Patent Description:
Bag-in-containers are well known in the art and comprise a flexible inner container or bag, contained in a more rigid outer container. Generally these bag-in-containers comprise at least one provision suitable for introducing a gas under pressure between the adjacent walls of the bag and the container, such that the bag can be compressed inside the container for dispensing the contents of the bag. These bag-in-containers can be assembled from a relatively rigid outer container and a flexible inner container which is inserted into the outer container, or can be made integrally, for example by integral blow moulding from a multi layered preform or preform assembly, which may also be referred to as parison.

An example of an integrally blow moulded bag-in-container is used by Heineken, NL, in their Brewlock® and Blade® systems and e.g. in <CIT> and <CIT>. These BiC's are integrally blow moulded from a preform assembly, comprising an injection moulded inner preform, inserted into an injection moulded outer preform, which are connected to each other at their neck regions by a closure ring which is spin welded to both preforms. The closure ring closes off a space between the inner and outer preforms. The outer preform is provided, in a peripheral wall of the neck portion, with an inlet opening which connects to said space between the inner and outer preforms, for introducing a pressurized gas, especially air, into said space, after the BiC has been blow moulded. The closure ring further comprises a dispense opening, in which a closure can be provided, which dispense opening provides access into the inner volume of the inner container.

<CIT> discloses a bag-in-container, comprising a bag inside a container, the bag being compressible upon introduction of a gas under pressure into a space between the bag and the container. The bag has a first neck and the container has a second neck, the second neck extending around the first neck. At least one passage is provided between the first and the second neck, providing access for said gas under pressure into said space. The first and second neck both have a closed peripheral wall. A lid is mounted onto the bag-in-container, said lid comprising a first seal sealing against the bag and a second seal sealing against the container, the lid (<NUM>) further comprising a first channel, during use fluidly connecting to an inner space of the bag and a second channel, during use fluidly connecting to said at least one passage. Moreover a connector is provided, connected to or connectable to the bag-in-container, wherein the connector has a first connecting element fitting onto and/or into the first channel. An at least partly flexible dispensing line is provided, fluidly connected to or connectable to the first connecting element (<NUM>) for dispensing beverage from the bag. Moreover the lid comprises a channel part, extending from the second channel to an inlet opening, wherein the inlet opening lies in a plane extending substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis X-X of the container, preferably spaced radially outward from the peripheral wall of the second neck.

Although these BiC's are very practical during use, the preform assemblies therefore are relatively complex in construction and manufacturing, due to for example the required precision of the dimensions of the individual preforms and of the closure ring, and the spin welding process for mounting the closure ring to the preforms. This also limits the freedom of choice for colouring the preforms and thus of the BiC's, as well as the choice of materials.

Another example of an integrally blow moulded Bag-in-container is used by ABInbev, BE, for example in their Nova® system. This BiC is integrally blow moulded from a preform assembly, comprising a transparent inner preform fitted into a coloured outer preform. The preforms are not interconnected. The outer preform has a neck region formed primarily by a closed peripheral wall, which extends around a neck region of the inner preform, again formed primarily by a closed peripheral wall. Between said two peripheral walls a space is provided. After blow moulding the inner bag is locked inside the outer container by shape retention. A lid is mounted to the BiC after filling the bag with the fluid to be dispensed. The lid closes off the space between the containers and comprises a central first channel, opening into the inner volume of the bag, and a second channel, extending parallel to the first channel and opening into said space between the containers. Furthermore a connector is provided, which can be releasably connected to the lid. The connector comprises a first needle for introduction into the first channel, and a second needle for introduction into the second channel. An at least partly flexible dispense line is connected to the connector, in fluid communication with the first needle, for dispensing liquid from the bag. Furthermore a second flexible line is connected to the connector, in fluid communication with the second needle, for introducing pressurized air into the space between the bag and the container.

This container has the disadvantage that the flexible second line has to be connected to the connector each time a BiC is changed, whereas the connection can be lost, for example the second line can be blown off the connector by the pressurized air. Moreover, the flexible second line can become blocked, for example when it is folded or when squeezed, for example when positioning the BiC or by closing a door of the appliance used with the BiC or by an external element.

An aim of the disclosure is to provide an alternative bag-in-container. An aim is to provide a bag-in-container with which at least some of the disadvantages of the prior art BiC's as discussed are reduced or mitigated.

At least one or more of the aims and goals of the present disclosure can be achieved by a bag-in-container, comprising a bag inside a container, the bag being compressible upon introduction of a gas under pressure into an interface space between the bag and the container. The bag has a first neck and the container has a second neck, the second neck extending around the first neck, wherein at least one passage is provided between the first and the second neck, providing access for said gas under pressure into said interface space. The first and second neck both have a closed peripheral wall, wherein a lid is mounted onto the bag-in-container, said lid comprising a first seal sealing against the bag and a second seal sealing against the container. The lid further comprises a first channel, during use fluidly connecting to an inner space of the bag and a second channel, during use fluidly connecting to said at least one passage. A connector is provided, connected to or connectable to the bag-in-container, wherein the connector has a first connecting element fitting onto and/or into the first channel and an at least partly flexible dispensing line fluidly connected to or connectable to the first connecting element for dispensing beverage from the bag.

With a bag-in-container according to the present disclosure the inner bag and outer container can be made easily by injection moulding the preform or preform assembly and then blow moulding the preform or preform assembly integrally. No complex mechanisms have to be built into the injection mould or moulds for the preform or preform assembly. Furthermore a lid can be used which can be mounted to the bag-in-container for example after filling, providing for a closing of the inner space for the beverage and the interfacial space between the inner bag and the outer container.

According to an aspect of the disclosure the lid comprises a channel part, extending from the second channel to an inlet opening, wherein the inlet opening lies in a plane extending substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the container. The said plane is preferably spaced radially outward from the peripheral wall of the second neck.

By providing an inlet opening to the channel part in a side surface of the lid, in a plane extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the container, gas can be inserted into the container in a substantially axial direction of the lid, but be inserted into the interfacial space in a substantially longitudinal direction. The lid can easily be made, for example by <NUM> injection moulding, integrating any seals, for example for sealing off against the container. The channel part can be made for example by an insert in the mould.

According to an alternative aspect of the disclosure the connector comprises a channel part, extending from a second connecting element to an inlet opening, wherein the inlet opening lies in a plane extending substantially parallel to the first and second longitudinal axis. The said plane is preferably spaced radially outward from the peripheral wall of the second neck, wherein the second connecting element during use connects to the second channel of the lid.

By providing an inlet opening to the channel part in a side surface of the connector, in a plane extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the container, gas can be inserted into the container in a substantially axial direction of the connector, but be inserted into the interfacial space in a substantially longitudinal direction. The lid can still easily be made, for example by <NUM> injection moulding, integrating any seals, for example for sealing off against the container. The first and second channel can in embodiments extend substantially parallel to each other. Similarly the first and second connecting elements can have longitudinal axis extending substantially parallel to each other, such that they can easily be inserted into and/or over and/or against the first and second channel.

Preferably the first channel has a first longitudinal axis and the second channel has a second longitudinal axis, the first and second longitudinal axis extending substantially parallel to each other and/or to the longitudinal axis of the container. Such configuration in the lid makes injection moulding even easier.

In a further aspect a second opening is provided in the lid or connector, diametrically opposite to the inlet opening, positioned in a plane extending substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the container, wherein the inlet opening is in fluid communication with the second opening through the lid, through the connector and/or through the container. Preferably the second opening is spaced radially outward from the peripheral wall of the second neck, and even more preferably over the same distance as the inlet opening.

Providing a second opening allows for example for a further source of pressurized gas or a pressure sensor or other sensor to be connected to the container. By providing said second opening directly opposite the first or inlet opening makes it even more practical since this allows for a symmetrical configuration of the lid or connector, such that two positions can be allowed for positioning the container in a pressurizing device or connecting a pressurizing device to the lid or connector.

In a further elaboration between the lid and the connector a gas space is enclosed, during use connecting to the inlet opening and the second channel. The gas space can pass gas between the inlet opening and the second channel. The gas space can moreover fluidly connect the first opening with a second opening, if provided for. Furthermore a gas space can provide for a buffer for gas.

In further elaboration the second connecting element can comprise or is formed by a piercing element for piercing into the second channel, which piercing element at least comprises one groove for allowing gas to pass into and/or out of said second channel from or into said gas space. Moreover such connecting element may be easy to manufacture and can easily be sued for piercing any seal, if provided in or for the second channel.

In an aspect the passage between the first and second neck comprises at least a substantially cylindrical space between the peripheral walls of the first and second neck, extending into the bag-in-container from the level of a free longitudinal edge of the first neck. Preferably when the lid has been mounted onto the container a first seal of the lid seals against the said free edge of the first neck, that is the neck of the bag, whereas a second seal of the lid can seal against the inside of the second neck, of the outer container, above said free longitudinal edge of the first neck.

The disclosure is further directed to a connector for connecting to a lid of a bag in container, especially to a bag in container of this disclosure. Said connector comprises first and second connecting elements having parallel longitudinal axis, extending from a first surface, and two openings diametrically opposite each other in connecting surfaces extending substantially parallel to each other and to the longitudinal axis of the first and second connecting elements.

In order to further elucidate the present invention, embodiments thereof shall be disclosed and discussed hereafter, with reference to the drawings. Therein shows:.

In this description embodiments are shown and disclosed of the invention, by way of example only. These should by no means be interpreted or understood as limiting the scope of the present invention in any way. In this description the same or similar elements are indicated by the same or similar reference signs. In this description embodiments of the present invention shall be discussed with reference to carbonated beverages, especially beer. However, other beverages could also be used in the present invention, such as but not limited to coffee, especially cold brew coffee, cider, wine, juice and the like.

In this description references to above and below, top and bottom and the like shall be considered, unless specifically stipulated differently, to a normal orientation of a dispensing unit. The rear of the dispensing unit shall be referred to as the side at which a tap handle or the like is provided for operating the system, especially for operating for dispensing beverage contained in a container provided in and/or on the unit. The container can have a bottom part and a neck region which may, during use within the assembly, be facing substantially downward. This is for example shown in the drawings, especially <FIG>, wherein a container is shown with a neck portion facing downward. This does not necessarily reflect the orientation in which a tapping device of the present disclosure or parts thereof have to be used. For the container a normal position may be with a bottom portion facing down, a neck portion facing up, or having a longitudinal axis at an angle relative to a vertical line, for example extending substantially horizontally.

In this description a BIC type or bag-in-container type container has to be understood as meaning at least a container comprising an outer container and an inner bag, wherein the inner bag is designed to hold a beverage and is more flexible or compressible than the outer container. The outer container can for example be a bottle shaped container with a neck and a body, whereas the bag also has a neck. The inner bag and/or outer container can be made of mono materials or blends, can be made entirely or partly by injection moulding and/or blow moulding, rotation moulding or the like. Preferably a bag-in-container according to the invention is made by integrally blow moulding. In embodiments the bag-in-container can be made by inserting at least one preform into another preform and then blow moulding them together into a bag-in-container type container. In embodiments the bag-in-container can be made by over-moulding at least one preform forming a multi layered preform and then blow moulding them together into a bag-in-container type container. In embodiments a bag can be suspended inside an outer container, after forming the outer container and the bag separately, at least in part.

In this description a tapping assembly can comprise a housing holding a cooling device and a pressure device for supplying pressurized gas, such as air, to a container. The system can further comprise a lid, preferably an at least partly transparent lid, fitting over the container when properly placed in the housing. The lid can provide visibility of the container within the dispensing device comprising the housing and the lid, such that for example the filling level can be ascertained and branding of the container is visible from the outside. Transparent should be understood in this context as being sufficiently clear to allow viewing and inspection of the container through the lid, preferably undisturbed by for example coloring or hazing of the lid over at least a substantial part of the lid, for example more than <NUM>% of its surface area and/or from at least two opposite sides and/or over at least part of the lids' height over <NUM> degrees, i.e. from all sides. Providing visibility of the container and, especially at least branding thereof, can be beneficial for allowing different brands to be used in the same system without having to rebrand the dispensing unit. Providing visibility of the container and, especially at least branding thereof, can be beneficial for outward appearances of the dispensing unit. Providing visibility of the container and, especially at least branding thereof, can be beneficial for inspection of the container and/or it's contents.

In this description a dispensing assembly, which can also be referred to as tapping assembly can be designed such that a container can be placed in an "upside down" position on and/or into a housing of a dispensing unit, such that at least part of the container, especially at least part of a shoulder part of the container is introduced in a receptacle on the housing, a neck portion comprising an outflow opening facing down. Preferably a part of the container extending into said receptacle, especially part of the shoulder portion, is close to or at least in part in contact with a wall of the receptacle, wherein the wall of the receptacle is cooled, especially actively cooled. In this description relatively close regarding a distance between the wall of the receptacle and the relevant container part should be understood as a distance small enough to allow efficient cooling of the said part of the container and its content. In such embodiment the advantage is obtained that the content of the container will at least be in the area which is cooled by the wall of the receptacle, even if the container is partly empty, which cooled content is close to and especially directly adjacent the outflow opening. Thus control of the temperature of the beverage dispensed is very well possible, even if a part of the container extending outside the receptacle is not or less cooled. Such dispensing device is for example known as Blade ® , marketed by Heineken, The Netherlands, and is for example described in <CIT>, <CIT> and <CIT>.

<FIG> schematically shows a longitudinal cross sectional view of a preform <NUM> for a bag-in-container or BIC. In <FIG> the preform is formed as a preform assembly, comprising a first preform <NUM>, injection moulded from a plastic or plastic blend, such as for example PET or containing PET in a blend. The first preform <NUM> is inserted into a second injection moulded preform <NUM>, which is also made from a plastic or plastic blend, which may be the same as or different from the plastic of the first preform <NUM>. Preferably both the inner preform <NUM> and the outer preform <NUM> are made predominantly of PET. As can be seen in <FIG>, both the first and the second preform <NUM>, <NUM> have a body forming portion III and a neck <NUM>, <NUM>. The first neck <NUM> of the inner preform is provided inside the second neck <NUM> of the second preform <NUM>. During blow moulding the necks <NUM>, <NUM> are preferably not stretched and maintain their form in the bag-in-container <NUM> blow moulded from the preform <NUM>.

<FIG> schematically shows a bag-in-container <NUM>, partly in cross section, integrally blow moulded from a preform assembly <NUM> of <FIG>. The BIC <NUM> comprises a bag <NUM> inside a container <NUM>. The bag <NUM> is made from the first or inner preform <NUM>, the container <NUM> is made from the second or outer preform <NUM>. The bag <NUM> is compressible upon introduction of a gas under pressure into a space <NUM> between the bag <NUM> and the container <NUM>. Said space <NUM> can also be referred to as interfacial space <NUM>. The bag <NUM> has a first neck <NUM> and the container <NUM> has a second neck <NUM>, the second neck <NUM> extending around the first neck <NUM>. At least one passage <NUM> is provided between the first and the second neck <NUM>, <NUM>, providing access for gas under pressure into said space <NUM>. The first and second neck <NUM>, <NUM> both have a closed peripheral wall. In <FIG> part of the necks <NUM>, <NUM> with the passage <NUM> and the space <NUM> are shown at an enlarged scale. The passage <NUM> preferably has a main direction of flow F which is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis X - X of the container <NUM>. The space <NUM> can extend into the container <NUM>, in a neck region I, shoulder region II and/or body region III, in a known manner. In the container <NUM> directly after blow molding and/or filling of the container at least in the shoulder region II and body region III the bag <NUM> can rest against the inner wall of the container <NUM>, such that the space <NUM> there is very much reduced, but can be increased by said gas under pressure introduced therein, pressurizing and dispensing the content of the container <NUM>.

<FIG> schematically shows an embodiment of a lid <NUM> for closing the container <NUM>. The lid <NUM> is mounted onto the bag-in-container <NUM>, said lid comprising a first seal <NUM> sealing against the bag <NUM>, especially against the neck <NUM> of the bag <NUM>, and a second seal <NUM> sealing against the container <NUM>, especially the neck <NUM> of the outer container <NUM>. The lid <NUM> further comprising a first channel <NUM>, during use fluidly connecting to an inner space <NUM> of the bag <NUM> and a second channel <NUM>, during use fluidly connecting to said at least one passage <NUM>. The first channel <NUM> is provided with a flexible closure <NUM>, which closes off the channel <NUM>. The closure <NUM> can for example be pierced as will be discussed, or pushed aside, for allowing the content of the bag <NUM> to be dispensed. Alternatively the closure <NUM> could be or comprise a re-closable valve. In the embodiment shown in <FIG> the first channel <NUM> and second channel <NUM> extend parallel to each other and to a longitudinal axis X - X of the container <NUM>. This can be advantageous in both molding of the lid <NUM> and during use. The lid <NUM> can be formed from plastic, for example by injection molding, preferably by <NUM> molding in which the seals <NUM>, <NUM> can be injection molded together with a base material of the lid <NUM>. The seals could alternatively be made separately. As can be seen in <FIG> the lid <NUM> can for example be press fit onto the neck of the container <NUM>, for example locked in position by a groove <NUM> fitting over a tooth-rim <NUM>. This prevents undesired removal of the lid <NUM>.

<FIG> schematically show a bag in container (BIC) <NUM>, or at least an upper part thereof, showing the neck region I and the shoulder region II thereof, with a lid <NUM> as shown in <FIG> mounted thereon. Over the lid <NUM> a connector <NUM> is mounted, for connecting the container <NUM> with a dispensing assembly <NUM> as for example partly shown in <FIG>. Such dispensing device <NUM>, which is only shown by way of example and should by no means be interpreted as limiting the scope of the disclosure, is known as Blade ®, owned and marketed by Heineken, The Netherlands.

The connector <NUM> comprises a first connecting element <NUM> fitting onto and/or into the first channel <NUM> of the lid <NUM> and an at least partly flexible dispensing line <NUM> fluidly connected to or connectable to the first connecting element <NUM> for dispensing beverage from the bag <NUM> through the connector <NUM> and the dispensing line <NUM>. In the embodiment shown the first connecting element <NUM> is or comprises a tube, for example a needle, which can be pushed into the first channel <NUM> opening the closure <NUM> for allowing liquid to be dispensed from the volume <NUM> to the dispense tube <NUM>. The closure <NUM> preferably is made of an elastomeric material which will close and seal against the first connecting element <NUM> after having been opened, for example pierced.

The connector <NUM> further comprises a second connecting element <NUM>, which can be pushed into the second channel <NUM>. The second connecting element <NUM> preferably has at least one groove <NUM> for allowing gas to pass into and/or out of said second channel <NUM> from or into a gas space <NUM>. In this embodiment the second connecting element <NUM> is formed by a pin having a cross section such as shown in enlarged scale in <FIG>. In this embodiment the pin has a cross shaped cross section, the channel <NUM> being circular in cross section. It will be clear that these can have various different cross sections, as long as gas can flow passed through the second connecting element <NUM> through the second channel <NUM> into the passage <NUM> to the space <NUM>. The first and second connecting elements <NUM>, <NUM> are preferably straight and have a longitudinal axis Y which are parallel to each other, such that they can be easily inserted into the first and second channel <NUM>, <NUM> respectively. Between the lid <NUM> and the connector <NUM> a third seal <NUM> is provided, such that a space <NUM> between the lid <NUM> and the connector <NUM> is enclosed. The space <NUM> is in open communication with the second channel <NUM> and thus with the passage into the space <NUM> between the inner bag <NUM> and outer container <NUM>, when the connector <NUM> is properly mounted onto the container <NUM>. The second connecting element <NUM> during use thus connects to the second channel <NUM> of the lid <NUM>.

As can be seen in <FIG> the connector <NUM> in this embodiment comprises a first opening or inlet opening <NUM>, opening into the space <NUM>. The space <NUM> forms a channel part extending from the second connecting element <NUM> to the inlet opening <NUM>. The inlet opening <NUM> lies in a first plane P<NUM> extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis X - X of the container <NUM>. A gas connector <NUM> of the dispensing device <NUM> can thus connect to the inlet opening <NUM>, preferably in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X - X, as will be discussed. The plane P<NUM> preferably is spaced radially outward from the peripheral wall of the second neck <NUM>.

As can be seen in <FIG> the connector <NUM> can be provided with a retaining ring, for example a click ring <NUM> extending peripherally around the lower side of the connector <NUM>, with which the connector can be locked to the container <NUM>, by forcing the click ring <NUM> under an edge of a flange <NUM> of the container <NUM>.

In the embodiment of <FIG> a second opening <NUM> is provided in the connector <NUM>, diametrically opposite to the inlet opening <NUM>. The second opening <NUM> is preferably positioned in a second plane P<NUM> extending substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis X - X of the container <NUM>, and to the first plane P<NUM>. The inlet opening <NUM> is in fluid communication with the second opening <NUM> through the connector <NUM>, especially through the space <NUM> enclosed thereby. A second connector <NUM> of the dispensing device <NUM> can connect to said second opening <NUM>, preferably in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X - X, as will be discussed. The second plane P<NUM> preferably is spaced radially outward from the peripheral wall of the second neck <NUM>. More preferably the first plane P<NUM> and second plane P<NUM> are both spaced apart from said wall of the outer neck <NUM> over substantially the same distance. In embodiments the connector can be substantially symmetrical over a central plane parallel to the axis X - X, such that the container <NUM> can be placed in two positions in a dispensing device <NUM>, <NUM>.

In embodiments a connecting surface 44A, 52A can be provided, extending around the first or inlet opening <NUM> and/or the second opening <NUM> respectively. These surfaces 44A, 52A preferably lie in the planes P<NUM>, P<NUM> respectively, extending substantially parallel to the axis X - X.

The second opening <NUM> can form an outlet opening and can be in fluid connection with the inlet opening <NUM> and the second channel <NUM> or second connecting element <NUM> through the space <NUM>. Preferably the first connecting surface 44A has a first center C<NUM> and the second connecting surface 52A has a second center C<NUM>, wherein the first and second center lie on a straight line C<NUM> - C<NUM> extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X - X of the bag-in-container.

The passage <NUM> in embodiments comprises at least a substantially cylindrical space between the peripheral walls 4A, 5A of the first and second neck <NUM>, <NUM>, extending into the bag-in-container <NUM> from the level of a free longitudinal edge 4B of the first neck <NUM>. This edge 4B preferably lies below the edge 5B of the outer neck <NUM>, such that the lid <NUM> extends at least partly into the outer neck <NUM> in order for the seal <NUM> to engage the neck <NUM>. Thus the container <NUM> with the lid <NUM> can have a relatively small axial length.

A bag in container <NUM> according to the disclosure can be an integrally blow molded BIC, and can be made of a preform assembly as described, or of a multi layered integral preform, as long as the bag formed from an inner layer of combination of layers will release from the container formed from the outer layer of combination of layers when introducing a gas under pressure into the space <NUM> between the bag forming the inner layer and the container forming the outer layer.

<FIG> schematically shows part of a container <NUM> of the disclosure with a lid <NUM> and connector <NUM> mounted thereon. In this embodiment the lid <NUM> and connector <NUM> are similar to the embodiment of <FIG>, wherein the container <NUM> is placed in an upside down configuration in a dispensing device <NUM>. The bottom of the container <NUM> thus forms the upper most part of the container in this position. The container <NUM> rests with its shoulder region II in a substantially bowl shaped receptacle <NUM> of the dispensing device <NUM>, wherein the neck region I extends into a recess <NUM> at a lower end of the receptacle <NUM>. Cooling channels <NUM> are provide in or extending around the receptacle <NUM>, for cooling the receptacle and hence cooling the container <NUM> and the liquid inside the container <NUM> by contact cooling. Since the first channel <NUM> through which the liquid is to be dispensed is at the lowest point of the container <NUM> in this position, efficient cooling can be obtained.

As can be seen in <FIG> the first or gas connector <NUM> and the second connector <NUM> are provided in the dispensing device <NUM>, on opposite sides of the connector <NUM> and lid <NUM>, whereas the dispensing line is at the lower end of the container <NUM>. The first or gas connector <NUM> is connected via a gas line <NUM> with a source <NUM> of pressurized gas, such as a compressor or a buffer tank filled with compressed gas, such as air or CO<NUM>. The gas connector <NUM> in this embodiment comprises a first nose <NUM> made of a pliable material such as rubber or an elastomer, which can seal against the surface 44A around the inlet opening <NUM>, for providing a gas tight connection. In the embodiment shown the first nose <NUM> is biased towards the surface 44A by a spring 51A. Hence gas under pressure can be introduced into the space <NUM> through the first nose <NUM> and the inlet opening <NUM>, from the source <NUM>.

The first nose <NUM> can be supported by a first carrier <NUM>, schematically partly shown in <FIG> and known from the art, such as the Blade®. Heineken, The Netherlands, which carrier can move radially, substantially perpendicular relative to the longitudinal axis X - X of the container <NUM>, between the position as shown in <FIG> and a retracted position, in which the first nose <NUM> is moved away from the surface 44A. This allows the connector <NUM> to pass easily into and out of the recess <NUM>, passing the first nose <NUM>.

Diametrically opposite the first nose <NUM> the second connector <NUM> is provided, with a second nose <NUM>. The second connector <NUM> is connected via a gas line <NUM> with a sensor unit <NUM>, for example comprising a pressure sensor and/or a flow sensor. The second connector <NUM> in this embodiment comprises a second nose <NUM>, similar to the first nose <NUM>, which can seal against the surface 52A around the second opening <NUM>, for providing a gas tight connection. In the embodiment shown the second nose <NUM> is biased towards the surface 52A by a spring 55A. Hence gas under pressure can be led to the sensor unit <NUM>.

The second nose <NUM> can be supported by a second carrier <NUM>, schematically partly shown in <FIG> and known from the art, such as the Blade®. Heineken, The Netherlands, which second carrier <NUM> can move radially, substantially perpendicular relative to the longitudinal axis X - X of the container <NUM>, between the position as shown in <FIG> and a retrieved position, in which the second nose <NUM> is moved away from the surface 52A. This allows the connector <NUM> to pass easily into and out of the recess <NUM>, passing the second nose <NUM>.

In preferred embodiments the first and second carrier can be moved simultaneously in opposite directions, between the connecting position as shown in <FIG> and a released position in which the noses <NUM>, <NUM> are moved away from the surfaces 44A, 52A. This can be achieved in any suitable way, for example electronically and/or mechanically.

Preferably the sensor unit <NUM> is connected to a control unit <NUM> of the dispensing device. The control unit <NUM> can be set such that for example the sensor unit <NUM> can sense whether a container <NUM> is indeed properly introduced into the dispensing device <NUM>. For example if no container <NUM> is present in the dispensing device gas introduced through the first nose <NUM> will flow out of the dispensing device <NUM>, which will mean that the sensor unit <NUM> will sense no to very little change in pressure and/or flow. The control unit can then switch off the pressure source <NUM>, cooling and the like and/or can be used to inform the user of the fact that no container has been placed, or a container has been placed improperly or that other problems may occur. Moreover the control unit can be set such that if the sensor unit <NUM> detects too high a pressure or flow, it can also switch off or modulate the pressure source <NUM>. The space <NUM> can function as a pressure buffer, as can the space <NUM> in the container <NUM>.

<FIG> show an alternative embodiment of a connector <NUM>. In this embodiment the connector <NUM> comprises a first connecting element <NUM> and a second connecting element <NUM>. In this embodiment the second connecting element <NUM> is tubular, like the first connecting element <NUM>, having an internal channel 34A connecting to a channel part <NUM>, extending substantially radially from the internal channel 34A to the inlet opening <NUM>. Again the inlet opening <NUM> lies in a plane P<NUM> extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis X - X of the container <NUM>, preferably spaced radially outward from the peripheral wall 5A of the second neck. In this embodiment the connector <NUM> can for example comprise two or more legs <NUM> which teeth <NUM> at their lower ends such that these legs <NUM> can act as click fingers which can click below an edge of a flange <NUM> for connecting the connector <NUM> to the container <NUM>. In the embodiments shown two legs <NUM> are provided, at opposite sides of the connector, but obviously another number of such legs could be provided, or a click ring as discussed previously.

<FIG> shows schematically and in cross section a further alternative embodiment of a connector <NUM> for a container, again provided with a first and second connecting element <NUM>, <NUM> as in <FIG>. In this embodiment the connector has a first or gas connecting opening <NUM> and at an opposite side of the connector a second opening <NUM>, similar to the embodiment of <FIG>. In this embodiment the channel part <NUM> extending substantially radially from the internal channel 34A to the inlet opening <NUM> is connected to a further channel part 34B which extends through an upper part <NUM> of the connector to the second opening <NUM>. Again the inlet opening <NUM> lies in a plane P<NUM> and the second opening <NUM> in a second plane P<NUM>, both planes P<NUM>, P<NUM> extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis X - X of the container <NUM>, preferably spaced radially outward from the peripheral wall 5A of the second neck.

<FIG> shows schematically and in cross section an alternative embodiment of a lid <NUM> for a container <NUM>. In this embodiment the lid is substantially as disclosed in <FIG>. In this embodiment the lid <NUM> further comprises a channel part <NUM>, for example similar to the space <NUM> or as a ring shaped channel, extending from the second channel <NUM> to the inlet opening <NUM> and to a second opening <NUM> at a side of the lid <NUM> opposite the inlet opening <NUM>. The inlet opening <NUM> again lies in a plane P<NUM> extending substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis X - X of the container <NUM>, preferably spaced radially outward from the peripheral wall 5A of the second neck <NUM>. The second opening <NUM> again lies in a plane P<NUM> extending substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis X - X of the container <NUM>, preferably spaced radially outward from the peripheral wall 5A of the second neck <NUM>. In this configuration an adapter can be used dosing off either opening <NUM> or channels <NUM>, thus allowing a choice of opening for introducing a gas. Alternatively the channel <NUM> can be omitted.

<FIG> shows schematically in cross section a connecting device <NUM> of an alternative dispensing device <NUM>, mounted on a BIC container <NUM>, over the neck region I and extending over part of the shoulder region II thereof. The connecting device <NUM> is generally known from the prior art and is used in the Brewlock ® system of Heineken, The Netherlands, and is disclosed in International application <CIT>. The connecting device <NUM> comprises a central opening or bore <NUM> in a housing <NUM>, with which the device <NUM> can be fitted over the neck region I of a container <NUM>. Inside the housing <NUM> a first connector <NUM> is provided, which can comprise a first nose <NUM>, similar to <FIG>, which can be supported by a first carrier <NUM>, which carrier can move radially, substantially perpendicular relative to the longitudinal axis X - X of the container <NUM>, between the retracted position as shown in <FIG> and a position, in which the first nose <NUM> is moved against the surface 44A. This allows the connector <NUM> to pass easily into and out of the recess <NUM>, passing the first nose <NUM>, when retracted.

Diametrically opposite the first nose <NUM> the second connector <NUM> is provided, with a second nose <NUM>. The second connector <NUM> is connected via a gas line with a sensor unit, for example comprising a pressure sensor and/or a flow sensor, in substantially the same way and for the same purpose as in the embodiments of <FIG>. The second connector <NUM> in this embodiment comprises a second nose <NUM>, similar to the first nose <NUM>, which can seal against the surface 52A around the second opening <NUM>, for providing a gas tight connection. In the embodiment shown the first nose <NUM> is biased towards the surface 44A and the second nose <NUM> is biased towards the surface 52A by a springs 51A and 55A.

The second nose <NUM> can be supported by a second carrier <NUM>, similar to <FIG>, which second carrier <NUM> can move radially, substantially perpendicular relative to the longitudinal axis X - X of the container <NUM>, between the retracted position as shown in <FIG> and a forward position, in which the second nose <NUM> is moved against the surface 52A. This allows the connector <NUM> to pass easily into and out of the recess <NUM>, passing the second nose <NUM> when in the retracted position.

In the moved forward position the nose <NUM> seals against surface 44A and gas under pressure can be entered into the container <NUM>, especially into the space <NUM> through opening <NUM> and passage <NUM>, whereas the second nose <NUM> seals against surface 52A and gas under pressure can be led to the sensor unit.

In preferred embodiments the first and second carrier can be moved simultaneously in opposite directions, between the connecting position as shown in <FIG> and a released position as shown in <FIG>, in which the noses <NUM>, <NUM> are moved away from the surfaces 44A, 52A. This can be achieved in any suitable way, for example electronically and/or mechanically.

Preferably the sensor unit <NUM> is connected to a control unit of the dispensing device. The control unit can be set such that for example the sensor unit <NUM> can sense whether a container <NUM> is indeed properly introduced into the dispensing device <NUM>. For example if no container <NUM> is present in the dispensing device gas introduced through the first nose <NUM> will flow out of the dispensing device <NUM>, which will mean that the sensor unit <NUM> will sense no to very little change in pressure and/or flow. The control unit can then switch off the pressure source <NUM>, cooling and the like and/or can be used to inform the user of the fact that no container has been placed, or a container has been placed improperly or that other problems may occur. Moreover the control unit can be set such that if the sensor unit <NUM> detects too high a pressure or flow, it can also switch of or modulate the pressure source <NUM>. The space <NUM> can function as a pressure buffer, as can the space <NUM> in the container <NUM>.

The invention is by no means limited to the embodiments specifically disclosed and discussed herein.

Claim 1:
Bag-in-container (<NUM>), comprising a bag (<NUM>) inside a container (<NUM>), the bag (<NUM>) being compressible upon introduction of a gas under pressure into a space (<NUM>) between the bag (<NUM>) and the container (<NUM>), wherein the bag (<NUM>) has a first neck (<NUM>) and the container (<NUM>) has a second neck (<NUM>), the second neck (<NUM>) extending around the first neck (<NUM>), wherein at least one passage (<NUM>) is provided between the first (<NUM>) and the second neck (<NUM>), providing access for said gas under pressure into said space (<NUM>), wherein the first (<NUM>) and second neck (<NUM>) both have a closed peripheral wall, wherein a lid (<NUM>) is mounted onto the bag-in-container (<NUM>), said lid (<NUM>) comprising a first seal (<NUM>) sealing against the bag (<NUM>) and a second seal (<NUM>) sealing against the container (<NUM>), the lid (<NUM>) further comprising a first channel (<NUM>), during use fluidly connecting to an inner space (<NUM>) of the bag (<NUM>) and a second channel (<NUM>), during use fluidly connecting to said at least one passage (<NUM>),
wherein a connector (<NUM>) is provided, connected to or connectable to the bag-in-container (<NUM>), wherein the connector (<NUM>) has a first connecting element (<NUM>) fitting onto and/or into the first channel (<NUM>) and has a second connecting element (<NUM>) fitting into and/or onto the second channel (<NUM>),
an at least partly flexible dispensing line (<NUM>) fluidly connected to or connectable to the first connecting element (<NUM>) for dispensing beverage from the bag (<NUM>),
and wherein:
- the lid (<NUM>) comprises a channel part (<NUM>), extending from the second channel (<NUM>) to an inlet opening (<NUM>), wherein the inlet opening (<NUM>) lies in a plane (P1) extending substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis X-X of the container (<NUM>), preferably spaced radially outward from the peripheral wall of the second neck (<NUM>); or
- the connector (<NUM>) comprises a channel part (<NUM>), extending during use, when coupled to the lid (<NUM>), from the second channel (<NUM>) or a second connecting element (<NUM>) of the connector (<NUM>) to an inlet opening (<NUM>), wherein the inlet opening (<NUM>) lies in a plane P<NUM> extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis X-X of the container (<NUM>), preferably spaced radially outward from the peripheral wall of the second neck (<NUM>).