Beverage barrel stacking aid

Abstract

To provide a beverage barrel stacking auxiliary tool capable of selectively and stably supporting a lower end diameter-reducing type beverage barrel and a lower end non-diameter-reducing type beverage barrel.SOLUTION: A beverage barrel stacking auxiliary tool comprises: an annular support part that defines a support face for supporting a first beverage barrel; a through-hole part defined by an inner edge of the annular support part; a first annular wall arranged to be opposed to a lower outer-peripheral face of the first beverage barrel; a supported face supported by a second beverage barrel; and a second annular wall arranged to be opposed to an upper outer-peripheral face of the second beverage barrel. When the first beverage barrel is a lower end diameter-reducing type beverage barrel, the through-hole part has a hole diameter of 220 mm to 240 mm so as to allow a first annular reinforcement part to be inserted into the through-hole part. When the first beverage barrel is a lower end non-diameter-reducing type beverage barrel, the through-hole part has a hole diameter of 240 mm or less, and the support face has an outer diameter of 252 mm to 258 mm so that a second annular reinforcement part is positioning-supported by the support face.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an auxiliary tool for stacking beverage bottles.

Background Art

[0002] Stacking aids for stacking beverage bottles such as beer bottles are known.

[0003] As a related technique, Patent Document 1 discloses a spacer for stacking bottles. The spacer for stacking bottles described in Patent Document 1 has an annular lower flange that is placed on the lower bottle, an annular upper flange on which the upper bottle is placed, and at least two legs that secure a predetermined space between the upper and lower flanges and connect the two flanges. Further, the lower flange is provided with a passage that penetrates from the outer periphery to the inner edge of the lower flange.

[0004] Further, Patent Document 2 discloses a tray for stacking cylindrical containers. The tray for stacking cylindrical containers described in Patent Document 2 has a disk formed with a through-hole in the central portion, an upper flange, and a lower flange.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] An object of the present invention is to provide an auxiliary tool for stacking beverage bottles that can selectively and stably support a beverage bottle of a reduced-diameter lower end type and a beverage bottle of a non-reduced-diameter lower end type.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] The means for solving the problem are described below using the numbers and symbols used in the embodiments for carrying out the invention. These numbers and symbols are added in parentheses for reference to show an example of the correspondence between the claims and the embodiments for carrying out the invention. Therefore, the claims should not be interpreted restrictively because of the parenthetical statements.

[0008] In some embodiments, the beverage barrel stacking aid is a beverage barrel stacking aid capable of selectively and stably supporting a lower end-reduced diameter type beverage barrel (E1) having a bottom protector (8) with a first stepped portion (82) and a first annular reinforcing portion (84) with an outer diameter of approximately 220 mm positioned below the first stepped portion (82), and a lower end-non-reduced diameter type beverage barrel (E2) having a bottom protector (8) with a second annular reinforcing portion (86) with an outer diameter of approximately 252 mm. The beverage barrel stacking aid comprises: an annular support portion (21) defining a support surface (23) that supports a first beverage barrel (7-1); a through hole portion (21h) defined by the inner edge (21n) of the annular support portion (21); a first annular wall (25) positioned opposite the lower outer peripheral surface of the first beverage barrel (7-1) to suppress tilting of the first beverage barrel (7-1) relative to the annular support portion (21); a supported surface (33) supported by the second beverage barrel (7-2); and a second annular wall (35) positioned opposite the upper outer peripheral surface of the second beverage barrel (7-2) to suppress tilting of the supported surface (33) relative to the second beverage barrel (7-2). When the first beverage barrel (7-1) is a beverage barrel of the type with a reduced diameter at the lower end (E1), the diameter (L1) of the through-hole (21h) is 220 mm or more and 240 mm or less, so that the first annular reinforcing portion (84) is inserted into the through-hole (21h) and the bottom surface (82t) of the first stepped portion (82) is supported by the support surface (23). When the first beverage barrel (7-1) is a beverage barrel of the type with a non-reduced diameter at the lower end (E2), the diameter (L1) of the through-hole (21h) is 240 mm or less, and the outer diameter (L2) of the support surface (23) is 252 mm or more and 258 mm or less, so that the second annular reinforcing portion (86) is positioned and supported by the support surface (23).

[0009] In the beverage barrel stacking aid described above, the diameter (L3) of the inner surface of the upper edge of the first annular wall (25) may be 252.5 mm or more and 253.77 mm or less. The height dimension (H1) of the inner surface of the first annular wall (25) may be 30 mm or more and 100 mm or less.

[0010] The beverage barrel stacking aid described above may comprise an upper portion (2) including the annular support portion (21), a lower portion (3) including the supported surface (33), and a connecting wall (4) connecting the upper portion (2) and the lower portion (3). The connecting wall (4) may have an access opening (OP) that allows the user's hand to access the mouth portion (78) of the second beverage barrel (7-2). The height dimension (H3) of the access opening (OP) may be 8 cm or more.

[0011] In the beverage barrel stacking aid described above, the connecting wall (4) may have a side wall portion (41) with a thickness of 1 cm or less and centered on the central axis (AX2) of the beverage barrel stacking aid, and a plurality of reinforcing ribs (45) that connect the annular support portion (21) and the annular supported portion (31) of the lower portion (3). Furthermore, the inner edges (45n) of the plurality of reinforcing ribs (45) may be connected to the side wall portion (41).

[0012] In the beverage barrel stacking aid described above, in a cross-section perpendicular to the central axis (AX2) of the beverage barrel stacking aid at the center of the beverage barrel stacking aid in the height direction, arc-shaped wall portions (41c) with reinforcing ribs (45) and the access openings (OP) may be alternately arranged along the circumferential direction of the beverage barrel stacking aid.

[0013] In the beverage barrel stacking aid described above, each of the arc-shaped wall portions (41c) may be provided with two edge reinforcing ribs (45b) that face the two access openings (OP).

[0014] In the beverage barrel stacking aid described above, the connecting wall (4) may have a side wall portion (41) with a thickness of 1 cm or less, whose center is on the central axis (AX2) of the beverage barrel stacking aid. In a longitudinal cross-section passing through the central axis (AX2) of the beverage barrel stacking aid, a crank shape may be formed by the first annular wall (25), the annular support portion (21), and the upper end portion (41p) of the side wall portion (41). [Effects of the Invention]

[0015] The present invention provides a beverage barrel stacking aid that can selectively and stably support beverage barrels with a reduced diameter at the lower end and beverage barrels with a non-reduced diameter at the lower end. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0016] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a diagram illustrating the different types of beverage barrels. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating two beverage barrels stacked on top of each other. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating how two beverage barrels are stacked using a beverage barrel stacking aid in the comparative example. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows that the beverage barrel with a reduced diameter at the lower end, when placed on the beverage barrel stacking aid in the comparative example, is prone to tilting. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating how two beverage barrels are stacked using the beverage barrel stacking aid in the first embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a beverage barrel stacking aid in the first embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a schematic three-view drawing illustrating the beverage barrel stacking aid in the first embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a beverage barrel stacking aid in the first embodiment. [Figure 9]FIG. 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view schematically showing a beverage bottle stacking aid in the first embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view schematically showing a beverage bottle stacking aid in the first embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining the tilting of an object with an outer diameter of 252 mm and a height of 30 mm. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a schematic cross-sectional view schematically showing a state where a second beverage bottle and a first beverage bottle are stacked via a beverage bottle stacking aid. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a schematic two-sided view schematically showing a beverage bottle stacking aid in the first embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a schematic cross-sectional view schematically showing a state where two beverage bottle stacking aids are directly stacked on each other. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a schematic cross-sectional view schematically showing a beverage bottle stacking aid in a modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a two-sided view of a beverage bottle stacking aid in the first embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a two-sided view of a beverage bottle stacking aid in the first embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a two-sided view of a beverage bottle stacking aid in the first embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of a beverage bottle stacking aid in the first embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view taken along line C-C in FIG. 17. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a reference cross-sectional view showing the names of each part. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a schematic cross-sectional view schematically showing a state where two beverage bottles are stacked via a beverage bottle stacking aid in the second embodiment. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is a schematic cross-sectional view schematically showing a state where two beverage bottles are stacked via a beverage bottle stacking aid in the second embodiment. [Figure 24] Figure 24 is a schematic two-view drawing illustrating a beverage barrel stacking aid in the second embodiment. [Figure 25] Figure 25 is a four-view drawing of a beverage barrel stacking aid. [Figure 26] Figure 26 is a cross-sectional view of the DD line in Figure 25. [Figure 27] Figure 27 is a reference cross-sectional view showing the names of each part. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0017] The beverage barrel stacking aid 1 in the embodiment will be described below with reference to the attached drawings. In the following description, components and parts having the same function will be denoted by the same reference numeral, and repeated descriptions of components and parts denoted by the same reference numeral will be omitted.

[0018] (7 beverage barrels) The beverage barrel 7 is a beverage barrel for holding beverages, for example, a beer barrel for holding beer. As illustrated in Figure 1, the beverage barrel 7 has a barrel body 71 for holding beverages, a bottom protector 8 connected to the lower part of the barrel body 71, and a top protector 9 connected to the upper part of the barrel body 71. The barrel body 71 is preferably made of stainless steel. Also, the bottom protector 8 and the top protector 9 are preferably made of stainless steel. In Figure 1, the maximum outer diameter of the bottom protector 8 and the top protector 9 is approximately 252 mm (some manufacturing tolerances are possible).

[0019] (7 types of beverage barrels) Refer to Figure 1 to explain the types of beverage barrels 7.

[0020] The beverage barrel 7a shown in Figure 1(a) is a beverage barrel E1 with a reduced diameter at the bottom. In the beverage barrel E1 with a reduced diameter at the bottom, the bottom protector 8 has a first stepped portion 82 and a first annular reinforcing portion 84 located below the first stepped portion 82 with an outer diameter of approximately 220 mm (some manufacturing tolerances are possible). The outer diameter of the portion of the bottom protector 8 above the first stepped portion 82 is larger than the outer diameter of the first annular reinforcing portion 84. The outer diameter of the portion of the bottom protector 8 above the first stepped portion 82 is approximately 252 mm (some manufacturing tolerances are possible).

[0021] The first annular reinforcing portion 84 is a reinforcing portion arranged in a ring around the central axis AX of the beverage barrel 7a. In the example shown in Figure 1(a), the first annular reinforcing portion 84 has a ring shape in a longitudinal cross-section passing through the central axis AX of the beverage barrel 7a. The first annular reinforcing portion 84 is formed, for example, by crimping.

[0022] The beverage barrel 7b (or beverage barrel 7c) shown in Figure 1(b) (or Figure 1(c)) is a non-reduced diameter lower end type beverage barrel E2. In the non-reduced diameter lower end type beverage barrel E2, the bottom protector 8 has a second annular reinforcing portion 86 with an outer diameter of approximately 252 mm (some manufacturing tolerances are possible). The outer diameter of the second annular reinforcing portion 86 is approximately the same as the outer diameter of the portion of the bottom protector 8 above the second annular reinforcing portion 86.

[0023] The second annular reinforcing portion 86 is a reinforcing portion arranged in a ring around the central axis AX of the beverage barrel 7. In the example shown in Figure 1(b) (or Figure 1(c)), the second annular reinforcing portion 86 has a ring shape in a longitudinal cross-section passing through the central axis AX of the beverage barrel 7. The second annular reinforcing portion 86 is formed, for example, by crimping.

[0024] The beverage barrel 7b shown in Figure 1(b) is a beverage barrel F1 with a reduced diameter at the top. In the beverage barrel F1 with a reduced diameter at the top, the top protector 9 has a second stepped portion 92 and a third annular reinforcing portion 94 positioned above the second stepped portion 92 with an outer diameter of approximately 220 mm (some manufacturing tolerances are possible). The outer diameter of the portion of the top protector 9 below the second stepped portion 92 is larger than the outer diameter of the third annular reinforcing portion 94. The outer diameter of the portion of the top protector 9 below the second stepped portion 92 is approximately 252 mm (some manufacturing tolerances are possible).

[0025] The third annular reinforcing portion 94 is a reinforcing portion arranged in a ring around the central axis AX of the beverage barrel 7b. In the example shown in Figure 1(b), the third annular reinforcing portion 94 has a ring shape in a longitudinal cross-section passing through the central axis AX of the beverage barrel 7b. The third annular reinforcing portion 94 is formed, for example, by crimping.

[0026] The beverage barrel 7a (or beverage barrel 7c) shown in Figure 1(a) (or Figure 1(c)) is a non-reduced diameter upper end type beverage barrel F2. In the non-reduced diameter upper end type beverage barrel F2, the top protector 9 has a fourth annular reinforcing portion 96 with an outer diameter of approximately 252 mm (some manufacturing tolerances are possible). The outer diameter of the fourth annular reinforcing portion 96 is approximately the same as the outer diameter of the portion of the top protector 9 below the fourth annular reinforcing portion 96.

[0027] The fourth annular reinforcing portion 96 is a reinforcing portion arranged in a ring around the central axis AX of the beverage barrel 7. In the example shown in Figure 1(a) (or Figure 1(c)), the fourth annular reinforcing portion 96 has a ring shape in a longitudinal cross-section passing through the central axis AX of the beverage barrel 7. The fourth annular reinforcing portion 96 is formed, for example, by crimping.

[0028] (Stacking 2 beverage barrels, 7 units each) Let's consider a case where there are two beverage barrels 7a as shown in Figure 1(a) (in other words, beverage barrels with a reduced diameter at the bottom (E1) and a non-reduced diameter at the top (F2)). As illustrated in Figure 2(a), the two beverage barrels 7a can be stacked on top of each other.

[0029] Let's consider the case where there are two beverage barrels 7b as shown in Figure 1(b) (in other words, beverage barrels with a non-reduced diameter at the bottom (E2) and a reduced diameter at the top (F1)). As illustrated in Figure 2(b), the two beverage barrels 7b can be stacked on top of each other.

[0030] Let's consider the case where there are two beverage barrels 7c as shown in Figure 1(c) (in other words, beverage barrels with a non-reduced diameter at the lower end (E2) and a non-reduced diameter at the upper end (F2)). As illustrated in Figure 3(a), the two beverage barrels 7c can be stacked on top of each other via the beverage barrel stacking aid 6.

[0031] As illustrated in Figure 3(b), consider the case where the beverage barrel stacking aid 6 supports a beverage barrel E1 of the reduced-diameter-at-bottom type. In the example shown in Figure 3(b), a relatively large annular gap G exists between the beverage barrel stacking aid 6 and the bottom protector 8. Also, in the example shown in Figure 3(b), the first annular reinforcing portion 84 of the bottom protector 8 is positioned near the edge of the through-hole portion 61h formed in the beverage barrel stacking aid 6. Due to the presence of this gap G, or because the first annular reinforcing portion 84 is positioned near the edge of the through-hole portion 61h, the beverage barrel E1 of the reduced-diameter-at-bottom type is not stably supported by the beverage barrel stacking aid 6, and the beverage barrel E1 of the reduced-diameter-at-bottom type is prone to tilting relative to the beverage barrel stacking aid 6 (see Figure 4).

[0032] (First Embodiment) Referring to Figures 1 to 15, the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A in the first embodiment will be described. Figure 1 is a diagram illustrating the types of beverage barrels 7. Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing how two beverage barrels 7 are stacked. Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing how two beverage barrels 7 are stacked via the beverage barrel stacking aid 6 in the comparative example. Figure 4 is a diagram showing that the lower end diameter-reduced type beverage barrel E1 placed on the beverage barrel stacking aid 6 in the comparative example is prone to tilting. Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing how two beverage barrels 7 are stacked via the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A in the first embodiment. Figure 5(a) shows how the second beverage barrel 7-2 supports the lower end diameter-reduced type beverage barrel E1 via the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A, and Figure 5(b) shows how the second beverage barrel 7-2 supports the lower end non-reduced type beverage barrel E2 via the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A. Figure 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A in the first embodiment. Figure 7 is a schematic three-view drawing illustrating the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A in the first embodiment. A schematic top view is shown at the top of Figure 7, a schematic front view is shown in the center of Figure 7, and a schematic bottom view is shown at the bottom of Figure 7. Figures 8 to 10 are schematic cross-sectional views illustrating the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A in the first embodiment. In Figures 8 to 10, parts of the first beverage barrel 7-1 and parts of the second beverage barrel 7-2 are shown by dashed lines. Figure 11 is a diagram illustrating the tilting of an object P with an outer diameter of 252 mm and a height of 30 mm. Figure 12 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating how the second beverage barrel 7-2 and the first beverage barrel 7-1 are stacked via the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A. Figure 13 is a schematic two-view drawing illustrating the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A in the first embodiment. The upper part of Figure 13 shows a schematic front view, and the lower part of Figure 13 shows a cross-sectional view taken along the line JJ in the front view. Figure 14 is a schematic cross-sectional view schematically showing how two beverage barrel stacking aids 1A are directly stacked on top of each other. Figure 15 is a schematic cross-sectional view schematically showing a beverage barrel stacking aid 1A in a modified example of the first embodiment.

[0033] As illustrated in Figure 5, the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A in the first embodiment is a beverage barrel stacking aid that can selectively and stably support a beverage barrel E1 with a reduced diameter at the lower end (see Figure 5(a)) and a beverage barrel E2 with a non-reduced diameter at the lower end (see Figure 5(b)).

[0034] As illustrated in Figure 5(a), in the lower end diameter-reduced type beverage barrel E1, the bottom protector 8 has a first stepped portion 82 and a first annular reinforcing portion 84 located below the first stepped portion 82, with an outer diameter D1 of approximately 220 mm (some manufacturing tolerances are possible). Since the lower end diameter-reduced type beverage barrel E1 has already been explained with reference to Figure 1(a), a repeated explanation of the lower end diameter-reduced type beverage barrel E1 will be omitted.

[0035] As illustrated in Figure 5(b), in the lower end non-reduced diameter type beverage barrel E2, the bottom protector 8 has a second annular reinforcing portion 86 with an outer diameter D2 of approximately 252 mm. Since the lower end non-reduced diameter type beverage barrel E2 has already been explained with reference to Figure 1(b) or Figure 1(c), a repeated explanation of the lower end non-reduced diameter type beverage barrel E2 will be omitted.

[0036] As illustrated in Figure 6, the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A in the first embodiment comprises an annular support portion 21, a through hole portion 21h, a first annular wall 25, a supported surface 33, and a second annular wall 35.

[0037] The annular support portion 21 defines a support surface 23 that supports the first beverage barrel 7-1 (see Figure 5(a) or Figure 5(b) if necessary). In the example shown in Figure 7, the support surface 23 has a ring shape in plan view. In the example shown in Figure 7, the upper surface of the annular support portion 21 is the support surface 23 that supports the first beverage barrel 7-1.

[0038] As illustrated in Figure 6, the through-hole 21h is defined by the inner edge 21n of the annular support portion 21.

[0039] The first annular wall 25 is positioned opposite the lower outer surface of the first beverage barrel 7-1 (see Figure 5(a) or Figure 5(b) if necessary) with a small gap between them, and suppresses tilting of the first beverage barrel 7-1 relative to the annular support 21.

[0040] As illustrated in Figure 6, the supported surface 33 is the surface supported by the second beverage barrel 7-2 (see Figure 5(a) or Figure 5(b) if necessary).

[0041] The second annular wall 35 is positioned opposite the upper outer surface of the second beverage barrel 7-2 (see Figure 5(a) or Figure 5(b) if necessary) with a small gap between them, thereby suppressing tilting of the supported surface 33 relative to the second beverage barrel 7-2.

[0042] In the example shown in Figure 8, the hole diameter L1 of the through hole 21h is 220 mm or more and 240 mm or less (or 220 mm or more and 238 mm or less).

[0043] Because the diameter L1 of the through-hole 21h is 220 mm or more and 240 mm or less, when the first beverage barrel 7-1 is a lower-end reduced-diameter type beverage barrel E1 (more specifically, when it is a lower-end reduced-diameter type beverage barrel E1 having a first stepped portion 82 and a first annular reinforcing portion 84 with an outer diameter D1 of approximately 220 mm), the first annular reinforcing portion 84 is inserted into the through-hole 21h, and the bottom surface 82t of the first stepped portion 82 is stably supported by the support surface 23.

[0044] In the example shown in Figure 9, the hole diameter L1 of the through hole 21h is 220 mm or more and 240 mm or less, and the outer diameter L2 of the support surface 23 is 252 mm or more and 258 mm or less.

[0045] Because the diameter L1 of the through-hole 21h is 240 mm or less, when the first beverage barrel 7-1 is a non-reduced diameter type beverage barrel E2 at the lower end (more specifically, when it is a non-reduced diameter type beverage barrel E2 having a second annular reinforcing part 86 with an outer diameter D2 of approximately 252 mm), the second annular reinforcing part 86 is stably supported by the support surface 23.

[0046] Furthermore, because the outer diameter L2 of the support surface 23 is between 252 mm and 258 mm, the second annular reinforcing portion 86, which has an outer diameter D2 of approximately 252 mm and is placed on the support surface 23, is well positioned relative to the support surface 23.

[0047] In the first embodiment, the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A (see Figure 8) is configured such that (1) the first annular wall 25 is positioned opposite the lower outer peripheral surface of the first beverage barrel 7-1 (more specifically, the outer peripheral surface of the bottom protector 8), and (2) the bottom surface 82t of the first stepped portion 82 of the lower end diameter-reduced beverage barrel E1 is stably supported by the support surface 23. This suppresses tilting of the lower end diameter-reduced beverage barrel E1 relative to the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A and allows for stable support of the lower end diameter-reduced beverage barrel E1.

[0048] Furthermore, the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A in the first embodiment (see Figure 9) is configured such that (1) the first annular wall 25 is positioned opposite the lower outer peripheral surface of the first beverage barrel 7-1 (more specifically, the outer peripheral surface of the bottom protector 8), and (2) the second annular reinforcing portion 86 of the lower end non-reduced diameter type beverage barrel E2 is well positioned and supported by the support surface 23, thereby suppressing tilting of the lower end non-reduced diameter type beverage barrel E2 relative to the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A and stably supporting the lower end non-reduced diameter type beverage barrel E2.

[0049] As described above, the first embodiment provides a beverage barrel stacking aid 1A that can selectively and stably support a beverage barrel E1 with a reduced diameter at the lower end (see Figure 8) and a beverage barrel E2 with a non-reduced diameter at the lower end (see Figure 9).

[0050] Next, we will describe optional additional configurations that can be adopted in the first embodiment.

[0051] (Hole diameter L1 of through hole 21h) In Figure 8, it is assumed that there may be some manufacturing tolerances in the outer diameter D1 (approximately 220 mm) of the first annular reinforcing portion 84. Therefore, it is preferable that the hole diameter L1 of the through hole portion 21h be 220.5 mm or more and 240 mm or less, 221 mm or more and 240 mm or less, 222 mm or more and 240 mm or less, 223 mm or more and 240 mm or less, or 224 mm or more and 240 mm or less.

[0052] (Outer diameter L2 of support surface 23) In Figure 9, it is assumed that there may be some manufacturing tolerance in the outer diameter D2 (approximately 252 mm) of the second annular reinforcing portion 86. Therefore, it is preferable that the outer diameter L2 of the support surface 23 be between 252.3 mm and 258 mm, or between 252.5 mm and 258 mm.

[0053] (Height dimension H1 of the inner surface of the first ring wall 25) In the example shown in Figure 6, the height dimension H1 of the inner surface of the first annular wall 25 (in other words, the vertical length of the inner surface of the first annular wall 25) is 30 mm or more and 100 mm or less, or 35 mm or more and 80 mm or less.

[0054] (1) The inner height dimension H1 of the first annular wall 25 is 30 mm or more, and (2) the first annular wall 25 is configured to be positioned opposite the lower outer surface of the first beverage barrel 7-1 (see Figures 8 and 9 if necessary) with a small gap between them, thereby more effectively suppressing the tilting of the first beverage barrel 7-1 relative to the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A.

[0055] Furthermore, because the height dimension H1 of the first annular wall 25 is 100 mm or less, the first annular wall 25 is less likely to obstruct the work of removing the first beverage barrel 7-1 from the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A. Also, because the height dimension H1 of the first annular wall 25 is 100 mm or less, the storage space required for the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A is small when it is not in use.

[0056] (Diameter L3 of the inner surface of the upper edge of the first annular wall 25) In the examples shown in Figures 8 and 9, the diameter L3 of the inner surface of the upper edge of the first annular wall 25 is between 252.5 mm and 253.77 mm.

[0057] Since the diameter L3 of the inner surface of the upper edge of the first annular wall 25 is 252.5 mm or more, the bottom protector 8, which has a maximum outer diameter D3 of approximately 252 mm, can be easily inserted into the space inside the first annular wall 25.

[0058] Furthermore, the height dimension H1 of the first annular wall 25 is 30 mm or more, and the diameter L3 of the inner surface of the upper edge of the first annular wall 25 is 252.5 mm or more and 253.77 mm or less, thereby effectively suppressing the detachment of the first beverage barrel 7-1 from the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A. The mechanism for preventing detachment will be explained with reference to Figure 11.

[0059] As illustrated in Figure 11, consider a case where an object P with an outer diameter of 252 mm and a height of 30 mm tilts until the height of a portion of its upper edge P1 and a portion of its lower edge P2 coincide. In the example shown in Figure 11, the distance between the portion of the upper edge P1 and the portion of the lower edge P2 of the object P is 253.77 mm. Therefore, if the diameter L3 of the inner surface of the upper edge of the first annular wall 25 is 253.77 mm or less, the tilting first beverage barrel 7-1 will catch on the first annular wall 25. In this way, if the diameter L3 of the inner surface of the upper edge of the first annular wall 25 is 253.77 mm or less, the tilting of the first beverage barrel 7-1 will effectively prevent it from falling off the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A.

[0060] (upper part 2) In the example shown in Figure 6, the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A has an upper portion 2. The upper portion 2 supports the first beverage barrel 7-1 (see Figures 8 and 9 if necessary). The upper portion 2 includes an annular support portion 21 and a first annular wall 25.

[0061] In the example shown in Figure 6, most of the annular support portion 21 (and most of the support surface 23) extends along a direction perpendicular to the central axis AX2 of the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A (in other words, horizontally). In the example shown in Figure 6, the distance L4 between the inner edge and the outer edge of the support surface 23 is smaller than the height dimension H1 of the inner surface of the first annular wall 25. This distance L4 may be less than or equal to half the height dimension H1 of the inner surface of the first annular wall 25.

[0062] In the example shown in Figure 6, the first annular wall 25 extends upward from the outer edge 21u of the annular support portion 21. Preferably, the inner surface of the first annular wall 25 is tapered, slightly inclined upwards toward the central axis AX2 of the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A. In this case, the bottom protector 8 of the first beverage barrel 7-1 can be easily inserted into the space inside the first annular wall 25.

[0063] (Lower part 3) In the example shown in Figure 6, the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A has a lower portion 3.

[0064] The lower portion 3 is positioned below the upper portion 2 and is supported by the second drinking barrel 7-2 (see Figures 8 and 9, if necessary). The lower portion 3 includes a supported surface 33 and a second annular wall 35.

[0065] In the example shown in Figure 7, the supported surface 33 has a ring shape when viewed from below. In the example shown in Figure 6, the lower portion 3 includes an annular supported portion 31 which is supported by the second beverage barrel 7-2, and the lower surface of the annular supported portion 31 is the supported surface 33.

[0066] In the example shown in Figure 6, most of the annular supported portion 31 (and most of the supported surface 33) extends along a direction perpendicular to the central axis AX2 of the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A (in other words, the horizontal direction). In the example shown in Figure 6, the distance L5 between the inner edge and the outer edge of the supported surface 33 is smaller than the height dimension H2 of the inner surface of the second annular wall 35. This distance L5 may be less than or equal to half the height dimension H2 of the inner surface of the second annular wall 35.

[0067] In the example shown in Figure 6, the second annular wall 35 extends downward from the outer edge 31u of the annular support portion 31. Preferably, the inner surface of the second annular wall 35 is tapered, slightly inclined toward the central axis AX2 of the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A as it extends downward. In this case, the lower portion 3 including the second annular wall 35 can be easily attached to the top protector 9 of the second beverage barrel 7-2 (see Figures 8 and 9 if necessary).

[0068] In the example shown in Figure 6, the inner height dimension H2 of the second annular wall 35 (in other words, the vertical length of the inner surface of the second annular wall 35) is 30 mm or more and 100 mm or less, or 35 mm or more and 80 mm or less. By having an inner height dimension H2 of the second annular wall 35 of 30 mm or more, the tilting of the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A relative to the second beverage barrel 7-2 (see Figures 8 and 9 if necessary) is effectively suppressed.

[0069] In the example shown in Figure 8, the diameter L6 of the inner surface of the lower edge of the second annular wall 35 is between 252.5 mm and 253.77 mm. Because the diameter L6 of the inner surface of the lower edge of the second annular wall 35 is 252.5 mm or more, the lower portion 3, including the second annular wall 35, can be easily attached to the top protector 9, which has a maximum outer diameter D6 of approximately 252 mm.

[0070] Furthermore, the height dimension H2 of the inner surface of the second annular wall 35 is 30 mm or more, and the diameter L6 of the inner surface of the lower edge of the second annular wall 35 is 252.5 mm or more and 253.77 mm or less, thereby effectively suppressing the detachment of the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A from the second beverage barrel 7-2.

[0071] (Second through hole portion 31h) In the example shown in Figure 6, the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A includes a second through-hole 31h in addition to the annular support portion 31. The second through-hole 31h is defined by the inner edge 31n of the annular support portion 31.

[0072] In the example shown in Figure 10, the diameter L7 of the second through-hole 31h is 220 mm or more and 240 mm or less (or 220 mm or more and 238 mm or less). Because the diameter L7 of the second through-hole 31h is 220 mm or more and 240 mm or less, when the second beverage barrel 7-2 is a beverage barrel F1 with a reduced diameter at the top end (more specifically, when it is a beverage barrel F1 with a reduced diameter at the top end that has a second stepped portion 92 and a third annular reinforcing portion 94 with an outer diameter D4 of approximately 220 mm), the third annular reinforcing portion 94 is inserted into the second through-hole 31h, and the upper surface 92p of the second stepped portion 92 stably supports the supported surface 33 of the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A.

[0073] In Figure 10, it is assumed that there may be some manufacturing tolerances in the outer diameter D4 (approximately 220 mm) of the third annular reinforcement portion 94. Therefore, it is preferable that the hole diameter L7 of the second through hole portion 31h be 220.5 mm or more and 240 mm or less, 221 mm or more and 240 mm or less, 222 mm or more and 240 mm or less, 223 mm or more and 240 mm or less, or 224 mm or more and 240 mm or less.

[0074] In the example shown in Figure 9, the hole diameter L7 of the second through-hole 31h is 220 mm or more and 240 mm or less, and the outer diameter L8 of the supported surface 33 is 252 mm or more and 258 mm or less.

[0075] Because the hole diameter L7 of the second through-hole 31h is 240 mm or less, when the second beverage barrel 7-2 is a non-reduced diameter upper end type beverage barrel F2 (more specifically, when it is a non-reduced diameter upper end type beverage barrel F2 having a fourth annular reinforcing part 96 with an outer diameter D5 of approximately 252 mm), the fourth annular reinforcing part 96 stably supports the supported surface 33.

[0076] Furthermore, because the outer diameter L8 of the supported surface 33 is between 252 mm and 258 mm, the supported surface 33 is well positioned relative to the fourth annular reinforcing portion 96, which has an outer diameter D5 of approximately 252 mm.

[0077] In Figure 9, it is assumed that there may be some manufacturing tolerance in the outer diameter D5 (approximately 252 mm) of the fourth annular reinforcing portion 96. Therefore, it is preferable that the outer diameter L8 of the supported surface 33 be between 252.3 mm and 258 mm, or between 252.5 mm and 258 mm.

[0078] (Connection wall 4) In the example shown in Figure 6, the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A includes a connecting wall 4. The connecting wall 4 connects an upper portion 2 including an annular support portion 21 and a lower portion 3 including an annular supported portion 31 (more specifically, a supported surface 33). As illustrated in Figure 12, the upper portion of the dispense head 100 attached to the nozzle portion 78 of the second beverage barrel 7-2 (e.g., the operating lever 101) can be positioned inside the connecting wall 4.

[0079] As illustrated in Figure 12, it is preferable that the connecting wall 4 has at least one access opening OP. The access opening OP allows the user's hand to access the mouthpiece 78 of the second beverage barrel 7-2 that supports the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A.

[0080] If an access opening OP is formed in the connecting wall 4, a gas supply pipe 110 that supplies gas to the second beverage barrel 7-2 can be positioned to pass through the access opening OP while the second beverage barrel 7-2 and the first beverage barrel 7-1 are stacked via the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A. Furthermore, a beverage supply pipe 120 that supplies the beverage taken from the second beverage barrel 7-2 to the beverage server can be positioned to pass through the access opening OP while the second beverage barrel 7-2 and the first beverage barrel 7-1 are stacked via the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A.

[0081] In the example shown in Figure 12, with the second beverage barrel 7-2 and the first beverage barrel 7-1 stacked via a beverage barrel stacking aid 1A, a first type of beverage can be supplied from the first beverage barrel 7-1 to a beverage server capable of dispensing two types of beverages, and a second type of beverage can be supplied from the second beverage barrel 7-2 to the beverage server capable of dispensing two types of beverages via a beverage supply pipe 120 passing through the access opening OP.

[0082] In the example shown in Figure 13, the height dimension H3 of the access opening OP is 8 cm to 20 cm, 10 cm to 18 cm, or 12 cm to 16 cm. Also, when facing the access opening OP directly, the width dimension W3 of the access opening OP is 10 cm to 18 cm, 12 cm to 18 cm, or 14 cm to 18 cm.

[0083] In the example shown in Figure 13, the connecting wall 4 has a side wall portion 41 with a thickness of 1 cm or less, centered on the central axis AX2 of the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A. At least one access opening OP is formed in the side wall portion 41 (in other words, the side wall portion 41 is a thin wall with access openings OP). In the example shown in Figure 13 (section view along arrow JJ), three access openings OP are formed in the side wall portion 41. Alternatively, one, two, or four or more access openings OP may be formed in the side wall portion 41.

[0084] In the example shown in Figure 13, the connecting wall 4 has a side wall portion 41 as well as a plurality of reinforcing ribs 45 that connect the annular support portion 21 and the annular supported portion 31. In the example shown in Figure 13, the upper end portion 45p of the reinforcing rib 45 is connected to the first annular wall 25 and the annular support portion 21. The lower end portion 45t of the reinforcing rib 45 is connected to the second annular wall 35 and the annular supported portion 31. The inner edge portion 45n of the reinforcing rib 45 is connected to the side wall portion 41.

[0085] The reinforcing rib 45 extends in a direction along the central axis AX2 of the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A, and also extends away from the central axis AX2 of the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A, starting from the side wall portion 41.

[0086] In the example shown in Figure 13, in a cross-section perpendicular to the central axis AX2 of the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A at the center of the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A in the height direction (in other words, a JJ cross-section), arc-shaped wall portions 41c with reinforcing ribs 45 and access openings OP are alternately arranged along the circumferential direction of the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A.

[0087] In the example shown in Figure 13, each arc-shaped wall portion 41c is provided with two edge reinforcing ribs 45b, each facing one of the two access openings OP. The edge reinforcing ribs 45b may extend in a direction parallel to the line segment connecting the central axis AX2 and the center of the access opening OP in a cross-section perpendicular to the central axis AX2 of the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A. In the example shown in Figure 13, each arc-shaped wall portion 41c has a central reinforcing rib 45a positioned between the two edge reinforcing ribs 45b. The central reinforcing rib 45a may extend in a direction away from the central axis AX2 in a cross-section perpendicular to the central axis AX2 of the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A.

[0088] In the example shown in Figure 13, three reinforcing ribs 45 are provided on each arc-shaped wall section 41c. Alternatively, one, two, or four or more reinforcing ribs 45 may be provided on each arc-shaped wall section 41c.

[0089] As illustrated in Figure 6, in a longitudinal section including the central axis AX2 of the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A, a crank shape may be formed by the first annular wall 25, the annular support portion 21, and the upper end portion 41p of the side wall portion 41 (see the portion indicated by the dashed circle K). This crank shape increases the strength of the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A.

[0090] As illustrated in Figure 6, in a longitudinal section including the central axis AX2 of the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A, a crank shape may be formed by the second annular wall 35, the annular supported portion 31, and the lower end portion 41t of the side wall portion 41. This crank shape increases the strength of the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A.

[0091] (Annular engaging projection 51, and annular engaging recess 52) In the example shown in Figure 6, one of the upper end of the first annular wall 25 and the lower end of the second annular wall 35 has an annular engagement projection 51, and the other of the upper end of the first annular wall 25 and the lower end of the second annular wall 35 has an annular engagement recess 52 that engages with the annular engagement projection 51.

[0092] In the example shown in Figure 14, multiple beverage barrel stacking aids 1A can be directly stacked by engaging the annular engaging projection 51 and the annular engaging recess 52 with each other. This makes it easy to store or transport multiple beverage barrel stacking aids 1A when they are not in use.

[0093] (Material of beverage barrel stacking aid 1A) The beverage barrel stacking aid 1A is made of, for example, resin. Preferably, the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A is made of a hard resin such as hard nylon resin. The beverage barrel stacking aid 1A may be integrally formed from a resin material. In this case, the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A can be made of a single part, and metal fittings for joining parts together are not required in the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A.

[0094] (Modified version of the first embodiment) Figure 15 shows a modified example of the first embodiment of the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A. In the example shown in Figure 15, the distance between the annular support portion 21 (more specifically, the annular support plate portion) that supports the first beverage barrel 7-1 and the annular supported portion 31 (more specifically, the annular supported plate portion) that is supported by the second beverage barrel 7-2 is set shorter compared to the example shown in Figure 10. In other words, in the example shown in Figure 15, the dimensions of the connecting wall 4 in the height direction are shorter. In the example shown in Figure 15, the distance between the annular support portion 21 and the annular supported portion 31 may be 10 cm or less, 8 cm or less, or 6 cm or less.

[0095] The beverage barrel stacking aid 1A shown in Figure 15 differs from the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A shown in Figure 10 in that the connecting wall 4 of the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A does not have an access opening OP that allows a user's hand to pass across the connecting wall 4.

[0096] Except for the shorter dimensions of the connecting wall 4 in the height direction and the omission of the access opening OP, the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A shown in Figure 15 is the same as the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A shown in Figure 10.

[0097] (Appearance of beverage barrel stacking aid 1A) Referring to Figures 16 to 21, an example of the appearance of the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A in the first embodiment will be described. Figures 16 to 18 are two-view drawings of the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A. The upper part of Figure 16 shows a front view, and the lower part of Figure 16 shows a rear view. The upper part of Figure 17 shows a top view, and the lower part of Figure 17 shows a bottom view. The upper part of Figure 18 shows a right side view, and the lower part of Figure 18 shows a left side view. Figure 19 is a cross-sectional view of the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A. The upper part of Figure 19 shows a cross-sectional view along line AA in Figure 16 (front view), and the lower part of Figure 19 shows a cross-sectional view along line BB in Figure 16 (front view). Figure 20 is a cross-sectional view along line CC in Figure 17 (top view). Figure 21 is a reference cross-sectional view showing the names of each part.

[0098] In Figures 16 to 21, the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A is a beverage barrel stacking aid interposed between the first beverage barrel and the second beverage barrel for stacking the first beverage barrel and the second beverage barrel. As shown in Figure 21, the beverage barrel stacking aid has an upper portion including a first annular wall and an annular support portion capable of supporting the first beverage barrel, a lower portion including an annular supported portion supported by the second beverage barrel and the second annular wall, and a connecting wall connecting the upper portion and the lower portion.

[0099] (Second embodiment) Referring to Figures 22 to 24, the beverage barrel stacking aid 1B in the second embodiment will be described. Figures 22 and 23 are schematic cross-sectional views illustrating how two beverage barrels 7 are stacked via the beverage barrel stacking aid 1B in the second embodiment. Figure 22 shows how the second beverage barrel 7-2 supports the lower end reduced diameter type beverage barrel E1 via the beverage barrel stacking aid 1B, and Figure 23 shows how the second beverage barrel 7-2 supports the lower end non-reduced diameter type beverage barrel E2 via the beverage barrel stacking aid 1B. Figure 24 is a schematic two-view drawing illustrating the beverage barrel stacking aid 1B in the second embodiment. A schematic plan view is shown on the upper side of Figure 24, and a schematic cross-sectional view is shown on the lower side of Figure 24.

[0100] The beverage barrel stacking aid 1B in the second embodiment differs from the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A in the first embodiment in that the connecting wall 4 is omitted and the upper part 2B and the lower part 3B of the beverage barrel stacking aid 1B are directly connected. In other respects, the beverage barrel stacking aid 1B in the second embodiment is the same as the beverage barrel stacking aid 1A in the first embodiment.

[0101] In the second embodiment, the focus will be on the differences from the first embodiment, and repetitive explanations of matters already explained in the first embodiment will be omitted. Therefore, it goes without saying that even if not explicitly explained in the second embodiment, matters already explained in the first embodiment can be adopted in the second embodiment.

[0102] As illustrated in Figures 22 and 23, the beverage barrel stacking aid 1B in the second embodiment is a beverage barrel stacking aid that can selectively and stably support (1) a lower end diameter reduced type beverage barrel E1 (see Figure 22) having a bottom protector 8 with a first stepped portion 82 and a first annular reinforcing portion 84 with an outer diameter of approximately 220 mm positioned below the first stepped portion 82, and a lower end non-reduced type beverage barrel E2 (see Figure 23) having a bottom protector 8 with a second annular reinforcing portion 86 with an outer diameter of approximately 252 mm.

[0103] As illustrated in Figure 24, the beverage barrel stacking aid 1B comprises: (2) an annular support portion 21 defining a support surface 23 that supports the first beverage barrel 7-1; (3) a through hole portion 21h defined by the inner edge 21n of the annular support portion 21; (4) a first annular wall 25 positioned opposite the lower outer peripheral surface of the first beverage barrel 7-1 (more specifically, the outer peripheral surface of the bottom protector) to suppress tilting of the first beverage barrel 7-1 relative to the annular support portion 21; (5) a supported surface 33 supported by the second beverage barrel 7-2; and (6) a second annular wall 35 positioned opposite the upper outer peripheral surface of the second beverage barrel 7-2 (more specifically, the outer peripheral surface of the top protector) to suppress tilting of the supported surface 33 relative to the second beverage barrel 7-2.

[0104] Furthermore, (7) as illustrated in Figure 22, when the first beverage barrel 7-1 is a beverage barrel E1 with a reduced diameter at the lower end, the diameter L1 of the through-hole 21h (see Figure 24) is 220 mm or more and 240 mm or less (or 220 mm or more and 238 mm or less) so that the first annular reinforcing part 84 is inserted into the through-hole 21h and the bottom surface 82t of the first stepped part 82 is supported by the support surface 23. In addition, (8) as illustrated in Figure 23, when the first beverage barrel 7-1 is a beverage barrel E2 with no reduced diameter at the lower end, the diameter L1 of the through-hole 21h is 240 mm or less and the outer diameter L2 of the support surface 23 (see Figure 24) is 252 mm or more and 258 mm or less so that the second annular reinforcing part 86 is positioned and supported by the support surface 23.

[0105] Based on the above, the second embodiment provides the same effects as the first embodiment.

[0106] Next, we will describe optional additional configurations that can be adopted in the second embodiment.

[0107] (First annular wall 25, and annular support portion 21) In Figure 24, the configuration of the first annular wall 25 and the annular support portion 21 (for example, the shape, structure, size, or material of the first annular wall 25 and the annular support portion 21) can be the same as that described in the first embodiment. Therefore, in describing the first annular wall 25 and the annular support portion 21 in the second embodiment, we will refer to the description in the first embodiment and omit any repetitive descriptions of these configurations.

[0108] (Second annular wall 35, and annular supported portion 31) In Figure 24, the configuration of the second annular wall 35 and the annular supported portion 31 (for example, the shape, structure, size, or material of the second annular wall 35 and the annular supported portion 31) can be the same as that described in the first embodiment. Therefore, the description of the second annular wall 35 and the annular supported portion 31 in the second embodiment will be based on the description in the first embodiment, and any repetitive explanations of these configurations will be omitted.

[0109] (Upper section 2B, and lower section 3B) As illustrated in Figure 24, in the second embodiment, the upper portion 2B and the lower portion 3B are directly connected. More specifically, the annular support portion 21, which constitutes part of the upper portion 2B, and the annular supported portion 31, which constitutes part of the lower portion 3B, are integrally formed by a single annular plate portion.

[0110] (Annular engaging projection 51, and annular engaging recess 52) In Figure 24, the annular engaging projection 51 and the annular engaging recess 52 can be configured in the same way as described in the first embodiment. Therefore, the description of the annular engaging projection 51 and the annular engaging recess 52 in the second embodiment will be based on the description in the first embodiment, and any repetitive explanations of these configurations will be omitted.

[0111] (Appearance of beverage barrel stacking aid 1B) Referring to Figures 25 to 27, an example of the appearance of the beverage barrel stacking aid 1B in the second embodiment will be described. Figure 25 is a four-view drawing of the beverage barrel stacking aid 1B. Figure 25(a) shows the front view, Figure 25(b) shows the top view, Figure 25(c) shows the bottom view, and Figure 25(d) shows the right side view. The rear view is symmetrical to the front view, and the left side view is symmetrical to the right side view. Figure 26 is a cross-sectional view taken along the DD line in Figure 25 (top view). Figure 27 is a reference cross-sectional view showing the names of each part.

[0112] In Figures 25 to 27, the beverage barrel stacking aid 1B is a beverage barrel stacking aid interposed between the first beverage barrel and the second beverage barrel for stacking the first beverage barrel and the second beverage barrel. As shown in Figure 27, the beverage barrel stacking aid has an upper portion including a first annular wall and an annular support portion capable of supporting the first beverage barrel, and a lower portion including an annular supported portion supported by the second beverage barrel and the second annular wall.

[0113] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments or modifications described above, and it is clear that each embodiment or modification can be appropriately modified or changed within the scope of the technical concept of the present invention. Furthermore, the various technologies used in each embodiment or modification can be applied to other embodiments or other modifications, as long as no technical inconsistencies arise. In addition, any optional additional configurations in each embodiment or modification can be omitted as appropriate. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0114] 1, 1A, 1B: Beverage barrel stacking aid 2, 2B: Upper part 3, 3B: Lower part 4: Connecting wall 6: Beverage barrel stacking aid 7, 7a, 7b, 7c: Beverage barrel 7-1: First beverage barrel 7-2: Second beverage barrel 8: Bottom protector 9: Top protector 21: Ring-shaped support section 21h: Through hole part 21n: inner edge 21u: Outer edge 23: Support surface 25: First Ring Wall 31: Annular supported part 31h: 2nd through hole part 31n: Inner border 31u: Outer edge 33: Supported surface 35: Second Ring Wall 41: Side wall section 41c: Arc-shaped wall section 41p: Upper end 41t: Bottom end 45: Reinforcement Ribs 45a: Central reinforcing rib 45b: Edge reinforcement rib 45n: Inner edge 45p: Upper end 45t: Bottom end 51: Annular engaging projection 52: Annular engagement recess 61h: Through hole part 71: Barrel body 78: Mouthpiece 82: First step section 82t: Bottom surface of the first step 84: First Ring Reinforcement Section 86: Second Ring Reinforcement Section 92: Second step section 92p: Upper surface of the second step section 94: Third Ring Reinforcement Section 96: Fourth Ring Reinforcement Section 100: Dispense head 101: Operating lever 110: Gas supply pipe 120: Beverage supply pipe AX: Central axis AX2: Central axis E1: Beverage barrel with reduced diameter at the bottom E2: Beverage barrel with non-reduced diameter at the lower end F1: Beverage barrel with reduced diameter at the top F2: Non-reduced diameter upper end type beverage barrel G: Gap OP: Access opening P:Object

Claims

1. A beverage barrel stacking aid capable of selectively and stably supporting a beverage barrel of the reduced-diameter-at-bottom-end type, which has a bottom protector having a first stepped portion and a first annular reinforcing portion with an outer diameter of approximately 220 mm positioned below the first stepped portion, and a beverage barrel of the non-reduced-diameter-at-bottom-end type, which has a bottom protector having a second annular reinforcing portion with an outer diameter of approximately 252 mm, An annular support portion that defines the support surface for supporting the first beverage barrel, The through-hole portion is defined by the inner edge of the annular support portion, A first annular wall is positioned opposite the lower outer circumferential surface of the first beverage barrel and suppresses tilting of the first beverage barrel relative to the annular support portion, The supported surface is supported by the second beverage barrel, A second annular wall is positioned opposite the upper outer circumferential surface of the second beverage barrel and suppresses the tilting of the supported surface relative to the second beverage barrel. It is equipped with, When the first beverage barrel is a beverage barrel of the type with a reduced diameter at the lower end, the diameter of the through-hole is 220 mm or more and 240 mm or less, such that the first annular reinforcing portion is inserted into the through-hole and the bottom surface of the first stepped portion is supported by the support surface. When the first beverage barrel is a beverage barrel of the type with no reduced diameter at the lower end, the diameter of the through-hole is 240 mm or less, and the outer diameter of the support surface is 252 mm or more and 258 mm or less, so that the second annular reinforcing portion is positioned and supported by the support surface. A tool for stacking beverage barrels.

2. The diameter of the inner surface of the upper edge of the first annular wall is 252.5 mm or more and 253.77 mm or less. The height dimension of the inner surface of the first annular wall is 30 mm or more and 100 mm or less. The beverage barrel stacking aid according to claim 1.

3. The upper portion including the annular support portion, The lower portion including the supported surface, A connecting wall that connects the upper portion and the lower portion. Equipped with, The connecting wall is provided with an access opening that allows the user's hand to access the mouthpiece of the second beverage barrel. The height dimension of the access opening is 8 cm or more. A beverage barrel stacking aid according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The aforementioned connecting wall is A side wall portion with a thickness of 1 cm or less, whose center is on the central axis of the beverage barrel stacking aid, Multiple reinforcing ribs connect the annular support portion and the annular supported portion of the lower side. It has, The inner edges of the plurality of reinforcing ribs are connected to the side wall. The beverage barrel stacking aid according to claim 3.

5. In a cross-section perpendicular to the central axis of the beverage barrel stacking aid at the center in the height direction, arc-shaped wall portions with reinforcing ribs and the access openings are alternately arranged along the circumferential direction of the beverage barrel stacking aid. The beverage barrel stacking aid according to claim 3.

6. Each of the aforementioned arc-shaped wall sections is provided with two edge reinforcing ribs, each facing one of the two access openings. The beverage barrel stacking aid according to claim 5.

7. The connecting wall has a side wall portion with a thickness of 1 cm or less, whose center is on the central axis of the beverage barrel stacking aid. In a vertical cross-section passing through the central axis of the beverage barrel stacking aid, a crank shape is formed by the first annular wall, the annular support portion, and the upper end of the side wall portion. The beverage barrel stacking aid according to claim 3.

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