Abstract: Fluid flow meters and methods for measuring different aspects of fluid flow with a non-contact sensor are provided. In some cases a fluid flow gear meter is provided with a fluid chamber that is sealed with a cover portion carrying the non-contact sensor. An optional separation member may be located between the cover portion and the chamber to seal the chamber. In some cases the cover portion and/or separation member are configured to transmit visible light to allow viewing of the fluid chamber, through material selection and/or the presence of viewing cavities within the material. The flow meter is optionally configured to prevent or reduce the transmission of ambient environmental radiation into the flow meter to lessen the likelihood that it may adversely affect an optical non-contact sensor used to detect movement of gears within the chamber.

Abstract: Fluid flow meters and methods for measuring different aspects of fluid flow with a non-contact sensor are provided. In some cases a fluid flow gear meter is provided with a fluid chamber that is sealed with a cover portion carrying the non-contact sensor. An optional separation member may be located between the cover portion and the chamber to seal the chamber. In some cases the cover portion and/or separation member are configured to transmit visible light to allow viewing of the fluid chamber, through material selection and/or the presence of viewing cavities within the material. The flow meter is optionally configured to prevent or reduce the transmission of ambient environmental radiation into the flow meter to lessen the likelihood that it may adversely affect an optical non-contact sensor used to detect movement of gears within the chamber.

Abstract: A preferred embodiment dispenser for dispensing product tablets includes a first disk member, a second disk member, and a third disk member. The first disk member is rotatable and includes a first aperture extending longitudinally through the first disk member. The second disk member is stationary and includes a second aperture extending longitudinally through the second disk member. The third disk member is rotatable and includes a third aperture extending longitudinally through the third disk member. The second aperture is intermittently aligned with the first aperture and the third aperture, the first aperture and the third aperture being positioned at different locations with respect to the second aperture thereby aligning with the second aperture at separate times resulting in an interrupted flow path for the product tablets.

Abstract: A preferred embodiment proof of delivery system for use with a solid product dispenser includes an outlet conduit and a sensor mechanism. The outlet conduit is light transmissive and includes an interior surface and an exterior surface. The interior surface is exposed to humid conditions. The sensor mechanism is proximate the exterior surface of the outlet conduit, and the sensor mechanism senses delivery of a solid product through the outlet conduit. The outlet conduit provides a barrier to the humid conditions thereby protecting the sensor mechanism from exposure to the humid conditions.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for dispensing a solid particulate product, and powders, pellets, granules, and micro-solids in particular, is disclosed. The dispenser includes a housing (12) and a metering device. The dispenser dispenses the solid particulate product while protecting the solid particulate product from environmental conditions such as humidity.