Adjustable Stroke Pump Piston, Pulsator Or Follower Patents (Class 222/309)
  • Patent number: 6739478
    Abstract: A precision fluid dispensing system containing at least one two-piece pump and a precision closed loop controller drive system to address the small volume precision dispensing requirements of bioscience applications. A multiple diameter pump can be combined with a pump having multiple inlet and outlet ports to allow for precision multiple outlet dispenses in a single pump that finds use with microtiter plate pipetting and other precision dispensing. Inlet ports can be located on the smaller diameter of the cylinder with outlet ports on the larger diameter of the cylinder. A micro-controller with closed loop feedback provides exact linear positioning and motion of the pump piston as well as optional control of a nozzle to provide exact micro-dispensing of fluids.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2004
    Assignee: Scientific Products & Systems LLC
    Inventors: David T. Bach, Muniswamappa Anjanappa, Gayathri S. Ragavan, Tao Song
  • Patent number: 6716198
    Abstract: An injection device for injecting set doses from an ampoule (2) mounted in the device, which doses are set by operation of a dose setting button (7) by which operation elastic torsion rods (14) positioned parallel with the longitudinal axis of the device are twisted. By the dose setting a torque is transmitted from the dose setting button (7) to the rods (14) through gear transmissions comprising a toothing (11) carried by a tubular (8) part coupled to the dose setting button (7) to rotate with this button. The toothing (11) engages pinions (13) fixed to the proximal ends of the torsion rods (14), which are made from a super elastic material, which can stand a deformation larger than 2% without being permanently deformed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2004
    Assignee: Novo Nordisk A/S
    Inventor: Andre Larsen
  • Publication number: 20040040986
    Abstract: A plural component pumping apparatus including a piston and cylinder for each component to be pumped. Reciprocation of the piston in the cylinder draws the component into the cylinder during an intake stroke of the pumping apparatus and exhausts the material from the cylinder during an exhaust stroke of the pumping apparatus. Intake and exhaust valves are provided into the cylinder. Each of the intake and exhaust valve includes a housing oriented outside the cylinder to facilitate repair or replacement of the valves. A pumping motor on each side of the cylinder is coupled to a support and to the piston to move the support and piston relatively toward each other during the exhaust stroke and relatively away from each other during the intake stroke. A position indicator is coupled to the pumping motor. The pumping motor controls sense the position of the position indicator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2002
    Publication date: March 4, 2004
    Inventors: Michael J. Kosmyna, Ralph Wisniewski
  • Patent number: 6695175
    Abstract: A valve assembly includes a valve housing defining a metering chamber and an elongated stem. The stem is axially movable with respect to the valve housing for dispensing liquid and is rotatable for adjusting the length of the stroke of a piston to thereby select the volume of liquid dispensed with each actuation of the stem. A sliding float member is fitted around the stem within the chamber and is axially slidable with respect to the stem but is locked for rotation with the stem. The lower surface of the sliding float abuts, and floats above the upper surface of the piston, and the lower end of the stem is rotatable within the piston. A spring extends between a prong on the stem and the sliding float for urging the stem axially outward of the container and for urging the piston in a direction which maximizes the volume of the metering chamber such that the spring rotates with the stem and the stem rotates free of the piston.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Inventors: James H. Martin, Reuben Oder
  • Patent number: 6655555
    Abstract: A paint dispensing system including a container having a moveable piston contained therein wherein a paint containing area is defined between the piston and a portion of the container. A dispenser extends through an opening formed in the piston and by moving the piston against paint contained within the container results in paint being forced into the dispenser where the paint moves through the dispenser and through the piston to an outlet where the paint is dispensed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Assignee: Direct Dye Delivery, LLC
    Inventors: Basil N. Yankoglu, Terry S. Fox
  • Publication number: 20030183654
    Abstract: A valve assembly for a fluid dispenser includes a housing having at least a first opening and a second opening, and a valve member fitted in the housing, the valve member being rotatable about an axis and comprising a first channel, extending along said axis and communicating with the first opening in the housing, and at least two outlet channels radially extending from the first channel to the circumference of the valve member, wherein each of the radially extending outlet channels can be brought in register with the second opening by rotating the valve member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2002
    Publication date: October 2, 2003
    Inventors: Mark M.J. Voskuil, Pieter J.M. Alkemade
  • Publication number: 20030160069
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a rotary sauce dispensing apparatus for applying a sauce on a receiving surface such as a pizza dough. In one embodiment, an apparatus for producing a flow of a sauce to a dispenser comprises an accumulator including an accumulator chamber with an accumulator inlet to receive and store the sauce and a dispense member configured to dispense the sauce from the accumulator chamber out through an accumulator outlet, and a pump configured to pump the sauce through the accumulator inlet to the accumulator chamber. A diverter valve is coupled with the accumulator and being movable between a closed position to close the accumulator outlet and an open position to open the accumulator outlet. A control member is coupled with the pump, the diverter valve, and the accumulator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2003
    Publication date: August 28, 2003
    Applicant: Automatic Bar Controls, Inc.
    Inventors: James M. Tuyls, Antonio J. Jepson, Juha K. Salmela, John W. Dewing
  • Patent number: 6609635
    Abstract: The stem (9) of the piston (7) has a series of impressions in indented (12) or relief form, permitting the tactile perception, even by persons without sight, of the position of the piston with respect to the cylinder. The impressions (12) being able to interact with one or more tongues (16, 16A) formed in the stopper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2003
    Assignee: Project S.a.s. di Massimo Menichelli & C.
    Inventor: Camilla Maffei
  • Patent number: 6554161
    Abstract: A dispensing apparatus for a liquid which relies on molded components capable of being interchanged to provide, in addition to incremental adjustment within a range of dosages allowed by stroke limiting rotational adjustment of the relativity of escarpment and abutment members, the change of one or both the spread of the dosage range and at least one limit of the range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2003
    Assignee: Prima Technologies Limited
    Inventor: John Robert Main
  • Publication number: 20030071054
    Abstract: Dispensing apparatus is provided for dispensing viscous product from containers (10) of product, usually by extruding product from a container outlet. Product is discharged by a plunger (13) which causes product to be discharged and the plunger is operated by a drive arrangement having a linear actuator (15) by which the plunger is moveable. The linear actuator uses an electric motor as the prime mover and the motor's rotary motion is converted into a linear motion of the plunger. By the use of a linear drive it is possible to achieve constant velocity of movement of the plunger independent of the resistance to movement, within the predetermined limits. The movement of the plunger can be controlled according to the resistance encountered. The apparatus also includes means for removing containers from their seating after discharge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2002
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventor: Shane R. McGill
  • Patent number: 6547107
    Abstract: A filling amount adjustment device for a liquid-form substance filling machine, the device including first sliding units disposed on a swing arm and connecting links pivotally attached at one ends to connecting pins of first sliding members (of the first sliding units) that slide along the length of the arm. Second sliding units are disposed on both sides of the swing arm, and the other ends of the connecting links are pivotally connected to the connecting pins of second sliding members (of the second sliding units). Connecting rods connected to piston rods are pivotally connected to the connecting pins. When fine adjustment shafts in which male screws are cut are rotated, the second sliding members are moved and positioned; as a result, the first sliding members slide via the connecting links, thus changing the positions of the connecting pins in the direction of length of the arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Assignee: Toyo Jidoki Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shinichi Hiramoto, Kenji Kawamura
  • Publication number: 20030062382
    Abstract: A method and system for dispensing a precise amount of a chemical used in the fabrication of semiconductors utilizes rolling membrane pump and calculates an amount by which to change a dispense based at least in part on a predicted membrane flex. Membrane flex is predicted, at least in part, by the shape of the membrane, a volume of liquid to be dispensed and a pressure during dispense.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2002
    Publication date: April 3, 2003
    Applicant: Integrated Designs, L.P.
    Inventors: Raymond T. Savard, John C. Vines
  • Publication number: 20030042271
    Abstract: A liquid dispensing apparatus and method that provides for precise adjustment of one or more dispensing modules relative to a substrate. The liquid dispensing apparatus and method includes a manifold which has a liquid discharge orifice that is adapted to connect to a source of liquid, such as adhesive. The manifold further has an elongated slot which has a plurality of walls and a recess portion formed in one of those walls. A mounting block has a flange portion that is disposed in and cooperating with the recess portion of the slot so that the mounting block is retained in and selectively slidable along the slot. A dispensing module with a liquid passageway is removably affixed to the mounting block with the liquid passageway in fluid communication with the liquid discharge orifice in the manifold.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2001
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Applicant: Nordson Corporation
    Inventors: Mark Aaron Gould, Kenneth Jones
  • Patent number: 6527142
    Abstract: The invention provide a liquid ejecting method and apparatus by which an ejection port of an ejection valve is mechanically opened and closed, and which can more positively shut off the liquid at the time of stopping the ejection of a liquid and can securely avoid a leakage of the liquid without a risk of breaking fillers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Assignee: Musashi Engineering, Inc.
    Inventor: Kazumasa Ikushima
  • Patent number: 6521187
    Abstract: A system for aspirating and ejecting microvolume drops of liquid onto porous sites of a substrate wafer is presented. The system includes a microdispenser employing a piezoelectric transducer attached to a glass capillary, a means for priming and aspirating transfer liquid into the microdispenser, for controlling the pressure of the system liquid, and for washing the microdispenser between liquid transfers, and a pressure sensor to measure the system liquid pressure and produce a corresponding electrical signal. The drops are generally in the 10 to 100 micron range and the pores are generally 10 to 10,000 times smaller than the diameter of the drops deposited thereon. The resulting spots are uniform, and only slightly larger in diameter than that of the drops. The drops are ejected from a distance greater than the diameter of the drops, thus avoiding any contact with the dispenser that could damage the wafer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2003
    Assignee: Packard Instrument Company
    Inventor: Roeland F. Papen
  • Publication number: 20030015547
    Abstract: An electronic apparatus is provided for dispensing plural component materials having first and second (and optionally third) components and a desired ratio between the components. The apparatus has first and second reciprocating pumps (4), each of the pumps (4) being connected to a source of one of said components, first and second reciprocating drivers (5), each driver (5) being connected to drive one of the pumps and forming a driver-pump set, a position sensor (6) attached to each driver-pump set, each position sensor (6) outputting increments of resolution corresponding to a fixed volume being pumped by the driver-pump set to which it is connected, and a controller attached to the drivers and the position sensors to alternately move one of the driver-pump sets one said increment and the other of the driver-pump sets the product of one increment and the ratio.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2002
    Publication date: January 23, 2003
    Inventors: David M. Pittman, Adam R. Friedrich
  • Patent number: 6494687
    Abstract: A metering device for liquids, especially for viscous liquids, preferably liquids which are to be metered under sterile conditions, with a plurality of metering pumps which can be simultaneously actuated. To achieve an optimized mode of operation, it is provided that the surfaces on the bottom of the pump holding plate and the top of the metering channel plate are made as adjoining sealing surfaces, forming a seal, that, in the pump holding plate, there is a bypass channel with outlet openings in the sealing surface on the bottom of the pump holding plate for each metering pump and that by the relative displacement of the pump holding plate and the metering channel plate with respect to one another, the outlet openings of the bypass channel can be moved into a position in which the bypass channel connects the respective metering channel to the respective supply channel in the metering channel plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2002
    Assignee: Brand GmbH + CO KG
    Inventors: Andreas Lang, Peter H. Mahler
  • Patent number: 6481596
    Abstract: A device (10) for dispensing a metered amount of liquid from a pressurized source of liquid (100) having a storage container (12), a valve (30) and a metering system. A plunger (16) is slidably mounted in the inner chamber (12D) of the storage container. The metering system includes a dosage ring (26) with a pin (28). The ring mounts on the outer surface of the storage container adjacent a dosage slot. The pin extends through the slot in the sidewall (12C) of the container and into a slot in the sidewall (16C) of the plunger. The pin contacts the bottom end of the slot in the plunger to stop the forward movement of the plunger during dispensing of the liquid stopping the movement of the plunger and stopping the movement of the liquid out of the storage container through the valve and out of the nozzle (40).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2002
    Assignee: Ideal Instruments, Inc.
    Inventor: Christopher Rusnak
  • Publication number: 20020166876
    Abstract: A liquid dispensing pump, which can effectively prevent coil spring corrosion and elution, is described. This liquid dispensing pump is used for dispensing a liquid stored inside a liquid-storing unit from a nozzle head by pressing down said nozzle head provided over the liquid-storing unit. This liquid dispensing pump possesses a cylinder provided on top of the liquid-storing unit, a piston which can move reciprocally inside the cylinder, a coupling tube for lowering the piston by transmitting pressure applied to the nozzle head by connecting the nozzle head with the piston, a coil spring provided at the peripheral portion of the coupling tube for increasing momentum given to the piston in its ascending direction, an inlet valve for bringing a liquid stored in the liquid-storing unit into the cylinder with the ascending motion of the piston, and an outlet valve mechanism for moving the liquid brought inside the cylinder out to the nozzle head via the coupling tube with the descending motion of the piston.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2001
    Publication date: November 14, 2002
    Inventor: Masatoshi Masuda
  • Patent number: 6467655
    Abstract: A pump dispenser includes: a valve block having a first slide contact surface, a discharge opening and a suction opening; a pump block having a second slide contact surface and a plunger insert hole; a plunger slidably inserted to the plunger insert hole; a pump-driving shaft for rotating the pump block to advance and retract the plunger; and a motor for controllably rotating the pump-driving shaft per one rotation, the pump-driving shaft being attached with a roller, the pump dispenser further having a guide member capable of adjusting inclination angle thereof relative to a reference surface orthogonal with an axis of the pump-driving shaft, the guide member guiding the roller moving in accordance with a rotation of the pump-driving shaft to advance and retract the pump-driving shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2002
    Assignee: Neuberg Company Limited
    Inventor: Kenji Ogawa
  • Patent number: 6464107
    Abstract: A proportioning dispenser for proportioning at least two components which are each supplied via a pump unit from an associated accommodating compartment is disclosed. The adjustment of the mixing ratio is effected via a transmission member the point of application of which is adjustable with respect to the two pump units.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2002
    Inventor: Anton Brugger
  • Patent number: 6454136
    Abstract: An extendable caulking gun including a cylindrical housing having an open first end, an open second end, and a hollow interior. A trigger assembly is coupled with respect to the open first end of the cylindrical housing. The trigger assembly includes an L-shaped trigger housing secured to the open first end of the cylindrical housing. A caulk tube holder is slidably received within the open second end of the cylindrical housing. The caulk tube holder is adapted for holding a tube of caulk therein. The caulk tube holder is coupled with the trigger assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2002
    Inventor: Clyde Evans
  • Patent number: 6443331
    Abstract: A hand-operated pump dispenser for dosing liquid product from a container includes a rotatable plunger assembly which is manually lifted upwardly relative to the dispenser body for drawing product into a pump chamber in a preselected amount depending on the rotational setting of the plunger, and which is manually depressed for completely discharging the contents of the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2002
    Assignee: Saint-Gobain Calmer Inc.
    Inventor: Stuart DeJonge
  • Patent number: 6405903
    Abstract: A dispenser (1) comprises setting means (10) for varying the discharge stroke (9) or discharge volume. The setting means (10) act on a valve (20). The associated valve face (24) of valve (20) can be linearly shifted to thus ensure very safe function.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2002
    Assignee: Ing. Erich Pfeiffer GmbH
    Inventor: Peter Stadelhofer
  • Patent number: 6398514
    Abstract: A pair of end plates are maintained in a spaced apart relationship by a plurality of guide rods secured therebetween. A carriage defines a plurality of apertures which receive the guide rods and which provide slidable support for the carriage between the end plates. An elongated externally threaded pump screw is rotatably supported between the end plates and is coupled to a bi-directional motor. A ball nut is secured to the movable carriage which engages the pump screw such that rotation of the pump screw in either direction produces a corresponding vertical movement of the carriage between the end plates. A first plurality of pump sections having respective fluid cylinders and pump rods operative therein are coupled between the carriage and one of the end plates. A second plurality of pump sections also having respective fluid cylinders and pump rods are operatively coupled between the carriage and the remaining end plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2002
    Inventors: Steve C. Smith, Bruce H. Menk
  • Patent number: 6394317
    Abstract: The present invention provides a container which provides a measured dosage of the contents of the container when pressure is applied to the top of the container. When not in use, the container additionally contains a locking means such that the contents of the container cannot be dispensed without repositioning the locking means to the open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2002
    Assignee: McNeil-PPC, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Faughey, John Lonczak
  • Patent number: 6382465
    Abstract: A method of producing a flexible conduit whose dimensions and shape can easily be changed according to its use is described. The method includes producing elongate elements from an elastic flexible material, wherein the cross-section of the elongate elements each have at least one corrugation and extend so as to be rectilinear longitudinally. Each elongate element is fixed to at least one elongate holding element made of rigid pliable material so as to keep its shape after bending. Several sets of elongate elements are produced and are connected to each other along their adjacent longitudinal edges in order to form a flat enclosure whose dimensions correspond to those of the deployed flexible conduit. The flat enclosure is then deformed so as to close it and to obtain the required shape of the cross-section of the conduit, wherein the enclosure is kept in shape by the deformation of the elongate holding elements. Then, the adjacent ends of the shaped enclosure are connected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Assignee: Ing. Ercih Pfeiffer GmbH
    Inventor: Juergen Greiner-Perth
  • Patent number: 6378737
    Abstract: A dispensing system for dispensing a quantity of material includes an inlet port to receive the material, an outlet port from which the material is dispensed from the dispensing system, a housing having an inner chamber with an adjustable volume, a first valve operable in one of an open mode of operation and a closed mode of operation. The first valve is disposed between the inlet port and the inner chamber in such a manner that when the first valve is operating in the open mode, material may flow from the inlet port into the inner chamber, and when the first valve is operating in the closed mode, material is prevented from flowing from the inlet port into the inner chamber. The dispensing system also includes a second valve operable in one of an open mode of operation and a closed mode of operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2002
    Assignee: Speedline Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: William A. Cavallaro, Jeffrey P. Fugere, Kenneth C. Crouch, Stephen M. Franklin
  • Patent number: 6368314
    Abstract: The invention relates to a process for the monitoring of the pressure of a product fluid to be administered in dosed amounts during an infusion or injection, which is dispensable from a container that is received in or formed by a housing, by advancement of a piston received in the container. The reaction force exerted by the piston onto the housing, which serves as a measure for the fluid pressure, is hereby measured and fed to a control for a drive of the piston. The control compares the measured reaction force with a predetermined reference force and controls the drive of the motor under consideration of the result of the comparison. The reference force is a nominal value for the reaction force and a direct nominal/actual comparison is carried out between the measured reaction force and its nominal value. The invention further relates to an apparatus which is especially suited for carrying out the process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2002
    Assignee: Disetronic Licensing AG
    Inventors: Urs Kipfer, Erich Imhof
  • Patent number: 6364170
    Abstract: A fluid dispenser used to administer fixed or adjustable doses of fluids in oral, intranasal, or injectable applications. The dispenser may be used to draw off fluid from a flexible or rigid bulk container or to draw fluid from a mounted flexible or rigid container such as a sealed-end bag or bottle, or a threaded bag or bottle. The fluid dispenser generally comprises: a connection member communicatively connected to a fluid source container; a body member having a dose cylinder communicatively connected to the connection member; a piston member operationally related to the dose cylinder and spring biased in an extended position; and a trigger member attached to the piston member and communicatively connected to the dose cylinder through the piston member. The dispenser may include a guide positioned on the connection member. The guide includes a platform portion and a guide portion, both of which being adapted to form a container passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2002
    Inventors: Mark L. Anderson, John C. Harmon, James E. Wait, Wayne Wellstein
  • Patent number: 6360920
    Abstract: The apparatus is comprised of a dosing chamber which is internally provided with a piston displaceable freely by means of pasty material introduced through a first extremity of said chamber from a first position to a second position, the piston being then actuated by means of a pressure fluid introduced through a second extremity to return to said first position, thereby displacing a volume being ejected through the extremity which is associated by sealed closing means to an opening of a housing wherein is housed a valve body with means to move the body inside the housing thereby communicating an inlet with said chamber, and alternatingly, communicating said chamber with an outlet conduit having emptying piston.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2002
    Assignee: Metalquimia, S.A.
    Inventor: Narciso Lagares Corominas
  • Patent number: 6325016
    Abstract: A food material dispensing apparatus for adding a sauce to a target food is claimed. The dispensing comprises a pump, a supply manifold, and a dispensing manifold. The pump draws a quantity of sauce from a source into the supply manifold and forces the sauce through the dispensing manifold to the target food. The supply manifold receives the sauce from the source. The sauce is transferred to the dispensing manifold through which the sauce material is transferred to the target food. A baffle suspended in the dispensing manifold. The baffle has a peripheral edge and a central portion displaced a distance from a substantially horizontal plane defined by the peripheral edge by a positioning portion which connects the central portion to the peripheral edge. A pattern plate is positioned downstream from the baffle and has a plurality of apertures for delivering the predetermined quantity of sauce in a predetermined pattern to the target food.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2001
    Assignee: Rota Skipper Corp.
    Inventors: Clifford E. Fitch, Jr., Clifford E. Fitch, III, James N. Egan, Michael Anderson
  • Patent number: 6273152
    Abstract: A dosage dispenser assembly for containers to dispense liquids in the containers. The assembly includes elongated hollow barrel and an arrangement for removably mounting the barrel over the discharge opening in the container so that the port in the barrel in the seated position is disposed adjacent the bottom of the container. A stop sleeve of generally tubular configuration engages internally of the barrel and has at least two key ways of different axial depth defining cam follower surfaces. A plunger engages in the barrel having a lug element and is rotatable relative to the stop sleeve between a position wherein the plunger tip is fully seated in the barrel and another position wherein the plunger may be activated axially to draw a predetermined dosage of liquid contents into the barrel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2001
    Assignee: Comar Inc.
    Inventors: John D. Buehler, Eric S. Mathias
  • Patent number: 6257457
    Abstract: A device for spraying fluid, the device comprising a tank (11) containing a plurality of doses of fluid, a cylindrical base (14) receiving said tank (11), a dispenser member such as a pump, a manual actuator element (20), fractioning means (16) co-operating with said actuator element (20) to fraction the content of the tank (11) into at least two doses, and energy-accumulator means (12) co-operating, during actuation, with said manual actuator element (20) to accumulate energy in the hand of the user so as to guarantee proper atomization of the entire dose of fluid on each actuation, the device being characterized in that said base (14), said fractioning means (16), and said energy-accumulator means (12) form integral portions of a common one-piece block (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2001
    Assignee: Valois S.A.
    Inventor: François Oechsel
  • Patent number: 6253961
    Abstract: A fluid dispenser used to administer fixed or adjustable doses of fluids in oral, intranasal, or injectable applications. The dispenser may be used to draw off fluid from a flexible or rigid bulk container or to draw fluid from a mounted flexible or rigid container such as a sealed-end bag or bottle, or a threaded bag or bottle. The fluid dispenser generally comprises: a connection member communicatively connected to a fluid source container; a body member having a dose cylinder communicatively connected to the connection member; a piston member operationally related to the dose cylinder and spring biased in an extended position; and a trigger member attached to the piston member and communicatively connected to the dose cylinder through the piston member. The dispenser may include an automatic venting feature to assist with the smooth, easy flow of fluid during an application and to prevent contaminants from being suctioned back into the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2001
    Inventors: Mark L. Anderson, Hugh R. Dent
  • Patent number: 6253957
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for dispensing droplets of liquid or viscous material. The apparatus generally comprises a valve operated dispenser and a control for moving the valve member with respect to a valve seat in rapid succession. This rapidly accelerates liquid or viscous material in a stream from the dispenser outlet and immediately breaks the stream into a minute droplet. Various embodiments of the valve seat include both rigid valve seats and resilient valve seats. Resilient valve seats are especially useful for dispensing solder pastes as they can prevent material flaking, compacting and clogging conditions. Low friction polymer or plastic material for dispenser components such as the valve member and outlet structure can also prevent such problems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2001
    Assignee: Nordson Corporation
    Inventors: James W. Messerly, Laurence B. Saidman, James C. Smith
  • Patent number: 6206241
    Abstract: An automatic fluid dispenser including a pump mechanism actuated by a piston movable between a first position, and a second position in which a fluid is dispensed. A conduit is coupled to the pump mechanism and couplable to a pressurized fluid source. A valve is carried by the conduit and is movable between an open position in which a pressurized fluid from the pressurized fluid source moves the piston to the second position, and a closed position stopping the pressurized fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Inventors: Brian C. Terrell, John J. Spilotro
  • Patent number: 6189735
    Abstract: The polymeric substance delivery method and device, in which the outflow is determined from a first container (5) of a monomeric substance able to polymerize autonomously upon air contact, and eventually, the outflow from a second container (7) is determined of a hardening substance able to accelerate the polymerization of the monomeric substance, by sending the same hardening substance towards a mixing zone of the hardening substance with the same monomeric substance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2001
    Assignee: Cheming S.A. Luxembourg
    Inventor: Maria Teresa Plasmati-Lüchinger
  • Patent number: 6189740
    Abstract: An antiseptic soap dispenser has a dispensing system (28) which includes a pressure actuated platen (32) and a moveable roller (94) for dispensing soap from a replaceable container (12). A dispensing tube (10) with an integral self-sealing valve (40) at a downstream end is connected to a neck (20) of the container. Hand pressure on the platen compresses a upstream end of the dispensing tube between the platen and the roller. With increasing pressure, the roller moves progressively down the tube to dispense soap through the valve. A volume regulator (111) controls the amount of soap dispensed. The platen returns quickly to its at-rest position once the pressure is removed, avoiding complete compression of the pathway by the roller. This minimizes air ingress, and resultant contamination of the soap. Optionally, a filtered vent (14) in a wall (22) of the container allows filtered air to enter the container in place of the soap dispensed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2001
    Assignee: Steris Inc
    Inventors: Allan E. Wade, Keith D. Alsberg, Jon B. Taylor, James D. deBeers
  • Patent number: 6164497
    Abstract: A paint colorant dispenser has a notched gauge rod on a stop member. The notched gauge rod can be easily replaced to change the units of measure for the paint colorant dispenser and is also inexpensive to manufacture. A double notch at an extreme end of the gauge rod facilitates accurate metering of small quantities of paint colorant. The dispenser has a spool valve which includes a resilient sealing member which is biased against an inner surface of a valve bore by a strong spring. The sealing member provides a good seal and accommodates wear without leakage. With the exception of the spring, the valve may be made of plastic. The valve does not need to be manufactured to extremely precise tolerances. The paint colorant dispenser has a wiper assembly coupled to operate with the valve. The wiper assembly includes a resiliently mounted wiper which closes off a lower end of the nozzle except when the valve is set to dispense paint colorant through the nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2000
    Assignee: H.E.R.O. Industries, a division of Middlefield Bancorp Limited
    Inventors: Julian Chia, Colm Murphy
  • Patent number: 6164498
    Abstract: The present invention provides a container which provides a measured dosage of the contents of the container when pressure is applied to the top of the container. When not in use, the container additionally contains a locking member such that the contents of the container cannot be dispensed without repositioning the locking member to the open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2000
    Assignee: McNeil-PPC. Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Faughey, John Lonczak
  • Patent number: 6164499
    Abstract: A paint colorant dispenser has a notched gauge rod on a stop member. The notched gauge rod can be easily replaced to change the units of measure for the paint colorant dispenser and is also inexpensive to manufacture. A double notch at an extreme end of the gauge rod facilitates accurate metering of small quantities of paint colorant. The dispenser has a spool valve which includes a resilient sealing member which is biased against an inner surface of a valve bore by a strong spring. The sealing member provides a good seal and accommodates wear without leakage. With the exception of the spring, the valve may be made of plastic. The valve does not need to be manufactured to extremely precise tolerances. The paint colorant dispenser has a wiper assembly coupled to operate with the valve. The wiper assembly includes a resiliently mounted wiper which closes off a lower end of the nozzle except when the valve is set to dispense paint colorant through the nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2000
    Assignee: H.E.R.O. Industries a division of Middlefield Bancorp Limited
    Inventor: Julian Chia
  • Patent number: 6149396
    Abstract: Apparatus for sequentially dispensing flowable materials including a positive displacement metering-pump operated by an actuator capable of reciprocating pivotal movement within a range having an angular extent less than 180.degree.. A link member connects the pivotal actuator to the plunger of the positive displacement pump for causing the pump to dispense liquid when the pump actuator is operated. The pump stroke adjuster can selectively vary the distance between the link member and the pivot axis of the pump actuator for, in turn, controlling the stroke of the pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Assignee: Capmatic Ltd.
    Inventor: Lavinio Bassani
  • Patent number: 6135325
    Abstract: A liquid dispenser includes a valve block that can be attached onto a vessel or can be connected to a reservoir. The valve block is characterized by an intake valve, a supply and dosing cylinder in which a supply and dosing plunger is slidably accommodated, and an outlet device for the liquid. The valve block and the supply and dosing cylinder preferably form an integral unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2000
    Assignee: Poulten & Graf GmbH
    Inventors: Theodor Fessel, Siegfried Graf, Hans Graf
  • Patent number: 6112779
    Abstract: The capsule (11), which can be screwed onto the threaded neck (3) of the bottle, coaxially forms the cylinder (15) of the syringe device; an element (21) inside the capsule (11) and surrounding the cylinder (15) forms an annular leaktight seal (21A) which can be tightened onto the edge (3B) of the neck (3) and fits inside the bottle neck by means of a shaped extension piece (21B); said element (21) accommodates, via a central hole, the cylinder (15) of the syringe device and surrounds it with an annular lip (21C) which extends toward the center of the bottle so as to wipe the outer surface of the cylinder as the capsule is fitted with a safety cap (29) and a seal (33).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Assignee: Project s.a.s.di Massimo Menichelli & C.
    Inventor: Maffei Camilla
  • Patent number: 6113001
    Abstract: A liquid supply apparatus having a receptacle for containing a liquid to be supplied, air and a controlling means having a valve for controlling the volume of air in the receptacle. Liquid is supplied through an outlet from the receptacle. The receptacle is controlled so the liquid supplied to the outlet is at a negative pressure while the liquid is moved to an outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Assignee: The Technology Partnership PLC
    Inventors: Andrew Jonathan Sant, Richard Wilhelm Janse Van Rensburg, Matthew Alexander Schumann, Victor Carey Humberstone
  • Patent number: 6109483
    Abstract: A filling machine assembly (10) for filling a beverage container (12), such as a bottle or can, with a beverage such as carbonated drinks, juice or water. The filling machine (10) includes a support housing (14) for supplying the beverage to be discharged into the container (12). A valve housing (22) is mounted to the bottom of the support housing (14) for controlling the discharge of the beverage and a control device (24) is mounted to the top of the support housing (14). The control device (24) has outer walls (26) defining a working chamber (28) having a top and a bottom. A vent tube (30) has a first end disposed within the working chamber (28) of the control device (24) and a second end extending into the valve housing (22). A piston (38) is secured to the first end of the vent tube (30) within the working chamber (28) for moving the vent tube (30) a predetermined stroke between a filling position and a non-use position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2000
    Assignee: Crown Simplimatic Incorporated
    Inventors: Wolfgang Wilke, Kecheng Ding, Jens Naecker
  • Patent number: 6105820
    Abstract: A frozen confection dispenser includes a collapsible container for the confection such as ice cream and a piston for selectively collapsing the container to extrude the confection from the container through an outlet to a cone or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2000
    Assignee: McGill Technology Limited
    Inventor: Shane Robert McGill
  • Patent number: 6089412
    Abstract: A multipurpose dispenser system including a hand-held dispenser which is capable of dispensing viscous fluid and particulate materials. When dispensing viscous fluids, the dispenser precisely dispenses such materials without wasteful post-extrusion. The system also includes an adaptor for mounting a particulate material dispenser to the dispenser as well as particulate material dispenser cartridges suitable for mounting to the dispenser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2000
    Assignee: B&G Equipment Company
    Inventors: Eric J. Snell, Thomas E. Meacham, Jr., Bruce C. Yeagle, Sr.
  • Patent number: 6085943
    Abstract: A dispensing system for dispensing a quantity of material includes an inlet port to receive the material, an outlet port from which the material is dispensed from the dispensing system, a housing having an inner chamber with an adjustable volume, a first valve operable in one of an open mode of operation and a closed mode of operation. The first valve is disposed between the inlet port and the inner chamber in such a manner that when the first valve is operating in the open mode, material may flow from the inlet port into the inner chamber, and when the first valve is operating in the closed mode, material is prevented from flowing from the inlet port into the inner chamber. The dispensing system also includes a second valve operable in one of an open mode of operation and a closed mode of operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2000
    Assignee: Speedline Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: William A. Cavallaro, Jeffrey P. Fugere, Kenneth C. Crouch, Stephen M. Franklin