Beverage server

Abstract

To provide a beverage server capable of easily installing a beverage container and pouring a beverage.SOLUTION: The beverage server according to an embodiment of the present invention is a beverage server 1 that pours the beverage in a first beverage container C1 into a second beverage container, comprising: a placement part 11 on which the beverage container C1 is placed; a pumping-up mechanism 60 that pumps up the beverage from the first beverage container C1 placed on the placement part 11; and a bottomed-cylindrical accommodation part 12 that covers the first beverage container C1 placed on the placement part 11. A capacity of the accommodation part 12 is larger than a volume of the first beverage container C1. The accommodation part 12 can be moved in a direction approaching the placement part 11 and a direction separating from the placement part 11, and forms a closed space S2 with the placement part 11 while accommodating the first beverage container C1, by approaching the placement part 11 and contacting the placement part 11.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 10

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a beverage server. [Background technology]

[0002] Various types of beverage servers for dispensing beverages such as beer have been known for some time. Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Publication No. 2002-337996 describes a beverage server for home use. This beverage server includes a cylindrical container with a bottom, a manual pump installed inside the container, a dispensing tube extending from the manual pump inside the container, a connector attached to the side of the container, and a dispensing valve connected to the connector.

[0003] The container has a cylindrical, bottomed container body in which a can filled with beverage is placed, and a lid that covers the container body. The manual pump has a head that can be raised and a piston connected to the head via an operating rod. When the head of the manual pump is raised, the operating rod and piston are raised, and after the piston is raised to the top, the head is pushed down to lower the piston, thereby increasing the internal pressure of the container. The dispensing valve has a lever that can be gripped and pushed or pulled. When the lever is pulled with the internal pressure of the container increased as described above, the beverage is dispensed, and when the lever is pressed, the beverage foam is dispensed.

[0004] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Publication No. 2015-113166 describes a beer server. The beer server comprises a base, a body extending from the base in a columnar shape, a head housing located on top of the body, and an attachment member placed on the top surface of the base that can move up and down. A beer can is placed on the attachment member. A cap body that seals the top of the beer can is attached to the underside of the head housing.

[0005] The head housing is provided with a base, a beer pumping tube, a cock lever, and an air pump, which are installed on the top surface of the base. When the beer pumping tube is inserted into the beer can and the cock lever is moved with the cap body sealing the top surface of the beer can, the air pump is activated and air is injected into the beer can. As the air is injected, the air pressure inside the beer can increases, and beer is poured from the beer can through the tube. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-337996 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2015-113166 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] In the beverage server described above, the container includes a container body and a lid. To place a can inside the container, the lid must be opened and the beverage container, such as a can, must be placed inside the container body. Furthermore, to dispense a beverage, the head of the manual pump must be raised to increase the internal pressure of the container. Only after raising the head can the beverage be dispensed. Therefore, there is a problem in that the installation of the beverage container and the dispensing of the beverage are complicated.

[0008] In the beer server described above, a beer can is placed on a vertically movable attachment member, and a cap body seals the placed beer can. However, since the cap body seals the top of the beer can, the seal may be insufficient depending on the type of beverage container, such as a beer can. As a result, there is a concern that it may be difficult to pour the beverage from the beverage container.

[0009] The present disclosure aims to provide a beverage server that allows for easy installation of a beverage container and easy dispensing of a beverage. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] The beverage server of the present disclosure is a beverage server that pours a beverage from a first beverage container into a second beverage container, and comprises a mounting portion on which the first beverage container is placed, a pumping mechanism that pumps up the beverage from the first beverage container placed on the mounting portion, and a bottomed, cylindrical storage portion that covers the first beverage container placed on the mounting portion, the volume of the storage portion being larger than the volume of the first beverage container, and the storage portion being movable in a direction toward and away from the mounting portion, and by approaching the mounting portion and abutting against the mounting portion, forming an airtight space with the mounting portion when the first beverage container is stored therein.

[0011] In this beverage server, a first beverage container is placed on the mounting section, and the first beverage container placed on the mounting section is covered by a bottomed, tubular storage section with a volume larger than the first beverage container. Therefore, since the first beverage container is covered by a bottomed, tubular storage section with a volume larger than the first beverage container, various first beverage containers can be placed on the mounting section, and even if the type of first beverage container changes, sufficient sealing can be achieved. This makes it easy to dispense beverage from the beverage container. The storage section is movable relative to the mounting section, and a sealed space is formed when the storage section abuts against the mounting section on which the first beverage container is placed. Therefore, a sealed space is formed in which the first beverage container is accommodated by placing the first beverage container on the mounting section and abutting the storage section against the mounting section, and this easily forms a sealed space, allowing the beverage in the first beverage container to be easily dispensed by the pumping mechanism. This makes it easy to install the first beverage container and dispense beverage from the first beverage container.

[0012] The beverage server described above may include a main unit including a base and a storage unit, and the pumping mechanism may be detachable from the main unit. In this case, since the pumping mechanism is detachable from the main unit including the base and storage unit, the main unit can be easily cleaned with the pumping mechanism detached. In other words, the pumping mechanism includes electrical components such as a pump, and the main unit can be easily cleaned by rinsing it with water with the electrical components detached.

[0013] The pumping mechanism may pump the beverage by pressurizing the sealed space at a pressure of 0.05 MPa or less. In this case, the beverage is pumped from the first beverage container by pressurizing the sealed space at a low pressure of 0.05 MPa or less, thereby preventing the beverage from being dispensed with too much force. Furthermore, pressurizing the sealed space at a low pressure eliminates the need for a gas cylinder or the like, thereby contributing to a compact pumping mechanism that is environmentally friendly and safe.

[0014] The beverage server described above may further include a tube extending from a first beverage container and through which the beverage from the first beverage container passes, a first operating unit operated to dispense the beverage, a second operating unit operated to dispense beverage foam, and an ultrasonic generator that generates ultrasonic waves to generate foam, wherein the ultrasonic generator generates foam by applying ultrasonic waves to the beverage passing through the tube when the second operating unit is operated. In this case, since the beverage foam is generated by the ultrasonic generator, better quality foam can be generated compared to when foam is generated by pushing and pulling a lever, and the configuration for generating foam can be simplified. In other words, the ability to generate and dispense beverage foam with a simple configuration contributes to a more compact beverage server.

[0015] The beverage server described above includes a main unit including a mounting portion and a storage portion, and a tube extending from the first beverage container and through which the beverage of the first beverage container passes, and the tube may be detachable from the main unit. In this case, since the tube through which the beverage of the first beverage container passes is detachable from the main unit, the tube can be separated and easily washed with water. Therefore, the tube can be easily cleaned.

[0016] The beverage server described above includes a tube extending from a first beverage container through which the beverage from the first beverage container passes, and a nozzle attached to the tube on the opposite side from the first beverage container for dispensing the beverage passing through the tube into a second beverage container. The nozzle may be bent from a downward direction toward the tip of the nozzle so as to follow the liquid surface of the beverage dispensed into the second beverage container. In this case, because the nozzle for dispensing the beverage is bent to follow the liquid surface, the beverage and foam can be dispensed from the nozzle along the liquid surface. Therefore, when the foam is dispensed above the liquid surface of the beverage, mixing of the foam with the beverage can be prevented.

[0017] The beverage server described above may be equipped with a movable mechanism that changes the orientation of the nozzle tip relative to the beverage surface. In this case, the movable mechanism changes the orientation of the nozzle tip relative to the beverage surface, thereby changing the direction of the dispensed beverage. Therefore, by dispensing foam with the nozzle tip in a changed orientation, the force of the foam relative to the beverage surface can be reduced, thereby preventing the foam from hitting the beverage surface and mixing with the beverage. [Effects of the Invention]

[0018] According to the present disclosure, the beverage container can be easily placed and the beverage can be easily dispensed. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0019] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating an example of a beverage server according to an embodiment. [Figure 2]FIG. 1 is a front view illustrating an example of a beverage server according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA in FIG. 2. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an example of a nozzle of the beverage server according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a side view showing the nozzle of FIG. [Figure 6] 5. FIG. 6 is a side view of the nozzle of FIG. 4, seen from a different direction than FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a side view showing the nozzle of FIG. 6 in a bent state. [Figure 8] 1 is a perspective view showing an example of a state in which a pumping mechanism of a beverage server according to an embodiment is separated from a main unit. FIG. [Figure 9] 1 is an exemplary cross-sectional view of a nozzle of a beverage server according to an embodiment. FIG. [Figure 10] 10A to 10C are cross-sectional views showing an example of a procedure for dispensing a beverage using the beverage server according to the embodiment. [Figure 11] 10A to 10C are cross-sectional views showing an example of a procedure for dispensing a beverage using the beverage server according to the embodiment. [Figure 12] 10A and 10B are perspective views showing an example of a procedure for dispensing a beverage using the beverage server of the embodiment, in which the storage section is in contact with the placing section. [Figure 13] 10A to 10C are cross-sectional views showing an example of a procedure for dispensing a beverage using the beverage server of the embodiment, in which the storage section is in contact with the placing section. [Figure 14] 10(a) and 10(b) are perspective views showing an example of a second beverage container. [Figure 15] 10A to 10C are cross-sectional views showing an example of a procedure for dispensing a beverage using the beverage server according to the embodiment. [Figure 16] 10A to 10C are cross-sectional views showing an example of a procedure for dispensing a beverage using the beverage server according to the embodiment. [Figure 17] 10A to 10C are cross-sectional views showing an example of a procedure for dispensing a beverage using the beverage server according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0020] Hereinafter, an embodiment of a beverage server according to the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In the description of the drawings, the same or corresponding elements are designated by the same reference numerals, and duplicate explanations will be omitted as appropriate. The drawings may be partially simplified or exaggerated for ease of understanding, and the dimensional proportions and the like are not limited to those shown in the drawings.

[0021] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an exemplary beverage server 1 according to an embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, beverage server 1 has a columnar shape. Beverage server 1 is, for example, a beverage server for home use and is smaller than commercial beverage servers. The exemplary beverage server 1 does not have a refrigeration function. In this case, beverage server 1 can be made even smaller.

[0022] The width W of the beverage server 1 in the first direction D1 and the depth L of the beverage server 1 in the second direction D2 are shorter than the height H of the beverage server 1 in the third direction D3. This makes the beverage server 1 compact, allowing it to be placed in a small space. The first direction D1 is, for example, the width direction of the beverage server 1, and the second direction D2 is the depth direction (front-to-back direction) of the beverage server 1 that intersects with the first direction D1. As an example, the third direction D3 is the vertical direction. For example, the depth L of the beverage server 1 is longer than the width W, and the height H is at least two times but not more than four times the depth L. However, the relationship between the width W, depth L, and height H is not limited to the above example and can be changed as appropriate.

[0023] FIG. 2 is a front view of beverage server 1. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, beverage server 1 has a top surface 1b facing vertically upward, a pair of side surfaces 1c aligned along first direction D1, a front surface 1d facing one side in second direction D2, a back surface 1f facing the other side in second direction D2, and a bottom surface 1g facing vertically downward. For example, top surface 1b, the pair of side surfaces 1c, front surface 1d, back surface 1f, and bottom surface 1g are flat. This allows beverage server 1 to have a simple shape and contributes to further compactness of beverage server 1.

[0024] For example, the beverage server 1 includes a main unit 10 and an electric component unit 20. The exemplary main unit 10 has an internal space S1 in which a first beverage container C1 (see FIG. 10) is placed. The internal space S1 in which the first beverage container C1 is placed is open, for example, to a side of the beverage server 1 (for example, the front surface 1d side). This allows the first beverage container C1 to be easily placed in the internal space S1. For example, the main unit 10 is a unit in which the first beverage container C1 is placed and which seals and pressurizes the first beverage container C1.

[0025] As an example, the main unit 10 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape. The electric component unit 20 is arranged to protrude from the main unit 10 in the second direction D2. The electric component unit 20 includes an operating unit 21 for dispensing a beverage from a first beverage container C1 arranged on the main unit 10. The operating unit 21 is provided, for example, on the front surface 1d of the beverage server 1. Hereinafter, for ease of explanation, the direction in which the operating unit 21 (front surface 1d) is provided may be referred to as the front or front side, and the opposite direction as the rear or rear side. However, these directions are for ease of explanation and do not limit the arrangement of components, etc.

[0026] The beverage in the first beverage container C1 is, for example, a sparkling beverage. A "sparkling beverage" is a beverage that contains a fermented alcoholic beverage containing a gas such as carbon dioxide, and has the foaming properties of forming a layer of foam B2 (foam) on top of a liquid B1 (see FIG. 16) when poured into a beverage container, and maintaining the foam for a certain period of time. In this embodiment, as will be described later, the quality of the foam B2 can be improved, so it is desirable for the beverage to have a particularly foaming property.

[0027] A "sparkling beverage" is, for example, a beverage that exhibits a NIBEM value of 50 seconds or more according to the EBC (European Brewery Convention) method. The NIBEM value is an index value that indicates the foam retention characteristics of a beverage. A "sparkling beverage" may also be a beer-flavored beverage. Beer-flavored beverages include beverages that taste like beer and beverages that give the drinker the sensation of drinking beer. Beer-flavored beverages with an alcohol content of 1% or more are also called beer-flavored alcoholic beverages.

[0028] Beer-flavored beverages include fermented malt beverages that use malt as an ingredient, such as beer, happoshu (low-malt beer), non-alcoholic beer, and liqueur (e.g., beverages classified as "liqueur (sparkling) (1)" under the Liquor Tax Act)), as well as beer-flavored beverages that do not use barley or malt as an ingredient (e.g., beverages classified as "other brewed alcoholic beverages (sparkling) (1)" under the Liquor Tax Act). Note that "sparkling beverages" may also be beverages that are not beer-flavored beverages. The following describes an example in which the beverage is beer.

[0029] The operating unit 21 includes, for example, a first operating unit 21b which is a liquid dispensing switch for dispensing a beverage (liquid B1, such as beer) from the first beverage container C1, and a second operating unit 21c which is a foam dispensing switch for dispensing foam B2 from the beverage from the first beverage container C1. As an example, the first operating unit 21b and the second operating unit 21c are arranged on the front surface 1d and are aligned along a first direction D1 on the front surface 1d. For example, each of the first operating unit 21b and the second operating unit 21c is depressible (can be pressed down). When the first operating unit 21b is pressed, the beverage from the first beverage container C1 is dispensed, and when the second operating unit 21c is pressed, the foam B2 from the beverage from the first beverage container C1 is dispensed.

[0030] As an example, first operating unit 21b and second operating unit 21c are biased upward by a spring provided on the front surface 1d of beverage server 1. Therefore, when a finger or the like is released from first operating unit 21b and second operating unit 21c, first operating unit 21b and second operating unit 21c move upward and return to the initial state shown in Figures 1 and 2 (for example, a state in which first operating unit 21b and second operating unit 21c extend horizontally).

[0031] The beverage server 1, for example, includes a dispensing unit 30 from which a beverage is dispensed. Both the liquid B1 of the beverage in the first beverage container C1 and the foam B2 of the beverage in the first beverage container C1 are dispensed from the dispensing unit 30. Both the liquid B1 of the beverage in the first beverage container C1 and the foam B2 of the beverage in the first beverage container C1 pass through the dispensing unit 30, and the dispensing unit 30 is shared by both the liquid B1 and the foam B2. Therefore, since the dispensing unit 30 can be shared by both the liquid B1 and the foam B2 of the beverage, the configuration of the beverage server 1 can be simplified.

[0032] The spout 30 has a nozzle 101 and a cover 32 that holds the nozzle 101. As an example, the spout 30 protrudes from the electric component unit 20. As a specific example, the electric component unit 20 has an inclined surface 20b that faces diagonally downward, and the spout 30 protrudes from a recess 20c formed in the inclined surface 20b. As an example, the recess 20c and the spout 30 are provided at the center of the inclined surface 20b in the first direction D1.

[0033] The beverage server 1 includes a reader 40 that reads, for example, the identification code C3 (see FIG. 10) of the first beverage container C1. As an example, the identification code C3 is a barcode, and the reader 40 is a barcode reader. The reader 40 is provided, for example, on the right side as seen from a user of the beverage server 1 facing the front face 1d of the beverage server 1. In this case, the user can hold the first beverage container C1 in their right hand and easily have the reader 40 read the identification code C3.

[0034] The beverage server 1 is equipped with a reader 40 that reads the identification code C3 of the first beverage container C1, thereby being able to determine whether the first beverage container C1 is a beverage container to be dispensed. As a result, it is possible to limit the first beverage containers C1 that can be dispensed by the beverage server 1.

[0035] When the reader 40 of the beverage server 1 reads the identification code C3 of the first beverage container C1, for example, the user of the beverage server 1 can apply for a campaign for the beverage in the first beverage container C1. The beverage server 1 may also have a communication function that enables communication with a server or the like located outside the beverage server 1.

[0036] As an example, when a user of beverage server 1 causes reader 40 to read identification code C3, the information of identification code C3 may be transmitted to an external server by the communication function of beverage server 1, and the server may determine whether identification code C3 is valid. Also, the communication function of beverage server 1 may transmit beverage dispensing information (e.g., the type of beverage dispensed, the frequency of beverage dispensing, etc.) to an external device outside beverage server 1. In this case, the beverage dispensing information can be collected externally from beverage server 1.

[0037] Beverage server 1 includes, for example, a power switch 51, an indicator 52, a pump adjustment unit 53, and a card slot 54. Power switch 51 is a switch for turning the power of beverage server 1 on and off. Indicator 52 is a lamp that shows the on / off state of beverage server 1. Pump adjustment unit 53 is a component for performing operations to adjust pump 22 (see Figure 3), which will be described later. For example, the pump pressure of pump 22 can be adjusted by operating pump adjustment unit 53. For example, pump adjustment unit 53 is a dial type.

[0038] Card slot 54 is, for example, an SD card slot into which an SD card can be inserted. In this case, with an SD card inserted into card slot 54, the operation record of beverage server 1 can be stored on the SD card, and the operation record stored on the SD card can be retrieved from beverage server 1.

[0039] Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA in Fig. 2. As shown in Figs. 1, 2 and 3, beverage server 1 comprises a mounting portion 11 on which a first beverage container C1 is placed, and a bottomed, tubular storage portion 12 that covers the first beverage container C1 placed on mounting portion 11. Storage portion 12 is, for example, cylindrical with a bottom. Mounting portion 11 and storage portion 12 are disposed, for example, in internal space S1 of main unit 10. Storage portion 12 is movable both in a direction approaching mounting portion 11 (e.g., downward) and in a direction away from mounting portion 11 (e.g., upward).

[0040] The mounting portion 11 has, for example, a concave base 11b on which the first beverage container C1 is placed, and a sealing portion 11c placed on the base 11b. As an example, the base 11b and the sealing portion 11c are annular in shape when viewed along the third direction D3. For example, the base 11b has a bottom surface 11d, an inclined surface 11f that extends diagonally upward as it moves away from the bottom surface 11d on the radially outer side of the bottom surface 11d, and an annular wall portion 11g that extends upward on the radially outer side of the inclined surface 11f. For example, the mounting portion 11 is arranged such that the annular wall portion 11g, the inclined surface 11f, and the bottom surface 11d are aligned in this order from the radially outer side to the radially inner side. The annular wall portion 11g is a wall-like portion that extends upward, and the sealing portion 11c is fitted into the upper part of the annular wall portion 11g.

[0041] The sealing portion 11c is, for example, a rubber packing. The sealing portion 11c is attached to the base 11b so as to cover the outer surface 11h, the inner surface 11j, and the top surface 11k of the annular wall portion 11g. When the accommodating portion 12 approaches and abuts against the mounting portion 11, for example, the entire periphery of the accommodating portion 12 is tightly fitted to the sealing portion 11c of the mounting portion 11, thereby forming an enclosed space S2 (see FIG. 15, etc.) inside the accommodating portion 12.

[0042] The storage unit 12 has a side portion 12c with an opening 12b facing the placement unit 11, and a bottom portion 12d located on the side of the side portion 12c opposite the opening 12b. The storage unit 12 is, for example, cup-shaped with the opening 12b facing downward. For example, the height of the storage unit 12 (the length in the third direction D3) is longer than the width of the storage unit 12 (the length in the second direction D2).

[0043] The storage unit 12 has a storage space S3 that stores the first beverage container C1. The volume of the storage unit 12 is larger than the volume of the first beverage container C1. For example, the first beverage container C1 may be a beverage can. As an example, the volume of the storage unit 12 is larger than the volume of a 190 ml (milliliter) beverage can, a 250 ml beverage can, a 350 ml beverage can, and a 500 ml beverage can. In this case, the storage unit 12 can store a 190 ml beverage can, a 250 ml beverage can, a 350 ml beverage can, and a 500 ml beverage tube. Note that the type of beverage container (first beverage container C1) stored in the storage unit 12 may be a type other than a beverage can. The beverage container (first beverage container C1) stored in the storage unit 12 may be, for example, a bottle, a plastic bottle, a cup, a pack container, a pouch container, or a bag-like container, and is not particularly limited.

[0044] The main unit 10 of the beverage server 1 includes a base 13 on which a second beverage container C2 (see Figures 14 and 15, etc.) from which the beverage in the first beverage container C1 is dispensed is placed. As an example, the base 13 includes a plate-like portion 13b extending in the first direction D1 and the second direction D2 at the lower end of the main unit 10, and a tray 13c located below the dispensing portion 30.

[0045] Plate-shaped portion 13b has, for example, recess 13d recessed in third direction D3, and tray 13c is incorporated into recess 13d. Tray 13c has multiple holes 13f through which liquid passes downward. For example, liquid that falls onto tray 13c passes through holes 13f and is collected in recess 13d. This makes it possible to prevent liquid from collecting in tray 13c itself.

[0046] The storage unit 12 has an air supply unit 12f that supplies air from the outside of the storage unit 12 to the storage space S3, and a beverage distribution unit 12g that distributes the beverage in the first beverage container C1 from the storage space S3 to the outside of the storage unit 12. For example, the air supply unit 12f and the beverage distribution unit 12g are provided on the bottom 12d of the storage unit 12.

[0047] The air supply unit 12f has, for example, a through-hole 12h that penetrates the bottom 12d of the storage unit 12 and a cylindrical protrusion 12j that protrudes upward from the bottom 12d. The beverage distribution unit 12g has, for example, an insertion tube 12k that is inserted into the first beverage container C1, an extension tube 12m that extends from the insertion tube 12k toward the bottom 12d and penetrates the bottom 12d, and a holder 12p that holds the extension tube 12m at the bottom 12d.

[0048] For example, the insertion tube 12k is made of a softer material than the extension tube 12m, which makes it easier to insert the insertion tube 12k into the first beverage container C1. The extension tube 12m is held by the holder 12p while passing through the bottom 12d.

[0049] The beverage server 1 includes a pumping mechanism 60 that pumps up a beverage from a first beverage container C1 housed in the storage unit 12. For example, at least a portion of the pumping mechanism 60 is provided in the electric component unit 20. The pumping mechanism 60 pumps up a beverage from the first beverage container C1 housed in the sealed space S2 (see FIG. 15 ) of the storage unit 12, for example, by supplying air to the sealed space S2.

[0050] An air tube 61 is connected to the air supply section 12f (cylindrical protrusion 12j) of the storage section 12. A tube 62 is connected to the beverage distribution section 12g of the storage section 12. The pumping mechanism 60 includes a pump 22 that sends air to the sealed space S2 (storage space S3) of the storage section 12 via the air tube 61, an electromagnetic valve 23 that opens and closes the flow of air in the air tube 61, and a control board 24 that controls the pump 22 and the electromagnetic valve 23.

[0051] Pump 22 is capable of adjusting the air pressure to storage unit 12, for example, by pump adjustment unit 53. The air supply pressure of pump 22 is, for example, 0.05 MPa or less, and may be adjusted to 0.02 MPa or less. In this way, when the air supply pressure of pump 22 is 0.05 MPa or less, it is possible to prevent the beverage from being dispensed forcefully. For example, control board 24 is electrically connected to operation unit 21 described above. When a user of beverage server 1 operates operation unit 21, control board 24 controls pump 22 and solenoid valve 23 to operate, and air is supplied to storage unit 12 via air tube 61.

[0052] As one example, speaker 25 is electrically connected to control board 24. Speaker 25 outputs a sound, for example, when reader 40 reads identification code C3 of first beverage container C1. This allows the user of beverage server 1 to know that identification code C3 has been read. As another example, speaker 25 may output a sound when operation unit 21 is operated. In this case, the user of beverage server 1 can know that operation unit 21 is being operated.

[0053] The tube 62 connected to the beverage distribution section 12g of the storage section 12 is held, for example, by a tube holding section 14 located between the storage section 12 and the operation section 21. As an example, the tube 62 extends upward and forward from the storage section 12 and is held by the tube holding section 14 in a state where it is bent diagonally backward.

[0054] The tube holding portion 14 holds, for example, a tube 62 extending in the third direction D3. The tube 62 has, for example, an L-shaped portion 62b. As an example, the L-shaped portion 62b is located below the tube holding portion 14 and extends forward from the below of the tube holding portion 14. For example, a nozzle 101 is connected to the L-shaped portion 62b, and the beverage passing through the tube 62 is dispensed from the nozzle 101 via the L-shaped portion 62b. The dispensing portion 30 (nozzle 101 and cover 32) is held, for example, by a nozzle holding portion 15 that extends downward and forward from the tube holding portion 14.

[0055] The tube 62 faces, for example, the ultrasonic wave generating unit 26 of the electric component unit 20. The ultrasonic wave generating unit 26 is, for example, a piezoelectric element. For example, the ultrasonic wave generating unit 26 is electrically connected to the control board 24. For example, when the second operating unit 21c is pressed, the ultrasonic wave generating unit 26 generates ultrasonic waves in the beverage passing through the tube 62 to generate bubbles B2 in the beverage.

[0056] The foam B2 generated by the ultrasonic generator 26 is so-called fine foam, which differs from the coarse foam generated, for example, by the impact of the liquid on the beverage container. The fine foam B2 is a creamy foam that improves the design and mouthfeel of the sparkling beverage, and also functions as a lid to prevent the aroma or carbon dioxide gas from escaping from the liquid B1 and to prevent oxidation of the liquid B1. The foam B2 generated by the ultrasonic generator 26 passes through the L-shaped portion 62b of the tube 62 and is dispensed from the nozzle 101.

[0057] FIG. 4 shows an exemplary nozzle 101. FIG. 5 is a side view of the nozzle 101 viewed from a different direction than that shown in FIG. 4. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the exemplary nozzle 101 includes a flexible tube 104 connected to the L-shaped portion 62b and a movable mechanism 115 that changes the orientation of a tip portion 112 of the flexible tube 104. The movable mechanism 115 includes, for example, a plate-shaped portion 107 having a hole 107b into which the flexible tube 104 is inserted, an upper cylindrical portion 108 extending downward from the plate-shaped portion 107, a plurality of cylindrical portions 110 connected to the upper cylindrical portion 108, a hinge portion 109 that connects the plurality of cylindrical portions 110 to one another, and a lower cylindrical portion 111 connected to a lower portion of the cylindrical portion 110.

[0058] For example, the flexible tube 104 is inserted through the hole 107b of the plate-shaped portion 107, the upper cylindrical portion 108, the multiple cylindrical portions 110, and the lower cylindrical portion 111. The hinge portions 109 are provided between the upper cylindrical portion 108 and the upper end cylindrical portion 110, between the multiple cylindrical portions 110, and between the lower end cylindrical portion 110 and the lower cylindrical portion 111. The multiple hinge portions 109 are arranged so as to be aligned along the direction in which the flexible tube 104 extends.

[0059] Figure 6 is a side view of the nozzle 101 viewed from a different direction than that shown in Figure 5. As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the movable mechanism 115 includes a wire 113 that passes through the hole 107b of the plate-shaped portion 107, the upper tubular portion 108, the multiple tubular portions 110, and the lower tubular portion 111, a movable portion 106 connected to the upper end of the wire 113, a coupling portion 105 that moves in conjunction with the movable portion 106, and a wire actuator 114 that moves the wire 113 up and down.

[0060] The lower end of the wire 113 is connected to the lower cylinder portion 111. The plate-shaped portion 107 has, for example, a guide portion 107c that protrudes upward from the plate-shaped portion 107. The connecting portion 105 and the movable portion 106 are movable up and down relative to the plate-shaped portion 107 while being guided by the guide portion 107c. The wire actuator 114 transmits a driving force that moves the wire 113 up and down to the connecting portion 105 and the movable portion 106. As an example, the wire actuator 114 includes at least one of a motor and a solenoid, and when power is supplied, it pulls up the wire 113 via the connecting portion 105, and when power supply is stopped, the wire 113 moves downward via the connecting portion 105.

[0061] 7 is a side view showing a state in which the wire 113 has been pulled up. As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the wire 113 is located on the opposite side of the tubular portion 110 from the multiple hinge portions 109. Spaces 110b are formed between the multiple tubular portions 110, and the wire 113 is exposed in the spaces 110b. When the wire 113 is pulled up, the spacing between the spaces 110b narrows and the multiple tubular portions 110 are bent via the hinge portions 109, and the orientation of the tip portion 112 of the flexible tube 104 is changed as the multiple tubular portions 110 are bent.

[0062] FIG. 6 shows a state in which the wire 113 is not pulled up by the wire actuator 114, and FIG. 7 shows a state in which the wire 113 is pulled up by the wire actuator 114. The beverage from the tube 62 passes through the flexible tube 104, and the beverage passing through the flexible tube 104 is dispensed from the tip 112. As described above, the nozzle 101 has the flexible tube 104 that is bent from a downward direction to a horizontal direction toward the tip 112. As an example, the angle (tilt angle) of the tip 112 of the nozzle 101 relative to the horizontal direction is variable within a range of 0° to 90°. However, the tilt angle of the tip 112 may be 15° to 30°, or 45° to 75° or less, and is not particularly limited. Furthermore, the configuration of the movable mechanism is not limited to the configuration of the movable mechanism 115 described above.

[0063] FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing an example of a state in which the electric component unit 20 (pumping mechanism 60) is separated from the main body unit 10. FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a state in which the electric component unit 20 is separated from the main body unit 10. As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the operation unit 21, the pump 22, the solenoid valve 23, the control board 24, the speaker 25, and the ultrasonic generator 26 are provided, for example, in the electric component unit 20. The electric component unit 20 (pumping mechanism 60) is detachable from the main body unit 10.

[0064] The main unit 10 does not have, for example, any electric components, and can be separated from the electric component unit 20 and washed with water. The spout 30 and the tube 62 may be formed as part of the main unit 10. In this case, the spout 30 and the tube 62 can be removed from the electric component unit 20 and washed with water.

[0065] The electric component unit 20 includes, for example, a switch 27 that switches whether or not operation is permitted by the operating unit 21. The switch 27 is electrically connected to, for example, the control board 24. One example of the switch 27 is a reed switch. The accommodation unit 12 has, for example, a detected part 12v attached to a rod-shaped member 12t extending from the bottom part 12d. The electric component unit 20 includes, for example, a pair of switches 27. One example of the electric component unit 20 includes a pair of switches 27 aligned in the up-down direction. For example, the switch 27 detects the detected part 12v when it faces the detected part 12v in the second direction D2.

[0066] For example, when the storage unit 12 is positioned upward and the upper switch 27 detects the detected portion 12v, the control board 24 disables the operation unit 21. On the other hand, when the storage unit 12 is positioned downward and the lower switch 27 detects the detected portion 12v, the control board 24 enables the operation unit 21. This makes it possible to prevent erroneous operation of the operation unit 21 when the storage unit 12 is positioned upward.

[0067] The air tube 61 includes a first portion 61b extending from the housing 12, a second portion 61c extending from the pump 22, and a third portion 61d extending from the solenoid valve 23. The first portion 61b is located inside the main unit 10. The second portion 61c is located inside the electric component unit 20, and the first portion 61b and the second portion 61c are separable from each other. The third portion 61d is connected to the second portion 61c via, for example, a branch pipe 61f. As an example, the branch pipe 61f may be trifurcated, and the second portion 61c, the third portion 61d, and the conduit 22b extending from the pump 22 may be connected to the branch pipe 61f.

[0068] For example, the beverage server 1 includes a locking mechanism 70 that restricts movement of the storage unit 12 in the third direction D3 (downward). The exemplary locking mechanism 70 includes a protrusion 12q that protrudes from the outer surface of the storage unit 12, and a moving member 71 that engages with the protrusion 12q. As an example, the moving member 71 is a solenoid actuator.

[0069] The moving member 71 is electrically connected to, for example, the control board 24. The protruding portion 12q has, as one example, an inclined surface 12r that protrudes obliquely downward from the outer peripheral surface of the accommodating portion 12, and an abutment surface 12s that extends radially inward of the accommodating portion 12 below the inclined surface 12r. For example, when not energized, the moving member 71 abuts against the abutment surface 12s of the protruding portion 12q of the accommodating portion 12, thereby restricting the downward movement of the accommodating portion 12.

[0070] On the other hand, for example, when the reader 40 reads the identification code C3, the movable member 71 is energized. When the movable member 71 is energized, it moves away from the protrusion 12q. This allows the storage unit 12 to move downward. In this way, by providing the locking mechanism 70, it is possible to prevent the storage unit 12 from moving inadvertently.

[0071] Beverage server 1 includes a moving mechanism 16 that moves storage unit 12. Moving mechanism 16 includes, for example, a through-hole 16b formed in main unit 10, a first knob 16c that is connected to storage unit 12 and protrudes outward from main unit 10 through through-hole 16b, and a second knob 16d that is located below first knob 16c.

[0072] The through-hole 16b extends in a third direction D3, for example, in the up-down direction. The first knob 16c and the second knob 16d can be moved in the third direction D3 along the through-hole 16b. For example, by moving the first knob 16c and the second knob 16d along the third direction D3, the storage unit 12 can be moved along the third direction D3.

[0073] As an example, the second knob 16d may be pivotable about an axis extending in the front-to-rear direction (second direction D2). In this case, the distance between the first knob 16c and the second knob 16d may be variable. For example, when the first knob 16c and the second knob 16d are held and the second knob 16d approaches the first knob 16c, the first knob 16c and the second knob 16d may be movable along the third direction D3. In this case, it is possible to prevent the storage unit 12 from unintentionally dropping due to, for example, a hand touching only the first knob 16c.

[0074] Movement mechanism 16 is disposed, for example, on each of a pair of side surfaces 1c of beverage server 1. In this case, storage unit 12 will not move along third direction D3 unless first knob 16c and second knob 16d are gripped with both hands, which more reliably prevents storage unit 12 from moving unintentionally.

[0075] Next, an example of a method for dispensing a beverage from beverage server 1 will be described with reference to Figures 10 to 16. First, as shown in Figure 10, in the initial state, storage unit 12 is located at the top in internal space S1 of main unit 10, and a placement space S4 for first beverage container C1 is formed between storage unit 12 and mounting unit 11. In the initial state, for example, upper switch 27 detects detected portion 12v, rendering operating unit 21 inoperable. In other words, no action occurs even when operating unit 21 is operated.

[0076] In the initial state, the locking mechanism 70 locks the movement of the container 12, and for example, the movable member 71 is engaged with the protrusion 12q. Also, above the arrangement space S4, the insertion tube 12k extends downward from the lower end of the extension tube 12m. When the reader 40 reads the identification code C3 of the first beverage container C1 in the initial state, for example, a sound is output from the speaker 25, and the movable member 71 moves forward, releasing the lock of the locking mechanism 70 from the container 12. When the locking mechanism 70 is released, the container 12 becomes movable along the third direction D3.

[0077] 11, the first beverage container C1 is placed on the placing portion 11 (step of placing the first beverage container). For example, the insertion tube 12k is inserted into the opening C11 of the first beverage container C1, which has an open top. As an example, the first beverage container C1 is placed on the placing portion 11 so that the opening C11 of the first beverage container C1 faces forward, and the insertion tube 12k is inserted into the opening C11.

[0078] 12 and 13, the moving mechanism 16 is lowered to bring the storage unit 12 closer to and into contact with the mounting unit 11 (a step of bringing the storage unit closer to the mounting unit). The mounting unit 11 and the storage unit 12 then form a sealed space S2 in which the first beverage container C1 is accommodated (a step of forming a sealed space). At this time, the insertion tube 12k inserted into the opening C11 moves downward inside the first beverage container C1.

[0079] For example, by holding the moving mechanism 16 with both hands and lowering the moving mechanism 16, the accommodating section 12 is lowered toward the placing section 11, the lower end of the accommodating section 12 is brought into contact with the sealing section 11c, and the tight and adhesive state of the lower end of the accommodating section 12 to the sealing section 11c is maintained (fixed), thereby forming the sealed space S2. When the sealed space S2 is formed in this way, the lower switch 27 detects the detected section 12v, and the control board 24 puts the operating section 21 into an operable state.

[0080] As shown in Figures 13, 14(a) and 14(b), a second beverage container C2, which is a container into which the beverage will be poured, is placed on the base 13 (tray 13c) of the beverage server 1 (step of placing the second beverage container). Figures 14(a) and 14(b) show examples of the second beverage container C2 that can be placed on the base 13.

[0081] 14(a) and 14(b), the second beverage container C2 may be a mug C21 with a handle or a glass C22. Furthermore, the second beverage container C2 may be a beverage container different from the mug C21 and the glass C22. From the viewpoint of visibility of the inside, it is preferable that the second beverage container C2 is transparent.

[0082] The second beverage container C2 may have a mark C23 indicating the amount of beverage dispensed. The mark C23 indicates, for example, a rough guide for the amount of beverage (liquid) to be dispensed. For example, the mark C23 indicates the point where the amount of beverage relative to the capacity of the second beverage container C2 is 50% or more and 90% or less (e.g., 70%). Therefore, by dispensing the liquid B1 of the beverage (see FIG. 15) up to the mark C23 and then dispensing the foam B2 of the beverage, it is possible to dispense the beverage with an appropriate ratio of the liquid B1 to the foam B2.

[0083] 15, for example, a user of the beverage server 1 presses the first operating portion 21b of the operating unit 21 with a finger to dispense the beverage liquid B1 (beer, for example) into the second beverage container C2 (a step of dispensing the liquid). At this time, for example, an operation signal from the first operating portion 21b is received by the control board 24, which outputs a control signal to the pump 22 and the solenoid valve 23, thereby activating the pump 22 and the solenoid valve 23 to supply air to the sealed space S2 of the storage unit 12. The supply of air to the sealed space S2 pressurizes the sealed space S2, and as the sealed space S2 is pressurized, the beverage flows from the first beverage container C1 through the tube 62, and the beverage liquid B1 is dispensed from the dispensing portion 30 into the second beverage container C2.

[0084] Then, for example, when the liquid B1 of the beverage has been dispensed up to the mark C23 of the second beverage container C2, the user of the beverage server 1 releases their hand from the first operating unit 21b, completing the dispensing of the liquid B1. Thereafter, as shown in Figure 16, the user of the beverage server 1 presses the second operating unit 21c of the operating unit 21 to dispense the beverage foam B2 (for example, fine foam of a beer-taste beverage) into the second beverage container C2 (the foam dispensing step).

[0085] At this time, for example, the control board 24 receives an operation signal from the second operation unit 21c, and the control board 24 outputs control signals to the pump 22, the solenoid valve 23, and the ultrasonic generator 26. This operates the pump 22 and the solenoid valve 23 to pressurize the sealed space S2, causing the beverage to flow from the first beverage container C1 to the tube 62, and the ultrasonic generator 26 generates ultrasonic waves in the beverage passing through the tube 62 to generate foam B2. The foam B2 generated by the ultrasonic generator 26 passes through the L-shaped portion 62b and is dispensed from the dispensing unit 30 into the second beverage container C2.

[0086] For example, the control board 24 may receive an operation signal from the second operation unit 21c and change the orientation (tilt angle) of the tip 112 of the nozzle 101. Specifically, as shown in Fig. 7, when the control board 24 receives an operation signal from the second operation unit 21c, the control board 24 may output a control signal to the wire actuator 114 of the movable mechanism 115, and the wire actuator 114 may pull up the wire 113.

[0087] In this case, as the wire 113 is pulled up, the spacing between the spaces 110b of the multiple tubular portions 110 narrows, causing the multiple tubular portions 110 to bend and tilt the direction of the tip portions 112. In this state, foam B2 is dispensed from the tip portions 112, allowing high-quality foam B to be dispensed.

[0088] Thereafter, the user of the beverage server 1 releases the second operating unit 21c, thereby completing the dispensing of foam B2 into the second beverage container C2. Then, as shown in FIG. 17, the storage unit 12 is separated from the mounting unit 11 (the step of separating the storage unit from the mounting unit). At this time, for example, the user holds the movement mechanism 16 with both hands and pulls up the movement mechanism 16 to raise the storage unit 12, thereby returning it to its initial state. Thereafter, the first beverage container C1 is removed from the mounting unit 11 and taken out of the internal space S1 of the beverage server 1, completing the series of steps.

[0089] Next, the effects and advantages obtained from the beverage server 1 according to this embodiment will be described in detail. As illustrated in FIG. 13, in the beverage server 1, a first beverage container C1 is placed on the mounting portion 11, and the first beverage container C1 placed on the mounting portion 11 is covered by a bottomed, tubular housing portion 12 having a volume larger than the volume of the first beverage container C1. Therefore, since the first beverage container C1 is covered by the bottomed, tubular housing portion 12 having a volume larger than the volume of the first beverage container C1, various first beverage containers C1 can be placed on the mounting portion 11, and a sufficient seal can be maintained even if the type of first beverage container C1 changes. This makes it easy to dispense beverages from the first beverage container C1.

[0090] The storage portion 12 is movable relative to the mounting portion 11, and a sealed space S2 is formed when the storage portion 12 abuts against the mounting portion 11 on which the first beverage container C1 is placed. Therefore, the first beverage container C1 is placed on the mounting portion 11, and the storage portion 12 abuts against the mounting portion 11 to form the sealed space S2 in which the first beverage container C1 is accommodated. This makes it easy to form the sealed space S2, and the beverage in the first beverage container C1 can be easily pumped up by the pumping mechanism 60.

[0091] This allows for easy installation of the first beverage container C1 and dispensing of beverage from the first beverage container C1. In this embodiment, the first beverage container C1 is placed in the internal space S1 of the beverage server 1, and the first beverage container C1 is placed on the mounting portion 11, and then the storage portion 12 is lowered, thereby easily forming the sealed space S2.

[0092] 5 and 6, beverage server 1 may include main unit 10 including mounting portion 11 and storage portion 12, and pumping mechanism 60 may be detachable from main unit 10. In this case, because pumping mechanism 60 is detachable from main unit 10 including mounting portion 11 and storage portion 12, main unit 10 can be easily cleaned with pumping mechanism 60 detached. That is, pumping mechanism 60 includes electrical components such as pump 22, solenoid valve 23, and control board 24, and these electrical components can be easily cleaned by washing main unit 10 with water with the electrical components detached.

[0093] The pumping mechanism 60 (pump 22) may pump the beverage by pressurizing the sealed space S2 at a pressure of 0.05 MPa or less. In this case, the beverage is pumped from the first beverage container C1 by pressurizing the sealed space S2 at a low pressure of 0.05 MPa or less, so the force of the dispensed beverage can be prevented from being too strong. Furthermore, when the sealed space S2 is pressurized at a low pressure, a gas cylinder or the like is not required, which contributes to a compact pumping mechanism 60 that is environmentally friendly and safe.

[0094] The beverage server 1 further includes a tube 62 extending from the first beverage container C1 and through which the beverage in the first beverage container C1 passes, a first operating unit 21b operated to dispense the beverage, a second operating unit 21c operated to dispense beverage foam B2, and an ultrasonic generator 26 for generating foam B2. The ultrasonic generator 26 may generate foam B2 by applying ultrasonic waves to the beverage passing through the tube 62 when the second operating unit 21c is operated. In this case, since the beverage foam B2 is generated by the ultrasonic generator 26, better quality foam B2 can be generated compared to when foam is generated by pushing and pulling a lever, and the configuration for generating foam B2 can be simplified. In other words, the ability to generate and dispense beverage foam B2 with a simple configuration contributes to a more compact beverage server 1.

[0095] The beverage server 1 comprises a main unit 10 including a mounting portion 11 and a storage portion 12, and a tube 62 extending from a first beverage container C1 and through which the beverage in the first beverage container C1 passes, and the tube 62 may be detachable from the main unit 10. In this case, because the tube 62 through which the beverage in the first beverage container C1 passes is detachable from the main unit 10, the tube 62 can be separated and easily washed with water. Therefore, the tube 62 can be easily cleaned.

[0096] As illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 7 , the beverage server 1 includes a tube 62 extending from a first beverage container C1 through which the beverage from the first beverage container C1 passes, and a nozzle 101 attached to the opposite end of the tube 62 from the first beverage container C1 for dispensing the beverage passing through the tube 62 into a second beverage container C2. The nozzle 101 may be bent downward toward the tip 31b of the nozzle 101 to follow the liquid surface of the beverage dispensed into the second beverage container C2. In this case, because the nozzle 101 for dispensing the beverage is bent to follow the liquid surface, the beverage and foam B2 can be dispensed from the nozzle 101 along the liquid surface. Therefore, when foam B2 is dispensed on top of the liquid surface, mixing of the foam B2 with the beverage can be prevented. Since the foam B2 is prevented from hitting the liquid surface of the liquid B1, the generation of coarse foam can be prevented.

[0097] Beverage server 1 may include movable mechanism 115 that changes the orientation of tip 112 of nozzle 101 relative to the beverage surface. In this case, movable mechanism 115 changes the orientation of tip 112 of nozzle 101 relative to the beverage surface, thereby changing the direction of the dispensed beverage. Therefore, by dispensing foam B2 with the orientation of tip 112 of nozzle 101 changed, the momentum of foam B2 relative to the beverage surface can be reduced, thereby preventing foam B2 from hitting the beverage surface and preventing foam B2 from mixing into the beverage.

[0098] In this embodiment, the first operating unit 21b is a liquid dispensing switch, and the second operating unit 21c is a foam dispensing switch. Therefore, liquid B1 and foam B2 can be dispensed by operating the switches, so dispensing can be easily performed by simply pressing the first operating unit 21b and the second operating unit 21c, respectively, compared to dispensing liquid and foam by operating a faucet lever. Furthermore, the configuration of the operating mechanism can be simplified compared to operating a faucet lever.

[0099] The above describes an embodiment of the beverage server according to the present disclosure. However, the beverage server according to the present disclosure is not limited to the above embodiment and may be modified or applied to other applications within the scope of the gist described in each claim. In other words, the configuration, shape, size, number, material, and arrangement of each part of the beverage server may be appropriately changed within the scope of the gist described above.

[0100] For example, in the above-described embodiment, a beverage server 1 including a main unit 10 having a rectangular parallelepiped shape was described. However, the shape of the main unit 10 is not limited to a rectangular parallelepiped shape, and is not particularly limited. Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, a beverage server 1 that is a beverage server for home use was described. However, the beverage server according to the present disclosure is not limited to home use, and can be used for various purposes, including commercial use. Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, a first beverage container C1 that is a beverage can was described. However, the first beverage container may be a container other than a beverage can. That is, in the present disclosure, a "beverage container" refers to a container that contains a beverage. The first beverage container may be, for example, a mug, a glass, a cup, or a cup, and the type of the first beverage container is not particularly limited. The same applies to the second beverage container.

[0101] In the above-described embodiment, beverage server 1 is illustrated as including electrical component unit 20 having operation unit 21, pump 22, solenoid valve 23, control board 24, speaker 25, ultrasonic generator 26, and switch 27. However, for example, speaker 25 may be omitted, and the configuration of the electrical component unit is not limited to the above example. The configuration of the main unit of the beverage server is also not limited to the configuration of main unit 10 and can be changed as appropriate.

[0102] In the above-described embodiment, an example has been described in which beverage server 1 includes nozzle 101 that bends along the liquid surface and movable mechanism 115 that changes the orientation of tip 112 of nozzle 101. Also, an example has been described in which movable mechanism 115 changes the orientation of tip 112 when control board 24 receives an operation signal from second operation unit 21c. However, the timing at which movable mechanism 115 changes the orientation of tip 112 can be changed as appropriate. Furthermore, a third operation unit may be provided separately from first operation unit 21b and second operation unit 21c, and movable mechanism 115 may change the orientation of tip 112 when the third operation unit is operated. Movable mechanism 115 may change the orientation of tip 112 automatically or when manually operated.

[0103] In the above-described embodiment, an example was described in which beverage server 1 is provided with movable mechanism 115 that changes the orientation of tip 112. However, the beverage server may be provided with a nozzle whose tip orientation is fixed (e.g., pre-bent), or may be provided with a non-bent nozzle, and the type of nozzle is not particularly limited. Also, in the above-described embodiment, an example was described in which the beverage is beer. However, the beverage may be a carbonated beverage other than beer, or a beverage other than a carbonated beverage, and the type of beverage is not particularly limited. [Explanation of symbols]

[0104] 1...beverage server, 1b...top surface, 1c...side surface, 1d...front surface, 1f...rear surface, 1g...bottom surface, 10...main unit, 11...placing portion, 11b...base, 11c...sealing portion, 11d...bottom surface, 11f...inclined surface, 11g...annular wall portion, 11h...outer surface, 11j...inner surface, 11k...top surface, 12...accommodation portion, 12b...opening, 12c...side portion, 12d...bottom, 12f...air supply portion, 12g...beverage distribution portion, 12h...through hole, 12j...cylindrical protrusion, 12k...insertion tube, 12m...extension tube, 12p...holding portion, 12q...protrusion, 12r...inclined surface, 12s...contact surface, 12t...rod-shaped member, 12v...detected portion, 13...base portion, 13b...plate-shaped portion, 13c...receiver, 13d...recess, 13f...hole, 14...tube holding portion, 15...nozzle holding portion, 16...moving mechanism, 16b...through hole, 16c...first knob, 16d...second knob, 20...electrical component unit, 20b...inclined surface, 20c...recess, 21...operating portion, 21b...first operating portion, 21c...second operating portion, 22...pump, 22b...pipe, 23...solenoid valve, 24...control board, 25...speaker, 26...super Sound wave generating unit, 27...switch, 30...dispensing unit, 32...cover, 40...reader, 51...power switch, 52...indicator, 53...pump adjustment unit, 54...card slot, 60...pumping mechanism, 61...air tube, 61b...first part, 61c...second part, 61d...third part, 61f...branch pipe, 62...tube, 62b...L-shaped part, 70...locking mechanism, 71...moving member, 101...nozzle, 104...flexible tube, 105...connecting part, 106...movable part, 107...plate-shaped part, 107b...hole, 107c...guide Door portion, 108...upper cylindrical portion, 109...hinge portion, 110...tubular portion, 110b...space portion, 111...lower cylindrical portion, 112...tip portion, 113...wire, 114...wire actuator, 115...movable mechanism, B1...liquid, B2...foam, C1...first beverage container, C2...second beverage container, C3...identification code, C11...opening, C21...mug, C22...glass, C23...marker, D1...first direction, D2...second direction, D3...third direction, L...depth, S1...internal space, S2...sealed space, S3...storage space, S4...arrangement space, W...width.

Claims

1. A beverage server that dispenses a beverage from a first beverage container into a second beverage container, a placement portion on which the first beverage container is placed; a pumping mechanism that pumps the beverage from the first beverage container placed on the placement portion; a cylindrical container having a bottom that covers the first beverage container placed on the placing portion; a main body unit including the placement section and the storage section; Equipped with The volume of the storage portion is larger than the volume of the first beverage container, the storage section is movable in a direction toward the placement section and a direction away from the placement section, and by approaching the placement section and abutting against the placement section, forms an enclosed space with the placement section while storing the first beverage container; The main unit has an internal space in which the first beverage container is placed, and the internal space is open to a side of the beverage server. Beverage server.

2. The pumping mechanism is separable from the main unit. The beverage server according to claim 1.

3. The pumping mechanism pumps the beverage by pressurizing the sealed space at a pressure of 0.05 MPa or less. The beverage server according to claim 1 or 2.

4. a tube extending from the first beverage container and through which beverage from the first beverage container passes; a first operating unit that is operated to dispense the beverage; a second operating portion for dispensing foam from the beverage; an ultrasonic wave generating unit that generates ultrasonic waves that generate the bubbles; Further provided with The ultrasonic wave generating unit generates the foam by applying ultrasonic waves to the beverage passing through the tube when the second operating unit is operated. The beverage server according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. A tube extending from the first beverage container and through which the beverage in the first beverage container passes; The tube is detachable from the main unit. The beverage server according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. a tube extending from the first beverage container and through which beverage from the first beverage container passes; a nozzle attached to the tube on the opposite side from the first beverage container, for dispensing the beverage passing through the tube into the second beverage container; Equipped with The nozzle is bent from downward to follow the liquid surface of the beverage poured into the second beverage container as it approaches the tip of the nozzle. The beverage server according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. a movable mechanism for varying the orientation of the tip of the nozzle relative to the liquid surface of the beverage; The beverage server according to claim 6.

Images