U.S. patent application number 10/536978 was filed with the patent office on 2006-07-13 for alcohol beverage dispensing apparatus.
Invention is credited to Ian Anderson, Hans Donker, ChristineA Fraser, Andrew R.B Halket, Albert Wauters.
Application Number | 20060150637 10/536978 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 32475777 |
Filed Date | 2006-07-13 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060150637 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Wauters; Albert ; et
al. |
July 13, 2006 |
Alcohol beverage dispensing apparatus
Abstract
A cooling system for a home beer dispensing apparatus has a
mediated thermal bridge providing a bank of latent cooling
capacity. The bridge may have a cavity filled with a cooling
solution with at least one series of spaced apart heat exchange
fins extending substantially along and interstitially into the
cavity from at least one wall of the cavity so as to enhance heat
transfer across the cavity. The bridge is arranged in thermal
conducting relation through a cooling plate between a keg
containing the beer and a Peltier thermoelectric cooling device
adapted to cool the cooling solution by extracting heat therefrom
to an active heat sink. A fan directs air flow horizontally along
the fins of the sink and out the two lateral open sides of the heat
sink. This prevents heat from rising in the apparatus and thereby
affecting other system component parts. The cooling solution may
comprise 5% by volume glycol and freezes at a temperature below
that of water providing an improved thermal bank. The cooling plate
has an electrical resistance heater mounted therein to maintain the
temperature of beer in the keg adjacent a bottom portion thereof
above the freezing temperature of the beer. The cooling system is
economical in its space requirements and enhances the chilling of
the beer to a desired serving temperature. The invention also
provides a beer keg for such systems.
Inventors: |
Wauters; Albert;
(Destelbergen, BE) ; Donker; Hans; (NL Eindhoven,
NL) ; Anderson; Ian; (Cambridge, GB) ; Halket;
Andrew R.B; (Cambridge, GB) ; Fraser; ChristineA;
(Cambridge, GB) |
Correspondence
Address: |
James W Kerr;Interbrew
303 Richmond Street
London
ON
H6B 2H8
CA
|
Family ID: |
32475777 |
Appl. No.: |
10/536978 |
Filed: |
November 25, 2003 |
PCT Filed: |
November 25, 2003 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/IB03/05414 |
371 Date: |
January 5, 2006 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
62/3.64 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F25D 2331/806 20130101;
B67D 1/0869 20130101; F25B 21/02 20130101; B67D 1/0462 20130101;
F25D 2331/802 20130101; F25D 31/006 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
062/003.64 |
International
Class: |
F25B 21/02 20060101
F25B021/02 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Nov 29, 2002 |
GB |
0227924.8 |
Nov 29, 2002 |
GB |
0227925.5 |
Nov 29, 2002 |
GB |
0227928.9 |
Nov 29, 2002 |
GB |
0227940.4 |
Nov 29, 2002 |
GB |
0227942.0 |
Claims
1. A cooling system for cooling a keg containing an alcohol
beverage, the cooling system comprising: a thermal bridge adapted
to contact a surface portion of the keg and having a cavity filled
with a cooling solution; and a cooling device adapted to chill the
thermal bridge, including the cooling solution in the cavity for
extracting heat from and for cooling the alcoholic beverage
contained in the keg when the keg is mounted in heat transfer
relation with the thermal bridge.
2. A cooling system according to claim 1 wherein the cooling
solution is chilled to the extent it has a latent heat cooling
capacity.
3. A system according to claim 1 or 2 wherein said cooling solution
is a mixture of water and glycol.
4. A cooling system for cooling a keg containing an alcohol
beverage, the cooling system comprising: a thermal bridge adapted
to contact a surface portion of the keg and the thermal bridge
having a cavity filled with a cooling solution comprising a mixture
of water and glycol; and a cooling device adapted to chill the
thermal bridge, including the cooling solution in the cavity, so as
to produce a latent heat cooling capacity in the thermal bridge for
cooling the alcohol beverage contained in the keg when the keg is
mounted in heat transfer relation with the thermal bridge.
5. The cooling system of claim 4 wherein the cooling solution
comprises 5% by volume glycol.
6. The cooling system of claim 4 wherein the cooling solution
further contains a corrosion inhibitor.
7. The cooling system of claim 4 wherein the solution is cooled to
form ice.
8. The cooling system of claim 4 wherein the cooling device has a
Peltier thermoelectric cooling unit that has a cool surface portion
in heat transfer contact with the thermal bridge and that has a hot
surface portion in heat transfer contact with a heat sink.
9. The cooling system of claim 8 wherein the cooling device further
includes a fan for directing air flow across the heat sink.
10. The cooling system of claim 4 wherein the thermal bridge
comprises a cooling plate adapted to contact a bottom surface
portion of the keg.
11. The cooling system of claim 4 wherein the cooling device
further includes an active heat sink adapted to remove heat from
the thermal bridge and to dissipate heat transferred through the
thermal bridge from the alcohol beverage in the keg.
12. A home beer dispensing apparatus having a cooling system for
cooling a keg containing beer, the cooling system comprising: a
thermal bridge adapted to contact a surface portion of the keg and
the thermal bridge having a reservoir filled with a cooling
solution comprising a mixture of water and glycol; and, a cooling
device adapted to chill the thermal bridge, including the cooling
solution in the reservoir, so as to produce a latent heat cooling
capacity in the thermal bridge for cooling the beer contained in
the keg when the keg is mounted in heat transfer relation with the
thermal bridge.
13. The dispensing apparatus of claim 12 wherein the cooling
solution comprises 5% by volume glycol.
14. The dispensing apparatus of claim 12 wherein the cooling
solution further contains a corrosion inhibitor.
15. The dispensing apparatus of claim 12 wherein the solution is
cooled to form ice.
16. The dispensing apparatus of claim 12 wherein the cooling device
has a Peltier thermoelectric cooling unit that has a cool surface
portion in heat transfer contact with the thermal bridge and that
has a hot surface portion in heat transfer contact with a heat
sink.
17. The dispensing apparatus of claim 16 wherein the cooling device
further includes a fan for directing air flow across the heat
sink.
18. The dispensing apparatus of claim 12 wherein the thermal bridge
comprises a cooling plate adapted to contact a bottom surface
portion of the keg.
19. The dispensing apparatus of claim 12 wherein the cooling device
further includes an active heat sink adapted to remove heat from
the thermal bridge and to dissipate heat transferred through the
thermal bridge from the beer in the keg.
20. A cooling system for cooling a keg containing an alcohol
beverage, the cooling system comprising: a thermal bridge adapted
to contact a surface portion of the keg and the thermal bridge
having a cavity filled with a cooling solution, the cavity has a
first series of spaced apart heat exchange fins extending
substantially along and interstitially into the cavity from at
least one wall of the cavity; and, a cooling device adapted to
chill the thermal bridge and extract heat from the alcohol beverage
contained in the keg when the keg is mounted in heat transfer
relation with the thermal bridge.
21. The cooling system of claim 20 wherein the cooling system is a
solution of glycol in water.
22. The cooling system of claim 20 wherein the cavity has a second
wall, opposite to the one wall, that supports a second series of
spaced apart heat exchange fins that extend along and
interstitially into the cavity in spaced apart relation with the
first series of spaced apart heat exchange fins, and the cooing
solution filling the space between the first and second series of
heat exchange fins.
23. The cooling system of claim 22 where the first and second
series of heat exchange fins extend into the cavity is parallel
interleaved relation.
24. The cooling system of claim 22 wherein the cavity is formed of
a top portion and a bottom portion that are secured together in
sealed relation, the top portion comprising a cooling plate the is
adapted to contact the keg in heat transfer relation and the first
series of fins extending into the cavity from the top portion, and
the bottom portion supporting the second series of fins to extend
into the cavity.
25. The cooling system of claim 22 wherein the cooling solution
comprises 5% by volume glycol.
26. The cooling system of claim 22 wherein the cooling solution is
cooled to form ice.
27. The cooling system of claim 22 wherein the cooling device
comprises a Peltier thermoelectric cooling unit that has a cool
surface portion in heat transfer contact with the thermal bridge
and that has a hot surface portion in heat transfer contact with a
heat sink.
28. The cooling system of claim 27 wherein the cooling system
further includes a fan for directing air flow across the heat
sink.
29. A home beer dispensing apparatus having a cooling system for
cooling a keg containing beer, the cooling system comprising: a
thermal bridge adapted to contact a surface portion of the keg and
the thermal bridge having a cavity filled with a cooling solution,
the cavity has a first series of spaced apart heat exchange fins
extending substantially along and interstitially into the cavity
from at least one wall of the cavity; and, a cooling device adapted
to chill the thermal bridge and extract heat from the beer
contained in the keg when the keg is mounted in heat transfer
relation with the thermal bridge.
30. The home beer dispensing apparatus of claim 29 wherein the
cavity has a second wall, opposite to the one wall, that supports a
second series of spaced apart heat exchange fins that extend along
and interstitially into the cavity in spaced apart relation with
the first series of spaced apart heat exchange fins, and the cooing
solution filling the space between the first and second series of
heat exchange fins.
31. The home beer dispensing apparatus of claim 30 wherein the
first and second series of heat exchange fins extend into the
cavity is parallel interleaved relation.
32. The home beer dispensing apparatus of claim 30 wherein the
cavity is formed of a top portion and a bottom portion that are
secured together in sealed relation, the top portion comprising a
cooling plate the is adapted to contact the keg in heat transfer
relation and the first series of fins extending into the cavity
from the top portion, and the bottom portion supporting the second
series of fins to extend into the cavity.
33. The home beer dispensing apparatus of claim 30 wherein the
cooling solution comprises 5% by volume glycol.
34. The home beer dispensing apparatus of claim 30 wherein the
cooling solution is cooled to form ice.
35. The home beer dispensing apparatus of claim 30 wherein the
cooling device comprises a Peltier thermoelectric cooling unit that
has a cool surface portion in heat transfer contact with the
thermal bridge and that has a hot surface portion in heat transfer
contact with a heat sink.
36. The home beer dispensing apparatus of claim 35 wherein the
cooling system further includes a fan for directing air flow across
the heat sink.
37. A cooling system for cooling a keg containing an alcohol
beverage, the cooling system comprising: a heat sink having a
plurality of spaced apart heat exchange fins extending along
corresponding spaced apart non-vertical planes.
38. The cooling system of claim 37 wherein the heat sink has at
least one supporting wall from which the heat exchange fins extend
to define at least two open sides, one of which is lateral and
means for directing air flow towards one of the open sides along
the heat exchange fins and out the other open side whereby the fins
and at least one supporting wall direct the air flow along the fins
and out the lateral open side of the heat sink.
39. A cooling system for cooling a keg containing an alcohol
beverage, the cooling system comprising: a heat sink having a
plurality of spaced apart heat exchange fins extending along
corresponding spaced apart horizontal planes.
40. The cooling system of claim 39 wherein the heat sink has at
least one supporting wall from which the heat exchange fins extend
to define at least two open sides, and means for directing air flow
towards one of the open sides along the heat exchange fins and out
the other open side whereby the horizontal extending fins and at
least one supporting wall direct the air flow horizontally along
the fins.
41. The cooling system of claim 39 wherein the heat sink has a
supporting wall from which the heat exchange fins extend to define
two opposing lateral open sides and an open front, and means for
directing air flow towards the open front of the heat sink whereby
the horizontal extending fins and supporting wall direct the air
flow horizontally along the fins and out the two lateral open sides
of the heat sink.
42. The cooling system of claim 41 wherein the means for directing
air flow comprises a fan mounted directly to the open front of the
heat sink.
43. The cooling system of claim 42 further including a Peltier
thermoelectric cooling unit mounted to an outside surface of the
supporting wall of the heat sink and being adapted to be mounted in
heat transfer relation with the keg for enhancing the extraction of
heat from the beverage contained in the keg therethrough for
dissipation from the heat sink.
44. The cooling system of claim 43 further including a cooling
plate in heat transfer relation with the Peltier thermoelectric
cooling unit and a bottom surface portion of the keg.
45. A home beer dispensing apparatus having a cooling system for
cooling a keg containing beer, the cooling system comprising: a
heat sink having a plurality of spaced apart heat exchange fins
extending along corresponding spaced apart horizontal planes.
46. The home beer dispensing apparatus of claim 45 wherein the heat
sink has at least one supporting wall from which the heat exchange
fins extend to define at least two open sides, and means for
directing air flow towards one of the open sides along the heat
exchange fins and out the other open side whereby the horizontal
extending fins and at least one supporting wall direct the air flow
horizontally along the fins.
47. The home beer dispensing apparatus of claim 45 wherein the heat
sink has a supporting wall from which the heat exchange fins extend
to define two opposing lateral open sides and an open front, and
means for directing air flow towards the open front of the heat
sink whereby the horizontal extending fins and supporting wall
direct the air flow horizontally along the fins and out the two
lateral open sides of the heat sink.
48. The home beer dispensing apparatus of claim 47 wherein the
means for directing air flow comprises a fan mounted directly to
the open front of the heat sink.
49. The home beer dispensing apparatus of claim 47 wherein the
cooling system further includes a Peltier thermoelectric cooling
unit mounted to an outside surface of the supporting wall of the
heat sink and being adapted to be mounted in heat transfer relation
with the keg for enhancing the extraction of heat from the beer
contained in the keg therethrough for dissipation from the heat
sink.
50. The home beer dispensing apparatus of claim 49 wherein the
cooling system further includes a cooling plate in heat transfer
relation with the Peltier thermoelectric cooling unit and a bottom
surface portion of the keg.
51. The home beer dispensing apparatus of claim 47 wherein the
dispensing apparatus contains at least one grill through which
ambient air is drawn into the apparatus across the open front of
the heat sink and warmed air is directed by the heat exchange fins
horizontally out of the apparatus through the at least one
grill.
52. The cooling system of claim 10 and 24 wherein a heater is
mounted with the cooling plate and adapted to maintain the
temperature of beverage in the keg adjacent the bottom portion of
the keg above freezing temperature of the beverage.
53. The cooling system of claim 52 wherein the heater comprises an
electrical resistance heater mounted in the cooling plate.
54. The cooling system of claim 53 further including a temperature
sensor adapted to contact the keg adjacent the bottom portion of
the keg for sensing temperature related to the temperature of the
beverage in the keg, and a temperature controller responsive to the
temperature sensed by the temperature sensor to energize the heater
to transfer heat into the bottom portion of the keg and the
beverage so as to maintain the temperature of the beverage above
its freezing temperature.
55. The home beer dispensing apparatus of claim 10, 18, 44 or 50 is
a heater mounted with the cooling plate and adapted to maintain the
temperature of beer in the keg adjacent the bottom portion of the
keg above freezing temperature of the beer.
56. The apparatus of claim 55 wherein the heater comprises an
electrical resistance heater mounted in the cooling plate.
57. The apparatus of claim 56 which further includes a temperature
sensor adapted to contact the keg adjacent the bottom portion of
the keg for sensing temperature related to the temperature of the
beer in the keg, and a temperature controller responsive to the
temperature sensed by the temperature sensor to energize the heater
to transfer heat into the bottom portion of the keg and the beer so
as to maintain the temperature of the beer above its freezing
temperature.
58. A cooling system for cooling a keg containing an alcohol
beverage, the cooling system comprising: a cooling plate adapted to
receive a bottom portion of the keg in heat transfer relation
therewith; and a heater mounted with the cooling plate adapted to
maintain the temperature of beverage in the keg adjacent the bottom
portion of the keg above freezing temperature of the beverage.
59. The cooling system of claim 58 wherein the heater comprises an
electrical resistance heater mounted in the cooling plate.
60. The cooling system of claim 59 further including a temperature
sensor adapted to contact the keg adjacent the bottom portion of
the keg for sensing temperature related to the temperature of the
beverage in the keg, and a temperature controller responsive to the
temperature sensed by the temperature sensor to energize the heater
to transfer heat into the bottom portion of the keg and the
beverage so as to maintain the temperature of the beverage above
its freezing temperature.
61. The cooling system of claim 59 further including a Peltier
thermoelectric cooling unit mounted in heat transfer relation with
the cooling plate for enhancing the extraction of heat from the
beer contained in the keg.
62. A home beer dispensing apparatus having a cooling system for
cooling a keg containing beer, the cooling system comprising: a
cooling plate adapted to receive a bottom portion of the keg in
heat transfer relation therewith; and a heater mounted with the
cooling plate adapted to maintain the temperature of beer in the
keg adjacent the bottom portion of the keg above freezing
temperature of the beer.
63. The apparatus of claim 62 wherein the heater comprises an
electrical resistance heater mounted in the cooling plate.
64. The apparatus of claim 63 further including a temperature
sensor adapted to contact the keg adjacent the bottom portion of
the keg for sensing temperature related to the temperature of the
beer in the keg, and a temperature controller responsive to the
temperature sensed by the temperature sensor to energize the heater
to transfer heat into the bottom portion of the keg and the beer so
as to maintain the temperature of the beer above its freezing
temperature.
65. The apparatus of claim 63 further including a Peltier
thermoelectric cooling unit mounted in heat transfer relation with
the cooling plate for enhancing the extraction of heat from the
beer contained in the keg.
66. A keg suitable for containing an alcohol beverage, the keg
comprising two keg half shells each identically formed to have an
end wall portion and side walls extending from the end wall portion
that terminates in a continuous side wall edge portion, and the two
keg half shells having their respective side wall edge portions
placed in abutting relation with one another and joined together to
form the keg.
67. The keg of claim 66 wherein the end wall portion of each half
shell is formed with a raised annular collar and a face plate
extending across the collar to normally close the collar.
68. The keg of claim 67 wherein the face plate of one of the two
keg half shells is adapted to engage a cooling plate in heat
transfer relation therewith and the other face plate of the two keg
half shells is at least partially removed to form an aperture for
receiving a valve and spear for filling into and dispensing from
the keg the beverage.
69. The keg of claim 68 wherein the end wall portion of each keg
shell has an annular rim extending about the periphery of the end
wall portion and adjacent to the cylindrical wall.
70. The keg of claim 69 wherein the rim is adapted to support a
chime for orientating the keg in a home beer dispensing
apparatus.
71. The keg of claim 69 wherein the end wall portions of the kegs
each have a concave curvature relative to the side walls and
interior of the keg.
72. The keg of claim 66 wherein each of the keg half shells are
formed by deep drawing of a material selected from the group
consisting of steel, stainless steel, and aluminum.
73. The keg of claim 66 wherein the side wall edge portions are
joined by a weld.
74. The keg of claim 66 wherein the side walls comprise a
continuous cylindrical wall and the side wall edge portions of each
cylindrical side wall abut each other along a common plane that
passes through a center of the keg.
75. The keg of claim 74 wherein the side wall edge portions are
joined by a weld.
76. The keg of claim 74 wherein the end wall portion of each half
shell is formed with a raised annular collar and a face plate
extending across the collar to normally close the collar.
77. The keg of claim 76 wherein the face plate of one of the two
keg half shells is adapted to engage a cooling plate in heat
transfer relation therewith and the other face plate of the two keg
half shells is at least partially removed to form an aperture for
receiving a valve and spear for filling into and dispensing from
the keg the beverage housed therein.
78. The keg of claim 76 wherein the end wall portion of each keg
shell has an annular rim extending about the periphery of the end
wall portion and adjacent to the cylindrical wall.
79. The keg of claim 78 wherein the annular rim is adapted to
support a chime for orientating the keg in a home beer dispensing
apparatus.
80. The keg of claim 74 wherein the end wall portions of the kegs
each have a concave curvature relative to the cylindrical side wall
and interior of the keg.
81. The keg of claim 74 wherein each of the keg half shells are
formed by deep drawing of a material selected from the group
consisting of steel, stainless steel, and aluminum.
82. A keg suitable for containing a beer, the keg comprising two
keg half shells each identically formed by deep drawing of a
material selected from the group consisting of steel, stainless
steel, plated steel and aluminum to have an end wall portion and a
cylindrical side wall that extends substantially normal from the
end wall portion; each end wall portion being formed with a raised
annular collar and face plate extending across the collar to
normally close the collar, the face plate of one of the two keg
half shells being adapted to engage a cooling plate in heat
transfer relation therewith and the other face plate of the two keg
half shells is at least partially removed to form an aperture for
receiving a valve and spear for filling into and dispensing from
the keg the beer housed therein; and, the cylindrical side wall
terminating in a continuous side wall edge portion, the two keg
half shells having their respective side wall edge portions placed
in abutting relation with one another along a common plane that
passes through a center of the keg, and the keg half shells being
joined together along the abutting side wall edge portions to form
the keg.
83. The keg of claim 82 wherein the side wall edge portions are
joined by a weld.
84. The keg of claim 82 wherein the end wall portions of the kegs
each have a concave curvature relative to the cylindrical side wall
and interior of the keg.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to a cooling system for use in
an alcohol beverage dispensing apparatus and in particular, relates
to a cooling system having a mediated thermal bridge for use in a
home beer dispensing apparatus. It further relates to the
construction of a container, namely a beer keg, for use in such
systems.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Beer dispensing apparatus are known in the art for
dispensing of draft beer in taverns and the like. Typically, the
beer is chilled prior to being dispensed by passing through a
conical run of tube that passes through a chilled compartment
containing ice and water. In some instances the compartment is
refrigerated. Such draft beer dispensers are utilized in taverns
where the large volumes of beer are dispensed everyday and the
taverns have room to store such chillers. This is not the case for
a domestic or home beer dispensing apparatus that is adapted to sit
on a countertop in a kitchen where space is at a premium.
[0003] Further, due to limited countertop space requirements, there
still is a need to chill or cool the beer in the dispensing
apparatus to serving temperatures in an optimal manner in spite of
the limited space. Further, the quicker the beer is chilled to a
desired serving temperature, the more useful the beer dispenser is
to the consumer. Hence improvements in heat transfer capabilities
within the dispensing apparatus are important features.
[0004] Moreover, in a home beer dispenser, beer is typically drawn
adjacent the bottom of the keg as this is usually the first region
in the keg to chill. However, in the event the keg is left in the
dispensing apparatus for a period of time greater than that
necessary to bring the beer down to a serving temperature near the
freezing temperature of the beer, the beer may freeze adjacent the
bottom region of the keg preventing proper dispensing of the
beer.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] It is an object of the present invention to provide an
alcohol beverage, such as beer, dispensing apparatus having a
cooling system that is economical in its space requirements and
enhances the extraction of heat from the beer.
[0006] Another object of the present invention is to provide an
alcohol beverage dispensing apparatus having a cooling system which
prevents the beverage from freezing in the apparatus.
[0007] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a
keg for containing an alcohol beverage which keg has a keg shell
construction that is economical to manufacture and that is suitable
for use in a home alcohol beverage dispensing system, preferably, a
beer dispensing system.
[0008] The present invention relates to a cooling system for use
with an alcohol beverage dispensing apparatus where the cooling
system has a mediated thermal bridge having a banked latent cooling
capacity provided by a cooling medium, preferably a solution of
water and glycol, contained in a cavity in the thermal bridge. The
thermal bridge is arranged in thermal conducting relation between a
keg containing the alcohol beverage and a cooling device which acts
as an active heat sink. Preferably the mediate thermal bridge is a
fully intermediated bridge in which all of the heat is transferred
from the alcohol beverage to the cooling device, including the
active heat sink, through the thermal bridge.
[0009] In another aspect, the cooling system may also have a heat
sink having a plurality of spaced apart heat exchange fins
extending along corresponding spaced apart, preferably generally,
horizontal planes. Preferably, the heat sink has a support wall
from which the exchange fins extend to define two opposing lateral
open sides and an open front. Means for directing air flow towards
the open front of the heat sink are provided whereby the horizontal
extending fins and supporting wall direct the air flow generally
horizontally or side wards along the fins and out the two lateral
open sides of the heat sink. This prevents heat from rising making
it more readily acceptable to mount other component parts above the
heat sink and thereby conserve on space. Alternatively, the
horizontal flow of air may be directed inwardly from one of the two
opposing lateral open ends. Also, the heat sink may have only two
open sides as contrasted to three open sides in the preferred
embodiment.
[0010] Preferably, the cavity has a second wall, opposite to the
one wall, that supports a second series of spaced apart heat
exchange fins that extend along and interstitially into the cavity
in spaced apart relation with the first series of spaced apart heat
exchange fins so as to further promote heat exchange through the
cavity.
[0011] In yet a further aspect, the present invention relates to a
cooling system for use with a alcohol beverage dispensing apparatus
wherein the beverage is contained in a container such as a keg and
where a heater is located adjacent the bottom portion of the keg in
thermal conducting relation therewith to prevent the beverage from
freezing in the apparatus and specifically adjacent the internal
bottom portion of the keg.
[0012] Therefore, in accordance with one embodiment of the present
invention there is provided a cooling system for cooling a keg
containing an alcohol beverage. The cooling system comprises a
thermal bridge adapted to contact a surface portion of the keg. The
thermal bridge has a reservoir or cavity filled with a cooling
solution comprising a mixture of water and glycol. The cooling
system further comprises a cooling device adapted to chill the
thermal bridge, including the cooling solution in the reservoir, so
as to produce a latent heat cooling capacity in the thermal bridge
for cooling the alcohol beverage contained in the keg when the keg
is mounted in heat transfer relation with the thermal bridge.
[0013] In accordance with another embodiment of the present
invention there is provided a cooling system for cooling a keg
containing an alcohol beverage. The cooling system comprises a
thermal bridge adapted to contact a surface portion of the keg. The
thermal bridge has a cavity filled with a cooling solution. The
cavity has a first series of space apart heat exchange fins
extending substantially along and interstitially into the cavity
from at least one wall of the cavity. The cooling system further
comprises a cooling device adapted to chill the thermal bridge and
extract heat through the thermal bridge from the alcohol beverage
contained in the keg when the keg is mounted in heat transfer
relation with the thermal bridge.
[0014] Preferably, the first and second series of heat exchange
fins extend into the cavity in parallel interleaved relation. Also,
the cavity is formed of a top portion and a bottom portion that are
secured together in sealed relation. The top portion has a cooling
plate that is adapted to contact the keg in heat exchange relation.
The first series of fins extend into the cavity from the top
portion. The bottom portion supports the second series of fins to
extend into the cavity therefrom.
[0015] In accordance with another embodiment of the present
invention there is provided a cooling system for cooling a keg
containing an alcohol beverage, which system comprises a cooling
plate adapted to receive a bottom portion of the keg in heat
transfer relation therewith, and heating means mounted with the
cooling plate adapted to maintain the temperature of beverage in
the keg adjacent the bottom portion of the keg above the freezing
temperature of the beverage.
[0016] Preferably, the heating means or heater conducts sufficient
heat energy into the base of the keg to provide an insulated layer
of beer adjacent the bottom of the keg where the beer is dispensed
from the keg. The heater is preferably an electrical resistance
heating element located in the cooling plate of the cooling system.
Additionally, a temperature controller may be adapted to sense the
temperature adjacent the bottom region of the keg and when the
sensed temperature falls below a predetermined temperature where
the beer may freeze, the temperature controller energizes the
heater to warm the beer until the sensed temperature rises above
the predetermined temperature.
[0017] The cooling solution preferably comprises 5% by volume
glycol and freezes at a temperature below that of water providing
an improved thermal bank. Further the cooling solution may contain
anti-corroding particles to prevent or reduce the occurrence of
corrosion in the thermal bridge. Preferably, the cooling solution
is cooled to a temperature that forms ice. Preferably, the cooling
device further includes an active heat sink adapted to remove heat
produced by the cooling system as the cooling system cools the
thermal bridge. The active heat sink is also adapted to dissipate
heat transferred through the thermal bridge from the alcohol
beverage in the keg.
[0018] In accordance with yet another aspect of the present
invention there is provided a keg suitable for containing an
alcohol beverage. The keg comprises two keg half shells each
identically formed to have an end wall portion and side walls
extending from the end wall portion that terminate in a continuous
side wall edge portion. The two keg half shells have their
respective side wall edge portions placed in abutting relation with
one another and joined together to form the keg.
[0019] An advantage of the present invention is that forming the
keg from two identical shells provides a manufacturing cost
reduction.
[0020] Preferably, the end wall portion of each half shell is
formed with a raised annular collar and a face plate extending
across the collar to normally close the collar. The face plate of
one of the two keg half shells is adapted to engage a cooling plate
of a dispensing apparatus in heat transfer relation therewith and
the other of the two keg half shells is at least partially removed
to form an aperture for receiving a valve and spear for filling
into and dispensing from the keg the beverage. This preferred
construction of the keg renders the keg operable for use in a home
beverage dispensing system such as, for example, a beer dispensing
apparatus.
[0021] Preferably, the side walls of the two keg half shells
comprise a continuous substantially cylindrical wall extending
substantially normal from the end wall portion. The side wall edge
portions of each cylindrical side wall preferably abut each other
along a common plane that passes through a center of the keg.
Preferably, the keg half shells are joined by a weld to form the
keg.
[0022] By substantially cylindrical wall it is meant a wall that
resembles a cylinder either having a constant radius along its
length or a substantially constant radius along its length. It is
envisaged that the radius of the keg may be slightly large toward
the keg center to provide a center bulge.
[0023] Preferably the alcohol beverage is beer and the cooling
system is utilized in a home beer dispensing apparatus.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0024] For a better understanding of the nature and objects of the
present invention reference may be had to the accompanying
diagrammatic drawings in which:
[0025] FIG. 1 is a front elevation view of a home beer dispensing
apparatus in accordance with the present invention;
[0026] FIG. 2 is a side elevation view of the home beer dispensing
apparatus;
[0027] FIG. 3 is an enlarged perspective view of the cooling system
for the beer keg housed in the home beer dispensing apparatus
illustrating the thermal bridge and its cavity and the keg of the
present invention mounted on the cooling plate;
[0028] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the top portion of the
thermal bridge;
[0029] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the base portion of the
thermal bridge showing the orientation of the base portion reversed
relative to the orientation of the top portion shown in FIG. 4;
[0030] FIG. 6 is a cross sectional view of the cavity of the
thermal bridge taken along section line VI-VI of FIG. 3;
[0031] FIG. 7 is a plan view of the heat sink and fan showing the
horizontal air flow across the heat exchanger;
[0032] FIG. 8 is a sectional view of the keg of the present
invention showing two keg shells prior to joining; and
[0033] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a formed keg having a
dispensing spear within the keg and resting on a cooling plate for
cooling the contents of the keg.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0034] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2 there is shown a home beer
dispensing apparatus, appliance or unit 10. The dispensing
apparatus 10 is primarily intended for use in domestic kitchens but
may also be used in utility rooms, garages, domestic bars, caravans
etc. While the preferred embodiment relates to dispensing beer,
alternatively carbonated solutions or other alcohol beverages may
be dispensed by apparatus 10.
[0035] The home beer dispensing apparatus 10 has a front wall 12
and a dispensing tap 14 protruding forward of the front wall 12. A
drip tray 16 also protrudes forward of the front wall 12 and is
adapted to support an open glass container 18 below the dispensing
tap 14. The home beer dispensing apparatus 10 further has a base 21
adapted to rest on a counter top. The front wall 12 is an extension
of two pivoting side walls 20 which may be moved between closed and
open positions to allow the keg 22 (see FIG. 2 in broken lines) to
be inserted into the housing of the home beer dispensing apparatus
10.
[0036] The housing of the home beer dispensing apparatus 10 further
includes a top wall 24 and a rear wall 26. The rear wall 26 has a
grill 30 that permits for air circulation within the home beer
dispensing apparatus 10. An electrical cord 32 extends through the
rear wall 26 of the apparatus 10 to provide a connection into a
main electrical supply to supply electrical power to the electrical
components housed within the unit 10. Alternatively, a 12 Volt DC
supply input may be used.
[0037] The dispensing apparatus 10 has a cooling system 34 located
behind and below keg 22 that is adapted to cool beer 70 in keg 22
when keg 22 is placed into dispensing apparatus 10. The dispensing
apparatus 10 also dispenses the beer by providing and using a
pressurized air supply (not shown).
[0038] Referring to FIG. 3, the cooling system 34 is utilized to
keep the beer in keg 22 at an ideal serving temperature for
drinking.
[0039] The cooling system 34 has a Peltier thermoelectric device 36
that produces the necessary cooling effect. When a voltage is
applied to the Peltier device 36 across leads 38 a thermal
differential is generated across the Peltier device 36 which is
used to cool a mediate thermal bridge 40. The Peltier
thermoelectric device 36 provides a low continuous cooling rate
along its cold side portion 60 to aluminum block 42 mounted to rear
wall 70 of the thermal bridge 40.
[0040] To maximize the cooling power of the Peltier device 36, the
hot side portion 44 of the Peltier device 36 is cooled by an active
heat sink 46 coupled to the hot side portion 44. The heat sink 46,
as seen in FIGS. 3 and 7, has a series of spaced apart horizontally
extending fins or ribs 48 which extend along corresponding
horizontal planes and across which air flows to cool the heat sink
46. The heat sink has a supporting wall 47 from which the heat
exchange fins 48 extend to define two opposing lateral open sides
51, 53 and an open front 55.
[0041] A fan 50 is coupled to heat sink 46 against the open front
55 to blow ambient air passing through the grill 30 over the fins
48, out open sides 51, 53 and thereby make the heat sink 46 active.
The fan 48 is positioned such that air is blown directly onto the
face of the heat sink 46 as indicated by arrows 52 so as to
maximize the turbulent air flow and the resultant heat dissipation
from the heat sink occurs as the air flows horizontally out of the
heat sink 46 between and across fins 48 as exemplified by air flow
arrows 54. In FIG. 7, a plan view of the heat sink 46 and fan 50
further illustrates the air flow 52 and 54 entering open front 55
and exiting opposing open sides 51, 53.
[0042] While vertical air flow across fins of a heat sink is
considered a usual air flow path that takes advantage of the
chimney effect of rising heat, the area within the dispensing
apparatus 10 is filled with other component parts for the unit such
as, for example, air pressure devices, the dispense tap, and
possibly electronic hardware that should be kept at ambient
temperature to operate effectively. In this environment, the
chimney effect of a heat sink is detrimental to the operation and
fitting of component parts in the fixed housing space of apparatus
10 and the operation of the horizontal air flow across heat sink 48
is beneficial.
[0043] As shown in FIG. 1, the dispensing apparatus 10 has the
grill 30 located in it's rear wall 26 through which air flow 52
into the apparatus 10 is drawn in by fan 50 and air flow out at 54
is achieved by horizontal extending fins 48 of the heat sink. The
exit air flow 54 from grill 30 is shown to be above and below
intake air flow 52 in FIG. 1; however, in practice, the exiting air
flow 54 is more to the side of input air flow 52. Hence the
horizontal orientation of fins 48 of heat sink 46 result in an air
flow in a direction away from component parts located above the
heat sink 46 within dispensing apparatus 10.
[0044] As mentioned, the cold side wall portion 60 of the Peltier
device 36 is attached to the thermal bridge 40 through aluminum
block 42. In the preferred embodiment, the thermal bridge 40 is
aluminum and has an internal reservoir cavity 62 formed therein.
The cavity 62 contains a cooling solution 66 (see FIG. 6) of water
and, preferably 5%, glycol. The cavity 62 provides a cooling bank
and is cooled by Peltier device 36.
[0045] The bridge 40 has a cooling plate 64 upon which the keg 22
is located within the dispensing apparatus 10. The cooling plate 64
is located underneath the keg 22 so that the weight of the keg 22
is applied to the interface between the keg 22 and the cooling
plate 64 thereby improving conductivity. The cooling at the bottom
portion 68 of the keg 22 also ensures that beer to be drawn first,
from the bottom of the keg, is cooled first. Cooling at the bottom
portion 68 also permits insulation (not shown) around the top of
the keg 22 to be thinner and less effective to allow cold air
created inside the dispensing apparatus 10 to sink to the bottom
portion 68.
[0046] It should be understood that the rate of cooling across the
interface between keg 22 and cooling plate 64 is proportional to
both the effectiveness of the interface contact between the two and
the temperature differential between beer 69 housed in keg 22 and
cooling plate 64.
[0047] Referring to FIGS. 4, 5 and 6, the assembly for the mediated
thermal bridge 40 is shown. The mediated thermal bridge comprises
cavity 62 filled with the cooling solution 66 (FIG. 6) comprising a
mixture of water and 5% glycol. This mixture improves cooling rate,
whilst ensuring that the beer does not actually freeze. The
freezing point of the water in the ice store is reduced by a couple
of degrees by the addition of the small amount of antifreeze or
glycol. The cooling plate is now at 0.degree. C. rather than
2.degree. C. and the cooling rate of the beer increased. The
cooling solution 66 effectively provides a bank of latent cooling
capacity through cooling plate 64 to keg 22.
[0048] The ice store cavity 62 of the thermal bridge 40 preferably
contains 1.5 liters of water and glycol mixture (5% glycol) and is
permanently sealed. The 5% glycol allows freezing at -2.degree. C.
The glycol water mixture effectively increases the differential
temperature between the beer and the cooling plate. The ice store
mixture may also contain corrosion inhibitors.
[0049] The thermal bridge 40 comprises a top portion 72 (see FIG.
4) comprising a top wall 74 and the cooling plate 64 beveled to
receive the beveled bottom 68 of the keg 22. The top wall 74 has a
series of spaced apart elongated fins 76 extending along and
outwardly therefrom and interstitially into the cavity 62. The top
portion 72 is adapted to sealingly engage side walls 78 of cavity
bottom portion 80 (see FIG. 5). Bottom portion 80 has a base wall
82 and a series of spaced apart elongated fins 84 that extend along
and outwardly from base wall 82 and interstitially into cavity 62.
Part 80 is filled with cooling solution 66 (FIG. 6) and part 72 is
sealed to part 80 to form cavity 62. Fins 76 of top portion 72 are
inter spaced with and between fins 84 of lower portion 80 to
provide an interleaved relationship when the thermal bridge 40 is
assembled. The cooling solution 66 is positioned within cavity 62
located between fins 76 and 80 (see FIG. 6). The cooling solution
66 boosts the cooling effect in cavity 62 between fins 76 and 84
due to additional latent heat capacity because water in the
solution is frozen when sufficient cooling is provided by the
Peltier device 36. The frozen water is a thermal bank. When the keg
22 is put on cooling plate 64, the latent cooling, or thermal bank
provides ability to draw heat out of the keg 22 more readily. The
latency is built in to the cooling cycle in course of operating the
dispensing apparatus 10.
[0050] The utilization of the ice storage cavity 62 of the thermal
bridge 40 in the cooling system 34 boosts the ability of the
cooling system 34 to lower the temperature of the beer 70 in the
keg 22. The bridge 40 decreases the cooling time for the beer to a
desired serving temperature offering benefits to the user. This is
achieved by means of an ice store located in the aluminum block
cavity 62. The solution is frozen to form ice by the Peltier device
36 once a keg 22 of beer is cooled in preparation for the next keg.
The latent energy required in the phase change from water to ice is
considerable. About 2 kg of water, when frozen, has the capacity to
absorb enough energy to cool 6 kg of water by 20.degree. C. When a
new keg 22 is inserted into the dispensing apparatus 10, the new
keg cools much quicker than by the use of a Peltier device and
cooling fan alone.
[0051] Further, a good thermal contacting relation between the
cooling solution 66 and the aluminum block cavity 62 provided by
interleaved fins 76 and 84 ensures both rapid freezing of the ice
and rapid thawing when cooling beer. This is achieved by using the
elongated finned internal surfaces of the fins 76 and 84 in a
manner similar to a heat sink.
[0052] An ice store of cooling solution 66 is preferably at
0.degree. C. when cooling the beer. However, there is a temperature
gradient through the aluminum block cavity 62 and the ice store or
cooling solution 66, when cooling, is colder than the cooling plate
64 by as much as 2 or 3.degree. C. The differential between beer
and cooling plate 64 temperatures is less than it could be if the
cooling plate were at 0.degree. C. and cooling would be slower.
[0053] The Peltier unit 36 preferably is a 50W or 72W rated device.
The Peltier unit 36 is preferably clamped between the heat sink 46
and thermal bridge 40 by using two stainless steel bolts (not
shown).
[0054] Referring to FIG. 3, the cooling plate 64 has mounted
therein an electrical resistance heater or heating element 45.
Heating element 45 is connected to a source of electrical supply
(not shown). Heating element 45 is mounted in heat transfer
relation with the keg 22 and maintains the temperature of beer 69
adjacent the bottom portion 68 of the keg 22 above freezing
temperature of the beer 69. The cooling system 34 further includes
a temperature sensor 63 adapted to contact the keg 22 adjacent the
bottom portion 68 for sensing temperature related to the
temperature of the beer 69 in the keg 22. The cooling system 34 has
a temperature controller 65 responsive to the temperature sensed by
the temperature sensor 63 to energize the heater 45 to transfer
heat into the bottom portion 68 of the keg 22 to maintain the
temperature of the beer 69 above its freezing temperature. The
temperature sensor and controller may comprise a bi-metal
thermostat in circuit with the heating element 45 which cycles the
heating element 45 on and off. Alternatively, the temperature
sensor may comprise a thermistor connected with a control circuit
to cycle the heating element on and off.
[0055] The Peltier device 36 and fan 50 supply voltages are
controlled so that when the beer is finally cooled to the desired
serving temperature a lower rate of energy extraction is provided
to avoid freezing the beer and to reduce energy consumption and
noise. The use of Peltier device 36 and fan 50 preferably limits
the cooling power to, at most, 50 W and more typically 30 W. The
cooling of a 6 liter keg of beer from 23.degree. C. to 3.degree. C.
by the Peltier device 36 and fan 50 alone typically takes 8 to 20
hours. The material of the keg 22 has an effect on this cooling
time.
[0056] The rating of the heat sink 46 and fan 50 is better than
0.25.degree. C./W. At an ambient temperature of 22.degree. C., the
heat sink 46 temperature measured adjacent to the hot side 44 of
the Peltier device 36 is preferably not be above 35.degree. C. The
heat sink 46 is preferably made from extruded Aluminum. It need not
be coated. The fan 50 preferably provides 29 cfm (cubic feet per
minute) at 12V supply. The fan is capable of starting at 6V.
[0057] The mediate thermal bridge 40 connects the Peltier device 36
cold side wall portion 60 to the cooling plate 64 underneath the
keg 22. The temperature gradient between these two points
preferably does not exceed 3.degree. C. at 40 W flow.
[0058] The mediate thermal bridge 40 is preferably manufactured
from cast aluminum alloy LM 20. This material has been chosen for
its thermal conductive properties.
[0059] The cooling plate 64 to keg 22 interface is preferably
matched to the form of a keg pressurized at 1.5 bar. The
temperature differential between cooling plate 64 and the keg
bottom surface 68 (which is at 3.degree.) shall be <3.degree. C.
(i.e. the cooling plate 64 should be at a temperature of 0.degree.
C. under these conditions).
[0060] While the preferred embodiments described in relation to the
drawings are for a thermal bridge having a cavity located in heat
transfer relation with the keg below the bottom portion of the keg,
it should be understood that the thermal bridge may be located in
other locations in heat transfer relation with the keg. One such
other location, for example, is to locate the thermal bridge beside
the keg in heat transfer relation to the side wall of the keg.
[0061] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, the cooling of the keg 22 within
the beer dispensing apparatus 10 is accomplished by a the cooling
system 23 having a cooling plate 64 having a cooling surface 172
that is in mechanical and heat transfer contacting relation with
the bottom portion 140 of the keg 22.
[0062] The dispensing apparatus 10 also fills and dispenses beer
into and out of the keg 22 through a valve 142 and spear 144 as
best seen in FIG. 4. The keg 22 preferably includes a bag (not
shown) for holding the beer within the keg 22 and into which the
spear 144 extends.
[0063] Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, the keg 22 of the present
invention is shown in more detail.
[0064] In accordance with this aspect of the present invention, the
keg 22 is formed from two keg half shells 150. Each of the keg half
shells 150 are identically formed by deep drawing of a material
selected from the group consisting of steel, stainless steel, and
aluminum.
[0065] The keg half shells 150 each have an end wall portion 152
and substantially cylindrical side wall 154. The cylindrical side
wall 154 is shown in FIG. 8 to comprise a wall having two different
radii r.sub.1 and r.sub.2 where r.sub.2 is greater than r.sub.1 to
provide a bulge 160 at the center 162 of keg 22. In FIGS. 4 and 5
the cylindrical side wall 154 of each keg half shell 150 has a
uniform radius r.sub.3. As shown in FIGS. 3 to 5, the substantially
cylindrical side walls 54 extend substantially normal or
perpendicular to the end wall portion 152. The end wall portions
152 of the keg shells 150 each have a generally concave curvature
156 relative to the cylindrical side wall 154 and interior of the
keg 22.
[0066] Each end wall portion 152 is formed with a raised annular
collar 164 and flat face plate 166 extending across the collar 164
to normally close the collar 164. While only one face plate 166 is
shown in the bottom shelf half 150 in the drawings, it should be
understood that keg half shells 154 are each formed with a face
plate 166. The collars 164 strengthen the keg. The bottom face
plate 166 of the two keg half shells 150 is adapted to engage the
cooling plate 64 in heat transfer relation therewith. The other or
top face plate (not shown) of the two keg half shells 150 is at
least partially removed to form an aperture 180 as seen in FIG. 8.
Aperture 180 is adapted to receive valve 142 (see FIG. 9) and
hollow spear 144 shown extending into the keg 22. The valve 142 and
spear 144 provide means for filling keg 22 with beer and for
dispensing beer from keg 22 through tap 114 (FIG. 1).
[0067] Each end wall portion 152 has an annular rim 151 shown
curved in FIGS. 3 and 9 and as a ridge in FIG. 8. The annular rim
151 extends about the periphery of end wall portion 152 adjacent
the cylindrical wall 154. The rim 151 is adapted to support a chime
(not shown) for orientating the keg 22 in the home beer dispensing
apparatus 10.
[0068] The cylindrical side wall 154 terminates in a continuous
side wall edge portion 157. The two keg half shells 150 have their
respective side wall edge portions 157 placed in abutting relation
with one another along a common plane 159 that passes through the
center of the keg 22. The keg half shells 150 are joined together
by a weld 161 along the abutting side wall edge portions 157 to
form the keg 22.
[0069] The formation of the keg of the present invention has the
advantage of utilizing a simple embossed design that produces a
centering bottom face plate 166 for supporting the keg 22 in a heat
transfer seated arrangement with a cooling plate 64 and a centering
aperture 180 for receiving the valve 142 and the spear 144 for
filling into and dispensing beer from the keg 22.
[0070] Although not shown in the drawings, a closed cell foam
membrane is located below the cooling fluid. As the cooling fluid
expands and contracts the foam collapses ensuring the upper surface
is always contacted. This is particularly important when a phase
change occurs. It also provides for better heat transfer by
allowing the cavity to be filled up with the cooling fluid which is
in contact with the upper cooling face without having to allow for
expansion head space.
[0071] It will be appreciated that beer is the beverage of choice
to be dispensed using the present invention but other, especially,
carbonated beverages could also benefit from using the present
invention.
* * * * *