Abstract: An improved product filling machine adapted to dispense product into containers that are advanced by standard conveyor systems. The component parts of the product filling machine are modular, permitting rapid repair, cleaning and flexibility in adapting the machine to various product packaging apparatuses. The product filling machine has clean-in-place capability and structure for flushing the machine with sterile air after cleaning and maintaining pressurized sterile air within portions of the product filling machine during the filling operation.

Abstract: An automatic liquid soap supply device is formed of: a plurality of sub-units each having a use detection circuit for detecting the use of a liquid soap supply tap and a pump driving circuit connected with the use detection circuit, pumps each disposed to each of the sub-units, connected to each of the pump driving circuits for supplying a liquid soap to each of the supply taps and a main unit having a single power source circuit connected with each of the use detection circuits.

Abstract: An apparatus for mixing two fluids in precise proportions which includes a quantifying meter and a concentrate meter. The apparatus also includes apparatus connecting the quantifying meter and the concentrate meter to simultaneously operate the quantifying meter and concentrate meter. The quantifying meter includes a servo plunger that is elongated and further includes a piston and a sealing member. The piston and the sealing member are axially spaced and the quantifying meter also includes a servo piston having a central bore in which the servo plunger is disposed in coaxial relationship with the piston in sealing engagement with the central bore. The servo piston includes a pressure fluid entrance port and an axially spaced outlet bore.

Abstract: An integrated system and method are disclosed for filtering a fluid and for dispensing a desired volume of the fluid. The integrated system includes a feed pump sub-assembly for receiving fluid and for directing the fluid through a filter. A filtration sub-assembly is joined with the feed pump sub-assembly for receiving fluid from the feed pump sub-assembly and for housing the filter. A dispense pump sub-assembly is integrally joined with the filtration sub-assembly and defines a dispense chamber for receiving filtered fluid from the filtration sub-assembly. The dispense pump sub-assembly includes a dispensing means which is moveable from a fill position to a purge position for purging at least a portion of any gas bubbles from the dispense chamber. The gas bubbles are purged through a purge outlet disposed above a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet of the dispense chamber.

Abstract: A particle sprayer includes a hollow body divided into an air compartment and a storage compartment for particulate material. The air compartment receives a piston which is manually slidable along the length of the air compartment to create air pressure within the air compartment. An air passageway provides air flow communication between the air compartment and the exterior of the sprayer. A discharge tube extends into the material in the storage compartment at one end and at the other end intersects the air passageway near a restriction in the air passageway defining a venturi opeing. Depression of the piston creates increased positive air flow exiting the sprayer the venturi opening and the resultant low pressure area draws material up the discharge tube from the storage compartment to be dispersed in a uniform amount into the air in the air passageway and ejected from the sprayer as a spray.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for storing and mixing components for forming a product and dispensing the resultant product. The apparatus comprises a dispensing head, a first cartridge for storing a first fluid component, and a second cartridge for storing a second fluid component. The first cartridge and the second cartridge each have a first open end and a second closed end. A first distributor provides fluid communication between the first cartridge and the dispensing head, and a second distributor provides fluid communication between the second cartridge and the dispensing head. Both the first and second distributors have a preselected effective stroke distance. A compensating assembly is also provided. A housing maintains the dispensing head, first cartridge, second cartridge, first distributor, second distributor, and compensating assembly in operative relation with each other.

Abstract: A fluid dispensing system is provided which has first diaphragm pump means, a filter connected to receive the discharge of the first pump, and second diaphragm pump means connected to the receive the discharge of said filter. Hydraulic fluids pumped by cylinder/piston/stepper assemblies independently actuate each of the diaphragm pumps, providing accurate, controllable and repeatable dispense of the subject fluid. In addition, pressure sensing means are provided to indicate the pressure of the actuating hydraulic fluids, and computer controller means may be utilized to monitor, adjust and control the rates and intervals of filtering and dispense of the system in response to said pressure sensing means or otherwise.

Abstract: A dispensing apparatus for multiple fluids, and especially epoxy, polyester or other resins and hardeners, includes a base, supports for mounting separate containers of two fluids, and a manually operated metering handle for dispensing predetermined proportioned quantities of the two fluids through first and second outlets upon movement of the handle. First and second measuring assemblies, preferably pistons pivotally connected at spaced locations to the handle, receive fluids from the containers and urge precise quantities of the fluids through the outlets. The position of connection of at least one of the pistons to the handle may be changed to vary the proportion of one fluid dispensed with respect to the other fluid. The position of the support for one of the fluid containers may also be changed to assist in changing the piston engagement with the handle. Preferably, air pressure is applied to each fluid container to aid in dispensing the fluids.

Abstract: A drive linkage (22) connects to pumps (24, 26) and is movable by an actuator (28) for operating those pumps to pump a constant ratio output. The ratio is precisely controlled by adjustment mechanisms (140, 164). Also provided is a dispensing gun (32) that is easy to operate and includes mechanisms (202) for reducing the cure time of the mixed components.

Abstract: A doser-dispenser has a single doser unit which is associated with at least two dispenser units. The outlet of the dosing chamber of the doser unit is connected in parallel to each of the dispensing chambers of at least two dispenser units. The active volume of the dosing chamber holds at least two whole doses of product to be dispensed through the two distinct dispenser units. A synchronization device which coordinates the movements of the doser-piston and of the intake flap, with a result that, during delivery of a first dose of product out an dosing chamber, only the ejection valve of the first dispenser unit is open, that, during delivery of the second dose of product, only the ejection valve of the second dispenser unit is open, and so on.

Abstract: A dispensing apparatus for bulk fluids, and a method associated therewith, is disclosed in which a bulk storage tank operates in association with a second tank of a smaller size, and which retains a fluid to be dispensed in a self-serve operation. Preferably, separate pumps are employed for feeding liquid from the bulk tank to the smaller reservoir, and from the reservoir through a nozzle to a receptacle, on demand. The apparatus of the present invention provides a system for dispensing fluids such as windshield washer at e.g., service stations, which can be used by a customer when it is desired to re-fill a vehicle windshield washer, without the problems associated with filling using larger containers.

Abstract: A packaging apparatus for aseptic volumetric packaging has a fixed means for forming a flow of sterile air to the apparatus, a feed member, at least one pumping member which is movable relative to the flow of sterile air, at least one filler spout and at least one dispenser member attached to the pumping member and the filler spout and disposed so as to be alternatable between positions connecting the feed member to the pumping member and the pumping member to the filler spout. The pumping member comprising a cylinder connected to the dispenser member, a piston mounted to slide inside the cylinder, a drive rod fixed to the piston and connected to an actuator device, and an enclosure fed with sterile air and mounted adjacent the cylinder. The enclosure surrounds the drive rod of the piston and is fed with sterile air from the flow of sterile air by a fan member associated with the pumping member.

Abstract: A fluid-driven proportioning pump for dispensing precise volumes of at least three different fluids includes a drive cylinder housing a correspondingly formed drive piston which divides the drive cylinder into first and second drive fluid chambers and is propelled in a reciprocating motion by a pressurized drive fluid. Each face of the drive piston is provided with projecting porportioning pistons which extend into proportioning cylinders that open into each drive fluid chamber and being directed toward the drive piston. An over-center mechanis triggered by movement of the drive piston at the extremes of the strokes for its reciprocating motion operates valving which admits the pressurized drive fluid into alternate of the drive fluid chambers. The over-center mechanism is activated by loop springs or preferably by pairs of C-shaped springs, and is housed entirely within the drive cylinder.

Abstract: A finger operated pump dispenser employing interconnected upper and lower cylinders, first and second pistons disposed in the upper and lower cylinders, a hollow sleeve, and a stem which extends upwardly through the first piston into the sleeve. The first cylinder, the stem and the two pistons define a pump chamber which is filled with fluid. When the dispenser is actuated, fluid is displaced from the chamber into the second cylinder and a port is opened. The port can be made to open at the moment that all of the fluid is displaced into the second cylinder. Once the port is opened, the fluid is discharged and further piston movement enables fluid to be pulled upward out of the container secured to the dispenser via an opening formed between the second piston, stem and inner wall of the second cylinder refilling the chamber. The motions of pistons, stem and sleeve are so controlled that accurate dosage is produced independently of the method of actuation.

Abstract: An improved turret-type portioning apparatus (10) is provided which includes a selectively pivotal portioning assembly (14) for moving a pair of upright product-receiving cylinders (84, 86) between a fill position for receiving product and a discharge position for discharge of accurately sized portions. Cleanout of the apparatus (10) is facilitated by means of a selectively actuatable piston and cylinder assembly (158) which operates to elevate the portioning assembly (14) away from an underlying frame assembly (12). Operational control for the apparatus (10) is achieved by means of pneumatic control circuitry (18).

Abstract: A process for the sterilization of pumps for liquid or pasty pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, foodstuffs or similar products, preferably for pumps in which the piston can be driven to slide longitudinally in a cylinder and, at the same time, to rotate about its own axis. The piston contains a recess that reaches as far as the circular cylinder wall and the working face of the piston and communicates with a suction connection in the cylinder wall during a suction stroke and with a pressure connection in the cylinder wall during a pressure stroke and where, further, a closable drainage aperture is preferably provided in the bottom end of the cylinder. A sterilization medium is fed to a pump connection while the pump is being driven. Consequently, the pump does not have to be dismantled for sterilization purposes.

Abstract: A replaceable fluid container is described for use in a plunger-type fluid dispenser of the type disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,793,518. The fluid container is generally rectangular in shape and has a recess in the top surface from which a neck extends. The neck and an associated closure are sized to terminate flush with a plane containing the top surface of the container and is positioned for alignment with specific elements of the dispenser. The container, either alone or in conjunction with a spacer, preferably has a width of a intergral multiple of about 21/8 inches, a height of about 91/4 inches, and a depth of about 5 to about 61/2 inches.

Abstract: Mixing concentrates requires the precise dispensing of predetermined amounts of concentrate into predetermined amounts of liquid and such mixes can be obtained by the use of a system having two positive displacement pumps, one for pumping larger volumes with each operation than the second pump and a pressure regulator to maintain a predetermined pressure on the solvent carrier fluid for the mixture.

Abstract: A silicon micropump which can be manufactured by established integrated circuit techniques, and which is provided with piezoelectric valves, is described. The micropump can be used to pump liquids or gases at a very low rate, which can be accurately prescribed. The body of the pump and the valves are made in silicon and glass, while the valves contain piezoelectric material, which allows opening and closing of the valves by electrical means.

Abstract: A dispensing device for fluid products, such as dairy products, has a coaxially positioned valve cylinder inside a dispensing cylinder, both connected at their upper end to the product source. The dispensing piston is in the form of a ring piston which slides on the valve cylinder. The two pistons are fully immersed in product, and air entrainment is prevented.

Abstract: A machine for filling packaging containers with a flowable product comprises a control valve in the form of a plug valve having a body defining a bore forming a frusto-conical valve seat, a plug having a complimentary frusto-conical surface, and a valve chamber for pressurized fluid formed at the wider end of the plug. The chamber communicates with the bore. The plug is axially displaceable between a first position, in which the frusto-conical surface seals against the valve seat and in which it is rotatable to control flow through the valve, and a second position, in which it is withdrawn into the chamber to provide clearance between the mating surfaces of the plug and the seat but retaining clearance between its wider end and the opposite surface of the chamber so that all surfaces of the plug are exposed for cleaning and sterilization.

Abstract: A bathroom accessory adapted to be mounted on a wall and includes an enclosure having front and rear faces and a pair of separate, inner liquid chamber formed between said faces. Separate pump dispensers are mounted to the enclosure and communicate with outlet openings in each chamber. A spring biased reel, carrying a retractable flexible cable, is mounted within the enclosure with the free end of the cable extending through an opening in the front face. A soap holder comprising an open mesh or liquid permeable flexible material is releasably connected to the free end of the cable. Therefore the soap holder, carrying a bar of solid soap, may be extended away from the enclosure for use and returned automatically to a position closely adjacent the enclosure upon release by the user.

Abstract: Disclosed is a dispenser for separately dispensing each of two biological fluids contained therein for intermixing at a site outside of the dispenser to produce hemostasis or a tissue adhesive. The dispenser is compact, contains internal reservoirs of the two bioloical fluids, and is designed for efficient reloading with filled nonsterile containers without compromising the integrity of the sterile field. The dispenser is capable of dispensing the biological fluids, such as fibrinogen and thrombin, at either a focused point of in an aerosol mist. In addition, spray elements are disclosed for uniformly distributing the two biological fluids along either the interior surface or the exterior surface of an implantable vascular graft.

Abstract: A particle sprayer includes a hollow body divided into an air compartment and a storage compartment for particulate material. The air compartment receives a piston which is manually slideable along the length of the air compartment to create air pressure within the air compartment. An air passageway provides air flow communication between the air compartment and the exterior of the sprayer. A discharge tube extends into the material in the storage compartment at one end and at the other end intersects the air passageway near a restriction in the air passageway defining a venturi opening. Depression of the piston creates increased air flow velocity past the venturi opening and the resultant low pressure area draws material up the discharge tube from the storage compartment to be dispersed in a uniform amount into the air in the air passageway and ejected from the sprayer as a spray.

Abstract: A control arrangement is provided which permits precise metering of a bellows pump. The control arrangement permits the predetermined setting of an amount of fluid to be dispensed from a single pump or a plurality of pumps. The control system permits a double bellows pump to cooperate with a drive mechanism in order to precisely meter the fluid to be dispensed from the pump by selecting a predetermined amount of fluid from a range of settings of the control mechanism. When a plurality of double bellows liquid dispensing pump units are provided, a plurality of electric motors are arranged to drive an adjustable stop element and provide a limit on the length of stroke of a driving rod connected to the bellows pump. The motors are controlled by a program logic circuit which monitors the degree of movement of the stop elements and controls the motors in response to a preset or selected fill condition.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for metering and mixing multi-component plastics, in particular polyurethane, in which two or more hydraulic piston and cylinder units (A.sub.1 and A.sub.2) for each component, operate periodically by a balanced procedure. The pressure for the second piston and cylinder unit which takes over metering is equilibrated, before the beginning of the metering procedure, with the pressure of the first piston and cylinder unit which is in the process of metering. Switching from one piston and cylinder unit to the other (e.g. from A.sub.1 to A.sub.2) takes place in such a way that metering is taken over by the second piston and cylinder units at the same time as the first piston and cylinder unit is switched off. This is achieved by providing a pilot valve which has zero overlap and inevitably releases the component stream from the first piston and cylinder unit at the same time as the other piston and cylinder unit is switched off.

Abstract: This dispensing device for washing products for a dish-washing machine, comprising a tank (30) provided with a door or a cover and means for projecting water and washing products on the articles to be washed, is characterized in that it includes a manually operated first means (3, 4, 6) for injecting into the tank (30) a given quantity of washing products for setting the concentration of a washing bath at the start of the service and a second means (8, 9, 11) of regulating the concentration by injecting a given quantity of washing products during each cycle and during the whole washing period, the second means (8, 9, 11) being operated mechanically by the action of closing the door or the cover of the machine through the intermediary of a suitable transmission system (12, 35).

Abstract: A manually operated dispensing pump has dual pump mechanisms, one pump being operable in a normal upright position and the other pump being operable when the apparatus is inverted. The dual pumps are fed from the same storage vessel for the media to be pumped. A preferred embodiment arranges the dual pumps successively along the same axis, each having suction ports and valves operable to enable the respective pump when the apparatus is correctly positioned and to seal off the pump when the other pump is enabled.

Abstract: Automatic apparatus for dispensing a food material such as pizza meat. The apparatus utilizes a rotatable valve for conveying a food material from a source thereof to an intermediate, or portioning, cylinder, to a main cylinder where it is introduced into a dispensing station which includes a reciprocatable knife plate. An air actuator is used to rotate the rotatable valve. Non-contact solid state sensors, and pneumatic control valves are employed to control the continuous movement of a food material through the apparatus.

Abstract: This disclosure relates to a metering dispenser which dispenses fluid in accurate proportion to the pump revolution speed, and to an improved shaft seal for the motor drive shaft of a metering dispenser. An elastic sleeve membrane is mounted inside an expanded area provided in a part of the peripheral wall of the pump casing so that a constant-pressure chamber is formed to the outside of this sleeve membrane, and the pressure inside the pump casing is maintained within a set pressure range by introducing a pressurized fluid into this constant-pressure chamber and releasing the pressurizing fluid from the constan-pressure chamber as needed.

Abstract: The invention relates to a dosing and filling arrangement for containers of fluid or pasty masses, in particular contaminant-free nutrient material, such as milk, yogurt, pudding, desserts or the like. The arrangement includes a housing having two axially movable pistons. A first of such two pistons is a dosing piston and a second independently movable piston is the valve piston which is coaxially arranged relative to the dosing piston. The arrangement also has a mouthpiece on the lower side of the housing which is coaxial with the dosing and valve pistons. The valve piston rod is centrally arranged in a bore of the dosing piston and the hollow piston rod of the dosing piston is slidably movable in a cylinder of the housing. The piston rod has advantageously a plurality of equiangularly disposed longitudinal slots disposed on its periphery. The piston rod has a first control collar which coacts with the mouthpiece of the housing.

Abstract: A fluid gun has multiple spring-loaded oblong extendable barrels arranged to provide a plurality of fluid streams which intersect in air at a predetermined distance from the nozzles when a single trigger is squeezed. The gun has separate chambers containing fluids of different colors. When the streams intersect, the colors combine and mix.

Abstract: The mass to be sprayed by the spray gun is stored in an airtight closed storage container. A cushion of pressurized air is generated above the level of the paint mass present in the storage container. This air cushion is fed by means of a manually operated piston pump projecting into the storage container. Accordingly, the mass to be sprayed and fed via the feed line extending to the spray gun is pressurized. Conclusively the feed line can be designed with a longer dimension, the mass to be sprayed can be more viscous and the distance in height between storage container and spray gun can be much larger.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method for sanitizing beverage dispensing systems of the type using a pump that draws beverage from a single port collapsible container which is otherwise airtight. The system provides a manifold having a main manifold chamber with one input and at least one output and having a secondary manifold chamber with an input and an output, and sanitizing fluid containers. The drink dispensing hoses are attached to the outputs of the main manifold chamber, and either a sanitizing fluid or water is attached to the input of the main manifold chamber. The water may be provided through the secondary manifold chamber. Afterward, sanitizing fluid and water are drawn through the manifold and the dispensing hoses and heads, sanitizing the system. Sanitizing fluid is provided in collapsible containers similar to the beverage containers and having a venting device.

Abstract: A dispensing apparatus particularly suited for dispensing oil and oil-flour mixtures in the baking industry includes a hopper for holding a quantity of the liquid to be dispensed and a plurality of positive displacement piston pumps. Separate inlet passages extend from the hopper to each of the pumps. Separate outlet passages also extend from each of the pumps. A discharge nozzle manifold having a plurality of discharge nozzles is connected to the pumps by a removable and replaceable plate-like gasket. The gasket is provided with connecting passages for connecting selected ones of the nozzles with selected pump outlet passages and diverting flow from other pump outlet passages and returning it to the hopper. The arrangement thus allows the number and pattern of dispensing nozzles in operation to be changed merely by changing the gasket without deactivating or changing the setting of the individual pumps.

Abstract: An improved mixing and spraying system comprises: one or more pairs of material mixing tanks wherein both tanks of each pair selectively and alternately exhaust into a single common material exhaust assembly and discharge through a single spray nozzle whereby continuous mixing and spraying procedures can be simultaneously maintained; a unique, combination, materials grating and filtering system associated with each tank; remote control apparatus for remotely controlling the rate of material flow from the spray nozzle; method and apparatus for operating numerous hydraulic motors at the same time; and method and apparatus for maximizing the use of hydraulics and hydraulic motors while eliminating the use of gears and pulleys for driving motors.

Abstract: A manually-refillable water reservoir assembly, which may be retrofit to a post-mix beverage dispenser to supply water from the reservoir instead of from a commercial water supply, includes a manually-refillable water container which plugs into a base assembly. The base assembly includes a socket for receiving the container, a centrifugal pump and a water filter. The beverage dispenser contains a turbine-type pump for supplying water to a carbonator at a predetermined pressure and flow rate. The inherent slippage in the centrifugal pump permits the flow rate and pressure of water supplied to the dispenser to adjust to that of the turbine-type pump.

Abstract: Liquid agrichemicals such as pesticides are applied to soil or crops in a continuous stream at low flow rate from microtubes without need for a mixing tank and without clogging of the microtubes during downtime, by a system mountable on a farm vehicle, the system comprising a liquid agrichemical supply tank, a water supply tank, a first conduit connecting the agrichemical supply tank to a manifold feeding the microtubes, a first pump in the conduit, water entrainment means (such as a venturi) and a second, suction pump in the conduit, a second conduit between the water supply tank and the venturi, and other conduits, valves and pressure regulators as appropriate to control the directions and rates of flow, and for recirculation or flushing. By such control, water may be entrained by the venturi for inline admixing with the agrichemical, or the venturi optionally may be bypassed for application of undiluted agrichemical.

Abstract: A pail mounted pump system having dual reciprocal pumps and pail cover in an integral design. The pump and pail cover are constructed in a single unit with a built-in intake siphon tubes. This arrangement provides dual pumps pumping the same fluid which keeps the system pumping should one of the pumps fail. The pail cover is formed with a recess and mounting holes for mounting a pump. A skirt on the cover has a flange on its inner surface forming an annulus which seats securely on the pail rim. A recirculation/agitation system is provided by a hose connected through a valve to the pump outlet recirculating fluid back to the pail through an aperture in the cover.

Abstract: A system for dispensing multiple discrete streams of a high viscosity liquid material, and particularly, systems such as those for applying sealants to the seams of an automobile body on a production line. The system is provided with a multi-speed pump for supplying the viscous liquid from a reservoir at high pressure to a distribution manifold from which it is distributed at regulated rates to a plurality of extrusion guns through drop lines from the manifold. A motor speed control which is settable to a number of predetermined motor operating speeds which selects the speed of the multi-speed pump in response to the combination of guns which is activated, so that the dispensing rate can remain the same regardless of which other guns are activated. Regulators which include volumetric metering pumps are included in the drop lines at each of the guns, with controls coordinated with the motor speed control.

Abstract: A system for applying sealant material to the welded seams of an automobile body including a reciprocating piston pump for supplying the material under pressure from a reservoir to an overhead distribution manifold. From the manifold the material is supplied to a plurality of extrusion guns through drop lines, each of which includes a pressure regulator and volumetric metering gear pump for maintaining a constant flow rate to the guns irrespective of pressure changes which may occur in the distribution manifold.

Abstract: A delivery unit for ice creams of the type including at least a first piston pump supplied by at least one ice cream producing assembly, wherein the cylinder of the piston pump, in the portion corresponding to the end part of the supply stroke of the piston, is connected through a radial port to the delivery side of at least one second pump. Said second pump sucks a flowing ice cream garnishing material from a suction conduit controlled by a check valve, the sucking operation taking place when the first pump is in a position in which its piston obstructs the radial port, the piston stroke of the second pump being controlled, during the sucking operation, against the action of a counteracting device.

Abstract: A sprayer mixes water and concentrate on an "as-used" basis. A preselected amount of concentrate is dispensed into a mix tank for each reciprocation of a proportioning pump set. The amount of concentrate dispensed is selected by varying the pump set stroke. The pump set is reciprocated by reversing flow into one power line and out of another power line fluidly connected to the set. The flow is reversed by sliding a spool within a bore from one position, where sets of apertures in the spool are aligned with ports of the bore to connect a source of water under pressure to one power line and the other power line to an outlet line leading to the mix tank, to another position, where the aperture sets are realigned with the ports to reverse the connections. A meter measures the flow of water to the mix tank. The meter connects current to open one of two control valves connecting the bore ends with the source to move the spool to its next position hydraulically.

Abstract: An automatic resin dispensing device comprising a gear pump for pumping resin and a piston pump for pumping catalyst. Both pumps are coupled to a single air motor which drives both pumps via a dual output gear box. The piston shaft of the catalyst pump is connected to a radially located pin on a disk that is rotatably coupled to the gear reduction output of the gear box. The stroke of the piston pump, and hence the amount of catalyst relative to resin dispensed, is varied by adjusting the radial position of the connecting pin on the disk. The resin pumping system and catalyst pumping system are separated within the device to improve the safety of the device and enhance its reliability.

Abstract: This invention provides an apparatus and a method for sanitizing beverage dispensing systems of the type using a pump that draws the beverage from a single port collapsible container which is otherwise air tight. The system consists of a manifold having a main manifold chamber with one input and at least one output, and a secondary manifold chamber having an input and an output. The drink dispensing hoses are attached to the outputs of the main manifold chamber, and either a sanitizing fluid or water is attached to the input of the main manifold chamber. The water may be provided through the secondary manifold chamber. Before connecting to the sanitizing fluid, the main manifold chamber is opened to the atmosphere, and remaining beverage in the dispensing hoses is drawn out by the pumps to the dispensing heads. Afterward, sanitizing fluid and water are drawn through the manifold and the dispensing hoses and heads, sanitizing the system.

Abstract: A metering pump is disclosed and includes a unitary pumping assembly secured to a base so as to be removable from the base as a unit e.g. for cleaning. The pump is of the plunger type and includes at least one plunger mounted to reciprocate in a pump cylinder, and a rotary valve for controlling flow of liquid into and out of the cylinder under the effect of reciprocation of the plunger. A linear actuator and a rotary actuator are each permanently mounted on the base for actuating respectively the plunger and the rotary valve. The linear actuator can be coupled to the plunger by disengageable coupling means including interfitting but physically unconnected male and female formations. The rotary actuator is similarly disengageably coupled to the valve member by a key and slot coupling. The disengageable coupling means allow the pumping assembly to be removed as a unit from the base by simply releasing a securing screw or the like.

Abstract: A process and apparatus for pouring confectionery solution is provided. The pparatus basically comprises a supply tank heated to approximately 80.degree. C., a dosing system, a nozzle plate and heating means. The proportion of the confectionery solution which is branched off from the supply tank for a pouring operation receives heat as it passes through the dosing system and/or the nozzle plate.

Abstract: A reservoir of liquid having a false bottom forming a lower chamber of reduced pressure produced by a plurality of removable pumps suspended in apertures in said false bottom, each of which apertures is provided with a two-piece receptor and check valve assembly; the receptor of which forms a guide and hydraulic slip-fit for the lower intake end of its pump and the other part below said receptor extends into said reduced pressure chamber comprises a cylindrical housing with a check valve at its lower end to close off that aperture to the reduced pressure chamber when its pump is not running or has been removed for repair.

Abstract: An apparatus for forming and dispensing portions of soap foam or lather is provided with a double-acting compressed air membrane pump for generating compressed air and with a soap solution dosing pump. Both pumps are operated by means of a single lever which need only be pressed in a single direction, the return motion to the initial position being effected by a return spring. The forward actuation of the lever causes soap foam or lather to be formed in a mixing chamber. The return motion of the lever dispenses a dose of soap foam or lather through a dispensing aperture. In order to obtain a double-acting pump action of the membrane of the membrane pump, inlet valves and and outlet valves are employed. One of the outlet valves assists in the generation of the soap foam in the mixing chamber. The other outlet valve then assists in ejecting a portion of the soap foam through the dispensing aperture during the return motion of the lever.

Abstract: A dispenser for pasty substances and/or liquids has two coaxially arranged metering pistons 11,24 which supply charges of material from two coaxially arranged pump chambers 14,23 through ejection channels 19,26 into an ejection chamber 20. The material can emerge from ejection chamber 20 through an outlet 4. This outlet 4 is controlled by means of plug 21 biassed in closing direction. When the metering pistons 11,24 are on their suction strokes material passes from the supply tanks 17,27 which are likewise arranged coaxially one inside the other. Such a configuration yields a dispenser which consists in essence of two separate dispensers, one inside the other. The two streams of material combine directly ahead of the outlet 4.