Interchangeable Valve Applicator for Dispense Head

Abstract

The beverage dispenser assembly (1) comprises a dispense head (2) having a valve cavity (7) and a first recess (11) extending from a rear side (4) of the dispense head (2) to the valve cavity (7). An applicator (12) is sized and shaped to be slidably received within the first recess (11) to position a replaceable valve (8) within the valve cavity (7). The valve (8) controls the flow of beverage delivered to the dispense head through a beverage tube (9). The dispense head (2) is transitionable between an in-use state (P1) and an out-of-use state (P2), with the rear side (4) of the dispense head (2) being invisible in the in-use state (P1) and exposed in the out-of-use state (P2).

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a beverage dispensing system for dispensing a beverage stored in a beverage tank, and more particularly to a beverage dispenser assembly having a dispense head with a replaceable valve and a corresponding applicator.

[0002] Known beverage dispensing systems intended for commercial or personal use, such as the DraughtMaster system manufactured by the Applicant Company, are described, for example, in WO 2007 / 019848, WO 2007 / 019849, WO 2007 / 019850, WO 2007 / 019851 and WO 2007 / 019853.

[0003] Beverage dispensing systems are commonly used in beverage serving establishments to efficiently dispense large quantities of beverages, including carbonated alcoholic beverages such as draft beer and cider, non-alcoholic beverages such as soft drinks, and still beverages such as wine and fruit juice. Beverage dispensing systems are primarily used by commercial users such as bars, restaurants and hotels, but are increasingly being used by private users in private homes as well.

[0004] In this specification, keg and container are considered synonymous. Beverage dispensing systems for providing draught beverages from interchangeable beverage tanks are well known in the art. As an example of the prior art, US 3,889,487 discloses a system in which a beverage keg is connected to a standard gauge tap by a flexible conduit. The keg is stored in a refrigerated room and the beverage is pressurized by supplying carbon dioxide into the keg. The beverage is dispensed from the tap. When emptied, the beverage keg is removed and returned to the beverage manufacturer. It is important to clean and sanitize such kegs before refilling them with beverages, as most beverages contain nutrients and other substances that may promote bacterial growth. Inadequate cleaning can cause the beverage keg to become unsanitary, which in turn can lead to bacterial growth and cause health problems for beverage consumers.

[0005] For the same hygiene reasons, all parts in contact with the beverage must be handled in aseptic conditions to avoid introducing dirt and bacteria into the beverage. Therefore, in most modern beverage dispensing systems, the beverage tank, the beverage pipe connected to it and the tap valve are for one-time use only. In this way, the beverage is kept away from possible contamination during storage and dispensing. To ensure that the sterility of the parts in contact with the beverage is maintained, it is usually not recommended to dismantle the parts in contact with the beverage, i.e. to disconnect the beverage pipe from the container or the tap valve from the tapping line.

[0006] Some beverage dispensing systems, such as the DraughtMaster system mentioned above, use a lightweight, collapsible, disposable beverage tank or keg to contain the beverage and a pressurization system to allow the flow of the beverage from the container to the tapping system. The collapsible beverage tank is typically made of a thin, flexible plastic material and may be in the form of a plastic bag. Beverage dispensing systems that use a collapsible beverage keg may place or place the beverage keg in a pressure chamber. Whereas a traditional steel keg must be pressurized with CO2, for example by a CO2 cartridge connected to the keg at the time of dispensing, a single-use beverage system, such as the applicant's DraughtMaster, uses a pressure source, for example air from an air compressor, to push the beer and collapse the keg so that the beer is not exposed to a source of contamination from the time it leaves the brewery until it exits the dispense head spout.

[0007] During a dispensing operation, the applied pressure causes the beverage to flow from the contained keg into a beverage pipe. The beverage pipe leads to a dispense head having a tap handle. The tap handle allows an operator to control the tap valve and thereby the operation of pouring the beverage. Typically the tap handle is part of the beverage pourer mounted in the store, or, when using a compact beverage dispensing system such as the DraughtMaster, the tap handle is typically mounted on the housing of the beverage dispensing system, typically mounted in front of the keg and easily accessible to the operator to pour the beverage.

[0008] After a period of time, a layer of beverage residue may form inside the beverage tube and dispense head, particularly on the tap valve and spout. The spout is usually easy to clean as it protrudes from the dispense head. However, the beverage tube and / or tap valve are more difficult to access and clean as they are located inside the dispense head and pourer assembly. This layer of beverage residue may solidify and eventually clog the beverage tube and / or tap valve. Such build-up of residue may eventually impair the beverage dispensing operation. Additionally, even before the beverage tube and / or tap valve become clogged, the beverage residue may pose a hygiene problem as the beverage tube and tap valve are areas where bacterial growth may be promoted due to the presence of beverage, their large surface area relative to the volume of beverage, lack of sufficient cooling, and their proximity to the outside environment.

[0009] The above problems have been solved in the prior art, for example, by frequent cleaning of the drinking tube and the tapping device. Methods and systems for cleaning and flushing of drinking tubes are disclosed in the applicant's international applications WO2010 / 060949, WO2010 / 060946 and WO2010 / 029122. In these applications, a cleaning liquid enters the drinking tube and is dispensed by a dispensing device. The cleaning liquid removes any remaining beverage or contamination from the tapping line or tapping cock. The drinking tube is then washed with water to remove the remaining cleaning liquid.

[0010] Some other examples of prior art solutions for mitigating unsanitary conditions in beverage dispensing systems are described below.

[0011] WO2009 / 024147 discloses a module for a modular beverage supply system, which is provided with a separate rinse line. Using a specially designed drain valve, rinse liquid and beverage can be selectively admitted to the tapping line. The rinse liquid is provided from a separate pressurized reservoir. The drain valve includes a safety feature to avoid mixing of the rinse liquid and beverage.

[0012] WO2010 / 029122 discloses a method for cleaning the tapping line of a beverage dispensing system and describes a cleaning and flushing cartridge for use therein, which is installed in a pressure chamber in the same way as a beverage tank and dispensed in the same way as a beverage.

[0013] WO2010 / 060946 and WO2011 / 117192 both relate to a method for cleaning a tapping line of a beverage dispensing system and describe a cleaning and flushing cartridge for external use. The cleaning and flushing cartridge is placed outside a pressure chamber and is connected to a source of pressurized fluid. The cleaning and flushing liquid is dispensed in the same manner as the beverage.

[0014] EP 1216953 relates to a dispense head for extracting a beverage under gas pressure, which has a channel for supplying a disinfectant to the region of a beverage valve for disinfecting a joint of the beverage valve.

[0015] US7237566 relates to an apparatus for cleaning and / or sanitising a keg coupler. An adaptor can be attached to the keg coupler, the adaptor being capable of supplying cleaning fluid to the keg coupler.

[0016] The drawback of these solutions is that they require the use of separate cleaning agents, which users may forget to prepare or may even choose to skip using them for financial or time reasons.

[0017] Another drawback of these existing systems is that the connection between the drinking line and the drinking tank is usually still not cleaned and therefore constitutes a place where microorganisms and similar contamination can enter the drinking tank and / or the drinking line. This connection between the drinking line and the container is usually established every time a new container is installed by connecting a drinking line connector to a container connector. The container connector is replaced together with the drinking tank and therefore considered to be essentially sterile, at least if protected by a suitable lid, but the drinking line connector is replaced rather infrequently, if at all. The same is true for the drinking line itself, which is usually not replaced together with the drinking tank, since it is embedded in the body of the beverage pourer or beverage dispensing system.

[0018] This means that microorganisms and contamination can build up on or in the drinking pipes and their connectors and, when the drinking tank is replaced, these microorganisms can contaminate the previously sterile beverage.

[0019] Thus, there is a need for a technique to prevent bacterial growth on beverage lines, beverage line connectors, and dispense heads in beverage dispensing systems with replaceable beverage tanks.

[0020] It is therefore an object of the present disclosure to provide an improved beverage dispensing system which ensures sterility of all parts of the system, in particular the valves, the beverage pipe and the connecting elements between the beverage pipe and the beverage tank.

[0021] These and other objects are achieved by the features of the independent claims. Further implementations will become apparent from the dependent claims, the description and the drawings.

[0022] According to a first aspect, there is provided a beverage dispenser assembly for dispensing a beverage. The beverage dispenser assembly comprises a dispense head, which may be supported on a draft tower or on a body of a beverage dispensing system. The dispense head defines a valve cavity for receiving a replaceable valve. In some embodiments, the valve cavity also receives a portion of a replaceable beverage tube. The replaceable valve is configured to control a flow of a beverage through the dispense head. The dispense head comprises a first recess extending from the valve cavity to a side of the dispense head and opening to the side, and an applicator for inserting into the first recess to position the replaceable valve and, in some embodiments, a portion of the replaceable beverage tube within the valve cavity, the applicator being sized and shaped to be slidably received within the first recess, the applicator being configured to removably mount at least the replaceable valve prior to insertion into the first recess.

[0023] The beverage dispenser assembly according to this concept allows both the valve and the beverage tube to be easily and efficiently removed from the dispense head using an applicator specifically configured to insert and remove the valve and the beverage tube through openings in the side of the dispense head, thereby allowing the valve and the beverage tube to be cleaned without the need for additional cleaning means on the beverage dispense system itself, and allowing both the valve and the beverage tube to be easily replaced (e.g. together with a beverage tank used in the beverage dispense system), reducing the risk of bacterial growth or clogging in these parts of the beverage dispense system.

[0024] In one implementation of the first approach, the dispense head is transitionable between the operating state and the non-operating state, with the side of the dispense head being hidden in the operating position and exposed in the non-operating state, allowing for a space-efficient design while protecting an applicator and a beverage tube from damage that may occur during use of the dispense head.

[0025] In one example implementation of the first approach, the valve cavity is configured to receive a portion of a replaceable beverage tube, the replaceable valve is configured to control the flow of beverage from the replaceable beverage tube through the dispense head, and the applicator is configured to position the portion of the replaceable beverage tube within the valve cavity.

[0026] In one example of an implementation of the first approach, the dispense head has a front side facing away from the draft tower or body and a rear side opposite the front side, and the first recess extends from the valve cavity to the rear side of the dispense head and opens toward at least the rear side of the dispense head.

[0027] In one example implementation of the first approach, the dispense head includes at least one tap handle connected to the replaceable valve so as to operate the replaceable valve and configured to control opening and closing of the replaceable valve when the replaceable valve is received within the valve cavity.

[0028] In one implementation of the first approach, the valve cavity is located a first lateral distance from the rear side of the dispense head and the tap handle is located a second lateral distance from the rear side. This configuration allows the valve and tap handle axes to be offset, thereby allowing the spout, and therefore the final delivery opening of the beverage, to be moved closer or further away from a draft tower or body of the beverage dispensing system.

[0029] In one example implementation of the first aspect, the replaceable valve has a valve body and a spout connected to the valve body, the spout preferably being integral with the valve body.

[0030] In one example implementation of the first approach, the applicator defines a second recess having a shape and size adapted to receive and releasably engage the replaceable valve and to receive a first portion of the replaceable beverage tube.

[0031] In one example implementation of the first approach, the second recess comprises a beverage pipe section adapted to receive and / or hold the first portion of the replaceable beverage pipe.

[0032] In one example implementation of the first approach, the second recess has a valve section configured to receive and / or positively retain the valve body, the valve section preferably having an elongated shape.

[0033] In one example implementation of the first approach, at least an elongated portion of the beverage pipe section is arranged at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the valve section, preferably at an angle of between 45 and 110°, and the valve section preferably opens onto a face of the applicator that faces downward when the applicator is inserted into the dispense head, at least a face that faces downward when the dispense head is in the use state.

[0034] In one example implementation of the first approach, the beverage pipe section is configured to receive a first portion of the replaceable beverage pipe, the first portion having a first bend, preferably comprising a bend of between 45° and 110°, more preferably substantially 90°.

[0035] In one implementation of the first aspect, the applicator is accessible and removable from a rear or top side of the dispense head for replacing at least one of the replaceable valve and a portion of the replaceable beverage tube from the valve cavity and the second recess.

[0036] In one example implementation of the first approach, the applicator comprises a rear applicator end located at the rear of the dispense head when the applicator is inserted into the first recess, and a guide channel disposed at the rear applicator end and adapted to receive and / or hold a second portion of the replaceable beverage tube.

[0037] In one example implementation of the first approach, the guide channel is configured to receive and / or retain the second portion of the replaceable beverage tube, the second portion having a second bend, preferably comprising a bend of between 45 and 110 degrees, more preferably substantially 90 degrees, and the guide channel is configured to align an end of the second portion with the side of the dispense head when the applicator is fully inserted into the first recess.

[0038] In one example implementation of the first concept, the applicator includes a rear applicator end that is located on a side of the dispense head when the applicator is fully inserted into the first recess, the rear applicator end at least partially protruding from the side of the dispense head when the applicator is fully inserted into the first recess and providing a grip for removing the applicator from the first recess.

[0039] In one example implementation of the first aspect, the beverage dispenser assembly includes a first snap-fit ​​portion for releasably securing the replaceable valve to the applicator.

[0040] In one example implementation of the first aspect, the beverage dispenser assembly includes a second snap-fit ​​portion for releasably securing a spout to the applicator or dispense head.

[0041] In one example implementation of the first aspect, the beverage dispenser assembly includes a third snap-fit ​​portion for releasably securing the applicator within the first recess.

[0042] In one example implementation of the first approach, the first recess is shaped to allow both translational and rotational movement of the applicator.

[0043] In one example implementation of the first approach, the applicator comprises an end stop adapted to limit translational and / or rotational movement of the applicator within the first recess.

[0044] In one example implementation of the first approach, the beverage dispenser assembly includes a draft tower having a third recess for receiving a third portion of a replaceable beverage tube, the third recess preferably extending from the first recess in the dispense head to a base of the draft tower.

[0045] In one example implementation of the first approach, the valve cavity is configured to accommodate an actuator mechanism, and the actuator mechanism is configured to be connected to the tap handle and the replaceable valve to cooperate with the tap handle and the replaceable valve when the replaceable valve is received within the valve cavity.

[0046] The actuator mechanism is configured to translate a transition of the tap handle between a non-dispensing position and a dispensing position into a movement for transitioning the replaceable valve between a closed state and an open state.

[0047] According to a second aspect, there is provided a beverage dispensing system comprising: A beverage dispenser assembly for dispensing a beverage from a replaceable keg, the beverage dispenser assembly including a dispense head configured to receive a replaceable valve; a receiver configured to receive at least a portion of the replaceable keg; a keg closure space designed to accommodate said replaceable keg closure; Equipped with the keg closure space comprises a coupler with a through hole to allow passage of the replaceable beverage tube; The through hole is configured to sealingly receive the keg connection end of the replaceable beverage line and align the keg connection end with the beverage outlet of the replaceable keg.

[0048] The beverage dispensing system is configured to receive: a replaceable keg having a closure having a beverage outlet; a replaceable beverage line having a discharge end and a keg connection end for connecting to the beverage outlet; and a replaceable valve connected or connectable to the discharge end of the beverage line.

[0049] This approach to the beverage dispensing system allows for easy and efficient removal of the entire beverage line along with the valve, and also allows for easy and efficient removal of the keg connection end along with any replaceable kegs used in the beverage dispensing system, thereby reducing the risk of bacterial growth or clogging in all these parts of the beverage dispensing system.

[0050] In one example implementation of the second approach, the beverage dispensing system includes a compressor, preferably an air compressor, for pressurizing the replaceable keg.

[0051] In one example implementation of the second approach, the beverage dispensing system comprises a body having a receiving portion for receiving at least a portion of the replaceable keg and a lid configured to cover at least a portion of the keg when the keg is received in the receiving portion.

[0052] In one example implementation of the second approach, the lid is secured to the body using a pressure-tight connection, preferably a bayonet mount.

[0053] In one example implementation of the second approach, the body has a receiving portion for receiving at least a portion of the replaceable keg and, together with the lid, defines a sealable housing which functions as a pressure chamber for pressurizing the keg within the housing.

[0054] In one example of an implementation of the second approach, the beverage dispensing system includes a fourth snap-fit ​​portion between the dispense head and the body or the lid to removably hold the dispense head in use.

[0055] In one example implementation of the second approach, the keg comprises a bag filled with beverage within an outer shell, and pressurized fluid from a compressor can be pumped into the space between the shell and the bag to pressurize the keg.

[0056] In one example implementation of the second approach, the beverage dispensing system includes at least one keg and a cooling device for cooling the beverage contained therein.

[0057] In one example implementation of the second approach, the beverage is beer, a carbonated malt beverage (including non-alcoholic beer), or a cider.

[0058] In one example implementation of the second approach, the keg or kegs are recyclable or disposable.

[0059] According to a third aspect, there is provided a beverage dispensing system according to any one of the embodiments of the second aspect, said beverage dispensing system comprising a beverage dispenser assembly according to any one of the embodiments of the first aspect.

[0060] These and other aspects will become more apparent from the examples described below. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0061] Various aspects, embodiments and implementations are described in detail below with reference to example embodiments illustrated in the drawings. [Figure 1] 1 is a side view of a dispense head of a beverage dispenser assembly with an insertable applicator according to an embodiment. [Diagram 2] 2A and 2B are side views of a beverage dispenser assembly in an in-use state (P1) and in an out-of-use state (P2) according to an embodiment. [Diagram 3] 3A and 3B are side views of a beverage dispenser assembly movable between an in-use position (P1) and a non-use position (P2) according to an alternative embodiment. [Figure 4] 1 is a side view of an applicator for placing a replaceable valve and a portion of a replaceable beverage line into a valve cavity, according to an embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a side view of an applicator according to one embodiment, shown with a replaceable valve and a portion of a replaceable drinking tube. [Figure 6] 1 is a side view of a dispense head of a beverage dispenser assembly with an inserted applicator, a replaceable valve, and a replaceable beverage tube, according to an embodiment; [Figure 7] 7A and 7B illustrate steps for removing an applicator, a replaceable valve, and a replaceable beverage tube from a dispense head of a beverage dispenser assembly, according to one embodiment. [Figure 8]1 shows a cross section of a beverage dispenser assembly with an inserted applicator, a replaceable valve, and a replaceable beverage tube according to an embodiment. [Figure 9] 7A and 9B are side views of a beverage dispensing system including a beverage dispenser assembly and a replaceable keg according to an alternative embodiment. [Figure 10] 1 illustrates a close-up cross-section of a dispense head of a beverage dispenser assembly with an applicator inserted, according to an embodiment. [Figure 11] 1 illustrates a cross-section of a beverage dispensing system having a beverage dispenser assembly and a replaceable keg, according to an embodiment. Detailed explanation

[0062] 1 is a side view of a dispense head 2 of a beverage dispenser assembly 1 for providing a beverage, for example beer, a carbonated malt-based beverage including non-alcoholic beer, or cider, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0063] An exemplary beverage dispenser assembly 1 suitable for use with a dispense head 2 is shown in Figures 2A and 3A. The dispense head 2 may be supported by a draft tower 5, as shown in Figure 2A, or by the main body 6 of the beverage dispensing system, as shown in Figure 3A.

[0064] The dispense head 2 has a front surface 3 facing away from the draft tower 5 or body 6, an opposing rear surface 4, and a valve cavity 7. The valve cavity 7 is preferably located near a spout of the dispense head 2, more preferably on the front surface 3 of the dispense head 2, and is configured to receive a replaceable valve 8. The dispense head 2 also includes a tap handle 10 configured to be operably connected to the replaceable valve 8 when received in the valve cavity 7 to control the opening and closing of the replaceable valve 8, and ultimately to control the flow of beverage from a beverage line 9 through the dispense head 2. The dispense head 2 may further include a beverage display located thereon to display information regarding the beverage being dispensed with the dispense head.

[0065] The valve cavity 7 is disposed a first lateral distance from the rear face 4 of the dispense head 2 and the tap handle 10 is disposed a second lateral distance from the rear face 4. The first lateral distance and the second lateral distance may be the same as shown in Figure 1, but in other embodiments they may be different. That is, the tap handle 10 and the valve cavity 7 may be off-axis with respect to each other.

[0066] The dispense head 2 further comprises a first recess 11 extending from said valve cavity 7 to the rear face 4 of the dispense head 2 and opening towards at least the rear face 4 of the dispense head 2 .

[0067] An applicator 12 is further provided for positioning the replaceable valve 8 and at least a part of the replaceable drinking tube 9 in the valve cavity 7. The applicator 12 is sized and shaped to be slidably received in the first recess 11 and is configured to removably mount at least the replaceable valve 8, and in some embodiments, together with a part of the replaceable drinking tube 9, as shown in the right figure. Positioning of the replaceable valve 8 is performed by inserting the applicator 12 with the replaceable valve 8 mounted thereon into the first recess 11, as illustrated in FIG. 1, where the inserted applicator 12, valve 8 and drinking tube 9 are shown in dashed lines in the left figure. The applicator 12 is accessible and removable from the rear side 4 or the top side (not shown here) of the dispense head 2, in order to replace at least one of the replaceable valve 8 and the part of the replaceable drinking tube 9 from the valve cavity 7 and the second recess 18.

[0068] 2A and 2B show side views of a beverage dispenser assembly 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, with a dispense head 2 mounted on a draft tower 5. In these embodiments, the dispense head 2 is preferably configured to be transitionable between a use position P1 and a non-use position P2 by tilting the beverage dispenser assembly 1 toward the front side 3 about a hinge 50 disposed at the base of the draft tower 5. This tilting is preferably possible between 0 and 90 degrees about the hinge 50 from a vertical axis, and more preferably at least 45 degrees from the vertical axis. Thus, the rear face 4 of the dispense head 2, which is not visible in the use position P1 shown in FIG. 2A, is exposed in the non-use position P2 shown in FIG. 2B, allowing for insertion or removal of an applicator 12, as described in more detail below.

[0069] 2B, when the beverage dispenser assembly 1 is tilted at 90 degrees, it may be adapted to rest on a base part 51 of a beverage dispensing system located below the beverage dispenser assembly 1. The interface between the beverage dispenser assembly 1 and the base part 51 may be a surface constituting a drip tray adapted to rest a beverage glass on to receive a beverage from the dispense head 2.

[0070] In this non-use state P2, the draft tower 5 (if present) of the beverage dispenser assembly 1 may display visual indicators 53 guiding the user to a specific position to push the replaceable beverage tube 9 into the third recess 30 arranged on the rear side of the draft tower 5 after replacing the keg 32, as will be explained later with reference to Figure 8. These visual indicators 53 may be implemented according to a specific color coding corresponding to the instruction manual, for example clear green marks on a black surface.

[0071] As further shown in Figure 2B, after the beverage dispenser assembly 1 is tilted forward, an upper portion of the beverage dispensing system body 6, defined as a lid 45, may be at least partially separated from a lower portion of the body 6, defined as a receptacle 44, thereby allowing a beverage tank, such as a replaceable keg 32, to be removed and replaced from the body 6, as will be described in more detail below with respect to Figure 11.

[0072] 3A and 3B are side views of a beverage dispenser assembly 1 according to a further possible embodiment of the present disclosure, where the dispense head 2 is directly attached to the body 6 of the beverage dispensing system.

[0073] In these embodiments, the dispense head 2 is configured to be transitionable between an in-use state P1 and a non-use state P2, as described above, and the rear surface 4 of the dispense head 2, which is invisible in the in-use state, is exposed in the non-use state P2.

[0074] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3A, the dispense head 2 can be transitioned from a use state P1 to a non-use state P2 (shown by a dashed line) by tilting the dispense head 2 toward the front side 3 about a hinge 50 disposed at the connection between the dispense head 2 and the main body 6. The hinge 50 is preferably disposed at the bottom of the dispense head 2 (bottom meaning toward the base end of the main body 6). The dispense head 2 can be tilted preferably between 0 and 90 degrees, but is preferably tilted at least 45 degrees about the hinge 50 compared to the use state 1 to allow better access to the applicator through the rear surface 4 of the dispense head 2, and in some embodiments may be tilted 90 degrees or more.

[0075] In an alternative embodiment shown in Figure 3B, the dispense head 2 can be transitioned from the use state P1 to the non-use state P2 by rotating the dispense head 2 to either side about a vertical axis of rotation defined by the connection between the dispense head 2 and the body 6, for example using at least one hinge 50. It is preferable that the dispense head 2 can be tilted about the axis of rotation at least to one side by between 0 and 90 degrees compared to the use state 1, and preferably at least 45 degrees in order to allow access to the applicator 12 through the rear face 4 of the dispense head 2.

[0076] FIG. 4 illustrates a side view of an applicator 12 for positioning a replaceable valve 8 and a portion of a replaceable drinking tube 9 within a valve cavity 7 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The applicator 12 defines a second recess 18 (shown in dashed lines) disposed about an outer edge of the applicator core and shaped and sized to receive the replaceable valve 8 and a first portion 22 of the replaceable drinking tube 9 (see FIG. 5). The second recess 18 may be a space defined only by a distance around the applicator core or may be a guide channel defined by side walls extending from the applicator core and sized to fit the replaceable valve 8 and the drinking tube 9. As shown in FIG. 4, the second recess 18 may have a valve section 20 configured to receive and / or positively retain the replaceable valve 8. The valve section 20 may be configured in a preferably elongated shape to accommodate the elongated replaceable valve 8. The second recess 18 may have, in addition to or instead of the valve section 20, a beverage pipe section 19 configured to receive and / or hold a first portion 22 of the replaceable beverage pipe 9 therein.

[0077] In the embodiment shown in Figure 4, at least the elongated part of the beverage pipe section 19 defines a longitudinal axis of the beverage pipe section 19. The angle 21 between this longitudinal axis and the longitudinal axis of the valve section 20 is preferably between 45 and 110°. The valve section 20 preferably opens on a face of the applicator 12 which faces downwards when the applicator 12 is inserted in the dispense head 2, at least on a face which faces downwards when the dispense head 2 is in the use position P1 as shown in Figure 2A, Figure 3A or Figure 3B.

[0078] The applicator 12 has a rear applicator end 13 that is located on the rear surface 4 of the dispense head 2 when the applicator 12 is fully inserted into the first recess 11. This rear applicator end 13 at least partially protrudes from the rear surface 4 of the dispense head 2 when the applicator 12 is fully inserted into the first recess 11 and can provide a gripping portion 15 for removing the applicator 12 from the first recess 11 (see FIG. 6).

[0079] The beverage pipe section 19 may be configured to receive a first portion 22 of a replaceable beverage pipe 9, as shown in Figure 5. The first portion 22 has a first bend 23, preferably of 45 to 110°, more preferably substantially 90°. The angle of the first bend 23 approximately corresponds to the above-mentioned angle 21 between the longitudinal axis of the valve section 20 and the longitudinal axis of the beverage pipe section 19.

[0080] 5 is a side view of an applicator 12 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, shown with a replaceable valve 8 and a portion of a replaceable beverage tube 9. In this embodiment, features and features similar to those already described or illustrated are numbered as previously used. The replaceable valve 8 may include a valve body 16 and a spout 17 connected to the valve body 16. The spout 17 is preferably an integral part of the valve body 16. The spout 17 may extend outside of the dispense head 2 (see FIG. 6) such that the spout 17 is the last point of contact for the beverage dispensed from the beverage dispenser assembly 1.

[0081] As shown in Figure 5, the applicator 12 has a rear applicator end 13 which is located on the rear face 4 of the dispense head 2 when the applicator 12 is inserted into the first recess 11. In the embodiment as shown, a guide channel 14 is arranged in the rear applicator end 13 and is configured to receive and / or hold a second portion 24 of the replaceable beverage tube 9 coming from a beverage tank such as a replaceable keg 32. The second portion 24 of the replaceable beverage tube 9 may have a second bend 25. The second bend 25 may preferably have a bend of between 45 and 110°, more preferably substantially 90°.

[0082] The guide channel 14 is configured to align an end of the second portion 24 with the rear face 4 of the dispense head 2 when the applicator 12 is fully inserted into the first recess 11 .

[0083] As further shown in FIG. 5, the applicator 12 may further comprise a first snap-fit ​​portion 26 for releasably fixing the replaceable valve 8 to the applicator 12 and / or a second snap-fit ​​portion 27 for releasably fixing the spout 17 to the applicator 12 or the dispense head 2. Such snap-fit ​​portions are well-known solutions for joining flexible parts, usually plastics, where each of the parts to be joined is provided with an interlocking portion which is pressed together to form the final product. There are many variations in the snap-fit ​​configurations, such as cantilever, torsion, annular, etc. These configurations are a good alternative to assemblies using nails or screws as an integral joining function, and have the advantage that the parts can be removed and reattached many times without any loose parts.

[0084] FIG. 6 is a side view of the dispense head 2 of the beverage dispenser assembly 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, with an inserted applicator 12, a replaceable valve 8, and a replaceable beverage tube 9. In this embodiment, features and features similar to those already described or illustrated are numbered as previously used. As shown in FIG. 6, the dispense head 2 can include a third snap-fit ​​portion 28 for releasably securing the applicator 12 in the first recess 11. This third snap-fit ​​portion 28 may be disposed between any two contact surfaces of the applicator 12 and the dispense head 2, and FIG. 6 merely illustrates one example of such an arrangement. In this embodiment, the second snap-fit ​​portion 27 is configured to releasably secure the spout 17 to the dispense head 2.

[0085] As further shown now in Figure 7A, when the applicator 12 is inserted into the first recess 11, the replaceable valve 8 is adapted to slide laterally from the rear side 4 into a seal with the spout 17. Figure 6 also illustrates that the rear applicator end 13 at least partially protrudes from the rear face 4 of the dispense head 2 when the applicator 12 is fully inserted into the first recess 11, providing a gripping portion 15 for removing the applicator 12 from the first recess 11 (see also Figures 7A and 7B).

[0086] 7A and 7B illustrate the steps of removing the applicator 12, the replaceable valve 8, and the replaceable beverage tube 9 from the dispense head 2 of the beverage dispenser assembly 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In this embodiment, features and features similar to those already described or illustrated are labeled with the same numbers as previously used. As shown in these figures, the first recess 11 is shaped to allow both translational and rotational movement of the applicator 12 therein. To aid and guide these translational and rotational movements, the applicator 12 and / or the first recess 11 may have end stops 29 configured to limit the translational and / or rotational movement of the applicator 12 within the first recess 11. In the illustrated embodiment, the end stops 29 are provided on the applicator 12 to correspond to guide channels (not shown) provided in the first recess, to some extent limiting the lateral sliding movement of the applicator 12 and then allowing clockwise rotation of the applicator 12 around the end stops 29 due to the shape of the first recess 11. This lateral movement and rotation exposes the replaceable valve 8 and replaceable drinking tube 9 sufficiently to allow a user to at least detach and remove the replaceable valve 8, preferably including the replaceable drinking tube 9, from the dispense head 2. The replaceable valve 8 and replaceable drinking tube 9 can then be attached to the applicator 12 in the rotated position as shown in Figure 7B. The applicator with the replaceable valve 8 and replaceable drinking tube 9 attached can then be rotated counterclockwise about the end stop 29 to a horizontal position as shown in Figure 7A.

[0087] Finally, the applicator can be slid in the first recess 11 towards the front side 3 of the dispense head 2, thereby allowing the replaceable valve 8 with attached spout 17 to slide under the dispense head 2 into its use position. As shown in Figures 7A and 7B, the underside of the dispense head 2 may have a guide portion for receiving the replaceable valve 8 with attached spout 17 and releasably securing it into its use position. This guide portion may have a snap fit portion as described above.

[0088] FIG. 8 shows a cross section of a beverage dispenser assembly 1 with an inserted applicator 12, a replaceable valve 8 and a replaceable beverage tube 9 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. In this embodiment, features and features similar to those already described or illustrated are given the same reference numerals as previously used. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 8, the beverage dispenser assembly 1 comprises a draft tower 5 disposed therein. The draft tower 5 comprises a third recess 30 on its rear side for receiving a third portion 53 of the replaceable beverage tube 9 leading to a beverage tank. The third recess 30 preferably extends along the rear side of the draft tower 5 from the first recess 11 of the dispense head 2 to a base 51 of the draft tower 5 as shown in FIG. 9A. The third recess 30 may be a fully or partially exposed space defined by a distance measured from an end of the draft tower 5, or may be configured as a partially or fully enclosed channel running along the rear side of the draft tower 5. The third recess 30 is configured to receive at least a portion of the replaceable drinking tube 9, including the third portion 53 described above.

[0089] 9A and 9B are side views of a beverage dispensing system including a beverage dispenser assembly 1 and a replaceable keg 32 according to alternative embodiments of the present disclosure. In these embodiments, features and features similar to those already described or illustrated are numbered as previously used.

[0090] The embodiment shown in Fig. 9A corresponds to the embodiment of Fig. 8, in which the beverage dispenser assembly 1 has a draft tower 5 for supporting the dispense head 2 and operates in a similar manner as previously described and illustrated in Fig. 2A and 2B to transition between a use state P1 and a non-use state P2. As shown in Fig. 9A, the system has an exchangeable keg 32 for containing a beverage. The keg 32 has a closure 33 with a beverage outlet 34. The keg 32 may be recyclable or disposable after replacement of an empty keg 32 with a new keg 32. A beverage tube 9 extends from this beverage outlet 34 along a third recess on the rear side of the draft tower 5 to a first recess 11 arranged in the dispense head 2. As shown in more detail in Fig. 11, the exchangeable beverage tube 9 has a discharge end 38 for connection to the exchangeable valve 8 and a keg connection end 39 for connection to the beverage outlet 34.

[0091] The embodiment shown in Figure 9B corresponds to the embodiment shown in Figures 3A and 3B and operates in a similar manner, but the beverage dispenser assembly 1 does not have a draft tower 5, instead the dispense head 2 is supported directly on a body configured to receive an exchangeable keg 32. The exchangeable keg 32, which can be the same in all disclosed embodiments, has a closure 33 with a beverage outlet 34. As shown in Figure 9B, an exchangeable beverage tube 9 extends from the beverage outlet 34 through the body 6 to a first recess 11 provided in the dispense head 2. In this embodiment, the keg 32 has a bag 35 filled with a beverage in a shell 36. To pressurize the at least one keg 32, pressurized fluid from a compressor 43 may be applied to the space 37 between the shell 36 and the bag 35, thereby generating a flow of beverage through the exchangeable beverage tube 9 to the dispense head 2.

[0092] FIG. 10 shows a close-up cross section of the dispense head 2 of the beverage dispenser assembly 1 with an applicator 12 inserted therein, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In this embodiment, features and features similar to those already described or illustrated are numbered with the same reference numbers as previously used. In the illustrated embodiment, the valve cavity 7 is configured to accommodate an actuator mechanism 31. The actuator mechanism 31 is cooperatively coupled to the tap handle 10 and the replaceable valve 8 when the replaceable valve 8 is received in the valve cavity 7 by inserting the applicator 12 into the first recess 11 of the dispense head 2. The actuator mechanism 31 translates the movement of the tap handle 10 between a non-dispensing position and a dispensing position, initiated by tilting the tap handle 10 from a vertical position to a substantially horizontal position, into a movement, such as a vertical sliding movement of the valve body 16, thereby changing the replaceable valve 8 between a closed state and an open state. The transition between the closed state and the open state is achieved by vertically moving the valve needle against the valve seat in the valve body 16. By varying the interchangeable valve 8 between a closed and an open state, beverage is dispensed or prevented from being dispensed through the spout 17. The connection between the tap handle 10 and the interchangeable valve 8 can be made by known methods in prior art beverage dispense heads.

[0093] Figure 11 shows a detailed cross-section of a beverage dispensing system including a replaceable keg 32 and a beverage dispenser assembly 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The embodiment shown in Figure 11 corresponds to the embodiment of Figure 8 and operates in a similar manner as previously described and illustrated in Figures 2A and 2B to change states between an operational state P1 and a service state P2. In this embodiment, similar features and functions to those already described or illustrated are labeled with the same reference numerals as previously used.

[0094] As shown in Figure 11, the body 6 of the beverage dispensing system comprises a receptacle 44 and a lid 45. The receptacle 44 is designed and shaped to receive at least a portion of a keg 32 when the keg 32 is in an inverted position, preferably a small portion of the keg 32 that comprises the closure 33. The lid 45 is configured to cover at least a portion, preferably a larger portion, of the keg 32 when at least one keg 32 is received in the receptacle 44.

[0095] When these two parts are connected together using a pressure-tight connection 46, preferably a bayonet mount, a pressure-tight sealable enclosure 47 is established that functions as a pressure chamber. Note that the terms "internal chamber" and "pressure chamber" are used interchangeably herein. The body housing is made of a pressure-tight material such as metal or hard plastic. A bayonet mount refers to a fastening mechanism well known in the art consisting of a cylindrical male side with one or more radial pins and a female side receiver with a corresponding L-shaped slot and a spring to keep the two parts locked together.

[0096] At the bottom of the receptacle 44, a keg closure space 40 is provided which is designed to accommodate at least a part of a keg 32. The keg space 40 is provided with a coupler 41 which receives at least one type of closure 33 of the replaceable keg 32 and has a through hole 42 for the passage of the replaceable beverage pipe 9. The coupler 41 thus forms an access point for accessing the beverage outlet 34 of the beverage tank (e.g. the replaceable keg 32) and the beverage contained in the beverage tank. The coupler 41 may be replaceable in order to adapt the beverage dispensing system to a replaceable beverage pipe 9 or a fixed beverage pipe, respectively.

[0097] The closure 33 of a suitable keg 32 may be insertable into the keg closure space 40 and secured to the coupler 41 with a sealed, pressure-tight fit. Preferably, the closure 33 is secured to the coupler by means of, for example, a threaded, bayonet or other technique. The closure 33 may itself provide a seal for the corresponding coupler 41 or alternatively, the coupler 41 or the keg closure space 40 may include a sealing element which provides a seal for the closure 33.

[0098] The keg connection end 39 of the replaceable beverage line 9 fits sealingly into the through hole 42 and acts as a hermetic interface to connect with the beverage outlet 34 of the keg 32 .

[0099] The beverage tank used in the system may be blow moulded and adapted in shape and volume to the internal space of the pressure chamber realised by the receptacle 44 and the lid 45. This allows for mass production of both the beverage tank and the beverage dispensing system. The pressure housing of the beverage dispensing system and the corresponding beverage tank may be provided in various sizes.

[0100] The replaceable drinking tube 9 may be inserted and guided through the through hole 42 of the coupler 41 before mounting the keg 32 in the receptacle 44, with the keg connection end 39 of the drinking tube 9 abutting and sealingly fitting into the coupler 41, which is positioned to connect to the drinking outlet 34 when the keg 32 is mounted in the receptacle 44. The drinking tube 9 may be provided together with the keg 32 or may be a separate item, attached to the closure 33 immediately prior to use, for example using a click-connect mechanism. In some embodiments, the drinking tube 9 may be permanently attached to the closure 33 of the keg. The drinking tube may be guided through the through hole 42 of the coupler 41 when mounting the keg 32 in the receptacle 44.

[0101] The keg closure 33 may provide a seal against the pressure chamber. It may also provide a flange on which the keg 32 sits. This flange may be used to support the keg 32. The closure 33 is fixed to the mouth of the keg 32, providing a stable and permanent connection, with a fluid-tight function. The mouth is usually the same for all sizes of kegs, so the only difference between the variations of the closure 33 is whether an integrated drinking tube, a removable drinking tube, or a releasable seal is used. Thus, the same standardized closure 33 may be manufactured with a mouth, which may be connected to the standardized neck of the keg 32, which may have different sizes. The closure 33 may receive a coupling part with either a releasable seal or an integrated drinking tube. The coupling part may preferably be press-fit or click-fit, but other methods such as threaded fit or welding may also be used.

[0102] If the beverage dispensing system is always to be used with a particular keg type, the coupler 41 may be permanently installed within the keg closure space 40. Alternatively, the user may be provided with several types of couplers 41, allowing the user to change the coupler type in the field, so that the beverage dispensing system can be changed to use different types of kegs depending on the particular beverage being consumed.

[0103] The pressure inlet may be configured to receive and deliver pressure medium to a gap between the outer wall of the keg 32 and the inner wall of the sealed housing 47. The gap is typically made as small as possible, for example a few millimetres wide, to allow a tight fit between the beverage tank and the pressure chamber. The pressure inlet may for example form part of the receiver 44, the lid 45 or the coupler 41 and may comprise a one-way valve and / or an overpressure relief valve in some embodiments. The pressure medium is typically air, but any fluid such as CO2, N2, water etc. may be used.

[0104] The drink dispenser may have a compressor 43 and / or a gas bottle selectively connectable to the pressure inlet to supply pressure medium to the gap. To make the system more modular, the pressure inlet and drink dispense system may be compatible with a variety of pressurization devices. The compressor 43 may be used when either mains or battery power is available and may power the compressor 43 to take in atmospheric air from outside, pressurize it, and pressurize the pressure chamber by injecting the pressurized air into the pressure chamber gap. The gas bottle is used when mains power is not available and / or when batteries are inconvenient. The gas bottle is pre-filled with pressurized gas such as air, nitrogen, carbon dioxide, etc.

[0105] The receptacle 44 and the lid 45 are separable for inserting and removing the beverage tank, as shown for example in Fig. 2B. Separation of the receptacle 44 and the lid 45 may be performed by tilting the draft tower 5 forward towards its front side 3, as shown in Fig. 2A, about a hinge 50 arranged at the bottom of the draft tower 5, thereby releasing a locking means which joins the receptacle 44 and the lid 45 in a pressure-tight connection. Tilting the draft tower 5 may further depend on the engagement of a pressure release means 52, which may for example be a pressure release button 52 arranged at the front side 3 of the draft tower 5. The pressure release button 52 triggers a pressure release in the pressure chamber, thereby allowing the separation of the lid 45 from the receptacle 44 by equalizing the pressure in the pressure-sealable enclosure 47 formed by the receptacle 44 and the lid 45 with the external environment of the beverage dispensing system.

[0106] In some embodiments, the receptacle 44 and the lid 45 are only partially separable such that the lid 45 remains connected to the body 6, for example via a hinge. The sealable housing 47 may define a volume between 2 and 100 liters, preferably between 5 and 50 liters, more preferably between 10 and 25 liters. The above volumes constitute typical volumes of the pressure chamber. The beverage tank is made somewhat smaller to fit snugly into the pressure chamber.

[0107] In some embodiments, the beverage dispensing system may have an additional housing part acting as a replacement for the lid 45. Such an additional housing part has an additional volume and is connectable to the receptacle 44 to establish a sealable enclosure 47 acting as a pressure chamber. In this way, the same base (body) 6 may be used with different housing parts of different sizes. In this way, the beverage dispensing system can be modified for a specific beverage tank size, for example 5 liters, 10 liters or 20 liters. The additional housing part can be replaced by the user, for example by screwing.

[0108] As shown in FIG. 11, according to one exemplary embodiment, the beverage dispensing system may include a fourth snap-fit ​​portion 48 between the dispense head 2 and the body 6 or the lid 45 to removably hold the dispense head 2 in the use state P1.

[0109] The pressure chamber may be thermally insulated. The insulation may be used in combination with a chiller 49 for chilling at least one keg 32 and the beverage contained therein. Alternatively, the chiller 49 may not be used and instead the insulation may be used in combination with a pre-chilled beverage tank, for example to save weight in carry-on luggage.

[0110] The beverage dispensing system may have a first power supply unit including a mains power supply, a second power supply unit including a battery power supply, and in some embodiments may further include a third power supply unit including a solar power supply. To further increase the modularity of the system, it may be compatible with various power sources. For fixed indoor installations, a mains power supply, for example a 115V AC or 230V AC domestic power supply, is preferred as it provides the system with virtually unlimited power. Such a power supply powers both the cooling and pressurizing units, as well as other functions such as lighting. A battery is advantageous for use in mobile devices. The battery may be rechargeable, for example by using a mains power supply and a power converter.

[0111] Solar power can be used to directly power a beverage dispensing system, however due to the limited output of solar cells in the absence of direct sunlight, it is most often considered an auxiliary power unit to be used in conjunction with a rechargeable battery.

[0112] Various ways of thinking and implementation of the invention have been described with some examples. However, upon reviewing the specification, drawings, and claims of this application, a person skilled in the art will understand and be able to embody many variations in addition to the described examples in implementing the claimed invention. The words "comprise", "have", and "include" in the claims do not exclude the presence of elements or steps not recited. The absence of a plurality of elements recited in the claims does not exclude the presence of a plurality of the elements. The functions of several elements recited in the claims may be performed by a single processor or other unit. The fact that several items are recited in separate dependent claims does not exclude them from being implemented in combination, and may be implemented to advantage in combination. The computer program may be stored or distributed on a suitable medium, such as an optical storage medium or a solid medium, supplied together with or as part of other hardware, but may also be distributed in other forms, such as via the Internet or other wired or wireless telecommunication systems.

[0113] Reference signs used in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention. Unless otherwise noted, the drawings are intended to be read together with the specification and are an integral part of this disclosure. In the specification, the terms "horizontal," "vertical," "left," "right," "upper," "lower," and adjectival and adverbial forms thereof (e.g., "horizontally," "rightwardly," "upwardly," etc.) merely refer to the orientation of the structures illustrated in the drawings in the direction of the reader's view. Similarly, the terms "inwardly" and "outwardly" generally refer to the orientation of a surface relative to a longitudinal axis or axis of rotation, depending on the context.

Claims

1. 1. A beverage dispenser assembly for dispensing a beverage, comprising: a dispense head defining a valve cavity for receiving a replaceable valve, the replaceable valve controlling the flow of beverage through the dispense head; the dispense head includes a first recess extending from the valve cavity to a side surface of the dispense head and opening to at least the side surface; the dispense head comprises an applicator for insertion into the first recess to position the replaceable valve within the valve cavity, the applicator sized and shaped to be slidably received within the first recess, the applicator configured such that at least the replaceable valve is removably attached to the applicator before the applicator is inserted into the first recess; Beverage dispenser assembly.

2. The dispense head is configured to be supported on a draft tower or a body of a beverage dispensing system; the dispense head having a front side facing away from the draft tower or body and an opposing rear side; the first recess extends from the valve cavity to the rear side of the dispense head and is open toward at least the rear side of the dispense head; The beverage dispenser assembly of claim 1 .

3. 2. The beverage dispenser assembly of claim 1, wherein the dispense head comprises at least one tap handle, the tap handle being connected to the replaceable valve so as to operate the replaceable valve and to control opening and closing of the replaceable valve when the replaceable valve is received within the valve cavity.

4. the valve cavity is configured to receive a portion of the replaceable beverage line; the replaceable valve is configured to control the flow of beverage from the portion of the replaceable beverage line through the dispense head; the applicator is further configured to position the portion of the replaceable beverage tube within the valve cavity. A beverage dispenser assembly according to any one of the preceding claims.

5. A beverage dispenser assembly as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the dispense head is transitionable between the use state and the non-use state, the side being invisible in the operating position and exposed in the non-use state.

6. the applicator defining a second recess shaped and sized to receive and releasably engage the replaceable valve; the second recess comprises a valve section adapted to receive and / or positively retain the replaceable valve; the second recess comprises a beverage pipe section adapted to receive and / or hold a first portion of a replaceable beverage pipe; A beverage dispenser assembly according to any one of the preceding claims.

7. A beverage dispenser assembly as described in claim 6, wherein at least the elongated portion of the beverage pipe section is arranged at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the valve section, preferably at an angle between 45 and 110°, and the valve section preferably opens on a face of the applicator that faces downward when the applicator is inserted into the dispense head and at least on a face that faces downward when the dispense head is in the use state.

8. 8. The beverage dispenser assembly of claim 6 or 7, wherein the beverage pipe section is configured to receive a first part of the replaceable beverage pipe, the first part having a first bend, the first bend preferably comprising a bend of 45 to 110°, more preferably substantially 90°.

9. 2. A beverage dispenser assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the applicator is accessible and removable from a side of the dispense head for replacing at least one of the replaceable valve and the replaceable beverage tube.

10. A beverage dispenser assembly as described in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the applicator comprises a rear applicator end and a guide channel arranged at the rear applicator end, the guide channel configured to receive and / or hold a second portion of the replaceable beverage tube.

11. the guide channel is configured to receive and / or hold the second part of the replaceable beverage pipe, the second part having a second bend, the second bend preferably comprising a bend of 45-110°, more preferably substantially 90°; the guide channel is configured to align an end of the second portion with the side of the dispense head when the applicator is fully inserted into the first recess. The beverage dispenser assembly of claim 10.

12. A beverage dispenser assembly as described in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the applicator has a rear applicator end that is located on a side of the dispense head when the applicator is fully inserted into the first recess, the rear applicator end at least partially protruding from the side of the dispense head when the applicator is fully inserted into the first recess and providing a grip for removing the applicator from the first recess.

13. 2. A beverage dispenser assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a first snap-fit ​​portion for releasably securing the replaceable valve to the applicator.

14. 10. A beverage dispenser assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a second snap-fit ​​portion for releasably securing a spout to the applicator or dispense head.

15. 10. The beverage dispenser assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a third snap-fit ​​portion for releasably securing the applicator within the first recess.

16. 10. A beverage dispenser assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first recess is shaped to allow both translational and rotational movement of the applicator therein.

17. 10. The beverage dispenser assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first applicator is provided with an end stop configured to limit translational and / or rotational movement of the applicator within the first recess.

18. The beverage dispenser assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the beverage dispenser assembly comprises a draft tower, the draft tower comprising a third recess for receiving a third portion of a replaceable beverage tube, the third recess preferably extending from the first recess in the dispense head to a base of the draft tower.

19. the valve cavity is configured to receive an actuator mechanism, the actuator mechanism configured to be connected to the tap handle and the replaceable valve to cooperate with the tap handle and the replaceable valve when the replaceable valve is received within the valve cavity; the actuator mechanism is configured to translate a transition of the tap handle between a non-dispensing position and a dispensing position into a movement for transitioning the replaceable valve between a closed state and an open state. A beverage dispenser assembly according to any one of the preceding claims.

20. a replaceable keg having a closure with a beverage outlet; a replaceable beverage line having a discharge end and a keg connection end for connection to said beverage outlet; a replaceable valve connected to the discharge end; 1. A beverage dispensing system configured to receive a beverage, the system comprising: a beverage dispenser assembly for dispensing a beverage from the replaceable keg, the beverage dispenser assembly including a dispense head configured to receive the replaceable valve; a receiver for receiving at least a portion of the replaceable keg; a keg closure space designed to accommodate the closure of the replaceable keg; Equipped with the keg closure space comprises a coupler with a through hole to allow passage of the replaceable beverage tube; the through hole is configured to sealingly receive the keg connection end of the replaceable beverage line and align the keg connection end with the beverage outlet of the replaceable keg; Beverage dispensing system.

21. 21. The beverage dispensing system of claim 20, comprising a body defining the receptacle, and a lid configured to cover at least a portion of the replaceable keg when the replaceable keg is received in the receptacle.

22. the lid is fixed to the body using a pressure resistant connection, preferably a bayonet mount; the body and the lid define a sealable housing, the sealable housing acting as a pressure chamber within which the replaceable keg is pressurized; 22. The beverage dispensing system of claim 21.

23. 22. A beverage dispensing system as claimed in any one of claims 20 or 21, wherein the replaceable keg comprises a beverage filling bag within an outer shell, the beverage filling bag and the outer shell defining a space therebetween through which pressurised fluid can be pumped to pressurise the replaceable keg.

24. 24. The beverage dispensing system according to any one of claims 20 to 23, comprising a compressor, preferably an air compressor, for pressurizing the exchangeable keg.

25. 25. A beverage dispensing system as claimed in any one of claims 20 to 24, wherein the beverage dispenser assembly is a beverage dispenser assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 19.

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