Abstract: This disclosure relates to a liquid dispensing apparatus for dispensing a liquid from a flexible bag. The apparatus has a support for supporting the flexible bag in use and a mounting adapted for receiving a proximal portion of the flexible bag, for progressive movement relative to the support towards an outlet located at a distal portion of the flexible bag. As the flexible bag is progressively wound up, liquid is squeezed from the proximal portion to the distal portion to dispense liquid from the outlet in a controlled manner in use. This allows desired and precise dosage portions of liquid to be squeezed from the bag and direct dosing from the flexible bag amongst other advantages.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device 1 for dispensing bulk candy. The device 1 comprises a container 3 which at one end 5 of the container 3 has a dispensing opening 14 through which candy/sweets can leave the container 3. The container 3 has an inside that is provided with at least one guide for the candy/the sweets. The guide or guides 17, 18, 19, 27 is/are arranged to guide sweets in a direction towards the dispensing opening when the container 3 rotates about its longitudinal axis. The container 3 is inclined in relation to the horizontal plane by an angle that may be in the range of 10°-25°. The guide or guides is/are arranged in the container 3 in such a way that sweets are guided in a direction towards the dispensing opening 14 when the container 3 rotates about its longitudinal axis but remains at rest when the container is at a standstill.

Abstract: An in-line drink dispensing system (1,16,17) for dispensing liquid such as water or other beverage. The system comprises a pump (6) in fluid connection with the system so that the pump can create a flow in the system and based on the current that the pump uses during operation a value can be determined and used for analyzing one or more statuses of the system.

Abstract: A dispenser for dispensing hand sanitizer powder includes a base, a container supported on the base and including the hand sanitizer powder therein, and a tray coupled to the base beneath the container. The tray includes an opening. The dispenser also includes a body at least partially positioned within the tray and rotatable about an axis. The body includes at least one compartment exposed to an outer periphery of the body. The body is rotatable between a first position, in which the compartment is in facing relationship with the container to receive the hand sanitizer powder therefrom, and a second position, in which the compartment is aligned the opening in the tray for dispensing the hand sanitizer powder through the opening.

Abstract: A dispensing device may include a main body including a wall having a dispensing mouth defined in the wall; a storage portion, wherein the storage portion is retained by the main body; and a conveyance path providing communication between the storage portion and the dispensing mouth. In addition, the dispensing device may include a conveyor disposed in the conveyance path; a drive motor mechanically coupled to the conveyor; and a sensor, wherein the sensor is directly or indirectly electrically coupled to the drive motor and the sensor is in optical communication with the environment proximate to the dispensing mouth.

Abstract: A dispensing system includes a first chamber and a second chamber, where each chamber includes an inlet port configured to receive a flowable material and an outlet port configured to dispense the flowable material. The system also includes a first displacement rod slidably disposed in the first chamber. The system also includes a second displacement rod slidably disposed in the second chamber, wherein the first displacement rod is rigidly connected to the second displacement rod.

Abstract: A liquid delivery system comprising a base unit (2) comprising a liquid inlet in an upwardly facing surface, a liquid duct leading from the inlet to a liquid outlet above the liquid inlet; a pump for pumping the liquid from the inlet to the outlet; a motor to drive the pump; and a shroud extending upwardly in a manner which surrounds the inlet, the shroud having an upper edge which has a downwardly extending recess (20) for a part of its circumference; characterised by the system further comprising an insert (21) in the recess (20) which forms a liquid-tight seal with the recess (20) and defines, with the shroud, a liquid cavity in communication with the liquid inlet in the base.

Abstract: A system for delivering an additive to a flowing fluid wherein the system is in whole or in part powered by the flow of the fluid is provided. The fluid-additive delivery system includes a fluid motor, a speed sensor, an electricity generation and storage system, a clutch, an additive pump, and a flow meter, where the fluid motor and the flow meter are in fluid communication with a piping of the fluid to which the fluid additive is to be added. Preferably, the fluid is a fuel and the fluid additive to be added is a fuel additive.

Abstract: A solenoid valve assembly is adapted to control product flow through a dispensing system. The dispensing system includes a housing. A plunger is disposed within the housing and has a first axial surface. A stopper is also disposed within the housing and has a second axial surface facing the first axial surface. At least one flow pathway is provided on at least one of the first and second axial surfaces.

Abstract: A grain distributor including a timer coupled to a distribution spout that generates a series of particular time values. The control processor is programmed with an algorithm to pivot the distribution spout and to receive and record signals from the sensor as the sensor confronts each of the code clusters and each of the proof windows. The control processor is programmed with the algorithm to associate each signal from each code cluster with a particular time value generated by the timer and to memorize the particular time value associated with each code cluster in a long term memory and the control processor being programmed with the algorithm to associate each signal from each of the proof windows in a long term memory. The grain distributor is also self programming.

Abstract: A method is provided for monitoring of the functionality of an After Treatment Injector (ATI) for injection of a fluid in an engine exhaust gas system upstream of an exhaust gas treatment unit. The monitoring is performed by using a pressure sensor which detects the pressure of the fluid delivered to the ATI for a specific condition or injection cycle. The pressure sensor is located downstream of a flow regulator and upstream of the ATI in a conduit for supplying of a substance from a container to the ATI. An ECU is programmed to perform a predetermined sequence of opening and closing commands for the flow regulator and the ATI, furthermore perform a frequency analysis of the measured pressure value in order to monitor the functionality of the flow regulator, the ATI and the pressure sensor. The method is adapted to be used in connection with an On Board Diagnosis (OBD) system.

Abstract: A removable and replaceable keying component which is required for operation of a mechanism and which component includes a waveguide having a photochromic portion. A method of controlling operation of a mechanism, preferably a dispenser, having a removable component comprising the steps of measuring electromagnetic radiation passing through a waveguide carrying at least in part on the removable component and permitting operation of the mechanism only when the measured electromagnetic radiation corresponds with one or more pre-selected parameters. Preferably, the method involves directing emitted electromagnetic radiation with pre-selected input parameters selected from a plurality of input parameters.

Abstract: A product dispensing system includes a flow control device configured to regulate a first ingredient. A pump module is configured to be coupled to a supply of a second ingredient. A controller is configured to provide a first control signal to the flow control device for controlling the supply of a first quantity of the first ingredient based upon, at least in part, a predetermined recipe. The controller is further configured to provide a second control signal to the pump module for controlling the supply of a first quantity of the second ingredient based upon, at least in part, the predetermined recipe.

Abstract: An electronic controller module for controlling outward movement of the piston comprises an input/output port and a processor module. The processor module determines a prescribed movement speed and sends a motor command via the port at an initial motor speed. The motor causes the outward movement. The port receives speed measurements. The processor module attempts to match the measurements to a prescribed speed by sending successive motor commands via the port.

Abstract: A method of operating a dispensing unit including the steps of applying a power source to a dispensing unit that includes a container and performing a startup procedure in response to applying the power source. The startup procedure includes performing an activation sequence that discharges a fluid from the container. The method further includes the step of performing an active mode procedure after the startup procedure without providing a lockout period in between. The active mode procedure includes activating a motion sensor associated with the dispensing unit, performing an activation sequence that discharges the fluid from the container when the motion sensor detects motion, and performing a transition procedure.

Abstract: The present application relates to a foaming soap dispenser. The soap dispenser includes a housing, a liquid storage tank, a pump, a main control assembly and an output assembly. The arrangement of the pump allows for control of the output which prevents the air-liquid mixture from freely back flowing or dripping. The soap dispenser includes a controller configured to reverse the fluid pumping direction of the pump allowing for some liquid provided to the outlet to be returned to the liquid storage tank. Return of some liquid to the liquid storage tank prevents contamination.

Abstract: The invention relates to an automatic dispenser for dispensing a fluid and for instructing a user, comprising a) a holder device for a replaceable fluid container, wherein the holder device has a sensor for reading an identification of the replaceable fluid container, b) a delivery device, which enables a dispensing of a fluid from the fluid container, c) one or more touchless proximity sensors for detecting a hand of a user, d) an output device for the time-controlled output of a plurality of visual and/or sound-based instructions of a sequence of instructions to the user, and e) a controller having at least one data memory, wherein in a first data memory sequences of instructions associated with multiple and different replaceable containers and/or the identifications thereof are stored.

Abstract: A novel enhanced flow metering device is disclosed, as well as related methods, that safely controls and meters the flow of a flow material. A pump fills a flow metering device with a flow material, which then dispenses the flow material to a target. The flow material charges the device by moving into at least one chamber when an actuation shaft is in a charging position. Flow materials are dispensed from the chambers of the flow metering device when the actuation shaft is moved into at least one dispensing positions.

Abstract: An apparatus for dispensing a plurality of fluids, includes a support, such as a turntable or a linear table, a plurality of containers for holding a fluid and mounted on the support, pumps and valves connected to respective containers, at least one common actuator for sequentially operating the pumps and valves to dispense fluid and a drive mechanism for moving the support, and thus the containers, pumps, and valves on the one hand and the actuator on the other relative to each other. The common actuator for sequentially operating the pumps and valves and the drive mechanism for relative motion of the support are integrated in a module, the module is releasably mounted in the apparatus.

Abstract: In the method of optimizing the dosage-dispensing process of a dosage-dispensing device, an examination takes place prior to a first dosage delivery, whether at least one flow parameter relating to the dosage-dispensing process is stored in the memory module of the dosage-dispensing unit. If a stored flow parameter is found to be present, said flow parameter is called up from the memory module. If no store flow parameter is present, a flow parameter is requested by the user by entering a request, a flow parameter is called up from a central database, or at least one flow parameter is determined by means of the first run of the dosage-dispensing process based on a default setting of the dosage-dispensing program. With the at least one flow parameter, the dosage-dispensing program is directly adapted, at least one run of the dosage-dispensing process is performed with the adapted dosage-dispensing program, and/or the at least one flow parameter is stored in the memory module.

Abstract: A system and method of detecting fuel theft at a fuel dispenser. The system has a fluid flow meter, a pulser operatively coupled to said fluid flow meter, and a control system in electrical communication with the pulser. The control system is configured to calculate a flow rate of fuel being dispensed from a gasoline dispenser during a single dispensing transaction. The flow rate is sampled at predetermined time intervals during the single dispensing transaction. The system then compares the sampled flow rates to a predetermined flow rate pattern indicative of potential fraud. A shutoff signal is then provided to the dispenser to stop fuel flow through the dispenser if the sampled flow rates are substantially similar to the predetermined pattern.

Abstract: Individual portions of ice cream are dispensed from a bulk container. A motor drives a lead screw, to expand a scissor linkage and drive a dispensing head against the bulk container. Pressure applied to the container causes it to collapse and discharge ice cream from an outlet. The lead screw is orthogonal with the movement of the dispensing head and the axis of collapse of the container. The container, motor and lead screw are carried on a drawer which is slidably mounted in a refrigerated housing. Pressure is monitored to regulate operation of the motor. An encoder controls the motor for a specific portion size.

Abstract: Individual portions of ice cream are dispensed from a bulk container. A motor drives a lead screw, to expand a scissor linkage and drive a dispensing head against the bulk container. Pressure applied to the container causes it to collapse and discharge ice cream from an outlet. The lead screw is orthogonal with the movement of the dispensing head and the axis of collapse of the container. The container, motor and lead screw are carried on a drawer which is slidably mounted in a refrigerated housing. Pressure is monitored to regulate operation of the motor. An encoder controls the motor for a specific portion size.

Abstract: A system for actuating a dispensing device includes an apparatus for holding and actuating the dispensing device that includes a linear motor including a stator component and a forcer component and a frame that orients components of the linear motor relative to each other and relative to the dispensing device. The system further includes a controller configured to control the linear motor and a device that interfaces with the controller and provides a user interface for control of the system. The controller is configured to generate control signals that cause the apparatus to perform at least one actuation cycle specified by an operator. The device that communicates with the controller generates a command sequence based on the at least one actuation cycle specified and the controller generates signals based on the command sequence that cause the system to perform the at least one actuation cycle.

Abstract: Individual portions of ice cream are dispensed from a bulk container. A motor drives a lead screw, to expand a scissor linkage and drive a dispensing head against the bulk container. Pressure applied to the container causes it to collapse and discharge ice cream from an outlet. The lead screw is orthogonal with the movement of the dispensing head and the axis of collapse of the container. The container, motor and lead screw are carried on a drawer which is slidably mounted in a refrigerated housing. Pressure is monitored to regulate operation of the motor. An encoder controls the motor for a specific portion size.

Abstract: An electric or battery powered dispenser comprising a multi-mode motor control system comprising a plurality of different user selected dispensing control modes for dispensing a wide variety of semi-soft materials. The powered dispenser is held in one hand and dispenses the material in accordance with a user selected one of the plurality of different user selected dispensing control modes. The powered dispenser features a quick-change cartridge system, which allows the user to quickly and easily change cartridges, which can be refilled or pre-filled with the material of the user's choice, without having to clean out the barrel. The dispenser can be used in many applications such as cake decorating, craft applications, woodworking, and construction.

Abstract: A device for controlling displacement of a syringe piston comprises a handheld casing, first and second engagement means. The first engagement means is formed exteriorly of the casing to engage the syringe's finger flange. The second engagement means slides on a first axis relative to the casing and engages the thumb rest. The device comprises means within the casing to cause the second engagement means to move along the first axis, causing the piston to move outwardly. An electronic controller module for controlling outward movement of the piston comprises an input/output port and a processor module. The processor module determines a prescribed movement speed and sends a motor command via the port at an initial motor speed. The motor causes the outward movement. The port receives speed measurements. The processor module attempts to match the measurements to a prescribed speed by sending successive motor commands via the port.

Abstract: A method of operating a dispensing system includes the step of alternating between active and lockout modes within a first timing sequence, wherein during the active mode at least one sensor is active to detect sensory input, and whereupon detection of the sensory input results in product being released from a first container, and wherein during a lockout mode product is not released from the first container. The method further includes the step of alternating between active and lockout modes within a second timing sequence, wherein during the active period at least one sensor is active to detect sensory input, and whereupon detection of the sensory input results in fluid being released from a second container, and wherein during a lockout mode fluid is not released from the second container. The expiration of the first timing sequence, and the initiation of the second timing sequence, occurs from at least one of the lapsing of a time interval, sensory input, and manual input from a user.

Abstract: A dispenser includes a housing adapted to receive first and second containers therein and an actuator drive system for selectively releasing product from the first and second containers. The actuator drive system includes first and second armatures for activation of the first and second containers, respectively.

Abstract: An improved dispenser for dispensing fluid onto a hand including a thermometer to make a determination of the temperature of the hand.

Abstract: A dispensing device may include a main body including a wall having a dispensing mouth defined in the wall; a storage portion, wherein the storage portion is retained by the main body; and a conveyance path providing communication between the storage portion and the dispensing mouth. In addition, the dispensing device may include a conveyor disposed in the conveyance path; a drive motor mechanically coupled to the conveyor; and a sensor, wherein the sensor is directly or indirectly electrically coupled to the drive motor and the sensor is in optical communication with the environment proximate to the dispensing mouth.

Abstract: A method is provided for monitoring of the functionality of an After Treatment Injector (ATI) for injection of a fluid in an engine exhaust gas system upstream of an exhaust gas treatment unit. The monitoring is performed by using a pressure sensor which detects the pressure of the fluid delivered to the ATI for a specific condition or injection cycle. The pressure sensor is located downstream of a flow regulator and upstream of the ATI in a conduit for supplying of a substance from a container to the ATI. An ECU is programmed to perform a predetermined sequence of opening and closing commands for the flow regulator and the ATI in order to monitor the functionality of the flow regulator, the ATI and the pressure sensor. The can be used in connection with an On Board Diagnosis (OBD) system.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for monitoring and controlling motor current during a dispensing of material from a dispensing tool (10) is provided, including a method for measuring the motor current of the dispensing tool during operation through a motor controller (U2). The method further includes sending a feedback signal from the motor controller (U2) relating to the measured motor current to an input of a microcontroller (U1) that is adapted to a dispensing tool (10). The feedback signal is compared to a prescribed threshold and the motor current is conditioned based on the comparing of the feedback signal to the prescribed threshold.

Abstract: A device (3) for metering a base liquid and mixing this base liquid with a diluent to prepare a food product, has a connecting portion for connecting it with a container (4) containing the base liquid, the device (3) including: a diluent inlet (71), a mixing chamber (80) for mixing the base liquid with the diluent. An actively controlled air inlet is provided for selectively having ambient air enter the device and guiding it to the container (4). A controller is provided for selectively metering the base liquid into the mixing chamber and for selectively enabling an air flow through the air inlet only during periods when no base liquid is metered into the mixing chamber.

Abstract: A pumping device including a housing whose front face is at least partly formed by a block of transparent material, this block containing a number of machine-drilled holes including at least one blind hole forming a work chamber, at least one hole forming an admission and/or exhaust channel leading into the blind hole, two through channels whose orifices on the front face of the block are fitted with hydraulic hose connection means, two solenoid valves, a plunger sliding leaktightly in a bearing fitted to the orifice of the blind hole, this plunger defining with the blind hole a volume that varies as a function of the axial position of the plunger, and a module connected to the base of the plunger for moving the plunger translationally. The pumping device can be used for pipetting, dilution, rinsing and/or dispensing of samples, regardless of the envisaged volume ranges.

Abstract: A grain distributor including a timer coupled to a distribution spout that generates a series of particular time values. The control processor is programmed with an algorithm to pivot the distribution spout and to receive and record signals from the sensor as the sensor confronts each of the code clusters and each of the proof windows. The control processor is programmed with the algorithm to associate each signal from each code cluster with a particular time value generated by the timer and to memorize the particular time value associated with each code cluster in a long term memory and the control processor being programmed with the algorithm to associate each signal from each of the proof windows in a long term memory. The grain distributor is also self programming.

Abstract: Disclosed is a water storage and discharge apparatus that includes a storage tank for storing water inflow connected to an inlet pipe and an outlet pipe; a discharge member connected to the outlet pipe; and a pressure maintenance means for maintaining pressure of the storage tank at atmospheric pressure or higher, to discharge of water through the discharge member irrespective of discharge member height, including a pump connected to the storage tank and a pressure sensor for sensing the pressure inside the storage tank. Stored water can be discharged irrespective of the height of a discharge member such as a cock, a faucet or the like, and the height of a discharge member can be freely adjusted to place a discharge member at a height convenient to use the discharge member.

Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for generating a multi-component compound, in particular for dental purposes, comprising: —At least two cartridges (3), each cartridge (3) adapted for containing a component (4) of the multi-component compound and having a plunger (2) adapted for pressing out its component (4) from the cartridge (3); and—a driving device for said plungers (2) in which the driving speed is adjustable, wherein the driving device comprises a stepping motor (1), and a detector associated with the stepping motor for detecting at least one of a) the steps of the stepping motor and b) The load on the stepping motor. At low revolutions per minute, the stepping motor (1) offers higher torque as compared with the known DC motors, whereas it also offers high revolutions per minute, although with comparatively low torque, sufficient for rapid advance and retraction of the plungers (2).

Abstract: An electrically powered device includes at least one electrically powered component and a power source having at least two cells. One cell powers the electrically powered component and the remaining cells are held in reserve. A control circuit is connected to the electrically powered component and the power source. The control circuit includes a controller which generates a charge signal, a boost regulator circuit connected to the controller which receives power from the power source and generates a boost signal for conversion into a charge signal. A capacitor is connected to the controller and receives the charge signal and provides a predetermined voltage to the electrically powered component. A boost regulator circuit and the controller monitor the power source and draw power from one of the remaining cells held in reserve when the cell is fully depleted.

Abstract: An automatic touch-free dispenser provides dose dispensing of a product from a pressurized can by sensing or detecting the presence of a user's hands, and an actuator assembly which tilts the nozzle on the can in response to such detection, to thereby dispense product from the can. The can may hold a healthcare product, such as a sanitizer, food product, or any other fluid product pressurized in a can. The actuator assembly includes a DC motor which drives a cam, which in turn pushes an actuator lever into the nozzle for a certain dispensing time. The number of doses, detection range, and motor speed, can be adjusted.

Abstract: A Multiple Liquid Dispenser of the invention holds at least one or a plurality of liquids that are dispensed from a single appliance. The dispenser may contain liquids including beverages, sanitizers, hand soap and dish washing soap. The dispenser also has an elongated spout, a stable wide base and the option for a liquid temperature controller. Using a single appliance minimizes the amount of separated liquids containers that might be otherwise placed near the sink of the bathroom or kitchen.

Abstract: An ice-making device includes a duct through which ice is dispensed and a duct-covering part opening and closing the duct. When an operation load applied to the duct-covering part while the duct-covering part closes the duct is greater than a preset normal load, the duct-covering part operates to open the duct.

Abstract: A product dispensing system includes a flow control device configured to regulate a first ingredient. A pump module is configured to be coupled to a supply of a second ingredient. A controller is configured to provide a first control signal to the flow control device for controlling the supply of a first quantity of the first ingredient based upon, at least in part, a predetermined recipe. The controller is further configured to provide a second control signal to the pump module for controlling the supply of a first quantity of the second ingredient based upon, at least in part, the predetermined recipe.

Abstract: A dispenser includes a pump that, upon actuation, progresses through a discrete dispense cycle to dispense a discrete dose of product. The dispenser further includes an actuating mechanism serving to actuate the pump, and a dispenser controller that controls operation of the actuation mechanism. The discrete dose is less than a desired dose. When the dispenser controller receives a single dispense request, the dispenser controller causes the actuating mechanism to actuate the pump through multiple discrete dispense cycles so as to dispense multiple discrete doses to achieve a dispensing of the desired dose.

Abstract: A dispenser for foamed soap contains a housing accommodating a soap container and a foam-producing unit. A first pump is provided in a delivery path of the soap from the container to a foam-producing unit. A second pump is provided in the delivery path of air to the foam-producing unit. Every pump is associated with a respective electric motor and has a control which can be used to adjust the ratio of the delivery volumes of air and soap by changing the speed of one of the two electric motors.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present, invention provide a system and method for reducing the hold-up volume of a pump. More particularly, embodiments of the present invention provide a system and method for determining a home position to reduce hold-up volume at a dispense pump and/or a feed pump. The home position for the diaphragm can be selected such that the volume of the chamber at the dispense pump and/or feed pump contains sufficient fluid to perform the various steps of a dispense cycle while minimizing the hold-up volume. Additionally, the home position of the diaphragm can be selected to optimize the effective range of positive displacement.

Abstract: A dispenser 10 creates a use solution. The dispenser 10 includes a diluent inlet for receiving a source of diluent. A first aspirator 38 is in fluid communication with the diluent inlet. An operator valve 27 controls flow of the diluent. A second aspirator 46 has a diluent inlet, diluent outlet and a venturi port. A vacuum switch 63 is operatively connected to the first venturi port and the flow of the diluent through the aspirator 46 creates a vacuum that activates the vacuum switch. A control board 69 is activated by the vacuum switch and a dosing pump 76 is activated by the control device 69. The dosing pump dispenses a liquid product into the diluent stream, wherein a use solution is made.

Abstract: Various arrangements for controlling the dispensing of hand sanitizer dispensed from a hand hygiene dispenser provide for a user to adjust the dosage of a product dispensed, including electronic control and mechanical control.

Abstract: A liquid dispenser has a liquid filled container which is attached to a pump for dispensing. The pump has at least two sensors, a first sensor that identifies whether a person's hand is present and activates the pump, and a second sensor that identifies when the pump has been fully actuated which then switches the direction of the pump's actuation back to its starting point. The dispensing nozzle serves as the pump's actuator and is moved by a motor powered gear system and a toothed rack to move the nozzle.

Abstract: The present invention provides a fluid dispenser for dispensing a fluid from a container. A roller is dimensioned to engage and roll along a portion of the container when the roller moves in a first direction from a first container-engaging position to a second container-engaging position. A sensor for sensing an object in a predetermined area is disposed near the housing. A light source is operable to emit a beam of visible light therefrom. The beam of light intersects the predetermined area. A controller is programmed such that when the sensor senses an object in the predetermined area, the controller energizes the light source to illuminate a target location where the fluid from the container is to be dispensed and the controller causes the roller to move in the first direction from the first container-engaging position to the second container-engaging position, thereby dispensing the fluid from the container.