Abstract: A variable-rate, digitally controlled fluid metering device having an electronically controlled 3-way valve, a fluid reservoir, a float valve, a check valve and a pressure relief valve that accurately delivers low flow volumes. The flow rate of the device is the product of reservoir volume and pulse rate when the cycle is long enough to fill and empty the reservoir and is a linear combination of cycle time when the cycle is short enough that the reservoir does not fill or empty completely. This device allows the use of large orifice emitters for delivering low flow rates of fluids, which allows the use of lower quality fluids and/or reduces filtration steps and clogging of emitters.

Abstract: A pumping system includes a chamber (10) having an intake orifice (11) for introducing liquid into said chamber (10). A discharge orifice (12) discharges the liquid from the chamber (10). Another orifice (13) receives pressurized gas. A valve is located at each of the orifices (11, 12, 13). The valves (15, 16, 17) are controlled in synchronization according to two phases. During the first phase the valve (15) opens at the intake orifice (11) while the other two valves (16 and 17) are closed, in order to fill the chamber (10). During a second phase the valve (15) associated with the intake orifice (11) is closed while the other two valves (16 and 17) are open, this enabling pressurized gas to be introduced into the chamber (10), thereby expelling the liquid in the chamber (10) through the discharge orifice (12).

Abstract: Disclosed is a water pressure booster apparatus which can be employed for the dispensing of beverages. The booster can be combined as a carbonator and water pressure booster apparatus for holding both carbonated and non-carbonated water at elevated pressures, for the dispensing of carbonated and non-carbonated beverages. The apparatus has a tank including a tank chamber with a booster chamber therein. The two chambers are separated by a flexible membrane such that the elevated pressure is essentially the same in the two chambers. The booster chamber is removable through an access port in the tank. A valve provides inlet water to the tank chamber and the booster chamber. The location of the membrane controls the valve between charging of the two chambers. The valve is a spool valve with one end coupled to the membrane. The quantities of water in the two chambers controls activation of a pump which provides charging water to the chambers.

Abstract: A beverage dispensing apparatus is provided which includes a housing (1) having a chamber (3) in which a beverage container (5) can be placed, the container having at least one deformable wall (16) and an outlet (8) to which a beverage delivery line (7, 34) and a tapping device (6) can be connected, a locking and sealing mechanism (10, 12, 13) for closing a pressure space (17) in an airtight manner, which pressure space is situated between an outer wall (16) of the beverage container (5) and an inner wall (15) of the chamber (3), and a pressurizing device (16) for pressurizing the pressure space (17) to force beverage out of the container via the outlet. To improve the sealing and locking and to make the apparatus convenient to operate for the user the locking and sealing mechanism (10, 12, 13) is arranged between the outer wall (16) of the beverage container and a wall of the chamber.

Abstract: A device for filling a pharmaceutical fluid into vials has a product container, which is connected to a distributor by way of a first line. Filling lines branch from the distributor and have filling valves for the individual vials. In order to improve the filling precision, particularly with fluids that have a very temperature-dependent flow behavior, the invention discloses cooling the distributor via a coolant so that during the filling procedures, the fluid has a substantially constant temperature. That substantially constant temperature then forms the basis underlying the calculation of the triggering time of the filling valves by a control unit with greater precision than is shown in the prior art.

Abstract: A system for accurately dispensing controlled amounts of viscous material. The system includes a pressurized supply of the viscous material, a dispenser connected with the pressurized supply and a feedback control for ensuring that a discrete dispensed amount corresponds closely to the desired dispensed amount for a particular application. The different methods of feedback control include changing pressure of the pressurized supply after measuring a dispensed amount and comparing the dispensed amount with a stored value representing the desired amount. Another manner of feedback control includes changing an air operating pressure associated with the dispenser. A third type of feedback control includes adjusting the duration that the dispenser is maintained on to dispense the viscous material. Each of these types of feedback control are preferably used in succession, as necessary, to ensure that the desired amount of viscous material is discharged from the dispenser.

Abstract: Described herein is a chemical injection system and method utilizing a chemical storage vessel coupled to a bulk source of chemical and proportioned to contain a volume of chemical useful for multiple applications for which the chemical is to be utilized. A dispense vessel proportioned to contain a volume of chemical useful for a single application is fluidly coupled to the chemical storage vessel. A controller controls operation of a system of valves and sensors, which operate to fill the chemical storage vessel, and to precisely dispense the volume required for a single application from the storage vessel into the dispense vessel and then ultimately into the vessel in which the chemical is needed.

Abstract: Briefly, this invention uses one or more pressure vessels having installed therein on its inside a balloon of flexible and non-expandable wall to smoothly and continuously deliver a chemical to any end user without contamination and gas dissolution. Since the balloon installed inside the pressure vessel isolates a high pressure gas from the chemicals, gas dissolution in the chemical and the resulted gas bubble problems are effectively eliminated. Further, contaminants in the high pressure gas which fills the balloon will not be transferred into the chemical and the extremely toxic chemical will not be transferred into the gas to be exhausted as a serious environmental issue. Unlike the vacuum/pressure system, the contamination by the ambient air leaking into the system is avoided because the disclosed delivery system is always with the pressure higher or equal to the ambient pressure.

Abstract: A drinking system having a pneumatically charged container, a flow regulating manifold cap, a pull-valve, and nozzle. The flow regulating cap allows the pressurized container to deliver liquid with essentially constant flow as the air expands to fill the volume of the container. The nozzle may be mounted on the handlebars of a bicycle, and when the pull-valve is actuated, directs a liquid stream toward the cyclists mouth when on rough terrain, the nozzle may extend from its normal position and be placed between the cyclists teeth or directed at the cyclists mouth using a helmet mounted extension arm.

Abstract: A frame for a portable sprayer having an interlocking joint for securing sections of a frame on opposite sides of a tank. The interlocking joint facilitates attachment and detachment of tanks with respect to the frame, as well as securing a telescopic handle relative to the frame. An extension rib prevents the tank from tipping-over.

Abstract: An apparatus for determining Brix utilizing a liquid sugar or syrup and a water or water based liquid stream. The apparatus includes a conduit for the water, a conduit for the sugar syrup, and a third conduit connected to the first and second conduits for use as a mixture stream of the syrup and the water. Pressure is applied to the sugar syrup in the first conduit and the water in the second conduit. The pressure of the water in the second conduit is predetermined to equal or lie at a greater value than the pressure applied to the sugar in the first conduit. A regulating mechanism is found in the third conduit for setting a value of the Brix of the mixture stream, detecting the actual Brix concentration, and a valve adjustment to the water stream responsive to a differential between the actual and set values of Brix in the mixture stream.

Abstract: An apparatus for delivering abrasive suspensions includes a reservoir containing an abrasive suspension, a loop for delivering the abrasive suspension to a point of use, the loop being connected to the reservoir, a pumping arrangement for circulating the abrasive suspension in the loop and for ensuring its return into the reservoir, the loop and the reservoir being arranged for recovering the abrasive suspension after circulation in the loop at a recovery point of the reservoir, and a control system for controlling the pumping arrangement so as to maintain a continuous circulation of the suspension.

Abstract: A dispensing monitor used in a SOG machine to planarize a semiconductor substrate which includes: a container, a gas control valve. a gas release valve, a pressure monitor, and a pressure sensing apparatus. A chemical solution contained in the container is controlled and conveyed through the gas control valve to be sprayed onto the substrate. The pressure monitor and the pressure sensing apparatus and the gas release valve are used for monitoring the internal pressure to keep a constant pressure so that the chemical solution is precisely exported.

Abstract: A chemical delivery system for the direct delivery of a chemical from a drum to a process area comprising a pressurized tank having a pressure/vacuum lock closure, a drum containing a chemical to be dispensed housed within the pressurized tank, and a closed loop electronic feed back system for the controlled dispensing of the chemical from the drum to a process area without the use of a pumping system. The closed loop electronic feed back system monitors and controls the flow of chemical from the drum by regulating the pressure within the pressurized tank. In an alternative embodiment, a closed loop electro-pneumatic fluid control system is provided which controls or modulates a pneumatic output valve disposed between the drum and the process in order to regulate the chemical flow from the drum.

Abstract: A method for controlling a device for feeding dust-like or finely granular flowable material from at least one conveying container into a transport line, wherein the conveying containers for removal of the flowable material are simultaneously supplied with pressure and emptied, whereby, after pressure relief, the conveying containers are filled again with flowable material, includes the step of determining the optimal amount of flowable material with regard to the specific device parameters for a maximum possible filling level of the conveying containers. The amount of flowable material removed from the conveying containers is determined based on the measured relevant transporting parameters. The amount of flowable material removed is compared to the optimal amount of material to be transported.

Abstract: Extracting a quantity of liquid from a closed container by driving a cannula having a passage the length of the cannula and a groove a partial length of the cannula through the closure of the container until the groove establishes communication between a pressurized chamber and the container, thereby forcing liquid from the tube through the passage.

Abstract: A liquid reagent dispensing assembly, comprising a gas-pressurizable vessel including a floor, and an interior volume bounded by interior wall and floor surfaces. A dip-tube liquid discharge conduit is employed for discharging liquid from the gas-pressurized vessel. The vessel is provided with a liquid level sensor for sensing liquid reagent level in the vessel interior volume. The floor of the vessel has a cavity therein extending downwardly from the surface of the floor, and the lower end of the dip tube is positioned in the cavity. The dispensing assembly of the invention may usefully be employed for dispensing of reagents such as precursors for deposition of materials in the manufacture of semiconductor materials and devices, and achieves a high level of withdrawal of the reagent liquid from the vessel.

Abstract: A portable fluid pumping apparatus for use in combination a conventional ice chest or water container for providing a pressurized fluid supply for a portable shower or dish washing or other desired use requiring a portable pressurized fluid stream. The apparatus is capable of releasable mating to conventional round and square ice chests and water containers at the spigot on such containers. An optional belt for depression of spring loaded spigots is provided to depress the valve on such spigots during use. The device is adaptable to various shaped containers using an adaptive modular mounting system featuring resilient collar and cooperative fasteners which provide a stable mount between the device and the container to which it attaches.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a liquid dispensing system and a method for dispensing liquid that includes two hermetically sealed tanks each having a liquid container with a conduit pipe connecting the two containers. A differential pressure exists between the two tanks such that a process liquid can be fed from the second container into a dispensing nozzle under the differential pressure and the gravity of the liquid without the need of a pumping system. The problems of gel formation normally observed in conventional dispensing systems can be eliminated. A high viscosity, short shelf life liquid can be most suitably dispensed by the present invention novel dispensing system and method.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a device for supplying a liquid to a plurality of apparatuses which apply the liquid to substrates to process the substrates. The device comprises a tank containing the liquid, a supply passage for supplying the liquid from the tank to the apparatuses, branch passages connected to the supply passage, for supplying the liquid to liquid-applying members provided in the apparatuses, and valves provided on the branch passages, respectively. The valves are controlled each other, for opening and closing the branch passages such that the liquid-applying member of one apparatus applies the liquid to a substrate while the liquid-applying member of any other apparatus remains to apply the liquid to a substrate.

Abstract: A dairy chemical dispensing system for supplying an amount of at least one chemical to a utilization point in a dairy wash system, comprising: (a) an operator input controller for receiving operator input comprising input of a given amount of chemical to be supplied to the utilization point, and providing a signal corresponding to the operator input; and (b) a chemical dispenser in operative contact with the operator input controller, comprising a chemical source conduit, a pump connected to the chemical source conduit and to a chemical output conduit for supplying the chemical at a predetermined flow rate to the utilization point, a flow sensor connected to the output conduit for measuring an actual flow rate of the chemical through the output conduit, and a data processor electrically coupled to the pump and the flow sensor, where the data processor(1) receives the signal from the operator input controller, and based on that signal, determines a pump activation time necessary to supply the given amount of c

Abstract: A binder system component metering apparatus for use in core sand mixing equipment comprising an elongate hollow vessel of substantially greater length than width and having upper and lower end portions, valves located in a lower end portion of the elongate vessel for introducing via hydrostatic pressure, liquid binder system components into the vessel so that as the vessel is filled the liquid presents an upper surface that rises vertically, and sensor located in the upper end portion of the elongate vessel to continuously sense the position of the liquid surface at infinite locations along the length of elongate vessel whereby the upper surface rises with minimum turbulence.

Abstract: The invention provides a system and method of dispensing heated condiment from a condiment source. The condiment is flowed through a heater hose, and the temperature of the condiment is controlled within a predetermined range by sensing the temperature of the condiment in the hose and controlling the operation of the heater hose to maintain the temperature of the condiment within the predetermined range which results in the dispensing of condiment at a desired temperature.

Abstract: A chamber that communicates with a viscous material reservoir has a flexible resilient diaphragm which forms an exterior wall thereof. An impact mechanism, which may comprise a solenoid actuated hammer, applies a predetermined momentum to the diaphragm for rapidly metering a predetermined minute blob of the viscous material from the chamber through a nozzle. The reservoir is pressurized with gas to force the viscous material into the chamber to refill the same. The chamber is heated to control the viscosity of the material. Dispensing rates in excess of four blobs per second can be achieved. Variations in the height of the nozzle from the surface of the workpiece are not critical to uniform rapid dispensing. An alternate embodiment eliminates the diaphragm and instead rapidly retracts a nozzle relative to a fluid feed conduit to eject very small blobs of viscous material. A strain gauge detects refill of the chamber inside the nozzle and sends a signal to control refill logic circuitry.

Abstract: An autonomously operated automated food dispenser provides sustenance to one or more animals at prescribed intervals. The dispenser is portable and suitable for use for animals in space vehicle life support systems. A micro-controller controls operation of the outlet valve of a food reservoir that contains a food paste maintained under pressure by a pressurized gas source. Predetermined volume of food paste are extruded through the outlet upon the micro-controller's command. The food cannister is characterized by a novel two part assembly and houses a rolling diaphragm. Pressurized gas is applied to the bottom of the diaphragm, allowing the diaphragm to roll against the food paste, when the outlet valve is opened.

Abstract: A drinking system having a pneumatically charged container, a flow regulating manifold cap, a pull-valve, and nozzle. The flow regulating cap allows the pressurized container to deliver liquid with essentially constant flow as the air expands to fill the volume of the container. The nozzle may be mounted on the handlebars of a bicycle, and when the pull-valve is actuated, directs a liquid stream toward the cyclist's mouth. When on rough terrain, the nozzle may extend from its normal position and be placed between the cyclist's teeth or directed at the cyclist's mouth using a helmet mounted extension arm.

Abstract: A beer vending machine of the invention includes a cylinder containing compressed carbon dioxide gas, a gas regulator for adjusting a secondary pressure of the carbon dioxide gas, a temperature sensor for monitoring a beer temperature, gas and leak valves, and a pressure controller. The gas valve is disposed in a gas pipe line between the beer barrel and the gas regulator to open or close the gas pipe line, and the leak valve is disposed in a branch pipe for depressurizing the beer barrel. Based on the beer temperature obtained by the temperature sensor, the pressure controller controls the gas regulator, the gas valve and the leak valve to set the secondary pressure at an equilibrium pressure corresponding to the obtained beer temperature. Therefore, the beer barrel is pressurized under the suitable equilibrium pressure.

Abstract: Defects, associated with the presence of microbubbles in the photoresist developer solution, have been largely eliminated by providing an apparatus and method whereby the photoresist developer solution, while on standby status in a buffer tank, is maintained at a negative pressure (about minus 0.5 kg/cm.sup.2). This allows any microbubbles, that were introduced into the solution during the course of conveying it to the buffer, to escape. The negative pressure in the buffer during its refill and standby stages is generated by adding a venturi valve to the existing equipment. This keeps the impact on the control software to a minimum and has little or no effect on the cost of the process.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to precise, accurate mixing two or more chemicals in a metered vessel to achieve a precise, accurate concentration of the chemicals. More particularly, the chemicals are mixed in a vessel having constricted vent tubes with level sensors to precisely and accurately determine the volume of chemical introduced into the vessel. Most specifically, the vessel is closed so that the introduction of the chemicals increases the vessel pressure to enhance the mixing of the chemicals, decrease turbulence and enhance the accuracy of the level sensors.

Abstract: Disclosed are combined carbonator and water pressure booster apparatuses for holding both carbonated and non-carbonated water at elevated pressures, for the dispensing of carbonated and non-carbonated beverages. Such apparatuses may comprise a tank including a carbonated chamber and a non-carbonated chamber, wherein the two chambers are separated by a diaphragm, bladder, or piston such that the elevated pressure is essentially the same in the two chambers. The apparatus can also comprise a retrofittable add-on tank for use with an existing carbonation unit.

Abstract: A wireless-operated anti-graffiti spray can system (10) which allows a pressurized spray can (162) to be electronically operated from a remote location. The system (10) is disclosed in two designs: in the first design, a spray can activating device (38) consisting of a solenoid/valve assembly (42), which operates in combination with an electromagnetic coil (40), is used to control the spray can (162). In the second design, the activating device (38) consists of an electro-mechanical solenoid (138), which operates an articulated spray control leaf (142) that is used to the control the spray can (162). In both designs, a transmitting unit (12) is utilized that can only be enabled when connected to a utility a-c power source (160). The transmitting unit (12) produces an RF signal that is received by a receiving unit (28) located remotely and adjacent to the spray can activating device (38).

Abstract: A postmix juice dispenser for use with a disposable juice concentrate package that includes an integral progressive cavity pump and a mixing nozzle. The dispenser can read a product I.D. label on the package to automatically change ratios as packages are switched and a low liquid level indicator in the package to both warn the operator and to then provide automatic shut-off. A controller adjusts the pump motor speed in response to signals from a water flow meter to provide excellent control of ratio, even as water pressure changes. An easy lift-out refrigeration deck is located over an ice-water bath tank capable of holding 27 pounds of ice.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for dispensing a predetermined quantity of a liquid from a dispensing pump. A recirculation path from the dispensing pump to a bulk reservoir is configured to be substantially identical to the dispensing path itself. Periodically, a recirculation cycle is undertaken and the flow rate during the recirculation cycle is determined. With the recirculation and dispensing paths being identical, the dispensing rate for the dispensing path is then known. The method for accurately determining the recirculation rate is derived from Boyle's law to determine the specific volume dispensed in a specific recirculation cycle time.

Abstract: A measuring and dispensing system capable of repeatedly dispensing discrete amounts of fluid having a mass of about 10 g or less and even amounts as small as 1 g. The system includes a pressurized tank for holding a fluid medium such as a liquid pharmaceutical. The tank is coupled in fluid communication to a mass flow sensor. The mass flow sensor is designed to have fluid from the tank flow through it, and measures the mass of the flowing fluid. A controller is coupled in data transmission relation to the mass flow sensor and records each measurement made by the mass flow sensor. A dispenser, such as a flexible tube, is coupled in fluid flowing relation to the mass flow sensor. A valve, such as a pinch valve, is positioned so as to be able to stop flow out of the dispenser. The valve is coupled in data transmission relation to the controller which controls opening and closing of the valve, automatically adjusting the amount of fluid permitted to flow out of the dispenser.

Abstract: A seeding machine comprises: an air compressor for generating a positive air pressure; a soil hardness sensor for measuring soil hardness so as to produce a control signal to adjust the positive air pressure generated by the compressor; an air pressure adjuster for adjusting the positive air pressure generated by the air compressor in accordance with the control signal produced by the soil hardness sensor; a negative air pressure generator for generating a negative air pressure by making use of air under the positive air pressure; a change-over valve for effecting a change-over operation between the positive air pressure and the negative air pressure, so as to selectively supply the positive air pressure or the negative air pressure; a seed adsorber for catching a seed by virtue of the negative air pressure; a first air cylinder adapted to extend or contract by the positive air pressure, to cause a certain reciprocating movement of the seed adsorber; a second air cylinder adapted to extend or contract by the

Abstract: A device for storing a liquid or pasty product and for dispensing a given quantity of the product includes a container that contains the product. A stopper is disposed at an upper end of the container. A dip tube extends through a channel of the stopper and into the container. A sealed enclosure receives the container such that the container can be subjected to a pressure higher than a pressure outside of the enclosure. A weighing element of the enclosure measures the weight of the container when the container is received in the enclosure. A controller controls a mechanism for pressurizing the enclosure by comparing a change in weight of the container with a set value that corresponds to a predetermined quantity of product to be ejected from the container, and interrupting pressurization of the container when the change in weight of the container has reached the set value.

Abstract: A post-mix beverage dispensing system for delivering syrup from a supply reservoir to one or more dispensing stations and to one or more drink dispensing units at each station including a syrup dispensing valve for the syrup in the reservoir. The syrup is adapted to be delivered from the reservoir at the delivery pressure generated by the reservoir pump and which, in light of a pressure drop between the reservoir and dispensing station or stations, may or may not provide a predetermined syrup dispensing pressure required at the dispensing station for dispensing a predetermined quantity of syrup through the dispensing valve to provide the desired syrup to soda water ratio in a dispensed drink.

Abstract: A desired amount of liquid ("unit dose") to be dispensed from a stationary dispenser is automatically, accurately controlled by suddenly interrupting the flow of liquid being dispensed after a major portion of the unit dose has been dispensed. A portion of the lost momentum is restored and discharge of the unit dose is completed. Pressurized inert gas is used to speed up dispensing the unit dose to meet a fill-and-discharge cycle time of <2 min, preferably <1 min. The unit dose is dispensed with better than .+-.5% accuracy, preferably at least .+-.3%, without measuring either the level or the volume of the liquid in the dispenser, or directly measuring the weight of liquid dispensed. More than the desired amount of liquid to be dispensed is held in the dispenser which is charged under pressure in the range from 380-790 kPa (40 to 100 psig), at too high a velocity to establish a stable level.

Abstract: A dispenser includes a viscous fluid feed cavity and dispense cavity with an intermediate passageway therebetween and a diaphragm mounted for reciprocatory movement so positioned that during the dispensing process, the movable diaphragm is moved between a first position wherein the passageway is opened, a second position to close the passageway, and a third position to affect viscous fluid dispensing through an outlet coupled to the dispensing cavity. A diaphragm position sensor is provided for determining the relative position of the movable portion of the diaphragm, the sensor being functionally coupled to the diaphragm actuator, such that the diaphragm actuator is controllable in accordance with the relative position of the diaphragm to insure accurate control of micro quantities of viscous fluid dispensed from the dispenser.

Abstract: A system of components for preventing the application of graffiti to property includes one or more sensors and a signal transmitter at or near the surface to be defaced, and signal receiving means for actuating a mechanism in the spray apparatus or at the surface to be protected which will enable prevention of the surface targeted for defacement. One embodiment of the invention includes a signal receiver in the spray canister which actuates an electromagnet to move a plug in the marking material delivery tube to a flow blocking position. A second embodiment of the invention includes a signal receiver in the spray canister coupled to a rotatable magnet for rotating the upper end of the delivery tube away from the spray nozzle thereby breaking the path through which the marking material travels from the spray apparatus to the target surface.

Abstract: A binder system component metering apparatus for use in core sand mixing equipment comprising an elongate hollow vessel of substantially greater length than width and having upper and lower end portions, valves located in a lower end portion of the elongate vessel for introducing via hydrostatic pressure, liquid binder system components into the vessel so that as the vessel is filled the liquid presents an upper surface that rises vertically, and a sensor located in the upper end portion of the elongate vessel to continuously sense the position of the liquid surface at infinite locations along the length of elongate vessel whereby the upper surface rises with minimum turbulence.

Abstract: A method for the removal or dispensing of liquids from containers, especially for the tapping of beer, in which pursuant to the quantity of liquid withdrawn, air is introduced into the container for pressure compensation or for the generating of an atmospheric pressure. Furthermore, also disclosed is a device for the dispensing of liquids from containers, especially a beer tapping device which is exchangeably connectable with the containers for effecting the withdrawal of the liquids and which essentially possesses a unitarily or multi-part constructed removal housing including a liquid-withdrawing tap, as well as passageways, bores, conduits or the like for the removal of the liquid and for the infeed of air.

Abstract: A gas pressurized liquid delivery system. In particular but not solely for the dispensing of beverages such as beer, cider or stout. A logic circuit whether hard wired or computer or PLC controlled and whether centralized or distributed provides for the operation of the system. The run-out of an individual container in a series of containers is detected by way of a flow indicating device within a fluid pathway. The logic circuit then switches in another container in the series. The switching can be in order of connection to the circuit or an inputed manufactured date. Various cycles are provided by the logic circuit, for example, a cleaning cycle, sterilizing cycle and a purge cycle. These cycles are able to be enacted substantially automatically. A container eg. keg connector is also provided. In at least a preferred form of the invention the container connector contains a microprocessor forming or containing part of the above mentioned logic circuit.

Abstract: A system for dispensing liquid from first and second containers is disclosed herein. The liquid dispensing system includes a first media transfer line, positioned in liquid-flow communication with the first container, for transferring liquid from the first container. A second media transfer line, positioned in liquid-flow communication with the second container, is disposed to transfer liquid from the second container. When placed in a first state a switchable valve prevents liquid from flowing through the first media transfer line and allows liquid to flow through the second media transfer line. In a second state the switchable valve prevents liquid from flowing through the second media transfer line while allowing liquid to flow through the first media transfer line. A liquid storage reservoir connected in liquid-flow communication with the switchable valve stores liquid received from the first and second media transfer lines by way of the switchable valve.

Abstract: A water gun 10 having a storage tank (18), a pressure tank (19) and an electric pump (28) for conveying liquid from the storage tank to the pressure tank. The conveyance of liquid into the pressure tank causes the liquid to be pressurized by air compressed within the pressure tank. A safety switch (42) limits the pressurization of the liquid. The pressurized liquid is released through a nozzle (21) coupled to the pressure tank.

Abstract: A fluid dispenser for measuring precise volumes of a fluid for later mixing with other materials which has a pressure vessel for receiving a fluid supplied from a supply tank, a bubbler sensor communicating with the pressure vessel for correlating pressure within a bubbler tube with volume in the pressure vessel so that a controller in communication with the bubbler sensor can control the inflow and outflow of precise volumes of the fluid through the pressure vessel. The bubbler robe is received within the pressure vessel and is monitored by a pressure transducer which communicates with the controller so that a plurality of solenoid valves can control the inflow and outflow of the measured fluid.

Abstract: An automatic chemical dispensing system is provided wherein a preselected quantity of liquid chemical drawn from one of several storage vessels is dispensed to one of several different receptacles using a single operating pump. The system includes a single remote controllable operating pump, remote controllable inlet and discharge valves, a single flow indicator and a liquid flush system. The system is controlled by a computerized controller. Piping linking the storage vessels, the pump and the receiving vessels is configured so that the operating pump draws a requested chemical from the appropriate storage vessel and pumps that chemical into a discharge header located between the pump and the receiving vessel. As the operating pump pumps the chemical into the discharge header, flow through the header is noted on the single flow indicator.

Abstract: A measured dispensing system includes a bulk reservoir containing a bulk quantity of a liquid material and a measurement container interconnected with the bulk reservoir. A pressure sensor is received within the measurement container for sensing a pressure head which develops therein as liquid is caused to enter the measurement container. Additionally, the measurement container has a level sensor therein for sensing the presence and absence of the liquid material in the measurement container at a particular level. A microprocessor controls valves allowing liquid to enter the tank during a filling cycle to determine when a specific quantity of the liquid has been received therein. The microprocessor similarly controls a dispensing valve and monitors a low level sensor to determine when that quantity has been dispensed from the tank.

Abstract: A water boost for a postmix beverage dispensing system in which the water pump for the carbonator is used to also pump water into the water boost tank by the use of a three-way solenoid valve and a control circuit.

Abstract: A medium-sized portable container for holding and dispensing such fluids as aircraft engine oil is formed from durable, corrosion-resistant polymeric material such as high density polyethylene. The container, which has a generally rectangularly parallelepipedal shape, is positioned with its longest dimension parallel to the ground to enhance stability and permit stacking. The container is divided into two compartments, one holding the fluid to be dispensed and the other enclosing an electrically driven pump and other dispensing equipment. Controls are provided to shut off current flow automatically when the dispensing pump is not operating.