U.S. patent application number 13/401043 was filed with the patent office on 2012-06-14 for container for handheld device for dispensing fluids.
Invention is credited to Jose M. Arevalo, Cunjiang Cheng, Jeffrey L. Crull, Lawrence J. Fenske, Jeremy F. Knopow, Cory J. Nelson.
Application Number | 20120145711 13/401043 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 42768083 |
Filed Date | 2012-06-14 |
United States Patent
Application |
20120145711 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Knopow; Jeremy F. ; et
al. |
June 14, 2012 |
Container for Handheld Device for Dispensing Fluids
Abstract
A container for use with a handheld fluid dispenser is provided.
The container may include a front wall facing a first direction, a
back wall facing in a second, opposite, direction, and at least one
side wall interconnecting the front and back walls. A lower wall
may be arranged above a lower portion of a handheld fluid dispenser
in which the container is mounted. An upper wall may be arranged
below an upper portion of the handheld fluid dispenser. The upper
wall may interconnect the front wall, back wall, and at least one
side wall of the container. An opening extends through the upper
wall and permitting access to contents that are held in the
container. The opening extends through the upper wall at a location
that is nearer the back wall than the front wall of the
container.
Inventors: |
Knopow; Jeremy F.;
(Burlington, WI) ; Crull; Jeffrey L.; (McFarland,
WI) ; Fenske; Lawrence J.; (Madison, WI) ;
Cheng; Cunjiang; (Madison, WI) ; Nelson; Cory J.;
(Racine, WI) ; Arevalo; Jose M.; (Racine,
WI) |
Family ID: |
42768083 |
Appl. No.: |
13/401043 |
Filed: |
February 21, 2012 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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12817847 |
Jun 17, 2010 |
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13401043 |
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12450383 |
Dec 15, 2009 |
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PCT/US2008/003926 |
Mar 26, 2008 |
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12817847 |
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61187945 |
Jun 17, 2009 |
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60908312 |
Mar 27, 2007 |
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60946848 |
Jun 28, 2007 |
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60990186 |
Nov 26, 2007 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
220/23.83 ;
220/601; 220/604; 220/669 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B05B 12/14 20130101;
B67D 7/0288 20130101; B67D 7/0205 20130101; B05B 11/0078 20130101;
B05B 11/0054 20130101; B65D 83/60 20130101; B67D 7/0238 20130101;
B05B 7/2443 20130101; B05B 11/3057 20130101; B05B 7/2472 20130101;
B67D 7/005 20130101; B67D 7/02 20130101; B67D 7/74 20130101; B05B
12/1418 20130101; B05B 12/1409 20130101; B65D 83/68 20130101; B05B
11/00 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
220/23.83 ;
220/601; 220/604; 220/669 |
International
Class: |
B65D 21/00 20060101
B65D021/00; B65D 23/00 20060101 B65D023/00; B65D 1/02 20060101
B65D001/02 |
Claims
1. A container for use with a handheld fluid dispenser, comprising:
a front wall facing a first direction; a back wall facing in a
second direction; at least one side wall interconnecting the front
and back walls; a lower wall that is arranged above a lower portion
of a handheld fluid dispenser in which the container is mounted; an
upper wall that is arranged below an upper portion of the handheld
fluid dispenser, the upper wall interconnecting the front wall,
back wall, and at least one side wall of the container, an opening
extending through the upper wall and permitting access to contents
that are held in the container, the opening extending through the
upper wall at a location that is nearer the back wall than the
front wall of the container.
2. The container of claim 1, wherein the contents held in the
container is a concentrated chemistry and wherein the handheld
fluid dispenser holds a volume of diluent that can mix with the
concentrated chemistry during dispensing.
3. The container of claim 1, wherein the front wall is wider than
the back wall and the at least one sidewall includes a pair of side
walls that extend angularly between the front wall and back wall so
as to define a generally wedge-shaped perimeter.
4. The container of claim 1, wherein multiple containers are
mounted handheld fluid dispenser and are arranged with respect to
each other so that the openings extending through the respective
container upper walls are provided inwardly of the front walls of
the respective containers.
5. The container of claim 1, wherein a post extends between and
connects the front and back walls to each other and wherein the
post is spaced from the upper wall.
6. The container of claim 1, wherein a collar extends upwardly from
the upper wall and wherein a bore that extends through the collar
is aligned with the opening of the upper wall such that the collar
defines a passage permitting access to an interior of the
container.
7. The container of claim 6, wherein the upper wall includes a
receptacle that extends inwardly into the upper wall and that can
receive a portion of the handheld fluid dispenser therein, and
wherein the receptacle is spaced from the collar.
8. The container of claim 7, wherein the receptacle defines a side
opening that extends through the front wall of the container.
9. The container of claim 8, wherein the receptacle defines an
upper opening where the receptacle extends inwardly into the upper
wall of the container.
10. The container of claim 1, wherein the at least one sidewall
includes a pair of side walls that have outer ends that are
connected to the front wall and inner ends that are connected to
the back wall, and wherein the opening extending through the upper
wall at a location that is spaced from both of the outer ends of
the pair of side walls.
11. The container of claim 1, wherein the upper wall includes a
receptacle that extends inwardly into the upper wall and that can
receive a portion of the handheld fluid dispenser therein, and
wherein the receptacle is spaced from the opening of the upper
wall.
12. The container of claim 11, further comprising a waist segment
that is arranged between the lower and upper walls and that is
narrower than at least one of the lower and upper walls.
13. The container of claim 12, wherein the waist segment is
narrower than each of the lower and upper walls so that the
container tapers inwardly from each of the lower and upper walls
toward the waist segment.
14. A container for use with a handheld fluid dispenser,
comprising: an upper end through which a concentrated liquid that
is held in the container can be conveyed for dispensing through the
fluid dispenser; a lower end that can be arranged over a portion of
the handheld dispenser; a waist segment that is arranged between
the upper and lower ends of the container, a rear portion that
faces inwardly toward the fluid dispenser; and a front portion that
faces outwardly from the fluid dispenser, the front portion being
spaced closer to the rear portion at the waist segment than at the
upper and lower ends of the container.
15. The container of claim 14, wherein the front portion is defined
at least in part by a front wall that tapers inwardly at the waist
segment of the container.
16. A container assembly for use with a handheld fluid dispenser,
comprising: an upper end; a lower end; multiple containers that are
arranged to rotate about a common axis of rotation and holding
concentrated liquids that can be dispensed from the fluid
dispenser, each container extending between the upper and lower
ends of the container assembly and including a waist segment that
is arranged closer to the axis of rotation than the upper and lower
ends of the container assembly.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This utility patent application is a continuation of
currently pending U.S. application Ser. No. 12/817,847 filed Jun.
17, 2010 which claims the benefit of and priority to U.S.
provisional application 61/187,945, filed Jun. 17, 2009 and which
is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 12/450,383,
filed Dec. 15, 2009 as a national phase application of PCT
application PCT/US2008/003926, filed Mar. 26, 2008, which claims
the benefit of and priority to U.S. provisional application
60/908,312, filed Mar. 27, 2007; U.S. provisional application
60/946,848, filed Jun. 28, 2007; and U.S. provisional application
60/990186, filed Nov. 26, 2007; each of which is herein expressly
incorporated by reference in its entirety, for all purposes.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates to chemical dispensation
devices and, more specifically, to a device for selectively
dispensing ones of a variety of liquid-based, foam, and/or gel-type
chemical compositions.
[0004] 2. Discussion of the Related Art
[0005] In typical households, residences, and other domestic
dwellings, as well as within commercial and business buildings,
many chemical cleaning agents are used in performing numerous
common home cleaning, freshening, or other maintenance tasks. In a
given area within a household, for example, within a single room,
more than one cleaning agent can be used during a single cleaning
session.
[0006] Accordingly, users of chemical cleaning agents occasionally
must tote or carry around multiple containers of different chemical
cleaning agents. In the alternative to transporting multiple
chemical cleaning agents, the user is required to make multiple
trips between the pieces being cleaned and, for example, the area
where the cleaning agents are stored to exchange previously used
agents for those which will be used subsequently.
[0007] While some cleaning tasks are performed at or near the
location where chemical cleaning agents are stored, the user is
still required to handle numerous individual products. As one
example, many individuals keep or store various cleaning supplies
within bathrooms, and bathroom cleaning typically requires the use
of numerous chemical cleaning agents. Although such cleaning
supplies might be stored within the bathroom, the user is still
required to handle, use, manipulate, and switch between the various
individual products.
[0008] Therefore, it is desirable to develop a dispensing device
that can selectively dispense more than one cleaning agent,
enabling a user to employ a single device for dispensing and using
a variety of cleaning agents. Previous attempts to solve this
problem include devices that allow for multiple end-use products to
be dispensed through a single valve. For example, U.S. Pat. Nos.
3,298,611 and 4,595,127disclose variations of an aerosol can
delivery system that selectively allows one of multiple fluids to
be dispensed through a single spray nozzle. Disadvantages of this
technology are that multiple end-use products are dispensed through
a single nozzle and there is potential for cross-contamination as
the user switches between products. Also, including multiple
products in a single container will either increase the size and
weight of the dispensing container with each end-use product
included or the volume of each product will be reduced, resulting
in more frequent refills or replacements of the dispensing
container.
[0009] Therefore, it is also desirable to provide a dispensing
device which includes multiple, replaceable, concentrated cleaning
chemistries for use with a single diluent dispenser. Other attempts
have focused on providing a single replaceable, concentrated
chemistry for use with a single solvent. For example, it is known
to allow for a bottle to be refilled multiple times by providing
cartridges containing a concentrated agent. The concentrated agent
is delivered by one of several means into the bottle wherein it is
combined with a solvent, preferably water, to create the usable
product. While these references allow for multiple combinations of
cartridges and solutions, concentrated or not, to be used in
refilling the bottle, the primary disadvantage with this system is
that the concentrate and the solution are entirely combined prior
to use within the bottle. This allows the bottle to be used to
dispense only a single solution at any particular time. Further,
the entire contents of the bottle must be dispensed or disposed of
prior to using a different chemistry within the bottle.
[0010] Attempts at providing replaceable cartridges demonstrated
numerous obstacles to implementing such technology on a large
scale. It has proven difficult to provide adequate sealing
configurations between concentrate cartridges and devices, while
maintaining reasonable production costs.
[0011] It has also proven difficult to properly vent and control
flow of concentrated chemistries from containers, while maintaining
reasonable production costs and product size and weight, since
multiple check valves and vents are often required per container.
Each of the multiple check valves and vents adds an additional
component to the overall device, a procedural step for its
installation while manufacturing, cost of such components, and
weight to the device.
[0012] Yet other difficulties arise from trying to establish a
desired mix ratio of diluent to concentrate in a manually pumped or
actuated spraying device. That is because in manually pumped
devices, relatively small total volumes of dispensed fluid are
released per pump or actuation event. Intuitively, as a total
volume of dispensed fluid decreases, so also do the volumes of its
concentrate and diluent constituents. Accordingly, fluid mixtures
that have a low per/volume percentage of concentrate may require
only a minute amount of the concentrate to arrive at the desired
per/volume percentage during dispensation. Manufacturing dispensing
devices that can suitably draw minute amounts of concentrate and
mix it with small volumes of diluent is difficult to do while
maintaining reasonable production costs. This is especially the
case in venturi-based mixing systems, noting that even slight
modifications in venturi configuration(s) can dramatically
influence flow characteristics of fluids traveling
therethrough.
[0013] Yet another problem resulting from venture-based mixing
systems which are powered by a manually pumped or actuated spraying
device is that each pump or actuation event includes (i) a pressure
buildup phase, (ii) a maximum pressure phase, and (iii) a pressure
decrease phase. Portions of the pressure buildup and decrease
phases can at times be insufficient to suitably propel contents
from a discharge nozzle, whereby the contents may drip out of the
nozzle and run down the device. Such occurrences are commonly
referred to as "drooling" and can leave a sticky or otherwise
undesirable residue on the device.
[0014] There are no known readily manufacturable or commercially
available prior art dispensers that allow multiple, replaceable,
concentrated cleaning chemistries to be selectively used with a
single diluent dispenser. What is therefore needed is a chemical or
end product dispensing device which dispenses multiple cleaning
agents from separate output nozzles to mitigate the likelihood of
cross-contaminating the various chemistries and reduce the
dependency on multiple dispensing devices for dispensing multiple
end use products.
SUMMARY AND OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
[0015] Consistent with the foregoing, and in accordance with the
invention as embodied and broadly described herein, a dispensing
device and container assemblies for use with the dispensing device
are disclosed in suitable detail to enable one of ordinary skill in
the art to make and use the invention.
[0016] According to a first embodiment of the present invention, a
handheld device is presented for dispensing one or multiple end use
products, preferably multiple cleaning solutions. The device
includes a housing that may have a main body segment, a handle, and
a head segment. A container that holds a concentrate may be
retained between upper and lower surfaces of the main body and head
segments, respectively. A resilient member can be provided between
the container and one of the main body head segments, wherein the
resilient member biases the container toward the other one of the
main body and head segments, holding the container in place.
[0017] In some embodiments, a rotating frame extends between the
main body and head segments. The rotating frame can include (i) a
bottom wall, and (ii) an outlet assembly overlying at least part of
the bottom wall. A void space defined between the outlet assembly
and the bottom wall of the rotating frame removably receives the
container therein. In some embodiment, the resilient member is
provided on the bottom wall of the rotating frame. The resilient
member can be configured as a flexible tab that provided on the
bottom wall of the rotating frame, the flexible tab biasing the
container against the outlet assembly of the rotating frame. The
flexible tab can resiliently pivot about an axis defined by a line
of attachment between the flexible tab and the bottom wall of the
rotating frame. The flexible tab can have a ramped projection
extending upwardly therefrom, with front and back surfaces that
converge at an upper transversely extending peak.
[0018] In some embodiments, a concentrate holding container is
provided with a lower locking receptacle that extends into its
lower wall. At least a portion of the flexible tab can insert into
the lower locking receptacle of the container lower wall.
[0019] In yet other embodiments, the device includes an out
assembly that has a locking projection extending downwardly
therefrom. The upper locking receptacle can define an arcuate
surface extending into the upper wall of the container.
Furthermore, the upper locking receptacle can define a length, a
width, and a depth, and a magnitude of least one of the width and
depth varies along the length of the upper locking receptacle. For
example, the width of the upper locking receptacle may vary along
the length thereof, such that a widest portion of the upper locking
receptacle is defined at a position located part-way along the
length of the upper locking receptacle. As another example, the
depth of the locking receptacle may vary along the width thereof,
such that a deepest portion of the upper locking receptacle is
defined at a position located part-way along the width of the upper
locking receptacle.
[0020] In some embodiments, a cylindrical projection extends
axially upward from an upper wall of the container. The cylindrical
projection can be provided concentrically within a collar, such
that the collar and cylindrical projection define an annular
channel therebetween.
[0021] In yet other embodiments, a lower wall has a lower locking
receptacle that is spaced a relatively greater distance from the
front wall than a distance defined between the upper locking
receptacle and the front wall. The collar of the container upper
wall can at least partially overlie the lower locking receptacle of
the lower wall. Furthermore, the lower locking receptacle can
include a ramped upper wall extending angularly thereinto. In some
embodiments, a portion of the lower locking receptacle that is
nearest the front wall of the container is relatively wider than a
portion of the locking receptacle that is furthest from the front
wall. In further embodiments, the front wall of the container has a
waist portion with a smaller width dimension, as compared to other
portions of the front wall.
[0022] In some embodiments, the locking projection can insert into
an upper locking receptacle of an upper wall of the container,
wherein the locking projection retains an upper portion of the
container so that is rotates in unison with a carousel or rotating
frame of the device, resisting torsional removal forces. The
rotating frame can define an axis of rotation that is generally
upright and tilting forward. In this configuration, an upper
portion of the rotating frame leans away from the handle, when the
dispenser sits upon an underlying horizontal support surface.
[0023] In another family of embodiments, the invention comprehends
a venturi assembly having a venturi body that includes a minimum
diameter segment. An uptake tube is fluidly connected to and
extending radially from the minimum diameter segment. An inlet
segment is fluidly connected to and extending axially from a first
end of the minimum diameter segment. An outlet segment is fluidly
connected to and extending axially from a second, opposing, end of
the minimum diameter segment and a nozzle assembly attached to an
end of the outlet segment that is furthest from the minimum
diameter segment. The inlet segment can be shorter than the outlet
segment. The nozzle assembly has a swirl chamber and a valve body
with a valve end and an opposing plug end. The valve end of the
valve is adjacent the outlet segment of the venturi body and the
plug end of the valve body being adjacent the swirl chamber. A
nozzle, having an opening extending therethrough, is provided
adjacent to and directs contents from the swirl chamber, out of the
nozzle assembly.
[0024] In some embodiments, the plug end of the valve body at least
partially defines a back wall of the swirl chamber, separating the
swirl chamber from other portions of the nozzle assembly. The valve
body can include a one-way valve configured to selectively allow
fluid flow out of the nozzle of the venturi assembly.
[0025] In yet another family of embodiments, each container
includes a valve assembly. The valve assembly preferably includes a
valve body, a cap, and a dip tube. The valve body includes an outer
periphery extending generally around a central axis from a first
end to a second end opposite the first end. A lower surface is
connected to the outer periphery at the first end and has an
opening extending through the lower surface. An inner periphery
extends generally around the central axis from the opening in the
lower surface and up through the valve body to a slit portion
establishing a fluid path through the valve body. A flange is
connected to the outer periphery at the second end and extends
radially outward. The valve body also includes an annular recess
between the outer periphery and the inner periphery. The annular
recess extends generally around the central axis and down from the
second end for a portion of the length of the valve body.
[0026] As another aspect of the invention, the flange on the valve
assembly has an inner periphery and an outer periphery. A curved
portion of the flange forms a concave surface and connects the
inner and outer peripheries.
[0027] As another aspect of the invention, the inner periphery of
the valve assembly may extend generally parallel to the central
axis beyond the second end of the outer periphery. Opposite sides
of the inner periphery may taper toward the slit portion, forming a
duck bill valve.
[0028] As another aspect of the invention, the annular recess
includes a first wall extending from the second end generally into
the valve body, and a second wall that is spaced a first width from
the first wall and extends from the second end generally into the
valve body. A channel along the inner portion of the recess
connects the first and second wall and has a second width greater
than the first width.
[0029] The cap engages the valve body and preferably includes a
lower portion configured to extend into the annular recess of the
valve body. The cap can further include a vent portion connected to
a lower portion and extending radially away from the central axis.
The vent portion is adjacent to the flange of the valve body and
has at least one hole extending therethrough. The cap also has a
neck portion having an inner and an outer surface connecting to the
vent portion. The neck portion extends away from the valve body and
the inner and outer surface are generally parallel to each other
for a first length. The outer surface of the neck then tapers
towards the inner surface for a second length. A rim portion of the
cap has a first wall and a second wall, wherein the first and
second wall are connected at the upper ends, forming a channel
between the first and second walls. One of the first and second
walls can be connected to the outer periphery of the vent
portion.
[0030] As another aspect of the invention, the lower portion of the
cap has a first segment with a thickness substantially equal to the
first width of the annular recess and a second segment, and at
least a portion of the second segment can have a thickness
substantially equal to the second width of the channel in the
annular recess. The valve body may be made of an elastomeric
material and the cap may be made of a rigid material such that the
first and second walls of the annular recess expand apart to permit
the second segment of the cap to pass through to the channel
[0031] As another aspect of the invention, the cap further includes
a first set of tabs disposed around the inner surface of the neck
portion. A first set of tabs are preferably disposed within the
neck and around the lower end of the inner wall of the neck,
extending radially into the neck to engage the slit portion of the
valve body. The cap can further include a second set of tabs. The
second set of tabs are disposed around the lower end of at least
one of the first and second walls of the rim portion, extending
into the channel of the rim portion to engage the container.
[0032] As another aspect of the invention, the valve assembly can
include a dip tube. The outer diameter of the dip tube is
substantially equal to the diameter of the inner periphery of the
valve body. The dip tube is inserted into the inner periphery of
the valve body and extends downward into the container. Preferably,
a seat is formed around the inner periphery of the valve body such
that the dip tube is inserted into the inner periphery until it
engages the seat.
[0033] These and other aspects of the present invention will be
better appreciated and understood when considered in conjunction
with the following description and the accompanying drawings. It
should be understood, however, that the following description,
while indicating preferred embodiments of the present invention, is
given by way of illustration and not of limitation. Many changes
and modifications may be made within the scope of the present
invention without departing from the spirit thereof, and the
invention includes all such modifications.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0034] A clear conception of the advantages and features
constituting the present invention, and of the construction and
operation of typical mechanisms provided with the present
invention, will become more readily apparent by referring to the
exemplary, and therefore non-limiting, embodiments illustrated in
the drawings accompanying and forming a part of this specification,
wherein like reference numerals designate the same elements in the
several views, and in which:
[0035] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a
dispensing device of the present invention;
[0036] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a variant of the dispensing
device of FIG. 1;
[0037] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of the
present invention;
[0038] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a variant of the dispensing
device of FIG. 2;
[0039] FIG. 5 is another variant of the dispensing device of FIG.
1;
[0040] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a third embodiment of a
dispensing device of the present invention;
[0041] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of a
dispensing device of the present invention;
[0042] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a fifth embodiment of a
dispensing device of the present invention;
[0043] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a sixth embodiment of a
dispensing device of the present invention;
[0044] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a seventh embodiment of a
dispensing device of the present invention;
[0045] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a
dispensing device of the present invention;
[0046] FIG. 12 is an exploded, perspective view of the device of
FIG. 4;
[0047] FIG. 13 is an exploded, side elevation view of the reservoir
and pump assembly of the dispensing device of FIG. 1;
[0048] FIG. 14 is a pictorial cross-sectional view of the tube
retainer of the pump assembly of FIG. 13, taken generally at line
14-14 of FIG. 13;
[0049] FIG. 15 is a pictorial view of a container assembly of the
present invention that incorporates multiple container bodies, with
two container bodies removed;
[0050] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a rotating
frame assembly of the dispensing device of FIG. 1;
[0051] FIG. 17 is an isometric view of a container body of the
present invention;
[0052] FIG. 18 is an isometric view of a variant of the container
body of FIG. 17;
[0053] FIG. 19 is an isometric cross-sectional view of the
container body of FIG. 18 taken through an inner support of the
container body;
[0054] FIG. 20 is a side elevation cross-sectional view of the
container body of FIG. 18 taken through an inner support of the
container body;
[0055] FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view of the top of the
container body of FIG. 17 taken generally at line 21-21;
[0056] FIG. 22 is an exploded front view of the cap, valve
assembly, and dip tube of the container body of FIG. 17;
[0057] FIG. 23 is an isometric view of the valve assembly of the
container of FIG. 17;
[0058] FIG. 24 is a front view of the valve of the container of
FIG. 17;
[0059] FIG. 25 is a top view of the valve of the container of FIG.
17;
[0060] FIG. 26 is a bottom view of the valve of the container of
FIG. 17;
[0061] FIG. 27 is an isometric view of the cap of the container of
FIG. 17;
[0062] FIG. 28 is a front view of the cap of the container of FIG.
17;
[0063] FIG. 29 is a bottom view of the cap of the container of FIG.
17;
[0064] FIG. 30 is a side elevation cross-sectional view of a
variant of the valve assembly of FIG. 17;
[0065] FIG. 31 is an exploded cross-sectional view of the valve
assembly of FIG. 30;
[0066] FIG. 32 is a side elevation cross-sectional view of the dip
tub holder of FIG. 30;
[0067] FIG. 33 is a side elevation cross-sectional view of the
valve assembly cap of FIG. 30;
[0068] FIG. 34 is a top plan view of the dip tub holder of FIG.
30;
[0069] FIG. 35 is a side elevation view of the valve body of FIG.
30;
[0070] FIG. 36 is an exploded cross-sectional view of the rotating
frame assembly of the dispensing device of FIG. 1;
[0071] FIG. 37 is a pictorial partially cross-sectional view of a
stem of the rotating frame assembly of FIG. 36;
[0072] FIG. 38 is a pictorial view of a stem seal of the rotating
frame assembly of FIG. 36;
[0073] FIG. 39 is a pictorial view of a variant of the stem seal of
FIG. 38;
[0074] FIG. 40 is a pictorial view of another variant of the stem
seal of FIG. 38;
[0075] FIG. 41 is a pictorial view of another variant of the stem
seal of FIG. 38;
[0076] FIG. 42 is an exploded, perspective view of an outlet
assembly of the container assembly of FIG. 15;
[0077] FIG. 43 is a front elevation view of the venturi assembly of
FIG. 42;
[0078] FIG. 44 is a top, plan view of the venturi assembly of FIG.
42; and
[0079] FIG. 45 is a cross-sectional view of the venturi assembly of
FIG. 44 taken generally at line 45-45
[0080] FIG. 46 is a pictorial view of a venturi assembly of FIG.
36;
[0081] FIG. 47 is an exploded pictorial view of the venturi
assembly of FIG. 46;
[0082] FIG. 48 is an exploded side elevation view of the venturi
assembly of FIG. 46;
[0083] FIG. 49 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the
venturi assembly of FIG. 46;
[0084] FIG. 50 is a pictorial of the longitudinal cross-section of
FIG. 46;
[0085] FIG. 51 is a transverse cross section of the venturi
assembly of FIG. 46
[0086] In describing the preferred embodiments of the invention
which are illustrated in the drawings, specific terminology will be
resorted to for the sake of clarity. However, it is not intended
that the invention be limited to the specific terms so selected and
it is to be understood that each specific term includes all
technical equivalents, which operate in a similar manner to
accomplish a similar purpose. For example, the words connected,
attached, or terms similar thereto are often used. However, they
are not limited to direct connection but include connection through
other elements where such connection is recognized as being
equivalent by those skilled in the art.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0087] The present invention and the various features and
advantageous details thereof are explained more fully with
reference to the non-limiting embodiments described in detail in
the following description.
I. System Overview
[0088] In a basic form, referring generally to FIGS. 1-11, the
invention is a fluid dispensing device, preferably, a hand-held
device, e.g., dispensing device 10, that holds a diluent "D" and at
least one concentrated substance or concentrate "C" separate from
each other. The diluent "D" and concentrate "C," remain separate
until they are actively dispensed and mix with each other
momentarily while exiting the device, whereby an end use product
exits the dispensing device 10.
[0089] The diluent "D" can be a liquid diluent and/or other
suitable fluid carrier, preferably, a solvent and, more preferably,
water. The concentrate "C" can be a concentrated liquid chemical
composition, or a gaseous, powdered, or other relatively
concentrated substance. The dispensed end use products, made from
actively mixing the diluent "D" and concentrate "C" during
dispensation, can be any of a variety of compositions, agents,
and/or solutions, preferably, one or more of numerous cleaning
solutions or chemicals.
[0090] Exemplary of such end use products include, but are not
limited to: general purpose cleaners, kitchen cleaners, bathroom
cleaners, dust inhibitors or removal aids, floor and furniture
cleaners and polishes, glass cleaners, anti-bacterial cleaners,
fragrances, deodorizers, soft surface treatments, fabric
protectors, laundry products and/or other fabric cleaners or stain
removers, tire cleaners, dashboard cleaners, automotive interior
cleaners, and/or other automotive industry cleaners or polishes, or
even insecticides. In some embodiments, a single device 10
dispenses multiple end use products that use a common fluid carrier
or diluent "D." Accordingly, the particular components,
compositions, constituents, and respective concentrations of the
diluent "D" and one or more concentrates "C" are selected based on
the particular desired end use product that will be actively mixed
while exiting the dispensing device 10.
[0091] In such configuration, the dispensing device 10 is designed
to allow a user to quickly replace or replenish the diluent "D" or
ones of the one or more concentrate "C" as needed or desired. In
some implementations, e.g., the user can select from multiple end
use products to dispense from a single hand-held dispensing device
10 those which incorporate multiple, different concentrates "C".
This provides convenient access to different products and, for
example, easier cleaning of multiple surfaces that require a
different cleaning product be used on each of them.
[0092] The dispensing device 10 and its components and
subassemblies are preferably made from generally lightweight and
durable materials. Exemplary of suitable materials are lightweight
polymeric materials or various polymeric compounds, such as, for
example, and without limitation, various of the polyolefins, such
as a variety of the polyethylenes, e.g., high density polyethylene,
or polypropylenes. There can also be mentioned as examples such
polymers as polyvinyl chloride and chlorinated polyvinyl chloride
copolymers, various of the polyamides, polycarbonates, and
others.
[0093] For any polymeric material employed in structures of the
invention, any conventional additive package can be included such
as, for example, and without limitation, slip agents, anti-block
agents, release agents, anti-oxidants, fillers, and plasticizers to
control, e.g., processing of the polymeric material as well as to
stabilize and/or otherwise control the properties of the finished
processed product, also to control hardness, bending resistance,
and the like. Common industry methods of forming such polymeric
compounds will suffice to form the polymeric components of
dispensing device 10. Exemplary, but not limiting, of such
processes are the various commonly-known plastic converting,
molding, and/or other processes.
1. Dispensation Generally
[0094] Referring still to FIGS. 1-11, the dispensing device 10 is
manually activated, preferably by a manual pump-type, electrical
pump-type, aerosol, pressurized, and/or other delivery system to
dispense an end use product, preferably, a cleaning solution.
During the act of dispensation, a diluent "D" and a concentrate "C"
are combined and mixed with each other, e.g., at least partially
prior to exiting the device so that they emerge as a final,
combined, ready-to-use solution or end use product, preferably, a
cleaning solution or cleaning chemical composition.
[0095] In this regard, the acts of dispensing and mixing or
combining the diluent "D" and concentrate "C" are not mutually
exclusive. Rather, discrete mixing acts of the diluent "D" and
concentrate "C" are performed in concert with discrete dispensation
acts. Correspondingly, a volume of end use product need not be
stored in the device, since the dispensation effectuates suitable
mixing of the diluent "D" and concentrate "C" in creating the
resultant end use product.
[0096] It is noted that the particular dispensation techniques and
methods are selected based, at least in part, on the intended end
use of dispensing device 10. In other words, dispensing device 10
is adapted for dispensation by way of, e.g., manual pump-type,
electrical pump-type, aerosol, pressurized, or other delivery
systems in view of considerations such as viscosity, flow, density,
and/or other characteristics of the diluent "D," concentrate "C,"
or end use product(s), as well as the end use environment or other
operational considerations.
[0097] Regardless of the particular dispensing technique or method
used, the dispensing device 10 can be configured to operate by
pumping or otherwise expelling the diluent "D" so that the diluent
"D," as it flows through the dispensing device 10, draws the
concentrate "C" into its flow path by way of, e.g., pressure
differentials according to Bernoulli's principles, explained in
greater detail elsewhere herein. In this configuration, only the
diluent "D" needs to be acted upon in order to suitably mix and
dispense both the diluent "D" and concentrate "C" as an end use
product.
1a. Manual Pump Dispensation
[0098] Referring now to FIGS. 1-9, some embodiments the dispensing
device 10 function based primarily on principles associated with
manually actuated, trigger-type spray bottles. In such embodiments,
the dispensing device 10 includes a trigger 30 that actuates a
piston within or otherwise operates a manual pump assembly 35. Any
of a variety of known types, styles, or configurations of manual
pumps and/or their respective components, e.g., pitons, dip tubes,
check valves, valve seats, compression or return springs, and
others are suitable for use as manual pump assembly 35, some or all
of which are well known to those skilled in the art.
1b. Non-Manual Pump Dispensation
[0099] Referring now to FIGS. 10-11, some embodiments of dispensing
device 10 do not use manually actuated or trigger-style pumps, but
rather use other forces to expel contents from the dispensing
device 10. For example, the dispensing device 10 seen in FIG. 10
utilizes aerosol dispensation by way of an aerosol system 36. Any
of a variety of known types, styles, or configurations of aerosol
systems and/or their respective components, e.g., a propellant such
as pressurized gas or liquefied gas or others, dip tubes, check
valves, valve seats, compression or return springs, and others are
suitable for use as aerosol system 36, all of which are well known
to those skilled in the art. As another example, the dispensing
device 10 seen in FIG. 11, utilizes pressurized dispensation by way
of a pressurized system 37. Here again, any of a variety of known
types, styles, or configurations of stored positive pressure-based
systems and/or their respective components, e.g., CO2 and/or other
pressure vessels, dip tubes, check valves, valve seats, compression
or return springs, electronic (i) pumps, (ii) switches or triggers,
(iii) power supplies (iv) corresponding conductors and other
circuit components, and/or others are suitable for use as
pressurized system 37, all of which are well known to those skilled
in the art.
II. Detailed Description of Preferred Embodiments
[0100] Specific embodiments of the present invention will now be
further described by the following, non-limiting examples which
will serve to illustrate various features of significance. The
examples are intended merely to facilitate an understanding of ways
in which the present invention may be practiced and to further
enable those of skill in the art to practice the present invention.
Accordingly, the examples discussed herein should not be construed
as limiting the scope of the present invention.
[0101] Referring now to FIGS. 1-11, dispensing device 10 includes a
housing 20 that holds a reservoir 50 and a container assembly 100
that has and/or is connected to an outlet assembly 400. The
reservoir 50, container assembly 100, and outlet assembly 400
cooperate with each other for mixing and dispensing the diluent "D"
and concentrate "C," which are stored in the reservoir 50 and
container assembly 100, respectively, as an end use product. It is
noted that by maintaining the diluent "D" and concentrate "C" as
distinct stored entities, the user can refill or replace the
diluent "D" independently from the concentrate "C" and vice
versa.
[0102] Referring specifically to the manually actuated,
trigger-type spray embodiments of FIGS. 1-9, each housing 20
includes a main body segment 22 at a lower portion thereof, and a
handle 24 that extends generally upwardly from the main body
segment 22. Handle 24 is configured to provide a suitably
comfortable gripping structure enabling a user to hold and
manipulate the dispensing device 10 for durations of time
commensurate with the time required to dispense the end use product
and/or carry the dispensing device 10 to different surfaces or
rooms to be cleaned or treated. In some implementations, such as
those seen in FIGS. 1, 2, and 4, the handle 24 can include a
projection 25 which rests upon, e.g., an intersection of a thumb
and forefinger of a user, enhancing the user's comfort and holding
stability, especially during prolonged periods of use.
[0103] Referring still to FIGS. 1-9, head 26 extends outwardly from
an upper portion of handle 24, in the same general direction as the
main body segment 22. In this configuration, head 26 can extend at
least partially over the main body segment 22 of housing 20.
Preferably, various ones of, optionally all of, main body segment
22, handle 24, and head 26 are hollow, whereby the housing 20
defines a shell-like outer perimeter wall(s), encapsulating a void
"V" (FIG. 12) therein which is configured to house various other
components of the dispensing device 10 therein.
[0104] As desired, in some embodiments, the various components of
the housing 20 are removably attached to each other, by way of
friction fit, snap-lock, or otherwise. For example, (i) an
assemblage of handle 24 and head 26 can be selectively removed from
main body segment 22, (ii) head 26 can be selectively removed from
an assemblage of main body segment 22 and handle 24, or (iii) each
of the main body segment 22, handle 24, and head 26 can be
selectively removed from respective ones of each other. The
particular removable attachment(s) of the various components within
the housing 20 to each other is directed at least on part by, e.g.,
how diluent is "D" is stored, housed, filled, or refilled, within a
particular implementation of dispensing device 10. In some
embodiments, a sight window (now shown) is provided upon the
housing 20 and configured for enabling a user to easily, at a
glance, evaluate the volume of carrier fluid within the reservoir
50 at any particular time. As best seen in FIG. 12, reservoir 50 is
housed within the void "V" of housing 20, is configured to hold a
volume of diluent "D" therein, and is, preferably, made from a
lightweight rigid polymeric material. In this configuration, the
reservoir 50 functions as a stand-alone liquid tight enclosure,
whereby any of a variety of suitable bottles, cans, and/or other
enclosures may be implemented as reservoir 50.
[0105] Referring now to FIG. 12, in this embodiment, the reservoir
50 includes an inlet 52 and a removable plug 54, while other
embodiments include, for example, a threaded cap instead. The inlet
52 extends through the outer wall of housing 20 opening and into
the reservoir 50. For example, inlet 52 can extend through an upper
wall of main body segment 22, entering reservoir 50, but can be
located elsewhere such as, e.g., upon handle 24 or head 26 (FIG.
6), as long as the inlet 52 is fluidly connected to the reservoir
50. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 12, the inlet 52 enters
reservoir 50 through the upper wall of main body segment 22, the
dispensing device 10 is preferably configured for filling or
refilling with a volume of water diluent "D." For embodiments that
use water as diluent "D," the water may be filtered water,
distilled water, deionized water, or may be tap water from, e.g.,
conventional bathroom sink basins, corresponding faucet fixtures,
or other water delivering fixtures. In this particular embodiment,
the height dimensions of the reservoir 50 and the corresponding
portions of main body segment 22 of housing 20 are sufficiently
small in magnitude or short enough to allow the user to slide the
inlet 52 between a conventional sink basin and faucet, aligning the
inlet 52 of reservoir 50 with an outlet of the faucet. Furthermore,
there is preferably adequate clearance between the trigger 30 inlet
52, as well as other portions adjacent the inlet 52, so that the
user need not actuate the trigger 30 while aligning inlet 52 with
the faucet, or otherwise struggle during such diluent "D" refill
alignment step.
[0106] Referring now to FIG. 1, the reservoir 50 of this embodiment
is housed substantially or entirely in the handle 24 instead of the
main body segment 22. Accordingly, a height dimension of main body
segment 22 in this embodiment is a mere fraction of an overall
height of the device, for example, less than about 20 percent or
less than about 15 percent of the overall device height. In this
configuration, none of the diluent "D" is housed directly below the
container assembly 100, whereby the portion of the device weight
that is attributable to weights of the diluent "D" and concentrate
"C" are longitudinally spaced from each other, along the device's
centerline. In this embodiment the housing 20 extends only
partially over the reservoir 50, leaving at least portions of a
back wall as side walls of the reservoir 50 exposed. Inlet 52 is
provided on an exposed portion of the reservoir 50, at the back and
near the bottom of the device. For example, inlet 52 can be
positioned within two inches from a bottom wall of the device,
optionally within one inch from the bottom wall.
[0107] The particular material(s) and configuration of reservoir 50
are selected based on the particular end use environment, the
particular fluid or diluent "D" to be dispensed, and the type of
delivery system used. For example, in lieu of a rigid polymeric
reservoir 50 such as that seen in FIG. 12, as desired, reservoir 50
can instead be a flexible polymeric bag-type enclosure structure
(not illustrated). The flexible polymeric bag embodiment of
reservoir 50 can be adapted and configured for single use with
subsequent disposal. Such implementations can be particularly
desirable for implementations of dispensing device 10 that use
diluents "D" which the user does not want to potentially touch,
e.g., if the diluent "D" is or includes any of a variety of acidic,
basic, caustic, or irritating substances. Notwithstanding, as
desired, the flexible polymeric bag embodiment of reservoir 50 can
be refillable and adapted and configured for multiple uses.
[0108] Referring again to FIG. 12, a tubing assembly 80 is housed
within the housing 20 and is configured for directing diluent "D"
between reservoir 50 and container assembly 100. Tubing assembly 80
includes a pump inlet tubing 82 and a pump outlet tubing 84. Pump
inlet tubing 82 spans between and connects the manual pump assembly
35 to the reservoir 50, and pump outlet tubing 84 spans between and
connects the pump assembly 35 to the container assembly 100. In
other words, the pump assembly 35 (i) draws diluent "D" from
reservoir 50 through the pump inlet tubing 82 and pushes it to
container assembly 100 through pump outlet tubing 84. In some
embodiments, such as that illustrated in FIG. 12, part of the pump
outlet tubing 84 is an elongate member 85 that extends downwardly,
axially at least partially into the container assembly 100. In such
embodiments, an outlet bore 86 extends radially, horizontally, or
otherwise through the sidewall of the pump outlet tubing 84,
adjacent its bottom end that interfaces the container assembly 100.
The outlet bore 86 (FIG. 14) can be fluidly and operably connected
to a portion of container assembly 100, for directing the diluent
"D" therethrough while using dispensing device 10.
[0109] Referring still to FIG. 12, in some embodiments, upper and
lower retaining flanges 90, 92 are provided on housing 20 for,
e.g., holding and aligning container assembly 100 during use. Upper
and lower retaining flanges 90, 92 extend angularly forward from
the front edges of the respective ends of the housing 20 that hold
the container assembly 100. As desired, the upper and lower
retaining flanges 90, 92 can have generally the same radius as the
outer perimeter of housing 20, whereby they appear to be tabular
extensions of the housing 20 outer wall. Optionally, the upper and
lower flanges 90, 92 have other shapes and/or radii. In the
embodiment shown in FIG. 12, the inwardly facing surfaces of
flanges 90, 92 directly interface the outwardly facing surfaces of
the container assembly 100. The retaining flanges 90, 92 therefore
mechanically urge the container assembly 100 rearward toward the
remainder of the housing 20. This can help mitigate the likelihood
of non-desired rotation, misalignment, or other movement of the
container assembly 100 within the housing 20.
[0110] Referring again to FIG. 1, in this embodiment, the container
assembly 100 is tilted at a slight forward angle, for example, less
than about 15 degrees or less than about 10 degrees when viewed
from a side elevation, so that an upper portion of the container
assembly 100 leans in front of a lower portion of the container
assembly 100. The particular angle of inclination of the container
assembly 100 is preferably selected based at least in part on the
configuration of the one or more containers of the container
assembly 100. The axis of rotation of the container assembly 100 of
this embodiment is tilted forward to an extent that allows
relatively small volumes of concentrate "C," for example, a volume
that is less than about 1/8 of the total holding capacity of the
container, to pool or collect in a front lower corner of the
container. Since a dip tube 390 extends into the front lower corner
of a container of the container assembly 100 that is in a
forward-facing position, described in greater detail elsewhere
herein, such configuration allows substantially the entire contents
of concentrate "C" to be drawn from the container assembly 100
during use without have to shake or tilt the device 10 or otherwise
hold it at an awkward angle while trying to fully deplete a
container of concentrate "C".
[0111] Referring now to FIGS. 1, 13 and 14, a variation of the
tubing assembly 80 of FIG. 12 is shown for directing diluent "D"
between reservoir 50 and container assembly 100. In this
embodiment, the tubing assembly 80 includes a tube retainer 81 that
clamps the end of the pump outlet tubing 84 to a nozzle 35A of the
manual pump assembly 35A. Seen best in FIG. 14, an end of the
nozzle 35A has an outer collar 35B that is concentrically spaced
around a cylindrical outlet 35C and the tube retainer 81 has an
annular configuration. Pockets 83 that are spaced from each other
extend along arcuate paths and in an axial direction from opposing
sides of the tube retainer 81, toward a web 87 of material that
extends radially through the middle of the tube retainer 81. In
such configuration, spokes 88 that space the adjacent pockets 83
from each other also connect outer and inner rings 89A, 89B of the
tube retainer that are defined at its outer an inner perimeters. A
ledge 89C extends inwardly from the inner circumferential surface
of the inner ring 89A and provides a mechanical gripping surface
that enhances the holding force that the tube retainer 81 applies
to the pump outlet tubing 84 by way of its radial inward
compression caused by an interference fit between the tube retainer
81 and the outer collar 35B of the nozzle 35A.
[0112] Regardless of the particular configuration of the tube
retainer 81, it is configured to provide a retention force to the
pump outlet tubing 84 so as to prevent the pump outlet tubing 84
from sliding off the cylindrical outlet 35C of the nozzle 35A
during use. The tube retainer 81 of this embodiment is configured
to provide a retention force to the pump outlet tubing 84 that
holds it in place while enduring operating pressures of at least
about 60 psi and preferably at least about 90 psi during use or at
least during discrete dispensing acts in which the trigger of
device 10 is being actuated.
[0113] Referring again to FIGS. 1-11, each container assembly 100
is configured to hold at least one concentrate "C" therein, to be
mixed with the diluent "D" and each container assembly 100 is
preferably a disposable use item although it can be adapted and
configured for refillable use in which case the container assembly
100 may include a cap or other removable or accessible structure
allowing the container to be refilled.
[0114] Since each container assembly 100 includes at least one
container body 105 (FIG. 2), 110, 112, 114, 116, (FIGS. 1 and 3-11)
for holding or storing the concentrate "C," the number of end use
products that can be dispensed through dispensing device 10
corresponds to the number of different container bodies 105, 110,
112, 114, 116, (FIGS. 1 and 3-11) and thus concentrates "C" that
are incorporated into the particular container assembly 100. As
shown in FIG. 2, this embodiment utilizes a single container body
105 that is able to hold relatively more of a single concentrate
than would multiple container bodies 110, 112, 114, 116 that were
configured to cumulatively occupy the same space within the device
10. Holding a relatively greater volume of concentrate "C" may be
desirable when a user anticipates using a relatively large volume
of a single end use product, for example, when cleaning opposing
surfaces of numerous windows, the user can implement a container
assembly 100 with a single container body 105 which holds a
concentrated glass cleaner as the concentrate "C". In still another
embodiment of the present invention (not illustrated), a single
container body 105 is provided, similar to that illustrated in FIG.
2, only having multiple compartments, chambers, dividers, pockets,
or any other means of separating a single void into multiple
distinct liquid tight segments for housing individual concentrates
"C".
[0115] Referring now to FIGS. 1, 4-8, and 15-16, these multiple
container body versions preferably include a rotating frame 120
that is a carousel-type mechanism configured to rotate about an
axis of rotation for selectively indexing one of the container
bodies 110, 112, 114, 116 into a use position in which that
particular selected container body 110, 112, 114, 116 is aligned
for dispensing its contents while the remaining container bodies
110, 112, 114, 116 are in non-use or non-dispensing positions,
explained in greater detail elsewhere herein.
[0116] Referring again to FIGS. 1-11, the container assemblies 100
can be generally modular enclosures which enable their removal,
attachment, and interchangeability with the remainder of dispensing
device 10. In such configuration, the various embodiments of
container assemblies 100 are interchangeable with each other,
whereby users can determine the number of end use products to be
readily available by utilizing the dispensing device 10 at any
given time. In other words, as desired, the user can implement (i)
a container assembly 100 that houses multiple concentrates "C" in
multiple container bodies 110, 112, 114, 116 (FIGS. 10-15), or (ii)
a container assembly 100 that houses a single concentrate "C" in a
single container body 105 (FIG. 1), for either multiple or single
end product capability, respectively. Stated another way, device 10
can be reconfigured for single or multiple product dispensation by
interchanging a single container body 105 with a rotating frame 120
and its associated container bodies 110, 112, 114, 116, or vise
versa.
[0117] The size and shape of the container body 105, 110, 112, 114,
116, may vary depending on the particular embodiment of the device
10 as well as, in some embodiments, based on the particular mix
ratio of the end product which is dispensed from the device 10. For
example, devices 10 that dispense end products that have relatively
higher mix ratios of concentrate "C" to diluent "D" may include
container bodies 105, 110, 112, 114, 116 with relatively greater
volumes or hold more as compared to container bodies 105, 110, 112,
114, 116 of devices 10 that dispense end products that have
relatively lower mix ratios of concentrate "C" to diluent "D".
[0118] Several embodiments of the container body, as illustrated in
FIGS. 1-11, include but are not limited to, a tubular, wedge,
rectangular, or generally cylindrical shaped containers. In
general, in container assemblies 100 that utilize multiple
container bodies 110, 112, 114, 116, each container body 110, 112,
114, 116 typically includes top and bottom walls, a front wall that
faces outwardly from the container assembly 100, a back wall the
faces into the container assembly 100 and opposing sidewalls that
taper from the front wall to the back wall or converge with each
other in embodiments that do not include a distinct back wall. Such
configurations allow the multiple container bodies 110, 112, 114,
116 to nest into the rotating frame 120 in an orderly way while
cumulatively presenting an aesthetically acceptable overall shape
while providing a holding capacity that allows each container body
110, 112, 114, 116 to hold a suitable amount of concentrate "C" so
that it has an acceptably long use life.
[0119] For example, referring now to FIGS. 17-20 and shown with
respect to container body 110 while also being applicable to the
other container bodies, this embodiment includes a front wall 205
that faces outwardly from the container assembly 100 and a back
wall 207 that faces into the container assembly 100. The front wall
205 is wider toward its top and bottom, having bottom and top
portions that taper inwardly toward a relatively narrower waist
segment 209 defined therebetween. As shown in FIGS. 18-20, in this
embodiment, the front wall 205 further includes a raised panel 206
that is configured for having a label attached to it and is
relatively flatter than the remainder of the front wall 205. Panel
206 of this embodiment extends up the bottom portion 207, upwardly
across the waist segment 209, and onto the top portion 208.
[0120] Still referring to FIGS. 17-20, lower and upper walls 210
and 212 extend in a rearward direction from the bottom and top
portions of the front wall 205, respectively, and toward the back
wall 207. Both the lower and upper walls 210 and 212 are configured
to interlock with the rotating frame 120. A lower locking
receptacle 215 extends upwardly into wall 210 and is spaced from
rearward of the front wall 205, the receptacle 215 being wider
toward the front wall 205 and tapering to a narrower width as it
extends away from the front wall 205. Lower locking receptacle 215
includes first and second ramped segments 217, 218 that extend
angularly up from the lower wall 210 and intersect each other at an
apex, defining a generally inverted V-shaped profile. The second
ramped segment 218 which is positioned further rearward of the
front wall 205 is provided at a steeper angle with respect to the
lower wall 210 when compared to the first ramped segment 217.
[0121] Shown best in FIGS. 19-20, a channel 222 extends angularly
between a back wall 220 of the container body 110 and the lower
wall 210, connecting the lower and back walls 210 and 220 to each
other. In this embodiment, the channel 222 is aligned with the
lower locking receptacle 215 and it connects to the second ramped
segment 218 of the receptacle 215 so that the channel 222 serves as
a lead-in guide through which a flexible tab 125a (FIG. 16) of the
rotating frame 120 slides when the container body 110 is being
inserted into the rotating frame 120, explained in greater detail
elsewhere herein. Preferably, the point of attachment of the
channel 222 and lower locking receptacle 215 is positioned higher
than the lower wall 210 so that the channel 222 and receptacle 215
together define a progressively stepped ramp to progressively
deflect the tab 125a during insertion of the container body 110
into the rotating frame 120.
[0122] Referring again to FIGS. 17-20, side walls 230, 232 of the
container body 110 extend from outer lateral edges of the front
wall 205, rearward toward and connecting to the back wall 207.
Preferably, thumb grips or thumb depressions 240 extend into the
side walls 230, 232 with each thumb depression 240 spanning between
the respective side wall 230, 232 and the front wall 205.
[0123] Referring again to FIGS. 18-20, this embodiment includes an
inner support that is shown as including a pair of posts 236 that
extend generally orthogonally between the front and back walls 205
and 207 of the container body 110 and are configured to maintains
the front and back walls 205 and 207 a generally constant distance
from each other, reducing a likelihood of the container body 110
bulging out or collapsing in. The posts 236 sits on opposite sides
of a centerline of the container body 110 are spaced inwardly from
the side walls 230, 232. The posts 236 are provided at a height
that is slightly below the waist segment 209 of the container body
110. In some embodiments, each post 236 is a single, unitary,
structure. In other embodiments, each of the posts 236 can include
a hollow cylindrical front segment that extends through the front
wall 205 toward the back wall 207 and a hollow cylindrical back
segment that extends from the back wall 207 wall toward the front
wall 205. The front and back segments of such posts 236 can be
distinct from each other when initially molded or otherwise formed
and then in some embodiments joined to each other, for example, at
their facing ends by mechanically squeezing the ends together,
optionally by way of bonding, adhesion, welding, and/or other
suitable forms of joinder.
[0124] Referring once again to FIGS. 17-20, an upper locking
receptacle 250 extends into the upper wall 212 of the container
body 110. The upper locking receptacle 250 of this embodiment
extends through the front wall 205 and defines a semi-circular
perimeter shape, when the container body 110 is viewed from a front
elevation. A collar 260 extends upwardly the upper wall 212,
rearward of the upper locking receptacle 250. An opening that
extends through the collar 260 provides access to the contents of
the container body 110 and allows the inside of the container body
110 to be vented.
[0125] Referring now to FIGS. 21-29, one way of venting and
permitting access to contents of the container bodies 105, 110,
112, 114, 116 is done by way of, for example, suitable valve and
dip tube assemblies. As shown in FIGS. 21-22, in this embodiment,
the venting and check valve functions of this embodiment are
combined into a single valve assembly 300. The valve assembly 300
additionally incorporates a dip tube such that a valve assembly 300
incorporates all of the components required by the container body
110 to properly operate within the handheld dispenser. The valve
assembly 300 may be pre-assembled and inserted into each container
body 110 in a single step to reduce overall assembly time and
cost.
[0126] Referring now to FIGS. 21-22, the valve assembly 300
preferably includes a cap 310 and a valve body 350. In this
embodiment dip tube 390 is inserted into the valve body 350. The
valve body 350 includes an outer peripheral surface 352 extending
generally around a central axis 353 from a first end 354 to a
second end 356 opposite the first end 354. A lower surface 358 is
connected to the outer peripheral surface 352 at the first end and,
preferably, is generally perpendicular to the outer peripheral
surface 352. An opening 360 extends through the lower surface 358
and is in fluid communication with an inner periphery 362. The
cross-section of the inner peripheral surface 362 is preferably
round, but alternately may be any shape.
[0127] The inner peripheral surface 362 extends generally around
and along with the central axis 353 from the opening 360 in the
lower surface 358 and up through the valve body 350 to a slit
portion 364 establishing a fluid path through the valve body
350.
[0128] Referring now to FIGS. 21-26, the valve body 300 has a
flange 366 is connected to the outer peripheral surface 352 at the
second end 362 and extends radially outward. The flange 366 has an
inner periphery 368 and an outer periphery 370. The upper surface
372 of the flange 366 forms a concave surface between the inner 368
and outer 370 peripheries of the flange 366. The valve body 300
also includes an annular recess 374 between the inner 352 and outer
peripheral surfaces 362 of the valve body 300. The annular recess
374 is configured to engage the cap 310 and extends generally
around the central axis 363. The annular recess opens to the second
end 356 and extends into the valve body 300 for a portion of the
height of the valve body 300, for example about half of the height
of the valve body 300. The annular recess 374 includes a first wall
376 and a second wall 378 each extending from the second end 356
generally into the valve body 300. The walls, 376 and 378, are
spaced a first width W1 apart for a first portion and a second
width W2 apart along the inner portion of the recess 374. The
second width W2 is preferably greater than the first width W1 such
that a channel is formed at the inner-most portion of the annular
recess 374.
[0129] Shown best in FIGS. 23-26, the inner peripheral surface 352
of the valve assembly 300 may extend generally in parallel with the
central axis 353 and beyond the second end 356 of the outer
peripheral surface 352. The inner peripheral surface 352 preferably
extends opposite of and along with the second wall 378 of the
recess 374 forming a wall therebetween. Opposite sides of the wall
may taper together to form the slit portion 364, forming a duck
bill valve.
[0130] Referring now to FIGS. 21-22 and 27-29, the cap 310 engages
the valve body 350 and preferably includes a lower 312 portion
configured to extend into the annular recess 374 of the valve body
350. Preferably, the lower portion 312 has a first segment with a
thickness substantially equal to the first width W1 of the annular
recess 374 and a second segment wherein at least a portion of the
second segment has a thickness substantially equal to the second
width W2 of the channel in the annular recess. The cap 310 further
includes a vent portion 314 connected to the lower portion 312 and
extending radially away from the central axis 353. The vent portion
314 is configured to be adjacent to the flange 366 of the valve
body 350 when the cap 310 and the valve body 350 are connected. The
vent portion 314 additionally has at least one vent hole 316
extending therethrough.
[0131] Still referring to FIGS. 21-22 and 27-29, the cap 310 also
includes a neck portion 320 having an inner 322 and an outer 324
surface connecting to the vent portion 314. The neck portion 320
extends away from the lower portion 312 and the inner 322 and outer
324 surface are generally parallel to each other for a first
length. The outer surface 324 of the neck then tapers towards the
inner surface 322 for a second length. The cap further includes a
first set of tabs 326 disposed around the inner surface 322 of the
neck portion 320. The first set of tabs 326 are preferably disposed
within the neck 320 and around the lower end of the inner surface
324 of the neck, extending radially into the neck to engage the
slit portion 364 of the valve body 350.
[0132] Shown best in FIGS. 27, 29, a rim portion 330 of the cap has
a first wall 332 and a second wall 334. The first 332 and second
334 walls are connected at the upper ends of each wall forming a
channel 335 between the two walls. The first wall 332 is connected
to the outer periphery of the vent portion 314. The cap 336 second
set of tabs disposed around the lower end of at least one of the
first 332 and second 334 walls of the rim portion 330 and extending
into the channel 335 to engage the container body 110.
[0133] Referring again to FIGS. 21-22, the valve assembly 300
preferably includes a dip tube 390. The outer diameter of the dip
tube 390 is substantially equal to the diameter of opening 360 in
the lower surface 358 of the valve body 350. A first end of the dip
tube 390 is inserted through opening 360 in the lower surface 358
and into the along the inner peripheral surface 352 of the valve
body 350. The second end of the dip tube 390 extends downward into
the container. Preferably, a seat 340 is included around the inner
peripheral surface 352 of the valve body 350 such that the dip tube
390 is inserted into the valve body 350 until it engages the seat
340.
[0134] Referring once again to FIGS. 21-29, in operation, the valve
assembly 300 of this embodiment operates to provide three basic
functions. The valve assembly 300 serves as a first check valve
which permits fluid contained within the container body 110 to be
drawn up into the venturi assembly 220 without flowing back into
the container body 110. The valve assembly 330 serves as a second
check valve which permits air to enter the container body 110 as
the fluid is drawn out, maintaining a generally constant pressure
within the container body 110. The valve assembly 300 additionally
provides a means for holding the dip tube 390 which extends into
the container body 110.
[0135] Still referring to FIGS. 21-29, the first check valve is the
slit portion 364 of the valve body 350. An operator activates the
hand-held device, either manually or automatically, causing fluid,
preferably water from the reservoir 50 to enter the venturi
assembly 220. The pressure differential in the venturi assembly 220
causes fluid to be drawn up the dip tube 390 and through the slit
portion 364 of the valve assembly, mixing with the water in the
venturi assembly 220 prior to exiting the hand-held device. When no
fluid is being passed through the venturi assembly 220, the
pressure is equalized on either side of the slit portion 364 such
that the slit portion 364 remains closed, preventing the mixed
solution from draining back into the dip tube 390 and down into the
container body 110.
[0136] Still referring to FIGS. 21-29, the second check valve is
the flange 366 portion of the valve body 350. The flange 366
functions as an umbrella valve, allowing air to enter container
body 110 as fluid exits through the slit portion 364. As fluid is
drawn out of the container body 110, a vacuum begins to be
established inside the container body 110. When the differential
between the pressure inside the container body 110 and the outside
atmospheric pressure is great enough, the outer periphery 370 of
the flange 366 is drawn away from the cap 310, establishing a fluid
path between the outside atmosphere through the vent holes 316 of
the cap 310 into the container body 110. Once the pressure
differential has been reduced, the outer periphery 370 of the
flange 366 reseats against the cap 310 sealing off the fluid path
and preventing fluid from leaking out through the vent holes 316.
Throughout the process, the inner periphery 368 remains in contact
with the cap 310, providing a constant seal between the valve body
350 and the cap 310.
[0137] Referring now to FIGS. 30-35, this embodiment does not
include an umbrella valve-like configuration for venting. Instead,
the vent portion 314 of the cap 310 includes a single pinhole-type
vent hole 316. Vent hole 316 preferably has an opening width of
less than about 0.010 inch, preferably about 0.007 inch in diameter
at its narrowest portion and which may frustoconically taper down
to the narrowest portion from a counter bore that is less than
about 0.050 inch and preferably about 0.040 inch in diameter.
[0138] Still referring to FIGS. 30-35, in this embodiment, a dip
tube holder 351 is provided that is separate from the valve body
350 and which connects to the cap 310 to hold the valve body 350
therebetween. Instead of tabs 326 (as shown in FIG. 29), the cap
310 includes a rib 327 that extends radially inward from the inner
circumferential surface of the neck 320, generally separating the
neck 320 from the lower portion 312. Valve body 350 of this
embodiment also has a duck bill valve configuration, with a slit
portion 364 at its top end. The valve body 350 is inserted into the
bottom of the lower portion 312 so that a shoulder of the valve
body 350 abuts the rib 327 from below. The dip tube holder 351
retains the valve body 350 in position from below, with an inner
wall 377 that extends inside of the lower portion 312 and an outer
wall 379 that extends outside of the lower portion 312, squeezing
it therebetween. A flange 380 extends radially from the top of the
outer wall 379 of the dip tube holder 351. A circular groove 381
extends into an upper surface of the flange 380 and concentrically
about a central axis of the dip tube holder 351. In the complete
assemblage, the circular groove 381 is positioned directly below
the vent hole 316 and multiple vent groove 382 extend radially out
from the circular groove 381 to the perimeter of the flange 380. In
such configuration, regardless of the where the vent hole 316 is
positioned angularly with respect to the dip tube holder 351, the
vent hold 316 will be vented to the ambient by the passageway of
the circular and vent grooves 380, 382.
[0139] Referring now to FIG. 15, in this alternative embodiment,
one way of venting and permitting access to contents of the
container bodies 105, 110, 112, 114, 116 is by way of a dip tube
assembly 318 and a vent mechanism 319. The dip tube assembly 118
and/or vent mechanism 319 allow the container bodies 105, 110, 112,
114, 116 to be liquid tight while reducing incidences of spilling
when they are tipped or turned upside down, all while ensuring a
quick response to trigger 30 actuation or other dispensing
technique.
[0140] Still referring to FIG. 15, dip tube assembly 318 includes a
dip tube or other tubing-type segment that permits access to the
container contents and a cooperating check valve, are housed in the
container bodies 105, 110, 112, 114, 116. The dip tube assembly 118
is configured to convey the concentrate "C" out of the container
bodies 105, 110, 112, 114, 116, explained in greater detail
elsewhere herein, while ensuring that the dip tube remains full of
concentrate "C" for quick concentrate "C" delivery without priming
Container assemblies 100 of this embodiment includes vent
mechanisms 319 that serve as both vents and checkvalves for the
container bodies 105, 110, 112, 114, 116 while noting that in other
embodiments, separate and distinct vents are checkvalve are
incorporated in lieu of an integral or unitary multifunctional vent
mechanism 319. Vent mechanism 319 is configured to air to enter the
interior portion of container bodies 105, 110, 112, 114, 116 while
the concentrate "C" is being dispensed. This maintains the desired
pressure within the container bodies 105, 110, 112, 114, 116 by
replacing the volume that occupied by the dispensed concentrate
"C," preventing undesired vacuum buildup within the container
bodies 105, 110, 112, 114, 116. Preferably the vent mechanism 319
is made from a GORE-TEX.RTM. venting material, sintered-type or
other suitable materials, optionally, vents, pinholes, and/or other
mechanisms that permit air to enter but prevent concentrate "C"
from escaping the container bodies 105, 110, 112, 114, 116.
[0141] Referring again to FIGS. 1, 4-7, and 15-16, regardless of
the particular venting configuration(s) of the container assembly
100, the multiple container versions preferable include a rotating
frame 120 in which the container bodies 110, 112, 114, 116 are
mounted and through which they can operable interact with other
components of the device 10. In such configurations, e.g., by way
of rotating frame 120, the container assembly 100 in its entirety
can be pivotally or rotatably connected by opposite ends thereof to
the housing 20. The container assembly 100 preferably pivots or
rotates while defining discrete positions throughout the range of
rotation. The discrete positions can be defined by, for example,
detents, or other mechanical structures that enable a user to index
between such use positions for selecting the desired concentrate
"C" and thus the desired end use product. Optionally, various
printed or other indicia can be provided upon portions of the
housing 20, e.g., upon the upper and/or lower retaining flanges 90,
92, to facilitate visual alignment of the desired or selected
container body 110, 112, 114, 116.
[0142] Still referring to FIGS. 1, 4-7, and 15-16, the rotating
functionality of the container assembly 100 enables a user to
singularly or selectably align any one of the container bodies 110,
112, 114, 116 with the reservoir 50. For example, the selected
container body 110, 112, 114, 116 and its respective concentrate
"C" is operably connected such that the diluent "D" of reservoir 50
mixes with the concentrate "C" during the momentary dispensing act,
whereby the desired end use product is directed out of the
dispensing device 10. Namely, the user rotates the container
assembly 100 about the axis of rotation of the rotating frame 120
so that the desired container body 110, 112, 114, or 116 faces
directly forward, aligning the desired container body or
cooperating components with, e.g., the pump outlet tubing 84,
explained in greater detail elsewhere herein.
[0143] Referring now to FIGS. 15-16 and 36-37, in this embodiment,
the axis of rotation of rotating frame 120 can be maintained in a
substantially constant position by providing a fixed stem 165 (FIG.
36-37) about which the rest of the rotating frame 120 rotates.
Shown best in FIGS. 36-37, fixed stem 165 has a bottom end with
pockets 166 that accept corresponding prongs 167 of a base 162 that
is provided within the main body segment 22 and supports the
rotating frame 120 from below. Prongs 167 in this embodiment are
spaced from each other in a generally circular arrangement and the
prongs 167 extend angularly down so that their tips point toward an
axis of the circular arrangement. In this configuration, the prongs
167 generally define a conical taper that extends downwardly into
the base 162. In this configuration, during initial installation of
the stem 165, the stem's 165 bottom end is pushed into the base 162
so that the prongs 167 deflect or flex outwardly, with their tip
ends moving radially outward from the axis of the circular
arrangement of the prongs until they restore and snap into the
pockets 166. When the prongs 167 snap into the pockets 166, the
prongs 167 lock the stem 165 both axially and rotationally in a
fixed position with respect to the device 10 in a manner that
ensure that the relative positions of the container bodies 110,
112, 114, 116 between the divider walls 124 stay fixed with respect
to other components of the device 10, while allowing them to rotate
about the axis of rotation.
[0144] Referring now to FIGS. 15-16 and 36, rotating frame 120 has
a generally planar bottom wall 122 that has a generally circular
perimeter shape. Multiple divider walls 124 extend upwardly from
the bottom wall 122, intersecting each other and defining spaces
therebetween that rotate about the axis of rotation of the rotating
frame 120. It is in these spaces between adjacent divider walls 124
that the container bodies 110, 112, 114, 116 are housed while being
allowed to rotate about the axis of rotation of the rotating frame
120.
[0145] Referring still to FIGS. 15-16 and 36, whereas the divider
walls 124 of FIG. 15 extend from the middle of the rotating frame
120 all the way across the bottom wall 122, as shown in FIGS. 16
and 36, in these embodiments, the divider walls 124 are less wide
than those of FIG. 15. As shown in FIG. 16, in this embodiment,
each divider wall 124 extends only partway across back or sidewalls
of the container bodies 110, 112, and 114. For example, the divider
walls 124 extend less than halfway across a widest portion of the
container body back or side wall. The divider wall may fit within a
recess of the container body back or side wall that has the same
perimeter shape as the divider wall 124, so that an outer edge of
the divider wall abuts a shoulder defined between the recessed
portion and the remainder of the container body back or side wall.
The depth of such recess can be half of the thickness dimension of
the divider wall 124 so that a single divider wall can fit into
recesses of adjacent container bodies 110, 112, and 114 and support
them each from opposing surfaces.
[0146] Referring now to FIG. 36, divider walls 124 of this
embodiment radiate from a cylindrical core 160 that is mounted
concentrically around the stem 165, and have similarities to
certain portions of those in FIGS. 15 and 16. In this embodiment,
the divider walls 124 are narrow so as to extend a relatively short
radial distance from the axis of rotation, similar to those of FIG.
16, for most of their heights. However, the bottom portions of the
divider walls 124 extend all radially across the entire upper
surface of the bottom wall 122. These wider bottom portions of the
divider walls mechanically guide the bottoms of the container
bodies 110, 112, 114 into proper alignment while inserting them
into the rotating frame 120.
[0147] Referring again to FIGS. 15-16 and 36, the container bodies
110, 112, 114, 116 can be removably housed in the rotating frame
120 by way of, e.g., friction fit, snap-lock, and/or other
mechanical temporary holding techniques and corresponding
interfaces. As shown in FIG. 15, one suitable way to configure a
snap-lock arrangement is by providing one or more projection 125
can extend from one or more of the divider walls 124. One or more
receptacles 126 can extend into, e.g., back, side, or other
corresponding surfaces of the container bodies 110, 112, 114, 116
or components attached thereto. In this configuration, the
container body 110, 112, 114, 116 is installed by placing it into a
space between adjacent divider walls 124, the projections 125 are
aligned with the receptacles 126, and the container body 110, 112,
114, 116 is urged into place so that it nests snugly within such
space. Urging the container body 110, 112, 114, 116 into place in
this manner e.g., forces the projections 125 to resiliently flare
outwardly as they slide through the receptacles 126 and over
corresponding structure within the container body 110, 112, 114,
116. Once they clear or slide sufficiently far over such structure,
the projections 125 bias back inwardly. This defines the snap-lock
holding arrangement between the rotating frame 120 and the
container body 110, 112, 114, 116. Other snap-lock and/or other
temporary holding structures are contemplated and well within the
scope of the invention, including but not limited to, e.g., various
flex tabs and apertures, detents, external latches, and/or others
as desired, which permit the removable attachment of the container
body 110, 112, 114, 116 to the rotating frame 120, at least some of
which are described in greater detail elsewhere herein.
[0148] Referring now to FIGS. 16 and 36, container assembly 100 of
this embodiment is configured to hold three container bodies 110,
112, and 114, and they are held in a rotating frame 120 that
mechanically locks them in place in a different manner than those
shown in FIG. 15. Container assembly 100 of FIGS. 16 and 36 has
multiple features, at top and bottom portions thereof, that
interlock with the container bodies 110, 112, and 114 from above
and below. Instead of prong-like projections like those of FIG. 15,
as projection or interlock structures, bottom wall 122 can include
a resilient member such as flexible tab 125a that biases the
container assembly 100 upwardly, retaining it in place. Referring
still to FIGS. 16 and 36 flexible tab 125a resiliently pivots about
an axis defined by a line of attachment between it and the bottom
wall 122 of the rotating frame 120. Cutaway voids extend along the
sides of the flexible tabs 125a, extending radially through a major
portion of the bottom wall 122, ending less than one-quarter of an
inch from the stem or center of the rotating frame 120. Flexible
tab 125a can include a ramped projection 130 extending upwardly
therefrom and interlocking with the lower locking receptacle 215
that extends into a lower wall 210 of the container body 110, 112,
and 114 (FIGS. 19 and 20). The ramped projection 130 can be
generally triangular when viewed in a side elevation, with a
relatively more gradual slope at a surface facing away from the
rotating frame 120 and a relative steeper slope at a surface facing
toward the rotating frame 120. Preferably main body segment 22 of
the housing 20 accommodates actuation of flexible tab 125a by
including a depression or cutaway at a front portion that allows an
aligned tab 125a to be pushed downwardly thereinto. In this
configuration, only the particular tab 125a that is aligned with
such depression can be actuated, whereas tabs 125a that are not so
aligned are mechanically prevented from moving downwardly to an
extent that would release the container bodies 110, 112, and 114,
reducing a likelihood of non-desired container body 110, 112, and
114 removal.
[0149] Still referring to FIGS. 16 and 36, tabs 125a can be
positioned with respect to the thumb depressions 240 (FIG. 16) so
as to allow users to grasp lower portions of the container bodies
110, 112, and 114 near locations at which they release the
container bodies 110, 112, and 114 from the tabs 125a. This may
provide a comfortable gripping position in which the user can
initiate prying such bottom portion of the container bodies 110,
112, and 114 out from the rotating frame 120 during their
removal.
[0150] Referring still further to FIGS. 16 and 36, rotating frame
120 in this embodiment includes a top plate 140 that extends
parallel to the bottom wall 122 and supports the container bodies
110, 112, and 114 from above. In some embodiments, an upper locking
projection 125b extends downwardly from the top plate 140. Upper
locking projection 125b can have an arcuate bottom wall that
extends between and connects opposing sidewalls, defining a
downwardly facing semicircular perimeter shape, when viewed from a
front elevation. Regardless of the particular shape of the upper
locking projection 125b, it is configured to fit into a
corresponding recess or upper locking receptacle 250 (FIGS. 18-20)
that extends into an upper wall 212 of the container bodies 110,
112, and 114, such that outer surfaces of the upper locking
projection 125b abut or interface cooperating surfaces of the
container upper wall receptacles. In some embodiments, the top
plate 140 serves as a mounting structure for, or is integrated
with, an outlet assembly 400 which is explained in greater detail
elsewhere herein.
[0151] In yet other embodiments, container assemblies 100 having
multiple container bodies 110, 112, 114, and 116 do not have to
rotate about a vertical axis such as those illustrated in FIGS. 1,
and 4-7, but can have other configurations depending on the
intended end use design of dispensing device 10. Regardless of the
particular configuration of dispensing device 10, the container
assemblies 100 that utilize multiple container bodies 110, 112,
114, 116 are configured so that at any give time, a single
container body 110, 112, 114, 116 is fluidly connected to, e.g.,
reservoir 50, allowing the diluent "D" and selected concentrate "C"
to mix with each other during the dispensation act, exiting the
dispensing device 10 as the intended end use product.
[0152] For example, FIG. 8 illustrates another embodiment of
container assembly 100 that rotates for selecting the desired
container bodies 110, 112, 114, 116, and corresponding concentrate
"C" and end use product. However, the container assembly 100 seen
in FIG. 8 rotates about a horizontal axis of rotation in lieu of a
vertical axis of rotation such as those of FIGS. 1, and 4-7.
[0153] FIG. 9 depicts a further alternative embodiment of the
container assembly 100 wherein the container bodies 110, 112, 114,
116 are still removably connected but remain stationary with
respect to housing 20. In such embodiment, instead of aligning a
movable container body 110, 112, 114, 116 with the pump outlet
tubing 84, the pump outlet tubing is itself movable and can be
selectively aligned with the desired (fixed or stationary)
container body 110, 112, 114, 116, e.g., by way of a dial mechanism
119 or otherwise.
[0154] The alternative embodiments of FIGS. 10-11 show yet other
suitable methods for aligning container bodies 110, 112, 114, 116
with the remainder of the dispensing device 10. In these
embodiments, the head 60 and/or housing 20 is rotated to align
corresponding conduits, passages, or other flow directing
structures, permitting the diluent "D" and selected concentrate "C"
to mix with each other during the dispensation act, exiting the
dispensing device 10 as the intended end use product.
[0155] Referring again to FIGS. 16 and 36 and devices 10 that
incorporate a rotating frame 120 to hold multiple container bodies
110, 112, 114, 116, distribution collar 150 of this embodiment is
provided at the intersection of the divider walls 124, at the top
end of rotating frame 120. Hollow projections or sleeves 155 extend
radially from the distribution collar 150, in the spaces between
adjacent divider walls 124, and bores extend through the
distribution collar 150 and each of the sleeves 155, enabling fluid
flow therethrough. Distribution collar 150 is configured to accept
at least a portion of the downwardly extending elongate member 85
of pump outlet tubing 84 therein. Namely, the distribution collar
150 is sized and configured to cooperate with pump outlet tubing 84
so that the outlet bore 86 can be selectively aligned with one of
the bores extending through the distribution collar 150 and
respective one of the sleeves 155.
[0156] Referring now to FIGS. 36 and 37, in this embodiment, an
upper end of stem 165 couples the pump outlet tubing 84 to the
outlet assembly 400. Seen best in FIG. 37, in this embodiment, a
blind bore 170 extends axially into the upper end of the stem 165.
A counter bore 172 extends partially along the length of the blind
bore 170, so as to define a shoulder 171 therebetween. The inside
diameter of the counter bore 172 corresponds to the outside
diameter of the pump outlet tubing 84 so that the tubing 84 is
friction or interference fit into the counter bore 172, with the
end of the tubing 84 seated against the shoulder 171.
[0157] Referring now to FIG. 37, an outlet bore 174 of the stem 165
extends though the stem sidewall and radially into the blind bore
170. The outlet bore 174 aligns with the forward facing one of the
venturi assemblies 420 so that whichever particular container body
105, 110, 112, 114, 116 is facing forward in the device 10 at a
given time is the one that is fluidly connected to the pump
assembly 35 for dispensation. In this embodiment the distribution
collar 150 provides an interface between the venturi assemblies 420
and the outlet bore 174, whereby a selected one of the venturi
assemblies 420 and corresponding sleeves 155 of the distribution
collar 150 can be aligned with outlet bore 174 of the stem 165.
[0158] Referring now to FIGS. 37-41, a stem seal 180 ensures a
liquid-tight connection between the stem 165 and thus the pump
outlet tubing 84 and the selected one of the venturi assemblies
420. The stem seals 180 of these embodiments are configured to seal
the distribution collar 150 in three locations and correspondingly
incorporate three seals into the single unitary stem seal 180. Stem
seal 180 includes a collar 182 that is concentrically mounted over
the end of the stem 165. Collar 182 includes a front segment 183
that is thicker in crosssection than an opposing back segment. This
configuration provides the collar 182 with an inner perimeter that
has a step change in its opening radius. Upper and lower seals 184,
185 extend radially beyond an outer surface of the collar 182 at
the top and bottom of the stem seal 180. Face seal 186 extends from
a forward facing surface of the collar 182 and a seal opening 187
extends through the face seal 186, radially through the collar 182,
and is coaxially aligned with the outlet bore 174 of the stem 165.
A rib 188 extends from the lateral sides of the face collar 186 and
along at least a portion of the outer circumferential surface of
the collar 182.
[0159] Still referring to FIGS. 37-41, the upper and lower seals
184, 185 and the rib 188 provide vertical and transverse support to
the face seal 186 which enhances the face seal's 186 resistance to
deformation during use so as to maintain the integrity of the
liquid-tight seal between the pump outlet tubing 84 and the outlet
assembly 400 during use, for example as it is seated against an
inner circumferential surface of the distribution seal 155. Rib 188
can enhance or cooperate with the sealing ability of face seal 186
by, for example, ensuring that fluid which may leak past the face
seal 186 will be captured by the rib 188 and not leak throughout
the distribution ring 150 and into the non-selected (non-aligned or
forward facing) venturi assemblies 420.
[0160] FIGS. 39-41 show variants of the stem seal 180 shown if FIG.
38. FIG. 40 shows an embodiment having ribs 188 with rounded ends,
FIG. 39 shows an embodiment having a ridge at a back portion its
top wall for maintaining an angular position of the seal 180 upon
the stem 165, and FIG. 41 shows an embodiment having a single rib
188 that extends entirely around the collar 182, connected the
sides of the face seal 186 to each other.
[0161] In other embodiments, the stem seal 180 is directly
incorporated onto the stem 165 itself, for example, by an
elastomeric overmolding and/or other suitable procedure. In some
such embodiments, less than the entire stem seal 180 is overmolded
onto the stem 165, for example, one or more of the upper, lower,
and face seals 184, 185, 186 are overmolded onto the stem 165 while
any that are not overmolded may then be provided as a separate and
distinct seal component(s). In yet another embodiment, all of the
upper, lower, and face seals 184, 185, 186 are separate seal
components that are mounted to the stem 165.
[0162] Referring now to FIG. 38, in an alternative embodiment, the
collar 182 has a generally vertical or other split that allows the
collar 182 to open at such split and slide in a radical direction
over the top end of the stem 165, optionally, to create a larger
opening at the bottom of the stem seal 180 when the back ends of
the collar 182 are split so as to provide easy insertion of the
collar 182 over the top end of stem 165 in an axial direction with
respect thereto. Such a split is shown in-phantom line format by
the dashed line extending vertically down the back of the collar
182, opposite the seal opening 187.
[0163] Still referring to FIG. 38, in another alternative
embodiment, the stem seal 180 has a more plate or half-sleeve
configuration, whereby unlike collar 182 that extends about the
entire circumference of the stem 165, this embodiment is
substantially just the front segment 183 of the collar 182,
preferably having a sweep angle of more than about 100 degrees and
more preferably a sweep angle of about 120 degrees. Such
configuration is shown by the in-phantom line format by the two
dashed lines extending vertically down the sides of the collar 182,
on opposing sides of the seal opening 187 and which generally
represent where the wall of the seal 180 of such embodiment may
end. In a variant of such embodiment, the upper and lower seals
184, 185 on each end of the wall may be connected to each other
through a vertically extending seal segment that extends in front
of and adjacent to the respective end so as to reduce a likelihood
of any fluid from leaking out through or past the ends of the wall
and through the distribution ring 150 and into the non-selected
(non-aligned or forward facing) venturi assemblies 420.
[0164] Referring again to FIGS. 37-41, regardless of the particular
configuration of the stem seal 180, the stem seal is configured to
provide a relatively high pressure sealing capability by way of a
simple and cost-effective configuration. Stem seal 180 in each of
these embodiments is configured to provide a sufficiently liquid
tight seal between the stem 165 and the distribution collar 150
while enduring operating pressures of at least about 60 psi and
preferably at least about 90 psi during use or at least during
discrete dispensing acts in which the trigger of device 10 is being
actuated.
[0165] Regardless of the particular implementation of container
assembly 100, e.g., whether it includes a single container body 105
(FIG. 2) or multiple container bodies 110, 112, 114, and 116, each
container body 105, 110, 112, 114, and 116 includes an outlet
assembly 400 that is configured to permit the independently stored
and maintained diluent "D" and concentrate "C" to mix with each
other during the dispensation act or process, exiting the
dispensing device 10 as the intended end use product.
[0166] Referring now to FIGS. 15 and 42-45, outlet assemblies 400
are provided above the rotating frames 120 in these embodiments,
and lie between and provide the interface between the reservoir 50
and the respective container bodies 105, 110, 112, 114, 116. Each
outlet assembly 400 includes a cap 410 that houses a venturi
assembly 420 and, optionally, a drip catch 472. Drip catch 472,
shown in FIG. 15, can include, e.g., an aperture extending through
a front wall of cap 410. Drip catch 472 is adapted and configured
to collect or convey residual drips from nozzle 460. Preferably an
absorbent material is housed within the cap 410 behind the drip
catch 472, whereby residual drips are wicked into the drip catch
472 and removed from the front surface of cap 410 without requiring
user manipulation. The residual drips can be stored in the
absorbent material or drain back into the respective container body
105, 110, 112, 114, 116, depending on the particular configuration
of the drip catch 472.
[0167] Referring still to FIGS. 15 and 42-45, caps 410 sit atop the
container bodies 105, 110, 112, 114, 116 and are generally hollow
structures configured to fixedly, optionally removably house the
venturi assembly 420 therein (FIG. 42). The cap 410 is configured
to cooperate and interface with other components of the dispensing
device, e.g., pump outlet tubing 84, to ensure a sufficiently
sealed connection therebetween and permit fluid flow from the
reservoir 50 through the outlet assembly 400. As desired, various
O-rings, seals, and/or other hardware can be provided within or
adjacent the cap 410 to enhance the sealed interface or connection
between the pump outlet tubing 84, namely, the outlet bore 86
thereof and the venturi assembly 420 (FIG. 26). In some
implementations, the caps 410 are fixed to, or integrated with, the
container bodies 105, 110, 112, 114, 116.
[0168] Referring now to FIG. 36, in some embodiments, the caps 410
are connected to the top plate 140 of the rotating frame 120. In
such configuration, when concentrate "C" is depleted from a
container body 110, 112, 114, then the container itself is removed
from the rotating frame 120 while leaving the cap 410 and remainder
of the outlet assembly 400 attached to the device. Preferably, a
single cap 410 extends over the entire outlet assembly 400 so that
a venturi assemblies 420 are all housed inside of a single
enclosure defined between the cap 210 and the top plate 140 of the
rotating frame 120.
[0169] Referring now to FIGS. 42-51, each venturi assembly 420
includes a diluent inlet 430, a concentrate inlet 440, a venturi
portion 450, a nozzle 460, and can also include an alignment tab
470. Although being described in terms of a multiple container body
version of the device, it is fully appreciated that in some
embodiments (not shown) the venture assembly 420 can be
incorporated into single container body versions of the device 10.
Perhaps best seen in FIGS. 17 and 30, in these embodiments, the
venturi assembly 420 defines a generally T-shaped configuration
with the concentrate inlet 440 perpendicularly intersecting the
venturi assembly 420 from below. To complete the T-shaped
configuration of venturi assembly 420, the diluent inlet 430 and
nozzle 460 extend generally axially away from opposing ends of the
venturi portion 450.
[0170] Still referring to FIGS. 42-51, diluent inlet 430 is
selectively but operably sealed to the outlet bore 86 of pump
outlet tubing 84. For example, each diluent inlet 430 can be
concentrically housed inside of a respective sleeve 155 of the
distribution collar 150, preferably with an O-ring or other seal
therebetween. In such configuration, when the outlet bore 86 of
pump outlet tubing 84 is aligned with a certain sleeve 155, a
liquid-tight fluid connection is established between the pump
outlet tubing and the venturi assembly 420. This ensures that
diluent "D" will flow through the outlet bore 86 of the pump outlet
tubing 84, through the bore of the distribution collar and sleeve
155, and through venturi assembly 420 during dispensing acts or
procedures.
[0171] Referring yet further to FIGS. 42-51, concentrate inlet 440,
extending downwardly from the remainder of venturi assembly 220,
facilitates movement of the concentrate "C" from the container body
105, 110, 112, 114, 116 into the venturi assembly 420 where it
mixes with diluent "D". In some embodiments, a hose, dip-tube,
piece of tubing, or other conduit-type device extends from the
concentrate inlet 240 into the container body 105, 110, 112, 114,
116 opening into the volume of concentrate "C". As desired, the
concentrate inlet 440 can include a hose barb or shoulder to reduce
the likelihood of non-desired removal of the hose, dip-tube, or
piece of tubing therefrom. This can help ensure that, during use,
the concentrate "C" will be able to be drawn upwardly through the
concentrate inlet 440 into venturi portion 450.
[0172] Venturi portion 450, in general, operates as a typical
venturi device, according to known Bernoulli's principles, creating
a pressure differential between the venturi portion 450 and the
container body 105, 110, 112, 114, 116, whereby the concentrate "C"
is pushed or drawn into the venturi portion 450. In other words,
venturi portion 450 has first and second ends with relatively
larger inner diameters that conically taper down to a
reduced-diameter central segment 455.
[0173] In this configuration, perhaps best appreciated from FIGS.
45 and 49, while traversing the venturi portion 450 from the
diluent inlet 430 toward the nozzle 460, the diluent "D" increases
flow velocity but decreases pressure at the reduced-diameter
central segment 455. This creates a low pressure zone at the
reduced-diameter central segment 455, directly above the
concentrate inlet 440, and a pressure differential between the
reduced-diameter central segment 455 and the respective container
body 105, 110, 112, 114, 116. The pressure differential causes a
volume of concentrate "C" to flow upwardly through the concentrate
inlet 440, radially into the reduced-diameter central segment 455
where it mixes with the diluent "D" flowing axially through
reduced-diameter central segment 455. In this regard, the
concentrate "C" and diluent "D" mix together while the two fluids
are being expelled from the dispensing device 10. It is noted that
while a venturi-type mixing procedure is described, it is clear
that alternate embodiments may utilize any style of mixing,
entraining, or otherwise combining ordinarily known to one skilled
in the art to achieve the same result, wherein the concentrate "C"
and diluent "D" are maintained as separated, distinct entities
within the dispensing device 10.
[0174] As the concentrate "C" and diluent "D" mix or combine
together, they flow out of the venturi portion 450 into and through
the nozzle 460 as a mixed end use product. Nozzle 460 determines
the particular spray pattern and characteristics for the respective
container body 105, 110, 112, 114, 116. Thus, the particular shape,
dimensions, and/or other characteristics of nozzle 460 are selected
based on the desired end use spray characteristics for the
particular dispensed end use product.
[0175] Referring specifically now to FIG. 46, intake side, e.g.,
the part of venturi portion 450 adjacent the diluent inlet 230 (the
right side of venturi portion 450 as seen in FIG. 46), can be
relatively larger than the output side, e.g., the part of venturi
portion 250 adjacent the nozzle 460 (the left side of venturi
portion 450 as seen in FIG. 46). For example, the intake side of
venturi portion 450 can be at least about twice the length and at
least about twice the diameter as the output side of venturi
portion 450.
[0176] However, other relative dimensions of the various components
of venturi assembly 420 are readily implemented as desired and well
within the scope of the invention. The particular dimensions of the
various components of venturi assembly 420 are based at least in
part on, e.g., the desired spray pattern, the viscosity, density,
and/or other characteristics that could influence flow of
concentrate "C", the viscosity, density, and/or other
characteristics that could influence flow of diluent "D," or other
factors.
[0177] For example, and referring specifically now to FIGS. 46-51,
depending on the particular desired end use flow characteristics,
some embodiments of the venturi assembly 420 are configured
generally the opposite to those seen in FIGS. 26-29. In other
words, the venturi assemblies 420 of FIGS. 46-51 have diluent
inlets 430 that are shorter than outlet portions. It is noted that
the venturi assemblies of FIGS. 42-45 are nearly devoid of outlet
portions, having only a short conduit segment after the central
segment 450 that connects it to the nozzle 460. In contrast, the
embodiments of FIGS. 46-51 have outlet segments 458 that define a
major portion of an overall longitudinal length of the venturi
assembly 420, for example, greater than 50 percent, greater than 60
percent, or greater than 70 percent of such overall length.
[0178] Referring now to FIGS. 49-51, bores of venturi assembly 420
also differ from that seen in FIG. 45, in that the embodiments of
FIGS. 49-51 have multiple differing angular tapers, different
cross-sectional areas, and different perimeter shapes across their
respective lengths. For example, concentrate inlet 440 has an inner
diameter that rapidly reduces in size, having an arcuate sharp
curving transition between its greater diameter and lesser diameter
portions. Diluent inlet 430 has an opening diameter that tapers in
multiple stages, at differing taper angles, toward its connection
to a minimum diameter segment of the central segment 455. In this
embodiment, the diluent inlet 230 reduces its diameter in two
sequential tapering portions, the portion located further in the
diluent inlet 430 or nearest the central segment 455 having a more
gradual taper angle than the portion located furthest from the
central segment 455. Through the two tapering portions, the bore of
the diluent inlet 430 reduces its diameter to less than 1/2 of its
starting value, for example tapering from about 0.1 inch down to
about 0.04 inch.
[0179] Referring now to FIG. 49, a step-change diameter reduction
is defined at the interface of the diluent inlet 430 and the
central segment 455, such that a shoulder is defined therebetween.
A ratio of the diluent inlet 430 diameter to venturi opening
diameter defined at the central segment 455 can be greater than
4:3, optionally greater than 3:2, optionally greater than 2:1, or
others, depending on the particular desired end use configuration.
In a preferred embodiment, the diluent inlet has a diameter of
about 0.04 inch at the shoulder between it and the central segment
455, whereas the venturi portion at the central segment 455 has a
diameter or opening width of about 0.02 inch.
[0180] Referring now specifically to FIGS. 50-51, different
portions of the longitudinal bore(s) of the venturi assembly 420
can have different perimeter shapes, when view in cross-section.
Such a change in bore cross-sectional perimeter shape in this
embodiment occurs at the shoulder between the diluent inlet 430 and
the central segment 455. Whereas the diluent inlet 430 has a
circular cross-sectional perimeter shape, the central segment 455
has a rectangular upper half and a (semi)circular lower half. A
pair of upright sidewalls generally orthogonally intersect the flat
top wall and extends down from the top wall about half-way down the
opening which in this embodiment is about 0.01 inch, preferably
about 0.013 inch, which is about 1/2 of the width of the flat top
wall, that being about 0.02 inch. At the lower part of the central
segment 455 opening or bore, a curved bottom wall extends in an arc
between the bottom edges of the sidewall and is radiused to define
a diameter of about 0.02 inch so that the straight-line linear side
walls transition smoothly to the curvilinear bottom wall of the
opening or bore of the venturi portion 450. In this configuration,
the opening or bore of the central segment 455 defines a "D" shaped
perimeter with the curve pointing down.
[0181] Still referring to FIGS. 50-51, such downward pointing "D"
shaped perimeter extends from central segment 455 along the rest of
the length of the venturi assembly 420 that extends away from the
diluent inlet 430. In other words, the outlet segment 458 includes
the downward pointing "D" shaped perimeter of the central segment
455, while such opening increases in cross-sectional area along its
length toward the nozzle 460. In preferred embodiments, such rate
of increase in cross-sectional area is rather gradual, with a
general tapering angle of less than about 10 degrees as seen in the
sectioned view of FIG. 49. However, in this embodiment, the upper
most and lower most portions of the bore of the outlet segment 458
extends at slightly different angles with respect to a central axis
that is projected from the axis of the diluent inlet 230 bore.
Namely, the upper wall of the bore extending through the outlet
segment 258 diverges or angles upwardly from this central axis at
an angle of about 3 degrees, whereas the bottom wall of the outlet
segment 458 bore diverges or angles downwardly from such central
axis at an angle of about 4 degrees.
[0182] Referring again to FIGS. 46-51, venturi assembly 420 can
include a nozzle valve assembly 500 positioned between the
longitudinal bore of the venturi assembly 420 and a swirl chamber
550 that opens into the nozzle 460 outlet. Nozzle valve assembly
500 includes a valve body 510 having a valve end 520 and a plug end
430.
[0183] Valve end 520 has an umbrella valve disc that extends across
and covers a valve cavity 522 with multiple radially spaced struts
525 that concentrically surround an opening at the end of the
longitudinally extending bore of the venturi assembly 420. A stem
528 extends axially between and connects facing surfaces of the
valve and plug ends 520, 530 of the valve body 510. In another
embodiment, unlike the embodiments shown in FIGS. 46-51, the valve
body 510 has a valve end 520 that is devoid of the umbrella valve
disc. In other words, the end of the this valve body 510 that is
positioned furthest inside of the length of the venturi assembly
420 has the end surface of stem 528 interfacing with the opening at
the end of the bore extending through the outlet segment 458 of the
venturi assembly 420, shown in phantom by the dashed line
representing the end surface of stem 528 shown in FIG. 49.
[0184] Referring now to FIGS. 46-50, alignment fingers 535 extend
radially from an inner portion of the plug end 520 which is nearest
the stem 528. Ends of the fingers 535 abut an inner circumferential
surface of the nozzle housing, retaining the plug end in concentric
alignment therein. Multiple ribs 538 extend longitudinally along
and radially out from an outer portion of the plug end 520 which is
nearest a mixing chamber positioned adjacent and upstream of the
nozzle outlet. The ribs 538 provide clearance between the plug end
520 and the nozzle housing so that fluid flowing through the nozzle
is forced through radially extending passages, into the mixing
chamber and then out of the nozzle outlet.
III. System Use
[0185] In view of the above and referring again to FIG. 1, to use
the dispensing device 10, a user determines the desired end use
product and then selects a corresponding container body 105, 110,
112, 114, 116 that has a concentrate "C" of such end use product.
For example, the user can install a single container body 105 into
the dispensing device 10 or rotate a container assembly 100 so that
the desired container body 110, 112, 114, 116 faces forward,
aligning the respective outlet assembly 400 with the pump outlet
tubing 84.
[0186] The user actuates trigger 30 which draws diluent "D" from
reservoir 50 into and through the manual pump assembly 35. The
diluent "D" is forced out of the manual pump assembly 35 and
directed to the outlet assembly 400 by way of the pump outlet
tubing 84. The diluent then flows through the outlet assembly 400,
gaining velocity and dropping pressure as it passes through the
venturi portion 450. In response to the dropping pressure of
diluent "D" within venturi portion 450, concentrate "C" is drawn
from the container body 110, 112, 114, 116, through the dip tube
and into the venturi portion 450. In the venturi portion 450, the
diluent "D" and concentrate "C" mix with each other, creating the
end use product. The end use product exits the dispensing device 10
through nozzle 460.
[0187] Although the best mode contemplated by the inventors of
carrying out the present invention is disclosed above, practice of
the present invention is not limited thereto. It will be manifest
that various additions, modifications, and rearrangements of the
features of the present invention may be made without deviating
from the spirit and scope of the underlying inventive concept.
[0188] Moreover, the individual components need not be formed in
the disclosed shapes, or assembled in the disclosed configuration,
but could be provided in virtually any shape, and assembled in
virtually any configuration. Furthermore, all the disclosed
features of each disclosed embodiment can be combined with, or
substituted for, the disclosed features of every other disclosed
embodiment except where such features are mutually exclusive.
[0189] It is intended that the appended claims cover all such
additions, modifications, and rearrangements. Expedient embodiments
of the present invention are differentiated by the appended
claims.
* * * * *