U.S. patent application number 17/078478 was filed with the patent office on 2021-02-11 for effervescent liquid dispenser.
The applicant listed for this patent is MIDNIGHT MADNESS DISTILLING, LLC. Invention is credited to Michael K. Boyer, Casey PARZYCH, Angus RITTENBURG.
Application Number | 20210039941 17/078478 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005168825 |
Filed Date | 2021-02-11 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20210039941 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
RITTENBURG; Angus ; et
al. |
February 11, 2021 |
EFFERVESCENT LIQUID DISPENSER
Abstract
An effervescent liquid dispenser includes a dispenser body
adapted for connection to a container containing pressurized
effervescent liquid to be dispensed from the container, the
dispenser including a fluid shaft in a passageway and a valve
member, the fluid shaft being arranged along a length of the
passageway, the fluid shaft and valve member being adapted to
release the pressurized effervescent liquid upon urging of the
valve member into an open position. A regulator connected to the
dispenser body and in fluid communication with the container and
the pressurized effervescent liquid, the regulator and the
dispenser body being configured as a unitary assembly permitting
selective passage of the pressurized effervescent liquid. A tube
connected to the dispenser body and extending into the container, a
spout connected to the dispenser body for discharging pressurized
effervescent liquid, and the liquid dispenser is permanently
affixed to the container and the container is non-refillable.
Inventors: |
RITTENBURG; Angus;
(Perkasie, PA) ; PARZYCH; Casey; (Trumbauersville,
PA) ; Boyer; Michael K.; (Wilmington, DE) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
MIDNIGHT MADNESS DISTILLING, LLC |
Trumbauersville |
PA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000005168825 |
Appl. No.: |
17/078478 |
Filed: |
October 23, 2020 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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16329131 |
Feb 27, 2019 |
10815114 |
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PCT/US2017/068200 |
Dec 22, 2017 |
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17078478 |
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62439380 |
Dec 27, 2016 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B67D 1/0406 20130101;
B67D 1/0418 20130101; G05D 16/0655 20130101; B67D 1/0412
20130101 |
International
Class: |
B67D 1/04 20060101
B67D001/04; G05D 16/06 20060101 G05D016/06 |
Claims
1. An effervescent liquid dispenser comprising: a dispenser body;
wherein the dispenser is adapted for connection to a container
containing pressurized effervescent liquid to be dispensed from the
container, the dispenser including a fluid shaft in a passageway
and a valve member, the fluid shaft being arranged along a length
of the passageway, the fluid shaft and valve member being adapted
to release the pressurized effervescent liquid upon urging of the
valve member into an open position; and a regulator connected to
the dispenser body and in fluid communication with the container
and the pressurized effervescent liquid, the regulator and the
dispenser body being configured as a unitary assembly that permits
selective passage of the pressurized effervescent liquid; a tube
connected to the dispenser body and extending into the container; a
spout connected to the dispenser body for discharging the
pressurized effervescent liquid; wherein in response to a
differential pressure applied to the regulator being less than a
first threshold value between a container pressure and an
environmental pressure of an environment surrounding the dispenser,
pressurized effervescent is permitted to flow into the regulator
chamber and the container until the first threshold value is
achieved; wherein in response to the differential pressure applied
to the regulator being greater than the first threshold value
between the container pressure and the environmental pressure,
pressurized effervescent liquid is prevented from flowing into the
regulator chamber and the container; wherein the liquid dispenser
is permanently affixed to the container and the container is
non-refillable.
2. The dispenser of claim 1 further comprising a pressure relief
valve spaced apart from the regulator, the pressure relief valve
having a valve member in fluid communication with the container on
one side of the valve member and in fluid communication with an
environment surrounding the dispenser on the other side of the
valve member; wherein in response to a first force applied to the
container-facing side of the valve member exceeding a second force
applied to the environment-facing side of the valve member, the
valve member is actuated to an open position for discharging
pressurized effervescent liquid from the container into the
environment; wherein in response to the first force applied to the
container-facing side of the valve member being less than the
second force applied to the environment-facing side of the valve
member, the valve member is actuated to a closed position for
preventing pressurized effervescent liquid discharge from the
container into the environment.
3. The container of claim 1 wherein the pressurized effervescent
liquid comprises a carbonated alcoholic beverage.
4. The container of claim 1 wherein the container complies with 27
C.F.R. 5.46 (2017).
5. The container of claim 4 wherein the container conforms with 49
C.F.R. 173.306 (2017).
6. The container of claim 1 wherein the tube comprises a flexible
tube.
7. The container of claim 1 wherein the liquid dispenser is
permanently affixed by compression fit.
8. The container of claim 1 wherein the liquid dispenser is
permanently affixed by a crimp fit.
9. The container of claim 1 wherein the pressure within the
container ranges from about zero to about 300 psi.
10. The container of claim 1 wherein a shaft extends through the
dispenser and movement of the shaft permits pressurized
effervescent liquid to flow which forces the pressurized
effervescent liquid into the tube that in turn permits the
pressurized effervescent liquid to pass through the dispenser body
and be dispensed from the spout.
11. The container of claim 1 further comprising a tap wherein
movement of the shaft is caused by rotational movement of the
tap.
12. The dispenser of claim 1 wherein the regulator and the
pressurized effervescent liquid are in continuous fluid
communication.
13. The container of claim 1 wherein a cap having outwardly
extending portions is affixed to the container and wherein the
dispenser defines a groove and wherein the dispenser is permanently
affixed to the container by engaging the portions and the
groove.
14. The container of claim 1 wherein the container has a capacity
of greater than 200 ml and the headspace above the effervescent
liquid is less than 8 percent of the total capacity.
15. The container of claim 1 wherein a clevis having outwardly
extending portions is affixed to the container and wherein the
effervescent liquid dispenser defines a groove and wherein the
dispenser is permanently affixed to the container by engaging the
portions and the groove.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention is directed to the field of liquid
dispensers, and in particular, to effervescent liquid
dispensers.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Dispensers for dispensing effervescent liquids subject a
liquid to a pressurized gas, such as carbon dioxide, a portion of
which pressurized gas dissolves in the liquid. Upon dispensing the
liquid from the dispenser into an environment having a lower
pressure and/or a lower temperature, the pressurized gas begins
escaping from the liquid in the form of bubbles. This is known as
effervescence. Such dispensers typically have a container
containing liquid, the container receiving pressurized gas from a
pressurized gas source. The pressurized gas source is then isolated
from the container. The pressurized gas not only brings about
effervescence, but provides the impetus for dispensing the liquid
from the container.
[0003] This conventional dispenser arrangement has several
shortcomings. For example, as the liquid is dispensed, the gas
pressure in the container is reduced, and the degree of
effervescence may likewise be reduced. Furthermore, in an effort to
maintain a high degree of effervescence for the liquid irrespective
of the amount of liquid remaining in the container, additional
pressurized gas may need to be initially introduced into the
container. Such additional pressurized gas increases the gas
pressure inside the container, which raises safety concerns.
[0004] There are several federal regulations which relate to
packaging in the liquor industry. For example, current federal
regulation (27 C.F.R. .sctn. 5.46 (2017)) provides, absent special
exceptions, that for liquor bottles having a capacity of 200 mL or
more, the headspace cannot exceed 8 percent of the total capacity
of the bottle after closure. In order for conventional dispenser
arrangements to comply with such regulations (e.g., to dispense the
contents of a container with 8 percent or less headspace), would
require a headspace pressure of over 300 psi. Glass containers
capable of withstanding such a pressure are impractical and
unsafe.
[0005] Examples of conventional dispensing arrangements are
disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 90,215; 2,098,169; 6,415,963;
6,745,922; 8,177,103; 8,191,740; 8,302,822; 9,352,949; U.S. Pub Nos
2016/0251210 and 2016/0251212; EP 2129596; WO 00/35774 and WO
00/35803. The disclosure of the foregoing patents and patent
applications is hereby incorporated by reference.
[0006] There is a need in the art for effervescent liquid
dispensers that do not suffer from these shortcomings.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] The instant invention solves problems associated with
conventional dispensing arrangements by providing a safe (e.g.,
having a reduced risk of rupture or container failure), carbonated
liquid dispensing device that employs a disposable container and a
permanently affixed closure that maintains carbonation and allows
for dispensing of the contents without decreased carbonation. This
in turn allows for a consumer product that mimics the behavior of
the conventional seltzer siphon such as the one referenced in U.S.
90,215 with added safety and dispensing consistency. Conventional
seltzer siphons were partially filled leaving an excess of 25% of
the entire volume of the container with a head space containing a
pressurized gas between 60 and 120 psi. Such pressures are
undesirable when using glass containers or other containers that
failure catastrophically, and are avoided by the instant invention.
In addition, as the contents of the conventional seltzer siphon
were dispensed, the pressure in the head space decreases, thus gas
dissolved in the fluid is released thereby decreasing overall
effervescence. Another variation on the conventional seltzer siphon
disclosed, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 2,098,169A, which requires
the user to acquire and insert a pressurized cartridge and,
thereafter, replace a spent cartridge. Such replaceable pressurized
cartridges are not required by the instant invention.
[0008] One embodiment of the instant invention relates to a
disposable (i.e., not refillable or reusable) alcoholic beverage
packaging that can maintain carbonation and self-dispense a
carbonated beverage while being compliant with the headspace
requirements of 27 C.F.R. .sctn. 5.46 (2017)
(https://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/CFR-2017-title27-vol1/pdf/CFR-2017-title27-
-vol1-part5.pdf), which provides, absent special exceptions, that
for liquor bottles having a capacity of 200 mL or more, the
headspace cannot exceed 8 percent of the total capacity of the
bottle after closure. In addition, when charged with a division 2.2
gas, such as carbon dioxide (UN 1013), which is a non-flammable,
nonpoisonous compressed gas, the instant invention's design meets
the limited quantities exemption set forth in 49 C.F.R. .sctn.
173.306 (2017)
(https://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/CFR-2017-title49-vol2/pdf/CFR-2017-title49-
-vol2-part173.pdf), pursuant to 49 C.F.R. .sctn. 173.306(a)(1)
& (i) (i.e., not more than 4 fluid ounces capacity for carbon
dioxide), which in turn exempts the invention from various shipping
requirements under United States law. This aspect of the design is
consistent with the limited quantities exemption recognized
internationally pursuant to .sctn. 1.1.1.5 and Chapter 3.4 of the
United Nations Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous
Goods--Model Regulations (Rev. 20, 2017)
(https://www.unece.org/trans/danger/publi/unrec/rev20/20files_e.html)
(carbon dioxide quantity limit for inner packaging or article of
120 mL). All of the above regulations are incorporated by
reference.
[0009] One embodiment of the present invention is directed to an
effervescent liquid dispenser including pressurized gas from a
pressurized gas source. A container is provided containing liquid
to be dispensed receiving pressurized gas from the pressurized gas
source, becoming a pressurized liquid, the pressurized liquid
becoming an effervescent liquid upon being dispensed from the
container. A regulator is provided in selective fluid communication
with the container and the pressurized gas source. In response to a
differential pressure applied to the regulator being less than a
first threshold value between a container pressure and an
environmental pressure of an environment surrounding the dispenser,
pressurized gas from the pressurized gas source is permitted to
flow into the regulator chamber and the container until the first
threshold value is achieved. In response to the differential
pressure applied to the regulator being greater than the first
threshold value between the container pressure and the
environmental pressure, pressurized gas from the pressurized gas
source is prevented from flowing into the regulator chamber and the
container.
[0010] One embodiment of the present invention is directed to a
container including an effervescent liquid and an effervescent
liquid dispenser including pressurized gas from a pressurized gas
source. A regulator is provided in selective fluid communication
with the container and the pressurized gas source. In response to a
differential pressure applied to the regulator being less than a
first threshold value between a container pressure and an
environmental pressure of an environment surrounding the dispenser,
pressurized gas from the pressurized gas source is permitted to
flow into the regulator chamber and the container until the first
threshold value is achieved. In response to the differential
pressure applied to the regulator being greater than the first
threshold value between the container pressure and the
environmental pressure, pressurized gas from the pressurized gas
source is prevented from flowing into the regulator chamber and the
container.
[0011] One embodiment of the present invention is directed to a
container including an effervescent liquid and an effervescent
liquid dispenser including pressurized gas from a pressurized gas
source. A regulator is provided in selective fluid communication
with the container and the pressurized gas source. In response to a
differential pressure applied to the regulator being less than a
first threshold value between a container pressure and an
environmental pressure of an environment surrounding the dispenser,
pressurized gas from the pressurized gas source is permitted to
flow into the regulator chamber and the container until the first
threshold value is achieved. In response to the differential
pressure applied to the regulator being greater than the first
threshold value between the container pressure and the
environmental pressure, pressurized gas from the pressurized gas
source is prevented from flowing into the regulator chamber and the
container, and in which the liquid dispenser is permanently affixed
to the container and the container is non-refillable.
[0012] One embodiment of the invention relates to any of the
foregoing embodiments in which the pressurized gas source is
located within the container.
[0013] One embodiment of the invention relates to any of the
foregoing embodiments in which the pressurized gas source is
located exterior to the container.
[0014] One embodiment of the invention relates to any of the
foregoing embodiments in which the effervescent liquid dispenser is
in fluid connection with a flexible tube.
[0015] One embodiment of the invention relates to any of the
foregoing embodiments in which the effervescent liquid includes a
carbonated alcoholic beverage.
[0016] One embodiment of the invention relates to any of the
foregoing embodiments in which the container complies with 27
C.F.R. 5.46 (2017).
[0017] One embodiment of the invention relates to any of the
foregoing embodiments in which the container conforms with 49
C.F.R. 173.306 (2017).
[0018] One embodiment of the invention relates to any of the
foregoing embodiments in which the liquid dispenser is permanently
affixed by compression fit.
[0019] One embodiment of the invention relates to any of the
foregoing embodiments in which the liquid dispenser is permanently
affixed by a crimp fit.
[0020] One embodiment of the invention relates to any of the
foregoing embodiments in which the pressurized gas source is
connected to the regulator.
[0021] One embodiment of the invention relates to any of the
foregoing embodiment in which the pressure within the container
ranges from about 2 to about 10 psi.
[0022] One embodiment of the invention relates to any of the
foregoing embodiments in which a shaft extends through the
dispenser and movement of the shaft permits pressurized gas from
the pressurized gas source to flow which forces an effervescent
liquid into a tube that in turn permits the effervescent liquid to
pass through the dispenser and be dispensed from the container.
[0023] One embodiment of the invention relates to any of the
foregoing embodiments further including a tap that is located
externally to the dispenser and container and in which movement of
the shaft is caused by rotational movement of a tap.
[0024] One embodiment of the invention relates to any of the
foregoing embodiments further including a spout connected to the
dispenser and in which the effervescent liquid is dispensed from
the container from the spout.
[0025] One embodiment of the invention is directed to an
effervescent liquid dispenser including a dispenser body, the
dispenser is adapted for connection to a container containing
pressurized effervescent liquid to be dispensed from the container,
the dispenser including a fluid shaft in a passageway and a valve
member, the fluid shaft being arranged along a length of the
passageway, the fluid shaft and valve member being adapted to
release the pressurized effervescent liquid upon urging of the
valve member into an open position. The effervescent liquid
dispenser further includes a regulator connected to the dispenser
body and in fluid communication with the container and the
pressurized effervescent liquid, the regulator and the dispenser
body being configured as a unitary assembly that permits selective
passage of the pressurized effervescent liquid. The effervescent
liquid dispenser further includes a tube connected to the dispenser
body and extending into the container, and a spout connected to the
dispenser body for discharging the pressurized effervescent liquid.
In response to a differential pressure applied to the regulator
being less than a first threshold value between a container
pressure and an environmental pressure of an environment
surrounding the dispenser, pressurized effervescent is permitted to
flow into the regulator chamber and the container until the first
threshold value is achieved. In response to the differential
pressure applied to the regulator being greater than the first
threshold value between the container pressure and the
environmental pressure, pressurized effervescent liquid is
prevented from flowing into the regulator chamber and the
container. The liquid dispenser is permanently affixed to the
container and the container is non-refillable.
[0026] The aspects and embodiments of the invention can be used
alone or in combinations with each other.
[0027] Other features and advantages of the present invention will
be apparent from the following more detailed description of the
preferred embodiment, taken in conjunction with the accompanying
drawings which illustrate, by way of example, the principles of the
invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0028] FIG. 1 is an upper front perspective view of an exemplary
dispenser.
[0029] FIG. 2 is a rotated front perspective view of the dispenser
of FIG. 1.
[0030] FIG. 3 is a cross-section of the dispenser FIG. 1.
[0031] FIG. 4 is an enlarged, partial cross-section of the
dispenser of FIG. 3.
[0032] FIG. 5 is a further enlarged, partial cross-section of the
dispenser of FIG. 4.
[0033] FIG. 6 is a side elevation view of an exemplary
dispenser.
[0034] FIG. 7 is a cross-section taken along line 7-7 of the
dispenser of FIG. 6.
[0035] FIG. 8 is a further enlarged, partial cross-section taken
from region 8 of the dispenser of FIG. 7.
[0036] FIG. 9 is a cross-section taken along line 7-7 of the
dispenser of FIG. 6.
[0037] FIG. 10 is an enlarged view taken from region 10 of the
dispenser of FIG. 9.
[0038] FIG. 11 is an enlarged, partial cross-section taken along
line 7-7 of the dispenser of FIG. 6.
[0039] FIG. 12 is an enlarged, partial view taken from region 12 of
the dispenser of FIG. 11.
[0040] FIG. 13 is an enlarged, partial cross-section taken along
line 7-7 of the dispenser of FIG. 6.
[0041] FIG. 14 is an enlarged, partial view taken from region 13 of
the dispenser of FIG. 13.
[0042] FIG. 15 is a side elevation of one embodiment of an
exemplary dispenser.
[0043] FIG. 16 is an enlarged, partial view taken from region 16 of
the dispenser of FIG. 15.
[0044] FIG. 17 is a cross-section of a dispenser having an
internally located high pressure source and crimped dispenser
attachment.
[0045] FIG. 18 is an enlarged partial cross-section of the
dispenser of FIG. 17.
[0046] FIG. 19 is a cross-section of a dispenser having an
internally located high pressure source and crimped dispenser
attachment.
[0047] FIG. 20 is an enlarged partial cross-section of one
embodiment of the dispenser of FIG. 19.
[0048] FIG. 21 is a further enlarged partial cross-section of the
dispenser of FIG. 19.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0049] This invention provides an apparatus or a means, such as a
dispenser, for dispensing a liquid as well as maintaining a uniform
level of effervescence using a pressurized gas. This new invention
is novel in that it provides a means for fully dispensing an
effervescent fluid from a container without requiring high
pressurization of the container itself. Unlike existing dispensers,
the inventive dispenser is suitable for scale consumer products
because it can be packaged in small form factors, manufactured in
large quantities, and made at low costs. The device includes a
vessel or high-pressure gas source for storing high-pressure gas, a
regulator for maintaining low pressure inside the container, and a
relief valve to ensure container pressure remains below a
preselected threshold. The high-pressure gas source can be located
internally or externally of the container. As just one example,
existing alcoholic beverage packaging could be made safer by this
invention without exceeding the headspace limitation imposed by law
(e.g., the inventive dispenser is self-dispensing while employing a
relatively low pressure within the container). Utilizing the novel
dispenser of the present invention ensures the containers comply
with current federal regulations, such as (49 C.F.R. .sctn. 173.306
(2017)) and (27 C.F.R. .sctn. 5.46 (2017)), while reducing the
pressure level of pressurized gas in the container, while providing
a container having improved safety in comparison to conventional
dispensers. In particular, the instant invention permits
substantially completely dispensing a carbonated beverage wherein
the pressure within the container is less than 60 psi, for example,
typically about 2 to about 20 psi, about 2 to about 10 psi and
normally about 5 to about 6 psi. In another aspect of the
invention, the pressure within the container ranges from about zero
to about 300 psi.
[0050] The invention also provides a container having an
effervescent fluid therein and having the dispenser permanently
affixed to the container (e.g., an effervescent fluid is introduced
into the container and sealed therein until it is desired to
dispense the effervescent fluid from the container). The invention
further provides a method for dispensing the entire contents of an
effervescent fluid from a container under generally uniform
pressure.
[0051] For purposes herein, "effervescent fluid" or "effervescent
liquid" in accordance with the instant invention includes a fluid
that becomes effervescent by being released from the inventive
dispenser as well as a fluid that is carbonated prior to
introduction into the dispenser. Examples of such fluids include
carbonated or effervescent ales, colas, fruit drinks, teas, waters,
sodas, soft drinks, among other beverages as well as alcoholic
beverages such as gin, liqueurs, vodka, rum, champagne, sparkling
wine, among other alcoholic beverages. While any suitable degree of
effervescence or carbonation can be employed, the fluid can
comprise about 1 to about 10 volumes, about 2 to about 8 and
normally about 2 to 3 volumes of gas.
[0052] The instant invention further provides for a method for
introducing an effervescent liquid into the container.
[0053] The instant invention further provides a method for
dispensing an effervescent fluid from the container.
[0054] For purposes herein, headspace, such as headspace 53 shown
in FIG. 3, is defined as the distance from the top of the container
to the top of a product, which in this case is to the top of
pressurized liquid 52.
[0055] FIGS. 1 and 2 show one embodiment of an exemplary dispenser
10 including a container 12 having a collar 58 (FIG. 5) that is
secured to a dispenser assembly 14. Dispenser assembly 14 includes
a high-pressure vessel or high-pressure source 18 that provides
pressurized gas, such as carbon dioxide, nitrogen, among others, to
a liquid contained in container 12, which liquid is or becomes a
pressurized liquid 52 (FIG. 3). A portion of the pressurized gas
can dissolve in pressurized liquid 52 such that upon the
pressurized liquid 52 being discharged from a spout 16 into an
ambient environment 19 (FIG. 5) surrounding the dispenser,
pressurized liquid 52 becomes effervescent liquid 56. When a
previously carbonated effervescent fluid is to be dispensed, the
pressurized gas maintains a pressure upon the effervescent fluid
thereby maintaining the effervescence and permitting the
effervescent fluid to be dispensed at a generally uniform
pressure.
[0056] It is to be understood that any suitable high-pressure gas
that promotes or maintains effervescence may be used.
[0057] As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the dispenser assembly 14
includes a dispensing mechanism 24 including a dispenser body 22.
An enlarged portion 36 of a straw or tube 34 is secured to
dispenser body 22. An O-ring 40 promotes a fluid tight seal between
enlarged portion 36 and dispenser body 22. Tube 34 extends to an
opposed end 38 (FIG. 3) positioned near the bottom of container 12
for selectively forcibly directing pressurized liquid 52 through
tube 34, then through dispenser body 22 before being discharged
from spout 16. Dispenser assembly 14 is permanently affixed to
container 12 by any suitable means such as press-fit, crimp, rolled
flange, retaining rings and snaps, among other permanent attachment
means and methods (for example, as described in greater detail in
connection with FIGS. 17-21). In particular, since the dispenser
assembly 14 is permanently affixed to container 12, container 12 is
intended to be discarded, recycled or otherwise disposed of after
dispensing the effervescent liquid is complete.
[0058] As further shown in FIG. 5, a lever or tap 20 rotates in a
rotational movement 47 about a pivot 46 formed in dispenser body
22. Tap 20 abuts a head 28 of a fluid shaft 26, which head 28 is
positioned in a passageway 30 of dispenser body 22. Head 28 extends
to a fluid shaft 26. Fluid shaft 26 passes through a fluid tight
opening formed in a fluid shaft seal 50 and extends through a
passageway 32 formed in dispenser body 22, terminating in a plug or
valve member 44 positioned in enlarged portion 36 of tube 34. Valve
member 44 includes an O-ring 42 for providing a fluid tight seal
between valve member 44 and dispenser body 22 when valve member 44
is in a closed position such as shown in FIG. 5.
[0059] As further shown in FIG. 5, a spring 48 is positioned
between fluid shaft seal 50 and head 28 of fluid shaft 26. By
virtue of spring 48, head 28 biases and urges tap 20 in rotational
movement 47 away from high-pressure source 18, and urging valve
member 44 into its closed position in contact with dispenser body
22.
[0060] As shown in FIG. 5, in order to dispense pressurized fluid
52 (FIG. 3), a sufficient force is applied to tap 20 in rotational
movement 47 toward high-pressure source 18 to overcome the opposing
force generated by spring 48. When the opposing force generated by
spring 48 is overcome, fluid shaft 26 is urged toward enlarged
portion 36 of tube 34, similarly urging valve member 44 to an open
position. With valve member 44 in an open position, pressurized
liquid 52 (FIG. 3) which is pressurized to a higher pressure than
the environmental or ambient environment 19 is urged into
pressurized liquid flow 54 through tube 34, then through enlarged
portion 36, then through passageway 32 and finally through
passageway 17, whereupon the pressurized liquid is discharged into
ambient environment 19. Upon being discharged into ambient
environment 19, pressurized liquid 52 becomes effervescent liquid
56, due to effervescence occurring as a result of the reduction of
pressure level in the ambient environment compared to the pressure
level in container 12. In the event the pressurized liquid 52
comprises a previously carbonated effervescent liquid, then the
effervescent liquid 56 has a degree of carbonation substantially
the same as when the carbonated liquid was introduced into
container 12.
[0061] As shown in FIGS. 6-10, the dispenser includes a regulator
60 and an optional pressure relief valve 62 incorporated into
dispenser assembly 14. FIG. 7 is a cross-section of the dispenser
taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 6, and FIG. 8 is a further enlarged,
partial cross-section taken from region 8 of the dispenser of FIG.
7. As further shown in FIG. 8, regulator 60 includes a regulator
frame or regulator body or body 64 that is inserted inside of a
passageway 66 of dispenser body 22. A diaphragm 82 is positioned to
one side of regulator body 64 opposite a chamber 98 formed in
dispenser body 22 in fluid communication with high-pressure source
18. In other words, chamber 98 and high-pressure source 18, but not
diaphragm 82 and high-pressure source 18, are in continuous fluid
communication. Regulator body 64 and diaphragm 82 are secured
between dispenser body 22 and a cap 84. Regulator body 64 includes
an internal channel, such as an annular recess 70 in fluid
communication with diaphragm 82 and a circumferential groove 72 in
fluid communication with passageway 66. Regulator body 64 further
includes a passageway 74 formed therethrough in selective fluid
communication with chamber 98, annular recess 70, and diaphragm 82.
Additionally, by virtue of opening 94 formed in circumferential
groove 72 of regulator body 64 and an opening 96 formed in
dispenser body 22 being aligned with each other, cumulatively
forming a passageway 100, annular recess 70 is in fluid
communication with container 12. Such alignment need not be exact
but sufficient to permit the fluid communication.
[0062] As further shown in FIG. 8, diaphragm 82 includes a
centrally positioned diaphragm member 86. One end of a spring 88
abuts a counterbore 90 formed in cap 84. The other end of spring 88
contacts and biases diaphragm member 86 toward regulator body 64.
Diaphragm member 86 is secured to one end of a plunger 76 that
extends through passageway 74 of regulator body 64, terminating at
a head 78 which is in fluid communication with chamber 98. In other
words, head 78 and chamber 98 are in continuous fluid
communication, and likewise, chamber 98 and high-pressure source 18
are in continuous fluid communication. O-ring 80 associated with
head 78 establishes a fluid tight seal with regulator body 64 when
the regulator is in a closed position 140 (FIG. 14).
[0063] As shown in FIGS. 6, 9 and 10, in which FIG. 9 is a
cross-section of the dispenser taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 6, and
FIG. 10 is a further enlarged, partial cross-section taken from
region 10 of the dispenser of FIG. 9, the operation of regulator 60
is now discussed. As further shown FIG. 10, diaphragm 82 is
subjected to opposed forces 124, 126. Force 124 corresponds to
ambient pressure applied to the surface of diaphragm 82 facing cap
84 by virtue of opening 92, as well as an additional force applied
to diaphragm member 86 by spring 88 (e.g., an additional force to
maintain or retain a defined position). Force 126 corresponds to
the pressure level in container 12. In response to force 124 being
greater than force 126, diaphragm member 86 of diaphragm 82 is
urged to move toward chamber 98 which similarly urges head 78 of
plunger 76 away from regulator body 64, resulting in the regulator
being in an open position 138.
[0064] As further shown in FIG. 10, while the regulator is in an
open position 138, a high-pressure gas flow path 120 is
established, in which high-pressure gas in chamber 98 from
high-pressure source 18 (FIG. 1) sequentially flows between head 78
of plunger 76 and regulator body 64, then through passageway 74,
then through annular recess 70 and finally through passageway 100
into container 12, increasing the pressure level in container 12,
and likewise, increases force 126 applied to diaphragm 82. Once
force 126 exceeds force 124, diaphragm member 86 of diaphragm 82 is
urged to move away from chamber 98, similarly moving head 78 of
plunger 76 toward and into a fluid tight contact with regulator
body 64, resulting in the regulator being in a closed position 140
(FIG. 14). As a result, the regulator prevents over-pressurization
of the container while maintaining the pressure in the container at
a generally constant level, resulting in a uniform level of
effervescence.
[0065] As shown in FIGS. 6-10, optional pressure relief valve 62 is
incorporated into dispenser assembly 14. FIG. 7 is a cross-section
of the dispenser taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 6, and FIG. 8 is a
further enlarged, partial cross-section taken from region 8 of the
dispenser of FIG. 7. As further shown in FIGS. 8 and 10, pressure
relief valve 62 includes a relief valve frame or relief valve body
or valve body 102 that is inserted inside of a passageway 103 of
dispenser body 22. Valve body 102 is secured between dispenser body
22 and a cap 104. An O-ring 106 provides a fluid tight seal between
dispenser body 22 and valve body 102. Cap 104 includes a
counterbore 114 and an opening 118 in fluid communication with
ambient environment 19. Valve body 102 includes a counterbore 108
having an opening 110 facing dispenser body 22.
[0066] As further shown in FIGS. 8 and 10, a valve member 112 is
positioned inside of counterbore 108 between opening 110 on one
side of valve member 112 and a spring 116 on the other side of the
valve member. Spring 116 is positioned between valve member 112 and
counterbore 114. When pressure relief valve 62 is in a closed
position 144, Valve member 112 abuts and is in fluid tight contact
with opening 110. A counterbore 146 having a peripheral sidewall
148 is in fluid communication with opening 110. Peripheral sidewall
148 has an opening 132 formed therethrough that is aligned with an
opening 134 formed in dispenser body 22. Cumulatively, openings
132, 134, form a passageway 136 that is in communication with
container 12.
[0067] As shown in FIGS. 6 and 8-14, in which FIGS. 11 and 13 are
cross-sections of the dispenser taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 6,
FIG. 12 is a further enlarged, partial cross-section taken from
region 12 of the dispenser of FIG. 11, and FIG. 14 is a further
enlarged, partial cross-section taken from region 12 of the
dispenser of FIG. 13, the operation of pressure relief valve 62 is
now discussed. A container-facing side 150 of the valve member 112
faces opening 110 of valve body 102, and an environment-facing side
152 of valve member 112 faces cap 104 which is in fluid
communication with ambient environment 19 via opening 118.
Container-facing side 150, which is a fluid communication with
container 12 via passageway 136 and opening 110 is subjected to a
force 128. Force 128 is a product of the surface area of opening
110 multiplied by the pressure level of container 12.
Environment-facing side 152 is subjected to a force 130, which is
the sum of two force components: the first force component is the
product of the surface area of environment-facing side 152
multiplied by the pressure of ambient environment 19; the second
force component is the force applied by spring 116.
[0068] When force 128 is less than force 130, valve member 112 is
urged into a fluid tight contact with opening 110, defining a
closed position 144 (FIG. 8) of pressure relief valve 62. However,
when force 128 is greater than force 130, valve member 112 is urged
away from opening 110, defining an open position 142 (FIG. 14) of
pressure relief valve 62. In open position 142, a vented
pressurized gas flow path 122 is established, in which pressurized
gas from container 12 flows through passageway 136, through opening
110, around valve member 112 before being discharged from the
pressure relief valve via opening 118 into the ambient environment.
As a result, the pressure relief valve prevents over-pressurization
of the container, in the event the regulator does not function
properly.
[0069] FIGS. 15 and 16 show further embodiments of the invention.
FIG. 16 shows an enlarged area 16 of FIG. 15. Referring now to FIG.
16, FIG. 16 shows one embodiment of the invention wherein dispenser
body 22 is compression or snap-fit onto container 12. In this
embodiment, container 12 includes a protuberance 154 and an
outwardly extending ridge 160. Dispenser body 22 includes a tab 156
wherein upon application of a downward force, tab 156 flexes
outwardly when traveling past ridge 160 and then tab 156 returns to
its original shape and engages ridge 160 thereby creating a
compression or snap fit connection between dispenser body 22 and
container 12. An O-ring 158 or other suitable fluid tight means is
position between the opening of container 12 and dispenser body
22.
[0070] Referring now to FIG. 15, FIG. 15 shows another embodiment
of the invention wherein straw or siphon tube 34 is flexible. In
this embodiment of the invention, tube 34 includes bellows 162 that
allows the tube 34 to flex and move within container 12. Tube 34
further includes a weight 164 that causes the tube 34 to flex in
response to movement of the container 12. In particular, a flexible
tube 34 can enhance the entire quantity of pressurized fluid 52
being dispensed from the container 12.
[0071] One aspect of the invention relates to a method to
deactivate the regulator such that the container can be pre-charged
to any pressure through the high pressure vessel and the pressure
released or deactivated to a predetermined lower pressure. One
method for reducing pressure within the container comprises pushing
the regulator "open" using a small shaft through a hole in the
regulator cap. The container could then be precharged by adding gas
through the high pressure vessel until the desired container
precharge pressure is reached. For example, by pushing member 86
(FIG. 10) with a "pin" through opening 92, air can flow freely
between container 12 and high-pressure source or pressure vessel
18. The regulator 60 is forced "open". This enables one to fill the
pressure vessel with compressed gas after the inventive dispenser
has been assembled. If desired, one can pressurize the bottle or
container to a different pressure than the pressure vessel. With
pin engaged (regulator forced "open") gas can be added to pressure
vessel 18 and therefore container 12. The flow of pressurized gas
is maintained until the container reaches the desired pressure
(e.g., less than 60 psi and typically less than 50 psi). The pin is
then retracted (regulator closed) and the pressure vessel can be
filled until a desired pressure (e.g., 300 psi) is reached. As a
result, the container be maintained at a pressure that is less than
the pressure of the pressure vessel (e.g., the container has a
pressure of 50 psi and the pressure vessel is at 300 psi).
[0072] Another aspect of the invention relates to a method that
allows one to fill the pressure vessel and bottle or container to
the same pressure. With pin engaged (regulator forced "open") gas
is added through the nozzle 16 which increases the pressure in the
container 12 and the pressure vessel 18. The container and pressure
vessel can be pre-charged to any desired pressure. This method is
useful for applications where an initial fluid pressurization is
required until the first dispense, at which point the gas flow
would be regulated.
[0073] As shown in FIGS. 17-21 and in one embodiment of the
invention, the high pressure source is located within container 12.
A high pressure source 170 is located within container 12 and in
fluid connection with a pressure regulator having regulator body
64. The pressure regulator functions in the manner described above
in connection with FIGS. 6-10. O-rings or other suitable
arrangement 186 provides a fluid seal between high pressure gas
source 170 and the regulator body. In particular, when tap 20 is
urged into rotational movement, fluid shaft 168 is displaced
thereby allowing a pressure to be applied by pressure source 170
through the regulator body which causes fluid 52 to pass through
tube or straw 34 and in turn be dispensed via passageway 17.
[0074] Referring now to FIG. 18, FIG. 18 shows one embodiment of
the invention wherein a dispenser body 166 is permanently affixed
to container 12 by using a crimp system 178. Container 12 includes
an outwardly extending protuberance 180 that includes a face that
engages a matching face on flange 182 of dispenser body 166.
Container 12 further includes a compression fit cap or clevis 174
that is affixed to regulator body 64 wherein the regulator body 64
sealingly engages the container 12 by O-rings or other suitable
arrangement 184. The interior circumference of dispenser body 166
further defines a groove 176 that engages the distal portion of cap
174. In particular, when a downward force is applied onto dispenser
body 166, cap 174 is compressed inwardly until the distal portion
of cap 174 expands outwardly ("snaps") and engages groove 176
thereby permanently affixing dispenser body 166 onto container 12.
If desired, exterior circumferential portions of matching faces of
protrusion 180 and flange 182 can be crimped by using crimp system
178. The crimp system can comprise a ring, foil or other flexible
system that is shaped in order to be permanently affixed to the
matching faces of protrusion 180 of dispenser body 166 and flange
182 of container 12.
[0075] Referring now to FIG. 20, FIG. 20 shows an embodiment of a
dispenser of FIG. 19 wherein a plug 186 is located in regulator
body 64. Plug 186 can be used for introducing or removing a gas
from pressure source 170.
[0076] Referring now to FIG. 21, FIG. 21 shows an embodiment of a
dispenser of FIG. 19 that further includes a pressure relief value
62 that employs valve member 112 and operates in the manner
described above in connection with FIG. 8.
[0077] While the invention has been described with reference to a
preferred embodiment, it will be understood by those skilled in the
art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be
substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope
of the invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to
adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the
invention without departing from the essential scope thereof.
Therefore, it is intended that the invention not be limited to the
particular embodiment disclosed as the best mode contemplated for
carrying out this invention, but that the invention will include
all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended
claims.
* * * * *
References