Abstract: The invention in the simplest form is a dispenser that is a teaching tool and uses audio and visual means to promote compliance with proper washing techniques. A detection means is used to commence a time interval, and washing instructions are used to communicate with the user as an instructional tool in washing. There is a feedback response during the washing cycle to walk the user through the washing cycle and provide progress indicators during the cycle. A usage indicator tracks the number of usages as part of a management tool of assessing overall employee performance.

Abstract: The present invention is a system used in measuring very small quantities (i.e., a few milliliters) of liquids, preferable hyper-concentrated liquids, e.g., car wash products being delivered through a pumping station into various types of car wash equipment. The benefit is that it provides a means for measuring precisely how much product is being used at any given point in time and is fast and clean. The system includes a method and apparatus for accurately calibrating a liquid flow rate in the range of one milliliter per minute to twenty milliliters per second, preferably in the range of four to ten milliliters per minute.

Abstract: A volumetric flow meter that includes a defined volume and sensors that detect when liquid begins to fill the defined volume and when that volume is full. A circuit or equivalent logic is preferably provided to generate a signal representative of flow rate based on the size of the defined volume and time required to fill that volume. The flow meter is constructed of economical and durable components. A method of flow metering is also disclosed.

Abstract: A beverage brewer (20) with a dispenser valve (34) for passing brewing liquid from a supply (30) under control by a programmable dispenser cycle dispenser valve controller (36) to intermittently pass the liquid to a uniform flow dispenser head (38) during preselected duty portions (92) of a plurality of control periods (CP1-CP20, FIG. 5B) in order to independently control the total quantity dispensed and the duration of the dispense period (88). The uniform flow dispenser head (38) has a closed body with a perforated bottom (64) that is intermittently filled with brewing liquid during the duty portion selected for each of the control periods to provide a uniform vertical spray across an open top of a uniform ingredient holder (24) within which is held a cylindrically shaped layer of beverage ingredient (70) in order to achieve uniform contact of the brewing liquid with all the beverage ingredient.

Abstract: A cigarette end container capable of putting out cigarette ends definitely, suitable for being placed in a narrow space without a reduction in container capacity, and in which disposal of cigarette ends after collection may be simply, easily and hygienically carried out. A body of a cigarette end container is provided with a device for relatively raising a concentration of incombustible gas and includes a gas cylinder filled with an incombustible gas, an injection nozzle having a jet inside the container, a passage for communicating the injection nozzle to the gas cylinder, an electromagnetic control valve disposed in the passage to control a flow rate of the incombustible gas, and a timer for presetting an opening time of the electromagnetic valve.

Abstract: A method and apparatus that is attachable to a receptacle for timing a predetermined interval according to a timing schedule of a set of timing schedules. The apparatus has an electronic timing circuit that provides an alarm signal at the expiration of the predetermined time interval. The timing circuit includes a set of inputs and a set of outputs that are both connected to processing circuitry. The processing circuitry defines the set of selectable timing schedules. The inputs correspond to the timing schedules, and the outputs issue the alarm signals. The apparatus also includes a sensing mechanism for selectively engaging an input based on the position of the mechanism. Each timing schedule is selectable by the device through the inputs that are engaged and disengaged.

Abstract: A water cooler accessory that is connectable between the dispensing spigot of a water cooler and the water input port of a coffee maker and that can be activated to transfer a predetermined amount of water to the coffee maker.

Abstract: Apparatus is described for controlling delivery of dangerous material, such as LPG, from a tanker 12 to a tank 14, through a pipe 16. A valve 18 is controlled by an arrangement 22. An operator 28 carries a radio transmitter 24 and must periodically transmit an appropriate signal to the control 22, otherwise the control 22 will time out and close the valve, also sounding an alarm. In accordance with the invention, the transmitter 24 is also provided with a timer, having a shorter count down time, and also re-set when the signal is sent to the control 22. The timer in the transmitter 24 alerts the operator 28 that a signal should be sent, giving the operator an opportunity to send a signal before the control 22 closes the valve 18. However, if the operator does not send a signal, or is incapable of doing so, the timer at 22 will assume that an emergency situation exists, and cease further delivery.

Abstract: A dispenser for volumetrically controlling the amount of lubrication which is fed into the shot sleeve of a die casting machine. Lubrication beads are fed into a hopper. The beads gravitationally travel through a port in the base of the hopper and into a screw extruder. The beads are then moved through a screw extruder both mechanically and pneumatically. The beads are moved mechanically by the rotation of the screw shaft in the screw extruder with a rotary motor. The beads are moved pneumatically by injections of air fed into the screw extruder. The air flow serves the additional purpose of cooling the beads as they move along the screw feeder so that they do not melt and become coagulated. The rotary motor and the air flow are both activated and deactivated by the use of adjustable timers. The timers are synchronistically metered so that the lubricating beads move through the shot bead dispenser and into the die casting machine at predetermined rates.

Abstract: The invention features an implantable device for the automatic delivery of an active ingredient according to an adjustable delivery profile. The device includes a housing; a reservoir operatively connected to the housing and arranged to store an elongate solid composition including the active ingredient, such as a filament of tape; an actuator arranged within the housing to move the solid composition from the reservoir to a transit assembly, providing a water-tight seal wherein the solid composition exits the housing at the transit assembly; a controller that acts on the actuator to adjust movement of the solid composition out of the housing according to the adjustable delivery profile; and a power source arranged to provide energy to the actuator and the controller. The solid composition can be an elongate, solid composition comprising a drug, and up to 90% of a carrier, wherein the composition has a cross-section of less than 0.

Abstract: A measured fluid pour method and device consisting of a container such as a drinking cup, a bottle, a large fluid drum or a container of chemicals wherein a predetermined volume of fluid is poured into another vessel or into the mouth. The device is comprised of a vessel such as a drinking cup or a container such as a bottle, an inner cup of a predetermined size, a tube fixed to the inner cup and extending to the upper end of the cup or container wherein the tube is fixed to the top of the cup or container and wherein a limited volume of fluid may enter the inner cup or container and wherein when the drinking cup or container is tilted to a pouring or drinking position, and only the amount of the fluid contained in the inner cup will flow out of the drinking cup or container.

Abstract: A food cooking grill with a housing which includes a horizontally disposed grate which is secured to a front frame plate, opposing side walls and rear wall. A front access door is hingedly mounted on the front frame plate. A payment device and a digital display are mounted on the access door and are electrically connected to a control circuit. A solenoid-actuated shut-off valve is interposed in a gas conduit between the burner and a propane or LPG tank coupling in one embodiment of the invention. The shut-off valve is responsive to the control circuit which receives inputs from the payment device and a flame detector and which also controls a flame ignitor and the digital display.

Abstract: A system and method for testing an electronic circuit is disclosed. The system includes a circuit board test platform having multiple electronic test capabilities and multiple hardware resources, and a pay-per-use module that is coupled to the circuit board test platform. The pay-per-use module is adapted for monitoring use of the multiple electronic test capabilities and the hardware resources of the circuit board test platform, and for debiting a number of usage credits from a usage credit pool based on the use of the multiple electronic test capabilities and the tester hardware resources.

Abstract: A multiple product dispensing system includes a plurality of use solution dispensers and a controller for selecting one of the dispensers according to a preset regimen, e.g., selecting different dispensers on different days of the week. Each dispenser dispenses a controlled concentration of use solution using a diluent delivery apparatus that delivers a diluent to form a liquid concentrate from a solid chemical composition, and to form make-up diluent for diluting the liquid concentrate and forming a use solution of controlled concentration. A foam reducer reduces the kinetic energy of the make-up diluent prior to mixing with the liquid concentrate to reduce foaming. An unskilled operator may operate the dispensing system to dispense a use solution of carefully controlled concentration, and the controller will automatically select the proper dispenser according to the preset regimen, without any additional input on the part of the operator.

Abstract: A system and method for testing an electronic circuit is disclosed. The system includes a circuit board test platform having multiple electronic test capabilities, and a pay-per-use module that is coupled to the circuit board test platform. The pay-per-use module is adapted for monitoring use of the multiple electronic test capabilities of the circuit board test platform, and for debiting a number of usage credits from a usage credit pool based on the use of the multiple electronic test capabilities.

Abstract: A system and method for testing an electronic circuit is disclosed. The system includes a circuit board test platform having multiple electronic test capabilities, and a pay-per-use module that is coupled to the circuit board test platform. The pay-per-use module is adapted for monitoring use of the multiple electronic test capabilities of the circuit board test platform, and for debiting a number of usage credits from a usage credit pool based on the use of the multiple electronic test capabilities.

Abstract: A hot water dispensing device which includes a flexible tube or a bellows which can be depressed by a solenoid such that hot water can pass into the tube or bellows and out an outlet when the solenoid is energized. When the solenoid is de-energized, the upper portion of the tube or bellows forms a seal to prevent water overflowing if the machine is moved or is jolted. By varying the time of energization of the solenoid, the quantity of water can be adjusted. Another modification has a pivoted tube controlled by a solenoid.

Abstract: An apparatus for accurately dispensing a predetermined amount of viscous liquid such as conductive adhesive, cream solder and the like. The apparatus includes a first pressure sensor arranged in a pipe line connected between a dispensing solenoid valve and a syringe, and a second pressure sensor and an accumulator arranged in a pipe line connected between the dispensing solenoid value and an air supply so that an output is controlled in accordance with variation of an integral valve of pressure measured by the first pressure sensor integrated with a preset output time of the shifting output signal thereby controlling the dispensing of liquid based on the remaining amount of liquid in the syringe and the variation in the internal pressure in the syringe to accurately discharge the predetermined amount of liquid and prevent dripping of liquid from the syringe.

Abstract: An electric circuit for operating a toilet room soap dispenser includes a sensor and an electric operator, with the sensor providing an operating signal in response to the presence of a person positioned to use the soap dispenser The electric operator, which is responsive to a signal from the sensor, provides a measured amount of soap from the soap dispenser. The improvement is specifically directed to a prime circuit for causing a predetermined number of operations of the electric operator to prime the soap dispenser for normal use, after refilling the soap supply.

Abstract: A material metering apparatus is disclosed which extrudes highly viscous material from an orifice of a known diameter past two fiber optic sensors to initiate and terminate a timing sequence. Knowing the specific gravity of the material, the apparatus uses the timing sequence and known diameter of the orifice to calculate the weight of the material so extruded. The components of the material metering apparatus are removable to facilitate ease of cleaning the variation in the viscous material subject to extrusion.

Abstract: Filling apparatus for filling receptacles, the apparatus comprising a feed member connected to at least one filling spout via a flow control member connected to an output of a weight processing unit having an input connected to a weighing member in order to deliver opening or closing signals to the flow control member as a function of a weight measured by the weighing member, the apparatus further including a time measuring member associated with the weight processing unit for enabling the processing unit to calculate the flow rate of substance through the flow control member and to compare the calculated flow rate with a flow rate reference value, and to adjust the flow rate of the substance as a function of the result of the comparison.

Abstract: A filling machine including a manifold having a supply inlet and supply outlet and one or more nozzles connected to the manifold by individual time controlled valves. A circulation system is provided connecting a supply and the manifold for continuously circulating liquid through the manifold from the supply inlet to overflow the supply outlet such that the supply outlet determines the liquid level in the manifold and the head pressure at one or more nozzles. The manifold is structured to have a manifold section with a supply inlet on the manifold section and a stand pipe connected to the manifold section. The stand pipe includes the supply outlet and is vented to atmosphere. By varying the height of the stand pipe or the location of the outlet, the level within the manifold and the head pressure at the nozzles is adjusted. For sequential filling, bulk fill nozzles are controlled by a single timer and one or more fine fill nozzles are controlled by individual timers.

Abstract: An adaptor for liquid dispensing of precisely controlled amounts through an outlet of a liquid filled syringe includes a valve shaft extended through an inlet of the syringe, along the syringe and seated against a valve seat assembly at the outlet of the syringe. The valve seat assembly and a cylindrical casing cooperatively mount the syringe to a housing assembly. A spring within the housing assembly biases the valve shaft to a normally closed position against the valve seat assembly. By pressurizing the liquid in the syringe, timer actuation of a solenoid within the housing assembly retracts the valve shaft away from the valve seat assembly to an open position to force the pressurized liquid through the outlet and out of the syringe.

Abstract: A coin-operated dispenser is disclosed for spraying a liquid cosmetic in a controlled manner. It has the features of a coin-operated, public vending machine, but instead of delivering a pack of cigarette or candies, it delivers a liquid cosmetic under pressurized air through a spray gun which has a trigger. The spray gun is mounted at the end of a flexible tube. A push-button on the machine enables the selection of a desired one of many liquid cosmetic products. A push button switch on the spray gun permits a user to manually control the flow of sprayed cosmetics. A timer limits the time period for each spraying, when the preset coin amount has been introduced in the machine and a display indicates to the user the time remaining for dispensing the product. Accordingly, the user knows precisely how much time is remaining after he releases the trigger, thus permitting sharing of the product by more than one person.

Abstract: An apparatus for drawing a pre-selectable quantity of liquid, in particular a quantity of water, comprises an input device, at which the respectively desired quantity of liquid to be delivered automatically can be fed in. Located in the path of the liquid is an electrically variable flow-control valve, whereof the position is varied automatically according to the pre-selected quantity of liquid, corresponding to a characteristic curve stored in a memory: the flow rate is chosen to be all the greater, the greater the pre-selected quantity of liquid. Due to this it is ensured that very different quantities of liquid can be drawn in times which are practical for use.

Abstract: An apparatus for dispensing a liquid detergent solution using a timing fluid is disclosed. A preferred cleaning system (10) includes a fluid-operated solvent metering apparatus (38). The metering apparatus (38) preferably includes a normally-closed valve (16) and a timing device (40). The timing device (40) preferably includes a cylinder (52) and a piston (54), wherein the piston (54) forms a pair of subchambers (56, 58) which are interconnected by a flow control device (68). The flow control device (68) serves to restrict the flow of a timing fluid from one subchamber (56) to the other subchamber (58) so as to hold the valve (16) in its open position for a period of timing following its initial manual opening. A return spring (48) in the normally closed valve (16) urges the valve (16) toward its closed position, and the spring (48) also acts against the piston (54) to cause the timing fluid to flow from the first subchamber (56 ) to the second subchamber (58).

Abstract: An X-ray solution mixing machine is provided which operates automatically, is simple in design, has no electronic parts, does not require electricity, and produces accurate and reproducible results. The mixing machine employs a unique liquids metering device which is wholly mechanical in its operation. In one embodiment of the liquids metering device, a first valve is actuated which directs a flow of liquid to the base of a vertical hydraulic cylinder. The flow of liquids causes the piston within the hydraulic cylinder to rise to the top of the cylinder. At the top of the cylinder, linking means close the first valve and the piston begins a slow descent as liquid is expelled from the hydraulic cylinder via a bleed hole located in the cylinder base. The time in which it takes for the hydraulic piston to descend from the top of the hydraulic cylinder to the bottom of the hydraulic cylinder is easily controlled by sizing the capacity of the cylinder, the weight of the piston and the sizes of the bleed hole.

Abstract: An electrically operable liquid soap dispenser responsive to the presence of a user dispenses a measured amount of soap on demand. It has a spout with a fluid conduit therein connecting a soap reservoir and a nozzle. A pump draws soap from the reservoir during a stroke of its plunger and depending on the embodiment, ejects a measured amount of soap during a subsequent plunger downstroke or upstroke. At least one check valve regulates the flow of soap from the reservoir to an orifice at the nozzle. The soap path from the reservoir to the nozzle is kept full of soap so that a single cycle of the pump is sufficient to eject the desired amount of soap. The orifice is sized and shaped so as to prevent dripping while maintaining soap at the nozzle ready to be ejected. A light beam emitter and detector control operation of the pump.

Abstract: An ice portion control for an ice dispenser is characterized by a chute having an upper end for receiving ice and a lower end. With the chute filled with ice, to vend a desired quantity of ice a dispensing gate at the lower end of the chute is opened for a selected one of a plurality of timed periods of durations selected to dispense from the chute associated predetermined quantities of ice. Adjusting the lengths of the timed periods varies the quantities of ice vended.

Abstract: A pump/dispenser, ratioing/mixer dispenser apparatus and a method and apparatus for precision vacuum degassed dispensing of work liquids are presented. The pump/dispenser is a positive displacement high precision piston/cylinder constant flush type with piston smaller than chamber. The piston is advanced along its stroke in tiny repeatable adjustably programmable steps, the infinitely adjustable precision ratioing programmable mixing being provided when two such pumps are used. The vacuum degassed work liquids dispensing system features the creation and maintenance of a positive absolute pressure on the work liquid(s) when exiting the degassing chamber(s) to the dispensing outlet(s) whether moved along the flow path through the precision dispensing pump(s) or other types of pump(s). Available softwear and adjustable programmable precision hardwear of the system may be provided by a widely available personal computer. Further degassing is provided by dispensing in a vacuum.

Abstract: An apparatus for automatically dispensing flowable material from a disposable container includes a novel electronic control circuit for providing improved and more efficient operation over prior art devices. The electronic control circuit includes a photoelectric emitter, and a phototransistor detector adapted to receive energy reflected from a target such as a user's hands. The control circuit includes a first timing circuit for periodically activating the detector for a predetermined first time period equal to approximately one percent (1%) of the period between operating cycles of the detector. The control circuit also includes a second timing circuit, triggered by the first timing circuit, for activating the emitter during a latter portion of the first time period during which the detector is activated to thereby enable the detector to stabilize after power up.

Abstract: A foam dispenser for converting a plurality of foam components into an expanded foam that can be cleaned with compressed gas after the foam is discharged and which is distinguished by the use of a center plug having discrete passages to separate the various foam components until the components enter a detachable mixing chamber located external to the dispenser barrel.

Abstract: Disclosed is a water dispensing system for an aircraft wherein hot and cold water supplied to a faucet disposed above a washbasin in a controlled manner including solenoid valves for both the hot and cold water. Two manually operated switches are employed to energize, respectively, the hot and cold solenoid valves. Two different timing cycles are employed. In one timing cycle, when one switch is actuated and then the other switch is actuated within a predetermined time period, both solenoid valves will be turned on to provide approximately equal volumes of water to the faucet for a predetermined time period. In another timing cycle, when one switch is actuated and the other switch is actuated within a predetermined time period, the solenoid valve means energized by the first switch will be turned off and the second solenoid valve will be turned on for a predetermined time period.

Abstract: This die-bonding method relates to an improvement in a method to apply high pressure air to a resin vessel under a predetermined discharge condition to discharge the resin onto a portion subject to bonding, thus to adhesively join or connect a semiconductor chip to the portion subject to bonding by the resin discharged. This method includes a process for detecting a pressure waveform applied to the resin vessel, and a process for controlling the discharge condition to compensate the difference between the pressure waveform detected and a predetermined reference pressure waveform so that a predetermined resin quantity is discharged at all times even when the quantity of resin within the resin vessel varies. There is also provided an apparatus for implementing this die-bonding method, which includes a correction circuit for performing the above compensating operation.

Abstract: An apparatus for dispensing warm liquid food which comprises an insulating housing heating coils for providing heat inside the housing, a supply tank for holding a predetermined amount of liquid food, the supply tank being located inside the housing and preferably including an agitator therein, flexible tubing for directing the heated supply of liquid food to a control valve and further to a dispensing nozzle, the control valve opening to allow a predetermined amount of liquid food from the pressurized tank to the dispensing nozzle to discharge the predetermined amount of food. Also, a method for dispensing warm liquid foods by utilizing the apparatus.

Abstract: An ice dispenser apparatus includes an ice making mechanism (1) and, an ice storage box (5) for storing ice pieces produced by the ice making mechanism. When the ice pieces are dispensed a discharge port shutter (9) normally closing a discharge port (5c) provided in the ice storage box (5) at a lower portion thereof is opened by a discharge port shutter actuator (11). A transient storage chamber (13) is provided in communication with the discharge port (5c), the chamber having a normally closed aperture for transiently storing a predetermined amount of ice pieces discharged from the ice storage box (5) through the discharge port (5c) when the discharge port shutter (9) is opened. A transient storage chamber shutter (10) is provided in association with the transient storage chamber (13) and is adapted to be actuated by a transient storage chamber shutter actuator (12) for selectively opening or closing the aperture.

Abstract: A sink and faucet assembly is disclosed for use in an aircraft environment. The assembly includes a source of hot and cold water that is pressurized to dispense through the faucet and also contains a vent to purge the system when the aircraft is on the ground. The faucet has a control member which regulates the flow of hot and cold water into the faucet through a mixing chamber by rotating, and which initiates the flow of water from the source by actuating a switch to energize a solenoid valve when moved rectilinearly. The solenoid valve is also timed such that it stops the flow of water after a pre-determined time period after having been actuated.

Abstract: A system is disclosed for transferring a predetermined charge of water between a bottled water container and a coffee maker. The system comprises a pump and a timer which operates the pump for a preset period of time while a charge of water is transferred through a series of conduits from a bottled water container to a coffee maker, the quantity of the charge being substantially independent of bottled water level.

Abstract: A preferred cleaning system (10) is disclosed which includes a hydraulic timer valve (22) which is in fluid communication with a cleaning chemical dispenser (14) and a water supply (12). The hydraulic timer valve (22) preferably includes a bearing arrangement (44) which is spring biased toward a first end (56) of a timer housing (52). When a water supply valve (20) is opened, water flows into housing (52) to cause the bearing arrangement (44) to move from its first position to a second position. When the bearing arrangement (44) reaches its second position, water flow from the water supply (12) to the chemical dispenser (14) is prevented. The movement of the bearing arrangement (44) from its first position to its second position takes a preselected period of time determined by the flow resistance produced by a control valve (35) which controls the flow of water to one side of the bearing arrangement (44) of valve (22). When the water supply (12) is blocked, the valve (22) automatically resets.

Abstract: Measured quantities of liquid, such as suntan oil or lotion, are dispensed to a user upon insertion of one or more coins into a coin-controlled timer. The coin-controlled timer, such as a timer-relay, applies electrical current to control a valve-controlled air supply to an atomizing nozzle. The timer system further controls the liquid supply by utilizing the air supply to actuate air valves.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for dispensing a consumption unit of beverage concente having a pre-determined volume, in particular a beverage concentrate of high and variable viscosity, in a beverage dispensing machine. A system is described in which for each quantity dispensed a valve is opened for a specific period of time and the concentrate issues from a reservoir into a cup or the like under a constant static pressure. The invention aims to improve uniformity in quantities dispensed, which is accomplished by dispensing each consumption unit in a pulsating manner.

Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for dispensing a precise volume of liquid. An emitter dispenses a stream of liquid to an appropriate collector and includes an outlet restriction for generating a positive pressure in the emitter behind the outlet restriction. Liquid is fed to the emitter under pressure. A time delay loop is provided in communication with the emitter behind the outlet restriction for receiving liquid therefrom under the influence of the positive pressure. The exit end of the time delay loop directs liquid received thereby against the stream of liquid dispensed by the emitter and diverts the stream of liquid away from the collector when the time delay loop becomes filled with liquid under pressure from the emitter. A fluid amplifier is provided for generating a laminar liquid power stream to the emitter and for controlling the on-off cycle of the apparatus.

Abstract: A timed gas metering and distribution system provides a point of use metering and an individual remote meter readout capability in a branched-line gas distribution system, such as in a multi-unit apartment building. In such a system, a single main gas line enters the building and has branches of minimal length extending to a gas-fueled appliance, e.g., a heater, in each unit. Each heater has a fixed orifice in its gas line, to provide a specified fixed gas flow rate at a constant line pressure and an electrical pressure switch in its manifold to detect pressure changes and actuate an electrical circuit upon operation of the heater. The circuit transmits an electrical signal to a timing meter located remotely of the unit for convenient reading. One embodiment uses a direct current electrical circuit and a digitally controlled analog run-time meter. A second embodiment uses an oscillator low frequency pulsing circuit, shift register, and digital counter.

Abstract: A beverage vending machine makes use of a microcomputer to compute the time duration for supply of component materials in accordance with stored data and supplied input data.

Abstract: A remote authorization apparatus for full-serve, self-serve vehicle fuel dispensing pumps. A transmitter carried by a station attendant may be activated to cause the emission of a radio signal. This signal is sensed by a receiver which actuates an associated control assembly to enable the reset mechanism in the fuel pumps for a preset time interval during which a customer may begin dispensing fuel. When the timed enabling signal ends, the pump or pumps which have begun service may continue, while all other pumps are returned to an inactive state. Other pumps may be enabled in the same manner by emission of the radio signal from the transmitter should other customers desire to use the self-serve vehicle fuel pumps, while previously authorized pumps are dispensing.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a capacitance sensor which comprises a pulse generating circuit; a plurality of variable delay circuits, each including as a component thereof a variable capacitance transducer and adapted to delay a pulse from the pulse generating circuit by a time lag corresponding to a capacitance value of the transducer and then output the thus-delayed pulse; and a phase discriminating circuit adapted to discriminate a phase difference of the pulses output respectively from the plurality of variable delay circuits and then output measured information. This capacitance sensor can be used to measure various parameters. The capacitance sensor is particularly effective as a liquid level detection sensor for liquid containing bottles used to dispense intravenous substances in drop-wise fashion.

Abstract: The filling systems according to the invention utilize pneumatic pressure maintained within closely held tolerance limits to impose a constant dispensing force upon the material being dispensed. The invention in one embodiment utilizes a buffer tank system in which the product to be dispensed is transferred from a supply tank (11) to the buffer tank (12) where the desired pressure is induced through a pneumatic head which is introduced above the product level. The product level in the buffer tank (12) is allowed to fluctuate within a relatively narrow band of depth so as to negate the effect of changes in gravity head pressure. The closed and pressurized system is refilled by forcing the incoming product into the tank (12) under a higher pressure than that in the buffer tank (12). The air within the tank (12) that is displaced as a result of introducing the new product is automatically vented to atmosphere through a precision regulation system (45).

Abstract: A foam dispenser for converting a plurality of foam components into an expanded foam which can be flushed with a cleaning solution after the foam is discharged is distinguished by the use of a rotary valve member corresponding to each foam component introduced into the dispenser to constitute the expanded foam. Each rotary valve member has a single passageway and is mounted for movement between positions in which (a) the passageway communicates with the tube carrying the foam component and (b) the passageway communicates with a tube carrying the cleaning solution, thus permitting cleaning of the dispenser at all points downstream of where the foam components enter the valve. The distance between where the foam component is introduced into the dispenser and the point where the foam component enters the valve is so short that no significant amounts of buildup of the foam component can occur.

Abstract: A fluid dispensing anti-burglar device is disclosed in which a chemical irritant such as tear gas is discharged into the area to be protected when an intruder forces entry into the area to be protected with which the device is associated. The anti-burglar device employs electrical elements for causing the release of the irritant gas and includes provisions for time delayed release of the chemical irritant.

Abstract: A dispensing apparatus adapted for dispensing a predetermined amount of one or more condiments or other fluids onto a sandwich or the like. The dispenser includes a stand supporting a nozzle which is connected in flow communication by conduits to at least one source of condiment. A valving arrangement and associated controllers are operatively connected to the conduits between the nozzle and the source of the condiment for selectively allowing a predetermined quantity of condiment to be dispensed through the nozzle.