Beverage dispensing apparatus
US9051167B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 16, 2010 |
| Grant date | Jun 9, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 22, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB67D2001/0828
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The present invention relates to a refillable keg assembly for use in dispensing beverages, in particular beer. The keg assembly comprises an outer shell, and a collapsible container for holding the beverage, positionable within the outer shell. A sealed cavity is defined between the outer shell and the collapsible container. A beverage outlet from the collapsible container enables beer to be dispensed from the keg assembly, and a gas valve allows gas to enter the cavity. The pressure in the container is maintained above atmospheric pressure, and when dispensing the beverage, pressure in the cavity collapses the collapsible container and forces the beverage out through the beverage outlet. A gas compressor is connected to the gas valve, and is activated by a pressure switch to maintain the pressure within the cavity. To refill the keg assembly, the collapsible container can be replaced, and a new collapsible container filled while within the outer shell.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.