Abstract: A filter core segment for use in forming a filter core is provided herein. The filter core segment comprises a male end comprising a male rib defining an outer surface and an opposite inner surface. The male end further comprises an inner support disposed radially inward from an inner surface of the male rib. The male end further comprises a first and second extension each comprising a neck extending from the inner surface of the male rib and a head attached thereto. The filter core segment further comprises a neutral end opposite the male end, and a plurality of columns extending therebetween. The filter core segment further comprises a plurality of ribs extending about the plurality of columns. The first and second extension are configured to engage a male end or a neutral end of an adjacent filter core segment to form the filter core.

Abstract: A piezoelectric foaming pump is provided herein. The piezoelectric foaming pump includes a housing having a first opening for receiving a liquid from a liquid container and a piezoelectric element secured to the housing. The piezoelectric element includes a plurality of holes there through. In addition, the housing includes an air inlet. Although the piezoelectric element has holes there through, prior to activating the piezoelectric element, liquid does not pass through the plurality of holes. When the piezoelectric element is energized, liquid passes through the plurality of holes due to the rapid vibration of the piezoelectric element and is dispensed as a foam. Additionally, a piezoelectric foaming pump having a fluid pump chamber; an air pump chamber; a mixing chamber; a piezoelectric element; and an outlet nozzle is disclosed herein.

Abstract: Personal dispensers include collapsible containers that are associated with pump mechanisms for dispensing fluid from within the collapsible containers. The pump mechanisms are preferable selectively operable to dispense a unit dose of fluid. The collapsible containers are sealed such that they lose volume as fluid is dispensed. Clips and housing members for holding and wearing the personal dispensers are also provided.

Abstract: Dispensing systems are disclosed which utilize electronically powered key devices and/or identification codes associated with a refill container to preclude the need for mechanical keys. A first embodiment of the device utilizes a matching code stored in a radio frequency identification tag or bar code associated with a fluid refill container and an identification code associated with the dispenser housing. Matching of the codes by a controller allows for continued use of the dispenser via some type of operational mechanism. Another embodiment employs a key which carries the matching code wherein matching of the codes allows for actuation of a motor actuated pumping device. Yet another embodiment employs a blocking mechanism to prevent use of a dispenser's push bar if a key and dispenser housing do not have matching codes. And yet another embodiment requires the use of a key that has a matching code that matches the dispenser's identification code in order to permit initial access to the dispenser housing.

Abstract: Dispensing systems are disclosed which utilize electronically powered key devices and/or identification codes associated with a refill container to preclude the need for mechanical keys. A first embodiment of the device utilizes a matching code stored in a radio frequency identification tag or bar code associated with a fluid refill container and an identification code associated with the dispenser housing. Matching of the codes by a controller allows for continued use of the dispenser via some type of operational mechanism. Another embodiment employs a key which carries the matching code wherein matching of the codes allows for actuation of a motor actuated pumping device. Yet another embodiment employs a blocking mechanism to prevent use of a dispenser's push bar if a key and dispenser housing do not have matching codes. And yet another embodiment requires the use of a key that has a matching code that matches the dispenser's identification code in order to permit initial access to the dispenser housing.

Abstract: A container holder assembly for removably receiving a product dispensing container having a flexible nozzle spout includes a wall-mounting back plate having a longitudinal axis and a container holder for receipt of the dispensing container hingedly attached to the back plate. The container holder has a through central bore for receipt of the dispensing container and the longitudinal axis of that bore is disposed at an angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the back plate so that the container, when inserted, is disposed at an angle with regard to that axis and with regard to any vertical surface supporting the back plate. The product dispensing container is inserted into the container holder in an inverted condition so that the flexible nozzle projects below the container holder whereby, when the container holder is moved toward the back plate, the nozzle will contact a portion of the back plate and be deflected to dispense product.