With Recorder, Register, Indicator, Signal Or Exhibitor Patents (Class 222/23)
  • Publication number: 20120199605
    Abstract: A dispenser device head (1) of a liquid is provided with a nozzle (20) comprising a lateral wall (30) having through signalling apertures (40) defining a caption or symbol to highlight a functioning configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2010
    Publication date: August 9, 2012
    Applicant: GUALA DISPENSING S.p.A.
    Inventor: Riccardo Alluigi
  • Patent number: 8237558
    Abstract: A system and method of encouraging compliance of hand hygiene in an environment where users move from zone to zone and are required to perform hand hygiene between the zones. Users carry a wearable zone sensor which detects zones, detects hand hygiene actions, logs time of changing zones, and hand hygiene actions. The wearable sensor can be integral with a wearable hand hygiene product dispenser and/or can operate in cooperation with a fixed dispenser configured to transmit hand hygiene actions to the wearable zone sensor. The wearable zone sensors are configured to be useable anonymously or to be associated with a user identifier, and to interface with a central computer via a docking station or communication interface to transfer data for later analysis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: University Health Network
    Inventors: Kaveh Seyed Momen, Geoffrey Roy Fernie, Oleksandr Igorovich Levchenko, Graham Clive Hufton
  • Publication number: 20120187146
    Abstract: A hand sanitizer dispenser that automatically dispenses a certain amount of hand sanitizer when a motion and proximity sensor detects the presence of a user's hand. The hand sanitizer dispenser uniquely stores the hand sanitizer in the shaft of the dispenser to strategically use the space within the housing to store a large amount of hand sanitizer while providing a compact and sleek dispenser. The hand sanitizer dispenser is self-contained such that it is portable and can be conveniently placed at any location as the need arises. The hand sanitizer dispenser optionally may include a compact display that displays static or dynamic graphic or information to the user and/or a global positioning system. The display is adjustable to any orientation, tilt or angle to allow the dispenser to fit into all areas and to provide maximum exposure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2011
    Publication date: July 26, 2012
    Inventor: Sameer Chopra
  • Publication number: 20120168458
    Abstract: A refrigerator includes a dispenser, a dispenser well, a control for regulating a dispensing operation, and a sensor system for automatically initiating and terminating the dispensing operation. The sensor system includes at least one capacitive-type sensor mounted in the dispenser well. The sensor is configured to detect the presence of a container in the dispenser well, an upper edge portion of the container and a level of liquid filling the container during the dispensing operation. The sensor signals the control to automatically cease the dispensing operation before the level of liquid reaches the upper edge portion of the container. The control is configured to differentiate between animate and inanimate objects, while preventing any release of water or ice when an animate object is detected.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2012
    Publication date: July 5, 2012
    Applicant: WHIRLPOOL CORPORATION
    Inventors: PETER J. RICHMOND, BOB A. GHENT, CHAD LANGE
  • Publication number: 20120138631
    Abstract: Systems and methods for delivering fluid-containing feed materials to process equipment are disclosed. A liner-based pressure dispensing vessel is subjected to filling by application of vacuum between the liner and overpack. Multiple feed material flow controllers of different calibrated flow ranges may be selectively operated in parallel for a single feed material. Feed material blending and testing for scale-up may be performed with feed materials supplied by multiple liner-based pressure dispensing containers. A gravimetric system may be used to determine concentration of at least one component of a multi-component solution or mixture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2010
    Publication date: June 7, 2012
    Applicant: ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY MATERIALS, INC.
    Inventors: Steven M. Lurcott, John E.Q. Hughes, Peter Wrschka, Thomas H. Baum, Donald D. Ware, Peng Zou
  • Publication number: 20120138630
    Abstract: A shipping container is converted into a storage and transport tank including a liquid reservoir room and a control room having a pump and a control system for the pump. The pump communicates with the liquid reservoir room via a fill line and a suction line. In operation, the control system activates the pump and opens flow control valves of the inlet line and the fill line to deliver liquid into the liquid reservoir room. Conversely, the control system activates the pump and opens flow control valves of the outlet line and the suction line to remove liquid from the liquid reservoir room. The control system further activates the pump and opens the flow control valves of the suction line and the fill line to recirculate liquid within the liquid reservoir room.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2011
    Publication date: June 7, 2012
    Inventors: E. Wayne Kinsey, III, Gordon Randall Dixon, Dale Lamborn
  • Patent number: 8186084
    Abstract: A nozzle display for use for holding advertising is integrated into the structure of the nozzle guard, is elevated therefrom, but secured by tabs integrally into the plastisol forming the guard, with an expansive transparent cover holding the advertising material or placard in place upon the display base, and firmly adhering the ad to the base by means of the expandable lip of the cover as it tightly embraces the edges of the display base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Assignee: Husky Corporation
    Inventor: Robin J. Brown
  • Publication number: 20120118165
    Abstract: Coffee bean package provided with an inner space for holding a collection of coffee beans for multiple portions of coffee beverage, which inner space is surrounded by at least one wall, a coffee bean outlet for dispensing coffee beans from the inner space, and a dosing device which is arranged for dispensing coffee beans from the inner space in a predetermined dose.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2011
    Publication date: May 17, 2012
    Inventors: Ivo Van Os, Gerbrand Kristiaan de Graaff, Philippe Jacques van Camp
  • Publication number: 20120104039
    Abstract: A system for individual dosing of a medicament, in accordance with the individual pathological properties (“fingerprint”) of a patient—corresponding physiologically or genetically to the disease status is based on two components: the medicament that is to be taken or administered in a variable individual dosage and a miniaturized indicator system that obtains information from blood, saliva or other bodily fluids and tissues of the patient and displays the information in a readable form so that the patient or the treating physician can immediately read the optimal active substance to be taken or dosage to be administered.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2011
    Publication date: May 3, 2012
    Applicant: MCS MICRO CARRIER SYSTEMS GMBH
    Inventors: Hans Schreier, Wolfgang Greb
  • Publication number: 20120108626
    Abstract: A multidose package containing an imiquimod formulation suitable for treating topical conditions includes: a) a dispensing aperture for dispensing the formulation from the package; b) a reservoir containing sufficient formulation to provide two or more doses; c) a metered dosage element for measuring a predetermined dose of the formulation, the element including an inlet from the reservoir and an outlet to the dispensing aperture; and d) an actuating element operating the dosage element so the predetermined dose is delivered to the dispensing aperture; wherein the dose is dispensed without microbial or other contamination or degradation of the formulation in reservoir. A corresponding course of treatment for various maladies includes providing a multidose package containing an imiquimod formulation suitable for the treatment. A corresponding method of treatment of diseases with multiple doses of an imiquimod formulation includes multiple doses provided by a multidose package.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2010
    Publication date: May 3, 2012
    Applicant: WIRRA IP PTY LTD
    Inventors: Mark J. Hutchings, Christiaan M. Van Niekerk
  • Publication number: 20120107453
    Abstract: A device and mechanism for recommending a water filter in a beverage dispenser is described. A sensor senses qualities of unfiltered water. Another sensor senses qualities of a flavorant container, such as the flavorant contained within the container. Based on the quality of the unfiltered water and the particular flavored beverage desired, the device will recommend a water filter to optimize the flavor of the beverage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2010
    Publication date: May 3, 2012
    Applicant: WHIRLPOOL CORPORATION
    Inventor: KEVIN M. CHASE
  • Publication number: 20120104032
    Abstract: A feed dispensing machine for delivering ready access feed to farmers, horse owners and the equivalent. The feed dispensing machine having a controller, a storage container, a surge container, a first conveyor system, a level sensor, a weighing mechanism, and a second conveyor system. The first conveyor system connects the storage container to the surge container while the level sensor is positioned within the surge container to signal capacity of bulk material within the surge container. The weighing mechanism includes a scale and connects to the controller. The second conveyor system connects the surge container to the weighing mechanism, and is positioned above the scale.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2010
    Publication date: May 3, 2012
    Inventor: Craig D. Bahn
  • Patent number: 8157128
    Abstract: A dispenser for dispensing metered dosages of a substance from a container includes a dispenser housing having a top, a bottom, and a wall defining an elongated cavity open at the top and extending along a longitudinal axis. An indicating device includes a face member defining a viewing window. The face member is snap-fitted to the dispenser housing wall. The indicating device further includes an indicator member having a surface visible through the viewing window. The surface includes dosage indicia. The indicator member is rotatable about an axis substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. An indicator actuator has at least a portion disposed in the cavity. The actuator is adapted to be moved by an actuation of the container, with the actuator adapted to rotate the indicator member upon a predetermined number of actuations of the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Assignee: Trudell Medical International
    Inventors: Richard Blacker, Daniel K. Engelbreth, James N. Schmidt
  • Publication number: 20120085784
    Abstract: An apparatus for dispensing gel for use with a medical device comprising a storage container for storing a quantity of gel, a pump for delivering gel to a user, a first delivery conduit connected to the outlet of the storage container and the inlet of the pump, and a second delivery conduit connected to the outlet of the pump on one end and having a second end terminating at a location near the patient. The apparatus includes a heat source positioned proximal to the storage container for warming the gel so that is at a comfortable temperature when it is applied to a patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2011
    Publication date: April 12, 2012
    Inventor: Nicholas C. Bakris
  • Publication number: 20120080029
    Abstract: In order to obtain a compact construction, in the case of a discharge device (10) for pharmaceutical media comprising a housing (14, 16), which at least partly surrounds a receptacle space (12) for receiving a medium store (8), comprising a discharge opening (17) provided on the housing (14, 16) and serving for administering the medium from the medium store (8), and comprising an electronic circuit (60) designed for detecting discharge processes, it is provided that a display device (30) having curved shaping, a plurality of printed circuit boards angled relative to one another and/or a curved printed circuit board (61) are employed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2011
    Publication date: April 5, 2012
    Inventors: Joachim Koerner, Joerg Kohnle, Klaus Lindenau
  • Publication number: 20120081609
    Abstract: According to the present inventive concept there is provided a display assembly for a fuel dispensing unit, comprising: a display, a substantially transparent screen arranged between the display and an ambient environment such that the display is visible through the screen, comprising a first screen portion and a second screen portion movably arranged, in relation to the first screen portion, between a first position and a second position distinct from the first position. There is also provided a fuel dispensing unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2010
    Publication date: April 5, 2012
    Inventor: Russell Haecker
  • Publication number: 20120078741
    Abstract: A fuel dispenser comprises fuel dispensing apparatus mounted within a housing and a nozzle for dispensing fuel. The fuel dispensing apparatus includes control electronics and at least one touch display mounted in the housing and operatively coupled to the control electronics. The touch display is configured to allow a user to make selections for conducting a transaction. A camera or other suitable proximity detector is configured to detect the presence of a user and whether the user exceeds a height threshold without the user physically touching the fuel dispenser. In response to detecting the presence of the user, the fuel dispenser control electronics activates the display so that instructions are presented to the user in a first orientation or a second orientation depending on whether the user's height exceeds the threshold.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2011
    Publication date: March 29, 2012
    Applicant: GILBARCO INC.
    Inventor: Jonathan E. DeLine
  • Publication number: 20120074154
    Abstract: Consumer devices for providing feedback based upon the presence of a liquid in a detection zone, wherein the detection zone is the area in which a change in capacitance is can be detected by a non-contact capacitance sensor and the forms of feedback include the generation of sound, activation/deactivation of alight, a motion or other physical interaction, or display by way of an LCD or LED display panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2011
    Publication date: March 29, 2012
    Applicant: The Marketing Store Worldwide, LP
    Inventors: Au Ming Ki Gordon, Ng Kwok Leung, Tang Tat Man, Benjamin Poate, Warren Kronberger
  • Publication number: 20120059513
    Abstract: A system for dispensing beverages includes a container coupler having a sensor box with a fluid flow sensor, and a tag reader for reading identification tags mounted on a container. The container coupler has a handle for selectively actuating the container coupler to attach and remove the container coupler from a container. The container coupler has a gas inlet for pressurizing a container, and a fluid outlet for delivering fluid to a dispenser. The sensor box is affixed to the fluid outlet, or integrated with the container coupler, to enable the fluid flow sensor to measure fluid flow volumes, rates, or both. The tag reader is affixed on the sensor box of the container coupler for reading identification tags from a keg. An advantage of having a sensor box on the container coupler is that the sensor box is held during use in close proximity to any tags affixed to the container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 3, 2011
    Publication date: March 8, 2012
    Inventors: Shannon Perkins, Jonathan Ross, Joseph Calkins
  • Patent number: 8127805
    Abstract: A beverage dispensing system has a container with an upper lip, a bottom and a cylindrical sidewall. A read/write radio frequency identification tag is on a container. A beverage dispenser has a plurality of dispensing valves associated with a plurality of different beverages. Each valve has an actuator. A reader is operatively coupled with respect to the tag for communicating with the tag and for communicating with the actuator. An electronic system is operatively coupled to the tag and the actuators and the reader.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Assignee: ValidFill LLC
    Inventor: Peter Dorney
  • Publication number: 20120048192
    Abstract: A metering mechanism is configured for transferring measured doses of a granular material from a first location to a second location, and is particularly suited for metering source material in a vapor deposition apparatus. A receiver is disposed to receive the granular material from the first location. A discharge port is axially offset from an outlet of the receiver. A reciprocating delivery member having a passage defined therethrough is moved in a reciprocating path by a controllable drive device between a load position wherein the passage is aligned with the receiver outlet and a discharge position wherein the passage is aligned with the discharge port. The amount of granular material transferred from the first location to the second location is a function of the volume of the passage and the reciprocating rate of the delivery member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: PRIMESTAR SOLAR, INC.
    Inventor: Edwin Jackson Little
  • Patent number: 8117981
    Abstract: In order to apply a liquid material including a small number of bubbles, in particular almost no bubbles larger than a predetermined size, a liquid material supplying apparatus includes: a pressure tank applying a positive pressure higher than the atmospheric pressure to the liquid material; a syringe having a nozzle for discharging the liquid material; and a liquid path member forming a liquid path leading the liquid material from the pressure tank to the syringe; a valve member which is provided on the liquid path member and which opens/closes the liquid path; a bubble defoaming filter which is provided on the liquid path member between the syringe and the valve member and which removes bubbles from the liquid material lead in the liquid path member; and a pressure applying mechanism which starts/stops discharging the liquid material from the nozzle by selectively applying a first pressure higher than the atmospheric pressure and a second pressure lower than the first pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Assignee: Origin Electric Company, Limited
    Inventors: Hironobu Nishimura, Masahiro Nakamura
  • Publication number: 20120037659
    Abstract: A dispenser for a flowable medium has a container with an outlet on the bottom. A pump is connected to the outlet. A replaceable reservoir is placed on top of the receptacle. The container is removably disposed within the dispenser base and includes a valve inside the outlet. The valve closes the outlet when the container is removed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2011
    Publication date: February 16, 2012
    Inventor: HANS GEORG HAGLEITNER
  • Publication number: 20120031124
    Abstract: An indicator for a dispenser is disclosed. The indicator includes at least one display layer having at least one display surface surrounded by at least one edge surface, the at least one display layer being transparent in a direction of the at least one edge surface; at least one light source configured to transmit light through the at least one display layer in the direction of the at least one edge surface; and at least one pattern portion disposed in the at least one display surface such that light from the at least one light source is redirected through the at least one pattern portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2010
    Publication date: February 9, 2012
    Inventor: Aaron Matthew McDANIEL
  • Publication number: 20120031922
    Abstract: A system for providing power to a plurality of soap or disinfectant dispensers through a power over ethernet (PoE) network and for sensing various operational parameters of the dispensers and communicating those parameters through the network connection to a central computing device. The system includes a Data/Power controller associated with the dispensers for providing power to the dispenser and for sending and receiving data between one or more sensors in the dispensers and a central computer device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2010
    Publication date: February 9, 2012
    Inventor: Raymond C. Johnson
  • Publication number: 20120024889
    Abstract: A custom medication dosing unit is disclosed. The custom medication dosing unit includes a housing having a shell element provided with a bottom surface and a circumferential edge extending from the bottom surface and a portion defining an opening for accommodating a medication. A first closure element provided with a circumferential edge is placed on the circumferential edge of the shell element in an adhering and closing manner. A medication is disposed within the opening defined between the shell element and the first closure element. A circuit module is associated within the first closure element. A system includes the custom medication dosing unit operative to communicate with a local node. Also disclosed is a method of manufacturing the custom medication dosing unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2011
    Publication date: February 2, 2012
    Inventors: Timothy Robertson, Gregory Moon, Benedict Costello, Mark Zdeblick, Hooman Hafezi
  • Publication number: 20120024886
    Abstract: It is provided a dispensing device for a fluid container, which includes a container cap, a switching nozzle, a securing mechanism and a dispensing compartment. The container cap has apertures, and the switching nozzle has a closing state and an opening state, wherein in the closing state the switching nozzle hermetically sealing the apertures. An oval skirt is attached to the switching nozzle embracing the container cap, having protrusions for fixing the skirt to the container cap. Pressing the skirt releases the fixing and allows switching to an opening state. The dispensing compartment includes an annular portion, a setting mechanism, and a cover mechanism. The setting mechanism determines the limited volume of the dispensing compartment and secures the limited volume from undesired variation. The annular portion has a plurality of clefts and an associated plurality of quantity markings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2010
    Publication date: February 2, 2012
    Inventor: Yaniv AVIRAM
  • Publication number: 20120024395
    Abstract: A liquid supplying apparatus includes: a first flow channel configured to be switchable between a state of communication with a liquid supply object and a state of noncommunication with the liquid supply object; a first pressure applying device which applies pressure to liquid in the first flow channel; a first pressure absorbing device which absorbs a pressure fluctuation of the liquid in the first flow channel; a first measuring device which measures a pressure increase value in the first flow channel when the first pressure applying device is operated under a standard operating condition in which pressure in the first flow channel varies relatively moderately in proportion to a liquid feed amount to the first flow channel in the state of noncommunication where the liquid supply object and the first flow channel are not communicated with each other; a comparing device which compares the pressure increase value measured by the first measuring device with a predetermined pressure increase target value; and a
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2011
    Publication date: February 2, 2012
    Inventors: Koji FURUKAWA, Jun Isozaki, Masaki Kataoka
  • Patent number: 8094029
    Abstract: A hand hygiene behavior management system capable of monitoring and recording information generated by the operation of dispensers as a method of assessing behavior of a group as an indication of overall hygiene performance. The system generally includes a plurality of wireless communication devices with a first number of the wireless communication devices being disposed within or adjacent dispensers and operatively configured for sensing, monitoring and reporting information about the status and operation of the dispensers. A hierarchal communication network for access to a central host database; a data processor and hygiene management application software operatively configured to create hygiene management reports based upon the monitored dispenser data and a method to provide user interface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Assignee: Cognetive Systems Incorporated
    Inventors: Henry M. Ortiz, Claude W. LeBlond
  • Publication number: 20110303694
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates generally to a standing foam dispenser, and more particularly, to a foam dispenser with a nozzle assembly having a disposable nozzle adapted for easy removal and replacement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2011
    Publication date: December 15, 2011
    Applicant: Ivex Protective Packaging , Inc.
    Inventor: Alexandre Pié
  • Publication number: 20110284577
    Abstract: RFID chip (214) having various types of data is mounted on liquid syringe (200). Chemical liquid injector (100) obtains the various types of data from RFID chip (214) to perform a predetermined operation in accordance with at least some of the various types of data. For, example, a variable pattern for liquid can be recorded on RFID chip (214) of liquid syringe (200) to allow chemical liquid injector (100) to inject the liquid in accordance with the predetermined variable pattern. Thus, a large amount of data can be easily input to the chemical liquid injector to perform the various operations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2011
    Publication date: November 24, 2011
    Applicant: NEMOTO KYORINDO CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Shigeru Nemoto, Nobuhisa Tano
  • Publication number: 20110278324
    Abstract: Systems and methods for storing, dispensing, and working with fluids are disclosed. Embodiments include modular systems designed to facilitate pre-assembled shipping and system reconfiguration. Embodiments further include color-coding and shape-coding of various items and labels to reduce confusion and mistakes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2011
    Publication date: November 17, 2011
    Inventors: Michael Tony Kilian, Gary Richard Kilian
  • Publication number: 20110265788
    Abstract: A dose counter is provided for coupling with a metered dose inhaler. The dose counter includes a top cover that has a top forming an observation window. The top cover forms an interior space receiving therein a circuit board and an electrical cell supplying electrical power. The circuit board includes a counting circuit and a display screen that is arranged under the window. As such, in the use of the inhaler, depression of the top cover actuates the inhaler and causes the display screen to display the number of times of actuation so as to allow a user to realize the remaining number of times for use of the inhaler thereby improving safety of medication use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2010
    Publication date: November 3, 2011
    Inventor: Wei-Hsiu Wu
  • Publication number: 20110253746
    Abstract: A wine dispensing system comprises a cabinet with refrigerated compartments for maintaining bulk wine in boxes and dispenses any one of a number of wine varieties upon pressing an appropriate button. Check valves in the system prevent air from spoiling unused wine, and a computer measures each pour, updates inventory, and accepts demographic information to assist in marketing and sales promotion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2011
    Publication date: October 20, 2011
    Inventor: Edward L. O'Keefe, JR.
  • Publication number: 20110253743
    Abstract: An apparatus for pumping fluids comprises a suction pump and an inlet tube extendible into a container containing the fluid. A sealing plate is provided over the liquid surface to form a circumferential seal with the inner wall of the container and the outer wall of the inlet tube. The sealing plate prevents air from entering the lower part of the container and thereby prevents the pump from cavitating once the container is emptied. A pumping system is also provided wherein a plurality of pumping apparatuses is provided on a frame. A dispensing system is also provided wherein a plurality of computer controlled nozzles are each connected to a respective pumping apparatus whereby specific volumes of desired fluids can be dispensed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2011
    Publication date: October 20, 2011
    Applicant: CALGARY SCALE SERVICES (1988) LTD.
    Inventors: Gordon Brian Foster, Nyanza Alberta Van Vonno
  • Publication number: 20110253744
    Abstract: A dispensing system with an electronic keying mechanism, the dispenser including a housing and a refill unit. The refill unit includes a product reservoir, a pump mechanism and a collar adapted to secure the refill unit within the housing. An infrared sensor is provided in the housing and includes an infrared radiation source and a detector. A taggant is dispersed within at least a portion of the collar, the taggant being detectable by the detector when exposed to infrared radiation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2011
    Publication date: October 20, 2011
    Inventor: Keith A. Pelfrey
  • Publication number: 20110253742
    Abstract: An enclosure for use with a gravity fed fluid dispensing system includes a housing comprising a base member and a cover member, and an actuator movably connected with the housing and arranged to rotate the bottle within the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2010
    Publication date: October 20, 2011
    Inventors: John J. Dyer, Arthur V. Lang
  • Patent number: 8040245
    Abstract: Methods, systems, and computer-storage media provide for the monitoring of hand washing by people entering a room. A person is detected entering a room and an image of the person is captured. The person is identified as an employee using various employee identifiers or is identified as a visitor. The image may be used to identify distinguishing features of the visitor to be compared to an image subsequently during hand washing to verify the identity of the hand washer as the person who entered the room. Similarly, the employee identifier is used to verify the identity of a hand washer as the employee that entered the room. If any person entering the room remains for a threshold period of time without activating the soap dispenser, then a notification that includes the person's identity is provided within the room to remind the person that hand washing is required.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: GT Angel, LLC
    Inventor: Arthur Koblasz
  • Patent number: 8028592
    Abstract: An electronic metering apparatus for metering liquids, with a longitudinal, handleable housing, a drive, arranged in the housing, with an electric motor, at least one displacer device, arranged in the housing or being capable to be arranged on the same, with a displacer element, which is connected to the drive and/or connectable to the same, at least one holding device on the bottom end of the housing for holding a pipette point or a syringe, at least one electric operational control in or on the housing, at least one electric information device in or on the housing, an electric control unit arranged in the housing, which is connected to the electric motor, the electric operational control and the electric information device, and which controls the information device depending on the position and/or previous changes of the position of the displacer element, in order to put out an information concerning the next reasonable dislocation of the displacer element, and an electric power supply.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Assignee: Eppendorf AG
    Inventors: Peter Molitor, Karl-Friedrich Andres, Peter Schmidt
  • Publication number: 20110226806
    Abstract: Fluid storage and dispensing systems and processes involving various structures methods for fluid storage and dispensing, including, pre-connect verification couplings that are usefully employed with fluid storage and dispensing packages to ensure proper coupling and avoid fluid contamination issues, empty detect systems (e.g., monitoring pressure of dispensed liquid medium to detect pressure droop conditions) useable with fluid storage and dispensing packages incorporating liners that are pressure-compressed in the fluid dispensing operation, ergonomically enhanced structures for facilitating removal of a dispense connector from a capped vessel, cap integrity assurance systems for preventing misuse of vessel caps, and keycoding systems for ensuring coupling of proper dispense assemblies and vessels. Fluid storage and dispensing systems achieve zero or near-zero headspace character, and prevent or ameliorate solubilization effects in liquid dispensing from liners in overpack vessels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2011
    Publication date: September 22, 2011
    Applicant: ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY MATERIALS, INC
    Inventors: Kevin T. O'Dougherty, Glenn M. Tom
  • Publication number: 20110226805
    Abstract: A dispensing system includes a container securing mechanism configured to secure a container in a fully engaged position suitable for dispensing a substance held within the container and further configured to release the container from the fully engaged position upon the actuation of a container release actuator. The system can further include a container stop mechanism configured to stop the container in a disengaged position upon release of the container from the container securing mechanism, the disengaged position being between the fully engaged position and a position in which the container is fully released from the system. The system can include a movable multiple use hammer assembly that functions to automatically release the container from the system under predetermined conditions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2011
    Publication date: September 22, 2011
    Inventors: Ken Muderlak, Todd Muderlak
  • Publication number: 20110226803
    Abstract: A portable nail polish creator is provided. The portable nail polish creator may include a user interface to allow a user to select a nail polish color. Additionally, the nail polish creator may include a processor that can receive the selection of the nail polish color via the interface. Once the selection is received, the processor may determine an amount of at least one of a plurality of nail polish colors to create a nail polish corresponding to the selection. The nail polish creator may further include an arm assembly that may receive a signal from the processor to move a nail polish bottle in position to receive the nail polish based on the amount of at least one of the plurality of nail polish colors determined by the processor. Moreover, the nail polish creator may include a mixer assembly for mixing the nail polish in the nail polish bottle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2011
    Publication date: September 22, 2011
    Inventor: Eric D. Schwartz
  • Publication number: 20110220139
    Abstract: A cosmetic or dermatological system including a handheld packaging and dispenser device including one or more compositions from which a preparation to be delivered in a fluid form suitable for an application onto skin, mucous membranes or keratinous fibers, an internal clock and/or a clock data receiver, an adjustment system coupled to or suitable for being coupled to the packaging and dispenser device, enabling at least one property of the preparation dispensed by the packaging and dispenser device to be modified, and a processor for controlling the adjustment system, the controlling based on at least of clock data delivered by the internal clock and/or the clock data receiver, or for informing the user, at least as a function of the clock data, of an action to be taken on the adjustment system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 23, 2009
    Publication date: September 15, 2011
    Applicant: L'OREAL
    Inventor: Henri Samain
  • Publication number: 20110218516
    Abstract: Devices of this invention include replaceable cartridges for delivery of doses of fluids. Cartridges having a fluid supply reservoir comprising an expandable element are designed to be connected with non-disposable actuating module supplied with a sensor, a mechanism to apply a force to the fluid, thereby forcing a predetermined dose out of the reservoir, and a processor providing control outputs from a sensor system according to preprogrammed instructions. Methods of this invention include delivery of microdoses of fluids using devices of this invention.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2009
    Publication date: September 8, 2011
    Inventor: Leonid Grigorov
  • Publication number: 20110214441
    Abstract: A select-fill dispensing system and method for a dispenser assembly utilizes a camera to sense a desired fill level based on the location of a user's finger with respect to a container. In use, a consumer places his or her finger along a container to indicate the desired fill level of the container. Image data from the camera is transmitted to a controller and processed for distortion correction, edge based image segmentation and morphological operations are carried out to remove background noise. The processed image data is utilized to detect the presence of the container, as well as the shape of the container, the position of the container opening, and the top and bottom points of the container. The controller provides a means for controlling the dispensing operation, including a fill rate, based on the desired fill level and the shape of the container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2010
    Publication date: September 8, 2011
    Applicant: WHIRLPOOL CORPORATION
    Inventors: FARHAD ASHRAFZADEH, KEVIN M. CHASE, BRIAN P. JANKE, SHREECHARAN KANCHANAVALLY, RONALD L. VOGLEWEDE
  • Patent number: 8006866
    Abstract: A beverage dispenser provides numerous inventive features in its refrigeration system (82), diluent delivery system (78), concentrate delivery system (74), mixing and dispensing system (76), and control system. The refrigeration system (82) employs a plate heat exchanger to provide on demand refrigeration of an intermittent water flow. The diluent delivery system includes a flowmeter/solenoid/check-valve assembly. The concentrate delivery system employs a positive displacement pump. The mixing and dispensing system includes a mixing nozzle (80) that has a locking feature such that an elevated blocking surface directly faces the inlet of pressurized diluent to create turbulence. The control system receives package-specific information from a scanner and diluent flow rate information from the flowmeter, and then determines the pump speed in order to set a desired mix ratio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Carrier Corporation
    Inventors: James J. Minard, Mark E. Bush, Peter F. McNamee
  • Publication number: 20110204085
    Abstract: A method of applying an orally-ingestible medicament to an orally-ingestible carrier comprising the steps of controlling a relative position between a fluid ejector and the carrier, and ejecting a plurality of drops of solution onto the carrier, wherein the plurality of drops includes a desired therapeutic quantity of the orally-ingestible medicament.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2011
    Publication date: August 25, 2011
    Applicant: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventors: Brian Craig LEE, Steven W. STEINFIELD, Winthrop D. CHILDERS, Mark A. VAN VEEN, Mohammad M. SAMII
  • Publication number: 20110180564
    Abstract: A soap dispenser system for dispensing soap in response to a user's action, such as pumping force to a dispenser pump of a soap container. The soap container has a theme identifier device corresponding to the soap container. A supportive base detachably connects to the soap container. The base includes a receiver device for detecting the theme identifier device of the soap container when the soap connector is connected to the base. A readable data storage is connected to the receiver device. The storage contains data representing a variety of different human perceptible media, such as audio (e.g., animal, people, or musical sounds). At least one of the variety of media corresponds to the theme identifier device of the soap container. An output device delivers the media to a user of the soap container. A processor connected to the receiver device, the storage, and the output device responds to the receiver detecting the theme identifier device and dispensing action by a user to obtain soap from the container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2011
    Publication date: July 28, 2011
    Inventors: Terry G. Jones, John Morris Lynn
  • Publication number: 20110180563
    Abstract: The disclosure herein includes a liquid pouring monitor cap that has an angle of orientation sensor. When the spout is attached to a liquor bottle, the orientation angle sensor determines the angle of the bottle with respect to the horizontal at all times while the dispensed substance is being poured from the bottle. This data regarding the duration of pouring at different pour angles may be stored for an entire pouring event in order to calculate the amount of liquid poured during the event.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2011
    Publication date: July 28, 2011
    Inventors: Jack Fitchett, Alexander Mikhail
  • Patent number: 7984826
    Abstract: A dispensing device for use in dispensing metered dosages of substance from a container includes a dispenser housing having a support block defining a longitudinal axis and an indicator member rotatably disposed in the dispenser housing. The indicator member is rotatable about a rotation axis forming an obtuse angle with the longitudinal axis. An indicating device includes an actuator member moveable along a longitudinal direction and an indicator member rotatably mounted in the indicator housing about a rotation axis forming an obtuse angle with an axis extending in the longitudinal direction. An indicating device includes an indicator housing having an upper surface with an opening formed therein and an actuator ring having a flange moveable through the opening in a longitudinal direction. An indicator member is rotatably mounted in the indicator housing. A medicament assembly and method for dispensing a metered dose of medicament are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2011
    Assignee: Trudell Medical International
    Inventors: Richard Blacker, Daniel K. Engelbreth, James N. Schmidt