With Biasing Means Patents (Class 222/449)
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Patent number: 11619533Abstract: Embodiments are directed to a container for dispensing equal doses of a flowable solid. The container may include a body defining an interior volume including a storage volume, an outlet passage, and a dosing chamber in communication with the storage volume and the outlet passage. The container may include a closure that has a lid and a plunger. The lid may be rotatably coupled to the body such that it rotates about a first axis from a closed position to an open position. The plunger may be rotatably coupled to the lid and configured to seal the dosing chamber. The container may be configured to dispense a dose of the flowable solid when the plunger is in the unsealed position and the container is at least partially inverted, and each dose may have an equal volume.Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 2021Date of Patent: April 4, 2023Assignee: PepsiCo, Inc.Inventors: Xavier Cortadellas, Syed Peer, Toby Richard David Wingfield, Albert Kwak, Charles Simon Paradise, Emma Pearl Willmer-Shiles
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Patent number: 11261010Abstract: There is proposed a dispensing apparatus attachable to a container that includes a retractable spout. The dispensing apparatus can dispense a predetermined volume of liquid or aerate a liquid being dispensed, wherein the retractable spout includes a volumetric dispensing assembly for dispense the predetermined volume of liquid, and/or a turbulence forming element that is configured to aerate the liquid.Type: GrantFiled: May 28, 2019Date of Patent: March 1, 2022Inventor: Robert Marciano
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Patent number: 11255447Abstract: A pinch valve assembly includes a valve body having axially-aligned inlet and outlet ports, a flexible sleeve that is releasably mounted within the valve body, a mechanical pinching mechanism, and a valve casing. The flexible sleeve has a longitudinal bore defining a fluid flow path between the inlet port and the outlet port. The pinching mechanism pinches the flexible sleeve to thereby reduce the effective cross-sectional flow area thereof. The valve casing assembly substantially encloses the valve housing. The valve casing assembly includes at least one removable portion to permit access to the valve housing and the flexible sleeve, to facilitate replacement of the flexible sleeve.Type: GrantFiled: August 19, 2021Date of Patent: February 22, 2022Assignee: Flowtech International LimitedInventor: Jason McKenna
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Patent number: 9585504Abstract: A dispenser for granular material such as sugar and salt or other granular ingredients, including a collection portion and metering chamber. A metering cartridge located in the metering chamber includes a portion recess which collects a predetermined amount of granular material to be dispensed. The metering chamber is actuated and the granular material located in the portion recess is dispensed.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 2015Date of Patent: March 7, 2017Assignee: Prince Castle LLCInventors: Kyle Kestner, Scott R. Hammac, Alexander Malevanets, Aleksandr Yazvin, Zack McCoy, Eric Larson, Edward Eaton
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Patent number: 9494455Abstract: An apparatus is provided for delivering a metered dose of a granular material. The apparatus holds the granular material captive at any angle until use. In use, the apparatus is typically inverted and the plunger rod is plunged on a surface and released. During the release the metered dose of material is transferred to a holding area. While still inverted, the apparatus is shaken/agitated/oscillated to release the metered dose of material from the holding area out the exit holes while the bulk of granular material is once again sealed at any angle. The granular material is evenly spread to the desired surface through perforations in the cap portion of the apparatus. It should also be noted that the apparatus can also have its rod plunged in an upright position then inverted and shaken/agitated/oscillated to release the metered dose of material. The apparatus is normally sealed; it can be carried on ones' person or in a pocket or purse.Type: GrantFiled: September 2, 2014Date of Patent: November 15, 2016Inventor: Arthur Gerald Gora
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Patent number: 8985390Abstract: A composition dispensing apparatus which can deliver an repeatable and accurate unit dose of a composition including: a compressible container; a unit dose delivery system comprising an entry element, an exit element, side walls and a dosage chamber; a dispensing aperture; wherein the linear movement ratio of the exit element to the entry element is about 1 or less.Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 2010Date of Patent: March 24, 2015Assignee: The Procter & Gamble CompanyInventors: Gene Michael Altonen, Sean Donald Riggenbach
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Publication number: 20140054329Abstract: A liquid dispenser (100) having a chamber (102) configured to contain a liquid, the chamber (102) having a dispensing aperture (106), a liquid dispensing member (104) comprising a dispensing shaft (104A, 104B) disposed through the dispensing aperture (106), and a releasable latching mechanism, wherein the liquid dispensing member (104) is configured to move between a retracted position and an extended position in each of which the dispensing member (104) and the dispensing aperture (106) form a liquid-tight seal, the dispensing shaft (104A, 104B) is disposed through the dispensing aperture (106) in both the retracted position and the extended position, the liquid dispensing member (104) is configured to dispense a portion of liquid onto a liquid transfer portion (104B) of the dispensing shaft when the dispensing member (104) is extended towards the extended position and the liquid transfer portion is moved from inside the chamber (102) to outside the chamber (102), and the latching mechanism is configured toType: ApplicationFiled: May 18, 2012Publication date: February 27, 2014Applicant: FINGERTISER LIMITEDInventor: Mark Savage
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Patent number: 8640925Abstract: A divot fill/repair apparatus for filling and repairing divots in the turf. The divot fill/repair apparatus includes a container assembly capable of being carried on a user's back, and a dispensing assembly being supported by the container assembly for dispensing fill material to fill and/or repair divots.Type: GrantFiled: January 11, 2010Date of Patent: February 4, 2014Inventor: Katie R. Schwegman
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Patent number: 8485397Abstract: The invention relates to a measuring actuator, a measuring cap, a protective cover, a measuring unit, and a device for fixed and variable measuring and discharging of fluid from a container. The actuator being configured for detachable and movable connection to the cap and adapted for sealing off fluid when in a non-actuated state and to discharge fluid when in an actuated state, the actuator including at least two openings, a discharge opening and a fluid inflow opening; the cap-including at least three openings, a discharge opening and an actuator receiving opening and a fluid inflow opening; the measuring unit including the cap, the actuator, and a spring; the cover for protecting the measuring unit being configured for attachment to the cap and/or the measuring unit; and the measuring device including the cover, the cap, the actuator, the spring, and the container.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2008Date of Patent: July 16, 2013Assignee: Antula Healthcare ABInventor: Hans Borje Hammarin
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Patent number: 8470167Abstract: A device for the dosed transfer of filtered softened water inside boilers of household appliances includes a tank, a cartridge including a water softening agent, a double drain pipe with vertical axis.Type: GrantFiled: July 14, 2010Date of Patent: June 25, 2013Assignee: Unitekno Societa'per AzioniInventor: Vìllelmo Bartolini
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Patent number: 8469237Abstract: A dispensing device for dosage of powdered material comprises a closed housing containing the powdered material and provided with a laterally displaced outlet for the dosed powdered material. An external manually operated sledge is arranged between the housing and the outlet. The sledge has a through-going pocket for containing the desired dose of the powdered material. When operating the sledge, the through-going pocket is moved from a position in the housing to a position in the outlet so as to effect dispensing of the dose of the powdered material through the action of gravity. The sledge also has an agitator including two posts and a bracket that extends between the posts for agitating the powdered material within the housing. The bracket is slightly arched and the leading edge inclines obliquely downwardly so as to press the powdered material towards the pocket when operating the sledge.Type: GrantFiled: May 10, 2012Date of Patent: June 25, 2013Inventor: Claes Thulin
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Patent number: 8220665Abstract: A dosing and/or dispensing system for use with a liquid container such as a bottle or the like for dosing and/or dispensing liquid contents from the bottle. The system includes an improved venting means to ensure that the liquid being dosed or dispensed properly and accurately drains. A novel throat plug assembly is provided for insertion into the throat of the bottle. The throat plug assembly is comprised entirely of a recyclable plastic material.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 2011Date of Patent: July 17, 2012Inventor: Rodney Laible
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Publication number: 20120061425Abstract: A dosing and/or dispensing system for use with a liquid container such as a bottle or the like for dosing and/or dispensing liquid contents from the bottle. The system includes an improved venting means to ensure that the liquid being dosed or dispensed properly and accurately drains. A novel throat plug assembly is provided for insertion into the throat of the bottle. The throat plug assembly is comprised entirely of a recyclable plastic material.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 22, 2011Publication date: March 15, 2012Inventor: RODNEY LAIBLE
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Patent number: 8066157Abstract: A dosing and/or dispensing system for use with a liquid container such as a bottle or the like for dosing and/or dispensing liquid contents from the bottle. The system includes an improved venting to ensure that the liquid being dosed or dispensed properly and accurately drains. A novel throat plug assembly is provided for insertion into the throat of the bottle. The throat plug assembly is comprised entirely of a recyclable plastic material.Type: GrantFiled: February 20, 2009Date of Patent: November 29, 2011Inventor: Rodney Laible
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Patent number: 7967172Abstract: A dispenser for a container has an annular ring with a central portion which has at least one aperture. The annular ring is attached to a valve dimensioned to close an opening of the dispenser. The valve is operatively associated with the opening and biased in the closed position. Depressing the annular ring acts as an actuator to cause the valve to move inwardly into the container and away from the opening, thereby allowing the contents to be dispensed from the container through the at least one aperture of the annular ring.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2008Date of Patent: June 28, 2011Assignee: Kraft Foods Global Brands LLCInventor: Gary J. Albaum
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Publication number: 20100301072Abstract: The invention relates to a measuring actuator (30), a measuring cap (20), a protective cover (60), a measuring unit, and a device for fixed and variable measuring and discharging of fluid from a container. The actuator (30) being configured for detachable and movable connection to the cap and adapted for sealing off fluid when in a non-actuated state and to discharge fluid when in an actuated state, the actuator comprising at least two openings, a discharge opening (31) and a fluid inflow opening (32); the cap-comprising at least three openings, a discharge opening and an actuator receiving opening and a fluid inflow opening; the measuring unit comprising the cap,’ the actuator, and a spring (50); the cover (60) for protecting the measuring unit being configured for attachment to the cap (20) and/or the measuring unit; and the measuring device comprising the cover (60), the cap (20), the actuator (30), the spring (50), and the container.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 14, 2008Publication date: December 2, 2010Applicant: ANTULA HEALTHCARE ABInventor: Hans Borje Hammarin
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Patent number: 7841492Abstract: A dosing and/or dispensing system for use with an inverted liquid container such as a bottle or the like for dosing and/or dispensing liquid contents from the bottle. The system includes an improved venting device to ensure that the liquid is dosed or dispensed properly and accurately drains; and an anti-drip valve is provided to prevent liquid from dripping from the discharge end of the dosing bowl of the system.Type: GrantFiled: February 20, 2009Date of Patent: November 30, 2010Inventor: Rodney Laible
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Patent number: 7832599Abstract: A dosing and/or dispensing system for use with a liquid container such as an inverted. bottle or the like for dosing and/or dispensing liquid contents from the bottle. The system includes a throat plug assembly, wherein the throat plug assembly includes a normally closed, vertically movable first valve therein; a mounting ring having an inner face including threads thereon adapted to threadably receive the throat of the container; a knob having an actuator rod, wherein the actuator rod includes second and third vertically spaced valves mounted thereon for movement; and an improved venting device to ensure that the liquid is dosed or dispensed properly and accurately drains.Type: GrantFiled: July 16, 2007Date of Patent: November 16, 2010Inventor: Rodney Laible
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Patent number: 7770529Abstract: A method and device for filling a container with a fertilizer, pesticide, fungicide, herbicide, insecticide, chemical, or the like material by gravity, includes a housing with an inlet and an outlet, a valve for opening or restricting a flow between the inlet and outlet and having open and closed positions, and an actuator disposed downstream of the inlet for actuating the valve between the open and closed positions, wherein the actuator is operated by a container to be filled with a material.Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 2005Date of Patent: August 10, 2010Inventor: J. Andrew Phillips, Jr.
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Patent number: 7614528Abstract: Disclosed is a liquid dispensing apparatus capable of regulating a discharged amount of liquid.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 2005Date of Patent: November 10, 2009Assignee: Barflex CorporationInventor: Jin-Do Jeong
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Publication number: 20080251544Abstract: Disclosed is a liquid dispensing apparatus capable of regulating a discharged amount of liquid.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 30, 2005Publication date: October 16, 2008Inventor: Jin-Do Jeong
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Patent number: 6929158Abstract: A dispenser for granular material having a container for storing the material. The container is connected to a dispensing assembly having a chamber in removable communication with the container. The volume of the chamber is controlled by an insert that is installed in one of several positions and orientations within the chamber to determine the amount of material to be dispensed from the container.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 2003Date of Patent: August 16, 2005Assignee: Traex CompanyInventor: Charles F. Smiley
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Patent number: 6796343Abstract: A shuttle container (2) is used in conjunction with a dispenser (22) to receive a metered dose of a liquid from a reservoir (26). The dispenser (22) includes a metering chamber which is filled and emptied by a pair of valves (43 and 58) operated by a common shaft (40). The shuttle container (2) has a locating sleeve (12) which engages with a locating slot (36) in the dispenser (22) to axially align the shuttle container (2) with the dispenser. The shuttle (2) carries a spigot (14) engage the shaft (40) to effect a discharge of liquid into the shuttle container (2). The collar (6) of the shuttle container (2) has a pair of dogs (8) which engage respective slots (38) in the outer circumference of the dispenser (22). Before the dogs (8) can engage the slots (38), the profiled end of the spigot (14) must engage a matingly profiled recess in the shaft (40). Before the shaft (40) can be displaced, it must be rotated to move a projection (52) on the shaft out of alignment with an abutment (50).Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2003Date of Patent: September 28, 2004Assignee: Syngenta LimitedInventors: Stephen Frederick Kelsey, John Madoc Kelso, Gerard Michael O'Brien
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Publication number: 20040031819Abstract: A dispenser for granular material having a container for storing the material. The container is connected to a dispensing assembly having a chamber in removable communication with the container. The volume of the chamber is controlled by an insert that is installed in one of several positions and orientations within the chamber to determine the amount of material to be dispensed from the container.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 12, 2003Publication date: February 19, 2004Inventor: Charles F. Smiley
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Patent number: 6578740Abstract: A self-standing type bag-shaped vacuum container has a self-standing container including a wall formed of a soft sheet, a pouring port, and a check valve mounted in the pouring port. The check valve is opened to allow the migration of a content of the container when subjected to a pressure in the pouring direction, but is closed when subjected to a pressure in a filling direction, so that the inside of the container is evacuated. The self-standing container can be optimized for storing beverages or the like which are negatively effected by contact with air, because the content will be oxidized with the air. The vacuum type container will not lose its self-standing property even if the content is reduced, and can stand stably by itself.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2001Date of Patent: June 17, 2003Inventor: Tadashi Hagihara
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Patent number: 6547105Abstract: A plastic container having a storage chamber which graduates from a shoulder section into a bottle neck, in such a way that the length of the bottle neck can be changed about its axis. Thus, this invention provides a constriction between the shoulder section and a pour-out area. The constriction is adjacent the shoulder section and is followed by an area which can be axially compressed. The constriction can serve as a sealing area. Liquid, free-flowing and pourable media can be discharged in doses using a metering element which is fixed to the top of the bottle neck and which penetrates the constriction. By exerting pressure on the metering element, it is possible to establish an open or closed connection between the metering element and the storage chamber of the plastic container.Type: GrantFiled: January 15, 2002Date of Patent: April 15, 2003Assignee: Createchnic AGInventors: Fritz Seelhofer, Fernando Suarez
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Patent number: 6536634Abstract: A fluid dispensing solenoid valve includes a plunger tube that forms an inlet orifice and an outlet orifice. A plunger that forms a fluid chamber is slidably disposed within the plunger tube. The plunger is movable between a fluid fill configuration, wherein the fluid chamber communicates with the inlet orifice to allow the fluid chamber to be filled and a fluid dump configuration, wherein the fluid chamber communicates with the outlet orifice to allow the fluid chamber to be emptied. The fluid dispensing solenoid valve is used to dispense a very accurate quantity of fluid in very controllable manner.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 2001Date of Patent: March 25, 2003Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Axel H Berndorfer, Ivan Rafael Samalot
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Patent number: 6484906Abstract: A dosing nozzle is intended to be fitted onto a container containing a product. The nozzle comprises a dosing cavity which can move between a first position and a second position in which it occupies a minimum volume, the cavity being delimited by first and second pistons capable of sliding inside a fixed body. The first piston is fixed to a closure member capable, selectively, of closing off/exposing at least one outlet of the dosing cavity. During a first phase of the movement of the dosing cavity, the first piston is driven by through the effect of the pressure of the product being exerted on the second piston and, during a second phase of the movement of the dosing cavity, the first piston is driven by the pressure of the product being exerted on the first piston, the second piston being immobilized in translation during this second phase.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 2001Date of Patent: November 26, 2002Assignee: L'OrealInventor: Philippe Bonningue
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Patent number: 6478199Abstract: A dispenser can automatically dispense chemical from an aerosol container at predetermined intervals without the use of electric power. A diaphragm at least partially defines an accumulation chamber that receives chemical from the can during an accumulation phase. Once the internal pressure of the accumulation chamber reaches a predetermined threshold, the diaphragm moves, carrying with it valving that controls a spray burst. The diaphragm assumes its original position when the pressure within the accumulation chamber falls below a threshold pressure. A barrier prevents the aerosol container from resupplying the accumulation chamber at a high rate during the spray phase, preferably due to a porous gasket disposed in a passageway linking the dispenser to the aerosol container.Type: GrantFiled: January 24, 2002Date of Patent: November 12, 2002Assignee: S. C. Johnson & Son, Inc.Inventors: Donald J. Shanklin, Nathan R. Westphal, Thomas Jaworski
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Patent number: 6434353Abstract: An ink feeding valve of a wet type electrophotographic printer, capable of basically preventing operational error and incapability of valve due to ink attachment, includes: a valve body having a pipeline for interconnecting the concentrated ink tank with the developing solution tank; a rod assembly disposed in the pipeline of the valve body so as to be vertically moved for selectively opening/closing the pipeline; an elevating section for vertically moving the rod assembly; and a corrugated tube disposed in the pipeline of the valve body for partitioning the pipeline into an inner ink passage and an outside elevating section operating chamber, and for preventing ink flow into the elevating section operating chamber. Since the ink passage and the elevating section operating chamber are isolated from each other by the presence of a corrugated tube, the plunger and spring located in the elevating section operating chamber are efficiently operated without having problems caused due to ink attachment.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 2000Date of Patent: August 13, 2002Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co.Inventors: Jin-geun Kwak, Kwang-ho No
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Publication number: 20020100773Abstract: An apparatus for holding and dispensing metered doses of an active composition into a washing, drying or dishwashing machine has a supply chamber which holds at least double the amount of an individual dose of the active composition. A dispensing chamber is connected to the supply chamber by a passage in order to receive an individual dose of the active composition and to discharge the composition by way of a discharging passage. The closing of the passage between the supply chamber and the dispensing chamber, either beforehand or simultaneously, is actuated by means which are activated by conditions inside the machine, existing exclusively during a washing, drying or dishwashing cycle. The passage between the supply chamber and the dispensing chamber is re-opened and, beforehand or simultaneously, the discharging passage from the dispensing chamber is closed, so that the dispensing chamber can be re-filled from the supply chamber.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 22, 2002Publication date: August 1, 2002Applicant: Reckitt Benckiser N.V,Inventors: Timothy Rodd, Graham Fuller, Peter T.M. Nott, Richard Harbutt
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Patent number: 6336396Abstract: The invention concerns an apparatus comprising a container (1) closed with a lid (6) storing the product to be dispensed, a cylinder communicating with the container (1) and whereof the bottom is provided with an outlet, a piston (12) traversed by at least one orifice (13), sliding in the cylinder, a check valve (25) mobile between positions opening and closing the orifice (13), said check valve (25) being urged by a spring towards its opening position, a dispensing nozzle communicating with the outlet and provided with a normally closed plug which opens by the effect of the pressure of the product contained in the cylinder, and means for actuating the piston from outside the container (1). The invention is useful for making pancakes.Type: GrantFiled: September 5, 2000Date of Patent: January 8, 2002Inventor: André Sala
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Patent number: 6227418Abstract: Permanently or detachably mounted on a container (1) is a dosing and metering device that contains a pressure bellows (3), through which a valve-plate holder (8) passes. The valve-plate holder (8) essentially has the shape of a hollow cylinder and exhibits gaps or lateral openings (18), to enable communicating contact between pressure bellows (3) and container (1). The valve-plate holder (8) is arranged in a transition zone between pressure bellows (3) and container (1), in a fixed position relative to the container or container neck. The valve plate (7) attached to the end of the valve-plate holder (8) forms a valve seat (4) together with the constriction (31) between pressure bellows (3) and the metering chamber (5) that follows it. Axial pressure upon the metering chamber (5) allows the metering chamber to be entirely or partly filled or drained back into the container, as desired, in which case the contents of the metering chamber can be poured out when the cap is removed.Type: GrantFiled: November 24, 1999Date of Patent: May 8, 2001Assignee: Createchnic AGInventor: Ulrich Loertscher
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Patent number: 6010041Abstract: A device for the discharge of bulk material (96) from a pressure vessel (2) is proposed, which comprises at least one sluice bin (24, 26) with a bottom (42, 44) and a top (40) sluice gate. The sluice bin (24, 26) is arranged under a plate (76, 76'), into which it forms an orifice (28, 30) for the bulk material (96). The top sluice gate (40) has a sealing plate (66), which is arranged above this plate (76, 76') in such a way that it can be positioned above the orifice (28, 30) of the sluice bin (24, 26) and, after a sealing connection to the edge of the orifice (28, 30) has been made, can be forced against this edge by overpressure in the pressure vessel (2).Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 1998Date of Patent: January 4, 2000Assignee: Paul Wurth, S.A.Inventors: Emile Lonardi, Romain Frieden, Jorg Brinckmann, Patrick Hutmacher
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Patent number: 5967366Abstract: A windshield cleaning fluid dispenser 10 that is coin-operated. The windshield cleaning fluid dispenser 10 of the present includes a primary reservoir 15 in which the windshield cleaning fluid 18 is stored pending dispensing. A measuring reservoir 20 is in fluid communication with the primary reservoir 15. A dispensing tube 25 is in fluid communication with the measuring reservoir 20. The flow of windshield cleaning fluid 18 between the primary reservoir 15 and the measuring reservoir 20 is controlled by a pair of crank 60 actuated poppet valves 30 and 40. Springs 35 and 45 are provided to bias the poppet valves into the closed position. Crank 60 has a substantially cylindrical cross section and a pair of tethers 76 and 78 are secured to the crank 60 at a selected point 80 on its circumference. The distal end 81 of the first tether 76 is secured to the first poppet valve 30 and the distal end 82 of the second tether 78 is secured to the second poppet valve 40.Type: GrantFiled: May 28, 1998Date of Patent: October 19, 1999Inventor: Albert Franklin Cason
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Patent number: 5944231Abstract: A dispenser assembly particularly adapted to selectively dispense predetermined amounts of dry fertilizer or other dry material onto an area of disbursement, such as a plant, and including an elongated dispensing conduit having a holding chamber of predetermined dimension connected thereto along with a control mechanism such that selective operation of the control mechanism will automatically dispense, by gravity, a premeasured amount of dry material onto the disbursement area. A double disk valve mechanism is provided having an inlet valve and an outlet valve simultaneously translatable to open one end of the holding chamber and close the respective other end. In an embodiment, the outlet valve is selectable from a plurality of valve plates to vary the dispensing amount. A gun-shaped valve mechanism is provided as the control mechanism in a preferred embodiment.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 1995Date of Patent: August 31, 1999Inventor: Jorge Arturo Nuila
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Patent number: 5894965Abstract: A measuring/dispensing cap for a container comprising a peripheral side wall and a pivotable flip top movable between closed and open positions, the flip top mounted for pivotal motion about a horizontal hinge axis wherein the hinge axis separates a closure panel of the flip top from a push panel of the flip top; a first panel within the side wall having a first free edge in substantially vertical alignment with the hinge axis; a second weir panel having a weir edge extending parallel to and laterally spaced from the first free edge, thus establishing a weir opening, the closure panel and the weir panel along with a portion of the peripheral side wall defining a measuring chamber within the cap, adapted to receive contents of a container passing through the weir opening.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 1997Date of Patent: April 20, 1999Assignee: Edward S. Robbins, IIIInventors: Edward S. Robbins, III, Craig Saunders, Jesse Carlson, Morris Binder
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Patent number: 5871120Abstract: A vacuum storage and dispensing container for use with perishable items, particularly food products, and more particularly for use with roasted whole-bean coffee in any retailing application, to extend shelf life of the perishable item. The invention includes a storage and dispensing container, and further includes a valve mechanism for opening the cylinder to the atmosphere. A merchandising unit for storing and dispensing perishables includes a plurality of the above described vacuum storage and dispensing containers.Type: GrantFiled: February 19, 1997Date of Patent: February 16, 1999Assignee: Community Coffee Company, Inc.Inventors: Johnie Romero, Andrew R. Weber, Douglas B. Leeds, Helene Paulson, Arthur T. Sempliner
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Patent number: 5855300Abstract: A dispensing device for dispensing a predetermined amount of solid materials in powder or granular form allows a predetermined quantity, say for example a spoonful of sugar, to be dispensed into a coffee cup. The dispensing device allows measured quantities to be dispensed which avoids having to use a teaspoon or other measuring device. The device has a container, a body member below the container having a longitudinal passage therein, a top opening from the container to the longitudinal passage, a sliding member with a substantially rectangular cross-section, the sliding member having a sliding fit within the longitudinal passage, movable from a first position to a second position.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 1996Date of Patent: January 5, 1999Inventor: Avraham Malki
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Patent number: 5850944Abstract: A measuring dispensing cap for a container comprising a peripheral sidewall and a pivotable flip top supported on the peripheral sidewall for rocking movement about a hinge axis; the hinge axis separating a push panel portion of the flip top from a dispensing panel portion of the flip top; and wherein a measuring chamber is formed an area enclosed the peripheral sidewall underlying the dispensing panel portion; wherein the measuring chamber is defined by a portion of the peripheral sidewall, the dispensing panel portion, and by an angled weir panel extending from the peripheral sidewall downwardly and inwardly, terminating at a weir edge in substantial vertical alignment with the hinge axis, thereby creating a weir opening into the chamber; and wherein the flip top is formed with a depending flange which engages the weir panel edge when the flip top is opened to thereby close the weir opening.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 1995Date of Patent: December 22, 1998Assignee: Edward S. Robbins, IIIInventors: Edward S. Robbins, III, Gregory S. Burcham
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Patent number: 5758803Abstract: A milk powder dispenser for dispensing a predetermined amount of milk powder is provided. The dispenser includes a base unit, a milk powder measuring unit, and a control unit. The base unit includes a base plate formed with an opening. The milk powder measuring unit is mounted on a bottom side of the base plate and confines a milk powder retaining chamber that is aligned with the opening in the base plate. The control unit has a top wall formed with an inlet opening and extending slidably between the measuring unit and the base plate, and a bottom wall formed with an outlet opening and extending slidably below the measuring unit.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 1996Date of Patent: June 2, 1998Assignee: Chin-Hai LiaoInventors: Chin-Hai Liao, Wen-Pin Liao
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Patent number: 5749495Abstract: The present invention relates to a dispenser for dispensing two liquid products. The dispenser permits feed-out of the viscous products either separately or together.Type: GrantFiled: May 28, 1996Date of Patent: May 12, 1998Assignee: Aspect International ABInventor: Leif Einar Stern
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Patent number: 5746355Abstract: A dispenser for pulverulent materials includes receptacle for receiving a container holding the material to be dispensed. A valve body defining metering cavities is mounted in the valve body. A gate also mounted in the valve body includes a first portion for selectively locking flow into the metering cavities and a second portion for selectively blocking flow exiting the metering cavities, with a desired quantity of material being trapped between the gate portions, for subsequent release.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 1996Date of Patent: May 5, 1998Assignee: Cargill, IncorporatedInventor: Kermit A. Wold
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Patent number: 5713492Abstract: The mouthwash dispensing device includes a frame having first and second reservoirs secured thereto, the first reservoir having a first port and the second reservoir having a second port, the first and second reservoirs adapted to contain mouthwash therein. A valve assembly is associated with the first and second reservoirs for selectively gating the first and second ports. An actuating assembly is associated with the valve for opening and closing the ports to release mouthwash from the reservoirs in response to user manipulation. The frame is adapted to store both drinking cups and a bottle of mouthwash therein. A locking cover is provided to restrict access to the stored cups and mouthwash.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 1995Date of Patent: February 3, 1998Assignee: Consumer Promotions, Inc.Inventor: Michael DeGennaro
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Patent number: 5685461Abstract: An apparatus that consistently dispenses a predetermined volume of granular material into a receptacle, e.g., a coffee cup. The apparatus including container, guide, housing of three integral horizonal sections, plunger, spring and pin. Container stores granular material, e.g., sugar. Directly below container and secured tightly thereto cylindrical guide substantially same diameter as container neck and having vertically disposed opening therethrough. Guide can have funnel for directing granular contents toward opening. Directly below guide and tightly secured thereto is cylindrical housing. Upper section has guide way and stepped down opening in housing wall. Opposite this opening is pin partially embedded into housing wall and projecting into the guide way. Middle section of housing has vertically disposed outlet offset guide opening. Lower section of housing is substantially deep and has at least one perforation for directing steam out of housing.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 1995Date of Patent: November 11, 1997Inventor: Terry Mitchell
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Patent number: 5645195Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, an apparatus is provided for dispensing dough. The apparatus comprises a dough hopper (11) having a valve chamber (12) at its lower end into which dough from the hopper is metered and from which dough is eventually discharged by a valve unit (14). Dough is expelled from the valve chamber in response to downward strokes of a dispensing rod (30) attached to the valve unit. In the preferred embodiment, a dough former (72) is attached to the valve unit and is used to dispense multiple charges of dough. In an alternative embodiment, the valve unit is provided with a seat (27) having a discharge opening (19) through which dough is dispensed in a single charge.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 1995Date of Patent: July 8, 1997Inventors: Thomas E. Belshaw, Frank W. Ebelle, Christopher L. Bowers
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Patent number: 5577642Abstract: A device for containing and metering a powder-form product has a body member which defines a hopper and a tube which extends from the hopper. The tube has successive portions configured to provide at least one metering chamber and a flow chute which extends to a tube opening for delivering powder-form product from the hopper via the metering chamber. A plug member is connected with a closure member which, in turn, is connected to a connecting member which, in turn, is connected with a housing member positioned in the hopper. A mounting member is affixed with the hopper, a first rotatable lever extends from the mounting member into the hopper, and a second rotatable lever extends from the mounting member outside of the hopper about a same axis as the first lever so that upon rotation of the second lever, the first lever is rotated.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 1995Date of Patent: November 26, 1996Assignee: Nestec S.A.Inventors: Petr Masek, Jean-Fran.cedilla.ois Tinembart
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Patent number: 5477992Abstract: Metered dose dispensing valves providing good dosage reproducibility with formulations having a propensity to cream and with low concentration formulations. Valves having a tank retaining cup have a small inlet aperture of no more than 0.7 mm and preferably the tank retaining cup follows the configuration of the end of the valve stem. Valves having a bottle emptier attached to the valve stem have a filling channel in the valve stem which protrudes only slightly from the metering chamber when the valve is in its inoperative position.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 1994Date of Patent: December 26, 1995Assignee: Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing CompanyInventors: Philip A. Jinks, Charles G. Thiel, Trevor J. Wilde
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Patent number: 5339994Abstract: A dispenser assembly particularly adapted to selectively dispense predetermined amounts of dry fertilizer or other dry material onto an area of disbursement, such as a plant, and including an elongated dispensing conduit having a holding chamber of predetermined dimension connected thereto along with a control mechanism such that selective operation of the control mechanism will automatically dispense, by gravity, a premeasured amount of dry material onto the disbursement area. A double disk valve means is provided having an inlet valve and an outlet valve simultaneously translatable to open one end of the holding chamber and close the respective other end. A gun-shaped valve means is provided as the control mechanism in a preferred embodiment.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 1992Date of Patent: August 23, 1994Inventor: Jorge A. Nuila
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Patent number: 5125540Abstract: The present invention is drawn to a container for dispensing fluids in metered amounts and, more particularly, a container for dispensing motor oil for lubricating the engine of a vehicle. The container comprises a housing defining space within which a wall is mounted for dividing the space into first and second compartments. A valve actuator stem is mounted in the first compartments and is selectively moveable from a first position through a second position to a third position and back again for selectively operating a fluid inlet valve and gas inlet and outlet valves. A second actuator is associated with the second compartment defined within the space of the housing. The second valve actuator is moveable between a first and a second position for opening and closing a fluid outlet valve. A linkage is provided for interconnecting the valve actuators.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 1991Date of Patent: June 30, 1992Assignee: Maraven, S.A.Inventor: Hugo Rodriguez