Abstract: Tapping device for beverage, including at least one beverage container, a tapping line and a tapping cock, wherein the tapping line extends at least to adjacent the tapping cock and a connector for connection of the tapping line to the at least one beverage container, wherein a cleaning element is provided in the beverage container or the connector, which cleaning element upon broaching of a beverage container is situated near an end of the tapping line proximal to the beverage container and is movable through the tapping line under pressure of beverage from the beverage container, while abutting against an inner side of the tapping line, such that beverage will propel the cleaning element in the tapping line, at least to near the tapping cock.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides an apparatus for dispensing the fragrance of an odor control substance. The apparatus includes a housing defining a housing interior adapted to receive a refill component. The refill component includes a container with liquid odor control substance and a wick. The refill component is installed from the bottom into the housing for ease of servicing. A pump device in the housing dispenses a dose of the liquid odor control into a wicking area of the refill component. In another embodiment, the refill component includes the pump device. The pump device is installed into the housing when the refill component is replaced.

Abstract: The invention includes a vessel comprised of a rectilinear primary casing made from a polymer material and a removable dispenser and methods of dispensing and filling and cleaning the vessel. The vessel further includes a one-way valve that may be used to introduce gases to the vessel once the dispenser is attached and sealed to the primary casing, an optional integrated handle and optional integrated feet.

Abstract: A pouch for dispensing of a usable liquid comprises at least first and second compartments, the first and second compartments separated from each other by a first rupturable seal; which ruptures upon application of a force so that the first and second compartments are in communication with each other. The first compartment has a fill port with a tamperproof seal and is either empty or contains a gas such as air or an inert gas. The second compartment has at least a first material therein to be mixed with one or more liquids to be introduced into the first compartment via the fill port to form the usable liquid.

Abstract: A dishwasher includes a hydraulically actuated dispenser for dispensing an additive into a treating chamber of the dishwasher. The dispenser includes a storage chamber, a lid, and a hydraulic cylinder that is fluidly connected to a water source external to the dishwasher. The hydraulic cylinder opens the dispenser lid at a predetermined point in a washing operation such that the additive is released into the treating chamber.

Abstract: An overcap for a volatile material dispenser includes a housing adapted to be mounted on a container. The container has a valve stem with a discharge end. The overcap includes a valve-connecting portion adapted to engage the valve stem and a fixture that extends from the valve-connecting portion. The overcap further includes a trigger attached to the housing by a hinge that is disposed at or below a plane formed by the fixture. A contact portion is disposed in the trigger for interacting with the fixture and applying pressure to the valve-connecting portion to actuate the valve stem.

Abstract: A method of operating a dispensing system includes the step of alternating between active and lockout modes within a first timing sequence, wherein during the active mode at least one sensor is active to detect sensory input, and whereupon detection of the sensory input results in product being released from a first container, and wherein during a lockout mode product is not released from the first container. The method further includes the step of alternating between active and lockout modes within a second timing sequence, wherein during the active period at least one sensor is active to detect sensory input, and whereupon detection of the sensory input results in fluid being released from a second container, and wherein during a lockout mode fluid is not released from the second container. The expiration of the first timing sequence, and the initiation of the second timing sequence, occurs from at least one of the lapsing of a time interval, sensory input, and manual input from a user.

Abstract: A barrel for holding grain is positioned on a plurality of rollers that are rotatably connected to longitudinally extending support members. The support members are connected to a frame that is selectively adjustable.

Abstract: A method for the preparation of samples by means of a dosage-dispensing device, a weighing system with a load receiver, a processor unit, a memory unit, and an exchangeable dosage-dispensing unit. A target container is set on the load receiver. The dosage-dispensing unit and/or the target container includes electrically insulating material. The dosage-dispensing unit has the capability to change positions relative to the load receiver. While the dosage-dispensing unit is in a first position and a target container is on the load receiver, a starting weight value is determined, the dosage-dispensing unit is brought into a second position, a dosage-dispensing cycle delivers a dosage material in a predefined amount from the dosage-dispensing unit into the target container by means of the processor unit, the dosage-dispensing unit is brought into the first position, and while the dosage-dispensing unit is at rest in the first position, an ending weight value is determined.

Abstract: A mixing module that includes a mixing chamber formed of a cold flow material and placed within a housing which includes a compression device for compressing the cold flow material through which extends a reciprocating rod, preferably in the form of a valve rod relative to one or more chemical ports formed in the mixing chamber to mix or deliver chemicals within a mixing reception recess. The mixing chamber features a locking arrangement between the cold flow material mixing chamber and the housing which acts to prevent movement of the mixing chamber within the housing due to a sticking of the reciprocating rod to the mixing chamber which otherwise produces a position change in the mixing chamber as the compression device is temporarily compressed until the rod be comes unstuck and releases.

Abstract: A system and method for providing custom colored sealant are generally provided with a dispensing container, containing a quantity of sealant base solution. A bottom wall of the dispensing container is positioned to limit any headspace within the interior of the dispensing container until the contents are ready to be mixed. The bottom wall is moved prior to adding a coloring agent to the dispensing container, which is mixed with the sealant base by agitating the dispensing container, until a desired color is attained. A sealant thickener may then be added and mixed by similar agitation of the dispensing container. A rod may be provided to engage and move the bottom wall. A pull string may also be provided to move the bottom wall. A nozzle is then coupled with the dispensing container and the custom-colored sealant is ready to be dispensed.

Abstract: Machine and method for dispensing fluid coloring products, each having a different color, to foam a finished product having a desired color tone corresponding to a determinate formula, wherein an electronic control circuit comprises a central process unit and two electronic actuation circuits, each configured to be selectively associated to each motorized pumping member of the delivery circuits, so as to selectively cause the simultaneous drive of two motorized pumping members. The central process unit is programmed so as to reduce to a minimum the overall delivery time, by selectively coupling each of the two electronic actuation circuits to one of the motorized pumping members, as a function of the formula corresponding to the desired color tone.

Abstract: A beverage dispensing system comprising a dispensing device including a dispensing valve for dispensing a beverage, an actuator for initiating the dispensing of said beverage through said valve, a display screen having a user interface being coupled to said dispensing device, wireless communication electronics coupled to said beverage dispensing system and adapted to communicate with a wireless transponder and a controller functionally connected to said at least one dispensing valve, said display screen and said wireless communication electronics.

Abstract: A dispensing system includes one or more digital image capture devices for capturing images in a dispenser well and a digital image analyzer operatively coupled to the digital image capture device(s) for analyzing the images for use in regulating a dispensing operation. The digital image analyzer evaluates digital images captured by the digital image capture device(s) to determine various characteristics of a container, such as the height and position of the container.

Abstract: A method and a device for dispensing multiple portions of a fluid, the fluid being stored in a container comprising a port and a flexible dispensing tube having an inlet and an outlet, the inlet being integrally sealed to the port and viscoelastic valve is mounted in the outlet. The method comprising a compression step and a step of terminating compression wherein the method comprises a further step implemented at the end of the compression step of releasing the pressure in the tube portion between the first tube portion and the valve.

Abstract: A dispenser apparatus (2) for a curable liquid material is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a flexible bag (8) defining a first compartment (10) for accommodating a first component of a curable liquid material, and a second compartment (12) for accommodating a second component of the curable liquid material and adapted to communicate with the first chamber to enable mixing of the first and second components to initiate curing of the curable liquid material. A first clamp (14) temporarily prevents mixing of the first and second components, and an elongate nozzle (16) communicates with the second compartment to dispense the mixed curable liquid material therefrom. A second clamp (18) temporarily prevents passage of the curable liquid material from the second compartment to the nozzle.

Abstract: A component feeder including a bulk storage container for storage of components, and a lift for elevating a selection of components from the container, the lift being located inside the container. The feeder further includes a transfer arrangement for transferring elevated components from the lift onto a component pick surface on which the components are distributed in order to be picked by a tool or by a hand, and a plate configured to include the component pick surface. Further described is a component feeder system including at least one component feeder, a camera for monitoring the component pick surface and a processor used to control an industrial robot to pick pickable components lying on the pick surface. A corresponding method is also described.

Abstract: Embodiments disclosed herein are directed to systems configured to determine an amount of alcohol in an alcohol-containing liquid discharged from a drinking vessel or an amount of the alcohol-containing liquid discharged from the drinking vessel, drinking vessels configured to measure alcohol content or other property of an alcohol-containing liquid held therein, other related components such as mat devices that facilitate determining the amount, and related methods. The systems, drinking vessels, and methods disclosed herein facilitate determination of an amount of alcohol in an alcohol-containing liquid discharged from a drinking vessel or an amount of alcohol-containing liquid discharged from the drinking vessel, which may be indicative of an amount of alcohol consumed by a drinker.

Abstract: An air removal and wine dispenser device for a wine bottle has a bottle seal and a balloon. The balloon is inflated with a pump to displace air from the bottle. Additional inflation forces wine through a dispensing tube. Wine flow is controlled by a wine valve. In one embodiment, a single control valve is used to vent air and dispense wine, and a cam lever is used to expand a cam seal and to operate a balloon deflation valve.

Abstract: A beverage forming method and system in which a waste bin arranged to collect leaked or spilled liquid has a liquid level sensor and can be removed from the beverage forming machine, e.g., to allow disposal of the waste bin contents. One or more electrical contacts on the waste bin can be connected to the level sensor and electrically connect to control circuitry of the beverage forming machine when the waste bin is received by the machine. A liquid level detected by the level sensor may correspond to a fill level that is far less than the maximum volume of the waste bin, allowing beverage production to be prevented unless the waste bin can collect the full volume of a beverage dispensed.

Abstract: A dispensing apparatus for dispensing predetermined volumes of fluid into receptacles receives the fluid to be dispensed from a fluid supply into a reservoir. A fill tube is connected to the fluid reservoir such that it forms a closed loop with the reservoir. The fill tube minimizes the fluid turbulence that occurs inside the reservoir while the reservoir is being re-supplied with fluid from the fluid source. Additionally, the fill tube holds the predetermined volume of fluid to be dispensed into the receptacle. A fluid level sensor is disposed along the fill tube to control the volume of fluid flowing into or out of the fill tube, while a timer controls a dispense valve to meter the flow of fluid into or out of a dispense tube.

Abstract: A liquid dispenser device including a valve with a valve member-forming portion for blocking and passing liquid out from the device, and a fastener edge for permanently fastening the valve relative to a container, the fastener edge including a tubular fastener wall sandwiched between an inner tubular wall and an outer tubular wall.

Abstract: An ice supply system includes an ice transport system, a volumetric feeder coupled with the ice transport system and adapted to deliver a preset volume of ice to an ice output system, and an ice delivery controller coupled with the ice transport system, the volumetric feeder, and the ice output system. The ice delivery controller receives ice requests from the ice output system, controls the delivery of ice from the ice transport system to the volumetric feeder in response to ice requests, controls the volumetric feeder to receive the preset volume of ice therein, and controls the delivery of the preset volume of ice from the volumetric feeder to the ice output system.

Abstract: An internal chamber incorporated with the cap of a container, for example, a disposable beverage bottle. The internal chamber has an internal bore designed to hold a powder or liquid that can be released into the container. The chamber is inserted into a bottle or similar container when the cap is placed over the opening. A push-button on the top of the cap advances an actuator within the internal bore to push a diaphragm out of the distal end outlet port in the chamber to release the ingredient(s) within the internal chamber into the container. The diaphragm also has two or more peripheral guide rails to ensure that it remains aligned with the chamber housing during those movements. Alternative embodiments utilize a dome cover over the push-button. In use, the cap of the container can be removed, which will simultaneously remove the chamber, allowing the liquid in the container to be consumed or decanted.

Abstract: At least one embodiment of the invention relates to a container for a product for dispensing, including a relatively stiff outer container having at least one dispensing opening, and a deformable inner container to be filled with the product which is accommodated in the outer container and which likewise has a dispensing opening. The inner container is connected to the outer container both in the vicinity of the dispensing opening and at least at one location remote therefrom. The connection is formed in that the outer container has an opening through which protrudes at least one fixing element connected to the inner container. This fixing element is pin-like and has an end part of which the dimensions are larger than those of the opening. At least one embodiment of the invention further relates to a method for manufacturing such a container.

Abstract: A method of operating a dispensing device includes the step of entering a first active state, in which the detection of sensory input by a sensor initiates a first pattern activation sequence to energize a drive unit of the dispensing device for a first length of time and a second subsequent length of time to actuate a container. Upon completion of the first pattern activation sequence, the device enters a second active state. The detection of sensory input in the second active state initiates a second pattern activation sequence to energize the drive unit for a third length of time and a fourth subsequent length of time to actuate a container if the sensory input is detected before a time period P lapses. The dispensing device initiates the first pattern activation sequence if the sensory input is detected after the lapsing of the time period P.

Abstract: A device for dispensing a dental material comprises first compartment and the second compartment formed between interconnected sheet-like layers. The compartments encapsulate a first flowable component and a second flowable component of the dental material. The device has a first seal and a second seal for sealing the first compartment and the second compartment in the device. Each seal is adapted to automatically open in consequence of forcing a component of the dental material toward the seal. The capacity of the first compartment and the second compartment relative to each other is dimensioned such that squeezing out the first component from the first compartment by compressing the first compartment causes the first seal and the second seal to open. The device preferably allows easy and quick activation for use of the stored components.

Abstract: The controller of the plural component proportioner (10) dispenses both components (or all three if a three component material) simultaneously (at least initially) and maintains ratio at the end of each predetermined volume of material by determining which component pump (12) has reached the desired amount of travel (given the resolution available) and using a valve (16) to shut off output of that pump until the other side has caught up. At pump changeover, the output valve for that pump (12) is shut off and the air motor (12a) allowed to run until travel stops to account for cavitation, air entrainment, compressibility, or poor inlet check performance.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides apparatuses for filtering hot adhesives. In certain embodiments, the present disclosure provides a filter plate that is used in conjunction with a heater and a valve assembly. In other embodiments, the present disclosure provides a filter screen that is located in a recess of the valve assembly housing, in addition to or in lieu of the use of a separate filter plate. Both embodiments utilize one or more ribs, which aid the flow of adhesive, facilitate the transfer of heat from the heater to the valve assembly, and optionally, physically support the filter screen.

Abstract: Viscous compositions are metered discontinuously into storage vessels such as tubes, tubs, or cartridges, from a stable volume container free of dead space wherein the calculated volume, expressed as the mathematical product of adiabatic compressibility coefficients of the composition, the outlet pressure, and volume of the container exceed the metered volume.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A method for making and dispensing liquid or semi-liquid food products is implemented in a machine including a one containment tank for containing a liquid basic product, a processing circuit for that product, to obtain a liquid or semi-liquid food product, a dispenser for dispensing the food product, an actuator acting on the basic product and/or on the food product and/or on parts of the machine, and a user interface for controlling the making and dispensing. The method, implemented by a control and processing unit connected with the user interface, includes: measuring one or more operating parameters, activating a first data communication for obtaining the operating parameters, receiving the operating parameters, activating a second data communication with the user interface for receiving commands representing selectable settings of preparations, and controlling the actuator as a function of the operating parameters and commands received.

Abstract: Disclosed is a rotary agitation beverage dispenser in which an agitator impeller is mechanically rotated when a user operates a beverage discharge valve to agitate a beverage in a container, the dispenser being usable everywhere without requiring electricity. The dispenser includes a container in which a beverage is received, an agitator impeller mounted in the container and adapted to agitate the beverage by rotation thereof about a rotating shaft that is rotatably mounted on a surface of the container, a discharge valve mounted to one side of the container so as to communicate with the interior of the container and adapted to discharge the beverage out of the container when operated by a user, and an agitator drive unit connected to the discharge valve and the rotating shaft of the agitator impeller and adapted to rotate the agitator impeller in linkage with operation of the discharge valve.

Abstract: A bottle cartridge fits in the neck of a bottle providing liquid flow and venting from the bottle interior when operably connected to a dispenser, and preventing spills or leakages upon any bottle upset. Dual seals are provided; a valve core is operated by connecting the cartridge to a dispenser coupling. Cartridge materials are disclosed.

Abstract: An outlet assembly for an aerosol assembly comprises a valve assembly and a metering member. The valve assembly comprises a valve housing, a valve stem defining a stem inlet and a stem outlet, a valve spring, and a valve seal. Movement of the valve stem from a first stem position to an intermediate stem position disengages the valve stem from the valve seal such that fluid is allowed to flow into the stem inlet and out of the stem outlet. The valve stem displaces the metering member from a first metering position to a second metering position as the valve stem moves from the first stem position to the intermediate stem position. Movement of the valve stem causes the valve stem to move relative to the metering member such that the metering member covers the stem inlet to prevent flow of fluid into the stem inlet and out of the stem outlet.

Abstract: A beverage dispenser is provided which may utilize beverage components, finished beverages, or both, as ingredients when cooking. The dispenser may be configured to provide a graphical user interface from which a user may search either a local or remote database to select a cooking recipe. The dispenser may then be utilized to dispense the appropriate amount of beverage component or finished beverage based on the selected recipe.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for dispensing a solution of a solid product in a fluid. A freestanding apparatus comprises an inlet portion through which fluid enters, a reaction portion in which the fluid encounters and dissolves the product to form a solution, and an outlet portion from which the solution exits the apparatus. Fluid may encounter the product from a single direction or multiple directions, and from the top or the bottom. The apparatus can include a fluid diverter for directing fluid to the desired portion of the solid product. The apparatus may be configured to receive a particularly shaped solid product, and may comprise a lid or gate to prevent fluid from contacting the product undesirably.

Abstract: A device for preventing air from displacing wine poured from a bottle. A retainable spout assembly comprises a bottle seal, a base having a liquid channel and vent channel, and a spout. A disposable bag assembly comprises folded limp inflatable bag attached to a vent tube which is attachable to the vent channel. As wine is poured, air enters the vent tube and inflates the pliable bag. After the bottle contents are consumed, the retainable subassembly may be removed from the disposable subassembly by leaving the disposable subassembly in the bottle or container. The retainable subassembly may be cleaned, and a replacement subassembly attached to the vent channel before inserting into a new container. The air displacement device may be inserted into a bottle before or after pouring wine. A pump or manual blow tube can be used to remove air from a partially-filled bottle.

Abstract: In an example, a wine storage and dispensing device is provided. The wine storage and dispensing device may include a wine storage reservoir having a first opening and a second opening that is different than the first opening, the second opening located above the first opening on the wine storage reservoir. The wine storage and dispensing device may include a dispensing device coupled to the first opening, and an air removal system coupled to the second opening of the storage reservoir.

Abstract: A beverage dispensing apparatus including a storage tank. At least one ice body is formed proximate the top portion of the storage tank. The ice body is formed in an icemaker configured to produce an ice body through direct contact with an evaporator coil and does not use cold air, or formed directly on a portion of the top portion of the storage tank using evaporator coils extending around a perimeter of the storage tank. The water is then configured to be carbonated and then dispensed to a user upon a user command.

Abstract: The present application provides a water distribution system with a flow of water therethrough. The water distribution system may include one or more water lines, a number of flow control passages in communication with the one or more water lines, a number of flow controllers with a number of preset flow rates positioned about the flow control passages, and a number of flow control valves positioned about the flow control passages such that opening one of the flow control valves allows the flow of water to flow through one of the flow control passages with the preset flow rate.

Abstract: A method for dispensing a beverage from a bottle that includes communicating a dispensing authorization message from a control unit to at least one of a server interface carried by a beverage server and a pour spout secured to a bottle, wherein the dispensing authorization message at least one of includes or initiates a dispensing command, and wherein the pour spout responds to the dispensing command by opening a spout valve through which a beverage flows from the bottle and out of the pour spout.

Abstract: A method for dispensing epoxy comprising the step of degassing an epoxy. The method further comprises the step of associating the epoxy with an epoxy injector comprising a dispensing end. The method further comprises the step of a computer receiving data representative of a selected container to receive the epoxy. The method further comprises the step of a computer determining a dispensing rate and a dispensing amount, based on the received data. The method further comprises the step of a computer causing the epoxy injector to dispense the determined dispensing amount of epoxy, via the dispensing end, at the determined dispensing rate. The method further comprises the step of a computer causing a dispensing arm, supporting the dispensing end, to retract the dispensing end while the epoxy injector is dispensing the epoxy. The method further comprises the step of curing the dispensed epoxy.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention may provide a frozen beverage dispenser capable of dispensing multiple frozen beverage flavors.

Abstract: An apparatus for controlling a fluid flow may include a flow channel, a housing, a flow restrictor, and a housing adjustment member. The flow channel defines a fluid pathway for the fluid flow. The fluid pathway includes an inlet and an exit. The housing surrounds the flow channel. The housing comprises an exterior surface defining a first threaded portion. The flow restrictor is located within the housing and proximate the exit. The housing adjustment member includes a second threaded portion in contact with the first threaded portion. Embodiments may include a method for controlling a fluid flow. The method comprises: causing the fluid flow to pass through a flow channel having an inlet and an exit; restricting, via a flow restrictor, the fluid flow, the flow restrictor located proximate the exit; and adjusting a position of the flow restrictor to further restrict or unrestrict the fluid flow.

Abstract: A dispenser is provided which may utilize food or beverage components, finished foods or beverage products, or both, as ingredients when cooking. The dispenser may be configured to provide a graphical user interface from which a user may search either a local or remote database to select a cooking recipe. The dispenser may then be utilized to dispense the appropriate amount of food or beverage components or finished food or beverage products, based on the selected recipe.

Abstract: Systems and methods for controlling liquid flow to the liquid supply of a beverage forming apparatus. The liquid supply may include two valves positioned in series for controlling a flow of a liquid into the liquid supply. Pressures upstream, between and/or downstream of the valves may be detected and used to determine if one or both of the valves leak when closed.

Abstract: A pour spout, for attaching to a bottle, has a first wireless transceiver and a valve for selectively controlling flow of a beverage from the bottle. A server interface, adapted to be carried by a person who serves beverages, has a second wireless transceiver. A control unit is provided to wirelessly communicate with the second transceiver. In one mode, the pour spout transmits a spout identifier to the server interface, which responds by transmitting the spout identifier and a server identifier to the control unit. The control unit responds with a reply transmission causing the server interface to command the pour spout to open the valve. In another mode, a person selects a cocktail, that results in the control unit sending designations of a plurality of liquor ingredients to the server interface. The server interface controls dispensing each of the plurality of liquor ingredients.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention may provide a frozen beverage dispenser capable of dispensing multiple frozen beverage flavors.

Abstract: Systems and methods for providing customized renewable fuels are disclosed. The present invention can provide customized renewable fuels to users after communicating with users and receiving the information regarding the fuel requirements and their preference. The present invention also provides quality control mechanisms to maintain the qualities of renewable fuels and heat exchangers to improve the energy efficiency of the whole system. The system of the present invention includes: a first storage tank for storing a first renewable fuel; a second storage tank for storing a second renewable fuel; a communicator for receiving a first set of information from the user; a controller for receiving the first set of information from the communication device and generating a second set of information by analyzing the first set of information; and a dispenser for dispensing the first and the second renewable fuels to the user according to the second set of information.