U.S. patent application number 13/759885 was filed with the patent office on 2013-08-08 for foaming soap dispensers and methods.
This patent application is currently assigned to Frank Yang. The applicant listed for this patent is SIMPLEHUMAN, LLC. Invention is credited to Nasser Pirshafiey, David Wolbert, Frank Yang.
Application Number | 20130200109 13/759885 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 47747823 |
Filed Date | 2013-08-08 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130200109 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Yang; Frank ; et
al. |
August 8, 2013 |
FOAMING SOAP DISPENSERS AND METHODS
Abstract
A soap dispenser can be configured to dispense an amount of foam
soap. In some embodiments, the dispenser can include a venturi
device with an air inlet and a soap inlet. In certain
implementations, the dispenser can include a flexible impeller
pump. In some such embodiments, the pump can be configured to draw
liquid soap through the soap inlet of the venturi device and air
through the air inlet of the venturi device. The soap and air can
mix to form foam, which can be drawn into the pump and dispensed
via a nozzle in communication with the pump. In some embodiments,
the dispenser includes a screen, which can modify the texture of
the foam.
Inventors: |
Yang; Frank; (Rancho Palos
Verdes, CA) ; Wolbert; David; (Redondo Beach, CA)
; Pirshafiey; Nasser; (Thousand Oaks, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
SIMPLEHUMAN, LLC; |
Torrance |
CA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Yang; Frank
Rancho Palos Verdes
CA
SIMPLEHUMAN, LLC
Torrance
CA
Pirshafiey; Nasser
Thousand Oaks
CA
Wolbert; David
Redono Beach
CA
|
Family ID: |
47747823 |
Appl. No.: |
13/759885 |
Filed: |
February 5, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61595629 |
Feb 6, 2012 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
222/190 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47K 5/16 20130101; F04C
5/00 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
222/190 |
International
Class: |
B67D 7/76 20100101
B67D007/76 |
Claims
1. A soap dispenser comprising: a housing; a reservoir configured
to store liquid soap; an aspirator comprising a first inlet, a
second inlet, and an outlet, the first inlet in fluid communication
with the reservoir, the second inlet in fluid communication with
the ambient environment, the outlet in fluid communication with the
first and second inlets via a channel; a pump disposed in the
housing and comprising a body and an impeller, the impeller
disposed in an inner cavity of the body, the inner cavity in fluid
communication with the aspirator outlet, the pump configured to
encourage a flow of liquid soap from the reservoir through the
first inlet and to encourage a flow of air from the ambient
environment through the second inlet, the channel of the aspirator
configured to encourage mixing of the flows of liquid soap and air
to generate soap foam; and a discharge nozzle configured to
discharge a portion of the soap foam, the discharge nozzle in fluid
communication with the inner cavity of the pump body.
2. The soap dispenser of claim 1, further comprising a valve
disposed along a flow path between the reservoir and the
aspirator.
3. The soap dispenser of claim 1, wherein the aspirator further
comprises a first tapered portion in fluid communication with the
channel and a second tapered portion in fluid communication with
the channel.
4. The soap dispenser of claim 1, wherein the first inlet and the
outlet are generally axially aligned.
5. The soap dispenser of claim 1, wherein a first inlet diameter is
larger than a second inlet diameter.
6. The soap dispenser of claim 1, wherein a first inlet diameter is
larger than a channel diameter.
7. The soap dispenser of claim 1, wherein the second inlet is
generally centered on an axis that is substantially perpendicular
to the longitudinal axis of the channel.
8. The soap dispenser of claim 1, wherein the impeller comprises a
central body portion and a plurality of flexible arms.
9. The soap dispenser of claim 8, wherein each of the flexible arms
comprises a rounded protrusion.
10. The soap dispenser of claim 8, wherein the inner cavity is
configured to bend at least one of the flexible arms more than
another one of the flexible arms.
11. The soap dispenser of claim 1, wherein the inner cavity
comprises a generally eccentric-circular shape.
12. The soap dispenser of claim 1, wherein the impeller comprises a
bore.
13. The soap dispenser of claim 12, further comprising an actuation
mechanism connected to the impeller bore.
14. The soap dispenser of claim 1, wherein the pump is configured
to generate a negative pressure that is less than a pressure at the
aspirator outlet.
15. The soap dispenser of claim 1, wherein the pump further
comprises an inlet pocket near a pump inlet and an outlet pocket
near a pump outlet, the inlet pocket being larger than the outlet
pocket.
16. The soap dispenser of claim 1, wherein the pump further
comprises a pocket configured to transition between a first
configuration and a second configuration, the pocket being larger
in the first configuration than in the second configuration.
17. The soap dispenser of claim 1, further comprising a
flow-enhancing member in fluid communication with the inner cavity
of the pump body, the flow-enhancing member disposed downstream
from the pump.
18. The soap dispenser of claim 17, wherein the flow-enhancing
member is a screen.
19. The soap dispenser of claim 17, wherein the flow-enhancing
member is configured to provide a back pressure.
20. The soap dispenser of claim 1, wherein the discharge nozzle is
a duckbill valve.
21. The soap dispenser of claim 1, further comprising a holding
chamber disposed downstream of the aspirator, the holding chamber
configured to store the soap foam for a period of time.
22. A method of dispensing foaming liquid soap from a soap
dispenser, the method comprising: drawing a flow of liquid soap
from a reservoir and through a first inlet of an aspirator; drawing
a flow of ambient air through a second inlet of the aspirator;
generating soap foam in a channel of the aspirator; drawing the
soap foam from an aspirator outlet and through an inlet of a pump,
the pump comprising a body and an impeller, the impeller disposed
in an inner cavity of the body; and discharging a portion of the
soap foam from a nozzle.
23. The method of claim 22, further comprising drawing the soap
foam into a holding chamber, the holding chamber disposed
downstream from the aspirator.
24. The method of claim 23, further comprising storing the soap
foam in the holding chamber for a period of time.
25. The method of claim 22, wherein drawing the flow of liquid soap
from the reservoir and through the first inlet comprises drawing
the flow of liquid soap through a valve.
26. The method of claim 22, further comprising generating a
negative pressure within the aspirator channel relative to
ambient.
27. The method of claim 22, further comprising generating a region
of pressure near the second inlet that is less than a region of
pressure near the first inlet.
28. The method of claim 22, further comprising driving the
impeller, the impeller including a central body portion and a
plurality of flexible arms.
29. The method of claim 28, wherein driving the impeller comprises
moving a pocket between a first configuration and a second
configuration, the pocket being larger in the first configuration
than in the second configuration.
30. The method of claim 28, wherein driving the impeller comprises
moving each of the flexible arms between a first configuration and
a second configuration, wherein each of the flexible arms is more
bent in the first configuration than in the second
configuration.
31. The method of claim 22, further comprising generating a
negative pressure within the inner cavity relative to ambient.
32. The method of claim 21, further comprising generating a
pressure within the inner cavity that is less than the pressure at
the aspirator outlet.
33. The method of claim 22, further comprising discharging the soap
foam from an outlet of the pump and through a flow-enhancing
member.
34. The method of claim 33, wherein discharging the soap foam
through the flow-enhancing member further comprises generating a
back pressure.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This present application claims priority benefit under 35
U.S.C. .sctn.119(e) to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/595,629,
filed Feb. 6, 2012, entitled "FOAMING SOAP DISPENSERS AND METHODS,"
which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0002] 1. Field
[0003] The present disclosure relates to dispensing devices, and
some embodiments are particularly related to dispensers configured
to dispense foam soap.
[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0005] Users of modern public washroom facilities increasingly
desire that each of the fixtures in the washroom operate
automatically without being touched by the user's hand. This is
important in view of increased user awareness of the degree to
which germs and bacteria may be transmitted from one person to
another in a public washroom environment. Today, it is not uncommon
to find public washrooms with automatic, hands-free operated toilet
and urinal units, hand washing faucets, soap dispensers, hand
dryers, and door opening mechanisms. This automation allows the
user to avoid touching any of the fixtures in the facility, and
therefore lessens the opportunity for the transmission of
disease-carrying germs or bacteria resulting from manual contact
with the fixtures in the washroom.
SUMMARY
[0006] Certain aspects of this disclosure are directed toward a
soap dispenser including a housing, a reservoir, an aspirator, a
pump, and a discharge nozzle. The reservoir can be at least partly
contained in the housing and configured to store liquid soap. The
aspirator can include a first inlet, a second inlet, and an outlet.
The first inlet can be in fluid communication with the reservoir,
and the second inlet can be in fluid communication with the ambient
environment. The outlet can be in fluid communication with the
first and second inlets via a channel. The pump can be disposed in
the housing and can include a body and an impeller. The impeller
can be disposed in an inner cavity of the body, and the inner
cavity can be in fluid communication with the aspirator outlet. The
pump can be configured to encourage a flow of liquid soap from the
reservoir through the first inlet and to encourage a flow of air
from the ambient environment through the second inlet. The channel
of the aspirator can be configured to encourage mixing of the flows
of liquid soap and air to generate soap foam. The discharge nozzle
can be configured to discharge a portion of the soap foam. The
discharge nozzle can be in fluid communication with the inner
cavity of the pump body.
[0007] The features disclosed in this specification can be included
in any embodiments. The soap dispenser can include a valve disposed
along a flow path between the reservoir and the aspirator. The
aspirator can include a first tapered portion in fluid
communication with the channel and a second tapered portion in
fluid communication with the channel. The first inlet and the
outlet can be generally axially aligned. A first inlet diameter can
be larger than a second inlet diameter. A first inlet diameter can
be larger than a channel diameter. The second inlet can be
generally centered on an axis that is substantially perpendicular
to the longitudinal axis of the channel. The impeller can include a
central body portion and a plurality of flexible arms. The impeller
can include a bore. In certain aspects, the soap dispenser can
include an actuation mechanism connected to the impeller bore. The
impeller can include a central body portion and a plurality of
flexible arms. In certain aspects, each of the flexible arms can
include a rounded protrusion. The impeller can include a central
body portion and a plurality of flexible arms. The inner cavity can
be configured to bend at least one of the flexible arms more than
another one of the flexible arms. The inner cavity can have a
generally eccentric-circular shape. The pump can be configured to
generate a negative pressure that is less than a pressure at the
aspirator outlet. The pump can include an inlet pocket near a pump
inlet and an outlet pocket near a pump outlet. The inlet pocket can
be larger than the outlet pocket. The pump can include a pocket
configured to transition between a first configuration and a second
configuration. The pocket can be larger in the first configuration
than in the second configuration. The soap dispenser can include a
flow-enhancing member in fluid communication with the inner cavity
of the pump body and disposed downstream from the pump. The
flow-enhancing member can be a screen. The flow-enhancing member
can be configured to provide a back pressure. The discharge nozzle
can be a duckbill valve. The soap dispenser can include a holding
chamber disposed downstream of the aspirator. The holding chamber
can be configured to store the soap foam for a period of time.
[0008] Certain aspects of this disclosure are directed toward
methods of dispensing foaming liquid soap from a soap dispenser.
Some embodiments of the methods can include drawing a flow of
liquid soap from a reservoir and through a first inlet of an
aspirator. Certain embodiments include drawing a flow of ambient
air through a second inlet of the aspirator. Some variants of the
methods can include generating soap foam in a channel of the
aspirator. According to some variants, the methods can include
drawing the soap foam from an aspirator outlet and through an inlet
of a pump. The pump can include a body and an impeller, and the
impeller can be disposed in an inner cavity of the body. In some
embodiments, the methods can include discharging a portion of the
soap foam from a nozzle.
[0009] The method steps disclosed in this specification can be used
in any embodiments of the methods. The methods can include drawing
the soap foam through an outlet of the aspirator and into a holding
chamber. Some embodiments of the methods can include storing the
soap foam in the holding chamber for a period of time. Drawing the
flow of liquid soap from the reservoir and through the first inlet
can include drawing the flow of liquid soap through a valve. The
methods can also include driving the impeller. In certain aspects,
driving the impeller can include moving a pocket between a first
configuration and a second configuration. The pocket can be larger
in the first configuration than in the second configuration. In
certain aspects, driving the impeller can include moving each of
the flexible arms between a first configuration and a second
configuration. Each of the flexible arms can be more bent in the
first configuration than in the second configuration. The methods
can include generating a negative pressure within the aspirator
channel relative to ambient. The methods can include generating a
region of pressure near the second inlet that is less than a region
of pressure near the first inlet. The methods can also include
generating a negative pressure within the inner cavity relative to
ambient. The methods can include generating a pressure within the
inner cavity that is less than the pressure at the aspirator
outlet. The methods can include discharging the soap foam from an
outlet of the pump and through a flow-enhancing member. Discharging
the soap foam through the flow-enhancing member can include
generating a back pressure.
[0010] For purposes of summarizing the disclosure, certain aspects,
advantages and features of the inventions have been described
herein. It is to be understood that not necessarily any or all such
advantages can be achieved in accordance with any particular
embodiment of the inventions disclosed herein.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] Certain features, aspects, and advantages of the subject
matter disclosed herein are described below with reference to the
drawings, which are intended to illustrate and not to limit the
scope of the disclosure. Various features of different disclosed
embodiments can be combined to form additional embodiments, which
are part of this disclosure. No structures, features, steps, or
processes are essential or critical; any can be omitted in certain
embodiments. The drawings comprise the following figures:
[0012] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an embodiment of
a foam soap dispenser;
[0013] FIG. 2A is a schematic diagram illustrating another
embodiment of a foam soap dispenser including a venturi device,
pump, mesh, and dispensing assemblies;
[0014] FIG. 2B is a cut-away top view of an embodiment of the pump
of FIG. 2A;
[0015] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a venturi device and an
impeller pump;
[0016] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the venturi device of FIG.
3;
[0017] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the venturi device of FIGS.
3 and 4;
[0018] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the venturi device of
FIG. 5 taken along line 6-6;
[0019] FIG. 7 is an end view of the venturi device of FIGS. 3 and
4;
[0020] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a flexible impeller
mechanism; and
[0021] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a flexible impeller
pump.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0022] FIG. 1 schematically illustrates an embodiment of a foaming
soap dispenser 10 that can include various features and embodiments
of the subject matter disclosed herein. Certain features and
embodiments of the subject matter are disclosed in the context of a
foam soap dispenser 10 because they have particular utility in this
context. However, the subject matter disclosed herein can be used
in many other diverse contexts and environments of use. For
example, some or all of the subject matter disclosed herein can be
used in other types of pumps, dispensers, battery-powered devices,
or even any other electric devices. Those of ordinary skill in the
art will recognize, from the description set forth below, many of
the other environments of use in which the subject matter can be
used, although all of those environments are not described
herein.
[0023] The soap dispenser 10 includes a housing 12. The housing 12
can be configured to support a liquid handling system 14. The
liquid handling system 14 can include a reservoir 16, a pump 18,
and a discharge assembly 20. Some embodiments of the liquid
handling system 14 include an air inlet conduit 70 and an
aspirator, such as a venturi device 85. In some embodiments, the
inlet conduit 70 is configured to intake air directly from the
ambient environment. In some embodiments, the inlet conduit 70 is
configured to intake air indirectly from the ambient environment,
such as by intaking air within the housing 12.
[0024] The reservoir 16 can be any type of container, such as a
vessel, bag, balloon, or otherwise. In the illustrated embodiment,
the reservoir 16 is configured to contain a volume of liquid soap,
such as liquid soap for hand washing. In some embodiments, the
reservoir 16 can include a lid 22 configured to form a seal at the
top of the reservoir 16 for maintaining the liquid soap L within
the reservoir 16. In some embodiments, the lid 22 can include an
air vent (not shown), so as to allow air to enter the reservoir 16
as the level of liquid soap L falls within the reservoir 16.
[0025] The reservoir 16 can include an outlet 24. In certain
embodiments, the outlet 24 can comprise a conduit extending from
the reservoir 16. In some embodiments, the outlet 24 can comprise
an opening in the lower portion of the reservoir 16. In certain
implementations, the outlet 24 can place the reservoir 16 in fluid
communication with an aspirator.
[0026] In some embodiments, the aspirator can be an eductor-jet
pump or a filter pump, or a venturi device 85 as illustrated, which
can include an air inlet conduit 70 and an outlet 77. The air inlet
conduit 70 can be any type or diameter of conduit, so as to allow
air to enter the venturi device 85. The air inlet conduit 70 can
include a first end 70a and a second end 70b. The first end 70a can
be connected with the venturi device 85. In some embodiments, the
second end 70b of the air inlet conduit 70 is disposed outside the
reservoir 16 (e.g., in communication with the ambient environment).
In some embodiments, the second end 70b of the air inlet conduit 70
is positioned in the reservoir 16 (e.g., above the fill level of
liquid soap). In some variants, the air inlet conduit 70 includes a
one-way valve (e.g., a flapper valve, duckbill valve, or otherwise)
that is configured to inhibit air and/or soap from exiting the
venturi device 75 via the air inlet conduit 70. As shown, the
venturi device 85 can be connected to the pump 18 via the outlet
77.
[0027] The pump 18 can be configured to draw a flow of soap from
the outlet 77 and encourage the soap to flow through the conduit
26. In some embodiments, the pump 18 can be disposed in the
reservoir 16. In certain such embodiments, the pump 18 can be
automatically primed due to the force of gravity drawing soap into
the pump 18. In some implementations, the pump 18 is positioned
elsewhere within the housing 12. For example, in some
configurations, the pump 18 is positioned above at least part of
the reservoir. In certain cases, a fluid conveyor, such as a
worm-screw or an auger, or the like, is configured to deliver
liquid soap to the pump 18.
[0028] As illustrated, the pump 18 can be connected to the
discharge assembly 20 via the conduit 26. The discharge assembly 20
can include a flow-enhancing member (e.g., a screen 86), and tubing
87, and a discharge nozzle 28. In some embodiments, the screen 86
is disposed in the flow path of the soap between the pump 18 and
the nozzle 28. In some embodiments, the screen 86 is disposed
elsewhere, such as downstream of the discharge nozzle 28.
[0029] In certain implementations, the discharge nozzle 28 is
configured to dispense foam and inhibit undesired dripping of soap
(liquid or foamed) after a dispensing cycle ends. For example, the
discharge nozzle 28 can include a one-way valve, such as a duckbill
or pin valve, that is configured to close after an amount of foam
has been dispensed. The size of the discharge nozzle 28 can be
determined to provide the appropriate flow rate and/or resistance
against flow of foam soap from the pump 18.
[0030] In some embodiments, the nozzle 28 can be disposed at a
location spaced above the lower portion of the housing 12 (e.g., at
or near the top of the housing) so as to make it more convenient
for a user to place a hand or other body part under the nozzle 28.
For example, in some embodiments, the nozzle 28 can be disposed on
a vertical portion of the housing 12, so that the force of gravity
encourages the foam soap to shear from the nozzle 28 after
dispensation. However, other configurations can also be used.
[0031] The pump 18 can be driven or otherwise operated by an
actuator 34. In certain embodiments, the actuator 34 is an AC or DC
electric motor, stepper motor, server motor, solenoid, stepper
solenoid, or any other type of actuator. In some implementations,
the actuator 34 is connected to the pump 18 with a transmitter
device 50. For example, the transmitter device 50 can include any
type of gear train or any type of flexible transmitter assembly
(e.g., belt, chain, or otherwise).
[0032] In certain embodiments, the pump 18 is controlled by an
electronic control unit 46. The ECU 46 can include one or a
plurality of circuit boards providing a hard wired feedback control
circuit, a processor and memory devices for storing and performing
control routines, or any other type of controller. In some
embodiments, the ECU 46 can include an H-bridge transistor/MOSFET
hardware configuration which allows for bidirectional drive of an
electric motor, and a microcontroller such as Model No. PIC16F685
commercially available from the Microchip Technology Inc., and/or
other devices.
[0033] Some embodiments of the dispenser 10 can include a power
supply 60. Typically, the power supply 60 is configured to power
the ECU 46 and/or the actuator 34. The power supply 60 can be, for
example, a battery or can include electronics for accepting AC or
DC power.
[0034] The dispenser 10 can also include a user input device 52.
The user input device 52 can be any type of device allowing a user
to input a command into the ECU 46. For example, the input device
52 can be a button that a user can depress to transmit a command to
the ECU 46. In some embodiments, the ECU 46 can be configured to
actuate the actuator 34 to drive the pump 18 any time the input
device 52 is activated by a user. The ECU 46 can also be configured
to provide other functions upon the activation of the input device
52, such as signaling the dispenser to dispense a predetermined
amount (e.g., an amount suitable for washing cookware) or a
continuous flow of foam soap.
[0035] FIG. 2A provides a schematic illustration of the liquid
handling system 14, discharge assembly 20, and pump 18. As
previously described, the liquid handling system 14 can include the
venturi device 85. The venturi device 85 can have a first inlet 75,
a second inlet 79, and an outlet 77. The outlet 77 can be in fluid
communication with the first and second inlets 75, 77. According to
some embodiments, the venturi device 85 can be configured such that
the first inlet 75 and the second inlet 79 each receive an inflow
of liquid soap, air, or any combination of liquid soap and air.
[0036] In some embodiments, the pump 18 can draw liquid soap into
the venturi device 85 via the first inlet 75. For example, in some
embodiments, the pump 18 can create a negative pressure of the
venturi device 85, compared to ambient. In certain variants,
compared to ambient, a negative pressure of at least about 0.3 psi
is created within the venturi device 85. In some embodiments, the
pump 18 generates a negative pressure of less than or equal to
about 0.5 psi inside of the venturi device 85, compared to ambient.
In some embodiments, the pump 18 generates a negative pressure of
at least about 0.5 psi inside of the venturi device 85, compared to
ambient.
[0037] In some embodiments, the negative pressure within the
venturi device 85 can result in air being drawn in through the
second inlet 79. As discussed in further detail below, the venturi
device 85 can include a necked portion, or a region in which a
cross-sectional width is less than the cross-sectional widths of
nearby regions, which can further encourage the drawing of air into
the venturi device 85 via the second inlet 79. In some embodiments,
the pump 18 can encourage both liquid soap and air to be pulled
through the venturi device 85 toward the outlet 77, such as via the
first and second inlets 75, 77, respectively. In certain
implementations, the liquid soap and the air mix as they pass
through the venturi device 85, thereby forming soap foam. For
example, the flow of liquid soap and the flow of air can
turbulently engage to produce soap foam.
[0038] Some embodiments of the dispenser 10 include a chamber 65
disposed between the venturi device 85 and the pump 18. The
dispenser 10 can include a conduit 27 which provides fluid
communication between the venturi device 85 and the chamber 65. In
some implementations, the chamber 65 can be configured to store
foam produced by the venturi device 85. For example, some variants
of the chamber 65 can receive and/or store an overflow of foam
(e.g., more foam than the venturi device can contain) from the
outlet 77 of the venturi device 85. In certain embodiments, the
volume of the chamber 65 can be equal to or greater than the volume
of the venturi device 85 and/or the pump 18. In some embodiments,
the chamber 65 and the venturi device 85 are separate components.
In other embodiments, the chamber 65 can be incorporated into,
and/or monolithically formed with, the venturi device 85 so that
the chamber 65 and venturi device 85 form a unitary component.
Certain implementations of the chamber 65 can allow for further
mixing of soap and air after the above-described initial mixing
occurs within the venturi device 85. In some embodiments, the flow
of the soap foam pauses in the chamber 65 for a period of time
(e.g., greater than or equal to about 1 second). For example, in
some variants, the flow of the soap foam is generally stationary in
the chamber 65 before proceeding toward inlet 25 of the pump 18. In
some implementations, the volume of soap foam entering the chamber
65 (e.g., the volume of soap foam exiting the venturi device 85) is
greater than or approximately equal to the volume of soap foam
exiting the chamber 65 (e.g., the volume of soap foam entering the
pump 18).
[0039] According to some embodiments, an outlet 25 provides fluid
communication between the venturi device 85 and/or chamber 65 and
the pump 18. Various types of pumps can be employed. For example,
in certain embodiments, the pump 18 is a gear pump. In some
embodiments, the pump 18 can comprise a flexible impeller pump,
such as is illustrated in FIG. 2B. Certain embodiments of a
flexible impeller pump generally include a pump body 255 with an
inner cavity 252 that houses a flexible impeller 250. In some
embodiments, the flexible impeller 250 can comprise a central body
portion 258 and a plurality of flexible arms 257 extending from the
central body portion 258. Typically, the flexible arms 257 are made
of a resilient material, such as rubber, plastic, or silicone. As
discussed in further detail below, in certain orientations, the
flexible arms 257 are bent, compressed, or otherwise moved or
changed in shape, by the body 255, thereby drawing the soap in
through a pump inlet 253 and discharging the soap out through a
pump outlet 254. The pump 18 can be configured to engage with the
conduit 26 via the pump outlet 254.
[0040] As discussed above, the conduit 26 can include one or more
flow-enhancing members, such as mesh screens 86. The one or more
screens 86 can be made of any material, such as a material that
resists corrosion in the presence of water, such as plastic,
rubber, stainless steel, or any other similar material. The
mesh-size of the screen 86 (e.g., the size of the holes defined by
the structure of the screen) can be chosen so as to provide a
desired flow characteristic of foam discharged through the nozzle
28, in the downstream direction. For example, a screen 86 can be
used to provide a back pressure sufficient to briefly hold back an
initial flow of foam as it is discharged from the nozzle 28 such
that the foam that is first discharged has a shape that matches the
shape of the nozzle 28. In some embodiments, without such a screen
or backpressure-creating device, a pump can occasionally discharge
an initial amount of foam that has an outer diameter or shape that
does not match the nozzle 28. In some embodiments, the nozzle 28
can comprise a duckbill valve or some other low-pressure valve.
[0041] FIGS. 3 and 4 show a partial embodiment of the
liquid-handling system 14. In the embodiment shown, the reservoir
16 and outlet 24 are illustrated as a liquid soap supply 17 and a
tube adaptor 29. Of course, in other implementations, the dispenser
10 includes the reservoir 16 and outlet 24, as discussed above. The
liquid soap supply 17 can include a first tube 33 and a second tube
35 with a disconnection-resistant valve 31 connected therebetween
(e.g., with barbed fittings). The valve 31 can be configured to
control the flow of liquid soap passing through the liquid soap
supply 17. The tube adaptor 29 can be configured to connect with
the second tube 35 and the venturi device 85. For example, one end
of the adaptor 29 can be configured to receive the second tube 35
and a second end of the adaptor 29 can flare radially outward to
receive a portion of the venturi device 85.
[0042] With regard to FIGS. 5-7, an embodiment of the venturi
device 85 is shown. As previously noted, the venturi device 85 can
comprise the first inlet 75, second inlet 79, and outlet 77. The
first inlet 75 can be configured to engage with a source of liquid
soap (e.g., the reservoir 16), an air source, or both. The second
inlet 79 can be configured to engage with an air source, a source
of liquid soap, or both. The outlet 77 can be configured to
discharge the flow of the inlets 75, 79. In some embodiments, the
first inlet 75 has a first inner diameter D1 and the outlet 77 has
a second inner diameter D2. In some embodiments, D1 is
approximately equal to D2. In certain implementations, D1 and/or D2
are at least about 1.0 mm and/or equal to or less than about 20 mm.
In some versions, D1 and/or D2 are at least about 2.0 mm and/or
equal to or less than about 10 mm. In certain embodiments, D1
and/or D2 are at least about 2.5 mm and/or equal to or less than
about 5.0 mm. Further, in some embodiments, D1 and/or D2 is
approximately 3.0 mm. In some arrangements, D2 is greater than D1.
For example, D2 can be at least about 1.1, about 1.7, or about 2.0
or otherwise, times the size of D1. Such a configuration can, for
example, provide additional through-put for foam via the outlet 77.
In certain embodiments, the outlet 77 of the venturi device 85 can
be configured to engage with an inlet 253 of the pump 18.
[0043] In some embodiments, the first inlet 75 communicates with a
first tapered portion 81 and the outlet 77 communicates with a
second tapered portion 89. A channel 83 can fluidly connect the
first and second tapered portions 81, 89. The channel 83 can have
an inner diameter D3. Typically, the inner diameter D3 is less than
each of the inner diameters D1 and D2. For example, D3 can be less
than or equal to about 1/8, about 1/2, about 7/8 or otherwise, the
size of D1 and/or D2. The venturi device 85 can have a generally
hour-glass shape in cross-section. In some embodiments, the
interior shape can facilitate a change in pressure as fluid flows
through the venturi device 85, as discussed in further detail
below. In some embodiments, the first tapered portion 81 tapers
from D1 to D3 and the second tapered portion tapers from D2 to D3.
In some versions, D3 is at least about 0.5 mm and/or equal to or
less than about 10 mm. In certain embodiments, D3 is at least about
0.75 mm and/or equal to or less than about 2.5 mm. According to
some configurations, D3 is approximately 1.0 mm. The first tapered
portion 81 and/or the second tapered portion 89 can each taper
generally linearly or generally non-linearly (e.g., can be
generally curved). In some embodiments, generally one of the
portions 81, 89 tapers generally linearly, and the other of the
tapered portions 81, 89 tapers non-linearly.
[0044] In certain implementations, the channel 83 is also fluidly
connected with the second inlet 79. For example, as shown, the
second inlet 79 can be positioned on a side of the venturi device
85. In some embodiments, the second inlet 79 is disposed
substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the channel
83. In some instances, the second inlet 79 is spaced apart from the
first and second tapered portions 79. In certain implementations,
the second inlet 79 is generally non-tapered.
[0045] The second inlet can have an inner diameter D4. In certain
versions, D4 is at least about 0.5 mm and/or less than or equal to
about 5.0 mm. In some instances, D4 is about 2.0 mm. In some
embodiments, D4 is less than D1 and/or D2. For example, D4 can be
less than or equal to about 1/8, about 1/2, or about 7/8 or
otherwise, the size of D1 and/or D2. In certain implementations, D4
is at least about 0.8 times and/or less than or equal to about 1.3
times the size of D3. In some embodiments, D4 is about equal to
D3.
[0046] Generally, when fluid (e.g., liquid soap) is flowing though
the venturi device 85 from the first inlet 75 to the outlet 77, the
first inlet has a pressure of P1 and the outlet 77 has a pressure
of P3. As the fluid flows through the first tapered portion 81
toward the reduced diameter of the channel 83, the fluid generally
increases in velocity. Such an increase in velocity generally
results in a reduction of pressure, thereby forming a region of low
pressure P2 in the vicinity of the second inlet 79. This low
pressure P2 can cause fluid (e.g., air) to be pulled into the
venturi device 85 via the second inlet 79, which can result in a
mixing of the fluid entering through the first inlet 75 and the
fluid entering the second inlet 79.
[0047] For example, in some embodiments, the pump 18 will create a
pressure differential that can pull liquid soap through the first
inlet 75, through the venturi device 85, and out of the outlet 77.
As the liquid soap passes through the first tapered portion 81 and
the channel 83 the velocity of the liquid soap increases due to the
decreased diameter, thereby generating the low pressure P2 is
created in the channel 83. The low pressure P2 can cause air to be
drawn in through the second inlet 79. The air and liquid soap can
then mix in the venturi device 85 and the mixture can exit the
venturi device 85 via the outlet 77, generally in the form of soap
foam. In some embodiments, air enters the venturi device 85 via the
inlet 75 and liquid soap enters the venturi device 85 through the
second inlet 79.
[0048] Various foams can be produced with the venturi device 85.
According to some configurations, the ratio of soap to air can be
at least approximately 3:1 and/or less than or equal to
approximately 8:1, depending on, for example, the type of soap used
and the desired qualities of the foam. In some embodiments, the
ratio of soap to air can be less than about 3:1. In other
embodiments, the ratio of soap to air could be greater than about
8:1.
[0049] FIGS. 8 and 9 show an embodiment of the flexible impeller
pump 18. As previously noted, the flexible impeller pump 18 can
include the pump body 255 that is configured to receive the
flexible impeller 250, which in turn can comprise the central hub
258 with a plurality of flexible arms 257 extending therefrom. In
some embodiments, the outside diameter of the flexible impeller 250
(including the arms 257) can be at least about: 8.0 mm, 12.0 mm,
14.0 mm, or otherwise. In some embodiments, the length of the
flexible arms 257 can be at least about: 1.5 mm, 3.5 mm, 5.0 mm, or
otherwise.
[0050] In some implementations, the flexible arms 257 have ends 259
that are functionally shaped to enhance the sealing contact between
the flexible arms 257 and the pump body 255. For example, in the
embodiment shown, the ends 259 have rounded protrusions. The shape
of the flexible arms 257 can facilitate the movement of the pump,
such as by reducing the likelihood of the arms becoming caught or
snagged on the pump body 255.
[0051] The pump body 255 can include an inner cavity 252. In some
embodiments, the inner cavity 252 has a generally elliptical,
generally eccentric-circular, or other non-circular shape. In
certain such instances, some portions of the inner cavity 252 are
nearer to the central hub 258 than other portions of the inner
cavity 252. For example, in some embodiments, the inner cavity can
have an elliptical shape having a major axis (e.g., of at least
approximately: 10 mm, 14 mm, 17 mm, or otherwise) and a minor axis
(e.g., of about: 8 mm, 10 mm, or 13 mm, or otherwise). In some
instances, the portions of the pump body 255 that form the minor
axis are closer to the central hub 258 of the flexible impeller 250
than the portions of the pump body 255 that form the major
axis.
[0052] In some embodiments, the flexible impeller 250 can be housed
within the inner cavity 252 of the pump body 255. The impeller 250
can be operably connected with the actuator 34, such that the
actuator 34 can rotate the impeller 250 relative to the pump body
255. For example, the impeller 250 can include a bore 260 that is
configured to couple with the transmitter device 50 (e.g., a
shaft), which in turn connects with the actuator 34. In some
embodiments, the actuator 34 can rotate the impeller 250. For
example, the actuator 34 can be configured to rotate the impeller
at a speed of at least about 2,000 RPM and/or equal to or less than
about 3,000 RPM. According to some configurations, the thickness T1
of the flexible impeller 250 can be such that the top surface of
the flexible impeller 250 can be substantially flush with the top
surface of the pump body 255. In some implementations, the top
surface of the flexible impeller 250 is recessed from top surface
of the pump body 255 so as to allow space for another component,
such as a gasket.
[0053] In some embodiments, the inner cavity 252 can be shaped or
otherwise configured to cause bending in the flexible arms 257 as
the central body portion 258 rotates relative to the pump body 255.
For example, when the flexible arms 257 contact the portions of the
inner cavity 252 that are nearer to the central hub 258 of the
flexible impeller 250, the flexible arms 257 deflect, move,
compress, other otherwise change in shape, more than when the arms
contact the portions of the inner cavity 252 that are farther from
the central hub 258 of the flexible impeller 250. For example, in a
generally elliptical inner cavity 252, the arms 257 in contact with
the portion of the inner cavity at the minor axis of the ellipse
can be bent more than the arms in contact with the portion of the
inner cavity at the major axis of the ellipse.
[0054] Typically, the flexible arms 257 of the impeller 250 are
configured to contact the inner cavity 252 of the pump body 250. In
various configurations, a plurality of pockets can be formed
between the impeller 250 and the inner cavity 252. In some
implementations, each of the pockets can be formed between two of
the arms 257, the central body 258, and the inner cavity 252. In
certain embodiments, at least one of the pockets can be
variably-sized, such as during the movement (e.g., rotation) of the
pump. For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 2A and 8, an inlet
pocket 251 can be formed in the vicinity of the pump inlet 253 and
an outlet pocket can be formed in the vicinity of the pump outlet
254. In some embodiments, the inlet pocket 251 can be larger than
the outlet pocket 256.
[0055] In some embodiments, the size of at least one pocket will
vary as the impeller 250 spins. As the impeller 250 spins, the
pocket moves around the periphery of the inner cavity 252.
According to some embodiments, as illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 9, a
pocket that starts as an inlet pocket 251 will gradually change in
size as it moves about the inner cavity 252. For example, the size
of the pocket can remain relatively constant until the pocket
approaches the outlet 254. As the pocket approaches the outlet 254,
the radius of the interior walls of the inner cavity 252 can
decrease which can cause the flexible arms 257 defining the pocket
to bend and reduce the size of the pocket. This reduction in size
of the pocket can increase the pressure within the pocket, which in
turn can eject the foam within the pocket into the pump outlet 254
as the pocket passes the outlet 254.
[0056] As the pocket continues to move about the inner cavity 252,
an increase in the radius of the inner cavity 252 can cause the
arms 257 to unbend or to otherwise return to an initial state or
condition in the vicinity of the inlet 253 and thereby increase the
size of the pocket. As the pocket expands and passes the inlet 253,
a decrease in pressure (e.g., a vacuum) can be created within the
pocket, which can pull foam into the pocket from the inlet 253. In
some embodiments, the pump 18 generates a negative pressure that is
less than the pressure at the outlet 77 of the venturi device 85
(e.g., ambient). In various embodiments, foam from the venturi
device 85 is draw into the pocket in the pump 18. In certain
implementations, the pump 18 generates a negative pressure
(relative to the pressure in at the outlet 77) of at least about
0.2 psi and/or less than or equal to about 2.0 psi. In some
instances, the pump 18 generates a negative pressure of at least
about 0.4 psi and/or less than or equal to about 1.0 psi. In some
embodiments, the pump 18 generates a negative pressure of about 0.5
psi.
[0057] Accordingly, as the impeller 250 spins within the pump body
255, foam can be drawn from the venturi device 85 into the pump
body 255. Further, the foam can be discharged from the pump body
255 into the conduit 26 for dispensation via the nozzle 28 as
desired.
[0058] Although the dispenser has been disclosed in the context of
a certain embodiments and examples, it will be understood by those
skilled in the art that the dispenser extends beyond the
specifically disclosed embodiment to other alternative embodiments
and/or uses of the dispenser and obvious modifications and
equivalents thereof. In addition, while several variations of the
dispenser have been shown and described in detail, other
modifications, which are within the scope of this disclosure, will
be readily apparent to those of skill in the art. For example, some
embodiments of the dispenser are configured to draw air through the
first inlet of the venturi device and soap through the second inlet
of the venturi device. Further, some embodiments of the dispenser
are configured to dispense foam other than soap foam, such as
lotion foam, fire-suppressant foam, insulation foam, and otherwise.
Moreover, in certain embodiments, the air inlet of the venturi
device can be selectively closed (e.g., by a valve, movable door,
other otherwise), thereby permitting the dispenser to selectively
dispense either liquid soap or foam soap based on whether liquid
soap and air or only liquid soap are allowed to enter the venturi
device. It is also contemplated that various combination or
sub-combinations of the specific features and aspects of the
embodiments or variations may be made and still fall within the
scope of this disclosure. It should be understood that various
features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments can be combined
with or substituted for one another in order to form varying modes
of the dispenser. Thus, it is intended that the scope of the
dispenser herein-disclosed should not be limited by the particular
disclosed embodiments described above, but should be determined
only by a fair reading of the claims that follow.
* * * * *