Abstract: An automated solid pharmaceutical product packaging machine includes a plurality of temporary storage members for receiving a plurality of solid pharmaceutical products in a plurality of cavities. The use of the temporary storage cavities enables the machine to process several prescriptions simultaneously. Advantageously, at least one of the temporary storage members is capable of being automatically displaced in a vertical direction in order to increase the capacity of the overall filling system for processing a greater number of solid pharmaceutical products while minimizing the overall footprint of the device.

Abstract: The present invention can be characterized as a tamper proof apparatus for dispensing liquid or cleaning product for use in a environment where abuse or vandalism may occur and a method of operating the apparatus. The apparatus includes a first chamber, a second chamber coupled to the first chamber, a first lockable door recessed within one of the first chamber and the second chamber such that a first hinge pin is not removable, a mixing unit within the first chamber. An output hose in one of the first chamber and the second chamber is coupled to the mixing unit and to a feed-through such that the output hose is not exposed outside the chambers. A faceplate with an indentation within the first chamber prevents filling large containers with liquid while also preventing damage to the mixing unit.

Abstract: A method of filling a cylinder with a target weight of a gas. The method includes successively measuring weight of the cylinder at periodic time intervals to obtain successive actual weights of the cylinder; opening a first valve and filling the cylinder with the gas at a high flow rate; and closing the first valve after reaching a predetermined weight difference between the target weight and an actual weight. After closing the first valve, the method opens a second valve and fills the cylinder with the gas at a low flow rate. After opening the second valve to fill the cylinder with the gas, the method adjustably controls, via an adjustable valve, the flow of gas to the cylinder. The method differences each successively measured actual weight from the target weight of the gas to obtain multiple first difference values. The method also differences adjacently measured actual weights to obtain multiple second difference values.

Abstract: A multi-composition stick product, such as a lip balm, sun screen, deodorant, or glue stick. The multi-composition stick product including a stick composition molded in the container so as to contact the walls thereof and be advanceable or ejected therefrom. The stick composition includes a first composition and a second composition. The first and second compositions differ in at least one component, such as a medicament, colorant, fragrance, flavorant, sunscreen, preservative, conditioner, moisturizer, emollient, or surfactant. Furthermore the first and second compositions are arranged in a predetermined non-random pattern that is reproducible. Also described is the method and apparatus for manufacturing the multi-composition stick product.

Abstract: The present invention can be characterized as a tamper proof apparatus for dispensing a selected liquid such as a cleaning product in a environment where protection against abuse and vandalism is desired. The tamper proof apparatus includes a cabinet enclosure having an open front for accessing interior components; a hinged faceplate covering the open front of the cabinet enclosure; a mixing unit fastened to an inside surface of the hinged faceplate for dispensing the selected liquid; a filling recess formed in the hinged faceplate for limiting a dimension of a container placed inside the filling recess; a filling nozzle coupled to the mixing unit for dispensing the selected liquid into the container placed inside the filling recess; a pushbutton coupled to the mixing unit through the hinged faceplate for causing the selected liquid to be dispensed through the filling nozzle; and a locking plate that may be detachably coupled to the hinged faceplate for restricting access to the pushbutton individually.

Abstract: A product dispenser, solid product, and a dispensing system containing the product dispenser and solid product are disclosed. Methods for using the product dispenser, solid product, and dispensing system are also disclosed.

Abstract: A float is used for preparing a density gradient in a parallel-walled vessel. The float has an outer peripheral surface that has a diameter smaller than an inner diameter of an inner surface of the vessel. With the float placed inside the vessel a liquid is introduced onto the float such that the liquid flows around the float between the float and the inner wall of the vessel. The shape and configuration of the float slows the velocity of the liquid such that there is only laminar flow as the liquid contacts other liquid below the float. Elimination of turbulent flow prevents mixing of different liquid introduced into the same vessel thereby forming layers of fluid. Preferably, the vessel is a centrifuge tube. In one embodiment, the outer diameter of the float is large enough to cause capillary action between the float and the inner surface of the centrifuge tube to force liquid to remain between the float and the inner surface of the centrifuge tube.

Abstract: A high-speed cleaning system and method in which a liquid is injected by-compressed air into the vacuumed chambers in the automotive cooling systems, in water-cooled engines. The liquid is injected in short period time under pressure, and the cooling system is pre-evacuated and held at a vacuum so that there is no flow restriction to build up high pressure in the cooling system in the short period of time the liquid is injected in the cooling system, and the liquid travels through the cooling system at a high rate of speed. High pressure air is mixed with the liquid before it is injected into engine cooling system, where the liquid/air mixture travels at a high rate of speed creating a hurricane type effect that breaking loose contaminants such as dirt, rust, and other particles and washes them out of the engine cooling system.

Abstract: A fluid supplying system for LCD manufacturing equipment and a wet processing bath therefor are provided. The fluid supplying system includes a bath united with storage tank in which a fluid collection bath is united with a fluid storage tank. The storage tank having a small size is individually provided to each bath. Further, the body of the wet processing bath is made of a durable material with a chemical resistive material coated thereon. Therefore, the wet processing unit can be widely used regardless of the different types of chemical fluid.

Abstract: In order to provide hydrogen as a transportation fuel, service stations are provided with apparatus for performing the hydrocarbon to hydrogen conversion. The hydrocarbon product applied to the hydrocarbon to hydrogen converter can be distributed to the service station as gasoline/diesel fuel or as a separate hydrocarbon including natural gas. The hydrogen can be stored in a storage facility at the service station and dispensed to users as required. This distribution system eliminates the need for hydrocarbon to hydrogen converters in the each fuel cell powered automobile. This distribution system also eliminates the need for a separate dedicated hydrogen distribution system. In addition, the distribution of hydrogen can co-exist with the distribution of gasoline and diesel fuels providing for a convenient transition period.

Abstract: The invention relates to a process for filling a mixture of at least two components selected from monomeric and oligomeric components into a container, which mixture, after discharge from the container, polymerizes with at least partial volume increase, comprising a mixing zone to which the at least two components to be mixed are fed, the at least two components being mixed under pressure in the mixing zone and the mixture under pressure being filled into the container.

Abstract: An apparatus for replenishing paint into a paint cartridge (25), which is capable of putting paint in respiratory circulation while the cartridge is in a waiting state. The apparatus includes a replenishing valve (61) which is capable of feeding paint to and from a paint chamber (30) of the paint cartridge (25) which is set on a replenishing stool (52), and a respiratory paint circulation valve (91) which is capable of feeding paint-extruding thinner to and from a thinner chamber (31) of the cartridge. After switching the replenishing valve (61) to a drain or discharge side, paint-extruding thinner is supplied from the respiratory paint circulation valve (91) to push paint out of the paint chamber (30) of the cartridge (25). Then, after switching the replenishing valve (61) to the side of a paint supply source, paint-extruding thinner is discharged by way of the respiratory paint circulation valve (91) to suck paint into the paint chamber (30).

Abstract: A system and a method for providing fuel and reductant to a vehicle from a fuel dispensing station are disclosed which allow for providing both fluids to a vehicle equipped with a fuel and reductant tank and allows for providing only fuel to a vehicle without a reductant tank.

Abstract: A magnetically operable mixing and dispensing apparatus which is operable with one hand. A bottle contact portion is provided on a magnetic activating member which activates a moveable element of the valve. The apparatus eliminates frictional contact with the valve thus resulting in longer life. The apparatus is easily retrofitted.

Abstract: The invention relates to a system, apparatus, and method for measuring and transferring the contents of a vessel. The apparatus includes an outer vessel having a liquid disposed therein and an inner vessel positioned to float in the liquid of the outer vessel. A liquid is also disposed in the inner vessel. An input passageway is associated with the inner vessel and at least one output passageway is associated with the outer vessel. A magnet or other sensed member is positioned on the inner vessel and a sensor, such as a Hall-effect sensor, is associated with the outer vessel. The sensor is configured so as to read the position of the inner vessel relative to the sensor to determine the weight of the inner vessel.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided that allows two or more compositions to be placed into a single container in novel designs. Each product may have completely different chemical and physical properties, and each product may have a different function and purpose. The design of the resulting product may be modified by changing factors such as fill speeds, fill durations, the angle of the dispensing nozzle and starting and stopping points of the dispensing.

Abstract: A system and method that removes an unwanted gas or unwanted gases or volatile liquids from containers or spaces that have only one venthole. The unwanted gases are replaced by a desirable, usually inert gas. The containers may be filled with granular solids of any size or shape; the containers may be of any size or geometry. The method consists of a pump system that applies small pressure oscillations to the single vent hole. These oscillations compress and expand the gas in the container. The resulting gas displacements in the container generate vortices in the gas spaces between the granular solids which mix the gases, replacing the unwanted resident gas by a desirable gas. The theory is related to the dispersion in porous media. Experiments are presented that document the time needed for the washout of the unwanted resident gas.

Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for introducing an additive component (131) in the form of a liquid or granulated solid into a liquid (40) stored in a first container (150). The additive component (131) is stored separately from the liquid (40) in a dip tube or conduit (132). The container (150) has an opening closed by a releasable closure (152). A second container or tank (111) containing pressurized propellant fluid (116) is positioned in the neck or closure of the first container, adjacent to the opening. The dip tube or conduit (132) has a first end communicating with the tank and a second end extending down into the first liquid in the first container. The dip tube (132) contains an additive (131) which is expelled from the dip tube into the first liquid by the entry of the propellant fluid from the tank into the dip tube on release of the releasable closure.

Abstract: A bottle charged with a gaseous material intended to be discharged through a range of temperatures but not outside that range, has a valve through which the gaseous material is to be directed. The valve has at least a part wholly inside the bottle, which part has a restricted port through it through which the gaseous material passes to issue from the valve, and a thermally responsive member adapted to block the port when the temperature of the interior of the bottle is outside the range. Preferably, the gaseous material is both introduced to the bottle and discharged from the bottle through the same valve, and the valve has a fill port of larger diameter than the restricted port, and an axially moveable actuating element, and the thermally responsive member is carried by the actuating element.

Abstract: A fuel filling system is disclosed for dispensing two fluids to a vehicle, which ensures that a reductant tank is filled during dispensing of fuel.

Abstract: A dispensing device delivers at least two detergent compositions in fixed amounts and fixed ratios. The device is refillable and may be used in a method of washing fabrics in a machine or by hand. The device may also be used for other applications such as dishwashing, floor cleaning, and the like.

Abstract: A nozzle for filling operations with two liquid and/or gas products for filler machines which can be aligned with a mouth of a container to be filled comprising a first fixed shutter element (21) and a first outlet opening (18) in a moveable hollow body (16, 16a), wherein the hollow body (16, 16a) is associated at the top with a first feeding system (12) for a first product to be dispensed into the container and the hollow body (16, 16a) can be moved between at least one engagement position, in which the first opening (18) is closed by the first shutter element (21), and a disengagement position, in which such a first opening (18) is opened and the first product flows into the container, moreover said first shutter element (21) being at least partially hollow (19) so as to be equipped on one side with a second outlet opening (38), coaxial with said first opening (18) in said hollow body (16, 16a), and on the other side with a second feeding system (11) for a second product to dispense into the container, wher

Abstract: Prior research into methane storage as a solute gas dissolved in special blended hydrocarbon liquids, and recent developments in use of supercritical fluids as solvent replacements, disposed the inventor to create a novel form of hydrogen packaging by dissolution in a specially blended solvent maintained at specified temperature and pressure conditions at which intermolecular attractions and related critical region phenomena permit storing nine times as much dissolved hydrogen in a given volume than pure hydrogen at the same conditions. The solvent constituents selected are ethane and hexane respectively in a nine-to-one parts by weight ratio, and the solution is prepared and intended to be maintained in its packaged state at room temperature and from twenty to fifty atmospheres of pressure. The solution may be combusted in toto as a fuel, or, if desired, known means for separation of hydrogen may be applied so as to deliver pure hydrogen to a fuel cell.

Abstract: A modular container filling apparatus includes a simple pilot valve which can be operated by a push button, a bottle-engaging yoke, or a manual valve at the distal end of a bucket filling hose. The modular construction of the apparatus allows a plurality of units to be mounted side by side on a modular water manifold by bayonet-type sealing connections. An anti-foam venturi and spout mixes chemicals with the water and minimizes foaming when filling a bottle. A plurality of chemicals can be selected by a rotational selector without intermixing.

Abstract: A system and a method for providing fuel and reductant to a vehicle from a fuel dispensing station are disclosed which allow for providing both fluids to a vehicle equipped with a fuel and reductant tank and allows for providing only fuel to a vehicle without a reductant tank.

Abstract: Leaktight confinement appliance (1), intended to cooperate with an independent receptacle (3) containing a substance (4), having its own means (8) for transfer into and/or out of the receptacle, and with an independent means (71) for delivery of a material. The appliance includes a handling chamber (2) defined by a wall (13) of flexible material substantially leaktight with respect to the external environment. A pouch is formed within the wall of the handling chamber (2) for retaining an interconnection device. The handling chamber (2) is arranged to connect at least the transfer means (8) of the receptacle (3) to the delivery means (71) through the interconnection device.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided that allows two or more compositions to be filled with a spiral configuration into a single container. Each product may have completely different chemical and physical properties, and each product may have a different function and purpose. The method includes providing at least two compounds, arranged in separate storage bins each having a pump and a hose attached thereto and pumping the at least two compounds through the respective hoses into a nozzle assembly while at least one of the nozzle and container rotates with respect to the other; and combining predetermined amounts of each of the at least two compounds for creating the resulting product housed in a single container, wherein the resulting product has the at least two compounds formed in a spiral configuration.

Abstract: A new inflating device and method for inflating an inflatable object are described. The inflating device includes two compartments: one containing a gas-generating agent and the other containing an activating agent. When mixed, the gas-generating agent and the activating agent produces a gas in situ. The device further includes an activator connected to both compartments and is capable of effectuating mixing between the two agents upon activation. A hose assembly of the inflating device delivers a the gas generated to an inflatable object, such as a flat tire.

Abstract: A hand-held cleaning device includes a hollow body member having an interior portion and an exterior portion, the interior portion comprising a plurality of separate reservoirs, an abrasive surface attached to the exterior portion of the hollow body member, and at least one passage leading from each reservoir to the abrasive surface. The present invention also relates to a cleaning system comprising a hand-held cleaning device and a refilling dock.

Abstract: A fuel filling system is disclosed for dispensing two fluids to a vehicle, which ensures that a reductant tank is filled during dispensing of fuel.

Abstract: A powder pressing apparatus includes a powder feeding apparatus for supply of a powder such as a rare-earth alloy powder into a cavity of a tooling. The powder feeding apparatus includes a feeder box having a bottom face provided with an opening. Inside the feeder box, there are provided a hopper for supply of the powder into the cavity, a feeder for supply of the powder to the hopper, and a vibration generator for vibration of the hopper. Surfaces of the feeder and hopper to contact the powder are mirror-polished. Leg portions are provided in two sides of the bottom face parallel to a moving direction of the feeder box. The leg portions make the bottom face of the feeder box spaced from an opening of the cavity. The powder supplied to the powder feeding apparatus is weighed by a weighing unit. The opening of the feeder box is provided with a linear member arranged in a grid pattern having a regular pitch. The linear member is rotationally shaken in a horizontal plane when the powder is fed into the cavity.

Abstract: An inflatable device with a liquid-powered air pump includes a pump housing a liquid chamber and an air chamber, each having an input port and an output port. A turbine axle extends between the liquid chamber and the air chamber. The end of the turbine axle, residing in the liquid chamber, includes a number of liquid turbine blades while the end of the turbine axle, residing in the air chamber, includes a number of air turbine blades. A nozzle, which is preferably adjustable, is connected to the input port to the liquid chamber. Introduction of liquid into the liquid input port turns the liquid turbine blades and thus the air turbine blades via the axle. Air is drawn from the air input port and forced through the air output port. The pump assembly may be connected to or integrated with an inflatable device to simultaneously fill a liquid container and a separate air bladder of the inflatable device.

Abstract: A system for automatically and simultaneously diagnosing apparatus performance and safety condition, maintaining on-apparatus components and sub-systems, and reporting apparatus condition and maintenance action taken during apparatus refueling. Diagnostic sub-systems include means for determining the condition of fluids or components that are consumed or deteriorate during use. Maintenance sub-systems include means for replacing, replenishing or renewing non-fuel fluids or components that are consumed or deteriorate during use. Reporting sub-systems include means for communicating information between on- and off-apparatus sub-systems and for generating reports that document apparatus performance and safety condition and the maintenance actions taken during refueling. A report can be presented to the apparatus operator, apparatus maintenance technician and/or to a central reporting facility.

Abstract: A liquid dispensing and metering system including a tubeless dispensing module is disclosed. The liquid dispensing and metering system includes a turntable table supported and rotated by a driving mechanism. A plurality of solution bottles are positioned on the turntable table, each of which being mounted with an electromagnetic valve. At least one actuating unit is arranged to energize the electromagnetic valves of the solution bottles to allow the liquid material contained in the solution bottles to be flowed out via the electromagnetic valves. At least one electronic scale with a beaker is arranged under the turntable table for measuring the liquid material received in the beakers. The driving mechanism includes a liftable supporting mechanism for moving the turntable table upwardly or downwardly with respect to the electronic scale.

Abstract: A system and process for packaging fluid products such as milk and other beverages is disclosed. The fluid product is produced when required and in response to a customer order. For example, milk is received and stored in a raw milk storage silo and separated into two varieties having different butter fat content. A customer order is processed and the system creates labels and fills containers or bottles exactly to meet the customer requirements. The products are palletized and loaded for shipment to the customer. Preferred filling equipment locates a container on a load cell to measure a predetermined amount of the first variety of milk into the container. The container is then filled with a second variety of milk by weight, if necessary, before capping. A supervisory control system directs bottle making, labeling, filling, bundling, and palletizing with virtually no inventory of empty bottles, preprinted labels, finished or prepackaged product inventories.

Abstract: A compressed natural gas (CNG) refueling system has banks of cylinders containing CNG, a hydraulic fluid reservoir containing a hydraulic fluid which does not readily mix with CNG, and reversible flow valves. Each cylinder has a fitting installed in an opening at one end. The fitting contains a hydraulic fluid port and a gas port. The other end of each cylinder is closed. Hydraulic fluid is pumped from the reservoir into each cylinder through the hydraulic fluid port. Inside each cylinder, the hydraulic fluid directly contacts the CNG, forcing the CNG out through the gas port. When a sensor detects that the cylinders are substantially drained of CNG, the reversible flow valves will reverse orientation, allowing the hydraulic fluid to flow back into the reservoir.

Abstract: A dispensing valve cap mountable to a bottle is provided with a first valve part having a tubular portion having an air inlet, the first valve part further including a fluid outlet spaced apart along a longitudinal axis of the tubular portion to form a constant head valve for dispensing fluid from the bottle. A second valve part of the valve movably mounted to the first valve part includes a tubular portion for simultaneously closing both the air inlet and the fluid outlet of the first valve part when fluid dispensing is not desired. The second valve part further includes an air inlet alignable with the air inlet of the tubular portion when fluid dispensing is desired. A sleeve of the second valve part is rotatably mounted to the first valve part. A cap is mounted to the first valve part for rotational and longitudinal movement. Rotation of the sleeve results in rotational and longitudinal movement of the cap. The dispensing valve cap controls fluid flow from the bottle.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for filling bags achieves a substantially uniform fill level in bags. The apparatus includes a bag support that exerts pressure on the bags during filling of the bag such that the level of filling media among the bag is more evenly distributed. The apparatus and method also reliably maintain a sterile region during filling of bags by pressurizing the region before beginning bag filling operations.

Abstract: A system and process for packaging fluid products such as milk and other beverages is disclosed. The fluid product is produced when required and in response to a customer order. For example, milk is received and stored in a raw milk storage silo and separated into two varieties having different butter fat content. A customer order is processed and the system creates labels and fills containers or bottles exactly to meet the customer requirements. The products are palletized and loaded for shipment to the customer. Preferred filling equipment locates a container on a load cell to measure a predetermined amount of the first variety of milk into the container. The container is then filled with a second variety of milk by weight, if necessary, before capping. A supervisory control system directs bottle making, labeling, filling, bundling, and palletizing with virtually no inventory of empty bottles, preprinted labels, finished or prepackaged product inventories.

Abstract: The present invention can be characterized as a tamper proof apparatus for dispensing liquid or cleaning product for use in a environment where abuse or vandalism may occur and a method of operating the apparatus. The apparatus includes a first chamber, a second chamber coupled to the first chamber, a first lockable door recessed within one of the first chamber and the second chamber such that a first hinge pin is not removable, a mixing unit within the first chamber. An output hose in one of the first chamber and the second chamber is coupled to the mixing unit and to a feed-through such that the output hose is not exposed outside the chambers. A faceplate with an indentation within the first chamber prevents filling large containers with liquid while also preventing damage to the mixing unit.

Abstract: There is a dispenser for the delivery of an anti-corrosion fluid during flushing of a marine engine cooling system. The dispenser comprises a housing 1′ with a chamber 2′ for the anti-corrosion fluid, an inlet 5′ to the housing for connection to a supply of fresh water, an outlet 6′ from the housing for connection to the cooling system and a valve 3′ for selectively diverting inlet water either directly to the cooling system or through a mixing 3A, 3B so that the water is combined with the anti-corrosion fluid from the chamber 2′ before entering the cooling system.

Abstract: A nozzle for filling operations with two liquid and/or gas products for filler machines which can be aligned with a mouth of a container to be filled comprising a first fixed shutter element (21) and a first outlet opening (18) in a moveable hollow body (16, 16a), wherein the hollow body (16, 16a) is associated at the top with a first feeding system (12) for a first product to be dispensed into the container and the hollow body (16, 16a) can be moved between at least one engagement position, in which the first opening (18) is closed by the first shutter element (21), and a disengagement position, in which such a first opening (18) is opened and the first product flows into the is container, moreover said first shutter element (21) being at least partially hollow (19) so as to be equipped on one side with a second outlet opening (38), coaxial with said first opening (18) in said hollow body (16, 16a), and on the other side with a second feeding system (11) for a second product to dispense into the container, w

Abstract: A manifold for transfer of chemical, comprising; a heated first conduit for connecting a vessel for containing the chemical to a another vessel, a source of pressurized gas and a source of vacuum; a heated first block valve assembly having first and second diaphragm valves, each valve having a diaphragm and a valve seat side and a diaphragm side, wherein the valve seat side of each valve is juxtaposed to the valve seat side of the other valve, and each valve seat side of each valve communicating with the first conduit; a first connector in the first conduit for detaching the conduit from the vessel; a second conduit, for delivering chemical to the vessel, the second conduit connected to the diaphragm side of the first valve; and a third conduit, for communicating pressurized gas and vacuum to the first conduit, connected to the diaphragm side of the second valve.

Abstract: A nozzle for use with an apparatus for inserting toothpaste having a plurality of materials into a toothpaste container. The nozzle includes a first hollow member for receiving a first material, and a second hollow member arranged inside the first hollow member for receiving a second material. The first and second hollow members enable the first and second materials to be inserted into the toothpaste container such that. one of the first and second materials is arranged inside the other of the first and second materials when the toothpaste is dispensed from the toothpaste container.

Abstract: A product delivery system is provided wherein consumer products are delivered in bulk to the retail site and can be dispensed to individual containers at the retail site. The consumer products can include products in concentrated form that may be diluted prior to dispense or use. The consumer products can include, for example and without limitation, foodstuffs, beverages, household products and automotive products. The product delivery system can include manufacture and/or blending of one or more consumer products at a product manufacturing site, said one or more consumer products being filled into bulk shuttle reservoirs, said one or more bulk shuttle reservoirs being transported to the retail site, and the consumer products contained in said bulk shuttle reservoirs being transferred to individual storage containers for retail to the consumer.

Abstract: An improved injector apparatus for introducing flowable force compensating material into a tire/wheel assembly for the purpose of equalizing radial and lateral force variations of the tire/wheel assembly when in use on a vehicle. The injector apparatus generally comprises a container having a cylindrical side wall, an inlet end cap and an outlet end cap, which together enclose a chamber for flowable force compensating material, and a flexible hose having a quick disconnect coupling at its discharge end for conveying a mixture of pressurized air and flowable force compensating material from the chamber to the interior of a tire/wheel assembly. The outlet end cap comprises at least one channel groove, which helps direct the flowable force compensating material toward an outlet fitting in a manner preventing the flowable force compensating material from getting trapped in the cylinder.

Abstract: A device for maintaining ingredients separately within a container, of the type having a removable container cap applied on a neck with a central opening, has a sub-container body mounted in the container neck which is formed with a proximate end having screw threads which can be engaged with internal screw threads in the container neck for holding them securely together to allow the ingredients to be shaken out of the sub-container body and mixed with fluid in the container. The sub-container body can have inner divider walls forming multiple compartments with respective orifices for dispensing ingredients selectively from the compartments. The sub-container body may be sealed to the underside of the cap with a sealing film, or seated on the neck rim and held by the cap. In one version, the proximate end of the sub-container body has a protruding shape with inclined walls for guiding it into the neck opening.

Abstract: Leaktight confinement appliance (1), intended to cooperate at least with one independent receptacle (3) containing a substance (4), having its own means (8) for transfer into and/or out of the said receptacle, and with at least one independent means (71) for delivery of a material, the said appliance comprising a handling chamber (2), defined by a wall (13) of flexible material substantially leaktight with respect to the external environment, arranged to connect at least the transfer means (8) of the receptacle (3) to the delivery means (71), inside the handling chamber (2). This appliance comprises a means for leaktight assembly (50) between the handling chamber (2) and the transfer means (8) of the receptacle (3), and a means (70) for leaktight connection between the handling chamber (2) and the delivery means (71).

Abstract: A method and system for packaging hot beverages in flexible aseptic pouches includes filling the pouches with a hot beverage concentrate, immediately thereafter filling the pouches with chilled sterile water in order to lower the temperature of the resulting mixture of concentrate and water in the pouches, sealing the pouches, and transporting the pouches directly to a bundler or multi-pac assembling device. The method and system does not require the use of a separate cooling station for the hot pouches between the filler and bundler due to the introduction of chilled sterile water into the pouches at the outset, as part of a two-stage filling process. Containers of other types than flexible packages may also be filled by the method and system.

Abstract: A float is used for preparing a density gradient in a parallel-walled vessel. The float has an outer peripheral surface that has a diameter smaller than an inner diameter of an inner surface of the vessel. With the float placed inside the vessel a liquid is introduced onto the float such that the liquid flows around the float between the float and the inner wall of the vessel. The shape and configuration of the float slows the velocity of the liquid such that there is only laminar flow as the liquid contacts other liquid below the float. Elimination of turbulent flow prevents mixing of different liquid introduced into the same vessel thereby forming layers of fluid. Preferably, the vessel is a centrifuge tube. In one embodiment, the outer diameter of the float is large enough to cause capillary action between the float and the inner surface of the centrifuge tube to force liquid to remain between the float and the inner surface of the centrifuge tube.