Method of disposing of beverage containers
The low vacuum suction tube method addresses inefficiencies in beverage container discharge by minimizing foaming and leakage while optimizing energy use for rapid and complete emptying.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2024-03-21
- Publication Date
- 2026-03-18
AI Technical Summary
Existing methods for discharging beverage containers are inefficient, prone to foaming, and risk leakage, especially when dealing with carbonated beverages, and often require excessive energy consumption.
A method using a suction tube under low vacuum pressure (up to 0.9 bar) to extract beverages from containers without applying external pressure, combined with a decapping system and conveyor belt for simultaneous opening and extraction.
The method effectively minimizes foaming, reduces leakage risk, and enhances energy efficiency, allowing rapid discharge of large volumes with minimal losses.
Smart Images

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Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The present invention relates to a method for discharging a beverage container and an apparatus therefor.
Background Art
[0002] In the process of filling beverage containers, for various reasons, there may be situations where containers filled with beverages cannot be distributed for sale. For example, in the case of beverage containers such as bottles, when the amount of beverage in the container does not meet the requirements, when the beverage container itself does not meet certain requirements (i.e., when it is "not properly adjusted or equipped"), or when the beverage container is returned from the distribution route to the manufacturer, etc., it may not be properly filled. Furthermore, the contents of properly filled beverage containers may expire before sale.
[0003] In all these situations, it is necessary to reopen the container and discard the contents, or in the case of alcoholic beverages, pour them into a recovery tank before being reprocessed, such as by ethanol recovery.
[0004] The method of discharging the beverage container upside down after opening has the drawback that air enters, which slows down the discharge. In addition, in the case of beverages containing CO2, foaming occurs, which also delays the discharge process and may cause the container not to empty completely.
[0005] [[ID=W24]]In other known methods, a needle, tube or straw is introduced into the container. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a method for treating "improperly filled containers" containing beverages, supplying pressurized gas into the container via a supply line, generating a positive pressure in the container to push the beverage out of the container. This procedure is disadvantageous because foaming may occur due to the supply of pressurized gas. In addition, the risk of leakage is high. Similar problems also occur in Patent Document 2, Patent Document 3, Patent Document 4 and Patent Document 5, where pressurized gas is also provided in the container.
[0006] Furthermore, Patent Document 6 also describes a method of introducing gas into a container to expel its contents.
[0007] Patent document 7 describes a system in which a hole is made in a sealed can, and then the can is emptied and crushed.
[0008] Furthermore, known methods and apparatus often assume that the container is moved towards the needle, tube, or straw. This is not very efficient (slow) and consumes a lot of energy.
[0009] The present invention aims to find solutions to at least some of the above-mentioned problems. In particular, the present invention aims to provide a method for discharging beverage containers that is efficient, capable of handling large volumes, and minimizes losses. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]
[0010] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2006 / 035290 [Patent Document 2] U.S. Patent No. 4519427 [Patent Document 3] U.S. Patent No. 4662411 [Patent Document 4] U.S. Patent No. 3913802 [Patent Document 5] West German Patent Application Publication No. 4122637 [Patent Document 6] International Publication No. 9212925 [Patent Document 7] U.S. Patent No. 3870175 [Overview of the Initiative]
[0011] The present invention relates to a method for emptying a beverage container as described in claim 1. The beverage present in the beverage container is extracted from the beverage container using a suction tube at a maximum pressure of 0.9 bar (0.09 MPa).
[0012] Preferred embodiments of this method are described in claims 2 to 13.
[0013] In a second aspect, the present invention relates to a beverage container dispensing device as described in claim 14. The device comprises a suction tube suitable for extracting a beverage from a beverage container, the suction tube being connected to a vacuum line.
[0014] The present invention is advantageous because foaming during extraction is reduced or avoided. Furthermore, the method and apparatus are advantageous because they enable more energy-efficient discharge treatment. The inventors have also confirmed that the method and apparatus of the present invention provide a discharge treatment in which the risk of leakage is reduced or avoided.
[0015] Furthermore, the present invention provides a method and apparatus that can discharge a large quantity of beverage containers in a relatively short time.
[0016] A further advantage of the present invention is that losses during disposal can be minimized. This is advantageous when it is necessary to apply for a refund of liquor tax on the recovered beverages, and also when the empty containers are subsequently reprocessed. [Modes for carrying out the invention]
[0017] The present invention relates to a method for discharging beverage containers.
[0018] Unless otherwise specified, all terms used in describing this invention, including technical and scientific terms, have the meanings generally understood by those skilled in the art. To better understand this description, the following terms are explicitly defined.
[0019] As used herein, the term "beverage container" is understood to mean a container used for storing and transporting beverages such as water, soft drinks, juice, milk, and alcoholic beverages such as beer, wine, and distilled spirits. These containers can have different shapes and materials, such as plastic bottles, cans, cardboard boxes, and glass bottles.
[0020] As used herein, the term "decapping" is understood to mean removing a cap or closure from a bottle, carton, jar, tube, or other similar container. The purpose of decapping can vary depending on the context. Decapping can be done manually, for example, by turning or pulling, or by using a decapper.
[0021] As used herein, the term "decapper" is understood to mean a means used to remove a cap or closure from a bottle, carton, jar, tube, or other similar container. Non-limiting examples include bottle openers, cap removal devices, can openers, or any means capable of loosening a screw cap.
[0022] As used herein, the term "cap" is understood to mean a closure used to close the opening of a bottle, jar, tube, or other similar container. Caps are made of different shapes and materials depending on the type of container and the contents stored inside. For example, caps can be made of plastic, metal, or cork, and include screw caps, twist caps, press-on caps, or flip-top caps. Most caps can be easily removed for using the contents of the container.
[0023] The term "case" is synonymous with the term "crate" and is understood to mean a container for storing and transporting several bottles or cans. A case is designed to hold a predetermined number of beverage containers, such as six, twelve, or twenty-four. Cases are often used to transport beverage containers from a store to a home or to store beer in a refrigerator or other storage location.
[0024] As used herein, "a" and "the" refer to both the singular and plural forms unless the context indicates otherwise. For example, "segment" means one or more segments.
[0025] As used herein, when the terms "around" or "about" are used with a measurable quantity, parameter, duration, point in time or the like, they mean a variation of generally up to 20%, preferably generally up to 10%, more preferably generally up to 5%, even more preferably generally up to 1%, and even more preferably generally up to 0.1% of the recited value, and these variations are limited to the extent applicable in the described invention. However, this should be understood to mean that the value itself for which the term "approximately" or "around" is used is specifically disclosed.
[0026] The terms "comprise", "comprising", "provided with" are synonyms and are inclusive or open-ended terms indicating the presence of subsequent elements and do not exclude or preclude the presence of other components, features, elements, members, steps known or described in the prior art.
[0027] The terms "contain," "containing," "consist of," "consisting of," "include," and "including" are synonyms, exclusive or closed terms indicating the presence of a subsequent element, and excluding or hindering the existence of other components, characteristics, elements, components, or processes known or described in the prior art.
[0028] When a numerical range is referenced using an endpoint, it includes all integers, fractions, and / or real numbers that include the endpoint.
[0029] In a first aspect, the present invention relates to a method for discharging beverage containers.
[0030] Preferably, this method includes the step of supplying a predetermined number of sealed beverage containers filled with beverage, the supplied beverage containers being opened simultaneously by a decapping system, and then the beverage being extracted from the predetermined number of opened beverage containers by an extraction system.
[0031] This method is applicable to a wide variety of beverage containers. Preferably, the supplied beverage containers are of the same type. Preferably, the supplied beverage containers are substantially identical in shape and material. In a preferred embodiment, the beverage containers are provided with a cap as a closure. The cap is preferably made of plastic, metal, or cork, more preferably metal. In another preferred embodiment, the cap is made of plastic. The cap is preferably a screw cap, twist cap, cork, or crown cork, more preferably crown cork. In another preferred embodiment, the cap is a twist cap.
[0032] In a preferred form, the beverage container is selected from glass bottles, plastic bottles, cans, or cardboard boxes, preferably glass bottles or plastic bottles, and more preferably glass bottles.
[0033] The contents of the supplied beverage container may vary between 10cl and 200cl. For example, 25cl, 33cl, 50cl, 75cl, 100cl, 200cl, or any value in between.
[0034] The predetermined number of sealed beverage containers supplied is any number between 1 and 100, preferably between 1 and 50, for example, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50. Preferably, the predetermined number is selected from 6, 12, 24, or 48.
[0035] In a preferred embodiment, the beverage container is supplied into the case. In these embodiments, the supplied beverage container is positioned within the case. In a more preferred embodiment, the case is secured during decapping by two pneumatic stoppers located on the sides of the case.
[0036] The case can be made from plastic, metal, cardboard, or wood. In a preferred form, the case is made of plastic, preferably high-density polyethylene (HDPE). HDPE is a thermoplastic polymer known for its strength, rigidity, toughness, and recyclability. HDPE is resistant to tearing, breakage, and deformation, making it ideal for the manufacture of reusable beer crates. Furthermore, HDPE plastic is resistant to chemicals and can be easily cleaned and disinfected, making it ideal for use in the food industry, such as for transporting beverage containers.
[0037] Wooden cases are commonly used in craft breweries or special events. They are usually made from solid wood and have a rustic appearance. Metal cases, such as those made of steel or aluminum, are durable and recyclable. These may be used for commercial purposes or by breweries wanting to distribute their own beer. Cardboard cases are often disposable, lightweight, and easy to transport. These may be used at events or parties where large quantities of beer are served.
[0038] The dimensions of the case depend on the case capacity. The case capacity depends on the size of the bottles or cans placed inside the case. The height of the case is preferably between 10 cm and 100 cm, preferably between 10 cm and 50 cm, and more preferably between 20 cm and 40 cm. The width of the case is preferably between 10 cm and 100 cm, preferably between 10 cm and 50 cm, and more preferably between 20 cm and 40 cm. The length of the case is preferably between 10 cm and 100 cm, and more preferably between 20 cm and 60 cm.
[0039] Supplying beverages in cases is advantageous because they are at least partially secured when the beverage containers are opened and when the beverages are dispensed. In addition, the beverage containers do not need to be removed from the cases during the process and can then be transported back to the discharge area in the same cases.
[0040] The beverage in the beverage container may be an alcoholic beverage or a non-alcoholic beverage, and examples include water, soft drinks, juices, milk, beer, wine, and spirits. In a preferred form, the beverage in the beverage container may be a carbonated beverage, an alcoholic beverage, or a carbonated alcoholic beverage.
[0041] This invention is particularly advantageous for carbonated beverages because foaming is avoided. Furthermore, this invention is also particularly advantageous for alcoholic beverages because it allows for the accurate calculation of refunds of liquor taxes already paid by minimizing losses.
[0042] In a specific preferred embodiment, the method includes the step of supplying a predetermined number of sealed beverage containers filled with beverage, the supplied beverage containers being simultaneously opened by a decapping system, and then the beverage being extracted from the predetermined number of opened beverage containers by an extraction system equipped with a suction tube, the suction tube being moved downward into the beverage containers, and the suction tube extracting the beverage from the beverage containers under a pressure of up to 0.9 bar.
[0043] The low pressure, lower than atmospheric pressure, ensures that the beverage is drawn out of the container rather than pushed out, as in conventional techniques. As a result, no external pressure or pressurized gas is applied to the container, and little to no foam is generated. This makes it possible to empty the beverage container more effectively and completely.
[0044] In a preferred configuration, beverage containers are supplied by a conveyor belt. The conveyor belt preferably extends through a decapping system and an extraction system.
[0045] A decapping system is suitable for opening supplied beverage containers. Preferably, the decapping system comprises one or more decappers. Preferably, the decapping system comprises a number of decappers equal to a predetermined number of supplied beverage containers.
[0046] In a preferred configuration, the supplied beverage container is opened using a decapper. The decapper preferably moves downward toward the beverage container. Preferably, the decapping system comprises a platform that is movable up and down, on which the decapper is mounted.
[0047] In a preferred embodiment, the decapping system is a bottle opener. In this embodiment, the decapper is a bottle opener suitable for removing a crown cap or cork from a beverage container. The bottle opener may be of different types depending on the type of bottle and cork to be removed. In a preferred embodiment, the decapper is a bottle opener suitable for removing a crown cap. In another preferred embodiment, the decapper is a bottle opener suitable for removing a cork. In yet another preferred embodiment, the decapper is a decapper suitable for removing a twist cap. In a preferred embodiment, the removed cap is collected in the container.
[0048] In a preferred embodiment, the decapsulator is equipped with an electromagnet. This is advantageous because, during decapping, the metal crown cork is attracted to the electromagnet and remains attached to the decapsulator system. In this preferred embodiment, the crown cork can then be recovered into the container by detaching the electromagnet.
[0049] In a preferred form, the beverage container is secured by fasteners during decapping.
[0050] The extraction system is equipped with a suction tube suitable for extracting beverages from beverage containers. The suction tube is preferably connected to a vacuum line for this purpose. In a specific preferred embodiment, the suction tube extracts beverages from beverage containers under a pressure of up to 0.9 bar. Preferably, this pressure is up to 0.8 bar, more preferably up to 0.7 bar, more preferably up to 0.6 bar, and still more preferably up to 0.5 bar.
[0051] In a preferred embodiment, the pressure is between 0.1 bar and 0.9 bar. Preferably, this pressure is between 0.2 bar and 0.8 bar, more preferably between 0.3 bar and 0.7 bar, more preferably between 0.4 bar and 0.6 bar, and even more preferably about 0.5 bar.
[0052] This pressure can be achieved by creating a low vacuum by moving air using a vacuum pump.
[0053] The term "low vacuum" refers to a low-pressure environment where the pressure is lower than atmospheric pressure. Generally, low vacuum is defined as a pressure range of approximately 1 bar to 0.001 bar.
[0054] The inventors unexpectedly discovered that this low pressure is ideal for extracting beverages from beverage containers. This is especially true for carbonated beverages, as there is no need to add additional air or pressure to the beverage container. Furthermore, there is no need to seal the beverage container.
[0055] In a preferred configuration, opened beverage containers are not sealed during beverage extraction. This is required in conventional dispensing techniques and necessitates additional steps.
[0056] Preferably, the extraction system comprises a number of suction tubes equal to the number of beverage containers supplied.
[0057] In a preferred embodiment, the suction tube moves downward toward the beverage container and enters the beverage container. In a more preferred embodiment, the beverage is extracted from the beverage container while the suction tube is moving downward. Preferably, the extraction system includes a platform that is movable up and down, on which the suction tube is mounted. In a more preferred embodiment, the beverage is extracted when the suction tube reaches the bottom of the beverage container.
[0058] In a preferred embodiment, the time required to extract the beverage from the beverage container is a maximum of 5 seconds, preferably a maximum of 4 seconds, more preferably a maximum of 3 seconds, even more preferably a maximum of 2 seconds, and even more preferably a maximum of 1 second. In this context, the time is calculated as the time from the start of beverage extraction until the suction tube contacts the bottom of the bottle.
[0059] In a preferred embodiment, the suction tube is provided with a suction valve, preferably a spring-type suction valve. The spring-type suction valve is advantageous because it reduces or avoids damage when the suction tube hits the bottom. In addition, this makes it possible to empty the bottle to the bottom, allowing for optimal emptying of the bottle.
[0060] In a preferred form, at least 90% by volume, preferably at least 95% by volume, and more preferably at least 99% by volume of the beverage is extracted from the beverage container.
[0061] In the preferred configuration, the beverage is extracted simultaneously from each beverage container. This is advantageous in combination with a short extraction time, ensuring a time-efficient method.
[0062] In a preferred form, the extracted beverage is collected in a recovery tank. In a more preferred form, the volume and alcohol content of the collected beverage are measured. In a still more preferred form, a refund of any liquor tax already paid is calculated based on the measured volume and measured alcohol content.
[0063] The volume and alcohol content are preferably measured when the recovered beverage is pumped out of the recovery tank to the next storage location or means of transport. During this process, the recovered beverage is pumped out via a flow meter, which allows for the measurement and recording of the volume and alcohol content of the recovered beverage. This data can be provided, for example, to a beer bottle supplier to claim a refund of overpaid liquor tax.
[0064] In a specific preferred embodiment, the method includes the step of supplying a predetermined number of glass beer bottles filled with beer and sealed with crown cap corks, the supplied predetermined number of beer bottles being opened simultaneously by an uncorking system, and then the beer being simultaneously extracted from a predetermined number of opened beverage containers by an extraction system equipped with a suction tube, the suction tube being moved downward into the beverage containers, and the suction tube extracting the beverage from the beverage containers under a pressure of up to 0.9 bar.
[0065] In a specific preferred embodiment, the method includes the step of supplying a predetermined number of plastic bottles filled with a beverage and sealed with twist caps, the supplied plastic bottles being opened simultaneously by a decapping system, and then the soft drink being simultaneously extracted from the opened plastic bottles by an extraction system equipped with a suction tube, the suction tube being moved downward into the plastic bottles, and the suction tube extracting the beverage from the plastic bottles under a pressure of up to 0.9 bar.
[0066] In a second aspect, the present invention relates to a beverage container dispensing device.
[0067] In one embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus, - Decapping system, - Extraction system, - A conveyor belt that is positioned through the decapping and extraction system and is suitable for guiding beverage containers through the decapping and extraction system. It is equipped with.
[0068] In a preferred embodiment, the decapping system includes a predetermined number of decapping machines, the decapping machines being vertically movable. Preferably, the decapping system includes a vertically movable platform on which the decapping machines are mounted. In a preferred embodiment, the extraction system includes a predetermined number of suction tubes, the suction tubes being vertically movable. Preferably, the extraction system includes a vertically movable platform on which the suction tubes are mounted. In a further preferred embodiment, the number of decapping machines is equal to the number of suction tubes.
[0069] In a particular preferred configuration, the suction tube is fluidly connected to the vacuum line.
[0070] In a specific preferred embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus is - A decapping system comprising a predetermined number of decapping machines that can move up and down, - An extraction system comprising a predetermined number of suction tubes that are movable vertically, and the suction tubes are fluidly connected to a vacuum line. - A conveyor belt that is positioned through the decapping and extraction system and is suitable for guiding beverage containers through the decapping and extraction system. It is equipped with.
[0071] The connection between the suction tube and the vacuum line is advantageous because it provides a low pressure lower than atmospheric pressure within the suction tube. This ensures that the beverage is sucked out of the container rather than pushed out as in conventional techniques. As a result, no external pressure or pressurized gas is applied to the container, and little to no bubbles are generated. This makes it possible to better and more completely empty the beverage container.
[0072] The vacuum line is preferably connected to a vacuum pump, which can create a low vacuum by moving air.
[0073] The inventors unexpectedly discovered that low pressure can be achieved by a vacuum line and pump. This low pressure is ideal for extracting beverages from beverage containers. This is especially true for carbonated beverages, as there is no need to add additional air or pressure to the beverage container. Furthermore, there is no need to seal the beverage container.
[0074] In a preferred embodiment, the suction tube is provided with a spring-loaded suction valve.
[0075] In a preferred embodiment, the decapping system is a bottle opener. In this embodiment, the decapper is a bottle opener suitable for removing a crown cap or cork from a beverage container. The bottle opener may be of different types depending on the type of bottle and cork to be removed. In a preferred embodiment, the decapper is a bottle opener suitable for removing a crown cap. In another preferred embodiment, the decapper is a decapper suitable for removing a twist cap. In a preferred embodiment, the removed cap is collected in the container.
[0076] In a preferred embodiment, the decapsulator is equipped with an electromagnet. This is advantageous because, during decapping, the metal crown cork is attracted to the electromagnet and remains attached to the decapsulator system. In this preferred embodiment, the crown cork can then be recovered into the container by detaching the electromagnet.
[0077] In a specific preferred embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus is - A capping system equipped with a predetermined number of capping devices that can move up and down, - An extraction system comprising a predetermined number of suction tubes that are movable vertically, and the suction tubes are fluidly connected to a vacuum line. - A conveyor belt that is positioned through the decapping and extraction system and is suitable for guiding beverage containers through the decapping and extraction system. It is equipped with.
[0078] In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus is suitable for carrying out the method according to the first embodiment.
[0079] The present invention is described below by non-limiting examples that illustrate the invention, but these are not intended to limit the scope of the invention, nor should they be construed as limiting it. [Examples]
[0080] [Example 1: Discharging a 25cl beer bottle] Standard European glass beer bottles, with a capacity of 25cl, a height of 215mm, and a base diameter of 56mm, are placed in 40cm x 30cm x 25cm beer crates and supplied to the bottle-opening system via a conveyor belt.
[0081] The bottles are filled with 5.2% volume lager beer and sealed with crown caps. The uncorking system consists of 24 uncorking devices positioned on a platform. The platform moves downward towards the bottles, positions itself at the correct height, and uncorks them. The uncorking devices have electromagnets at their support points, which attract the crown caps after the bottles are opened. During uncorking, the case is held in place by two pneumatic stoppers located on each of the two opposing sides of the case. The bottles themselves are also clamped and held in place before uncorking. After uncorking, the platform rises again.
[0082] The vertical movement of the decapping system platform is driven synchronously by a dual linear guide equipped with two electric cylinders and two servo motors. The case height is proportional to the bottle height and can be entered by the operator via a touch panel. The decapping system is also equipped with a photocell that can monitor the movement of the case and bottles.
[0083] After the bottle is opened, the platform rises. Below this platform, the collection container rotates. The electromagnet holding the bottle cap cork is detached, and the bottle cap cork is collected in the collection container. The collection container itself can be emptied by rotating and tilting.
[0084] Subsequently, a conveyor belt transports the containers containing the opened beer bottles to the extraction system. The extraction system comprises 24 suction tubes positioned on a platform. The platform moves downward toward the bottles. As the platform moves downward, beer is drawn out of the bottles. By the time the suction tubes reach the bottom of the bottles, more than 90% by volume, preferably more than 99% by volume, of the beer has been extracted from the bottles.
[0085] The suction tube is equipped with a spring-loaded suction valve at the bottom, i.e., the part that first touches the liquid surface when approaching the bottle. The spring-loaded suction valve is advantageous because it reduces or avoids damage when the suction tube hits the bottom. In addition, it allows for optimal emptying of the bottle. The suction tube is connected to a vacuum line, and the pressure inside the suction tube is approximately 0.5 bar. Emptying the bottle takes approximately 0.9 seconds. The aspirated beverage is collected in a recovery tank. The platform then rises again, and the suction tube is removed from the bottle.
[0086] The empty bottles in the case are then transported further via a conveyor belt, and can be stacked and loaded for further transport.
[0087] The volume and alcohol content of the extracted beer are measured in the recovery tank. This data is provided to the beer bottle supplier, who can then claim a refund for any overpaid liquor tax.
[0088] By using the method described, 595 cases, each containing 24 bottles of 25cl, can be emptied per hour.
[0089] The present invention should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments described above, and specific modifications or changes can be made to the described embodiments without the need to re-evaluate the appended claims. For example, although the present invention is described with reference to a 25cl beer bottle, it is clear that the present invention can also be applied to beer and soft drink bottles of any size, or to cases having from one to fifty bottles. [Examples 2-8: Beverage containers]
[0090] Tables 1 and 2 below show some beverage containers that can be emptied using current methods and equipment. [Table 1] [Table 2]
Claims
1. A method for discharging beverage containers, comprising the step of supplying a predetermined number of sealed beverage containers filled with beverage, wherein the supplied number of beverage containers are simultaneously opened by a decapping system, and thereafter the beverage is simultaneously extracted from the predetermined number of opened beverage containers by an extraction system equipped with a suction tube, wherein the suction tube is moved downward into the beverage containers, and the suction tube extracts the beverage from the beverage containers under a pressure of up to 0.9 bar.
2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the beverage container is a bottle, preferably a glass bottle, and more preferably a glass beer bottle.
3. The method according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the supplied beverage container is positioned within the case.
4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the opened beverage container is not resealed during the extraction of the beverage.
5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the suction tube is provided with a spring-type suction valve.
6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the time required to extract the beverage from the beverage container is a maximum of 1 second.
7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein at least 90% by volume, preferably at least 99% by volume, of the beverage is extracted from the beverage container.
8. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the suction tube extracts the beverage under a pressure of up to 0.7 bar, preferably up to 0.5 bar.
9. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the beverage is extracted simultaneously from each beverage container.
10. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the beverage container is opened using an uncorking system, and the uncorking system comprises an uncorking device equal to the number of beverage containers supplied.
11. The method according to claim 10, wherein the plug removal device is equipped with an electromagnet.
12. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the extracted beverage is collected in a recovery tank, and the volume and alcohol content of the recovered beverage are measured when the liquid is pumped from the recovery tank to the next storage location or transport means via a flow meter.
13. The method according to claim 12, wherein the refund of liquor tax already paid is calculated based on the measured volume and the measured alcohol content.
14. A beverage container dispensing device, - A decapping system equipped with a predetermined number of decapping machines that can move up and down, - An extraction system comprising a predetermined number of suction tubes that are movable vertically, the suction tubes being fluidly connected to a vacuum line, - A conveyor belt that is positioned through the decapping system and the extraction system and is suitable for guiding beverage containers through the decapping system and the extraction system. A device equipped with the following features.
15. The apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the suction tube is provided with a spring-type suction valve.
16. The apparatus according to claim 14 or 15, wherein the decapping system is a bottle removal system and the decapper is a bottle removal device.
17. The device according to claim 16, wherein the plug removal device comprises an electromagnet.
Citation Information
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