Flow And/or Overflow Type Patents (Class 222/40)
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Patent number: 11634314Abstract: Flow control assemblies are provided. The flow control assemblies include a cap having a flow control system with an inlet port having an inlet valve and an outlet port having an outlet valve, wherein the flow control system achieves a Dosing Accuracy (DA) of about 100 or less according to the following formula: DA = [ ( Po - Pc ) ( Vd - Ls ) ] where, Po is a pressure to open the outlet valve (mmH2O), Pc is a pressure to close the outlet valve (mmH2O), Vd is a diameter of the outlet valve (mm), and Ls is a length of the valve opening (mm).Type: GrantFiled: November 17, 2022Date of Patent: April 25, 2023Assignee: SharkNinja Operating LLCInventors: Joshua David Anthony, Ethan T. Brown, Nathan Bollen, Brandon J. Suleski, Kyle Janko
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Patent number: 11090479Abstract: The invention relates to a valve unit for a system for producing parenteral nutrition, in which unit a three-way valve is used for each pair of connections to a source container. The valve unit is a component that can be mounted on die system and removed again after use. The valve unit is in particular provided as an interchangeable disposable component.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2017Date of Patent: August 17, 2021Assignee: Fresenius Kabi Deutschland GmbHInventors: Martin Biehl, Michael Hock, Henrik Schaake, Marcel Borgward
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Patent number: 11020321Abstract: A method of operating an enteral feeding pump to deliver fluid through a pump set, the method comprising determining with a controller of the enteral feeding pump if an occlusion exists in the pump set based on the controller monitoring a sensor signal from a sensor indicative of a rotational position of a rotor of the pump during operation of a motor of the pump to rotate the rotor at a reduced output less than a feeding output for rotating the rotor to produce fluid flow in the pump set during a feeding cycle, the motor operating at the reduced output for a shorter period of time than the feeding output.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2020Date of Patent: June 1, 2021Assignee: KPR U.S., LLCInventor: Joseph Hudson
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Patent number: 10006453Abstract: A peristaltic pump comprises a flexible tube, a compression mechanism being actuatable for compressing the flexible tube, an upstream valve mechanism being actuatable to selectively open or close the tube upstream of the compression mechanism and a downstream valve mechanism being actuatable to selectively open or close the tube downstream of the compression mechanism. A drive mechanism actuates the compression mechanism, the upstream and downstream valve mechanisms. A pressure sensor measures a pressure signal indicative of a pressure in the tube between the upstream and downstream valve mechanisms. First and second signal values indicative of a pressure value downstream the downstream valve mechanism and upstream the upstream valve mechanism, respectively, are computed from the measured pressure signal. A threshold value is computed from the first and second signal values, and the measured pressure signal or a derived signal parameter is compared with the threshold value to detect a fault condition.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 2013Date of Patent: June 26, 2018Assignee: Fresenius Vial SasInventors: Guillaume Girard, Sébastien Labarthe
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Patent number: 9963837Abstract: A method for operating an asphalt plant includes using sensors to quickly pinpoint a problem area and to determine the best course of action to maintain quality production with minimum wasted material and minimum plant downtime.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 2015Date of Patent: May 8, 2018Assignee: Industrial Process Systems, Inc.Inventors: Gregg A Gilpin, Leonard A Loesch
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Patent number: 9756873Abstract: Liquid consumption devices, systems, and methods of using the same are described herein. One method of using a liquid consumption device can comprise determining a hydration plan for a user based on parameters of the user using a computing system, receiving data from a liquid consumption device at the computing system over a period of time, aggregating the data received over the period of time to track liquid consumption of the user, and identifying the user is outside a threshold hydration level based on the aggregated data and the determined hydration plan.Type: GrantFiled: July 14, 2014Date of Patent: September 12, 2017Assignee: Bischoff Holdings, Inc.Inventors: Brian J. Bischoff, Julie A. Bischoff, Scott W. Bischoff
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Patent number: 9035765Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods are provided for adherence monitoring, and devices, systems, and methods are provided for monitoring use of consumable dispensers. In general, the devices, systems, and methods can facilitate an individual's adherence to a schedule for consuming consumables and can facilitate monitoring and tracking of the individual's adherence to the schedule. The devices, systems, and methods can allow data regarding the individual's historical adherence to the schedule to be accessible via a computer system. In one embodiment, an accessory is provided that can be configured to attach to consumable dispensers. The accessory can be configured to be removably and replaceably coupled to the dispenser. The accessory can be configured to provide a notification to a user indicating that a certain event occurred and/or that a certain action needs to be taken. The accessory can be configured to sense attachment thereof to and removal thereof from the dispenser.Type: GrantFiled: August 27, 2014Date of Patent: May 19, 2015Assignee: Gecko Health Innovations, Inc.Inventors: Yechiel Engelhard, Mark Maalouf
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Publication number: 20140367411Abstract: The present invention is related to a pouring device for a container for the dosing of liquid, said pouring device comprising: a) a housing b) a passage for the liquid within the housing; c) an electrical operated opening/closing mechanism for opening or closing the passage in order to dosing of a predetermined or registerable amount of liquid, characterized in that the passage comprising a silicone tube, and the opening/closing mechanism is to block the silicone tube by squeezing the silicone tube in order to close the passage. The silicone tube inside the spout is the only path for the liquid to go through from the bottle, meanwhile the rest components are protected from liquid. This guaranties a quick and controlled flow of the liquid and avoids any air bubbles to influence the pour precision.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 2, 2014Publication date: December 18, 2014Inventor: Achim Philipp Zapp
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Publication number: 20140034668Abstract: An apparatus, method and system providing for calibration and/or control of a liquid dispensing system is disclosed. The hand-held calibration auditing tool includes a flow meter (36-37) with inlets adapted for quick connection to one or more liquid inputs to a liquid dispensing system (10). A sensor (94-95) having a data output of liquid flow information for a liquid input to the dispensing system (10) is operably connected to a controller (12) to receive the liquid flow information for the liquid input. The controller (12) provides a dilution rate and other liquid flow information for a liquid product input to a dispenser.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 15, 2013Publication date: February 6, 2014Applicant: ECOLAB USA INC.Inventors: Henry L. Carbone, II, Richard J. Mehus, Kevin C. Tauer, Anatoly Skirda, Eugene Tokhtuev, William M. Christensen
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Patent number: 8540118Abstract: A water dispenser is fluidly connectable to a water source. The water dispenser includes a water tank; a faucet fluidly connected to the water tank and configured to generate an activation signal after being activated; a valve fluidly connectable to the water source and fluidly connected to the water tank; a first float switch movably disposed in the water tank and configured to generate an open signal after moving away from a predetermined position; and a controller operatively connected to the faucet and the first float switch. The controller is configured to open the valve to refill the water tank with water from the water source after the controller receives both the activation signal from the faucet and the open signal from the first float switch. A method of operating the water dispenser is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2010Date of Patent: September 24, 2013Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Neil McDonald, Daniel Capelle, Daniel Brosnan
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Patent number: 8444014Abstract: A system and method of detecting fuel theft at a fuel dispenser. The system has a fluid flow meter, a pulser operatively coupled to said fluid flow meter, and a control system in electrical communication with the pulser. The control system is configured to calculate a flow rate of fuel being dispensed from a gasoline dispenser during a single dispensing transaction. The flow rate is sampled at predetermined time intervals during the single dispensing transaction. The system then compares the sampled flow rates to a predetermined flow rate pattern indicative of potential fraud. A shutoff signal is then provided to the dispenser to stop fuel flow through the dispenser if the sampled flow rates are substantially similar to the predetermined pattern.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 2009Date of Patent: May 21, 2013Assignee: Gilbarco Inc.Inventors: John Steven McSpadden, Benjamin T. Siler
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Publication number: 20130056112Abstract: Fluid supply systems for storage and dispensing of chemical reagents and compositions, e.g., high purity liquid reagents and chemical mechanical polishing compositions used to manufacture microelectronic device products, having capability for detection of an empty or near-empty condition when the contained liquid is at or approaching depletion during dispensing operation. Fluid delivery systems employing empty detect arrangements are described, including pressure transducer monitoring of dispensed material intermediate the supply package and a servo-hydraulic dispense pump, or monitoring of dispenser chamber replenishment times in a dispenser being replenished on a cyclic schedule to flow material from the dispenser to a downstream tool utilizing the dispensed material.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 2, 2012Publication date: March 7, 2013Applicant: ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY MATERIALS, INC.Inventor: Advanced Technology Materials, Inc.
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Publication number: 20120104031Abstract: A water dispenser is fluidly connectable to a water source. The water dispenser includes a water tank; a faucet fluidly connected to the water tank and configured to generate an activation signal after being activated; a valve fluidly connectable to the water source and fluidly connected to the water tank; a first float switch movably disposed in the water tank and configured to generate an open signal after moving away from a predetermined position; and a controller operatively connected to the faucet and the first float switch. The controller is configured to open the valve to refill the water tank with water from the water source after the controller receives both the activation signal from the faucet and the open signal from the first float switch. A method of operating the water dispenser is also disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 1, 2010Publication date: May 3, 2012Inventors: Neil McDonald, Daniel Capelle, Daniel Brosnan
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Publication number: 20120048787Abstract: The invention provides a water dispensing system comprising a container having a first region adapted to store unfiltered water, a second region adapted to store filtered water, and a spout region, a meter housing adapted to receive a water meter, a reservoir disposed within the first region of the container, a filter coupled to the reservoir, the filter being adapted to filter water flowing from the reservoir into the second region of the container, a valve assembly disposed in the second region of the container, the valve assembly being adapted to dispense filtered water from the second region of the container, and a lid coupled to the reservoir. In addition, the invention provides a system for filtering and testing water, comprising a water filtering system used in combination with a water meter for testing the quality of the effluent.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 19, 2009Publication date: March 1, 2012Applicant: ZERO TECHNOLOGIES, INC.Inventors: Rajan G. Rajan, Mathu Rajan, Raja Rajan, Ken Williams
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Publication number: 20110284578Abstract: An oil and flavoring pot includes a pot body having a measuring cup and a handle. A liquid squeezing structure is disposed on a pot lid, and capacity value and a residue recycling structure is formed on a cup wall. The liquid squeezing structure could press the flavoring into the measuring cup by one time or sequence times, and the operation could stop at any time. The amount of the flavoring could be read at any time. When the amount reaches to target, the operation of the liquid squeezing structure could be stopped and the target amount of flavoring is obtained, therefore facilitating to control and know the feeding amount. After use, the residue liquid flows to the groove along wall of the spout, and flows into the measuring cup through the cup slot, therefore keep the pot body clean. Furthermore, the pot is conveniently operated by a single hand.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 18, 2011Publication date: November 24, 2011Inventor: DAI-CHONG WONG
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Publication number: 20110180563Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: January 27, 2011Publication date: July 28, 2011Inventors: Jack Fitchett, Alexander Mikhail
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Publication number: 20110132925Abstract: The invention concerns a process for detecting scale deposit in the liquid supply means of a water pump driven machine comprising at least a water tank, a pump and a heating means, where water is pumped from the water tank and fed to the heating means, and where the pump is energized by a controller by providing the pump with an energizing signal to provide an intended water flow rate F, wherein the actual water flow rate f is measured and the discrepancy ? between the actual water flow rate f and the intended water flow rate F is directly and/or indirectly compared to an operating instruction related to scale deposit.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 2, 2010Publication date: June 9, 2011Applicant: NESTEC S.A.Inventor: Matthieu Ozanne
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Patent number: 7900799Abstract: A dispenser apparatus and a dispenser system for dispensing a liquid from a bottle having a neck portion consisting of a housing formed with a flow conduit therethrough in fluid communication with the liquid within the bottle, the flow conduit having an inlet conduit, an outlet conduit and a substantially cylindrical cavity positioned between the inlet conduit and the outlet conduit, a flow wheel positioned in the cavity, the flow wheel having a central axis and a plurality of blade elements extending outwardly relative to the central axis, a flow sensor positioned adjacent to the flow wheel and the cavity for detecting movement of the plurality of blade elements of flow wheel, an electromagnetic valve positioned proximate to the outlet conduit, the electromagnetic valve having an actuation unit outside of the outlet conduit, a valve member inside the outlet conduit, and a spring member biased against the valve member within the outlet conduit, the valve member rotatable between a closed position and an openType: GrantFiled: November 1, 2007Date of Patent: March 8, 2011Inventors: Bartlomiej Maciej Kuzar, Thanh Cong Dang
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Patent number: 7824543Abstract: Wireless water purification systems and wireless remote dispensing devices for a water purification system. The remote dispensing device is fluidly coupled with the main purification unit. A wireless transceiver is associated with the remote dispensing device and another wireless transceiver is associated with the main purification unit. The wireless transceivers communicate across a wireless communications link between the remote dispensing device and the main purification unit. The system may include multiple remote dispensing devices and/or multiple main purification units.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2006Date of Patent: November 2, 2010Assignee: Barnstead Themolyne CorporationInventor: Thomas Joseph Larkner
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Publication number: 20100264163Abstract: A product dispensing apparatus is described having a product meter and an distribution system. A sensor is provided along a product passage between the meter and the distribution system. The sensor has a plurality of receivers, each receiver only covering a small portion of the product passage whereby the resolution of the sensor is increased to be able to detect relatively small particles. For certain small particles or low rate application, the sensor counts individual particles to determine the application rate. For larger particles or high application rates, the sensor measures an output signal attenuation to determine the application rate. A controller then varies the meter drive to produce the desired application rate.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 30, 2010Publication date: October 21, 2010Inventors: Nikolai R. Tevs, James Z. Liu
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Publication number: 20100230437Abstract: An apparatus and method for measuring fluid flow comprising an inferential flow meter having a housing defining a fluid flow path. A pulser is operative to produce an output signal indicative of flow rate through the meter. The apparatus further includes a controller in electronic communication with the pulser so as to receive the output signal. Based on the output signal, the controller is operative to determine fluid flow in a plurality of dynamic time sub-windows corresponding to respective periods of substantially consistent instantaneous flow.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 16, 2009Publication date: September 16, 2010Inventor: Giovanni Carapelli
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Publication number: 20090227979Abstract: A dispensing chamber assembly has a dispensing chamber housing, a plunger, and a level sensor. The dispensing chamber housing at least partially surrounds a dispensing chamber that holds a quantity of a substance. The plunger is fluidly sealed to the inner surface of the dispensing chamber housing. The level sensor detects when the dispensing chamber is substantially full.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 7, 2008Publication date: September 10, 2009Inventor: Robert J. Sanchez, JR.
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Publication number: 20090114675Abstract: A dispenser apparatus and a dispenser system for dispensing a liquid from a bottle having a neck portion consisting of a housing formed with a flow conduit therethrough in fluid communication with the liquid within the bottle, the flow conduit having an inlet conduit, an outlet conduit and a substantially cylindrical cavity positioned between the inlet conduit and the outlet conduit, a flow wheel positioned in the cavity, the flow wheel having a central axis and a plurality of blade elements extending outwardly relative to the central axis, a flow sensor positioned adjacent to the flow wheel and the cavity for detecting movement of the plurality of blade elements of flow wheel, an electromagnetic valve positioned proximate to the outlet conduit, the electromagnetic valve having an actuation unit outside of the outlet conduit, a valve member inside the outlet conduit, and a spring member biased against the valve member within the outlet conduit, the valve member rotatable between a closed position and an openType: ApplicationFiled: November 1, 2007Publication date: May 7, 2009Inventors: Bartlomiej Maciej Kuzar, Thanh Cong Dang
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Publication number: 20090114676Abstract: A fuel dispensing apparatus comprises a flow conduit defining a fluid flow path. A plurality of fuel handling components are connected along the flow conduit. The fuel handling components include a fluid meter to measure quantity of fuel being dispensed and at least one valve to vary flow of fuel through the flow conduit. In some embodiments, the fuel handling components to be protected may further include a shear valve. A corrosion protection arrangement is in electrical communication with at least one of the fuel handling components. The corrosion protection arrangement is operative to inhibit formation of corrosion at an internal protected portion of the fuel handling component due to electrical current passing through liquid therein. The corrosion protection arrangement may include a reference circuit providing a selected DC potential to the protected portion.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 5, 2007Publication date: May 7, 2009Inventors: Steven J. Showers, Danny T. Lail, Howard M. Myers
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Publication number: 20080251545Abstract: A liquid transfer tool is provided that facilitates safe removal or transfer of liquids from containers in the upright position. The tool includes a retractable sealed tube that can pierce a seal and that extends to the bottom of the container to extract substantially all of the liquid disposed in the container.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 2, 2008Publication date: October 16, 2008Applicant: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATIONInventors: Neil O'Leary, Frederick Tedesco
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Publication number: 20080197146Abstract: The device includes a housing, a detector configured to detect activation of the liquid dispensing assembly; and control circuitry configured to cause at least one of transmission of information and recording of data in response to detected activation of the liquid dispensing assembly. Upon activation of the liquid dispensing assembly, the device can transmit information and/or record and collect data. Preferably the transmitted information is an auditory advertising message.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 12, 2008Publication date: August 21, 2008Inventor: Matthew J. Eyler
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Publication number: 20080017664Abstract: An apparatus and method for metering aerosol. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a first actuator to control a release of a fluid as an aerosol from a pressurized container. The apparatus includes a meter coupled to the first actuator and engaged responsive to release of the aerosol, the meter to determine an amount of fluid released over time. The apparatus further includes a display coupled to the meter to provide a visual indicator of the amount of fluid released. The method includes releasing a variable amount of fluid as an aerosol from a pressurized container and metering an amount of fluid released from the container over time. The method includes displaying a value indicating an amount of fluid released.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 20, 2006Publication date: January 24, 2008Inventors: Thomas E. Haste, Jerry R. Ulrich, Darin A. Brown
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Patent number: 7159533Abstract: A gas delivery system and method are disclosed in which a flow indicator is interposed between the distal end of a conduit connected to a gas source and a device for introducing the gas in the airway of an individual so that the individual, or some other person in visual contact with the individual, can easily determine whether or not gas is flowing through the system.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 2002Date of Patent: January 9, 2007Inventors: Iris Gail Redd, John Lawrence Redd
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Patent number: 6938455Abstract: A grease supply confirming device confirming the supply of a grease into a bearing, according to the present invention includes a detecting member an elastic supporting member and a movable body. The movable body such as a metal spherical body is movably provided in a piping through which a grease to be supplied flows. The elastic supporting member is provided in the piping for supporting the movable body. The detecting member such as an eddy current type displacement sensor detects to see whether or not the grease is supplied in accordance with the displacement of the movable body. The grease supply confirming device further includes an abnormality judging circuit connected to the detecting member for judging the abnormality in grease supply, and an outputting portion for outputting an alarm according to the instruction from the abnormality judging circuit.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 2002Date of Patent: September 6, 2005Assignee: NSK Ltd.Inventor: Kenji Yakura
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Patent number: 6763974Abstract: A dual piston/poppet valve in a fuel dispenser works with a two-stage valve to help eliminate errors from an inferential flow meter. When the two-stage valve opens partially, a secondary fuel path is opened in the dual piston/poppet valve. A sensor detects the opening of the secondary fuel path and reports its opening to a control system. The two-stage valve opens fully and a primary fuel path is opened concurrently. During transaction completion, the two-stage valve partially closes, resulting in the closing of the primary fuel path. When the two-stage valve closes completely, the secondary fuel path closes. The sensor detects the closing of the secondary fuel path and reports the closing to the control system. Based on the outputs of the sensor, the control system accepts or declines input from a flow meter.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2003Date of Patent: July 20, 2004Assignee: Gilbarco Inc.Inventors: William P. Shermer, Seifollah S. Nanaji
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Patent number: 6481469Abstract: Disclosed is an indicator for use on top of a fluid distributing tank having a flexible diaphragm therein. The indicator warns the user when the tank is almost out of fluid in order to avoid the problem in the prior art systems of running out of fluid during a pressurized flushing process.Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 2002Date of Patent: November 19, 2002Inventors: Harold E. Erwin, Abram B. Kuipers
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Publication number: 20020166871Abstract: A system and method for dispensing material from a container. The method comprises the steps of receiving a dispensing time, receiving a working interval, receiving a plurality of working days, and dispensing the material from the container during the dispensing time, during the working interval and on one of the plurality of working days.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 1, 2002Publication date: November 14, 2002Inventors: Kenneth J. Muderlak, Rocky Shieh
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Publication number: 20020130136Abstract: The system and method for monitoring usage and status of a beverage-dispensing machine is provided. The system and method remotely monitors operating status and usage parameters of a beverage of a beverage-dispensing machine. The monitoring system includes an input port configured to be coupled to the beverage-dispensing machine, a monitoring unit connected to the input port, for receiving a monitor signal from the beverage-dispensing machine and generating an ingredient use and status signal, a memory device connected to the monitoring unit, for storing the ingredient use and status signal to generate ingredient use and status data, and a power source supplying power to the monitoring system. The method of monitoring usage of a beverage dispensed from a beverage-dispensing machine having a control unit is also provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 15, 2001Publication date: September 19, 2002Inventor: Noel B. Segal
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Patent number: 6427871Abstract: A dispensing device with user readable indicators for tracking information associated with a succession of pouring events. Each pouring event dispensing a pre-determined volume of liquid from a liquid holding container, upon which the dispensing device is installed, via a dynamically calibrated time interval. The dispensing device including a user interface having a display and keypad and arranged to provide to the user pouring related information during and after each pouring event.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2000Date of Patent: August 6, 2002Inventor: Anthony Suero
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Patent number: 6145701Abstract: A machine for dispensing a soft-serve product comprises a freezer barrel (12), a mix hopper (14) for containing soft-serve mix (16) and being in flow communication with the freezer barrel so that soft-serve mix can flow from the mix hopper into the freezer barrel, a flow passage (42, 42.1) leading from the freezer barrel to a draw spout (64), and a beater assembly (20) for expelling frozen product from the freezer barrel via the flow passage to the draw spout. A solids hopper (52) for containing a flowable solid topping is further provided, and an archimedes screw (56) for feeding the solid topping from the solids hopper into the flow stream of soft-serve product as it passes through the flow passage. A vaned rotor (44) and a rotation sensor (80) meter the flow of soft-serve product through the flow passage and control the speed of a topping motor (60) driving the archimedes screw.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 1998Date of Patent: November 14, 2000Assignee: Marcel Van Der MerweInventors: Marcel Van Der Merwe, Mark Henry Erasmus
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Patent number: 6085586Abstract: A system for monitoring the volume rate of flow and total volume of liquid being drawn from a supply by way of a plurality of discharge conduits includes a flow meter transducer for associated individually with each of the discharge conduits with the transducers providing pulse information to associated flow meter circuits that are connected in series relationship with one another and to a master control module. Each of the individual flow meter circuits includes a pair of microprocessors, one for determining from the pulse information of its associated transducer the volume rate of flow of liquid out its associated discharge conduit. The second microprocessor is programmed to combine the flow information from its own transducer with combined flow information from an adjacent upstream flow meter circuit in the series string and produces a combined flow output signal for delivery to an adjacent downstream flow meter circuit.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 1998Date of Patent: July 11, 2000Assignee: Hypro CorporationInventors: Lawrence C. Arvidson, Duane A. Brown, Robert S. Horeck
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Patent number: 5954102Abstract: A suspended type fueling system of the present invention is composed of an oil reservoir, fueling tube, fueling hose with a nozzle, pump on the fueling tube, pump motor for diving the pump, flow-meter, control unit, fueling operation unit on the fueling nozzle. The fueling tube is connected to the oil reservoir underground at one end and to the fueling hose at the other end. The fueling tube is extended overhead and drawn to a lower part therefrom. The fueling operation unit contains an indication member for indicating fueling data measured by the flow meter, a nozzle ascent-descent switch for transmitting nozzle ascent and descent signals to the control unit, and a combined-use-switch for suspending oil discrimination and performing a rounding off of fueling.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 1997Date of Patent: September 21, 1999Assignee: Tatsuno CorporationInventors: Yoshiyuki Sato, Shoichi Fukumoto, Yosei Terahara
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Patent number: 5871651Abstract: A fuel dispenser having a filter status sensor includes a fuel delivery path for delivering fuel from a station storage tank to a vehicle; a fuel filter in the delivery path for filtering fuel flowing in the delivery path; a flow monitor in the delivery path for measuring fuel flow in the delivery path; and a controller associated with the flow monitor adapted to determine and compare a first flow rate taken during a first cycle with a second flow rate taken during a second cycle. The controller provides a filter status signal when the first and second flow rates differ by more than a predetermined difference indicative of an unclean fuel filter.Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 1997Date of Patent: February 16, 1999Assignee: Gilbarco Inc.Inventor: John S. McSpadden
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Patent number: 5851108Abstract: A motion sensor for connecting to the housing of a gasoline dispenser which is used to dispense gasoline to vehicles. The motion sensor includes components to detect motion, such as that caused by a vehicle striking the dispenser housing, and provides a signal to a controller which cuts off electrical power through an electrical supply line to electrical components of the dispenser. With power disconnected from electrical components of the dispenser, potential arcing of electricity to those electrical components when they become damaged, or potential arcing when the electrical supply line becomes damaged can be prevented to potentially prevent a resulting fire or explosion.Type: GrantFiled: January 17, 1995Date of Patent: December 22, 1998Assignee: Beaudreau Electronics, Inc.Inventors: Mark Clymer, Glenn Graves
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Patent number: 5816448Abstract: An arrangement for dosing fluids, such as beverages, comprising a flow meter arranged in the fluid dosing duct, an on-off valve arranged in the dosing duct downstream of the flow meter for releasing or cutting the flow of fluid, and an evaluation circuit that transmits a switching off control signal (closing signal) to the on-off valve when a predetermined amount of fluid has passed through the flow meter. The flow meter and on-off valve are preferably an impeller flow meter and an electrically actuable on-off valve, respectively. In order to improve the dosing accuracy, a sensor is provided with the flow meter for sensing the speed of flow given, for example, by the frequency of rotation of the impeller and for supplying, to the evaluation circuit, a preferably electric sensor signal that corresponds to the speed of flow.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 1996Date of Patent: October 6, 1998Inventor: Klaus Kobold
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Patent number: 5711456Abstract: An above ground fuel transfer module includes a bottom surrounded by vertical side walls forming a fuel containment vessel. One corner of the support frame has the vertical side walls recessed to form a recessed compartment for a fuel dispensing pump and electrical equipment which are thereby protected by the frame and side walls from being damaged by vehicles or the like operated in the vicinity. An electronic circuit card connected to a control panel controls the transfer of fuel and monitors safety conditions.Type: GrantFiled: August 8, 1995Date of Patent: January 27, 1998Inventor: Billy O. Bryant
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Patent number: 5632411Abstract: A meter for measuring the quantity of milk by weight flowing in a pipeline comprises a main housing having a main milk inlet pipe and a main milk outlet pipe. A buffer chamber in the main housing receives and holds the milk prior to weighing. A weighing container in a weighing chamber sequentially receives discrete quantities of milk from the buffer chamber through a communicating opening. The weighing container is mounted on a load cell, which sequentially weighs the settled weights of the discrete quantities of milk, the settled weights of which are cumulatively stored. Weighed milk is discharged from the weighing container through a discharge outlet opening. A main valve member and a secondary valve member selectively close the communicating opening and the discharge outlet, respectfully. Milk samples are collected in a milk sample reservoir on discharge of weighed discrete quantities of milk from the weighing container for subsequent collection in a collection jar.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 1994Date of Patent: May 27, 1997Assignee: Dewvale LimitedInventors: Edmond P. Harty, Edmond P. Harty, Jr., Edmond O'Callaghan
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Patent number: 5441176Abstract: A volumetric measuring and dispensing apparatus for the dry measure of particulate matter such as sand, or gravel, which apparatus includes one of either (I.) a rotary table spaced slightly from a body having a stationary interrupted circular wall which defines a storage zone; or (II.) a stationary table spaced slightly from a rotating body having an interrupted circular wall which defines a storage zone. The storage zone includes a distally located gate, under which a predetermined amount of particulates can pass as one of the table or said body rotates relative to the other. The apparatus also includes a retention zone on the table outside of the gate for residual material. The particulates fall into a collection vessel such as a hopper or conveying belt. The contents of the storage zone may be replenished from a conventional feed hopper or manually.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 1994Date of Patent: August 15, 1995Inventor: Paul Auee
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Fuel dispenser controlled in dependence on an electrical signal from a gas detector of the dispenser
Patent number: 5363988Abstract: This invention relates to an improved fuel dispenser comprising a gas detector responsive to the presence of gas within the fuel. The gas detector provides an electrical signal indicative of the presence or absence of gas to a computer which controls a valve, and thus the dispensing of fuel in dependence upon the signal received from the gas detector.Type: GrantFiled: March 3, 1993Date of Patent: November 15, 1994Assignee: Gilbarco LimitedInventors: John E. Saxton, Michael L. Jennings, Jack F. Bartlett, James R. Dormer, Peter D. G. Massingberd-Mundy -
Patent number: 5360139Abstract: An automated fueling facility allows untrained persons to safely dispense homogenous phase liquid methane from a cryogenic storage tank into a motor vehicle. The fueling facility automatically maintains pressure on the liquid methane within a predetermined safe operating range using methane gas trapped in the cryogenic storage tank. The pressure on the liquid methane is at least set equal to a set pressure equal to the sum of the saturation pressure of the liquid methane plus an additional amount to help to ensure that it remains in a fully saturated condition after absorbing any heat during pumping from the storage tank. A pump is cooled by placing it in the storage tank and circulating liquid methane through the pump and back into the storage tank. A dispenser, including nozzle for connecting to a motor vehicle, is cooled by circulating liquid through the nozzle and back to the storage tank through a receptacle on the dispenser to which the nozzle is connected.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 1993Date of Patent: November 1, 1994Assignee: Hydra Rig, Inc.Inventor: John E. Goode
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Patent number: 5323721Abstract: A planter monitor system monitors, measures and displays a plurality of planter performance parameters. The system includes a display console, a plurality of row unit modules and a plurality of seed sensors. The system can be used with a wide variety of planters made by different manufacturers and on many different planter types. The system can accurately monitor a wide variety of seed types (e.g. both small and large) and a wide variety of seed planting rates (low and high) and any combination thereof which can occur within the wide scope of seed planting. The system calculates an error rate from a set of data, in graph form, representing experimentally determined actual seed rates versus seed rates as would be measured, thus allowing the operator to optimize seed population and distribution by adjusting the speed of the planter apparatus and/or the seed distribution system.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 1992Date of Patent: June 28, 1994Assignee: Micro-Trak Systems, Inc.Inventors: Semor D. Tofte, Steven W. Vogel, Dennis J. Berning, Thomas K. Hiniker
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Patent number: 5267670Abstract: A fuel dispensing system and method of making the same are provided, the system comprising a storage tank for the fuel and being disposed in the ground, a dispensing pump disposed above the ground, a first flexible hose construction having an inner surface and being disposed in the ground for conveying fuel from the tank to the pump, and a second flexible hose construction having opposed ends one of which is interconnected to the pump, the second hose construction being disposed above the ground for dispensing fuel from the pump into a fuel container of a transportation vehicle or the like through a nozzle interconnected to the other of the ends thereof, the second hose construction having electrical conductor structure extending therealong for dissipating static electricity from the nozzle to the pump, the first hose construction having leak detection structure for detecting leakage of the fuel therein through the inner surface therof and for providing an electrical conductor structure therealong for dissipaType: GrantFiled: October 9, 1992Date of Patent: December 7, 1993Assignee: Dayco Products, Inc.Inventor: Randy C. Foster
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Patent number: 5249707Abstract: A fuel flow indicator for use in a nozzle of a fuel dispensing system. A small percentage of the fuel flowing through the nozzle is diverted to a chamber and used to power rotation of a light deflecting member which is viewable to the user through a glass plate installed on the fuel dispensing nozzle.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 1992Date of Patent: October 5, 1993Assignee: Saber Equipment Corp.Inventors: W. Dwain Simpson, James H. Pyle
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Patent number: 5102012Abstract: A fuel dispensing system and method of making the same are provided, the system comprising a storage tank for the fuel and being disposed in the ground, a dispensing pump disposed above the ground, a first flexible hose construction having an inner surface and being disposed in the ground for conveying fuel from the tank to the pump, and a second flexible hose construction having opposed ends one of which is interconnected to the pump, the second hose construction being disposed above the ground for dispensing fuel from the pump into a fuel container of a transportation vehicle or the like through a nozzle interconnected to the other of the ends thereof, the second hose construction having electrical conductor structure extending therealong for dissipating static electricity from the nozzle to the pump, the first hole construction having leak detection structure for detecting leakage of the fuel therein through the inner surface thereof and for providing an electrical conductor structure therealong for dissipType: GrantFiled: August 31, 1990Date of Patent: April 7, 1992Assignee: Dayco Products, Inc.Inventor: Randy C. Foster
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Patent number: 5100024Abstract: An apparatus and a method for collecting in seal containers the gasoline that leaks or spills from service station dispensers or submersible pumps help to reduce the pollution associated with such equipment. The apparatus and the method also provide for returning the collected gasoline to the storage tanks via existing vapor recovery systems.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 1990Date of Patent: March 31, 1992Inventor: Sergio M. Bravo