Line divertor valve

Abstract

A line divertor valve and a method of operating thereof. The line divertor valve comprising a media inlet for receiving media into the line divertor valve; a media outlet for outputting media from the line divertor valve; a purge outlet for outputting media from the line divertor valve; and a media sensing device operable to detect one or more characteristics of media within the line divertor valve. The line divertor valve arranged to operate in a plurality of modes of operation, the modes of operation comprising a first mode wherein the media inlet is open to the media outlet, and the media inlet is closed to the purge outlet; a second mode wherein the media inlet is closed to the media outlet, and the media inlet is closed to the purge outlet; and a third mode wherein the media inlet is closed to the media outlet and the media inlet is open to the purge outlet.

Description

[0001] 130781.00015

[0002] LINE DIVERTOR VALVE TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] [1] The present invention relates to a line divertor valve, a system comprising a line divertor valve, and a method for operating a line divertor valve.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] [2] Beverages may be dispensed using beverage dispensing systems. Beverages and dispensing systems vary; however, regardless of a type of dispensing system it is a necessity to maintain hygiene of the dispensing system and minimise wasted beverage.

[0006] [3] Figure 1 illustrates a prior art beverage dispensing system. A tap 10 is located above a serving surface illustrated by dashed line L19 and the tap dispenses a beverage. Tap 10 comprises a movable handle that is manually operated whereby operation of the handle towards or away from an operator dispenses the beverage. A drip tray 11 is located below the dispensing part of the tap 10 to collect dispensed beverage not captured by a receptacle, such as a glass. The system of Figure 1 further comprises a gas source 18, such as a pressurised gas cylinder, and a keg 15. Connected to the keg 15 is a closure 19. Closure 19 includes a valve mechanism and a spear 16, which is a tube-like structure, extending into the keg 15. A gas source is connected to the coupler 14 to provide pressurised gas to the keg 15 via a gas line L11, which pressurises a beverage 17 contained within the keg 15. Coupler 14 is connected to a beverage line L12, L13 with a Foam on Beer (FOB) device 13 disposed along the beverage line. When the handle of tap 10 is operated, the tap is opened. The gas pressure in keg 15 forces beverage 17 through a spear 16 and a closure 19, and along the beverage line L12, L13 for dispense via the tap 10. FOB device 13 detects when foam is passing along the beverage line L12 and automatically halts flow along the beverage line L13 to prevent forceful ejection of beverage and gas from the tap 10 as foam when the tap 10 is open. FOB device 13 will operate to shut off flow along the beverage line when a keg is empty or near empty of beverage. The empty keg will then be replaced with a new keg containing beverage and the FOB device 13 will be purged to waste through the purge line L23 by a user pressing a purge button on the FOB device 13. After the foam has been purged, the FOB device 13 is then refilled and manually reset to allow flow along the beverage line once more.

[0007] [4] The FOB device 13, other components and lines are exposed to the atmosphere, and therefore are susceptible to bacterial, yeast, fungal and / or other microbial growth in media contact areas. Components of the system must be frequently sanitised to ensure potable beverages are served and the quality of the dispensed beverage is maintained.

[0008] [5] Sanitisation requires disconnecting the coupler 14 from the keg 15, attaching coupler 14 to a wash bottle or a wash ring main, flushing the beverage line L12, L13 with a detergent130781.00015

[0009] and water mix, leaving the detergent-filled beverage line to soak, flushing the beverage line with water, manually sanitising the coupler 14, manually sanitising the tap 10, and so on. SUMMARY

[0010] [6] A first aspect is a line divertor valve comprising a media inlet for receiving media into the line divertor valve; a media outlet for outputting media from the line divertor valve; a purge outlet for outputting media from the line divertor valve; and a media sensing device operable to detect one or more characteristics of media within the line divertor valve. The line divertor valve is arranged to operate in a plurality of modes of operation. The modes of operation comprise: a first mode wherein the media inlet is open to the media outlet, and the media inlet is closed to the purge outlet; a second mode wherein the media inlet is closed to the media outlet, and the media inlet is closed to the purge outlet; and a third mode wherein the media inlet is closed to the media outlet, and the media inlet is open to the purge outlet. The line divertor valve is arranged to change the mode of operation from the first mode of operation to the third mode of operation in response to a received instruction; and change the mode of operation from the third mode of operation to the first mode of operation or second mode of operation in response to a determined change in one or more characteristics of media within the line divertor valve.

[0011] [7] A second aspect is a system comprising the line divertor valve of the first aspect and a sensor external to the line divertor valve, wherein the sensor is operable to detect one or more characteristics of media external to the line divertor valve.

[0012] [8] A third aspect is a method of operating a line divertor valve. The line divertor valve comprising a media inlet for receiving media into the line divertor valve, a media outlet for outputting media from the line divertor valve, a purge outlet for outputting media from the line divertor valve, and a media sensing device operable to detect one or more characteristics of media within the line divertor valve. The method comprising: operating the line divertor valve in a first mode of operation wherein the media inlet is open to the media outlet, and the media inlet is closed to the purge outlet; in response to a received instruction, the line divertor valve changing from the first mode of operation to a third mode of operation wherein the media inlet is closed to the media outlet, and the media inlet is open to the purge outlet; determining a change in one or more characteristics of media within the line divertor valve; and in response to the determined change of one or more characteristics of media within the line divertor valve, changing from the third mode of operation to the first mode of operation, or a second mode of operation wherein the media inlet is closed to the media outlet, and the media inlet is closed to the purge outlet.

[0013] DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] [9] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a prior art beverage dispenser system.130781.00015

[0015]

[0010] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating a beverage dispenser system operable to automatically self-sanitise.

[0016]

[0011] Figures 3A to 3C are schematic diagrams of a first line divertor valve.

[0017]

[0012] Figure 4 is an isometric view of a cutaway of a second line divertor valve.

[0018]

[0013] Figures 5A and 5B illustrate a schematic diagram of the second line divertor valve with a mode of ‘no media flow’.

[0019]

[0014] Figures 6A and 6B illustrate a schematic diagram of the second line divertor valve with a mode of ‘media flow’.

[0020]

[0015] Figures 7A and 7B illustrate a schematic diagram of the second line divertor valve with a mode of ‘purge flow’.

[0021]

[0016] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of a third line divertor valve.

[0022]

[0017] Figures 9A to 9D are schematic diagrams of the third line divertor valve in ‘no media flow’, ‘media flow’, ‘purge’ and ‘retention’ mode respectively.

[0023]

[0018] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of three third line divertor valves connected to the gas line and the dosing line in three different modes; closed, dispensing and cleaning.

[0024]

[0019] Figure 11 a schematic illustration of a system comprising three-line divertor valves.

[0025]

[0020] Figure 12 is a block diagram of a line divertor valve.

[0026]

[0021] Figure 13 illustrates a method for operating a line divertor valve.

[0027] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028]

[0022] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating a beverage dispense system operable to automatically self-sanitise. Tap 24 is capable of automatic operation whereby the tap may automatically open allowing media to flow through beverage line L21 and out of the tap. Tap 24 may also be manually operated by, for example, pulling a handle section towards an operator or pushing the handle section away from the operator. Tap 24 may be positioned above a serving surface illustrated by dashed line L30, such as a bar or table, with other components of the system located below the serving surface, or elsewhere.

[0029]

[0023] Beverage line L21 connects the tap 24 to a coupler 22 attachable to a beverage container 20, such as a keg or a bag-in-box container. An integrated sensing device arranged to detect characteristic(s) of media passing through the coupler 22 and / or beverage line L21 may be located within the coupler 22. The integrated sensing device can be a non-invasive sensing device located on the beverage line 21 or an invasive sensing device located in the beverage line 21. The integrated sensing device can be located proximate to the line diverter valve 23, or within the line divertor valve 23. Such media characteristic(s) may include media presence, type, colour, state, consistency and / or viscosity. Integrated sensing device may be linked to a line divertor valve 23, either directly or via a hub , to facilitate transmission of characteristic(s) of media passing through coupler 22 to a line divertor valve 23, which may act as a FOB device.130781.00015

[0030]

[0024] The line divertor valve 23 has a media inlet to receive media from the coupler 22, a media outlet to provide media to a tap 24, and a purge outlet to purge media from the beverage line L21. The purge outlet may connect to a drain line L231. The line divertor valve 23 has a plurality of modes of operation comprising: (1) a ‘media flow’ mode where the media inlet is in fluid communication with the media outlet and not the purge outlet, whereby media may flow along a beverage line from a keg, into the line divertor valve 23, and then on into the beverage line L21 towards the tap 24; (2) a ‘no media flow’ mode where the media inlet is in fluid communication with neither the media outlet nor the purge outlet, whereby media is prevented from flowing out into either the beverage line L21 towards a tap 24, or out of the purge outlet; and (3) a ‘media purge’ mode wherein the media inlet is in fluid communication with the purge outlet and not the media outlet, whereby media entering the line divertor valve 23 is directed to the purge outlet. Optionally, the line divertor valve 23 comprises a further mode of operation, ‘an open mode’ where the media inlet is in fluid communication with both the media outlet and the purge outlet.

[0031]

[0025] In Figure 2, the line divertor valve 23 is separate to the coupler and is positioned elsewhere along beverage line L21.In some examples, the line divertor valve 23 may be integrated with the coupler 22.

[0032]

[0026] Line divertor valve 23 has a media sensing device 232 that detects a state of media within the line divertor valve 23. For example, if the line divertor valve is purging media from the beverage line and detects that the state of the media has changed from a beverage foam, water or a cleaning solution to a beverage then the purging of the media may cease, and media will then be directed through the line divertor valve 23 to the tap 24.

[0033]

[0027] A gas source 21, such as a pressurised gas tank or cylinder, is coupled to the beverage container 20 by gas lines L210 and L211. The gas source 21 is operable to pressurise a beverage 203 that is a content of beverage container 20. Coupler 22 may further comprise a manual control 222, such as a button, for the manual control of coupler functions, such as manually stopping beverage flow or for engaging and / or disengaging coupler 22 from beverage container 20. Beverage container 20 includes a closure 201 and may include a spear 202 that is a device to allow flow of beverage 203 from beverage container 20. Should, for example, beverage be held in a bag-in-box container rather than a keg then no spear may be required. Instead, a pump may be used to pump liquid from the bag-in-box container to the tap for dispensing. Coupler 22 is connected to the beverage container 20 via closure 201. Not illustrated are optional status indicators of coupler 22 that indicate a coupler status (for example, to indicate whether the coupler 22 is engaged with beverage container 20 or not, and / or whether sanitisation is in process). Closure 201 may take the form of a beverage container connection.130781.00015

[0034]

[0028] Beverage container 20 is coupled via coupler 22 to one or more further components for sanitisation of the beverage system and, optionally, for sanitising further beverage systems that are not illustrated in Figure 2. Figure 2 illustrates a system manifold 28 connected to beverage line L21 and its associated components by a line L281. System manifold 28 is an optional component and is controllable to selectively couple a beverage retention device 27 and / or a dosing device 26 to additional beverage dispensing systems so that the beverage retention device 27 and / or the dosing device 26 are operable to sanitise multiple beverage dispensing systems. The system manifold 28 has additional coupler lines L282 illustrated for one or more additional coupler connections.

[0035]

[0029] In Figure 2, beverage retention device 27 is coupled to system manifold 28 by a beverage retention line L271. Through beverage retention line L271, beverage contained in the beverage line L21 may be extracted by the beverage retention device 28. The beverage retention device 27 is operable to store and isolate beverage during sanitisation of the beverage dispensing components and beverage lines. In some examples, the beverage retention device is connected to the beverage line L21 between the line divertor valve 23 and the coupler 22. This facilitates the purging of media from the retention device 27, retention line L271, system manifold 28 and line L281 through the line divertor valve’s purge outlet. Such an arrangement facilitates sensing of media characteristics of the purged media by the integrated sensing device, and for the line divertor valve to switch mode of operation based on said media characteristics of the purged media.

[0036]

[0030] Water is supplied to dosing device 26 by a water supply line L261. Dosing device 26 is connected to a cleaning solution storage vessel 261 via line L262. Cleaning solution storage vessel 261 contains a cleaning solution, for example a detergent. Dosing device 26 may comprise, for example, a venturi pump, an electromechanical pump, a Dosatron (RTM) dosing device, or the like to control the dosing of cleaning solution into lines L263 and L265. Dosing device 26 supplies dosing media which is water, or water dosed with a measured amount of cleaning solution to at least one of beverage line L21 or retention device 27, via dosing valve 262.

[0037]

[0031] When the dosing device 26 supplies the beverage line L21, the dosing device pushes the dosing media through the dosing valve 262 and L263 to the line divertor valve 23.

[0038] Wherein the line divertor valve comprises a cleaning valve, the cleaning valve can allow or prevent the flow of the dosing media to the coupler 22, via line L264 and to the beverage container closure 201. The dosing media can then flow from the keg closure 201 to the tap 24, via beverage line L221, line divertor valve 23 and beverage line L21.

[0039]

[0032] In some examples, dosing device 26 comprises a separate pump to actively control water flow, while in other examples the dosing device comprises a valve to passively control water flow by relying on mains water pressure.130781.00015

[0040]

[0033] The system of Figure 2 is operable by an operator to dispense beverage from the tap 24 by normal manual operation of the tap. Information regarding the dispensing and / or sanitisation system is displayable to the operator via a tap display 241 mounted on tap 24. The tap display 241 may comprise, for example, a display screen or a series of LEDs. The tap display 241 may indicate to the user information including temperature of the beverage being stored or dispensed, an estimated amount of beverage remaining in the beverage container 20 and / or a status of the beverage dispensing or sanitisation system. Tap display 241 may be mounted on the tap body facing towards or away from a user, or on the tap handle facing towards or away from a user. When not dispensing beverage, at a predetermined time or frequency, the system of Figure 2 is configurable to perform automatic self-sanitisation.

[0041]

[0034] The system of Figure 2 optionally includes a cooling system comprising refrigeration unit 25 and refrigeration line L251 that provides a refrigeration fluid to cool system components, such as the beverage line L21. In some examples, additional components are cooled by refrigeration unit. In one example, beverage passing through beverage line L21 (after passing through a line divertor valve 23, if present) enters a refrigeration unit for cooling prior to being dispensed by tap 24- the refrigeration unit 25 directly cools beverage that passes through it.

[0042]

[0035] The system of Figure 2 enables automatic sanitisation of a beverage dispensing system without operator intervention and without having to disconnect manually, for example, the coupler from the dispensing system. This reduces the time and cost of sanitisation. The automatic self-sanitisation process can be performed at a time when beverage dispensing is not required, thereby avoiding disruption to beverage dispensing. Beverage normally wasted during a sanitisation process is minimised by storing beverage within the system while a sanitisation routine is underway.

[0043]

[0036] The constituent system components can connect to a hub 291 that is arranged to access diagnostic information received from the constituent system components and to customise and / or schedule operation of the constituent system components. Hub 291 can connect to the constituent system components (e.g., tap 24, line divertor valve 23, coupler 20, system manifold 28, beverage retention device 27 and dosing device 26) by either a wired or wireless connection. Hub 291 is accessible using an operator device 290, which may be, for example, a mobile device, tablet or laptop. The operator device 290 can connect to the hub 291 via either a wired or wireless connection to access diagnostic information, view scheduled sanitisation information and / or schedule sanitisation of the system. Hub 291 is a control unit for the system, and some or all of the system’s components, and can be operated remotely. Hub 291 can use the information to determine, for example, a maintenance schedule for the tap 24 or an estimation of component wear, as well as product130781.00015

[0044] throughput, remaining beverage in beverage container 20 and / or beverage quality. The hub 291 is operable to report live and / or historical information to a remote central platform, optionally wirelessly and / or via Wi-Fi (RTM) or cellular connection (SIM card).

[0045]

[0037] Figures 3A to 3C are schematic diagrams of a first line divertor valve 30. Figure 3A illustrates the first line divertor valve 30 in a first mode, called a ‘media flow’ mode. Figure 3B illustrates the first line divertor valve 30 in a second mode, called a ‘no media flow’ mode. Figure 3C illustrates the first line divertor valve 30 in a third mode, called a ‘media purge’ mode.

[0046]

[0038] The first line divertor valve 30 in Figures 3A to 3C has a media inlet 31 for receiving media into the line divertor valve 30, a media outlet 32 for outputting media from the line divertor valve, and a purge outlet 33 for outputting media from line divertor valve 30. Linear movement of an internal valve 34 controls a flow of media through the line divertor valve 30, which dictates the mode of operation of the line divertor valve 30. Movement of the internal valve 34 is controlled by an actuator arrangement 35 that includes a motor and a gearbox to conduct rotary motion to a spindle 36 that is rotatable within the line divertor valve 30. Spindle 36 can screw into and out of the internal valve 34 resulting in linear motion of the internal valve 34 within channels within the line divertor valve 30. The position of the internal valve 34 is detected by a valve status sensor 371 attached to the body of the line divertor valve 30 that is operable to detect a proximity of a magnet 372 attached to the internal valve 34. In this example, the sensor is a Hall sensor, however other sensor types and arrangements may be used to detect the position of the internal valve 34 within the line divertor valve 30 and therefore a current mode of operation of the line divertor valve 30.

[0047]

[0039] In the ‘media flow’ mode illustrated in Figure 3A, the media inlet 31 is in fluid communication with the media outlet 32 such that the media outlet 32 can accept flow from the media inlet 31. Internal valve 34 blocks fluid communication between the purge outlet 33, and the media inlet 31 and media outlet 32.

[0048]

[0040] In the ‘no media flow’ mode illustrated in Figure 3B, internal valve 34 blocks fluid communication between the media inlet 31, media outlet 32 and purge outlet 33.

[0049]

[0041] In the ‘media purge’ mode illustrated in Figure 3C, the media inlet 31 is in fluid communication with the purge outlet 33. Internal valve 34 blocks fluid flow between the media outlet 32, and the media inlet 31 and purge outlet 33.

[0050]

[0042] The first line divertor valve 30 has a valve media sensor 39 operable to determine one or more characteristics of media within the first line divertor valve 30.

[0051] The characteristic(s) of media comprise temperature of the media, media presence, media type, media colour, media state and / or media consistency or viscosity, which may be used to determine whether the media is a beverage, beverage foam, cleaning fluid, water or gas. In one example, the valve media sensor 39 comprises an RGB light source and optical sensor130781.00015

[0052] for monitoring a colour of the media within a channel of the first line divertor valve 30. In other examples, an infra-red (IR) light source, or a single colour light source, such as a green light source, is used with a suitable optical sensor. In the illustrated example, the valve media sensor 39 is located in or in close proximity to the media inlet 31. However, in other nonillustrated examples, an additional valve media sensor may be located in the purge outlet 33.

[0053]

[0043] Not illustrated in Figures 3A to 3C is a PCB coupled to the line divertor valve 30. The PCB is operable to control the actuator 35, receive sensor data from the valve status sensor 371 and determine a mode of operation, receive sensor data from the valve media sensor 39 and determine one or more characteristics of media within the line divertor valve 30, and a data port coupled to the PCB enabling the PCB to communicate with other components either locally or any suitable means of remote connection, such as via the Internet.

[0054]

[0044] In use in a system such as that illustrated in Figure 2, the first line divertor valve 30 may be configured in the ‘media flow’ mode for dispensing beverage and also during sanitisation. If a beverage container becomes empty of beverage 203, foam may pass through the spear 202 and into the coupler 22. Integrated sensing device 222 may communicate the presence of foam and the first line divertor valve 30 may receive an instruction to initiate a ‘no media flow’ mode such that flow through media outlet 32 and to the tap 24 is shut off. A user may manually replace and reconnect a new beverage container 20 while the line divertor valve 30 remains in the ‘no media flow’ mode. Following connection of the new beverage container 20, the ‘media purge’ mode is initiated automatically, or optionally by depressing a connection button. A beverage line connecting the beverage container 20 to the first line divertor valve 30 may be refilled with beverage using the divertor valve’s ‘media purge’ mode such that foam is purged from the beverage line. Once beverage enters the first line divertor valve 30 and is detected by the valve media sensor 39, the first line divertor valve 30 automatically resumes a ‘media flow’ mode. The sensing by the first line divertor valve 30 and ability of the valve 30 to change mode, both by instruction and automatically, reduces wasted beverage during the process as the amount of purged beverage is minimised.

[0055]

[0045] Figure 4 is an isometric view of a cutaway of a second line divertor valve 40. In the illustrated example, the body has been cut away as indicated by dashed lines, and internal channels also indicated using dashed lines. Partially within the body of the second line divertor valve 40 are two pistons that act as valves 441 , 442. In the figure, the two valves are illustrated in a simplified form compared to the valves illustrated in Figures 5A, 6A and 7A.

[0056]

[0046] The second line divertor valve 40 has a media inlet 41 for receiving media, a media outlet 43 and a purge outlet 42 for outputting media. Media outlet valve 442 controls flow of media from the media outlet 42, and purge outlet valve 441 controls flow of media from the purge outlet 42. The valves 441, 442 move linearly and can move both reciprocally and independently within channels. A valve cam 451 controls movement of the valves 441, 442130781.00015

[0057] with rotation movement of the valve cam 451 linked to linear valve movement by cam followers: media outlet valve 442 is linked to valve cam 451 by media outlet cam follower 444, and purge outlet valve 441 is linked to valve cam 451 by purge outlet cam follower 443.

[0058]

[0047] Valve cam 451 is formed as part of a cam body 450 and rotational movement of the cam body 451 is controlled by an actuator arrangement (not shown in Figure 4) that includes a motor. The path of the valve cam 451 dictates the movement of the valves as the cam body 450 rotates. Cam body 450 also links to a further cam that is not shown in Figure 4 as it is obscured by the cam body 451.

[0059]

[0048] Second line divertor valve 40 has a plurality of modes that correspond to individual valve orientations and are illustrated Figures 5A to 7B. The second line divertor valve 40 in Figure 4 is in a ‘media purge’ mode whereby media can flow from the media inlet 41 to the purge outlet 42, and media cannot flow through the media outlet 43.

[0060]

[0049] Figures 5A and 5B illustrate a schematic diagram of the second line divertor valve 40 with a mode of ‘no media flow’. Media outlet 43 is blocked by media outlet valve 442, which is in a closed position due to an angular position of the cam body 450. The same angular position of the cam body 450 also ensures that that the purge outlet valve 441 is in a closed position and purge outlet 42 is blocked.

[0061]

[0050] A change in angular position of the cam body 450 changes the mode of the line divertor valve 40. By having a varying valve cam 451 path over 360 degrees of rotation of the cam body 450, a large number of modes may be achieved by second line divertor valve 40. In the example illustrated in Figures 5A to 7B, a quarter rotation of the cam body 450 is arranged to provide a change of mode. Three distinct modes are illustrated, however a fourth mode whereby both the media outlet valve 442 and purge outlet valve 441 are open is envisaged. The cam body 450 has a protrusion that is manually rotatable should manual operation of the second line divertor valve 40 be required. The angular position of the cam body 450 is controlled by the actuator, which may be a stepper motor providing a high degree of rotational accuracy. Optionally, and illustrated in the embodiment of Figures 5A to 7B is a second cam, sensor cam 452, coupled to the first. Figure 5B is a partial view of the embodiment of Figure 5A and illustrates the shape of the sensor cam 452. As the cam body 450 rotates, the two cams rotate and a sensor cam follower 471 moves in a liner path, the sensor cam follower 471 being biased towards the sensor cam 452 by a sensor cam follower bias 472, such as a compressed spring. In the illustrated embodiment, the sensor cam follower 471 has a rounded portion that engages with the sensor cam 452 and an arm extending around the body of the second line divertor valve 40, running adjacent to a PCB 461. The PCB 461 has one or more sensors, such as Hall sensors, optical sensors and / or potentiometers, that detect the position of the arm of the sensor cam follower 471 and this position information is processed and used130781.00015

[0062] to determine an accurate position of the valve cam 451 and therefore is used to ensure an actuated mode of operation is implemented correctly.

[0063]

[0051] The use of a cam to control one or more valves provides a line divertor valve that may affect a very fast change in mode of operation as only partial cam body rotation is required to change the mode of operation. Further, the use of a second cam to monitor modes of operation ensures a reliable and checkable system.

[0064]

[0052] Valve media sensor 49 (not illustrated in Figure 4) is located within the second line divertor valve 40 or in proximity to it. In the example illustrated in Figure 5A, the valve media sensor is located in the media inlet 41 , however in other examples the valve media sensor 49 may be located in another location, such as in a channel between the valves, or in the purge outlet 43.

[0065]

[0053] PCB 461, located on a side of the second line divertor valve 40, has a processor operable to communicate with other system components using a data port 464 mounted on the PCB 461. The PCB has memory with software stored thereon and the processor may process instructions based on the software. The data port 464 may comprise, among other connections, an RJ45 connection. Also mounted on the PCB 461 is an indicator 462 operable to show a status of the second line divertor valve 40 and a button 463 that is manually operable by a user to change between modes of operation.

[0066]

[0054] Figures 6A and 6B illustrate a schematic diagram of the second line divertor valve with a mode of ‘media flow’. The cam body 452 has rotated and the path of the valve cam 451 causes the media outlet valve 442 to move to an open position allowing media flow from the media inlet 41 to the media outlet 43, while the purge outlet valve 441 remains in a closed position. The sensor cam 452 has also rotated causing the sensor cam follower 471 to move and the new position of the sensor cam follower 471 is detectable by the associated sensor(s).

[0067]

[0055] Figures 7A and 7B illustrate a schematic diagram of the second line divertor valve with a mode of ‘purge flow’. The cam body 452 has been rotated and the path of the valve cam 451 has caused the media outlet valve 442 to move to a closed position preventing media flow from the media inlet 41 to the media outlet 43, and the purge outlet valve 441 to move to an open position allowing media flow from the media inlet 41 to the purge outlet 42. Characteristics of the media flowing through the media inlet 41 are detectable by the valve media sensor 49 in a corresponding manner as the first line divertor valve 30. The second line divertor valve 40, similar to the first line divertor valve 40, is operable to change operation mode after a beverage container replacement when a change of media is detected at the valve media sensor 49 identifying that beverage is flowing through the second line divertor valve 40 rather than another media state, such as for example foam or gas.

[0068]

[0056] The second line divertor valve 40 comprises a further mode of operation, ‘an open mode’ where the media inlet 41 is in fluid communication with both the media outlet 43 and130781.00015

[0069] the purge outlet 42. This mode is entered by a 90-degree clockwise rotation of the cam body 450 when viewed from the position illustrated in Figure 7B.

[0070]

[0057] A third example of a line divertor valve 50 is shown in Figure 8. The line divertor valve 50 of Figure 8 comprises a media inlet 51 for receiving media into the line divertor valve 50 and a media outlet 53 for outputting media from the line divertor valve 50. The line divertor valve 50 also comprises a purge outlet 52 for outputting media from the line divertor valve. The line divertor valve 50 is movable between a ‘media flow mode’, a ‘no-media flow mode’, a ‘media purge mode’ and a ‘retention mode’ via movement of internal valves. The line divertor valve of Figure 8 further comprises a retention inlet / outlet 551 for receiving media from a retention device and for outputting media to a retention device, controllable via a retention valve 55. The retention valve is a pass-through valve which allows media to flow between two ports and controls flow of media through a third port which is connected to the retention inlet / outlet 551. In the example shown, an optional inlet coil 56 comprising two openings is connected to the media inlet 51 at a first opening and is arranged to receive media at the second opening 561 such that media can flow through the inlet coil to the media inlet 52. The second opening can be connected to the coupler. Further, the coil 56 can store media prior to entering the media inlet. The coil 56 prevents foam or gas entering the dispensing line during the time taken for the integrate sensing device to detect characteristics of media and to effect a change in the mode of the line divertor valve 50.

[0071]

[0058] In some examples, the line divertor valves 50 comprises a valve cam arranged to control movement of the valves with rotation of the valve cam linked to linear valve movement by cam followers, as described above in relation to the second example of a line divertor valve 40. In some examples, the valves are pistons.

[0072]

[0059] As shown in Figure 8 and described in more detail in relation to Figure 10 components related to the distribution of gas, the retention of media and dosing of the system can be mounted on the line divertor valve 50. Alternatively, such components are mounted in close proximity to the line divertor valve. Figure 8 illustrates a gas outlet 571 and a doing outlet 581 mounted on the line divertor valve 50 or in close proximity to the line divertor valve 50. The line divertor valve 50 can also be coupled to other components for sanitisation of the beverage system. The line divertor valve may be connected to the dosing device 26 via a dosing line L263. The line divertor valve receives cleaning solution, water, or a water and cleaning solution mix from the dosing via a dosing inlet. The water and detergent mix are output from the line divertor valve 50 via a dosing outlet 581. Wherein the line divertor valve 50 is connected to the dosing device 29, the coupler may be connected to the dosing device via the line divertor valve 50. In such a way, the third example of a line divertor valve provides functionality which, in other examples, is provided by the coupler.130781.00015

[0073]

[0060] In Figure 8, a PCB may be provided on the side of the line divertor valve 50. The PCB comprises a data port 59 which facilitates communication between the PCB and other components either locally or via a means of remote connection. The data port 59 can also provide a power inlet and outlet for the line divertor valve. The PCB is configured, based on the position of the valves within the line divertor valve to determine a current mode of operation of the line divertor valve. The PCB can also receive data from the valve media sensor and determine one or more characteristics of the media within the line divertor valve. The PCB comprises a plurality of LED indicators 564 and a button 563. The LED indicators can indicate a variety of parameters related to the line divertor valve. For example, the LED indicators can indicate the current mode of the line divertor valve. The button can provide means for a user to manually change the mode of the line divertor valve.

[0074]

[0061] Figure 9a illustrates the line divertor valve 50 of Figure 8 in the no media flow mode. In the no media flow mode, the media outlet valve 542 prevents fluid communication between the media inlet 51 and the media outlet 53 and the purge outlet valve 541 prevents fluid communications between the media inlet 51 and the purge outlet 52. In Figure 9a, a retention valve 55 which connects the line divertor valve to the beverage retention device is also closed. This valve 55 can also be open in no media flow mode

[0075]

[0062] Figure 9b illustrates the line divertor valve of Figure 8 in the media flow mode. In the media flow mode, the purge outlet valve 541 is closed to prevent fluid communication between the media inlet 51 and the purge outlet 52. The media outlet valve 542 is open such that the media inlet 51 is in fluid communication with the media outlet 53. The retention valve 55 is closed such that media is prevented from flowing from the line divertor valve 50 to the retention device 28.

[0076]

[0063] Figure 9c illustrates the line divertor valve 50 of Figure 8 in the media purge mode. In the media purge mode, the purge outlet valve 541 is open such that the media inlet 51 is in fluid communication with the purge outlet 52. In such a way, media which enters the line divertor valve 50 is output via the purge outlet 52. In the media purge mode, the media outlet valve 542 and the retention valve 55 are closed such that the media inlet 51 is not in fluid communication with the media outlet 551 or the retention device 28.

[0077]

[0064] Figure 9d illustrates the line divertor valve 50 of Figure 8 in the retention mode. In the retention mode, the media outlet valve 542 and the purge outlet valve 541 are both closed such that the media inlet 51 is not in fluid communication with the purge outlet 52, media outlet 53, or the media outlet 551. The retention valve 55 is open so the retention device 27 is in fluid communication with the media outlet 551. In this mode, media flows from the line divertor valve 50 to the retention device 27, via the retention valve.

[0078]

[0065] The third example of the line divertor valve 50 facilitates connection of the line divertor valve 50 to the gas source 21 via a gas line L210 and to the dosing device 26 via dosing line130781.00015

[0079] L263, as described in more detail below in relation to Figure 10. A gas inlet valve 252 controls the flow of gas from the gas line L210 through the line divertor valve 501, 502, 503 and a dosing inlet valve 262 controls the flow of water and cleaning detergent through the line divertor valve 50.

[0080]

[0066] Figure 10 illustrates three line divertor valves 501, 502, 503 connected to the gas line L210 and the dosing line L263 in three different modes; closed 501, dispensing 502 and cleaning 503. In the closed mode, the gas inlet valve 252 is closed such that the gas outlet 571 is not in fluid communication with the gas inlet 572 and the dosing inlet valve 292 is closed such that a dosing inlet 582 is not in fluid communication with the dosing outlet 581. In the closed mode, gas, water and cleaning solution are prevented from entering the beverage line. Although three line divertor valves are shown, it will be understood that this is a non-limiting example and additional line divertor valves can also be connected in the same way.

[0081]

[0067] In the dispensing mode, the gas inlet valve 252 is open so that the gas outlet 571 is in fluid communication with the gas inlet 572 and gas can flow from the gas line L210 and exit via the gas outlet 571. The gas outlet can be in fluid communication with the coupler to supply gas to the beverage container 20.. In the dispensing mode the dosing inlet valve 292 is closed such that the dosing inlet 582 is not in fluid communication with the dosing outlet 581. In such a way, water and cleaning solution do not flow through the line divertor valve in the dispensing mode.

[0082]

[0068] In the cleaning mode, the gas inlet valve 252 is closed such that the gas outlet 571 is not in fluid communication with the gas inlet 572 and the dosing inlet valve 292 is open such that the dosing inlet 582 is in fluid communication with the dosing outlet 581. In the cleaning mode, the dosing valve 262 is open to supply dosing media via L263.ln such a way, water and / or cleaning solution is permitted to flow through the line divertor valve. In the example shown in Figure 10, the water and / or cleaning solution flows from the line divertor valve to the coupler via L264 (not depicted in Fig. 10).

[0083]

[0069] The third example of a line divertor valves 50 facilitates connection to additional line divertor valves to form a multi-line system. Figure 11 is a schematic illustration of a system comprising three line divertor valves 50. Each line divertor valve 50 is connected to a separate dispensing line, such that a plurality of dispensing lines can be connected to the dosing unit 26 and / or retention device 27. Each of the line divertor valves are connected to the dosing line L263. The dosing line L263 can be connected to the dosing unit 26. The dosing unit 26 can receive water from a water main supply. The dosing unit 26 can also be in fluid communication with the retention device 27 such that dosing media is supplied to the retention device 27 from the dosing unit 26 via line L265. In particular, when the retention device is being rinsed following sanitisation the dosing media supplied is water. The line divertor valves 50 shown are each connected to a separate coupler 22. A first line divertor valve is connected to the130781.00015

[0084] retention device 27. The retention device 27 is accessible to a second and third line divertor valve via the first line divertor valve. In such a way, the retention device 27 can be accessible to a plurality of beverage lines.

[0085]

[0070] As described above, the line divertor valves disclosed herein may be used as a FOB device in a beverage dispensing system. Fob devices generally connect to beverage lines with diameters ranging from 4.5 mm (3 / 16 inch) to 25 mm (1 inch) and support a beverage flow rate of up to 30 litres per minute.

[0086]

[0071] A further example comprises switching from a ‘media flow’ mode to a ‘no media flow’ mode as an initial step in response to a received instruction. For example, if a keg empties and foam is detected in the beverage line or media inlet, the line diverter valve switches to a ‘no media flow’ mode. This received instruction may be received from either a media sensor in the media inlet of the line diverter valve, for example, or a media sensor in a coupler. If there is no media sensor in the coupler, the media sensor in the media inlet in this example is able to send an instruction causing the line diverter valve to enter a ‘no media flow’ mode automatically on detecting foam in the beverage line.

[0087]

[0072] Once the line diverter valve is in the ‘no media flow’ mode, it may switch back into the ‘media flow’ mode directly, i.e. , without first going through the ‘media purge’ mode. Direct switching from the ‘no media flow’ mode to the ‘media flow’ mode might occur if, for example, a received instruction to pause the ‘media flow’ mode is received by the line diverter valve through, for example, a use of button 463 that is manually operable by a user to change between modes of operation when there is no foam detectable in the beverage line. The user can therefore switch back to the ‘media flow’ mode directly without entering the ‘media purge’ mode.

[0088]

[0073] In an example where the line diverter valve is in the ‘no media flow’ mode because foam was detected in the beverage line L21, then the line diverter valve may switch to the ‘media purge’ mode via two possible pathways:

[0089]

[0074] A first pathway involves a system that uses a coupler with a beverage sensing capability. ‘Media purge’ mode may be activated when the coupler is connected to a keg and a connection button is pressed to engage the coupler with the keg. Pressing the button confirms that a new keg is connected, and that the foam in the line L21 can be vented via the purge outlet. The coupler additionally comprises a keg presence switch. The keg presence switch is activated upon engagement between the couplerand the keg. The connection button is not actionable when the keg presence switch is not activated. In such a way, this prevents gas being supplied through the coupler when a keg is not connected and provides a safety function.130781.00015

[0090]

[0075] A second pathway involves a system that does not use a coupler with a beverage sensing capability. The ‘media purge’ mode may be manually activated by a user by pressing an activation button on the line diverter valve itself.

[0091]

[0076] In each pathway example, an instruction will be received by the line diverter valve to enter the ‘media purge’ mode.

[0092]

[0077] The line diverter valve will remain in the ‘media purge’ mode until the media sensor in the line diverter valve detects suitable characteristics of media in the beverage line once more. At this point, the line diverter valve may switch to ‘no media flow’ mode, before then switching to the ‘media flow’ mode once again. In some examples of the line diverter valve, the line diverter valve would be able to switch directly from ‘media purge’ mode to ‘media flow’ mode with a hardware modification of the line diverter valve cam that drives the pistons.

[0093]

[0078] Button 463 on the line diverter valve can be used to force a mode change at any time. Where media ‘purge mode’ is forced as an override through user input, line diverter valve may purge for a pre-programmed amount of time, before returning back to a ‘no media flow’ mode and then to a ‘media flow’ mode. Above examples may discuss examples using foam as example of a media change however other media changes may trigger a change of mode.

[0094]

[0079] Figure 12 is a block diagram illustrating architecture of a line diverter valve 800 comprising:

[0095]

[0080] Processor(s) 815 and memory 816 operable to control the functioning of the line divertor valve 23 (Fig. 2), 30 (Fig. 3), 40 (Fig. 4). While the block diagram illustrates a processor-based control system, in alternative examples the line divertor valve 23, 30, 40 is controlled by an integrated circuit board with programmable hardware, such as a field programmable gate array(s).

[0096]

[0081] Network interface 817 for communicating with other components of the dispensing and sanitisation system. In one example, network interface 817 communicates with other components via a hub 291. Optionally, the network interface 817 may communicate with an external media sensor 818.

[0097]

[0082] Input controller 810 receives information from components of the line divertor valve 23, 30, 40, including, if present: valve media sensor 39, valve status sensor 371, valve media sensor 49, a sensor to detect proximity to, or position of, cam follower 471 , button 463, etc.

[0098]

[0083] Output controller 811 provides information to components of coupler 34, including: the actuator 35, the indicator 462, an actuator for cam body 450.

[0099]

[0084] As described above, information may be communicated to other components of the beverage dispensing or sanitising system, such as the coupler 22 or an external media sensor, directly, via a hub or via network interface 817.

[0100]

[0085] Figure 13 illustrates a method 900 for method of operating a line divertor valve.130781.00015

[0101]

[0086] At block 910, a line divertor valve operates in a first mode of operation whereby a media inlet for receiving media into the line divertor valve is open to a media outlet for outputting media from the line divertor valve, and the media inlet is closed to a purge outlet for outputting media from the line divertor valve.

[0102]

[0087] At block 920, in response to a received instruction, the line divertor valve changing from the first mode of operation to a third mode of operation wherein the media inlet is closed to the media outlet, and the media inlet is open to the purge outlet.

[0103]

[0088] At block 930, a change in one or more characteristics of media within the line divertor valve by a media sensing device is determined.

[0104]

[0089] At block 940, in response to the determined change, changing from the third mode of operation to the first mode of operation, or a second mode of operation wherein the media inlet is closed to the media outlet, and the media inlet is closed to the purge outlet.

[0105]

[0090] Alternatively or in addition to the other examples described herein, examples include any combination of the following clauses:

[0106]

[0091] Clause A. A line divertor valve comprising: a media inlet for receiving media into the line divertor valve; a media outlet for outputting media from the line divertor valve; a purge outlet for outputting media from the line divertor valve; and a media sensing device operable to detect one or more characteristics of media within the line divertor valve; wherein the line divertor valve is arranged to operate in a plurality of modes of operation, the modes of operation comprising: a first mode wherein the media inlet is open to the media outlet, and the media inlet is closed to the purge outlet; a second mode wherein the media inlet is closed to the media outlet, and the media inlet is closed to the purge outlet; and a third mode wherein the media inlet is closed to the media outlet, and the media inlet is open to the purge outlet; and wherein the line divertor valve is arranged to: change the mode of operation from the first mode of operation to the third mode of operation in response to a received instruction; and change the mode of operation from the third mode of operation to the first mode of operation or second mode of operation in response to a determined change in one or more characteristics of media within the line divertor valve.

[0107]

[0092] Clause B. The line divertor valve of clause A arranged to change the mode of operation from the first mode of operation to the third mode of operation via the second mode of operation.

[0108]

[0093] Clause C. The line divertor valve of clause A or clause B, wherein the received instruction is from a device external to the line divertor valve.

[0109]

[0094] Clause D. The line divertor valve of any preceding clause, wherein the characteristics of media comprises a media presence, a media state, a media type, media colour, media consistency and / or media viscosity.130781.00015

[0110]

[0095] Clause E. The line divertor valve of any preceding clause, wherein the media sensing device is located in the media inlet, a channel within the line diverter valve, or the purge outlet.

[0111]

[0096] Clause F. The line divertor valve of any preceding clause, wherein the received instruction is indicative of a characteristic of media outside the line divertor valve.

[0112]

[0097] Clause G. The line divertor valve of any preceding clause, wherein the line divertor valve is a foam on beer device; or wherein the line divertor valve is for installation in a beverage line.

[0113]

[0098] Clause H. The line divertor valve of any preceding clause, further comprising a valve movable between three positions, wherein each of the three positions relates to a single mode of operation.

[0114]

[0099] Clause I. The line divertor valve of clause H, wherein the valve is movable along a single axis between the three positions.

[0115]

[0100] Clause J. The line divertor valve of clause I, further comprising a spindle rotatable to move the valve; or further comprising a cam rotatable to move the valve.

[0116]

[0101] Clause K. The line divertor valve of any of clauses A to G further comprising a first valve movable between two positions and a second valve movable between two positions; wherein each of the plurality of modes of operation are provided by a combination of the positions of the first valve and the second valve.

[0117]

[0102] Clause L. The line divertor valve of clause K, further comprising a cam rotatable to move the first valve and the second valve.

[0118]

[0103] Clause M. The line divertor valve of clause L, wherein the cam is a first cam; and the line divertor valve further comprises a second cam as part of or coupled to the first cam operable to rotate with the first cam; and the second cam is coupled to a position sensor.

[0119]

[0104] Clause N. The line divertor valve of any preceding clause, wherein the media inlet is coupled to a line supplying beverage, the media outlet is coupled to a beverage dispensing tap, and the purge outlet is coupled to a drain line.

[0120]

[0105] Clause O. The line divertor valve of clauses K to N further comprising a third valve movable between two positions, the line divertor valve arrangeable in a fourth mode of operation wherein each of the plurality of modes of operation are provided by a combination of the positions of the first valve, the second valve and the third valve.

[0121]

[0106] Clause P. The line divertor of any preceding clause, wherein the line divertor valve comprises a gas inlet and a gas outlet arranged to form a gas path through the line divertor valve wherein the gas inlet is connected to a gas source and a gas valve controls the gas path.

[0122]

[0107] Clause Q. The line divertor of any preceding clause, wherein the line divertor valve comprises a dosing inlet and a dosing inlet arranged to form a dosing path through the line divertor valve wherein the dosing inlet is connected to a water and cleaning solution source.130781.00015

[0123]

[0108] Clause R. The line divertor of any preceding clause, wherein the line divertor valve is connected to at least one additional line divertor valve.

[0124]

[0109] Clause S. The line divertor valve further comprising a gas inlet and a gas outlet wherein gas is received from a gas source at the gas inlet and exits the line divertor valve via the gas outlet wherein the path through the line divertor valve is opened and closed by a gas valve.

[0125]

[0110] Clause T. A system comprising: the line divertor valve of any preceding clause; and a sensor external to the line divertor valve, wherein the sensor is operable to detect one or more characteristics of media external to the line divertor valve.

[0126]

[0111] Clause II. The system of clause T further comprising: a coupler for connecting to a beverage container; wherein the sensor external to the line divertor valve is located in the coupler.

[0127]

[0112] Clause V. The system of clause II, wherein the coupler issues the instruction received by the line divertor valve.

[0128]

[0113] Clause W. The system of clause V, wherein the coupler comprises a switch configured to allow the supply of gas through the coupler only when the coupler is connected to a beverage container.

[0129]

[0114] Clause X. A method of operating a line divertor valve, the line divertor valve comprising a media inlet for receiving media into the line divertor valve, a media outlet for outputting media from the line divertor valve, a purge outlet for outputting media from the line divertor valve, and a media sensing device operable to detect one or more characteristics of media within the line divertor valve; the method comprising: operating the line divertor valve in a first mode of operation wherein the media inlet is open to the media outlet, and the media inlet is closed to the purge outlet; in response to a received instruction, the line divertor valve changing from the first mode of operation to a third mode of operation wherein the media inlet is closed to the media outlet, and the media inlet is open to the purge outlet; determining a change in one or more characteristics of media within the line divertor valve; and in response to the determined change of one or more characteristics of media within the line divertor valve, changing from the third mode of operation to the first mode of operation, or a second mode of operation wherein the media inlet is closed to the media outlet, and the media inlet is closed to the purge outlet.

[0130]

[0115] Although the present invention has been described in connection with some examples, it is not intended to be limited to the specific form set forth herein. Rather, the scope of the present invention is limited only by the accompanying claims. Additionally, although a feature may appear to be described in connection with particular embodiments, one skilled in the art would recognize that various features of the described embodiments may be combined in accordance with the invention. In the claims, the term ‘comprising’ does not exclude the presence of other elements or steps.130781.00015

[0131]

[0116] Furthermore, the order of features in the claims does not imply any specific order in which the features must be performed and in particular the order of individual steps in a method claim does not imply that the steps must be performed in this order. Rather, the steps may be performed in any suitable order. In addition, singular references do not exclude a plurality. Thus, references to ‘a’, ‘an’, ‘first’, ‘second’, etc. do not preclude a plurality. In the claims, the term ‘comprising’ or “including” does not exclude the presence of other elements.

Claims

130781.00015CLAIMS1. A line divertor valve comprising:a media inlet for receiving media into the line divertor valve;a media outlet for outputting media from the line divertor valve;a purge outlet for outputting media from the line divertor valve;a first valve movable between two positions;a second valve movable between two positions;a cam rotatable to move the first valve and the second valve; anda media sensing device operable to detect one or more characteristics of media within the line divertor valve;wherein the line divertor valve is arranged to operate in a plurality of modes of operation, the modes of operation comprising:a first mode wherein the media inlet is open to the media outlet, and the media inlet is closed to the purge outlet;a second mode wherein the media inlet is closed to the media outlet, and the media inlet is closed to the purge outlet; anda third mode wherein the media inlet is closed to the media outlet, and the media inlet is open to the purge outlet; andwherein the line divertor valve is arranged to:change the mode of operation from the first mode of operation to the third mode of operation in response to a received instruction; andchange the mode of operation from the third mode of operation to the first mode of operation or second mode of operation in response to a determined change in one or more characteristics of media within the line divertor valve;wherein each of the plurality of modes of operation are provided by a combination of the positions of the first valve and the second valve.

2. The line divertor valve of claim 1 arranged to change the mode of operation from the first mode of operation to the third mode of operation via the second mode of operation.

3. The line divertor valve of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the received instruction is from a device external to the line divertor valve.

4. The line divertor valve of any preceding claim, wherein the characteristics of media comprises a media presence, a media state, a media type, media colour, media consistency and / or media viscosity.

5. The line divertor valve of any preceding claim, wherein the media sensing device is located in the media inlet, a channel within the line diverter valve, or the purge outlet.

6. The line divertor valve of any preceding claim, wherein the received instruction is indicative of a characteristic of media outside the line divertor valve.130781.000157. The line divertor valve of any preceding claim, wherein the line divertor valve is a foam on beer device; or wherein the line divertor valve is for installation in a beverage line.

8. The line divertor valve of claim 1 , whereinthe cam is a first cam; andthe line divertor valve further comprises a second cam as part of or coupled to the first cam operable to rotate with the first cam; andthe second cam is coupled to a position sensor.

9. The line divertor valve of any preceding claim, wherein the media inlet is coupled to a line supplying beverage, the media outlet is coupled to a beverage dispensing tap, and the purge outlet is coupled to a drain line.

10. The line divertor of any preceding claim, wherein the line divertor valve comprises a gas inlet and a gas outlet arranged to form a gas path through the line divertor valve wherein the gas inlet is connected to a gas source and a gas valve controls the gas path.

11. The line divertor of any preceding claim, wherein the line divertor valve comprises a dosing inlet and a dosing inlet arranged to form a dosing path through the line divertor valve wherein the dosing inlet is connected to a water and cleaning solution source.

12. The line divertor of any preceding claim, wherein the line divertor valve is connected to at least one additional line divertor valve.

13. The line divertor valve of any preceding claim, further comprising a gas inlet and a gas outlet wherein gas is received from a gas source at the gas inlet and exits the line divertor valve via the gas outlet wherein the path through the line divertor valve is opened and closed by a gas valve.

14. A system comprising:the line divertor valve of any preceding claim; anda sensor external to the line divertor valve, wherein the sensor is operable to detect one or more characteristics of media external to the line divertor valve15. The system of claim 14, further comprising:a coupler for connecting to a beverage container;wherein the sensor external to the line divertor valve is located in the coupler.

16. The system of claim 15, wherein the coupler issues the instruction received by the line divertor valve.

17. The system of claim 16, wherein the coupler comprises a switch configured to allow the supply of gas through the coupler only when the coupler is connected to a beverage container.

18. A method of operating a line divertor valve, the line divertor valve comprising a media inlet for receiving media into the line divertor valve, a media outlet for outputting media from the line divertor valve, a purge outlet for outputting media from the line divertor valve, a first130781.00015valve, a second valve, a rotatable cam and a media sensing device operable to detect one or more characteristics of media within the line divertor valve; the method comprising:operating the line divertor valve in a first mode of operation wherein the media inlet is open to the media outlet, and the media inlet is closed to the purge outlet;in response to a received instruction, the line divertor valve changing from the first mode of operation to a third mode of operation wherein the media inlet is closed to the media outlet, and the media inlet is open to the purge outlet;determining a change in one or more characteristics of media within the line divertor valve; andin response to the determined change of one or more characteristics of media within the line divertor valve, changing from the third mode of operation to the first mode of operation, or a second mode of operation wherein the media inlet is closed to the media outlet, and the media inlet is closed to the purge outlet;wherein the first valve is movable by the rotatable cam between two positions; wherein the second valve is movable by the rotatable cam between two positions; andwherein each of the first, second and third modes of operation are provided by a combination of the positions of the first valve and the second valve.

Images