MXPA01000351A - Valve assembly for a beverage container, container for beverage and method for filling and emptying a beverage container - Google Patents

Abstract

Valve assembly for a container for beverage, in particular carbonated beverage such as beer, comprising a housing and a beverage channel with a valve body, wherein operating means are provided for moving the valve body, said operating means comprising:first coupling means for coupling the beverage channel to beverage dispensing means for emptying a container through or along the valve body;and second coupling means for coupling the beveragechannel to a filling device for filling a container through or along the valve body.

Description

Valve assembly for a beverage container, a container for the beverage and a method for filling and emptying the beverage container.

Description of the invention. The invention relates to a valve assembly for a beverage container, in particular for carbonated beverages such as beer, of the type described in the preamble of the main temperature claim. A valve assembly is known from the European patent application EP 0 224 380. This known valve assembly comprises a housing and a beverage conduit with a valve body. The operating means are provided for moving the valve body, the operating means comprising a first and second coupling means for withdrawal and introduction of the beverage from and into the container respectively. In this known assembly, the combined surface of the passage openings in the valve body during filling is identical to the surface during distribution in a first (closed) and a second (open) position respectively. In addition, EP 0 385 191 discloses a valve assembly comprising a housing with a conduit 126139 beverage, placing a valve body that, in a first position, provides a complete closure of the beverage conduit. By means of the quick closing, a feeding line or a drink discharge line can be connected to the housing. It is this known valve assembly, during the filling of a container as well as during the discharge of the beverage therefrom, the same passage of the beverage conduit is discharged in each case. This step is relatively small, so that the filling of the beverage container can only be carried out relatively slowly. In this known valve assembly, increasing the pitch has as a consequence that during the discharge of the beverage, it is to obtain a higher undue flow velocity, which adversely affects the discharge and control of the beverage. Furthermore, this known valve assembly has a relatively greater end-to-end dimension, which is disadvantageous with respect to, for example, the storage of a container provided therewith, the required shelf space and the vulnerability of the valve assembly. . In addition, this known assembly has as a drawback that two valve bodies move in opposite situation to each other, this being complicated, expensive and susceptible to failure.

The object of the invention is to provide a valve assembly of the type described in the preamble, wherein at least the aforementioned drawbacks are avoided, while maintaining the advantages thereof. For this purpose, a valve assembly according to the invention is characterized by the features of claim 1. In a valve assembly according to the present invention, two different coupling means for coupling the beverage duct from the valve assembly to the beverage dispensing means for emptying a container, respectively for coupling the beverage duct to a filling device for filling the container. The operations of filling and emptying the container can be presented through or along the valve body. In contrast to the known valve assembly, the sizing and design of the relevant coupling means can thus be optimally provided in each case while substantially the same valve housing and the valve body can be used, for example fixedly connected to a container internal. The second coupling means may for example allow a greater flow rate, at least filling the container at a relatively high speed and / or pressing without involving excessive foaming or otherwise adversely affecting the beverage and / or the container. The first coupling means, suitable for emptying the container, can be designed with, for example, a relatively small step to distribute the beverage in a controlled and relatively slow manner. Furthermore, for example the first coupling means can be designed to allow the operation of the valve body with a relatively strong stroke, while the first coupling means for example can allow a relatively small stroke, so that they can be constructed with an end dimension to a relatively small end. This is particularly important for the first coupling means, because in principle only this first coupling means will be presented, with a container, to a final user. On the other hand, the second coupling means in principle will only be used in a brewery, in a bottling plant or similar. An additional advantage of using a first and second coupling means is that the first coupling means does not have to be adjusted until the associated container has been filled, so that the sealing and / or alteration of the seal thereof is possible to make a particularly simple way, which is of importance to guarantee the quality of the contents of the container in question. When the valve body is in its third position, a relatively large flow of beverage can pass the valve body per unit of time, to fill the beverage container relatively quickly, without involving excess foam. This means that filling the beverage container requires relatively little time, without particularly complicated measures that have to be taken for the same. In addition, this prevents the quality of the beverage from being adversely affected during filling, while a relatively high filling pressure may be applied. Because when the valve assembly is in the second position, only a relatively small step is discharged to distribute the beverage, the advantage thus achieved enables accurate control of the desired flow rate, and again without involving excess foam and without require complicated measures. In the further elaboration, a device according to the invention is further characterized by the features of claim 3. In this embodiment, a first position of total closing of the valve body, a second partially open position and a third position totally open is defined as discrete stages, as a result of which this valve assembly can be used in an even simpler manner. In a further advantageous embodiment, a valve assembly according to the invention is further characterized by the features of claim 4, in particular the claims 4 and 5. The advantage achieved by providing at least a partially hollow valve body, wherein, in a side wall, at least one opening is provided to form, in at least one second and third position of the valve body, an open fluid connection between a container in which the valve assembly is used and a part of the remote beverage conduit to the relevant container, is that the valve body can be of a particularly simple construction, while the passage in the first and second position is easily defined by the total surface area of the free portion of the or each opening in the side wall. In a first position, the beverage conduit is closed at least at the end face, such that the beverage from the relevant container can not reach the or each opening in question. The advantage that is also achieved by the present is that the exit address of the beverage, at least during the feeding of the beverage in the container, attaches an angle with the longitudinal axis of the valve body, to obtain a favorable distribution of the beverage, while the beverage is prevented from feeding directly and at the pressure of filling the filling opening in the beverage that is already present in the container, while preventing further foaming thereof. This also provides the advantage that when the beverage is removed from the container, the supply of beverage from the container to the beverage conduit and formed through the or each relevant opening is prevented from possibly being covered by, for example, a flexible wall of the container. container. In addition, an additional advantage is that during use, the flow through the opening of the beverage duct itself in each case remains almost completely free, or at least that when the valve assembly is open, the passage thereof is sparingly limited by the presence of the valve body, which prevents the flow of beverage from adversely affected during filling and emptying of the container. In addition, the filling pressure will support the opening of the valve body. The use of the end face of the valve body to close in a first position against a The longitudinal edge of the beverage conduit effects an appropriate seal in a simple manner, where the seal is further improved by the occurrence of a slightly higher pressure in the container. In an additional mode, a valve assembly according to the invention is characterized by the features of claim 7. By coupling the operating means to the valve body, simple operation thereof is allowed. The stop means, when the first and second coupling means are used, provide that the stroke of the valve body is in each case unambiguously defined. Further, by providing that the coupling means can only be separated from the valve body when the valve body is in the first position, the beverage is prevented from unintentionally escaping from the container in the absence of the coupling means. In fact, an open position can only be adopted by the valve body when the coupling means have been removed. In a further advantageous embodiment, the valve body is biased to a closed position. In a further embodiment, a valve assembly according to the invention is characterized additionally by the features of claim 11. The adjusting biasing means in a chamber between the valve body and the housing offer the advantage that the biasing means are easily protected and can be quickly formed, as long as they are located outside the flow of drink. This simply prevents the mutual influence of the quality of the drink and the means of diversion. By diverting the valve body in a first, closed position, the advantage is offered that the beverage can not flow from the container until the valve body is actively operated in an open position. In the further elaboration, a valve assembly according to the invention is further characterized by the features of claim 12. The advantage achieved by the use of fluid deflection means, in particular an air deflection, is that the valve assembly it can be of a particularly simple and economical design, while deviating means from a convenient deviation feature are obtained. In addition, the diversion means have the advantage that the quality of the beverage can not be affected at all by them, nor even when the drink is contacted with the means of diversion. In addition, the recycling of a valve assembly according to the invention is hereby further simplified. In a further advantageous embodiment, a valve assembly according to the invention is characterized by the features of claim 14. Adjusting the valve body in the closed position offers the advantage that the transportation and storage of a container provided with the same they are further simplified and the preservation of quality is ensured by the same. In a further advantageous embodiment, a valve assembly according to the invention is characterized by the features of claim 16. The advantage achieved with this embodiment is that the pressure body is movable in two directions, such that it can act as the Pressure relief valve for the internal space of the container. After all, in the case of undue high pressure in the internal space of the container, the valve body will be pressed towards at least partially the position open, allowing the gas at least escape from the internal space to reduce the pressure in it. The invention is further related to a valve assembly for a beverage container, characterized by the features of claim 17. In this embodiment, a valve assembly of a particularly simple construction and an effective pitch pattern is obtained. The invention further relates to a beverage container, in particular a carbonated beverage such as beer, provided with a valve assembly according to the invention. In a particularly advantageous embodiment, a container according to the invention is characterized by the features of claim 19. The use of an outer container, and included therein, a relatively flexible internal container in which the beverage can be stored, offers the advantage that the inner container can be vacuum pressed in a relatively simple manner by introducing a pressure medium between the inner container and the outer container. Accordingly, the inner container is relatively effectively protected by the outer container. In this way, the container The inner part can be emptied relatively easily, while the container can also be filled quickly by means of the valve assembly with the second coupling means. Through the provision of means for feeding the pressure medium into the space between the inner container and the outer container, where the feeding means close when the valve body is in a first position and open when the body of the valve body is in a first position. valve is in a second or third open position, this is carried out rapidly such that the pressure in this space is maintained at the appropriate level when no beverage is fed into or discharged from the container. After all, in those cases, the valve body is in its first position, where the beverage conduit is closed. In a further advantageous embodiment, a container according to the invention is further characterized by the features of claim 21. Through the use of the first sealing means in the first and second coupling means and the second sealing means in the housing , wherein the first and second sealing means, when the valve body is in any open position, cooperate for a firm fluid connection between the first or second means of coupling and the air duct, separated from the path to travel by the drink, a passage for the air, in at least the pressure medium, is obtained quickly without the air contacting the drink. The invention further relates to a method for using a container according to the invention, characterized by the features of claim 23. A method offers the advantage that a container according to the invention can be assembled and filled in a particularly simple manner, while in addition, the advantage that can be achieved after filling, is that the closure of the container is carried out directly. A method according to the invention is further preferably characterized by the features of claim 26. The advantage achieved by removing a used internal container together with a part of the valve assembly connected thereto, prior to locating an internal container, is that the container The outside can be used again, while the inner container together with the relevant part of the valve assembly can be reused. This may possibly be for the entire valve assembly, even preferably without the second coupling means.

Further advantageous embodiments of a valve assembly, a beverage container, and the method and combinations thereof are provided in the subclaims. To explain the present invention, the exemplary embodiments of a valve assembly, a beverage container and the method according to the present invention will be specified below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Wherein: Figure 1 is a sectional side elevation, schematic of a container according to the invention; Figure la is a perspective view of a container according to Figure 1; Figure 2 is an enlarged sectional side elevation of a valve assembly according to the invention, in a first embodiment, comprising a second coupling means for filling the container, arranged in the neck of a container; Figure 3 is a sectional side elevation of the valve assembly according to Figure 2, in the open condition; Figure 4 is a sectional side elevation of a valve assembly according to Figure 2, but with a first coupling means for emptying the container, in the closed condition; Figure 5 shows the valve assembly according to Figure 4, in the open condition; Figure 6 shows a valve assembly according to the invention of an alternative embodiment, having a first coupling means and comprising an integrated protection plate; Figure 7 is a sectional side elevation of a further alternative embodiment of a valve assembly according to the invention, having a separate guard plate; Figure 8 shows two perspective views of a portion of a valve assembly, comprising a guard plate, a spacer means and a portion of the valve housing; Figure 9 shows several alternative exemplary embodiments of the diverting means for use in a valve assembly according to the invention; Figure 10 schematically shows the connection of a container during filling; Figure 11 shows schematically the connection of a container during the discharge of the beverage; Figure 12 is a sectional view of a portion of a valve body and a second coupling means, in the alternative embodiment; Figure 13 shows a portion of a valve body and a first coupling means in an alternative embodiment, comparable with the embodiment according to Figure 12; Figure 14 shows a container according to the invention, arranged in a receptacle; Figure 15 is a sectional side elevation of a valve assembly according to the invention, in a further alternative embodiment,; Figure 16 is a perspective view of a valve assembly according to Figure 15, with the dip tube removed therefrom; Figure 17 is a sectional side elevation of a first coupling means in an alternative embodiment; Figure 18 is a sectional view of a container having a valve assembly according to Figure 15 and a first coupling means according to Figure 17, in sectioned lateral elevation, with an enlarged view of a portion thereof; Y Figure 19 shows a portion of a container according to Figure 18, with the second coupling means for filling the container. In this specification, the identical or corresponding parts have the identical or corresponding reference numbers. In this specification, a first position of the valve body is understood to correspond to a closed position, a second position is understood to correspond to a partially open position for dispensing the beverage from the container, and a third position is understood to correspond to a position open to fill the container. In the third position, the valve assembly is preferably more open than in the second position, so that the valve assembly has a higher flow velocity. A container 1 according to the invention comprises a substantially rigid outer container, for example, blown from PET or PEN, or PET having a barrier against the passage of gas, such as EVOH, eliminator or the like, and an internal container 4 for example relatively Flexible, rib-shaped, produced from polyethene. Of course, other plastics or metals are also convenient as material for the container. The inner container can also be made of a different material having the appropriate barrier properties. In Figure 1, on the right side of the center C, the internal container 4 is shown in the filled condition, ending against the inside of the outer container 2. On the left side, the internal container 4 is shown in the empty condition, where the internal volume of the internal container is zero. In this condition, the inner container 4 can be introduced into or removed from the outer container 2 by means of the neck 28 of the outer container 2. Adjacent to the upper end 6, the internal container 4 is attached to a valve assembly 8, in a manner to be described in detail below. Adjacent to the lower end 10, the outer container 2 is provided with a support ring 12 in which the container 1 can be arranged. A second ring 14 is provided on the upper side that surrounds and protects the valve assembly 8, the collar is further provided with handles 16 allowing the holding and handling of the container 1 in a simple manner. The rings 12, 14 are produced, for example, from plastic, cardboard or metal. For this matter, the outer container can also be produced from metal.

A valve assembly according to Figure 2 comprises a valve housing 18 and a valve body 20. The valve housing 18 comprises an upper face 22 with a dependent circumferential wall having a fastening flange 26 by which the housing valve 18 can be fixed to the neck 28, under a second holding flange 30. A central opening 32 is provided in the upper face 22. A first guide neck 34 extends concentrically around the opening 32, in an upward direction, while a second guide collar 36 extends concentrically in the opposite direction. The second guide collar 36 has its lower side provided with an internally directed clamping edge 38. From the lower side and inside the second guide collar 36, a part of the inner housing 40 is retained behind the clamping edge 38 by a cylindrical wall 42. which forms the outer wall of a chamber 44. A diamond-shaped shaped part 46 is provided on the underside of the cylindrical wall 42 having a central internal diameter 48. The valve body 20 is substantially cylindrical, provided with a central passage 50, and has its lower end closed by an end face 52. Two openings 56 that are provided in the circumferential wall 54, directly on the end wall 52, the central passage 50 is connected to the outside of the valve body 20 and to the internal space 51 of the inner container 4, when the valve body 20 is open, that is, when the valve body 20 is in its second or third position. Figure 2 shows valve body 22 in the first position. The end face 52 is circumferentially provided with an outerly extending edge 58 which, when the valve body 20 is in its first position, is sealed against the circumferential edge 60 of a part of the ring extending downwardly 62 of the part of the lower housing 40. This effects a closure of the central internal diameter 48 through the valve body 20 and, consequently, between the openings 56 and the internal space of the internal container 4. The internal container 4 is connected to the lower part of the housing 40 on the spacer part 46, against the cylindrical wall 42, at least against the transition between the cylindrical wall part 42 and the spacer means 46. The internal container 4 is connected to the valve housing 18, at least to the lower part of the housing 40 thereof, sealing it, while the relatively greater distance between the seal connection and collar part 62 ensures deformation of circumferential edge 60 and, consequently, an adverse effect on the sealing of edge 48 against it is rapidly prevented. The valve body 20 has its upper end 64, remote from the end face 52, provided with an outwardly extending flange 66 having a surface 68 extending in an upward direction. A second circumferentially extending edge 70 is provided on the outside of the surface 68, ending with an appropriate fit against the inside of the cylindrical wall 42. The chamber 42 has a cylindrical shape and is attached between the cylindrical wall 42, the flange 66, the side wall 44 of the valve body 20 and the transition 47 between the spacer part 46 and the cylindrical wall 42. A package is placed in the chamber 44, on the surface and at the bottom thereof, for example an O-ring made of plastic or rubber 72, sealing the chamber 42 hermetically against gas. During a downward movement of the valve body 20, in the direction P, for example in the third position shown in figure 3, the volume of the chamber 44 is reduced, while the air contained therein can not escape and therefore is compressed. As a result, a force The closure force will be exerted on the valve body 20 in the opposite direction to P, where the closing force causes the valve body 20 in the direction of the first closed position shown in Figure 2. If necessary, in addition to or instead of the air deflection means shown in Figure 2, other deflection means may be incorporated in the chamber 44, for example a helical spring, or other fluid. Between the cylindrical wall 42 and the second guide collar 36, a space is kept free, forming a first part 74 of an air path 76. In the first position shown in Figure 2, the upper end of the surface 8 ends against the bottom side of the circumference of the central opening 32. As a result, the air path 74 adjacent to the opening 32 is closed. Accordingly, in this position of the valve body 20, air can not flow out of or into the space 78 between the internal container 4 and the external container 2. Figure 2 shows a second coupling part 80, coupled to the upper end 64 of the valve body 20 by means of a frustoconical bottom end 82. This frustoconical bottom end forms a fluid adjustment seal against the inside of the valve body 20. • second coupling part 80 has a central passage 84, which fluidically and tightly connects to the central passage 50 of the valve body 20 and which has a section that is identical or preferably slightly larger than the section of the passage 50 in the valve body 20. The central passage 84 in the second coupling part 80 is surrounded by a second concentrically located part 86 of the air duct 76, ending at a distance over the lower end 82 of the central passage 84. A raised edge 88 is provided around the opening central 32, adapted to end against the underside of the outer wall 90 of the second air duct part 86 and seal it when the second coupling part 80, coupled to the valve body, has been pressed as far as possible in the direction P as shown in FIG. shown in Figure 3. Between the wall 92 of the central passage 84 and the central opening 32, a space is free, through which, when the second coupling part is e In the second position shown in Figure 3, air can flow from the second air duct part 86 through the central opening 32 to the first air duct part 74 and from there into the interspace 78, or it can withdraw from it, while the air duct 76 is closed to the environment by the cooperating wall 90 and the raised edge 88. The second coupling part 80 is guided on the outside of the wall 90 within the guide collar 34, for the unequivocal movement of it. If the second coupling part 80 is removed from the third position shown in Figure 3, the lower end of the wall 90 is pulled freely from the edge 88 and the air duct 76 is brought into open communication with the environment through an opening 94 in the guide collar 34, so that the air can not be additionally introduced into the container or discharged therefrom. As appears from a comparison between Figures 2 and 3, the second coupling part 80 can make a relatively larger stroke Si between the first position and the third position. In the third position, as shown in Figure 3, the openings 56 are completely free under the lower neck portion 62. By means of a beverage feeding conduit, partially provided by the central passage 84 in the coupling part 80. and the part of the beverage duct 50 in the valve body 20, the beverage can be forced through the opening 56 in the internal space of the internal container 4, as shown schematically in Figure 10. At the same time, by means of the air duct 76, the air can be discharged from the space 78 between the internal container 4 and the container 2 outside, to provide enough space for drinking. Preferably, a little excess pressure is maintained in the space 78 during filling, to obtain a better filling of the container, without the formation of foam. Due to the full opening of the openings 56, the beverage can be rapidly introduced into the container at a relatively higher flow rate and under relatively high pressure, without the beverage being adversely affected thereby. The beverage flows substantially radially from the openings 56, for example against the wall of the inner container 4, so that even better filling is obtained. The spacer part 46 ensures that the wall of the inner container 4 does not end against the openings 56. After the inner container 4 has been completely filled with the beverage, the second coupling part 80 moves upwardly, or at least the force of pressure is removed therefrom, such that the valve body 20 is forced in the first position by the deflection means 45 formed in the chamber 44 and the valve body 20 closes the central diameter 48 hermetically against liquids. The second coupling part 80 can then be removed from the valve body 20 and housing 18 and can Download or reuse to fill a next container. Figure 4 is a sectional view of a valve assembly according to the invention, where the valve housing 18 and the valve body 20 are identical to the embodiment according to Figures 1-3. However, the second coupling means 80 has been replaced by a first coupling means 100, convenient for dispensing the beverage from the inner container 4. The second coupling means 100 comprises a first circumferential wall 102, which can be received snugly with the guide inside the guide collar 34. Adjacent to the lower end, the circumferential wall 102 is provided with a slightly beveled inner edge 104, which can be received properly and in a sealed manner between the guide collar 34 and the edge 88. The upper longitudinal edge 106 of the first coupling means 100 diverges outwardly slightly conically and comprises a stirrup face for coupling a supply hose of a pressure source (not shown) for introducing a pressure medium, in particular air under pressure within the circumferential wall 102. The first coupling means 100 is additionally provided with a part of conduit in squaring form 108 comprising a first support 110 that is cylindrical and extends concentrically in relation to the first circumferential wall 102 and is partially included therein, while a second support 112 is provided, extending approximately horizontally from the end of the first support 110 where the end points upwards during use, through the first circumferential wall 102 and projecting slightly therefrom. Through a flexible hose 116 coupled to the part 114 of the second support where the part projects from the circumferential wall 102, the beverage can be distributed from the container, or it can be directed to at least one spigot device such as a spigot. extraction (not shown). Preferably, the hose is fixedly connected to and in particular of one-piece construction with the second support 112. The end of the first remote support 110 of the second support 112 has an outer cross section that is slightly smaller than the inner section of the part of the second part. conduit 50 in the valve body 20, and comprises an annular rim 118 that extends slightly flexibly outwardly and sealingly terminates against the interior of the wall 54 of the valve body 20. Thus, a fluid firm connection can be obtained between the central diameter 50 of the valve body 20 and the part of the beverage distribution conduit 120 in the conduit portion in the form of a square 108. In addition, this beverage distribution conduit 50, 120 is sealed in relation to the internal space within the second circumferential wall 102, so that the air introduced therein under pressure can not flow into the beverage distribution conduit 50, 120. The first support 110 has its external part provided with an externally extending flange terminating a short distance from the free longitudinal edge 118 and can abut against the flange 66 of the valve body 20 for movement thereof. Figure 4 shows the valve body 20 in the first closed position, wherein the first coupling means 100 has been moved to a higher position. The height of the first coupling means 100 on the upper face 22 of the valve housing 18 is relatively smaller compared to the height of the second coupling means 80 on the upper face 22 when the valve body 20 is in the first position. The second support 112 remains with its lower side at the level of the upper edge of the guide collar 34.

The opening 94 in the guide collar 34 opens towards the surface and is where it forms a slit, with a width corresponding approximately to the width of the second support 112. This means that the first coupling means 100 can only be lowered when the second support 112 has been moved over the opening 94. As a result, the first coupling means 100 can be pressed from the position shown in Figure 4, in the second position shown in Figure 5. The maximum stroke S¿ is limited by the lower edge 104 of the second coupling means and the stop face 122 attached between the edge 88 and the guide neck 34. This stroke S2 is considerably smaller than the maximum stroke Si of the second coupling means 80. Furthermore, by this maximum stroke S2, it is defined the maximum passage O of the openings 56, ie, between the end wall 52 of the valve body 20 and the lower side of the circumferential edge 60 of the lower housing part 40. The area Total of the pitch O of the openings thus created is smaller than the area of the openings 56, and smaller than the area of the pitch when the valve body is in its third position. As the valve body 20 is pressed when the first coupling means is in the second position shown in Figure 5, the conduit air 76 is discharged again, through which, as shown in Figure 11, the compressed air introduced into the circumferential wall 102 can pass through the air duct 76 into the space 78 between the inner container 4 and the external container 2, for the condensation thereof. The beverage can be forced from the inner container 4 and by means of the passages of the openings 56 in the beverage distribution conduit 50, 120, and is discharged by means of the hose 116. If the first coupling means 100 is raised from new, for example under the influence of the first deviation means 45, the valve body 20 is returned to the first position and the air duct 76 is again closed, so that the pressure formed in the space 78 at least is retained substantially, while preventing the possible flow of air in or the beverage out of the inner container. The spacer means 46 offers the advantage that the flexible inner container 4 can not end up against the openings 56, so that the passage always remains free when the valve body is in the second or third position. By way of illustration, the maximum stroke S2 of the first coupling means and the movement of the valve body between the first and second positions is, for example, 3-4 mm, while the maximum stroke S2 of the second coupling means and maximum movement of the valve body between the first and third positions, for example, of approximately 12 mm. Of course, these values and proportions should not be translated as restrictive, but should only be considered as emplos. As shown in Figures la and 2a, the conduit portion 86 extends around the wall 92, while the narrow flanges are provided to connect the wall portions 90 and 92. Figures 6 and 7 show the alternative example embodiments of a valve assembly according to the invention, which mainly differ from the embodiment according to Figures 1-5 in that, or at least adjacent to the lower housing part 40, a plate-shaped portion 124, which form a spacer plate, which is provided which extends beyond the spacer part 46 and preferably closes the neck 28 substantially in the interior. The section Di of the spacer plate 124 is preferably slightly larger than the inner section D2 of the neck 28, such that when the valve assembly 8 is adjusted, the spacer plate 124 is confined to or below the neck 28. During the adjustment of the valve assembly 8 and the inner container 4 connected therewith, which is inserted through the neck 28, the longitudinal edge 126 of the spacer plate 124 will move elastically slightly inwardly and will rejoin after the neck 28 has passed. The spacer plate 124 offers the advantage that during emptying, the internal container 4 is prevented from moving in the neck 28, at least around the spacer part 46 and the valve housing 18. Therefore, the advantage thus achieved is that the remaining volume of the internal container 4 is zero while , furthermore, proper operation of the valve assembly 8 is ensured. In the embodiment shown in Figure 7, the plate 124 is manufactured separately and fits into the lower housing part 40, while partially overlapping and surrounding the spacer part 46. In the embodiment shown in Figures 6 and 8, the spacer plate 124 integrates with the lower housing part 40 and extends completely on the spacer part 46. This is advantageous in terms of production and convenience in the use. As shown in Figure 8, the cylindrical wall 42 is provided, adjacent the spacer plate 124, with several separately spaced flange portions 128, which are provided for preservation of the duct part 74. Further, at the upper longitudinal edge of the cylindrical wall 42, several spaced-apart castellations 130 are provided, to increase the passage of air to the duct part 74 when the valve body 20 is open. This prevents the involuntary closing of the air duct 76 when the valve body is in its second or third position. In this embodiment, the inner container 4 can be secured directly against the spacer plate 124 and / or the spacer part 46, preferably through the seal. Figure 9a shows a first alternative embodiment of the biasing means 145. Here, a coil spring 147 is located in the chamber 144, where the helical spring, during movement of the valve body 20 in relation to the cylindrical wall 42, is compressed in the opening direction P. The spring 147 is preferably made of plastic that can be recycled together with the additional valve assembly and, possibly, the inner container 4. Figure 9b shows an additional alternative embodiment of the diverting means 245, where, in chamber 244, several deviating edges 247 that extend slightly helically are provided whose upper ends connect to the underside of flange 266 and whose lower ends end against the bottom of the chamber 244. When the valve body 20 is pressed in the direction P, the edges 247 will deform elastically and will exert on the valve body 20 a force acting in the opposite direction. When the valve body 20 is released, it will therefore be pressed again in the first closed position. Figures 12 and 13 show a further alternative embodiment of a portion of a valve assembly 8 according to the invention, applicable to the different example embodiments shown. In this embodiment, the valve body 20 has its interior provided, adjacent the upper end, with two annular grooves 53, 55. The upper groove 53 is provided on the frustoconical inner surface of the surface 68, while the second lower groove 55 is provided. adjacently provides the upper end of the circumferential wall 54 of the valve body 20. Adjacent the lower end of the circumferential wall 102, the first coupling part (Figure 13) is provided by with an annular ring 57 on the outside, capable of coupling the lower annular groove 55 for coupling the first coupling part 100 to the valve body 20. If necessary, one or more thin portions 59 or similar deformable portions can be provided in the circumferential wall 102, for elastic deformation thereof to simplify the engagement of the ring 57 with the groove 55. When the first coupling part 100 is pressed down, it will slide slightly in the internal diameter 50 of the valve body 20, until the flange 57 engages the slot 55. Thus, the first coupling means 100 is positively coupled to the valve body 20, so that the valve body 20 can move up and towards down with the first coupling part 100. To separate the first coupling part 100 from the valve body 20, the coupling part 100 will have to be pulled up, and the valve body 20 will first move in the first, closed position before that the first coupling means 100 is released from the valve body 20. Preferably, the valve body 20 is provided, adjacent its edge 21. upper longitudinal, with an externally extending annular rim 23 capable of coupling a groove 25 in the cylindrical wall 42 or on the upper longitudinal edge of this cylindrical wall 42. The rim 23 and the groove 25 are positioned to fit together when the valve body 20 is in its closed position. Therefore, this is done Quickly paijra that the valve body 20 is in each case brought to the closed position before the coupling means l | 30 can be removed from the valve body 20 Figure 12 shows the lower end of the second coupling means 80, provided with an annular shoulder 61 which can be received snugly in the upper groove 53 in the valve body 20. Thus, a positive coupling of the second coupling means 80 to the valve body 20 is obtained, again in such a way that the body valve 20 can move from top to bottom with the second coupling medium The effect achieved by causing the force to be smaller to positively couple the first or second coupling means 100 or 80 to the valve body 20, necessary to not engage the flange 23 and the slot 25, is that in each case, the means coupling means 80, 100 are coupled to the valve body 20 before the valve body 20 can move. In addition, the advantage achieved by the flange 23 and the groove 25 is that the surface 68 of the valve body 20 will be, in the second and third positions, deformed slightly inwards, whereby the relevant coupling means 80 are additionally fastened, 100 In this embodiment, the diversion means may optionally be distributed. Figures 10 and 11 show the flow directions and the flow paths of the beverage, in particular the beer, and the pressure medium, in particular air, to fill and empty the container respectively. A valve assembly according to the present invention offers the advantage that the flow paths for the beverage and the pressure medium are fitted in a valve assembly, at least within a housing, and are completely separated from one another, which allows a particularly simple connection and a simple construction of a valve assembly. A container according to the present invention is preferably located within a receptacle (Figure 14) by means of an end user. By closing the lid of the relevant receptacle, a connection for the compressed air is connected to the upper side of the first coupling means 100, while, further, by closing the lid, the first coupling means 100 is pressed down along the path S2. Before closing the lid, the end of the hose 116 can then be removed from the relevant receptacle or connected in or to an extraction spigot. or similar that is placed for example in the receptacle. This receptacle preferably comprises the means by automatically bringing the space 78 between the inner container and the outer container 2 to a desired pressure and to maintain that pressure. A receptacle allows a container according to the present invention to be used in an even simpler manner. However, it is also certain that it is possible to connect a container according to the present invention in a different manner to a pressure source and / or a beverage distribution device, for example in a known spigot device used in bars. , hotels, restaurants, etc. Figure 15 is a sectional side elevation of a valve assembly 308 comprising a valve housing 318 having a substantially cylindrical section, comprising a counterpart 373 projecting inwardly with a central opening. On the underside, the valve housing 318 is closed by the valve foot having a central inner diameter 350A, where the valve foot is secured therein by means of, for example, spin welding, welding, glueing or Similary. Likewise a substantially cylindrical pressure body 321 extends from the lateral side of the foot valve 319 through the opening in the counterpart 373, such that a projection 357 can sealingly end against the counterpart 373. Through a first end 320A, a valve body 320 extends into the central internal diameter 350A, while a O-ring 372 or other suitable seal is provided for sealing the gases and liquids against the valve foot 319. Further, at a short distance from the first end 320A, the valve body 320 is provided with a flange radially extending 323, which can receive the support of the valve foot 319. From the flange 323, a tubular portion 371 of the valve body 320 extends in a cylindrical portion 333 of the pressure body 321, while two rings in the shape of O 372 or other suitable seals are secured in the tubular part 371 of the valve body 320, at a distance from each other, where the O-rings can hermetically seal for gas and liquid against the inside of the cylindrical part 333. Between these two O-rings 372, four radial openings 356 are provided. in the tubular part 371. The tubular part 371 of the valve body 320 is closed at the upper end 320B by an end face 352. Between the pressure body 321 and the radial flange 323 of the valve body 320, it is it places a spring 347, which presses the pressure body 321 and the valve body 320 separately, such that the projection 357 closes against the counterpart 373, while the end face 352 is located on a transition face 353 of the pressure body 321 The gas passage openings 331 are provided in the valve housing 318, adjacent to the valve foot 319, the purpose of which will be discussed below. An additional tubular body 375 extends from the valve foot 319, in the direction away from the valve body 320, where an immersion tube 359 of the tubular body is secured. The openings 355 are additionally provided between the valve foot 319 and the immersion tube 359. Adjacent to the upper end, the valve housing 318 comprises a ring 361 of segments 326, where the segments, in the released position shown in Figure 15, they extend substantially horizontally. A clamping ring 329 can slide from the upper side onto the ring 361, and the segments 326 can be pressed in a substantially vertical position and held in the position to join the valve assembly 308, as will be described later. A central opening 363 is provided in the clamping ring 329, through which at least the pressure body 321 can be reached at its upper end. In the position shown in Figure 15, in the first position, the valve assembly is closed. By moving the pressure body 321 in the direction of the valve foot 319, against the pressure of the spring 347, a passage can be created between the projection 357 and the counterpart 373 on the one hand and, when the pressure body 321 is further pressed, the openings 356 will, on the other hand, at least partially be released on the transition face 353 in the pressure body 321, create a fluid connection between the dip tube 359 and the openings 355, at least the central passage 350 in the body valve 320 and the environment, by means of openings 356. A second, partially open position is shown in Figure 18, where the position is particularly convenient for distributing the beverage. Figure 16 is a view is a perspective view of a valve assembly 308 according to the invention wherein segments 326, valve housing 318, valve foot 319 and openings 355 are clearly visible. Figure 17 shows an alternative embodiment of a first coupling means 300, comprising a cylindrical protective cover 302 whose end is connected to an upper face 301, where a portion of the square-shaped conduit 308 that is in open communication with the internal space 390 of the coupling part 300 extends. In the internal space 390, two concentric, slightly spaced apart edges 398, 399 extend downwardly from the top face, including a slot 397 that diverges on the open side. By means of the slot 397, the first coupling means 300 can be pressed fixedly on the upper edge of the pressure body 321, with the first edge 398 located on the inside and the second edge 399 located on the outside thereof, for create an airtight seal of gas and liquid. This position is shown schematically in Figure 18. An air duct 395 extends diagonally from an opening 393 centrally located on the surface of the first part of the coupling, to a position adjacent the longitudinal edge, where the air duct 395 is connected at a step 393 that opens between the protective cover 302 and the outer edge 399. In the position shown in Figure 18, a fluid connection is created between the opening 393 and the passage between the projection 357 and the counterpart 373, and then with the passage openings of gas 331. Thus, the pressure medium, in particular air, can be fed from the opening 393 in the container, between the wall 2 and the package in the form of a cover 4., or, when no package in the form of a cover is used, directly on the beverage to be distributed. For this purpose, an air supply device (not shown) is hermetically connected to gas to the opening 393, while at the same time, the first coupling part 300 is pressed in the direction of the valve foot 319 to move the body of the valve. pressure 321. The first pressure body 300 may be under pressure only over a small distance S2, wherein the lower edge of the protective cover 302 will move against the upper side of the counterpart 373. The transition face 353 will then be approximately at the center level of the openings 356, to achieve a speed through limited flow. Two flanged fastening parts 389 molded integrally molded into the outer end 391 of the conduit 308, are connected to the conduit 308 by means of the pressure connections 387. The fastening parts 389 are diametrically opposed to each other and, in a position where they move a against the other, to form a cylindrical part that can sliding in a secured manner in the open end of the conduit 308. As shown in Figure 18, a distribution tube 385 can slide between the two fastening parts 389, after the two fastening parts, with the end of the distribution tube intermediate, may slip into conduit 308, after connections 387 have been interrupted. As a consequence, the teeth 383 inside the fastening parts 389 will remain in the tube 385 fixedly fastened. Figure 19 shows a second coupling part 380, disposed in a valve assembly 308 as shown in Figure 15, fitted in a container 301. This second coupling part 380 comprises a pressure tube 381 having a central passage 384 , where the pressure tube 381 is passed in a pressure block 382. An air duct 376 is provided in the pressure block 382 is an air duct 376 that is in fluid connection with the passage, formed during the opening of the assembly valve 308, between the projection 357 and the counterpart 373. The pressure tube 381 is hermetically connected for gas and liquid to the upper edge of the pressure body 321, such that it can be moved against the spring 347 in the direction of the foot of the valve. 319 valve over a distance Si. By consequently, the passages 356 on the transition face 353 are completely discharged, allowing the passage of the beverage, by means of the passage 384 and the openings 356, into the internal space of the container while the air present in the container 301 is displaced, by means of the gas passage openings 331 and the space formed between the projection 357 and the counterpart 373, to the air duct 376 for discharge to the outside. The complete discharge of the openings 356 provides a higher filling flow rate. The distance Si is considerably greater than the distance S2 through which the first coupling part 300 can move. In a valve assembly 308 as shown in Figure 15, the valve body 320 can be moved against the biasing pressure of the spring 347 in the direction of the pressure body 321, for example when an (undue) high pressure occurs in the inner space of the container 301. Thus, the upper end 320B of the valve body 320 moves to a position on the transition face 353, so that at least a part is released on the openings 356. By this, a part of the contents of the container can flow immediately to the outside, to discharge the pressure.

Since the end face 352 is emptied with the transition face 353, a particularly simple cleaning of the valve assembly 308 is possible. As appears from FIG. 18, the container 301 is provided, adjacent to its upper end, with a neck having a slot 328 on its outside, where the slot is located a short distance below the free upper longitudinal edge of the neck. A valve assembly 308 according to the invention can slide in the neck of the upper side, until the inside of the ring 361 remains in this upper end. As a consequence, the fastening ring 329 slides over the ring 361 and is pressed therein, such that the segments 326 are forced in their vertical position, while the holding tabs 326A of the segments 326 will engage the slot 328. The fastening ring 329 will thus be secured in the ring 361. As a result, a firm connection is obtained between the valve assembly 306 and the neck of the container 301 in a particularly simple manner. The dip tube 359 extends to a position adjacent to the lower end of the container. As shown in Figure 18, a ring 400 is clamped between the ring 361 and the neck of the container 301. A squaring-like portion 401 which is fixed to the free end of the tube 385, has a flow outlet aperture 402 which, in use, is directed substantially vertically down. A coupling element 403 is provided for handling the tube 385. This tube 385 is preferably flexible and hose-shaped. A container 301 with the valve assembly 308 may be used for example in an assembly as shown in Figure 14. The invention is by no means limited to the exemplary embodiments depicted in the specification and drawings. Many variations thereof are possible within the scope of the invention outlined by the appended claims. For example, the connection means for a source can be provided so that the pressure medium is in another position in the container, for example adjacent to the underside of the container. In addition, the first and / or second coupling means can be designed differently. The second coupling means can be stably designed on, or at least as part of, a filling device. The valve housing 18 can be designed differently and for example secured in an outer container 2 in a different manner, or it may or may not be fixedly connected thereto. The entire container 1 can be recyclable, even preferably, the assembly of The valve, or at least the valve housing, is recyclable with at least the valve body and possibly the internal container 4 connected thereto, while the outer container 2 is directly suitable to be used again. The kinematic contradictions of the parties will be understood to fall within the framework of the invention. For example, the valve body within the relevant beverage conduits may be connected and may or may not be of solid structure with the passages on a circumferential face thereof, while for example a substantially axial flow direction of the beverage may be provided. . In addition, the means of diversion, if any, can be constructed in many ways. In addition, the stops for the first, second and third positions can be provided in different ways. Also, an internal container can be provided with a dip tube construction connected to the valve assembly. Also, different types of internal containers can be provided, for example as described in the Dutch patent application without being republished No. 1006949 or 1006950, which are considered as reference herein, in particular with respect to the modalities for the internal container, the connection means for the pressure medium and any means of cooling, and for the device with spigot, in particular the construction of the spigot and the hose. In particular when an internal container is dispensed with, a container according to the invention can be filled before a valve assembly according to the invention is inserted, in particular through the opening where the valve, at least the assembly valve, will be inserted. It is understood that these and several comparable modalities of example fall within the scope of the invention outlined by the claims.

It is noted that in relation to this date, the best method known to the applicant to carry out the aforementioned invention, is the conventional one for the manufacture of the objects or products to which it refers. Having described the invention as above, property is claimed as contained in the following:

Claims (25)

1. A valve assembly for a beverage container, in particular carbonated beverage such as beer, comprises a housing and a beverage conduit with a valve body, wherein the operating means are provided for moving the valve body, the means for operation characterized in that they comprise: a first coupling means for coupling the beverage conduit to the beverage distribution means for emptying a container through or along the valve body; and a second coupling means for coupling the beverage conduit to a filling device for filling a container through or along the valve body, characterized in that the first coupling means are arranged for the movement of the valve body between a first and second position and the second coupling means are arranged for the movement of the valve body between a first and a third position, wherein in the first position the beverage conduit is completely closed, in the second position one step is discharged for a first flow rate, and in the third position one step is discharged for a second flow rate, the second flow rate is considerably greater than the first flow rate, the arrangement is such that during use, a container is connected to the valve assembly so as to be able to fill relatively quickly through the beverage conduit when the valve body is in its third position, while the beverage can be distributed from the relevant container in a relatively quiet when the valve assembly is in its second position.

2. A valve assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that at least the first and second coupling means are at least partially removable.

3. A valve assembly according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that: the first coupling means and / or the valve body comprises the first stopping means for limiting the stroke of the valve body between a first position and a second position, and the second coupling means and / or the valve body comprises the second stopping means for limiting the impact of the valve body between a first position and a third position.

4. A valve assembly according to any of claims 1-3, characterized in that the valve body is at least partially hollow and comprises a circumferential wall and a closed end face, wherein at least one opening is provided in the wall side, where the opening is partially discharged when the valve body is in a second position and where it is discharged at least almost completely when the valve body is in a third position to form, during use, a fluid connection between a container and the part of the remote drinking duct of the container.

5. A valve assembly according to any of claims 1-4, characterized in that the first coupling means comprises at least a part of a beverage distribution conduit, which can on one side be coupled to the conduit beverage, in particular to a step in the valve body, and which can on the other side be coupled to a device with a spout for drinking.

6. A valve assembly according to any of claims 1-5, characterized in that the second coupling means comprises at least a part of a drink feeding duct, which can on one side be coupled to the drinking duct, in particular one step in the valve body, and which can on the other side be coupled to a beverage feeding device.

7. A valve assembly according to any of claims 1-6, characterized in that the operating means can be coupled to the valve body, wherein the valve body and / or the housing comprise the stop means cooperating with the first and second ones. second pressure means for limiting the stroke of the valve body between a first, closed position and a second, partially open position, respectively a first, closed position and a third, almost completely open position, wherein the first or second coupling means respectively they are interchangeable from the body of valve only when the valve body is in its first position.

8. A valve assembly according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the valve body fits adjacently, preferably at the end of the beverage conduit, wherein the end face, when the valve body is in the first position, is closes against a longitudinal edge of the beverage conduit.

9. A valve assembly according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least when the valve body is in an open position, the space means are placed adjacent to at least one valve opening, to maintain, during the use, the wall of a container connected to the valve assembly at a distance from or from each relevant opening.

10. A valve assembly according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the valve body is biased to a closed position.

11. A valve assembly according to claim 10, characterized in that between at least a portion of the valve body and the housing, a chamber is formed to position the diverting means to deflect the valve body in the first position.

12. A valve assembly according to claim 11, characterized in that the deflection means comprise the fluid deflection means, in particular the means for hermetically sealing the gases to the chamber, in such a way that during the movement of the valve body from the closed position in an open position, a fluid, in particular air, is compressed in the chamber to generate a force in the valve body in the direction of the first position.

13. A valve assembly according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that the deflection means comprise a spring, in particular a helical plastic spring or a leaf spring.

14. A valve assembly according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the valve body can be secured in the closed position, preferably by the operating means.

15. A valve assembly according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the valve body is provided, on the side that during the use of the outer faces of the container, with a closed end wall and at least one radial opening, wherein a pressure body is provided which is movable along the valve body, substantially in an axial direction thereof, the pressure body is operable by the first and / or second coupling means to partially discharge at least a radial opening.

16. A valve assembly according to any of the preceding claims, comprising a valve body and a pressure body, characterized in that the valve body is movable relative to the pressure body between a closed position and an open position, in where the means of Deviation is provided between the valve body and the pressure body to deflect in the closed position, wherein the pressure body and the valve body are at least partially placed in a housing, wherein the movement of the pressure body and the movement of the valve body in relation to the housing can lead to the open position.

17. A valve assembly according to any of claims 1-16, characterized in that it comprises a housing and a valve body substantially disposed therein, the valve body is deflected in a closed position by the diverting means, the body of The valve comprises a tubular part having at least one externally directed radial opening and a closed wall, wherein a pressure body is provided which, in the closed position, closes at least one opening wherein the body The valve is at least in part radially surrounded by the prison body, whereby through the relative axial movement of the valve body in housing relation and / or the pressure body, at least one opening is released partially to form a fluid connection between the interior of the tubular part and the environment.

18. A beverage container, in particular a carbonated beverage such as beer, characterized in that it is provided with a valve assembly according to any of the preceding claims.

19. A container according to claim 18, characterized in that the container comprises an internal container and an outer container, wherein at least the internal container is at least partially flexible, wherein the means are provided for feeding a pressure medium, in particular air, inside and outside a space between the inner container and the outer container, these means comprise an air duct which is closed when the valve body is in a first position and which is open when the valve body is in a second or third position.

20. A container according to claim 19, characterized in that the valve assembly comprises the first means of securing for joining them to the outer container and the second securing means for attaching them to the inner container, wherein the means for feeding in and feeding out the open pressure means between the first and second securing means, wherein the second securing means are preferably placed to connect, through the bonding, sealing or glue technique or the like, to the inner container, at a relatively large distance from each or each passage of the beverage conduit.

21. A container according to claim 19 or 20, characterized in that the first and second coupling means comprise the first sealing means and the housing comprises the second sealing means, wherein, in each open position of the valve body, the first and second sealing means cooperate to form a fluid tight connection between the first and second coupling means and the air conduit respectively, the beverage distribution conduit separated respectively from the beverage conduit and the beverage supply conduit.

22. A valve assembly according to any of claims 1-17 for use in a container according to any of claims 19-21, characterized in that at least the valve body and the housing are made of a material that is it can be reused, in particular of the reusable material, more particularly of the material that is reused together with the material of at least a part of the container, in particular of an internal container.

23. A method for the use of a container according to any of claims 18-21, characterized in that: an internal container is connected to the valve housing, the internal container is inserted in the outer container and the valve assembly is secured adjacent, a second coupling means is connected to the housing and to the valve body, the second coupling means is connected to a filling device, the second coupling means is operated such that the valve body moves in and is held in a third, open position relatively far away, the beverage is introduced into the inner container of the filling device and through the drinking duct, with the discharge of air from the space between the inner container and the outer container, when the inner container is sufficiently full, the second coupling means is removed, such that the valve body moves to a first, closed position, the second is removed coupling means of the housing and replaced by a first coupling means.

24. A method according to claim 23, characterized in that after the insertion of an internal container in an outer container, a used internal container is removed, together with a part of a valve assembly connected thereto.

25. A method according to claim 23 or 2 characterized in that after positioning the first coupling means, they are connected the air supply means to the space between the inner container and the outer container, after the air is introduced into the space under the pressure and the first coupling means is operated, such that the valve body is led to a second one, a limited open position, with the discharge of a desired amount of beverage from the internal container, after the first coupling means moves again, preferably under the influence of diverting means between the housing and the valve body, to close the conduit of drink.