Portable beverage dispensing trolley

Abstract

A service trolley for dispensing beverages includes a frame having an upper end opposite a lower end and a tabletop disposed on the upper end of the frame. The trolley further includes wheels disposed on the lower end of the frame configured to allow the frame to roll over a surface. The trolley includes a beverage dispenser disposed within the frame, the beverage dispenser including a multi-server beverage container for storing a beverage, a dispensing head in communication with the beverage container via a conduit, and a pressurized vessel configured to contain pressurized gas in communication with the beverage container to drive a flow of the beverage from the beverage container to the dispensing head.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The embodiments described herein generally relate to a movable beverage dispensing trolley. Specifically, the embodiments described herein relate to a service trolley configured to dispense food and / or beverages, where the beverages can be dispensed from a multi-service beverage container using gravity or a pressurized gas.

Background Art

[0002] Service trolleys are used to store and organize food and beverages for distribution to passengers on airplanes, trains, or other modes of transportation. Such trolleys can store a variety of items, including, among many others, bottled or canned beverages, alcoholic beverages, snacks and packaged meals, kettles, carafes, ice buckets, plastic cups, tableware, napkins, payment processing devices, and cash boxes. However, service trolleys often provide limited storage space and it can be difficult for personnel to identify and quickly access various items. Items may need to be distributed to a large number of passengers, and the difficulty in accessing items can result in significant delays. As a result, meal or beverage service can take longer and inconvenience passengers. If passengers do not receive food and beverage items in a timely manner, they can have a negative experience. Therefore, among other items, an improved service trolley for dispensing beverages and / or food is desired.

Summary of the Invention

[0003] Some embodiments described herein relate to a service trolley comprising a frame having an upper end opposite to a lower end, a tabletop positioned at the upper end of the frame, and wheels positioned at the lower end of the frame, configured to allow the frame to roll on a surface. The service trolley may further include a beverage dispenser positioned within the frame, comprising a multi-server beverage container for storing beverages, a dispensing head communicating with the beverage containers via conduits, and a pressurized vessel communicating with the beverage containers, configured to contain pressurized gas to drive a flow of beverage from the beverage containers to the dispensing head.

[0004] In any of the various embodiments discussed herein, the dispensing head may include a burr gun.

[0005] In any of the various embodiments discussed herein, the dispensing head may include a nozzle.

[0006] In any of the various embodiments discussed herein, the beverage container may be one of a plurality of beverage containers, and the dispensing head may be configured to dispense beverages from the plurality of beverage containers. In some embodiments, the beverage dispenser may further include a container support configured to hold a pressurized vessel and beverage containers. In some embodiments, the container support includes one or more rails for a slidable connection to the upper end of a frame, so that the container support can slide in and out of the frame. In some embodiments, the container support may further include a manifold connected to each of the beverage containers and the pressurized vessel for supplying pressurized gas to the beverage containers.

[0007] In any of the various embodiments discussed herein, the service trolley may further include a tray dispenser comprising a platform configured to receive and hold trays in a stacked configuration, and a drive mechanism for moving the platform from the lower end to the upper end of a frame. In some embodiments, the service trolley may be an aviation service trolley, and the drive mechanism may be manually operated. In some embodiments, the tray dispenser may further include a belt connected to the platform and an actuator, so that when the actuator is operated, the belt moves the platform from the lower end to the upper end of the frame. In some embodiments, the tray dispenser may be located on a first side of the frame, and a beverage dispenser may be located on a second side of the frame opposite the first side.

[0008] Some embodiments described herein relate to a movable beverage dispensing trolley, comprising a frame having an upper end opposite to a lower end; a tabletop positioned at the upper end of the frame; and wheels positioned at the lower end of the frame, configured to allow the frame to roll on a surface. The movable beverage dispensing trolley may further include a beverage dispenser positioned at the tabletop, comprising a platform configured to receive and support a beverage container in an inverted orientation; and at least one valve communicating with the beverage container and configured to control the dispensing of beverage from the beverage container by gravity.

[0009] In any of the various embodiments discussed herein, the tabletop may have a first end opposite to a second end, and the beverage dispenser may be positioned in the center of the tabletop between the first and second ends, so that the beverage dispenser is accessible from both the first and second ends of the frame.

[0010] In any of the various embodiments discussed herein, the platform may be rotatable around a central post.

[0011] In any of the various embodiments discussed herein, the beverage dispenser may include a first set of valves facing a first side of the frame and a second set of valves facing a second side of the frame.

[0012] In any of the various embodiments discussed herein, the beverage dispenser may include a foldable support.

[0013] Some embodiments described herein are frames defining a plurality of receptacles, each of which is a beverage dispensing module or Tray distribution module The present invention relates to a movable beverage dispensing trolley comprising a frame configured to removably receive a beverage, a tabletop positioned at the upper end of the frame, and wheels positioned at the lower end of the frame configured to allow the frame to roll on a surface. The beverage dispensing module of the movable beverage dispensing trolley may include a container support for supporting a beverage container containing a beverage and a pressurized vessel containing pressurized gas, and a dispensing head for dispensing a beverage from the beverage container, wherein the dispensing head communicates with a beverage flow via a conduit, and the pressurized gas is configured to drive the flow of beverage from the beverage container to the dispensing head.

[0014] In any of the various embodiments discussed herein, the movable beverage dispensing trolley includes a movable platform configured to receive and hold trays in a stacked configuration, and a drive mechanism for moving the movable platform from the lower end of the frame to the upper end of the frame. Tray distribution module It may include.

[0015] In any of the various embodiments discussed herein, the trolley frame may be configured to removably receive at least two beverage dispensing modules.

[0016] In any of the various embodiments discussed herein, the beverage dispensing module may further include manifolds connected to each of the beverage containers and a pressurized vessel. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0017] The accompanying drawings, incorporated herein and forming part thereof, illustrate the disclosure and, together with the description, further illustrate the principles of the disclosure and enable those skilled in the art to construct and use the disclosure. [Figure 1] A front view of a movable beverage dispensing trolley according to one embodiment is shown. [Figure 2] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of the movable beverage dispensing trolley. [Figure 3] Figure 1 shows a side view of a movable beverage dispensing trolley illustrating the operation of a tray dispenser. [Figure 4] A perspective view of a movable beverage dispensing trolley according to one embodiment is shown. [Figure 5] A perspective view of the container support of a movable beverage dispensing trolley according to one embodiment is shown. [Figure 6] A top-down view of a container support for a portable beverage dispensing trolley according to one embodiment is shown. [Figure 7] This shows a side view of a movable beverage dispensing trolley in which a beverage dispensing module according to one embodiment is positioned inside. [Figure 8] A perspective view of a movable beverage dispensing trolley having a beverage dispensing module according to one embodiment is shown. [Figure 9] This shows a top-down view of a movable beverage dispensing trolley according to one embodiment. [Figure 10] A perspective view of a movable beverage dispensing trolley having a beverage dispenser on the tabletop of the trolley according to one embodiment is shown. [Figure 11] This shows a top-down view of a movable beverage dispensing trolley according to one embodiment. [Figure 12] This shows a top-down view of a movable beverage dispensing trolley according to one embodiment. [Figure 13] The following view shows a perspective view of a movable beverage dispensing trolley according to an embodiment. [Figure 14] The following view shows a perspective view of a movable beverage dispensing trolley according to an embodiment. [Figure 15] The following perspective view shows a movable beverage dispensing trolley including a beverage dispenser having a foldable support according to an embodiment.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0018] Here, reference is made in detail to representative embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the following description is not intended to limit the plurality of embodiments to one preferred embodiment. On the contrary, the present invention is intended to embrace alternatives, modifications, and equivalents that may be included within the spirit and scope of the embodiments defined by the claims.

[0019] Service trolleys or carts are often used by crew members to serve meals, beverages, and other items to passengers on trains, aircraft, or other modes of transport. Beverages are typically distributed by providing passengers with individual cans, or by pouring bottles or cans into disposable cups and providing those cups to passengers. As a result, aircraft crew members have to open and pour numerous individual cans to serve beverages to each passenger. Opening and pouring cans is labor-intensive and can be time-consuming. Furthermore, the need to open cans can result in wasted beverages if the entire contents of the can are not poured out. The need to pour beverages from cans into cups to serve passengers also creates a risk of spills, which can lead to beverage waste and mess. Canned or bottled beverages also consume significant space, add considerable weight to the aircraft, increase fuel costs, and occupy limited storage space that could be used to store other items. Additionally, empty cans or bottles can generate significant waste. Therefore, a portable cart is desired that can dispense beverages more easily, efficiently, and with less waste.

[0020] Furthermore, service trolleys generally have a fixed structure, comprising a first area or compartment for storing beverages and a second area or compartment for storing other items such as trays and meals. Therefore, the amount of space available for storing beverages within the trolley may be limited, which can lead to the need for more frequent replenishment of beverages. Because the trolley's configuration is fixed, it is not easily possible to modify the service trolley to accommodate additional beverages or meals as needed. Therefore, a modular service trolley, which can be configured to store additional beverages or additional trays, is desirable to provide increased flexibility.

[0021] Some embodiments described herein relate to a service trolley having a beverage dispenser, which includes a multi-service beverage container communicating with a dispensing head, from which beverages can be dispensed, and the flow of beverages to the dispensing head is driven by pressurized gas. In this way, beverages can be dispensed into cups more easily and waste can be reduced. Some embodiments described herein relate to a beverage dispensing module and Tray distribution module The present invention relates to a movable beverage dispensing trolley having a modular structure such that it can be added to or removed from the trolley as needed.

[0022] A service trolley 100 configured for dispensing beverages is shown, for example, in Figure 1. The trolley 100 includes a frame 110 having an upper end 112 opposite to a lower end 114 and a first side 116 opposite to a second side 118. The upper end 112 of the frame 110 includes a tabletop 113 on which various items may be placed. The lower end 114 of the trolley 100 includes one or more wheels 108 configured to allow the service trolley 100 to roll on a surface such as the ground or floor. In some embodiments, the wheels 108 may be caster wheels. In some embodiments, the trolley 100 may include four wheels, with one wheel 108 positioned at each corner of the lower end 114 of the frame 110. In some embodiments, the trolley 100 may include a pair of wheels 108 positioned on the frame 110 in a fixed orientation and a pair of wheels 108 that can swivel or rotate to allow the trolley 100 to be more easily maneuvered.

[0023] In some embodiments, the frame 110 of the trolley 100 may be molded as a rectangular prism. The frame 110 may be dimensioned to fit within the passage of an aircraft or vehicle. However, in some embodiments, the frame 110 may be molded as a cube, among a variety of other shapes. The frame 110 may be made of metal, such as aluminum, metal alloys, hard plastics, wood, or a combination thereof, among other materials.

[0024] In some embodiments, the frame 110 of the trolley 100 may surround a beverage dispenser 130 and / or a tray dispenser 150, as shown in Figure 1. In some embodiments, the tray dispenser 150 may be located on a first side 116 of the frame 110 and the beverage dispenser 130 on a second side 118 of the frame 110, or vice versa. Thus, the tray dispenser 150 and the beverage dispenser 130 may be located adjacent to each other. For example, the beverage dispenser 130 may be located on the right side of the frame 110 and the tray dispenser 150 on the left side of the frame 110. In some embodiments, the trolley 100 may be a complete trolley having both a beverage dispenser 130 and a tray dispenser 150, or the trolley may be a half-trolley having only one of the beverage dispenser 130 or the tray dispenser 150. Furthermore, the trolley 100 may be configured for service by one attendant or by two attendants standing on opposite sides of the trolley 100, as will be described in more detail herein.

[0025] In some embodiments, the beverage dispenser 130 may include one or more beverage containers 510 for storing beverages, and a dispensing head 196 communicating with the beverage containers 510 for dispensing the beverages stored in the beverage containers 510, as shown in Figure 2. The beverage dispenser 130 may further include a pressurized vessel 530 for storing pressurized gas that drives the flow of beverages from the beverage containers 510 to the dispensing head 196. The pressurized vessel 530 of the beverage dispenser 130 may be a tank such as a cylindrical tank (e.g., a gas cylinder). The pressurized gas may be carbon dioxide or nitrogen, among other pressurized gases. The pressurized vessel 530 may communicate with the beverage containers 510 to drive the flow of fluid to the dispensing head 196. In some embodiments, the pressurized vessel 530 may communicate with the beverage containers 510 via a conduit or manifold.

[0026] As used herein, the term “beverage” includes, but is not limited to, any consumable free-flowing liquid or semi-liquid product that may be carbonated or non-carbonated, including, soft drinks, water, sparkling water, dairy beverages, milkshakes, juices, alcoholic beverages, sports drinks, energy drinks, smoothies, coffee beverages, and tea beverages.

[0027] In some embodiments, the beverage dispenser 130 may include a plurality of beverage containers 510, each containing a different beverage. The beverage containers 510 may be multi-service beverage containers 510 configured to hold multiple services of beverage, with beverage services ranging from 6 ounces to 20 ounces. For example, the beverage containers 510 may be configured to hold multiple 8-ounce beverage services so that several services can be held and served using the beverage containers. By using beverage containers 510 that hold multiple beverage services, beverages can be served without having to open individual beverage cans or bottles. In some embodiments, each multi-service beverage container 510 may be configured to hold three or more beverage services. In some embodiments, the beverage containers 510 may hold 3 to 10 services of beverage. In some embodiments, each beverage container 510 may have a volume of 1 to 10 liters, 1.5 to 8 liters, or 2 to 6 liters. In some embodiments, the beverage containers 510 may be standard commercially available 2-liter beverage containers.

[0028] The beverage container 510 may be detachable from the beverage dispenser 130 so that when the beverage container 510 becomes empty, it can be replaced with a new beverage container 510, or the beverage container 510 can be refilled and reinstalled. Furthermore, the beverage container 510 may be completely or partially detached when it is desired to change the type of beverage available for dispensing by the beverage dispenser 130.

[0029] The dispensing head 196 is configured to dispense the beverage contained in the beverage container 510, for example, as shown in Figures 2 and 3. The dispensing head 196 may communicate with the beverage container 510 via a conduit 133. Pressurized gas from the pressurized vessel 530 provides the driving force to communicate the beverage from the beverage container 510 to the dispensing head 196. In some embodiments, the beverage dispenser 130 may include a plurality of dispensing heads 196, each formed as a nozzle. In some embodiments, a separate dispensing head 196 is provided for each beverage container 510. For example, in an embodiment having six beverage containers 510, there may be six dispensing heads 196. In this way, each dispensing head 196 is used to dispense only a single beverage, which may help prevent cross-contamination or carryover of flavors that may result from using a single dispensing head 196 to dispense various beverages. Furthermore, the use of multiple dispensing heads 196 may allow for the simultaneous dispensing of multiple beverages, which can increase the rate at which beverage orders can be filled. However, in some embodiments, the beverage dispenser 130 may include a single dispensing head 196 that can be used to dispense any of the various beverages contained in the beverage container 510. In this way, the dispensing head 196 is simplified, requires fewer components, and occupies less space in the service trolley 100.

[0030] In some embodiments, the beverage dispenser 130 includes a selection panel 176 configured to operate to dispense beverages, as shown in Figure 2. The selection panel 176 may include an actuator 177 for selecting the beverage to be dispensed via the dispensing head 196. For example, the actuator 177 may include a plurality of buttons, dials, levers, switches, capacitive sensors (e.g., touch sensors), etc. Each actuator 177 may correspond to a different beverage container 510 or beverage. Thus, beverages can be easily dispensed by operating the actuator 177 corresponding to the desired beverage.

[0031] In some embodiments, the beverage dispenser 130 may define a beverage receiving area 174 for receiving a vessel 580 filled by a dispensing head 196, as shown in Figure 2. The vessel 580 may be a disposable cup, such as a cup made of plastic, paper, or polystyrene foam. The beverage receiving area 174 may be located on the side 118 of the frame 110 for easy access.

[0032] In some embodiments, the beverage dispenser 130 may be movably positioned on the frame 110 such that it can move from a retracted position in which it is at least partially enclosed within the frame 110 of the trolley 100, and from an extended position in which it extends outward from the frame 110. In the extended position, the beverage container 510 is easily accessible for removal and replacement. The beverage dispenser 130 may be configured to slide on the frame 110 to move from the retracted position to the extended position.

[0033] In some embodiments, the trolley 100 may include a tray dispenser 150, as shown in Figure 3. The tray dispenser 150 is configured to store and dispense trays 500. Each tray 500 may be used to store one or more meals, such as boxes or pre-packaged meals. The tray dispenser 150 may include a platform 152, to which a stack of trays 500 can be positioned for dispensing. The platform 152 is configured to move in a direction A toward the upper end 112 along the vertical axis X from the lower end 114 of the frame 110 of the trolley 100, as shown in Figure 3. In this way, the trays 500 are moved toward the upper end 112 of the frame 110 for easier access.

[0034] In some embodiments, the tray dispenser 150 includes a drive mechanism 155 configured to move the platform 152 along a vertical axis X. In some embodiments, the drive mechanism 155 is configured to be manually driven by an operator, i.e., by hand. In some embodiments, the tray dispenser 150 includes a belt 158 ​​connected at a first end to the platform 152 and at a second end to an actuator 159. However, in some embodiments, the platform 152 may be connected to the actuator 159 via a rope, chain, cable, etc., rather than by the belt 158. The actuator 159 may be, for example, a wheel as shown in Figure 3. However, in some embodiments, the actuator 159 may be a manual crank, among other types of actuators. When the actuator 159 is operated (for example, when the wheel rotates), the platform 152 moves from the lower end 114 to the upper end 112, bringing the additional tray 500 toward the upper end 112 of the frame 110 of the trolley 100. As the wheel rotates, the belt 158 ​​may wrap around the spool or axle 157 to which the actuator 159 is connected. In some embodiments, the actuator 159 may include a ratchet mechanism for holding the platform 152 at a desired position between the lower end 114 and the upper end 112 of the frame 110 to prevent the platform 152 from falling toward the lower end 114 under the force of gravity. In some embodiments, the actuator 159 may be detachable from the trolley 100 so that the trolley 100 can be docked more easily in a galley or the like.

[0035] In some embodiments, the drive mechanism 155 may be automatic and may include a pneumatic actuator, a hydraulic actuator, or an electric motor, among other types of automatic drive mechanisms known in the art. The drive mechanism 155 may be connected to the platform 152 to move the platform 152 from the lower end 114 to the upper end 112. The drive mechanism 155 may be operable via a push button or similar, so that an operator can simply press a push button to move the platform 152 toward the upper end 112 of the frame 110 of the trolley 100.

[0036] In some embodiments, the tray dispenser 150 may further include a guide path 154 configured to guide the platform 152 as it moves from the lower end 114 to the upper end 112. The guide path 154 may include one or more bars or rails extending between the lower end 114 and the upper end 112 of the frame 110. The guide path 154 may be fixed to the frame 110 or may be formed integrally with the frame 110. The guide path 154 may help to keep the platform 152 level and horizontal and to ensure that the platform 152 moves only in the X direction. In some embodiments, the platform 152 may include rollers 153 or bearings that contact the guide path 154 and move along the guide path 154 as the platform 152 moves. The rollers 153 may help to facilitate the movement of the platform 152 and to maintain the alignment of the platform 152. The guide channel 154 may further assist in guiding the tray 500 onto the platform 152 from the lower end 114 to the upper end 112 of the trolley 100, and may help prevent the tray 500 from shifting or falling off the side of the frame 110 when the tray 500 is dispensed.

[0037] In some embodiments, the service trolley 200 may have a modular structure, as shown, for example, in Figure 4. In contrast to trolley 100, which may include a beverage dispenser 130 and / or a meal tray dispenser 150 in a dedicated position on trolley 100, trolley 200 may have one or more beverage dispensing modules 230 and / or one or more Tray distribution module 250 can be configured to be removably received. The configuration of the trolley 200 can be customized by allowing the trolley 200 to receive different modules. This may allow the trolley 200 to be customized for various types of service. For example, to prepare a beverage service in the early stages of a flight, the trolley 200 may have two beverage dispensing modules 230 and Tray distribution module It may be modified to include 250 without. In this way, the amount of beverage that can be dispensed by the trolley 200 is maximized. Meal service may be provided later during the flight, and the trolley 200 has a single beverage dispensing module 230 and one or more Tray distribution module It may be modified to include 250, or Tray distribution module It may be modified to include only 250. In this way, the trolley 200 may be configured to hold an increased number of trays 500 and meals for dispensing during meal service.

[0038] As shown in Figure 4, the trolley 200 may be configured similarly to the trolley 100, and includes a frame 210 having an upper end 212 opposite to a lower end 214, together with a tabletop 213 at the upper end 212 and one or more wheels 208 positioned at the lower end 214. The frame 210 may have a similar shape and structural materials as described above with respect to the frame 110.

[0039] In contrast to the frame 110 of trolley 100, the frame 210 of trolley 200 has a beverage dispensing module 230 and Tray distribution moduleA receptacle 220 can be defined for detachably receiving 250. In some embodiments, the frame 210 and receptacle 220 may be configured to receive additional types of modules, such as modules for storing goods, modules for storing alcoholic beverages, mixers, and / or bar tools, among other types of modules for storing and organizing various products or materials.

[0040] In some embodiments, the trolley described herein may additionally include a kettle 274 and / or an ice bucket 280, as shown, for example, by trolley 200 in Figure 4. The kettle 274 and ice bucket 280 may be placed on the tabletop 213 of the trolley 200. In some embodiments, the trolley 200 includes a kettle holder 272 extending from the upper end 212 of the trolley 200. The kettle holder 272 may include a pair of arms configured to rotatably support the kettle 274 between them, so that the kettle 274 can pivot about the kettle holder 272, facilitating the pouring of liquid from the kettle 274 into the vessel. The kettle holder 272 helps to support the weight of the kettle 274 so that the user can pour from the kettle 274 more easily. In some embodiments, the kettle 274 is removablely fixed to the kettle holder 272. However, in some embodiments, the kettle 274 can be fixed to the kettle holder 272.

[0041] In some embodiments, the beverage dispensing module 230 is shown, for example, in Figure 5. The beverage dispensing module 230 may be used with an existing trolley or in combination with trolleys 100, 200. The beverage dispensing module 230 may include one or more beverage containers, a container support 232 configured to support a pressurized vessel 530, a dispensing head 296 for dispensing beverages, and a conduit 242 connecting the dispensing head 296 to the beverage containers held in the container support 232.

[0042] The container support 232 of the beverage dispensing module 230 may include a base 234, an upright support 238 extending from the base 234, and a manifold 240 connected to the upper end of the upright support 238. The manifold 240 may be configured to transfer pressurized gas from the pressurized vessel 530 to the beverage container and to transfer the beverage from the beverage container to the dispensing head 296.

[0043] The base 234 of the beverage dispensing module 230 may be a rectangular platform on which the lower end of each beverage container 510 can rest, so that the beverage containers 510 are positioned on the base 234 in an upright orientation (see Figure 7). The base 234 may define slots for receiving each beverage container 510. In this way, the base 234 may help prevent the beverage containers 510 from shifting on the base 234 and help maintain each beverage container 510 in a fixed position. The beverage containers 510 may be arranged on the base 234 in a square or rectangular layout, depending on the number of beverage containers 510. In some embodiments, the base 234 may support multiple rows of beverage containers, each row may contain the same number of beverage containers. In some embodiments, the base 234 may be configured to support six beverage containers, such as six multi-service beverage containers. The beverage containers may be arranged on the base 234, for example, in two rows of three containers.

[0044] In some embodiments, the upright support 238 may be perpendicular to the base 234. In some embodiments, the upright support 238 may be of fixed length. However, in some embodiments, the upright support 238 may be extendable, extending in length for use and shortening to provide the beverage dispensing module 230 in a compact configuration for storage. In some embodiments, one or more support brackets 237 may be positioned on the upright support 238 to support the side walls of the beverage container 510 positioned on the base 234. The support brackets 237 may be arc-shaped and may have a C-shape or a U-shape.

[0045] The manifold 240 of the container support 232 may include a valve 244 that can be fixed to the open upper end of each beverage container located at the base 234, and a valve 248 that can be fixed to a pressurized vessel 530 containing pressurized gas. The manifold 240 may be positioned substantially parallel to the base 234 of the container support 232. Pressurized gas can be transmitted from the pressurized vessel 530 to the beverage container 510 via the manifold 240. The valve 244 may allow the beverage to flow from the beverage container 510 through the conduit 242 to the dispensing head 296 for dispensing. In this way, while the remaining valves 244 are in the closed position, a single valve 244 may be opened to allow the beverage to flow through the conduit 242 to the dispensing head 296.

[0046] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 6, multiple beverage dispensing modules 230 may be arranged side-by-side within the trolley. A first beverage dispensing module 230A may be placed adjacent to a second beverage dispensing module 230B. For example, if each beverage dispensing module 230A, 230B stores beverage containers in a 2x3 layout, the beverage dispensing modules 230A, 230B may be arranged so that the beverage containers are in a 2x6 layout. In some embodiments, each beverage dispensing module 230A, 230B may include a pressurized vessel 530 offset from the center of the beverage dispensing modules 230A, 230B. When the beverage dispensing modules 230A, 230B are arranged side-by-side, the pressurized vessels 530 are adjacent to each other, allowing the beverage dispensing modules 230A, 230B to be placed close to each other and saving space.

[0047] In some embodiments, the beverage dispensing module 230 may be removably inserted into the frame 210 of the trolley 200 or into a receptacle of the frame 210, for example, as shown in Figure 7. The beverage dispensing module 230 may include one or more rails 246 along the upper end of the container support 232 along opposing sides 245, 247 (see Figure 6). The rails 246 may be configured to engage with the upper end 212 of the frame 210 of the trolley 200 within the frame 210. The frame 210 may include slots 215 configured to receive the rails 246 so that the beverage dispensing module 230 can slide within the slots 215 of the frame 210. Alternatively, the frame 210 may include hooks or other fasteners for removably securing the beverage dispensing module 230 to the rails 246. In some embodiments, the beverage dispensing module 230 and other modules may be supported by shelves within the frame 210. Therefore, the beverage dispensing module 230 can be easily inserted into and removed from the frame 210 for replacement with another module or for refilling one or more beverage containers 510 of the module.

[0048] In some embodiments, the dispensing head 296 of the beverage dispensing module 230 may be a burr gun, as shown in Figures 7 and 8. The dispensing head 296 may communicate with the beverage container 510 of the beverage dispensing module 230 via a conduit 242. The conduit 242 may be flexible so that the dispensing head 296 can move freely relative to the container support 232. In this way, the dispensing head 296 is not fixed and can be moved to a location for filling the vessel with beverage. In some embodiments, the trolley 200 may further include a dispensing head holder 299. The dispensing head holder 299 may be located at the upper end 212 of the trolley 200 and may removably receive the dispensing head 296. The dispensing head holder 299 may be used to hold the dispensing head 296 in a fixed position for dispensing beverage into a vessel located at the base top 213, so that the operator does not need to hold the dispensing head 296 while dispensing the beverage. Furthermore, the dispensing head holder 299 may be used to hold and store the dispensing head 296 when it is not in use.

[0049] In some embodiments, the trolley 200 includes a tabletop 213 having two burr guns, as shown in Figure 9. The trolley 200 may be configured for use by two operators or attendants standing on opposing sides 216, 218 of the trolley 200. A first dispensing head holder 299 for holding a dispensing head 296, such as a burr gun, may be positioned closer to the first side 216 than to the second side 218, and a second dispensing head holder 299 for holding a second dispensing head 296, such as a burr gun, may be positioned closer to the second side 218 than to the first side 216. However, the first and second dispensing head holders 299 may be spaced apart from the first side 216 and the second side 218, respectively, to provide a workspace for operators standing on the first side 216 and the second side 218. The tabletop 213 may include drip trays 219 adjacent to each of the first and second dispensing head holders 299. The tabletop 213 may further include a central section 217 between the first side 216 and the second side 218 for storing ice buckets, kettles, bottles, and other items. The central section 217 may be accessible by operators on both sides 216, 218 of the trolley 200.

[0050] Some embodiments described herein relate to a movable beverage dispensing trolley 300, which includes a beverage dispenser 350 positioned at the upper end 312 of a frame 310, as shown in Figure 10. By including the beverage dispenser 350 on the tabletop 313 of the trolley 300 rather than inside the trolley 300, space within the trolley 300 is saved and can be used to store additional items, such as trays and meals, among other items. Furthermore, the beverage dispenser 350 can be retrofitted to an existing service trolley.

[0051] The beverage dispenser 350 is configured to removably receive and hold one or more beverage containers 510 that contain beverages, such as multi-service beverage containers as considered above with respect to trolleys 100, 200. The beverage containers 510 may be placed on a platform 354 of the beverage dispenser 350 configured to hold the beverage containers 510 in an inverted orientation (for example, with the opening of the beverage container 510 facing downward toward the tabletop 313). The platform 354 may support the beverage containers 510 in a raised position above the tabletop 313 to provide space for placing cups beneath the beverage containers 510 for filling. When the beverage containers 510 are supported in an inverted orientation, the beverages can be dispensed by gravity without the use of pressurized gas.

[0052] The beverage dispenser 350 may further include a dispensing nozzle 358 for controlling the dispensing of beverage from the beverage container 510. The dispensing nozzle 358 may be positioned on a platform 354 and be in fluid communication with the beverage container 510. The dispensing nozzle 358 may include a valve for controlling the dispensing of beverage from the beverage container 510. The dispensing nozzle 358 may be configured to suppress the leakage of carbon dioxide from the beverage container 510 in order to prevent the beverage from losing its carbonation. A dispensing nozzle that improves carbonation retention is disclosed, for example, in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2019 / 0127203, which is incorporated entirely herein by reference.

[0053] In some embodiments, the beverage dispenser 350 may include a housing or cage 360 ​​that encloses the beverage containers 510. The cage 360 ​​may help prevent accidental contact with the beverage containers 510 that could displace or damage them. The cage 360 ​​may be transparent so that the beverage containers 510 can be seen through the cage 360, allowing the customer to see what type of beverage is available to be dispensed. Furthermore, a transparent cage 360 ​​may allow the operator to see the amount of beverage remaining in each beverage container 510.

[0054] In some embodiments, the platform 354 may be a rotatable platform 354 or carousel configured to rotate around a central post 356. The platform 354 may be configured to hold a plurality of beverage containers 510. In some embodiments, the platform 354 may be configured to hold 1 to 12 beverage containers, 2 to 10 beverage containers, or 3 to 6 beverage containers. The platform 354 may have a triangular shape, a circular shape, a square or rectangular shape, or a hexagonal shape, among other shapes. The shape of the platform 354 may correspond to the number of beverage containers 510 held by the platform 354. For example, the platform 354 may have a triangular shape when 3 beverage containers are used, the platform 354 may have a square shape when 4 beverage containers are used, or the platform 354 may have a hexagonal shape when 6 beverage containers are used. In some embodiments, the platform 354 may have a circular shape and may hold any number of beverage containers 510. In such embodiments, the beverage containers 510 may be evenly spaced around the circular platform 354.

[0055] In some embodiments, the tabletop 313 of the trolley 300 may further include a drip tray 319 configured to collect excess liquid dispensed from the nozzles 358. The drip tray 319 may be positioned directly beneath one or more nozzles 358 of the beverage dispenser 350.

[0056] The beverage dispenser 350 may be positioned adjacent to one side of the trolley 300, such as the second side 318 of the frame 310 of the trolley 300, as shown in Figure 10. In such an embodiment, the tabletop 313 on the first side 316 of the trolley 300 may be available for use as a workspace for pouring and stirring beverages, and for storing various items 550 such as cups, alcoholic beverage containers, utensils, carafes, kettles, or pots.

[0057] In some embodiments, the beverage dispenser 350 may be positioned in the central portion of a tabletop, as shown, for example, in Figures 11 and 12. As shown in Figure 11, the tabletop 313 may include drip trays 319 adjacent to each side 316, 318 of the trolley 300 to collect excess liquid on both sides of the beverage dispenser 350. The central location of the beverage dispenser 350 may allow two operators 601, 602 standing on opposing sides 316, 318 of the trolley 300 to use a single beverage dispenser 350 simultaneously. The first operator 601 may dispense a first beverage using a first nozzle 358A, and the second operator 602 may dispense a second beverage using a second nozzle 358B. As shown in Figure 11, in an embodiment having a rotatable beverage dispenser 350, the beverage dispenser 350 may be rotated around a central post 356 to allow operators to easily access specific beverages for dispensing. In this way, each operator 601, 602 can access all beverage containers 510 available in the beverage dispenser 350.

[0058] In some embodiments, the beverage dispenser 450 may be located in the central portion of a tabletop 413, as shown in Figure 12, for example, and may be fixed in place (i.e., the beverage dispenser 450 is not rotatable). The tabletop 413 may include drip trays 419 adjacent to each side 416, 418 of the trolley 400 for collecting excess liquid from the beverage dispenser 450. In such embodiments, a first plurality of beverage containers 510A and nozzles 458A may be arranged facing the first side 416 of the trolley 400, and a second plurality of beverage containers 510B and nozzles 358B may be arranged facing the second side 418 of the trolley 400 opposite the first side 416. In such embodiments, the beverage containers 510A, 510B may be arranged in a square or rectangular configuration. For example, in Figure 12, three beverage containers 510A face the first side 416, and three beverage containers 510B face the second side 418 of the trolley 400. The first set of beverage containers 510A may be the same as the second set of beverage containers 510B. In this way, operators on both sides of the trolley 400 can dispense the same selection of beverages.

[0059] In some embodiments, the trolley 400 may include a beverage dispenser 450 arranged with a first plurality of beverage containers 510A and a nozzle 458A facing the first lateral side 411 of the trolley 300, as shown in Figure 13, and a second plurality of beverage containers 510B and a nozzle 458B facing the second lateral side 417 of the trolley 400 opposite the first lateral side 411. The beverage containers 510A, 510B may be arranged in a square or rectangular configuration. The first plurality of beverage containers 510A may be the same as the second plurality of beverage containers 510B so that the same beverage can be dispensed from both sides 411, 417 of the trolley 400. Similar to Figure 12, the beverage dispenser 450 may be located in the central portion of the tabletop 413 and may be fixed in place on the tabletop 413. The tabletop 413 may include drip trays 419 adjacent to each side 416, 418 of the tabletop 413.

[0060] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 14, the beverage dispenser 650 may be positioned on a half-trolley 600. Thus, the trolley 600 may have a compact configuration and be easily operated. The trolley 600 may be configured for operation by a single operator or attendant. The trolley 600 includes a tabletop 613 having a first side 616 opposite a second side 618 and a first side 611 opposite a second side 617. The beverage dispenser 650 may be positioned on the tabletop 613. In Figure 14, the beverage dispenser 650 is positioned in the central portion of the tabletop 613 between the first side 616 and the second side 618, and closer to the first lateral side 611 than to the second lateral side 617. However, in some embodiments, the beverage dispenser 650 may instead be positioned adjacent to the second lateral side 617, or the beverage dispenser may be positioned centrally between the first lateral side 611 and the second lateral side 617, adjacent to either the first side 616 or the second side 618. The beverage dispenser 650 may include a plurality of beverage containers 510, each having a dispensing nozzle 658. The dispensing nozzle 658 may be positioned facing the first or second side 616, 618, or the first or second lateral side 611, 617, or a combination thereof.

[0061] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 15, the service trolley 700 may include a collapsible beverage dispenser 730. The collapsible beverage dispenser 730 may be positioned on the tabletop 713 of the trolley 700. The collapsible beverage dispenser 730 may be positioned adjacent to each side 716, 718 of the trolley 700, allowing an attendant to dispense beverages on the opposing sides 716, 718 of the trolley 700. The beverage dispenser 730 may include a beverage container support 732 configured to support a beverage container 510 in an inverted orientation. In this way, the beverage container 510 can dispense beverages under gravity and without the use of pressurized gas, pumps, etc. The beverage container support 732 may support the beverage container 510 in a raised position above the tabletop 713 to dispense beverages into cups 580 positioned on the tabletop 713.

[0062] The beverage dispenser 730 may include a dispensing valve 738 configured to control the dispensing of beverage from the beverage container 510. The valve 738 may be configured to suppress the leakage of carbon dioxide from the beverage container to prevent carbonated beverages from losing their carbonation. The valve 738 may be fixed to the beverage container support 732 of the beverage dispenser 730. The beverage container support 732 may be supported in a raised position above the tabletop 713 via a foldable stand 735. The stand 735 may include a first leg 737 perpendicular to the tabletop 713 and a second leg 736 that can pivot to an orientation angled relative to the tabletop 713 such that the stand 735 has a triangular configuration. To fold the stand 735, the second leg 736 may pivot toward the first leg 737 such that the first and second legs 736, 737 are parallel.

[0063] In some embodiments, the foldable beverage dispenser 730 may further include a bracket 739 for removably securing the beverage dispenser 730 to the frame 710 of the trolley 700, such as the upper end 712 of the frame 710. Specifically, the bracket 739 may be configured to extend over the side of the frame 710 and over the edge of the tabletop 713. The bracket 739 may be secured to the trolley 700 via mechanical fasteners such as wing nuts, bolts, screws, or via friction fits, interlocking fits, or compression fits, among other removable fastening methods.

[0064] It should be understood that the section "Modes for Carrying Out the Invention," rather than the sections "Summary of the Invention" and "Abstract," is intended to be used to interpret the claims. The sections "Summary of the Invention" and "Abstract" may describe one or more, but not all, exemplary embodiments of the Invention as conceived by the inventors(s), but are not intended to limit the Invention and the appended claims in any way.

[0065] The present invention has been described above with the help of functional building blocks that illustrate the implementation of specific functions and their relationships. The boundaries of these functional building blocks are arbitrarily defined herein for the sake of explanation. Alternative boundaries can be defined as long as the specific functions and their relationships are adequately performed.

[0066] The above description of specific embodiments makes the general nature of the invention fully apparent, and others can readily modify and / or adapt such specific embodiments to various uses without excessive trial and error and without departing from the general concept of the invention by applying the knowledge of those skilled in the art. Therefore, such adaptations and modifications are intended to be within the meaning and scope of the equivalents of the disclosed embodiments based on the teachings and guidance presented herein. It should be understood that the expressions and terminology herein are for illustrative purposes only and not limiting, and therefore, the terms and expression herein should be interpreted by those skilled in the art in terms of the teachings and guidance presented herein.

Claims

1. It is a service trolley, A frame having an upper end opposite to its lower end, A tabletop positioned at the upper end of the frame, Wheels are positioned at the lower end of the frame so that the frame can move on the surface of the ground or floor, A beverage dispenser arranged within the frame, A beverage container for storing beverages, A dispensing head that communicates with the beverage container via a conduit, A beverage dispenser comprising: a pressurized vessel, which is in communication with the beverage container and is configured to contain pressurized gas, to drive the flow of the beverage from the beverage container to the dispensing head; It is a tray dispenser, A platform configured to receive and hold trays in a stacked configuration, The tray dispenser includes a drive mechanism that moves the platform from the lower end to the upper end of the frame, The beverage container is one of a plurality of beverage containers, and the dispensing head is configured to dispense beverages from the plurality of beverage containers. A service trolley comprising a beverage dispenser further comprising a container support configured to hold the pressurized vessel and the plurality of beverage containers.

2. The service trolley according to claim 1, wherein the dispensing head is equipped with a burr gun.

3. The service trolley according to claim 1, wherein the dispensing head comprises a nozzle.

4. The service trolley according to claim 1, wherein the container support comprises one or more rails for a slidable connection to the upper end of the frame, so that the container support can slide in and out of the frame.

5. The service trolley according to claim 1, wherein the container support further comprises a manifold connected to each of the beverage containers and the pressurized vessel for supplying the pressurized gas to the beverage containers.

6. The service trolley according to claim 1, wherein the service trolley is an aviation service trolley, and the drive mechanism is manually operated.

7. The service trolley according to claim 1, wherein the tray dispenser further comprises a belt connected to the platform and the actuator, so that when the actuator is operated, the belt moves the platform from the lower end to the upper end of the frame.

8. The service trolley according to claim 1, wherein the tray dispenser is located on a first side of the frame, and the beverage dispenser is located on a second side of the frame opposite to the first side.

9. A portable beverage dispensing trolley, A frame defining a plurality of receptacles, wherein each of the plurality of receptacles is configured to removably receive a beverage dispensing module or a tray distribution module; A tabletop positioned at the upper end of the frame, The frame is configured to move on the surface of the ground or floor, and a wheel is positioned at the lower end of the frame. It is equipped with a tray distribution module, The tray distribution module, A movable platform configured to receive and hold trays in a stacked configuration, The movable platform is provided with a drive mechanism that moves the movable platform from the lower end to the upper end of the frame, The beverage dispensing module, A container support for supporting multiple beverage containers for holding beverages, a pressurized vessel containing pressurized gas, It comprises a dispensing head for dispensing the beverage from the plurality of beverage containers, The dispensing head is in communication with the plurality of beverage containers via a conduit. A movable beverage dispensing trolley, wherein the pressurized gas is configured to drive the flow of the beverage from the plurality of beverage containers to the dispensing head.

10. The beverage dispensing trolley according to claim 9, wherein the frame is configured to removably receive at least two beverage dispensing modules.

11. The beverage dispensing trolley according to claim 10, wherein the beverage dispensing module further comprises a manifold connected to each of the plurality of beverage containers and the pressurized vessel.

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