the adapter in said receptacle. The sensing element may be part of or form a locking element for locking the container inside the device. The sensing element and the at least one gas connector may be coupled such that the gas connector may be brought into an extended state if the sensing element detects the correct position of the container and / or its adapter, or only if the sensing element detects the correct position of the container or its adapter or does not sense the container or its adapter. Obviously, other types and positions of sensing elements may be used to sense the presence and / or correct positioning of the container. Based on a signal from such a sensing element, an activation signal may be provided, for example, to initiate cooling, to initiate pressure fluid supply, to initiate irradiation and other functions.

[0020] In an embodiment, the receptacle may be provided with a channel extending upwardly in a wall portion of the receptacle from a recess near its lower end, with a dispensing line extending inside said channel.

[0021] In an embodiment, the container is a plastic container, in particular a BIC type container, which may include an outer container and an inner container, the inner container being substantially filled with the beverage, the inner container having at least a flexible shoulder portion such that the beverage presses the shoulder portion of the inner container against an inner surface of the outer container in the receptacle.

[0022] In an embodiment, the beverage container according to the present disclosure may be a BIC type container, which is preferably integrally blown from a preform assembly made from plastic, more preferably from a crystalline or semi-crystalline plastic, such as PET and / or PEN and / or PEF. The container may be provided with an adapter at a neck portion of the container, the adapter being connected to a gas inlet opening of the container and provided with at least one adapter opening, the at least one adapter opening being in fluid communication with said at least one gas inlet opening. and / or the adapter is provided with a dispensing unit including at least a dispensing line and / or the adapter is provided with a non-circular outer portion for a particular orientation of the adapter inside the housing. In an embodiment, the adapter may be provided with an end surface with a portion of the dispensing line or a slot or channel for receiving the dispensing line, preferably such that a container may be placed on the end surface without restricting the flow of beverage through said dispense line.

[0023] In an embodiment, the invention relates to a tapping assembly, which is or can be positioned on a bar surface, and the container is visible from at least two opposite sides of the bar, at least for an upwardly extending portion of a housing of the assembly into which the container is partially inserted, the upwardly extending portion of the housing can include branding.

[0024] To further explain the present invention, embodiments thereof will be disclosed and discussed hereinafter with reference to the drawings. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0025] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a rear view of a beverage dispensing assembly, the rear view showing a side view for operating the dispensing assembly, with a branded container visible through the lid. [Figure 1A] FIG. 2 is a representative side view of the assembly of FIG. 1. [Figure 2A] FIG. 2 shows a perspective rear side view of the assembly of FIG. 1. [Figure 2B] FIG. 2 shows a front side perspective view of the assembly of FIG. 1. [Figure 3A] FIG. 2 is a rear view of a dispensing assembly according to the present disclosure. [Figure 3B] 1 is a side cross-sectional view of a dispensing assembly according to the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of a dispensing unit of an assembly for dispensing a beverage. [Diagram 5] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating eight steps of using the dispensing assembly of the present disclosure. [Figure 6A]FIG. 2 shows a neck portion forming part of a container with an adapter according to a first embodiment, and a perspective view of a portion of a dispensing unit including a dispensing line. [Figure 6B] FIG. 2 shows a neck portion forming part of a container with an adapter according to a first embodiment, and a cross-sectional view of a portion of a dispensing unit including a dispensing line. [Figure 6C] FIG. 2 shows a neck portion forming part of a container with an adapter according to a first embodiment, and a perspective view of a portion of a dispensing unit including a dispensing line. [Figure 6D] FIG. 2 shows a neck portion forming part of a container with an adapter according to a first embodiment, and a cross-sectional view of a portion of a dispensing unit including a dispensing line. [Figure 6E] FIG. 13 shows a neck portion forming part of a container with an adapter according to a second embodiment, and a perspective view of a portion of a dispensing unit including a dispensing line. [Figure 6F] FIG. 13 shows a neck portion forming part of a container with an adapter according to a second embodiment, and a perspective view of a portion of a dispensing unit including a dispensing line. [Figure 6G] FIG. 13 shows a neck portion forming part of a container with an adapter according to a second embodiment, and a cross-sectional view of a portion of a dispensing unit including a dispensing line. [Figure 6H] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a neck portion of an embodiment of a container. [Figure 7] A schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a container within a receptacle of a housing of a dispensing unit. [Figure 8]FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a neck portion of a container with an adjacent shoulder portion, the neck portion being positioned within a housing, and in particular within a receptacle; [Figure 9] FIG. 1 is a schematic end view of an adapter for fitting onto a container. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing a portion of the recess at the lower end of the receiver, and illustrates the gas connector and part of its operating mechanism. [Figure 11] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the container within the receiver and recess, showing the air connector in an extended position. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 shows a schematic of a portion of a housing and lid with a light source, e.g., an LED with a light guide. [Figure 13] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a tap cooperating with an in-line valve of a dispensing unit. [Figure 14] FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a housing including a dispensing unit and a tap, the tap being in a closed position. [Figure 15] FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a housing including a tap together with a dispensing unit, the tap being in an open position; [Figure 16A] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional side view of a dispense adapter with a portion of the dispense line in a straight state. [Figure 16B] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional side view of a dispense adapter with a portion of the dispense line in a bent position. [Figure 16C] FIG. 1 is a side cross-sectional view showing a dispense adapter along with a portion of the dispense line and a cover for installation over the adapter. [Figure 17] FIG. 1 shows an in-line valve installed in the dispense line of a dispensing unit. [Figure 18]13A-13D show relevant portions of an alternative embodiment of a container with an adapter or closure for use in a system according to the present disclosure. [Figure 19] 13A-13D show relevant portions of an alternative embodiment of a container with an adapter or closure for use in a system according to the present disclosure. [Figure 20] 13A-13D show relevant portions of an alternative embodiment of a container with an adapter or closure for use in a system according to the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0026] In this description, embodiments of the present invention are shown and disclosed merely as examples. They should not be interpreted or understood as limiting the scope of the present invention in any manner. In this description, the same or similar elements are indicated by the same or similar reference symbols. In this description, the embodiments of the present invention will be discussed with reference to carbonated beverages, particularly beer. However, other beverages may also be used in the present invention.

[0027] In this description, references to above and below, top and bottom etc. should be considered relative to the normal orientation of the dispensing unit, unless specifically specified differently. The rear of the dispensing unit should be considered as the side on which the tap handle etc. is provided for operating the system, in particular for operating to dispense beverages contained in a container provided in and / or on the unit. The container has a bottom and a neck region. The tapping device may be in a container with the neck region including the orifice for filling and / or dispensing, the orifice in the assembly facing substantially downward. This is shown, for example, in the drawings, particularly in FIG. 1, where the top, bottom, upper and lower are indicated by arrows and appropriate words for instruction purposes only. This does not necessarily reflect the orientation in which the tapping device of the present disclosure or any part thereof must be used. With respect to the container, the normal position may be with the bottom facing down and the neck portion facing up. In the tapping assembly of the present disclosure, the bottom of the container may be facing up.

[0028] In this description, a container of the BIC type or bag-in-container type must be understood as meaning that the container comprises at least an outer holder and an inner holder, where the inner holder is designed to hold a beverage and is more flexible or compressible than the outer holder. The outer holder can be a container, such as a bottle-shaped container with a neck and a body, while the inner holder can be a flexible container, such as a bag. The inner holder and / or the outer holder can be made of a mono material or a blend and can be made entirely or partially by injection molding and / or blow molding or rotational molding, etc. Preferably, the bag-in-container according to the invention is made by blow molding integrally. In an embodiment, the bag-in-container can be made by inserting at least one preform into another preform and then blow molding them together into a bag-in-container type container. In an embodiment, the bag-in-container may be made by overmolding at least one preform to form a multi-layered preform and then blow molding them together into a bag-in-container type container. In an embodiment, the bag may be suspended inside the outer container after at least partially forming the outer container and the bag separately.

[0029] In the present disclosure, by way of example, a bag-in-container (BIC) will be described, which is blown integrally from a preform set comprising two superimposed plastic preforms, which should be understood as meaning that one of the preforms is inserted into the other and then they are blown together in a known manner to become a BIC. In an embodiment, before said blow molding, a closure ring is fitted over the preforms, connecting them together and closing the space between the preforms (which may also be called interface or inter space), such that at least after blow molding, said space is in communication or can be in communication with the environment only through one or more openings provided in the neck region of the container, in particular through an outward opening extending through the wall of the outer preform and / or the neck region of the container. The at least one opening may be provided during the manufacture of the preform, in particular during its injection molding, but it can also be provided later, for example by punching, drilling or otherwise machining into the container during or after blow molding.

[0030] In this description, the tapping assembly may include a housing that holds a cooling device and a pressure device for supplying pressurized gas, such as air, to the container. The container may be a plastic beverage container, preferably a BIC type container. The system may further include a lid, preferably an at least partially transparent lid, that fits over the container when properly installed in the housing. The lid is a part of a dispensing device that includes the housing and the lid. It is possible to provide visibility of the container in the lid, e.g. so that the filling level can be checked and so that the branding of the container is visible from the outside. Transparent in this context should be understood as being sufficiently clear to allow the container to be seen and inspected through the lid, preferably over at least a significant part of the lid, e.g. over more than 50% of its surface area and / or from at least two opposite sides and / or over 360 degrees, i.e. from all sides, over at least a part of the height of the lid, e.g. unhindered by coloring or clouding of the lid. Providing visibility of the container, and in particular of at least its branding, can be beneficial with regard to allowing different brands to be used in the same system without the need to rebrand the dispensing unit. Providing visibility of the container, and in particular of at least its branding, can be beneficial with regard to the appearance of the dispensing unit. Providing visibility of a container, and in particular of at least its branding, can be beneficial with regard to inspection of the container and / or its contents.

[0031] In this description, the dispensing assembly may be mounted on a top such as a bar or table, such that the portion of the container extending above the housing is at approximately eye level of an average adult standing at the bar. The portion of the housing extending above is preferably visible from at least two opposing sides, such as the front and back of such a bar.

[0032] In this description, the dispensing assembly, which may also be referred to as a tapping assembly, may be designed such that the container can be placed in the housing of the dispensing unit and / or in an "upside down" position, with at least a part of the container, in particular at least a part of the shoulder of the container, being adapted to be introduced into a receptacle on the housing, the neck portion including an outflow opening facing downwards. Preferably, the part of the container extending into said receptacle, in particular a part of the shoulder portion, is close to or at least partially in contact with the wall of the receptacle, the wall of the receptacle being cooled, in particular actively cooled. In this description, relatively close with respect to the distance between the wall of the receptacle and the relevant container part should be understood as a distance that is sufficiently small to allow efficient cooling of said part of the container and its contents. In such an embodiment, even when the container is partially emptied, the contents of the container will at least be in the area cooled by the wall of the receptacle, with the advantage that the cooled contents are close to the outflow opening, in particular directly adjacent to the outflow opening. Thus, even if the part of the container extending outside the receptacle is not or barely cooled, control of the temperature of the dispensed beverage is as good as possible.

[0033] When positioning the container in the receptacle, preferably at least one line contact is obtained between the container and the wall of the receptacle for contact cooling. Such a line contact may be formed, for example, by a circular or elliptical line. Preferably, contact is established over a relatively large part of the shoulder portion of the container extending inside the receptacle, or at least a close proximity of the wall of the container to the wall of the receptacle is established. The distance between the relevant part of the container and the receptacle, measured as the minimum distance between adjacent surfaces, is preferably between 0 mm and 1 mm, more preferably between 0 mm and 0.5 mm, even more preferably between 0 mm and 0.25 mm, said distance being averaged over at least a part of the circumferential surface area of ​​the receptacle having a predetermined height measured along the vertical axis of the receptacle, which predetermined height may for example be at least about ¼ of the height of the part of the container extending into said receptacle, for example 1 / 2 of the height of the part of the container extending into said receptacle. For example, the width of the container is at least about one-quarter the axial height of a shoulder portion of the container that extends into the receptacle, measured immediately adjacent the neck portion.

[0034] 1 and 1A show an exemplary embodiment of a beverage dispensing assembly 1 of the present disclosure, including a dispenser 2 and a beverage container 3. The dispenser 2 may also be referred to as, for example, a unit, a dispensing unit, a tapping device, or similar terms. The dispenser 2 includes a housing 4. The housing 4 is provided with a receptacle 5 for receiving at least a portion 6 of a container 3. The beverage container 3 has a neck portion 7 and a shoulder portion 8 adjacent the neck portion 7. The neck portion 7 is provided with at least an outlet opening 8A and at least one gas inlet opening 9 (see, for example, FIGS. 3, 6, and 10). In the disclosed embodiment, the container can be a blow-molded plastic container 3, preferably a bag-in-container (BIC) type container. The container 3 is positioned in the dispenser 2 with the neck portion 7 and the shoulder portion 8 facing downwards, such that at least a portion of the neck portion 7 and the shoulder portion 8 are received in the receptacle 5. A portion 10 of the shoulder portion 8 extends near and / or contacts a wall 11 of the receptacle 5 (eg, FIG. 8).

[0035] The dispensing assembly 1 is, by way of example, mounted on a top 75 of a bar 74 such that the part 13 of the container 3 extending above the housing 4 and, if present, the lid 12, is approximately at eye level for an average adult, which is symbolically indicated in FIG. 1A by an eye 76. The bar top 75 can, for example, be at about 100 cm to 130 cm in front of the customer, but is in no way limited thereto. By mounting the tapping assembly 1 on the bar 74 so as to be visible at least to customers standing or sitting at the bar, and preferably to customers standing or sitting at the bar and to staff standing behind the bar, the visibility of the system and in particular of the relevant parts of the container is increased. In particular when branding 22 is provided on said part 13 of the container 3, this will increase the appeal of the assembly 1, and in particular of the beverage enclosed in said container 3. It has been found that this appeal can increase the sale of beverages and also increase the appeal of the bar. Preferably, a lid is provided over container portion 13 and is sufficiently transparent to provide a view of container portion 13 from at least the front and rear of bar 74, i.e., to patrons and bar staff, and preferably provides a view of container portion 13 over about 360 degrees. An upper portion of lid 12 may be less transparent, for example, may be opaque.

[0036] The container 3 is preferably substantially barrel or bottle shaped, having said neck portion 7 and shoulder portion 8, and further having a body portion 23 and a bottom portion 24. The bottom portion can have any suitable shape, and in the embodiment shown is substantially spherical, more particularly substantially hemispherical. Alternatively, it may be shaped, for example such that the container can stand on said bottom portion 24, for example being petal shaped.

[0037] In the embodiment as shown, the lid 12 is provided over the container 3 and surrounds the portion 13 of the container 3 that extends outside the receptacle 5. However, the assembly can be operated without the lid 12 in embodiments. The lid 12 can be substantially dome-shaped to the extent that it has an inner surface 14 that extends along the outer surface of the portion 13 of the container 3 that extends outside the housing 4, preferably at a substantially constant and equal distance. This can provide a space 15 between said inner surface 14 of the lid 12 and the outer surface portion of the container. In embodiments, the lid can have a top portion 16 and a body portion 17, the top portion 16 being substantially spherical and the body portion 17 being preferably substantially cylindrical. The lid 12 can be made of plastic, preferably a transparent plastic, such that the container 3 can be observed through at least a portion of the lid 12. In an embodiment, the lid 12 may be double-walled, having an inner wall 18A and an outer wall 18B and an enclosed space 19 therebetween, the space 19 being preferably isolated from its surroundings, such as the area 20 and the space 15 in which the assembly is positioned. In an embodiment, the space 19 may be at a lower pressure than the pressure inside the area 20 and / or the space 15, and may be evacuated, for example, to reduce the heat transfer rate of the lid 12. In an embodiment, the lid 12 may rest on and / or be provided with a seal 21 for resting on the housing 4, such that when the lid 12 is properly installed on and / or in and / or over the housing, the space 15 is isolated from the area 20. In an embodiment, this may provide a substantially stagnant layer of air in said space 15. In another embodiment, a fan or similar means may be provided to provide a flow of preferably cooled air through said space 15 to cool the container and the beverage contained therein. The lid may also be made partially or entirely from glass or metal.

[0038] In a preferred embodiment, the container 3 is provided with branding 22 on at least the portion 13 of the container 3 that extends outside the housing 4. Preferably, said branding 22 is provided such that at least a portion of it is provided in an upside down orientation when the container 3 is placed on its bottom portion 24. Thus, when the container 3 is placed in the dispenser 2 in an upside down position, with the neck portion 7 facing downwards, the branding is in the correct orientation for readability and visibility.

[0039] For example, in the embodiment shown in Figures 1 and 1A, 3 and 3A, the housing 4 comprises a cooling device 26 for cooling at least a portion 27 of the wall 11 of the receptacle 5. The receptacle 5 and the cooling device 26 are preferably designed for contact cooling of at least a portion 28 of the shoulder portion 8 of the container 3. As is clear from the exemplary embodiment, this will lead to cooling of the beverage at least near the neck portion 7 from which the beverage will be dispensed, and thus the beverage is cooled to the desired temperature. The cooling of the receptacle may be provided by any suitable means, such as a compressor-based cooling device, a piezoelectric-based cooling device, ice-cube cooling, liquid cooling or similar systems as known in the art. By way of example, a compressor-based cooling device 26 will be described as an advantageous embodiment.

[0040] In the embodiment as shown, the container 3 is provided with a dispensing unit 34 including at least a dispensing line 35 for dispensing the beverage. The housing 4 includes a tap 29 for opening and / or closing the dispensing line 35, the tap 29 being for connecting to and / or cooperating with the dispensing line 35. The dispensing line is preferably a disposable line, which should be understood as meaning that it is designed and intended for limited use, e.g. with only one container 3 or with a limited number of containers. Preferably, the dispensing unit 34 is designed such that the container 3 can be broached therewith, after which the dispensing unit 34 and / or the dispensing line 35 are connected to the unit 34 and / or the dispensing line 35 for dispensing the beverage. It cannot be removed again without damage to Tena 3.

[0041] In a preferred embodiment, the tap 29 comprises an operating mechanism 30 for opening and / or closing a valve 31 provided in the dispensing unit 34, in particular a valve provided in or at the end of a dispensing line 35. Such is shown in more detail, for example, in Figs. 13 to 17. The dispensing line 35 may be made of plastic and may be flexible, such that it may be bent as shown. The valve 31 is fixedly connected to the tapping line 35 and is adapted to be installed and removed, i.e. to be replaced together with the dispensing line 35. The valve 31 may have a spout 32, which extends outside the housing 4, such that the spout 32 is the last contact point for the beverage to be dispensed. By providing such a dispensing valve 31, contact between the beverage and further dispensing assembly 1 may be prevented. Cleaning of the dispensing assembly may therefore be less frequent.

[0042] Alternatively, other means for opening and / or closing the dispensing line 35 may be provided, such as, but not limited to, means for squeezing the tapping line closed. A permanent valve may be used as part of the tapping device 2, and the tapping line 35 may be connected to it when the container is installed. Alternatively or additionally, the tapping line may be permanent or semi-permanent, and a container, in particular an adapter 38 as discussed, may be connected to said tapping line.

[0043] For example, as can be seen from Figures 3A and 3B as well as Figures 8 and 11, the receptacle 5 can be, for example, substantially bowl-shaped, for example hemispherical, such that the container 3 can be supported by at least a part of the shoulder portion 8 by the wall 11 of said receptacle 5, preferably in close contact for contact cooling. At the lower end of the receptacle 5, a recess 36 can be provided for receiving the neck portion 7 of the container, with the dispensing unit 34 or at least a part thereof being provided on the neck portion 7. In an embodiment, the recess 36 can be such that the neck portion 7 and / or the dispensing unit 34 are not placed on the bottom 37 of the recess 36.

[0044] For example, as can be seen in Figs. 6A-6G, the dispensing unit 34 can include an adapter 38, which is or can be fixed onto the neck portion 7 of the container, for example by being form locked, press-fit, screwed, fitted by cooperating with a bayonet fitting element or the like, or by being welded or glued. The adapter 38 can have an end face 39 and can have a non-circular configuration, or more generally, preferably a non-rotationally symmetrical configuration, when viewed in a direction along the longitudinal axis XX of the container 3 or at least its neck portion 7. In the embodiment shown, the adapter 38 has two wings 40, 41, which extend from opposite sides and have different configurations. In the embodiment shown by way of example, the first wing 40 has a width W of the second wing 41, which is longer than the width W of the first wing 41. 41 Width W smaller than 40The second wing 41 has a slit 42 which extends through the second wing 41, through which the dispensing line 35 can extend. FIG. 9 shows a schematic view of the adapter 38 in the recess 36 along the axis XX. As can be seen, the recess 36 is provided with a configuration compatible with that of the unit 34, in particular with the wings 40, 41, such that the adapter 38 can be positioned inside the recess in only one orientation due to its non-rotational symmetry. For this purpose, as can be seen for example in a perspective view in FIG. 10, two curved wall elements or raised portions 43 are provided along opposite edges of the recess 36 (one of which can be seen in FIG. 10), between which the adapter body 38A can be fitted and the wings 40, 41 can be positioned between the opposite ends 43A and 43B. Thus, when positioned, the container 3 in the receptacle will automatically be righted by proper positioning of the wings 40, 41. When not properly positioned, the container 3 cannot be lowered far enough to be properly supported in the receptacle 5, and the lid, if provided, will not fit properly over the container 3. Additionally, the dispensing lines 35 will be out of position and the gas connections will not be properly aligned, as will be discussed.

[0045] As can be seen diagrammatically in Figures 6A-6G, 7-9 and 11, the container 3 can be a BIC type container, which has an outer container 3A and an inner container or bag 3B, which is preferably more flexible than the outer container 3A. The outer container 3A and the inner container 3B can be connected to each other by a closure ring 47, which is fitted to the containers 3A, 3B and is preferably permanently fixed, more preferably welded, such that a space 46 between the outer container 3A and the inner container 3B is closed by said closure ring. The closure ring 47 has a central opening 48 in which a valve 49 is mounted. The general design and construction of the container 3 as disclosed in this description and to be used with the system of this description may be, for example, as described in EP2920080, EP2882679, EP2882680, EP2885241, EP2885242, which are hereby incorporated by reference with respect to the construction of the container (including, but not limited to, the method of manufacturing it and the materials used). In all of these embodiments of the container, at least one opening 9 is provided in the neck portion 7 of the container, which extends through a peripheral wall portion of the neck portion 7, in particular through the neck portion of the outer container 3A, and opens into or at least is connected to the space 46, such that during use, gas under pressure may be introduced into the space 46 to compress the inner container 3B to dispense a beverage.

[0046] FIG. 6H shows, by way of example, the neck portion 7 of the container 3 as disclosed in the prior art as described herein above. The closure ring 47 is welded to the outer container 3A and the inner container 3B, for example spin-welded, but may be fitted in any suitable manner, removable or, preferably, non-removable in the sense that it cannot be removed without damage to the ring 47 and / or the inner container 3B and / or the outer container 3A. In FIG. 6H one opening 9 can be seen. It is also possible that there are two such openings 9, preferably diametrically opposite each other. On either side of the opening 9 a coupling element 50 may be provided for connection with a suitable opposing coupling arrangement of the adapter 38. For example, the opposing coupling arrangement may be formed as or may include a snap ring 51, which may snap over and / or behind the coupling element 50 and lock the adapter in place. Preferably, the inverted coupling arrangement is designed to allow the adapter 38 to be positioned on the neck portion 7 in only one position or in two positions, rotated relative to each other through 180 degrees about the axis XX. In this embodiment, the one or more openings 9 extend substantially radially through the wall of the neck portion 7 of the outer container 3A. The valve 49 is substantially centrally provided, which in this embodiment may be a clinch-type aerosol-type valve.

[0047] Alternatively, the container 3 may be made differently, for example, but not limited to, in accordance with U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2008 / 0257883. In Figures 18-20 alternative embodiments of the container 3 are shown, at least their neck portions 7 suitable for use in the present invention.

[0048] In Figures 18 to 20 the neck portion 7 of a BIC type container 3 is shown, having an outer container 3A and an inner container 3B. In each of these embodiments at least one air inlet 46A is provided into the space 46 between the outer container 3A and the inner container 3B. The inlet 46A has a main direction of flow F which is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis XX of the container 3 or of at least the neck portion 7, i.e. extends substantially axially. The container can again be produced by blow moulding, for example by integral stretch blow moulding, from a multilayered preform or preform assembly made, for example, of PET, PEN or PEF or a mixture comprising one or more of such crystalline or semi-crystalline plastic materials.

[0049] In FIG. 18, a closure 47A is attached to the neck portion 7, for example similar to that disclosed in EP 2238041. The closure may be attached in a similar manner to the ring 47, for example as previously discussed. In this embodiment, the closure 47A is clicked onto the neck portion by a groove 94 in the outer portion 95A of the closure 47A gripping a connecting element 96 behind a retention ring or stub, etc., which prevents the closure 47A from being removed, and preferably such that the closure 47A cannot be removed without damage to the closure 47A and / or the neck portion 7. Alternative attachment arrangements may be used, such as, but not limited to, a screw thread, a bayonet element, welding, a press fit, or any such suitable means as known in the art. The closure 47A has an inner portion 97 which fits against an inner surface 98 of the neck portion of the inner container 3B and is connected to or integral with the outer portion 95A by end portions 99. In the embodiment shown, a sealing layer 100, provided for example by 2K moulding, seals against said surface 98 and also seals against an inner surface 101 of the outer container 3A.

[0050] A beverage outlet opening 102 is provided in the centre of the end portion 99, which in this embodiment is shown as an open outlet opening 102 with a sealing ring 100A. In an embodiment, a valve 49 may be fitted in or over the opening 102, for example connected to or instead of the sealing ring 100A, as discussed above. In an embodiment, a pierceable closure may be provided in or over said opening 102, for example as disclosed in EP 2 238 041. In an embodiment, a dispensing line 35 with a valve 31 may be connected to said opening directly or indirectly, for example by a dispense adapter 45, similarly as discussed above.

[0051] An inlet opening 103 is provided spaced apart from the beverage opening 102 for introducing a pressurized fluid, in particular a gas such as air or CO2, into the inlet part 46A and into the space 46 to compress the inner container 3B. Said inlet opening 103 again has a main direction of flow F which is substantially parallel to the axis XX and to the main direction of flow F of the inlet part 46A.

[0052] In Fig. 19, the neck portion 7 of Fig. 18 is shown with an adapter 38 fitted over the closure 47A. In the embodiment shown, the adapter has an outer skirt or flange 104 which can hook behind the ring or flange 93 of the container 3. The end face 105 is provided with a central opening 105A allowing access to the outlet opening 102. The outer skirt 104 is provided with at least one opening 52 which extends substantially radially through said outer skirt 104 into a channel 106 connecting said at least one opening 52 to the inlet opening 103. A suitable seal 107 is provided to seal the channel 106 so that the pressurized fluid introduced through said opening 52 can be pumped into the inlet opening 103 without leakage.

[0053] In a preferred embodiment, the adapter 38 is externally configured substantially the same as the adapter 38 as discussed with reference to, for example, Figures 6A-6G and 9, and has wings 40, 41 for fitting properly, preferably inside the receptacle 5, and in particular inside the recess or receptacle 36, in only one orientation, between the raised portions 43 of the tapping device 1, such that the gas connector 53 of the tapping device 1 can be connected in a suitable manner to said opening 52. Also, preferably, at least one blade is capable of properly engaging the adapter 38 and / or the ring 93 for positioning and / or locking the container, and / or can be used to detect the presence of the container 3.

[0054] In FIG. 20, instead of the adapter 38, the closure 47A of the container is directly provided with a channel 106 extending between an opening 52 in an outer part 95A of the closure, which extends outside the neck portion 7 of the container, and an inlet 46A into the space 46 between the outer container 3A and the inner container 3B. In this embodiment, the closure 47A can be substantially the same as that shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, but in this embodiment the outer part 95A can constitute at least a part of the channel 106. In the embodiment shown, by way of example only, the outer part 95A has an annular chamber 108 which extends over an upper edge 109 of the outer container 3A, and a seal 100B is provided to seal against an outer surface 110 of the outer container 3A adjacent said edge 109. The channel 106 extends at least partially through the chamber 108, again so that a gas connector 53 of the tapping device 1 can be connected to the opening 52 in a suitable manner.

[0055] In a preferred embodiment, the closure 47A is configured substantially outwardly the same as the adapter 38, for example as discussed with reference to Figures 6A-6G and 9 or 19, and has wings 40, 41 for proper fitting, preferably for fitting in only one orientation inside the receptacle 5, and in particular inside the recess or receptacle 36, for fitting between the raised portions 43 of the tapping device 1, and for defining the proper positioning for engagement with at least one connector 53. Also, preferably, at least one blade 91 is capable of proper engagement with the adapter 38 and / or the ring 93 for positioning and / or locking the container, and / or may be used to detect the presence of the container 3.

[0056] 18-20, again, dispense adapter 38 may be used as previously discussed, and adapter 38 and / or closure 47A may be provided with suitable means for engaging dispense adapter 45 and for holding dispense adapter 45 in a position to open the valve or pierce the pierceable closure and allow the beverage to be dispensed. As discussed, in all of the disclosed embodiments, dispensing line 35 may be directly coupled to the container, in particular to the closure ring, to the valve 49, and / or to the opening 102, without an intermediate dispense adapter 45.

[0057] In the disclosed embodiment, the valve 49 mounted in the closure ring 47 can for example be according to EP 2 917 148 or EP 2 914 542. The valve 49 has a valve body 49A which can be pushed axially, i.e. along or parallel to the axis XX, further into the container 3 away from the valve seat 49B in order to open the valve 49 and which is biased in the closed position.

[0058] For example, as can be seen in FIGS. 6A-6G, the adapter 38 can have a central opening 44 into which a connector (also referred to as a dispense adapter 45) can be provided or introduced. The dispense adapter 45 is connected to or connectable to a dispensing line 35. In FIG. 6A, the dispense adapter 45 is shown in a rest position with the dispensing line 35 wrapped around the adapter 38 under the wings 40, 41 for storage. In this position, the container 3 can be stored or delivered to a user. As can be seen in cross section in FIG. 6B, the dispense adapter is positioned such that the valve 49 is closed. Resilient fingers or walls 55 click into the dispense adapter 45, e.g., click down on edge 60, to help hold it in this position. In Figures 6C and 6D the same container 3 is shown with the dispensing line uncoiled and extending through the slit 42, while the dispense adapter 45 has been pushed further into the adapter 38, opening the valve 49, as can be seen in Figure 6D. The dispense adapter is preferably locked in this position, for example by a finger or wall 55 and / or by a portion 56 of the dispense adapter 45 locking behind a clinch plate of the valve or any suitable means. Alternatively or additionally, a bulge (not shown) at the bottom of the recess 36 pushes the dispense adapter 45 into the position of Figures 6C and 6D or 6F and 6G and / or keeps it in that position, preventing it from closing again during use. Thus, beverage can flow into the dispense line, and preferably not further than the valve 49 when the valve 49 is closed. In this position, the container can be turned upside down and placed inside the receiver 5 and recess 36 .

[0059] 6E-6G show an alternative embodiment, in which the adapter 38 is shown mounted onto the container but without the dispense adapter 45 with the dispensing line 35, which may be provided separately to the user. Prior to use, the user would press the dispense adapter 45 into the opening of the adapter 38, with the dispensing line 35 passing through the slit 42 and opening the valve 49 as described.

[0060] 16A-16C and 17 disclose an example of a dispense adapter 45 with a dispensing line 35 in partial cross section. In FIG. 16A, the housing part 58 of the dispense adapter 45 is shown, with a hollow central shaft 61 extending along an axis YY, which during use will coincide with the axis XX or at least will be substantially parallel to the axis XX. A free end 62 of the shaft 61 may be provided with a seal 63, e.g. rubber or silicone or such soft elastic material, for sealing cooperation with the valve 49 when pressed into the opening of the valve 49. At the opposite end 65, the end 35A of the dispensing line 35 may be fitted into the hollow shaft 61. The end 65 connects to an angled or curved surface 66 over which the dispensing line 35 can be bent, as shown in FIG. 16B, to include an angle of about 90 degrees at the end 35A of the dispensing line 35. A lid 67 can then be fitted over the tapping line 35 and housing portion 58 to lock the dispensing line 35 in the angled position, as shown in FIG. 16C. As can be seen in FIG. 16, the lid 67 can include a lip 60. The lid 67 can be connected in any suitable manner, for example, by press fit, form lock, welding, adhesive, or any such means known to one of skill in the art.

[0061] 17 shows in cross section a valve, in particular an in-line valve 31 with a spout 32 covered by a cover 32A that can be removed prior to use to keep the spout 32 clean until such use. The valve 31 is connected to a dispensing line 35 opposite an end 35A that is connected to a dispense adapter 45 and can have a construction and design as known, for example, from the David system as sold by Heineken®. The spout 32 can be movable along a spout axis VV, substantially longitudinally, relative to the body 68, to open and close the valve 31.

[0062] As can be seen for example in Fig. 10, the recess 36 may be provided in the lower part 4A of the housing 4, above which the receptacle or at least the further receptacle 5 may be provided in the further housing part 4B. The recess 36 has a channel 69 in the wall part 36A between the two ends 43A of the raised part 43, in which the dispensing line 35 may be positioned when the container 3 is properly installed in the tapping device 1. In Figs. 14 and 15 it is shown how the dispensing line 35 is led further upwards through an adjacent channel 69 extending upwards in the wall 11 of the receptacle, such that it is placed in such a way as not to prevent it from being in close proximity and preferably in contact with said wall 11 and the shoulder part 8 of the container 3. As shown before, the tapping assembly, in particular the dispenser 2, comprises a mechanism 30 for opening and / or closing the valve 31 when properly installed. For that purpose, the operating mechanism comprises a holding element 70 for holding the body 68 of the valve 31 and a gripping element 71 which is movable relative to the holding element 70 in order to grip and move the spout 32 between the open and closed positions of the valve 31. A tapping handle 73 is directly or indirectly connected to the gripping element 71 in order to move the gripping element 71 between said positions.

[0063] Figure 14 shows the position of the operating mechanism 30 in which the valve 31 can be positioned or removed. The tapping handle may be removed and the lid 72 opened, allowing access to the gripping and holding elements to install or remove the valve 31. This position is shown in perspective in Figure 13. The lid 72 can then be closed again over the valve 31 and dispensing line 35 as shown in Figure 15, and the handle 73 can be replaced, if necessary.

[0064] As can be seen in Figs. 10 and 11, the housing comprises an operating mechanism 80 for operating at least one gas connector 53 of the tapping device 1. The operating mechanism 80 is designed in particular to move the at least one gas connector 53 between a retracted position and an extended position, extending at least partially radially into the recess 36 and connecting to a gas inlet part 52 provided in the adapter 38, which is connected to an opening 9 of the container 3 or a vent thereof. In the embodiment shown, two such gas connectors 53 are provided on opposite sides of the recess 36, i.e. radially opposite each other. However, one such connector may be sufficient. In an embodiment, one of the connectors 53 may be used to introduce a gas under pressure, in particular air, into the container, in particular into its space 46, through the gas inlet part 52 and the opening 9 or vent of the adapter. In an embodiment, one connector 53 may be provided to depressurize the container 3, and in particular the space 46, if the pressure rises above a predetermined level, for example by connecting said connector 53 to an overpressure valve. In an embodiment, one such connector 53 may be connected to a pressure sensor (not shown) for sensing the presence of a proper container or at least its proper connection. In an embodiment, another type or location of a sensor for sensing the presence of a container may be used, such as, for example, a pressure switch, a position switch, an optical sensor, or any such sensor known in the art.

[0065] In the embodiment shown, the or each connector 53 is carried by a slider 81, which is slidably supported in the housing 4 so that the slider 81 can slide back and forth radially in the direction as indicated by the double arrow P (Figure 11). A gas inlet 82 is provided for connection to a compressor or pump or other source of compressed gas, in particular air. A ring 84 is mounted in the housing 4 and extends around the recess or receiver 36, the ring 84 having at least one, and in the embodiment shown two, guide slits 85, into each of which a pin 86 of one of the sliders 81 extends. The slits 85 extend such that a rotation of the ring 84 about a vertical axis parallel to or coinciding with the axis XX simultaneously pushes the slider 81 into the extended position or away from said extended position into a retracted position. The ring 84 can be rotated by hand or by rotation of the container. In the embodiment shown, the ring 84 is actuated and rotated by a motor through a pinion 187 that meshingly engages a rack portion 88 of the ring 84 .

[0066] 10 shows the retracted position of one or more sliders 81. In this position, the front end 87 of each slider 81 is close to or substantially flush with the wall portion 36A of the recess 36 so that the adapter 38 can be easily inserted into the recess 36 or removed from the recess 36 and thus from the tapping device 2. In the extended position, the front end 87 of the slider 81 is pressed against the outer wall portion of the adapter 38 and / or is forced into the inlet portion 52 in order to connect the slider 81 and in particular its nozzle (extending from or provided by the front end 87) in fluid communication with said inlet portion 52 and / or opening 9. In this position, gas, in particular air, can be introduced into the container from the gas inlet portion 82 provided by said source, such as a compressor or a pump.

[0067] In the embodiment shown, a blade 91 is connected to at least one slider 81, the blade 91 being able to move together with said slider 81. A front end 92 of such a blade 91 can be brought together with the slider 81 into an extended position, such that the front end 92 is pushed above a ring 93 provided on the neck of the container 3, i.e. on the side of said ring 93 opposite to the side of the closure ring 47. This can help to prevent that the container 3 can be removed while the slider is in the extended position. Moreover, in an embodiment, the blade or blades and the ring 93 can be designed to push the container further down into the receptacle 5, improving the proximity or contact between the shoulder portion 8 of the container and the wall 11 of the receptacle 5, and thus improving the cooling. In an embodiment, a sensor can be attached to the slider or blade, such that when the slider and blade are moved to the extended position but do not meet the adapter, the sensor will give a warning signal or at least partially shut down the dispensing device, for example by closing off the air supply. Alternatively or additionally, the sensor may switch on or activate the device 2 when it recognises that the correct container is placed in the correct position.

[0068] As discussed, a cooling device 26 is provided in the housing 4, here shown as a compressor and evaporator based cooling system, which has cooling lines 95 etc. extending in close proximity to or inside the wall 11 of the receptacle 5 and possibly the recess 36 in order to cool the wall 11 or at least a relevant part thereof. The cooling device 26 is preferably designed to maintain the wall 11 at a predefined temperature or at least to cool the wall such that at least the beverage near the outlet opening, i.e. in the neck portion 7 and possibly the shoulder portion 8, is at or as close as possible to a desired temperature. Depending on the beverage and the user's preferences, this temperature may preferably be set, for example but not limited to, between about 4 and 9 degrees Celsius, for example around 6 degrees Celsius. Other temperatures or temperature ranges may also be set.

[0069] For example, as can be seen in Figures 3B, 7, 9, 11 and 13-15, the shoulder portion 8 of the container can fit closely against the wall 11 of the receptacle, while the inner container 3B in the shoulder portion can fit snugly along the inner surface of the outer container. Thus, contact cooling between the wall 11 and the shoulder portion of the container 3 has surprisingly been found to be extremely effective.

[0070] In common fashion, the tapping device 2 includes a leak tray 102 below the spout 32 when properly installed. Figure 4 shows an exploded view of the device 2 of the present disclosure in an advantageous embodiment. However, it should be noted that many different embodiments are within the scope of the present disclosure as disclosed and defined.

[0071] In the embodiment shown, the housing may include lighting elements, such as LEDs 77, in an edge portion of the housing 4 such that light from the LEDs 77 shines into the lid, and in particular into and / or between one or both walls 18A, 18B, to illuminate the lid 12 when the lid 12 is placed on the housing 4. Part or all of the lid may be transparent to allow viewing of the container, and in particular branding provided thereon. The lid wall or walls 18 can be made to emit said light locally or over the entire surface. Parts of the lid can be opaque or non-transparent, for example to block or obscure the view of the container from certain positions or angles.

[0072] FIG. 5 shows diagrammatically how the assembly 1 of the present disclosure can be used. The first container 3 can be pre-cooled, for example, in a refrigerator 1000. The lid 12 of the device 2 is removed from the housing 4, as is the handle 73. The lid 72 of the operating mechanism 30 is opened so that the container 3 can be inserted into the housing, in particular into the receptacle 5, the tapping line 35 is positioned in the channel and the valve 31 can be properly installed in the holding and gripping elements, in the operating mechanism 30. It should be noted that in an advantageous embodiment, such as the one disclosed here, the channel in which the dispensing line 35 has to be installed is totally open, so that the dispensing line can be very easily positioned without having to be fed through an opening or the like. The lid 72 of the operating mechanism is then closed again and the lid 12 is installed over the container 3 on the housing. The tapping handle 73 is replaced.

[0073] After proper installation of the container 3, the device 2 can be switched on or at least activated, causing the ring 84 to rotate and pushing the slider(s) 81 into an extended position to properly engage the inlet 52 and / or opening 9, and the blade(s) 91 are pressed under the ring 93 against the adapter 38 to further lock the container 3 in the proper position. Cooling, if not already operational, can be activated to cool the wall 11 to the proper temperature, and lighting, if provided, can be switched on.

[0074] During use, gas under pressure will be fed through the slider 81 and the gas inlet 52 into the space 46 to pressurize the inner container 3B. This will pressurize the beverage and when the valve 31 is opened, the beverage such as beer will flow out. A pressure sensor, e.g. in the compressor, in the gas line between the compressor and the slider, or in the slider, will sense the pressure and activate the compressor when the pressure needs to be increased. During use, this allows the pressure to be maintained within an appropriate limit, e.g. approximately the equilibrium pressure of the beverage when carbonated.

[0075] In Fig. 7 the advantageous position of the bag 3B relative to the shoulder portion 8 of the outer container 3A is shown, showing close proximity. The distance, measured for example perpendicular to the tangent of the outer container 3A, can be between 0 mm and 1 mm, preferably between 0 mm and 0.5 mm, more preferably between 0 mm and 0.2 mm. Preferably the shape of the shoulder portion between the body portion and the neck portion 7 is substantially spherical. This has been found to provide a proper fit even under temperature and / or pressure changes, as well as when the container is emptied during use.

[0076] The present invention is in no way limited to the embodiments specifically disclosed and discussed herein above. Many variations thereof are possible, including but not limited to combinations of some of the embodiments shown and described. For example, the at least one opening 9 may be provided in a different location, e.g., extending through the closure ring 47, preferably substantially radially outward, e.g., extending through an inner surface or wall of the ring into the space between the containers, and an adapter 38 may extend into the ring in order to properly communicate with said at least one opening 9. The container may be provided with a closure ring 47 at the neck, preferably extending substantially radially outward, e.g., extending through an inner surface or wall of the ring into the space between the containers, and an adapter 38 may extend into the ring in order to properly communicate with said at least one opening 9. The container may be provided with only one opening in the lid or with several such openings. In an embodiment, the container may be a single-walled container, and a gas, such as CO2 or nitrogen gas, may be inserted directly into the beverage. In an embodiment, the container may be compressible by pressurizing the space in the lid. In an embodiment, the closure ring 47 and the adapter 38 may be integrated. They may then be directly connected onto the container 3 as a closure and may also be suitable as an adapter. In an embodiment, the dispense adapter and the adapter may be integrated with each other and / or with the closure ring. Instead of a valve in the container, a different closure may be used, which may be, for example, a pierceable closure or a removable closure, the pierceable closure being pierceable by the adapter and / or the dispense adapter, and the removable closure being then exchanged with the adapter and / or the dispense adapter to cooperate with a tapping device.

[0077] These and many other modifications, including but not limited to all combinations of the elements of the invention as disclosed, are considered to be disclosed herein and are considered to be within the scope of the invention as presented.

[0078] (Additional Note) (Appendix 1) 1. A beverage dispensing assembly comprising: the beverage dispensing assembly includes a dispenser and a beverage container; The beverage container has a neck portion and a shoulder portion adjacent the neck portion, the neck portion is provided with at least an outlet opening and at least one gas inlet opening; The dispenser includes a housing; the housing is provided with a receiving portion for receiving at least a portion of the container; the container is positioned in the dispenser with the neck and shoulder portions facing downward, the neck and at least a portion of the shoulder portion being adapted to be received in the receptacle, and a portion of the shoulder portion extending adjacent to and / or in contact with a wall of the receptacle; Preferably, a lid is provided over the container and encloses a portion of the container that extends outside the receptacle.

[0079] (Appendix 2) 2. The beverage dispensing assembly of claim 1, the container is provided with a dispensing unit including at least a dispensing line, the housing including a tap for connecting to and / or cooperating with the dispensing line, The beverage dispensing assembly, wherein the dispensing line is preferably a disposable line.

[0080] (Appendix 3) 3. A beverage dispensing assembly as claimed in claim 1 or 2, A beverage dispensing assembly, wherein the housing includes a cooling device for cooling at least a portion of the wall of the receptacle, preferably for contact cooling of at least a portion of the shoulder portion of the container.

[0081] (Appendix 4) A beverage dispensing assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3, the receiver is substantially bowl-shaped, preferably hemispherical; A beverage dispensing assembly, wherein the container is supported by at least a portion of the wall of the receptacle.

[0082] (Appendix 5) 5. A beverage dispensing assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 4, A beverage dispensing assembly, wherein the receiver is provided with a recess at a lower end thereof for receiving the neck portion of the container.

[0083] (Appendix 6) 6. A beverage dispensing assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 5, A beverage dispensing assembly, wherein the lid is at least partially transparent such that at least a portion of the container extending outside the receptacle is viewable through the lid, preferably from at least two opposing sides, more preferably over an angle of at least about 270 degrees, and more preferably over an angle of about 360 degrees about the longitudinal axis.

[0084] (Appendix 7) 7. A beverage dispensing assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 6, The lid is placed over the housing and seals a space between the lid and an outer surface of the container, the lid isolating the container from an ambient space.

[0085] (Appendix 8) 8. A beverage dispensing assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 7, The beverage dispensing assembly, wherein the lid is a double walled lid.

[0086] (Appendix 9) 9. A beverage dispensing assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 8, The beverage dispensing assembly, wherein the lid is fabricated from plastic and / or glass.

[0087] (Appendix 10) 10. A beverage dispensing assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 9, The beverage dispensing assembly, wherein the container is a plastic container, in particular a BIC type container.

[0088] (Appendix 11) A beverage dispensing assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 10, the container is provided with a closure ring closing the neck of the container, preferably the closure ring and / or the neck portion of the container being provided with the at least one gas inlet opening for introducing a fluid, preferably a gas, under pressure into the container, preferably between an inner container and an outer container of the container, Preferably, a beverage dispensing assembly wherein a beverage valve is provided in and / or above the dispensing opening provided by said closure ring.

[0089] (Appendix 12) 12. A beverage dispensing assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 11, A beverage dispensing assembly, wherein an adapter is provided at the neck portion of the container.

[0090] (Appendix 13) 13. The beverage dispensing assembly of claim 12, the adapter being an adapter that fits over at least a portion of the neck portion of the container; the adapter comprises at least a portion of a dispensing unit including at least a dispensing line; A beverage dispensing assembly, wherein the dispensing line is provided at a first end with a connector or dispense adapter for connection to a beverage dispensing valve provided at or in the outlet opening, and at an opposite end with a beverage dispensing opening, preferably provided by a dispense valve, the dispense valve being integral with or connected to the dispense line, and more preferably being disposable together with the dispense line.

[0091] (Appendix 14) 14. The beverage dispensing assembly of claim 12 or 13, A beverage dispensing assembly, wherein the adapter is configured to connect a gas connector of the dispenser and the at least one gas inlet opening.

[0092] (Appendix 15) 15. The beverage dispensing assembly according to any one of claims 12 to 14, The container is a BIC type container and comprises an outer container and an inner container, at least one gas inlet opening is provided in the neck portion of the container, in a peripheral wall portion of the container, preferably in the peripheral wall portion of the neck portion of the outer container, opening into a space between the inner container and the outer container, the adapter at least covers the at least one gas inlet opening, and is provided with at least one adapter opening, the at least one adapter opening extending radially outwardly in fluid communication with the at least one gas inlet opening and in fluid connection with a gas connector of the dispenser, the housing is connected to the gas connector, A beverage dispensing assembly is provided with a supply for gas under pressure, in particular a gas compressor.

[0093] (Appendix 16) 16. The beverage dispensing assembly of claim 12, further comprising: A beverage dispensing assembly, wherein the receiver is provided with a recess at its lower end for receiving the neck portion of the container with the adapter, and the adapter and the recess are preferably provided with orientation defining elements such that the position of the adapter within the recess defines a desired orientation relative to a gas connector of the dispenser.

[0094] (Appendix 17) 17. A beverage dispensing assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 16, A beverage dispensing assembly, wherein the dispenser is provided with at least one gas connector, the at least one gas connector being movable relative to the container and / or the receiver, preferably movable substantially radially relative to a longitudinal axis of the neck portion of the container.

[0095] (Appendix 18) 18. A beverage dispensing assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 17, A beverage dispensing assembly, wherein the gas connector is mechanically, preferably electromechanically, movable.

[0096] (Appendix 19) 19. A beverage dispensing assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 18, A beverage dispensing assembly, wherein the dispenser is provided with at least one sensing element, the at least one sensing element being movable relative to the container and / or receptacle, the sensing element engaging with the container and / or an adapter mounted on the neck portion of the container for sensing correct position of the container and / or adapter in the receptacle, the sensing element being part of or capable of forming a locking element for locking the container inside the dispenser.

[0097] (Appendix 20) 19. A beverage dispensing assembly as claimed in claim 18, further comprising: the sensing element and the at least one gas connector are coupled; - the sensing element detects the correct position of the container and / or its adapter, or - the sensing element detects the correct position of the container or its adapter or does not sense the container or its adapter; the gas connector can be brought into an extended state only when the beverage dispensing assembly is in a closed state.

[0098] (Appendix 21) 21. A beverage dispensing assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 20, A beverage dispensing assembly, wherein the receptacle is provided with a channel extending upwardly through a wall portion of the receptacle from a recess near its lower end, and a dispensing line extends inside of the channel.

[0099] (Appendix 22) 22. A beverage dispensing assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 21, The beverage dispensing assembly, wherein the container is a BIC type container and includes an outer container and an inner container, the inner container being substantially filled with a beverage, the inner container having at least a flexible shoulder portion such that the beverage presses the shoulder portion of the inner container against an inner surface of the outer container within the receptacle.

[0100] (Appendix 23) 23. A beverage dispensing assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 22, A beverage dispensing assembly, wherein lighting is provided for illuminating at least a portion of the lid, the lighting being preferably provided within the housing and emitting light into the lid from its lower end which rests on the housing.

[0101] (Appendix 24) 24. A beverage container for use in a beverage dispensing assembly according to any one of clauses 1 to 23.

[0102] (Appendix 25) 25. The beverage container of claim 24, the container is a BIC type container, the BIC type container being preferably integrally blown from a preform assembly made from plastic, more preferably from a crystalline or semi-crystalline plastic, such as PET and / or PEN and / or PEF, the container being provided with an adapter at the neck of the container, - the adapter is connected to a gas inlet opening of the container and is provided with at least one adapter opening, the at least one adapter opening being in fluid communication with the at least one gas inlet opening and extending radially outward; and / or - said adapter is provided with a dispensing unit including at least a dispensing line; and / or - the adapter is provided with a non-circular outer portion for a particular orientation of the adapter inside the housing, the beverage container.

[0103] (Appendix 26) 26. The beverage container according to claim 25, The adapter is provided with an end surface with a slot or channel for receiving a portion of the dispense line or the dispense line, preferably to allow the adapter to interface with the beverage dispenser without restricting the flow of beverage through the dispense line. a container adapted for placement on said end surface.

[0104] (Appendix 27) A beverage dispensing assembly and bar assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 23, comprising: The dispensing assembly is mounted on the bar such that at least a portion of the container extending above the housing is positioned substantially at eye level of a person standing at the bar.

Claims

1. A beverage container comprising: the beverage container is a BIC type container and comprises an inner container, an outer container, a space between the inner container and the outer container, and a gas inlet for the space provided in a neck portion of the beverage container; the beverage container comprising a closure at a neck portion of the beverage container; The beverage container further comprises an adapter at the neck portion; the adaptor defines at least one adaptor opening extending radially outward of the neck portion; the adapter opening is in fluid communication with at least one of the gas inlets; Beverage container.

2. The closure is attached to an upper end of the neck portion of the beverage container, the closure has a beverage outlet opening and a gas inlet opening in fluid communication with the adapter opening or in fluid communication with a portion of the adapter opening; The adapter is provided on the closure.

2. The beverage container of claim 1.

3. The gas inlet opening has a main direction of flow substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the neck portion of the beverage container.

3. The beverage container of claim 2.

4. The beverage outlet opening is provided with a valve or a pierceable closure element, 3. The beverage container of claim 2.

5. The closure is attached to the neck portion by one of welding, adhesive, a screw thread, a bayonet element, and a press fit.

3. The beverage container of claim 2.

6. The closure is attached to the neck portion by a click.

3. The beverage container of claim 2.

7. The closure is clicked into the neck portion by a groove in an outer portion of the closure gripping the rear of a retaining ring behind a connecting element extending from an outer surface of the neck portion.

7. The beverage container of claim 6.

8. The closure has an inner portion adapted to mate with an inner surface of the neck portion of the inner container to form a seal.

3. The beverage container of claim 2.

9. The adapter is provided with a sealing layer that seals against the inner surface of the neck portion of the inner container and / or the inner surface of the neck portion of the outer container.

2. The beverage container of claim 1.

10. The adapter opening has a primary direction of flow radial to a longitudinal axis of the neck portion of the beverage container and extends at a level below an upper edge of the neck portion of the beverage container.

2. The beverage container of claim 1.

11. The adapter includes an end face having a slot or channel for receiving a portion of a dispensing line in fluid communication with the beverage outlet opening, such that the beverage container may be placed on the end face without restricting the flow of beverage through the dispensing line.

3. The beverage container of claim 2.

12. The adapter includes a gas flow path extending between the adapter opening and the gas inlet opening, the gas flow path being at least partially formed by the closure and the adapter.

3. The beverage container of claim 2.

13. The adapter, mounted on the closure; an outer skirt or flange that hooks behind a ring or flange on the beverage container; securing the closure to the neck portion of the beverage container; and further having an end surface with an opening allowing access to the beverage outlet opening.

3. The beverage container of claim 2.

14. A beverage container comprising: the beverage container is a BIC type container and comprises an inner container, an outer container, a space between the inner container and the outer container, and a gas inlet for the space provided in a neck portion of the beverage container; the beverage container having a closure at the neck portion; the closure has at least one gas opening formed in a radially outward face of the closure that extends outside the neck portion; the closure includes at least one gas opening and a channel extending between the gas inlet of the beverage container; Beverage container.

15. At least one of the gas openings has a primary direction of flow radially relative to a longitudinal axis of the neck portion of the beverage container.

15. The beverage container of claim 14.

16. The gas inlet has a main direction of flow substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the neck portion of the beverage container.

15. The beverage container of claim 14.

17. The closure includes an annular chamber extending over an upper edge of the neck portion of the beverage container.

15. The beverage container of claim 14.

18. The annular chamber includes a seal that seals against an outer surface of the outer container.

18. The beverage container of claim 17.

19. The closure includes an inner seal that seals against at least one of an inner surface of the neck portion of the inner container and an inner surface of the neck portion of the outer container.

15. The beverage container of claim 14.

20. The closure includes a beverage outlet opening spaced apart from at least one of the gas openings.

15. The beverage container of claim 14.

21. The beverage outlet opening has a main direction of flow that is parallel to or coaxial with a longitudinal axis of the neck portion of the beverage container.

21. The beverage container of claim 20.

22. The beverage outlet opening is provided with a valve or a pierceable closure element.

21. The beverage container of claim 20.

23. The closure is attached to the neck portion by a click.

15. The beverage container of claim 14.

24. The closure is attached to the neck portion by one of welding, adhesive, a screw thread, a bayonet element, and a press fit.

15. The beverage container of claim 14.

25. At least one of the gas openings has a main direction of flow radial to a longitudinal axis of the neck portion of the beverage container and extends at a level below an upper edge of the neck portion of the beverage container.

15. The beverage container of claim 14.

26. The closure has an end face having a slot or channel for receiving a portion of a dispensing line in fluid communication with the beverage outlet opening, such that the beverage container may be placed over the end face without restricting the flow of beverage through the dispensing line.

21. The beverage container of claim 20.

27. A beverage container comprising: The beverage container has a neck portion and a shoulder portion adjacent the neck portion, the neck portion is provided with at least one beverage outlet opening; the neck portion of the beverage container is provided with at least one gas inlet; said beverage container comprising a dispensing unit including at least a dispensing line for connecting to and / or cooperating with a tap on the housing, the dispensing line is a disposable line; Beverage container.

28. The beverage container is a BIC type container, integrally blown from a preform assembly made from a crystalline or semi-crystalline plastic such as PET and / or PEN and / or PEF, and an adapter is provided in the neck portion; The adapter comprises: at least one adapter opening in fluid communication with at least one gas inlet of the beverage container and extending radially outward of the neck portion; and / or a dispensing unit including at least one of the dispensing lines is provided; and / or a non-circular outer portion is provided for orienting the adapter within the housing; 28. The beverage container of claim 27.

29. The adapter is provided with an end face with a slot or channel for receiving a portion of the dispensing line, such that the beverage container can be placed on the end face and the flow of beverage through the dispensing line is unrestricted.

29. The beverage container of claim 28.

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