Valve assembly and coupler therefor
US4343325A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 10, 1979 |
| Grant date | Aug 10, 1982 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 10, 1999 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T137/6137
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An improved valve system for obtaining access to a container of fluid. In a container of fluid, and particularly a keg for beer, a valve assembly receiving member or keg neck extends from the top of the container. A sealing mechanism is provided to secure the valve assembly in sealed relationship with the keg neck and to allow access to the fluid contained by actuation of the valves. More specifically, the valve neck has a groove in its inner surface to receive a resilient retainer ring which maintains the valve assembly in place. In addition, a safety feature is provided to prevent inadvertent expulsion of the valve assembly should the retainer ring be dislodged while the keg is pressurized. A siphon tube extends from the valve assembly to a position adjacent the bottom of the keg when the valve is secured within the keg neck. The bottom portion of the tube is configured to enhance the flow of fluid into and out of the tube as well as carry a spring member for cooperating with one of the valve members in the valve assembly. An improved coupler mechanism is employed in operating the valves while avoiding inadvertent opening and closing of the valve assembly. A handle is provided on…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.