Patents by Inventor Richard D. Paton

Richard D. Paton has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 5431302
    Abstract: An improved apparatus and method is provided for accurately dispensing a preselected volume of liquid. A flowmeter is provided to generate signals proportional to the flow of liquid through a faucet. A programmed microcomputer receives the flowmeter signals and controls the faucet. The residual volume of liquid (spill), which was dispensed after the faucet was last commanded to close, is stored and averaged with additional, previously stored spill amounts by the microcomputer. The average spill volume is used to anticipate the spill for the forthcoming pour. When the cumulative volume of liquid dispensed is equal to the preselected volume less the anticipated spill volume, the microcomputer signals the faucet to close, resulting in an accurate pour. In a another aspect, an improved beer dispensing head is provided. A spring-loaded conventional tap handle activates a sensor means in the head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 11, 1995
    Assignee: August Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael K. Tulley, Richard D. Paton