Abstract: The timer controls a dispensing machine and in particular controls the dispensing cycle for a product such as coffee, a beverage, or instant mashed potatoes. The control includes regulation of the water portion of the cycle and the solid or powder portion of the cycle. The timer is controlled by a plurality of touch switches each coupling via a resistor network to the control logic of the timer. The control logic is preferably CMOS-type having a high input impedance permitting use of a resistor network of high resistance to limit current flow especially under fault. The touch switches control functions such as "hot water", "large portion", "small portion", "stop", and "push and hold".

Abstract: The timer controls a dispensing machine and in particular controls the dispensing cycle for a product such as instant potatoes by temporally regulating the water portion of the cycle in conjunction with the solid or powder (potato granules or pearls) portion of the cycle. The water flow is usually controlled using a solenoid or the like while the quantity of potato is regulated by an auger and associated drive motor. The dispensing cycle is initiated by a pre-rinse period wherein only water flows. During the main part of the cycle both water and product flow into a mixing area. The cycle ends with a post rinse period that is either positive or negative; positive when the product flow stops first and negative when the water flow stops first. For multiple portions, rather than extending the length of the main part of the cycle, the timer provides for repeating the basic cycle a number of times that relates to the desired portion.