Abstract: An all-polymer reciprocating pump (100) is contemplated. The pump body (160) receives a sliding insert (170) that may be locked in a down position to minimize the extension and profile of the actuator (120) while the pump (100) is not in use (e.g., for purposes of shipping in e-commerce). Projections (171) slide within guides (181) formed on an insert housing (180). Even in this down locked position, minimal compression is applied to the biasing members (130) so as to avoid fatigue, wear, and/or failure of the plastic components.

Abstract: The present invention concerns a dispensing device suited to dispense a fluid or liquid held in a container. The device comprises drawing means suited to draw the fluid or liquid from the container and a dispensing duct for dispensing the fluid or liquid. The dispensing duct is defined by a tubular element comprising at least one flexible portion.

Abstract: The present invention concerns a dispensing device suited to dispense a fluid or liquid held in a container. The device comprises drawing means suited to draw the fluid or liquid from the container and a dispensing duct for dispensing the fluid or liquid. The dispensing duct is defined by a tubular element comprising at least one flexible portion.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for brewing a beverage in a brewing apparatus, wherein a cartridge containing infusible material is connected to a brew chamber and will form the bottom of the brew chamber. By the introduction of air through the filter of the cartridge, water and infusible material are mixed, and an effective brewing process is conducted. After brewing the beverage is discharged into a receptacle through the filter of the cartridge, leaving infusible material behind in the cartridge. The invention also provides a cartridge for use in the method.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for brewing a beverage in a brewing apparatus, wherein a cartridge containing infusible material is connected to a brew chamber and will form the bottom of the brew chamber. By the introduction of air through the filter of the cartridge, water and infusible material are mixed, and an effective brewing process is conducted. After brewing the beverage is discharged into a receptacle through the filter of the cartridge, leaving infusible material behind in the cartridge. The invention also provides a cartridge for use in the method.