Bendable Dispensing Pipe Joint for Keg Liquid Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dispensing devices for pressure-filled containers, such as party kegs, are cumbersome and difficult to operate, with protruding parts that occupy space and require complex construction, and lack an intuitive actuation mechanism for liquid withdrawal.
Innovation Solution
A dispensing pipe with a joint that can be bent to actuate liquid withdrawal, featuring a partially rigid and straight nozzle pipe that can be pulled out and bent transversely, with a fork joint and handle for easy operation, and a sealed fit with a liner for compact storage and transport.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If an actuating lever is attached to the dispensing pipe to rotate a valve roller or adjust a valve slide, then liquid withdrawal can be actuated, but the construction effort increases and more space is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the complex valve mechanism (roller or slide) from the dispensing pipe and replaces it with a simple joint that allows the entire dispensing pipe to be bent. This removes the need for separate actuating levers and embedded valve components, simplifying the overall construction while maintaining the ability to control liquid flow.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of keeping the dispensing pipe straight and using a lever to open a valve within it, the invention inverts the approach by making the pipe itself bendable at a joint. The actuation is achieved by bending the pipe rather than by rotating a valve component, fundamentally changing the mechanism of flow control.
2Ease of operation
If an actuating lever is attached to the dispensing pipe, then liquid withdrawal can be actuated, but the space required for the operating lever increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the actuating function directly into the dispensing pipe structure itself through the joint. The pipe's own bending motion performs the actuation function, eliminating the need for a separate protruding lever that would occupy additional space. The handle at the free end of the pipe serves both as a grip and actuation point.
3Volume of moving object
If the dispensing pipe is pushed into the storage and transport position, then it saves space, but the actuating lever would either remain outside taking up space or require a complex recess
Solution Approach 1:
By removing the separate actuating lever and embedded valve mechanism, the invention eliminates the need for complex recesses to accommodate these components in the retracted position. The dispensing pipe with its integrated joint can be stored compactly without requiring specialized structural accommodations.
Solution Approach 2:
The joint serves multiple functions: it enables the dispensing pipe to bend for actuation, allows compact storage in the retracted position, and provides the bending mechanism itself for flow control. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate components and their associated structural requirements.
4Ease of operation
If the dispensing pipe is rotated back and forth about its own axis to close off and open the flow path, then liquid withdrawal can be controlled, but the operation requires explanation and getting used to
Solution Approach 1:
The invention inverts the conventional rotational valve mechanism by using bending motion instead of rotation. The dispensing pipe bends at the joint to open or close the flow path, which is a more intuitive and natural motion for users compared to rotating the pipe axis, eliminating the need for explanation and training.
Data Source
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AI summary
From a container sealed in a pressure-tight manner, liquid is withdrawn by way of a dispensing device having a spigot pipe and a bushing. In the storage and transport position, the spigot pipe is lowered into the bushing. It can be pulled out into a stand-by position, in which a flow path through the spigot pipe can be blocked and released by an actuating movement. The actuating movement denotes a bending of the spigot pipe out of the stretched position thereof and back into the same.