Motor Control Patents (Class 222/63)
-
Patent number: 8261950Abstract: A device for dispensing a flowable material is disclosed. The device includes a container holding the flowable material therein and a pumping assembly attached to the container. The pumping assembly includes a pump and a placard portion configured for displaying viewable information thereon associated with the flowable material.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2008Date of Patent: September 11, 2012Assignee: Georgia-Pacific Consumer Products LPInventors: Antonio M. Cittadino, Carolyn C. Byl, Matthew T. Wilcox, Alan P. Paal, Gregory D. Budz, Robert W. Cornell
-
Publication number: 20120223098Abstract: The present invention is a universal touch free dispenser for dispensing selective amounts of product from varying sized hand pump product containers. There is a touch free sensor on the front of the dispenser and in electrical communication with the drive assembly of the dispenser. An extendable ram pad extends from the drive assembly that is adjustable according to the amount of product a user wishes to be dispensed. With the product container placed within the dispenser, the unit is adjusted such that the pump on the container is in contact with the dispenser ram. When an object is placed within the viewing range of the touch free sensor, a signal is sent to the drive assembly and the dispenser ram is extended thereby depressing the pump head and dispensing the product onto the object.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 5, 2011Publication date: September 6, 2012Inventor: Mark R. Natterer
-
Patent number: 8256645Abstract: A fluid dispenser is disclosed where a backoff distance is determined and implemented to prevent leakage while dispensing sequentially an accurate, precise amount of fluid substantially independent of the fluid remaining in a syringe-type dispenser. The fluid characteristics of the fluid, e.g. viscosity, surface tension, etc. affect the backoff distance that may be determined heuristically for fluid type, amount of fluid remaining in the syringe and amount to be dispensed. Once the fluid characteristics are known, the dispensing may be accomplished automatically with a processor loading new drive and backoff steps to a motor controller.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 2009Date of Patent: September 4, 2012Assignee: Fishman CorporationInventor: W. Scott Beebe
-
Patent number: 8257052Abstract: A device and method are disclosed for driving an electromagnet for operating a pump. The electromagnet includes a primary winding and a moving element that is attracted within the primary winding when an energizing current is higher than a first threshold value. The moving element lets a liquid dose into an external hydraulic circuit depending on the a travel of the moving element. A control logic unit detects an energizing current to provide the energizing current to the primary winding until the energizing current assumes a second threshold value, depending on a value of the liquid dose to let into the external hydraulic circuit. The second threshold value is higher than the first threshold value and not higher than a third threshold value in correspondence of which the moving element arrives at a stop.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 2006Date of Patent: September 4, 2012Assignee: Seko S.p.A.Inventor: Stefano Livoti
-
Publication number: 20120211517Abstract: A liquid-based metering device includes: at least one dispensing tip, a non-positive displacement and bi-directional pump for dispensing a liquid, a differential pressure flow sensing device including two pressure sensors, a control circuit for driving the pump and the dispensing operation, wherein the pressure sensors of the differential pressure flow sensing device are facing a substrate and are mounted on the substrate, and the substrate includes the electrical connections for the connection of the pressure sensors, the pressure sensors including membranes which are facing the liquid and the control circuit being connected to the pump and to the substrate.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 17, 2012Publication date: August 23, 2012Applicant: CSEM Centre Suisse d'Electronique et de Microtechnique S.A., Recherche et DeveloppementInventors: Noa SCHMID, Janko AUERSWALD
-
Patent number: 8245877Abstract: A dispenser, more particularly, a hand cleaner dispenser incorporating a reader for a user's hand in the form of a palm reader which avoids the need for contact between the user's hand and the dispenser yet provides opportunity for the monitoring of usage including determining the identities of users.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 2009Date of Patent: August 21, 2012Assignee: Gotohti.com Inc.Inventor: Heiner Ophardt
-
Patent number: 8245879Abstract: A touch-free dispenser includes a dispenser controller coupled to a memory unit, which includes a database of previously-stored vein patterns. A vein-pattern sensor maintained by the dispenser images the unique vein pattern of a user's hand without contact. The imaged vein pattern is subsequently compared with stored vein patterns, such that if there is a match, the dispenser proceeds to dispense material, such as soap, from a refill container. Alternatively, if there is no match between the imaged vein pattern and the stored vein patterns, the dispenser enters a learn mode to allow the imaged vein pattern to be added to the database. Data associated with the use of the dispenser is also collected during its operation, which is stored and associated with the imaged vein patterns for subsequent analysis.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2009Date of Patent: August 21, 2012Assignee: GOJO Industries, Inc.Inventor: Jackson W. Wegelin
-
Patent number: 8240508Abstract: A radio frequency identification (RFID) dispenser that includes low cost electronic components that can read and write to the tag of a refill cartridge. In one embodiment, the reader utilizes a multi band pass filter to convert the radio frequency identification into a digital signal that is processed by a controller to perform a dispensing function representative to the code of the tag. In another embodiment, the controller utilizes an internal comparator to convert the radio frequency identification into a digital signal that is processed by a controller to perform a dispensing function representative to the code of the tag. The dispenser in both embodiments also includes a pair of transistors that write to the RFID tag of the refill cartridge. A dispenser according to the invention also includes the capability to read and/or write to tags upon cartridges employed by the dispenser, and augmenting the operation of the dispenser as a function thereof.Type: GrantFiled: December 29, 2008Date of Patent: August 14, 2012Assignee: GOJO Industries, Inc.Inventors: Jackson W. Wegelin, Aaron R. Reynolds, Chip W. Curtis, Dale Liff, Jason Amistadi
-
Publication number: 20120199606Abstract: 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.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 13, 2010Publication date: August 9, 2012Applicant: CLICK CANDY ABInventors: Frida Gunstad, Mikael Gunstad, Fredrik Junkell
-
Publication number: 20120179292Abstract: 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.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 11, 2011Publication date: July 12, 2012Inventor: Bill Schlagel
-
Patent number: 8201708Abstract: A silo has more than one discharge passage, and each passage has the ability to increase or decrease its respective flow rates. The silo and each portion of the silo that feeds into each individual discharge passage can measure a feature of the solid being dispensed, such as its moisture content or its temperature. A computer controller is then used to take this feedback and adjust the rate of flow from each discharge passage so that the flows from each passage are kept the same despite the variation in moisture, temperature or any other characteristic of the flowing solid. A method to utilize this device is also taught.Type: GrantFiled: April 1, 2005Date of Patent: June 19, 2012Assignee: Maschinenfabrik Gustav Eirch GmbH & Co. KGInventors: Dieter Adelmann, Stefan Gerl
-
Patent number: 8196782Abstract: Device for ice cream distributor in cooled windows and similar, fit to prevent the ice cream melting in the outlet area comprises at least a duct with an outlet hole and control element of the ice cream flow. In the outlet duct (2) is inserted a piston (5) with a stem (6), or similar, which, at distributing position, is placed beyond the outlet hole (3) through which the ice cream exits. while, at rest position, is placed before the outlet hole (3), in such a way to block the ice cream exit. During the return motion, the piston (5) brings back the ice cream already in the duct into the inner portion of the cooled space, delimited by the dividing wall (4), or in same container (1), in such a way to avoid the ice cream melting at the end portion.Type: GrantFiled: May 24, 2007Date of Patent: June 12, 2012Inventor: Franco De Blasi
-
Patent number: 8186544Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2011Date of Patent: May 29, 2012Assignee: Brookstone Purchasing, Inc.Inventors: Stephen B. Mills, Stevenson Tom
-
Patent number: 8167168Abstract: A dispenser with an automatic pump output detection system provides a pump with an adjustable output. The pump is coupled to a current sensor that generates an operating profile based on the electrical current consumed during each dispensement of material by the pump. A controller that includes one or more previously-stored reference profiles that correspond to discrete pump output amount values that are compared with each generated operating profile, whereby the discrete pump output amounts associated with the matching reference profile is used to compute various usage data associated with the operation of the dispenser.Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 2009Date of Patent: May 1, 2012Assignee: GOJO Industries, Inc.Inventor: Aaron R. Reynolds
-
Patent number: 8141752Abstract: The invention relates to a hand-held applicator unit for viscous materials having a screw pump disposed in a pump casing which is in communication with a drive, wherein the pump inlet has a product intake with a flexible supply line and the pump outlet contains a shaped mouthpiece.Type: GrantFiled: July 17, 2008Date of Patent: March 27, 2012Assignee: NETZSCH-Mohnopumpen GmbHInventors: Marianne Weiss, Stefan Gumpp, Ingo Dunker
-
Patent number: 8136706Abstract: Screw feeder (1) for transporting and/or metering pulverulent or granular material, having a rotatably mounted feeder screw (3) for the transport of material from a storage vessel (2) to a discharge opening (6), and having a variable-speed motor (4) for driving the feeder screw, characterized in that the speed is controlled by a programmable regulating device (7) which regulates the speed of the motor as a function of the respectively determined rotary position of the feeder screw within one full worm revolution.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2007Date of Patent: March 20, 2012Inventor: Dirk Jung
-
Patent number: 8136705Abstract: A dispenser for dispensing a volume of viscous material on a substrate includes a frame, a gantry system coupled to the frame, and a dispenser unit coupled to the gantry system. The dispenser unit includes a housing having a chamber, and a piston disposed in the chamber. The piston has an elongate body and is configured to move between a pre-dispense position and a dispense position within the chamber. The dispenser unit further includes a motor to drive the movement of the piston within the chamber. The motor includes a rotating shaft, a wheel coupled to the rotating shaft, the wheel having at least one drive magnet, and a driven magnet disposed between wheel and the piston. The dispenser further includes a nozzle coupled to the housing. The nozzle has an orifice to dispense viscous material. Other embodiments of the dispenser and methods of dispensing are further disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2009Date of Patent: March 20, 2012Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventors: Robert W. Tracy, Kenneth C. Crouch
-
Publication number: 20120055951Abstract: 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.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 19, 2011Publication date: March 8, 2012Applicant: Meritool LLCInventors: Timm Herman, Brent M. Findlay, Michael R. Wheeley, Mark Kastner
-
Patent number: 8114479Abstract: This invention relates to a vapor or liquid phase reagent dispensing apparatus having a diptube and also a metal seal aligned and in contact with hardened opposing flat surfaces of a top wall member and a protuberance on a side wall member, wherein the hardened opposing flat surfaces of the top wall member and the protuberance have a hardness greater than the hardness of the metal seal. The dispensing apparatus may be used for dispensing of reagents such as precursors for deposition of materials in the manufacture of semiconductor materials and devices.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 2011Date of Patent: February 14, 2012Assignee: Praxair Technology, Inc.Inventors: Ronald F. Spohn, David Walter Peters
-
Publication number: 20120031922Abstract: A system for providing power to a plurality of soap or disinfectant dispensers through a power over ethernet (PoE) network and for sensing various operational parameters of the dispensers and communicating those parameters through the network connection to a central computing device. The system includes a Data/Power controller associated with the dispensers for providing power to the dispenser and for sending and receiving data between one or more sensors in the dispensers and a central computer device.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 2, 2010Publication date: February 9, 2012Inventor: Raymond C. Johnson
-
Patent number: 8109411Abstract: An electric soap dispenser that includes sensors for detecting the presence of an object. The dispenser can be configured to dispense an amount of liquid soap, for example, upon detecting the presence of an object. The dispenser can include various features for enhancing the performance thereof. For example, the dispenser can include an additional button for manual operation of the pump. Additionally, the dispenser can detect the voltage of a power supply and compensate for a drop in voltage of the power supply so as to produce more uniform dispensations of the liquid product. Additionally, the dispenser can include a valve at its discharge end to prevent drips.Type: GrantFiled: August 15, 2007Date of Patent: February 7, 2012Assignee: simplehuman, LLCInventors: Frank Yang, Joseph Sandor, Orlando Cardenas
-
Patent number: 8109414Abstract: A discharge device for media has a housing (10), an operating member (88) manually movable relative to the housing (10) and which, for performing a discharge can be transferred from an unoperated starting position in the direction of an operating direction (1a) into an operated end position and with a locking member (52), which is displaceable relative to the housing (10) between a locked position where it prevents the displacement of the operating member (88) into the end position and a release position in which it permits the displacement of the operating member (88) into the end position.Type: GrantFiled: October 7, 2008Date of Patent: February 7, 2012Assignee: Ing. Erich Pfeiffer GmbHInventors: Miro Cater, Joachim Koerner, Volker Umbeer, Karl-Heinz Fuchs
-
Publication number: 20120024893Abstract: 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.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 28, 2010Publication date: February 2, 2012Applicant: BROOKSTONE PURCHASING, INC.Inventors: Stephen B. Mills, Stevenson Tom
-
Publication number: 20120018448Abstract: A product delivery and monitoring system is provided. The system includes at least one air pump, an air pump sensor for each air pump, at least one diaphragm pump, a diaphragm pump sensor for each diaphragm pump, a controller and an indication system. Each air pump sensor is configured and arranged to monitor the operation of the air pump. The at least one diaphragm pump is configured and arranged to deliver a product in response to the operation of an associated air pump. Each diaphragm pump sensor is configured and arranged to monitor the delivery of the product by the diaphragm pump. The controller is in communication with each air pump sensor and each diaphragm pump sensor. The controller is configured to generate at least one control signal based on a comparison of communications from an air pump sensor and an associated diaphragm sensor. The controller is configured to manipulate the indication system with the at least one control signal.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 18, 2011Publication date: January 26, 2012Inventors: Richard J. Mehus, Robert D. Grapes, James Unwin
-
Patent number: 8096445Abstract: An electric soap dispenser that includes sensors for detecting the presence of an object. The dispenser can be configured to dispense an amount of liquid soap, for example, upon detecting the presence of an object. The dispenser can include various features for enhancing the performance thereof. For example, the dispenser can include an additional button for manual operation of the pump. Additionally, the dispenser can detect the voltage of a power supply and compensate for a drop in voltage of the power supply so as to produce more uniform dispensations of the liquid product.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 2008Date of Patent: January 17, 2012Assignee: simplehuman, LLCInventors: Frank Yang, Joseph Sandor, Orlando Cardenas
-
Publication number: 20120006848Abstract: A dispenser with an automatic pump output detection system includes a controller that controls the operation of an actuator that moves in a first and second direction along a path. A limit stop is adjustably disposed along the path, such that when the actuator moves in the first direction, it engages the limit stop and the pump. Upon engaging the limit stop, the controller reverses the movement of the actuator so that it moves in the second direction. As such, the specific discrete position of the limit stop determines the amount of material dispensed from the pump.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 7, 2010Publication date: January 12, 2012Inventor: AARON R. REYNOLDS
-
Publication number: 20120006077Abstract: A washing machine having a detergent feeding apparatus to stably feed a required amount of liquid detergent based on the amount of laundry in an automated manner. The washing machine includes a cabinet defining an external appearance of the washing machine, a drum placed in the cabinet, a detergent box connected to the drum, a liquid detergent reservoir placed below the detergent box and to store liquid detergent therein, and a detergent feeding apparatus connected to the detergent box and the liquid detergent reservoir and to feed the liquid detergent stored in the liquid detergent reservoir to the detergent box. The detergent feeding apparatus includes a cylinder which the liquid detergent is introduced into or discharged from, and a pressure regulating unit connected to the cylinder and to introduce the liquid detergent into the cylinder or discharge the introduced liquid detergent from the cylinder.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 3, 2011Publication date: January 12, 2012Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.Inventors: Il Ju Mun, Byung Sang Yun, Eung Yeoul Yoon, Kyu Ho Shin, Kwang Hyok Park
-
Patent number: 8091735Abstract: An improved concentrated/extract cartridge is provided for dispensing a liquid in an accurate and repeatable manner. The cartridge includes an electromagnetically actuated piston connected to a value. The piston includes an exterior ring supported by a hollow interior web that is configured to permit a flow of fluid into the dispensing tube when the value body is in contact with the value seat. A membrane is located below the web and is in sealing contact with the internal ring when the piston is activated. This allows a precise and repeatable amount of the liquid to be dispensed with each stroke. Dispensers for dispensing the liquid from the cartridge for a number of applications are also provided. The dispensers each include an actuating coil into which the dispensing tube is inserted. A controller is connected to the coil for controlling the actuation of the piston/value assembly for dispensing the fluid in the cartridge as required for the particular application.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2007Date of Patent: January 10, 2012Assignee: Intelligent Coffee Company, LLCInventors: Jeffrey J. Girard, Nasser Pirshafiey, Mario E. Vassaux, Heather B. Kay, Shlomo Greenwald, Zipora Greenwald, Paul Van Den Hoonaard
-
Patent number: 8087543Abstract: An electric soap dispenser that includes sensors for detecting the presence of an object. The dispenser can be configured to dispense an amount of liquid soap, for example, upon detecting the presence of an object. The dispenser can include various features for enhancing the performance thereof. For example, the dispenser can include an additional button for manual operation of the pump. Additionally, the dispenser can detect the voltage of a power supply and compensate for a drop in voltage of the power supply so as to produce more uniform dispensations of the liquid product.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 2007Date of Patent: January 3, 2012Assignee: simplehuman, LLCInventors: Frank Yang, Joseph Sandor, Orlando Cardenas
-
Patent number: 8083498Abstract: Embodiments of the systems and methods disclosed herein utilize a brushless DC motor (BLDCM) to drive a single-stage or a multi-stage pump in a pumping system for real time, smooth motion, and extremely precise and repeatable position control over fluid movements and dispense amounts, useful in semiconductor manufacturing. The BLDCM may employ a position sensor for real time position feedback to a processor executing a custom field-oriented control scheme. Embodiments of the invention can reduce heat generation without undesirably compromising the precise position control of the dispense pump by increasing and decreasing, via a custom control scheme, the operating frequency of the BLDCM according to the criticality of the underlying function(s). The control scheme can run the BLDCM at very low speeds while maintaining a constant velocity, which enables the pumping system to operate in a wide range of speeds with minimal variation, substantially increasing dispense performance and operation capabilities.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2006Date of Patent: December 27, 2011Assignee: Entegris, Inc.Inventors: George Gonnella, James Cedrone, Iraj Gashgaee
-
Patent number: 8083099Abstract: A method for producing a multicomponent compound involves pressing components out of cartridges by means of pistons. The method has particular applicability in connection with dental applications. The method prevents pressing the components initially under high pressures. At the beginning of the pressing-out process, a pressure lower than the characteristic pressing-out pressure of the components from the cartridges is employed. Feed speeds are adjusted to constant value as a function of the pressing-out behavior of the components which are compared with stored or calculated values for a known material.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 2006Date of Patent: December 27, 2011Assignee: Ernst Muhlbauer GmbH & Co. KGInventors: Sven Meyer, Hans-Dieter Höhnk, Matthias Weihrauch
-
Patent number: 8074836Abstract: A dispensing system is disclosed which utilizes an electronically powered key device and/or identification code associated with a refill container to preclude the need for mechanical keys. The system utilizes a near field frequency response to determine whether a refill container is compatible with a dispensing system. In particular, the refill container is provided with a coil terminated by one of a number of capacitors. The container is received in a housing that provides a pair of coils that are in a spatial relationship with the installed refill container's coil. By energizing one of the housing's coils, the other coil detects a unique electronic signature generated by the container's coil. If the signature is acceptable, the dispensing system is allowed to dispense a quantity of material. The system also provides a unique latching mechanism to retain the container and ensure positioning of all the coils.Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 2009Date of Patent: December 13, 2011Inventors: Aaron R. Reynolds, Paul Waterhouse
-
Patent number: 8069887Abstract: An ice flap device (10) for a refrigerator comprises a flap unit (14) movable between an open position and a closed position, which unit releases a dispenser aperture for dispensing ice in its open position and blocks the dispenser aperture against dispensing ice in its closed position, as well as a motorized drive mechanism for driving the flap unit (14) between its open and closed position. According to the invention the drive mechanism comprises an a.c. motor (12) as well as a first electrical switch (26), which lies in the supply circuit of the a.c. motor and switches depending on the introduction of a receptacle into an ice dispenser compartment of the refrigerator, and by means of which the a.c. motor (12) can be turned on when the receptacle is introduced into the ice dispenser compartment for a movement of the flap unit (14) from the closed position in the direction of the open position.Type: GrantFiled: March 11, 2009Date of Patent: December 6, 2011Assignee: emz-Hanauer GmbH & Co. KGaAInventors: Albert Dirnberger, Georg Spiessl
-
Patent number: 8071933Abstract: 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 having 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.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2009Date of Patent: December 6, 2011Assignee: Gotohti.Com IncInventors: Heiner Ophardt, Andrew Jones
-
Publication number: 20110278322Abstract: A system and related method is disclosed for resetting a stalled pump in a fluid dispensing system. In one embodiment, the presence of a user's hand is detected to start a pump actuator associated with a refill container. A controller associated with a motor actuates the pump actuator by rotating a motor shaft in a first direction. The current sensor is monitored and when the current sensor detects a predetermined level of current the motor shaft is reversed to a starting position.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 29, 2011Publication date: November 17, 2011Inventors: Aaron R. Reynolds, Jackson W. Wegelin, Robert L. Quinlan, JR., Robert S. Hackney, Cuong Truong
-
Patent number: 8047409Abstract: An apparatus for the metered removal of bulk material from a bin, the apparatus having a top bulk-material-filling opening, bottom bulk-material-removal opening, and a rotor that is connected in a driven manner to at least one sweeping arm disposed inside the bin near the bin's rotationally symmetrical floor and directed towards the removal opening. In order to create an apparatus for the removal of bulk material from a bin in which the mass of the removed bulk material not only can be metered very precisely, but which is also of simple design and easy to maintain, provision is made whereby the sweeping arm is attached on the bottom side of a separating element connected in a driven manner to the rotor, and whereby a settling zone is provided below the separating element in front of the sweeping arm, this zone only being open on one side to the bulk material through a feed opening, and on the other side to the removal opening.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 2006Date of Patent: November 1, 2011Assignee: Schenck Process GmbHInventors: Peter Schweizer, Stefan Breunig
-
Patent number: 8042455Abstract: An automatic dispenser of ground coffee having: a reservoir having a flow outlet opening and adapted to contain a quantity of ground coffee; at least one paddle mounted to rotate in the bottom of the reservoir to transfer a predetermined quantity of ground coffee from the reservoir through the flow outlet opening; and a motor assembly connected for driving the paddle in rotation. The motor assembly is composed of: a motor having two input terminals via which operating current is supplied to the motor; and a control circuit having at least one component connected to establish a short circuit between the two terminals after the supply of operating current to the motor has been cut off.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2008Date of Patent: October 25, 2011Assignee: SED S.A.Inventors: Gilles Lebuffe, Patrick Leveque
-
Publication number: 20110257596Abstract: 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.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 13, 2011Publication date: October 20, 2011Applicant: TENEO INNOVATIONS INC.Inventor: Martin GAUDET
-
Publication number: 20110240672Abstract: This invention provides a chemical supply system for supplying chemical solution from a chemical tank. The chemical supply system includes a chemical supply pump, a pressure adjuster configured to suction the chemical solution into the pump chamber by setting the pressure of working gas to a suction pressure, a switching controller configured to switch the suction-side opening-closing valve to the open state for starting to fill the pump chamber with the chemical solution, a pressure detector configured to detect at least one of a gas pressure in a space connected to the working chamber and a gas pressure in the working chamber when the suction-side opening-closing valve is switched to the open state and starts an inflow of the chemical solution to the pump chamber, and a suction controller configured to control the suction pressure applied to the working chamber by the pressure adjuster, based on a detection result of the pressure detector.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 22, 2011Publication date: October 6, 2011Applicant: CKD CORPORATIONInventors: Isao NAGASAKI, Akihiro ITO, Tetsuya TOYODA
-
Patent number: 8029204Abstract: A dispenser for spreadable foodstuffs or spreadable non-food substances allowing for dispensing of metered amounts of foodstuffs or non-food substances and spreading without the need for additional utensils that are not part of the packaging is disclosed. Dispenser is easily refilled with replaceable cartridges and designed to keep contents away from air as contents are dispensed.Type: GrantFiled: August 29, 2007Date of Patent: October 4, 2011Assignee: Innovation Consumer Solutions, LLCInventors: Francis Kiss deVirag, Alexander Sterling Wise, Ileen Rosner, Jonathan Rosner
-
Patent number: 8029247Abstract: Systems and methods for maintaining substantially a baseline pressure in a chamber of a pumping apparatus are disclosed. Embodiments of the present invention may serve to control a motor to compensate or account for a pressure drift which may occur in a chamber of the pumping apparatus. More specifically, a dispense motor may be controlled to substantially maintain a baseline pressure in the dispense chamber before a dispense based on a pressure sensed in the dispense chamber. In one embodiment, before a dispense is initiated a control loop may be utilized such that it is repeatedly determined if the pressure in the dispense chamber is above a desired pressure and, if so, the movement of the pumping means regulated to maintain substantially the desired pressure in the dispense chamber until a dispense of fluid is initiated.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2006Date of Patent: October 4, 2011Assignee: Entegris, Inc.Inventors: James Cedrone, George Gonnella
-
Patent number: 8028592Abstract: An electronic metering apparatus for metering liquids, with a longitudinal, handleable housing, a drive, arranged in the housing, with an electric motor, at least one displacer device, arranged in the housing or being capable to be arranged on the same, with a displacer element, which is connected to the drive and/or connectable to the same, at least one holding device on the bottom end of the housing for holding a pipette point or a syringe, at least one electric operational control in or on the housing, at least one electric information device in or on the housing, an electric control unit arranged in the housing, which is connected to the electric motor, the electric operational control and the electric information device, and which controls the information device depending on the position and/or previous changes of the position of the displacer element, in order to put out an information concerning the next reasonable dislocation of the displacer element, and an electric power supply.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 2007Date of Patent: October 4, 2011Assignee: Eppendorf AGInventors: Peter Molitor, Karl-Friedrich Andres, Peter Schmidt
-
Patent number: 8020727Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: December 29, 2006Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: Meritool LLCInventors: Timm Herman, Brent M. Findlay, Michael R. Wheeley, Mark Kastner
-
Patent number: 8006866Abstract: A beverage dispenser provides numerous inventive features in its refrigeration system (82), diluent delivery system (78), concentrate delivery system (74), mixing and dispensing system (76), and control system. The refrigeration system (82) employs a plate heat exchanger to provide on demand refrigeration of an intermittent water flow. The diluent delivery system includes a flowmeter/solenoid/check-valve assembly. The concentrate delivery system employs a positive displacement pump. The mixing and dispensing system includes a mixing nozzle (80) that has a locking feature such that an elevated blocking surface directly faces the inlet of pressurized diluent to create turbulence. The control system receives package-specific information from a scanner and diluent flow rate information from the flowmeter, and then determines the pump speed in order to set a desired mix ratio.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2005Date of Patent: August 30, 2011Assignee: Carrier CorporationInventors: James J. Minard, Mark E. Bush, Peter F. McNamee
-
Patent number: 7997522Abstract: A center-pull dispenser for dispensing paper towels from a continuous roll, wherein each individual towel is separated from an adjoining towel by a plurality of perforations. The dispenser comprises a housing having a housing back and a detachable front cover hingedly connected thereto at the lower periphery of said housing back and front cover for opening and closing the housing, a paper support tray removably connected to a lower portion of the housing back and having a centrally located dispensing nozzle, an opening in the lower periphery of the housing through which the towels are dispensed, a detachable wall-mounting member for removably mounting the housing back to a wall, and a locking member for releasably locking the front cover to the housing back and the housing back to the wall-mounting member.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2007Date of Patent: August 16, 2011Assignee: Cintas CorporationInventors: Richard Petras Titas, Christopher Andrew Brizes, Mark Edward Cipolla, Paul Dana Stephens, Christopher Daniel Carsten
-
Patent number: 7997443Abstract: A center-pull dispenser for dispensing paper towels from a continuous roll, wherein each individual towel is separated from an adjoining towel by a plurality of perforations. The dispenser comprises a housing having a housing back and a detachable front cover hingedly connected thereto at the lower periphery of said housing back and front cover for opening and closing the housing, a paper support tray removably connected to a lower portion of the housing back, the tray having a centrally located dispensing nozzle and at least one locking element for releasably locking at least one first hinge element on the lower periphery of the front cover to at least one second hinge element on the lower periphery of the housing back, an opening in the lower periphery of said housing through which the towels are dispensed, and a wall-mounting member for removably mounting the housing back to a wall.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2007Date of Patent: August 16, 2011Assignee: Cintas CorporationInventors: Richard Petras Titas, Christopher Andrew Brizes, Mark Edward Cipolla, Paul Dana Stephens, Christopher Daniel Carsten
-
Patent number: 7997446Abstract: A minute quantity viscous material dispenser employing a pressurized material source and a reciprocating piston is driven by a variable drive which is controlled in response to a signal reflective of piston position and wherein the drive can be controlled for direction, stroke distance, speed, acceleration, and force and wherein the drive is coupled to the piston through a quick disconnect.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2005Date of Patent: August 16, 2011Inventor: Harold J. Engel
-
Patent number: 7984825Abstract: A method of controlling operation of a mechanism, preferably a dispenser, having a removable component comprises measuring electromagnetic radiation passing through a wave guide 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.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2007Date of Patent: July 26, 2011Assignee: Gotohti.com Inc.Inventors: Heiner Ophardt, Andrew Jones
-
Patent number: 7980421Abstract: A method of controlling operation of a mechanism, preferably a dispenser, having a removable component comprises 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.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 2008Date of Patent: July 19, 2011Assignee: Gotohti.com Inc.Inventors: Heiner Ophardt, Andrew Jones
-
Patent number: RE43288Abstract: A fluid delivery system includes a flow control device and a Coriolis mass flowmeter in fluid communication with the flow control device. The Coriolis flowmeter has a flow-tube made of a high-purity plastic material, such as PFA, making the delivery system suitable for high purity applications. A controller provides a control output signal to the flow control device, which may comprise a pinch valve, so as to vary the flow control device output in response to a setpoint signal and measurement signals received from the flowmeter.Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 2007Date of Patent: April 3, 2012Assignee: Emerson Electric Co.Inventors: Wesley E. Sund, Joseph C. Dille, Michael J. Barger, Gary E. Pawlas