Container with user-removeable chime

Abstract

Assembly (100), comprising: - a container (200) for dispensing beverage under pressure, the container comprising an inner space (210) for receiving the beverage to be dispensed, and - a chime (300), removeably connected to the container, wherein a minimal force (Fi) required to disconnect the chime from the container at a first location (I) of the chime is higher than a minimal force (Fii) required to disconnect the chime from the container at a second location (II) of the chime.

Description

[0001] P137958PC00

[0002] Title: Container with user-removeable chime

[0003] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0004] The present disclosure relates to the field of containers for dispensing beverage under pressure, and chimes connected to said containers.

[0005] BACKGROUND

[0006] US20090108032A1 discloses a container for dispensing beverage under pressure. The container comprises a body, which can for example be made of plastic or metal or combinations thereof. Within the body, an inner space is provided for containing a liquid, more specifically a beverage such as beer, soft drink, wine or the like. A top ring extends from the top of the container. The top ring can for example protect the top of the container and / or can be provided with openings for gripping the container.

[0007] SUMMARY

[0008] It has been observed that known containers end up in general waste, which may pose difficulties with recycling materials from which the container is composed. Instead of being recycled, the general waste often ends up in an incinerator or as landfill.

[0009] It is an aim to improve recyclability of the known container, in particular by increasing ease with which a user can remove the top ring - herein referred to as a chime - from the container. Typically, the chime will be formed from a different material, which different material can be recycled differently from the material forming the container. In particular, the container will typically comprise metal, whereas the chime typically comprises or consists of a plastic. In the known container, it has been observed that tools and / or plastic deformation are required to remove the chime. Any chime referred herein may be a top chime. In view of the above, it was found that known connections between chimes and container are usually aimed at ease of assembly, but not disassembly. As the chime is often configured to offer the user reliable handling of the container, for example, by providing handle openings for gripping the container, conventional connection sections connecting the chime to the container are usually configured to provide a rather firm and durable connection. It is an aim to provide a chime, and in particular connection sections connecting the chime to the container, that combines ease of assembly and / or easier disassembly, allowing the user to separate the chime from the container quickly and efficiently - without compromising reliable handling.

[0010] As a first aspect, the present disclosure provides an assembly comprising a container for dispensing beverage under pressure. The container further comprises an inner space for receiving the beverage to be dispensed, and a chime, removeably connected to the container, wherein a minimal force required to disconnect the chime from the container at a first location of the chime is higher than a minimal force required to disconnect the chime from the container at a second location of the chime.

[0011] By providing an assembly with a minimal force required to disconnect the chime from the container at the first location higher than the minimal force required to disconnect the chime from the container at the second location, the chime can be more effortlessly removed starting from the second location, while the container can still be handled safely when handling the chime at the first location.

[0012] The minimal force required to disconnect the chime from the container at the first location may also be referred to as the minimal disconnection force, or simply minimal force, at the first location. Likewise, the minimal force required to disconnect the chime from the container at the second location may also be referred to as the minimal disconnection force, or simply minimal force, at the second location. The first and second location refer inter alia to specific areas of the chime, where the chime interacts differently with the container, particularly in terms of connection. While the first location generally provides a stronger connection, the second location provides a weaker connection or no connection at all.

[0013] The minimal force generally corresponds to a predetermined force threshold, that needs to be exceeded in order to disconnect the chime from the container. Hence the force threshold at the first location is higher than the force threshold at the second location. The force thresholds at the first and second locations may be engineered for example by the distance between the first and second locations, the size of the connection sections at the respective first and second locations, by choosing material properties of the chime and / or container at the respective first and second locations and / or by the shape of the chime and / or container at the respective first and second locations and / or an optional absence of a connection section at the second location, in any combination thereof.

[0014] Typically, the chime can be considered deformable, while the container is relatively rigid, particularly in view of the magnitude of forces applied to the chime when disconnecting the chime from the container. Thus, in use, when disconnecting the chime from the container, the chime will typically be deformed more than the container - although deformation of the container is also envisioned to allow disconnecting the chime from the container.

[0015] Preferably, the chime can be removed from the container by a user without the need for tools. Preferably, the chime can be removed from the container by a user with a low chance of any part of the chime breaking off. An omission of tools and the reduction of required force for disconnection at the second location may also lead to a decrease in the risk of injury to the user during disconnection. The minimal force at the first location and the minimal force at the second location are qualitatively compared. The term “higher” thus refers to the outcome of a substantially similar force measurement for disconnecting the chime from the container respectively at the first and second location. For instance, the force measurement can involve determining the minimum force required to disconnect the chime from the container in a direction substantially parallel to the centreline of the assembly, i.e., the longitudinal axis of the container. Nonetheless, other directions besides parallel to centreline are also envisioned in a force measurement, such as determining the required disconnection force at an acute angle to the centreline, for example, at 30, 45 or 50 degrees - similar to the typical pitch of the container, when the chime is held single-handedly during transport. The minimal force as defined herein may be obtained at any angle relative to the container, which angle may even differ for the first location and the second location.

[0016] Typically, a connection section is designed with a safety factor in mind. The safety factor typically depends at least on the weight of the fully filled container, and it will be understood that for any assembly herein, it is an aim that the chime remains connected to the container when held or carried or handled at the first location only.

[0017] Given that the minimal disconnection force at the first location is higher than the minimal disconnection force at the second location, the safety factor is higher as well. For example, the safety factor at the first location may be within the range of 5 to 15, preferably between 7 and 10, while the safety factor at the second location may range between 1.25 to 5.5, preferably from 2 to 3.

[0018] Based on the weight of the assembly in filled state, and thus mainly depending on the size of the container, an exemplary minimal force required to disconnect the chime from the container at a first location for a full 5L container filled with, e.g., beer could be in the range of 500 to 700 N, including the safety margin determined by the chosen safety factor. In contrast, an exemplary minimal force required to disconnect the chime from the container at a second location for the same 5L container could be within a range of 100 to 200 N, preferably greater than 150 N.

[0019] The ratio between the minimal force at the second location and the minimal force at the first location may be at least 2 : 3. Optionally, for any assembly disclosed herein the ratio may be at least 1 : 2, at least 1 : 3 or at least 1 : 5. By providing a threshold for the minimal force at the first location, which threshold is at least 50% higher relative to a threshold for the minimal force at the second location, the assembly ensures to remain connected when carried or handed at the first location only, particularly when a direction of a carrying force and the direction of the minimal disconnection force at the first location are essentially similar.

[0020] For example, when the threshold for the minimal force at the first location is 150 N, and this threshold is at least 50% higher relative to a threshold for the minimal force at the second location, the threshold at the second location is 100 N or less.

[0021] More in general, for any assembly of a container and chime as disclosed herein, whenever a minimal force Fi required to disconnect the chime from the container at a first location of the chime is higher than a minimal force Fa required to disconnect the chime from the container at a second location of the chime, the following equation may apply: Fi>l.Q5 Fu It has been found that already when Fis larger or at least equal to 105% of Fa, it can be more convenient for a user to disconnect the chime at the second location. Preferably, Fi is larger or at least equal to 120% of Fa, or Fi is even larger or at least equal to 150% of Fa. Depending on the desired minimal disconnection force at the first location and / or the second location, Fi may be even larger or at least equal to 175% of F, or even larger or at least equal to 200% of F, In a preferred option, between the chime and the container at least two connection sections are provided, around a circumference of the container, which at least two connection sections connect the chime to the container. The two connection sections may be positioned at any distance relative to each other and may have any size. It is also envisioned that two connections section are positioned directly adjacent to each other.

[0022] The location of a connection section may be defined by the centre or middle of the connection section. A size of a connection section may be defined around the circumference of the chime, for example as an angle of a particular number of degrees. A connection section may thus for example span an angle between 10 and 200 degrees, in particular less than 180 degrees, for example between 120 and 45 degrees or between 45 and 10 degrees. The relative position between two connection sections may also be defined as angle, between the locations of the two connection sections or a length for example expressed in mm. For example, when only two connection sections are provided for, the two connection sections may be spaced apart 180 degrees. When for example three connection sections are provided for, the three connection sections may be spaced apart 120 degrees, or the spacing between a first and second connection section may be larger than a spacing between the second and a third connection section.

[0023] As an option, the assembly may comprise at least two connection sections, that are asymmetrically distributed around a perimeter of the chime. Asymmetrical distribution refers to the relative positioning of the at least two connection sections. For an asymmetric distribution of at least two connection sections, the connection sections need to be distinct from each other, meaning that the connection sections have an intermediate section between them. The intermediate section is free of connection sections connecting the chime to the container. Hence, asymmetrically distributed connection sections may be unevenly spaced apart, for example, a first connection section and a second connection section positioned 120 degrees apart along the perimeter of the chime. Another example involves three asymmetrically distributed connection sections, where a first connection section and a second connection section may be spaced apart by less than 120 degrees, and the first connection section and a third connection section may be spaced apart by more than 120 degrees.

[0024] Additionally, or alternatively, any connection sections may have a similar size, or a different size. For any connection section, the connection section may span at least 10 degrees, at least 20 degrees, at least 30 degrees or even at least 45 degrees or even 60 degrees or more. Any two connection sections may be spaced apart, or conceivably may be directly adjacent to each other.

[0025] Additionally, besides having at least two connection sections asymmetrically distributed around the perimeter of the chime, any three connection sections may also be envisioned as being axially asymmetric, meaning that the at least three connection sections do not have a common mirroring axis.

[0026] The assembly may have, at the first location, a first connection section of a first type connecting the chime to the container.

[0027] The assembly may have, at the second location, a second connection section of a second type connecting the chime to the container, wherein a minimal force required to disconnect the connection section of the first type is higher than a minimal force required to disconnect the connection section of the second type.

[0028] The first and second type of connection section connecting the chime to the container may refer to types of connections in the class of formfit connections or force-fit connections, preferably detachable connections, for example by hooking, sliding or pressing the chime and container together. Another type of connection envisioned is a chemical connection, for example using an adhesive, or weld. The first and second type of connection sections may thus refer to a different type of connection, or the same connection with a different force threshold.

[0029] By providing the first connection section of a first type at the first location and the second connection section of a second type at the second location, the minimal forces at the first and second locations can be engineered by selecting the appropriate type of connection. In general, the connection section of the second type may be the same or related to the connection section of the first type, but engineered so that the minimal force required to disconnect the connection section of the second type is lower than the minimal force required to disconnect the connection section of the first type. However, for any assembly disclosed herein, it can also be envisioned that the connection section of the first type and second type are different types of connections, such as using a forced-fit connection, e.g., adhesive bonding or a clamped connection, as the first type and a form-fit connection, e.g., an interlocking mechanism between the chime and container, as the second type, or vice versa.

[0030] As a particular option, the connection section of the first type may be a snap fit connection of a first type, and the connection section of the second type is a snap fit connection of a second type. As generally known, a snap fit connection is a form -fit connection, which utilizes the elasticity of at least one of the connecting parts. The snap fit connection of a first and second type may comprise, for example, a snap hook, snap ball or snap cylinder.

[0031] While the snap fit connection of a first type may have a higher specified force threshold, i.e., the minimal force at the first location, in order to disconnect the connection section of the first type, the snap fit connection of a second type may be engineered to disconnect with less force applied at the second connection section.

[0032] In a particular example, applicable for any assembly disclosed herein, the chime comprises, at the first location, a first chime connection part of a first type, arranged to engage with a container connection part to connect the chime to the container. Similarly, at the second location, the chime comprises a second chime connection part of a second type, arranged to engage with a container connection part to connect the chime to the container. In this particular example, both the first and second chime connection parts are radial protrusions protruding radially inward from a circumferential wall.

[0033] The circumferential wall is comprised by a ring-shaped body of the removeable chime, which ring-shaped body surrounds its centreline. In an assembled state, the centreline of the ring-shaped body aligns with the centreline of the container. Furthermore, in this example, it is envisioned that the chime has a first radial protrusion protruding radially inward from the circumferential wall toward its centreline at the connection section of the first type, and a second radial protrusion protruding radially inward from the circumferential wall toward its centreline at the connection section at the connection section of the second type.

[0034] The first and second radial protrusions may be envisioned as snap hooks, commonly used in snap fit connections, which snap hooks fit into a receiving recess of a container connection part of the container. Thus, in this particular example, it is envisioned that the connection section of the first type is the snap fit connection of the first type with the chime having the first radial protrusion, and similarly, the connection section of the second type is the snap fit connection of the second type with the chime having the second radial protrusion.

[0035] The first and second radial protrusions may differ in size and / or shape. For instance, when the first and second radial protrusions are formed as a snap hook, the snap hook corresponding to the first radial protrusion protrudes further in the radial direction than a snap hook corresponding to the second radial protrusion, or it has a different bevel, chamfer and / or fillet.

[0036] However, for any assembly disclosed herein, the container may be envisioned with a container connection part where, at a first location corresponding to the first location of the chime, the container connection part is arranged so that the minimal force at the first location is higher than the minimal force at the second location by having, for example, differently shaped receiving recesses, such as a different degree of bevelling, chamfering and / or filleting.

[0037] Any connection section disclosed herein may be envisioned as a snap fit connection, such as the snap fit connection of the first type, the second type, or any other snap fit configuration known in the art. Additionally or alternatively, any connection section disclosed herein may be envisioned as any types of connection within the class of form-fit connections or force-fit connections, preferably detachable connections, for example, by hooking, sliding or pressing the chime and container together. Another type of connection envisioned is a chemical connection, for example using an adhesive, or welding.

[0038] As another option, the assembly may be, at the second location, free of connection sections connecting the chime to the container. Thus, the second location of the chime may be envisioned as being free of, for example, adhesives or snap hooks.

[0039] The assembly may comprise a first handle opening at the first location. The chime of the assembly may further comprise a second handle opening at the second location. The second handle opening at the second location allows the user to grip the chime more securely, preventing slippage, and facilitating the disconnection of the chime from the container. The second handle opening may provide an ergonomic grip and may also serve as a visual indicator for the user on where to grip the chime, which in turn may aid in the recycling process.

[0040] The first handle opening at the first location may provide a grip to the user, allowing for comfortable carrying or handling of the assembly. The first handle opening may be part of the chime at the first location. The first handle opening may be larger than the second handle opening signalling to the user that the first handle opening at the first location is the primary grip for handling the assembly. Any handle opening may be formed as a passage through the chime, in particular through a ring-shaped body of the chime. The passage is preferably entirely enclosed by the chime. Since the container may be used for dispensing an alcoholic beverage, any handle opening is preferably sized to accommodate an adult hand. As an alternative or additionally to any handle opening, a rim may be comprised by the chime, below which a hand or at least part of one or more fingers may be positioned for carrying the chime and / or disconnecting the chime from the container.

[0041] The assembly may further comprise a removeable blockage positioned radially in line with the second handle opening. With the presence of a removeable blockage, the second handle opening may be temporarily blocked. If desired, any other handle opening may be blocked by the removeable blockage as well. When the second handle opening is blocked, access to the second handle opening is at least partially impeded, discouraging the user from using the second handle opening during handling of the assembly. This discouragement may advantageously lead to the user using the first handle opening associated with the first location for handling the assembly - in particular before using the container for dispensing the beverage.

[0042] Thus, the removeable blockage may be used to encourage the user to use a specific handle or handle opening of the chime, such as a handle or handle opening at the first location. In this case, the removeable blockage may provide sufficient access to a handle or passage through a handle opening.

[0043] The removeable blockage is generally envisioned to be detachably connected to either the container, the chime, or both the container and the chime. For instance, the removeable blockage may be connected to the chime by one or more predetermined breaking points or other easily removeable connections, such as an easily removeable type of a form-fit connection. Preferably, when the assembly is in an assembled state, the removeable blockage, or at least a majority of the removeable blockage, is contained within the chime.

[0044] The removeable blockage may be envisioned as a shell-like cover providing a storage volume between the container and the removeable blockage. When the removeable blockage is formed as a shell-like cover, the removeable blockage can be used not only to block handle openings of the chime but also, additionally or alternatively, to provide temporary storage in the storage volume. As such, the storage volume may provide accommodation of otherwise loose and separate parts associated with the assembly, allowing the user to comfortably carry the assembly and the parts together.

[0045] The assembly may further comprise a spout assembly. The spout assembly is generally configured to allow transport of beverage from inside of the container, via a container valve, where the spout assembly is coupled to the container in fluid communication, to the dispensing valve of the spout assembly. Typically, inside the container, a gas pressure is used to force the beverage out of the container.

[0046] The inner space of the container may be at least partially filled with carbonated beverage, in particular beer or cider, or a soft drink. For example, the inner space of the container can be sized to accommodate at least 2 litres, at least 4 litres, at least 5 litres, at least 8 litres or even more of beverage.

[0047] As a particular option applicable to any assembly disclosed herein, the chime may be envisioned as re-attachable after being disconnected from the container. Therefore, if the chime is inadvertently separated from the container, the chime may be reattached, for example, through a detachable connection such as a snap fit connection, which snap fit connection elastically deforms, instead of breaking when removed. Preferably, the chime is reattachable by a user, without requiring tools.

[0048] As a second aspect, the present disclosure provides a chime, which can be used in any assembly according to the first aspect. According to the second aspect, the chime comprises a ring-shaped body surrounding a centreline, and the chime is removeably connectable to a container such that a minimal force required to disconnect the chime from the container at a first location of the chime is higher than a minimal force required to disconnect the chime from the container at a second location of the chime.

[0049] When the chime comprises a body, which body may be substantially ring-shaped, the shape of the body can be easily adapted to a cylindrical container. The chime may be positioned as an axial extension to one of the circular bases of the cylindrical container, preferably where the container comprises a designated dispensing location. Preferably, the radius of the ringshaped body of the chime remains within the radius of the container, or, more preferably, within the radius of the container at its circular bases - thereby remaining within the radial footprint of the container.

[0050] The chime may comprise, at the first location, a first chime connection part of a first type, arranged to engage with a container connection part to connect the chime to the container, and at the second location, a second chime connection part of a second type, arranged to engage with a container connection part to connect the chime to the container. In general, multiple chime connection parts may be connected to the same container connection part, for example when the container connection part is formed by a rim of the container. Alternatively, separate container connection parts may be comprised by a container to connect respective chime connection parts to - in order to form multiple distinct connection sections.

[0051] The container connection part to which the chime may be connected may be envisioned as a folded rim. Typically, in construction of a container, in particular a cylindrical container, the folded rim serves as a joint between the lateral wall and a base surface of the cylindrical container. Since the folded rim provides a substantially rigid or at least stiff container connection part, the folded rim may serve as a container connection part, for example, as a receiving recess for a form-fit connection, such as the receiving recess for a snap fit connection, when the chime comprises a radial protrusion protruding radially inward toward the centreline, e.g., a radially inward-pointing snap hook.

[0052] In a first example of the second aspect, the ring-shaped body of the chime comprises a circumferential wall, arranged to at least partially surround the container connection part, and at the first location, a first radial protrusion protruding radially inward from the circumferential wall.

[0053] The first radial protrusion of the circumferential wall at the first location, may, for instance, be formed as a radially inward-pointing snap hook, or any other snap fit configuration, which can snap, for example, under the folded rim of the container in the assembled state or any other readily available or specifically engineered container connection part.

[0054] The chime may further comprise, at the second location, a second radial protrusion protruding radially inward from the circumferential wall. The second radial protrusion may protrude less radially inward from the circumferential wall relative to the first radial protrusion, and / or the second radial protrusion comprises an insert side arranged for guiding the second radial protrusion during connection to the container connection part and an exit side arranged for guiding the second radial protrusion during disconnection from the container connection part, wherein the exit side comprises one or more of the following features: a bevel, a chamfer and a fillet.

[0055] When the second radial protrusion protrudes less radially inward from the circumferential wall relative to the first radial protrusion - the second radial protrusion may provide a connection to the container at the second location with a lower minimal force for disconnection.

[0056] Alternatively, or in addition to the second radial protrusion protruding less radially inward, the second radial protrusion may comprise at the exit side an exit guiding surface, which exit guiding surface comprises a bevel, a chamfer and / or a fillet. The exit guiding surface allows the second radial protrusion to be disconnected from the container connection part relatively more easily compared to a radial protrusion without the bevel, the chamfer and / or the fillet. That is because, when the exit guiding surface comprises a bevel, chamfer, fillet or a combination thereof, the exit guiding surface of the radial protrusion forms an angle relative to the circumferential wall, in particular, an obtuse angle relative to the inner circumferential wall facing the centreline of the assembly. Thus, in use, this angle between the circumferential wall and the exit guiding surface can elastically force the circumferential wall radially outward during the disconnection of the radial protrusion from the container connection part - thereby allowing the minimal force required to disconnect the chime to be reduced.

[0057] To increase the minimal force required to disconnect the chime from the container at the first location, a first radial protrusion at the first location may have an exit side with and exit guiding surface essentially free of bevels, chamfers and / or fillets, or at least a lower degree of beveling, chamfering, or filleting. It is even envisioned to use a barbed snap hook to increase the minimal force required to disconnect the chime from the container at the first location.

[0058] In use, when the chime is pulled away from the container in order to disconnect the chime from the container at the second location, the exit guiding surface may guide the second radial protrusion and, consequently, the circumferential wall at the second location radially outward by elastically deforming the circumferential wall of the ring-shaped body, primarily at the second location. After the connection section at the second location has been disconnected, a lower minimal force may be required to disconnect the connection section at the first location, in particular because a more radially oriented force can be used to disconnect the connection section at the first location when the chime is already partially tilted away from the container.

[0059] Any chime connection part, in particular any radial protrusion, may have an insert side arranged for guiding the radial protrusion during connection to the container connection part, thereby facilitating also the centering of the chime on the container. Similar to the exit side, the insert side may comprise an insert guiding surface with a bevel, chamfer, fillet, or a combination thereof, forming an angle relative to the circumferential wall, in particular, an obtuse angle relative to the inner circumferential wall facing the centreline of the assembly. When the chime comprises an insert guiding surface, the chime may be attached and / or reattached to the container more easily.

[0060] In a second example of the second aspect, the chime comprises two or more chime connection parts of the same type, i.e., a substantially similar radial protrusion protruding radially inward from the circumferential wall.

[0061] To comply with the condition that the minimal force required to disconnect the chime from the container at the first location of the chime is higher than the minimal force required to disconnect the chime from the container at the second location of the chime, the two or more chime connection parts may vary relative to each other in their size, i.e., the degree at which the one or more connection parts span around the perimeter of the chime. Additionally, or alternatively, a distance between the locations of the two or more chime connection parts may be designed to comply with the condition above.

[0062] According to the definitions provided for the first aspect of the present disclosure, the location of the two or more chime connection parts is determined by the centre or middle of the respective chime connection part. The size of the two or more chime connection parts is defined around the perimeter of the chime, for example, as an angle of a particular number of degrees. The relative position between the two connection sections may also be defined as an angle, between the locations of the two connection sections.

[0063] By specifically arranging, and / or sizing the chime connection parts, the chime can be engineered such that the minimal force at the first location of the chime is higher than the minimal force at the second location of the chime. This allows for a wide range of variants, considering the variation in number, size and relative position of the chime connection parts. Preferably, the second chime connection part at the second location is smaller in size as the combined size of the other chime connection parts. Preferably, the second chime connection part at the second location is isolated in terms of its relative position to the adjacent chime connection part or parts, so that the nearest edge of the adjacent chime connection parts is spaced apart more than 40 degrees, preferably more than 50 degrees, or even more than 90 degrees from either edge of the second chime connection part.

[0064] In a first exemplary variant according to the second example of the second aspect, two chime connection parts are oppositely positioned on the perimeter of the chime, spaced by apart by an angle between 120-240 degrees, in particular between 160-200 degrees. The first chime connection part at the first location is envisioned to be less than or equal to 180 degrees in size. In contrast, the second chime connection part at the second location may be less than 20 degrees, less than 15, 10 or even 5 degrees.

[0065] In a second exemplary variant according to the second example of the second aspect, three chime connection parts are evenly distributed around the perimeter, spaced 120 degrees apart. The first and third chime connection part may be similar or different in size, for example, less than or equal to 120 degrees, preferably less than 90 degrees. In contrast, the second chime connection part at the second location is envisioned to be less than 50 degrees, or even less than 25 degrees. It is also envisioned in this second exemplary variant that the chime connection parts are unevenly distributed, with the first and third chime connection parts remaining in one half of the perimeter, while the second chime connection part is positioned in the other half of the perimeter.

[0066] As a third exemplary variant, with an option applicable to any chime, at the second location, the chime may be locally weakened. In particular, the circumferential wall may be locally weakened for example by incorporating one or more grooves or ridges or slots or slits in the circumferential wall. The local weakening reduces the force required for radial deformation of the circumferential wall, and may thus reduce the minimal disconnection force at the second location.

[0067] In a third example of the second aspect, the chime comprises, at the first location, a chime connection part, arranged to engage with a container connection part to connect the chime to the container, and at the second location, the chime is free of chime connection parts. The third example of the second aspect explicitly includes the case, where the chime at the second location is free of radial protrusions protruding radially inward, such as free of snap hooks used in a snap fit connection.

[0068] When the chime at the second location is free of connection sections, only the one or more other connection sections between the chime and the container at other locations than the second location can participate in bearing the weight of the container when handling the assembly at the chime. As a result, the minimal force required to disconnect the chime from the container at the second location of the chime can be lowered compared to the first location.

[0069] Preferably, for any assembly and chime of the present disclosure, for the entire assembly, the minimal force required to disconnect the chime from the container is lowest for the entire assembly at the second location.

[0070] In summary, at least three examples of chimes are envisioned which allow the minimal force required to disconnect the chime from the container at a first location of the chime to be higher than a minimal force required to disconnect the chime from the container at a second location of the chime. According to the first example, a different type of snap-fit is used at the first location and the second location. According to the second example, the same type of snap -fit is used at the first location and the second location, albeit of a different size, in particular a different angle that the respective connection section spans around the circumference of the chime. According to the third example, at the second location, the chime is free of chime connection parts, i.e., free of radial protrusion protruding radially inward from the circumferential wall.

[0071] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, that features from the first, second or third examples may be combined. For instance, combining the different types of connections sections at the first and second location, such as the different snap-fit connection types described in the first example, with the arrangement and / or size relations of the connection sections relative to each other as described in the second example.

[0072] Moreover, it is appreciated by those skilled in the art that the minimal force at the second location can be engineered to be lower than the minimal force at the first location by shaping the chime and / or selecting its material composition to achieve a lower minimal force at the second location than at the first location.

[0073] By shaping the chime, for example, with grooves and / or cut outs as predetermined elements to vary the deformability of the chime at specific points or across specific areas of the chime, or, additionally or alternatively by shaping the chime, such that the material thickness of the chime at the first location is greater than at the second location or at any point and / or area in between the first and second location, the minimal force at the second location can be engineered to be lower than the minimal force at the first location.

[0074] By selecting the material composition of the chime, e.g., when the chime comprises more than one material, such as a more deformable plastic at the second location and / or a less deformable plastic at the first location, or by having a different material at certain points and / or across areas of the chime, the chime may have a variable deformability characteristic, so that the minimal force at the second location can be engineered to be lower than the minimal force at the first location.

[0075] In general, any chime function and feature disclosed in conjunction with the first aspect, for example relating to the asymmetric distribution of the at least two connection sections, can be readily applied to any chime of the second aspect, according to any examples thereof, and vice versa. This applies particularly to the functions and relative positions of the chime connection parts as described in the second example of the second aspect.

[0076] Any chime may comprise a first handle at the first location. The first handle opening may be part of the chime at the first location. Any chime disclosed herein may comprise a second handle at the second location. The second handle opening at the second location allows the user to grip the chime more securely, preventing slippage, and facilitating the disconnection of the chime from the container.

[0077] The first handle opening may be larger than the second handle opening signalling to the user that the first handle opening at the first location is the primary grip for handling the assembly.

[0078] In addition to the first and second handle opening, any chime disclosed herein may have a third, fourth or more than four handle openings. Preferably, the third handle opening corresponds to a third chime connection part in terms of position, although the span of the third chime connection part and the size of the third handle opening do not have to be identical. The third handle opening may also be identically formed to the second handle opening. Any option for the third handle opening may also apply to an optional fourth and further handle opening.

[0079] Any chime with a second handle opening may comprise a visual and / or haptic indicator at the second location and / or first location. The indicator may be one or more icons and / or text. By virtue of the indicator, the user can preferably derive the proper method for disconnecting the chime from the container and / or understand the purpose of the disconnection function - such as recycling - and / or the proper handling of the assembly to avoid inadvertently disconnecting the chime from the assembly by applying a higher force than the minimal force required to disconnect the chime from the container at the first or second location, particularly at the second location. Any handle opening may be formed as a passage through the chime, in particular through a ring-shaped body of the chime. The passage is preferably entirely enclosed by the chime. Since the container may be used for dispensing an alcoholic beverage, any handle opening is preferably sized to accommodate an adult hand. As an alternative to any handle opening, a rim may be comprised by the chime, below which a hand or at least part of one or more fingers may be positioned for carrying the chime and / or disconnecting the chime from the container.

[0080] It will be appreciated that any assembly according to the first aspect may comprise any chime of the second aspect, according to any of the examples discussed herein.

[0081] As a third aspect, the present disclosure provides a method of disconnecting a chime from a beverage container, the method comprising providing an assembly according to the first aspect and disconnecting the chime from the beverage container by pulling the chime from the beverage container at the second location.

[0082] When the chime is pulled relative to the container by the user at the second location, preferably by gripping the second handle opening or alternatively provided grip at the second location, and without the need for tools, all one, two or more connection sections connecting the chime and the container can become disconnected. Preferably, but not necessarily, part of the ring-shaped body deforms as a result of the pulling by the user, thereby allowing one, two or more chime connection parts to clear their respective container connection parts. In particular, the chime connection part at the second location may clear its respective container connection part first, followed by one or more further chime connection parts to clear their respective container connection part, for example at the first location.

[0083] When the circumferential wall of the ring-shaped body clears the container connection part at or near the second location, the pulling direction may be adjusted from a more axial to a more radial pulling direction toward the centreline of the assembly, allowing the chime to be peeled off the container from the second location to the first location to completely disconnect the chime from the container.

[0084] If the first chime connection part is a radial protrusion protruding radially inward from the circumferential wall, the interlocking with the container connection part, e.g., matching receiving recess of the container, the pulling of the user can result in a deformation of the radial protrusion radially outward, to allow the radial protrusion to clear the receiving recess.

[0085] Preferably, the chime elastically deforms during removal, allowing the chime to be reused afterwards and reattached to the container. Alternatively, the chime may deform plastically without breaking.

[0086] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0087] In the figures,

[0088] Fig. 1A shows an embodiment of an assembly of a container for dispensing beverage under pressure with a removeable chime in a perspective view;

[0089] Fig. IB shows the assembly of Fig 1A in a detailed view with focus on the chime;

[0090] Figs. 2A and 2B show the assembly of Fig. 1A in detailed views with focus on the chime, respectively from different perspectives;

[0091] Figs. 3A and 3B respectively show detailed longitudinal section view of the assembly of Fig. 1A, with focus on a connection section at the first location (Fig. 3A) and the second location (Fig. 3B);

[0092] Fig. 4A-5B show schematical top views of assemblies 100 with focus on the positional arrangement and size differences between distinct connection sections;

[0093] Fig. 6 shows an example of a connection section of a second type in a detailed longitudinal section view; and Fig. 7 shows a perspective view of a top part of an assembly in use with a spout assembly.

[0094] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0095] Fig. 1A shows an embodiment of an assembly 100 of the present disclosure, comprising a container 200 for dispensing beverage under pressure and a removeable chime 300, shown in a perspective view.

[0096] The assembly 100 is shown throughout Figs. 1A-3B and particularly illustrates the aforementioned third example of the second aspect in the summary, viz., the chime 300, in its assembled state with the container 200. Obviously, any chime disclosed herein, may also be any chime according to the aforementioned first and second examples of the second aspect, or any combination thereof.

[0097] The assembly 100 comprises the container 200 for dispensing beverage under pressure, the container 200 comprises an inner space 210 for receiving the beverage to be dispensed, such as beer or cider or any other preferably carbonated beverage. The assembly 100 comprises the chime 300, removeably connected to the container 200, wherein a minimal force Fi required to disconnect the chime from the container 200 at a first location I of the chime 300 is higher than a minimal force Fa required to disconnect the chime 300 from the container 200 at a second location II of the chime 300.

[0098] The minimal forces Fi, Fa are schematically illustrated in Fig. IB. It is evident, that the minimal forces Fi, / may also be applied onto the chime 300 in directions other than parallel to the centreline 202 away from the container 200.

[0099] The chime 300 generally comprises a ring-shaped body 301 surrounding its centreline, which centreline corresponds to the centreline 202 of the assembly 100 in the assembled state. The container 200 comprises a container connection part 206, which is not directly visible in Figs. 1A - IB as it is covered by the chime 300. The ring-shaped body 301 comprises a circumferential wall 303, which circumferential wall 303 surrounds the container connection part 206 at least partially. The container connection part 206, surrounded by the circumferential wall 303, is best seen in the longitudinal section views of Figs. 3A-3B. Although this surrounding is only partially visible at the first and second location I, II, the circumferential wall 303 of the chime 300 preferably completely surrounds the container connection part 206. However, any chime disclosed herein may also comprise cut outs and / or grooves, for example, axially extending cut outs and / or grooves parallel to the centreline 202, as an option to specifically engineer the deformability of the ring-shaped body 301 at specific areas thereof, in particular the deformability of the ring-shaped body 301 in radial direction - towards or away from the centreline 202.

[0100] The ring-shaped body 301 of the chime 300 may optionally comprises a chime recess 308, for example, to support part of a dispensing valve attachable to the assembly 100 - as will be elaborated on in conjunction with Fig. 7. As the case for the assembly 100, the chime recess 308 offers a particular landmark of the chime 300. Hence, the chime 300 may be provided substantially mirrored around a mirror axis or mirror plane M, as indicated in Fig. 2B. The mirror axis or plane M intersects with a centre of the chime recess 308 and the centreline 202 of the assembly 100 and thus divides the chime 300 in equal halves.

[0101] With further reference to Fig. 1A, the assembly 100 comprises a cylindrical container 200. The container 200 is substantially rotationally symmetric around its centreline 202. The cylindrical container 200 generally comprises two circular bases 211’, 211”, with one base 211’ located at the top and the other base 211” at the bottom of a lateral wall 213 of the cylindrical container 200.

[0102] The container 200 is essentially a standard container known in the art for containing a beverage, such as beer or cider, within its inner space 210. However, any container disclosed herein may deviate from the standard known container as shown, potential alternatives of the container will be further elaborated on in conjunction with Fig. 3A-3B.

[0103] The chime 300 of the assembly 100 preferably remains within the radial footprint of the container 200, meaning that the largest radius of the chime 300, for example, measured from the centreline 202 to the chime recess 308, is less than or equal to the largest radius of the container 200. However, any chime disclosed herein, whether the chime has a chime recess or not, may also be envisioned as extending beyond the container’s radial footprint. Additionally or alternatively, any chime may be shaped differently, such as square-shaped or another polygonal form, instead of being ring-shaped, for example when a non-cylindrical container is provided.

[0104] Preferably, the chime 300 comprises one or more support structures 310, as commonly found in standard chimes, and as exemplarily indicated in Fig. IB and 2A, to support the chime 300 on the top base 211’ of the container 200. Any chime 300 disclosed herein may have one or more the support structures 310, which support structures 310 may, for example, be resembled in the form of columns extending in essentially the same direction as the circumferential wall 303 from the ring-shaped body 301, as best visible in Fig. IB.

[0105] The support structures 310 may enhance the stability of the chime 300, in particular the stability to withstand axial loads applied in pushing direction, substantially opposite to the minimal force Fi, Fa shown in Fig. IB. For example, when multiple assemblies 100 are stacked, either directly on top of each other or on pallets, as it is common during storage and logistics, the support structures 310 allow the axial load on the chime 300 to be directly transferred onto the container 200, in particular onto the top base 211’. As such, axial forces on the circumferential wall 303 may be reduced or prevented.

[0106] The one or more support structures 310 may be negatively formed, meaning the support structures 310 at least partly represent an inverse of a contour of part of the container 200, in particular part of the container 200 around the perimeter 204 and / or a top base of the container.

[0107] The assembly 100 comprises, as indicated in Fig. 2B, an optional first handle opening 304 at the first location I, an optional second handle opening 305 at the second location II and an optional third handle opening 306 at the third location III.

[0108] As illustrated throughout the Figs. 1A-2B, and particularly indicated in Fig. 2B for reasons of clarity, the handle openings 304, 305, 306 are formed as passages through the chime, in particular through the ringshaped body 301 and, more in particular, through the circumferential wall 303 of the chime 300. The first handle opening 304, or any other form of handle or grip at the first location I, may be larger than the second handle opening 305 or any other handle or grip at the second location II. As in the case with the assembly 100 of Fig. 1A, the second handle opening 305 and the third handle opening 306, or any other form of handle or grip, may be similar sized.

[0109] Preferably, when the chime 300 comprises one or more handle openings 304, 305, 306 and support structures 310, these support structures 310 may be located next to or in proximity of the handle openings 304, 305, 306 and / or fill the areas of the chime 200, where no handle opening 304, 305, 306 is located. Alternatively, the one or more support structures 310 can be symmetrically or asymmetrically distributed around a perimeter 307 of the chime 300, even in radial alignment with handle openings or any other form of handle or grip, when present.

[0110] The assembly 100 as depicted in Figs. 1A-3B comprises the chime 300 according to said third example. For this reason, the assembly 100 is free of connection sections connecting the chime 300 to the container 200 at the second location II. However, any assembly disclosed herein may be an assembly comprising a chime according to the first example or second example of the second aspect, as elaborated on in the summary, and may comprise a second connection section at the second location II. An embodiment of the present disclosure, comprising an assembly of a container and a removeable chime with a second connection section at the second location II, for example according to the first or second example of the second aspect, is shown in conjunction with Figs. 4A and 4B.

[0111] Moreover, the assembly 100 shown in Figs. 1A-3B comprises between the chime 300 and the container 200 a first connection section C’ and an optional third connection section C’”, which connection sections C C’” connect the chime 300 to the container 200. In particular, the assembly 100 comprises, at the first location I, the first chime connection section C’ and, at the third location III, the third connection section C’”. More in particular, the first and third connection section C’, C”’may be of the same type and / or size.

[0112] As a matter of course, any embodiment of the present disclosure may also be envisioned with more than two connection sections (as schematically illustrated in Figs. 4A-4B), or with just one connection section (as schematically illustrated in Fig. 5B) of any size, any arrangement, any type of connection and / or any material composition, provided that a minimal force Fi required to disconnect the chime 300 from the container 200 at the first location I of the chime 300 is higher than a minimal force Fa required to disconnect the chime 300 from the container 200 at the second location II of the chime 300.

[0113] The assembly 100, at least as depicted in Figs. 1A-2B, comprises an optional removeable blockage 400.

[0114] The removeable blockage 400 may be envisioned as a shell-like cover, which shell-like cover may provide a storage volume 402 between the container 200 and the removeable blockage 400. The storage volume 402 may, for example, store a spout assembly. The cover may comprise a top shell and a bottom shell, with the spout assembly and / or lever between the top shell and the bottom shell. The top shell and bottom shell may be connected by a hinge, in particular a living hinge. When the chime 300 comprises handle openings, particularly the first handle opening 304 at the first location I and the second handle opening 305 at the second location II, the removeable blockage 400 may be positioned radially in line with the second handle opening 305. This positioning allows the removeable blockage 400 to temporarily block or restrict the second handle opening 305 until the removeable blockage is removed, such as prior to use of the assembly 100. In contrast, the removeable blockage 400 may be shaped to allow free access through the first handle opening 304.

[0115] Any optional removeable blockage 400 disclosed herein may be envisioned to be shaped and / or located such that the second handle opening 305 is blocked or restricted, if the second handle opening is present. Preferably, other handle openings, aside from the first handle opening 304, when present, may also be blocked. If merely the first handle opening 304 remains unblocked by the removeable blockage 400, the first handle opening 304 may be utilized as the primary grip for handling the assembly 100.

[0116] Generally, the optional removeable blockage 400 is envisioned to be detachably connected to either the container 200, the chime 300, or both the container 200 and the chime 300. For instance, the removeable blockage 400 may be connected to the chime 300 by one or more predetermined breaking points or other removeable connections, such as a form-fit connection. As an option for any removeable blockage 400 disclosed herein 400, a removed removeable blockage 400 may be readily re-attachable to the assembly 100. Alternatively, for example an adhesive may be used to temporarily connect the removeable blockage 400 to the container 200 and / or chime 300.

[0117] Preferably, any optional removeable blockage 400 disclosed herein may be positioned within the radial footprint of the container 200, and even more preferably, any optional removeable blockage 400, or at least a majority thereof, may be located within the ring-shaped body 301 of the chime 300, of the removeable chime 300. Optionally, when the chime 300 comprises one or more handle openings, any removeable blockage 400 disclosed herein may extend through the passage of any handle opening, which handle opening is intended to be blocked for the handling during prior use of the assembly 100.

[0118] As an option, any removeable blockage 400 is envisioned to comprise one or more ears 404, as indicated in Fig. IB. The ear 404 may provide a grip to facilitate removal of the removeable blockage 400. In a particular option, applicable for any removeable blockage 400, the ear 404 may be positioned into the chime recess 308.

[0119] Fig. 3A shows the assembly 100 in a partial longitudinal section view with focus on the first location I. In accordance with Figs. 1A-2B, and shown with more detail in the longitudinal section view of Fig. 3A, the chime 300 according to said third example comprises, at the first location I, a first chime connection part CP arranged to engage with a container connection part 206 to connect the chime 300 to the container 200. The first chime connection part CP and the container connection part 206 together form a first connection section C’ at the first location I. The container part 206 is here embodied by the folded rim 206, which folded rim 206 is typically formed by part of the lateral wall 213 and the top base 211’.

[0120] The chime 300 comprises at the first location I, i.e., at the first connection section C’ of the assembly 100, the first chime connection part CP’, and optionally at the third location III, i.e., at the third connection section C’” of the assembly 100, a third chime connection part

[0121] When the first connection section C’ of the first type is resembled by the snap fit connection of the first type, the first chime connection part CP’ of the first type may be a first radial protrusion 320’ protruding radially inward from the circumferential wall 303 at the first location I. Similarly, the third chime connection part CP’” of the same first type as the first chime connection part, may be a third radial protrusion protruding radially inward from the circumferential wall 303 at the third location III (not shown in the figures). The first radial protrusion 320’ as shown in Figs. 3A corresponds to a snap hook of a first type. In the assembled state, the first radial protrusion 320’ and the third radial protrusion may fit into a receiving recess 220 of the container connection part 206. The container connection part 206, as shown, may correspond to a folded rim.

[0122] However, any container 200 disclosed herein, may comprise an alternative container connection part, such as an essentially rim-free container connection part. A container connection part having at least a partially flat outline around its perimeter of a top base, instead of a rim, may be, for example, envisioned when the connections sections are at least partially embodied as adhesives.

[0123] The first radial protrusion 320’ may comprise an insert side 322’ arranged for guiding the first radial protrusion 320’ during connection to the container connection part 206 and an exit side 324’ arranged for guiding the first radial protrusion 320’ during disconnection from the container connection part 206.

[0124] The first radial protrusion 320’ comprises an insert guiding surface 323’ comprising a fillet. By virtue of the insert guiding surface 323’, the chime 300 may be attached and / or reattached to the container 200 more easily.

[0125] In contrast, to increase the minimal force Fa required to disconnect the chime 300 from the container 200 at the first location I, the exit guiding surface 325’ of the first radial protrusion 320’ may be essentially free of any features, such as bevels, chamfers and / or fillets, or at least have a lower degree of bevelling, chamfering, or filleting compared to the insert guiding surface 323’. The exit guiding surface 325’, as shown, protrudes essentially perpendicular from the circumferential wall 303 with no bevels, chamfers and / or fillets.

[0126] In the assembled state, a radial dimension of the first radial protrusion 320’ may correspond to the radial dimension of the container connection part 206, such that the first radial protrusion 320’ may reach completely under the container connection part 206. Preferably, when the first radial protrusion 320’ interlocks with the receiving recess 220 (as indicated in Fig. 3A) of the container connection part 206 and the chime 300 is free of external loads, the circumferential wall 303 of the chime 300 is substantially free of strain, in particular radial strain.

[0127] Due to the mentioned similarity between the first radial protrusion 320’ and the third radial protrusion the same features regarding the insert side, exit side, radial dimension and interlocking with the receiving recess 220 of the container connection part 206 of the first radial protrusion 320’ also apply to the third radial protrusion or any other envisioned radial protrusion for the assembly 100, which envisioned radial protrusion is not positioned at the first location I.

[0128] Fig. 3B shows the assembly 100 in a partial longitudinal section view with focus on the second location II. At the second location II, the chime 300 may be free of chime connection parts, and thus the assembly 100 may be free of a connection section at the second location II.

[0129] Moreover, the assembly 100 comprises an optional third connection section C’” at a third location III. The optional third connection section C’” is distinctively arranged on the perimeter 204 of the container 200 and may be differently sized compared to the first connection section C’, i.e., the third connection section C”’has a smaller degree of span around the perimeter 204.

[0130] The positional arrangement and size differences between the first connection section C’ and the third connection section C’” will be further detailed in conjunction with Figs. 4A-4B.

[0131] Similar to the first chime connection part CP’ at the first connection section C’, the chime 300 may comprise a third chime connection part CP’” at the third connection section C’”. The first connection section part CP’ and the third connection part CP’” may be of the same type or of different types. Likewise, any chime 300 disclosed herein may comprise a fourth, a fifth, or any other number of connection sections as desired, not being at the second location, each being of the same type or different types.

[0132] In the case of the assembly 100 shown in Figs. 1A-3B, comprising the chime 300 according to said third example, the first connection section C’ and the optional third connection section C’” may be of the same type, for example, a first type. In particular, the first and third connection sections C’ C’” of the first type may be a snap fit connection of a first type.

[0133] Figs. 4A and 4B show a very schematic top view of an assembly 100 of the present disclosure, with a chime 300 according to the second example - i.e. the same type of snap-fit is used at the first location I and the second location II, albeit of a different size. As schematically indicated, at the first location I a first connection section C’ is provided, with a size a representing the angle around the perimeter 307 of the chime spanned by the first connection section C’. At the second location II, a second connection section C” is provided, with a size B representing the angle around the perimeter 307 of the chime spanned by the second connection section C”.

[0134] As two particular options, in Figs. 4A and 4B, respectively, a third connection section C’” is provided at a third location III, with a size corresponding to the size a of the first connection section C’ and a size 6 corresponding to the size 6 of the second connection section C”. Conceivably, the third connection section C’” may have a size different than sizes a and 6.

[0135] As indicated in Figs. 4A and 4B, the size a is typically larger than the size 6, which typically results in the minimal force required to disconnect the chime from the container at the first location I to be higher than the minimal force required to disconnect the chime from the container at a second location II - in particular when the connection sections at the first location I and the second location II are of the same type.

[0136] An angle between the location of the first location I and the second location II is in Fig. 4A indicated with angle y- An angle between the location of the first location I and the optional third location III is in Fig. 4A indicated with angle 5. Preferably, the first connection section C’ and the second connection section C” are asymmetrically distributed around the perimeter 307 of the chime - thus with angle y unequal to 180 degrees.

[0137] Figs. 5 A and 5B show in a schematic top view further assemblies 100 according to the present disclosure, in which at the second location II, the assembly 100 is free of connection sections connecting the chime to the container.

[0138] In Fig. 5 A, an option is indicated in which a first connection section C’ connects the chime to the container at the first location I, and an optional third connection section C’” connects the chime to the container at the third location III. Preferably, the first connection section C’ and the third connection section C’” are unevenly distributed along the perimeter 307 of the chime.

[0139] In Fig. 5B, another option in indicated in which only a single connection section, the first connection section C’, connects the chime to the container. Here, preferably, the first connection section C’ spans over an angle a which exceeds 180 degrees.

[0140] When no connection section is provided at the second location II, the second location II may be at any arbitrary distance from the first location I and optional third location III. In use, the second location II may for example be identified by testing the minimal force required to disconnect the chime from the container a different location along the perimeter of the chime, wherein the location at which this minimal force is lowest corresponds to the second location as defined in the present disclosure.

[0141] As further indicated in Figs. 4A-5B the first location I is preferably located opposite to the chime recess 308, when present.

[0142] The options for the types, sizes, locations, and presence of the first, second, and third connection sections C as indicated in Figs. 4A-5B may be readily applied to any assembly disclosed herein. Fig. 6 shows a detailed longitudinal section view of a chime 300, focussed on a particular type of chime connection part CP - which when Fig. 3A is considered a first type, may be referred to as a second type of chime connection part.

[0143] The chime 300 comprises the circumferential wall 303, from which a second radial protrusion 320” protrudes radially inward. When compared to the first radial protrusion 320’ of Fig. 3A, the second radial protrusion 320” may protrude less radially inward - i.e. a radial dimension r” is smaller than radial dimension r’ as indicated in Fig. 3A, for example between 5% and 25% smaller. Alternatively, the radial dimensions r’ and r” may essentially correspond.

[0144] As a further option for any second radial protrusion 320”, regardless of the radial dimension r”, and as shown in Fig. 6, the second radial protrusion 320” comprises an insert side 322” arranged for guiding the second radial protrusion 320” during connection to the container connection part. As shown in Fig. 6, the insert side 322” may comprise one or more of a bevel, a chamfer, and a fillet - resulting in a non-straight angle between an insert guiding surface 232” and the circumferential wall 303.

[0145] Additionally or alternatively, the second radial protrusion 320” comprises an exit side 324” arranged for guiding the second radial protrusion 320” during disconnection from the container connection part, wherein the exit side 324” comprises one or more of a bevel, a chamfer, and a fillet - resulting in a non-straight angle between an exit guiding surface 235” and the circumferential wall 303.

[0146] Fig. 7 shows a top part of an assembly 100 according to the present disclosure. The assembly 100 comprises the container 100 and the chime 300, which chime is removeably connected to the container in any manner as described herein.

[0147] As a particular option depicted in Fig. 7, but generally applicable to any other assembly, the chime 300 is provided with comprise a visual and / or haptic indicator 700. The indicator 700 is here provided at the second location II, in particular on a top surface of the chime. The indicator 700 merely as an example here reads “PULL TO RECYCLE”, to indicate to a user that the minimal force required to disconnect the chime from the container at the second location II of the chime is lower than the minimal force required to disconnect the chime from the container at the first location I. The letter may be printed onto the chime, or may be formed as cut-outs in the chime. It will be understood that any other letters, text, words, languages, and symbols may be used as a visual and / or haptic indicator.

[0148] As a further option depicted in Fig. 7, but generally applicable for any assembly of the present disclosure, the assembly 100 further comprises a spout assembly 701. The spout assembly 701 is generally used for controlling dispensing of beverage from the container 200. The spout assembly 701 comprises a container valve coupling part 702 for fluidly coupling with a container valve of the container. The container valve generally provides access to the inner space of the container. The spout assembly 701 further comprises a dispensing valve 704, and a flexible dispensing line 706 which fluidly connects the dispensing valve 704 and the container valve coupling part 702.

[0149] The dispensing valve 704 is connected to the chime 300 at the chime recess 308. A lever 708 may be provided for operating the dispensing valve 704. The lever 708 can be rotatably coupled to the chime 300 at the chime recess 308. A rotation of the lever 708 can be converted into a translation for opening or closing the dispensing valve 704.

[0150] As can be observed from Fig. 7, and as a general preference, the chime recess 308 - and thus the dispensing valve 704 - is located generally opposite the first location I.

Claims

Claims1. Assembly (100), comprising: a container (200) for dispensing beverage under pressure, the container comprising an inner space (210) for receiving the beverage to be dispensed, and a chime (300), removeably connected to the container, wherein a minimal force (Fi) required to disconnect the chime from the container at a first location (I) of the chime is higher than a minimal force (Fa) required to disconnect the chime from the container at a second location (II) of the chime.

2. The assembly according to claim 1, wherein a ratio between the minimal force at the second location and the minimal force at the first location is at least 2 : 3.

3. The assembly according any of the preceding claims, wherein between the chime and the container at least two connection sections are provided, which at least two connection sections connect the chime to the container, and optionally wherein the at least two connection sections are asymmetrically distributed around a perimeter of the chime.

4. The assembly according to any of the preceding claims, wherein: at the first location, a first connection section of a first type connects the chime to the container; and at the second location, either: a second connection section of a second type connects the chime to the container, wherein a minimal force required to disconnect the connection section of the first type is higher than a minimal force required to disconnect the connection section of the second type; orthe assembly is free of connection sections connecting the chime to the container.

5. The assembly according to claim 4, wherein the second connection section of the second type connects the chime to the container, the connection section of the first type is a snap fit connection of a first type, and the connection section of the second type is a snap fit connection of a second type.

6. The assembly according to any of the preceding claims, wherein: the chime comprises: an optional handle opening at the first location; and a second handle opening at the second location; the assembly further comprises a removeable blockage (400) and an optional spout assembly; wherein the removeable blockage is positioned radially in line with the second handle opening, and preferably wherein the removeable blockage (400) is a shell-like cover providing a storage volume (402) between the container and the removeable blockage; and wherein preferably the optional spout assembly is positioned in the storage volume.

7. The assembly according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the inner space of the container is at least partially filled with a carbonated beverage, in particular beer or cider.

8. Chime for forming an assembly with a container for dispensing beverage under pressure, wherein the chime comprises a ring-shaped body surrounding a centreline, and the chime is removeably connectable to the container such that a minimal force required to disconnect the chime from the container at a first location of the chime is higher than a minimalforce required to disconnect the chime from the container at a second location of the chime.

9. The chime according to claim 8, further comprising: at the first location, a first chime connection part of a first type, arranged to engage with a container connection part to connect the chime to the container; and at the second location, a second chime connection part of a second type, arranged to engage with a container connection part to connect the chime to the container.

10. The chime according to claim 9, wherein the ring-shaped body of the chime comprises a circumferential wall (303), arranged to at least partially surround the container connection part; wherein: at the first location, a first radial protrusion (320’) protrudes radially inward from the circumferential wall; and at the second location, either: the ring-shaped body of the chime comprises a second protrusion (320”) protruding radially inward from the circumferential wall; or the circumferential wall is free of radially inward protrusion.

11. The chime according to claim 10, wherein the ring-shaped body of the chime comprises the second radial protrusion (320”) at the second location: the second radial protrusion protrudes less radially inward from the circumferential wall relative to the first radial protrusion; and / or the second radial protrusion comprises an insert side (322”) arranged for guiding the second radial protrusion during connection to the container connection part and an exit side (324”) arranged for guiding thesecond radial protrusion during disconnection from the container connection part, wherein the exit side comprises one or more of the following features: a bevel; a chamfer; and a fillet.

12. The chime according to claim 8, further comprising at the first location, a chime connection part, arranged to engage with a container connection part to connect the chime to the container, and wherein at the second location, the chime is free of chime connection parts.

13. The chime according to any of the claims 8-12, further comprising: at the first location, a first handle, and optionally, a visual and / or haptic indicator; and / or at the second location, a second handle, and optionally, a visual and / or haptic indicator.

14. Assembly according to any of the claims 1-7, wherein the chime is a chime according to any of the claims 8-13.

15. Method of disconnecting a chime from a beverage container, the method comprising: providing an assembly according to any of the claims 1-7 or 14; and disconnecting the chime from the beverage container by pulling the chime from the beverage container at the second location.

16. The assembly according to any of the claims 1-7, wherein the minimal force (Fi) required to disconnect the chime from the container at the first location (I) of the chime is at least 105% of the minimal force(Fa) required to disconnect the chime from the container at the second location (II) of the chime.

17. The assembly according to any of the claims 1-7, wherein the minimal force (Fi) required to disconnect the chime from the container at the first location (I) of the chime is at least 150% of the minimal force (Fa) required to disconnect the chime from the container at the second location (II) of the chime.

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