Self service controlled beverage dispensing system
A self service controlled beverage dispensing system that includes a self-service container filling station, a reusable beverage container, and a dispensing tap. The self service station including a communication unit and a biometric identity unit capable of confirming the identity and age of a user.
1. A self service controlled beverage dispensing system, comprising:
a generally hollow container having a fill valve, a drain valve, a fill valve connector, and a drain valve connector disposed thereon;
a self service filling station that includes
a main body having a receiving bay for receiving the container,
a beverage fill line having a first connector located within the receiving bay, said first connector being configured to engage the fill valve connector of the container, and said fill line being configured to supply a beverage to the container,
a drain line having a second connector located within the receiving bay, said second connector being configured to engage the drain valve connector of the container, and said drain line being configured to remove a foam and air from the container,
a biometric identification unit configured to establish an age and identity of a user,
a communication unit configured to communicate with a system server via a network,
one or more input and output devices configured to interface with a user, and
a central control unit configured to control an operation of the self service filling station; and
a dispensing tap that includes
a main body having a surface for receiving the container,
a C02 supply line having a C02 connector that is configured to engage the fill valve connector of the container, and said C02 supply line being configured to supply a pressurized gas to the container,
a tap line having a tap connector that is configured to engage the drain valve connector of the container, and said tap line being configured to transport a received beverage to a beer tap valve that is located on the main body of the dispensing tap.
2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the central control unit includes
a processor configured to control the biometric identification unit, the communication unit, and the one or more input and output devices; and
a memory configured to store operating instructions and user permissions.
3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the biometric identification system includes, at least one of a fingerprint scanner, a handprint scanner, a retinal scanner and a facial recognition system, that is in communication with the central control unit.
4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the beverage fill line is configured to engage an external beverage supply system.
5. The system of claim 1 , wherein said input and output unit includes at least one of a keypad, a graphic user interface, and a speaker.
6. The system of claim 1 , further comprising:
a payment device configured to receive payment from a user, said payment device being positioned on the main body of the filling station and being in communication with the central control unit.
7. The system of claim 1 , wherein the container further includes a pair of oppositely placed indentations, and the receiving bay further includes a pair of oppositely placed protrusions, said indentations and protrusions having complementary shapes and locations and being configured to prevent usage by foreign containers.
8. The system of claim 1 , wherein said container includes a dimension suitable for storing 144 ounces of beverage.
9. The system of claim 1 , further comprising:
a C02 regulator valve configured to control a flow of C02 within the C02 supply line; and
a C02 canister connector.