Beverage Dispensing Assembly

Abstract

A beverage dispensing assembly (1) comprising a dispenser (2) and a beverage container (3), the beverage container (3) having a neck portion (7) and a shoulder portion (8) adjacent the neck portion (7), the neck portion (7) being provided with at least an outlet opening and at least one gas inlet opening (9), the dispenser (2) comprising a housing (4) provided with a receptacle (5) for receiving at least a portion of the container (3), the container (3) being positioned within the dispenser (2) with the neck and shoulder portions (7, 8) facing downwards so that the neck portion (7) and at least a portion of the shoulder portion (8) are received within the receptacle (5), a portion of the shoulder portion (8) extending near and / or in contact with a wall of the receptacle (5), preferably a lid covering the container (3) and enclosing the portion of the container (3) extending outside the receptacle (5). [Selected Figure] Figure 3A

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] EP 1003686 discloses a beverage dispensing assembly, which includes a dispenser and a beverage container, the beverage container having a neck portion and a shoulder portion adjacent to the neck portion. The neck portion is provided with an outlet opening for the beverage. The container is a compressible container that is inserted into an interior space of the dispenser and closed by a lid portion attached to the container. During use, pressure builds up inside the interior space, compressing the container and thus pressurizing the beverage for dispensing. EP 2448858 discloses a similar dispensing assembly, which has an outlet opening facing upward, and a closure for a pressure space sealingly connects to the neck portion of the container and simultaneously suspends the container within the space.

[0003] WO2004 / 099060, similar to that of NL1006949, discloses a beverage dispensing assembly in which the container is inverted during use so that the outflow opening faces downwards. Here too, the container is provided with a closure ring which cooperates with closure means of the dispenser to close a pressure space within which the container is compressed to pressurise and dispense the beverage.

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

[0005] EP 2448734 discloses a BIC-type container having a closure provided with a beverage valve. A gas inlet opening is provided in the closure for connecting a gas supply to the container, in particular to the space between the inner and outer containers of the BIC-type container. The container is positioned with the outlet opening with the closure facing upwards.

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

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

[0008] WO 2011 / 002294 discloses an integrally blow-molded bag-in-container type container, in which an opening is provided in the neck region of the inner container and opens into the space between the inner and outer containers. A closure is provided with a valve and a gas feed channel connected to the opening for feeding gas under pressure into the space, in which the entire gas pressure acts on the neck region of the outer container at the neck region. In an alternative embodiment, the opening can be in the neck of the outer preform or the container.

[0009] WO2006 / 087148 discloses a dispensing system in which a container is placed at its bottom in a dispenser base, and a lid is placed over the container, after which the container is contained within a cooling chamber formed by the lid. The container is a single-walled container known as a party keg or party fag, and is provided with a tapping cock near the bottom for dispensing the beverage from the container by gravity. The lid is a thick-walled, closed isolating mantle that separates the container from the environment. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0010] The present invention aims to provide a beverage dispensing assembly that is an alternative to known assemblies. The present invention aims to provide a beverage dispensing assembly that is relatively easy to use. The present invention aims to provide a beverage dispensing assembly that is relatively easy to manufacture and maintain. The present invention aims to provide a suitable container in conjunction with the claimed dispensing assemblies. In particular, the present invention aims to provide a dispensing assembly that can be used with a container that, in use, presents a pleasing appearance to users, e.g., the beverage purchasing public and restaurant personnel, is easy to use, and / or saves energy, particularly during cooling and dispensing. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] In one aspect, a beverage dispensing assembly is characterized by a dispenser and a beverage container. The beverage container has a neck portion and a shoulder portion adjacent to the neck portion, and the container, preferably the neck portion, is provided with at least an outlet opening and at least one gas inlet opening. The dispenser includes a housing, the housing being provided with a receptacle for receiving at least a portion of the container. The container is disposed within the dispenser such that at least a portion of the container is received in the receptacle, the portion preferably having a portion extending near and / or in contact with a wall of the receptacle. According to the invention, a lid is provided over the container during use, enclosing the portion of the container extending outside the receptacle, and the lid is transparent to the extent that at least a majority of the container extending outside the receptacle is visible through the lid.

[0012] In embodiments, the lid is partially transparent, such that only the portion of the container extending outside the receptacle is visible through the lid. In embodiments, the lid may be substantially completely transparent, such that the entire portion of the container extending outside the receptacle is visible through the lid. The lid may be placed on the housing and seal the space between the lid and the outer surface of the container, isolating the container from the surrounding space. The lid may be a double-walled lid, and the lid may be made of plastic and / or glass. In embodiments, lighting may be provided to illuminate at least a portion of the lid, and the lighting is preferably provided on the housing and irradiates light into the lid from a lower end of the lid resting on the housing.

[0013] In embodiments, the lid may be substantially dome-shaped, with hemispherical and / or circular or semicircular wall portions, preferably extending over a similarly shaped portion of the container. The lid and container may be configured such that an air gap is provided between the inner surface of the lid and the outer surface of the portion of the container extending outside the receptacle, the air gap having a substantially uniform width across the inner and outer surfaces, measured as the shortest distance between the surfaces. In other words, such an air gap may have substantially the same width across the entire inner surface of the lid.

[0014] The container is provided with a dispensing unit having at least a dispensing line, and the housing may include a tap for connecting and / or cooperating with the dispensing line. The dispensing line is preferably a disposable line. Disposable should be understood to mean at least that it is designed for use with a limited number of containers, in particular only one, to be emptied. In embodiments, the dispensing unit may be connected to the container and / or to an adapter that is connected to the container, such that the dispensing unit cannot be removed from the container unless it is damaged to an extent that it cannot be reused with another container.

[0015] The housing may comprise a cooling device for cooling at least a portion of the wall of the receptacle. Preferably, the cooling device is for contact cooling of at least a portion of the shoulder portion of the container. The receptacle may be substantially bowl-shaped, preferably hemispherical. In an embodiment, the container may be supported by at least a portion of the wall of the receptacle. In an embodiment, a recess may be provided at the lower end of the receptacle to receive a neck portion of the container. If an adapter is provided at the neck portion of the container, the recess may also receive said adapter.

[0016] The container may be provided with a closure ring closing the outflow opening. A beverage valve may be provided in and / or on the closure ring. Preferably, the closure ring and / or the neck portion of the container is provided with said at least one gas inlet opening for introducing a fluid, preferably a gas, under pressure into said container, preferably between an inner container and an outer container of said container.

[0017] In an embodiment, an adapter is provided on the net portion of the container. The adapter may be an adapter that fits over at least a portion of the neck portion of the container, the adapter constituting at least a part of the dispensing unit. In an embodiment, the dispensing unit has at least a dispensing line, the dispensing line being provided at a first end with a connector or dispense adapter for connecting to an outlet opening or to a beverage dispensing valve provided at said outlet opening, and at an opposite end with a beverage dispensing opening. The beverage dispensing opening is preferably provided with a dispense valve, which is integral with or connected to the dispense line, and more preferably is disposable together with the dispense line. The adapter is configured to connect a gas connector of the dispenser to at least one gas inlet opening.

[0018] In an embodiment, the beverage dispensing assembly may include a container, the container being a BIC-type container including an outer container and an inner container. At least one gas inlet opening may be provided in a peripheral wall portion of the container, for example, at the neck portion of the container, preferably in a peripheral wall portion of the neck portion of the outer container. Alternatively, such a gas inlet opening may be provided at a different position, for example, opposite the dispense opening of the container, e.g., opposite the neck portion of the container. The gas inlet opening may open into the space between the inner container and the outer container. An adapter may cover at least the at least one gas inlet opening, and may be provided with at least one adapter opening extending radially outward, the at least one adapter opening fluidly communicating with the at least one gas inlet opening and further fluidly connected to a gas connector of the dispenser. In such an embodiment, the dispenser may be provided with a supply of gas under pressure, in particular a gas compressor, connected to the gas connector.

[0019] In embodiments, a recess may be provided at the lower end of the receptacle for receiving a neck portion of a container having an adapter. The adapter and the recess are preferably provided with orientation-defining elements such that the position of the adapter within the recess defines a desired orientation relative to a gas connector of the dispenser. In embodiments, the adapter may be provided for connecting a gas line to the container. In embodiments, the adapter may be provided for connecting a beverage dispensing line to the container. In embodiments, the adapter may be provided for connecting a gas line and a beverage dispensing line to the container.

[0020] In embodiments, the dispenser may be designed to accept a container in an upright position. In embodiments, the dispenser may be designed to accept a container in a lying position. In embodiments, the dispenser may be designed to accept a container in a tilted position. In embodiments, the dispenser may be designed to accept a container in an upside-down position. The position of the container may be defined by the orientation of the longitudinal axis of the container, the longitudinal axis extending through at least one of the neck portion, the beverage dispensing opening, and / or the gas inlet opening of the container, with the upright position of the container being defined by the beverage dispensing opening being at the top end of the container and the inverted position meaning the dispensing opening is facing substantially downward.

[0021] In embodiments, the dispenser may be provided with at least one gas connector that is movable relative to the container and / or receptacle, preferably movable substantially radially relative to the longitudinal axis of the neck of the container, and preferably movable mechanically, more preferably electromechanically.

[0022] In embodiments, the dispenser may be provided with at least one sensing element movable relative to the container and / or receptacle, the sensing element engaging with the container and / or an adapter attached to the neck of the container to detect the correct position of the container and / or adapter in the receptacle. The sensing element may be part of or form a securing element for securing the container inside the device. The sensing element and the at least one gas connector may be coupled, and the gas connector may be configured to be movable to an extended state when the sensing element detects the correct position of the container and / or its adapter, or only when the sensing element detects the correct position of the container or its adapter, or does not detect the container or its adapter. Obviously, other types and positions of sensing elements may be used to detect the presence and / or proper position of a container. Based on a signal from such a sensing element, activation signals may be provided, for example, for initiating cooling, initiating the supply of pressurized fluid, initiating illumination, and other functions.

[0023] In embodiments, the receptacle may have a channel extending upwardly through a wall portion of the receptacle from a recess near its lower end, with the dispensing line extending inside the channel.

[0024] In an embodiment, the container is a plastic container, in particular a BIC-type container, and may be a BIC-type container, having an outer container and an inner container, the inner container being substantially filled with a beverage, the inner container having at least a flexible shoulder portion such that the beverage presses the shoulder portion of the inner container against an inner surface of the outer container within the receptacle.

[0025] In an embodiment, a beverage container according to the present disclosure may be a BIC-type container, preferably integrally blow-molded from a preform assembly made of plastic, more preferably crystalline or semi-crystalline plastic, such as PET and / or PEN and / or PEF. The container may be provided with an adapter at a neck portion of the container, the adapter having at least one adapter opening extending radially outward and connecting to a gas inlet opening of the container and in fluid communication with said at least one gas inlet opening, and / or the adapter having a dispensing unit with at least a dispensing line, and / or the adapter having a non-circular outer portion for specific orientation of the adapter inside the housing. In an embodiment, the adapter has an end surface with a slot or channel for receiving the dispensing line or a portion of the dispensing line, allowing the container to be placed end-on without restricting the flow of beverage through the dispensing line.

[0026] In an embodiment, the invention relates to a tapping assembly that is positioned or positionable on a bar surface, and a container that is visible from at least two opposite sides of the bar, at least for an upwardly extending portion of the housing of the assembly into which the container is partially inserted, the upwardly extending portion of the housing being capable of including branding.

[0027] To further explain the present invention, embodiments thereof are disclosed and discussed hereinafter with reference to the drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0028] [Figure 1]FIG. 1 is a rear view of the beverage dispensing assembly from the operating side with the branded container visible through the lid. [Figure 1A] FIG. 2 is a representative side view of the assembly of FIG. 1. [Figure 2A] FIG. 2 is a perspective rear side view of the assembly of FIG. 1. [Figure 2B] FIG. 2 is a front side perspective view of the assembly of FIG. 1. [Figure 3A] FIG. 1 is a rear view of a dispensing assembly according to the present disclosure. [Figure 3B] 1 is a cross-sectional side view of a dispensing assembly according to the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is an exploded view of a dispensing unit of an assembly for dispensing a beverage. [Figure 5] 1 is a diagram illustrating the use of the dispensing assembly of the present disclosure in eight steps. [Figure 6A] 1 shows a neck portion forming part of a container with an adapter according to a first embodiment, and a perspective view of a portion of a dispensing unit including a dispensing line. [Figure 6B] 1 shows a neck portion forming part of a container with an adapter according to a first embodiment, and a cross-sectional view of a portion of a dispensing unit including a dispensing line. [Figure 6C] 1 shows a neck portion forming part of a container with an adapter according to a first embodiment, and a perspective view of a portion of a dispensing unit including a dispensing line. [Figure 6D] 1 shows a neck portion forming part of a container with an adapter according to a first embodiment, and a cross-sectional view of a portion of a dispensing unit including a dispensing line. [Figure 6E]10A and 10B show a neck portion forming part of a container with an adapter according to a second embodiment, and a perspective view of a portion of a dispensing unit including a dispensing line. [Figure 6F] 10A and 10B show a neck portion forming part of a container with an adapter according to a second embodiment, and a perspective view of a portion of a dispensing unit including a dispensing line. [Figure 6G] 10A and 10B show a neck portion forming part of a container with an adapter according to a second embodiment, and a cross-sectional view of a portion of a dispensing unit including a dispensing line. [Figure 6H] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a neck portion of one embodiment of a container. [Figure 7] 1 is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of a container within a receptacle of a housing of a dispensing unit; [Figure 8] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a neck portion of a container with an adjacent shoulder portion, the neck portion being positioned within a housing, and in particular within a receptacle; FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 1 is a schematic end view of an adapter for mounting on a container. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing part of the recess at the lower end of the receiver, and shows part of the gas connector and its operating mechanism. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the container within the receiver and recess, showing the air connector in an extended position. [Figure 12] 1 shows a schematic view of a portion of a housing and lid with a light source, for example an LED with a light guide. [Figure 13] 1 is a schematic diagram of a tap cooperating with an in-line valve of a dispensing unit. [Figure 14] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a housing including a tap together with a dispensing unit, the tap being in an open position; FIG. [Figure 15] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a housing including a tap together with a dispensing unit, the tap being in a closed position. [Figure 16A] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional side view of a dispense adapter with a portion of the dispense line in a straightened state. [Figure 16B] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional side view of a dispense adapter with a portion of the dispense line in a bent position. [Figure 16C] FIG. 1 is a side cross-sectional view showing a dispense adapter along with a portion of the dispense line and a cover for installation over the adapter. [Figure 17] FIG. 1 shows an in-line valve attached to the dispense line of a dispensing unit. [Figure 18] 10A-10C show relevant portions of an alternative embodiment of a container with an adapter or closure for use in a system according to the present disclosure. [Figure 19] 10A-10C show relevant portions of an alternative embodiment of a container with an adapter or closure for use in a system according to the present disclosure. [Figure 20] 10A-10C show relevant portions of an alternative embodiment of a container with an adapter or closure for use in a system according to the present disclosure. [Figure 21A] 10A and 10B are schematic diagrams illustrating an alternative embodiment for a dispensing assembly with the outlet opening of the container facing upward. [Figure 21B] 10A and 10B are schematic diagrams illustrating an alternative embodiment for a dispensing assembly with the outlet opening of the container facing upward. [Figure 22] 10A-10C are schematic diagrams illustrating an alternative embodiment for a dispensing assembly with the outlet opening of the container in a horizontal position. [Figure 23A] 10A-10C are schematic diagrams illustrating alternative preform assembly and container embodiments. [Figure 23B] 10A-10C are schematic diagrams illustrating alternative preform assembly and container embodiments. [Figure 24A] 10A-10C illustrate an embodiment of a dispensing device with alternative lighting. [Figure 24B] 10A-10C illustrate an embodiment of a dispensing device with alternative lighting. [Figure 25A] FIG. 10 illustrates a further alternative embodiment. [Figure 25B] FIG. 10 illustrates a further alternative embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0029] In this specification, embodiments of the present invention are shown and disclosed merely as examples. They should not be interpreted or understood as limiting the scope of the present invention in any manner. In this specification, the same or similar elements are designated by the same or similar reference numerals. In this specification, embodiments of the present invention are discussed with reference to carbonated beverages, particularly beer, although other beverages may also be used in the present invention.

[0030] In this specification, references to upper and lower, top and bottom, etc., should be considered relative to the normal orientation of the dispensing unit unless specifically stated otherwise. The rear of the dispensing unit should be considered the side on which a tap handle or the like is provided for operating the system, particularly for dispensing beverages contained in a container provided in and / or on the unit. The container can have a bottom portion and a neck region, the neck region including a filling and / or dispensing orifice. The neck region can be part of the container or can be assembled to the container. During use in the embodiments, the orifice in the assembly can face substantially downward, upward, or sideways. The downward orientation is shown, for example, in the drawings, particularly in FIG. 1, where top, bottom, upper, and lower are indicated by arrows and appropriate wording for illustrative purposes only. This does not necessarily reflect the orientation in which the tapping device of the present disclosure, or portions thereof, must be used. For example, alternative orientations are shown in FIGS. 21A and 21B and 22. For a container, the normal position may be bottom-down and neck-up. In the tapping assembly of the present disclosure, the container may be bottom-up, bottom-down, and / or sideways.

[0031] In the present disclosure, with respect to visibility of the container through the lid, a majority of the container should be understood to encompass at least 30%, preferably at least 40%, and more preferably at least 50% of the container's exterior surface area. In embodiments, this can be understood as at least 60% of the exterior surface area. In the present disclosure, with respect to visibility of the container through the lid, a majority of the container can alternatively or additionally be understood to encompass at least a container having a longitudinal axis extending from the neck region to the opposite end of the container, where the container is visible through the lid over at least 30% of its longitudinal length, as measured along such longitudinal axis, over at least 180 degrees, preferably over 220 degrees, more preferably over 270 degrees, and even more preferably over 360 degrees, as measured in a plane perpendicular to said longitudinal axis. As indicated, such a longitudinal axis can extend, for example, substantially horizontally, vertically, or at an angle, such as, but not limited to, diagonally.

[0032] The transparency can be measured, for example, but not exclusively, according to the ASTM-D1746-15 standard. The lid can have, for example, but not limited to, a transparency of at least 30%, preferably at least 50%, and more preferably at least 60%, as measured according to said standard. The transparency of the lid can be at least 75%. The container, or at least the outer container of the container, can be transparent, having, but not limited to, a transparency of at least 30%, preferably at least 50%, and more preferably at least 60%, as measured according to said standard. The transparency of the container, or at least the outer container of the container, can be at least 75%. The lid, to the extent that it is transparent, or at least over a portion of the transparent portion of the lid, can be substantially colorless, at least as visible to the average human eye.

[0033] In the present disclosure, a lid should be understood to mean a closure, which may be removable from the further dispenser, e.g., lifted off and placed over the container, or may be hinged to the further dispenser, for example. The lid may be a single entity or may comprise two or more parts that may be hinged or assembled to surround a portion of the container.

[0034] In this specification, a BIC-type or bag-in-container-type container should be understood to mean that the container includes at least an outer holder and an inner holder, where the inner holder is designed to hold a beverage and is more flexible or compressible than the outer holder. The outer holder can be, for example, a container such as a bottle-shaped container with a neck and body, while the inner holder can be a flexible container such as a bag. The inner and / or outer holder can be made from a single material or a blend, and can be made entirely or partially by injection molding and / or blow molding or rotational molding, for example. In embodiments, the inner and outer containers can be made from the same polymer or blend, or at least can be made so that the containers can be recycled as a whole. The same material should be understood to mean, at least, but not limited to, that the materials from which the inner and outer containers are made contain at least 50% by volume, more preferably at least 75% by volume, of the same polymer. The polymer may be, for example, PET, PEN, PEF, or another semi-crystalline polymer, regardless of the grade of polymer. Preferably, the bag-in-container according to the present invention is made by integral blow molding. In an embodiment, the bag-in-container may be made by inserting at least one preform into another preform and then blow molding them together into a bag-in-container type container. In an embodiment, the bag-in-container may be made by overmolding at least one preform to form a multi-layered preform and then blow molding them together into a bag-in-container type container. In an embodiment, after at least partially forming the outer container and the bag separately, the bag may be suspended inside the outer container.

[0035] In this disclosure, a bag-in-container (BIC) will be described as an example, which is integrally blown from a preform set including two superimposed plastic preforms, which should be understood to mean that one of the preforms is inserted into the other and then they are blown together in a known manner to form a BIC. In an embodiment, prior to the blow molding, a closure ring is attached to the preforms, connecting them together and closing the space between the preforms (which may also be referred to as the interface or interspace), so that at least after blow molding, the space is in communication or can be in communication with the environment only through one or more openings provided in the neck region of the container, in particular through an outward opening extending through the wall of the outer preform and / or the neck region of the container. The at least one opening can be provided during the manufacture of the preform, in particular during its injection molding, but can also be provided later, for example by punching, drilling, or otherwise machining into the container during or after blow molding.

[0036] In an alternative embodiment, the or each opening for introducing a pressurized fluid such as air into the space between the inner container and the outer container or between the inner bag and the outer container may be provided between the neck portions of the inner and outer containers or the inner bag and the outer container, for example as shown schematically in Figures 18 to 20.

[0037] In an alternative embodiment, a similar BIC can be provided, but where the dispensing opening for the beverage is provided at the end of the container opposite the gas inlet opening. Such a container is shown, for example, in Figure 23. In a further alternative embodiment, a container for use in a dispensing assembly of the present invention can be provided with an internal pressurizer known per se, for example from Dutch patent application NL1008601, which pressurizer can be mounted, for example, in the beverage chamber of the container or in the space between the inner and outer containers when using a BIC type container.

[0038] In this specification, the tapping assembly can include a housing that holds a cooling device and a pressure device for supplying pressurized gas, such as air, to the container. The container can be a plastic beverage container, preferably a BIC-type container. The system further includes a lid, preferably an at least partially transparent lid, that fits over the container when properly installed in the housing. The lid provides visibility of the container within the dispensing device, including the housing and lid, so that, for example, the fill level can be confirmed and the brand name of the container can be seen from the outside. Transparent, in this context, should be understood as being sufficiently clear to allow viewing and inspection of the container through the lid, preferably unobstructed by, for example, coloration or cloudiness. In embodiments, the container is visible through the lid over at least a significant portion of the lid, e.g., more than 50% of its surface area. In embodiments, the container is visible through the lid from at least two opposite sides. In embodiments, the container is visible through the lid 360 degrees, i.e., from all sides, over at least a portion of the height or axial length of the lid. In embodiments, the container is visible through the lid over more than 50% of its axial length and over an angle between 180 and 360 degrees. Providing visibility of the container, and in particular visibility of at least its brand name, can be beneficial because it allows different brands to be used in the same system without the need to rebrand the dispensing unit. Providing visibility of the container, and in particular visibility of at least its brand name, can be beneficial with respect to the appearance of the dispensing unit. Providing visibility of the container, and in particular visibility of at least its brand name, can be beneficial with respect to inspection of the container and / or its contents. Providing visibility of the container through the lid can be beneficial for assessing the fill of the container, especially when using a BIC with a partially transparent container or an at least partially transparent outer container.Providing visibility of the container through the lid can be beneficial in increasing the appeal of the system to customers.

[0039] By using a lid according to the present disclosure, a majority of the container can be visible to the customer or consumer during use, while the container can still be enclosed to isolate the container from the environment, which can be advantageous, for example, but not limited to, to cool the beverage and maintain a desired temperature, to prevent contamination, to prevent damage to the container or other system components, and / or to prevent contamination.

[0040] As used herein, the dispensing assembly may be mounted on a top such as a bar or table, such that the portion of the container visible through the lid, e.g., the portion extending above the housing, is at approximately eye level of an average adult standing at the bar. The visible portion is preferably visible from at least two opposite sides, e.g., from the front and back of such bar.

[0041] The dispensing assembly, which may also be referred to as a tapping assembly in this specification, may be designed so that a container can be placed in and / or on the housing of the dispensing unit in an "upside-down" position, with at least a portion of the container, particularly at least a portion of the shoulder of the container, being introduced into a receptacle on the housing, the neck portion including an outlet opening facing downwards. Preferably, the portion of the container extending into the receptacle is near or at least partially in contact with the wall of the receptacle, and the wall of the receptacle is cooled, particularly actively cooled. In the "upside-down" position, this may be, for example, a portion of the shoulder of the container. In the "upright position," the shoulder may be, for example, facing upwards, particularly so that the bottom can be received in the receptacle for cooling. In the lying or tilted position, the side of the container can be received in the receptacle for cooling.

[0042] In this specification, "relatively close" with respect to the distance between the receptacle wall and the relevant container portion should be understood as a distance that is small enough to allow efficient cooling of said portion of the container and its contents. Preferably, the beverage is dispensed from an area of ​​the container beside said portion of the cooled wall. Preferably, the portion of the receptacle wall for cooling is in these embodiments the lower part of the container. In such embodiments, even when the container is partially emptied, the contents of the container will at least be in the area cooled by the receptacle wall, with the advantage that the cooled contents are near the outflow opening, in particular directly adjacent to the outflow opening or at least in the portion from which the beverage is dispensed. Therefore, even when the portion of the container extending outside the receptacle is not or only poorly cooled, it is still possible to very well control the temperature of the dispensed beverage.

[0043] When the container is positioned in the receptacle, at least one line contact is preferably obtained between the container and the wall of the receptacle for contact cooling. Such line contact may be formed, for example, by a circular or elliptical line or any other line, depending, for example, on the shape of the container and the receptacle and the orientation of the container. Preferably, contact is established over a relatively large portion of the container, such as a shoulder, bottom, or wall portion of the container that extends into the receptacle, or at least close proximity of the container wall to the receptacle wall is established. The distance between the relevant portion of the container and the receptacle, measured as the smallest distance between adjacent surfaces, is preferably between 0 mm and 1 mm, more preferably between 0 mm and 0.5 mm, and even more preferably between 0 mm and 0.25 mm, and is averaged over at least a portion of the circumferential surface area of ​​the receptacle having a predetermined height measured along the vertical axis of the receptacle, which may be, for example, at least about ¼ of the height or diameter of the portion of the container that extends into the receptacle. For example, in an upside-down orientation, at least about one-quarter of the axial height of the shoulder portion of the container may extend into the receptacle as measured immediately adjacent the neck portion, e.g., between one-quarter and the entire height of the shoulder portion.

[0044] 1 and 1A illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a beverage dispensing assembly 1 of the present disclosure, including a dispenser 2 and a beverage container 3. The dispenser 2 may also be referred to as, for example, a unit, a dispensing unit, a tapping device, or similar terms. The dispenser 2 includes a housing 4. The housing 4 is provided with a receptacle 5 for receiving at least a portion 6 of a container 3. The beverage container 3 has a neck portion 7 and a shoulder portion 8 adjacent to the neck portion 7. The neck portion 7 is provided with at least an outlet opening 8A and at least one gas inlet opening 9 (see, for example, FIGS. 3, 6, and 10). In the disclosed embodiment, the container can be a blow-molded plastic container 3, preferably a bag-in-container (BIC) type container. The container 3 is positioned within the dispenser 2 with the neck portion 7 and the shoulder portion 8 facing downward, such that at least a portion of the neck portion 7 and the shoulder portion 8 is received within the receptacle 5. This is referred to as an upside-down orientation. A portion 10 of the shoulder portion 8 extends near and / or contacts the wall 11 of the receptacle 5 (e.g., FIG. 8).

[0045] The orientation of the container within the dispensing device may be defined at least based on the orientation of a longitudinal axis XX of the container, which in the upside-down and upright positions extends substantially vertically, in the lying-down position extends substantially horizontally, and in the inclined position is at an angle to both the horizontal and vertical directions. In the upright position, the bottom of the container may face downwards, in the upside-down position the bottom of the container may face upwards, and in the lying-down position it may be sideways.

[0046] The dispensing assembly 1 is illustratively mounted on a bar top 75 of a bar 74 so that the portion 13 of the container 3 extending above the housing 4, and the lid 12, if present, are at approximately eye level for an average adult, as symbolically indicated in FIG. 1 by the eye 76. The bar top 75 can be, for example, but by no means limited to, approximately 100 to 130 cm in front of the customer. By mounting the tapping assembly 1 on the bar 74 so that it is visible at least to customers standing or seated at the bar, and preferably to customers standing or seated at the bar and restaurant staff standing behind the bar, the visibility of the system and, in particular, the visibility of the relevant portion 13 of the container is increased. In particular, when a brand name 22 is provided on the portion 13 of the container 3, this increases the appeal of the system 1 and, in particular, the appeal of the beverage enclosed in the container 3. It has been found that this appeal can increase beverage sales and, in addition, increase the appeal of the bar. Preferably, a lid is provided over container portion 13, and the lid is sufficiently transparent to provide visibility of container portion 13 from at least the front and back of bar 74, i.e., to customers and bar staff, and preferably provides visibility of container portion 13 over approximately 360 degrees. The top of lid 12 can be less transparent, for example, opaque.

[0047] The container 3 is preferably substantially barrel- or bottle-shaped, having the neck portion 7 and shoulder portion 8, and further having a body portion 23 and a bottom portion 24. The bottom portion can have any suitable shape, and in the illustrated embodiment is substantially spherical, more particularly substantially hemispherical. Alternatively, it may be shaped, for example, so that the container can stand on the bottom portion 24, e.g., petal-shaped.

[0048] In the illustrated embodiment, the lid 12 is provided over the container 3 and surrounds the portion 13 of the container 3 that extends outside the receptacle 5. However, the assembly can be operated without the lid 12 in embodiments. The lid 12 can be substantially dome-shaped, at least to the extent that it has an inner surface 14 that extends along the outer surface of the portion 13 of the container 3 that extends outside the housing 4, preferably at a substantially constant and equal distance. This can provide a space 15 between the inner surface 14 of the lid 12 and the outer surface portion of the container. In embodiments, the lid can have an upper portion 16 and a body portion 17, with the upper portion 16 being substantially spherical and the body portion 17 preferably being substantially cylindrical. The lid 12 can be made of plastic, preferably a transparent plastic, so that the container 3 can be observed through at least a portion of the lid 12. In embodiments, lid 12 may be double-walled, having inner and outer walls 18A and 18B and an enclosed space 19 therebetween, with space 19 preferably isolated from its surroundings, such as area 20 and space 15 in which the assembly is located. In embodiments, space 19 may be at a lower pressure than the pressure inside area 20 and / or space 15, and may be subjected to a vacuum, for example, to reduce the heat transfer rate of lid 12. In embodiments, lid 12 may rest on and / or be provided with a seal 21 for resting on housing 4, such that when lid 12 is properly installed on and / or in and / or over the housing, space 15 is isolated from area 20. In embodiments, this may provide a substantially stagnant layer of air in space 15. In other embodiments, a fan or similar means may be provided to provide a flow of preferably cooled air through space 15 to cool the container and any beverage contained therein. The lid may also be made partially or entirely from glass.

[0049] In a preferred embodiment, the container 3 is provided with a brand name 22 on at least the portion 13 of the container 3 that extends outside the housing 4. Preferably, the brand name 22 is provided so that at least a portion of the container 3 is provided in an upside-down orientation when the container 3 is placed on its bottom 24. Thus, when the container 3 is placed in an upside-down position in the dispenser 2 with the neck portion 7 facing downward, the brand name is in the correct orientation for readability and visibility. Obviously, when the container 3 is intended for use in an upright orientation in the dispensing device 1, i.e., with the bottom facing downward, the brand name may be in its normal position for readability and visibility. Similarly, such brand name may be adjusted on the container for use in another orientation, such as a lying-down orientation.

[0050] For example, in the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1 and 1A, 3, and 3A, the housing 4 includes a cooling device 26 for cooling at least a portion 27 of the wall 11 of the receptacle 5. Similarly, other embodiments may be provided with the same or similar cooling devices. The receptacle 5 and cooling device 26 are preferably designed for contact cooling of a portion 6 of the container 3, e.g., at least a shoulder portion 8 of the container 3 in an upside-down orientation, or a bottom portion in an upright orientation (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 21A and 21B), or at least a portion of a side of the body-forming portion in a reclined or tilted position (e.g., as shown in FIG. 22). As is evident from the exemplary embodiments, this results in cooling of the beverage at least in an area close to the receptacle, e.g., close to the neck portion 7 where the beverage is dispensed, so that the beverage is cooled to the desired temperature. Preferably, this portion is at the lower end of the container during use, so that the coldest beverage naturally flows toward that area. Cooling of the receptacle may be provided by any suitable means, such as a compressor-based cooling device, a piezoelectric-based cooling device, ice cube cooling, liquid cooling, or similar systems as known in the art. By way of example, a compressor-based cooling device 26 will be described as an advantageous embodiment.

[0051] In the embodiment as shown, the container 3 is provided with a dispensing unit 34 including at least a dispensing line 35 for dispensing the beverage. The housing 4 includes a tap 29 for opening and / or closing the dispensing line 35, the tap 29 for connecting to and / or cooperating with the dispensing line 35. The dispensing line is preferably a disposable line, which should be understood to mean that it is designed and intended for limited use, for example with only one container 3 or a limited number of containers. Preferably, the dispensing unit 34 is designed so that the container 3 can be broached and, after broaching, the dispensing unit 34 and / or the dispensing line 35 cannot be removed again without damage to the unit 34 and / or the container 3.

[0052] In a preferred embodiment, the tap 29 includes an operating mechanism 30 for opening and / or closing a valve 31 provided in the dispensing unit 2, in particular a valve provided in or at the end of a dispensing line 35, as shown in more detail in, for example, FIGS. 13-17. The dispensing line 35 may be made of plastic and may be flexible, allowing it to be bent as shown. The valve 31 is fixedly connected to the tapping line 35 and is adapted to be installed and removed, i.e., replaced, along with the dispensing line 35. The valve 31 may have a spout 32 that extends outside the housing 4, such that the spout 32 is the last point of contact for the beverage to be dispensed. By providing such a disposable valve 31, further contact between the beverage and the dispensing assembly 1 may be prevented. Therefore, cleaning of the dispensing assembly 1 may be performed less frequently.

[0053] Alternatively, other means for opening and / or closing the dispensing line 35 may be provided, such as, but not limited to, means for squeezing the tapping line closed. A permanent valve may be used as part of the tapping device 2, and the tapping line 35 may be connected to it when the container is installed. Alternatively or additionally, the tapping line may be permanent or semi-permanent, and a container, particularly an adapter 38 as discussed, may be connected to said tapping line.

[0054] For example, as can be seen in Figures 3A and 3B and Figures 8 and 11, the receptacle 5 can be, for example, substantially bowl-shaped, e.g., hemispherical, such that the container 3 can be supported by the wall 11 of the receptacle 5 by at least a portion of the shoulder portion 8 in an upside-down position or by the bottom portion in an upright position (e.g., as shown in Figures 21A and 21B), preferably in close contact for contact cooling. At the lower end of the receptacle 5, a recess 36 can be provided to receive the neck portion 7 of the container, and when the container is used in an upside-down position, a dispensing unit 34, or at least a portion thereof, can be provided in the neck 7, or, for example, in an upright position (as shown in Figures 23A and 23AB), such a unit 34 can be connected to the bottom portion 24, in particular the inlet opening 9 of the container 3, to connect a gas line. In embodiments, recess 36 may be configured such that neck 7 and / or dispensing unit 34 do not rest on bottom 37 of recess 36. In embodiments using an upright position, for example, a gas line connector may be positioned within such a recess.

[0055] For example, as can be seen in Figures 6A-6G, the dispensing unit 34 can include an adapter 38, which is fixed or can be secured onto the neck 7 of the container 3, for example by being form locked, press-fit, screwed, attached by cooperating with a bayonet fitting element or the like, or by being welded or glued, or made integral with the container 3. The adapter 38 can have an end face 39 and can have a non-circular configuration, or more generally, preferably a non-rotationally symmetrical configuration, when viewed in a direction along the longitudinal axis XX of the container 3 or at least its neck 7. In the illustrated embodiment, the adapter 38 has two wings 40, 41, which extend in opposite directions and have different configurations. In the illustrated embodiment, the first wing 40 has a width W of the second wing 41, which is equal to or greater than the width W of the first wing 40. 41 Width W smaller than 4010 , the adapter 38 has a second wing 41 with a slit 42 extending therethrough, through which the dispense line 35 can extend. FIG. 9 shows a schematic view of the adapter 38 in the recess 36 along the axis XX. As can be seen, the recess 36 is provided with a configuration compatible with the configuration of the unit 34, in particular with the wings 40, 41, so that the adapter 38 can be positioned inside the recess in only one orientation due to its non-rotational symmetry. For this purpose, for example, as shown in perspective in FIG. 10 , two curved wall elements or raised portions 43 are provided along opposing edges of the recess 36 (one of which is visible in FIG. 10 ), between which the adapter body 38A can fit and between which the wings 40, 41 can be positioned. Thus, the container 3 in the receptacle will automatically be correctly positioned by proper positioning of the wings 40, 41. If not properly positioned, the container 3 will not be able to lower enough to be properly supported in the receptacle 5, and the lid, if provided, will not properly cover the top of the container 3. Furthermore, the dispensing line 35 will be out of position, and the gas connections will not be properly aligned, as will be described below. Similarly, such an adapter 38 can be used on the bottom end of the container 3 when it is to be used in an upright position.

[0056] As can be seen schematically in Figures 6A-6G, 7-9, and 11, the container 3 can be a BIC-type container having an outer container 3A and an inner container or bag 3B, which is preferably more flexible than the outer container 3A. The outer container 3A and the inner container 3B can be connected to each other by a closure ring 47, which is attached, preferably permanently fixed, more preferably welded, to the containers 3A and 3B so that a space 46 between the outer container 3A and the inner container 3B is closed by the closure ring 47. The closure ring 47 has a central opening 48, and a valve 49 is mounted in the central opening 48. The general design and construction of the container 3 as disclosed herein and to be used with the system herein may be as described, for example, in EP 2413762, EP 2405517, EP 2920080, EP 2882679, EP 2882680, EP 2885241, EP 2885242, which are incorporated herein by reference with respect to the construction of the container (including, but not limited to, the method of manufacturing it and the materials used). In all of these container embodiments, at least one opening 9 is provided in the neck region 7 of the container, extending through the peripheral wall portion 7A of the neck 7, in particular through the neck portion of the outer container 3A, and opening into or at least connected to the space 46 so that, during use, gas under pressure may be introduced into the space 46 to compress the inner container 3B to dispense a beverage. Alternatively, the container may be a BIC container of a different design, as shown, for example, diagrammatically in Figures 23A and 23B, with the dispensing opening 210 and the gas inlet 9 on opposite sides. Such a container is known, for example, from WO2014 / 081294.In embodiments, the inner container 3B may be connected to the outer container 3A not only at or near the neck portion 7, but also, or alternatively, at or near the bottom 24, as shown, for example, in Figure 23, so that the inner container 3B collapses substantially radially when compressed. This may be advantageous, for example, when using the container 3 with the dispensing opening 210 at a position other than the lower end 24, e.g., lying on its side with the longitudinal axis XX oriented substantially horizontally, or in an upright position.

[0057] FIG. 6H shows, by way of example, the neck portion 7 of the container 3, as disclosed in the prior art described hereinabove. The closure ring 47 is welded to the outer container 3A and the inner container 3B, e.g., spin-welded, but may be attached in any suitable manner, removable or, preferably, non-removable, in the sense that it cannot be removed without damaging the ring 47 and / or the inner container 3B and / or the outer container 3A. One opening 9 is visible in FIG. 6H. There may also be two such openings 9, preferably on diametrically opposite sides. Coupling elements 50 may be provided on both sides of the opening 9 for connecting with appropriate corresponding coupling arrangements on the adapter 38. For example, the corresponding coupling arrangements may be formed as or include snap rings 51, which may snap onto and / or behind the coupling element 50 to lock the adapter in place. Preferably, the corresponding coupling arrangement is designed so that the adapter 38 can be positioned on the neck 7 in only one position or in two positions rotated by 180 degrees about the axis XX. In this embodiment, one or more openings 9 extend substantially radially through the wall of the neck 7 of the outer container 3A. The valve 49 is substantially centrally located and, in this embodiment, can be a clinch-type aerosol valve.

[0058] Alternatively, the container 3 may be made differently, for example, but not limited to, in accordance with US2008 / 0257883. In Figures 18-20, alternative embodiments of the container 3 are shown, showing at least the neck portion 7 thereof suitable for use in the present invention.

[0059] 18-20 show the neck portion 7 of a BIC-type container 3, having an outer container 3A and an inner container 3B. In each of these embodiments, at least one air inlet 46A is provided into the space 46 between the outer container 3A and the inner container 3B. The inlet 46A has a main direction of flow F that is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis XX of the container 3, or of at least the neck portion 7, i.e., extends substantially axially. The container can again be produced by blow molding, for example, by integral stretch blow molding, from a multilayered preform or preform assembly made, for example, from PET, PEN, or PEF, or a blend including one or more of such crystalline or semi-crystalline plastic materials.

[0060] In FIG. 18 , a closure 47A is attached to the neck 7 of the container, similar to that disclosed in EP 2238041, for example. The closure may be attached in a manner similar to the ring 47 described above. In this embodiment, the closure 47A is clicked onto the neck portion by a groove 94 on the outer portion 95 of the closure 47A gripping the back of a connecting element 96, such as a retention ring or stub, thereby preventing the closure 47A from being removed, and preferably such that the closure 47A cannot be removed without damage to the closure 47A and / or the neck portion 7. Alternative attachment arrangements may be used, such as, but not limited to, a screw thread, a bayonet element, welding, a press fit, or any other suitable means known in the art. The closure 47 has an inner portion 97 attached to an inner surface 98 of the neck of the inner container 3B and connected to or integral with the outer portion 95 by an end portion 99. In the embodiment shown, a sealing layer 100 is provided, for example by 2K moulding, and seals against said surface 98. Said sealing layer 100 also seals against an inner surface 101 of the outer container 3A.

[0061] A beverage outlet opening 102 is provided in the centre of the end portion 99, which in this embodiment is shown as an open outlet opening 102 with a sealing ring 100A. In an embodiment, a valve 49 may be fitted in or over the opening 102, for example connected to or instead of the sealing ring 100A as described above. In an embodiment, a pierceable closure may be provided in or over said opening 102, for example as disclosed in EP 2 238 041. In an embodiment, a dispense line 35 with a valve 31 may be connected to said opening directly or indirectly, for example by a dispense adapter 45, similar to those described above.

[0062] An inlet opening 103 is provided spaced apart from the beverage opening 102 for introducing a pressurized fluid, in particular a gas such as air or CO2, into the inlet portion 46A and into the space 46 to compress the inner container 3B. Said inlet opening 102 again has a main direction of flow F that is substantially parallel to the axis XX and to the main direction of flow F of the inlet portion 46A.

[0063] 19 shows the neck portion 7 of FIG. 18 with an adapter 38 fitted over the closure 47A. In the illustrated embodiment, the adapter has an outer skirt or flange 104 that can hook behind the ring or flange 93 of the container 3. The end face 105 is provided with a central opening 105A that allows access to the outlet opening 102. The outer skirt 104 is provided with at least one opening 52 that extends substantially radially through the skirt 102 into a channel 106 connecting the at least one opening 52 to the inlet opening 103. A suitable seal 107 is provided to seal the channel 106 so that pressurized fluid introduced through the opening 52 can be delivered into the inlet opening 103 without leakage.

[0064] In a preferred embodiment, the adapter 38 is externally configured substantially identically to the adapter 38 discussed with reference to, for example, Figures 6A-6G and 9, and has wings 40, 41 for proper installation, preferably in only one orientation, within the receptacle 5, and in particular within the recess or receptacle 36, to fit between the raised portions 43 of the tapping device 1 so that the gas connector 53 of the tapping device 1 can be connected in a suitable manner to said opening 52. Also, preferably, at least one blade 91 is capable of properly engaging the adapter 38 and / or the ring 93 for positioning and / or locking the container and / or can be used to detect the presence of the container 3.

[0065] 20, instead of the adapter 38, the container closure 47A is directly provided with a channel 106 extending between an opening 52 in an outer surface 107 of the closure, which extends outside the container neck portion 7, and an inlet opening 46A to the space 46 between the outer container 3A and the inner container 3B. In this embodiment, the closure 47A may be substantially the same as that shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, but in this embodiment, the outer portion 95 may comprise at least a part of the channel 106. In the illustrated embodiment, by way of example only, the outer skirt 95 has an annular chamber 108 that extends over an upper edge 109 of the outer container 3A, and a seal 100B is provided to seal against an outer surface 110 of the outer container 3A adjacent said edge 109. The channel 106 extends at least partially through the chamber 108, again so that the gas connector 53 of the tapping device 1 can be connected to the opening 52 in a suitable manner.

[0066] In a preferred embodiment, the closure 47A is configured substantially outwardly as the adapter 38, e.g., as discussed with reference to Figures 6A-6G and 9 or 19, and has wings 40, 41 for proper fit, preferably for attachment to the receptacle 5, and particularly to the recess or receptacle 36, in only one orientation, for fitting between the raised portions 43 of the tapping device 1 and for defining proper positioning for engagement with at least one connector 53. Also, preferably, at least one blade 91 is capable of properly engaging the adapter 38 and / or ring 93 for positioning and / or securing the container, and / or may be used to detect the presence of the container 3.

[0067] 18-20, dispense adapter 38 may again be used as described above, and adapter 38 and / or closure 47A may be provided with suitable means for engaging dispense adapter 45 and holding dispense adapter 45 in a position to open the valve or pierce the pierceable closure so that the beverage can be dispensed. As discussed, in all disclosed embodiments, dispense line 35 may be directly connected to the container, particularly to the closure ring, to valve 49, and / or to outlet 102, without an intermediate dispense adapter 45.

[0068] Figures 21A and 21B show schematically an embodiment of a dispensing system 1 in which a container 3 is positioned such that a bottom portion 24 of the container 3 is received within a receptacle 5 of a housing 4. In this embodiment, a gas inlet 9 may be provided in the bottom portion of the container 3, and a beverage outlet opening 210 may be provided in an upwardly facing neck portion 7 of the container 3, as described above, as shown for example in the container of Figure 23. In this embodiment, the lid 12 is again substantially transparent, similar to the lids of the embodiments described herein above, and substantially encloses the portion of the container 3 that extends outside the receptacle and / or housing.

[0069] In the embodiment shown in Figures 21A and 21B, dispense line 35 can be connected to outlet opening 210 of container 3 using, for example, an adapter similar to that described above, but only using connection means for dispensing line 35, because gas line 82A is connected to gas inlet opening 9 on the opposite side 24 of container 3. In Figures 21A and 21B, the dispense line is shown extending on the exterior surface of container 3 from top end or neck portion 7, when properly installed, to mechanism 30 for opening and / or closing valve 31, similar to that described herein above.

[0070] In an alternative embodiment (not shown), a dispensing unit may be provided which extends through the upper end of the lid 12 such that the beverage dispensing line 35 can dispense a beverage on the outside of the lid 12. In such an embodiment, the dispensing unit may be attached to the neck portion 7 of the container 3 after the lid 12 has been closed over the container 3. To this end, an opening may be provided in the top of the lid 12, which opening is closed during use by the dispensing unit and / or the container 3, for example the neck portion 7 of the container 3. In an embodiment, the neck portion 7 may extend into and / or through said opening in the lid 12. In such an embodiment, the dispensing unit may also include a dispensing line 35, which may be connected to a mechanism 30 for opening and / or closing a valve 31 when properly installed, as described above, or may be designed to dispense the beverage directly, for example through a substantially rigid tube connected to the dispensing opening 210, where the dispensing unit is capable of operating a valve at the dispensing opening 210 or at the dispensing unit itself.

[0071] In embodiments where the dispensing opening 210 is not at the lower end of the container 3 when dispensing, a dip tube 211 may be provided, connected to the dispensing opening 210 and extending within the interior volume of the container 3, particularly in area A close to the cooling surface of the dispensing device. In the embodiment shown in Figures 21A and 21B where the neck portion 7 faces upwards, the bottom portion of the container 3 may be inserted into a receptacle or bowl 5 which is cooled by cooling means as described above. This will result in cooling of the beverage, particularly in area A close to the bottom 24 of the container.

[0072] FIG. 22 schematically illustrates a further alternative embodiment of the dispensing system 1, in which the container 3 is in a substantially horizontal position. The longitudinal axis XX of the container 3 extends substantially horizontally. The neck portion 7 is shown on the left side of the drawing, and the bottom portion of the container 3 is shown on the right side of the drawing. The housing 4 may be substantially similar to that of the previous embodiment and, inter alia, includes a mechanism 30 for opening and / or closing the valve 31 when properly installed, as described above, cooling means, and means 23 for providing air under pressure for introduction into the container 3. In this embodiment, the housing 4 includes an elongated receptacle 5 for receiving the relevant portion 6 of the container, which here includes a side portion of the main body portion 23 of the container 3. The receptacle 5 is substantially bowl-shaped, with its upper surface, substantially defined by a substantially horizontal imaginary plane P, preferably extending below the longitudinal axis, and the larger main body portion 23 extending above said receptacle 5. For example, more than 50% of the axial length of the container 3 is visible over an angle of more than 180 degrees around the longitudinal axis XX of the container.

[0073] As can be seen, cooling means 26, 95 are provided in the housing 4, for example but not limited to one or more channels for passing a chilled liquid, to cool the portion 6 of the container inside the receptacle 5, preferably substantially by contact cooling as described above. Said portion 6 is thus provided with or forms an area A in which the beverage will initially be cooled. A riser or dip tube 211 may be provided extending from the dispensing opening 210 into said area A. Again, a connection unit 34 and / or adapter 38 may be used to connect the container 3 to the dispensing line 35 and, by means of gas line 82A, to a source of pressurized gas, such as a compressor or pump 83.

[0074] 22, a lid 12 is also provided, supported by the housing 4, and encloses the outwardly extending portion 28 of the container 3, particularly the receptacle 5, within the device 2. The lid 12 in this embodiment has a partially tunnel-shaped configuration with a double-curved closed end 12A at one end. Again, the lid may substantially follow the shape of the outer surface of the relevant portion 28 of the container 3, enclosing the relatively small space between the lid 12 and the container 12. The lid, again, is preferably transparent, as discussed with respect to the previous embodiment, allowing the container to be viewed through the lid 12.

[0075] FIG. 23A shows, in side and cross-sectional views, a schematic of a preform assembly 212 for forming a container such as that shown in the cross-section of FIG. 23B. The assembly 212 includes an inner preform 213 and an outer preform 214 connected to one another near their bottom ends 24 and / or opposite neck regions 7. The bottom end 24 is provided with an air inlet opening 9, which opens to an interface 215 between the outer and inner preforms 213, 214. FIG. 23B shows a container 3 blown from the preform assembly 212. The neck region 7 is provided with a valve assembly that closes the dispensing opening 210 of the container 3. In use, a gas, such as compressed air, can be inserted through the inlet opening 9 to the interface, compressing the inner container or bag 3B formed from the inner preform 213. When connected at the bottom ends, the inner container or bag 3B deforms radially inward. As is known in the art, both preforms 213, 214 may be made from a plastic such as PET.

[0076] In embodiments, the container 3 as shown in any or each figure can have an outer container 3A, which can be substantially rigid or at least more rigid than the inner container 3B. The outer container 3A and the inner container 3B can each comprise a single layer or multiple layers. The inner container 3B, which may be referred to as a bag, is substantially flexible and, as discussed, collapses when pressure is applied from the outside, e.g., from the interface 215 between the containers. In embodiments, the outer container 3A can be substantially transparent, at least as far as the portion 28 that normally extends outside the receptacle 5 is concerned. Transparent, in this context, should be understood to mean that at least the or each inner container 3A enclosed therein can be seen through the outer container 3A, and in particular, deformations of the inner container and / or light reflected by the inner container 3B shining through the outer container 3A can be seen. The lid portion, as described above, preferably has a suitable transparency. The outer container 3A can, for example, be made as transparent as the lid 12.

[0077] In the present disclosure, transparency should be understood to include translucency, as long as the container can be seen through the lid and / or the inner container 3B can be seen through the outer container 3A and / or the lid 12.

[0078] In the disclosed embodiment, the valve 49 mounted on the closure ring 47 can be, for example, in accordance with EP 2917148 or EP 2914542. The valve 49 has a valve body 49A which can be pushed axially, i.e. along or parallel to the axis XX, further into the container 3 away from the valve seat 49B to open the valve 49 and is biased into a closed position.

[0079] For example, as can be seen in FIGS. 6A-6G, adapter 38 can have a central opening 44, and a connector (also referred to as dispense adapter 45) can be provided or introduced into central opening 44. Dispense adapter 45 is connected to or connectable to dispense line 35. In FIG. 6A, dispense adapter 45 is shown in a rest position, with dispense line 35 wrapped around adapter 38 under wings 40, 41 for storage. In this position, container 3 can be stored or delivered to a user. As can be seen in cross section in FIG. 6B, dispense adapter 45 is positioned so that valve 49 is closed. Resilient fingers or walls 55, for example, under edge 60, click into dispense adapter 45 and help hold it in this position. 6C and 6D show the same container 3, but with the dispense line extending through the notch 42 in an uncoiled state, while the dispense adapter 45 is pushed further into the adapter 38, opening the valve 49, as seen in FIG. 6D. The dispense adapter is preferably secured in this position, for example, by fingers or walls 55 and / or by locking a portion 56 of the dispense adapter 45 behind a clinch plate 57 of the valve or any suitable means. Alternatively or additionally, a protrusion (not shown) at the bottom of the recess 36 can push and / or hold the dispense adapter 45 in the position shown in FIGS. 6C and 6D or 6F and 6G, preventing it from reclosing during use. Thus, beverage can flow into the dispense line, preferably no farther than the valve 3 when the valve 3 is closed. In this position, the container can be turned upside down and placed inside the receptacle 5 and recess 36 .

[0080] 6E-6G show an alternative embodiment, in which adapter 38 is shown mounted over a container but without dispense adapter 45 with dispensing line 35, which may be provided separately to the user. Prior to use, the user presses dispense adapter 45 into the opening of adapter 38, with dispensing line 35 passing through slit 42 and opening valve 49 as described above.

[0081] 16A-16C and 17 disclose, in partial cross section, an example of a dispense adapter 45 equipped with a dispensing line 35. In FIG. 16A, the housing portion 58 of the dispense adapter 45 is shown, with a hollow central shaft 61 extending along an axis YY that, during use, coincides with or is at least substantially parallel to the axis XX. A free end 62 of the shaft 61 may be provided with a seal 63, e.g., of rubber or silicone or such soft, resilient material, for sealingly cooperating with the valve 49 when pressed into an opening 64 of the valve 49. At the opposite end 65, an end 35A of the dispensing line 35 may be attached to the hollow shaft 61. The end 65 connects to a sloped or curved surface 66 over which the dispensing line 35 can be bent, preferably to include an approximately 90-degree angle at the end 35A of the dispensing line 35, as shown in FIG. 16B. A lid 67 is then installed over the tapping line 35 and housing portion 58 to secure the dispensing line 35 in the angled position, as shown in FIG. 16C. As can be seen in FIG. 16, the lid 67 can include a lip 60. The lid 67 can be connected in any suitable manner, for example, by press fit, form lock, welding, adhesive, or any such means known to those skilled in the art.

[0082] 17 shows a valve, specifically an in-line valve 31 with a spout 32, in cross section. The spout 32 is covered by a cover 32A that can be removed prior to use to keep the spout 32 clean until such use. The valve 31 is connected to a dispense line 35 at an end 35A opposite the end connected to a dispense adapter 45 and can have a structure and design such as is known from the David system, such as that sold by Heineken®. The spout 32 can be movable substantially longitudinally along a spout axis VV relative to the body 68 to open and close the valve 31.

[0083] 10, the recess 36 may be provided in the lower part 4A of the housing 4, above which the receptacle 5 or at least a further receptacle 5 may be provided in a further housing part 4B. The recess 36 has a channel 69 in a wall part 68 between the two ends 43A of the raised portion 43, into which the dispense line 35 may be positioned when the container 3 is properly installed in the tapping device 1. FIGS. 14 and 15 show how the dispense line 35 is guided further upward through an adjacent channel 69 extending upward in the receptacle wall 11, so as not to interfere with the proximity, and preferably contact, of said wall 11 and the shoulder portion 8 of the container 3. As mentioned above, the tapping assembly, and in particular the dispenser 2, includes a mechanism 30 for opening and / or closing the valve 31 when properly installed. For that purpose, the operating mechanism comprises a holding element 70 for holding the body 68 of the valve 31 and a gripping element 71 which is movable relative to the holding element 70 in order to grasp and move the spout 32 between the open and closed positions of the valve 31. A tapping handle 73 is directly or indirectly connected to the gripping element 71 in order to move the gripping element 71 between said positions.

[0084] Figure 14 shows the position of the operating mechanism 30 in which the valve 31 can be positioned or removed. The tapping handle may be removed and the lid 72 opened, allowing access to the gripping and holding elements to install or remove the valve 31. This position is shown in perspective in Figure 13. The lid 72 can then be reclosed over the valve 31 and dispensing line 35, as shown in Figure 15, and the handle 73 can be replaced, if necessary.

[0085] As can be seen in FIGS. 10 and 11 , the housing includes an operating mechanism 80 for operating at least one gas connector 53 of the tapping device 1. The operating mechanism 80 is designed, in particular, to move the at least one gas connector 53 between a retracted position and an extended position. The operating mechanism 80 extends at least partially radially into the recess 36 and connects to a gas inlet 52 provided in the adapter 38, which in turn connects to the opening 9 of the container 3 or a vent thereof. In the illustrated embodiment, two such gas connectors 53 are provided on opposite sides of the recess 36, i.e., radially opposite each other. However, one such connector may suffice. In an embodiment, one of the connectors 53 may be used to introduce gas under pressure, in particular air, into the container, in particular into its space 46, through the gas inlet 52 and the opening 9 or vent of the adapter. In an embodiment, one connector 53 may be provided to depressurize the container 3, and in particular the space 46, if the pressure rises above a predetermined level, for example by connecting said connector 53 to an overpressure valve. In an embodiment, one such connector 53 may be connected to a pressure sensor (not shown) to detect the presence of a proper container or at least a proper connection. In an embodiment, another type or location of sensor for detecting the presence of a container may be used, such as, for example, a pressure switch, a position switch, an optical sensor, or any such sensor known in the art.

[0086] In the illustrated embodiment, the or each connector 53 is carried by a slider 81, which is slidably supported within the housing 4 so that the slider 81 can slide radially back and forth in the direction indicated by the double arrow P (FIG. 11). A gas inlet 82 is provided for connection to a compressor or pump 83 or other source of compressed gas, in particular air. A ring 84 is mounted within the housing 4 and extends around the receptacle 36. The ring 84 has at least one, and in the illustrated embodiment, two, guide slits 85, into which a pin 86 of each slider 81 extends. The slits 85 extend such that rotation of the ring 84 about a vertical axis parallel to or coincident with the axis XX simultaneously pushes the slider 81 into an extended position or away from the extended position into a retracted position. The ring 84 can be rotated by hand or by rotating the container. In the illustrated embodiment, the ring 84 is actuated and rotated by a motor 89 through a pinion 87 which is in meshing engagement with a rack portion 88 of the ring 84 .

[0087] 10 shows one or more sliders 81 in a retracted position. In this position, the front end 87 of each slider 81 is close to or substantially flush with the wall 36A of the recess 36, allowing the adapter 38 to be easily inserted into or removed from the recess 36 and, therefore, from the tapping device 2. In the extended position, the front end 87 of the slider 81 is pressed against an outer wall portion of the adapter 38 and / or into the inlet 52, connecting the slider 81, and in particular its nozzle 90 (extending from or provided by the front end 87), in fluid communication with the inlet 52 and / or opening 9. In this position, gas, in particular air, can be introduced into the container through the gas inlet 82 provided by the source, such as a compressor or pump.

[0088] In the illustrated embodiment, a blade 91 is connected to at least one slider 81 and is movable with the slider 81. When a front end 92 of such a blade 91 is moved with the slider 81 to an extended position, the front end 92 is pushed over a ring 93 provided on the neck of the container 3, i.e., on the side opposite the closure ring 47 of the ring 93. This helps prevent removal of the container 3 while the slider is in the extended position. Moreover, in embodiments, one or more blades and rings 93 may be designed to push the container further into the receptacle 5, improving proximity or contact between the shoulder portion 8 of the container and the wall 11 of the receptacle 5 and thus improving cooling. In embodiments, a sensor may be attached to the slider or blade, and when the slider and blade are moved to the extended position but do not meet the adapter, the sensor provides a warning signal or at least partially shuts down the dispensing device, for example, by closing the air supply. Alternatively or additionally, the sensor may switch on or activate the device 2 when it recognizes that the correct container is installed in the correct location.

[0089] As discussed, a cooling system 26 is provided within the housing 4, shown here as a compressor- and evaporator-based cooling system, including cooling lines 95 and the like that extend in close proximity to or within the walls 11 of the receptacle 5, and possibly the recess 36, for cooling the walls 11 or at least relevant portions thereof. The cooling device 26 is preferably designed to maintain the walls 11 at a predetermined temperature, or at least to cool the walls so that at least the beverage near the outlet opening, i.e., the beverage in the neck 7 and possibly the shoulder portion 8, is at or as close as possible to a desired temperature. Depending on the beverage and the user's preferences, this temperature may preferably be set, for example, but not limited to, between about 4 and 9 degrees Celsius, e.g., around 6 degrees Celsius. Other temperatures or temperature ranges may also be set.

[0090] For example, as can be seen from Figures 3B, 7, 9, 11 and 13-15, the shoulder portion 8 of the container can fit closely against the wall 11 of the receptacle, while the inner container 3B within the shoulder portion can fit snugly along the inner surface of the outer container. Thus, contact cooling between the wall 11 and the shoulder portion of the container 3 has surprisingly been found to be extremely effective.

[0091] In common fashion, the tapping device 2, when properly installed, includes a leak tray 102 below the spout 32. Figure 4 shows an exploded view of the device 2 of the present disclosure in an advantageous embodiment. However, it should be noted that many different embodiments are within the scope of the present disclosure as disclosed and defined.

[0092] In the illustrated embodiment, the housing 4 may include lighting elements, such as LEDs 77, in an edge portion of the housing 4, such that light from the LEDs 77 penetrates into the lid 12, and in particular into and / or between one or both walls 18A, 18B, to illuminate the lid 12 when the lid 12 is installed on the housing 4. Part or all of the lid may be transparent, allowing a view of the container, and in particular a brand name provided thereon. One or more walls 18 of the lid may be made to emit said light locally or over the entire surface. Parts of the lid may be opaque or non-transparent, for example, blocking or obscuring the view of the container from certain positions or angles.

[0093] 24A and 24B illustrate an embodiment of a dispensing assembly 1 according to the present disclosure, shown here as an embodiment similar to that shown in, for example, FIGS. 1-3. However, the lighting 77 disclosed herein is equally applicable to any of the disclosed embodiments. In FIGS. 24A and 24B, light sources are provided, such as LEDs 77 similar to light sources 77 described above. In this embodiment, at least some of the light sources 77 project light toward the container 3, providing an alternative visual effect. This may be in lieu of, or in addition to, lighting such as that described above that is provided within the lid 12 itself.

[0094] As shown in FIG. 24A, when the container 3 is filled with a beverage, light irradiated toward the container 3 is reflected substantially directly out of the lid 12, as shown by light ray 77A. In an embodiment, the container 3 may be provided with a transparent outer container 3A that is transparent to at least the light emitted by the light source 77, and an inner container 3B. The inner container may be less transparent, or preferably opaque or light-reflective, e.g., having a metallic color, e.g., silver or aluminum. The inner container 3B can reflect the emitted light. In such an embodiment, when the container is emptied, the inner container 3B gradually collapses, as shown in FIG. 24B. This means that the reflection pattern of light 77A reflected by the inner container 3B changes over time, altering the overall appearance.

[0095] In embodiments where the inner container 3B is also transparent to light, or where there is no such inner container 3B, the beverage inside the container may at least partially reflect or diffuse light emitted from the light source 77, again altering the appearance of the assembly 1 during use.

[0096] In embodiments, some portions of the inner and / or outer containers 3A, 3B may be more or less transparent and / or more or less and / or differently reflective than other portions of the same inner and / or outer containers 3A, 3B, again altering the appearance of the system in use. To the same effect, at least one or more portions of the containers may be provided with elements that interfere or interact with the emitted light, such as refractors, lenses such as Fresnel lenses, diffusers, etc.

[0097] 25A and 25B show a system 1 in which a light source 77 again illuminates the container 3 within the volume enclosed by the lid 12. In this embodiment, the light source 77 is shown at the top end 24 of the lid 12 opposite the housing. As can be seen from a comparison of FIGS. 25A and 25B, again the reflection and / or diffusion of the light 77A emitted by the light source 77 changes during the dispensing of the beverage, for example due to the collapse of the inner container 3B and / or changes in the fill rate of the container 3. Obviously, the light source 77 may also be provided in different positions, for example in the receptacle 5 or recess, to illuminate the container 3 from the shoulder and / or neck and / or bottom portions onto and / or into the container 3. As disclosed, different light sources 77 may be provided in different positions.

[0098] FIG. 5 shows a schematic diagram of how the system 1 of the present disclosure can be used, with reference to the embodiment of FIGS. 1-4, for example. Alternative disclosed embodiments can be used as well. The first container 3 can be pre-cooled, for example, in a refrigerator 74. The lid 12 of the device 2 is removed from the housing 4, as is the handle 73. The lid 72 of the operating mechanism 30 is opened, allowing the container 3 to be inserted into the housing, particularly into the receptacle 5, the tapping line 35 positioned in the channel, and the valve 31 properly installed in the holding and gripping elements of the operating mechanism 30. It should be noted that in an advantageous embodiment, as disclosed herein, the channel in which the dispense line 35 is installed is entirely open, allowing the dispense line to be positioned very easily without having to be inserted through an opening or the like. The lid 72 of the operating mechanism is then reclosed, and the lid 12 is installed on the housing over the container 3. The tapping handle 73 is replaced.

[0099] After proper installation of the container 3, the device 2 may be switched on or at least activated, causing the ring 84 to rotate and push the slider(s) 81 into an extended position to properly engage the inlet 52 and / or opening 9, and the blade(s) 91 to be pressed against the adapter 38 under the ring 93 to further lock the container 3 in place. Cooling, if not already operating, is activated to cool the wall 11 to the correct temperature, and lighting, if provided, is switched on.

[0100] During use, gas under pressure is fed into the space 46 through the slider 81 and the gas inlet 52 to pressurize the inner container 3B. This pressurizes the beverage and, when the valve 31 is opened, causes the beverage, such as beer, to flow out. A pressure sensor, e.g., in the compressor, in the gas line between the compressor and the slider, or in the slider, detects the pressure and activates the compressor when an increase in pressure is required. This allows the pressure to be maintained within appropriate limits during use, e.g., at the equilibrium pressure of the beverage in the case of a carbonated beverage.

[0101] 7 shows the advantageous position of the bag 3B relative to the shoulder portion 8 of the outer container 3A, indicating close proximity. The distance, measured perpendicular to a tangent to the outer wall 3A, can be, for example, between 0 and 1 mm, preferably between 0 and 0.5 mm, and more preferably between 0 and 0.2 mm. Preferably, the shape of the shoulder portion between the body portion and the neck 7 is substantially spherical. This has been found to provide good proximity during temperature and / or pressure changes, as well as when the container is emptied during use.

[0102] The present invention is in no way limited to the specific disclosed and discussed embodiments hereinabove. Many variations thereof are possible, including, but not limited to, combinations of some of the illustrated and described embodiments. For example, the at least one opening 9 may be provided in a different location, e.g., extending substantially radially outward through the closure ring 47, e.g., extending through the inner surface or wall of the ring into the space between the containers, and the adapter 38 may extend into the ring to properly communicate with the at least one opening 9. The container may be provided with only one opening in the neck or with several such openings. In embodiments, the container may be a single-walled container, and a gas, e.g., CO2 or nitrogen gas, may be inserted directly into the beverage. In embodiments, the container may be compressible by pressurizing the space within the lid. In embodiments, the closure ring 47 and the adapter 38 may be integrated. They may then be directly connected to the container 3 as a closure or may be suitable as an adapter. In embodiments, the dispense adapter and the adapter can be integrated with each other and / or with the closure ring. Instead of a valve, a different closure can be used on the container, such as a pierceable closure or a removable closure, where the pierceable closure can be pierced by the adapter and / or the dispense adapter, and the removable closure can then be exchanged for the adapter and / or the dispense adapter to cooperate with a tapping device.

[0103] These and many other modifications, including but not limited to all combinations of the elements of the invention as disclosed, are considered to be disclosed herein and are considered to be within the scope of the invention as presented.

Claims

1. 1. A beverage dispensing assembly comprising: a beverage container containing a dispenser and a beverage; the beverage container having a neck portion and a shoulder portion adjacent the neck portion; the neck portion of the container is provided with at least an outlet opening and at least one gas inlet opening; The dispenser comprises a housing; the housing is provided with a receptacle for receiving at least a portion of the container, the container including the neck portion; the container is placed in the dispenser such that at least a portion of the container is received in the receptacle, the portion extending near and / or having a portion in contact with a wall of the receptacle, thereby cooling a portion of the container and the beverage in the beverage container; a lid is provided to cover the container and surround a portion of the container that extends outside the receptacle; the lid is transparent at least to the extent that at least a majority of the container extending outside the receptacle is visible through the lid; the housing includes a cooling device for cooling at least a portion of the wall of the receptacle; The container is placed in the dispenser, the dispenser being designed to receive the beverage container in an upright, lying or tilted position. Beverage dispensing assembly.

2. 2. The beverage dispensing assembly of claim 1, wherein the outlet opening and at least one of the gas inlet openings are provided in a neck portion of the container.

3. 3. The beverage dispensing assembly of claim 1 or 2, The lid is at least partially transparent, such that at least a portion of the container extending outside the receptacle is visible through the lid. Beverage dispensing assembly.

4. 4. The beverage dispensing assembly of claim 3, wherein at least a portion of the container is visible through the lid from at least two opposing sides.

5. 5. The beverage dispensing assembly of claim 3 or 4, wherein at least a portion of the container is visible through the lid over an angle of at least about 270 degrees about the longitudinal axis.

6. 6. A beverage dispensing assembly according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein at least a portion of the container is visible through the lid over an angle of approximately 360 degrees about the longitudinal axis.

7. A beverage dispensing assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 6, the lid is mounted on the housing and seals a space between the lid and an outer surface of the container, the lid isolating the container from the surrounding space; Beverage dispensing assembly.

8. A beverage dispensing assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 7, The lid is a double-walled lid. Beverage dispensing assembly.

9. A beverage dispensing assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 8, The lid is made of plastic and / or glass. Beverage dispensing assembly.

10. 10. A beverage dispensing assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 9, The container is a plastic container. Beverage dispensing assembly.

11. 11. The beverage dispensing assembly of claim 10, wherein the container is a BIC type container.

12. 2. The beverage dispensing assembly of claim 1, the container is provided with a dispensing unit including at least a dispensing line, the housing including a tap for connecting and / or cooperating with the dispensing line; the dispensing line is a single-use line; Beverage dispensing assembly.

13. 13. A beverage dispensing assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 12, the receptacle is substantially bowl-shaped; the container is supported by at least a portion of the wall of the receptacle; Beverage dispensing assembly.

14. 14. The beverage dispensing assembly of claim 13, wherein the receptacle is hemispherical.

15. 15. A beverage dispensing assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 14, comprising: the container is provided with a closure ring that closes the neck portion of the container; the closure ring and / or the neck portion of the container are provided with the at least one gas inlet opening for introducing a fluid under pressure into the container, a beverage valve is provided in and / or above the dispensing opening provided by said closure ring; Beverage dispensing assembly.

16. 16. The beverage dispensing assembly of claim 15, wherein the closure ring and / or the neck portion of the container are provided with the at least one gas inlet opening for introducing a fluid under pressure between the inner and outer containers of the container.

17. 17. A beverage dispensing assembly according to claim 15 or 16, wherein the fluid is a gas.

18. 16. A beverage dispensing assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 15, an adapter is provided at the neck portion of the container; Beverage dispensing assembly.

19. 20. The beverage dispensing assembly of claim 18, the adapter is attached over at least a portion of the neck portion of the container; the adapter forms at least a portion of a dispensing unit including at least a dispensing line; the dispensing line is provided at a first end with a connector or dispense adapter for connection to the outlet opening or to a beverage dispensing valve provided at the outlet opening, and at an opposite end with a beverage dispensing opening provided with a dispense valve, the dispense valve being integral with or connected to the dispense line; Beverage dispensing assembly.

20. 20. The beverage dispensing assembly of claim 19, wherein the dispense valve, along with the dispense line, is disposable.

21. 21. A beverage dispensing assembly according to any one of claims 18 to 20, comprising: the adapter is configured to connect a gas connector of the dispenser with the at least one gas inlet opening. Beverage dispensing assembly.

22. 22. A beverage dispensing assembly according to any one of claims 18 to 21, the container is a BIC type container and includes an outer container and an inner container; at least one gas inlet opening is provided in a peripheral wall portion of the container at the neck portion of the container and opens into a space between the inner container and the outer container; the adapter at least covers the at least one gas inlet opening and has at least one adapter opening extending radially outward, the at least one adapter opening fluidly communicating with the at least one gas inlet opening and further fluidly connecting to a gas connector of the dispenser; the housing is provided with a supply of gas under pressure, which is connected to the gas connector; Beverage dispensing assembly.

23. 23. The beverage dispensing assembly of claim 22, wherein the at least one gas inlet opening is provided in a peripheral wall portion of the neck portion of the outer container at the neck portion of the container.

24. 24. A beverage dispensing assembly as claimed in claim 22 or 23, wherein the supply for gas under pressure is a gas compressor.

25. 25. A beverage dispensing assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 24, comprising: the dispenser is provided with at least one gas connector, the at least one gas connector being movable relative to the container and / or the receiver; Beverage dispensing assembly.

26. 26. The beverage dispensing assembly of claim 25, wherein the at least one gas connector is movable substantially radially relative to a longitudinal axis of the neck portion of the container.

27. 27. A beverage dispensing assembly according to claim 25 or 26, comprising: the gas connector is mechanically movable; Beverage dispensing assembly.

28. 28. The beverage dispensing assembly of claim 27, wherein the gas connector is electromechanically movable.

29. 29. A beverage dispensing assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 28, comprising: the dispenser is provided with at least one sensing element movable relative to the container and / or receptacle, the sensing element engaging with the container and / or an adapter attached to the container to sense the correct position of the container and / or adapter in the receptacle; the sensing element is part of or is capable of forming a fixing element for fixing the container inside the dispenser; Beverage dispensing assembly.

30. 30. The beverage dispensing assembly of claim 29, the sensing element and at least one gas connector are coupled; - when the sensing element detects the correct position of the container and / or its adapter, or - the sensing element detects the correct position of the container or its adapter, or does not detect the container or its adapter, the gas connector is configured to be movable to an extended state only in In the extended state, the gas connector is connected to at least one gas inlet opening of the container. Beverage dispensing assembly.

31. 31. A beverage dispensing assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 30, comprising: a light is provided to illuminate at least a portion of the lid; The lighting is provided in the housing and irradiates light into the lid from a lower end of the lid placed on the housing. Beverage dispensing assembly.

32. 32. A beverage dispensing assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 31, wherein at least a portion of the container comprising the neck portion comprises at least a part of a shoulder portion of the container.

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