Dispensing Management (e.g., Spraying) Patents (Class 700/283)
  • Publication number: 20110298583
    Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on a computer storage medium, for control of beverage dispensing. In one aspect, authorization data specifying that a beverage dispensing node is authorized to be activated are received. Activation data that request activation of the node are also received, where activation of the node causes a valve that controls flow of fluid to a beverage dispenser to be opened. A determination is made that the activation data are associated with a user identifier for an enabled user, where an enabled user is a user that has been enabled to activate the node. In response to receipt of the authorization data and the activation data a valve that controls flow of fluid to the beverage dispenser is opened. Data (e.g., de-authorization or de-activation data) specifying that an activated beverage dispensing apparatus be de-activated can also be received. In response to receipt of the data, the valve can be closed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2010
    Publication date: December 8, 2011
    Applicant: TABLE TAP, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Jeffrey Isaac Libby, Jeffrey Lin Portman, JR., Andrew Hill Adams, Howard Lott Paulk
  • Patent number: 8073572
    Abstract: An apparatus, method and computer program product for modifying a surface of a component is provided. In use, a surface of a component is translated relative to at least one jet for a period of time to form a plurality of features thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Assignee: Tara Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Marc O. Schweitzer
  • Publication number: 20110295434
    Abstract: A dispensing device includes a controller and first and second actuators coupled to the controller and adapted to actuate first and second containers, respectively, to dispense volatile material therefrom. The device further includes a sensor coupled to the controller for detecting an environmental condition. The controller is configured to operate in a first period during which the first and second actuators are inactive, in a second period during which the first actuator is controlled to periodically actuate the first container at a first frequency to dispense volatile material therefrom, and in a third period during which the second actuator is controlled to periodically actuate the second container at a second frequency to dispense volatile material therefrom.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2010
    Publication date: December 1, 2011
    Inventors: Tai P. Luc, Kenneth W. Michaels, Megan L. Polzin, Bhavesh Shah
  • Publication number: 20110260828
    Abstract: A method of printing indicia on a container to control a product dispenser. The method may include the steps of printing indicia on the container, the indicia controlling access to dispense from the product dispenser, reading the indicia about the product dispenser, determining if the container is authorized to use the product dispenser, and allowing a user to dispense a selected product type into the container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2010
    Publication date: October 27, 2011
    Applicant: THE COCA-COLA COMPANY
    Inventors: Qiuchen Peter Zhang, Nilton Antonio Moreira Mattos, Louis Mattos, JR., Arthur G. Rudick, H. Brock Kolls
  • Publication number: 20110264285
    Abstract: A method for managing orders and dispensing products into a container. The method may include the steps of prompting a user selection of a product type at an order entry station, printing indicia on the container indicating at least the product type selected, reading the indicia at a product dispensing station, and dispensing the product type selected into the container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2010
    Publication date: October 27, 2011
    Applicant: THE COCA-COLA COMPANY
    Inventors: Louis Mattos, JR., Qiuchen Peter Zhang, Nilton Antonio Moreira Mattos, Arthur G. Rudick, H. Brock Kolls
  • Publication number: 20110264284
    Abstract: A product dispenser for use with a container. The product dispenser may include a container motion detector to detect the container in motion, a graphical user interface, and a microprocessor. The microprocessor receives a plurality of data associated with the container in motion from the container motion detector and implements instructions that perform the steps of determining the motion of the container, enabling a user to interact with the graphical user interface, and allowing the user to rotate or move the container to select a product type from the graphical user interface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2010
    Publication date: October 27, 2011
    Applicant: THE COCA-COLA COMPANY
    Inventors: Arthur G. Rudick, Louis Mattos, JR., Nilton Antonio Moreira Mattos, Qiuchen Peter Zhang, H. Brock Kolls
  • Patent number: 8041463
    Abstract: A droplet actuator drive including a detection apparatus for sensing a property of a droplet on a droplet actuator; circuitry for controlling the detection apparatus electronically coupled to the detection apparatus; a droplet actuator cartridge connector arranged so that when a droplet actuator cartridge electronically is coupled thereto: the droplet actuator cartridge is aligned with the detection apparatus; and the detection apparatus can sense the property of the droplet on a droplet actuator; circuitry for controlling a droplet actuator coupled to the droplet actuator connector; and the droplet actuator circuitry may be coupled to a processor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignees: Advanced Liquid Logic, Inc., Duke University
    Inventors: Michael G. Pollack, Philip Paik
  • Publication number: 20110245984
    Abstract: A network of fluid dispenser systems is disclosed where a Host/Server is a virtual controller for a number of fluid dispensers systems. The virtual controller may exchange information with local dispenser systems, that incorporate virtual controlling functions. The information may be dispensing processes, information regarding quality and reliability, problems and/or helpful information, and applications. An application may include synchronizing multiple dispensing syringe assemblies. The information may be exchanged in real time during fluid dispensing where any issues may be shared and resolved quickly even in remote locales. Information may be distributed among the disparate locations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2010
    Publication date: October 6, 2011
    Inventor: W. Scott Beebe
  • Publication number: 20110245983
    Abstract: A network of fluid dispensers is disclosed where a Host controller may exchange information with local dispensers, and where local dispensers may exchange information with each other. The information may be dispensing processes, information regarding quality and reliability, problems and/or helpful information, and applications. The information may be exchanged in real time during fluid dispensing where any issues may be shared and resolved quickly even in remote locales. The applications may be developed at a local dispenser or at the Host and then shared throughout the network. The operating systems may include application software development tools, and the applications may include: monitoring deliver schedules and materials inventories; automatic issuing of purchase orders; training broadcasts; implementing industry standards for validation and approval.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2010
    Publication date: October 6, 2011
    Inventor: W. Scott Beebe
  • Patent number: 8032258
    Abstract: A controllable multiple-channel chemical transport bus routing and transport of fluids, gasses, aerosols, slurries and the like within a larger system. The system and methods are applicable for use in Lab-on-a-Chip (LoC) technology, and may be useful in the implementation of reconfigurable LoC devices. Routes through the bus are determined by control signals and/or sequences of control signals issued under algorithmic control. Several independent flows may occur simultaneously. Techniques for limiting cross-contamination are provided. Sensors may be placed at various locations along bus line segments and may be used in the control of measured flows or in clearing and/or cleaning operations. Adaptations of Clos, Banyan, and other related multi-stage architectures in the flow topology may also be accomplished.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Inventor: Lester F. Ludwig
  • Publication number: 20110238225
    Abstract: A method and system is provided for automatically preparing transmission electron microscopy (TEM) samples for examination by depositing extremely small samples onto a grid without need for a blotting step. A sample liquid droplet is formed at the end of a capillary, wherein a portion of the liquid is transferred to the TEM sample grid by contact. The excess volume in the liquid droplet is then retracted by an adjacent capillary. After a predetermined time interval, the retraction capillary is moved toward the drop of the sample to remove the excess volume. As compared to a conventional machine, where the blotting procedure can deform the structure of the molecule of interest, the present invention utilizes a very low shear rate for removal of the excess sample fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2011
    Publication date: September 29, 2011
    Inventors: Anubhav Tripathi, Jinkee Lee, Arjit Bose
  • Patent number: 8024075
    Abstract: The invention is a centralized server-based system containing a database with relevant information regarding features, parameters, and characteristics of a particular irrigation system, which utilizes proprietary irrigation software to control a plurality of field modules, at one or more remote locations, via a network bridge adapter. An irrigation system may comprise a single server, or multiple servers that may be configured so that control of the entire system is centralized, and control of one or multiple irrigation locations may be accomplished remotely by wirelessly accessing, monitoring and controlling a location's field module matrix.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Inventor: Daniel Joseph Fekete
  • Patent number: 8014885
    Abstract: What is disclosed is a plurality of prepaints which are used in any combination to produce base paints and/or colored paints of varying end-use application characteristics. Additionally, a mobile paint factory for producing a plurality of lines of paints from a plurality of prepaints en route to and/or at various locations is disclosed, which may include a vehicle having a paint production system, a spectrometer and a gloss meter. Furthermore, a method of producing a plurality of lines of user-selected paints from a plurality of prepaints en route to and/or at various locations is disclosed. The method may include: providing a mobile paint factory; prompting a user to select a value for a paint attribute on a slider; and automatically dispensing predetermined amounts of appropriate prepaints. The method may also comprise storing information about the reflectance of produced paints in a local data storage device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2011
    Assignee: Microblend Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Randall L. Hughes, Mel Sauder, David C. Philbrook, C. Daniel McClain
  • Publication number: 20110202186
    Abstract: A sprinkler controller in a poultry house having a processor, a data storage device operatively connected to the processor, the data storage device having instructions for programming the processor, and an input/output module operatively connected to the processor. The input/output module is configured to communicate with at least one valve for controlling a flow of fluid between a fluid source and at least one sprinkler nozzle. The at least one valve has an open position permitting the flow of fluid, and a closed position inhibiting the flow of fluid, and the position of the valve being determined by the processor. The processor is programmed to set the valve in the open position at a start of an activity promotion interval, and to set the valve in the closed position at the end of the activity promotion interval. The duration of the activity promotion interval is selected such that a sufficient amount of fluid is dispersed through the sprinkler nozzle to promote physical activity in the poultry.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2010
    Publication date: August 18, 2011
    Applicant: Weeden Environments Inc.
    Inventor: Kevin S. WEEDEN
  • Publication number: 20110202187
    Abstract: In methods of and apparatus for managing lubrication of equipment, particulars of equipment requiring lubrication are stored on a computer-readable storage medium. The particulars include at least a desired frequency of scheduled lubrication. A computer provides from the stored particulars a report of scheduled lubrication due. The computer receives information of a specific lubrication having been carried out. The stored particulars are updated to include at least one of when the specific lubrication was carried out and when the specific lubrication is next due in accordance with the desired frequency. In other methods, the report is received, specific lubrication is carried out, and the information of a specific lubrication having been carried out is returned to the computer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 17, 2010
    Publication date: August 18, 2011
    Applicant: Bel-Ray Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Ian Bowmer
  • Patent number: 7991510
    Abstract: Systems and methods for liquid flow sensing and control for use with a variety of different types of liquid flow measurement and control systems. The liquid flow sensor system senses a flow signal indicative of the flow rate of the liquid flowing in a sensor conduit and analyzes the flow signal to determine, by detecting characteristic changes in the signal, whether a bubble is present in the sensor conduit. Where the system determines that a bubble is present, it may generate an alarm signal indicative of the presence of the bubble. A flow control system incorporating the flow sensor as a feedback source may respond to the detection of a bubble by temporarily freezing the flow control parameters until the bubble has exited the sensor conduit. The flow control system can implement procedures for clearing a bubble from the sensor conduit where the system detects that the bubble has become stuck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: Brooks Instrument, LLC
    Inventors: Hao Duan, Aaron S. Tint, Christophe Ellec
  • Publication number: 20110184569
    Abstract: A viscous material noncontact jetting system has a jetting dispenser mounted for relative motion with respect to a surface. A control is operable to cause the jetting dispenser to jet a viscous material droplet that is applied to the surface as a viscous material dot. A device, such as a camera or weigh scale, is connected to the control and provides a feedback signal representing a size-related physical characteristic of the dot applied to the surface. The size-related physical characteristics of subsequently applied dots is controlled by heating and cooling, or adjusting a piston stroke in the jetting dispenser, in response to the size-related physical characteristic feedback. Dispensed material volume control and velocity offset compensation are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2011
    Publication date: July 28, 2011
    Applicant: NORDSON CORPORATION
    Inventors: Ron Abernathy, Alec J. Babiarz, Nicholas Anthony Barendt, Robert Ciardella, James Everett Cooper, JR., Kenneth S. Espenschied, Erik Fiske, Christopher L. Giusti, Patrick R. Jenkins, Alan Lewis, Raymond Andrew Merritt, Naoya Ian Nagano, Horatio Quinones, Thomas Ratledge, Joe Sherman, Floriana Suriawidjaja, Todd Weston
  • Publication number: 20110178645
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for combining multiple materials. The multiple materials may include both a major material and one or more minor materials. The major and minor materials are added at transient or steady state flow rates, depending upon a command from a control signal. The actual flow rates track the commanded flow rates, but deviate by an error. The claimed arrangement provides an instantaneous and time-based error believed to be unobtainable in the prior art.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2011
    Publication date: July 21, 2011
    Inventors: Jon Kevin McLaughlin, Roger Phillip Williams
  • Publication number: 20110172834
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided for introducing a discrete, predetermined amount of material into soil at a plurality of predetermined points in the soil which includes a container for holding the material to be introduced into the soil, and tubing in fluid communication with the container at a first end thereof. At least one electrically controlled injector is provided in fluid communication with a second end of said tubing. Also, at least one shank is provided, which includes a base, and an injector mounting member attached to a surface of the base that is adapted for detachably mounting the electrically controlled injector onto the base. In addition, a controller is provided for activating the electrically controlled injector to introduce the material into the soil. Accordingly, enhanced control of the injection of the material into soil is achieved, and maintenance can be performed easily.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2011
    Publication date: July 14, 2011
    Applicant: Arysta LifeScience North America, LLC.
    Inventors: Michael A. Allan, Charles T. Schiller, Edward G. Salla, Frank V. Sances
  • Publication number: 20110160920
    Abstract: A systems and methods for delivering fluid to a site using a mobile fluid delivery machine are disclosed. The method includes determining a location of the mobile fluid delivery machine on the site, and determining a fluid delivery rate based on the location of the mobile fluid delivery machine using information related to the site. The method further includes delivering the fluid to a surface of the site at the location of the mobile fluid delivery machine, at the determined fluid delivery rate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2009
    Publication date: June 30, 2011
    Inventors: David C. Orr, James D. Humphrey, Peter W. Anderton, Adam J. Gudat, Kenneth L. Stratton
  • Publication number: 20110160919
    Abstract: A system and method for delivering fluid to a site using a mobile fluid delivery machine are disclosed. The method includes determining a value of a parameter associated with the site using a sensor, and determining a fluid delivery rate based on the value of the site parameter. The method further includes delivering the fluid to a surface of the site at the location of the mobile fluid delivery machine, at the determined fluid delivery rate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2009
    Publication date: June 30, 2011
    Inventors: David C. Orr, James D. Humphrey, Peter W. Anderton, Adam J. Gudat, Kenneth L. Stratton
  • Publication number: 20110153094
    Abstract: One aspect of the invention provides a lubricator device for dispensing a lubricant to a lubrication point of a machine. The device includes an electric dispensing mechanism including an electronic control circuit. The control circuit includes an RF receiver for receiving control signals, e.g. signals incorporating a lubrication schedule to be adopted by the control circuit, and an RF transmitter for transmitting operational signals incorporating an ID code of the device and at least one operational parameter of the device. Such at least one operational parameter may include one indicative of an amount of lubricant dispensed or one indicative of an error condition. Another aspect of the invention provides a lubrication system including a plurality of lubricator devices, as referred to, and a computer in communication with them for monitoring their operation via operational signals received from them and for controlling their operation via control signals transmitted to them.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2009
    Publication date: June 23, 2011
    Inventor: Johan Hendrik Botha
  • Publication number: 20110147617
    Abstract: A solution for managing illumination of an organism with ultraviolet light is provided. A set of ultraviolet fluorescence characteristics of the organism can be determined using fluorescence data for the organism. The set of ultraviolet fluorescence characteristics can be used to determine a set of target properties of the ultraviolet light. The set of target properties can be used to illuminate the organism with ultraviolet light. The illumination can be managed during growth of the organism, breeding of the organism, and/or maintenance of the organism after harvest.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2010
    Publication date: June 23, 2011
    Inventors: Michael Shur, Steven J. Britz
  • Patent number: 7957842
    Abstract: A method includes determining how to adjust one or more manipulated variables using at least one model. The one or more manipulated variables are associated with a supply of conditioned air for drying one or more objects. The method also includes generating one or more control signals to control one or more controlled variables associated with the supply of conditioned air. The one or more controlled variables include temperature, dewpoint, and/or humidity of the conditioned air. The one or more manipulated variables include a flow of heated material (like steam) used to condition the conditioned air. The one or more manipulated variables could also include a number of active units in a humidifier. Generating the one or more control signals could include accumulating adjustments associated with the humidifier and generating a control signal to alter the number of active units in the humidifier when the accumulated adjustments exceed a threshold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Howard M. Boder, Sam Altschuler
  • Publication number: 20110130927
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and a vehicle for distributing manure, whereby a slurry sensor (8) determines the contents of the slurry (G) to be distributed, and an evaluation device (10) compares the determined values with pre-defined contents data. The quantity of slurry (G) to be distributed per unit of surface area is then computed depending on this comparison result. An adjustable valve (6) controls a distributor device (7) by means of which the computed quantity of slurry (G) is distributed on the land in accordance with the comparison result.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2007
    Publication date: June 2, 2011
    Inventor: Sebastian Zunhammer
  • Publication number: 20110123688
    Abstract: Systems and methods for dispensing beverages are provided. In accordance with various embodiments, beverage vendors may maintain the quality associated with a branded beverage while permitting consumers to enjoy the personalized beverages. In one embodiment, a user input may select a beverage formulation. The beverage formulation may be a commercially available branded beverage. A second user input may be received that is configured to modify a concentration of an ingredient of the selected beverage formulation. The ingredient may be a sweetener, such as a sugar. In response to the adjusting the ingredient, a concentration of at least one second ingredient may be automatically adjusted to form a recipe of a modified beverage formulation. In one embodiment, the user input adjusts a natural sugar and, in response, the carbon dioxide concentration is automatically adjusted. In another embodiment, carbon dioxide and another acid may be adjusted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2010
    Publication date: May 26, 2011
    Applicant: PepsiCo, Inc.
    Inventors: Indrani Deo, Steven Jersey
  • Publication number: 20110120702
    Abstract: Systems, methods, and instructions encoded in a computer-readable medium can perform operations related to generating probabilistic information on characteristics of natural fractures of a subterranean formation. Fitted fracture models are generated based on microseismic event data for a subterranean region. The fitted fracture models represent estimated locations of fractures in the subterranean region. A distribution of fracture parameter values is generated based on the fitted fracture models. The distribution includes fracture parameter values and a probability associated with each fracture parameter value. Generating the fitted fracture models may include, for example, fitting a plane, a line or another type of equation to the measured locations of microseismic events. In some implementations, an injection treatment may be simulated and/or designed based on the probability distribution.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2010
    Publication date: May 26, 2011
    Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: David P. Craig
  • Publication number: 20110120706
    Abstract: Systems, methods, and instructions encoded in a computer-readable medium can perform operations related to refining information on characteristics of natural fractures of a subterranean formation. Fracture pattern models are generated based on sampling an initial distribution of values for a fracture parameter. Each fracture pattern model may include, for example, a model of natural fractures in a subterranean formation. Each fracture pattern model is compared to microseismic event data for a subterranean region. A refined distribution for the fracture parameter is generated based on the comparison. Generating the refined distribution may include, for example, selecting values of the fracture parameter from fracture pattern models that correlate with the microseismic event data. In some implementations, an injection treatment may be simulated and/or designed based on the refined distribution.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2009
    Publication date: May 26, 2011
    Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: David P. Craig
  • Publication number: 20110125334
    Abstract: Systems and methods for dispensing beverages are provided. Aspects relate to obtaining measurements regarding dispensing an ingredient (including the dispensing conditions of the ingredient) and determining whether to adjust dispensing conditions of at least one other ingredient. In one embodiment, at least one ingredient of a recipe is not dispensed based upon a dispensing measurement. The adjustment of one or more ingredients may comprise the use of adjustable orifices, which do not require separate measurements of ingredients before dispensing, but rather may measure ingredients' parameters (including dispensing conditions) as they are dispensed. Certain embodiments relate to devices and methods that may determine if an ingredient is a non-Newtonian fluid, and if so, may be configured to conduct measurements on such fluids, including, for example, the strain stress and strain rate as the fluid passes within a conduit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 24, 2009
    Publication date: May 26, 2011
    Applicant: PEPSICO, INC.
    Inventors: Indrani Deo, Steven Jersey
  • Publication number: 20110117291
    Abstract: In a template treatment of forming a film of a release agent on a treatment surface of a template, the treatment surface of the template is first cleaned. Thereafter, in a coating unit, the release agent is applied to the treatment surface of the template. The release agent on the template is then dried. Then, alcohol is applied to the release agent on the template to make the release agent adhere to the treatment surface of the template and to remove an unreacted portion of the release agent. Thereafter, the alcohol on the template is dried and removed. In this manner, a film of the release agent is formed in a predetermined film thickness on the treatment surface of the template.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2010
    Publication date: May 19, 2011
    Applicant: Tokyo Electron Limited
    Inventors: Koukichi HIROSHIRO, Takanori Nishi, Takahiro Kitano, Shoichi Terada
  • Publication number: 20110112696
    Abstract: A medicinal fluid delivery device and methods for its use are provided. The device can include a command means and a dispensing unit that can include a reusable part and a disposable, reservoir part. Software can be included that facilitates pairing and communications between a command means and the dispensing unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 6, 2007
    Publication date: May 12, 2011
    Inventors: Ofer Yodfat, Ido Nir-Shafrir
  • Patent number: 7930068
    Abstract: A method and system of controlling operation of a diffusion appliance to treat the atmosphere within an enclosed space. The appliance may be programmed to operate according to a control scheme specifying a flow rate of liquid to a diffusion means and a periodic operation of the diffusion means. Control schemes may be associated with different volumes of spaces to be treated by the appliance. Anti-fatigue schemes may provide variation of the flow rate or periodic operation of the appliance. Initiation controls schemes may be used to start treatment of the space before the appliance is programmed to operate according to one of the control schemes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2011
    Assignee: Prolitec, Inc.
    Inventors: Marc Robert, Richard Weening
  • Publication number: 20110084843
    Abstract: A management system includes a container unit, a sensing unit, a control unit, a signal display unit and a liquid pumping unit. The container unit has a container, a liquid substance and an information storing element. The liquid substance has material information recorded in the information storing element. The sensing unit has an information reader for sensing the material information when the sensing unit joined with the container unit. The control unit electrically connects the information reader to receive the material information. The control unit has a material judging module for judging whether the material information is correct in order to generate a judgment result. The signal display unit has a signal display module for outputting a predetermined signal according to the judgment result. The liquid pumping unit has a liquid pumping module selectively inserted into the container to pump the liquid substance according to the judgment result.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2010
    Publication date: April 14, 2011
    Applicant: INOTERA MEMORIES, INC.
    Inventors: CHIANG-LUAN LIU, TZU-TO LIN, CHIEN HSIANG HUANG, CHIN HUA CHUO, HSIEN YEN LUNG, CHING HSIANG CHANG
  • Publication number: 20110082595
    Abstract: Automatic calibration of dispense parameters of a product dispense system is accomplished via electronic communication of product information. A chemical product includes an electronically readable tag or label that stores and communicates chemical product data concerning the chemical product to a chemical product dispenser. The chemical product data may include, for example, the name of the chemical product, the type or class of the chemical product, manufacturing information regarding the chemical product (e.g., manufacturing date, location, serial number, lot number, etc.), concentration of active ingredient(s), weight, volume, viscosity, density, hardness, specific gravity, shape, color, and/or other data concerning the chemical product. A controller within the dispenser automatically calibrates the dispense parameters based on the chemical product data.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2009
    Publication date: April 7, 2011
    Applicant: Ecolab Inc.
    Inventors: Richard J. Mehus, Brian L. Sholes
  • Publication number: 20110077784
    Abstract: A method for operating a fluid additive control system to inject a fluid additive into a fluid dispensation system is provided. The method includes receiving a first control signal indicating that a fluid dispensation device within the fluid dispensation system is active, and determining a fluid additive quantity based upon the identity of the fluid dispensation device. The method also includes activating a fluid additive injection system, where the fluid additive dispensation system injects the fluid additive into the fluid dispensation system in response to the activation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2009
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Inventor: Jon Lips
  • Publication number: 20110077783
    Abstract: A control system comprises a controller for positioning an actuator in a working fluid flow and a model processor for directing the controller as a function of a model feedback. The model processor comprises an output module, a comparator and an estimator. The output module generates the model feedback as a function of a constraint, a model state and a model input describing fluid parameters measured along the working fluid flow. The comparator generates an error by comparing the model feedback to the model input. The estimator generates the constraint and the model state, such that the error is minimized.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 3, 2008
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Applicant: UNITED TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Boris Karpman, Richard P. Meisner, Mark E. Lacour
  • Publication number: 20110071771
    Abstract: Systems and methods of estimating a fluid injector tip temperature. A controller having a processor and a memory supplies a current to a coil of a fluid injector, a resistance of the coil is measured when the current is supplied to the coil, a coil temperature is determined based on the measured resistance, and a tip temperature of a fluid injector tip is estimated based on the determined coil temperature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2009
    Publication date: March 24, 2011
    Applicant: ROBERT BOSCH GMBH
    Inventors: Christophe Viale, Christian Lang
  • Publication number: 20110066295
    Abstract: A system for actuating a dispensing device includes an apparatus for holding and actuating the dispensing device that includes a linear motor including a stator component and a forcer component and a frame that orients components of the linear motor relative to each other and relative to the dispensing device. The system further includes a controller configured to control the linear motor and a device that interfaces with the controller and provides a user interface for control of the system. The controller is configured to generate control signals that cause the apparatus to perform at least one actuation cycle specified by an operator. The device that communicates with the controller generates a command sequence based on the at least one actuation cycle specified and the controller generates signals based on the command sequence that cause the system to perform the at least one actuation cycle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2010
    Publication date: March 17, 2011
    Inventors: John J. WATERS, Thomas J. Speelman
  • Patent number: 7904817
    Abstract: A graphical user interface, implemented in a standard system management environment, accepts selections of logical instruction steps that are external to the standard system management environment. The logical instruction steps may include process steps, specify chemical formulae, or identify other components of master recipes that control drug manufacture or dispensing, as examples. The external logical instruction steps are introduced into the standard system management environment and approved. The standard system management environment subsequently controls the drug manufacturing or dispensing processes according to the external logical instruction steps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: Accenture Global Services GmbH
    Inventors: Stefano Bergantino, Luigi Gagliardi, Marco Irione
  • Publication number: 20110054706
    Abstract: A kitchen gun system for dispensing edible liquid ingredients as required for cooking. The kitchen gun system includes a plurality of pumps, each having an inlet and an outlet. Packages of edible liquid ingredients are attached to the inlets of the pumps. The outlets of the pumps are connected to a plurality of manifold inputs of a manifold. A plurality of manifold outputs is connected to a hand-held dispensing gun. The dispensing gun has a plurality of control mechanisms corresponding to at least the plurality of inputs on the manifold. Selected edible liquid ingredients may be selectively dispensed from the dispensing gun when desired by operating the respective control mechanisms on the dispensing gun. The kitchen gun system is suitable for use in a kitchen in a commercial establishment and includes sources of highly concentrated liquid precursor for stock, cooking oils and wines, lemon juice, and other liquids.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 2, 2010
    Publication date: March 3, 2011
    Inventor: Gerard J. Murphy
  • Publication number: 20110046772
    Abstract: A converting line comprises a first unit at a first region of the converting line and a second unit at a second region of the converting line. The first unit is positioned in series with the second unit. The converting line further comprises a third unit at a third region of the converting line and a fourth unit at a fourth region of the converting line. The first, second, third, and fourth units are configured to each perform at least one function. The third unit is positioned in parallel with the first unit, the second unit, or the fourth unit. The converting line further comprises a controller configured to activate at least one of the units based a received product order. The converting line is configured to produce a first product different from a second product during a single run of the converting line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2009
    Publication date: February 24, 2011
    Inventors: Patrick John Healey, James Jay Benner
  • Patent number: 7887751
    Abstract: A reagent cassette used in an automatic analyzer for a clinical examination room, which provides an analysis environment enabling an operator to select reagent bottles with proper capacities depending on the number of tests to be performed in each different type of facility and to properly set reagents with ease. In the automatic analyzer comprising a sample pipetting section, a reagent pipetting section, a reaction cuvette, etc., one component in a sample is analyzed by using the reagent cassette in which one or a plurality of reagent bottles containing two or more types of reagents are combined together. The reagent cassette is provided with a reagent identifier including information regarding the presence or absence of a reagent opening of the reagent bottle for each of a plurality of positions of the openings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Assignee: Hitachi High-Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Tomonori Mimura, Masaaki Hanawa, Masaharu Nishida, Yoshiaki Igarashi, Yoshimitsu Takagi
  • Publication number: 20110035063
    Abstract: This invention is a water consumption monitoring and control system comprised of a base unit, itself comprising a display and a data entry device, a microprocessor, a communication link to water meters, pressure sensors, temperature sensors, flush toilet vibration sensors and shut-off valves. In addition the base unit has access to the Internet and can access a server which holds a database of water conservation information. This database includes watering advisories from the local government, and weather information from the weather office. The server runs an algorithm and generates control data which is sent to the base unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2010
    Publication date: February 10, 2011
    Inventor: Saju Anthony Palayur
  • Patent number: 7883029
    Abstract: An irrigation system includes a radio transmitter station that transmits weather prediction information to a geographic region that includes multiple geographic sub-regions. The weather prediction information includes a respective geographic sub-region code for each of the geographic sub-regions for which a weather forecast predicts rain within a predetermined time period. An irrigation apparatus in a particular sub-region activates to water a watering zone at a schedule time. However, if the irrigation apparatus receives the sub-region code for the particular sub-region where the irrigation apparatus is located, the irrigation apparatus does not immediately activate to water the watering zone in one embodiment. The transmitter station may transmit both program content and data content on a common radio frequency signal wherein the data content includes the weather prediction information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2011
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Glen Edmond Chalemin, Indran Naick, Clifford Jay Spinac, Calvin Lui Sze
  • Publication number: 20110022237
    Abstract: A dry lubrication system for a conveyer is provided. The dry lubrication system includes a pump and at least one dispensing head. The pump is used to pump dry lube. The at least one dispensing head is coupled to receive dry lube from the pump. The at least one dispensing head is configured to deliver a flow of dry lube on a conveyer at a rate that is greater than 3 milliliters per second (mls) without the dispensing head touching the conveyer. In some embodiments the dispensing head is one of at least one duckbill valve and at least one of a micro tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2009
    Publication date: January 27, 2011
    Inventor: Scott Bennett
  • Patent number: 7875463
    Abstract: A generalized printhead control model is provided herein as a basis for configuring printhead control software that will operate any selected printhead or group of printheads. The subject model covers a hierarchy of classes for the attributes of software that controls the printheads in a system, such as for producing a biopolymer array.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Assignee: Agilent Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: David R. Adaskin, Bill J. Peck, Stanley P. Woods, William G. Chesk
  • Publication number: 20110004354
    Abstract: Systems and methods for testing a sleep support member. A system including at least one pressing structure, wherein the at least one pressing structure includes at least one of a heater and a moisture device; and a controller configured to control pressing of the pressing structure onto the sleep support member, wherein the controller is configured to control at least one of heat provided by the heater and moisture provided by the moisture device. A method including controlling pressing of at least one pressing structure onto a sleep support member, wherein the at least one pressing structure includes at least one of a heater and a moisture device; and controlling at least one of heat provided by the heater and moisture provided by the moisture device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2009
    Publication date: January 6, 2011
    Applicant: KINGSDOWN, INC.
    Inventors: Robert D. Oxeman, David B. Scott
  • Patent number: 7858038
    Abstract: A biopsy device includes a probe portion and a holster portion that may be coupled together. The probe portion includes a rotatable tissue sample holder that is configured to hold tissue samples. One or more portions of the tissue sample holder may be formed of a transparent or translucent material, e.g., a translucent manifold and shaft, transparent or translucent tissue sample trays, and a transparent cup that is external to the manifold and trays. The holster portion may include one or more sources of light, such as light emitting diodes (LEDs). The LEDs may be configured to illuminate at least a portion of the tissue sample holder, such as to facilitate viewing of tissue samples in the tissue sample holder. For instance, one LED may be aligned with the shaft of the tissue sample holder, while two additional LEDs may be positioned on both sides of the shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: Devicor Medical Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael J. Andreyko, Eric B Smith, Wells D. Haberstich, Robert F. Weikel, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20100318225
    Abstract: A controller and method of controlling an integrated beverage blending system comprising: a controller for menu selection; an ice portion control module; an ingredient module; a dispensing apparatus in communication with the ice portion control module and the ingredient module, wherein the ice and the ingredient are dispensed into a beverage container via the dispensing apparatus; and at least one blender/mixer/cleaner module which blends and/or mixes the ice and the ingredient in the beverage container, thereby producing the beverage; wherein, upon removal of the beverage container from the blender/mixer/cleaner module, the blender/mixer/cleaner module initiates a cleaning mode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2009
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Inventors: Jan Claesson, William E. Smith, Roberto Nevarez
  • Publication number: 20100312403
    Abstract: Embodiments described herein comprise an apparatus and method for controlling and monitoring a mosquito misting system. The apparatus includes a chemical reservoir, a delivery system, a spray system, one or more sensors, a communication network and a misting management unit. The sensors may detect normal and abnormal operations of the misting system and send this data to the misting management unit. The misting management unit may then analyze the data and determine the problem. If the problem can be fixed without personnel, the misting management unit may simply adjust the system and fix the problem. If the problem requires personnel, the system may automatically schedule the service call based on a number of criteria.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2010
    Publication date: December 9, 2010
    Inventor: Jeffrey C. White