Tap structure for automatic beer dispensers

Automatic beer dispenser tap with foam control via 3-stage piston positioning

This technology features a dispenser tap structure where a drive unit moves a dual piston within the tap body into three positions: closed, high-flow, and low-flow. In the low-flow position, an air hole is opened to automatically pour beer with the perfect amount of foam.

Due to carbonation, beer tends to foam excessively when exposed to air or poured from a height, yet a lack of foam can make customers question its freshness. This delicate balance has made automating the dispensing process difficult, often requiring staff to stand by until the glass is full, resulting in wasted time.

With this technology, the outer piston opens the inlet for rapid filling, after which the inner piston separates to open an internal passage and air hole, creating a foam layer with a low flow rate. An elastic member pulls the two pistons together, ensuring stable position switching. It can be applied to unmanned or self-service beer stations in pubs, franchise bars, and stadiums, ensuring a consistent beer-to-foam ratio for every glass without requiring staff supervision.

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Key Features:

• An automatic beer dispenser tap structure comprising a tap body with an inlet connected to a reservoir and a nozzle unit with an outlet at the end of the beer passage
• A drive unit that moves the piston between at least three positions: an inlet-closed position, a first supply position, and a smaller second supply position
• A configuration where, in the second supply position, the outer piston member blocks the inlet while the inner piston member separates to open the internal passage and an air hole leading to the outside
• An elastic member disposed between the inner and outer piston members that provides an elastic force to pull the outer piston member toward the inner side

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