Abstract: A shoe system and a method of removing and attaching fixtures to shoes are provided in which a receptacle (14) includes an opening (16) through which a member (24) of a base (18) passes. The member (24) is rotated within the receptacle (14) and engages with a seat (34) to prevent unwanted rotation.

Abstract: To securely take out only a commodity at an end of a commodity string stored in a commodity route, a commodity takeout unit of an automatic vending machine is provided with a pair of arms movable between the work position protruding into the commodity route and the retreat position retreating from the commodity route and a driving member for driving the arms with a time difference.

Abstract: A shoe system and a method of removing and attaching fixtures to shoes are provided in which a receptacle (14) includes an opening (16) through which a member (24) of a base (18) passes. The member (24) is rotated within the receptacle (14) and engages with a seat (34) to prevent unwanted rotation.

Abstract: A process for sterilization of a liquid in a continuous system including a series of steps. First the liquid is continuously pumped into a pressurized system. Second, the pressure on the liquid is increased in a first pressurization stage. Next, the liquid is increased in pressure in a second pressurization stage. Fourth, the liquid is held at an elevated pressure for a predetermined period of time to kill off microorganisms within the liquid. The liquid is then rapidly depressurized to fracture microorganisms within the liquid. The apparatus for producing this process includes a continuous liquid treatment system with a pump, a first stage intensifier, a surge drum, a second stage intensifier, a pressure receiver and a pressure reducer. A particulate treatment system may also be included which includes a pressure receiver, an intensifier, and a recoverer for blending a particulate component with the liquid component.

Abstract: A dispense module for both carbonated and non-carbonated beverages is connected to a postmix beverage dispenser in the same space that any well-known dispensing valve occupies. The module includes a housing having a front-loading, refrigerated chamber for receiving a disposable concentrate package, a motor and pump drive, a refrigeration system, a front door, a water on-off valve, a water flow control, and a control system. The disposable concentrate package includes an integral concentrate container and pump, mixer and nozzle unit. The dispense module can be an integral part of a new dispenser and can also be retrofitted onto existing dispensers in place of one or more dispensing valves to dispense either carbonated or non-carbonated beverages. The concentrate packages are easily and quickly inserted into and removed from the module to change flavors as desired.

Abstract: A sealed fluid merchandiser (12) for use in connection with a beverage dispenser (16) includes a transparent, liquid display container (60) having a narrow liquid chamber (33) for a stable liquid (21) that simulates the beverage being dispensed and a pump housing (37) for a pump (38) that pumps the liquid being simulated through a spray manifold (44) for producing an attractive spray or bubbling effect. The stable, simulated beverage liquid has a low viscosity such that it behaves substantially identical to the beverage being dispensed. The narrow liquid chamber substantially reduces the weight and expense of the fluid merchandiser.

Abstract: A dispensing valve closure (10) is provided which includes a closure body (12) and a cap (14). A self-sealing dispensing valve (16) is disposed within the closure (10) and is held in place with a retaining ring (18). Drain holes (50-56) allow drainage of any fluids built up under the cap (14).

Abstract: A flexible bag for liquid including a spout and an elongated dip strip inside the bag and underlying the spout. The ends of the strip are heat sealed between opposing bag walls in opposing peripheral edges of the bag. The strip includes a liquid passage except at the flat ends thereof and is located directly below the spout opening. The liquid passages provide liquid communication for the liquid from the far reaches of the bag interior to the spout as the bag collapses during evacuation.

Abstract: A coupler for a dispensing apparatus and method of use thereof includes a first member having a first, a second, and a third aperture. A second member is mountable on and rotatable about the first member to selectively communicate the first and second apertures with the third aperture.

Abstract: A low cost, manually operated, postmix juice dispenser for use with a disposable concentrate package includes a water tank manually filled with water and ice, a water pump and a manually operated pump handle. The disposable concentrate package is preferably a flexible pouch with a built-in concentrate pump that connects to the pump handle.