Abstract: The present invention provides a display controller driving multiple browser displays, which are associated with user input devices. Preferably, the display controller runs a browser application for each display and receives input from each user input device. Primary control for the browser applications is provided by a control application located remotely from the display controller. The user input is forwarded to the control application, which will process the user input and provide instructions to the corresponding browser application to request content from a web server application. The control application may also provide instructions unrelated to the user input to control any one or all of the browser applications.

Abstract: Methods, systems and computer program products for dispensing hyperpolarized gas include or operate a plurality of spaced apart individually operable valves positioned in fluid communication with and located along a gas flow path. The gas flow path that is intermediate the spaced apart valves defines at least one meted holding space with an associated volume that can be selectively isolated from the remainder of the gas flow path. The system and methods include a pressure sensor operably associated with the gas flow path and a control module operably associated with the plurality of spaced apart valves and the pressure sensor, the control module being configured to direct the operational sequence of the opening and closing of the valves, wherein, in operation, the control module directs a plurality of capture and release cycles, the cycles being successively carried out so to temporally isolate a predetermined portion of the gas flow path to capture and then release discrete amounts of gas therein.

Abstract: A beverage system including a communication means (300) for communicating between a beverage dispensing module (32) and a base station (304). Each beverage-dispersing module (32) includes a controller (76), which is centralized for use with multiple modules (32) or dedicated to an individual module (32). The controller (76) collects information about the module (32) or modules. The controller (76) includes link (302), which connect the controller (76) to the base station (304). The base station (304) includes a means for displaying display (305) and can provide visual auditor or other information about numerous conditions.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system to dispense a liquid, contained in a cartridge, onto a substrate employing a dispensing system under control of a processor in data communication with a memory.

Abstract: A batch event historian gathers, stores and presents data regarding a batch process where relationships among the various elements of data are automatically derived by an executive program. A persistent store includes structure corresponding to the relationships defined among procedural elements and equipment in accordance with batch processing industry S88.01 standards. The executive program gathers event information generated by the batch process and derives the relationships among the events in accordance with these industry standard models. Storage and corresponding retrieval and presentation of such historical data is thereby simplified for a user because the user need not manually configure the historian programs to derive the relationships. Association of any continuous data log with event information is automated thereby obviating the need for manual configuration by a user to establish such associations.

Abstract: An automatic vending machine includes an integrated capsule dispensing apparatus. The automatic vending machine comprises a first dispensing unit for delivering products that it withdraws from one or more first storage compartments, and is characterized in that it further comprises at least a second dispensing unit for delivering products packaged in the form of capsules that are stored loosely within second storage compartments.

Abstract: The device, which serves to mix substances, especially coloring substances, has a processor unit, a local memory unit for storing mixing formulas, a display unit, and an input unit, as well as a measuring device, in particular a scale, with which portions of substances in quantities determined according to a mixing formula can be filled manually or automatically into a container. The processor unit is further connected to a communications module, with which a communications connection to a data server can be wirelessly established, via which the data of mixing formulas can be transmitted to the local memory unit. The method for operating the device therefore allows a user to call up constantly up-to-date mixing formulas directly on the mixing device and then to start a mixing process, or perform a mixing manually while observing the display of the measuring device.

Abstract: A beverage distribution and dispensing system and method for distributing drinks such as soda, juice and punch, to a home or business and which involves a computerized system which enables users to dispense such drinks from their refrigerator. The computerized system monitors its own supply levels and, when necessary, automatically orders and delivers drink syrups and CO2 gas supplies. The computerized system can automatically detect dispensing problems and orders and arranges for repair service.

Abstract: An intelligent volumetric module for use in metering pressurized syrup to a drink dispenser machine comprises a solenoid driven metering system for controlling liquid flows from a pressurized syrup container and a controller for controlling operation of said solenoid driven metering system according to uniquely addressed instructions received from the drink dispenser's system controller. The controller comprises a self-addressing capability, wherein serial communication to all but one non-addressed volumetric module is disrupted while a first address is assigned to that one module. Communication is the enabled along a serial bus to a next non-addressed module, to which a second address is assigned. The process continues until each volumetric module is assigned a unique address and connected to the serial communication bus.

Abstract: A system and a method for automatically, accurately diluting chemical solutions on an industrial scale based upon real time weight measurements of chemical and diluent weight is disclosed.

Abstract: A system and method for dispensing super absorbent material (SAM) to a machine manufacturing absorbent articles as part of a manufacturing processing operation. A first controller stores process control data relating to the manufacturing processing operation and provides a first control signal that corresponds to the stored process control data. A second controller is responsive to the first control signal provided by the first controller for providing a dispensing signal. A SAM dispenser is responsive to the dispensing signal for dispensing the SAM to the machine at a start-up dispense rate when the machine is in a start-up mode and at an operating dispense rate when the machine is in a operating mode.

Abstract: An intelligent volumetric module for use in metering pressurized syrup to a drink dispenser machine comprises a solenoid driven metering system for controlling liquid flows from a pressurized syrup container and a controller for controlling operation of said solenoid driven metering system according to uniquely addressed instructions received from the drink dispenser's system controller. The controller comprises a self-addressing capability, wherein serial communication to all but one non-addressed volumetric module is disrupted while a first address is assigned to that one module. Communication is the enabled along a serial bus to a next non-addressed module, to which a second address is assigned. The process continues until each volumetric module is assigned a unique address and connected to the serial communication bus.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to the provision of premixed aqueous compositions which are used to provide a paint composition of varying finish characteristics at the point of sale. Thus, the merchant distributing the paint composition made from the subject premixed compositions need only maintain inventory of four compositions. The particular compositions which are the subject of the invention exhibit stable characteristics during storage in their respective reservoirs. The compositions include a pigment composition, a dispersant thickening agent, a high resin content binder, and a low resin content binder. The compositions are combined in differing amounts to produce paint compositions being suitable for either interior or exterior use and having differing sheens, quality levels, and color bases.

Abstract: Apparatus and process for producing a clay slurry from raw clay in a substantially dust-free manner including a water-driven vacuum eductor for metering the removal of clay from a super bag container and mixing the clay with a carrier water that also serves as the motive force for the eductor for producing a clay slurry and feeding it to an equalization tank that de-aerates and equalizes the slurry. A bag shaker is provided in the source of clay to assist feeding where needed, and a vacuum breaking valve is provided for the eductor to control the flow of raw clay into the eductor. The bag of clay is suspended from a load cell that continuously delivers a weight signal to a programmable logic controller adjustable to set the rate of clay being fed to the eductor and to activate the bag shaker if the clay flow rate lags the set rate and the vacuum breaker if the clay flow rate exceeds the set rate.

Abstract: A system and related methods for configuring and monitoring a material application system for installation and use at a site that is remotely located from the material application system manufacturing site. The system provides a configuration module that allows a customer or purchaser to configure a system electronically based on the customer's spraying needs. The selected configuration may further be linked to a pricing and inventory database module to allow the customer to order the system components, and obtain price and delivery schedules. The configuration module is available to the customer via a secure web site over the Internet provided by a server accessed from a computer such as a personal computer. The system also provides an extranet, for example, via the Internet or other communication link, is used to provide an accessible database for historical data and configuration/installation information.

Abstract: An apparatus for providing at least one item of value in cooperation with operation of a companion device delivering at least one first product to a user comprises: (a) a control means for controlling the providing; (b) a providing means for effecting the providing; the providing means being coupled with the control means; and (c) a link with the companion device for effecting the cooperation. The apparatus may further comprise (d) a communication means coupled with the control means for communicating operational information with the apparatus regarding operation of the apparatus; and (e) a memory means coupled with the communication means for storing the operational information. The method comprises the steps of: (a) providing a control means for controlling the providing; (b) providing a providing means coupled with the control means for effecting the providing; and (c) providing a link with the companion device for effecting the cooperation.

Abstract: The present invention is a system for handling liquid and a method for the same. The system has a container capable of holding a liquid. An electronic storage device is coupled with the container for electronically storing information relating to the liquid stored in the container. The system also has an antenna, for storing information to and reading information from the electronic storage device. Finally, the system has a microprocessor-based controller, coupled with the antenna, for controlling processing of the liquid based on information read from the electronic storage device by the antenna.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for customizing the cosmetics used by a consumer. A consumer provides selection data and a cosmetic product formula is generated therefrom, base ingredients are then dispensed in accordance with the formula and a customized cosmetic product is delivered onto an intermediate surface for subsequent application. Further, a cartridge providing fluids to a customized cosmetic device is disclosed comprising one or more fluids, the fluids are stored in the cartridge, and one or more openings are provided for dispensing the fluids to a customized cosmetic product.

Abstract: The present invention provides a carbonated and non-carbonated water supplier for a beverage dispensing apparatus for a residential refrigerator. The beverage dispensing apparatus includes a drink supplier including a drink supply canister holder for holding a plurality of drink supply canisters, a plurality of valve actuators for causing the drink supply to be selectively released from the drink supply canisters, the water supplier for selectively supplying carbonated water and non-carbonated water for producing the beverages, a gas supplier for supplying CO2 gas to carbonate the carbonated water provided by the water supplier and for supplying CO2 gas or other gas for pressurizing the drink supply canisters to provide a consistent flow rate of the drink supply from the drink supply canisters and one or more beverage requesters for enabling users to request one of a plurality of beverages.

Abstract: A system and a method for automatically, accurately diluting chemical solutions on an industrial scale based upon real time weight measurements of chemical and diluent weight is disclosed.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a dedicated pump controller apparatus for installation dedicated to and proximate a single fuel pump, comprising: at least one processor; data memory; and at least one fuel pump communications interface for communicating with said fuel pump. Further disclosed is a method for controlling fuel pumps using a dedicated pump controller comprising at least one processor and at least one data memory, comprising the steps of: installing a dedicated pump controller proximate to a single fuel pump; dedicating said dedicated pump controller to said single fuel pump; and communicating between said dedicated pump controller and said at least one fuel pump over at least one communications interface therebetween.

Abstract: Improved control of continuous processes that handle liquids. Data generated by this invention is used to control gas contents of liquids within optimum ranges, for instance in paper coating processes and in the manufacture of food products (ketchup), personal care products (shampoo), paints, and in any industry where information on entrained and/or dissolved gases, and related parameters such as true density of and gas solubility in process liquids, is employed to optimize processing. The amount of gas in a liquid is determined by subjecting a mixture of an incompressible liquid sample and a compressible gas to three or more different equilibrium pressure states, measuring the temperature and volume of the mixture at each of the pressure states, determining the changes in volume of the mixture between at least two different pairs of pressure states, and calculating the amount of gas in the liquid sample.

Abstract: A beverage dispensing system includes a beverage dispenser which forms and dispenses a beverage and a processor for monitoring the beverage dispenser. The beverage dispenser operates under various parameters including a first parameter that is indicative of the quality of the beverage to be dispensed and a second parameter that is indicative as to when routine maintenance is to be scheduled. The processor monitors the various parameters under which the beverage dispenser operates and determines whether the first parameter is outside of a predetermined range. If the first parameter is outside the predetermined range, the processor sends a signal regarding a request for immediate repair service. The second parameter is also monitored and the routine maintenance is scheduled based thereon.

Abstract: The present invention is an appliance supply distribution and dispensing system and method for distributing appliance supplies to a home or business and which involves a computerized system which facilitates dispensing or using one or more supplies from an appliance. The computerized system monitors the supply level(s) and, when necessary, automatically orders and delivers additional supplies. In addition, the computerized system automatically detects dispensing, use or appliance problems and orders and arranges for repair service.

Abstract: A method and system for selecting and producing a customized cosmetic or pharmaceutical formulation is disclosed below. The system can be implemented in an Internet based system or a stand-alone version, such as a Kiosk. An improved method of custom formulation is presented which utilizes the user's preferences and profile, as well as external factors. The customized formulation can be directed to a manufacturing facility for on-demand production. Alternatively, a printout of the formulation can be provided for subsequent use at point-of-sale locations, such as a cosmetics store or a pharmacy. The custom formulation software can also be provided in conjunction with a cosmetics manufacturing kit for use in home or business application.

Abstract: The present invention provides a beverage dispensing apparatus for a residential refrigerator. The beverage dispensing apparatus of the present invention includes a drink supplier including a drink supply canister holder for holding a plurality of drink supply canisters, a plurality of valve actuators for causing the drink supply to be selectively released from the drink supply canisters, a water supplier for selectively supplying carbonated water and non-carbonated water for producing the beverages, a gas supplier for supplying CO2 gas to carbonate the carbonated water provided by the water supplier and for supplying CO2 gas or other gas for pressurizing the drink supply canisters to provide a consistent flow rate of the drink supply from the drink supply canisters, and one or more beverage requesters for enabling users to request one of a plurality of beverages.

Abstract: A user interactive custom nail polish color and effects dispensing system and method of doing business, including for both point of sale and remote (e.g., via internet) transactions.

Abstract: The device, which serves to mix substances, especially coloring substances, has a processor unit, a local memory unit for storing mixing formulas, a display unit, and an input unit, as well as a measuring device, in particular a scale, with which portions of substances in quantities determined according to a mixing formula can be filled manually or automatically into a container. The processor unit is further connected to a communications module, with which a communications connection to a data server can be wirelessly established, via which the data of mixing formulas can be transmitted to the local memory unit. The method for operating the device therefore allows a user to call up constantly up-to-date mixing formulas directly on the mixing device and then to start a mixing process, or perform a mixing manually while observing the display of the measuring device.

Abstract: A machine and system are disclosed for filling containers with food products, such as liquid and semi-solid dairy products. The machine is driven by solenoid-controlled pneumatics and a servo-motor, all of which can be controlled by computer. The machine and system provide greater flexibility in changing the machine over from one product to another. The system also allows remote monitoring of the operation of the machine.

Abstract: The invention relates to an interactive fuel dispenser system having a plurality of fuel dispensers operating in conjunction with a local server. Each dispenser generally has two fueling positions, each with a graphical user interface through which a customer interacts. In contrast with the recent trend in turning fuel dispensers into super computers, applicants' provide a dispenser architecture that need only be sufficient to establish interactivity with a server to create multimedia applications and carry out POS functions with a browser interface. Each fueling position acts as a client of a local server at the fuel station store. In the preferred embodiment, each fueling position client also may access remote servers connected to the same network in which the fueling position clients and the local server are connected. Preferably, this network is or is connected to the Worldwide Web of the Internet.

Abstract: A data processing system is used to manage and track use of chemical product in a washing machine. A detergent dispenser distributes the chemical products (e.g., detergent, rinse agent, and bleach) to the washing machine. The dispenser includes a monitor that detects dispenser data based on distribution of the chemical product by the dispenser. A database is coupled to the dispenser and stores an account identifier and an alignment identifier in association with the dispenser data of the dispenser. The database further stores corporate data in association with the dispenser data, the account identifier, and the alignment identifier. An analysis application analyzes the dispenser data in relation with the corporate data to characterize use of the chemical product in the chemical application system and provide a feedback loop. The analysis application can limit its analysis to data associated with a given account identifier or a given alignment identifier.

Abstract: Polishing slurry is transported via piping to flow into the closed loop control system. First, the polishing slurry flows into the ultrasonic concentration detector. Original data of the polishing slurry that is determined by means of ultrasonic concentration detector is a fluid velocity at that time. This determined value can be converted into weight percent concentration at that time by memory data table. The converted data of weight percent concentration will be transmitted into program logic controller (PLC), and the data of liquid level volume in the distribution tank will be transmitted into program logic controller at present. The program logic controller will then analyze whether the quantity of oxidant is sufficient. If the quantity of oxidant does not reach the required criterion, the program logic controller will control the analog valve to transmit a supplementary quantity of oxidant into the distribution tank via the analog valve and piping.

Abstract: A method, apparatus and system, the method comprising receiving a request indication representing a request for an item, receiving a provided indication representing providing said item, and signalling an operator when the request indication has no corresponding provided indication. The apparatus includes a request indication receiver for receiving the request indication, a provided indication receiver for receiving the provided indication, a processing circuit for determining when the request indication has no corresponding provided indication, and a signal device in communication with the processing circuit for signalling the operator when the request indication has no corresponding provided indication.

Abstract: This embodiment relates generally to a foam dispensing system, and more particularly to an automated monitoring and diagnostic system for use with foam dispensing systems that permits remote control of the dispensing of foam. A control console is provided that is interconnected, preferably by way of a high-speed data link, with a foam dispenser, the A and B foam component pumps, a power source and controller, and a gateway. The console preferably includes a plurality of individual control circuits, typically disposed within one or more integrated circuits. The console may instead, or additionally, include software to perform some or all of the data exchange functions. The control circuits and/or software are preferably disposed within modules that are mounted to various components of the system. The modules may include one or more sensors operatively connected to the controller that monitor and record operational parameters.

Abstract: A network topology for communication within and between food service equipment items generally comprises one or more food service equipment items, each having a controller and at least one functional subsystem configured as a slave to the controller, and a master interface and a bus slave interface associated with each controller. Each master interface is adapted for electrical communication over an intra-equipment communication channel with a slave interface associated with the functional subsystem. Each bus slave interface is adapted for communication, external to the food service equipment item, over an inter-equipment communication channel. Each bus slave interface is substantially electrically identical to each slave interface.

Abstract: The multimedia and scent storage medium described herein comprises a multimedia storage region for storing multimedia information; a scent storage region for storing multiple scents; scent identification information for identifying which scents are stored in the scent storage region; and scent recovery information stored in the multimedia storage region for sequencing recovery of scents stored in the scent storage region to coincide with audio and/or video information stored in the multimedia region. The integrated system described herein comprises a multimedia and scent storage medium and a multimedia player and scent recovery system for use in conjunction with the multimedia and scent-bearing medium.

Abstract: An intelligent volumetric module for use in metering pressurized syrup to a drink dispenser machine comprises a solenoid driven metering system for controlling liquid flows from a pressurized syrup container and a controller for controlling operation of said solenoid driven metering system according to uniquely addressed instructions received from the drink dispenser's system controller. The controller comprises a self-addressing capability, wherein serial communication to all but one non-addressed volumetric module is disrupted while a first address is assigned to that one module. Communication is the enabled along a serial bus to a next non-addressed module, to which a second address is assigned. The process continues until each volumetric module is assigned a unique address and connected to the serial communication bus.

Abstract: A user interactive custom nail polish color and effects dispensing system and method of doing business, including for both point of sale and remote (e.g., via internet) transactions.

Abstract: A high-speed customized product packaging line is enhanced with the inclusion of a high-speed packaging component customizer. The customizer includes a rendering device and a rendering device-compatible rendering information storage device. Rendering information is delivered to the rendering device from the rendering information storage device without additional processing, such as a decompression or image rasterization. Therefore, a production is not delayed due to customizer setup or change over. This enables short custom packaging runs. Methods of producing and distributing products made practical by the production line are also disclosed.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for customizing the cosmetics used by a consumer. A consumer provides selection data and a cosmetic product formula is generated therefrom, base ingredients are then dispensed in accordance with the formula and a customized cosmetic product is delivered onto an intermediate surface for subsequent application. Further, a cartridge providing fluids to a customized cosmetic device is disclosed comprising one or more fluids, the fluids are stored in the cartridge, and one or more openings are provided for dispensing the fluids to a customized cosmetic product.

Abstract: An apparatus and method are described for customizing a cosmetic product at the point of sale to a customer. The apparatus includes a program for receiving external information on at least one of the customer's skin properties and converting the information to a corresponding formula. A formulation unit is provided for preparing the corresponding formula. This unit includes a mechanism for receiving the corresponding formula as a set of operating instructions, reservoirs for containing different cosmetic chemical compositions, pumps and a mechanism for activating the pumps to dose the chemical compositions into a common dosing chamber in a manner determined by the operating instructions. Importantly, the pumps must have pistons capable of reciprocating and rotating motion.

Abstract: A beverage dispenser includes an electronic control system for controlling beverage dispenser components. The beverage dispenser components include at least a user interface, a dispensing valve, and a valve interface for regulating the delivery of a beverage from the dispensing valve. The electronic control system includes a microcontroller for monitoring the user interface and for activating the valve interface responsive to user input, thereby regulating the delivery of a beverage from the dispensing valve. The electronic control system further includes a program memory with firmware configured in a state machine system architecture for controlling the microcontroller. The state machine system architecture supports either a non-preemptive or a preemptive multitasking real time operating system. The firmware includes supervisory control firmware, dispenser tasks firmware, and low level drivers firmware.

Abstract: A wide area network (WAN) of vending machines connected to a host that builds a database of vending-related information received from the vending machines. Also, a communications system within each vending machine having a vending machine data acquisition unit and a multiple-communication-technology adapter to interface the data acquisition unit to multiple communication technologies including at least one wireless technology. Also, a data structure used to build the database, the data structure having data elements corresponding to an identity of a machine, recent and previous prediction information for the machine, and recent and previous refill-visit information for the machine, the elements being linked together. The multiple vending machines communicate with a communications concentrator via one of many communication technologies. The communications concentrator interfaces the multiple vending machines to a data warehouse that builds a database using the data structure mentioned above.

Abstract: A water temperature and pressure regulating system includes a control unit having a display module with user controls for selecting from predetermined water temperature and pressure settings and for adjusting those settings. The system includes inlet conduits connected to hot and cold water sources and an outlet conduit. Temperature and pressure sensors are connected to the outlet conduit and communicate with a central processing unit. Each inlet conduit includes a control valve. Electromechanical worm gear assemblies connect the CPU with the control valves for incrementally opening or closing the valves to maintain selected temperature and pressure settings. Temperature sensors connected to the inlet conduits enable the CPU to decrease pressure and conserve hot water while maintaining a selected temperature when cooling of the hot water is detected. The inlet conduit sensors also enable the CPU to open the valves even prior to receiving data from the outlet conduit sensor.

Abstract: A beverage dispenser includes an electronic control system for controlling beverage dispenser components. The beverage dispenser components include at least a user interface, a dispensing valve, and a valve interface for regulating the delivery of a beverage from the dispensing valve. The electronic control system includes a microcontroller for monitoring the user interface and for activating the valve interface responsive to user input, thereby regulating the delivery of a beverage from the dispensing valve. The electronic control system further includes a program memory with firmware configured in a state machine system architecture for controlling the microcontroller. The state machine system architecture supports either a non-preemptive or a preemptive multitasking real time operating system. The firmware includes supervisory control firmware, dispenser tasks firmware, and low level drivers firmware.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling the compounding of pharmaceutical parenteral admixtures is disclosed. The apparatus preferably comprises a computer that contains a memory for storing instructions for operating the apparatus and for controlling compounders that prepare a prescription admixture, with the memory including data relating to a plurality of the pharmaceutical components that may be transferred to prepare the prescription admixture, and data concerning the operating characteristics of the compounders that the apparatus is adapted to control. The apparatus determines the order of admixing by general rules of admixing and by categorized compatibility groups of components, so that the number of rinses that must be done are minimized.

Abstract: A method for dispensing blended fertilizer to a customer at a dispensing site, which may be remote and unmanned. The fertilizer dealer enters the blend of standard fertilizer ingredients required to provide the customer's desired nutrients into a database identified with the customer. The customer identifies himself to a dispensing site based computer which recognizes the blend and operates a blending and dispensing apparatus to dispense the desired quantity of blended fertilizer to the customer. A plurality of blends may be available to the customer.

Abstract: A user interactive custom nail polish color and effects dispensing system and method of doing business, including for both point of sale and remote (e.g., via internet) transactions.

Abstract: An electric power system protection and control system, including, a plurality of protection controllers, each for executing protection and control of an electric power system by inputting a status quantity of the electric power system and for converting the status quantity into digital data, and a display controller connected to each of the protection controllers via a communication network, for displaying and controlling an operation and status of each of the protection controllers for monitoring. The display controller is provided with a program module sending unit for sending out a program module corresponding to contents for display control in the display controller to one of the protection controllers via the communication network, respectively.

Abstract: The system and method of controlling the olfactory stimuli release a specified aroma-causing agent from a first specified location in environment. In order to simulate the movement of the released aroma-causing agent in space, the same aroma-causing agent is released from a second specified location in the environment.