Keg Connector Single Lever Coupling and Tip Penetration
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional keg connectors for bag-in-container kegs require cumbersome and uncertain coupling processes, often involving separate connections for dispense and gas tubes, which can be uncomfortable and prone to incorrect alignment, especially when high forces are needed to penetrate sealed openings.
Innovation Solution
A keg connector with a single actuating means, such as a lever, that allows for simultaneous and easy coupling to the keg neck or closure, followed by the dispense and gas tips penetrating the corresponding openings in a single movement, ensuring firm connection before applying penetration force, using latches and a support element to facilitate this process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate coupling means are used for dispense and gas tubes, then each tube can be connected independently, but the coupling process becomes long and tedious and tubes may be coupled to the wrong opening
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines separate coupling means for dispense and gas tubes into a single integrated coupling mechanism. The single coupling means simultaneously engages with both the dispense opening and gas opening on the keg closure, allowing both tubes to be connected in one operation rather than sequentially, thereby reducing connection time while maintaining independent connection capability for each tube type
2Strength
If threaded clamp rings are used to drive tips through sealed openings, then connection can be achieved, but high forces are required and the position is generally uncomfortable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic coupling mechanism where the coupling means can rotate and translate simultaneously. This dynamic action allows the tips to be driven through the sealed openings with reduced force requirements compared to static threaded clamp rings. The rotational and translational movements work together to penetrate the seal while distributing the applied force more effectively, reducing the need for high peak forces and improving operational comfort
3Reliability
If dispense tip and gas tip are driven down through sealed openings, then fluid communication is established, but it is uncertain whether the keg connector is fully coupled
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where the coupling means provides tactile and visual indicators of proper engagement. As the coupling means rotates and translates, the user can feel and see when the dispense tip and gas tip have fully penetrated their respective openings and established reliable fluid communication. This feedback ensures that the keg connector is fully coupled before operation begins, eliminating uncertainty about connection status
4Ease of operation
If a single actuating means is used for coupling and penetration, then operation is simplified, but coupling and penetration actions must be coordinated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the coupling action and penetration action into a single integrated movement sequence. The single actuating means simultaneously performs both functions through its rotational and translational motions, eliminating the need for separate operations. While the mechanism coordination is slightly more complex internally, the external operation remains simple as both coupling and penetration occur in one continuous motion rather than requiring multiple discrete steps
Data Source
AI summary
A keg connector is disclosed for fluidly connecting the interior of a bag-in-container type keg with a dispensing tube connected to a dispensing valve in a tapping column and pressure gas tube connected to a pressurized gas source. The keg connector has a base body and is coupled firmly and releasably to the keg closure. The keg connector has a dispense connector and gas connector having a substantially straight dispense tip and gas tip, respectively, each extending along a longitudinal axis, Z, in fluid communication with a second end respectively connectable to a dispense tube in fluid communication with a tapping column and valve and gas tube in fluid communication with a pressurized gas source. A lever is provided for sequentially driving in a single movement firm coupling of the keg connector to the keg closure and penetration of the dispense and gas tips into the corresponding openings.