Motor Control Patents (Class 222/63)
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Patent number: 7967168Abstract: A dosing apparatus includes a feed device for a liquid or pasty medium, which supplies the medium at a given preliminary pressure. A pressure control valve communicates with the feed device, a dosing pump is fluidically connected to the pressure control valve, a driving motor that drives the dosing pump, a discharge valve discharges the medium as a volume flow modifiable over time. A control and regulation device feeds a control signal to the pressure control valve in accordance with a predefined setpoint volume flow value. A comparator of the control and regulation device compares the input and output pressure values, and a control unit modifies the control signal fed to the pressure control valve in order to drive the difference between the input and output pressure values to a given value.Type: GrantFiled: March 17, 2008Date of Patent: June 28, 2011Assignee: Hilger u. Kern GmbHInventors: Daniel Geier, Klaus Ehrle
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Patent number: 7963475Abstract: Automatic dispensers, proximity detectors and user-detection methods. A proximity detector can be used to trigger operation of the dispenser to dispense products such as towel, tissue, wipes, sheet-form materials, soap, shaving cream, fragrances and personal care products.Type: GrantFiled: December 4, 2006Date of Patent: June 21, 2011Assignee: Alwin Manufacturing Co., Inc.Inventor: James A. Rodrian
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Publication number: 20110127290Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide dispensers, and particularly automatic dispensers, and even more particularly, automatic soap dispensers for dispensing a foamed soap to a user's hands.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 1, 2009Publication date: June 2, 2011Inventors: Brian Law, David Pritchett, Simon Ingram
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Patent number: 7934622Abstract: An improved system and method for dispensing dehydrated culture media (DCM) powder into containers for preparation as a culture media. The manual and automated systems and methods operate to dispense DCM powder, as well as liquid, into vessels or media preparation instruments in a manner to avoid DCM dust inhalation by persons in the surrounding area and contamination of equipment and surfaces in the surrounding area. The system can further comprise a carousel arrangement that permits dispensing of DCM powder from multiple containers at multiple volumes and rates. In addition, the containers have a particular configuration for use with the system and method, such as the carousel arrangement, to avoid errors, promote repeatability and eliminate dusting. The containers can also include a device, such as an auger, to facilitated measured dispensing of the DCM powder automatically or manually into a flask, automated media sterilizers or other instruments.Type: GrantFiled: May 3, 2006Date of Patent: May 3, 2011Assignee: Mediatek, LLCInventors: Arthur G. House, Kevin P. Klink, William J. Richman
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Patent number: 7934466Abstract: The invention concerns a coating plant for the coating of construction units with a coating medium, in particular a paint system for the lacquer finish of motor vehicle body parts, with a dosing pump, the coating medium supplied with a certain delivery (Fm) proportioned, and a pressure control valve arranged upstream before the dosing pump to adjust a coating medium pressure (p v) at the entrance of the dosing pump, as well as a control unit to adjust the pressure control valve a controlled variable of the pressure difference (?p) through the dosing pump independently of the delivery of the dosing pump and the changing viscosity of the lacquers to an essentially constant desired value (?pTARGET).Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2007Date of Patent: May 3, 2011Assignee: Durr Systems Inc.Inventors: Andreas Collmer, Wilhelm Hofmann
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Publication number: 20110095051Abstract: The present invention provides an automatic foam soap dispenser used for single soap reservoir which is pressed from top to down. The automatic foam soap dispenser includes a covering housing opened downwardly for accommodating a pressing-typed soap reservoir, a control circuit board, a motor, and a sensor. The soap reservoir has a pressing head at the top thereof, the pressing head is communicated with a connecting head, and the connecting head has an extension pipe to communicate with a foam nozzle, which is mounted at the bottom of the covering housing. Moreover, an extension fixing board is extended inside the covering housing for mounting a transmission gear set, which is driven by the motor to turn, and a swinging pressing board, wherein the transmission gear set has a cam, and a first end of the swinging pressing board is pivotally connected to the cam and the transmission gear set, and a second end of the swinging pressing board is leaned on the pressing head or the connecting head.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 28, 2009Publication date: April 28, 2011Inventors: Wei-Ta LIAO, Huang Tsai, Kuo-Chou Lee, Tsan-Chang Huang
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Patent number: 7918367Abstract: A system for monitoring and controlling the delivery of CO2 from a bulk storage tank to at least one gas-driven pump is disclosed. By monitoring certain conditions, the flow of CO2 can be quickly and easily terminated if necessary, thereby reducing or eliminating undesirable consequences of CO2 gas flow in abnormal operational scenarios. The invention is particularly well suited for deployment in conjunction with beverage dispensing machines and can be configured to shut down the flow of CO2 if a drop in pressure occurs due to a leak in the system or if a syrup delivery system runs out of product.Type: GrantFiled: May 25, 2010Date of Patent: April 5, 2011Inventor: Kevin P. O'Donnell
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Publication number: 20110062182Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: September 17, 2009Publication date: March 17, 2011Inventor: AARON R. REYNOLDS
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Patent number: 7905373Abstract: A method and computer program product for defining a PWM drive signal having a defined voltage potential. The PWM drive signal has a plurality of “on” portions and a plurality of “off” portions that define a first duty cycle for regulating, at least in part, a flow rate of a pump assembly. At least a portion of the “on” portions of the PWM drive signal are pulse width modulated to define a second duty cycle for the at least a portion of the “on” portions of the PWM drive signal. The second duty cycle regulates, at least in part, the percentage of the defined voltage potential applied to the pump assembly.Type: GrantFiled: September 6, 2007Date of Patent: March 15, 2011Assignee: Deka Products Limited PartnershipInventors: Russell Herbert Beavis, James Jason Dattolo
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Publication number: 20110049190Abstract: An improved undercounter ice dispenser is disclosed that has a multiple piece auger made in sections for moving ice from the dispenser bin to its ice chute. The auger ice chute invention includes a sensor to reduce ice jamming and to detect when the ice chute is filled or needs filling and works in conjunction with a paddle on the auger to help make the transition. Proportional size ice quantities may also be selected via an interface and auger control.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 24, 2010Publication date: March 3, 2011Inventors: E. Scott Sevcik, Dusan N. Ivancevic, Andrew J. Sanguinet, Thaddeus M. Jablonski, Andrew J. Tobler, Peter S. Tinucci, Vincenzo DiFatta
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Patent number: 7886943Abstract: A portable drywall joint compound pump workstation has a joint compound supply reservoir with an open top and closed bottom removably attached to a wheeled framework. The workstation further has a pump assembly including a pump control removably connected to the framework for pumping joint compound from the supply reservoir to a workstation outlet extending from the pump control. The pump assembly includes a high pressure cylinder connected to a valve and quick coupling arrangement which, in turn, is in communication with the supply reservoir through the bottom end thereof. A discharge line extends between the high pressure cylinder and the pump control for feeding joint compound from the supply reservoir to the pump control. A first discharge port is provided on the pump control for continuously feeding a variety of drywall finishing tools. A second discharge port is provided on the pump control for supplying wash down water to clean tools or act as a source of high pressure fluid.Type: GrantFiled: June 12, 2008Date of Patent: February 15, 2011Assignee: Apla-Tech, Inc.Inventors: Jeffrey L. Denkins, Steven J. Mondloch
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Publication number: 20110017769Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: July 22, 2009Publication date: January 27, 2011Inventor: Heiner Ophardt
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Patent number: 7874456Abstract: A modular system, for delivering hot melt adhesive materials, comprises a modular metering assembly, having metering stations disposed therein, that is able to be attachably and detachably mounted upon a modular tank assembly. Alternatively, one or more of the metering stations may be disposed externally of the modular metering assembly, and alternatively still further, one or more additional modular metering assemblies may be attachably and detachably connected to the first modular metering assembly. Also disclosed is a closed-loop fluid pressure control system, for independently controlling the pressure of the hot melt adhesive material being conveyed to the metering devices, whereby the working pressures of the hot melt adhesive materials being conveyed to the metering devices can have different working pressures.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2007Date of Patent: January 25, 2011Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventors: Edward W. Bolyard, Jr., Grant McGuffey, Mairi MacLean
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Patent number: 7854348Abstract: A device for dispensing a viscid material includes a supporting body constructed by a carriage. A ball screw is installed within the supporting body. A rod piston is mounted on one end of the ball screw. A transmission module is mounted on a nut of the ball screw. The transmission module is engaged with an actuator controlled by a control circuit device. The control circuit device, which includes a switch and a circuit board, etc, controls the positive and negative rotations and the stop operation of the actuator. A trigger is set up on one side of the supporting body. When the trigger is pressed, the actuator is driven to rotate in the positive direction to drive the ball screw to move forwardly in a stable way. While the trigger is released, a sensor is activated to drive the actuator to rotate in the negative direction.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 2007Date of Patent: December 21, 2010Assignee: Jelley Pechnology Co., Ltd.Inventor: Feng-Ho Wang
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Publication number: 20100237096Abstract: A wirelessly-powered dispenser system includes a power receiver that is configured to receive a wireless power signal sent from a remotely-located power transmission module. The received wireless power signal is used by the dispenser to power a controller and pump to enable the automatic output of material, such as soap, provided by a replaceable refill container. As such, the dispenser can be installed in a wide range of locations where wired power is unavailable and without the need of battery replacement.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 23, 2010Publication date: September 23, 2010Inventor: Jackson W. Wegelin
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Publication number: 20100230436Abstract: A system for monitoring and controlling the delivery of CO2 from a bulk storage tank to at least one gas-driven pump is disclosed. By monitoring certain conditions, the flow of CO2 can be quickly and easily terminated if necessary, thereby reducing or eliminating undesirable consequences of CO2 gas flow in abnormal operational scenarios. The invention is particularly well suited for deployment in conjunction with beverage dispensing machines and can be configured to shut down the flow of CO2 if a drop in pressure occurs due to a leak in the system or if a syrup delivery system runs out of product.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 25, 2010Publication date: September 16, 2010Inventor: Kevin P. O'Donnell
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Patent number: 7792647Abstract: A method for quantitatively measuring error causing physical parameters in a fluid handling system, includes: measuring the pressure of air between a piston of a pump and a liquid being handled; detecting a pressure abnormality; determining the time at which the pressure abnormality begins to occur; and based on the time of the pressure abnormality determining the magnitude of the physical parameter causing the pressure abnormality. In a preferred embodiment, the error causing physical parameter is a bubble and the fluid handling is an aspirate operation in a diagnostic analyzer.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 2006Date of Patent: September 7, 2010Assignee: Ortho-Clinical Diagnostics, Inc.Inventors: Zhong Ding, Mark Sawczuk, Scott Steams, Muhidin Lelic
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Patent number: 7770408Abstract: An ice supplier includes a case configured to store ice from an ice maker. The case includes an outlet and a transfer unit configured to transfer ice pieces in the case to the outlet. A sensor is configured to sense ice pieces passing through the outlet and a controller is configured to control the transfer unit according to input from the sensor.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2007Date of Patent: August 10, 2010Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.Inventors: Yong Su Kim, Seong Jae Kim, Nam Gi Lee
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Patent number: 7766194Abstract: A household liquid dispensing apparatus includes a container for holding a household liquid and a pump for pumping the household liquid out of the container. The pump includes a pump chamber. A dip tube is adapted to be positioned in the container and communicates with the pump chamber. An exhaust tube communicates with the pump chamber and an outlet for the household liquid. A pump actuator mechanically drives the pump. A motor operatively engages the pump actuator. The motor is electrically connected to a power source. A switch is electrically connected to the motor and the power source. A trigger assembly is operatively connected to the switch to control power delivered to the motor. The trigger assembly is positioned under the outlet for the household liquid for easy actuation by an upturned hand.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 2008Date of Patent: August 3, 2010Assignee: Conopco, Inc.Inventors: David Boll, Jeffrey Kalman, Michael Schiavoni, Craig M. Saunders
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Patent number: 7758547Abstract: A process comprises the phases of: activating a pusher, which exerts a push force on a plunger of a syringe containing the infusion liquid; measuring the push force by means of a load cell; comparing the push force with a maximum threshold; halting the pusher when the maximum threshold is exceeded; after a predetermined pause, restarting the pusher and emitting a consent signal indicating correct loading of the syringe if, within a certain time from the restart, the push force again exceeds the maximum threshold. The infusion device serves to inject an anticoagulant into an extracorporeal blood circuit. The control process guarantees against loss of infusion due to an incorrect initial loading of the syringe.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 2005Date of Patent: July 20, 2010Assignee: Gambro Lundia ABInventors: Claudio Tonelli, Andrea Ligabue, Silvano Cestari
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Patent number: 7748565Abstract: Described is an automatic dispensing apparatus for dispensing toothpaste. The dispensing apparatus comprises a housing having a front portion with a hole therethrough. The housing is capable of holding a tube of toothpaste. A sensor is attached with the housing. A spring is connectable with the housing for compressing the container of the viscous substance. A dispenser head is attached with the housing for attaching with the container of the viscous substance. Additionally, a motor is connected with the sensor and the dispenser head. Thus, a user can activate the sensor by placing an object proximate the sensor to activate the motor so that the motor rotates the dispenser head. In operation, the spring compresses the tube of toothpaste such that the toothpaste is pressed out of the container and through the dispenser head and the hole in the front portion of the housing to be dispensed upon a toothbrush.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2007Date of Patent: July 6, 2010Inventor: Hannibal Anvieh
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Patent number: 7726516Abstract: 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: June 1, 2010Inventor: Harold J. Engel
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Patent number: 7717295Abstract: A treatment solution supply apparatus capable of reducing an initial overshooting amount and ensuring a stable dispense characteristic even when treating a large amount of substrates as recycling a developing solution for a large amount of substrates includes a flow meter having an integration function in the vicinity of a nozzle and carries out feedback to the pump revolution frequency control in response to a variation of the flow meter, so that a fixed amount of a solution may be regularly discharged irrespective of the clogging level of a filter. Also, a developing solution can be stably dispensed on a resist coated film within a solution applicable range from a minimum value (film thickness of 1 mm) to a maximum value (3 mm).Type: GrantFiled: June 19, 2007Date of Patent: May 18, 2010Assignee: Tokyo Ohka Kogyo Co., Ltd.Inventor: Futoshi Shimai
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Publication number: 20100116846Abstract: The invention concerns a device (100) for the production and the controlled dispensing of soft ice cream or similar products, comprising: A refrigerator body (6) suitable to treat a pre-determined amount of ice-cream; A dispenser (1a,2,3,4,4a,5) of ice-cream; Means (7) for the mixing and the forwarding of the ice-cream to the dispenser (1a,2,3,4,4a,5); and characterised in that the dispenser (1a,2,3,4,4a,5) comprises or is constituted by: An only tap (1a) having an internal portioning chamber of a pre-determined volume and suitable to be filled completely by the ice-cream so as to contain a pre-determined volume of ice-cream as one portion, An only plunger (2) that slides from an upper end to a lower end of the chamber; Holding means (5) for holding the ice cream inside the chamber when the plunger is not actuated, said holding means (5) being fixed at the lower end of the chamber corresponding to the lower end of the tap (1a); Means (3,4,4a) for actuating said plunger (2) for the dispensing of the ice-cType: ApplicationFiled: November 9, 2009Publication date: May 13, 2010Inventors: Umberto CORTESE, Salvatore Larducci
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Patent number: 7690530Abstract: A dispenser for viscous material packaged in a collapsible sleeve includes a chamber for receiving the packaged material and a piston rod and piston assembly for compressing the collapsible sleeve to dispense the viscous material through a dispensing orifice in a closure removably retained on the forward end of the chamber. The piston assembly includes a movement-limiting member having a distal surface that extends forward of a piston for limiting movement of the piston rod and piston by engaging the peripheral surface of the closure. The movement-limiting member also has an outer peripheral surface that is positioned inwardly of an inner surface of the chamber to provide an annular compartment for receiving portions of the collapsible sleeve therein when the viscous material in the sleeve has been dispensed.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 2006Date of Patent: April 6, 2010Assignee: Albion Engineering CompanyInventors: Mark Schneider, Joseph B. Hanni
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Patent number: 7690405Abstract: An improved multi fluid dispenser for simultaneous dispensing of a plurality of fluids shown and described. The dispenser includes a controller that is linked to a coordinator board. The controller has a memory with a plurality of recipes stored in the memory. A coordinator board is linked to a first module. The first module may include one or two pumps, each connected to a fluid reservoir. The module is then linked in series to a plurality of other modules as well as a manifold module. Each module includes a module board for controlling the pump or pumps of that module. The controller, coordinator board and module boards are all programmed for the simultaneous or sequential pumping of multiple fluids from the reservoirs through outlet nozzles of the manifold in accordance with a recipe selected by the user and retrieved from the memory of the controller.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 2005Date of Patent: April 6, 2010Assignee: Fluid Management, Inc.Inventors: William A. Miller, Tim Hogan, Christopher Khoo, Ryan Hanawalt, Marty Leider, James R. Cleveland, Anton Obrecht
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Patent number: 7677414Abstract: In application of a foamed hot melt adhesive, a mixing ratio of foam can be selectably and quickly set, and also application of a foamed hot melt adhesive and that of a solid hot melt adhesive can be selectively performed by a single application device. A first gear pump and a second gear pump are driven by drive mechanisms independent from each other. The pressure of a liquid being sent by the pressure in the second compression process is detected, and this causes the speed of the first gear pump and the second gear pump to be sequence-controlled to automatically control the amount of mixing of gas. A gas suction opening is provided between the first gear pump and the second gear pump, and a mixer is provided between the gas suction opening and the second gear pump. The end of a return circuit is set on the downstream side of the first gear pump to prevent foam from returning to the tank side. A restriction valve is installed in a gun to produce a single bubble.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 2004Date of Patent: March 16, 2010Assignee: Suntool CorporationInventors: Shoji Hidaka, Hiroki Iwase
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Patent number: 7673775Abstract: An apparatus for dispensing and mixing fluids from multiple cartridges into a removable container, based on the user input through the provided interface. The user interface allows viewing and adjusting of the mix to be dispensed prior to the actual dispensing. The apparatus is capable of dispensing fluids that have a wide range of viscosities, and that are sticky or that solidify quickly due to the evaporation of the volatile substances they contain.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2005Date of Patent: March 9, 2010Inventor: Cristian Penciu
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Patent number: 7651015Abstract: A concentrate/extract cartridge for a beverage dispenser for dispensing a liquid concentrate/extract and a diluent is provided. The cartridge includes a hollow body and a dispensing tube connected to the hollow body. A piston is slideably contained by the dispensing tube. The cartridge includes a valve having a valve stem that passes through a port of a valve seat connected to the dispensing tube. The port defines a flow passage through the dispensing tube. The valve stem is connected to the piston at a first end of the valve stem, and a valve body is located at a second end of the valve stem in removable contact with the valve seat for alternately opening and closing the port. A beverage dispenser having a removably insertable concentrate/extract cartridge and a method of dispensing a beverage made from concentrate/extract and a diluent are also provided.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 2005Date of Patent: January 26, 2010Assignee: Intelligent Coffee Company, LLCInventors: Jeffrey J. Girard, Nasser Pirshafiey, Mario E. Vassaux, Heather B. Kay, Shlomo Greenwald, Zipora Greenwald
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Patent number: 7648052Abstract: A viscous medium feeder, which has an inlet, an outlet, a tubular portion, a rotatable cylindrical shaft arranged in and extending coaxially with the tubular portion, and a drive motor connected to the shaft. The tubular portion has an internal thread, which is connected, at one end thereof, to the inlet, and, at the other end thereof, to the outlet. Further, the tubular portion is elastic, and the shaft abuts the inner wall portions of the tubular portion.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2002Date of Patent: January 19, 2010Assignee: Mydata Automation ABInventors: William Holm, Kenth Nilsson, Peter Svalling
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Publication number: 20100001017Abstract: 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: December 29, 2006Publication date: January 7, 2010Applicant: MERITOOL LLCInventors: Timm Herman, Brent M. Findlay, Michael R. Wheeley, Mark Kastner
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Publication number: 20090321475Abstract: 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.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 29, 2009Publication date: December 31, 2009Inventor: Carl L. Schultz
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Publication number: 20090308887Abstract: 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.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 12, 2009Publication date: December 17, 2009Inventors: Ji Sung Woo, Chan Chung Yin, Liu Wan Bao, Kenneth L. Kramer, Lam Yau Ming, Peng Zhi Gang
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Patent number: 7628293Abstract: An initial weight of a grease storing cartridge attached to a pump is measured, and the measured value is compared with a reference weight and it is determined whether the initial weight of the cartridge is within an appropriate range or not. The weight of the cartridge is measured before and after execution of one operation cycle of the pump, and it is determined whether the difference therebetween (i.e., weight of grease which is actually supplied during one operation cycle) is within an appropriate range or not.Type: GrantFiled: November 2, 2006Date of Patent: December 8, 2009Assignee: Fanuc LtdInventors: Masahiko Urata, Koichi Nishimura
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Patent number: 7621426Abstract: 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: December 15, 2004Date of Patent: November 24, 2009Inventors: Aaron R. Reynolds, Mark E. Rosenkranz, Paul Waterhouse
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Patent number: 7614524Abstract: A beverage dispenser for dispensing a beverage into a container is provided. The dispenser includes a housing having a dispensing area. A pump or a control valve is in communication with a source of diluent which is to be dispensed into the dispensing area. A cartridge receiving area and a dispensing actuator are located in the housing. A concentrate/extract cartridge is removably insertable into the cartridge receiving area in a position to be actuated by the dispensing actuator, the concentrate/extract cartridge being adapted to hold a beverage concentrate/extract and including a dispensing aperture for dispensing a beverage concentrate/extract into the dispensing area upon placement of the concentrate/extract cartridge in the cartridge receiving area. A controller is located in the housing to control the actuator to discharge concentrate/extract into the dispensing area. A method of dispensing a selected beverage made from concentrate/extract and a diluent is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2005Date of Patent: November 10, 2009Assignee: Intelligent Coffee Company, LLCInventors: Jeffrey J. Girard, Mario E. Vassaux, Roy Kenneth, Richard Symington, Erik Kenneth, Shlomo Greenwald, Zipora Greenwald, Nasser Pirshafiey
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Patent number: 7611030Abstract: An apparatus for automatically dispensing a fluid includes a container adapted to carry a supply of fluid, and a valve connected to the container, wherein actuation of the valve dispenses the fluid. An apparatus position indicator is associated with the container and an object sensor is positioned near the valve. The object sensor monitors an area below where the valve dispenses when open and upon detection of an object opens the valve. Initial positioning of the apparatus triggers the apparatus position indicator to generate an appropriate signal until the object sensor is properly positioned and permanently secured. A control circuit in cooperation with a hidden switch allows programming of lighting indicators, dispense cycle size, and dispense quantities. The control circuit also provides for overload protection, motor braking and RF shielding. And an anti-vandal feature prevents excessive use of the apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 2004Date of Patent: November 3, 2009Inventors: Aaron R. Reynolds, Bruce J. Van Deman, Martin O'Toole, Paul Waterhouse
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Patent number: 7607554Abstract: The invention relates generally to a peristaltic precision metering device, system and method of using the same. Disclosed is a metering device which includes a metering element that can engage with a compressible material line, wherein the metering device can place a selectable peristaltic effect upon the material in the line. Also disclosed is a metering system comprised of a metering device similar to above and a control system attached to the metering element and a robotic positioning system also attached to the metering device. Finally disclosed is a method of precision material dispensing comprised of providing a metering element and base, positioning a compressible material line between the metering element and base, moving one of the base, metering element, material line, or combination thereof, thereby causing a peristaltic effect upon material in the line, and dispensing a precise unit of material from the device.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2003Date of Patent: October 27, 2009Assignee: Precision Valve and Automation, Inc.Inventors: Anthony J. Hynes, Randall E. Allen
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Publication number: 20090255955Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: June 22, 2007Publication date: October 15, 2009Inventor: Dirk Jung
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Publication number: 20090194562Abstract: A metering apparatus for flowable preparations includes a metering unit having an energy source, a control unit and a sensor unit. A container for a first flowable preparation, such as a detergent, cleaning agent, or fragrance, is removably couplable to the metering unit. A micropump that has a specific delivery quantity of less than 500 l/min is provided in the metering unit. The micropump can be controlled by the control unit to dispense flowable product from the container into a desired system external to the metering apparatus, such as a dishwasher, washing machine, toilet, air freshening system, and the like.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 9, 2007Publication date: August 6, 2009Inventors: Arndt Kessler, Arno Düffels, Christian Nitsch, Maren Jekel, Johannes Zipfel, Hans-Georg Mühlhausen, Frank Pessel, Ralph Butter-Jentsch, Karl-Heinz Hohenadel, Matthias Lüken
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Publication number: 20090159612Abstract: 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.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 5, 2008Publication date: June 25, 2009Applicant: DEKA Research & Development Corp.Inventors: Russell Beavis, Benjamin W. Jones, John M. Kerwin, Larry B. Gray, Casey Patrick Manning, Felix Winkler, Robert A. Charles
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Patent number: 7533787Abstract: An automatic fluid soap dispensing apparatus and method including a dispensing spout, housing operatively connected to the dispensing spout and the housing adapted to removably receive and hold a fluid soap containing reservoir module in communication with the dispensing spout. The reservoir module has a central axis, and includes a pump mechanism and delivery tube mounted on the reservoir module in alignment with the central axis. The dispensing tube is adapted to move in the dispensing spout when the pump mechanism is actuated.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2005Date of Patent: May 19, 2009Assignee: Technical Concepts LLCInventors: Kenneth J. Muderlak, Rocky Hsieh
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Publication number: 20090114676Abstract: A fuel dispensing apparatus comprises a flow conduit defining a fluid flow path. A plurality of fuel handling components are connected along the flow conduit. The fuel handling components include a fluid meter to measure quantity of fuel being dispensed and at least one valve to vary flow of fuel through the flow conduit. In some embodiments, the fuel handling components to be protected may further include a shear valve. A corrosion protection arrangement is in electrical communication with at least one of the fuel handling components. The corrosion protection arrangement is operative to inhibit formation of corrosion at an internal protected portion of the fuel handling component due to electrical current passing through liquid therein. The corrosion protection arrangement may include a reference circuit providing a selected DC potential to the protected portion.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 5, 2007Publication date: May 7, 2009Inventors: Steven J. Showers, Danny T. Lail, Howard M. Myers
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Patent number: 7527178Abstract: An electronic self contained viscous liquid dispenser includes a housing defining an internal liquid reservoir. A dispensing pump mechanism is carried by the housing and disposed in liquid communication with the reservoir. The pump mechanism has a delivery end disposed for delivering metered doses of viscous liquid from the reservoir. A mounting assembly is configured for mounting on a supporting wall structure, with the housing being releasably attachable to the mounting assembly. An electronic actuating mechanism is carried by the mounting assembly and includes a motor driven actuator that engages with the pump mechanism upon insertion of the housing into the mounting assembly. A motor and associated power supply circuitry is carried by the mounting assembly, with the motor being in driving engagement with the motor driven actuator.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 2003Date of Patent: May 5, 2009Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.Inventor: Richard P. Lewis
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Patent number: 7517332Abstract: An infusion device comprises a pusher for a plunger of a syringe containing a liquid to be infused. A load cell measures the push force. An encoder associated to a motor commanding the pusher measures the displacement of the pusher. A controller signals an alarm when the ratio between the variation of the push force and the displacement exceeds a predetermined threshold. The device, which serves for infusing an anticoagulant into an extracorporeal blood circuit in a dialysis apparatus, is able to signal an onset of an anomalous situation of lack of infusion in good time.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 2005Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Assignee: Gambro Lundia ABInventors: Claudio Tonelli, Andrea Ligabue, Silvano Cestari
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Publication number: 20090039107Abstract: A device and method is provided which allows a consumer prior to purchase to test a skin lotion or cream product in a retail establishment. The device includes a housing sealed against entry by the consumer and having external walls with at least three panel areas for communicating marketing information. A reservoir within the housing stores the product. A dispensing outlet allows exit from the reservoir of a unit sample of product. A motion sensor on the device detects the consumer's hand near an area of the outlet. A drip tray beneath the outlet collects any wastage of the sample not intercepted by the consumer's hand.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 8, 2008Publication date: February 12, 2009Applicant: CONOPCO, INC., D/B/A UNILEVERInventors: Srini Sripada, Gina Marie Stefanik, Jeffrey Joseph Hofmann
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Patent number: 7469801Abstract: An automatic machine for dosing water and dental alginate is disclosed. The machine comprises a pressurized water container and a dental alginate container. In the automatic machine, a predetermined amount of each of those substances is transported from its respective container to a dosing point. During operation of the automatic machine, dental alginate is moved inside the alginate container with the purpose of bringing down residues of alginate adhered to the internal walls of the alginate container. In addition, the automatic machine comprises a control unit with a memory that stores dosing programs, this memory may be programmed in order to handle dental alginate of different manufactures.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2005Date of Patent: December 30, 2008Inventor: Roberto Alfredo Ramirez-Delgado
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Publication number: 20080302818Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: December 12, 2005Publication date: December 11, 2008Applicant: CARRIER CORPORATIONInventors: James J. Minard, Mark E. Bush, Peter F. McNamee
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Patent number: 7451894Abstract: A fingerprint reader for a thumb disposed above an outlet for fluid and adapted to be engaged by an inside surface of a user's thumb extending upwardly relative to the palm of a user's hand while the user's hand extends generally horizontally forwardly from the thumb directed upwardly to receive fluid dispensed downwardly thereon to from a fluid dispensing outlet while the thumb engages the fingerprint reader.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2005Date of Patent: November 18, 2008Assignee: Hygiene-Technik Inc.Inventor: Heiner Ophardt
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Publication number: 20080277412Abstract: A new and improved method and apparatus for dispensing fresh cooking oil is herein disclosed. A fluid dispensing apparatus includes a pump, a motor, the motor operatively connected to the pump, a pressure switch having an on pressure and an off pressure, wherein the off pressure is greater than the on pressure, an expansion tank, an expandable bladder, the expandable bladder operatively connected within the expansion tank, the expandable bladder having a pressure, the pressure being set at approximately the on pressure, tubing, the tubing operatively connected to the pump, and a fluid dispenser.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 12, 2006Publication date: November 13, 2008Applicant: Frontline International, Inc.Inventor: John W. Palazzo