Three Or More Diverse Sources Patents (Class 222/132)
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Patent number: 8857666Abstract: A wine dispensing system comprises a cabinet with refrigerated compartments for maintaining bulk wine in boxes and dispenses any one of a number of wine varieties upon pressing an appropriate button. Check valves in the system prevent air from spoiling unused wine, and a computer measures each pour, updates inventory, and accepts demographic information to assist in marketing and sales promotion.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 2011Date of Patent: October 14, 2014Inventor: Edward L. O'Keefe, Jr.
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Patent number: 8857667Abstract: An integrated beverage blending system comprising an ice portion control module, an ingredient module; an ice dispensing conduit in communication with the ice portion control module, and an ingredient dispensing valve removably connected to the ice dispensing conduit and in communication with the ingredient module. Ice is dispensed into a beverage container via the ice dispensing conduit and the ingredient is dispensed into the beverage container via the ingredient dispensing valve.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2010Date of Patent: October 14, 2014Assignee: Enodis CorporationInventors: Roberto Nevarez, William E. Smith, Jan Claesson, Harry Edward Wing
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Patent number: 8851329Abstract: Embodiments of a dispensing system for dispensing a number of products to a user are disclosed. The dispensing system may include an input/output device and a dispenser. The input/output device may be adapted to receive a selection of one of the products from the user. The dispenser may be adapted to dispense a plurality of diluent components, the diluent components and a ratio of the diluent components corresponding at least in part to the selection of the user.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 2012Date of Patent: October 7, 2014Assignee: The Coca-Cola CompanyInventors: Arthur G. Rudick, Annie T. Ellis
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Patent number: 8851740Abstract: A self-serve drink blending device includes a blend chamber, at least one product source, a water source, an ice source, a liquid level sensor, a controller and a dispenser. The blend chamber includes a blending blade. The at least one product source is configured to deliver a volume of product to the blend chamber. The water source is configured to deliver a volume of water to the blend chamber. The ice source is configured to deliver a volume of ice to the blend chamber. The liquid level sensor is mounted to the blend chamber and configured to create a liquid level signal when contents in the blend chamber reach a predetermined level. The controller is configured to automatically calibrate the at least one product source, the water source, and the ice source based on the liquid level signal. The dispenser is arranged to dispense contents from the blend chamber.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 2010Date of Patent: October 7, 2014Assignee: K-Tec, Inc.Inventors: Christian D. Mills, Gregory D. Jackson
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Patent number: 8844768Abstract: A liquid dispenser has containers, sized, shaped and arranged to enclose different volumes but each of the containers has a top with a refill opening that is substantially the same as the top and openings of the other containers. The containers are provided with curving transition sections that taper the sides of the container to increase or decrease the width of the container to provide a smaller or large top sizes as needed.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2011Date of Patent: September 30, 2014Assignee: Prince Castle LLCInventors: Loren Veltrop, Christopher Lyons, Michael A. Graef
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Patent number: 8839989Abstract: A method and computer program product for defining a PWM drive signal having a defined voltage potential. The PWM drive signal has a plurality of “on” portions and a plurality of “off” portions that define a first duty cycle for regulating, at least in part, a flow rate of a pump assembly. At least a portion of the “on” portions of the PWM drive signal are pulse width modulated to define a second duty cycle for the at least a portion of the “on” portions of the PWM drive signal. The second duty cycle regulates, at least in part, the percentage of the defined voltage potential applied to the pump assembly.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 2012Date of Patent: September 23, 2014Assignee: DEKA Products Limited PartnershipInventors: Russell Herbert Beavis, James Jason Dattolo
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Patent number: 8814000Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for providing a selectable beverage from a post-mix beverage dispenser are provided. In one embodiment, the method for providing a beverage having a separately selected color front a post-mix beverage dispensing system comprises: (a) providing at least two beverage bases for dispense from the post-mix beverage dispensing system; (b) separately storing at least two colorants in the post-mix beverage dispensing system; (c) receiving a request for a selected beverage base and the separately selected color with a computer processor; and (d) in response to the selection of the selected beverage base and the separately selected color, automatically dispensing through a single faucet of the post-mix beverage dispensing system, continuously in a predetermined ratio for any volume of the beverage dispensed, the selected beverage base and at least one of the colorants to provide the beverage having the separately selected color.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 2013Date of Patent: August 26, 2014Assignee: The Coca-Cola CompanyInventor: Arthur G. Rudick
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Patent number: 8807393Abstract: The present application describes a product dispenser. The product dispenser may include at least one macro-ingredient source, at least one micro-ingredient source positioned about the dispenser, a diluent source, a dispensing valve, a number of pumps or metering devices, and a user interface. The user interface receives a request for a product type and instructs the pumps or metering devices to dispense a predetermined type and ratio of macro-ingredients, micro-ingredients, and diluent to the dispensing valve for a predetermined flow rate.Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 2013Date of Patent: August 19, 2014Assignee: The Coca-Cola CompanyInventors: Gregg Carpenter, David R. Newman, Nilang Patel, Paul A. Phillips, Arthur G. Rudick, Lawrence B. Ziesel
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Patent number: 8807392Abstract: A nozzle system for use with a multi-flavor beverage dispenser includes a mixing chamber having a fluid outlet therefrom; a diluent injector configured to deliver a mixing fluid from without to within the mixing chamber; and a number of concentrate injectors configured to independently deliver a fluid concentrate from without to within the mixing chamber. The concentrate injector each have associated therewith a self-sealing dispensing valve configured to substantially limit fluid flow through its respective concentrate injector to from without the mixing chamber to within the mixing chamber.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 2011Date of Patent: August 19, 2014Assignee: Lancer CorporationInventors: Donald W. Smeller, Jarrell L. Jennings, III, Robert L. Robinson, Merrill R. Good, George E. Hernandez
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Patent number: 8800817Abstract: A beverage dispenser that is enabled for on demand, gravity fed dispensing of a pre-mixed or otherwise ready to drink beverage that has been thermally regulated through natural convection. More specifically, the beverage dispenser enables pre-mixed or otherwise ready to drink beverage containers (i.e., beverage containers with beverage contents that are pre-mixed or otherwise ready to drink) to be installed on the beverage dispenser and, without the aid of electricity or electro-mechanical devices, dispense a thermally regulated beverage on-demand to an intended customer. The beverage dispenser may comprise a thermal regulation compartment that facilitates regulating the temperature of beverage contents through natural convection. The beverage dispenser may also comprise a thermally regulated and thermally insulated beverage enclosure in which to install the beverage containers. The thermal regulation compartment may be carried within the beverage enclosure.Type: GrantFiled: October 13, 2011Date of Patent: August 12, 2014Assignee: The Coca-Cola CompanyInventors: Joseph T. Norris, Quande Gui, Feiyun Ma, Xiaoliang Tan, Javier Verdura, Jesse S. Kruska, John Kevin Clay, James McCay, Jon Crawford-Phillips, Rony Zibara, Viresh Chopra, Georgina Louise Clarke
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Patent number: 8757438Abstract: The multiple compartmented and condiment dispensing apparatus includes a housing into which a plurality of packet compartments are arranged. The packet compartments open to enable a refill packet to be inserted and loaded for use in dispensing a condiment therefrom. The packet compartments are each in fluid communication with a spout provided on a distal end of the housing. The spout includes a plurality of channels that each connects via ductwork to the packet compartments where the refill packets connect. The refill packets dispense a condiment through the respective ductwork and out a channel of the spout. Each packet compartment includes a loader door that is pivotally engaged with respect to the housing, and which can open outwardly to enable the refill packets to be inserted and removed from the respective packet compartment.Type: GrantFiled: September 25, 2012Date of Patent: June 24, 2014Inventor: Hector Garcia
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Publication number: 20140158709Abstract: Methods, apparatuses, and systems for dispensing an off-gassing liquid product mixed with a diluting product are provided. A liquid product or product solution is moved through a primed product line and towards a dispenser. The liquid product is combined with the diluting product to create a solution. The solution is dispensed. The product line is cleared of unused or displaced liquid product by redirecting at least a portion of the unused or displaced liquid product in the product line to a displacement system operatively attached to the product line. The displacement system includes a check valve including a crack pressure that allows the unused or displaced product to be dispensed back into the product source or a separate, secondary container.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 6, 2013Publication date: June 12, 2014Applicant: Ecolab USA Inc.Inventors: Jared R. Freudenberg, Troy A. Anderson, Henry Louis Carbone, II, Ryan Carroll, Ryan Jacob Urban
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Patent number: 8746506Abstract: A multi-tower modular dispensing system including at least a first dispensing head and a second dispensing head at a counter, a transfer unit located remotely from the counter, piping extending from the transfer unit to the counter, the transfer unit including a centralized ingredient system having a plurality of beverage ingredient sources, the centralized ingredient system configured to supply beverage ingredients to the piping for the dispensing of a first beverage at the counter, the piping including a main micro bundle, the main micro bundle including at least two separate beverage ingredient lines.Type: GrantFiled: May 26, 2011Date of Patent: June 10, 2014Assignee: PepsiCo, Inc.Inventors: Steven T. Jersey, William W. Segiet, Tom Siegel, Eddie Kali, Joseph Boggs, Robert Balstad
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Publication number: 20140144928Abstract: An embodiment system and method for dispensing multiple dairy products includes a dispenser which houses two or more dairy product bases with different formulations, which may be combined with or without water to create a multitude of homogenous dairy beverages. The two or more dairy product bases may be mixed together first and then separately mixed with water, mixed together simultaneously with water, or mixed together without adding water. They may be mixed together with or without additional flavoring, ingredients, mineral or nutritional additives. The dispenser comprises a pump with a quick-release mechanism to allow for quick and clean maintenance of the system.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 29, 2012Publication date: May 29, 2014Applicant: FAIR OAKS FARMS BRANDS, L.L.C.Inventors: Gerald Dobbins, Timothy Peter Doelman, John Hengesbach, Brett Malsom
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Publication number: 20140117040Abstract: A dispenser (10) for dispensing flowable materials has a container assembly (12) having a dividing wall (19). A first chamber (18) and a second chamber (20) are defined in the container assembly (12). The first chamber (18) is configured to contain a first flowable material (M1) (140) and the second chamber (20) is configured to contain a second flowable material (M2) (142). A membrane (34) is positioned in the container and cooperates with the dividing wall (19) to enclose the first and second chambers (18, 20). The membrane (34) has a first section (132) having a first weld seam (148) and a second section (134) having a second weld seam (150). The first section (132) is separated from the second section (134) by a non-rupturable member (33). Rupture of the membrane (34) allows the flowable materials into a third chamber (42) in which the flowable materials mix to form a mixture, and from which the mixture is dispensed.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 30, 2013Publication date: May 1, 2014Applicant: James Alexander CorporationInventor: Richard J. May
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Patent number: 8708197Abstract: A portable refrigeration system having a refrigerator unit with a door surface, aperture surface, dispenser surface, and inner cavity, a door pivotally attached to the door surface which can move between an open and closed position allowing and preventing access to the inner cavity, the unit further having standard refrigeration components for cooling the inner cavity, a base, the unit is mounted atop the base such that a gap exists between the dispenser surface and base, a first, second, third and fourth aperture are in the aperture surface, a lid removably attached to the aperture surface functioning to temporarily cover the apertures, which can move between an open and closed position allowing and preventing access to the aperture, a dispenser on the dispenser surface having a first dispenser for water or liquid and a second dispenser for ice, and a plurality of control buttons on the unit.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 2011Date of Patent: April 29, 2014Inventor: Kenneth L. Brewer
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Patent number: 8701938Abstract: An applicator for extruding strings of cake icing or other flowable semi-solid material comprises a longitudinally slotted screw rotated in a fixed nut and thereby advanced longitudinally in a tube, and a rotating nozzle assembly having a partition extending into the slot or slots of the screw whereby the nozzle assembly rotates with the screw as the screw advances. Pistons formed at an end of the screw fit cylinders formed by the interior wall of the tube and the partition to eject icing through one or more nozzles of the rotating nozzle assembly.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 2012Date of Patent: April 22, 2014Inventor: Michael Eric Darian
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Patent number: 8690016Abstract: A product storage and handling system for a beverage dispenser is characterized by a cabinet in which a plurality of bins are removably supported on one or more shelves that may be slid into and out of the cabinet. Each bin is for containing a removable container of liquid beverage component, a fluid valve of which container extends downward through and is releasably secured against vertical movement in a lower opening in the bin. A connector coupled to a fluid line leading to a beverage valve of a beverage dispenser is arranged to be conveniently fluid coupled with and decoupled from the fluid valve of the bag. When a shelf of slid out of the cabinet, the bins supported by it may, if desired, be lifted off of and replaced on the shelf for during replacement of a depleted bag of liquid beverage component. Alternatively, the bins may remain supported on the shelf during replacement of a depleted bag of liquid beverage component.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2010Date of Patent: April 8, 2014Assignee: IMI Cornelius Inc.Inventors: Douglas Anderson, Karl M. Bogacz, Peter S. Tinucci, N Sudhir Kumar, Ramakrishnan Anoop
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Patent number: 8684232Abstract: Colorant fluid dispensing device (1) for dispensing multiple colorant fluids, comprising more than one fluid container (2) at least one dispenser outlet (3), wherein the fluid containers are in fluid connection with the at least one dispenser outlet via pumping means (4) the pumping means comprises more than one piston pump (5), each piston pump comprises a central pump tube (15) in which a piston (20) is provided with a piston rod (21) for moving the piston inside the central pump tube, the colorant fluid dispensing device further comprises driving means (36) for moving the piston rods of said piston pumps, control means (38) for controlling the driving means, and the driving means comprises a movable selector (37) configured to engage the piston rods of a selection.Type: GrantFiled: November 5, 2009Date of Patent: April 1, 2014Assignee: Full Process S.A.Inventor: Renatus Petrus Cornelis Meeuwisse
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Publication number: 20140076930Abstract: A device for dispensing a mixture of at least two fluids is disclosed. The device has a plurality of cartridges that each contain a fluid. A flow channel communicates with each cartridge. A valve adjusts a mass flow rate of the fluid drawn from the corresponding cartridge. A manifold has a mixing chamber and a plurality of inlets that each communicate with one of the flow channels. The manifold has a spring and a seal that covers the inlets. A piston is between the seal and the spring. The spring is moveable between an extended position that positions the seal to substantially and simultaneously close the inlets from the flow channels and a compressed position that positions the seal to substantially and simultaneously open the inlets to the flow channels. A dispensing pump communicates with the manifold and draws fluid from each of the cartridges. A nozzle dispenses the mixture.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 7, 2013Publication date: March 20, 2014Inventors: Melanie R. Werner, Paul J. Mulhauser, Karl D. Kirk, III
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Patent number: 8672185Abstract: A dispensing cap is disclosed for mixing a primary flowable substance, such as a soap, lotion, or the like, with a small dose of a secondary flowable substance, such as a fragrance. The dispensing cap includes a plurality of reservoirs containing a plurality of secondary flowable substances. Each of the reservoirs is associated with a secondary piston that, when actuated, causes the secondary flowable substance to be expelled from the reservoir into a mixing chamber in the cap, where it is mixed with the primary flowable substance. Upon mixing the two are dispensed together from a dispensing end of the cap. A selector ring is provided to enable the user to select one of the plurality of reservoirs. The selector ring has an actuation flange that aligns with the secondary piston that is associated with the selected reservoir.Type: GrantFiled: February 24, 2011Date of Patent: March 18, 2014Assignee: Colgate-Palmolive CompanyInventors: Brian Glenn Worthington, Lester Greer
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Patent number: 8672573Abstract: A cleaning device to be connected with a water hose, the cleaning device comprising a water inlet at a first end for receiving the water hose, an outlet assembly having a brush located at a first end thereof, a cleaning mixture reservoir in fluid communication with the outlet assembly, and a flow selection assembly operatively coupled to the water inlet, the outlet assembly and the cleaning mixture reservoir, the flow selection assembly comprising a switch assembly for switching between a water and cleaning mixture dispensing mode wherein the water inlet is in fluid communication with the cleaning mixture reservoir and the outlet assembly and the water is dispensed at a first given flow rate and a cleaning mode wherein the water inlet is in fluid communication with the outlet assembly and the water is dispensed at a second given flow rate greater than the first given flow rate.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 2008Date of Patent: March 18, 2014Inventor: Yvon Francoeur
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Patent number: 8631974Abstract: A multi-flavor valve for dispensing at least three flavors of beverages includes a single-piece injection-molded valve body having at least three syrup flow paths, a water flow path, and one water flow path solenoid for opening and closing the water flow path. Three syrup flow path solenoids are positioned in the corresponding syrup flow paths. The water flow path solenoid is positioned in the water flow path, within the valve body. The valve has beverage flavor switches for selecting the beverage flavors for dispensation. The valve includes an electronics module electrically connected to the solenoids and to the beverage flavor switches, the electronics module causing one of the syrup flow path solenoids to open the corresponding syrup flow path of the syrup corresponding to a selected flavor switch, and causing the water flow path solenoid to open the water flow path, causing the valve to dispense the selected beverage flavor.Type: GrantFiled: March 3, 2009Date of Patent: January 21, 2014Assignee: PepsiCo, Inc.Inventors: Joseph Todd Piatnik, Fernando Ubidia, Amir Farooqui, Aaron Stein, Eric Skell, Thomas Tagliapietra, William Black
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Patent number: 8616412Abstract: A beverage dispensing system includes a base to which a dispensing head is removably attached without additional fasteners. Beverage-forming liquids are supplied through a plurality of separate conduits in the base. Each base conduit has a normally closed valve that normally blocks fluid flow. The dispensing head has at least one passageway that receives liquid from an associated one of the base conduits. A projection associated with each dispensing head passageway opens the associated conduit valve to allow fluid flow from the base to the head. Dispensing valves in the dispensing head regulate the dispensing of the beverage. By selectively opening the dispensing valves, a plurality of beverages are formed from combinations of one or more liquids. A dispensing head includes an inlet opening and an outlet opening at each end of a passage extending through a body, the inlet opening having a smaller cross-sectional area than the outlet opening.Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 2013Date of Patent: December 31, 2013Assignee: PepsiCo, Inc.Inventors: Timothy W. Bethuy, William J. Black, Brian T. Cahill, Ronald Schilling, Paul Novotny, Fabio Nebbia, Giovanni Perucca
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Patent number: 8616390Abstract: A bottle including a body portion having a plurality of dividing walls extending from a base portion to a plurality of connection regions; a first chamber for holding a first liquid; a second chamber for holding a second liquid; a third chamber for holding a third liquid; and a removable cap; wherein a height of the plurality of dividing walls is less than an overall height of the body portion and the plurality of connection regions are configured to be a maximum height of the plurality of dividing walls.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 2008Date of Patent: December 31, 2013Inventor: Theodosios Kountotsis
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Patent number: 8596498Abstract: A device for dispensing a mixture of at least two fluids is disclosed. The device has a plurality of cartridges that each contain a fluid. A flow channel communicates with each cartridge. A valve adjusts a mass flow rate of the fluid drawn from the corresponding cartridge. A manifold has a mixing chamber and a plurality of inlets that each communicate with one of the flow channels. The manifold has a spring and a seal that covers the inlets. A piston is between the seal and the spring. The spring is moveable between an extended position that positions the seal to substantially and simultaneously close the inlets from the flow channels and a compressed position that positions the seal to substantially and simultaneously open the inlets to the flow channels. A dispensing pump communicates with the manifold and draws fluid from each of the cartridges. A nozzle dispenses the mixture.Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 2012Date of Patent: December 3, 2013Assignee: Mouse Trap Design, LLCInventors: Melanie R. Werner, Paul J. Mulhauser, Karl D. Kirk, III
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Patent number: 8584900Abstract: A beverage dispenser for providing mixed beverages. The beverage dispenser has a housing containing a plurality of first liquids, a plurality of second liquids, and a water supply, wherein the first liquids comprise liquors, and wherein the second liquids comprise mixer syrup. The beverage dispenser also has an interface, a dispensing spout and a server. The interface is provided on the housing to input variable data and receive variable instructions. The server electrically operates valves to control the flow of first liquids, second liquids and water to the beverage dispenser spout based on instructions entered at the interface and a pouring schema stored in memory.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 2010Date of Patent: November 19, 2013Assignee: Smart Bar USA LLCInventors: William Metropulos, Tim Knecht, John Sugrue, Wayne Alpert, Kevin Hinterlong
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Patent number: 8584716Abstract: A multi-station liquid mixing and dispensing apparatus. The apparatus includes a housing that defines a first pocket for supporting a first container and a second pocket for supporting a second container, a first door pivotably coupled to the housing and enclosing the first pocket, and a second door pivotably coupled to the housing opposite the first door. The first door includes a first window through which the first container can be identified. The second door encloses the second pocket and includes a second window through which the second container can be identified. The apparatus also includes a valve coupled to the housing to control flow of chemical concentrate to at least one of the first container and the second container.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 2011Date of Patent: November 19, 2013Assignee: Diversey, Inc.Inventors: Michael H. Bertucci, Curtis H. Hubmann, Christopher F. Lang, Steven E. Schiller
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Patent number: 8579160Abstract: A dispensing gun has a gun body, a first component inlet, a second component inlet, a dispense head, a first valve, a second valve, a clamp, and a trigger. The component inlets are attached to the gun body for receiving components. The dispense head is for dispensing the components. The valves are attached to the gun body and there are valve stems for controlling the dispensing of the components. The clamp has an upper portion and a lower portion, with the first and second valve stems positioned in between the upper and lower portions. The two portions are attached such that the first and second valve stems move with movement of the valve actuator in a direction parallel to the axes of the valve stems. The trigger is attached to the gun body and controls movement of the clamp.Type: GrantFiled: November 23, 2010Date of Patent: November 12, 2013Assignee: Graco Minnesota, Inc.Inventors: Jonathan R. McMichael, Steven R. Sinders
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Patent number: 8534501Abstract: An integrated beverage blending system comprising: a controller for menu selection; an ice portion control module; an ingredient module; a dispensing apparatus in communication with the ice portion control module and the ingredient module, wherein the ice and the ingredient are dispensed into a beverage container via the dispensing apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 2009Date of Patent: September 17, 2013Assignee: Enodis CorporationInventors: Roberto Nevarez, William E. Smith, Jan Claesson
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Patent number: 8499975Abstract: A refrigerator includes a refrigerator cabinet, a door for providing access to within the refrigerator cabinet, and a beverage dispenser. The beverage dispenser may be positioned at the door. The beverage dispenser includes a water source for supplying water, a beverage flavor source containing a flavor medium and having a flavor source opening with and adjustable size, and a user interface. The user interface is connected to the beverage flavor source to control the amount of flavor medium dispensed by the beverage flavor source through the flavor source opening. The amount of flavor medium dispensed will determine the flavor strength of a flavored beverage after the flavor medium has mixed with water or another liquid.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2010Date of Patent: August 6, 2013Assignee: Whirlpool CorporationInventors: Anderson Bortoletto, John R. Wisnoski
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Patent number: 8490873Abstract: A vending machine for dispensing a selected blend of perfumes in response to the deposit of a pre-selected sum of money includes a plurality of containers and a plurality of distinctive scents with one of the scents disposed in each of the containers. A mechanism for selecting one or more of the scents and an amount of one or more of the scents is provided. Further, the vending machine includes a mechanism for blending the selected scents in the selected percentages and providing a sample to a perspective customer. Further, the mechanism includes a slot receiving payment for a quantity of the selected blend together with a delivery process for providing a bottle of the selected perfume to the customer.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2011Date of Patent: July 23, 2013Inventor: Fawzi Behbehani
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Patent number: 8485396Abstract: A combination storage and dispensing device for laundry products featuring a housing with a plurality of snap-tight drawers for holding various items including measuring cups and coins, liquid dispensing units for storing and dispensing liquid-based laundry products, and powder compartments for holding and dispensing powder-based laundry products. The drawers may be divided into sub-sections via dividers. The liquid dispensing units each have an inner cavity, a dispensing unit opening with a snap-tight dispensing unit top, a spout, and a downwardly sloped wall in the inner cavity. The spout is positioned near the sloped wall. The powder compartments each have an opening and a snap-tight lid. Lids are pivotally disposed in the top of the housing for covering the snap-tight dispensing tops of the liquid dispensing units.Type: GrantFiled: January 20, 2011Date of Patent: July 16, 2013Inventors: Nikola Petrossian, Lili Petrossian
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Patent number: 8485392Abstract: A system for dispensing solvents removes the need for storing solvents in multitudes of small containers or containers which are not suitable for storing the solvents for a long duration. The system minimizes laboratory space requirements for the storage and handling of solvents. The system minimizes waste generation. With the system for dispensing solvents, the solvents are stored properly and are able to be dispensed in small quantities for use as needed. The system for dispensing solvents also includes leak detection, a spill tray, a fume hood and other precautionary measures to ensure a safe handling environment.Type: GrantFiled: October 8, 2008Date of Patent: July 16, 2013Inventor: Jeffrey Wilson Tarter
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Patent number: 8453881Abstract: A mounting system for securing inverted bottles to a refrigerated dispensing apparatus housing, which system includes a valve body with external locking splines and grooves to secure a bottle to which it is threadedly connected to a socket in the housing having mating splines and grooves.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2008Date of Patent: June 4, 2013Assignee: Tap Machine Inc.Inventor: Michael L. Chapin
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Patent number: 8453879Abstract: The present application describes a product dispenser. The product dispenser may include at least one macro-ingredient source, at least one micro-ingredient source positioned about the dispenser, a diluent source, a dispensing valve, a number of pumps or metering devices, and a user interface. The user interface receives a request for a product type and instructs the pumps or metering devices to dispense a predetermined type and ratio of macro-ingredients, micro-ingredients, and diluent to the dispensing valve for a predetermined flow rate.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2012Date of Patent: June 4, 2013Assignee: The Coca-Cola CompanyInventors: Gregg Carpenter, David R. Newman, Nilang Patel, Paul A. Phillips, Arthur G. Rudick, Lawrence B. Ziesel
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Patent number: 8448823Abstract: An apparatus for dispensing a plurality of fluids, includes a support, such as a turntable or a linear table, a plurality of containers for holding a fluid and mounted on the support, pumps and valves connected to respective containers, at least one common actuator for sequentially operating the pumps and valves to dispense fluid and a drive mechanism for moving the support, and thus the containers, pumps, and valves on the one hand and the actuator on the other relative to each other. The common actuator for sequentially operating the pumps and valves and the drive mechanism for relative motion of the support are integrated in a module, the module is releasably mounted in the apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: January 7, 2011Date of Patent: May 28, 2013Assignee: Fast & Fluid Management B.V.Inventors: Marcel Hendrikus Petrus Engels, Martin Kruit, Nico Van Beelen, Ronald Peter Krom, Marcus Johannes Voskuil, Mattijs Oostendorp
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Patent number: 8444016Abstract: An apparatus for dispensing milk-based beverages comprises a milk container (4), a pump (8) for conveying the milk from the milk container (4) to a milk outlet (20), supply means (13, 14) for supplying at least one flavoring agent to the milk and means for mixing the at least one flavoring agent with the milk. To this end, a coolable cabinet (2), into which the milk container (4) can be inserted, is arranged in a housing (1). Via a hose line (7), the milk in the milk container (4) reaches a mixing apparatus (9) in a meterable quantity, conveyed by the pump (8) disposed in the hose line (7). At least one flavoring agent is able to be additionally supplied in a metered manner into the mixing apparatus via the supply means (13, 14), and is able to be mixed with the milk; the mixed beverage thus obtained reaches, via an outlet (20), a vessel (21) which can be provided beneath this outlet (20). Flavored cold milk-based beverages can thereby be produced in an optimal way.Type: GrantFiled: July 4, 2008Date of Patent: May 21, 2013Assignee: Schaerer AGInventor: André Lüssi
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Patent number: 8434642Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for providing a selectable beverage from a post-mix beverage dispenser are provided. In one embodiment, the method for providing a beverage having a separately selected color from a post-mix beverage dispensing system comprises: (a) providing at least two beverage bases for dispense from the post-mix beverage dispensing system; (b) separately storing at least two colorants in the post-mix beverage dispensing system; (c) receiving a request for a selected beverage base and the separately selected color with a computer processor; and (d) in response to the selection of the selected beverage base and the separately selected color, automatically dispensing through a single faucet of the post-mix beverage dispensing system, continuously in a predetermined ratio for any volume of the beverage dispensed, the selected beverage base and at least one of the colorants to provide the beverage having the separately selected color.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 2012Date of Patent: May 7, 2013Assignee: The Coca-Cola CompanyInventor: Arthur G. Rudick
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Patent number: 8434319Abstract: An apparatus for preparing and dispensing a flavored ice beverage and a method of using thereof. The apparatus includes at least one container for holding flavor ingredients, a blending unit including a blender container and a blending mechanism, an ice flakes supplying unit, a mechanism for transferring the flavor ingredients to the blender container and a computerized control unit for controlling one or more aspects of the process of producing the ice beverage. The flavor ingredients can be in grain form, powder form or in liquid form.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 2010Date of Patent: May 7, 2013Assignee: Nicevend Ltd.Inventors: Niri Klier, Boaz Granot
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Patent number: 8431020Abstract: A liquid dispensing system is provided for automated dispensing of a plurality of liquid reagents into a recreational body of water. The liquid dispensing system includes a cartridge apparatus housing a plurality of liquid reagent containers, each containing a respective liquid reagent. A docking assembly is provided having a dock manifold device, and is releasably coupled to the cartridge apparatus between a first condition and a second condition. In a first condition, the cartridge apparatus can be removably coupled to the docking assembly, while in the second condition, the cartridge apparatus is lockably mounted to the docking assembly in a manner permitting fluid communication from the respective reagent container to respective fluid passages of the manifold device. The dispensing system further includes a dosing engine having a valve manifold device to selectively dispense the liquid reagents into the recreational body of water through a dispensing port.Type: GrantFiled: May 11, 2009Date of Patent: April 30, 2013Assignee: Idex Health & Science LLCInventors: Michael R. Straka, Carl H. Poppe, Carl M. Servin, Caba Calic
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Publication number: 20130056493Abstract: A fluid mixing and delivery system comprises a mixing chamber; a first supply line for supplying a first fluid component to the mixing chamber via a first CFValve and a downstream first metering orifice; a second supply line for supplying a second fluid component to the mixing chamber via a second CFValve and a downstream second metering orifice, with the first and second fluid components being combined in the mixing chamber to produce a fluid mixture; and a discharge line leading from the mixing chamber and through which the fluid mixture is delivered to a dispensing valve.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 1, 2011Publication date: March 7, 2013Applicant: Global Agricultural Technology and Engineering, LLCInventors: John R. Newton, Michael E. Cheney, Peter J. Brooke
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Publication number: 20130036775Abstract: The invention relates to a dispensing system for releasing preparations in the interior of a washing machine, comprising a dispenser and a cartridge couplable to the dispenser, in which the cartridge comprises at least three chambers, which contain different flowable preparations, in which the first chamber stores at least one enzyme, selected from the group of amylases, mannanases, cellulases, lipases and/or pectate lyases and at least one surfactant and/or complexing agent, the second chamber stores at least one protease and at least one surfactant and/or complexing agent, the third chamber stores at least one scent and/or one optical brightener.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 17, 2012Publication date: February 14, 2013Applicant: Henkel AG & Co. KGaAInventor: Henkel AG & Co. KGaA
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Patent number: 8365959Abstract: A drink dispensing tap water dispenser, kit and method of converting a tap water dispenser to a drink dispenser is disclosed. The dispenser includes an adaptor having a central body portion connectable inline to a domestic tap water dispenser. A dispensing nozzle is supported by the central body portion of the adaptor and includes at least one liquid connection to a liquid source for dispensing liquid separate from the tap water dispenser.Type: GrantFiled: February 15, 2008Date of Patent: February 5, 2013Assignee: Whirlpool CorporationInventor: Stefano Tavolazzi
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Patent number: 8353427Abstract: An automatic dispensing apparatus for dispensing hand-sanitizer lotion, which is powered using a rechargeable battery pack rechargeable via solar cells, which battery pack is pivotally mounted in the upper interior section of the main frame of the dispenser, above the liquid-storage bag, whereby as the liquid storage bag is depleted after continual use, the weight of the battery pack serves to compress the storage bag to thereby increase the pressure therein, so that the delay of the dispensing of the liquid does not increase over time as the bag becomes depleted. Also provided is a lower, pivotal tray located below the dispensing nozzle of the dispensing apparatus by which drippings and excess dispensed amounts are caught by the tray and do not fall upon the floor therebelow. A front cover is rotatable to an upper position such that it does not rotate back down by itself in order to allow unencumbered access to the interior of the apparatus for changing storage bags and batteries.Type: GrantFiled: October 11, 2010Date of Patent: January 15, 2013Inventor: Konrad Landauer
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Patent number: 8348103Abstract: A low-profile particulate handling assembly is provided for use in conjunction with a downstream treating device, such as a seed treater unit. The assembly includes a plurality of juxtaposed particulate bins and a surmounting turret assembly designed to successively deliver particulates to the bins. The particulates within the bins are delivered to the downstream treating device through respective lower outlets each equipped with an adjustable slide gate assembly and a lower, multiple-chute assembly. Preferably, each bin has a top wall which in plan configuration approximates a sector of a circle, planar sidewalls, and downwardly tapered, arcuate sidewall structure leading to the lower outlet; in this fashion, the bins can be grouped with the sidewalls in close adjacency, and with the outlets located to feed into a single inlet of the downstream treating device.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 2012Date of Patent: January 8, 2013Assignee: USC, L.L.C.Inventors: Jim Renyer, Greg Renyer
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Patent number: 8342366Abstract: A low-profile particulate handling assembly is provided for use in conjunction with a downstream treating device, such as a seed treater unit. The assembly includes a plurality of juxtaposed particulate bins and a surmounting turret assembly designed to successively deliver particulates to the bins. The particulates within the bins are delivered to the downstream treating device through respective lower outlets each equipped with an adjustable slide gate assembly and a lower, multiple-chute assembly. Preferably, each bin has a top wall which in plan configuration approximates a sector of a circle, planar sidewalls, and downwardly tapered, arcuate sidewall structure leading to the lower outlet; in this fashion, the bins can be grouped with the sidewalls in close adjacency, and with the outlets located to feed into a single inlet of the downstream treating device.Type: GrantFiled: May 3, 2012Date of Patent: January 1, 2013Assignee: USC, L.L.C.Inventors: Jim Renyer, Greg Renyer
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Publication number: 20120325852Abstract: A liquid dispenser has containers, sized, shaped and arranged to enclose different volumes but each of the containers has a top with a refill opening that is substantially the same as the top and openings of the other containers. The containers are provided with curving transition sections that taper the sides of the container to increase or decrease the width of the container to provide a smaller or large top sizes as needed.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 27, 2011Publication date: December 27, 2012Applicant: PRINCE CASTLE LLCInventors: Loren Veltrop, Christopher Lyons, Michael A. Graef
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Patent number: 8336448Abstract: A dispensing device for milk and/or milk foam is provided that includes a mixing device for mixing steam, milk and/or air. A mixing device may include a chamber, a first line for the supply of milk into the chamber, a second line for a supply of steam into the chamber, a third line for the supply of air into the chamber, at least one outlet for dispensing the milk and/or the milk foam from the chamber, a valve including an adjustable regulating shaft for regulating the supply of milk and/or air into the chamber. By adjusting the regulating shaft between different predetermined positions at least one flow of milk may be switched on and switched off and/or altered and a flow of air may be switched on and switched off and/or altered. A dispensing device may further include a drive motor for adjusting the regulating shaft of the valve and a control device for controlling the drive motor.Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 2010Date of Patent: December 25, 2012Assignee: Jura Elektroapparate AGInventor: Philipp Büttiker
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Publication number: 20120279990Abstract: A device for dispensing a mixture of at least two fluids is disclosed. The device has a plurality of cartridges that each contain a fluid. A flow channel communicates with each cartridge. A valve adjusts a mass flow rate of the fluid drawn from the corresponding cartridge. A manifold has a mixing chamber and a plurality of inlets that each communicate with one of the flow channels. The manifold has a spring and a seal that covers the inlets. A piston is between the seal and the spring. The spring is moveable between an extended position that positions the seal to substantially and simultaneously close the inlets from the flow channels and a compressed position that positions the seal to substantially and simultaneously open the inlets to the flow channels. A dispensing pump communicates with the manifold and draws fluid from each of the cartridges. A nozzle dispenses the mixture.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 2, 2012Publication date: November 8, 2012Applicant: MOUSE TRAP DESIGN, LLCInventors: Melanie R. Werner, Paul J. Mulhauser, Karl D. Kirk, III