Abstract: A cooler and dispenser for use with upright water bottles operates to (1) pump chilled water from a vertical bottle through a top opening, (2) filter the air that is drawn in to replace the water, (3) and provide the user with an indication of the level in the bottle. The dispenser cap is designed to fit snugly over the top of standard 3.0 and 5.0 gallon refillable water bottles in the vertical orientation. A small pump in the dispenser cap draws water from the bottom of the bottle and dispenses it through a tube that extends past the side of the bottle. The vacuum created within the bottle during the pumping process draws air in through a filter that keeps foreign particles from entering the bottle. Further, the airflow through the filter is constricted so as to ensure that a partial vacuum exists even after the pump has been turned off, and this draws residual water back through the delivery tube thereby preventing drips.

Abstract: An automatic fill system for a beverage dispenser includes a sensor system for monitoring the beverage level in the dispenser. The sensors are wired in series with a level control board mounted inside the frame of the beverage dispenser. Sensing points are connected in an electrical circuit for maintaining the proper water to beverage concentrate ratio in the mixing hopper of the beverage dispenser. Resistance in the circuit is monitored so that when the resistance in the circuit reaches a predetermined value, a relay and solenoid open to divert water to the mixing hopper for mixing with the beverage concentrate. Sensors in the hopper shut off the dispenser when the beverage level in the hopper exceeds maximum and minimum levels.

Abstract: A supply system for providing water from a bottled water cooler includes a pump which pumps water from an upright bottle of water. A pressure sensor turns the pump off when the bottle of water is empty. A prime pump control starts the pump to initiate the flow of water from a new bottle of water.

Abstract: A beverage supply system includes a beverage container having an outlet. A first reservoir is connected to the beverage container outlet to receive beverage from the beverage container under force of gravity. A pump is connected to the first reservoir, and a second reservoir is connected to the pump, the second reservoir defining an expandable beverage chamber. The pump is activated to pump beverage from the first reservoir to the second reservoir only when a first quantity of beverage in the first reservoir is within a first quantity range and a second quantity of beverage in the second reservoir is below a second quantity range. The system also includes a beverage dispenser connected to the second reservoir. A method of supplying beverage from a beverage container to a beverage dispenser includes supplying beverage from a beverage container to a first reservoir under force of gravity.

Abstract: A water treatment tank for use with water purification apparatus including an ultra-violet lamp within a bulb onto which incoming water is directed to provide a thin laminar flow about the bulb. The tank may have two compartments, one above the other, formed by a separating baffle. The lower compartment has cooling coils about the walls for cooling the water therein relative to the water in the upper compartment. The ultraviolet lamp and a bulb extends through both compartments and the baffle to purify the water. A controller operates a switch to turn the normally off UV lamp on before opening a fill valve to replenish water in the tank. The lamp is turned off after a first run time. The water level is sensed by a low and high level limit which allow for a volume of water in the tank which may be utilized without necessitating operation of the lamp upon each dispensing of water from the tank.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for switching a supply to a process from a first vessel to a second vessel. Liquid is flowed from the first vessel through a first outlet conduit through a vessel selection valve, including first and second switch valves, to the process. A conductivity sensor measures the conductivity level of the liquid in the first outlet conduit at a point upstream of the selection valve and a computer compares the conductivity level to a predetermined range. The computer signals an isolation valve, in a second outlet conduit from the second vessel, to open and allow liquid to displace air in the second outlet conduit from the second vessel to the selection valve. The computer determines a delay to allow liquid below the first conductivity sensor to reach the first switch valve, then closes the first switch valve and opens the second switch valve.

Abstract: A fluid dispensing system includes a housing surrounding a tank holding a vehicle fluid. A control assembly is housed in the housing and operationally coupled to a pump assembly for permitting dispensing of the vehicle fluid upon insertion of a pre-determined amount of currency into a currency collection assembly. Additional features include a cover member coupled to the housing using a spindle lock and a channel, a holster in the cover panel for holding a free end of a dispensing hose, free standing embodiment using a base, a main mounting bracket formed to accommodate coupling to existing surfaces, and a transmitter and associated hardware for monitoring fluid levels and usage from a remote location.

Abstract: A soap dispensing system includes a soap dispensing fixture and first and second sources of soap connected to the fixture. Each of the sources of soap includes a closed container and a collapsible soap container positioned within the closed container. Each of the collapsible soap containers is connected to the fixture. There is a source of fluid pressure and control elements connected between the source of fluid pressure and each of the first and second closed containers. The application of pressure, from the source, as controlled by the control elements, will apply fluid pressure to either the first or second collapsible soap container to cause it to dispense soap to the soap dispensing fixture.

Abstract: An intravenous (IV) flow controlling device comprises a flexible open container having a specific gravity less than one and an outer diameter smaller than that of the drip chamber, the container including a spherical bottom portion thinner than the shell upper portion thereof; a first plastic tube coupled to the bottom of the container being in communication with the exit; a flexible reservoir having one end coupled to the first tube; and a second plastic tube coupled to the other end of the reservoir being in communication therewith. The container is submerged as fluid filled in the drip chamber. Fluid flows through the exit, the first plastic tube, the reservoir, and the second plastic tube to cause the container to fall, thereby stopping fluid exiting when the bottom portion of the container clogs the exit and fluid in the drip chamber is used up.

Abstract: A soap dispensing system includes non-pressurized first and second soap containers connected to a soap manifold. The manifold has a first inlet connection to the first soap container and a second inlet connection to the second soap container. There is a soap outlet on the manifold. A soap conduit extends from a first dispensing opening on the manifold to a second dispensing opening on the manifold. A two direction peristaltic pump is associated with the soap conduit to move soap either from the first dispensing opening to the second dispensing opening or in the opposite direction. There are valves within the soap manifold for connecting the first inlet, first dispensing opening, second dispensing opening, second inlet opening, and the outlet to provide soap, upon operation of the pump, from one of said containers, through said soap conduit, to the manifold outlet.

Abstract: A modular container for storing and dispensing liquids which has a body, an upper protecting wall, a lower protecting wall, at least one connector port with a valve, preferably a second connector port attached to a tube that extends upwards into the interior of the body, and a level indicator. The first and second connector ports are attached to the bottom of the body and incorporate a connector and are connected through an opening in the lower protecting wall. The lower protecting walls of the container are such that they have the ability to nest within the upper protecting walls of additional containers, thus allowing two or more containers to be stacked one on top of another. The second connector port which is attached to the tube extending into the interior of the body can be used for the purpose of venting the interior of the body and for cleaning the inside of the container without the necessity of moving or transporting the container.

Abstract: A liquid dispensing system is disclosed in which a reservoir assembly is provided for receiving a liquid flow from a liquid supply. A liquid level sensor is provided for initiating the liquid flow until a predetermined liquid level is established in the reservoir assembly. A liquid flow sensor indicates a flow condition from the liquid supply to the reservoir assembly. A dispensing member such as a faucet is provided for dispensing liquid from the reservoir. The reservoir assembly of the present liquid dispensing system includes an overflow protector assembly for preventing an overflow condition of liquid from the reservoir assembly.

Abstract: A dispenser with features for enhanced maintainability generally comprises a lower unit having therein an ice bin; an upper unit atop the lower unit for providing an interface for dispensing ice from the ice bin to the public; a conveyor having and inlet in the ice bin and an outlet in the upper unit; an ice distributor in a lower portion of the ice bin for conveying ice within the ice bin to the inlet; and a drive motor operably associated with the ice distributor, the drive motor being located in a space above the lower unit for ready access. A plurality of optical emitter assemblies are disposed upon a wall of the ice bin and a plurality of optical receiver assemblies are oppositely disposed upon a second wall of the ice bin. Each optical emitter assembly comprises an emitter housing and a selectively removable emitter body comprising an optical source. Each optical receiver assembly comprises a receiver housing and a selectively removable receiver body comprising an optical receiver.

Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed comprising a plurality of liquid containers and a corresponding plurality of tubes. Each liquid container has an opening into which is inserted the first end of a corresponding tube. The second end of each tube is connected to a pumping device. A processor, connected to the pumping device, in response to a first signal, selects a first liquid container of the plurality of liquid containers and causes the pumping device to cause liquid to be pumped out of the first liquid container through its opening through the first end of the corresponding tube and out the second end of the corresponding tube. The plurality of liquid containers may be comprised of a first set of liquid containers which contains wine, second set which contains hard liquor, a third set which contains beer, a fourth set which includes chasers, and a fifth set which includes a keg of beer. The apparatus may include a housing wherein the plurality of liquid containers are stored in the housing.

Abstract: The invention relates to a dosing apparatus with a container having a charging hole for a refill bag with a liquid in the top part, and an outlet in the bottom part. An opening device for the refill bag is fitted above the outlet. A connector leads from the outlet to a downstream pump. A chamber with a level sensor is arranged underneath the reservoir. The reservoir and the chamber are configured so as to be liquid tight, for supplying the liquid without a refill bag. A dosing pump is integrated within the dosing apparatus. A dosing conduit leads from the pump to a point of usage outside the dosing apparatus, and a return conduit leads to the integrated container.

Abstract: In a beverage dispenser, a beverage material-supplying tube extending from BIB is squeezed by a pump to draw the beverage material from BIB and then to extrude the beverage material to a nozzle. The beverage dispenser has a sensor provided adjacent to the beverage material-supplying tube and a processor into which the output of the sensor is input. The sensor calculates a moving average value using, as a data source, highest signal values among sampled signals obtained by multipoint sampling of analog signals output from the sensor, and, based on the magnitude of a change in the moving average value, a decision is made on whether or not the beverage material has been sold out. By virtue of the above construction, the sold-out of the beverage material in BIB can be accurately detected.

Abstract: A device for dispensing a product solution includes a container for a product solution, the container having a top end, the top end including a continuous septum. The device also includes a receptacle for receiving the container in an inverted condition, the receptacle including a seat portion for receiving the top end of the container, the seat portion including an upwardly extending, hollow piercing device capable of piercing the septum. The device also includes a pump for withdrawing product from the container through the piercing device. A method for dispensing a product solution is also disclosed.

Abstract: A liquid reagent dispensing assembly, comprising a gas-pressurizable vessel including a floor, and an interior volume bounded by interior wall and floor surfaces. A dip-tube liquid discharge conduit is employed for discharging liquid from the gas-pressurized vessel. The vessel is provided with a liquid level sensor for sensing liquid reagent level in the vessel interior volume. The floor of the vessel has a cavity therein extending downwardly from the surface of the floor, and the lower end of the dip tube is positioned in the cavity. The dispensing assembly of the invention may usefully be employed for dispensing of reagents such as precursors for deposition of materials in the manufacture of semiconductor materials and devices, and achieves a high level of withdrawal of the reagent liquid from the vessel.

Abstract: A multi-level fuel pickup system has a float valve in communication with a first fuel passage having an open end disposed at a first height within the fuel tank spaced from the bottom of the fuel tank to prevent fluid flow through the first fuel passage when liquid fuel is absent adjacent its open end. A second fuel passage communicates adjacent the bottom of the fuel tank and below the first height and fuel is drawn through this fuel passage when a low level of fuel remains in the fuel tank. A fuel control valve is manually adjustable to control through which of the fuel passages fuel is drawn. Preferably, each of the fuel passages is at least partially formed in a valve body mounted within the fuel tank and the float valve comprises a spherical float received in a bore in the valve body and is responsive to the level of fuel within the bore.

Abstract: A system for delivering liquids from a plurality of containers. The system has a dispenser which holds the containers in a generally side by side relationship. A unit of the system is connected to each of the containers for sequentially dispensing the liquid held by the containers to a reservoir for receiving such liquid. The unit has conduits which are connected to the openings of the container and which extend into and have openings therein at different depths in the reservoir for the sequential dispensing of the liquid from the containers into the containers. A delivery system unit is connected to the reservoir for providing the liquid to one or more outlets. The containers are removable from the system as they become empty and are replaceable with fresh ones, to thereby allow the system to continue to deliver liquid, such as bottled water.

Abstract: A dynamic displacement sensor for detecting an out-of-fluid condition in a liquid delivery system detects an increased amplitude of pump motion of a reciprocating air pump and provides an output signal upon detecting the increased amplitude motion. The detector includes a spring-mass combination supported within a housing such that the mass is movable along a defined axis of the housing, with the spring applying a restoring force to the mass when the mass moves away from its static position. The detector is attached to the pump with its defined axis aligned parallel with the pump axis. A sensor within the housing is triggered to change state when the mass is displaced by pump motion of a predetermined amplitude and frequency, thereby providing is an output signal indicating an out-of-fluid condition.

Abstract: An automatic shut-off valve for regulating the flow of beer or other liquid from its container, whereby a float is kept away from the outlet by directing some of the liquid upwardly against the float while most of the liquid is being discharged. The discharge of liquid is usually accompanied by a suction about the outlet which tends to suck the float downwardly to seal the outlet prematurely. By the present valve and the location of the float during discharge of liquid, premature sealing is minimized.

Abstract: A liquid dispenser and control system includes a base member having an intake cavity with an axis for orientation in an upward direction, the intake cavity being sealingly mateable with a mouth opening of a replaceable liquid container which, when mated with the intake cavity, is in an inverted position for draining liquid through the mouth opening into the intake cavity. The intake cavity includes a sump into which liquid from the container can drain by gravity. The vent tube assembly has an intake end connectable to atmosphere or a source of gas, the vent tube assembly extending from the base member through the intake cavity, and has a venting end for positioning inside the container. A passageway extends through a portion of the base member, the passageway having an entry end and an exit end, the entry end connected to the sump, through which liquid from the sump can drain into the passageway.

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: 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: A beverage dispenser with an out of syrup detector is described. The detector analyzes the electrical current drawn by a solenoid valve controlling the flow of syrup. Parameters of the current are compared to known parameters indicative of proper back pressure and known parameters indicative of an out of syrup condition.

Abstract: A flow passage closing mechanism of a beverage pouring apparatus for supplying the beverage to a dispenser by pushing the beverage in the keg due to the pressure of gas introduced therein. The mechanism includes a first connecting portion to be connected to the key, a descending tube connected to the first connecting portion, a floating ball movably inserted into the descending tube, a valve seat formed at a lower end portion of the descending tube, a separating mechanism for lifting the floating ball form the valve seat, and a second connecting portion to be connected to the dispenser. When beverage in the keg is used up, the flow passage closing mechanism closes the flow passage of the beverage pouring apparatus by pushing the floating ball to the valve seat. The flowing path is reopened by the separating mechanism.

Abstract: A gas pressurized liquid delivery system. In particular but not solely for the dispensing of beverages such as beer, cider or stout. A logic circuit whether hard wired or computer or PLC controlled and whether centralized or distributed provides for the operation of the system. The run-out of an individual container in a series of containers is detected by way of a flow indicating device within a fluid pathway. The logic circuit then switches in another container in the series. The switching can be in order of connection to the circuit or an inputed manufactured date. Various cycles are provided by the logic circuit, for example, a cleaning cycle, sterilizing cycle and a purge cycle. These cycles are able to be enacted substantially automatically. A container eg. keg connector is also provided. In at least a preferred form of the invention the container connector contains a microprocessor forming or containing part of the above mentioned logic circuit.

Abstract: A flow passage closing mechanism of a beverage pouring apparatus for supplying the beverage to a dispenser by pushing the beverage in the keg due to the pressure of gas introduced therein. The mechanism includes a first connecting portion to be connected to the keg, a descending tube connected to the first connecting portion, a floating ball movably inserted into the descending tube, a valve seat formed at a lower end portion of the descending tube, a separating mechanism for lifting the floating ball from the valve seat, and a second connecting portion to be connected to the dispenser. When beverage in the keg is used up, the flow passage closing mechanism closes the flow passage of the beverage pouring apparatus by pushing the floating ball to the valve seat. The flowing path is reopened by the separating mechanism.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for automatically shutting off a dispensing device when the fluid source tank is empty includes a programmed pump controller in communication with the dispensing device and a flowmeter having a pulse generator. Upon startup of the dispensing device, the controller waits for an initial time period, then periodically determines the pulse frequency which correlates to a rate of fluid flow. The pulse frequency is compared to a calculated average pulse frequency and, if the pulse frequency has changed a pre-selected, pre-determined amount or percentage when compared to the average pulse frequency the dispensing device is shut-off. The change in pulse frequency indicates ingestion of air into the pumping system meaning an empty source tank.

Abstract: A beverage dispenser has a tray assembly for holding at least three containers, each having a plurality of electrodes. An electrical system provides a voltage to one electrode in each container, and detects when the syrup is below a certain level. The tray assembly has a first tray for supporting a first container and a second tray for supporting a second container, where the first and second trays are electrically insulated from each other. Each tray is coupled to a lead which carries a signal, and each tray is coupled to an electrode of the respective container. The first tray includes a vertical member which contacts an electrode of the second containers. The tray assembly can accommodate three or more containers and uses signals through the electrodes and leads to provide an out-of-strup indication separately for each container.

Abstract: A disinfector accommodates a jetting nozzle and a hand detecting sensor disposed alongside of the jetting nozzle in a main body thereof. The jetting direction of the jetting nozzle coincides with the light emission direction of the hand detecting sensor. The jetting nozzle and the hand detecting sensor can be pivotally moved in unison. A malfunction which may occur due to the difference in the configurations of the bowl of the washstand and the kind of the material thereof can be solved by merely altering the light emission direction of the hand detecting sensor. Because the jetting direction of the jetting nozzle and the light emission direction of the hand detecting sensor are always coincident with each other, a user can use the jetting apparatus conveniently without feeling discomfort.

Abstract: A dropper-controller including a reservoir connected with a dropper bottle containing a liquid medicine, and an automatically sealing member formed by a cup-like buoyage and disposed in the reservoir. When the liquid medicine gradually drops from the dropper bottle into the reservoir, the buoyage is buoyed up and automatically open a lower discharging opening of the reservoir, permitting the liquid medicine to flow through a hose to an injection needle for injection. When the liquid medicine in the dropper bottle is about exhausted, the level of the liquid medicine in the reservoir descends, making the buoyage together move downward onto the discharging opening of the reservoir and seal the same so as to interrupt the passage of the liquid medicine.

Abstract: An apparatus and method to eliminate the waste involved in flushing out the syrup in the delivery line between the dispensing tank and the mixing chamber in a large-scale bottling operation. The apparatus consists of a pair of sensors or probes. The first is located between the dispensing tank and the pump and is connected to a microprocessor that controls the subsequent actions of the device. Also connected to the delivery line downstream of the pump are an air supply, a water supply, and a supply of pressurized CO.sub.2. These are also connected to the processing unit. When the first probe detects air in the line upstream of the pump, it notifies the processor, which shuts off the pump, and opens up the CO.sub.2 supply line. This then drives the syrup that is present in the delivery line towards the mixing chamber. Thus the mixing and bottling process continues normally.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for accurate measuring and mixing of chemicals is disclosed. The apparatus includes one or more metered vessels having a container of predetermined volume and at least one constricted vent tube therein. By mounting a sensor on the constricted vent tube, a greatly amplified measurement of the precise chemical volume in the metered vessel is provided. The apparatus and method of the present invention readily lends itself to a variety of applications and can be adapted to handle virtually any form of chemical mixing, diluting, or generating process.

Abstract: A method of monitoring a discharge of a liquid comprises the steps of: measuring a presence or absence of a liquid discharged at an optional area of a passage for the liquid during discharging the liquid of a vessel through the passage; comparing a measurement result obtained in said measuring step with a reference measurement result which are to be obtained when a discharge of the liquid is reliably carried out; and determining as to whether a discharge operation for the liquid has been reliably performed. And an apparatus for performing the method.

Abstract: A system and apparatus for producing seasoned food products where seasoning is performed at individual packaging lines. The product is conveyed from the preparation area to a packaging area in an unseasoned condition. Upon reaching the packaging lines, which are disposed in packaging departments in the packaging area, the product can be selectively seasoned independent of other packaging lines. After seasoning, the product is packaged and prepared for delivery. At each packaging line, a volumetric feeder includes a feed head that cooperates with a tumbler having helical flights to produce continuous controlled product portions. A seasoning dispenser is positionable within the tumbler and can be adjusted to dispense a given weight of seasoning at a given rate, based on the amount of product passing through the tumbler, to obtain consistent seasoning levels and coverage.

Abstract: An add-on apparatus for feeding container plants. The apparatus contains a battery-powered pump which is designed to pump feeding solution out of a user-supplied container. The apparatus also contains a moisture sensor which is embedded by the user in the growth medium of the plant. This sensor controls the operation of the pump. On the condition of low moisture level, indicative of the need to feed, the pump operates for a controlled duration thus delivering a controlled amount of feeding solution to the plant.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for generating a flavoring syrup within a soft drink dispenser are disclosed. Syrup generation tanks receive sugar and water and combine the two to create a saturated solution constituting a sweetening syrup. The sweetening syrup is passed to a dispensing head. A flavoring agent is also presented at the dispensing head, as is a supply of soda or carbonated water. Dispensing of the sweetening syrup, flavoring agent, and soda is controlled by valves associated with each of the ingredients. The brix of the sweetening syrup is determined as a function of the temperature of the sweetening syrup, such brix being determinative of the amount of sweetening syrup dispensed to assure a proper brix level of the resulting drink.

Abstract: An automatic liquid soap supply device is formed of: a plurality of sub-units each having a use detection circuit for detecting the use of a liquid soap supply tap and a pump driving circuit connected with the use detection circuit, pumps each disposed to each of the sub-units, connected to each of the pump driving circuits for supplying a liquid soap to each of the supply taps and a main unit having a single power source circuit connected with each of the use detection circuits.

Abstract: An automatic water replenishing system is designed for use with multiple dye vats used for tinting eyeglass lenses, but the broad principles of the invention could apply to other systems used for replenishing individual ones of plural vats or reservoirs with water or some other liquid. A rotary water distributor rotates about an arc when it is signaled by water level sensors that the water in a particular vat is low. As the rotary distributor reaches the low reservoir, the LED carried by the distributor actuates a photo transistor adjacent the particular reservoir that needs replenishing, causing the motor to stop and the water supply solenoid valve to be actuated, filling the reservoir until a brief period of time after the level sensor indicates a full condition to the central control system.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for detecting a limit of a usable portion of a batch of fluent material flowing in a conduit from a container wherein usable and unusable material lie in layers. The embodiment disclosed includes two containers each having a conduit leading from the container to a switching valve. Each conduit is provided with a sensor for sensing the conductivity of fluent material flowing in the conduit. Signals from the sensors are sent to a computer which has in memory a range of values for the conductives of usable material. When the signal from a sensor goes outside that range the computer generates a signal to the switching valve to cause the switching valve to discontinue flow from the one container and allow flow from the other container which contains a fresh batch of fluent material. A conduit leads from the switching valve to a coating hopper for coating a thin layer of photographic emulsion on a continuous web. The unusable material may be froth on top of the usable material or it may be air.

Abstract: The invention relates to portable liquid dispensers for transporting large quantities of liquid to a predetermined location and for dispensing the drinking liquid on demand. The liquid dispensing unit provides for the use of a hand truck which supports and carries an insulated hollow container suitable for retaining the drinking liquid. A rechargeable battery is positioned in a housing, the latter being detachably secured to the frame of the hand truck. A pump, electrically connected to the rechargeable battery, has a pressure switch which is activated when a drop of pressure in the fluid line is detected. The intake side of the pump is connected by a flexible hose to the interior of the container and the discharge side of the pump is connected to a manifold carried by the frame of the hand truck.

Abstract: A syrup dispensing assembly is provided for a soft drink dispenser. This assembly includes a plurality of syrup supply sources in communication with a plurality of syrup pumps. Each of the pumps is interconnected with a common manifold connected at one end to a source of CO.sub.2 gas under pressure, and at the other end by a vacuum pump. Actuation of a valve allows the gas pressure source to pressurize the pumps for dispensing. Closure of that valve and actuation of the vacuum pump allow the pumps to refill with syrup from the syrup supply sources. The system can operate with any of various types of syrup supplies, as well as combinations of such supplies.

Abstract: Automatic treatment of a drain system is provided by the controlled injection of a bio-active liquid at established intervals into the drain system. A container of the treatment liquid is provided with a pump coupled between the container and the drain. Fluid level sensing means is located in the container and fluid temperature sensing means is located in the drain system. When the temperature is within range and the fluid level is sensed, the pump is periodically operated to inject a quantity of fluid directly into the drain system without operator control.

Abstract: A dispensing apparatus for bulk fluids, and a method associated therewith, is disclosed in which a bulk storage tank operates in association with a second tank of a smaller size, and which retains a fluid to be dispensed in a self-serve operation. Preferably, separate pumps are employed for feeding liquid from the bulk tank to the smaller reservoir, and from the reservoir through a nozzle to a receptacle, on demand. The apparatus of the present invention provides a system for dispensing fluids such as windshield washer at e.g., service stations, which can be used by a customer when it is desired to re-fill a vehicle windshield washer, without the problems associated with filling using larger containers.

Abstract: A compact and smoothly working, principally electrically controlled beverage mixing and dispensing system is provided in which water or carbonated water is supplied as the principle ingredient and one or more, usually two, sub-ingredients, such as syrup, flavoring extracts, sweeteners, etc. are to be separately supplied in selected, regulated amounts, mixed therewith and then discharged into a suitable drink container. Pumps illustrated are fluid pressure (carbon dioxide) operated to supply the sub-ingredients to individual electric switches and then through individual regulators and electric solenoid-controlled valves into a common mixing and drink dispensing chamber.

Abstract: The vent on demand system for bottled water coolers employs a suction wand having water suction tube, vent tube and air pressure tube for sensing the water level within the bottle. The plumbing system is only exposed to atmospheric air during water dispensing. Air pressure trapped within a bulb well located at the lowermost end of the wand responds to water level within the bottle by changing air pressure which is sensed by a pressure switch employed to disengage the pump when water levels approach empty. A check valve prevents air from entering the water suction tube during bottle replacement and the vent tube is coupled through a vent valve which maintains the water delivery system in a sealed state, only venting to atmosphere during actual water delivery. The vent valve is simultaneously actuated when either hot or cold water buttons are depressed with the pump being actuated momentarily thereafter.

Abstract: A water dispensing system and method for carbonating water from a bottled water supply includes a carbonator that is controlled by electrical components which are coupled to fluid lines associated with the carbonator for remotely controlling the liquid level in the carbonator in response to the volumetric absorption of carbon dioxide in water.

Abstract: A post mix dispenser having a refrigerated cabinet at the top which houses separate containers for different juice concentrates. The machine mixes potable water with the concentrate on demand. The potable water is cooled in an ice bath at the rear of the cabinet, in the same refrigeration system which cools the ice bath provides a source for cooling air circulated in the cabinet about the concentrate containers. The concentrate containers each are of rigid box member construction having supported therein a liquid-type bag member with an outlet member. The containers are coupled to a beverage discharge assembly by a concentrate pump and a concentrate control valve that provides for quick-disconnect operation.