With Cleaning Means Patents (Class 222/148)
  • Patent number: 4477003
    Abstract: An apparatus (110) for dispensing condiments, and the like, has a gun (10) arrangeable for dispensing a measured amount of a condiment preloaded into the gun upon release of a trigger (60) of the gun following a previous dispensing action. Provision is made for keeping the condiment refrigerated throughout the system, which can be periodically cleaned in a simple and efficient manner that results in virtually no waste of the condiment or other substance being dispensed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1982
    Date of Patent: October 16, 1984
    Assignee: Automated Portion Control Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Forrest E. Baker, Norman D. Sullivan
  • Patent number: 4471887
    Abstract: A device for mixing and dispensing two or more reactive liquids into a homogeneous stream. The device includes a mixing chamber with two or more inlets for introducing separate liquid components into and an outlet for dispensing the mixed liquid components from the chamber. Separate passages connect each inlet to a separate source of liquid. Also, each passage includes an on-off valve disposed between the liquid source and the inlet and each passage also includes a pressure opening truncated cone pin check valve seated in close position in a truncated inlet to the mixing chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 1982
    Date of Patent: September 18, 1984
    Assignee: Component Management Corp.
    Inventor: Herman W. Decker
  • Patent number: 4469251
    Abstract: A detachable mixing chamber is constructed and arranged to receive a plurality of fluid components from a source thereof for forming a fluid such as a foam to be discharged therefrom. The chamber includes a core having a bore therein and a plurality of inlet openings arranged in communication with the bore for supplying the fluid components from such source to the bore and a plurality of compressed Belleville washers for maintaining the core under a restraining force in an axial and radial direction. The chamber is removably secured to a dispensing apparatus in a manner to be accessible from the outside thereof for detachment therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 1981
    Date of Patent: September 4, 1984
    Assignee: Sealed Air Corporation
    Inventors: Charles R. Sperry, Paul J. Bladyka
  • Patent number: 4465210
    Abstract: A novel washing circuit for use in an automatic beverage vending machine is disclosed. The circuit comprises a switching cock enabling communication between the upstream side of a water-feeding pump and one end of a return conduit. The other end of the return conduit is adapted to be detachably connected to the water supply nozzle of the vending machine. When the switching cock is opened and the return conduit is connected to the nozzle, the water-feeding pump of the machine can pump washing solution through the water-feeding system of the machine and facilitate cleaning thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 1981
    Date of Patent: August 14, 1984
    Assignee: Fuji Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Masao Iwanami
  • Patent number: 4462719
    Abstract: A concrete gun comprising in combination a rotor, a plurality of chambers arranged in said rotor in a circular array and extending parallel to the axis of said rotor, sealing plates of elastomeric material engaging the ends of the rotor and closing said chambers, a vent orifice comprising a recess in one of said sealing plates, said recess being located to be successively in register with said chambers upon rotation of said rotor, an air filter communicating said recess with the surrounding air and a clearing device for the recess including an actuating element extending from the recess to outside the gun. By reason of the external actuating element the vent orifice can be periodically cleaned of deposited residue without danger or having to shut down the machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 1982
    Date of Patent: July 31, 1984
    Assignee: Intradym Maschinen AG
    Inventors: Hans R. Egger, Rudolf Vogler
  • Patent number: 4461404
    Abstract: An adhesive applicator for applying an air-curable adhesive to sheets of paper has a nozzle that normally is located in a storage position with the end of the nozzle inserted into a liquid in a sump. This prevents adhesive material in the end of the nozzle from drying out or caking and thereby clogging the end of the nozzle. When the nozzle is to be used for applying adhesive, the nozzle is lifted out of the sump, the sump is pivoted away from the nozzle, and the nozzle is then moved into an operating position for applying the adhesive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 1982
    Date of Patent: July 24, 1984
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Richard C. Baughman, David S. Bump
  • Patent number: 4460025
    Abstract: A filling nozzle for liquid or viscous material includes an outlet conduit through which the material flows, a valve mechanism that fits into the conduit to close the conduit, a knife edge connected to the valve mechanism, so that as the valve mechanism moves through the conduit the knife edge scrapes the interior surface of the nozzle and makes a wiping cut of any fibers or lumps in the material being dispensed through the nozzle, and an outlet in the valve mechanism so that a blast of pressurized gas can be directed through the valve mechanism to discharge any material remaining in the conduit downstream of the valve mechanism and knife edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 1982
    Date of Patent: July 17, 1984
    Inventors: William J. Scholle, William Lloyd-Davies
  • Patent number: 4452377
    Abstract: The invention herein consists of an apparatus and method whereby containers such as syrup cannisters can be depressurized for disassembly and cleaning after use. The invention includes a relief head having a circular array of depending resilient, projecting members which are positioned to contact the dispensing valves of the containers and to allow air or other gases contained therein to escape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 1982
    Date of Patent: June 5, 1984
    Inventors: Byron H. Hurley, Walter G. Ricks
  • Patent number: 4445629
    Abstract: In a pressure-fill container filling machine a vertical dispensing cylinder contains a piston that is forced upwardly by liquid product entering an inlet-outlet port in the bottom of the cylinder, the piston being forced downwardly by air pressure to expel the product from the volume chamber beneath the piston. The side of the cylinder at the upper end of the volume chamber is provided with a normally closed bleed passage for air. A tubular member extending downwardly from the inlet-outlet port has a lateral outlet opening connected by a by-pass passage with an inlet to the volume chamber spaced laterally from the inlet-outlet port. A check valve in the by-pass passage permits flow of liquid product therethrough under pressure from the tubular member only toward the volume chamber for flushing air out through the bleed passage while the piston is held in its lowest position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 1980
    Date of Patent: May 1, 1984
    Assignee: Horix Manufacturing Company
    Inventor: Frederick B. Doerfler
  • Patent number: 4440320
    Abstract: A foam dispenser for converting a plurality of foam components into an expanded foam which can be flushed with a cleaning solution after the foam is discharged is distinguished by the use of a rotary valve member corresponding to each foam component introduced into the dispenser to constitute the expanded foam. Each rotary valve member has a single passageway and is mounted for movement between positions in which (a) the passageway communicates with the tube carrying the foam component and (b) the passageway communicates with a tube carrying the cleaning solution, thus permitting cleaning of the dispenser at all points downstream of where the foam components enter the valve. The distance between where the foam component is introduced into the dispenser and the point where the foam component enters the valve is so short that no significant amounts of buildup of the foam component can occur.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 1981
    Date of Patent: April 3, 1984
    Inventor: Steven A. Wernicke
  • Patent number: 4431119
    Abstract: This disclosure relates to a manually operated, self-cleaning, aerosol valve that is adapted to maintain separation of fluids while they are within the valve body. The valve is internally separated by a sealing gasket that cooperatively engages a valve seat, and an outwardly projecting discharge passageway stem member. When the valve is in a nonoperating state, engagement of the gasket with respect to the valve seat prevents discharge passage of a first fluid to the stem passageway, and engagement of the gasket with respect to the stem prevents discharge passage of a second fluid. In cofluid dispensing state, first and second ports into the stem discharge passageway are positioned on opposite sides of the gasket. This allows first and second fluids to separately enter the stem passageway, and maintains separation of fluids awaiting discharge. When the valve is operated in positions intermediate the shut and cofluid dispensing state, both first and second fluid ports are positioned to receive first fluid only.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1981
    Date of Patent: February 14, 1984
    Inventor: William R. Stoody
  • Patent number: 4426023
    Abstract: A cleaning assembly is provided for a foam dispensing apparatus which intermittently supplies a solvent to the discharge port of the dispensing apparatus for removal of accumulations of dispensed foam therefrom. The cleaning assembly is constructed from a body having a wall forming an opening extending therethrough in communication with the discharge port of the dispensing apparatus. At least one passageway is formed in the body for discharging the solvent from a supply thereof onto the face of the dispensing apparatus surrounding the discharge port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 1981
    Date of Patent: January 17, 1984
    Assignee: Sealed Air Corporation
    Inventors: Charles R. Sperry, Harry F. Riley
  • Patent number: 4424917
    Abstract: A self-cleaning valve used at the outlet of a container has an elongated flexible flattenable tube with an inlet end for receiving material to be dispensed from the container and an outlet end for dispensing the material. In the at-rest condition of the valve, a section of the tube extending from the outlet end is supported between a housing surface and a closure-cleaning lever member spring-mounted on the housing so that it pivots about a fulcrum. By pressing down on one end of the lever member, the tube can be opened so that material, forced out of the container, can be dispensed from the outlet end of the tube. After the material has been dispensed, the lever member is pivoted along the outside surface of the tube pressing the tube against the housing surface so that any material remaining within the tube is forced out of the outlet end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 1981
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1984
    Assignee: The Reseal Container Corporation of America
    Inventors: Richard F. Berger, Greg Pardes, Bernard R. Gerber
  • Patent number: 4418640
    Abstract: The applicator for applying adhesive to a work piece, for example in an edge glueing machine for work pieces moving continuously through the machine, has adhesive discharge holes (6). The adhesive is supplied through these holes (6) under pressure to the edge of work pieces. Any contaminating particles, which may be present in the adhesive prior to its application to the work piece, tend to travel upwardly with the adhesive in the adhesive supply conduit (2, 4), due to their lower specific weight, whereby the contaminations may clog the discharge holes (6) and prevent the proper application of adhesive to a work piece. For avoiding such clogging the nozzle body (1) is provided with a scavenging duct (5) which is connectable to the adhesive supply conduit (2, 4) for repeatedly passing a portion of adhesive out of the supply conduit (4), whereby the application of adhesive may be performed without any trouble. The discharge holes (6) are closed during the scavenging of a small portion of adhesive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 1982
    Date of Patent: December 6, 1983
    Assignee: Reich Spezialmaschinen GmbH
    Inventors: Alfred Dettelbach, Roland Henzler
  • Patent number: 4412632
    Abstract: A self-cleaning valve used at the outlet of a container has an elongated flexible flattenable outlet tube with an inlet for receiving material to be dispensed from the container, and an outlet for dispensing the material. In the at-rest condition of the valve, a pair of spring-biased rollers contact the opposite sides of the tube at a location spaced from the outlet end and hold the tube in a closed condition. When material is forced through the inlet end of the tube it pushes the rollers toward the outlet against the spring biasing action. At the outlet end the rollers separate and permit the tube to open so that the material can be dispensed. After the material has been dispensed, the springs return the rollers to the at-rest position and the rollers effect a self-cleaning action on the tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 1981
    Date of Patent: November 1, 1983
    Inventors: Richard F. Berger, Greg Pardes, Bernard R. Gerber
  • Patent number: 4407431
    Abstract: A system is provided for dispensing curable compositions formed by a mixture of first and second materials which, when mixed in prescribed ratio, interact with each other to provide a relatively rapidly curable composition, such as a polymerizable epoxy resin or the like. The materials are individually pumped and metered through a first mixer and a dispensing valve to a dispensing nozzle. During start-up, the dispensing nozzle is closed, and the initial mixed composition is diverted through a bypass valve for dilution and mixture with a diluent stream of the first material in a second mixer and for return of the diluted mixture to the supply reservoir of the first material. When a homogeneous mixture of prescribed ratio is achieved at the outlet of the first mixer, the bypass valve is closed and the dispensing valve can be opened to allow dispensing of the composition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 1981
    Date of Patent: October 4, 1983
    Inventor: Charles G. Hutter, III
  • Patent number: 4405061
    Abstract: A filling machine for supplying predetermined quantities of liquid is disclosed. The filling machine comprises a measuring chamber, a float positioned with clearance in the chamber and adapted to move up and down in at least a portion of the chamber with the level of liquid in the chamber, an abutment positioned in the chamber above the float for limiting the upper movement of the float in the chamber, and a seal adjacent the abutment for sealing against the chamber, the seal being arranged such that it can be moved into and out of sealing engagement with the chamber without disassembly of the filling machine thereby facilitating cleaning of the machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 1981
    Date of Patent: September 20, 1983
    Assignee: National Instrument Co., Inc.
    Inventor: Wieslaw Bergandy
  • Patent number: 4405064
    Abstract: This disclosure relates to a manually operated, self-cleaning, aerosol valve that has separate control elements for propellant fluid and product fluid. The valve is adapted to maintain internal separation of the fluids. Even when the fluids are codispensed to produce a fine mist, separation of the propellant from the product is maintained until the fluids are beyond control elements. Control elements also maintain internal separation of the fluids when the valve is actuated for purging. This is achieved by keeping the fluid product control element closed while the propellant control element is open. With the control elements so positioned, cleaning fluid can be directed to purge all passageway surfaces that are exposed to external air. This type of valve is particularly suited for dispensing viscous products, such as water-borne paints.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1981
    Date of Patent: September 20, 1983
    Inventor: William R. Stoody
  • Patent number: 4396044
    Abstract: A rinsing apparatus for microbiological cleaning of liquid-conducting zones of filling elements of a filling machine, such filling elements being provided with sealing structure in the region of outlets thereof. The apparatus includes a plurality of rinsing elements each having an interior chamber for receiving a fluid medium and each movable into an operative position for sealing co-operation with the sealing structure of a respective one of said filling elements, so that the fluid medium can transfer from the filling element outlet to the rinsing element chamber. Retaining members are provided for retaining each rinsing element in the operative position relative to the associated filling element. Each rinsing element additionally includes at least one outlet duct communicable with the lowermost region of the chamber for discharge of the fluid medium from the rinsing element. Communication between the or each outlet duct and the chamber is controlled by a valve arranged in the rinsing element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 1981
    Date of Patent: August 2, 1983
    Assignee: Seitz-Werke GmbH
    Inventor: Egon Ahlers
  • Patent number: 4393891
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for periodically rinsing a water cock countersunk in the ground. A drainpipe is connected between the water cock and a closing member of an extension piece. The drainpipe includes a valve body which is opened by the water pressure prevailing in the extension pipe when the water cock is initially opened. After a predetermined period of time the valve body is closed. Thus, the present invention ensures that after the water cock is opened dirt is flushed away through the drainpipe which is subsequently automatically closed after a predetermined time. After the drainpipe is closed, a valve member connected to the extension pipe can be opened and only pure water will be supplied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 1981
    Date of Patent: July 19, 1983
    Assignee: Ocean B.V.
    Inventors: Govert J. Snoek, William J. Tuil
  • Patent number: 4386637
    Abstract: An apparatus for safely slug feeding hazardous chemicals from conventional 55 gallon drums comprising a calibrated dip tube adapted to be moved in an up and down liquid-tight relationship through a first bung hole of the drum, a feed line adapted to remove liquid through the calibrated dip tube, check valve means adapted to prevent the flow of liquid into the drum, vacuum-producing means adapted to withdraw fluid from the drum through the dip tube, feed line, and check valve, and cleaning means adapted to be partially positioned within the drum through a second bung opening, said cleaning means including a spray nozzle positioned within the drum and air ventilation means outside of the drum, said spray means being adapted to receive a source of cleaning fluid under pressure. The dip tube may be fitted with a means for preventing its upward movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 1981
    Date of Patent: June 7, 1983
    Assignee: Nalco Chemical Company
    Inventors: William T. Buchanan, Frances C. Pocius, Donald L. Peters
  • Patent number: 4383547
    Abstract: A purging apparatus having a process gas connector wherein a purging gas is injected into the connector so that trapped process gas is thoroughly purged from the connector. Tubing in the shape of a double helix is connected to the process gas connector. One tube of the double helix is connected to a purge valve for providing purging gas to an injection port of the process gas connector. The other tube of the double helix provides a flow path for the process gas which then flows through a filter, a vacuum pump valve, a high pressure process valve, a regulator, a low pressure process valve, and then out to the process equipment. In order to purge the process gas from the purging apparatus, the high pressure process valve is set to direct a gas flow to a vent valve which is connected to a scrubber. The low pressure process valve may also be set to direct gas flow to a low pressure vent valve which is also connected to a scrubber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 1981
    Date of Patent: May 17, 1983
    Assignee: Valin Corporation
    Inventors: Andrew K. Lorenz, Scott R. Mobley
  • Patent number: 4380308
    Abstract: An apparatus and method are disclosed for dispensing adhesive materials, with the apparatus being self-cleaning for changeover of the adhesive supply.Adhesive is provided in a sealed container, which can be subjected to pressure. As the container is subjected to increased pressure, some of the adhesive travels upwardly through a dip tube and exits through an opening in the lid in the container. The dip tube communicates with a flexible conduit which leads to a dispenser for the adhesive. The adhesive travels through the dip tube, flexible conduit and dispenser in a first, outward direction when the adhesive is being dispensed.To purge the dip tube, flexible conduit and dispenser of adhesive, the open end of the dispenser is operably connected to a source of compressed air, and the air enters the dispenser, and travels through the flexible conduit and the dip tube until it enters the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1980
    Date of Patent: April 19, 1983
    Inventor: David L. Greenwood
  • Patent number: 4378886
    Abstract: An apparatus for the aerobic decomposition of garbage, sludge, and similar organic waste materials having a reaction container (10) with vertically descending walls for the material to be decomposed, a discharge opening (12) extending over the entire cross section of the container (10), discharge elements (14) extending over the entire area of the discharge opening, and a removal device below the opening extending over the entire area of the discharge opening. A bi-directionally driven conveyor belt (16) transports the material to be removed from the discharge opening (12) into a first receptacle (22) which receives the material that has not been adequately purified or a second receptacle (24) for purified material. The conveyor belt (16) is preferably provided with cleansing devices (26).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 1980
    Date of Patent: April 5, 1983
    Assignee: Techtransfer GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Hanns Roediger
  • Patent number: 4360129
    Abstract: A system for dispensing flowable foodstuffs such as chili and the like. The system comprises a food-containing reservoir which is at least partially surrounded by a container filled with warm water or the like in order that the foodstuffs be kept in a warm and servable condition. The food reservoir is fitted with a valve generally of the plug or portion control type so that individual servings may be drawn from the reservoir. The dispenser is also fitted with a vacuum source such that a vacuum may be drawn at the upper levels of the food reservoir. An air inlet is provided into the reservoir preferably through the valve itself so that as the vacuum is being drawn on the reservoir, the valve simultaneously will be cleaned by the air flowing through it even when the valve is in its closed position. This air flow, in turn, agitates the flowable or chunky material so that it remains relatively homogenous and so that the chunky or suspended particles in the foodstuff do not settle to the bottom of the reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 1980
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1982
    Assignee: The Meyer Dairy Products Company
    Inventors: Paul E. Brokaw, Frans L. Adeboi, Bryan A. Feimer, James G. Freeman, Raymond P. Kawolics, Frank C. Stanbrook
  • Patent number: 4358029
    Abstract: A diluting and pouring apparatus for a liquid food such as soup or juice supplied in a raw or condensed state is disclosed which comprises a casing having a circular inner periphery and a rotor supported rotatably in the casing so that while rotating it always provides three discrete chambers, the first chamber being for cleaning, the second chamber being for receiving a constant amount of the raw liquid and the third chamber being for diluting the raw liquid with a diluent and pouring the diluted liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 1980
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1982
    Assignee: Lotte Company Limited
    Inventor: Kenju Yomoda
  • Patent number: 4353398
    Abstract: An apparatus for the sterilization of a machine used in the formation, filling and sealing of plastic containers. A source of sterilizing agent, such as steam, is used to sterilize the various passageways, filters, and components within the machine which, if contaminated, would contaminate the liquid in the filled plastic container. Pressurized air or gas is delivered through sterilized lines having a microorganism filter. The air flowing out of each filter is sterile and free from bacteria. A series of unique, easy to sterilize, three-position, two-way valves are used to duct pressurized gas and steam to the various components. A special air drop test apparatus is used to operationally check the integrity of the filters without breaching the sterile condition of the various fluid passageways and interconnected components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 1981
    Date of Patent: October 12, 1982
    Assignee: Automatic Liquid Packaging, Inc.
    Inventors: Gerhard H. Weiler, Paul A. Anderson, Louis T. Pagels
  • Patent number: 4351354
    Abstract: The supply of a reagent to a mixing chamber is controlled by apparatus comprising a housing 1 having an inlet for the reactant, an outlet 4 to the mixing chamer 5, an inlet 3 for a flushing medium, an outlet 6 for recirculating the reactant and, within the housing, a movable member 7 having first and second ducts 10 and 12, duct 10 connecting inlet 2 with either of outlets 4 and 6 independently, and duct 12 connecting inlet 3 with outlet 4 when inlet 2 and outlet 6 are connected, inlet 3 being blocked when inlet 2 and outlet 4 are connected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 1979
    Date of Patent: September 28, 1982
    Assignee: Chemie-Anlagenbau Bischofsheim GmbH
    Inventors: Karl-Heinz Hilterhaus, Reinhard Moser
  • Patent number: 4350187
    Abstract: This invention relates to container filling machines and specifically to cleaning the exterior surface of the filling nozzle of product clinging thereto following the filling operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 1980
    Date of Patent: September 21, 1982
    Assignee: Pneumatic Scale Corporation
    Inventors: William H. Trusselle, John A. Gustafson, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4342341
    Abstract: An arrangement for sampling a liquid by a closed procedure which includes penetrating the closure (34) of a container (33) of liquid by a needle (62) having a bore (68), a solid point (63), and a radial passage (66) near the point of communication with the bore, the needle including a space (67) extending coaxially therein in addition to the bore, and outward apertures (70) and (71) communicating with the space and positioned so that when the needle penetrates the closure into the container for a predetermined distance, one of the apertures is within the container and another of the apertures is outside the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 1980
    Date of Patent: August 3, 1982
    Assignee: Southland Instruments, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter F. Lee
  • Patent number: 4340157
    Abstract: A dispenser mechanism is provided for capping squeeze-bottle type containers, wherein a dual valve arrangement provides for the dispensing of the contents of the container with automatic closure during periods of non-use. The contents of the container are not exposed to ambient until such time as it is dispensed. The dual valves respond to differences in pressure, and cooperate to dispense the contents of the container, or seal the openings thereof during non-use. The cap may include a dispenser spout which is cleaned of material at the end of the dispensing period by the action of the dispenser mechanism herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 1980
    Date of Patent: July 20, 1982
    Assignee: Becton, Dickinson & Company
    Inventor: James C. Darner
  • Patent number: 4326567
    Abstract: A filling machine for dispensing sometimes viscous liquid in measured amounts to containers wherein a carrier supports a plurality of individual containers with open upper ends for lateral orbiting movement with a central tank, a pump and valve assembly orbits with the carrier and has a plurality of rotary valves, communicating with outward passages from the tank and with piston pumps, and also communicating the piston pumps with dispensing openings arranged above the containers. The pistons of the pumps are controlled by a pivotal cam track which can be swung to various positions to change the extent of the suction stroke of each piston, when operated by an actuating member. The machine is particularly designed for disassembly and for cleaning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 1979
    Date of Patent: April 27, 1982
    Assignee: Vercon Inc.
    Inventor: Robert J. Mistarz
  • Patent number: 4324494
    Abstract: Drink dispensing apparatus comprising a container for holding a supply of a particulate drink ingredient adapted to be mixed with water to constitute a drink, a dispenser for dispensing a charge of the particulate ingredient from the container through an opening in the container for the mixing of a drink, and a mixing and delivery system for receiving the charge of the particulate ingredient dispensed from the container and a charge of water, mixing the two and delivering the resultant drink into a cup. The mixing and delivery system comprises a blender and a water supply system for providing the charge of water for mixing with the charge of the particulate drink ingredient, the blender having an impeller for mixing the charges while holding them in the blender and having an outlet for flow of the resultant drink out of the blender and into a cup after mixing has been completed. The charges are held in the blender by the impeller, without a valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1979
    Date of Patent: April 13, 1982
    Assignee: UMC Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Harry H. Pryor, James J. Schinker
  • Patent number: 4324363
    Abstract: A headlamp washing assembly including spray nozzles disposed above automotive headlamps. A liquid storage reservoir stores cleaning liquid to be dispensed by the nozzles and is disposed above the nozzles to provide a gravity feed of the liquid from the reservoir to the nozzles. A gas storage tank stores gas supplied to it from a source and supplies the pressurized gas to force the liquid through the nozzles. A solenoid actuated valve is in communication with the liquid storage reservoir, the gas storage tank, the source of pressurized gas and the nozzles through appropriate conduits. The valve has a first position for charging the gas storage tank from the source of gas while simultaneously charging the metering conduits leading to the nozzles with liquid from the liquid storage tank. The valve has a second position for subjecting the metering conduits to gas from the gas storage tank to force liquid through the conduits and out the nozzles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 1980
    Date of Patent: April 13, 1982
    Assignee: C-D Marketing Ltd.
    Inventor: John T. Rauen, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4315582
    Abstract: A pump system having two moving parts consisting of a cylinder with a piston therein defining a pump chamber. An inlet part communicates with a dip tube which extends into a container and permits the product in the container to pass into the pump chamber. An outlet port allows for the product thus drawn to be dispensed from the pump chamber. The pump is actuated by pressure directed axially on the piston, forcing it into the cylinder. Fitted with a return device the piston is allowed to reciprocate in the cylinder alternating between a suction and compression stroke. During the suction stroke product is drawn into the pump chamber by way of the inlet port while the compression stroke provides for the dispensing of the product thus drawn via the outlet port. The system is equipped with passages and channels sufficient to accomplish the operation of drawing and dispensing the product in addition to providing for the venting of the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 1978
    Date of Patent: February 16, 1982
    Assignee: Leeds and Micallef
    Inventor: Lewis A. Micallef
  • Patent number: 4310036
    Abstract: In an agricultural bag loading apparatus (10) having an output chamber tunnel (32), the improvement comprising a tunnel cleanout mechanism. The tunnel cleanout plate (82) is pivotally mounted on the output chamber tunnel (32) and is pivoted from a retracted position to an extended position by means of dual hydraulic cylinders (88). Compressed silage and material entrapped within the tunnel (32) is extracted by pivotal movement of the tunnel cleanout plate (82) from the retracted position, where the plate (82) does not interfere with the loading operation, to the extended position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 1980
    Date of Patent: January 12, 1982
    Assignee: AG-BAG Corporation
    Inventors: David H. Rasmussen, Richard H. Lee
  • Patent number: 4285446
    Abstract: A plural component dispensing system includes supplies which furnish first and second components, such as a resin and catalyst, under pressure to a hand-held dispensing device having first and second valves, respectively. First and second passageways lead from the first and second valves to a mixing chamber in which the components are mixed, and from which the components are ejected. Upon mixing, the components are subject to increasing viscosity and hardening. A third valve controls flow of a purging medium from a supply of such a medium to the mixing chamber. A sensing device, such as a pressure sensor, senses the orientation of either/or both of the first and second valves. When the first and second valves are moved to positions to halt the flow of the two components, the sensing device generates a signal to start a first timing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 1979
    Date of Patent: August 25, 1981
    Assignee: Ransburg Corporation
    Inventors: John S. Rapp, David H. Jackson
  • Patent number: 4285445
    Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for removing toxic liquid concentrates from their shipping and/or storage containers, mixing selected amounts of such concentrates with water, and rinsing the containers when they are empty, in a manner that avoids exposure of users to such concentrates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 1979
    Date of Patent: August 25, 1981
    Assignee: Iowa State University Research Foundation, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary L. Vander Molen, Timothy A. Brown
  • Patent number: 4275860
    Abstract: A shipboard system that provides safe storage and complete quality control of aviation fuels from acceptance of the fuel at shipside to delivery of clean, dry fuel at a shipborne aircraft includes a storage tank disposed in a closed chamber defined by a cofferdam. The tank is mounted in the chamber to provide an airspace around all sides which is vented to the atmosphere and maintains any concentration of fuel vapor in the chamber below a predetermined lean limit. Fire protection apparatus of the system is actuated by a rate of temperature rise detector and releases an agent that floods the chamber to terminate the combustion cycle in the event of a fire. Conduit runs include filters to remove contaminants when fuel is pumped through and also include a closed-circuit filtered conduit through which the fuel is frequently recirculated to control deterioration of the system and degradation of the fuel caused by long term storage and intermittent use of the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 1978
    Date of Patent: June 30, 1981
    Inventor: Jack A. Brabazon
  • Patent number: 4275824
    Abstract: The invention provides for a rotary valve of the type employed for transporting solid material between zones having a fluid pressure differential, with a minimum fluid leakage between the zones. The valve has a housing with a bore, passages communicating with the bore and designed to be coupled to the respective zones, and a rotor which is housed within the bore. The rotor is defined by an axial drive shaft, a pair of spaced end plates on the shaft and a series of radial vanes disposed between the end plates. The valve is formed with material deflecting formations on the peripheral surfaces of the end plates the formations being adapted for urging material inwardly into the zone intermediate the end plates upon rotation of the rotor in a predetermined direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 1978
    Date of Patent: June 30, 1981
    Assignee: Joyce Anne Bourne
    Inventor: John W. Bourne
  • Patent number: 4273263
    Abstract: A dispensing apparatus for fluid media is disclosed which comprises a dosing piston movably guided within a dosing cylinder and a subsequent rotary valve, wherein the cleaning and/or sterilization of the parts coming into contact with the filling product can be performed without removing these parts. By means of a particular disposition and embodiment of the dosing piston, the rotary valve and the dosing cylinder, it is possible to make the dosing piston and rotary valve accessible rapidly and simply.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 1979
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1981
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Gunther Voegele, Gunter Meyer
  • Patent number: 4260073
    Abstract: An electrophotographic apparatus of the two-component, dry developer and reusable photoconductor type, having a developer unit, and replenisher for supplying toner to the developer unit. The replenisher includes a first supply of virgin toner, and a second supply of used toner. A toner feed device operates to simultaneously feed toner to the developer unit from the first and second replenisher supplies. The proportion of toner fed from the first and second supplies is variable; however, such proportion requires that virgin toner must always be fed. Used toner is provided by collecting toner at the apparatus' cleaning station. Toner-low indication is provided for only the first supply, so as to prevent the feeding of only used toner. A toner concentration sensor signals the need to feed the combination of virgin/used toner to the developer unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 1978
    Date of Patent: April 7, 1981
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventor: Gerald W. Baumann
  • Patent number: 4252299
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for discharging freshly reduced material from a shaft furnace and controlling release of spent reducing gases so that they are not a hazard. The apparatus includes a pair of surge bins and means for directing material selectively to either bin. Gas-seal valves having purge means are located above the respective bins. Gas-seal flapper valves are located below and are movable to positions wholly out of the path of material discharging from the bins.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 1979
    Date of Patent: February 24, 1981
    Assignee: United States Steel Corporation
    Inventor: Alphonse T. LoBue
  • Patent number: 4252252
    Abstract: The timer controls a dispensing machine and in particular controls the dispensing cycle for a product such as instant potatoes by temporally regulating the water portion of the cycle in conjunction with the solid or powder (potato granules or pearls) portion of the cycle. The water flow is usually controlled using a solenoid or the like while the quantity of potato is regulated by an auger and associated drive motor. The dispensing cycle is initiated by a pre-rinse period wherein only water flows. During the main part of the cycle both water and product flow into a mixing area. The cycle ends with a post rinse period that is either positive or negative; positive when the product flow stops first and negative when the water flow stops first. For multiple portions, rather than extending the length of the main part of the cycle, the timer provides for repeating the basic cycle a number of times that relates to the desired portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 1978
    Date of Patent: February 24, 1981
    Assignee: Jet Spray Corp.
    Inventors: Thomas B. Gross, William Arzberger, Edward Lalumiere
  • Patent number: 4245760
    Abstract: A container for holding and from which chemicals are capable of being selectively dispensed either by hand pouring or by means of a closed system, such container having a built-in probe assembly involving a recessed area in one wall, the recessed area having a central opening to receive a probe, and openings about said central opening, for discharge of the container contents when hand pouring, and a closure for sealing the recessed area for shipping of the container and its contents.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 1978
    Date of Patent: January 20, 1981
    Assignee: Terminator Products, Inc.
    Inventors: James S. Stevenson, John J. Rodrigues
  • Patent number: 4244494
    Abstract: A dispensing assembly for discharging a flowing fluid into which a desired amount of an additive liquid has been inserted includes a container for the additive liquid which may be removed from a dispenser body. The container is normally positively biased to a closed condition to prevent escape of the additive liquid. Opening of the container is effected upon establishment of a predetermined minimum pressure by the flowing fluid in the dispenser body. Additive liquid is forced from the container into the flowing fluid by a metered amount of flowing fluid inserted into the container to cause a flexible pressure member to force the additive liquid from the container. Opening of the container is not achieved until after the pressure member is exerting a force on the additive liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1979
    Date of Patent: January 13, 1981
    Assignee: Samuel Colgate, Robert Ramey and Associates, A Limited Partnership
    Inventors: Samuel D. Colgate, Robert A. Ramey
  • Patent number: 4228927
    Abstract: A dispensing head of the kind adapted to be bitted to a container, such as a beer keg, having a plunger with which the dispensing head co-operates to enable liquid in the container to be dispensed through the outlet of the dispensing head under pressure of carbon dioxide gas supplied to the container through the dispensing head. The dispensing head is provided with an inlet for connection to a source of rinsing water and a valve mechanism which can be operated to cut off the flow of liquid from the container through the outlet and to connect the water inlet to the outlet so that rinsing water flows through the outlet and through any pipe and dispensing tape connected to the outlet, which can thus be rinsed without removing the dispensing head from the container. The valve mechanism can be remotely operated, using the pressure of the rinsing water to operate the valve mechanism, the water acting on a piston fixed to a movable valve member of the valve mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 1978
    Date of Patent: October 21, 1980
    Assignee: Konstruktie J. Lambrechts p.v.b.a.
    Inventors: Jozef Beyens, Guillaume Dewit, Jules Lambrechts
  • Patent number: 4212414
    Abstract: A dispensing head of the kind adapted to be fitted to a container, such as a beer keg, having a plunger with which the dispensing head co-operates to enable liquid in the container to be dispensed through the outlet of the dispensing head under pressure of carbon dioxide gas supplied to the container through the dispensing head. The dispensing head is provided with an inlet for connection to a source of rinsing water and a valve mechanism which can be operated to cut off the flow of liquid from the container through the outlet and to connect the water inlet to the outlet so that rinsing water flows through the oulet and through any pipe and dispensing tap connected to the outlet, which can thus be rinsed without removing the dispensing head from the container. In a preferred embodiment, the valve mechanism can be remotely operated, using the pressure of the carbon dioxide gas to operate the valve mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 1978
    Date of Patent: July 15, 1980
    Assignee: Konstruktie J. Lambrechts p.v.b.a.
    Inventor: Jozef Beyens
  • Patent number: 4211342
    Abstract: A vending machine for beverages is provided, allowing the selection of either hot or cold beverages from the same machine. A push-button selector can choose any of ten possible selections, three of which may be carbonated or non-carbonated cold beverages. The other selections include hot coffee, tea, Sanka, a trademark, soup and chocolate. One of the selector positions for cold beverages can be converted into a selection of hot soup by a simple turn of a switch within the machine. An electrical control system provides the necessary separation of functions between the hot and cold beverage systems of the machine. A beverage delivery outlet is further provided, permitting the dispensing of any of the hot or cold selections into a cup.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 1978
    Date of Patent: July 8, 1980
    Assignee: ARA Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Ralph Jamgochian, Leonard Oley, Joseph Stachnik, Alfred L. Tutella
  • Patent number: 4200206
    Abstract: A fluid dispenser for attachment between a water pipe and a shower head having a main stream water passage therethrough into which dispensed fluids flow through a port surrounded by a delivery manifold delivering the fluids from a reservoir assembly from which the fluids flow through valves, the outlet ports of the valves being cleaned to prevent clogging by water flowing past them which reaches them by flow from a bypass opening from the main stream passage upwardly through an in-flow compartment of the manifold which is separated from the out-flow compartment by a weir over which the water flows to direct it at the outlets of the valves, the reservoir assembly with its valves being removable from the delivery manifold for ease of refilling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 1978
    Date of Patent: April 29, 1980
    Inventors: Charles R. Chase, Gerald F. Lantry