Regulated fluid dispensing device and method of dispensing a carbonated beverage
US8052012B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 21, 2008 |
| Grant date | Nov 8, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 4, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB67D2001/0094
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A device and method are provided for dispensing a beverage from a pressurized container. The dispensing device includes an integral source of compressed gas for maintaining the beverage within the container at a desired pressurized state. The dispensing device also includes a regulator for controlling the flow of gas from the compressed gas source to the interior of the container, as well as a pressure relief mechanism that accounts for potential over pressurization of the container. The beverage is selectively dispensed by actuation of a tap handle. Delivery is achieved through the device by a resilient delivery tube, and the delivery tube is either pinched closed or allowed to decompress by the actuation of the tap handle. In another embodiment, a check valve is used to control flow of the beverage in which the tap handle activates a transfer rod to seat and unseat a check element.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.