Abstract: A system and method detection of an empty keg is provided. Carbonated beverages from a keg communicates a carbonated alcoholic beverage to a Foam on Beer (FOB) detector. The FOB forms a reservoir and containing a float. Level detection sensors in operative communication with the float identifies the position and movement of the float. An keg's status can thereby be anticipated by float level and speed changes. A the FOB status can thereby operate a touchless tap including a control valve via a tap control board (TCB) that actuates the control valve. A controller in operative communication with the TCB communicates with the control valve, the actuation button and in communication with the level sensor.

Abstract: An automated system for venting gas from a FOB is provided replacing a conventional manual venting button at the top of a FOB with a remotely controlled vent (bleed) valve attached to the FOB. After that the venting button is reinstalled in parallel with the vent valve. The automated vent valve can be implemented as a solenoid or pneumatic valve and is controlled by a controller. A tube connects FOB's vent outlet with a waste bucket. When the FOB is vented, a mix of gas, foam, and beverage is expelled from the FOB chamber and deposited in this waste bucket.

Abstract: A system and method detection of an empty keg is provided. Carbonated beverages from a keg communicates a carbonated alcoholic beverage to a liquid beverage sensor in fluid communication with the bulk keg. The liquid beverage sensor includes at least one phase detection sensor capable of identifying a foam or gas-liquid interface (Float on Beer Detector), at least one pressure sensor, at least one flow sensor, or at least one temperature sensor. A controller in operative communication with the TCB communicates with the control valve, the actuation button and in communication with the sensors. Upon detection of a low float level for the FOB detector, or low system pressure, or high system temperature, an alarm and/or override of the control of the tap is accomplished.

Abstract: An automated beverage dispenser include a metering manifold that contains a pair of mating manifold blocks forming as a generally rectangular cuboid element forming a minimized volume manifold block. A fluid conduit system, a sensor control system and a valve and actuator system are incorporated in and on the minimized volume manifold block. The fluid conduit system comprises a series of linear, interacting fluid channels including a central linear conduit containing a magnetic piston and forming an operative portion of a metering mechanism for providing a metered discharge of beer or beverage between the bulk storage and a tap or spigot in a manner that provides for a beverage specific controlled metered pour into a beverage container. The instant abstract is neither intended to define the invention disclosed in this specification nor intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way.

Abstract: A system and method detection of an empty keg is provided. Carbonated beverages from a keg communicates a carbonated alcoholic beverage to a Foam on Beer (FOB) detector. The FOB forms a reservoir and containing a float. Level detection sensors in operative communication with the float identifies the position and movement of the float. An keg's status can thereby be anticipated by float level and speed changes. A the FOB status can thereby operate a touchless tap including a control valve via a tap control board (TCB) that actuates the control valve. A controller in operative communication with the TCB communicates with the control valve, the actuation button and in communication with the level sensor.

Abstract: A beverage dispensing system provides a product metering system, a dispenser and a control system for operatively controlling dispensing, metering, delivering and reporting of dispensed product. Authentication, authorization and control operation are distributed in a cloud based control through a wide area network. The dispenser includes sensor to identifying objects and filter out movements that are not interpreted as requests for dispensing. A local controller operates the metering and dispensing, combining inputs from the hardware level sensors and applying logic and rules from the remote cloud level. The instant abstract neither defines the invention disclosed in this specification nor limits the invention scope in any way.

Abstract: A dispensing and pour control system for a regulated beverage having a metering system that provides a discharge in a controlled and metered manner. A sensor system uses a Line Control Board (LCB) that detects a piston location inside a metering conduit. A plurality of magnetic sensors is positioned at equal intervals and in the same plane collinear with the movement of a magnetic piston within the metering mechanism conduit. The piston position is detected by obtaining a set of momentary readings of the magnetic sensors and estimating a location of the piston by interpolation of the piston position as an anticipate location between sensors that are adjacent and showing readings of opposing signs.

Abstract: A touchless tap handle for beverage dispensing is provided that incorporates a spring and ball check valve within a spigot housing. The spigot housing as a male threaded end for connection to a beverage dispensing line. Between the beverage connection and the check valve is a flow control valve having a detachable control mechanism. A system operator can use the control mechanism to calibrate fluid flow. The control mechanism is further fastened or keyed to allow for removal after modifying system flow parameters. A tap handle extension is further provided that can be threadingly affixed to the spigot housing. The tap handle extension specifically does not control operational parameters, which are intended to be initiated through pushbutton control of a pour control system.

Abstract: A system and method for the automated dispensing of bulk keg wine is provide having, in combination: integrated temperature control; pressure monitoring; automated purging; and integrated point of sale data acquisition for determining inventory usage statistics for each keg of wine dispensed. The system provides for precise measurement of each portion. An error alarm system warns an operator about beverage tank low level. A system for forcing the flashing of poor quality beverage. Recording of all delivery process events allows for operator or management review and control.

Abstract: A system and method for the automated dispensing of bulk keg wine is provide having, in combination: integrated temperature control; pressure monitoring; automated purging; and integrated point of sale data acquisition for determining inventory usage statistics for each keg of wine dispensed. The system provides for precise measurement of each portion. Control algorithms for adapting system operation provide anticipated travel time and distances, and anticipated dispensed volumes and volumetric flow rates to allow for precise control of selected pour volumes. A relationship is calibrated among applied pressure, piston delay time, and dispensed per push volume to achieve higher control accuracy between a maximum and minimum system pressure ranges.

Abstract: A system and method for the automated dispensing of bulk keg wine is provide having, in combination: integrated temperature control; pressure monitoring; automated purging; and integrated point of sale data acquisition for determining inventory usage statistics for each keg of wine dispensed. The system provides for precise measurement of each portion. An error alarm system warns an operator about beverage tank low level. A system for forcing the flashing of poor quality beverage. Recording of all delivery process events allows for operator or management review and control.

Abstract: A touchless tap handle for beverage dispensing is provided that incorporates a spring and ball check valve within a spigot housing. The spigot housing as a male threaded end for connection to a beverage dispensing line. Between the beverage connection and the check valve is a flow control valve having a detachable control mechanism. A system operator can use the control mechanism to calibrate fluid flow. The control mechanism is further fastened or keyed to allow for removal after modifying system flow parameters. A tap handle extension is further provided that can be threadingly affixed to the spigot housing. The tap handle extension specifically does not control operational parameters, which are intended to be initiated through touchscreen or pushbutton control of a pour control system.