Measured Discharge From One And Indeterminate Flow From Another Patents (Class 222/133)
  • Patent number: 11453582
    Abstract: A shutoff switch for dispensing mixed beverages is presented. The shutoff switch includes a syrup inlet receiving syrup and a syrup outlet dispensing the syrup to a pump. The shutoff switch also includes a water inlet receiving water, and a water outlet dispensing the water to a either the pump or a dispensing point. Two distinct inlets and outlets for syrup and water prevent the syrup and water being mixed in the shutoff switch. The shutoff switch further includes a pressure responsive member that deforms based on pressure changes in the shutoff switch. When the deformation of the pressure responsive member reaches a threshold, an electrical gate in direct communication with the pressure responsive member opens, turning of a pump of the beverage dispensing system. Valves in either chamber of the shutoff switch can also be used as a redundant mechanical way to stop flow in the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2021
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2022
    Assignee: Cleland Sales Corporation
    Inventor: James Cleland
  • Patent number: 11305306
    Abstract: A hand cleaner foam dispenser with a first pump arrangement that discharges a first liquid and first air from the atmosphere through a first foam inducing member into a mixing chamber and a second pump arrangement that discharges a second liquid into the mixing chamber, and in which there is a simultaneous discharge of the first liquid, first air and the second liquid from the mixing chamber through an outlet foam inducing member to produce a foamed product delivered onto a person's hand. Preferably, the second pump arrangement may discharge not only the second liquid, but also second air drawn from the atmosphere and discharge the second liquid and the second air through a second foam inducing member into the mixing chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2022
    Assignee: OP-Hygiene IP GmbH
    Inventors: Heiner Ophardt, Andrew Jones, Zhenchun Shi
  • Patent number: 10888884
    Abstract: A hand cleaner foam dispenser with a first pump arrangement that discharges a first liquid and first air from the atmosphere through a first foam inducing member into a mixing chamber and a second pump arrangement that discharges a second liquid into the mixing chamber, and in which there is a simultaneous discharge of the first liquid, first air and the second liquid from the mixing chamber through an outlet foam inducing member to produce a foamed product delivered onto a person's hand. Preferably, the second pump arrangement may discharge not only the second liquid, but also second air drawn from the atmosphere and discharge the second liquid and the second air through a second foam inducing member into the mixing chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2021
    Assignee: OP-Hygiene IP GmbH
    Inventors: Heiner Ophardt, Andrew Jones, Zhenchun Shi
  • Patent number: 10759645
    Abstract: An insert for use with a beverage dispenser includes a diffuser having an upstream end configured to receive the first base fluid, a downstream end with an outlet configured to dispense the first base fluid, and a center bore extending between the upstream end and the downstream end along an axis. A stem is disposed in the center bore of the diffuser and has a first end configured to receive a second base fluid and an opposite second end with an outlet configured to dispense the second base fluid. The outlet of the diffuser is upstream from the outlet of the stem such that the first base fluid dispensed from the outlet of the diffuser mixes with an additive fluid before the second base fluid dispensed from the outlet of the stem mixes with the additive fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2020
    Assignee: Cornelius, Inc.
    Inventors: Arsalan Aslam, Sandesh Aravinda, Kurt Zoellick, Christopher F. Zemko
  • Patent number: 10524987
    Abstract: There is provided a smart baby bottle for preventing tooth decay in infants, including a first compartment containing a first liquid (such as milk), a second compartment containing a second liquid (such as water), and an electrical two-way solenoid valve for controlling a flow of the second liquid from the second compartment into the first compartment. The baby bottle also includes a pacifier which can be mounted interchangeably to both compartments as needed. The solenoid valve receives electrical signals from a plurality of electrical sensors. The electrical two-way solenoid valve automatically opens and allows flow of water from the second compartment into the first compartment, when milk contained in the first compartment is completely finished by an infant. Hence, the infant's teeth are rinsed with the water subsequent to milk—thereby reducing tooth decay in infants considering that there will be reduced exposure to liquids containing sugar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2020
    Assignee: UNITED ARAB EMIRATES UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Ali Almarzooqi, Amir Almarzooqi
  • Patent number: 10376876
    Abstract: A pipette is described having a tube, a pressure mechanism, and at least one reagent pad. The tube has a first end, a second end opposite the first end, and a sidewall extending between the first end and the second end, with the sidewall defining an interior cavity. The pressure mechanism is operably connected to the first end of the tube and is configured to enable a sample to be drawn into the interior cavity of the tube through the second end of the tube. The at least one reagent pad is positioned in the interior cavity of the tube and within a predefined liquid path whereby the sample contacts at least a portion of the at least one reagent pad when drawn into the interior cavity. In another embodiment, a pipette is described having a tube, a pressure mechanism, and a capillary positioned within the tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2019
    Assignee: Siemens Healthcare Diagnostics Inc.
    Inventor: James A. Profitt
  • Patent number: 10215606
    Abstract: A device for dispensing a liquid medium (26) from a container (1), comprising a housing (13), a metering drum (2) accommodated therein and a sealing disk (14), the housing (13) having a drum outlet (3) and a system air admission structure (22), and the sealing disk (14) having an admission opening (12) and a drum inlet (4). The metering drum (2) comprises a metering chamber (5), a chamber outlet (6) and a chamber inlet (7). The metering drum (2) further has a rotary valve (8), said rotary valve (8), in a first working position, connecting the drum inlet (4) to the chamber inlet (7) while closing the chamber outlet (6), thereby admitting air to the container (1) and removing air from the metering chamber (5). In a second working position, The metering drum (2) closes the chamber inlet (7) while connecting the drum outlet (3) to the chamber outlet (6), thereby further admitting air to the metering chamber (5) and the air admission channel (11) being connected to the system air admission structure (22).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2019
    Inventor: Karl-Heinz Fuchs
  • Patent number: 10202565
    Abstract: A container for a fabric treatment composition having: (a) a container floor extending to a floor boundary; (b) a sump adjacent to at least a portion of the container floor, wherein a portion of the container floor adjacent the sump has a container floor elevation head, wherein the sump has a sump elevation head less than the container floor elevation head adjacent the sump, at least a portion of the sump being located on a longitudinal axis of the container; (c) a peripheral wall extending from the container floor; and (e) a needle piercable membrane operatively engaged with the peripheral wall to define an interior volume, wherein the interior volume contains between about 10 mL and about 100 mL a liquid fabric treatment composition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2019
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventor: Brian Joseph Roselle
  • Patent number: 9753464
    Abstract: A beverage system includes a pump that draws a set amount of a flavored concentrate into a mixing chamber through a conduit for mixing with water to form a beverage. A sensor detects when the amount of the flavored concentrate in the conduit is low or the amount of the flavored concentrate in a concentrate container is low or out. The sensor includes two wings each including a recessed surface that together define a circular space. A portion of the conduit is received in the circular space. Each of the wings includes an ultrasonic portion that emits ultrasonic waves that are non-intrusive. When the amount of flavored concentrate in the conduit is low, air bubbles are generated in the flow of the flavored concentrate as it flows along the conduit and/or a vacuum is created in the conduit to draw the conduit away from the recessed surfaces. The ultrasonic waves detect either of these two features, indicating that the amount of the flavored concentrate is low.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2017
    Assignee: Carrier Commercial Refrigeration, Inc.
    Inventors: James J. Minard, Mark E. Bush
  • Patent number: 9700393
    Abstract: A delivery device (12, 140) includes a source (16) of pressurized fluid and a nozzle (24) which defines an outlet (22). A fluid pathway (20) fluidly connects the source of pressurized fluid with the nozzle outlet (22) for delivery of a spray of fluid from the nozzle outlet. A delivery mechanism (14) releases a dose (48) of particles (28) into the fluid pathway from an associated cartridge (32), such that the dose of the particles is carried by the pressurized fluid through the nozzle outlet in the spray. The particles include a dental care agent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2017
    Assignee: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS N.V.
    Inventors: David Andrew Fish, Nigel David Young
  • Patent number: 9517924
    Abstract: A liquid dispensing faucet includes first and second inlet flow passages that are isolated from each other, and first and second valve chambers respectively in fluid communication with the first and second inlet flow passages. First and second valve elements are located respectively in the first and second valve chambers and respectively control flow of liquid from the first and second inlet passages through the first and second valve chambers. First and second outlet passages are respectively in fluid communication with the first and second valve chambers for respectively receiving and dispensing liquid from the first and second valve chambers. A handle is operatively connected to both the first and second valve elements for selectively opening the first and second valve elements to allow flow of liquid through the first and second valve chambers when the handle is moved from a first position to a second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2016
    Assignee: The Meyer Company
    Inventors: Michael H. Meyer, Michael A. Kolar
  • Patent number: 9462895
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a dispensing device (10) for delivery of items of candy, tea, coffee beans, nuts or the like, said dispensing device comprising: a stationary container (20); a conveyor screw (30) and drive means (50). The conveyor screw (30) comprises a downstream (31) and an upstream member (32) arranged transverse to the longitudinal axis (A) and at least two elongated rods (37) extending helically from the outer periphery of the upstream member (32) to the outer periphery of the downstream member (31).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2016
    Assignee: MIXMO AB
    Inventor: Fredrik Junkell
  • Patent number: 9217599
    Abstract: Provided is a refrigeration appliance that includes a cabinet defining a compartment for storing food items in a temperature-controlled environment. A refrigeration system is operable to provide a cooling effect to an interior of the compartment, and an ice maker is disposed within the compartment for freezing water delivered from a water source into ice pieces. A nozzle is provided in fluid communication with the ice maker for introducing the water from the water source to the ice maker. The nozzle includes an interior passage through which water is to travel when being delivered to the ice maker, and an outlet through which water being delivered to the ice maker exits the nozzle. An inside diameter of the outlet is greater than an inside diameter at another location of the interior passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 22, 2015
    Assignee: ELECTROLUX HOME PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventor: David R. Ducharme
  • Publication number: 20150114047
    Abstract: A laundry treating apparatus includes a cabinet, a laundry receiving part provided within the cabinet and configured to receive laundry, a water supply part configured to supply wash water, and a detergent supplier configured to supply detergent. The detergent supplier includes a storage body having a first storage part configured to hold a first detergent and a second storage part configured to hold a second detergent. The first storage part is configured to communicate with the laundry receiving part, and the second detergent is in liquid form. The detergent supplier further includes a passage body having a water supply passage that is configured to supply the first storage part with the wash water from the water supply part, and a liquid detergent supply part that is configured to supply the water supply passage with the second detergent from the second storage part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2014
    Publication date: April 30, 2015
    Inventors: Sungwoon JUNG, Sungook BAE
  • Patent number: 8863996
    Abstract: A storage device includes a storage chamber, a dispensing chamber, an intermediate chamber, a first channel, and a second channel. The intermediate chamber adjusts relative to the storage chamber to select a predetermined amount of fluid to flow into the intermediate chamber from the storage chamber. The first channel is located between the storage chamber and the intermediate chamber having at least two interchangeable conformations, a first open conformation to allow fluid flow between the storage chamber and the intermediate chamber, and a first closed conformation to prevent fluid flow between the storage chamber and intermediate chamber. The second channel is located between the intermediate chamber and the dispensing chamber having at least two interchangeable conformations, a second open conformation to allow fluid flow between the intermediate chamber and the dispensing chamber, and a second closed conformation to prevent fluid flow between the intermediate chamber and dispensing chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: Empire Technology Development LLC
    Inventor: Himanshu Mishra
  • Patent number: 8851335
    Abstract: A dispenser for dispensing a diluted form of a concentrated product includes: a supply of concentrated product; a dilution chamber; an actuation assembly and a product pump mechanism having a water staging chamber. The actuation assembly receives water under pressure from a pressurized water supply. In a staging state, water from the pressurized water supply is fed to the water staging chamber, increasing the volume thereof and causing the actuating of the pump mechanism thereby driving a dose of product into the dilution chamber. In a return state, (a) water within the water staging chamber exits the water staging chamber, (b) water is advanced to the dilution chamber and mixes with the dose of product to create diluted product, and (c) a dose of concentrated product is drawn from the supply of concentrated product into the product pump mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: GOJO Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Nick E. Ciavarella, Paul R. Metcalfe
  • Publication number: 20140158708
    Abstract: Methods, apparatuses, and systems for dispensing an off-gassing liquid product mixed with a diluting product are provided. A liquid product or product solution is moved through a primed product line and towards a dispenser. The liquid product is combined with the diluting product to create a solution. The solution is dispensed. Prevention of displacement of the product line is accomplished by redirecting at least a portion of the unused liquid product in the product line to a displacement system operatively attached to the product line and including a secondary container. The stored product may be used with the next dispensement of solution, or emptied in a sanitary manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2013
    Publication date: June 12, 2014
    Applicant: Ecolab USA Inc.
    Inventors: Jared R. Freudenberg, Troy A. Anderson, Henry Louis Carbone, II, Ryan Carroll, Ryan Jacob Urban
  • Patent number: 8740022
    Abstract: A metering device meters and dispenses of a known volume of a liquid product. The metering device includes a receptacle and a moveable slug sized to fit within the receptacle, leaving a remaining volume within the receptacle equivalent to a desired amount of a liquid product to be dispensed. Application of a vacuum at the outlet end draws the known volume of liquid product out of the receptacle and causes the moveable slug to move from a first position at the inlet end of the receptacle to a second position at the outlet end of the receptacle. At the same time, additional liquid product is drawn in via the inlet aperture. When the vacuum is removed, the slug returns through the additionally drawn-in liquid product back to the first position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: Ecolab USA Inc.
    Inventor: Ryan S. Carroll
  • Publication number: 20140138407
    Abstract: The present invention provides a fluid storage and dispensing system for an organic soil amendment concentrate or fertilizer, comprises a storage tank, which comprises a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, wherein the storage tank is refrigerated, a first flow meter connecting the fluid outlet of the storage tank on one end and a product tank on the other end, a second flow meter connecting to a water supply line on one end, an eductor connecting to the second flow meter on one end and the product tank on the other end, wherein the a concentrate stored in the storage tank is metered in via the first flow meter and mixed in the product tank with water metered via the second flow meter. As one aspect of the invention, the storage tank comprises interconnected holding tanks that are re-circulated. At least one water tank may be included between the water supply and the second flow meter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2013
    Publication date: May 22, 2014
    Applicant: Holganix, LLC
    Inventors: David Norman Thompson, Kevin Thomas Mummert, Barrett Ersek
  • Publication number: 20140110434
    Abstract: Exemplary embodiments of dispensers are disclosed herein. One exemplary dispenser is a soap or sanitizer dispenser. The dispenser includes a housing. A removable and replaceable concentrate container for holding concentrated soap or sanitizer is located within the housing. A concentrate pump is in fluid communication with the concentrate container. A diluent container for holding a liquid is also located within the housing and a diluent pump for pumping the diluent is also included. The dispenser includes a mixing chamber in fluid communication with the concentrate pump and the diluent pump. The dispenser includes an outlet. When concentrated soap or sanitizer is pumped from the concentrate container, it mixes with diluent pumped from the diluent container to form a diluted mixture. The diluted mixture is dispensed at the outlet of the dispenser.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2013
    Publication date: April 24, 2014
    Applicant: Gojo Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Nick E. Ciavarella, Paul R. Metcalfe, Scott E. Urban
  • Patent number: 8696341
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for producing concrete blocks, particularly paving stones, building blocks or the like, comprising a storage container forming a receiving chamber for a plurality of layers of concrete in different colors. Dispensing means are provided, in order to dispense partial amounts of the layers from the receiving chamber such that a release device connected downstream receives a mixture of the layers of concrete in different colors. At least a partial section of a side wall of the receiving chamber is provided with at least one dispensing opening for dispensing a partial amount of the layers. The size of the passage of the dispensing opening can be varied by the dispensing means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Baustoffwerke Gebhart & Soehne GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Manfred Staehle, Hans Gebhart
  • Patent number: 8678237
    Abstract: Chemical dispensing systems and related methods for precision handling of fluids including water and bulk chemicals. Representative chemical dispensing system can include wall mounted dispensing panels or portable, frame mounted dispensing units. These chemical dispensing systems provide easy access to all required interfaces including water, chemical, air, electrical and solution. The wall mounted dispensing panel can include a molded routing panel having molded recesses for mounting and managing specific air, fluid and control modules. The portable, frame mounted dispensing unit can include an onboard pump assembly for pressurizing a motive fluid. The frame assembly can include one or more lifting handles and adjustable feet to allow for easy transportation and placement of the portable dispensing unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: Hydra-Flex, Inc.
    Inventors: Jaime L. Harris, Karl J. Fritze, Christopher Molitor, Zachary Cornett
  • Publication number: 20140061238
    Abstract: An additive dispensing system for a refrigerator that includes a reservoir configured to contain an additive and an additive outlet in fluid communication with the reservoir. The additive dispensing system is configured to be connected to a refrigerator and is operable to selectively dispense an amount of additive to water dispensed from the refrigerator. The additive dispensing system may be connected to a water filtration system of the refrigerator such that the additive dispensing system may dispense the amount of additive into filtered water dispensed from the refrigerator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: PUR WATER PURIFICATION PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventors: Judd Dylan Olson, John Paul Boros, David James Emmons
  • Patent number: 8607393
    Abstract: A portable cleaning apparatus may include a handle and a wheel rotatably mounted to the handle. Pressurized fluid may enter the apparatus, and a fluid flow director directs the fluid to scrubbing elements to rotate the wheel. The scrubbing elements may be secured to the wheel, and different types of treatment material dispensing systems are operable to apply treatment material to the scrubbing elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Inventor: Larry C. Wilkins
  • Patent number: 8602263
    Abstract: An improved coupling is disclosed for connecting a pump to a container. A first embodiment of the improved coupling incorporates a slidable coupling sleeve for piercing a frangible seal for providing liquid communication from the container to the pump. A first embodiment of the improved coupling incorporates coupling for providing liquid communication from the container to the pump. The invention is suitable for use with an aseptic container, a refrigerated container or a non-refrigerated container with or without preservatives.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Nestec S.A.
    Inventors: Richard D. Baron, Sean H. Frielich
  • Patent number: 8550302
    Abstract: A wall mounted dispenser for dispensing a mixture of water and liquid chemicals which may be used as a separate dispenser or in combination with other like dispensers. The dispenser of this invention includes several backflow preventers to ensure that the water supply will not become contaminated during backflow problems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Inventor: Rodney Laible
  • Patent number: 8496136
    Abstract: Apparatus for delivering a fluid to a location includes a mechanism for supplying fluid connected to a reservoir. The reservoir has a variable volume and includes an outlet via which fluid may be delivered to the location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2013
    Assignee: Colormatrix Holdings, Inc.
    Inventors: Brian Stewart Jones, Sergio Malorni, Michael Alexander Pratt
  • Patent number: 8480967
    Abstract: Soap dispensing systems are disclosed that employ concentrated forms of soap in order to permit the soap provider to decrease the costs associated with shipping soap to consumers. These dispensing systems are adapted to deliver both soap and rinse water, with the soap being delivered by dissolving or diluting a portion of the concentrated soap with water, and delivering the less concentrated soap to the user. In particular embodiments, the concentrated soap is provided in a disposable sanitary cartridge unit wherein all parts wetted with soap and carrying concentrated soap are disposable, to be replaced, when empty, with a new sanitary cartridge unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: GOJO Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Doug Zlatic, Dean DeCarlo, Courtney Cooper
  • Publication number: 20130092634
    Abstract: A floating dispenser for floatingly delivering a dispersant or dispersants to a body of water with the floating dispenser floating in an upright condition when a dispersant is present in a dispenser cartridge of the floating dispenser with the dispenser self inverting 180 degrees in response to consumption of the dispersant in the dispenser cartridge to thereby provide a visual alert that one should replace the dispenser cartridge in the dispenser with a fresh dispenser cartridge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2012
    Publication date: April 18, 2013
    Inventors: Joseph A. King, Donald Dalland, Lyie Enderson, Jeffrey D. Johnson, Paul Freeberg
  • Patent number: 8413844
    Abstract: A fluid container for dispensing a first fluid and a consumable additive. The fluid container includes a first chamber for containing a first fluid and an additive dispensing system. The first chamber is configured such that the first fluid may be dispensed from the first chamber. The additive dispensing system selectively operable to dispense an amount of additive and is not in fluid communication with the first chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: Pur Water Purification Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard Alan Arett, Norman Scott Broyles, Dimitris Ioannis Collias, William Joseph Cruzen, David James Emmons, John Andrew McDaniel
  • Patent number: 8342364
    Abstract: A fluid dispenser and method of operating the same. The fluid dispenser can include a wheel driven by diluent passing along a flow path in the fluid dispenser. The wheel can be connected to a pump to pump fluid from a reservoir for dispense into the diluent. In some embodiments, the ratio of wheel rotations to pump cycles is selected to provide a desired and repeatable dilution ratio of concentrated fluid to diluent. The fluid dispenser can be portable and/or disposable, and in some embodiments is adapted for installation on an upper rim of a reservoir wall. Also, the fluid dispenser can be provided with a baffle limiting the velocity and impact of incoming diluent to the wheel driving the pump, thereby improving dosing accuracy of the dispenser in some embodiments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: Diversey, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael H. Bertucci, Christopher F. Lang, Susan K. Lewis, Justin M. Nunez, Timothy S. Jones, Steven E. Schiller, Wayne Phillips
  • Publication number: 20120325853
    Abstract: Chemical dispensing systems and related methods for precision handling of fluids including water and bulk chemicals. Representative chemical dispensing system can include wall mounted dispensing panels or portable, frame mounted dispensing units. These chemical dispensing systems provide easy access to all required interfaces including water, chemical, air, electrical and solution. The wall mounted dispensing panel can include a molded routing panel having molded recesses for mounting and managing specific air, fluid and control modules. The portable, frame mounted dispensing unit can include an onboard pump assembly for pressurizing a motive fluid. The frame assembly can include one or more lifting handles and adjustable feet to allow for easy transportation and placement of the portable dispensing unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2012
    Publication date: December 27, 2012
    Inventors: Jaime L. Harris, Karl J. Fritze, Christopher Molitor, Zachary Cornett
  • Patent number: 8286831
    Abstract: A dispenser 10 creates a use solution. The dispenser 10 includes a diluent inlet for receiving a source of diluent. A first aspirator 38 is in fluid communication with the diluent inlet. An operator valve 27 controls flow of the diluent. A second aspirator 46 has a diluent inlet, diluent outlet and a venturi port. A vacuum switch 63 is operatively connected to the first venturi port and the flow of the diluent through the aspirator 46 creates a vacuum that activates the vacuum switch. A control board 69 is activated by the vacuum switch and a dosing pump 76 is activated by the control device 69. The dosing pump dispenses a liquid product into the diluent stream, wherein a use solution is made.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Assignee: Ecolab USA Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey Alan Blansit, Henry Louis Carbone, II, Aron David Dahlgren, Warren Dale Pannkuk
  • Patent number: 8240510
    Abstract: The invention relates to a multi-way valve device, particularly for household appliances, comprises a hollow body (11) and an axially movable piston (12) mounted inside this hollow body. The body (11) is provided with at least one inlet orifice (15) for a liquid solvent and at least two outlet orifices (16, 17) for this solvent. The movable piston (12) is coupled with an axially movable measuring stem (31) of a linear measuring element (30) of a solid substance, this measuring stem (31) being actuated by a mechanical actuator (32) and associated with a return spring (35). This movable piston (12) is arranged so as to move in one direction, freely, or against the pressure of the return spring (35), under the effect of the pressure of the liquid solvent applied at the inlet orifice (15) to this movable piston (12), and in the opposite direction, under the effect of the pressure applied to the measuring stem (31) by the return spring (35).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Nestec S.A.
    Inventors: Iwan Kissling, Jean-Luc Thuliez
  • Patent number: 8220098
    Abstract: A portable cleaning apparatus includes a handle (11) and a wheel (13) rotatably mounted to the handle and the wheel having a plurality of scrubbing elements (74). Pressurized fluid enters the apparatus and a fluid flow director (16) delivers the fluid to the scrubbing elements to rotate the wheel. The scrubbing elements can be secured to the wheel to limit pivoting movement of the scrubbing elements in a direction of rotation of the wheel while permitting greater pivoting movement of the scrubbing elements in direction opposite the direction of rotation of the wheel. Different types of treatment material dispensing systems (100) are operable position a flow director to spin a dispenser of treatment material, or to position a dispenser in the rotational path of the scrubbing elements, to apply treatment material to the scrubbing elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Inventor: Larry C. Wilkins
  • Publication number: 20120048306
    Abstract: An apparatus, method and system provides for dispensing liquid products to two or more appliances. Liquid diluent is communicated through an anti-siphon valve (64) connected in fluid communication to an aspirator (14). A mixed solution from the aspirator (14) is communicated to a distribution valve (36) for directing flow of a liquid product to two or more appliances using a single aspirating dispenser (12).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: ECOLAB USA INC
    Inventors: John Thomas Pelkey, Richard Jondall Mehus, Ryan Jacob Urban, Nicholas Donald Parent, Scott Russell Limback
  • Publication number: 20120048307
    Abstract: A method and system provides for dispensing incompatible products. Separate aspirator assemblies (12A and 12B) are connected in fluid communication with a single liquid diluent source (54). A first set of liquid products (48A-51A) are drawn through aspirator assembly (12A) and a second set of liquid products (48B-51B) having a product incompatible with the first set are drawn through another aspirator assembly (12B). Incompatible liquid products are thereby dispensed independent of and in separation from one another to an appliance for use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: ECOLAB USA INC.
    Inventors: JOHN THOMAS PELKEY, RYAN JACOB URBAN, SCOTT RUSSELL LIMBACK
  • Publication number: 20110027148
    Abstract: Soap dispensing systems are disclosed that employ concentrated forms of soap in order to permit the soap provider to decrease the costs associated with shipping soap to consumers. These dispensing systems are adapted to deliver both soap and rinse water, with the soap being delivered by dissolving or diluting a portion of the concentrated soap with water, and delivering the less concentrated soap to the user. In particular embodiments, the concentrated soap is provided in a disposable sanitary cartridge unit wherein all parts wetted with soap and carrying concentrated soap are disposable, to be replaced, when empty, with a new sanitary cartridge unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2010
    Publication date: February 3, 2011
    Inventors: Doug Zlatic, Dean DeCarlo, Courtney Cooper
  • Patent number: 7861895
    Abstract: A foam pump including a pump housing with a liquid chamber in fluid communication with a foamable liquid filled container and an air chamber in fluid communication with a high pressure air source through an air inlet. The foam pump also includes a dispensing tube having a wiper seal post with a closed distal end positioned within the pump housing, and an outlet tube with an open distal end positioned outside the pump housing. The wiper seal post includes at least one inlet hole in fluid communication with the liquid chamber, and a check valve near the second open end. The foam pump further includes at least one foam screen in the open end of the outlet tube, a wiper seal slidably positioned around the wiper seal post and in sealing contact with the pump housing and the wiper seal post, and a spring bias to bias the wiper seal in an unactuated position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Assignee: GOJO Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Eugene W. Ray
  • Patent number: 7849969
    Abstract: The machine tool lubrication device comprises connection means grippable automatically by a manipulator of the machine tool, lubricant dispensing means, and dispensing control means operable by the machine tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Assignee: Dropsa S.p.A.
    Inventor: Walter Divisi
  • Patent number: 7775401
    Abstract: A trigger operated fluid delivery system for dispensing two different fluids. The fluid delivery system includes a first container having a first fluid that dispenses to a fluid discharge orifice via a fluid inlet conduit by a pump and pump chamber. The fluid delivery system includes a second container having a second fluid, with a device for delivering the second fluid into the fluid discharge conduit. The two fluids mix in the fluid discharge conduit prior to dispensation through the discharge orifice.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Assignee: S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael J. Banco, Douglas A. Soller, Michael C. Fryan, Steven A. Zach
  • Publication number: 20100108714
    Abstract: A fluid dispenser and method of operating the same. The fluid dispenser can include a wheel driven by diluent passing along a flow path in the fluid dispenser. The wheel can be connected to a pump to pump fluid from a reservoir for dispense into the diluent. In some embodiments, the ratio of wheel rotations to pump cycles is selected to provide a desired and repeatable dilution ratio of concentrated fluid to diluent. The fluid dispenser can be portable and/or disposable, and in some embodiments is adapted for installation on an upper rim of a reservoir wall. Also, the fluid dispenser can be provided with a baffle limiting the velocity and impact of incoming diluent to the wheel driving the pump, thereby improving dosing accuracy of the dispenser in some embodiments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 18, 2009
    Publication date: May 6, 2010
    Applicant: JOHNSONDIVERSEY, INC.
    Inventors: Michael H. Bertucci, Christopher F. Lang, Susan K. Lewis, Justin M. Nunez, Timothy S. Jones, Steven E. Schiller, Wayne Phillips
  • Publication number: 20090294469
    Abstract: Mass-based dispensing of a powder product includes a system that dispenses a powder product containing an active ingredient from a product container. The system initiates a dispense cycle at a first, higher dispense rate. The system continuously determines, as the powder product is dispensed, the amount or weight of the powder product that has been dispensed. Once a transition criteria has been satisfied, the system adjusts the dispense rate to a second, lower dispense rate. The system dispenses the powder product at the second, lower dispense rate until a requested amount of the powder product has been dispensed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2008
    Publication date: December 3, 2009
    Inventors: Marc Poulain, Oliver Bredow
  • Publication number: 20090272274
    Abstract: A system (1) for preparing a predetermined amount of beverage suitable for consumption, provided with an exchangeable holder (2) and an apparatus (4) provided with a fluid dispensing device (6) which is detachably connected to the holder (2) for dispensing at least one amount of at least a first fluid such as water under pressure to the exchangeable holder (2), while the exchangeable holder (2) is provided with at least one storage space (8) which is filled with a second fluid such as a concentrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2005
    Publication date: November 5, 2009
    Inventors: Gerbrand Kristiaan De Graaff, Hendrik Cornelis Koeling, Gustaaf Frans Brouwer
  • Patent number: 7459128
    Abstract: A microfluidic dispensing tap, such as for use in screening assays, includes a dispensing tube translatable within a sealed reservoir housing. The tube has an outer surface and defines an inner cavity open at a lower end of the tube, and a metering aperture extending through a side wall of the tube between the inner cavity and the outer surface to define a known volume. The tube is movable against a seal at a lower end of the reservoir housing between a first position, in which the metering aperture is disposed below the seal, and a second position, in which the metering aperture is disposed above the seal and exposed to the reservoir for entraining a discrete dose of a sample liquid within the aperture. An injector is configured to inject a known quantity of a diluent into the inner cavity of the tube and into fluidic contact with the dose of sample liquid in the aperture, such that the dose of sample liquid diffuses into the diluent to form a discrete mixture for dispensing from an open end of the tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2008
    Assignee: Molecular BioProducts, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey A. Karg, Douglas W. Kroncke
  • Publication number: 20080272143
    Abstract: A beverage system includes a pump that draws a set mount of a flavored concentrate into a mixing chamber through a conduit for mixing with water to form a beverage. A sensor detects when the amount of the flavored concentrate in the conduit or in the container is low or out. The sensor includes two wings each including a recessed surface that together defines a circular space. A portion of the conduit is received in the circular space. Each of the wings includes an ultrasonic portion that emits ultrasonic waves that are non-intrusive. When the amount of flavored concentrate in the conduit is low, air bubbles are generated in the flow along the conduit and/or a vacuum is created in the conduit to draw the conduit away from the recessed surface. The ultrasonic waves detect either of these two features, indicating that the amount of the flavored concentrate is low.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2005
    Publication date: November 6, 2008
    Inventors: James J. Minard, Mark E. Bush
  • Publication number: 20070278248
    Abstract: A remote refueling station including a storage tank for storing fluids, a pumping station for transferring fluids from the storage tank, a lighting system, an environmentally protected enclosure, and an onboard power source located within the environmentally protected enclosure and connected to the pumping station and lighting system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2006
    Publication date: December 6, 2007
    Inventor: Scott M. Van Vliet
  • Patent number: 7011235
    Abstract: A vegetation care vessel for facilitating the care of plants and other vegetation. A hollow body includes a top portion, a planar bottom portion and a continuous wall portion. A spout communicates with the interior of the hollow body. An inwardly-projecting region is provided in the wall for receiving a dispenser having a compressor-spout. An aperture is arranged in the top portion of the body for admitting liquid from the compressor-spout into the interior of the hollow body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2006
    Inventor: Antonio A. Pasquariello
  • Patent number: 6981962
    Abstract: A liquid dispensing device for the selective oral administration of a liquid medicine simultaneously with a liquid beverage. The device includes a cup for holding a beverage and a lid sealably connectable onto the open upper end of the cup. The cup includes an elongated cylindrical medicine cavity having an open lower end and a narrowing upper discharge tip. The medicine cavity is formed into the outer perimeter surface of the cup for concealment. A medicine plunger is sealingly movable within the medicine cavity for discharging liquid medicine from the discharge tip. The lid has a tapered upwardly extending drinking spout with preferably two spaced ports and a second port positioned between the first ports whereby liquid beverage in the cup may be dispensed from the first ports by gravity feed and liquid medicine in said medicine cavity may be independently selectively dispensed from the second port by movement of the medicine plunger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2006
    Inventor: Boyd J. Lenkersdorf
  • Patent number: 6902120
    Abstract: A sprinkler includes a handle, a barrel, a nozzle, and a detergent dispensing mechanism. The barrel is fastened at one end with the handle, and at the other end with the nozzle. The detergent dispensing mechanism is fastened to the periphery of the barrel and is contiguous to the handle. The mechanism has a detergent holder and a detergent control switch. The detergent holder is provided with a water hole and a detergent hole, which are in communication with a water duct of the barrel. The detergent control switch is used to open or close the water hole and the detergent hole of the detergent holder in the midst of operation of the sprinkler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2005
    Assignee: Shin Tai Spurt Water of the Garden Tools Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chin-Yuan Chen