Beverage dispensing unit, and method for manufacturing the unit.

Abstract

This disclosure relates to a beverage distribution unit (200) configured to be applied to a beverage distribution system comprising at least one beverage container. The beverage distribution unit (200) comprises a unidirectional distribution line (10) which is a flexible tube made of food-grade polymer material having a first line end (11) and a second line end (12). The first line end is configured to be fluidly connected to the beverage container via a connecting member (40) made of food-grade polymer material, and the second line end is configured to be fluidly connected to a distribution valve (5) for a distribution tap made of food-grade polymer material. This disclosure further relates to a method for manufacturing the beverage distribution unit (200) by connecting the unidirectional distribution line (10) to the connecting member (40) and the distribution valve (5) to enable fluid communication between them.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a beverage dispensing unit for a beverage dispensing system, and a method of manufacturing a beverage dispensing unit by connecting a one-way dispensing line having an outer diameter and an inner diameter to a connecting member and a dispensing valve to enable fluid communication therebetween. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a beverage dispensing unit for a beverage dispensing system, and a method of manufacturing a beverage dispensing unit by connecting a one-way dispensing line having an outer diameter and an inner diameter to a connecting member and a dispensing valve to enable fluid communication therebetween, as defined in the introductory part of the independent claims.

[0002] Background Art Problems associated with prior art solutions for dispensing lines or tubes made of plastic materials attached to protruding inlets or outlets, such as dispensing valves, by sliding over one line or tube end over an inlet or outlet to form a joint are that if the line or tube end is not sufficiently softened (usually by heating the plastic of the tube until it softens), cracks will occur in the joint after a while, resulting in leakage to the inside and / or outside of the joint, which means that the pumping or discharging function is impaired, efficiency is reduced, or even the operation stops.

[0003] Problems associated with prior art solutions when adhesives are used to connect tube ends to other components such as dispensing valves are that the adhesive may flow and / or adhere to undesirable locations and areas, which means that the inner surface through which the beverage passes may be contaminated and / or the smoothness may be reduced due to excessive adhesive adhering to the inner surface.

[0004] A problem associated with conventional dispensing spouts in beverage taps is that the beverage drips / leaks from the spout after tapping is complete. Conventional spouts are ventilated by introducing air into the spout to prevent "stuffing" of excess beverage inside and to prevent dripping in an undesirable manner. Examples of such conventional spouts are disclosed in International Publication 2017 / 085261 and UK Patent Application Publication 1091444. The conventional air ventilation function relies on very narrow manufacturing tolerances between the sealing surface and the moving parts constituting each tapping spout, and functions in a sufficiently reliable / predictable manner. Such narrow manufacturing tolerances are very difficult to achieve during molding, i.e., the manufacturing of the plastic parts constituting the previous dispensing spouts is costly. In such tapping spouts, there is a need to improve the air ventilation function because poor ventilation will leave liquid or foam inside the spout after dispensing.

[0005] Summary of the Invention The object of this disclosure is to mitigate, alleviate or eliminate one or more of the defects and inconveniences identified above in the prior art and to solve at least the problems described above. According to a first aspect, a beverage distribution unit is provided, comprising a one-way distribution line having an outer diameter and an inner diameter, the one-way distribution line being a flexible tube made of a food-grade polymer material having a first line end and a second line end, the first line end being configured to be fluidly connected to a beverage through an opening of a connecting member made of a food-grade polymer material, the second line end being configured to be fluidly connected to an opening of an inlet of a distribution valve of a distribution tap made of a food-grade polymer material, the opening of the connecting member comprising a one-way distribution line fluidly connected to an inner through-hole or an outlet portion or end of a passage passing through the connecting member, configured to be fluidly connected to a beverage at the opposite inlet portion or first end of the connecting member, the outlet portion and opening of the connecting member and the opening of the distribution valve each having an inner diameter substantially the same as the outer diameter of the one-way distribution line, and the outlet portion The part is a free projection end extending by a distance or length from the second end of the connecting member and projection opposite the first end of the connecting member, and the inner diameters of the outlet portion and the distribution valve opening are configured such that the first line end and the second line end are inserted into their respective openings and are inserted through the openings to the connecting member and the distribution valve by a predetermined distance or length, and the first line end connects to the connecting member when it abuts against its respective inner circumferential shelf, and the second line end connects to the distribution valve, and the inner circumferential shelf or projection acts as a contact portion or end stopper for the respective first line end and the respective second line end, and the respective line end is configured to be fixed by welding inside the respective inner circumferential shelf and inside the outlet portion of the connecting member and the inlet of the distribution valve, respectively, to prevent leakage.

[0006] The beverage distribution unit is configured to be applied to a beverage distribution system comprising at least one beverage container configured such that a first line end of a distribution line or tube is connected in fluid communication.

[0007] The advantage is that welding allows for a complete bond between all parts and materials, and when the distribution line, which is a flexible tube, is stretched, the connecting member or probe and the line end connected to the distribution valve or spout are no longer the weakest points of the assembly. Another advantage is the ability to maintain the nominal inner diameter of the distribution line, i.e., the nominal inner diameter of the line end, and to avoid uneven or rough areas that form fouling gaps where flow turbulence and / or fouling may accumulate after welding is complete.

[0008] According to some embodiments, a predetermined distance or length of insertion that brings the second line end of a one-way distribution line into contact with the inner circumferential shelf of the distribution valve is less than, substantially the same as, equal to, or greater than a predetermined distance or length of insertion that brings the first line end of the one-way distribution line into contact with the inner circumferential shelf of the connecting member.

[0009] The advantage is that welding allows for a complete bond between all parts and materials, and when the distribution line, which is a flexible tube, is stretched, the line ends connected to the connecting member or probe and the distribution valve or spout are no longer the weakest points of the assembly, even if the two line ends are not inserted into each entity to the same length and tightly welded.

[0010] According to some embodiments, each inner circumferential shelf of each connecting member and distribution valve extends in a radial plane substantially perpendicular or perpendicular to the longitudinal or axial direction of the connecting member and inner passage and distribution valve inlet, and each inner circumferential shelf comprises at least one inner circumferential pocket, recess, or groove fabricated in the longitudinal or axial direction of the connecting member and distribution valve inlet, thereby the depth of each groove extends substantially the same and / or in the same direction as the inner passage and distribution valve inlet, away from the respective openings of the inner passage and distribution valve inlet of the connecting member.

[0011] The advantage is that any soft or molten material at the line end during and / or welding is guided into and / or received by the respective grooves / pockets, rather than flowing inward toward the interior of the distribution line and / or being forced to reduce the inner diameter, i.e., the grooves / pockets ensure that the inner diameter of each line end is maintained and not narrowed and / or deformed, and as a result the interior remains as smooth as the rest of the distribution line. Another advantage is that when each line end is pressed into the associated shelf during / welding, the line end does not bend inward due to the flexibility when heated to the welding temperature.

[0012] According to some embodiments, each inner circumferential shelf of each connecting member and distribution valve extends from the inner diameter of the outlet portion of the inner passage and the opening of the inlet into a radial plane substantially perpendicular or perpendicular to the longitudinal or axial direction of the inlet of each connecting member and distribution valve, and terminates in an intermediate or central section of each inner passage of the connecting member, as well as between the outlet portion of each connecting member and the first end, and between the opening of the distribution valve and the valve chamber or through channel, forming an inner opening of the inlet of the distribution valve.

[0013] The advantage is that any soft or molten material at the line end during / welding is guided into and / or received by the respective grooves / pockets, rather than flowing inward toward the interior of the distribution line / tube and / or being forced to reduce the inner diameter of the line end; that is, the grooves / pockets ensure that the inner diameter of each line end is maintained and not narrowed and / or deformed, and that the inner diameter of each line end is better controlled during and after welding so that the inner diameter is coplanar with the inner opening to the intermediate section and does not create steps and / or non-uniformity in between that could cause flow turbulence and / or fouling to accumulate.

[0014] According to some embodiments of the beverage distribution unit, each inner circumferential groove has a radial extension that starts from an inner diameter and ends with an inner diameter larger than the intermediate inner diameter that forms the intermediate or central section of the inner passage of the connecting member and the inner opening of the inlet of the distribution valve, respectively.

[0015] This allows any soft or molten material and / or line end portions to be guided into and / or accepted by their respective grooves and / or pockets, instead of flowing inward toward the interior of the distribution line and / or being forced to reduce the inner diameter of the line end, i.e., the grooves / pockets ensure that the inner diameter of each line end is maintained and not narrowed and / or deformed, and that the inner diameter of each line end is better controlled during and after welding so that the inner diameter is coplanar with the inner opening to the intermediate section and does not create steps and / or non-uniformity in between that could cause flow turbulence and / or fouling to accumulate.

[0016] According to some embodiments of the beverage distribution unit, the maximum depth of each inner circumferential groove terminates at a distance from the respective openings in the longitudinal or axial direction of the respective connecting member and the inlet of the distribution valve, which is greater than the insertion distance or length of any of the line ends of the distribution line.

[0017] This ensures that any soft or molten material and / or portions of the line end are guided into and / or accepted by their respective grooves / pockets, rather than flowing inward toward the interior of the distribution line and / or being forced to reduce the inner diameter of the line end, i.e., the depth of the grooves / pockets ensures that the inner diameter of each line end is maintained and not narrowed and / or deformed, allowing for better control of the inner diameter of each line end during and after welding, and ensuring that the inner diameter is maintained and that steps and / or non-uniformities do not occur, which could cause flow turbulence and / or fouling to accumulate in certain areas.

[0018] According to some embodiments of the beverage distribution unit, the inner circumferential grooves extend radially from the inner diameter of the connecting member and the distribution valve, respectively, and terminate with an inner diameter that is larger than, substantially the same as, or equal to, the inner diameter of the line end of the unidirectional distribution line.

[0019] This ensures that any soft or molten material and / or portions of the line end, when pressed into the associated shelf during and / or welding, are guided outward instead of flowing inward and / or being forced inward toward the interior of the distribution line, thereby reducing the inner diameter of the line end to an undesirable degree and / or deforming the inside of the line end.

[0020] According to some embodiments of the beverage distribution unit, the intermediate inner diameters forming the intermediate or central sections of each inner passage and the inner openings of the inlets of the distribution valves are substantially equal to or equal to the inner diameters of each line end of the unidirectional distribution line after welding.

[0021] This ensures that the inner diameter of the line end and the inner opening of the intermediate section are kept coplanar and / or maintained so as not to create steps and / or non-uniformities between them that could cause flow turbulence and / or fouling to accumulate.

[0022] According to some embodiments, the distribution valve and at least the outlet portion and fluid communication portion of the connecting member are made of the same food-grade polymer material, which is high-density polyethylene commonly used in blow molding.

[0023] This makes welding control easier.

[0024] According to some embodiments, the properties of the food-grade polymer material constituting the distribution line differ from those of the food-grade polymer material constituting the distribution valve and connecting member, in that the distribution line is manufactured by extrusion using low-density polyethylene, while the distribution valve and connecting member are manufactured by injection molding using high-density polyethylene, which is commonly used in blow molding.

[0025] According to a second aspect, a method is provided for fabricating a beverage distribution unit by connecting a unidirectional distribution line having an outer diameter and an inner diameter to a connecting member and a distribution valve, thereby enabling fluid communication between them, wherein the unidirectional distribution line is a flexible tube made of food-grade polymer material having a first line end and a second line end, the first line end being configured to be connected in fluid communication to the outlet of a connecting member made of food-grade polymer material, and the second line end being configured to be connected in fluid communication to the inlet of a distribution valve made of food-grade polymer material, the method comprising the steps of positioning the connecting member and the distribution valve in an appropriate orientation and position within a welding machine to receive the line ends, inserting each line end of the distribution line through its respective holder until each line end protrudes at least partially from its respective holder within the welding machine and abuts against its respective end stopper, and inserting each protruding line end through its respective end stopper until its respective holder firmly clamps / gripping the associated line end The process includes the steps of: pushing into a plate; moving the end stopper to disengage from the line end; moving each holder having the line end to the heating position of the heating device; inserting each protruding portion of the line end, as well as the connecting member and the distribution valve, into the heating device; heating each protruding portion of each line end, as well as the connecting member and the distribution valve, with the heating device until a predetermined welding temperature is reached; inserting each heated protruding portion of the line end into the connecting member and the distribution valve until the entire protruding portion of each line end is accepted by the respective connecting member and the distribution valve; holding each heated protruding portion of each line end within the respective connecting member and the distribution valve for a predetermined time to sufficiently cool the weld between the distribution line and the connecting member and the distribution valve; releasing each line end by ending the clamping by each holder; and removing the distribution line, connecting member, and distribution valve from the welding machine as a welded, integrated beverage distribution unit.

[0026] According to some embodiments, the method includes moving the heating device linearly to the heating position, powering the heating device preheated at the heating position to the welding mode, and then inserting each protruding portion of the line end into the heating device by linear movement when the welding mode is reached, and after the heated line end, heated connection member, and heated distribution valve are moved by linear movement to be disengaged from the engagement with the heating device, linearly moving the heating device away from the heating position.

[0027] According to some embodiments, the movement of parts within the welding machine is performed linearly or by linear movement after the connection member and distribution valve are arranged in the appropriate orientation and position within the welding machine to receive the line end, and before the separate and common beverage distribution unit is removed from the welding machine.

[0028] According to some embodiments, the method includes stopping the heating device when welding stops after heating each protruding portion of each line end, the outlet of the connection member, and the inlet of the distribution valve, and when a predetermined welding temperature is reached.

[0029] According to some embodiments, the method includes opening a lid or door or shutter into the welding machine before the connection member and distribution valve are arranged in the appropriate orientation and position within the welding machine to receive the line end, closing the shutter of the welding machine after the connection member and distribution valve are arranged in the appropriate orientation and position within the welding machine to receive the line end, opening the shutter of the welding machine after the welding of the distribution line together with the connection member and distribution valve is completed, and removing the separate beverage distribution unit manufactured thereby from the welding machine.

[0030] According to some embodiments, the method includes pushing each protruding line end of the distribution line into its respective end stopper until a predetermined time / force is reached.

[0031] According to some embodiments, the method includes moving each holder having a line end to a heating position of a heating device, and before heating each protruding portion of each line end, an outlet of a connection member, and an inlet of a distribution valve to a predetermined welding temperature by the heating device, inserting the protruding portion of the first line end into the heating device in a welding mode; inserting the protruding portion of the second line end into the heating device in a welding mode; inserting the outlet of the connection member into the heating device in a welding mode; and inserting the inlet of the distribution valve into the heating device in a welding mode.

[0032] According to some embodiments, the method includes moving the heated line ends, connection members, and distribution valves away from engagement with the heating device after heating each protruding portion of each line end, an outlet of a connection member, and an inlet of a distribution valve to a predetermined welding temperature by the heating device.

[0033] According to some embodiments, the method includes inserting the heated protruding portion of the first line end into the outlet of the connection member until the entire protruding portion of the first line end is received in the outlet of the connection member; inserting the heated protruding portion of the second line end into the inlet of the distribution valve until the entire protruding portion of the second line end is received in the inlet of the distribution valve; holding the heated protruding portion of the first line end in the outlet of the connection member for a predetermined time to sufficiently cool the weld between the distribution line and the connection member; and holding the heated protruding portion of the second line end in the inlet of the distribution valve for a predetermined time to sufficiently cool the weld between the distribution line and the distribution valve.

[0034] According to some embodiments, the method includes using the same heating device to heat the first line end and the outlet of the connection member to their predetermined welding temperatures simultaneously; and using the same other heating device to heat the second line end and the inlet of the distribution valve to their predetermined welding temperatures simultaneously.

[0035] According to some embodiments, the method includes the steps of inserting a first line end and a second line end into the respective openings / outlets / inlets of the connecting member and the distribution valve, inserting them through the openings into the connecting member and the distribution valve for a predetermined distance or length, connecting the first line end to the connecting member and the second line end to the distribution valve when each line end abuts against its respective inner circumferential shelf or projection, and welding each line end to the inside of its respective inner circumferential shelf, the outlet portion of the connecting member, and the inlet of the distribution valve, respectively, to secure and leak-proof.

[0036] The advantages of the welding method are that pushing the line end into the welding machine ensures correct positioning and contact force between the distribution line end, connecting member and distribution valve during welding, thus enabling a complete bond between all parts and materials, and ensuring that when the distribution line, which is a flexible tube, is stretched after welding, the connection between the line end, connecting member or probe and the distribution valve or spout is no longer the weakest point of the assembly. Another advantage is the ability to control the force when pushing the line end, as well as the connecting member and distribution valve, together for welding inside the welding machine, which allows for maintaining the nominal inner diameter of the distribution line, i.e., the nominal inner diameter of the line end, and avoids uneven or rough areas that can form gaps where flow turbulence and / or fouling can accumulate. Another advantage is the formation of common and separate beverage distribution units that can be easily replaced with new disposable ones.

[0037] The effects and features of the second embodiment are largely similar to those described above in relation to the first embodiment. The embodiments referred to in relation to the first embodiment are largely compatible with any other embodiment, in particular the second embodiment, since the product "inherits" features that "exist" by the manufacture of the product.

[0038] It should be noted that, as used herein and in the appended claims, the articles “a,” “an,” “the,” and “said” are intended to mean that there is one or more elements unless the context explicitly indicates otherwise. Therefore, for example, a reference to “one (a) unit” or “the unit” may include several devices, etc. Furthermore, “comprising,” “including,” “containing,” and similar expressions do not preclude other elements or steps.

[0039] Technical terms—"downstream / upstream," "up / down," "upper / lower," "mid / center," "radial / axial," and "longitudinal / lateral"—should be interpreted as relating to the direction of flow, in this case the flow of liquid and / or beverage and / or gas, i.e., the flow of liquid as it is discharged from the container, not the direction of flow as the container is filled or refilled with liquid or beverage, and / or relating to separate parts and / or parts or sections of the same entity or part, and / or elongated parts / extensions of an entity, and for the sake of clarity, the relative positioning of entities shown in drawings.

[0040] The above-mentioned purposes of this disclosure, as well as any additional purposes, features, and advantages, will be better understood by referring to the following exemplary and non-limiting detailed description of exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, together with the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0041] [Figure 1] This is a side view of a beverage dispensing unit when attached to a beverage dispensing system comprising a beverage container in an exemplary pressurized gas-driven beverage dispensing system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] This is a cross-sectional view of a beverage dispensing unit when installed in a beverage dispensing system comprising a beverage container in an exemplary pressurized gas-driven beverage dispensing system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] This is an enlarged view of a portion of a beverage dispensing system visualized by circle A, shown as a dashed line in Figure 2, in a cross-sectional view when it is not in operation and / or not in operation, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] This is an enlarged view of a part of a beverage distribution system visualized by the dashed circle A in Figure 2, in a cross-sectional view during operation according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] This is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the beverage dispensing unit shown in Figure 3, in a closed state, i.e., not operating, i.e., non-operating, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5A] This is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the beverage distribution unit component shown in Figure 5, following the notch F. [Figure 6] This is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the beverage dispensing unit shown in Figure 4, which is in an open state, i.e., in operation or running, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7A] Figures 5 and 5A are enlarged top views of a portion of the beverage distribution unit, as seen from above, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7B] This is an enlarged cross-sectional view along line AA in Figure 6, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] This is a perspective view showing a part of the beverage dispensing unit shown in Figure 6 after operation, as shown in Figure 4, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] This is an enlarged cutaway cross-sectional view of a portion of a beverage dispensing unit corresponding to the ellipse B shown by the dashed line in Figure 2, when assembled into a tapping font, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] This is a perspective cross-sectional view according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, showing the dispensing or tapping portion of a beverage dispensing unit as assembled in a font and in a non-operating or non-tapping mode, following the elliptical cutout C shown by the dashed line in Figure 9. [Figure 11]This is a perspective cross-sectional view according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, showing the dispensing or tapping portion of a beverage dispensing unit assembled into a font and in operation, i.e., when dispensing or tapping a beverage, as shown by the dashed line in Figure 9, following the elliptical cutout C. [Figure 12] These are partial disassembled views of the dispensing or tapping portion of the beverage dispensing unit shown in Figures 10 and 11, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] These are partial disassembled views of the dispensing or tapping portion of the beverage dispensing unit shown in Figures 10 and 11, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] Figures 5 and 6 show a cutaway enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the beverage dispensing unit as assembled to another part of the beverage dispensing unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 15] Figures 5 and 6 show a cutaway enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the beverage dispensing unit as assembled to another part of the beverage dispensing unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 16] This is a cutaway enlarged cross-sectional view D from Figure 14 of the components of a beverage dispensing unit to be assembled according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 16A] This is a cutaway and enlarged cross-sectional view of only the lower portion of the beverage distribution unit shown in Figure 16. [Figure 17] This is a cutaway enlarged section view E from Figure 15 of a component of a beverage dispensing unit during / after the final step of assembly, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 18] This is an exploded perspective view showing a part of a beverage dispensing unit having separate detachable parts before assembly, during assembly, or after disassembly, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 19] This is a cross-sectional view showing the components of the beverage dispensing unit of Figure 18, assembled together and in a beverage dispensing state, i.e., operating when tapping a beverage, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 20]This is a cross-sectional view showing the components of the beverage dispensing unit of Figure 18, assembled together and in a closed state, i.e., when no beverage is being dispensed, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 21] This is a cross-sectional view showing the components of the beverage dispensing unit of Figure 18, assembled together and in a closed state, i.e., when no beverage is being dispensed, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 22] Figure 18 shows a cross-sectional view of the components of the beverage dispensing unit, before, during, or after assembly into other components constituting the beverage dispensing unit, as per one embodiment of the present disclosure, when assembled together and in a closed state, i.e., when no beverage is being dispensed. [Figure 23] Figure 18 shows a cross-sectional view of the components of the beverage dispensing unit, before, during, or after assembly into other components constituting the beverage dispensing unit, as per one embodiment of the present disclosure, when assembled together and in a closed state, i.e., when no beverage is being dispensed. [Figure 24] This figure shows a welding machine at different stages of manufacturing a beverage distribution unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 25] This figure shows a welding machine at different stages of manufacturing a beverage distribution unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 26] This figure shows a welding machine at different stages of manufacturing a beverage distribution unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 27] This figure shows a welding machine at different stages of manufacturing a beverage distribution unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 28] Figures 24-27 show a perspective view of a beverage dispensing unit after it has been manufactured in the welding machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, after it has been removed from the welding machine for use in dispensing beverages, and before this final, separate beverage dispensing unit is assembled into a beverage dispensing system. [Figure 29] This is a perspective view showing a beverage dispensing unit after operation / use and after disassembly from the beverage dispensing system, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042] Modes for carrying out the invention Next, the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings 1-29, which illustrate preferred exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. However, the present disclosure may be embodied in other forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments disclosed herein. The disclosed embodiments are provided to adequately convey the scope of the present disclosure to those skilled in the art. All drawings are highly schematic and not necessarily to scale, showing only the parts necessary to illustrate the invention, with other parts omitted or merely suggested.

[0043] Figure 1 shows a distribution system 100 for distributing beverages. The distribution system 100 includes a beverage container 1 with a valve 2 located at the outlet 3 of the beverage container 1. Furthermore, the distribution system 100 may include a gas container or gas supply unit 4, a distribution valve 5 of a distribution tap 20, and a distribution head 6 of the beverage container 1. The gas supply unit 4 is connected to the gas inlet 7 of the distribution head 6 via a gas regulator 8 and a gas supply line 9. A one-way distribution line 10 extends from the distribution head 6 to the distribution valve 5 and the distribution tap 20. The distribution line 10 may be configured to be guided from the distribution head 6 to the distribution valve 5 via a tower or font or tapping head 50, or from the distribution valve 5 to the distribution head 6 via a tower 50, so that the one-way distribution line 10 can be replaced each time the beverage container 1 is replaced. The one-way distribution line 10 will be described further below.

[0044] The beverage container 1 may be made entirely or partially from a polymer material.

[0045] Furthermore, the beverage container 1 may include a flexible bag made of plastic foil, which is configured to contain the beverage, and the beverage inside the bag is discharged by pressurizing the container space between the bag and the inner surface of the beverage container.

[0046] Figure 2 shows another example of a distribution system 101 for liquids, such as water and / or other beverages, in a cross-sectional side view. The distribution system 101 comprises a housing 110 adapted to house a beverage container 1. In some embodiments, the housing 110 comprises a cooling unit 120 for keeping the beverage at a predetermined temperature and further comprises a circulation means for circulating cool air within the housing 110. The housing 110 may also comprise a propulsion means, or the propulsion means may be connected to the beverage container 1 within the housing. The propulsion means may be a gas such as CO2, or a pressure chamber that utilizes pneumatic or mechanical pressure means to operate a valve 2, thereby pushing the beverage further out of the outlet 3 of the beverage container 1 through the valve 2. In the illustrated embodiment, the propulsion means is a gas contained in a gas cylinder 4, the gas cylinder 4 is connected to a distribution head 6 via a gas line 9, the distribution head 6 is connected to the beverage container 1. The distribution line 10 extends upward from the beverage container 1 through a guide channel 51 of a font or tapping head 50. As shown in Figures 1, 2, and 9 to 13, the tapping head 50 comprises a distribution valve 5, a distribution tap 20 having a spout 21, and a tapping handle 30 configured to open and close the distribution valve 5 of the distribution tap 20 when it is properly positioned on the font or tapping head 50 and distribution tap 20.

[0047] In the embodiments of the tapping handle 30 shown in Figures 9 to 13 and Figure 21, the tapping handle 30 includes an actuation member 31 configured to operably engage with the piston 600 of the distribution valve 5 and open and close the distribution valve 5 by moving the piston 600 up and down within the distribution valve 5. This eliminates the need for springs or other means to move / return the piston 600 to one state, for example, a closed mode without distribution, and / or to another state, for example, an open mode for distribution or to another state.

[0048] The distribution line 10 is made of a non-rigid material to facilitate handling and guidance. The distribution line 10 is preferably made of a polymer and / or flexible food-grade material. The distribution line 10 is preferably made of a polymeric and flexible food-grade material such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or low-density polyethylene (LDPE), and is preferably a hollow and flexible tube. An example of a suitable low-density polyethylene is SABIC® LDPE 2600H0 among the available low-density polyethylene materials.

[0049] The one-way distribution line 10 comprises a first line end 11 and a second line end 12. As shown in Figures 1 to 4, Figure 28, and Figure 29, the first line end 11 is configured to be connected to a beverage container 1 in fluid communication, and the second line end 12 is configured to be connected to a distribution valve 5 in fluid communication. The first line end 11 of the one-way distribution line 10 is configured to be attached to a connecting member 40 which is configured to provide the ability to then open the beverage container 1. The one-way distribution line 10 is configured to be fixedly and airtightly coupled to the beverage container connecting member 40 together with the distribution valve 5, forming a single entity that constitutes an easily storable, detachable, and replaceable beverage distribution unit 200.

[0050] The distribution valve 5 comprises a housing 500 and is in fluid communication with the spout 21 of the distribution tap 20. Figures 2, 9, 10-13, 18-23, 28, and 29 show the distribution valve 5 in more detail, with Figure 18 showing an exploded view of the distribution valve 5 with the piston 600 before or during assembly into the valve housing, or after disassembly from the valve housing 500. The distribution valve 5 has an outer surface and an outer diameter. The distribution valve 5 comprises a valve housing 500 having an inner surface and a longitudinal extension and an inner diameter and / or space and / or cavity that forms a valve chamber 501.

[0051] The valve housing 500 has a first or upper housing end 510 and a second or lower housing end 520, as shown in detail in Figures 18 to 23. The valve housing 500 includes an intermediate or central section / part 530 located between the upper and lower ends 510, 520. The valve housing 500 provides a valve chamber 501 (having an inner surface) configured to house a first closing member or piston 600 that is movable and removable in a leak-proof manner. The piston 600 has a first end or upper end 601 and a second end or lower end 602. The upper housing end 510 has an end opening facing upward in Figures 18 to 23, and its size and shape allow the piston 600 to be detachably fitted inside when the piston 600 is removed from the valve housing 500 by first introducing the lower end 602 into the valve housing 500 as shown in Figure 18, or by first withdrawing the piston with the upper end 601 from the valve housing 500 as shown in Figure 18. The housing 500 having the valve chamber 501 has an inlet 502 that is in fluid communication with a beverage, i.e., a beverage container 1, and an outlet 503 that is in fluid communication with a distribution tap 20 and its spout 21. The inlet 502 leads to the valve chamber 501 which is in fluid communication with the outlet 503 which leads to the spout 21 of the distribution tap.

[0052] The piston 600 provides a ventilation function to the distribution valve 5, thereby allowing the spout 21 to be vented when the distribution valve 5 is closed, as shown in Figures 9, 10, 20-23, 28, and 29 (Figures 11 and 19 show the distribution valve 5 when it is open / fully open, i.e., when the piston 600 is in the upward / upper position and no ventilation is occurring). This ventilation is achieved by the piston 600 having an internal through-hole or channel 603, as seen in Figures 9-11 and 18-23. The through channel 603 extends radially and longitudinally between one, two, or more openings 604 to the periphery, located at the first piston end 601 and the second end 602, allowing air to be delivered to the openings 604 and enabling ventilation of the spout 21 through the channel 603. In one embodiment, the piston 600 has two openings 604 at the upper end 601 and one opening 604 at the lower end 602. In the illustrated embodiments of the present disclosure in Figures 19 to 21, the valve housing has only a single opening 505.

[0053] The piston 600 is configured to move within the valve chamber 501 between a first position, as shown in Figures 11 and 19, which allows the beverage to flow into the opening 504 of the inlet 502 and exit through the valve chamber 501 and out through the outlet 503 and spout 21, and a second position, as shown in Figures 9, 10, 12, and 20-23, which obstructs the flow and distribution of the beverage through these parts but allows ventilation. The valve housing 500 has only one opening 505 to the valve chamber 501 to allow ventilation of the spout 21 when the piston 600 is in the second position, as shown in Figures 9, 10, 12, and 20-23. The inlet 502 of the distribution valve 5 is located in the central section 530. The piston 600 is configured to be slidably positioned within the valve chamber 501. When the piston 600 is in the upper / second position, at least one of the openings 604 of the piston 600 is aligned with the single opening 505 in the housing 500, which obstructs distribution but allows for ventilation.

[0054] In Figure 19, in the first position of the piston 600, the sole opening 505 of the valve housing 500 is not aligned with any of the openings 604 to the through-hole 603 at the upper end 601 of the piston 600, and as a result, the opening 505 is sealed and no ventilation of the spout 5 is achieved. In Figures 20 to 23, one embodiment of the present disclosure is shown with the piston 600 in a second position, and the sole opening 505 of the valve housing 500 is aligned with only one of the openings 604 to the through-hole 603 at the upper end 601 of the piston 600, and as a result, the opening 505 is not sealed, i.e., it is open and therefore can allow air to enter and exit, enabling ventilation of the spout 5 to eliminate undesirable dripping and / or leakage of fluid / beverage when the distribution valve 5 is closed, i.e., when beverage distribution / tapping is not performed.

[0055] According to this disclosure, the only opening 505 of the housing 500 of the distribution valve 5 is a hole that penetrates the side, i.e., penetrates the entire thickness of the side wall of the housing as seen in Figure 21. According to this disclosure, at least one, or preferably both, of the two openings 604 of the piston 600 are located on the side of the piston and lead out from the piston side at the upper end 601 of the piston. The opening 505 of the housing 500 is located on the side wall / inside the side wall / on the side wall / through the side wall at the upper end 510 of the housing as seen in Figure 21. The two piston openings 604 are located on both sides of the piston 600 as shown in Figure 21, which means that in some embodiments the two openings 604 at the upper end 601 of the piston face radially apart from both sides of the piston. In some embodiments, the third opening 604, which leads to the inner channel 603 of the piston 600 at the lower end 602, faces toward the outlet 503 of the distribution valve 5 axially, i.e., toward the outlet 503 of the distribution valve 5, away from the upper end 601 of the piston and in the longitudinal direction of the piston body 607.

[0056] The valve chamber 501 has a first inner diameter. In addition, the valve housing 500 has one or more radial inlets 502 relating to the longitudinal extension of the valve housing 500 and one or more outlets 503 located in the longitudinal extension of the valve housing 500. In Figures 1 and 2, the distribution systems 100, 101, when operated, distribute a fluid or liquid, preferably a beverage, from the outlet 3 of the beverage container 1 to the connecting member or probe 40, and further from the outlet 48 to the first line end 11 of the distribution line 10, and through the distribution line 10 from the second line end 12 to the inlet 502 of the distribution valve 5, i.e., the inlet 502 of the housing 500 of the distribution valve 5. In addition, the spout 21 of the distribution tap 20 is located downstream of the same outlet 503 and in fluid communication with the outlet 503 to form the actual final fluid outflow.

[0057] In Figures 20 to 23, the valve piston 600 has been moved to a second position in which the distribution valve 5, and consequently the distribution tap 20 and spout 21, are also closed. In this situation, residual beverage may be present in the outlet 503 and / or the distribution tap 20 and / or the outlet or spout 21. Figures 20, 22, and 23 show enlarged views of the valve piston 600 in a second position in which its second end or lower end 602 is located on and / or in contact with the inner lower surface of the valve housing 500 and / or the outlet 503. During the downward movement of the valve piston 600, the valve housing 500 does not move downward within the tap 20, and as a result, one side of the opening 604 is located opposite the sole side opening 505 in the valve housing 500, as seen in Figure 21, when a projection 606 on the upper end 601 of the piston 600 abuts against the upper edge of the valve housing 500. This projection 606 on the piston 600 acts as an end stopper for the downward movement of the piston within the valve chamber 501 of the valve housing 500, thereby allowing air to be directed downward through the opening 505 in the valve housing, further to the opening 604, and then to the through channel 603 at the top of the piston 600, and finally to the opening 604 in the valve chamber 501, thereby allowing air to ventilate the distribution valve 5 and the spout 21, making it possible to empty any residual beverage from the spout 21.

[0058] Furthermore, the valve piston 600 is movable in the longitudinal extension within the valve chamber 501. The valve piston 600 is configured to open and close the outlet 503 of the distribution valve 5, thereby opening and closing

[0059] The valve piston 600 has a first or upper piston end 601 and a second or lower piston end 602, and a body 607 extending between the first piston end 601 and the second piston end 602. The body 607 has a length of preferably 10 to 40 mm and an outer upper piston surface 608 that engages with the tapping handle 30, and the first end 601 of the valve piston 600 is configured to connect to the outer upper piston surface 608 and to the actuating element or member 31 of the tapping handle 30 in order to move the valve piston 600 between a first position and a second position, i.e., by lifting the piston 600 up and down within the valve chamber 501 of the distribution valve 5. The valve piston 600 has an outer piston diameter that matches the inner diameter of the valve chamber 501 in order to allow the piston to move inside.

[0060] The inner valve chamber diameter of the valve chamber 501 is larger than the outer piston diameter of the lower end 602 of the piston 600, providing a flow path between the outer piston surface or surface of the lower end 602 and the inner surface of the valve chamber 501 and the valve housing 500 at the first position of the valve piston 600 shown in Figure 19. As a result, when the beverage enters the inlet 502, then the valve chamber 501 of the distribution valve 5, and is guided through the flow path between the outer surface or surface of the lower end 602 of the valve piston 600 and the inner surface of the valve housing 500, the flow path acts as a flow compensator to settle the beverage, and as a result, a more stable flow with less turbulence can be distributed from the distribution valve 5 and finally from the spout 21.

[0061] In Figures 20 to 23, the distribution valve 5 is shown in the second position of the valve piston 600, which is moved downward within the valve chamber 501, thereby closing the outlet 503, the distribution tap 20, and the spout 21, and thus distributing no further action.

[0062] The piston 600 is provided with one, preferably two, three, or more circumferential seals 605 in the form of O-rings 605 (see Figures 19 to 23) at / adjacent to the lower end 602, although in other embodiments this may be of a labyrinth type. The inlet 502 of the distribution valve 5 is provided with an opening 504 having a chamfered inner edge 509 as an orifice in some embodiments.

[0063] The distribution head 6 is coupled, i.e., positioned, to the opposite side of the beverage container valve 2 and coupled to the beverage container 1, as shown in Figures 1 to 4. The function of the distribution head 6 is well known and will not be described in detail. The distribution head 6 is configured to receive the beverage container connecting member 40 within a hollow housing 60 having a through-internal channel or hole 61 into which the connecting member 40 is fitted. The connecting member 40 comprises a first upper portion 41 and a second portion 42. The first portion 41 then comprises two separable portions 410 and 411. These portions 410, 411 of the first portion 41 are an inner central hub portion 410 with a projection and an outer rim portion 411 configured to be fixedly attached to the second portion 42, as shown in Figures 3 to 8, Figures 14 to 16A, Figure 28, and Figure 29. The connecting member 40 has a more or less rotationally symmetric shape.

[0064] In some embodiments, the second portion 42 is configured to project through the inner central hub portion and projection 410 of the first portion 41 at a second end or outlet portion 48 and to be welded at the outlet portion 48 to the first line end 11 of the one-way distribution line or tube 10 (as shown in Figures 3, 4, 5, 5A, 6, 8, 15, 17, 28, and 29), and this tube 10 is then welded to a distribution valve 5 to form a beverage distribution unit 200. In some embodiments, this unit 200 has a distribution valve 5 tightly and robustly welded to the other end 12 of the one-way distribution line or tube 10, as shown in Figures 2, 9 to 13, 18 to 23, 28, and 29.

[0065] After the distribution head 6 is coupled to the upper part of the beverage container valve 2 together with the connecting member 40, that is, after the connecting member 40 is introduced into the inner channel 61 through which the distribution head passes (see Figures 1 to 4), the distribution head 6 can open the beverage container valve 2 by moving the operating handle 62 (see arrow 300 in Figures 3 and 4 to visualize the movement), for example, by pushing the inner central hub portion having the protrusion 410 of the first portion 41 of the connecting member 40 downward toward the beverage container 1 with the operating handle 62, thereby moving the connecting member 40 from a non-operating position to an operating position or by biasing it. In the operating position, the second portion 42 of the connecting member 40 is moved axially, i.e., in the longitudinal direction of the connecting member 40, and the second portion 42 is moved toward the beverage container valve 2 to open the valve 2, as shown in Figures 4, 6, and 7B.

[0066] The first portion 41 of the connecting member 40 has a window. This is achieved by an inner central hub portion 410 having a projection that is detachably connected to the outer rim portion 411 by a fragile connection portion 70. The fragile connection portion 70 is breakable, meaning that a given force can break this connection portion and physically separate the inner central hub portion having the projection portion 410 from the outer rim portion 411, i.e., the inner central hub portion 410 loosens from the outer rim portion 411, as shown in Figures 8 and 29.

[0067] The connecting member 40 has an axial extension as shown in Figures 3 to 6, 8, 14, 15, 28, and 29. The second portion 42 has a first outer surface 43 at a first end or lower end or lower end 44 that forms the first end of the connecting member 40 having a first outer portion diameter, and has a mantle surface with one or more seals 414, such as an O-ring, configured to be operably and leak-proof connected to the beverage container valve 2 of the beverage container 1 shown in Figures 1 to 4. The connecting member 40 includes a first portion 41 having a second outer surface 45 and an inner central hub portion 410 and an outer rim portion 411 that form part of the second end or upper end or upper end 46 of the connecting member 40, together with the second end or outlet portion 48 of the second portion 42, as shown in Figures 3, 4, 5, 5A, 6, 8, 14 to 17, 28, and 29. The outlet portions 48 of the first portion 41 and the second portion 42 together form the second outer surface 45 of the connecting member 40, facing the first outer surface 43, as seen in Figure 7A from above (in Figure 7A, the fragile connection portion 70 is positioned in the correct location where the inner central hub portion 410 slides into the cavity 47 of the second portion 42, and this position is also shown in Figure 7B). The second portion 42 includes a central through-hole or channel 49 that allows the beverage to flow through the connecting member 40 into the distribution line 10 for further discharge from the distribution valve 5. The second portion 42, as shown in Figures 4, 6, and 7B, has an inner recess or cavity 47 at its outlet portion 48 configured to receive the inner central hub portion 410 of the first portion 41 when the distribution head 6 acts on the connecting member 40, allowing the liquid / beverage to flow from the beverage container valve 2 of the beverage container 1 through the inner hole 49 to the first line end 11 of the distribution line 10, through the distribution line 10 to the distribution valve 5, and out through the distribution tap 20 and spout 21.

[0068] The fragile connection 70 is biased toward the second portion 42 toward the projection 410 of the inner central hub of the first portion 41 as seen in Figure 4 by the actuating handle 62 from above in Figure 3, and is ruptureable in response to a vertical or axial force that at least partially pushes the inner central hub 410 into the recess 47 of the second portion 42. Thereafter and / or simultaneously, the inner central hub with the projection 410 moves axially along the longitudinal extension and downward parallel to the through-hole 49 of the connecting member 40 and the through-hole 61 of the distribution head 6 (see the bent / curved white arrow 300 in Figure 3 visualizing the pivotal movement of the actuating handle 62 toward the connecting member 40 and the beverage container 1 and its valve 2, and the straight white arrow 300 in Figure 4 visualizing the vertical / axial downward movement of the inner central hub toward the projection 410 of the first portion 41 entering the recess 47 of the second portion 42). The second end or exit portion 48 of the second portion 42 extends outward from and through the inner central hub and projection 410 of the first portion 41, as shown in Figures 3-7, 14-17, 28, and 29, and forms a central post that assists in guiding the movement and sliding of the inner central hub 410 together with the projection of the first portion 41 when pushed downward by the operating handle 62 toward the first end 44 and connecting member 40 of the second portion 42 and along the second end 48 of the second portion 42.

[0069] In Figures 8 and 29, the central hub portion having the projection 410 of the first portion 41 is shown separated from the outer rim portion 411 of the second portion 42, that is, the central hub portion and the projection 410 are completely separated and still loose from the outer rim portion 411 which is fixedly attached to the second portion 42, and the central hub portion and the projection 410 may slide up and down along the distribution line 10 as visualized by the arrow 300. By thus separating the inner central hub portion and projection 410 of the first portion 41 from the other and outer rim portions 411 of the first portion 41, the connecting member 40, which consists of one loose portion, i.e., the inner central hub portion and projection 410, and one fixed portion, i.e., the other and outer rim portions 411, remains fixed to the second portion 42 after the connecting member 40 has been activated, in order to prevent, at least complicate, or make more difficult, the tampering with the connecting member 40 when it is connected to the beverage container 1, or to make it difficult to forget or miss replacing the activated connecting member 40 with a new inactive / non-operational connecting member when replacing the beverage container 1. In some embodiments, this also makes the beverage distribution unit 200 more tamper-proof if the connecting member 40 having portions 41, 42 is tightly and robustly welded to the first line end 11 of the distribution line 10 and the second line end 12 is tightly and robustly welded to the distribution valve 5. Figures 3, 5, 14, 15, and 28 show the non-operating position of the connecting member 40.

[0070] As shown in Figure 5A, the connecting member 40 has an outer diameter D0 corresponding to the outer diameters of the first and second portions 41 and 42. The outer diameter D0 of the connecting member 40 corresponds to the outer diameter of the second portion 42 and / or the outer diameter of the outer rim portion 411 of the first portion 41 which is fixedly connected to the second end or outlet portion 48 of the second portion 42, as shown in Figure 5A. The fragile connecting portion 70 of the connecting member 40 is circumferentially positioned between the inner central hub portion 410 and the outer rim portion 411 of the first portion 41 of the connecting member 40 in a region or location visualized by a diameter D5 between the outer diameter D0 of the connecting portion 40, which is positioned adjacent to / around the outlet portion 48 of the second portion 42 which protrudes above the projection 410 (see Figures 3-8, 14-17, 28, and 29) in the beverage flow direction, and the outer diameter D6 of the inner central hub portion projection 410 (see Figure 5A). The fragile connection portion 70 of the connecting member 40 is circumferentially positioned between the outer diameter of the inner central hub portion 410, which is close to diameter D5, and the inner diameter of the outer rim portion 411 of the first portion 41, which is also close to diameter D5. The fragile connection portion 70 of the connecting member 40 physically connects the outer diameter of the inner central hub portion 410 to the inner diameter of the outer rim portion 411 of the first portion 41 at the location and region and diameter D5 of Figure 5A. The fragile connection portion 70 of the connecting member 40 is circumferentially positioned between the outer diameter of the inner central hub portion 410 and the inner diameter of the outer rim portion 411 of the first portion 41 at the location visualized by diameter D5 in Figure 5A, between the outer diameter D0 of the connecting portion 40 and the outer diameter D6 of the inner central projection 410, as seen in Figures 3-8, 14-17, 28, and 29, and particularly clearly shown in Figures 5A and 7A. The cavity 47 of the second portion 42 has an outer diameter or maximum diameter larger than the diameter D5 in which the fragile joint 70 is located. The fragile joint 70 comprises a plurality of radially short and thin spokes that physically and detachably hold an inner central hub having a projection 410 together with the outer rim 411 of the first portion 41, after the manufacturing of the first portion 41 and before the fragile joint 70 is broken.

[0071] As seen in Figures 8 and 29, the fragile connection 70 comprises a spoke having one or a first end on or on the outer diameter or circumference of the inner central hub 410, or attached thereto, or integrated therein, before the fragile connection 70 breaks, and extends without breaking between the first end and the other end on or on the inner diameter or circumference of the outer rim 411 of the first portion 41, or attached thereto, or integrated therein. The fragile connection 70 weakens the physical connection between the inner central hub 410 and the outer rim 411 of the first portion 41. This occurs when the spoke-like bridging portion of the fragile connection 70, if not fractured, has one end attached to, on, or in part with, the outer diameter or circumference of, the inner central hub 410, and the other end attached to, on, or in part with, the inner diameter or circumference of, the outer rim 411 of the first portion 41, and has an extension that is thinner or shorter in the axial direction, i.e., the longitudinal direction of the connecting member 40, and / or thinner in the radial direction, i.e., in a direction perpendicular to the axial or longitudinal direction of the connecting member 40 at diameter D5, thereby engaging the actuation handle 62 (see the movement of this handle 62 by arrow 300 in Figures 3 and 4) by being pushed downward to contact the inner central hub portion 410 of the connecting member 40.The projection 410 is a circumferential flange around the outlet portion 48 of the second portion 42, having an upper edge configured such that the handle 62 abuts / engages for the operation of the connecting member 40, thereby causing a vertical force from the handle to exert a shear force on the fragile connecting portion 70, and this shear force causes the connecting member 40 and the second portion 42 to move and stop in the correct position within the valve 2 at the outlet 3 of the beverage container 1, as shown in Figures 3, 4, 5, 5A, and 6, the inner central part having the projection 410 The shear force transmitted to the fragile joint 70 is fully transmitted to the fragile joint 70 so that the hub portion moves further vertically downward along the connecting member 40 into the cavity 47 of the second portion 42, and is therefore biased from the operating handle 62 to the protrusion 410, and the shear force transmitted to the fragile joint 70 exceeds the strength of the fragile joint 70, i.e., the fragile spoke, causing the spoke to break and the inner central hub portion 410 to slide into the correct rotational position and desired depth within the cavity 47, as well as to the correct height H1 as shown in Figures 4, 6, and 7B. The joint between the inner central hub portion 410 and the outer rim portion 411 of the first portion 41, which is a cover over the second portion 42 that together form the entire connecting member 40, i.e., the fragile joint 70, is designed with vertical lips and / or ribs in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the fragile connection 70, referring to Figure 7A, comprises or is made of 12 lips and / or ribs, which have a size and / or thickness and / or width configured to provide sufficient durability of the lips / ribs during assembly until a certain force shears / tears the lips / ribs, although the number of lips / ribs, as well as the shape of the lips and / or ribs, can be changed to lower or higher. In some embodiments, the fragile connection 70 may be a thin layer of plastic connecting the inner central hub portion or body 410 to the outer rim portion or body 411, like a hinge of film or foil having a thickness configured to break under a certain axial force from the actuating handle 62, as in other embodiments of shearing film / foil. In some embodiments, for example in the embodiment of Figure 5, fragility by recess or notch is shown on the underside of the fragile connection 70, i.e., on the opposite side where the head of the arrow of reference numeral 70 points towards the underside of the second portion 42 or towards the first end 44.

[0072] According to this disclosure, the connecting member 40 comprises locking and locking portions 412 and 413 that further facilitate the tamper-proofing of the connecting member 40. This includes the inner central hub portion 410 comprising at least two locking and rotational locking portions 413 and second ends and faces 45, 46, 48 of the second portion 42, and the connecting member 40 comprising at least two complementary locking and rotational locking portions 412 in the cavity 47 (the portions 412 and 413 are projections with gaps between teeth so that they fit together in the correct positions shown in Figures 6, 7A, and 7B), so that when the fragile connecting portion 70 is pushed, moved, or slid axially after fracture, the inner central hub portion 410 can fit only into the cavity 47 of the second portion 42 in a specific rotational position or orientation as shown in Figures 4, 6, 7, and 28. This locking function is achieved by locking portions 412 projecting upward from the second portion 42 and having a specific shape, length, and number, so as the inner central hub portion 410 rotates around a central axis parallel to the central axis of the connecting member 40 and the longitudinal direction of the inner channel 49 of the second portion 42, acting as an axial stopper for a complementary locking portion 413 projecting downward from the inner central hub portion 410. This means that a finger or tooth-like fitting is achieved between the inner central hub portion 410 and the cavity 47 of the second portion 42, where they fit together end to end without contact, and that the inner central hub portion 410 can slide only to the depth of the cavity 47 in the axial direction of the connecting member 40 in only one of several orientations, i.e., in only one of several rotational positions as shown in Figures 4, 6, 7A, 7B, and 28.This is because, as shown in Figures 3, 5, 5A, 14, 15, and 28, if the inner central hub portion 410 is not positioned in the correct rotational position, which is the correct position provided when the first portion 41 is first manufactured and when the fragile connection portion 70 has not yet broken, then after the fragile connection portion 70 has broken and loosened as shown in Figures 8 and 29 (the breakage of the fragile connection portion 70 is visualized by the possible positioning of the shear cut, visualized by the circular dashed line B in Figure 7A), the actuating handle 62 distributes When the connecting member 40 as part of unit 200 is reinstalled on the valve 2 of the beverage container 1 as locking portions 412 and 413, the inner central hub portion 410 cannot be pushed sufficiently deep into the cavity 47 of the second portion 42, and then abuts against the inside of the cavity 47 of the second portion 41, stopping / preventing the full sliding of the inner central hub portion 410 from end to end to the correct depth or lower height H1 in the correct rotational orientation as shown in Figure 6 and visualized in Figures 7A and 7B. This means that the inner central projection 410 also acts as an anvil or stopper for further moving the operating handle 62 downward toward the beverage container 1, and the operation of the connecting member and valve 2 of the beverage container 1 cannot be achieved because the operating handle 62 cannot be closed and locked / bolted in the correct use and safe ready position to allow beverage dispensing when the inner central projection 410 acts as a stopper, which is not shown. Therefore, because it is extremely difficult to "find" the correct rotational position of the loosened inner central hub portion 410 in order to enable the operation of the connecting member 40 and thereby enable the distribution of the beverage from the container 1, it becomes impossible, or at least extremely difficult, to reuse the connecting member 40 that has already been used and broken, i.e., the broken fragile connection portion 70 and the loosened inner central hub portion 410.The upper portion of the connecting member 40, i.e., the inner central hub portion 410 of the first portion 41, can be rotated steplessly to any position after breaking the fragile connection portion 70, but will only fit into one position within the cavity 47 of the second portion 42, and will slide to the correct depth at the correct height H1 as shown in Figure 6 (side view) and Figure 7B (top view), where the lock will engage with all slots of the locking and locking portions 412, 413. A typical user attempting to properly fit the loosened inner central hub portion 410 into the cavity 47 of the second portion 42 may rotate / move the loosened inner central hub portion 410 to six or eight positions until the user gives up, but in principle, an infinite number of positions are possible before it reaches the correct position at a height H1 low enough for the actuation handle 62 to be bolted to the actuation and distribution position. In another embodiment, the inner central hub portion 410 can be cut into different sizes, such as a 3D puzzle or different cake / piece sizes, which makes it difficult for the user to find the exact location where a lower height H1 can be achieved and thereby make it difficult to reuse the one-way distribution line 10. In yet another embodiment, the inner central hub portion 410 can be cut or perforated into circular segments located on / at different diameters, which also makes it difficult for the user to tamper with it by trying to find the exact location and achieve a lower height H1 to reuse the one-way distribution line 10.

[0073] The advantage is that the connecting member 40 is replaced each time the beverage container 1 is replaced. This process avoids the need to clean the connecting member 40. This process avoids the need to clean the connecting member 40 and any distribution line 10 when they are connected to each other. This process avoids the need to clean the connecting member 40, any distribution line 40 and any distribution valve 5 when they are connected to each other. In some embodiments, the advantage is that the operating handle 62 can press in an inner central hub portion 410 having a weak connection portion 70 of a smaller diameter, which reduces the required breaking force by acting on a smaller circumference. In some embodiments, the advantage is that the operating handle 62 can press in an inner central hub portion 410 having a weak connection portion 70 of a suitable size and shape, such as being made of a variable number of breakable spokes, and the breaking force can be adapted to a connecting member 40 of a different size. In some embodiments, the advantage is that the loosened inner central hub portion 410, after breaking the fragile connection portion 70, must continue to track this loosened inner central hub portion 410 and move to the correct position to achieve operation of the connecting member 40, as shown in Figures 8 and 29, thus making unauthorized opening of the connecting member 40 more difficult and cumbersome. In some embodiments, the advantage is that the locking and locking portions 412, 413, which must be fitted together by moving and oriented the loosened inner central hub portion 410, must hold and move this loosened inner central hub portion and move to the correct position to achieve operation of the connecting member 40, as shown in Figures 6 and 7B, thus making unauthorized opening of the connecting member 40 even more difficult and cumbersome. In some embodiments, the advantage of such locking and locking parts 412, 413 is that they must be fitted together radially and axially by orienting a radially loose inner central hub portion 410 and moving an axially loose inner central hub portion to the cavity 47 of the other second portion 42 to the correct depth, which makes it much more difficult and time-consuming to tamper with the connecting member 40, since this loose inner central hub portion must be held in place, positioned radially in the correct position, and then moved to achieve operation of the connecting member 40, i.e., by sliding it axially in the cavity 47.

[0074] The distribution head 6 comprises a housing 60 having a through-hole 61, and an operating handle 62 that is pivotably mounted on the housing 60 and is movable between at least a non-operating position (see Figures 3 and 5) and an operating position (shown in Figures 4 and 6).

[0075] Each distribution system 100, 101 includes a beverage container connecting member 40 configured to be inserted into the beverage container valve 2 to open the beverage container valve 2 so that the beverage present in the beverage container 1 can be distributed via the one-way distribution line 10.

[0076] The connecting member 40 has an internal central through-hole or channel 49 that is in fluid communication with a second end, upper end, or outlet portion 48, and the first end, lower end, or inlet end 44 is configured to first receive the beverage in the flow path when the beverage is dispensed from the beverage container 1.

[0077] According to this disclosure, one or more beverage distribution units 200 are configured to be applied to one or more beverage distribution systems 100, 101 comprising one or more beverage containers 1 as described above and shown in Figures 1 to 4. According to this disclosure, the beverage distribution unit 200 comprises one unidirectional distribution line 10 having an outer diameter D1 and an inner diameter D3, for example, as shown in Figures 1, 2, 16, 17, 22, 23, 28, and 29. The unidirectional distribution line 10 is preferably a flexible tube having a first line end 11 configured to be fluidly connected to the beverage container 1 via an outlet 48 and an opening 400 of a connecting member 40. The connecting member 40 is made of the same food-grade polymer material as the distribution valve 5. A second line end 12 of the flexible distribution line 10 is configured to be fluidly connected to an opening 504 of the inlet 502 of the distribution valve 5. The distribution tap 20 is made of a food-grade polymer material, and in some embodiments, it is the same food-grade polymer material as the connecting member 40 and / or the distribution valve 5.

[0078] The connecting member opening 400 is configured to communicate fluidly with the outlet portion or end portion 48 of the inner through-hole or passage 49 through the connecting member 40, as shown in Figures 3 to 8, 14 to 17, 19 to 23, 28, and 29. The inner passage 49 of the connecting member 40 is configured to communicate fluidly with the beverage container 1 at the inlet portion or first end portion 44 on the opposite side of the connecting member. According to this disclosure, for example, as shown in Figures 14 to 17, the outlet portion 48 and opening 400 of the connecting member 40 have an inner diameter D1 which is substantially the same as the outer diameter D1 of the one-way distribution line 10. According to this disclosure, the opening and inlets 502, 504 of the distribution valve 5 are substantially the same as the outer diameter D1 of the one-way distribution line 10, as shown in Figures 19 to 23, for example, but have a somewhat larger inner diameter D1 so that the tube 10 cannot be fitted and can be received when its end portion 12 is heated. According to this disclosure, the outlet portion 48 and opening 400 of the connecting member 40, and the opening and inlet 502, 504 of the distribution valve 5, each have an inner diameter D1 that is substantially the same as the outer diameter D1 of the unidirectional distribution line 10 shown, for example, in Figures 14 to 17 and Figures 19 to 23.

[0079] According to this disclosure, as shown in some examples in Figures 3-6, 8, 14-17, 22, and 23, the outlet portion 48 is a free projection end that extends a distance or length L1 from the second end 46 and the projection 410 of the connecting member 40 to the opposite side of the first end 44 of the connecting member. According to this disclosure, the inner diameter D1 of the outlet portion 48 terminates in the inner passage 49 at, against, or in contact with the inner circumferential shelf or projection 401. The inner diameter D1 of the distribution valve inlet 502 terminates in the inlet 502 at, against, or in contact with the inner circumferential shelf or projection 506. Each inner circumferential shelf or projection 401, 506 is configured to act as a stopper or end stopper for the first line end 11 and the second line end 12 when the first line end 11 and the second line end are introduced, slid, or inserted into the respective openings 400, 504 of the connecting member 40 and the distribution valve 5 by a predetermined distance or length L2, L4, thereby connecting the first line end 11 to the connecting member 40 and the second line 12 to the distribution valve 5. This occurs when each line end 11, 12 contacts the corresponding inner circumferential shelf 401, 506. Subsequently, according to this disclosure, each line end is fixed by welding to the respective inner circumferential shelves 401, 506 and the outlet portion 48 of the connecting member 40 and the inlet / opening 502, 504 of the distribution valve 5 to prevent leakage and form a separate common beverage distribution unit 200.

[0080] According to this disclosure, as shown in some examples in Figures 9-13, 16-17, 22, and 23, a predetermined distance or length L4 of insertion through which the second line end 12 of the unidirectional distribution line 10 passes to the opening and inlets 502, 504 of the distribution valve 5 is less than, substantially the same as, or equal to a predetermined distance or length L2 of insertion through which the other or first line end 11 of the unidirectional distribution line 10 passes to the outlet portion 48 and opening 400 of the connecting member 40. According to this disclosure, the inner circumferential shelf 401 of the connecting member 40 extends in a radial plane substantially perpendicular or perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, i.e., the axial direction of the connecting member 40 and the inner passage 49. According to this disclosure, the inner circumferential shelf 506 of the distribution valve 5 extends in a radial plane substantially perpendicular or perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, i.e., the axial direction of the inlet 502 of the distribution valve 5. According to this disclosure, each inner circumferential shelf 401, 506 of the connecting member 40 and / or the distribution valve 5 extends in a longitudinal direction, i.e., in a radial plane substantially perpendicular or perpendicular to the axial direction of the connecting member 40 and the inner passage 49, and to the inlet 502 of the distribution valve 5, respectively. According to this disclosure, each inner circumferential shelf 401, 506 comprises at least one inner circumferential pocket, recess, or groove 402, 507 manufactured in the longitudinal direction, i.e., in the axial direction of the connecting member 40 and the distribution valve inlet 502. According to this disclosure, the depth of the groove 402, 507 extends away from the respective openings 400, 504 of the inner passage of the connecting member and the inlet 502 of the distribution valve 5, in substantially the same and / or the same direction as the inner passage 49 of the connecting member 40 and the distribution valve inlet 502. According to this disclosure, the depths of the grooves 402, 507 are substantially the same as and / or extend in the same direction as the inner passage 49 of the connecting member 40 or the distribution valve inlet 502, so that the openings of each groove 402, 507 face or are exposed to the respective openings 400, 504 of the inner passage of the connecting member and the inlet 502 of the distribution valve 5.

[0081] According to this disclosure, as shown in some examples in Figures 3-6, 9, 14-17, 22, and 23, each inner circumferential shelf 401, 506 of the connecting member 40 and the distribution valve 5 extends in a radial plane substantially perpendicular or perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, i.e., from the inner diameter D1 of the outlet portion 48 of the inner passage 49 and the opening 504 of the inlet 502 to the axial direction of the connecting member 40 and / or the inlet 502 of the distribution valve 5. According to this disclosure, each inner circumferential shelf 401, 506 of the connecting member 40 and the distribution valve 5 terminates at another or intermediate inner diameter D2, respectively, forming an inner opening 405, 508 of the intermediate or central section of the inner passage 49 and the inlet 502 between the outlet portion 48 and the first end 44 of the connecting member 40, and between the opening 504 and the valve chamber 501 of the distribution valve 5. According to this disclosure, the inner circumferential groove 402 has a radial extension that starts at an inner diameter D1 and ends at an inner diameter D4 which is larger than the intermediate inner diameter D2 that forms the inner opening 405 in the middle or central section of the inner passage 49 of the connecting member 40. According to this disclosure, the inner circumferential groove 507 has a radial extension that starts at an inner diameter D1 and ends at an inner diameter D4 which is larger than the intermediate inner diameter D2 that forms the inner opening 508 in the middle or central section of the inlet 502 of the distribution valve 5. According to this disclosure, the maximum depth of the inner circumferential groove 402 ends at a distance L3 from the opening 400 in the longitudinal direction, i.e., in the axial direction of the connecting member 40, which is greater than the insertion distance or length L2, L4 of the respective line ends 11, 12 of the distribution line 10. According to this disclosure, the maximum depth of the inner circumferential groove 507 terminates at a distance L3 from the opening 504 in the longitudinal or axial direction of the inlet 502 of the distribution valve 5, which is greater than the insertion distance or length L2, L4 of the respective line ends 11, 12 of the distribution line 10.

[0082] According to a second aspect of this disclosure, as shown in Figures 24 to 27, there is a method for fabricating a beverage distribution unit 200 by connecting a one-way distribution line 10 to a connecting member 40 and a distribution valve 5 in a welding machine 140 and by welding with the welding machine 140. This enables tight, leak-proof fluid communication between them. This also achieves a more robust and tamper-proof unit because it is much more difficult to separate the different parts, namely the connecting member 40, the distribution valve 5, and the flexible distribution line or tube 10, and in fact these parts must be separated by destruction after being welded together. Thus, the entire beverage distribution unit 200 is also easily recyclable, as it can be disposed of as a single article since the constituent parts are made of the same recyclable polymer material and / or the same group of recyclable polymer materials. By welding, the same material is part of the welding compared to adhesive, which bonds parts of different materials together. According to this disclosure, the method includes the step of positioning the connecting member 40 and the distribution valve 5 in the appropriate orientation and position within each jig 141 of the welding machine 140 in Figure 24 so that each of the line ends 11, 12 can be precisely received as shown in Figure 26. According to this disclosure, the method includes the step of inserting and penetrating each line end 11, 12 of the distribution line 10 into the respective holders 142 in the welding machine 140 until each line end protrudes at least partially from its respective holder, as shown in Figure 24. According to this disclosure, the method includes the step of inserting each line end 11, 12 of the distribution line 10 into the respective movable end stoppers 143 of the welding machine 140, as shown in Figure 24. According to this disclosure, the method includes the step of pushing each protruding line end 11, 12 into the respective end stoppers 143 until the respective holders 142 firmly clamp / grip the fastened line end, as shown in Figure 24. According to this disclosure, the method includes step 300 of disengaging each of the end stoppers 143 from engagement with each of the line ends 11, 12, as shown in Figure 25.According to this disclosure, the method includes a step 300 of moving each of the holders 142 having line ends 11 and 12 to a heating position in a heating device 144, as shown in Figure 25. According to this disclosure, the method includes a step 300 of inserting each of the protruding portions of the line ends 11 and 12 into the heating device 144 in order to heat each line end to a welding temperature, as shown in Figure 25. According to this disclosure, the method includes a step 300 of inserting the outlet portion 48 of the connecting member 40 into the heating device 144 in order to heat the outlet portion 48 to a welding temperature, as shown in Figure 25. According to this disclosure, the method includes a step 300 of inserting the distribution valve inlet 502 into the heating device 144 in order to heat the inlet 502 to a welding temperature, as shown in Figure 25. According to this disclosure, the method includes a step 300 of inserting the protruding portion of the first line end 11 into the heating device 144 and heating it inside, as shown in Figure 25. According to this disclosure, the method includes a step 300 of inserting the protruding portion of the second line end 12 into a heating device 144 and heating its interior, as shown in Figure 25. According to this disclosure, the method includes a step 300 of inserting the protruding portion of the first line end 11 and the outlet portion 48 of the connecting member 40 into the same heating device 144 for heating, as shown in Figure 25. According to this disclosure, the method includes a step 300 of inserting the protruding portion of the second line end 12 and the inlet 502 of the distribution valve 5 into the same heating device 144 for heating, as shown in Figure 25. According to this disclosure, the method includes a step 300 of inserting the protruding portion of the first line end 11 and the outlet portion 48 of the connecting member 40 into one heating device 144, and inserting the protruding portion of the second line end 12 and the inlet 502 of the distribution valve 5 into another heating device 144 for heating, as shown in Figure 25. According to this disclosure, the method includes step 300 of inserting the protruding portion of the first line end 11 and the outlet portion 48 of the connecting member 40 into the same heating device 144 from both sides of the same heating device for heating, as shown in Figure 25.According to this disclosure, the method includes step 300 of inserting the protruding portion of the second line end 12 and the inlet 502 of the distribution valve 5 into the same heating device 144 from both sides of the same heating device 144 for heating, as shown in Figure 25 (wherein this is not the same heating device 144 used for the connecting member 40 and its outlet portion 48, but in other embodiments, the same heating device 144 can be used to heat both portions 48, 502 of the connecting member 40 and the distribution valve 5 together with portions 11, 12 of the tube 10).

[0083] According to the present disclosure, with reference to Figure 26, the method includes step 300 of inserting the heated protruding portion of the first line end 11 into the heated outlet portion 48 of the connecting member 40 until the entire protruding portion of the first line end 11 is received into the heated outlet portion 48 of the connecting member, in the welding machine 140. According to the present disclosure, the method includes step 300 of inserting the heated protruding portion of the second line end 12 into the heated inlet 502 of the distribution valve 5 until the entire protruding portion of the second line end is received into the heated inlet 502 of the distribution valve.

[0084] Referring to Figures 26 and 27, the method includes holding a heated protrusion of a first line end 11 within the outlet portion 48 of the connecting member 40 for a predetermined time in and by the welding machine 140 to cool the weld between the distribution line 10 and the outlet portion of the connecting member (sufficiently, i.e., to a temperature that does not cause burns). The method also includes holding a heated protrusion of a second line end 12 within the inlet 502 of the distribution valve 5 for a predetermined time to cool the weld between the distribution line 10 and the inlet of the distribution valve (sufficiently). In some embodiments, this cooling is performed more quickly by simultaneously blowing air onto the heated parts. This cooling reduces manufacturing time by allowing the finished beverage distribution unit 200 to be removed from the welding machine more quickly and earlier, while reducing the risk of burns to operators handling the unit 200 after welding.

[0085] Referring to Figure 26, the method includes step 300 of linearly moving one, two, or more heating devices 144 to a heating position inside the welding machine 140.

[0086] Referring to Figure 25, the method includes the steps of powering a preheated heating device 144 in a welding machine 140 to a welding mode at a heating position, and then inserting the respective protruding portions of the line ends 11 and 12 into the associated heating device 144 by linear movement when the welding mode is reached. Power supply to the heating device 144 is preferably done by the use of electricity, but can also be achieved by other means.

[0087] Referring to Figure 26, the method includes a step 300 of moving each heating device 144 linearly from the heating position after the heated line ends 11, 12, heated connecting member 40, and heated distribution valve 5 have been moved by linear movement in a welding machine 140 and by the welding machine 140 so as to be disengaged from one or more associated heating devices 144. Referring to Figure 24, the method includes a step of pushing each protruding distribution line end 11, 12 into their respective end stoppers 143 until a predetermined time / force is reached. This function is achieved by using a load cell in the end stopper 143 or by using an end stopper that is a load cell. This pressing is performed to ensure that a predetermined force and pressure are achieved to control the protruding length of each line end 11, 12 from the holder 142, and that each line end 11, 12 does not have walls that deform and / or bend inward during welding, but instead is pressed sufficiently "strongly" against the associated shelves 401, 506 of the connecting member 40 and the distribution valve 5, respectively, so that the associated pockets / grooves 402, 507 guide and / or hold the walls of each line end 11, 12 in place and / or radially outward, and / or prevent each wall or orifice of each line end from deforming inward and / or bending radially inward during welding, thus keeping the nominal inner diameter of the distribution line 10 and its line ends 11, 12 uniform, so that the flow path through the distribution line 10, the connecting member 40 and the distribution valve remains smooth and uniform without deformation during and after welding. In some embodiments, rapid cooling after welding improves this.

[0088] According to the present disclosure, with reference to Figure 25, the method includes, in the welding machine 140, and after performing the step of moving each holder 142 having line ends 11, 12 to the correct heating position of the associated heating device 144 in Figure 25, the protruding portion of the first line end 11, 12, the protruding portion of the second line end 12, the outlet 48 of the connecting member 40, and the inlet 502 of the distribution valve 5, in the welding machine 140, and before performing the step of heating each protruding portion of each line end 11, 12 and the outlet 48 of the connecting member 40 and the inlet 502 of the distribution valve 5 to a predetermined welding temperature in Figure 25 by the associated heating device 144, the method includes, inserting into the associated heating device 144 which is in welding mode, after performing the step of heating each protruding portion of each line end 11, 12 and the outlet 48 of the connecting member 40 and the inlet 502 of the distribution valve 5 to a predetermined welding temperature in Figure 25 by the associated heating device 144. According to the present disclosure, the method includes the steps of simultaneously heating the first line end 11 and the outlet portion 48 of the connecting member 40 to a predetermined welding temperature in the same heating device 144, and simultaneously heating the second line end 12 and the inlet 502 of the distribution valve 5 to a predetermined welding temperature in the same other heating device 144. According to the present disclosure, the method includes the steps of simultaneously heating the first line end 11 and the outlet portion 48 of the connecting member 40 to a predetermined welding temperature in the same heating device 144, while the second line end 12 and the inlet 502 of the distribution valve 5 are simultaneously heated to a predetermined welding temperature in the same other heating device 144.

[0089] As per the present disclosure and as shown in Figures 24 to 27, the welding machine 140 comprises one or more fixtures 141, preferably one fixture 141 for each article, one or more holders 142 for inserting and securely holding the line ends 11, 12 of the distribution line 10, and one or more end stoppers 143 having, or being, load cells or functioning as load cells 143. The welding machine 140 comprises one or more heating devices 144 in the form of one or more plates, one or more track or rail guides 145 for controlling the linear movement of each holder 142 of line ends 11, 12, one or more track or rail guides 146 for moving each or all end stoppers 143 linearly inside the welding machine 140, guides 145 for holders 142 having line or tube ends 11, 12 inside the welding machine 140 along the same common path or rail, one or more rails or track or sliding bars 147 configured to control the linear movement of both fixtures 141 of the connecting member 40 and the distribution valve 5, one or more track or rail guides 148 for controlling the linear movement of each fixture 141 along the common rail 147, and one or more safety doors or covers or shutters 149 slidably positioned on / in / inside the welding machine 140 to prevent injury to the operator during operation.

[0090] According to this disclosure, and as shown in Figures 24 to 27, the operator (not shown) of the welding machine 140 selects a program for the welding machine from a display (not shown) in a first step. In a second step, the operator inserts the pre-assembled distribution valve 5 and connecting members 40 into the welding machine 140, i.e., into the correct position and orientation within the respective fixtures 141 of each article. In a third step, for safety, the operator closes the welding machine 140 by moving the tool cover or safety door or shutter 149 from an open position to a closed position, which allows access to the inside of the welding machine. The welding machine 140 then starts automatically, provided that the program is loaded and the welding temperature is correct / within a specified tolerance.

[0091] In a fourth step carried out in / by the welding machine 140, one, two or more heating devices 144 (in the form of one or more plates) are moved to their respective stopping positions according to a selected program (see Figure 25), and one or more load cells or end stoppers 143 comprising load cells are slid to their respective positions, which are prepared to contact their respective line ends 11, 12 when introduced into the welding machine 140.

[0092] The left and right positions within the welding machine 140 are shown in full text in Figure 24, and the abbreviations L&R in Figures 25-27 are L for left and R for right.

[0093] In a fifth step, as shown in Figure 24, performed by an operator (not shown) and / or the welding machine 140 itself, the line ends 11 and 12 of the pipe 10 are inserted until they abut against the mechanical end stopper 143 (the load cell 143 measures the pressure / force against which the line ends 11 and 12 are pushed against the end stopper 143, and it is known that the distance or length of the protruding portions of the line ends 11 and 12 are inserted into the inlet 502 and shelf 506 of the distribution valve 5, into the outlet portion 48, and into the shelf 401 of the connecting member 40, and that this allows for the correct pressing force during internal welding).

[0094] In the sixth step, performed by the welding machine 140 and load cell 143 as shown in Figure 24, the minimum pressing force applied to the load cell 143 by each line end 11, 12 is measured, and when the pressing force is reached, the holder 142 automatically clamps each line end 11 and 12 of the tube 10, which has line ends protruding as free ends of each line end with the correct protrusion length from each holder 142.

[0095] In the seventh step, performed by the welding machine 140 as shown in Figure 25, the end stopper / load cell 143 slides back to its starting position (L&R).

[0096] In the eighth step, performed by the welding machine 140 as shown in Figure 25, the protruding portions of the tube line ends 11 and 12 are moved to their respective heating devices 144 (L&R), and the same applies to the inlet 502 of the distribution valve 5 and the outlet 48 of the connecting member 40 (thus these portions are heated simultaneously / at the same time).

[0097] In the ninth step, performed by the welding machine 140 as shown in Figure 26, the protruding portions of the line ends 11 and 12 are moved away from the heating device 144 (L&R), so that the heating device 144 simultaneously heats both the line / tube ends 11 and 12 and the inlet 502 of the distribution valve 5 and the outlet / end portion 48 of the connecting member 40, as well as portions 48 and 502 of the distribution valve 5 and the connecting member 40, that is, heating is performed by the same heating device or plate 144 for each entity, i.e., the same heating plate 144 for the first line end 11 and the connecting member 40, and another identical heating plate 144 for the second line end 12 and the distribution valve 5.

[0098] In the tenth step, performed by the welding machine 140 as shown in Figure 26, the heating plate 144 slides back to the starting position (from the heating position).

[0099] In the 11th step, performed by the welding machine 140 as shown in Figure 26, the heated protrusions of the line ends 11 and 12 are moved linearly to the welding zone, i.e., the inlet 502 of the distribution valve 5 and the outlet 48 of the connecting member 40, respectively, and held in place for a specific / sufficient / predetermined time.

[0100] In the 12th step, performed in the welding machine 140 as shown in Figures 26 and 27, the line ends 11 and 12 welded together with the distribution valve 5 and connecting member 40 are cooled for a sufficient amount of time by blowing air (L&R).

[0101] As shown in Figure 27, in the welding machine 140 and in the 13th step performed by the welding machine 140, the holders 142 (each holder having jaws) of the line ends 11 and 12 open, releasing the line 10 together with the distribution valve 5 and connecting member 40, which are then welded together as a single unit, i.e., as the entire beverage distribution unit 200 (L&R).

[0102] In the 14th step, performed by the welding machine 140 as shown in Figure 27, the entire joined unit of the distribution line 10, i.e., the beverage distribution unit 200, with line ends 11 and 12 welded to the distribution valve 5 and connecting member 40, is lifted (L&R).

[0103] In the 15th step, performed by and in the welding machine 140 as shown in Figure 27, each holder 142 returns to its starting position and closes.

[0104] In the 16th step, performed by / in the welding machine 140 as shown in Figure 27, each holder 142 opens to a mechanically central position so that it can receive the new line ends 11, 12.

[0105] In the 17th step, which is carried out by / in the welding machine 140 as shown in Figure 27, the safety door or shutter 149 is opened to provide access to the inside of the welding machine.

[0106] As shown in Figure 27, the grippers of the distribution valve 5 and the connecting member 40 are opened / released by the welding machine 140, and in the 18th step performed in the welding machine 140, to release the product, i.e., the beverage distribution unit 200, which comprises a distribution line 10 that more robustly and tightly connects the connecting member 40, which preferably has a fragile connection portion 70, to the distribution valve 5, which preferably has a removable piston 600 that allows for ventilation. However, in some embodiments, the distribution line 10 can be tightly welded to the connecting member 40 without the fragile connection portion 70 according to the Disclosure, and / or tightly welded to the distribution valve 5 without the piston 600 that allows for ventilation according to the Disclosure.

[0107] According to this disclosure, a method for manufacturing a beverage distribution unit 200 includes the steps of: inserting a first line end 11 and a second line end 12 into the respective openings 400 and 504 of the connecting member 40 and the distribution valve 5, respectively; if using a welding machine 140, inserting them through the openings into the connecting member and the distribution valve for a predetermined distance or length L2 and L4; connecting the first line end 11 to the connecting member 40 and the second line end 12 to the distribution valve 5 when each line end abuts against the respective inner circumferential shelf or projection 401 and 506; and welding each line end 11 and 12 to the respective inner circumferential shelf 401 and 506, and to the outlet portion 48 of the connecting member 40 and the inlet 502 of the distribution valve 5, respectively, to fix and prevent leakage.

[0108] In the final 19th step, performed by an operator (not shown) as shown in Figure 27, the welded assembly in the form of a beverage distribution unit 200 is removed from inside the welding machine 140.

[0109] The advantage is that welding allows for a complete bond between all parts and materials, and when the distribution line 10 is stretched, the line ends 11, 12 connected to the connecting member or probe 40 and the distribution valve or spout 5 are no longer the weakest points of the beverage distribution unit 200 and assembly. Another advantage is the ability to maintain the nominal inner diameter D3 of the distribution line 10, i.e., the nominal inner diameter of the line ends 11, 12, and to avoid uneven or rough areas that form fouling gaps where flow turbulence and / or fouling may accumulate during use, i.e., during and after distribution. The advantage is that welding achieves this ability even if the two line ends 11, 12 are not tightly inserted and welded to the inside of each entity, i.e., the connecting member 40 and / or the distribution valve 5, for the same lengths L2, L4. The advantage is that any soft or molten material at the line ends 11, 12 during and / or welding is guided into and / or received by the respective grooves / pockets 402, 507, instead of flowing radially inward toward the interior of the distribution lines 11, 12 and / or being forced to decrease the inner diameter D3, i.e., the grooves / pockets ensure that the inner diameter D3 of each line end is maintained, not narrowed and / or deformed, and that the interior does not become as unsmooth as the rest of the distribution line. Another advantage is that when each line end 11, 12 is pressed into the associated shelves 401, 506 during / while welding, the line ends do not bend inward due to flexibility as they are heated to the welding temperature. The advantage is that any soft or molten material at the line ends 11, 12 during / welding is guided into and / or received by the respective grooves / pockets 402, 507, instead of flowing inward toward the interior of the distribution line / tube and / or being forced to reduce the inner diameter D3 of the line ends, i.e., the grooves / pockets ensure that the inner diameter D3 of each line end is maintained and not narrowed and / or deformed, and that the inner diameter of each line end is better controlled during and after welding so that the inner diameter is coplanar with the inner openings 405, 508 to the intermediate sections and that no steps and / or non-uniformities are created in between that could cause flow turbulence and / or fouling to accumulate.This allows any soft or molten material and / or portions of line ends 11, 12 to be guided into and / or accepted by their respective grooves / pockets 402, 507 instead of flowing inward toward the interior of the distribution line 10 and / or being forced to reduce the inner diameter D3 of the line ends, i.e., the grooves / pockets ensure that the inner diameter of each line end is maintained and not narrowed and / or deformed, and that the inner diameter of each line end is better controlled during and after welding so that the inner diameter D3 is coplanar with the inner openings 405, 508 to the intermediate sections and that no steps and / or non-uniformities are created between them that could cause flow turbulence and / or fouling to accumulate. This ensures that any soft or molten material and / or portions of line ends 11, 12 during and / or welding are guided into and / or received by their respective grooves / pockets 402, 507, instead of flowing inward toward the interior of the distribution line 10 and / or being forced to reduce the inner diameter D3 of the line ends, i.e., the depth L3 of the grooves and / or pockets ensures that the inner diameter of each line end is maintained and not narrowed and / or deformed, allowing for better control of the inner diameter of each line end during and after welding and ensuring that steps and / or non-uniformities are not created in between, which could cause flow turbulence and / or fouling to accumulate in certain places. This ensures that any soft or molten material and / or portions of line ends 11, 12, when pressed into the associated shelves 401, 506 during and / or welding, are guided outward instead of flowing and / or being forced inward toward the interior of the distribution line / line ends 10, 11, 12, thereby reducing the inner diameter of line ends 11, 12 to an undesirable degree and / or deforming the interior of line ends. This ensures that the inner diameter D3 of line ends 11, 12 and the inner openings 405, 508 of the intermediate sections are kept and / or maintained in the same plane so as not to create steps and / or non-uniformity between them that could cause flow turbulence and / or fouling to accumulate in certain areas.By fabricating the relevant parts 5, 10, and 40 from different food-grade polymer materials having several different properties but matching weldability, welding can be fully and easily controlled to accommodate the various dimensions of the parts to be welded, for example, increased or decreased diameter and / or thickness of the distribution line 10. The advantage of the welding method is that the pushing of the line ends 11, 12 into the welding machine 140 ensures correct positioning and contact force between the distribution line ends, connecting members 40 and the distribution valve 5 during welding, thus enabling a complete bond between all parts and materials, and ensuring that when the distribution line 10, which is a flexible tube, is stretched after welding, the connection between the line ends, connecting members or probes 40 and the distribution valve or spout 5 is no longer the weakest point of the assembly. Another advantage is the ability to control the force when pushing the line ends 11, 12, as well as the connecting member 40 and the distribution valve 5 together for welding inside the welding machine 140, thereby maintaining the nominal inner diameter D3 of the distribution line 10, i.e., the nominal inner diameter D3 of the line ends 11, 12, and avoiding uneven or rough areas that form gaps of fouling where flow turbulence and / or fouling may accumulate after welding.

[0110] According to this disclosure, in order to achieve a tight, reliable, and durable weld between these parts, welding the outlet portion 48 of the second portion 42 of the connecting member 40 together with the first line end 11 of the distribution line 10, and welding the inlet 502 of the distribution valve 5 together with the second line end 12 of the distribution line 10, is achieved by optimizing the use of different types of plastic materials for the manufacture of each of these three different parts 11, 12, 48, and 502, the design of these three different parts, the flexibility and degree of the molten plastic material, the heating time and temperature to achieve the desired welding temperature and weld state, and the force used to press these parts together during welding. In some embodiments, post-weld cooling of these high-temperature parts 5, 11, 12, 40, 48, and 502 is important but not essential as the post-weld waiting time for sufficient cooling of these parts can be modified / changed, and active cooling by air is preferred to accelerate cooling and reduce waiting time before the parts cool enough to be handled without the risk of burns. In some embodiments, cooling these high-temperature areas after welding is important to avoid the risk of deformation of the welded parts when they are removed from the welding machine 140.

[0111] The connecting member 40 is made of the same food-grade polymer material as the distribution valve 5. The connecting member 40, i.e., at least the outlet portion 48 that is welded, is preferably made of a food-grade polymer material such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE). The distribution valve 5, i.e., at least the inlet 502 that is welded, is preferably made of a food-grade polymer material such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE). An example of such high-density polyethylene is Marlex® HHM 5502BN, a polyethylene used in blow molding, which the inventors have found is also applicable when injection molding the distribution valve 5, which includes at least the second portion 42 of the connecting member 40 including the outlet portion 48 and the inlet 502. However, in order to enable these parts 48 and 502 to be welded together with the distribution line 10, the welding of this invention is achieved by adapting the design of the parts to be welded, adapting the heating time and temperature to achieve the desired welding temperature and weld state with respect to the flexibility and degree of the molten plastic material in these parts, and adapting the force used when pressing these parts together when they are welded in the welding machine 140 (see also the preceding description relating to the actual welding method disclosed).

[0112] The food-grade HDPE used to produce at least the outlet portion 48 of the connecting member 40 and at least the inlet 502 of the distribution valve 5 by injection molding is not the standard HDPE commonly used in injection molding. Instead, the HDPE used in accordance with this disclosure is the standard HDPE commonly used in blow molding, and although it is from the same material family, it has different properties from the standard HDPE commonly used in injection molding. This required considerable effort by the inventors to achieve a welding method and weld that provides a tight and durable connection between the connecting member 40 and the distribution valve 5 via the distribution line 10 as a common beverage distribution unit 200. This was achieved by developing a welding machine 140 and conducting many tests on the machine by changing the design of three different parts: the connecting member 40 having its outlet portion 48, the distribution line 10 made from a low-density polymer material commonly used in extrusion and having different properties from the standard HDPE used in injection molding and / or blow molding, and the distribution valve 5 having its inlet 502. The appropriate welding method and modified parameters to achieve welding in the beverage distribution unit 200 were, in addition to the material selected beforehand, the length and / or thickness of the walls of the outlet portion 48, as well as the thickness of the walls of the distribution line 10, i.e., the thickness of the walls of at least its ends 11 and 12, as well as the thickness and / or length of the inlet 502 of the distribution valve 5, including the dimensions of the shelves 401 and 506, the heating time and temperature in the welding machine 140 to achieve the desired welding temperature and welding state with respect to the flexibility and degree of the molten plastic material, and the force used to press these parts together when welded in the machine 140 to achieve welding parameters that solve the problem of welding different polymer materials that are not normally used for welding and / or injection molding together. In some embodiments, this food-grade HDPE is used to make the entire connecting member 40 including the second portion 42 and the entire distribution valve 5 including the inlet 502.

[0113] These parameters were tested for different dimensions of the outlet portion 48 of the connecting member 40 and the inlet 502 of the distribution valve 5 and the distribution line 10, and among other things, the heating time and temperature to reach a welded state suited to the mass of the parts being heated, i.e., larger distribution line 10, outlet portion 48 and inlet 502 will suffer longer heating times and / or higher temperatures to reach a welded state, although this also depends on the length and / or thickness of the distribution line ends 11 and 12 (longer lengths and / or greater thicknesses may require longer heating times than shorter lengths and / or thinner walls), and the protruding lengths of the outlet portion 48 and inlet 520 that are heated as longer lengths and / or greater thicknesses will require longer heating times and / or higher temperatures compared to shorter lengths and / or thinner walls. Larger and / or thicker parts may require higher forces to allow for proper welding, so the force pressing the parts together also depends on the size of the different parts, and this force is measured by load cell 143 so that it can be controlled to ensure that the force is within the correct interval and / or has the correct value.

[0114] Figures 1 and 2 show a gas consumption system as a possible embodiment of beverage distribution systems 100, 101 for distributing beverages. Each beverage distribution system 100, 101 comprises a gas delivery system. The gas delivery system comprises a CO2 cylinder 4 having a valve assembly and a gas pressure regulator 8. The gas delivery system is configured to deliver a predetermined gas pressure to a beverage container 1 having an extraction tube (not shown). A distribution head 6 is coupled to the extraction tube and is configured to guide CO2 from the gas cylinder 4 through the valve assembly and gas pressure regulator 8 and through the gas supply line 9 to the beverage container 1. The CO2 is used to discharge the beverage from the beverage container 1 to the distribution line 10 via the distribution head valve 2 and connecting member 40. The first line end 11 enters the second line end 12 through the distribution line 10, enters the distribution valve inlet 502, and further exits through the spout 21 when tapping the beverage, by operating a handle 30 which allows the distribution valve 5 to be opened and closed with more reliable, more effective and much faster ventilation when stopping the distribution. According to this disclosure, the advantage of this ventilation is that it eliminates the cessation of beverages and / or products, or leaves no residue that could remain inside the distribution valve 5 or outlet, i.e., the tapping spout 21, and then dry over time after distribution, making it impossible to create any area of ​​sanitary concern due to bacterial growth over time. The empty and clean nozzle achieved by this solution avoids bacterial growth in the distribution valve and its outlet, i.e., the spout. In some embodiments, this allows for good ventilation because the opening 505 in the housing 500 is not easily blocked. In some embodiments, this simplifies manufacturing, i.e., injection molding of the housing 500, and reduces associated costs. In some embodiments, this further enhances ventilation by increasing the “breathing” area of ​​the piston 600. In some embodiments, this further enhances ventilation by further separating the opening 505 from the inlet 502 and outlet 503 to reduce the risk of leakage. In some embodiments, this further enhances ventilation by aligning the “breathing” area / opening 604 of the piston 600.In some embodiments, this further enhances ventilation and reduces the risk of leakage by positioning a lower "breathing" opening 604 downward within the piston 600.

[0115] According to this disclosure, the welding of the distribution line 10 is configured in some embodiments to connect a connecting member 40 that does not have a fragile connection portion 70 as disclosed, but a welded connection to such a connecting member 40 having a fragile connection portion 70 is preferred. According to this disclosure, the welding of the distribution line 10 is configured in some embodiments to connect a distribution valve 5 that does not have a piston 600 having an inner channel 603 configured to align with an opening 505 of a distribution valve housing 500 as disclosed and ventilation through one or more openings 604, but a welded connection to such a distribution valve 5 with a ventilation piston 600 and valve housing 500 as disclosed is preferred. According to this disclosure, the welding of the distribution line 10 is configured in some embodiments to weld a first line end 11 to a connecting member 40 that does not have a fragile connection portion 70 as disclosed, and to weld a second line end 12 to a distribution valve 5 that does not have a piston 600 having an inner channel 603 configured to align with an opening 505 of a distribution valve housing 500 as disclosed and ventilation through one or more openings 604. However, a welded connection between the first line end 11 and the connecting member 40 having a fragile connection portion 70 as disclosed, and a welded connection between the second line end 12 having a ventilation piston 600 and a valve housing 500 as disclosed, and the distribution valve 5, is preferred as a beverage distribution unit 200.

[0116] According to a third embodiment, a beverage distribution valve 5 is provided, the beverage distribution valve 5 comprises a housing 500 having a valve chamber 501, an inlet 502 that is in fluid communication with a beverage, and an outlet 503 that is in fluid communication with a distribution tap 20 having a spout 21, the inlet 502 leading to the valve chamber 501 that is in fluid communication with the outlet 503 which leads to the spout 21 of the distribution tap 20, the distribution valve 5 comprises a piston 600 configured to move within the valve chamber 501 between a first position that allows a flow of beverage entering the opening 504 of the inlet 502, through the valve chamber 501, and out through the outlet 503 and the spout 21, and a second position that obstructs the flow of beverage through these parts of the distribution valve 5 and the distribution of the beverage, the valve housing 500 comprises at least one opening 505 that allows ventilation of the spout 21 when the piston 600 is in the second position, and the piston 6 The valve housing 500 comprises an upper end 601 and a lower end 602, the lower end 602 having one or more seals 605 for sealing / sealing the inlet 502 to the distribution valve 5 when the piston 600 is in a second position, the valve housing 500 comprises an upper end 510 having an end opening configured to detachably receive the piston 600, a lower end 520 having an outlet 503, and a central section 530 in which the inlet 502 is located, the piston 600 is configured to be slidably positioned in the valve chamber 501 of the distribution valve 5 and has an internal through channel 603 extending between one or more openings 604 in the upper and lower ends 601, 602, at least one of the openings 604 of the piston 600 is aligned with an opening 505 in the housing 500 of the distribution valve 5 when the piston 600 is in a second position that obstructs the distribution of beverage. This solution eliminates the cessation of beverages and / or products, or any residue that may remain inside the dispensing valve or outlet, i.e., the tapping spout, and subsequently dry over time after dispensing, thus preventing the creation of any areas of sanitary concern due to bacterial growth over time. The empty and clean nozzle achieved by this solution avoids bacterial growth in the dispensing valve and its outlet, i.e., the spout.Another advantage is that the position of the piston 600 can be changed, pulling the piston upward to fully open the distribution valve 5 and tap 20, allowing the beverage to flow out of the distribution valve and spout or nozzle 21 without restriction, or the piston 600 can be slightly pulled up to generate and / or introduce a small amount of air or gas between the distribution valve inlet 502, outlet 503, and spout 21. Under this condition, only foam is distributed to allow for the generation of a foam head on the beverage as needed.

[0117] According to some embodiments, the opening 505 of the housing 500 of the distribution valve 5 is a hole that penetrates the side of the housing. This allows for good ventilation because the opening 505 is not blocked. This also simplifies the manufacturing of the housing 500, such as by injection molding. Another advantage is that holes 505 of different sizes can be provided depending on the inner diameter of the selected distribution line 10.

[0118] According to some embodiments, at least one of the openings 604 of the piston 600 is located on the side of the piston. This simplifies the manufacturing of the piston 600.

[0119] According to some embodiments, the piston 600 is provided with two openings 604 at its upper end 601. This further enhances ventilation by increasing the "breathing" area of ​​the piston 600.

[0120] According to some embodiments, the opening 505 of the valve housing 500 is located at the upper end 510 of the housing 500. This further enhances ventilation by further separating the opening 505 from the outlet 503 of the distribution valve 5 to reduce the risk of leakage.

[0121] According to some embodiments, when the piston 600 is in a second position, only one of the openings 604 of the piston 600 is aligned with the opening 505 of the housing 500 of the distribution valve 5. This allows air to enter the distribution valve 5 unrestricted through the distribution valve and chamber 501 and the piston 600, as this is important in the closed position of the piston. In distribution mode, when the piston 600 rises to allow the beverage to be distributed, the vent opening 604 of this solution is allowed to seal against the inner surface of the distribution valve chamber 501, and the critical seal zone is around the vent inlet opening to the piston 600, and thus this seal zone can be designed as a raised surface around the inlet 502 and the opening of the valve housing 500 to allow compression of this surface for sealing. This also simplifies the manufacturing of the housing 500, for example, by injection molding.

[0122] According to some embodiments, at least two of the piston openings 604 are located on the sides of the upper end 601 of the piston. This further enhances ventilation and improves sealing by increasing the "breathing" area / opening of the piston 600.

[0123] According to some embodiments, the piston 600 has two openings 604 at the upper end 601 and one opening 604 at the lower end 602. This further enhances ventilation by increasing the "breathing" area / opening of the piston 600 and reduces the risk of leakage by strengthening the seal.

[0124] According to some embodiments, at least two of the piston openings 604 are located on either side of the piston 600. This further enhances ventilation and improves sealing by aligning the "breathing" area / opening of the piston 600.

[0125] According to some embodiments, the two openings 604 at the upper end 601 of the piston face radially apart from both sides of the piston 600. This further enhances ventilation and improves sealing by aligning the "breathing" region / openings 604 of the piston 600.

[0126] According to some embodiments, the opening 604 of the piston 600 at the lower end 602 faces the axial / longitudinal direction of the piston body 607, away from the upper end 601 of the piston. This further enhances ventilation by positioning the lower “breathing” opening 604 downward within the piston 600 and reduces the risk of leakage by improving the seal.

[0127] According to some embodiments, the opening 505 of the valve housing 500 is the only opening of the valve housing, configured to align with at least one of the openings 604 leading to the through channel 603 of the piston 600. [Explanation of symbols]

[0128] 1 beverage container 2. Valve of beverage container 1 3. Outlet of beverage container 1 4. Pressurized gas or CO2 supply unit or container 5. Beverage dispensing / tapping valve 6. Dispensing head for beverage containers 7. Gas Inlet 8. Gas regulator 9. Gas supply line 10. Unidirectional flexible line or tube 11 First end of line 10 12 Second end of line 10 20-way power strip 21 Outlet or spout of a 20-port distribution tap 30 Tapping Handles 31 Actuating member of a tapping handle that operably engages with the top of the piston 600 40 Beverage container connecting member or probe 41 First part of connecting member 42 Second part of beverage container connecting member 43 First outer surface of beverage container connecting member 40 44 Second portion 42 and first end of beverage container connecting member 40 45 Second outer surface of beverage container connecting member 40 46 Second end of beverage container connecting member 40 47 Inner recess or cavity of the second portion 42 located at the second end 46 48 The second end of the second portion 42, which together with the first portion 41 connected to this second end / exit portion 48, forms part of the second end 46 of the connecting member 40. 49. Internal central through hole or channel 50 Towers or fonts or tapping heads 51 Tower / Font 50 Guide Channel 60-way distribution head housing 61 Inner channel or hole through which the distribution head 6 passes 62. Operating handle for the distribution head 70 A fragile connection between two parts 410, 411, which constitutes a first part 41, a breakable spoke that holds an inner central hub having a projection 410 detachably together with the outer rim 411 of the first part 100 One distribution system 101 Another distribution system 110 Distribution system 101 housing 120 Cooling circuit of distribution system 101 140 Welding Machines 141 A jig for correctly positioning the connecting member 40 and the distribution valve 5 in a welding machine. 142 Holder for inserting and holding ends 11, 12 of tube 10 143 End stopper with load cell 144 Heating device Track / rail guide for controlling linear movement of holder 145 142 146 Track / rail guide for linearly moving the end stopper 143 inside the welding machine 147 Rails / tracks / sliding bars configured to control the linear movement of both guides 145, each having a fixture for the connecting member 40 and distribution valve 5 in the welding machine 140, as well as the tube ends 11 and 12 along the same common path. 148 Track / rail guides for linear control of the movement of each fixture 141 along the common rail 147 149 Safety door, cover, or shutter slidably positioned above / inside the welding machine 200 Beverage Distribution Units 300 White bent / curved / straight arrows to visualize the movement and direction of movement of the entities and the steps of the welding method. 400 First / upper / exit opening at the second end 48 leading to the through channel 49 401 Circumferential inner shelf or projection 402 Recess or pocket or depression or recess or circumferential groove 403 Chamfered inner edge of the orifice of opening 400 404 Second / lower opening at the first end 44 leading to the central through channel 49 405 Inner opening for the middle portion of the inner passage 49 410 The inner central projection of the first portion 41 at the second end 46 of the beverage container connecting member 40, which is configured to be engaged by the operating handle 62 of the distribution head 6 and moved in the axial direction 411 The outer rim of the first portion 41 at the second end 46 of the beverage container connecting member 40, which surrounds the central portion having the protruding portion 410 and is configured to be fixedly attached to the second end 48 of the second portion 42. 412 Locking portion of the second portion 42, configured to engage / lock with the locking portion 413 of the first portion 41 only in a specific rotational orientation. 413 A locking portion of the first portion 41 configured to engage / lock with the locking portion 412 of the second portion 42 only in a specific rotational orientation. 414 O-ring type seal on the outer surface of connecting member 40 500 distribution valve housing 501 Valve chamber or through channel within the distribution valve housing 502 Inlet for fluid / liquid / beverage to distribution valve housing 500 503 Outlet for discharging fluid, liquid, or beverage from the distribution housing 500 504 Entrance 502 opening / orifice 505 An opening on the side / outer surface of the valve housing, configured to align with the opening 604 of the piston 600. 506 Circumferential inner shelf or projection inside entrance 502 507 Recess or pocket or depression or recess or circumferential groove at entrance 502 508 Inner opening for the middle section of the inner passage of entrance 502 509 Chamfered inner edge of the orifice of opening 504 510 First end / upper end of valve housing 500 having an opening for detachably receiving piston 600 520 Second end / lower end of valve housing having outlet 503 and spout 21 530 Intermediate / central section / part of the valve housing between the upper and lower ends 600 First movable closing member or piston of distribution valve 5 601 First end / upper end of the piston 602 Second end / lower end of the piston 603 Through channel or hole or inner passage of piston 600 604 Opening / orifice of the inner passage 603 of piston 600 605 Seal on piston for leak-proof movement inside valve housing 500 606 A projection at the upper end 601 is configured to abut against the upper end of the housing 500 when the distribution valve 5 is closed and the piston opening 604 is aligned with the housing opening 505 in a ventilation mode. 607 Piston 600 body 608 Upper piston surface having a protruding engagement portion for the operating member 31 to move the piston up and down between closed and open modes A line visualizing the cross-section of the lock / locking parts 412 and 413 in the correct position (Figure 6) B. Lines in Figure 7A visualize the shear cuts that can occur when the fragile connection 70 is broken. D0 connecting member 40 and the outer diameter of the first portion 41 and / or the second portion 42 and / or the outer rim portion 411 of the first portion 41 The inner diameter of the exit portion 48 of the inner passage 49 of D1, the opening 504 and the inlet 502, and the outer diameter of the one-way distribution line 10. Another / intermediate inner diameter forming the inner opening 405 of the intermediate or central section of the inner passage 49 of D2 and the inner opening 508 of the entrance 502. Inner diameter of D3 unidirectional distribution line 10 The radial extensions of the inner circumferential grooves 402 and 507 of D4 terminate at the inner diameter of the inner shelves 401 and 506 inside the inner passage 49 and entrance 502. The outer diameter of the inner hub portion 410 and the inner diameter of the outer rim portion 411 are arranged such that the D5 fragile connection portion 70 is positioned and fitted into the cavity 47 of the second portion 42 after the fragile connection portion is broken. Outer diameter of the hollow inner central projection on the inner central hub portion 410 of D6 The free protrusion length, distance, or height of the exit portion 48, measured from the L1 protrusion 410. The distance or length of insertion of the first line end 11 into the exit portion 48, measured from the L2 opening 400. The distance or length from opening 400 L3 to the bottom of pocket 402, and / or from opening 504 to the bottom of pocket 507. The distance or length of insertion of the second line end 12 into the inlet 502, measured from the L4 opening 504. Left = L The steps for the second line end 12 and the distribution valve 5 are performed in a location or area within the welding machine 140 until the welding procedure is completed. Right = R The steps for the first line end 11 and connecting member 40 are performed in the welding machine 140 until the welding procedure is complete.

Claims

1. A beverage distribution unit (200), Outer diameter (D １ ) and inner diameter (D ３ A one-way distribution line (10) having a first line end (11) and a second line end (12), wherein the one-way distribution line (10) is a flexible tube made of food-grade polymer material, the first line end is configured to be fluidly connected to a beverage through an opening (400) of a connecting member (40) made of food-grade polymer material, the second line end is configured to be fluidly connected to an opening (504) of the inlet (502) of a distribution valve (5) of a distribution tap (20) made of food-grade polymer material, and the opening (400) of the connecting member (40) is configured to be fluidly connected to an outlet portion or end (48) of an inner through hole or passage (49) passing through the connecting member (40) which is configured to be fluidly connected to the beverage at the inlet portion or first end (44) on the opposite side of the connecting member. Equipped with, The outlet portion (48) and the opening (400) of the connecting member (40), and the opening (504) of the distribution valve (5), respectively, are the outer diameter (D) of the one-way distribution line (10). １ The inner diameter (D) is essentially the same as ) １ The outlet portion (48) has a distance or length (L) from the second end (46) and protrusion (410) of the connecting member (40) opposite the first end (44) of the connecting member. １ It is a free protruding end that extends only by a certain distance. The inner diameter (D) of the outlet portion (48) and the distribution valve opening (504) １ The first line end and the second line end are inserted into each opening (400, 504) and are connected for a predetermined distance or length (L ２ , L ４ Only the line ends (11, 12) are inserted through the opening into the connecting member (40) and the distribution valve (5), and when each line end (11, 12) abuts against its respective inner circumferential shelf (401, 506), the first line end is connected to the connecting member, and when the second line end is connected to the distribution valve, the inner circumferential shelf or projection (401, 506) is configured to act as a contact portion or end stopper for the respective first line end (11) and second line end (12), terminating within the inner passage (49) and the inlet (502), respectively. Each end of the line is fixed by welding to the inside of the respective inner circumferential shelves (401, 506), the outlet portion (48) of the connecting member (40), and the inlet (502) of the distribution valve (5), respectively, to prevent leakage. Beverage distribution unit (200).

2. The predetermined distance or length (L) of the insertion that abuts the second line end portion (12) of the one-way distribution line (10) against the inner circumferential shelf (506) of the distribution valve (5) ４ ) is smaller than, or substantially the same as or equal to, or larger than, the predetermined distance or length (L) of the insertion that abuts the first line end portion (11) of the one-way distribution line (10) against the inner circumferential shelf (401) of the connection member (40), the beverage distribution unit (200) according to claim 1. ２ )

3. Each of the inner circumferential shelves (401, 506) of the connecting member (40) and the distribution valve (5) extends substantially perpendicular or perpendicular radial plane to the longitudinal or axial direction of the connecting member (40), the inner passage (49), and the inlet (502) of the distribution valve (5), and each of the inner circumferential shelves (401, 506) comprises at least one inner circumferential pocket, recess, concave or groove (402, 507) formed in the longitudinal or axial direction of the connecting member and the distribution valve inlet, thereby the depth of each groove (402, 507) extending substantially the same and / or in the same direction as the inner passage of the connecting member and the distribution valve inlet, away from the respective openings (400, 504) of the inner passage (49) of the connecting member and the inlet (502) of the distribution valve.

4. Each connecting member (40) and each inner circumferential shelf (401, 506) of the distribution valve (5) have an inner diameter (D) of the outlet portion (48) of the inner passage (49). １ ) and extending from the opening (504) of the inlet (502) into a radial plane substantially perpendicular or perpendicular to the longitudinal or axial direction of the respective connecting member (40) and the inlet (502) of the distribution valve (5), the intermediate or central section of each inner passage (49), and the respective outlet portion (48) and the first end (44) of the connecting member (40), and another or intermediate inner diameter (D) forming the inner opening (405, 508) of the inlet (502) between the opening (504) of the distribution valve (5) and the valve chamber or through channel (501). ２ A beverage distribution unit (200) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, which terminates at ).

5. Each inner circumferential groove (402, 507) has the inner diameter (D １ Starting from ), the intermediate inner diameter (D) forms the intermediate or central section of the inner passage (49) of the connecting member (40) and the inner openings (405, 508) of the inlet (502) of the distribution valve (5). ２ ) has a larger inner diameter (D ４ A beverage distribution unit (200) according to claim 4, in the case where claim 4 is dependent on claim 3, having a radial extension that terminates at ).

6. The maximum depth of each inner circumferential groove (402, 507) is the insertion distance or length (L) of either of the line ends (11, 12) of the distribution line (10). ２ , L ４ The distance (L) from each connecting member (40) and the inlet (502) of the distribution valve (5) in the longitudinal or axial direction from each opening (400, 504) is greater than ). ３ A beverage distribution unit (200) according to claim 3, or claim 4 or claim 5, if dependent on claim 3, which terminates at ).

7. Each inner circumferential groove (402, 507) is located in the connecting member (40) and the inner diameter (D) of the distribution valve (5), respectively. １ ) extends radially from the line ends (11, 12) of the one-way distribution line (10) and the inner diameter (D ３ ) with an inner diameter (D) that is larger than, substantially the same as, or equal to ４ A beverage distribution unit (200) according to claim 4, or claim 5, or claim 6, in the case where claim 4 is dependent on claim 3, which terminates at ).

8. The intermediate inner diameter (D) forms the intermediate or central sections of each of the inner passages (49) and the inner openings (405, 508) of the inlet (502) of the distribution valve (5). ２ ) is the inner diameter (D) of each of the line ends (11, 12) of the unidirectional distribution line (10) after welding. ３ A beverage dispensing unit (200) according to claim 4 when claim 4 is dependent on claim 3, or claim 5 or claim 6 when claim 4 is dependent on claim 4, which is substantially equivalent to or equal to the above.

9. The beverage dispensing unit (200) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein at least the outlet portion (48) and fluid communication portions (44, 46, 49, 401, 404, 405) of the distribution valve (5) and the connecting member (40) are made of the same food-grade polymer material, which is high-density polyethylene commonly used in blow molding.

10. The beverage dispensing unit (200) according to claim 9, wherein the properties / characteristics of the food-grade polymer material constituting the dispensing line (10) are different from those of the food-grade polymer material constituting the dispensing valve (5) and the connecting member (40), in that the dispensing line is manufactured by extrusion using low-density polyethylene, while the dispensing valve and the connecting member are manufactured by injection molding using high-density polyethylene, which is commonly used in blow molding.

11. Outer diameter (D １ ) and inner diameter (D ３ A method for manufacturing a beverage distribution unit (200) by connecting a one-way distribution line (10) having a first line end (11) and a second line end (12) to a connecting member (40) and a distribution valve (5) and enabling fluid communication between them, wherein the one-way distribution line (10) is a flexible tube made of food-grade polymer material having a first line end (11) and a second line end (12), the first line end is configured to be connected in fluid communication to the outlet (48, 400) of the connecting member (40) made of food-grade polymer material, and the second line end is configured to be connected in fluid communication to the inlet (502, 504) of the distribution valve (5) made of food-grade polymer, and the method is The steps include positioning the connecting member (40) and the distribution valve (5) in an appropriate orientation and position within the welding machine (140) to receive the line ends (11, 12), Step (300) of inserting each line end (11, 12) of the distribution line (10) through the respective holder (142) in the welding machine (140) until each line end protrudes at least partially from the respective holder (142) and contacts the respective end stopper (143), The steps include pushing each protruding line end (11, 12) into the respective end stopper (143) until each holder (142) firmly clamps / grippeds the associated line end, Step (300) of moving the end stopper (143) to disengage from the line ends (11, 12), The steps include moving each holder (142) having the line ends (11, 12) to the heating position of the heating device (144) (300), Step (300) of inserting each protruding portion of the line ends (11, 12), the connecting member (40), and the distribution valve (5) into the heating device (144), The steps include heating each protruding portion of each line end (11, 12), the connecting member (40), and the distribution valve (5) with the heating device (144) until a predetermined welding temperature is reached, Step (300) of inserting the heated protrusions of the line ends (11, 12) into the connecting member (40) and the distribution valve (5) respectively until the entire protruding portion of each line end is received by the respective connecting member and distribution valve, The steps include: holding the respective heated protruding portions of each line end (11, 12) within the connecting member (40) and the distribution valve (5) for a predetermined period of time, and sufficiently cooling the welded portion between the distribution line (10), the connecting member, and the distribution valve; The steps include releasing each line end (11, 12) by ending the clamping by each holder (142), The steps include removing the distribution line (10), the connecting member (40), and the distribution valve (5) from the welding machine (140) as a welded, integrated beverage distribution unit (200), and A method for manufacturing a beverage distribution unit (200) including the above.

12. The aforementioned method, A step (300) of moving the heating device (144) linearly to the heating position, The steps include supplying power to the heating device (144), which is preheated at the heating position, to the welding mode, and then inserting each protruding portion of the line end (11, 12) into the heating device (144) by linear movement when the welding mode is reached, After the heated line ends (11, 12), the connecting member (40), and the distribution valve (5) are moved by linear motion to disengage them from the heating device (144), the heating device (144) is moved linearly from the heating position (300). A method for manufacturing the beverage dispensing unit (200) according to claim 11, including the above.

13. A method for manufacturing a beverage distribution unit (200) according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the movement (300) of the portion within the welding machine (140) is performed linearly or by linear movement after the connecting member (40) and the distribution valve (5) have been positioned in appropriate orientation and location within the welding machine (140) to receive the line ends (11, 12), and before the separate and common beverage distribution units (200) are removed from the welding machine (140).

14. The aforementioned method, After heating of each protruding portion of each line end (11, 12), the outlets (48, 400) of the connecting member (40), and the inlets (502, 504) of the distribution valve (5), welding ceases, and when the predetermined welding temperature is reached, the heating device (144) is stopped. A method for manufacturing a beverage dispensing unit (200) according to any one of claims 11 to 13, including the above.

15. The aforementioned method, Before the connecting member (40) and the distribution valve (5) are positioned in the welding machine (140) in the appropriate orientation and position to receive the line ends (11, 12), the step is to open a lid, door or shutter (149) into the welding machine (140), After the connecting member (40) and the distribution valve (5) are positioned in the appropriate orientation and location within the welding machine (140) to receive the line ends (11, 12), the shutter (149) of the welding machine (140) is closed. After the welding of the distribution line (10) together with the connecting member (40) and the distribution valve (5) is completed, the shutter (149) of the welding machine (140) is opened, and the separate beverage distribution units (200) manufactured therein are removed from the welding machine (140). A method for manufacturing a beverage dispensing unit (200) according to any one of claims 11 to 14, including the above.

16. The aforementioned method, The step of pushing each protruding line end (11, 12) of the distribution line (10) into the respective end stopper (143) until a predetermined time / force is reached. A method for manufacturing a beverage dispensing unit (200) according to any one of claims 11 to 15, including the above.

17. The aforementioned method, After moving each holder (142) having the line ends (11, 12) to the heating position of the heating device (144), and before heating each protruding portion of each line end (11, 12), the outlet (48) of the connecting member (40), and the inlet (502) of the distribution valve (5) to the predetermined welding temperature by the heating device (144), The steps include inserting the protruding portion of the first line end (11) into the heating device (144) in welding mode (300), The steps include inserting the protruding portion of the second line end (12) into the heating device (144) in the welding mode (300), The steps include inserting the outlet (48) of the connecting member (40) into the heating device (144) in the welding mode (300), Step (300) of inserting the inlet (502) of the distribution valve (5) into the heating device (144) in the welding mode, A method for manufacturing a beverage dispensing unit (200) according to claim 12, or any one of claims 13 to 16 as dependent on claim 12.

18. The aforementioned method, Step (300): After heating each protruding portion of each line end (11, 12), the outlet (48, 400) of the connecting member (40), and the inlet (502, 504) of the distribution valve (5) to the predetermined welding temperature using the heating device (144), move the heated line end (11, 12), the connecting member (40), and the distribution valve (5) so as to disengage them from the heating device (144). A method for manufacturing the beverage dispensing unit (200) according to claim 17, including the above.

19. The aforementioned method, Step (300) of inserting the heated protruding portion of the first line end (11) into the outlet (48) of the connecting member (40) until the entire protruding portion of the first line end is received by the outlet of the connecting member, Step (300) of inserting the heated protruding portion of the second line end (12) into the inlet (502) of the distribution valve (5) until the entire protruding portion of the second line end is received by the inlet of the distribution valve, The steps include: holding the heated protruding portion of the first line end (11) within the outlet (48) of the connecting member (40) for the predetermined time, and sufficiently cooling the welded portion between the distribution line (10) and the connecting member; The steps include: holding the heated protruding portion of the second line end (12) within the inlet (502) of the distribution valve (5) for the predetermined time, and sufficiently cooling the welded portion between the distribution line (10) and the distribution valve; A method for manufacturing a beverage dispensing unit (200) according to claim 17 or 18, including the following:

20. The aforementioned method, The steps include simultaneously using the same heating device (144) to heat the first line end (11) and the outlet (48) of the connecting member (40) to their predetermined welding temperatures, The steps include simultaneously using the same other heating device (144) to heat the second line end (12) and the inlet (502) of the distribution valve (5) to their predetermined welding temperatures, and A method for manufacturing a beverage dispensing unit (200) according to any one of claims 11 to 19, including the above.

21. The method involves inserting the first line end (11) and the second line end (12) into the respective openings (400, 504) of the connecting member (40) and the distribution valve (5) for a predetermined distance or length (L ２ , L ４ A method for manufacturing a beverage distribution unit (200) according to any one of claims 11 to 20, comprising the steps of: inserting only the line ends through the openings into the connecting member and the distribution valve, connecting the first line end (11) to the connecting member (40) and the second line end (12) to the distribution valve (5) when each line end abuts against the respective inner circumferential shelf or projection (401, 506); and welding each line end (11, 12) to the respective inner circumferential shelf (401, 506), the outlet portion (48) of the connecting member (40), and the inlet (502) of the distribution valve (5) in a fixed and leak-proof manner.

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