Abstract: A volumetric solid and liquid dispenser includes a drum sized for receiving and containing a predetermined volume of solid material from a solid material supply source. The supply source can be a hopper positioned above the drum. The drum is rotatably mounted to a support frame and can be rotated from a position in which it receives solid material from the supply source to a dispensing position in which it dispenses the solid material into a receptacle below. A liquid metering and dispensing container dispenses a predetermined volume of liquid into the receptacle for mixing with the solid material. The invention is particularly useful for dispensing predetermined volumes of sand and water into a cement mixer for mixing with mortar.

Abstract: A solid chemical dissolver for making liquid solutions from solid chemicals packed in small containers is disclosed. The solutions are used for cleaning tanks, boilers, cooling towers and similar equipment internally. The dissolver has at least one bowl for receiving and holding one or more of the small containers of solid chemical. A spray nozzle aimed at the solid chemical directs fluid under pressure at the chemical to dissolve some of it and form a cleaning solution. A reservoir is provided to hold the solution prior to use, and a drain member leading away from the reservoir is provided for withdrawing the solution and using it to clean the tanks or other equipment. A fluid level detection switch assembly is disposed in the reservoir to control the amount of fluid from the nozzle and the level of the solution in the reservoir. Various embodiments of the invention are disclosed.

Abstract: A device for the distribution of water into vases or similar objects. The device includes a water container, at least one tubular duct for the delivery of water to the outside and a control and programming device that establishes the quantity of water to be distributed in pre-established periods of time. The device for the distribution of water has a device for the control of the pressure of the quantity of water to be distributed that can keep the pressure of the quantity of water substantially constant, and an electric control delivery device located downstream of the device for the control of the pressure, upstream of the at least one tubular duct, and in flow connection with both. The delivery device is associated with the control and programming device in order to determine the delivery of the quantity of water.

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: An arrangement in connection with a circulation lubrication system, comprising an intermediate tank, inlet channel means for feeding a lubricant into the intermediate tank, and outlet channel means for removing the lubricant, discharge means for emptying the intermediate tank, and measuring means arranged to start the discharge means when the level of the lubricant rises to an upper limit and to stop the discharge means when the level of the lubricant falls to a lower limit. The discharge means comprise a pneumatic valve, which is opened, when the level of the lubricant is at the upper limit, and to let pressurized air flow into the intermediate tank, whereby the pressurized air pushes the lubricant out of the intermediate tank through the outlet channel means, and prevents the flow of pressurized air into the intermediate tank when the level of the lubricant falls to the lower limit. A counter valve is arranged to prevent the flow of the lubricant out of the intermediate tank into the inlet channel means.

Abstract: A volumetric solid and liquid dispenser includes a drum sized for receiving and containing a predetermined volume of solid material from a solid material supply source. The supply source can be a hopper positioned above the drum. The drum is rotatably mounted to a support frame and can be rotated from a position in which it receives solid material from the supply source to a dispensing position in which it dispenses the solid material into a receptacle below. A liquid metering and dispensing container dispenses a predetermined volume of liquid into the receptacle for mixing with the solid material. The invention is particularly useful for dispensing predetermined volumes of sand and water into a cement mixer for mixing with mortar.

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 magnetic automatic stop valve formed in a container of a medical fluid administration system has one magnetic element located in a float and another magnetic element located proximate a valve seat. As the fluid level in the container decreases, the magnetic field established between the float and the valve seat eventually overcomes the buoyancy of the float in the fluid and attracts the float into the valve seat at which position the flow of fluid from the container is stopped. The float is formed of two identical halves each of which has one half of an internal post. When joined together to make the float, the internal post is fully formed and extends from one end of the float to the other. One magnetic element is slid over the post during manufacture and is free to slide from one end of the float to the other.

Abstract: A system, method and apparatus for detecting the presence or absence as well as the level of material in a beverage dispenser. The system includes a sensor assembly including a light source and a light detector. The source and detector are in close proximity to one another with the detector detecting a beam emitted from the source and the beam is reflected from material retained in the container. A controller is provided and receives a signal from the sensor assembly for controllably operating functions of the beverage dispenser based on the detection signal from the sensor assembly relating to material in the container. The apparatus for detecting a level of material in the container includes a comparator coupled to the sensor assembly for receiving a signal from the detector, the output from the comparator coupled to the controller. A variable gain amplifier is coupled to the detector for receiving an output signal from the detector. The variable gain amplifier provides an input signal to the comparator.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a nonreturn warning device for an intravenous drip infusion which includes a top member and a bottom member both of which forms an accommodation which has an inlet pipe and an outlet pipe at the top and bottom thereof. The outlet pipe includes a flange around which a recess is provided. A conic valve with a middle hole is arranged onto the flange. A float with a cylindrical stopper is received in the accommodation formed after connection of the top member and the bottom member. The middle section of the float contains a magnetic element, and a warning device is fitted beside the top member. Besides, a magnetic reed switch is installed in the warning device. As the float sinks with the fluid surface in the accommodation, the magnetic element approaches the magnetic reed switch and the magnetic force of the float will activate a buzzer for giving out a warning sound which is transmitted through a headphone jack or a radio transmitter to the nurses' call station.

Abstract: A device for generating a liquid detergent concentrate from a solid detergent is provided. The device includes a solid detergent reservoir for holding solid detergent, a stock solution reservoir for holding stock solution, and a hot water heater for controlling the temperature of water used to generate the stock solution from the solid detergent. A method for generating a liquid detergent concentrate from a solid detergent and a method for washing a vehicle are provided.

Abstract: A drinking-fluid dispenser includes a bottle disposed on a dispenser base. Mounted inside the bottle is a valve proximally connected to a float by an actuating arm. The valve is positioned above the fluid inside the bottle and is connected to a continuous-flow fluid source. During normal use, the float which buoyantly floats on fluid, closes and opens the valve, respectively, when the fluid rises and falls inside the bottle. There is also a pressure-vent unit having an orifice and is disposed through the bottle above the bottle fluid to maintain atmospheric pressure inside the bottle.

Abstract: A drinking fluid dispenser includes a bottle disposed on a dispenser base. Mounted inside the bottle is a valve proximally connected to a float by an actuating arm. The valve is positioned above the fluid inside the bottle and is connected to a continuous-flow fluid source. During normal operation, the float which buoyantly floats on fluid, closes and opens the valve, respectively, when the fluid rises and falls inside the bottle. There is also a pressure vent with an orifice disposed through the bottle and above the bottle fluid to maintain atmospheric pressure inside the bottle.

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 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 fluid dispensing system comprises a sealed collapsible plastic bag for retaining fluid therein, and support means for supporting the plastic bag. The support means comprises a bowl-shaped carrier portion for retaining the plastic bag therein, a collar portion for supporting the carrier portion, and at least one cooling element disposed about the carrier portion for cooling the fluid in the plastic bag. The support means includes a spigot for puncturing the plastic bag, either under its own weight or with a downward force being exerted on the bag, when the bag is positioned on the carrier portion. The spigot is positioned in the carrier portion adjacent the lowermost portion thereof, and is shaped for sealing the plastic bag to the spigot after being punctured by the spigot. The spigot includes a fluid passageway, and a fluid inlet in communication with the fluid passageway for draining the fluid from the plastic bag.

Abstract: An apparatus for dispensing a measured quantity of a liquid has a container holding a quantity of liquid to be measured and dispensed and a conduit with an inlet end, an outlet end and a measuring section having a known volume. A sensor determines when the measuring section contains liquid. A passage with a first valve is provided for delivering liquid from the container to the conduit inlet end and air under pressure urges liquid from the container to the conduit. A source of air under pressure is connected to the conduit and a second valve controls delivery of air to the conduit from the source. A control connected to the sensor and to the first and second valves sequentially closes the second valve and opens the first valve to cause flow of liquid from the container to the conduit until the sensor determines that the measuring section contains liquid, and then closes the first valve and opens the second valve to admit air to the conduit, thereby expelling a measured quantity of liquid from the outlet end.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for automatically gauging container and syrup requirements for beverage production includes: (a) dropping the level in a syrup recovery tank down to a pre-set level and maintaining it at that level; (b) loading remaining containers onto a conveyor belt system, which leads to a filler; (c) receiving input from a depalletizer confirming that the remaining containers have been loaded to the conveyor system; (d) stopping the flow of syrup from a syrup supply tank to a syrup recovery tank; and (e) pushing remaining syrup in at least one distribution line, which leads from the syrup supply tank, into the syrup recovery tank.

Abstract: The invention concerns a sensor for detecting leaks in a liquid hydrocarbon dispenser, said sensor comprising a sealed plate arranged at the dispenser base and provided with a collecting container for receiving said liquid hydrocarbons collected by said sealed plate and coming from leaks in the dispenser, said collecting container comprising a sensor at the level of said hydrocarbons, capable of stopping the operation of the dispenser when the hydrocarbon level sensed reaches a predetermined level (N). The invention is useful for protecting the environment against hydrocarbon pollution.

Abstract: A fluid flow control valve having a cam disposed near an opening of a fuel passage. The cam is operable to be rotated about a shaft by the action of a float. As a fluid level in a tank changes, the cam rotates from an open position remote from the opening to a closed position (as illustrated) proximate the opening. A gap remains between the cam and the opening, thereby allowing the fluid level to be drawn down to the bottom of opening. Float has a generally wedge shaped cross-section to minimize the effect of wave action in the fluid.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for automatically gauging container and syrup requirements for beverage production includes: (a) an enclosed syrup recovery tank, (b) an inlet port leading into the syrup recovery tank; (c) an outlet port, syrup being transportable into and out of the syrup recovery tank through inlet and outlet distribution lines; (d) a pump connected to the outlet distribution lines for pumping syrup from the syrup recovery tank; (e) a microprocessor; (f) a level transmitter for measuring syrup levels within the syrup recovery tank and transmitting information concerning syrup levels to the microprocessor; (g) a level control valve on the inlet distribution line for controlling the flow of syrup to the syrup recovery tank; and (h) a control mechanism connected to the microprocessor for a user to input to, and receive information from, the microprocessor. This apparatus and method allow conservation of syrup and containers at the end of a production run.

Abstract: A pitcher pump water dispensing system including a pitcher pump that has a generally cylindrical central portion with a centrally pivoted pumping handle that has a drive rod coupled thereto with a one-way seal. The system also includes a reservoir that has a receiving pipe coupled with respect to the bottom region of the pump. The reservoir being adapted to hold water. The system further includes a control assembly that has an intake pipe with a valve and a floating regulator attached adjacent to the intake pipe in operational contact with the valve by means of lever linkage arms. Finally the system includes inlet hose that is coupled to the bottom end of the intake pipe and extending to a water source.

Abstract: A water system for a beverage dispenser connected to a conventional water source. The water system includes a water tank with a volume of water and a volume of air. The water tank is connected to the conventional water source. A pump is connected to water tank so as to provide the water to the beverage dispenser.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for automatically gauging container and syrup requirements for beverage production includes: (a) dropping the level in a syrup recovery tank down to a pre-set level and maintaining it at that level; (b) loading remaining containers onto a conveyor belt system, which leads to a filler; (c) receiving input from a depalletizer confirming that the remaining containers have been loaded to the conveyor system; (d) stopping the flow of syrup from a syrup supply tank to a syrup recovery tank; and (e) pushing remaining syrup in at least one distribution line, which leads from the syrup supply tank, into the syrup recovery tank. This apparatus and method allow conservation of syrup and containers at the end of a production run.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a self-contained high pressure pneumatic beverage dispensing system. In each embodiment of the dispensing system, the dispensing system comprises a carbonator tank dispensing system which includes a water valve that is adapted to connect in fluid communication to a carbonator tank and to a source of pressurized water. The water valve has an open position in which water from the source of pressurized water can flow through the water valve and into the carbonator tank and further has a closed position in which water from the source of pressurized water cannot flow through the water valve into the carbonator tank. The dispensing system further includes at least one proximity switch that is adapted to operably connect in fluid communication to the water valve and a source of pressurized gas.

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: The present disclosure relates to a self-contained high pressure pneumatic beverage dispensing system.

Abstract: A device, and a container having such a device, is provided for filling the container with a predetermined weight of fluid. The device includes an input portion with a throat and a shoulder for introducing fluid into the container. A shut-off mechanism has a shut-off member and a control port. A control mechanism maintains one or more spheres in an inline configuration with the shut-off member such that fluid flow is permitted between the shut-off member and the control port as the device is disposed in an open configuration. A stabilizer is provided for each of the one or more spheres to maintain the inline configuration.

Abstract: A casing which provides a fluid and electrical interface between components of a fuel dispensing system. A column pipe which receives fuel pumped from an underground tank connects with a power head mounted in the casing. A check valve controls flow from the power head to a dispensing pipe leading to a fuel dispenser. A hand operated quick connect coupling connects the power head with the check valve housing to facilitate extraction of the power head, column pipe and pump. The check valve element can be removed along with a cover to the check valve housing. Leaking fuel and excessive fuel vapor are returned to the tank by valves. Fuel from the check valve housing used to operate a siphon system is returned to the tank along with fuel needed to relieve excessive pressure in the check valve housing. A junction box in the casing houses electrical wiring and is equipped with a safety barrier plug that accommodates a signal wire from a pressure transducer used to control the fuel flow to the dispenser.

Abstract: The present disclosure concerns a self-contained, pneumatic beverage dispensing system. In one embodiment, the pneumatic beverage dispensing system comprises a carbonator tank for facilitating absorption of CO2 gas in water to produce carbonated water, a source of CO2 gas under high pressure, the source of CO2 gas being in fluid communication with the carbonator tank so as to fill the carbonator tank with CO2 gas, and a source of water under high pressure, the source of water being in fluid communication with the carbonator tank so as to fill the carbonator tank with water. The system normally further comprises at least two liquid containers for containing liquids to be dispensed by the dispensing system, one of the liquid containers being in fluid communication with the source of CO2 gas, and a pneumatic pump system in fluid communication with the source of CO2 gas and the other of the liquid containers.

Abstract: An apparatus for is disclosed for detecting low liquid level in a bottom-draining container (12), the apparatus including a spout (14, 48) extended outwardly from the container, the spout having a central bore (18) through which liquid can drain from a bottom of the container; at least one guide member (26, 56, 62) positioned in the spout; at least one float (38) mounted for movement in the spout along the guide member, the float being buoyant in a liquid to be drained from the container; a source (42) for directing a beam of radiation into the spout along a path intersected by the float when a liquid drains to a preselected level within the spout; and a device (44, 46) for detecting when the float intersects the beam. The guide member may be omitted in one embodiment.

Abstract: A valve assembly is provided that prevents overfilling of vessels, such as tanks used to hold liquified gas, beyond a predetermined maximum level. Preferably, the valve assembly is for use with an LP tank attached at the bottom of a service valve thereof. The valve assembly has a valve member controlled for shifting by a float assembly that rises and falls with the fluid level in the tank. The float assembly keeps the valve member removed from the flow of fluid through the valve housing during tank filling operations in a chamber of a diverter member until the maximum fill level is approached when the float assembly allows the valve member to begin to shift into a blocking position projecting from the diverter member restricting flow into the tank and eventually cutting it off when the maximum fill level is attained.

Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, there is provided a self-actuating fluid dispenser change-over device for selectively dispensing a fluid from multiple fluid sources. The change-over device is provided with a housing having first and second cylinders. The change-over device is further provided with first and second pistons which are interconnected and movable between open and closed positions within respective ones of the first and second cylinders. The change-over device is further provided with a slide valve which is movable between first and second positions for alternately dispensing fluid from a respective one of the first and second cylinders. The change over device is further provided with a linkage which connects the pistons to the slide valve for moving the slide valve in response to movement of the pistons. The linkage has a biasing spring for urging the slide valve between a respective one of the first and second positions.

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 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 hand-powered apparatus and method for measuring and dispensing a predetermined volume of liquid. A predetermined volume of liquid is selected using a control knob on the apparatus and a valve is moved to a fill position. The handle on an attached hand pump is then moved alternately up and down causing fluid to be drawn into a measuring vessel. Further upward movement of the handle is prevented upon the fluid level in the vessel reaching the selected volume. Thereupon, the valve is moved to a dispense position whereby continued pumping of the handle is again possible. The handle is alternately pumped up and down causing the fluid to exit the vessel.

Abstract: A valve assembly and a bottom-draining container having the valve assembly. The valve assembly comprising a first body member, a guide member supported by the first body member so that the guide member will extend upward into the container, and a float mounted for movement along the guide member, the float being buoyant in a liquid to be drained from the container, the float having a mating surface for engaging a second mating surface on the valve assembly when the float is in the unsensed position, the mating surface of the float having a configuration for minimizing sticking of the float with respect to the valve assembly.

Abstract: A self-contained high pressure pneumatic beverage dispensing system configured for portable or fixed installations. The beverage system is designed to dispense carbonated and noncarbonated mixed beverages, as well as any carbonated and noncarbonated unmixed beverages in liquid form. In particular, the self-contained pneumatic beverage dispensing system includes a high pressure carbonator tank, a refillable source of CO.sub.2 gas at high pressure, a source of pressurized water, a carbonator tank water level switch and water valve, and a beverage dispenser valve. In a first embodiment, the source of pressurized water comprises a high pressure water tank containing water that is pressurized with CO.sub.2 gas. In a second embodiment, the source of pressurized water comprises a low pressure water tank, and a high pressure water pump that is used to raise the pressure of the water supplied by the low pressure water tank.

Abstract: A bubbler container assembly particularly adapted for use in vapor generating systems comprising a main outer vessel, an inner bubbler vessel, a carrier gas inlet and a vapor outlet such that the inner bubbler vessel is contained within the main outer vessel and the bubbler container assembly is constructed so as to self-meter an incoming supply of vaporizable liquid during the introduction of a carrier gas and extraction of resulting vapor. Preferably, the system further provides for magnetic induced centering and positioning of the inner buoyant bubbler vessel, fluid temperature sensing and control, connection of a fluid makeup supply, carrier gas inlet supply, and vapor extraction outlet.

Abstract: A constant level of fluid (8 or 106) in vessel (1 or 104) is maintained using a reservoir (5 or 102) and a tank (4 or 101). Float valves (9 or 107) which raise and lower with the level of fluid in the reservoir are used to selectively close off fluid passages (13 or 109) from the tank into the reservoir. Until the desired level of fluid is reached in the reservoir, the reservoir continuously provides fluid to the vessel. Once fluid flow into the reservoir is stopped, flow from the reservoir into the vessel also stops. The vessel can be positioned adjacent to or remote from the reservoir.

Abstract: An apparatus for is disclosed for detecting low liquid level in a bottom-draining container (12), the apparatus including a spout (14, 48) extended outwardly from the container, the spout having a central bore (18) through which liquid can drain from a bottom of the container; at least one guide member (26, 56, 62) positioned in the spout; at least one float (38) mounted for movement in the spout along the guide member, the float being buoyant in a liquid to be drained from the container; a source (42) for directing a beam of radiation into the spout along a path intersected by the float when a liquid drains to a preselected level within the spout; and a device (44, 46) for detecting when the float intersects the beam. The guide member may be omitted in one embodiment.

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 water dispenser includes a housing containing a water source and a water storage tank positioned above the water source. A water line connects the water source and the water storage tank. A vacuum pump draws a vacuum on the water storage tank thereby drawing water through the water line from the water source to the water storage tank. A tap is coupled to the water storage tank and extends outside the housing to dispense water. Optionally, a carbon dioxide injection system may be provided for producing carbonated water. Further, an ultraviolet light source may be positioned adjacent the water line for disinfection.

Abstract: A system to be utilized at a dairy in the distribution of a pumpable food product from a storage tank to a filling machine for dispensing into containers. The system includes a balance tank for storing the product on the filling machine. The balance tank is in flow communication with a storage tank via a product line, and also has a level probe for monitoring the amount of product in the tank. A product pump pumps the food product to a valve mechanism which is also disposed on the product line. A programmable logic controller receives a signal from the probe indicative of the level of the product in the balance tank, and generates a series of signals to the product pump and the valve mechanism to maintain a steady flow of product from the storage tank to the balance tank. In this manner, foaming of the product in the balance tank is eliminated or substantially reduced to acceptable levels.

Abstract: A new beverage dispensing system for permitting an uninterrupted flow of a beverage when a beverage container is low on, or runs out of, a beverage. The inventive device includes first and second beverage containers and a dispenser connected to the containers. A system of valves control the flow of beverages from the containers to the dispenser, and manually actuated switches are used to control the valves. A float type of sensor is situated inside each of the beverage containers for sensing the amount of beverage remaining within the containers, and the sensors actuate a signal system for signaling when the amount of beverage remaining within the container reaches a predetermined level. The system is configured such that the beverage in the first container is initially dispensed from the dispenser. When the sensor within the first container senses that the beverage is almost gone, the signal system is actuated thus indicating this low, or empty, condition.

Abstract: The dispenser device of the invention comprises a liquid storage tank overlying an intermediate chamber partially filled with liquid. The top storage tank is fluidingly linked to the intermediate chamber, and a first valve controls the liquid flow under the gravity force from the top tank into the intermediate chamber. The intermediate chamber comprises on its bottom wall an outlet port for allowing liquid to be dispensed therethrough under the gravity force and under the pressure of the overlying liquid, the liquid flow through the chamber outlet port being controlled by a second valve. A small computer is linked to the first and second valves and to a float gauge floating on the liquid located inside the intermediate chamber. Thus, the computer detects by means of the float gauge any variation of the level of liquid inside the intermediate chamber. In use, the data concerning the precise quantity of liquid which is desired is entered into the computer.

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: Liquid handling apparatus includes a transfer vessel adapted to receive and retain a predetermined volume of liquid between an upper air-inlet and lower liquid inlet/outlet, the latter being an opening in the base connected to a liquid-flow delivery and suction pipe of desired length, the latter having an open terminal end downstream of a manually controllable on/off valve, the terminal end being adapted to be placed in liquid communication with a supply vessel or dispensing container.

Abstract: A method of delivering a liquid detergent product which may be caustic, is described. In particular, a predetermined volume of water is dosed into a container using a flow meter, a valve means, and, optionally, a water supply pump means. A pump means is activated to deliver the liquid detergent product into the container until it is completely filled as controlled by a level sensor located in the container. The contents of the container are then delivered. A device for carrying out the method is also described.

Abstract: A device, and a container having such a device, is provided for permitting filling the container with a predetermined weight of the fluid. The device and container include a main channel to introduce the fluid into the container at a fill pressure; a detector mechanism to detect a "filled" condition based on fluid weight; and an fluid-weight control mechanism to automatically prevent introducing fluid into the container in excess of the "filled" condition. A compression spring offsets part of the weight of a displacer such that the displacer becomes buoyant as the container becomes "filled". The displacer has a seat mechanism that sealingly engages an orifice mechanism creating a differential pressure, substantially less than the fill pressure, across a control device causing closure of the main channel.