Abstract: An apparatus for metering and dispensing a compressible confection comprises: at least one metering pump having an intake port and a discharge port; at least one internal bottom shutoff nozzle; at least one product line interconnecting the metering pump and the internal bottom shutoff nozzle; and a control mechanism for cyclically operating the at least one metering pump and operating the at least one internal bottom shutoff nozzle in synchronization with the metering pump such that generally constant pressure is maintained between the metering pump and the internal bottom shutoff nozzle.

Abstract: A condiment dispensing apparatus for dispensing condiments from a bag-in-box type container (108). There is a high durometer compressible elastomeric liquid flow tube (14), an infeed and outfeed thereto and therefrom, and a movable anvil (26) with a round surface to compress the tube. There is an opposed stationary anvil (28) which holds the tube for compression by the movable anvil. The tube is held between the anvils (26, 28) in a slightly compressed state even when the anvil is retracted. There is a control assembly (FIG. 15) that causes extension and retraction of the movable anvil to cause flow through the tube, and subsequent delivery of condiment to a dispensing fixture (110).

Abstract: The present invention consists of a method and apparatus providing for the continuous stream blending, preferably on a mass ratio basis, of two or more liquids. Each individual liquid stream is synchronously dosed in precise mass ratio to a common mixing point. The flow of each stream is on-off or digital. Repeated mass ratio doses of defined and matching flow interval, referred to as synchronous digital flow, interspersed with a defined interval of no flow, constitutes digital flow at a net rate sufficient to meet or exceed some required take-away of the blended liquids. In one preferred embodiment, each dose stream flow is produced and measured by a four element apparatus preferably consisting of a servo motor and controller, a precision positive displacement pump, a Coriolis mass meter and a precision flow stream shut-off device. The servo motor and controller establish and control a periodic and intermittent flow rate necessary to displace a defined mass dose in a precisely defined flow interval.

Abstract: A reconfigurable control unit is disclosed for providing an operator interface to control units on different types of work vehicles, such as, tractors, combines, sprayers, etc. The reconfigurable control unit stores a plurality of application programs in a memory and selects only the application program needed depending on the work vehicle type that the reconfigurable control unit is coupled to. The type of work vehicle to which the reconfigurable control unit is coupled to is determined based upon a unique configuration message received from a controller on the work vehicle. The work vehicle type may also be determined by scanning a data bus connector that couples the reconfigurable control unit to the work vehicle, or by soliciting operator input to determine which type of work vehicle the reconfigurable control unit is coupled to.

Abstract: An automatic soap dispenser (10) includes a disposable soap container including a dispensing mechanism (20) in which walls of an interior chamber (56) cooperate with a diaphragm (62) and a plunger (66) to form a transit chamber (64), which is resiliently expandable against the force of a spring (80). When a solenoid (58) permits the diaphragm (62) to move away from the outlet of a passage (50) in a flow path from the interior of a pressurized reservoir (18) to the expandable transit chamber (64), travel of the plunger (66) permits the transit chamber (64)'s pressure-relieving outlet opening to expand so that the pressure within the transit chamber (64) is determined predominantly by the force of the spring (80) rather than by the pressure within the reservoir (18). The velocity of the liquid dispensed from the transit chamber (64) through the dispensing mechanism's spout (16) is therefore relatively independent of the pressure within the reservoir (18).

Abstract: A system for metering and dispensing single and plural component liquids and solids as described herein. The dispensing system has a microprocessor-based control system and progressive cavity pumps which provide a very accurate control of component ratios, shot sizes, flow rates and dispense durations. The system has numerous feedback components for accurately controlling the pressure, flow rates, fluid levels and amounts of fluids dispensed. Where a valved nozzle is used, the pressure in the flow system is used to control the pumps rather than the valve. Such a system may be used as a sprayer with compressed air added. Drum rams are associated with the supply drums and the progressive cavity pumps may be placed on the drum ram. Maintenance of a steady state in the system is accomplished with back and forth movement of the pump, with compensation for pressure changes. Absolute rotational position of the pump can be monitored when a set pressure is maintained, to diagnose system conditions.

Abstract: A machine for dispensing a soft-serve product comprises a freezer barrel (12), a mix hopper (14) for containing soft-serve mix (16) and being in flow communication with the freezer barrel so that soft-serve mix can flow from the mix hopper into the freezer barrel, a flow passage (42, 42.1) leading from the freezer barrel to a draw spout (64), and a beater assembly (20) for expelling frozen product from the freezer barrel via the flow passage to the draw spout. A solids hopper (52) for containing a flowable solid topping is further provided, and an archimedes screw (56) for feeding the solid topping from the solids hopper into the flow stream of soft-serve product as it passes through the flow passage. A vaned rotor (44) and a rotation sensor (80) meter the flow of soft-serve product through the flow passage and control the speed of a topping motor (60) driving the archimedes screw.

Abstract: A system is provided for closed-loop control of a plurality of metering pumps driven by a single source of pressurized fluid. Feedback signals are generated that are proportional to output flow rate from each metering pump, such as velocity of a movable element of the pump with respect to a stationary element. Flow control valves are coupled between the source of pressurized fluid and the metering pumps. A controller receives the feedback signals and regulates flow from the flow control valves to each metering pump to maintain a desired level of output flow. The source of pressurized fluid may include a pressure compensated positive displacement pump having a maximum output flow rate at least equal to the anticipated combined flow rate of drive sections of the metering pumps.

Abstract: An automatic soap dispenser (10) includes a bellows-type collapsible container (18) of liquid soap. Constant-force springs (40 and 42) compress the container so as to expel the soap through a spout (16) when a valve-containing dispensing mechanism (20) permits it. When a sensor (14) detects an object such as a user's hand, a control circuit (56) operates the dispensing mechanism to permit soap flow through the spout for a predetermined time interval. Because of the constant-force springs, there is no need to use electric power to eject the liquid soap despite its typically high viscosity.

Abstract: A system for metering and dispensing single and plural component liquids and solids as described herein. The dispensing system has a microprocessor-based control system and volumetrically efficient non-reciprocating pumps which provide a very accurate control of component ratios, shot sizes, flow rates and dispense durations. The dispensing system maintains constant pressure between the output of the pump and the dispense head. The progressive cavity pump is formed from individual, interlocking pressure sections, each of which has a double helix bore. A dispense head for a plural pump dispensing system using sealed bellows with rods extending therethrough associated with an actuator. The sealed bellows attach at one end to the body of the dispense head and at the other to the rods. The rods extend into a chamber and have a sealing end selectively engaging the exits from the chamber.

Abstract: A material eject system includes an ejector mounted to a bed of a vehicle which is movable between a rear end and a forward end of the bed for ejecting material from the bed. The ejector is powered by a cylinder having different fluid volumes depending on the direction of motion of the cylinder. A control circuit operates with the ejector motor to automatically move the ejector through eject and return cycles. The ejector includes a speed control for operating the motor and the ejector at different speeds.

Abstract: An emergency closure for use in grain storage facilities, the emergency closure utilizes a fail-safe closure mechanism such that upon the termination of motive force to the gate the gate is forced into a closed position to terminate the flow of grain or other flowable substance out of it container.

Abstract: A pumping system for use in a fuel service station including one or more fuel dispensers, a fuel storage tank and conduits connecting the fuel dispensers with the tank. The pumping system comprises a variable speed pump-motor assembly for pumping fuel from the storage tank to the conduit and the dispensers, and a control connected to the pump-motor assembly for holding the fuel pressure in a preset range. Preferably the range is that required for efficient operation of a vapor recovery system, or other requirement by the EPA or by another agency, or by a service station operator. The control includes sensors which respond to the pressure in the conduits leading to the fuel dispensers. The sensors may comprise, for example, a pressure sensor in the conduit, or they may comprise power consumption sensors connected to the electrical power supply for the variable speed pump-motor assembly.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus for dispensing a blended fuel including first and second real time octane sensors in fluid communication with sources of low and high octane blend components. The sensors generate an output signal indicative of the octane level of each component. The apparatus also includes first and second flow control valves in fluid communication with the first and second octane sensors respectively for independently controlling the flow rates of the low level and high level blend components. The invention further includes first and second meters in fluid communication with first and second flow control valves respectively for generating a signal indicative of the flow rates of the first and second blend components. The meters discharge to a blend manifold for mixing the blending components.

Abstract: A method and apparatus wherein the apparatus is a container having an inner chamber, an inlet, an outlet, a breaker assembly having at least one blade within the inner chamber of the container and a motor for driving the blade. Material is supplied to the inner chamber of the container through the inlet of the container and the breaker assembly is operated to reduce any clumped material into unclumped material which is then dispensed from the container through the outlet of the container.

Abstract: An ice storage and dispensing apparatus includes a container (10) defining an inlet aperture (15) for receiving frozen product and an outlet aperture (30) for dispensing frozen product. A platform (16) is movably mounted within a lower end of the container. A rake (18) is rotatably mounted within an upper end of the container. An actuator (26) is mounted within the container between the platform and a support frame at the lower end of the container, and can be activated to selectively move the platform toward or away from the rake. A motor (24) is coupled to the rake for driving rotation of the rake. A torque sensor associated with the motor senses the level of load being applied on the motor as a measure of the proximity of the top layer of stored ice to the rake. A controller controls operation of the actuator in response to the sensor to automatically adjust the position of the platform relative to the rake.

Abstract: The present invention provides a portable dispenser of potable liquid, and includes an insulated container for storing the liquid, and a secondary container connected to the insulated container. A pump is positioned in either the insulated container or the secondary container, and has a suction conduit that communicates with or extends to the bottom of the insulated container. The pump also has a discharge conduit that is connected to a manifold in the secondary container. A plurality of liquid dispensing conduits are connected to the manifold for communication with the discharge conduit. Each of the liquid dispensing conduits extends from the manifold through a dispenser opening in the secondary container. Means for also provided for activating the pump whereby the liquid stored in the insulated container is delivered to the dispensing conduits via the discharge conduit and the manifold for consumption by a plurality of users.

Abstract: A fluid dispensing system is provided for receiving fluid from a container positioned near the ground and for transporting the water up to a reservoir suitable for dispensing. The system has a cabinet having first and second chambers. A slidable support base is mounted in the first chamber to support a container for storing fluid. A reservoir is mounted in the second chamber, the reservoir further having a spigot to dispense the fluid upon request. A sensor detects a predetermined fluid level in the reservoir, and a temperature adjuster maintains the fluid at a predetermined temperature range. The system also has a pump for transporting fluid from the container to the reservoir and a circuit connected to the pump and to the sensor for activating the pump when fluid in the reservoir falls below the predetermined fluid level.

Abstract: A fluid dispenser wherein a fixed threaded shaft carries a moveable microprocessor-controlled electric drive motor integrally provided with a shaft extension carrying a plunger for directly contacting and compressing fluid in a syringe barrel to dispense the fluid in accordance with programmed shot volume increments (as small as 0.

Abstract: An automatic soap dispensing device, particularly a device which can be activated by photoelectric or infrared sensor via a control circuit, i.e., a motor reducing gear set in a drive device driving a drive wheel with a considerable torque at low speed so that an eccentric wheel on the drive wheel can push a squeezer set which in turn squeeze a soap hose to dispense liquid soap accordingly; and a micro switch is touched when the drive wheel is rotated to a certain angle to stop the motor, upon which the squeezer set returns its initial position by the inherent elasticity of the hose without any need to engage any gear with the reducing gear set and possibility of seizure between gears which may adversely affect operation of the soap dispensing device.

Abstract: A pump control apparatus includes a pump coupled at an inlet to a water source and at an outlet to a first dispensing valve and a carbonator via a check valve. A power source is coupled to the pump, and a controller regulates the delivery of power from the power source to the pump. Responsive to a fill signal received from the carbonator, the controller activates the power source to deliver power to the pump at a first predetermined power level. Alternatively, the controller activates the power source to deliver power to the pump at a second predetermined power level in response to a dispense signal received from the first dispensing valve.

Abstract: A portable liquid dispensing device for delivering drinking fluids for consumption. A rechargeable battery powered pump is selectively actuated and controlled on demand through a manual actuator, and in-line check valve, and a pressure switch. The pump is attached to a portable storage vessel. When actuated, the pump evacuates the liquid through the vessel wall and fills a pipe segment. An in-line check valve holds terminal fluid pressure in the pipe downstream of the pump, and a pressure switch detects the liquid pressure in such pipe section. Multiple tubing sections transport the liquid to one or more dispensing valves.

Abstract: A Tip Sealing System for Non-contact Glue Applicators which dispense high viscosity adhesives in a straight line onto card stock or heavy paper, which applicator includes an outer body mounted in an arm which is attached to a machine which applicator is connected to source of glue under pressure, which body has an extruder nozzle with a nozzle tip attached thereto, a pneumatic cylinder in the arm connected to a source of air or vacuum, a rod in the cylinder which engages an actuator plate of a tip sealing assembly, the tip sealing assembly is mounted on a shaft and has a tip seal arm with a pad thereon resilently urged into contact with the nozzle tip.

Abstract: A liquid dispensing system has a number of cartridges, preferably two or four, selectively coupled to a single motor with a respective clutch for dispensing dots of liquid at high speed. The motor drives a spur gear that meshes with individual spur gears associated with each of the clutches. Multiple cartridges are thus activated with a single motor and are housed together in one housing. Each cartridge is movable relative to the housing and is biased downward to a dispensing position with a spring. Air is selectively provided between the dispensers and the housing to drive the cartridges upward to a non-dispensing position. When the air is not provided, the spring returns the cartridge to its downward position. By moving the cartridge relative to the housing, the assembly can dispense at different locations without it being necessary to move the entire pump assembly every time a dot is dispensed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the continuous production of coated, dyed, printed, or painted materials by dip coating, spraying or printing in which a plurality of flowable materials including a liquid color concentrate are fed to a continuous mixing chamber with a substantially continuous input and output. The liquid color concentrate is dispensed by a dispensing apparatus including at least a first substantially vertical hollow chamber; a controllable pump device having an inlet fluidly connected to an outlet of said first hollow chamber for pumping the liquid color concentrate to the mixing chamber; a sensor for outputting substantially continuously a signal dependent upon a height of a liquid in the first hollow chamber; and a control device suitable for controlling at least one flow rate determining characteristic of the controllable pump in response to the output signal of the sensor so as to maintain the flow rate of the liquid to be dispensed through the pump device at a predetermined value.

Abstract: An automatic beverage dispenser shut off system for a beverage dispenser includes a housing for a closed loop refrigeration system. A retaining tank feed system directs the beverage mix to a mixing cylinder having a rotatable beater bar mounted therein. The beater bar is coupled to a motor. The retaining tank cover is in actuating contact with a shut off switch in the power circuit of the beverage dispenser. Removal of the retaining tank cover automatically actuates the shut off switch and cuts off all power to the beverage dispenser.

Abstract: Many types of processors of particulate materials operate more efficiently when they receive the particulate material in a steady stream. Most feeders tend to discharge in pulses. A hopper is interposed between the feeder and the processor. Surges in the feed rate are accumulated in the hopper, and lapses in the feed rate are compensated by the propensity of the hopper to discharge at a constant rate. Initiation of hopper flow is accomplished by use of a trap door. Mismatch between average feeder output rate and hopper discharge rate is corrected by use of an adaptive hopper having an outlet the size of which is slowly altered to maintain a constant amount of material in the hopper. A bypass hopper is used to control extremely variable input flow rates.

Abstract: A system for metering and dispensing single and plural component liquids and solids as described herein. The dispensing system has a microprocessor-based control system and progressive cavity pumps which provide a very accurate control of component ratios, shot sizes, flow rates and dispense durations. The system has numerous feedback components for accurately controlling the pressure, flow rates, fluid levels and amounts of fluids dispensed. Where a valved nozzle is used, the pressure in the flow system is used to control the pumps rather than the valve. Such a system may be used as a sprayer with compressed air added. Drum rams are associated with the supply drums and the progressive cavity pumps may be placed on the drum ram. Maintenance of a steady state in the system is accomplished with back and forth movement of the pump, with compensation for pressure changes. Absolute rotational position of the pump can be monitored when a set pressure is maintained, to diagnose system conditions.

Abstract: Liquid soap dispenser for sensing the presence of a user's hands in the vicinity of a nozzle (6), and dispensing soap through the nozzle (6) in response to the detection of the user's hands. The dispenser includes a cylinder (10) and a plunger (21) within the cylinder (10), a magnetic core (12) coupled to the cylinder (10) or the plunger (21), and a solenoid (14) which is activated in response to the detection of a user's hands to cause relative movement of the plunger (21) within the cylinder (10) to dispense the soap. Preferably a plurality of dispensers are connected to a single reservoir of liquid soap.

Abstract: A dispensing system detects system blockages in a delivery system due to curing or pack-out between a fluid source and a fluid dispense valve. The dispensing system automatically compensates for blockages in the delivery system by diverting fluid flow from one fluid circuit line to a parallel fluid circuit line leading to a dispensing valve.

Abstract: A dispenser for granular food products comprises a hopper for holding a quantity of the product, a pair of back-to-back rotary buckets to alternately receive measured quantities of the product from the hopper, and a semi-automatic electric-powered drive for operating the buckets to discharge their contents seriatim into waiting containers or packages. The preferred embodiment utilizes a cam-switch controlled electric motor which is responsive to push-button triggering.

Abstract: A dispenser to be fitted on the top of an aerosol can so as to atomize a very small quantity of the contents of the aerosol can at regular intervals automatically. An attachment having an electrically operated valve is secured to the aerosol can. Operation of the valve takes place via a controller which is supplied by power by a photovoltaic or solar panel. In this way, it is ensured that dispensing the desired material takes place only when there is sufficient light striking the solar panel.

Abstract: A pumping system for use in a fuel service station including one or more fuel dispensers, a fuel storage tank and conduits connecting the fuel dispensers with the tank. The pumping system comprises a variable speed pump-motor assembly for pumping fuel from the storage tank to the conduit and the dispensers, and a control connected to the pump-motor assembly for holding the fuel pressure in a preset range. Preferably the range is that required for efficient operation of a vapor recovery system, or other requirement by the EPA or by another agency, or by a service station operator. The control includes sensors which respond to the pressure in the conduits leading to the fuel dispensers. The sensors may comprise, for example, a pressure sensor in the conduit, or they may comprise power consumption sensors connected to the electrical power supply for the variable speed pump-motor assembly.

Abstract: An inexpensive refueling machine having high safety is disclosed. The refueling machine comprises a nozzle box disposed at a place which is likely to be exposed to an explosive atmosphere and having a valve for controlling the start and stop of refueling to a nozzle, and a console box disposed at a place which is unlikely to be exposed to an explosive atmosphere and having a control unit for controlling the operation of the valve. Electric equipment is not contained in the nozzle box but in the console box. The nozzle box and the console box are interconnected by pipes which pass a compressed air for controlling the operation of the valve and an optical fiber which transmits an output of flowmeter and signals of fuel sensor probe. The refueling machine may have means for distinguishing a kind of fuel.

Abstract: A drink dispenser can sell or reserve a drink even during a sale of a drink, thereby ensuring the sale of drinks. Namely, if any one of drink sale buttons is pressed while any one of drink discharge valve relays is opened to sell a drink, this request for a sale is stored in a memory. Once the current sale of a drink has been completed, an interval timer starts counting down and after a specified period of time, a valve corresponding to the request for a sale stored in the memory is opened to start a sale. A plurality of drinks may be supplied simultaneously.

Abstract: A drywall mud storage and distribution system which includes in a preferred embodiment, a mud container and pump mounted on a portable frame, a flexible mud conduit connecting the pump to a portable pressure tank for dispensing drywall mud to the pressure tank, and a second conduit leading from the pressure tank for dispensing the drywall mud through a pressure-sensitive valve, typically to a trigger-operated tape and mud dispensing device. An additional conduit fitted with a handle-operated valve leads from the pressure tank to supply drywall mud to a mud dispensing tray. The system is capable of automatically filling the pressure tank with drywall mud from the mud container by operation of the pump when a preselected pressure is reached in the pressure tank, and drywall mud of selected consistency is supplied in selected quantities on demand, to either the tape and mud dispensing device or the mud dispensing tray or both.

Abstract: The present invention provides a portable dispenser of potable liquid, and includes an insulated container for storing the liquid, and a secondary container connected to the insulated container. A pump is positioned in either the insulated container or the secondary container, and has a suction conduit that extends to the bottom of the insulated container. The pump also has a discharge conduit that is connected to a manifold in the secondary container. A plurality of liquid dispensing conduits are connected to the manifold for communication with the discharge conduit. Each of the liquid dispensing conduits extends from the manifold through a dispenser opening in the secondary container. Means for also provided for activating the pump whereby the liquid stored in the insulated container is delivered to the dispensing conduits via the discharge conduit and the manifold for consumption by a plurality of users.

Abstract: In a dispenser apparatus, after a piston is moved toward the front end side by a first piston control unit by a distance corresponding to a prescribed injection amount (Q) and an arbitrarily decided additional amount (+.alpha.)(to position B2), the piston is moved toward the rear end side by a distance corresponding to an arbitrarily decided additional amount (-.alpha.)(to position B3) in order to decrease the pressure applied to an aerobic sealing agent. Accordingly, a dispenser apparatus which can introduce an accurate amount of highly viscous liquid within a prescribed time can be provided.

Abstract: A vitamin concentrate delivery system including a positive displacement pump having a pump drive and a pump controller, and a flow measurement or detection unit having a magnetic flow tube, a transmitter and a recording device to regulate the flow of liquid vitamin concentrates into food products. A method of adding the vitamin concentrates to the dairy products is also described.

Abstract: An apparatus for dispensing material from a container having a dispensing element includes a motor for repeatedly actuating the dispensing element to facilitate dispensing of the material from the container and a controller for activating the motor at predetermined time intervals. The apparatus includes a stall detection circuit coupled to the motor and to the controller to detect a stall condition of the motor, the stall detection circuit configured to issue a stall detection signal when the stall condition is detected. The controller deactivates the motor in response to receiving the stall detection signal.

Abstract: Noise caused by a mechanical vibration with a vibrator feeder is reduced in a small flow rate powder supplying device. An adverse effect caused by the noise is reduced and a flow rate accuracy is increased. Its responding characteristic is made fast. A powder hopper, a ultrasonic motor, supplying pipes and tube are supported by a supporting member held by a weighing device provided with a weight sensor. A weight signal of a weight sensor is amplified by an amplifier provided with a low pass filter. It is sampled with an A/D converter and converted into a digital value. A flow rate of powder is calculated by a CPU, a motor driving part is controlled and an amplitude of the ultrasonic motor is adjusted in such a way that a flow rate of the powder may become a target value.

Abstract: The bottled water delivery system includes a pump which moves water from within a bottle to a desired output location. The system is such that heavy water bottles need not be moved and may be located at a significant preselected distance from the output location. A controller is provided to keep the pump from being actuated when there is no water available for pumping. The system is easily installed, inexpensive due to its simplicity, and requires a minimal input of power for operation.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a plant and a process for the dispensing of a fluid product (4) held in a tank (3) and supplied to a nozzle (1) via a pipe (2). The product is pressurized by means of a pump (8) and of a cylinder (7) which is connected to a regulator (10) connected to the nozzle via an electronic card (17).

Abstract: A control system for monitoring and controlling the operation of a mobile material distribution apparatus including at least one boom having a plurality of distribution nozzles or distribution ports located along its length for distributing material is disclosed. The control system monitors various sections of the booms and provides the user with a graphical representation of the operating states of the nozzles/distribution ports in each monitored boom section. By taking into account the actual operating states of each of the sections of the monitored booms, the disclosed control system provides more accurate mapping of the materials distributed by the controlled apparatus. In addition, the disclosed control system considers the operating states of any fence row nozzles disposed on the monitored booms in determining the amount of material to be supplied to the monitored booms to achieve a desired distribution rate.

Abstract: A system for metering and dispensing single and plural component liquids and solids as described herein. The dispensing system has a microprocessor-based control system and volumetrically efficient non-reciprocating pumps which provide a very accurate control of component ratios, shot sizes, flow rates and dispense durations. The dispensing system maintains constant pressure between the output of the pump and the dispense head. The progressive cavity pump is formed from individual, interlocking pressure sections, each of which has a double helix bore. A rotor is inserted into the double helix bore with an interference fit. The dispense head has no dynamic fluid sealing surfaces and instead uses bellows as a sealing mechanism. The dispensing system includes a simple, easy to use calibration procedure and a weight scale. The system also has numerous feedback components for accurately controlling the pressure, flow rates, fluid levels and amounts of fluids dispensed.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for measuring and controlling the flow rates of processing solutions to a CMP machine during the polishing and planarization process. The apparatus comprises a processing solution source, a processing solution dispensing system for applying the solution to the CMP machine, a mechanism for transferring the processing solution from the solution source to the dispensing system, and a metering or sensing system for accurately measuring the amount of processing solution actually dispensed to the CMP machine. Preferably, the metering system comprises a coriolis mass flow meter and a controller for controlling its operation. The metering system may interface with the CMP machine controller in a feed-back loop configuration so that the actual flow rates of the solutions may be controlled in real time.

Abstract: An auger is provided for discharging a uniform flow of material, particularly dry solids, through a feeding system. The auger has a shaft and at least one flight extending outward from the shaft for delivering a flow of material from a first end to a second end of the shaft. The flight has at least one notch in its outer perimeter proximate to the second end of the shaft. The auger may be used in a material feeding system having a supply hopper and a discharge conduit mounted to a feed trough. The auger is disposed in the trough and extends into the discharge conduit. The auger is rotated by a motor to drive the material from the feed trough through the discharge spout. The speed of the motor (and hence the feed rate of the material) may be controlled based on the volume of material being fed, the weight of material being fed or the loss-in-weight of the system.

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

Abstract: Apparatus for positive displacement metering of viscous material. Positive displacement and non-positive pumping of material to be metered is provided. The positive displacement pumping includes pressure release apparatus to avoid excessive pressure build-up. One pressure release apparatus includes an expansion chamber to moderate pressure changes.

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