Beverage Container Pressure Control and Dispensing Valve
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing beverage containers with pressure control systems for carbonated beverages often require external adjustment of pressure, which can lead to contamination and inefficiencies in dispensing, especially for foaming beverages like beer.
Innovation Solution
A container with an integrated pressure control unit and an aerosol valve that maintains desired dispensing pressure internally, using a coupling element to open and keep the valve open, ensuring a consistent dispensing pattern and preventing contamination by only allowing beverage flow, with a pressure control unit containing CO2 and adsorbing materials to maintain optimal pressure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If external pressure adjustment is used for beverage containers, then pressure control is achieved, but contamination risk and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure control device is merged with the beverage container by placing it inside the inner space of the container. The pressure control device includes a pressure gas holder that directly communicates with the beverage, eliminating the need for external pressure adjustment mechanisms and reducing contamination risk from external operations.
Solution Approach 2:
A coupling element acts as an intermediary between the valve and the external environment. The coupling element includes a stem that pushes the valve open and remains coupled to the valve, providing a sealed connection that prevents contamination while maintaining pressure control.
2Reliability
If external pressure adjustment mechanisms are used, then pressure control is achieved, but device complexity and operational inefficiency increase
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure control device is integrated inside the beverage container, combining multiple functions (pressure regulation, gas storage, and dispensing control) into a single internal system. This eliminates the need for separate external pressure adjustment mechanisms and tapping devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The pressure control device automatically maintains desired dispensing pressure through an automatically operating pressure controller that responds to pressure changes within the container. The system self-regulates without requiring external intervention or complex external adjustment mechanisms.
3Productivity
If traditional aerosol valves are used for dispensing, then dispensing function is achieved, but repeated opening against spring pressure requires complex operating mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling element with its stem acts as a mediator that remains permanently coupled to the valve. The stem pushes the valve open and stays in place, eliminating the need for repeated complex operating mechanisms while maintaining the ability to control dispensing through the coupling element's design.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides a safe, efficient, and contamination-free dispensing system that maintains consistent pressure and flow for carbonated beverages, even when the keg is nearly empty, with a robust and cost-effective aerosol valve design.
Implementation Method 1
A container (1) is disclosed, in which a beverage to be dispensed, such as beer or other carbonated beverage, is included in an inner space (4), in which a pressure control device (6) is placed, comprising a pressure gas holder (7) in which a gas under pressure is included, in particular CO2
Implementation Method 2
A container (1) is disclosed, in which a beverage to be dispensed, such as beer or other carbonated beverage, is included in an inner space (4), in which a pressure control device (6) is placed, comprising a pressure gas holder (7) in which a gas under pressure is included, in particular CO2, and, if necessary, together with active carbon or a like CO2-gas absorbing and/or adsorbing material
Implementation Method 3
A coupling element (12) is disclosed for operating the valve (3), by pressing which onto or into the valve (3), the valve (3) is opened and kept open in that the coupling means (10, 14) of the container (1) and the coupling element (12) are in mutual engagement
Data Source
Figure 1~1A
Figure 2
Figure 3A
AI summary
A container, provided with an inner space (4) and a dispensing valve (3) , wherein in the inner space a gas-containing beverage such as beer (B) is included, wherein a pressure control unit (6) is arranged for automatically controlling pressure in the inner space, wherein around the dispensing valve (3) first coupling means (10) extend, furthermore comprising a dispensing line (13) which at an end is provided with a coupling element (12) which is provided with second coupling means (14) for cooperation with the first coupling means, wherein the dispensing valve is a female valve, and the coupling element is provided with a largely hollow stem (15) with an end (28) and at least one opening (23) , wherein the dispensing line links up with the stem opposite said end, such that in coupled condition of the coupling means the stem extends against or into the valve and has brought the valve into and keeps it in an opened position, such that beverage can flow via the valve and said at least one opening into the dispensing line.