Beverage dispenser having liquid level gauge

A beverage dispenser includes a vessel, a dispensing tap, a dispenser assembly, and a dispensing tube. The vessel defines an internal volume, a lower opening, and an upper opening. The dispensing tube couples the dispensing tap to the dispenser assembly. The dispenser assembly includes a liquid level gauge structure (gauge structure), a riser tube, a lower housing, and an upper housing. The riser tube is positioned within a gauge structure and defines a riser volume. A gauge volume is defined between the gauge structure and the riser tube. The lower housing is configured such that the riser volume and the gauge volume are in fluid communication with the internal volume. The upper housing is configured such that the internal volume is in fluid communication with only the gauge volume and the riser tube is in fluid communication with a volume defined by the dispensing tube.

FIELD

The embodiments described herein are related to beverage dispensers.

BACKGROUND

A beverage such as beer, hard cider, and some wines may contain dissolved carbon dioxide and/or other gases. The dissolved gas gives the beverage a carbonated or bubbly quality. The dissolved gas may come out of solution, making the beverage flat. In particular, when exposed to atmospheric pressure, the beverage may become flat. When the beverage becomes flat, consumers are less likely to consume the beverage.

Additionally, a flavor of the beverage may benefit from limiting or eliminating exposure of the beverage to oxygen and heat. Exposure to oxygen may cause oxygenation processes to occur in the beverage, which may alter the flavor of the beverage and/or cause the beverage to become stale or spoil. For example, craft beer, which may have a rich flavor when produced, may adopt a cardboard-like flavor when exposed to oxygen.

Heat may similarly affect the flavor of beverages such as craft beers. For example, some consumers prefer craft beers at a particular temperature and may wish to maintain the particular temperature during transport and while consuming the craft beers.

SUMMARY

An example embodiment includes a beverage dispenser. The beverage dispenser includes a vessel, a dispensing tap, a dispenser assembly, and a dispensing tube. The vessel defines an internal volume, a lower opening, and an upper opening. The dispensing tube couples the dispensing tap to the dispenser assembly. The dispenser assembly includes a liquid level gauge structure, a riser tube, a lower housing, and an upper housing. The riser tube is positioned within a liquid level gauge structure. The riser tube defines a riser volume and a gauge volume is defined between the liquid level gauge structure and the riser tube. A portion of the lower housing penetrates the vessel at the lower opening. The lower housing is configured such that at the lower housing, the riser volume and the gauge volume are in fluid communication with the internal volume. A portion of the upper housing penetrates the vessel at the upper opening. The upper housing is configured such that at the upper housing, the internal volume is in fluid communication with only the gauge volume and the riser tube is in fluid communication with a volume defined by the dispensing tube.

Another example embodiment includes a method of manufacturing an opening of a vessel that includes a double-wall vacuum space. The method includes punching a first wall opening in a first wall of the vessel. The method includes defining an angled portion around a circumference of the first wall opening. The method includes punching a second wall opening in a second wall of the vessel. The method includes aligning the angled portion with a connection surface surrounding the second wall opening. The method includes joining the connection surface with the angled portion. The method includes sealing a vessel bottom to a lower edge of the first wall and to a lower edge of the second wall. The method includes evacuating a space between the first wall and the second wall.

Another example embodiment includes a beverage dispenser. The beverage dispenser includes a vessel that includes a double-wall vacuum space and at least one opening manufactured according to a method of manufacturing an opening. The method includes punching a first wall opening in a first wall of the vessel. The method includes defining an angled portion around a circumference of the first wall opening. The method includes punching a second wall opening in a second wall of the vessel. The method includes aligning the angled portion with a connection surface surrounding the second wall opening. The method includes joining the connection surface with the angled portion. The method includes sealing a vessel bottom to a lower edge of the first wall and to a lower edge of the second wall. The method includes evacuating a space between the first wall and the second wall.

all in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SOME EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

Some embodiments described herein are related to a beverage dispenser. More particularly, some embodiments relate to a portable dispenser configured to preserve quality of a beverage or a fluid stored in the beverage dispenser by applying a pressure to the beverage and limiting oxygen exposure.

An example dispenser includes a vessel, a regulator cap assembly, and a dispenser assembly. The regulator cap assembly seals the vessel and applies a gas pressure to a beverage in an internal volume defined by the vessel. The pressurized gas provides sufficient pressure to pressurize and dispense the beverage. The vessel may include a double-wall construction with a vacuum space defined between an interior wall and an exterior wall of the vessel. The vacuum space may insulate the beverage in the interior volume from an environment surrounding the beverage dispenser.

An upper opening and a lower opening may be defined in the vessel. In some embodiments, the openings include brazed interfaces or weld joints that are substantially air-tight. The dispenser assembly includes an upper housing and a lower housing that penetrate the vessel at the upper opening and lower opening, respectively. The dispenser assembly includes a concentric-cylindrical construction that includes a liquid level gauge structure and a riser tube. The riser tube is positioned within a liquid level gauge structure. The riser tube defines a riser volume and a gauge volume is defined between the liquid level gauge structure and the riser tube. The lower housing is configured such that at the lower housing, the riser volume, and the gauge volume are in fluid communication with the internal volume. The upper housing is configured such that at the upper housing, the internal volume is in fluid communication with only the gauge volume and the riser tube is in fluid communication with a volume defined by the dispensing tube. These and other embodiments are further described with reference to the appended figures in which common item numbers indicate common structures unless otherwise indicated.

FIGS. 1A and 1Billustrate an example beverage dispenser100.FIG. 1Adepicts an exterior perspective view of the beverage dispenser100andFIG. 1Bdepicts a sectional view of the beverage dispenser100. Generally, the beverage dispenser100is a portable beverage dispenser that may be used to store, preserve, transport, and dispense a beverage104(FIG. 1Bonly) retained in an internal volume106defined by a vessel120.

The vessel120is configured to receive a regulator cap assembly145. The regulator cap assembly145is configured to at least partially seal a mouth132of the vessel120and to regulate a pressure applied to the beverage104. In particular, the regulator cap assembly145may apply a pressure to the beverage104that is selectable and adjustable based at least partially on a rotational position of a dial147. The pressure applied to the beverage104by the regulator cap assembly145may preserve a freshness of the beverage104by reducing interaction between the beverage104and atmospheric air or oxygen. Additionally, the pressure applied to the beverage104may increase a period in which the beverage104maintains a gaseous solution (e.g., carbonation) and/or may force a portion of a gas into solution (e.g., carbonate) in the beverage104. Additionally still, the pressure applied to the beverage104may also be used to dispense the beverage104from the beverage dispenser100.

In some embodiments, the regulator cap assembly145is substantially similar to one or more embodiments discussed in co-pending U.S. application Ser. No. 14/720,356 filed May 22, 2015, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

The vessel120may be vacuum-insulated. The vessel120ofFIGS. 1A and 1Bmay include a double-wall construction, which is best illustrated inFIG. 1B. The double-wall construction may define a vacuum space289between an interior wall295and an exterior wall190of the vessel120. The vacuum space289may insulate the beverage104in the internal volume106from an environment surrounding the beverage dispenser100.

In some embodiments, the vacuum space289may have a partial vacuum or an imperfect vacuum. The vacuum or partial vacuum may have a thermal resistance (R) value that is higher than some insulator materials. For example, the vacuum space may have an R value of about 5.25 square meters per kilowatt (m2K/W) to about 8.8 m2K/W, while a silica or a polyurethane may have an R value of about 1.1 m2K/W to about 1.76 m2K/W. The vessel120can be constructed of a metal or metal alloy that may comprise, for example, a stainless steel or an aluminum.

The internal volume106of the vessel120may be defined to include multiple volumes and multiple shapes. For example, the internal volume106may be about sixty-four volumetric ounces (oz.), 32 oz., 128 oz., 1 liter (L), 2 L, 10 L, for instance.

With reference toFIG. 1B, the vessel120may include a vessel height128of between about 150 millimeters (mm) and about 460 mm and a vessel diameter131between about 100 mm and about 460 mm. The vacuum space289or a total thickness defined to include the interior wall295and the exterior wall190of the vessel120may be between 1.5 mm and about 5.1 mm. The thickness of the interior wall295and/or the exterior wall190may be between about 0.8 mm and about 3.1 mm. For example, the example vessel120shown inFIGS. 1A and 1Bincludes a vessel height128of about 250 mm and vessel diameter131of about 125 mm.

In the vessel120ofFIGS. 1A and 1B, a first portion of a threaded connection may be defined at the mouth132of the vessel120. The regulator cap assembly145may include a second, complementary portion of the threaded connection. Accordingly, the regulator cap assembly145may be received by the vessel120by rotating the regulator cap assembly145relative to the vessel120. Such rotation couples the regulator cap assembly145with the vessel120. When received by the vessel120, the regulator cap assembly145may apply the pressure to the beverage104.

As mentioned above, the pressure applied to the beverage104may be used to dispense the beverage104from the beverage dispenser100. For example, the pressure applied to the beverage104may be greater than a pressure in the environment surrounding the beverage dispenser100. The pressure may force the beverage104into a dispenser assembly200. Two embodiments of the dispenser assembly200are described in this disclosure. A first dispenser assembly200A is described with reference toFIGS. 2A-2C. A second dispenser assembly200B is described with reference toFIGS. 2D-2G. The first and second beverage assemblies200A and200B are referred to generally as the beverage assemblies200.

The beverage assemblies200may be configured to transport the beverage104from the internal volume106of the vessel120to a dispensing tap130. When a tap handle140of the dispensing tap130is actuated, the dispenser assembly200may be open to the pressure of the environment, and the beverage104may flow in a positive y-direction in the arbitrarily assigned coordinate system ofFIGS. 1A-1B. The beverage104may then exit the dispenser assembly200via a tap exit114.

The beverage104inside the vessel120may travel through a lower opening110defined in the vessel120. At the lower opening110, the dispenser assembly200, or some portion thereof, penetrates and seals to the vessel120such that a volume defined by the dispenser assembly200is substantially continuous and fluidly coupled to the internal volume106defined by the vessel120. The beverage104may enter the dispenser assembly200at the lower opening110and may then travel up (e.g., in a positive y-direction) the dispenser assembly200to a tap entry112of the dispensing tap130. The fluid may then enter the dispensing tap130.

The dispensing tap130may include a rocker valve406(shown inFIG. 1Band described elsewhere in this disclosure). The rocker valve406may be opened and shut in response to actuation of the tap handle140. For instance, in response to a user actuating the tap handle140in a first direction (e.g., the z-direction), the beverage104moves past the rocker valve406and is discharged from a tap exit114of the dispensing tap130. In response to the user actuating the tap handle140in a second direction (e.g., the negative z-direction), which may be substantially opposite the first direction, the beverage104may be contained between the rocker valve406and the tap entry112. Some additional details of the dispenser assembly200are discussed elsewhere in this disclosure.

Additionally, beverage dispenser100ofFIGS. 1A-1Bmay include a pressure gauge121. The pressure gauge121may indicate a pressure in the internal volume106of the vessel120. The pressure indicated by the pressure gauge121may correspond to the pressure applied by the regulator cap assembly145.

In the depicted embodiment, the pressure gauge121is received by and in fluid communication with the dispenser assembly200. In some embodiments, the pressure gauge121may be positioned on the vessel120or the regulator cap assembly145or may be omitted from the beverage dispenser100, for instance.

The beverage dispenser100may include a temperature gauge (not shown). The temperature gauge may indicate a temperature of the beverage104in the internal volume106of the vessel120. The temperature gauge may be in fluid communication with the internal volume106similar to the pressure gauge121inFIGS. 1A and 1B. Alternatively, the temperature gauge may be incorporated in the pressure gauge121(e.g., one gauge that indicates pressure and temperature), fit to the vessel120, fit to the regulator cap assembly145, or omitted.

The temperature and/or pressure of the beverage104may be important factors to the quality of the beverage104. The user can monitor the pressure and the temperature of the beverage104using the pressure gauge121and/or the temperature gauge. For example, the user may be interested in the pressure after an initial rotation of the dial147(as described elsewhere in this disclosure). The pressure gauge121provides feedback to the user that can be used in conjunction with the dial147to accurately set a desired pressure applied to the beverage104. The pressure gauge121can also be useful for monitoring the pressure of the vessel120when the beverage dispenser100is not refrigerated and the temperature of the beverage104accordingly increases. The user may not want the contents to become over-pressurized as a result of increased temperature and may choose to vent some or all of the pressure to maintain the pressure of the beverage104within a specific range, or below a specific maximum level.

Additionally or alternatively, the temperature gauge may provide the user thermal information for preserving and maintaining the quality of the beverage104. For example, beer has a more desirable flavor when served at medium to cold liquid temperatures. An example preferred range may be between about 35 and about 45 degrees Fahrenheit.

The beverage dispenser100ofFIGS. 1A and 1Bmay include a handle138. The handle138can be mechanically attached to the vessel120. The handle138may be mechanically coupled to the vessel120via fasteners as shown inFIGS. 1A and 1Bor via band straps (not shown) that grip around the vessel120. The handle138is configured to assist in pouring the beverage from the vessel120and carrying the vessel120and may act as a counter-balance to the dispenser assembly200. The handle138may be rigid and generally extend from the vessel120in a positive y-direction as shown inFIGS. 1A and 1B.

In the embodiment ofFIGS. 1A and 1B, the vessel120includes the dispenser assembly200, the tap handle140, and the dispensing tap130. In some embodiments, the beverage dispenser100may not include one or more of the dispenser assembly200, the tap handle140, and the dispensing tap130. Additionally, one or more of the dispenser assembly200, the tap handle140, and the dispensing tap130may be located, at least partially, within the internal volume106. In these embodiments as well as that depicted inFIGS. 1A and 1B, the beverage104may be dispensed by reducing the pressure applied to the vessel120(e.g., rotating the dial147to prevent introduction of gas to the internal volume106), removing the regulator cap assembly145, and pouring the beverage104from the mouth132of the vessel120. The regulator cap assembly145can be replaced onto the vessel120and the user can rotate the dial147to the desired position, causing the regulator cap assembly145to pressurize the remaining beverage104contained in the vessel120.

The dispensing tap130may be configured to be operated using one hand, which may allow the user to hold a glass to receive the beverage104in the other hand. The dispensing tap130may also be oriented on the vessel120to allow the user to place the glass under the dispensing tap130at an angle less than about 90 degrees, which may minimize the formation of excessive foam. The user opens and closes the dispensing tap130by pulling the tap handle140forward (in the z-direction inFIG. 1B) and closes the dispensing tap130by pushing the tap handle140back to its starting, closed position. The tap handle140may also include a safety locking mechanism, which is discussed elsewhere in this disclosure, to prevent the tap handle140from moving to the open position inadvertently.

FIGS. 2A-2Cillustrate the first the dispenser assembly200A. The first dispenser assembly200A includes an example embodiment of dispenser assembly200ofFIGS. 1A and 1B.FIG. 2Adepicts a partially exploded view of the first dispenser assembly200A.FIG. 2Bdepicts a sectional view of an upper assembly portion206of the first dispenser assembly200A.FIG. 2Cdepicts a sectional view of a lower assembly portion208of the first dispenser assembly200A. A first dashed circle210inFIG. 2Agenerally represents the upper assembly portion206and a second dashed circle212inFIG. 2Agenerally represents the lower assembly portion208.

InFIGS. 2A-2C, the first dispenser assembly200A may include a concentric-cylindrical construction, which is generally indicated at201inFIGS. 2A-2C. The concentric-cylindrical construction201spans from a lower housing224(FIGS. 2A and 2Conly) through an upper housing232(FIGS. 2A and 2Bonly) to an upper tube226(FIGS. 2A and 2Bonly).

The lower housing224ofFIG. 2Cincludes a lower port228(FIG. 2Conly) that is configured to penetrate the vessel120at the lower opening110. The lower port228connects to a lower volume230defined by the lower housing224such that the internal volume106is in fluid communication with the lower volume230.

Referring toFIGS. 2A-2C, an outer cylinder of the first dispenser assembly200A may include a liquid level gauge structure220. A riser tube222is positioned within the liquid level gauge structure220. The riser tube222is substantially concentric with the liquid level gauge structure220. Between the liquid level gauge structure220and the riser tube222is a gauge volume236. Within the riser tube222is a riser volume238. The liquid level gauge structure220generally includes the entire cylindrical structure (e.g., 360 degrees). Within the liquid level gauge structure220is a viewing window260(FIG. 2Aonly). The viewing window260is transparent or substantially transparent such that a beverage within the gauge volume236may be seen from an exterior of the liquid level gauge structure220. The lower volume230connects to both the gauge volume236and to the riser volume238. Accordingly, the internal volume106is also in fluid communication with the gauge volume236and the riser volume238.

With reference toFIGS. 2A and 2B, the upper housing232includes an upper port234. The upper port234is configured to penetrate the vessel120at an upper opening290(FIG. 2Bonly). At the upper housing232, the upper port234connects to the gauge volume236, but not to the riser volume238. Additionally, the upper tube226is coupled to the riser tube222but is sealed from the gauge volume236. The upper tube226then connects to the dispensing tap130(FIG. 2Aonly).

Accordingly, a beverage is introduced into the gauge volume236via the lower port228and the lower volume230. The gauge volume236is exposed to a counter pressure of the internal volume106by the upper port234. The counter pressure may be the pressure in a portion of the internal volume106not occupied by the beverage. Thus, the beverage fills the gauge volume236to a height that is substantially equal to a height of the beverage inside the internal volume106. Additionally, the beverage in the gauge volume236is not exposed to atmospheric pressure when the rocker valve406of the dispensing tap130is actuated.

The riser tube222connects on its upper end to the upper tube226which connects to the dispensing tap130. Thus, the riser volume238is not exposed to the counter pressure of the internal volume106. Accordingly, the beverage may enter the riser volume238at the lower volume230and fill the riser volume238, some portion of the upper tube226, and, depending on a pressure in the internal volume106, some portion of the dispensing tap130. When the rocker valve406of the dispensing tap130is actuated, the beverage in the riser volume238, the upper tube226, and/or the dispensing tap130is exposed to atmospheric pressure. The exposure to the atmospheric pressure causes the beverage to be dispensed from the dispensing tap130(assuming the pressure in the vessel120is greater than atmospheric pressure).

Actuation of the rocker valve does not expose the riser volume238to the internal volume106. Additionally, actuation of the rocker valve406does not expose the gauge volume236to atmospheric pressure. Thus, the level in the gauge volume236accurately reflects levels in the vessel120while the fluid is being dispensed.

Moreover, with reference toFIGS. 1B and 2A-2C, the regulator cap assembly145may be configured to maintain the pressure in the internal volume106. For instance, when the beverage104is dispensed, a pressure in the internal volume106may drop. In response, the regulator cap assembly145may release a compressed gas to the internal volume106, which may re-establish the pressure prior to the beverage104being dispensed. The compressed gas that is released to the internal volume106provides the counter pressure in the gauge volume236, which affects the level of the beverage104such that the level in the gauge volume236is substantially similar to the level of the beverage104in the internal volume106.

In the embodiment ofFIGS. 2A-2C, the upper port234penetrates the vessel120at a vessel shoulder250. The vessel shoulder250is also labeled in ofFIG. 1A. The vessel shoulder250may not be at a maximum fill height of the vessel120. Accordingly, the liquid level gauge structure220may only indicate a fluid level below the vessel shoulder250. In some other embodiments, the upper port234may penetrate the vessel120above (e.g., having a larger y coordinate) the vessel shoulder250.

Additionally, as best depicted inFIG. 2A, the liquid level gauge structure220includes graduations252. The graduations252may correspond to a unit of measure such as liters, fluid ounces, pints, glasses, another suitable volumetric unit, or some combination thereof. For example, in some embodiments, the graduations252include fluid ounces on one side of the viewing window260and a corresponding number of pints represented by pint glasses on the other side of the viewing window260.

The first dispenser assembly200A ofFIGS. 2A-2Cincludes a configuration that enables simple disassembly for cleaning. In particular, the first dispenser assembly200A may enable a user to disassemble the vessel120and/or the first dispenser assembly200A such that one or more of the components (e.g.,228,230,224,222, and234) may be cleaned.

With reference toFIGS. 2B and 2C, the first dispenser assembly200A may include a cinch nut270(FIG. 2Bonly). The cinch nut270may be threaded or otherwise attached to the upper housing232. The cinch nut270may be configured to be a single fastener that maintains the first dispenser assembly200A in an assembled configuration (as depicted inFIGS. 1A, 1B, and2B).

For example, a second end257of the riser tube222and a second end255of the liquid level gauge structure220are secured to the vessel120by the lower housing224. The second end257of the riser tube222and the second end255of the liquid level gauge structure220may be cylindrical such that the second ends255and257may be secured in the lower housing224by moving the riser tube222and the liquid level gauge structure220in the negative y direction. Additionally, a first end251of the riser tube222and a first end253of the liquid level gauge structure220may be secured to the vessel120by the upper housing232. The first ends251and253may have flared or angled portions that the cinch nut270presses against as the cinch nut270is tightened into the upper housing232. Accordingly, when cinch nut270is removed, the riser tube222and the liquid level gauge structure220may be moved in the positive y-direction to disassemble the first dispenser assembly200A.

Additionally, by removing the cinch nut270, the upper tube226and the dispensing tap130may be removed from the upper housing232. The riser tube222, the liquid level gauge structure220, and one or more O-rings280may be removed from the first dispenser assembly200A. With these components removed, they may be cleaned. Additionally, with these components removed, the lower volume230, the vessel120, and the ports234and228may be cleaned. To reassemble the first dispenser assembly200A, each of the components may be repositioned, and the cinch nut270may be fastened to the upper housing232.

InFIGS. 2B and 2C, the upper opening290and the lower opening110are depicted, respectively. The upper opening290and the lower opening110(collectively, the openings110/290) may be defined in the vessel120via one or more manufacturing processes. The upper port234and/or the lower port228may be attached to the openings110/290, via welding, an adhesive, a threaded attachment, a press fit, or any other suitable mechanism or process. In some embodiments, the upper port234and/or the lower port228may be brazed to a braze interface292or294of the openings110/290. For example, the upper opening290may be formed (as described below) and the upper port234may be attached to the vessel120via the braze interface292. In particular, the openings110/290may be formed using a brazed interface between the exterior wall190and the interior wall295. For each of the openings110/290, the exterior wall190includes an angled portion297(labeled inFIG. 2Conly). Similarly, for each of the openings110/290, the interior wall295includes an angled portion299(labeled inFIG. 2Conly). The angled portions297and299may extend around a perimeter or a circumference of the openings110/290. A brazed gap may be defined between the angled portions297and299. The brazed gap may be defined to receive an appropriate amount of braze to seal the interior wall295to the exterior wall190at the openings110/290.

Prior to manufacturing the openings110/290, braze may be added to one or both of the interior wall295and the exterior wall190. The angled portions297and299may be aligned such that angled portions297of the interior wall295contact the angled portions299of the exterior wall190. For example, the interior wall295may be placed within the exterior wall190, and the angled portions297and299may be aligned when the interior wall295is centered in the exterior wall190. The interior wall295and the exterior wall190may then be heated, which causes the braze to mate the exterior wall190with the interior wall295at the angled portions297and299. A vacuum can then be pulled to create the vacuum space289between the exterior wall190and the interior wall295.

InFIGS. 2A and 2B, the angled portions297and299are oriented in the negative z-direction, which is substantially towards the internal volume106. In some embodiments, the angled portions297and299may be oriented in the z-direction. For example,FIG. 3Adepicts a sectional view of an example brazed interface301in which the angled portions297and299are oriented in the x-direction, which inFIG. 3Ais away from the internal volume106. Additionally,FIG. 3Bdepicts a sectional view of another example brazed interface303in which one of the angled portions299is oriented in the x-direction, which is away from the internal volume106; and the other of the angled portions297is oriented in the negative x-direction, which is towards the internal volume106. With reference toFIGS. 3A and 3B, the angled portions297and299may extend around the circumference of the openings110/290. As described elsewhere in this disclosure, a brazed gap may be defined between the angled portions297and299, which may receive an appropriate amount of braze to seal the interior wall295to the exterior wall190at the openings110/290. The angled portions297and299may be aligned and may then be heated, which causes the braze to mate the exterior wall190with the interior wall295. A vacuum can then be pulled to create a vacuum space289between the exterior wall190and the interior wall295.

In some embodiments, a heat sink305(FIGS. 3A and 3Bonly) may be positioned in the openings110/290. The heat sink305may be configured to draw heat from the brazed interfaces301,303,294, or292. In addition, the heat sink305may be configured to support the angled portions297and299during at least a portion of a manufacturing process. Additional brazed interfaces may be implemented along a circumferential surface of the openings110/290to connect the ports234and228to the vessel120. Alternatively, the ports234and228may be attached to the openings110/290by another suitable mechanism.

FIGS. 2D-2Gillustrate the second dispenser assembly200B that may be implemented as the dispenser assembly200ofFIGS. 1A and 1B.FIG. 2Ddepicts a partially exploded view of the second dispenser assembly200B.FIG. 2Edepicts a sectional view of an upper assembly portion267of the second dispenser assembly200B.FIG. 2Fdepicts a sectional view of a lower assembly portion269of the second dispenser assembly200B.FIG. 2Gdepicts a sectional view of another embodiment of the lower assembly portion269of the second dispenser assembly200B. A first dashed circle261inFIG. 2Dgenerally represents the upper assembly portion267and a second dashed circle263inFIG. 2Dgenerally represents the lower assembly portion269.

InFIGS. 2D-2G, the second dispenser assembly200B may include a concentric-cylindrical construction271. The concentric-cylindrical construction271is similar to the concentric-cylindrical construction201discussed with reference toFIGS. 2A-2C. The concentric-cylindrical construction271in the second dispenser assembly200B spans from a lower vented housing265(FIGS. 2D, 2F, and 2Gonly) through a shuttle upper housing273(FIGS. 2D and 2Eonly) to the upper tube226(FIGS. 2D and 2Eonly).

Beginning with the lower vented housing265inFIG. 2F, the lower vented housing265includes a lower port229(FIGS. 2D and 2Fonly). The lower port229is configured to penetrate the vessel120at the lower opening110. The lower port229connects to a lower volume231defined by the lower vented housing265such that the internal volume106is in fluid communication with the lower volume231defined by the lower vented housing265. In the depicted embodiment, the lower port229may include a threaded connection281. The threaded connection281may be configured to attach via a threaded interface to a lower wall stud283that is positioned in the lower opening110.

As discussed above with reference to the first dispenser assembly200A, an outer cylinder of the second dispenser assembly200B may include the liquid level gauge structure220. The riser tube222is positioned within the liquid level gauge structure220and is substantially concentric with the liquid level gauge structure220. Between the liquid level gauge structure220and the riser tube222is the gauge volume236. Within the riser tube222is the riser volume238. The liquid level gauge structure220generally includes the entire cylindrical structure (e.g., 360 degrees). Within the liquid level gauge structure220is the viewing window260(FIG. 2Donly).

In the embodiment ofFIGS. 2D-2G, the liquid level gauge structure220may include a shorter length than that of the liquid level gauge structure220of the first dispenser assembly200A. For example, the liquid level gauge structure220may not extend as far in a negative y-direction into the lower vented housing265.

In addition, with particular reference toFIGS. 2D and 2F, the lower volume231may include restrictions285and287. A first restriction285is between the lower volume231and the riser volume238. A second restriction287is between the lower volume231and a pressure gauge volume259into which the pressure gauge121or another gauge is positioned. In addition, the lower vented housing265may define a gauge volume channel211between the pressure gauge volume259and the gauge volume236.

Accordingly, a beverage (e.g.,104ofFIG. 1B) may enter and exit the riser volume238via the lower volume231and the first restriction285. For example, as the beverage is dispensed from the beverage dispenser100, the beverage104may travel from the internal volume106to the riser volume238via the lower volume231and the first restriction285.

In addition, the beverage may enter and exit the gauge volume236via the lower volume231, the second restriction287, and the gauge volume channel211. Inclusion of the restrictions285and287along with the gauge volume channel211controls, at least partially, rates in which the beverage enters and exits the gauge volume236and the riser volume238. Moreover, the restrictions285and287and the gauge volume channel211may reduce the beverage being drawn from the gauge volume236to the riser volume238as the beverage is dispensed from a dispensing tap (e.g., the dispensing tap130) via the riser volume238.

With reference toFIGS. 2D and 2E, the shuttle upper housing273includes an upper port235. The upper port235is configured to penetrate the vessel120at the upper opening290(FIG. 2Eonly). At the shuttle upper housing273, the upper port235connects to the gauge volume236, but not to the riser volume238. Additionally, the upper tube226is coupled to the riser tube222via a carbonation orifice249, but is sealed from the gauge volume236. The upper tube226then connects to the dispensing tap130(FIG. 2Donly).

Accordingly, a beverage is introduced into the gauge volume236via the lower volume231, the second restriction287, and the gauge volume channel211. The gauge volume236is exposed to a counter pressure of the internal volume106by the upper port235. The counter pressure may be the pressure in a portion of the internal volume106not occupied by the beverage. Thus, the beverage fills the gauge volume236to a height that is substantially equal to a height of the beverage inside the internal volume106. Additionally, the beverage in the gauge volume236is not exposed to atmospheric pressure when the rocker valve406of the dispensing tap130is actuated.

The riser tube222connects on its upper end to the upper tube226which connects to the dispensing tap130via the carbonation orifice249. Thus, the riser volume238is not exposed to the counter pressure of the internal volume106. Accordingly, the beverage may enter the riser volume238via the lower volume231and the first restriction285and fill the riser volume238, some portion of the upper tube226, and, depending on a pressure in the internal volume106, some portion of the dispensing tap130. When the rocker valve406of the dispensing tap130is actuated, the beverage in the riser volume238, the upper tube226, and/or the dispensing tap130is exposed to atmospheric pressure. The exposure to the atmospheric pressure causes the beverage to be dispensed from the dispensing tap130(assuming the pressure in the vessel120is greater than atmospheric pressure).

Actuation of the rocker valve406does not expose the riser volume238to the internal volume106. Additionally, actuation of the rocker valve406does not expose the gauge volume236to atmospheric pressure. Thus, the level in the gauge volume236accurately reflects levels in the vessel120while the beverage is being dispensed.

FIG. 2Gdepicts another example of the lower assembly portion269. In the embodiment ofFIG. 2G, a pitot lower assembly205is depicted. In the pitot lower assembly205a pitot207is included in the lower volume231. The pitot207fluidly couples the internal volume106and the pressure gauge volume259. A beverage (e.g.,104ofFIG. 1B) may accordingly pass from the internal volume106through the pitot207to the pressure gauge volume259. From the pressure gauge volume259, the beverage may enter the gauge volume236via the gauge volume channel211.

A volume is defined between the lower vented housing265and the pitot207. The volume defined between the lower vented housing265and the pitot207is referred to in this disclosure as an outer lower housing volume. The outer lower housing volume includes a portion of the lower volume231not taken up by the pitot207. The outer lower housing volume fluidly couples the riser volume238to the internal volume106. However, the pitot207prevents or substantially prevents fluid communication between the outer lower housing volume and the pressure gauge volume259. Accordingly, the beverage may enter and exit the riser volume238via the outer lower housing volume. While entering and exiting the riser volume238, the beverage does not enter the pressure gauge volume236and thus does not enter the gauge volume236.

For example, as the beverage is dispensed from the beverage dispenser100, the beverage104may travel from the internal volume106to the riser volume238via the outer lower housing volume. In addition, the beverage may enter and exit the gauge volume236via the pitot207and the gauge volume channel211. Inclusion of the pitot207prevents, at least partially, the beverage entering and exiting the riser volume238from mixing with the beverage entering and exiting the gauge volume236. The pitot207may reduce the beverage being drawn from the gauge volume236to the riser volume238as the beverage is dispensed from a dispensing tap (e.g., the dispensing tap130) via the riser volume238.

As described above with reference toFIGS. 2D and 2E, the shuttle upper housing273includes the upper port235configured to penetrate the vessel120at the upper opening290(FIG. 2Eonly). At the shuttle upper housing273, the upper port235connects to the gauge volume236, but not to the riser volume238. Additionally, the upper tube226is coupled to the riser tube222via a carbonation orifice249, but is sealed from the gauge volume236. The upper tube226then connects to the dispensing tap130(FIG. 2Donly).

Accordingly, a beverage is introduced into the gauge volume236via the pitot207and the gauge volume channel211. The gauge volume236is exposed to a counter pressure of the internal volume106by the upper port235. The counter pressure may be the pressure in a portion of the internal volume106not occupied by the beverage. Thus, the beverage fills the gauge volume236to a height that is substantially equal to a height of the beverage inside the internal volume106. Additionally, the beverage in the gauge volume236is not exposed to atmospheric pressure when the rocker valve406of the dispensing tap130is actuated.

The riser tube222connects on its upper end to the upper tube226which connects to the dispensing tap130via the carbonation orifice249. Thus, the riser volume238is not exposed to the counter pressure of the internal volume106. Accordingly, the beverage may enter the riser volume238outer lower housing volume and fill the riser volume238, some portion of the upper tube226, and, depending on a pressure in the internal volume106, some portion of the dispensing tap130. When the rocker valve406of the dispensing tap130is actuated, the beverage in the riser volume238, the upper tube226, and/or the dispensing tap130is exposed to atmospheric pressure. The exposure to the atmospheric pressure causes the beverage to be dispensed from the dispensing tap130(assuming the pressure in the vessel120is greater than atmospheric pressure).

Actuation of the rocker valve406does not expose the riser volume238to the internal volume106. Additionally, actuation of the rocker valve406does not expose the gauge volume236to atmospheric pressure. Thus, the level in the gauge volume236accurately reflects levels in the vessel120while the beverage is being dispensed.

The pitot207may be configured to be removably assembled with the lower vented housing265. For example, with the pressure gauge121removed, the pitot207may be placed in the lower vented housing265by orienting the pitot207as depicted inFIG. 2Gand moving the pitot207in substantially the negative z-direction. The pressure gauge121may then be assembled with the lower vented housing265, which may retain the pitot207in the lower vented housing265. To clean the pitot207, the pressure gauge121may be removed and the pitot207may be moved in the z-direction relative to the lower vented housing265. In some embodiments, clearance between the lower vented housing265and the pitot207may enable a slip fit between the lower vented housing265and the pitot207. The slip fit may enable removal of the pitot207.

In the embodiment depicted inFIG. 2G, the lower vented housing265does not include the restrictions285and287. In other embodiments, the lower vented housing265may include one or both of the restrictions285and287.

In the embodiment depicted inFIG. 2E, the upper port235may include a threaded connection247. The threaded connection247may be configured to attach via a threaded interface to an upper wall stud245. The upper wall stud245may be positioned in the upper opening290defined in the vessel120.

In addition, the second dispenser assembly200B may include a shuttle241. The shuttle241is configured to be positioned within the shuttle upper housing273. The shuttle241defines a shuttle channel237and includes a lower surface239that is configured to contact the liquid level gauge structure220. The shuttle channel237surrounds a portion of the riser tube222such that the gauge volume236is in fluid communication with the internal volume106. Accordingly, in embodiments including the shuttle241, a pressure in the internal volume106may be present in the shuttle channel237and a portion of the gauge volume236. The pressure may act as the counter pressure discussed elsewhere in this disclosure. The shuttle241may also define one or more O-ring retaining structures279. The O-ring retaining structures279may be configured to retain one or more of the O-rings280.

In the depicted embodiment, the shuttle241, the O-rings280, and the liquid level gauge structure220are separate components. In some embodiments, one or more of the shuttle241, the O-rings280, and the liquid level gauge structure220may be a single component. For example, the contact between the lower surface239may include a substantially permanent attachment and/or the O-ring retaining structures279may include a seal such as the O-rings280.

The carbonation orifice249may be positioned between the riser tube222and the upper tube226. The carbonation orifice249may enable the beverage dispenser100to be used at a particular pressure while maintaining a flow rate of the beverage at the dispensing tap130. The carbonation orifice249may be interchangeable. For example, multiple carbonation orifices249may be available that include varying sized orifices and/or different shapes. Each of the multiple carbonation orifices249may enable a particular flow rate for a particular pressure in the internal volume106. For instance, one of the multiple carbonation orifices249may enable the particular flow rate with a first pressure and a second of the multiple carbonation orifices249may enable the same particular flow rate with a second pressure. Accordingly, a beverage in the internal volume106may be highly carbonated without increasing the flow rate and to have low carbonation with a suitable flow rate (e.g., about 0.75 to about 1.25 fluid ounces per second). The carbonation orifices249may be comprised of rubber and inserted into the upper tube226, then compressed in place by the cinch nut270. The carbonation orifices249may further seal an interface between the cinch nut270and the shuttle upper housing273.

As in the first dispenser assembly200A, in the embodiment ofFIGS. 2D-2G, the upper port235penetrates the vessel120at the vessel shoulder250(also onFIG. 1A). The vessel shoulder250may not be at a maximum fill height of the vessel120. Accordingly, the liquid level gauge structure220may only indicate a fluid level below the vessel shoulder250. In some other embodiments, the upper port235may penetrate the vessel120above (e.g., having a larger y coordinate) the vessel shoulder250.

Similar to the first dispenser assembly200A, the second dispenser assembly200B ofFIGS. 2D-2Gincludes a configuration that enables simple disassembly for cleaning or other purposes (e.g., changing the carbonation orifice249). For example, the second dispenser assembly200B may enable a user to disassemble the vessel120and/or the second dispenser assembly200B such that one or more of the components (e.g.,249,241,229,231,265,222, and234) may be cleaned. In particular, the second dispenser assembly200B includes the cinch nut270that is configured to be a single fastener that maintains the second dispenser assembly200B in an assembled configuration (as depicted inFIGS. 1A, 1B, and 2E).

In the embodiments depicted inFIGS. 2E, 2F, and 2G, the openings110/290may be formed using a welded interface between the exterior wall190, the interior wall295, and the lower wall stud283or the upper wall stud245. In particular, in the depicted embodiments, for each of the openings110/290, the exterior wall190includes an angled portion297(labeled inFIGS. 2F and 2Gonly). Similarly, for each of the openings110/290, the interior wall295includes an angled portion299(labeled inFIGS. 2F and 2Gonly). The angled portions297and299may extend around a perimeter or a circumference of the openings110/290. The lower wall stud283(or the upper wall stud245) may be positioned in the openings110/290. The angled portions297and299may then be welded to the lower wall stud283(or the upper wall stud245). For example, the angled portions297and299may be TIG welded to the lower wall stud283(or the upper wall stud245).

A welded interface between the angled portions297and299and the lower wall stud283(or the upper wall stud245) may extend around the circumference of the lower wall stud283(or the upper wall stud245) and may be positioned on an external surface221thereof. The welded interface may connect and seal the exterior wall190, the interior wall295, and the lower wall stud283(or the upper wall stud245).

InFIGS. 2E, 2F, and 2G, the angled portions297and299(labeled only inFIGS. 2F and 2G) are oriented in the positive z-direction, which is substantially away from the internal volume106. In some embodiments, the angled portions297and299may be oriented in the negative z-direction (similar to the embodiment depicted inFIG. 3A). Alternatively, one of the angled portions297and299may be oriented in the negative z-direction and the other of the angled portions297and299may be oriented in the positive z-direction (similar to the embodiment depicted inFIG. 3B).

FIG. 3Cdepicts a detailed view of an example of the lower opening110that includes the lower wall stud283. With respect toFIG. 3C, the lower opening110is discussed. The lower opening110may be substantially similar to the upper opening290with the upper wall stud245. In the embodiment depicted inFIG. 3C, the angled portions297and299may extend around the circumference of the lower opening110. The angled portions297and299may contact one another or be positioned immediately adjacent to one another. For example, in the depicted embodiment, a substantially horizontal portion339of the angled portion299(e.g., parallel to the x-axis inFIG. 3C) may contact a substantially horizontal portion337of the angled portion297. The lower wall stud283may be positioned in the lower opening110defined in the exterior wall190and the interior wall295. The lower wall stud283may be positioned in the lower opening110such that the external surface221may contact or be immediately adjacent to an interior surface335of the interior wall295.

A welded interface may be formed between the angled portions297and299and the lower wall stud283. In particular, ends388and390of the angled portions297and299may be welded to external surface221the lower wall stud283. For example, the ends388and390of the angled portions297and299may be TIG welded to the external surface221of the lower wall stud283. The welded interface may extend around the circumference of the lower wall stud283. The welded interface may connect and seal the exterior wall190, the interior wall295, and the lower wall stud283. The welded interface may form an air-tight seal to maintain and enable the creation of the vacuum in the vacuum space289. For example, the welded interface may create a first air-tight seal between the angled portions297and299and may create a second air-tight seal between the wall stud283and the interior surface335.

In the depicted embodiment, the angled portions297and299are linearly oriented away from the internal volume106. For example, the ends390and388extend away from the internal volume106. In other embodiments, one or both of the angled portions297and299may be linearly oriented towards the internal volume106. In these and other embodiments, the welded interface may include a portion of the angled portions297and299other than the ends390and388.

FIG. 3Dillustrates a sectional view of another example opening315that may be implemented in the beverage dispenser ofFIGS. 1A-1C. The opening315is substantially similar to the openings110and290except the opening315may be defined using a weld joint309. In the embodiment ofFIG. 3D, the interior wall295may have an interior wall opening323defined therein. Similarly, the exterior wall190may have an exterior wall opening321defined therein. Additionally, the exterior wall190may include an angled portion317configured to contact a weld portion319of the interior wall295. The interior wall295may be placed within the exterior wall190. The exterior wall190may then be welded to the interior wall295. For example, the exterior wall190may be welded to the interior wall295along the weld portion319using a resistance welding process, for instance. By including the weld portion319, thermal energy associated with welding the interior wall295to the exterior wall190may be minimized.

In the weld joint309ofFIG. 3Dthe angled portion317is defined in the exterior wall190and the interior wall295is substantially flat. In some embodiments, the angled portion317may be defined in the interior wall295and the exterior wall190may be substantially flat. Additionally, in some embodiments, the interior wall295and the exterior wall190may both include angled portions (e.g.,317).

With combined reference toFIGS. 2B-3D, the openings110/290/315are manufactured such that the vacuum space289may be established and maintained. Accordingly, in embodiments in which the openings110/290include a brazed interface, in embodiments in which the openings110/290include a weld interface, and in embodiments in which the opening315includes welded joints, the interfaces between the interior wall295and the exterior wall190are air-tight.

Vessels may define openings110/290/315manufactured in different ways. For example, a vessel120might include a first opening manufactured using a brazed interface and a second opening manufactured using a welded joint or a weld interface. Additionally, the openings110/290/315depicted inFIGS. 2A-3Dare circular. In some embodiments, the openings110/290/315may include another shape, e.g., rectangular, triangular, oval, and the like.

FIGS. 4A and 4Billustrate sectional views of an example embodiment of the dispensing tap130that may be included in the beverage dispenser100ofFIGS. 1A-1C. For example, with combined reference toFIGS. 1A, 1B, 4A and 4B, the dispensing tap130generally enables a user to dispense the beverage104from the beverage dispenser100. In addition, the dispensing tap130may enable the beverage dispenser to be transported without the beverage accidentally being dispensed. In particular, some embodiments of the beverage dispenser100are configured to be portable. Accordingly, the dispensing tap130may be configured to ensure the beverage104remains in the beverage dispenser100during transportation. Moreover, the dispensing tap130may be configured to receive customizable/interchangeable tap handles (e.g.,140). The tap handles may appeal to users and/or provide identification as to a particular beverage stored in the beverage dispenser100.

Referring toFIGS. 4A and 4B, the dispensing tap130may include a locking mechanism400. The locking mechanism400allows a user to reduce or prevent a beverage from being accidentally dispensed. The locking mechanism400may include a lock pin402. The lock pin402is configured to be moved in the z-direction ofFIGS. 4A and 4Bto engage or disengage a rocker404of a rocker valve406. When the lock pin402is disengaged with the rocker404as shown inFIG. 4A, the lock pin402allows actuation of the rocker valve406. When the lock pin402is engaged from the rocker404as shown inFIG. 4B, the lock pin402prevents actuation of the rocker valve406.

With reference toFIG. 4B, the dispensing tap130is depicted in a locked position and a shut position. In the shut position, the tap handle140is moved in substantially the negative x-direction. In some embodiments, the movement of the tap handle140is somewhat arced according to arrow411included inFIGS. 4A and 4B. The movement of the tap handle140in substantially the negative x-direction moves the dispenser shuttle410in the x-direction. When the dispenser shuttle410is moved in the x-direction, a shuttle seal412contacts a sealing surface414and prevents fluid from exiting the tap exit114.

To lock the dispensing tap130in the shut position, the lock pin402may be moved in the z-direction. In some embodiments, the lock pin402may include a rocker recess422(FIG. 4Aonly) defined in the lock pin402. The rocker recess422is substantially formed on the lock pin402such that when the rocker recess422is aligned with the rocker404, the rocker404may pivot. However, when the rocker recess422is not aligned, the rocker404interferes with the lock pin402and may not pivot. Thus, the lock pin402restricts motion of the tap stem420in the x-direction.

With reference toFIG. 4A, the dispensing tap130is depicted in an unlocked position and an open position. In the open position, the tap handle140is moved in the x-direction, which moves the dispenser shuttle410in the negative x-direction. When the dispenser shuttle410is moved in the negative x-direction, the shuttle seal412does not contact the sealing surface414and allows fluid to exit the tap exit114. To unlock the dispensing tap130in the open position, the lock pin402may be moved in the z-direction. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism400may include a detent ball, a retaining spring, and a ball detent set screw. The detent ball may apply a force against the lock pin402which may increase a force involved in moving the lock pin402in the z-direction. The retaining spring and the ball detent set screw may adjust the force imposed against the lock pin402by the detent ball. Additionally, in some embodiments, the detent ball may be received in one or more detents. The detents may be positioned on the lock pin402to correspond to a locked position (e.g., shown inFIG. 4B) and an unlocked position (e.g., shown inFIG. 4A).

The tap handle140may be one of many tap handles that may be positioned on the tap stem420. To enable interchangeability of the tap handles, the tap stem420includes a locating flat421and a rocker pedestal423.

The tap handle140that is configured to be positioned on the tap stem420includes a stem bore424. The stem bore424corresponds to the tap stem420. For example, the stem bore424includes a flat portion426that corresponds to the locating flat421. The locating flat421may rotationally orient the tap handle140. In addition, the locating flat421is a stop for a set screw428. For instance, the tap handle140or another tap handle having a corresponding stem bore424is positioned on the tap stem420. The set screw428is then threaded into a threaded opening431defined in the tap handle140.

The set screw428may contact a set screw recess435of the locating flat421. The set screw428is tightened against the set screw recess435to secure the tap handle140to the tap stem420. The stem bore424may also include a handle seat437. The handle seat437is configured to receive the rocker pedestal423. The handle seat437positions the tap handle140such that the rocker valve406can be actuated without interfering with the dispensing tap130.

In some embodiments, the dispensing tap130may include spout penetrations451. The spout penetrations451may be defined on sloped surface453leading to the tap exit114. The spout penetrations451may enable a small amount of air to enter a tap volume455, which may prevent or substantially prevent a portion of a beverage (e.g.,104ofFIG. 1A) from being retained in the tap volume455and/or the tap exit114. For instance, when the beverage is being dispensed, it may substantially fill the tap volume455and the tap exit114. When the dispensing tap130is placed in the shut position, some of the beverage may be retained in the tap volume455and/or the tap exit114due to a vacuum forming within the tap volume455and maintained by the shuttle seal412. Inclusion of the spout penetrations451enables air to enter the tap volume455allowing the beverage to drain from the tap exit114.

A cross-sectional area of the spout penetrations451may be small relative to a cross-sectional area of the tap exit114. For example, the diameter of the tap exit114may be about 5 to 30 times the diameter of the spout penetrations451in some embodiments. The relatively small cross-sectional area of the spout penetration451may reduce or prevent the beverage from exiting via the spout penetration451while the beverage is being dispensed. In some embodiments, the dispenser shuttle410blocks the spout penetrations451when in an open position.

FIG. 7is a flowchart that depicts an example method700of manufacturing an opening of a vessel that includes a double-wall vacuum space. Although illustrated as discrete blocks, various blocks may be divided into additional blocks, combined into fewer blocks, or eliminated, depending on the desired implementation. For example a beverage dispenser such as the beverage dispenser100ofFIGS. 1A and 1Bmay include a vessel such as the vessel120that includes a double-wall vacuum space and at least one opening such as the openings110/290manufactured according to the method700.

The method700is described with reference toFIGS. 5, 6A, and 6Bthat illustrate portions of the beverage dispenser100ofFIGS. 1A and 1B. In particular,FIG. 5includes a partially exploded view of the beverage dispenser100ofFIGS. 1A and 1Bwith multiple components (e.g.,200(e.g.,200A and200B),145, and138) omitted.FIGS. 6A and 6Billustrate a detailed view of the lower opening110.

The method700may begin at block702in which a first wall opening may be punched in a first wall of the vessel. For example, with reference toFIGS. 6A and 6B, a first wall may include the exterior wall190. A first wall opening502may be punched or otherwise defined in the exterior wall190.

At block704, an angled portion may be defined around a circumference of the first wall opening. For example, with reference toFIGS. 6A and 6B, the angled portion297may be defined around the circumference of the first wall opening502. At block706, a second wall opening may be punched in a second wall of the vessel. For example, with reference toFIGS. 5, 6A, and 6B, a second wall may include the interior wall295. A second wall opening504may be defined in the interior wall295. At block708, the interior wall may be introduced to a volume defined within the exterior wall. For example, with reference toFIGS. 5, 6A, and 6B, the interior wall295may be introduced to a volume506defined by the exterior wall190.

At block710, the angled portion may be aligned with a connection surface surrounding the second wall opening. For example, with reference toFIGS. 6A and 6B, the angled portion297may be aligned with a connection surface surrounding the second wall opening504. In the example depicted inFIGS. 5, 6A, and 6Bthe connection surface may include the second angled portion299defined around a circumference of the second wall opening504. The angled portion297may be aligned with the second angled portion299such that a brazed gap508exists between the angled portion297defined around the first wall opening502and the second angled portion299. The brazed gap508may be defined to receive an amount of braze to create an air-tight seal between the angled portion297defined around the first wall opening502and the second angled portion299.

In some embodiments, such as that depicted inFIG. 3C, the second wall opening may include the interior wall opening323and the connection surface may include a weld portion319that is defined around a circumference of the interior wall opening323.

At block712, the connection surface may be joined with the angled portion297. For example, with reference toFIG. 6B, the angled portion297may be joined with the second angled portion299as depicted inFIG. 6Band also depicted inFIGS. 3A, 3B, and 2C. In some embodiments such as those depicted inFIG. 6B, braze may be applied to the brazed gap508and the joining the connection surface (e.g., the second angled portion299) with the angled portion297may include heating the first wall (the exterior wall190) and the second wall (the interior wall295) to activate the braze. In some embodiments such as those depicted inFIG. 3C, the joining may include resistively welding the angled portion317to the weld portion319or applying a fillet weld.

At block714, a vessel bottom may be sealed to a lower edge of the first wall and to a lower edge of the second wall. For example, with reference toFIGS. 5, 6A, and 6B, a lower edge510of the exterior wall190and a lower edge512of the interior wall295may be sealed to a vessel bottom514. InFIGS. 5 and 6A, the vessel bottom514is depicted exploded from the lower edges510and512. InFIG. 6B, the vessel bottom514is depicted sealed from the lower edges510and512.

In some embodiments, the vessel bottom514may be comprised of an outer bottom and an inner bottom. The outer bottom may be may be configured to correspond to the lower edge510of the exterior wall190and the inner bottom may correspond to the lower edge512of the interior wall295. In these and other embodiments, the method700may include two steps for sealing the vessel bottom. For example, the method700may include sealing the outer bottom to the lower edge510of the exterior wall and sealing the inner bottom to the lower edge of the interior wall.

At block716, a space between the first wall and the second wall may be evacuated. For example, with reference toFIG. 6Bthe vacuum space289may be evacuated. For example, the vacuum space289may be evacuated using a vacuum pump.

One skilled in the art will appreciate that, for this and other procedures and methods disclosed herein, the functions performed in the processes and methods may be implemented in differing order. Furthermore, the outlined steps and operations are only provided as examples, and some of the steps and operations may be optional, combined into fewer steps and operations, or expanded into additional steps and operations without detracting from the disclosed embodiments. For example, the method700may include positioning a heat sink in the first wall opening after the angled portion defined around the first wall opening is aligned with the second angled portion and following the heating, the method700may include removing the heat sink from the first wall opening.

FIG. 10is a flowchart that depicts an example method1000of manufacturing an opening of a vessel that includes a double-wall vacuum space. Although illustrated as discrete blocks, various blocks may be divided into additional blocks, combined into fewer blocks, or eliminated, depending on the desired implementation. For example a beverage dispenser such as the beverage dispenser100ofFIGS. 1A and 1Bmay include a vessel such as the vessel120that includes a double-wall vacuum space and at least one opening such as the openings110/290manufactured according to the method1000.

The method1000is described with reference toFIGS. 8, 9A and 9Bthat illustrate portions of the beverage dispenser100ofFIGS. 1A and 1B. In particular,FIG. 8includes a partially exploded view of the beverage dispenser100ofFIGS. 1A and 1Bwith multiple components (e.g.,200(e.g.,200A and200B),145, and138) omitted.FIGS. 9A and 9Billustrate a detailed view of the lower opening110.

The method1000may begin at block1002in which a first wall opening may be punched in a first wall of the vessel. For example, with reference toFIGS. 9A and 9B, a first wall may include the exterior wall190. A first wall opening902may be punched or otherwise defined in the exterior wall190.

At block1004, a first angled portion may be defined around a circumference of the first wall opening. For example, with reference toFIGS. 9A and 9B, the angled portion297may be defined around the circumference of the first wall opening902. At block1006, a second wall opening may be punched in a second wall of the vessel. For example, with reference toFIGS. 8, 9A, and 9B, a second wall may include the interior wall295. A second wall opening904may be defined in the interior wall295.

At block1008, a second angled portion may be defined around a circumference of the second wall opening. For example, with reference toFIGS. 9A and 9B, the angled portion299may be defined around the circumference of the second wall opening904. At block1010, the interior wall may be introduced to a volume defined within the exterior wall. For example, with reference toFIGS. 8, 9A, and 9B, the interior wall295may be introduced to a volume906(FIG. 8) defined by the exterior wall190.

At block1012, the first angled portion and the second angled portion may be aligned. For example, the first angled portion and the second angled portion may be aligned such that a first surface of the first angled portion substantially contacts or contacts a first surface of a second angled portion. With reference toFIGS. 9A and 9B, the first angled portion297and the second angled portion299may be aligned such that a first surface of the horizontal portion339of the first angled portion297substantially contacts or contacts a first surface of the horizontal portion of the second angled portion299.

At block1014, a wall stud may be positioned within the first wall opening and the second wall opening such that an external surface of the wall stud contacts a second surface of one of the first angled portion or the second angled portion. For example, with reference toFIGS. 9A and 9B, the lower wall stud283may be positioned within the first wall opening902and the second wall opening904such that an external surface221of the wall stud283contacts a second surface920of the second angled portion299.

At block1016, a first end of the first angled portion, a second end of the second angled portion and a portion of the external surface may be welded together. For example, with reference toFIG. 9B, the first end388of the first angled portion297, the second end390of the second angled portion299and a portion of the external surface221may be welded together. A weld interface between the first end of the first angled portion, the second end of the second angled portion, and the portion of the external surface creates a first air-tight seal between the first angled portion and the second angled portion and creates a second air-tight seal between the wall stud and the one of the first angled portion or the second angled portion that includes the second surface that contacts the wall stud.

At block1018, a space between the first wall and the second wall may be evacuated. For example, with reference toFIG. 9Bthe vacuum space289may be evacuated. For example, the vacuum space289may be evacuated using a vacuum pump.

In some embodiments, the method1000may include sealing a vessel bottom to a lower edge of the first wall and to a lower edge of the second wall. Sealing the vessel bottom may occur prior to the space between the first wall and the second wall being evacuated. For example, with reference toFIGS. 8, 9A, and 9B, a lower edge910of the exterior wall190and a lower edge912of the interior wall295may be sealed to a vessel bottom514. InFIG. 8, the vessel bottom514is depicted exploded from the lower edges910and912. InFIG. 9B, the vessel bottom514is depicted sealed to the lower edges910and912.

In some embodiments, the vessel bottom514may be comprised of an outer bottom and an inner bottom. The outer bottom may be may be configured to correspond to the lower edge910of the exterior wall190and the inner bottom may correspond to the lower edge912of the interior wall295. In these and other embodiments, the method1000may include two steps for sealing the vessel bottom. For example, the method1000may include sealing the outer bottom to the lower edge910of the exterior wall190and sealing the inner bottom to the lower edge912of the interior wall295.