Keyed Quick-Release Tap Handle Coupler for Fast Alignment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing beverage dispensing systems face challenges with the time-consuming process of removing and reattaching tap handles, which are often threaded and require alignment for proper branding orientation.

Innovation Solution

A quick release beverage dispenser with a keyed coupler system, featuring a male and female portion with correspondingly keyed features, prevents rotation of the tap handle and allows for easy alignment and secure attachment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a threaded coupler is used to attach the tap handle to the faucet lever, then the connection is secure and reliable, but the time required to remove and reattach the handle increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidhandle change time

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The coupler is divided into a threaded portion (for secure connection to the faucet lever) and a quick-release portion (for rapid handle attachment/detachment). This segmentation allows the system to simultaneously achieve reliable connection and fast operation by using different coupling mechanisms for different functions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The coupler transitions from a static threaded connection to a dynamic quick-release mechanism. The spring-loaded plunger and cam structure enable the handle to be quickly attached and detached while maintaining a secure locked position during operation, providing both speed and reliability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Device complexity

If a threaded coupler is used without alignment features, then the coupling mechanism is simple, but the tap handle may not be properly aligned for branding visibility

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecoupling mechanism complexityVSAvoidhandle alignment

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The quick-release portion of the coupler incorporates asymmetric alignment features including a flat surface on the coupler body and a corresponding groove or protrusion on the handle. This asymmetric design ensures that the handle can only be attached in the correct orientation, guaranteeing proper branding visibility while adding minimal complexity to the coupling mechanism.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #4Asymmetry

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple tap handles are used in a beverage dispensing system, then more beverage varieties can be offered, but the time required for cleaning and handle changes increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvebeverage varietyVSAvoidcleaning efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The quick-release coupler design allows operators to independently and rapidly change handles without requiring complex tools or procedures. The spring-loaded plunger automatically locks when the handle is inserted, and can be quickly released by pressing a button or lever, enabling efficient handle changes across multiple taps and improving overall system productivity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS12344520B2Quick release beverage dispenser with keyed coupler

Publication Date: 2025.07.01 BENECKE PETER NICHOLAS

AI summary

Various embodiments of the present disclosure include a beverage dispenser. The beverage dispenser can include a tap handle. In some embodiments, the beverage dispenser can include a faucet that includes a faucet lever. In some embodiments, the beverage dispenser can include the tap handle is configured to be coupled to the faucet lever via a quick release keyed coupler. In some embodiments, the quick release keyed coupler is configured to prevent rotation of the tap handle with respect to the faucet.