U.S. patent application number 13/792028 was filed with the patent office on 2013-11-14 for foam dispensers and refill units for foam dispensers.
This patent application is currently assigned to GOJO Industries, Inc.. The applicant listed for this patent is Nick E. Ciavarella, Jonathan E. Fawcett, David D. Hayes, John J. McNulty, Robert L. Quinlan, David J. Smith. Invention is credited to Nick E. Ciavarella, Jonathan E. Fawcett, David D. Hayes, John J. McNulty, Robert L. Quinlan, David J. Smith.
Application Number | 20130299518 13/792028 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 49547857 |
Filed Date | 2013-11-14 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130299518 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
McNulty; John J. ; et
al. |
November 14, 2013 |
FOAM DISPENSERS AND REFILL UNITS FOR FOAM DISPENSERS
Abstract
A refill unit for a foam dispenser that has an air compressor
permanently attached to the dispenser is provided herein. The
refill unit includes a liquid container and a body portion having a
first end and a second end. The first end of the body portion is
fluidly coupled to the liquid container. A liquid chamber is
located in the pump body, the liquid chamber having an expanded
state and a contracted state. An outlet nozzle is located proximate
a second end of the body portion. A mixing chamber is located
within the body portion. An air inlet is located through the body
portion and is in fluid communication with the mixing chamber. A
sanitary seal is located proximate the air inlet. The sanitary seal
allows air to enter into the mixing chamber and prevents liquid
from traveling out of the body portion through the air inlet.
Inventors: |
McNulty; John J.; (Broadview
Heights, OH) ; Ciavarella; Nick E.; (Seven Hills,
OH) ; Quinlan; Robert L.; (Stow, OH) ; Hayes;
David D.; (Wooster, OH) ; Smith; David J.;
(Thornton, CO) ; Fawcett; Jonathan E.; (Stow,
OH) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
McNulty; John J.
Ciavarella; Nick E.
Quinlan; Robert L.
Hayes; David D.
Smith; David J.
Fawcett; Jonathan E. |
Broadview Heights
Seven Hills
Stow
Wooster
Thornton
Stow |
OH
OH
OH
OH
CO
OH |
US
US
US
US
US
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
GOJO Industries, Inc.
Akron
OH
|
Family ID: |
49547857 |
Appl. No.: |
13/792028 |
Filed: |
March 9, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61644784 |
May 9, 2012 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
222/190 ;
222/181.3; 222/207 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47K 5/14 20130101; A47K
5/1208 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
222/190 ;
222/207; 222/181.3 |
International
Class: |
A47K 5/14 20060101
A47K005/14 |
Claims
1. A refill unit for a foam dispenser that has an air compressor
permanently attached to the dispenser, comprising: a liquid
container for holding liquid material; a body portion having a
first end and a second end, the first end of the body portion
fluidly coupled to the liquid container; a resilient member secured
to the body portion; a liquid chamber formed at least partially by
the resilient member, the liquid chamber having a first expanded
state and a second contracted state; an outlet nozzle located
proximate the second end of the body portion; a mixing chamber
located within the body portion in fluid communication with the
liquid chamber; an air inlet located through a wall of the body
portion in fluid communication with the mixing chamber; the air
inlet configured to releasably connect to an air compressor that is
permanently attached to a dispenser; a sanitary seal located
proximate the air inlet; the air inlet opens to the atmosphere
prior to being installed in a dispenser; wherein the sanitary seal
allows air into the mixing chamber and prevents liquid from
traveling out of the body portion through the air inlet.
2. The refill unit of claim 1 wherein the sanitary seal is formed
at least in part by the resilient member that forms the dome.
3. The refill unit of claim 1 wherein the sanitary seal is a
located within the interior of the pump body.
4. The refill unit of claim 3 wherein the sanitary seal is a cup
shaped member.
5. The refill unit of claim 1 wherein the air inlet is
cylindrical.
6. The refill unit of claim 1 wherein the air inlet is funnel
shaped.
7. The refill unit of claim 1 further comprising a dispenser.
8. The refill unit of claim 7 wherein the dispenser comprises an
air compressor secured thereto.
9. The refill unit of claim 8 wherein the air compressor is secured
to a lid of the dispenser.
10. The refill unit of claim 8 further comprising an adjustable
actuator so that can be adjusted to adjust the volume of fluid
moved by compressing the liquid chamber.
11. A foam dispenser for dispensing foam, comprising: a housing; an
air compressor permanently secured to the housing; the air
compressor being compressible along a substantially horizontal
axis; an air outlet in fluid communication with the air compressor;
the air outlet in fluid communication with the atmosphere when
there is no refill unit installed in the dispenser; a nozzle
connected to the air outlet, the nozzle configured to releasably
mate with a manifold that is part of a refill unit; and a liquid
pump activating member that moves a portion of a liquid pump to
pump a liquid.
12. The foam dispenser of claim 11 wherein the air compressor
comprises a bellows.
13. The foam dispenser of claim 11 wherein the air compressor is
attached to a lid of the dispenser.
14. The foam dispenser of claim 12, further comprising a sealing
member secured to the nozzle, for providing an air tight seal with
a refill unit.
15. A foam dispenser comprising: a housing; an air compressor
permanently secured to the housing; the air compressor being
compressible along a substantially horizontal axis; the air
compressor comprising an outlet nozzle, the outlet nozzle in fluid
communication with the atmosphere; a sealing member for sealing the
nozzle to a manifold of a refill unit, wherein the nozzle is
releasably sealed to a manifold of a refill unit forming an
airtight seal with the manifold when the refill unit is installed
in the foam dispenser and a liquid pump activating member that
moves a portion of a liquid pump to pump.
16. The foam dispenser of claim 15 further comprising a refill unit
comprising a manifold having an air inlet.
17. The foam dispenser of claim 15 further comprising an adjustable
actuator that may be adjusted to adjust the volume of liquid
dispensed by the dispenser during actuation.
18. The foam dispenser of claim 16 wherein the refill unit
comprises a sanitary seal, wherein the sanitary seal allows air to
enter the manifold air inlet and prevents liquid from exiting the
manifold through the air inlet.
19. The foam dispenser of claim 16 comprising a liquid pump chamber
formed at least in part by a resilient member.
20. The foam dispenser of claim 19 further comprising a sanitary
seal formed at least in part by the resilient member.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This non-provisional utility patent application claims
priority to and the benefits of U.S. Provisional Patent Application
Ser. No. 61/644,784 filed on May 9, 2012, and entitled FOAM
DISPENSERS AND REFILL UNITS FOR FOAM DISPENSERS. This application
is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present application generally relates to foam dispensers
for dispensing liquid material, such as liquid soap in the form of
a foam and refill units for foam dispensers.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Foam dispensers are generally configured to provide a user
with an amount of soap or sanitizer in the form of foam upon
actuation of the dispenser. Foam dispensers generally convert
liquid material, such as liquid soap or sanitizer, into foam by
aerating the liquid material as it is dispensed. Air is generally
injected into the liquid material to form air bubbles in the
liquid, causing the formation of foam. Foam dispensers may include
a replaceable refill container that is replaced after the liquid
material therein is consumed by the user. Foam dispensers with high
usage rates generally require frequent replacement of the refill
container.
SUMMARY
[0004] A refill unit for a foam dispenser that has an air
compressor permanently attached to the dispenser is provided
herein. The refill unit includes a liquid container and a body
portion having a first end and a second end. The first end of the
body portion is fluidly coupled to the liquid container. A liquid
chamber is located in the pump body, the liquid chamber having an
expanded state and a contracted state. An outlet nozzle is located
proximate a second end of the body portion. A mixing chamber is
located within the body portion. An air inlet is located through
the body portion and is in fluid communication with the mixing
chamber. A sanitary seal is located proximate the air inlet. The
sanitary seal allows air to enter into the mixing chamber and
prevents liquid from traveling out of the body portion through the
air inlet.
[0005] A foam dispenser for dispensing foam including a housing and
an air compressor permanently secured to the housing is disclosed
herein. The air outlet is in fluid communication with the air
compressor. The air outlet is also in fluid communication with the
atmosphere when there is no refill unit installed in the dispenser.
A nozzle is connected to the air outlet. The nozzle is configured
to releasably mate with a manifold that is part of a refill unit
and when the refill unit is installed in the foam dispenser, the
air outlet is placed in fluid communication with a mixing chamber
in the refill unit. In addition, the dispenser includes a liquid
pump actuating member for moving a portion of a liquid pump to pump
liquid.
[0006] A foam dispenser including a housing and an air compressor
permanently secured to the housing is disclosed herein. The air
compressor includes an outlet nozzle. The outlet nozzle is in fluid
communication with the atmosphere when no refill unit is installed.
A sealing member for sealing the nozzle to a manifold of a refill
unit is also provided. The outlet nozzle is releasably sealed to a
manifold of a refill unit forming an airtight seal with the
manifold when the refill unit is installed in the foam dispenser.
Thus, once the refill unit is installed in the foam dispenser, the
outlet nozzle is placed in fluid communication with a mixing
chamber in the refill unit. In addition, the dispenser includes a
liquid pump actuating member for moving a portion of a liquid pump
to pump liquid.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0007] In the accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and
constitute a part of the specification, embodiments of the
invention are illustrated, which, together with the general
description of the invention given above and the detailed
description given below, serve to exemplify the principles of the
inventions.
[0008] FIG. 1 illustrates a foam dispenser according to an
embodiment of the present application.
[0009] FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a foam dispenser according
to an embodiment of the present application.
[0010] FIG. 2B is a partially exploded perspective view of the foam
dispenser shown in FIG. 2A, wherein the housing of the dispenser is
shown separated from other components of the dispenser.
[0011] FIG. 2C is an exploded perspective view of the foam
dispenser shown in FIG. 2A.
[0012] FIGS. 3A and 3B are cross-sectional views of a foam
dispenser according to an embodiment of the present
application.
[0013] FIGS. 4A and 4B are partial cross-sectional views of the
refill unit and the air pump of the foam dispenser shown in FIGS.
3A and 3B.
[0014] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of a carriage
assembly according to an embodiment of the present application.
[0015] FIGS. 6A and 6B are perspective views of the carriage
assembly shown in FIG. 5 including a pump assembly.
[0016] FIG. 7 is a rear perspective view of a first portion of a
housing of a foam dispenser according to an embodiment of the
present application.
[0017] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a frame of a foam dispenser
according to an embodiment of the present application.
[0018] FIG. 9 illustrates another exemplary embodiment of a foam
dispenser.
[0019] FIG. 10 illustrates the dispenser of FIG. 9 with the lid
raised for removal of the refill unit.
[0020] FIG. 11 illustrates yet another exemplary embodiment of a
foam dispenser.
[0021] FIG. 12 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a connecting
mechanism to connect an air source secured to the foam dispenser to
a refill unit.
DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
[0022] As described herein, when one or more components are
described as being connected, joined, affixed, coupled, attached or
otherwise interconnected, such interconnection may be direct as
between the components or may be indirect such as through the use
of one or more intermediary components. Also as described herein,
reference to a "member," "component" or "portion" shall not be
limited to a single structural member, component or element, but
can include an assembly of components, members or elements.
[0023] The foam dispensers generally include a refill portion and
an air pump. The refill portion of the foam dispensers generally
include a liquid container fluidly coupled to a liquid pump, a
mixing chamber, a foam cartridge and an outlet nozzle. The liquid
pump is generally configured to draw liquid material from the
liquid container into the liquid pump and expel the liquid material
from the liquid pump into the mixing chamber. Further, the air
pump, which is not part of the refill unit and is fixed to the
dispenser housing, is generally configured to draw air into the air
pump and expel the air from the air pump into the mixing chamber.
The liquid material from the liquid pump mixes with the air from
the air pump in the mixing chamber to form a mixture. The mixture
is then dispensed out of the outlet of the foam dispenser as
foam.
[0024] The refill portion of the foam dispenser is configured to be
replaceable. Once the liquid material in the liquid container is
consumed, the refill portion may be removed from the foam dispenser
and replaced with a another refill portion with minimal effort. The
foam dispenser is configured such that replacement of the refill
portion is quick and easily understood upon visual inspection of
the foam dispenser. Further, the refill portion of the foam
dispenser includes the "wet" components of the foam dispenser.
These components may permit the growth of mold or other substances
if the wet components were to remain with the dispenser when the
refill unit is replaced. Such a result is undesirable and therefore
all of the wet parts are discarded with the refill unit.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0025] FIG. 1 illustrates a foam dispenser 100 according to an
embodiment of the present application. As illustrated, the foam
dispenser 100 includes an air pump 104. A refill unit 102 is
removably installed in foam dispenser 100. Refill unit 102 includes
liquid container 112, liquid pump 116, mixing chamber 106, a screen
108 and an outlet 110. Liquid pump 116 includes a first valve 114
and a second valve 118.
[0026] The liquid container 112 of the foam dispenser 100 may take
a variety of shapes, forms or configurations capable holding a
liquid material, such as liquid soap, foamable liquid soap, liquid
sanitizer or the like. For example, the liquid container 112 may be
a bag, a pouch, a gusseted bag or pouch, a bottle or a collapsible
bottle. The liquid container 112 may be flexible or rigid, and may
be made from a variety of materials. The outlet 122 of the liquid
container 112 may be integrally formed with the container or may be
a separate component that is attached or otherwise coupled to the
container. The outlet 122 of the liquid container 112 may also
include a pierceable membrane that is pierced by pump 116 inlet to
permit fluid communication between the liquid container 112 and the
liquid pump 116.
[0027] Various devices or methods may be used to prohibit usage of
a wrong, unintended or otherwise improper liquid container 112 or
refill unit 102 with the foam dispenser 100. These devices or
methods may be mechanical, electrical and/or chemical in nature.
One example of such device or method is "keying" the liquid
container 112 or refill unit 102 with one or more other components
of the foam dispenser 100. A first portion of the key (not shown)
may be attached to the liquid container 112 or refill unit 102. The
first portion of the key being configured to mate with a second
portion of the key (not shown) that may be attached to another
component, such as the frame, of the foam dispenser 100.
[0028] As illustrated in FIG. 1, the liquid pump 116 of the foam
dispenser 100 is configured to draw liquid material from the liquid
container 112 into the liquid pump and expel the liquid material
from the liquid pump into the mixing chamber 106 of the foam
dispenser 100. The liquid pump 116 includes a liquid chamber having
a variable volume. Increasing the volume of the liquid chamber
creates a vacuum within the liquid chamber that draws liquid
material from the liquid container 112 into the liquid pump 116.
Decreasing the volume of the liquid chamber expels the liquid
material in the liquid chamber into the mixing chamber 106.
[0029] In one embodiment, a flexible member at least partially
forms the liquid chamber of the liquid pump 116. The flexible
member is configured to expand and collapse between an expanded
condition and a collapsed condition to increase and decrease the
volume of the liquid chamber. Expansion of the flexible member
creates a vacuum within the liquid chamber that draws liquid
material from the liquid container 112 past one-way inlet check
valve 114 into the liquid pump 116. Collapse of the flexible member
expels the liquid material past one-way outlet check valve 118 into
the mixing chamber 106. Exemplary flexible members of the liquid
pump 116 include a flexible dome or bellow. The flexible member may
be made of a variety of materials, such as an elastomeric polymer.
The flexible member may also be resilient such that the flexible
member expands naturally back to the substantially expanded
condition after collapse. In some embodiments, the liquid pump 116
may include a biasing member, such as a spring or elastomeric
element (not shown), configured to bias the flexible member toward
the substantially expanded condition.
[0030] In another embodiment (not shown), a piston and housing or
cylinder forms the liquid chamber of the liquid pump 116. The
piston is configured to move within the housing creating a liquid
chamber that reciprocates between an expanded condition and a
collapsed condition to increase and decrease the volume of the
liquid chamber. Moving the piston to increase the volume of the
liquid chamber creates a vacuum within the liquid chamber that
draws liquid material past one-way inlet check valve 114 from the
liquid container 112 into the liquid pump 116. Moving the piston to
decrease the volume of the liquid chamber expels the liquid
material in the liquid chamber through one-way outlet check valve
118 and into the mixing chamber 106. In some embodiments, the
liquid pump 116 may include a biasing member, such as a spring or
elastomeric element (not shown), configured to bias the piston
toward the substantially expanded condition to increase the volume
of the liquid chamber.
[0031] As illustrated in FIG. 1, first valve 114 is positioned
between the liquid container 112 and the liquid pump 116. The first
valve 114 regulates the flow of liquid material between the liquid
container 112 and the liquid pump 116. The first valve 114 may be a
one-way valve configured to permit the flow of liquid material from
the liquid container 112 to the liquid pump 116 and prohibit the
flow of liquid material from the liquid pump 116 to the liquid
container 112. For example, in one embodiment, the first valve 114
is biased toward a closed position (i.e., normally closed) and
configured such that the vacuum created by increasing the volume of
the liquid chamber (e.g., when the flexible member of the liquid
pump 116 is moved outward) opens the valve to permit the flow of
liquid material from the liquid container 112 to the liquid pump
116. Once the liquid chamber is expanded, the first valve closes to
prohibit the flow of liquid material from the liquid pump 116 back
to the liquid container 112. Further, when the volume of the liquid
chamber is decreased (e.g., when the flexible member of the liquid
pump 116 is moved inward or collapsed), the first valve 114 is
closed to prohibit the flow of liquid material from the liquid pump
116 back to the liquid container 112. The first valve may be a
variety of valves such as, for example, a flap valve, a check
valve, a poppet valve, a duck-bill valve, a ball and spring valve
or any other one-way valve.
[0032] Still referring to FIG. 1, the second valve 118 is
positioned between the liquid pump 116 and the mixing chamber 106.
The second valve 118 regulates the flow of liquid material between
the liquid pump 116 and the mixing chamber 106. The second valve
118 may be a one-way valve configured to permit the flow of liquid
material from the liquid pump 116 to the mixing chamber 106 and
prohibit the flow of liquid material and/or air from the mixing
chamber 106 to the liquid pump 116. For example, in one embodiment,
the second valve 118 is biased toward a closed position (i.e.,
normally closed) and configured such that an expulsion of liquid
material created by decreasing the volume of the liquid chamber
(e.g., collapsing the flexible member of the liquid pump 116) opens
the valve to permit the flow of liquid material from the liquid
pump 116 to the mixing chamber 106. Once the liquid chamber is
collapsed, the second valve 118 closes to prohibit the flow of
liquid material and/or air from the mixing chamber 106 back to the
liquid pump 116. Further, when the volume of the liquid chamber
increases (e.g., when the flexible member of the liquid pump moves
outward), the second valve 118 is closed to prohibit the flow of
liquid material and/or air from the mixing chamber 106 back to the
liquid pump 116. The second valve 118 may be a variety of valves
such as, for example, a flap valve, a check valve, a poppet valve,
a duck-bill valve, a ball and spring valve, a slit valve or any
type of one-way valve.
[0033] Mixing chamber 106 includes an air inlet 150 having a
one-way air inlet valve 151. One-way air inlet valve 151 allows air
to enter the mixing chamber 106 but prevents liquid material from
exiting the mixing chamber 106 and contacting air pump 104. One-way
air inlet valve 151 may be any one-way inlet valve such as, for
example, a flap valve, a check valve, a poppet valve, a duck-bill
valve, a ball and spring valve, a slit valve or any type of one-way
valve. One-way air inlet valve 151 is a sanitary valve in that it
prevents liquid from contaminating air pump 104. If liquid is
permitted to contaminate air pump 104, which remains with the
dispenser 100 when the refill unit 102 is removed, mold may grow in
the air pump 104 and cause the dispenser 104 to dispense
contaminated foam. One-way air inlet valve 151 prevents such
contamination. One-way inlet air valve 151 is secured to mixing
chamber 106 and is disposed of with refill unit 102.
[0034] As illustrated in FIG. 1, the refill unit 102 of the foam
dispenser 100 includes the liquid container 112, outlet 122, the
first valve 114, the liquid pump 116, the second valve 118, the
mixing chamber 106, one-way air inlet valve 151, screen(s) 108 and
outlet 110. The refill unit 102 is removably coupled to the air
pump 104 of the foam dispenser 100. Once the liquid material in the
liquid container 112 is consumed, the refill unit 102 may be
removed from the foam dispenser 100 and replaced with another
refill unit.
[0035] As illustrated in FIG. 1, the air pump 104 of the foam
dispenser 100 is configured to draw air into the air pump and expel
the air from the air pump into the mixing chamber 106. The air pump
104 includes an air chamber having a variable volume. Increasing
the volume of the air chamber creates a vacuum within the air
chamber that draws air into the air pump 104 through an air inlet
128 past one-way air inlet valve 129. Decreasing the volume of the
air chamber expels the air in the air chamber into the mixing
chamber 106.
[0036] In one embodiment, a flexible member at least partially
forms the air chamber of the air pump 104. The flexible member is
configured to expand and collapse between an expanded condition and
a collapsed condition to increase and decrease the volume of the
air chamber. Expansion of the flexible member creates a vacuum
within the air chamber that draws air into the air pump 104 through
one-way air inlet valve 129. Collapse of the flexible member expels
the air in the air chamber through air inlet valve 151 and into the
mixing chamber 106. Exemplary flexible members of the air pump 104
include a flexible dome or bellow. The flexible member may also be
resilient such that the flexible member expands naturally back to
the expanded condition after collapse. In some embodiments, the air
pump 104 may include a biasing member (not shown), such as a spring
or elastomeric element, configured to bias the flexible member
toward the expanded condition.
[0037] In another embodiment, a piston encased within a housing or
cylinder forms the air chamber of the air pump 104. The piston is
configured to move within the housing between an expanded condition
and a collapsed condition to increase and decrease the volume of
the air chamber. Moving the piston to increase the volume of the
air chamber creates a vacuum within the air chamber that draws air
into the air pump 104. Moving the piston to decrease the volume of
the air chamber expels the air in the air chamber into the mixing
chamber 106. In some embodiments, the air pump 104 may include a
biasing member, such as a spring or elastomeric element, configured
to bias the piston toward the substantially expanded condition to
increase the volume of the air chamber.
[0038] As illustrated in FIG. 1, the foam dispenser 100 includes
one or more actuators 124/126 configured to operate the air pump
104 and/or liquid pump 116 of the dispenser 100. The one or more
actuators 124/126 may be configured to provide an actuating force
to facilitate collapse or expansion of a flexible member, or
movement of a piston, of the air pump 104 and/or the liquid pump
116 to increase or decrease the volume of the air or liquid
chamber. The one or more actuators 124/126 may also be configured
to operate the air pump 104 and liquid pump 116 of the dispenser
100 such that the liquid material from the liquid pump and the air
from the air pump enter the mixing chamber 106 at approximately the
same time. The one or more actuators 124/126 may be configured to
operate the air pump 104 and the liquid pump 116 substantially
simultaneously (i.e., at approximately the same time or instant),
concurrently (i.e., overlapping in duration), or consecutively
(i.e., one after the other), or a combination thereof
[0039] The one or more actuators 124/126 may include an actuating
member configured to operatively engage a flexible member or piston
of the liquid pump 116 and/or the air pump 104. For example, the
actuating member may include a lever, bracket, plate, protrusion,
boss or other engagement member that operatively engages the
flexible member or piston of the liquid pump 116 and/or the air
pump 104. The actuating member may be configured to be moved by a
user of the foam dispenser 100 from a first position to a second
position to collapse the flexible member, or move the piston, and
decrease the volume of the liquid or air chamber. As such, the
liquid material from the liquid pump 116 and the air from the air
pump 104 are expelled into the mixing chamber 106 of the dispenser
100 through foam generating member/screen(s) 108 and out of outlet
110. In addition, the actuator may be an electric actuator
activating electronically upon detection of a user's hand.
[0040] The actuating member may also be adjustable to control the
amount of liquid material and/or air expelled into the mixing
chamber 106 of the dispenser 100. For example, the position of the
actuating member relative to the liquid pump 116 and/or the air
pump 104 may be adjusted such that the amount the flexible member
is collapsed or the piston is moved when the actuating member is
moved from the first position to the second position, such as, for
example, to increase or decrease the amount of liquid material
and/or air expelled into the mixing chamber 106.
[0041] Further, the actuating member may be biased towards the
first position such that, upon release, the member moves toward the
first position (i.e., from the second position to the first
position). A biasing member, such as a spring or elastomeric
element, may be used to bias the actuating member toward the first
position. The movement of the actuating member toward the first
position permits the flexible member to expand, or the piston to
move, back to an expanded condition. The actuating member may also
be coupled to the flexible member or piston. With the actuating
member coupled to the flexible member or piston, the movement of
the member towards the first position facilitates the expansion of
the flexible member, or movement of the piston, to increase the
volume of the liquid or air chamber.
[0042] The one or more actuators 124/126 may also include a
mechanism that is configured to facilitate collapse or expansion of
a flexible member, or movement of a piston, of the air pump 104
and/or the liquid pump 116 to increase or decrease the volume of
the air or liquid chamber. For example, in one embodiment, a
flexible member is coupled to a carriage assembly such that
movement of the carriage expands and collapses the flexible member.
The mechanism may be driven by a variety of manual and/or automated
means, such as, for example, a motor, cylinder, lever, actuating
member or other actuator. Further, the mechanism may include
gearing, such as a rack and pinion assembly, to facilitate movement
of the mechanism.
[0043] FIGS. 2A-2C illustrate a foam dispenser 200 according to an
embodiment of the present application. The foam dispenser 200
includes a refill unit 202, an air pump 204, a manifold 206, a
foaming tip 208 (FIG. 3) and a housing 230. The refill unit 202 of
the foam dispenser 200 includes a liquid container 212, a liquid
pump 262, a manifold 206 that forms a mixing chamber 314, foaming
cartridge 208 and an outlet 260. As illustrated, the foam dispenser
200 also includes an actuating lever 238 for the liquid pump 262,
air pump 204 and a carriage assembly 272 for actuating the air pump
204. Further, the foam dispenser 200 includes a frame 240 for
supporting one or more components of the refill unit 202.
[0044] Housing 230 encases the components of the foam dispenser 200
and includes a first portion 234 removably attached to a second
portion 236. The first portion 234 of the housing 230 is movable
relative to the second portion 236. As illustrated in FIGS. 2A-2C,
the first portion 234 of the housing 230 is pivotally attached to
the second portion 236 at pivot point 242. The second portion 236
includes one or more pins 244 configured to mate with one or more
apertures 246 in the first portion 234 to form the pivot point 242.
Further, the pins 244 are attached to flanges 248 of the second
portion 236. The flanges 248 are configured such that they may be
flexed inward to position the pins 244 for insertion into the
apertures 246 and then return to a neutral position when released
such that the pins 244 may be inserted into the apertures 246. To
remove the first portion 234 from the second portion 236 of the
housing 230, the flanges 248 may be flexed inward such that the
pins 244 are removed from the apertures 246 of the first portion
234. Further, the first portion 234 includes openings or notches
250 that permit access to the flanges 248 when the first portion is
attached to the second portion 236.
[0045] The first portion 234 of the housing 230 also includes one
or more guides for directing the movement of the first portion 234
relative to the second portion 236. As illustrated in FIGS. 2A-2C,
the first portion 234 of the housing includes guide members 252
having openings or slots 254 that are configured to mate with guide
pins 256 of the second portion 236. The interaction of the slot 254
with the guide pin 256 restricts the pivotal movement of the first
portion 234 relative to the second portion 236. Further, the guide
pins 256 of the second portion 236 include flanged ends that secure
the guide pins 256 in the slots 254. The guide pins 256 also
include a notch in the end such that the sides of the guide pin may
be squeezed together to permit insertion and removal of the guide
pins 256 in and from the slots 254.
[0046] As illustrated in FIG. 7, the first portion 234 of the
housing 230 also includes an opening or notch 710 for the outlet
260 of the dispenser 200 and openings or notches 712 for the
support members of the guide pins 256 of the second portion 236.
The openings or notches 710 and 712 provide clearance for the
outlet 260 and the support members as the first portion 234 is
moved relative to the second portion 236 of the housing 230.
[0047] As illustrated in FIGS. 2B and 2C, the second portion 236 of
the housing 230 includes apertures 258 for mounting the second
portion (i.e., to a wall or other upright support). In this regard,
the second portion 236 of the housing 230 acts as a mounting
bracket for the foam dispenser 200 and the first portion 234 of the
housing acts as a movable cover of the foam dispenser. As described
below in reference to FIGS. 3A and 3B, the first portion 234 of the
housing 230 acts as an actuator in that movement of the first
portion 234 relative to the second portion 236 causes liquid
material from the liquid container 212 to be dispensed out of the
outlet 260 of the foam dispenser 200 as foam.
[0048] As illustrated in FIGS. 2B, 2C and 8, the frame 240 of the
foam dispenser 200 is attached to the second portion 236 of the
housing 230. The frame 240 and the second portion 236 of the
housing 230 form a cavity for holding the liquid container 212 of
the refill unit 202 (see FIGS. 3A and 3B). Further, the frame 240
includes an opening or notch 810 that provides access for the body
portion 232 of the refill unit 202 and a support member 812 for
supporting the body portion 232 of the refill unit 202. When the
refill unit 202 of the foam dispenser 200 is installed, the liquid
container 212 is placed in the cavity formed by the frame 240 and
the second portion 236 of the housing 230. Further, the body
portion 232 of the refill unit 202 is placed in the notch 810 such
that the liquid pump 262 is accessible outside of the cavity. The
body portion 232 of the refill unit 202 is slid into a groove 814
of the support member 812 such that the refill unit 202 is
supported or held in place relative to the frame 240 of the foam
dispenser 200.
[0049] As illustrated in FIGS. 2B and 2C, the manifold 206 is
attached to liquid pump 262. As illustrated in FIGS. 4A and 4B, and
as described below, when the refill unit 202 is installed, the
inlet 360 of manifold 206 of the refill unit 202 releasably mates
with a first end portion 326 of air pump 204. When refill unit 202
is inserted into dispenser 200, manifold inlet 360 aligns with the
opening 327 in first end portion 326 of air pump 204. The air pump
204 may be joined to inlet 360 by pushing manifold 206 towards air
pump 204 or by pressing the actuator 238. Manifold 206 includes an
annular groove 329 and o-ring 331. O-ring 331 forms a seal between
manifold 206 and air pump opening 327.
[0050] As illustrated in FIGS. 2B-3B and 6A-6B, the air pump 204 of
the foam dispenser 200 is coupled to the carriage assembly 272. The
carriage assembly 272 facilitates the collapse and expansion of a
flexible member 264 of the air pump 204 to increase and decrease
the volume of the air chamber. An aperture 266 in the second
portion 236 of the housing 230 and an aperture 268 in the carriage
270 of the carriage assembly 272 form a conduit for air to enter
the air pump 204. As shown, the carriage assembly 272 is attached
to the second portion 236 of the housing 230 with fasteners;
however, other methods of attachment may be used such as, for
example, an adhesive, weld or the like. The carriage assembly 272
may also be attached to the frame 240 of the foam dispenser 200.
Further, the second portion 236 of the housing 230 includes
alignment members 274 configured to mate with brackets 276 of the
carriage assembly 272 to facilitate proper placement and alignment
of the carriage assembly 272.
[0051] As illustrated in FIGS. 2B-3B, a first end of the actuating
lever 238 of the foam dispenser 200 is secured to the frame 240 by
one or more clips 278. The clips 278 are snapped over protrusions
280 on the first end of the actuating lever 238. The clips 278 are
configured to permit limited movement of the first end of the
actuating lever 238 relative to the frame 240. As illustrated in
FIGS. 3A-3B and 7, a second end of the actuating lever 238 of the
foam dispenser 200 is secured to the first portion 234 of the
housing 230. Protrusions 282 on the second end of the actuating
lever 238 are inserted into apertures 714 in the first portion 234
of the housing 230. Further, as illustrated in FIGS. 3A-3B, the
actuating lever 238 includes an engagement member 310 configured to
operatively engage a flexible member 312 of the liquid pump 262.
Engagement member 310 is adjustable. In one embodiment the body of
engagement member 310 has threads and screws into actuator lever
238. Thus, engagement member 310 can be adjusted to fully collapse
the liquid chamber or to partially collapse the liquid chamber.
Thus, output of pump 262 may adjusted.
[0052] As illustrated in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the body portion 232 of
the refill unit 202 includes a first member 316 coupled to a second
member 318. The first member 316 includes a first end 302 and a
second end 340. Further, the first member 316 is coupled to the
flexible member 312 and at least partially forms the liquid pump
262 of the dispenser 200. The second member 318 of the body portion
232 includes a first end 342 and a second end 344. As shown, the
second end 340 of the first member 316 is coupled to the first end
342 of the second member 318 with a snap fit connection. However,
other types of connections may be used such as, for example, a
press fit or threaded connection. Further, the body portion 232 of
the refill unit 202 may be formed from one or more components; for
example, the body portion may be formed from a single piece of
material.
[0053] The first end 302 of the first member 316 is fluidly
connected to the liquid container 212. As shown, the first end 302
is inserted through the liquid container 212 and extends into the
liquid container. The first end 302 may also be configured to
pierce the liquid container 212 to permit fluid communication
between the liquid container and the liquid pump 262. A ridge or
notch 320 on the first member 316 forms a fluid tight seal with the
liquid container 212 to prohibit liquid material from leaking
between the liquid container and the first member 316.
[0054] The body portion 232 of the refill unit 202 is shaped and
configured to mate with a socket or opening 418 in the first end
414 of the manifold 206 to form a fluid tight connection. As
illustrated in FIG. 4A, the opening 418 in the manifold 206 has a
first portion 420 and a second portion 416. The second portion 416
of the opening 418 has a smaller interior diameter than the first
portion 420. A radial flange 480 of the body portion 232 contacts a
sealing element 410 coupled to the first end 414 of the manifold
206. The flange 480 and the sealing element 410 form a fluid tight
seal that prohibits liquid material from leaking out between the
body portion 232 and the manifold 206.
[0055] FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate the operation of the foam
dispenser 200 according to an embodiment of the present
application. FIG. 3A illustrates the components of the foam
dispenser 200 in a first position in which the flexible member 312
of the liquid pump 262 and the flexible member 264 of the air pump
204 are in an expanded condition. FIG. 3B illustrates the
components of the foam dispenser 200 in a second position in which
the flexible member 312 of the liquid pump 262 and the flexible
member 264 of the air pump 204 are in a collapsed condition. As
shown, the flexible member 312 of the liquid pump 262 is configured
as a dome made of a resilient material and the flexible member 264
of the air pump 204 is configured as a bellows made of a resilient
material.
[0056] When the housing 230 of the foam dispenser 200 is in the
first position, the lower end of first portion 234 of the housing
is moved away from the second portion 236. The first portion 234 of
the housing 230 pivots about the pivot point 242 (FIG. 2A) and is
moved toward the second portion 236 when the first portion 234 is
moved from the first position to the second position. The guides of
the housing 230 limit the movement of the first portion 234
relative to the second portion 236.
[0057] As the first portion 234 of the housing 230 is moved from
the first position to the second position, the engagement member
310 of the actuating lever 238 engages the flexible member 312 of
the liquid pump 262 to collapse the flexible member 312. When this
occurs, an inlet valve 304 is closed to prohibit the flow of liquid
material from the liquid pump 262 to the liquid container 212. As
shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the inlet valve 304 is a flap valve
integrally formed with the flexible member 312 of the liquid pump
262 and coupled to the first member 316 of the body portion 232.
However, a variety of other valves may be used, such as, for
example, a check valve, poppet valve, flap valve, ball and spring
and ball valve, mushroom valve, umbrella valve or other one-way
check valve or the like. Further, as illustrated in FIGS. 3A and
3B, the flexible member 312 of the liquid pump 262 is coupled to
the first member 316 of the body portion 232.
[0058] When the flexible member 312 of the liquid pump 262 is
collapsed, the liquid material in the liquid pump 262 is forced out
of the liquid pump and through an outlet valve 306. The outlet
valve 306 is opened to permit flow of the liquid material from the
body portion 232 and into the mixing chamber 314 of the manifold
206. As illustrated in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the outlet valve 306 is a
slit valve coupled to the second end 344 of the second member 318
of the body portion 232; however, a variety of other valves may be
used such as, for example, a check valve, a flap valve, poppet
valve, ball and spring valve, mushroom valve, umbrella valve or
other one-way check valve, or the like.
[0059] The liquid pump 262 and/or the outlet valve 306 may be
configured to deliver the liquid material to the mixing chamber 314
at a pressure sufficient to permit conversion of the liquid
material to foam.
[0060] As illustrated in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the air pump 204 of the
foam dispenser 200 includes a first end portion 326 and a second
end portion 328. The first end portion 326 forms a first end of the
air pump 204 and is configured to couple with the flexible member
264 to an inlet 360 of the manifold 206. Manifold 206 includes a
one-way check valve 322. One-way check valve 322 is a sanitary
valve and prevents liquid from contaminating air pump 204. Further,
a nozzle 308 is coupled to the first end portion 326 of the air
pump 204 and is in fluid communication with the air chamber of the
air pump 204. The second end portion 328 forms a second end of the
air pump 204 and is configured to couple the flexible member 264 to
the carriage 270 of the carriage assembly 272. The second end
portion 328 is coupled to the aperture 268 in the carriage 270. The
second end portion 328 also includes an inlet valve 324 that is in
fluid communication with the air chamber of the air pump 204.
[0061] As the first portion 234 of the housing 230 is moved from
the first position to the second position, the carriage assembly
272 collapses the flexible member 264 of the air pump 204.
Engagement members 372 formed on the inside of the first portion
234 of the housing 230 (see FIGS. 3B and 7) contact actuating
members 370 of the carriage assembly 272 (see FIGS. 3B and 5-6B).
As illustrated in FIGS. 6A and 6B, and as described below, the
movement of the actuating members 370 from the first position to
the second position moves the carriage 270 of the carriage assembly
272 to collapse the flexible member 264 of the air pump 204. When
this occurs, the inlet valve 324 of the air pump 204 is closed to
prohibit the flow of air from the air pump 204 to outside the foam
dispenser 200. As illustrated in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the inlet valve
324 is a mushroom valve; however, a variety of other valves may be
used such as, for example, a check valve, flap valve, slit valve,
ball and spring valve, etc.
[0062] As the flexible member 264 of the air pump 204 collapses,
the air in the air pump is forced out of the air pump and into the
mixing chamber 314 of the manifold 206 through the one-way check
valve 322 of manifold 206.
[0063] The air from the air pump 204 mixes with the liquid material
from the liquid pump 262 in the mixing chamber 314 to form a
pre-foam mixture. The pre-foam mixture is delivered from the mixing
chamber 314 to the foaming cartridge 208. As illustrated in FIGS.
3A and 3B, the foaming cartridge 208 includes one or more screens
308. The pre-foam mixture passes through the screens 308 to create
a foam that is dispensed out of the outlet 260 of the foam
dispenser 200.
[0064] When the first portion 234 of the housing 230 is released,
biasing members 380 move the actuating members 372 of the carriage
assembly 272 from the second position to the first position. As
illustrated in FIGS. 3A-3B and 5-6B, the biasing members 380 of the
carriage assembly 272 are springs; however, other biasing members
may be used such as, for example, an elastomeric element. When this
occurs, the actuating members 372 of the carriage assembly 272 move
the first portion 234 of the housing 230 from the second position
to the first position.
[0065] As the first portion 234 of the housing 230 is moved from
the second position to the first position, the engagement member
310 of the actuating lever 238 moves away from the flexible member
312 of the liquid pump 262 and the flexible member is permitted to
expand back to the substantially expanded condition. The inlet
valve 304 of the refill portion 202 is configured such that the
vacuum created by the expansion of the flexible member 312 opens
the inlet valve to permit the flow of liquid material from the
liquid container 212 into the liquid pump 262. Further, the outlet
valve 306 of the refill portion 202 is configured such that the
vacuum created by the expansion of the flexible member 312 closes
the outlet valve 306 to prohibit the flow of liquid material from
the liquid pump 262 to the mixing chamber 314.
[0066] Furthermore, the movement of the actuating members 370 of
the carriage assembly 272 from the second position to the first
position expands the flexible member 264 of the air pump 204 back
to an expanded condition. As illustrated in FIGS. 6A and 6B, and as
described below, the movement of the actuating members 370 from the
second position to the first position moves the carriage 270 of the
carriage assembly 272 to expand the flexible member 264 of the air
pump 204. The inlet valve 324 of the air pump 204 is configured
such that the vacuum created by the expansion of the flexible
member 264 opens the inlet valve to permit the flow of air into the
air pump 204.
[0067] FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate installation and removal of the
refill unit 202 of the foam dispenser 200 according to an
embodiment of the present application. FIG. 4A illustrates the
refill unit 202 removed from the air pump 204 of the foam dispenser
200. FIG. 4B illustrates the refill unit 202 coupled to the air
pump of the foam dispenser 200.
[0068] FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the carriage assembly 272 and
FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate the operation of the carriage assembly
of the foam dispenser 200. As shown, the carriage assembly 272
includes a frame 502, a carriage 270, gear assemblies 504, biasing
members 380 and actuating members 370. The frame 502 of the
carriage assembly 272 includes brackets 276 that facilitate proper
placement and alignment of the carriage assembly relative to the
second portion 236 of the housing 230. The frame 502 also includes
two sets of openings or notches 506 configured to hold the gear
assemblies 504 in place relative to the frame and permit rotation
of the gear assemblies relative to the frame. Further, the frame
502 includes a set of protrusions 508 configured to hold the
biasing members 380 in place relative to the frame.
[0069] As illustrated in FIGS. 5-6B, the gear assemblies 504 of the
carriage assembly 272 include an upper gear wheel 510 and a lower
gear wheel 512. The upper gear wheels 510 are configured to mesh
with gear racks 514 on the outer sides of the carriage 270. As
such, rotation of the gear assemblies 504 rotates the upper gear
wheels 510 and moves the carriage 270 relative to the frame 502.
Further, the lower gear wheels 512 are configured to mesh with gear
racks 516 on the inner sides of the actuating members 370. As such,
movement of the actuating members 370 rotates the lower gear wheels
512 and the gear assemblies 504. As illustrated in FIGS. 5-6B, the
biasing members 380 are disposed between the actuating members 370
and the frame 502 of the carriage assembly 272. The biasing members
380 are held in place by protrusions 518 on the actuating members
and the protrusions 508 on the frame 502.
[0070] FIG. 6A illustrates the carriage assembly 272 in the first
position in which the flexible member 264 of the air pump 204 is in
a substantially expanded condition. Both FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate
the pump 262 of the refill unit 202 connected to air pump 204. FIG.
6B illustrates the carriage assembly 272 in a second position in
which the flexible member 264 of the air pump 204 is in a
substantially collapsed condition. When the actuating members 370
are moved from the first position to the second position, the gear
racks 516 of the actuating members 370 rotate the lower gear wheels
512, which in turn rotate the upper gear wheels 510 and move the
carriage 270 to collapse the flexible member 264 of the air pump
204. When the biasing members 380 move the actuating members 370
from the second position to the first position, the gear racks 516
of the actuating members rotate the lower gear wheels 512, which in
turn rotate the upper gear wheels 510 and move the carriage 270 to
expand the flexible member 264 of the air pump 204.
[0071] FIG. 9 illustrates an embodiment of a foam dispenser 900
having air compressor 910 permanently affixed thereto. The term
"permanently" means that the air compressor 910 remains with the
dispenser 900 when the refill unit 901 is removed. The term
permanently does not mean that air compressor 910 cannot be removed
from dispenser 900. In some circumstances, air compressor 910 may
be removed from the dispenser 900 and replaced; however, such
replacement is not undertaken each time a refill unit 901 is
removed or installed in dispenser 900.
[0072] In one embodiment, refill unit 901 includes container 920,
pump 924, foaming cartridge 956 and outlet nozzle 958. Pump 924
includes many of the same features described with respect to liquid
pump 262. Pump 924 includes a flexible member 932. In one
embodiment, flexible member 932 is a resilient dome that may be
compressed to reduce the volume of liquid chamber 925. Located
proximate the inlet of liquid chamber 925 is a one-way inlet valve
930. One-way inlet valve 930 may be any type of one-way valve such
as, for example, a ball valve (as shown) a slit valve, a poppet
valve, an umbrella valve, a flap valve or any other type of one-way
valve. Upstream of the liquid chamber 925 is passage 928 and inlet
926 that places liquid chamber 925 in fluid communication with
container 920. Downstream of liquid chamber 925 is a one-way outlet
valve 938. One-way outlet valve 938 may be any type of one-way
valve such as, for example, a slit valve, a poppet valve, an
umbrella valve, a flap valve or any other type of one-way valve.
Downstream of one-way outlet valve 938 is passage 950 which leads
to mixing chamber 952.
[0073] Flexible member 932 includes a flap 934. Flap 934 acts as a
one-way air inlet valve that allows air from air compressor 910 to
flow through opening 934 into mixing chamber 952. Preferably flap
934 is integrally formed with flexible member 932; however, in one
embodiment, flap 934 is a separate piece. Flap 934 is a sanitary
seal in that it prevents liquid from contaminating the air
compressor 910 which remains with the dispenser 900 when the liquid
refill 901 is removed. One or more additional on-way valves may be
added, in for example, passage 935, to ensure that liquid may not
contaminated air compressor 910.
[0074] Downstream of mixing chamber 952 is mixing cartridge 956 and
outlet nozzle 958. Mixing cartridge 956 includes screens 957. In
one embodiment, mixing cartridge 956 includes, or is replaced with
a porous member such as, for example a sponge.
[0075] Dispenser 900 includes a housing 902. A lid 904 is pivotally
attached to housing 902 by a hinge 906. Lid 904 includes actuator
908 and annular projection 911. Annular projection 911 engages with
the wall 912 of air compressor 910 and retains or secures air
compressor 910 to lid 904 of dispenser 900. The wall 912 of air
compressor 910 may be connected to annular projection 911 with an
adhesive, with a threaded connection or any other suitable means.
Annular projection 911 includes an air inlet opening 913 and a
one-way check valve 914 to allow air to enter the air compressor
910. In one embodiment, a vapor barrier, such as a one-way woven
vapor barrier, e.g. Gortex.RTM., is provided over the air inlet 913
to prevent moisture from entering into air compressor 910. In
addition, a biasing member (not shown) is included to move lid 904
to the position shown in FIG. 9.
[0076] Air compressor 910 includes a female receptacle for
receiving nozzle 960. Nozzle 960 is secured to seat 962 on liquid
pump 925. The nozzle 960 forms a seal with air compressor 910 when
the refill unit 901 is inserted in dispenser 900 and the lid 904 is
moved into its operating position. Air compressor 910 may include a
biasing member (not shown) such as a spring, which may be located
inside air compressor 910 to bias air compressor 910 in an expanded
position and to ensure that nozzle 960 seals against the female
receptacle of air compressor 910. Thus, air traveling from air
compressor 901 is forced through opening 936 and does not escape
around the nozzle 960 and seat 962.
[0077] During operation, force F is applied to lid 904. Lid 904
rotates toward the back of the housing 902. Actuator 908 engages
flexible member 932 causing the liquid chamber 925 to compress.
One-way liquid inlet valve 930 seals and liquid is force out of
liquid chamber 925 past one-way outlet valve 938 through passage
950 and into mixing chamber 952. Simultaneously, air compressor 910
is compressed. One-way air inlet valve 914 closes and air is forced
out of passage 935 and the air pressure causes flap 934 to flex and
allow air to pass and travel though opening 936 into mixing chamber
952 where it mixes with the liquid to form a pre-foam mixture. The
mixture is forced through mixing cartridge 956 and is dispensed
through outlet 958 as a foam.
[0078] When force F is removed, a biasing member (not shown) such
as, for example, a spring, moves lid 904 back to its resting
position (shown in FIG. 9). The air compressor 910 expands. Flap
934 seals passage 935 and air inlet valve 914 opens allowing air to
flow into, and recharge, air compressor 910. Flexible member 932 is
resilient and moves back to the position shown in FIG. 9 causing
the volume of liquid chamber 925 to expand to its largest volume.
The vacuum pressure caused by the expansion of liquid chamber 925
causes one-way outlet valve 938 to close and one-way inlet valve
930 to open drawing in liquid from container 920 to charge the
liquid chamber 925. The dispenser 900 is charged and ready to
dispense another shot of foam.
[0079] When all of the liquid is drained from container 920, it is
time to replace refill unit 901. Lid 904 is rotated up as shown in
FIG. 10. The refill unit 901, which includes container 920, liquid
pump 924, passageway 950, foaming cartridge 956, outlet nozzle 958
and flap 952, is removed from the dispenser 900. A new refill unit
901 is installed. Lid 904 is rotated back down and air compressor
910 and the nozzle 960 of air compressor 910 seals against seat
962.
[0080] FIGS. 11 and 12 illustrate another dispenser 1100 in
accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The refill
unit 1101 is similar to refill unit 202. Refill unit 1101 differs
from refill unit 202 in that manifold 206 has been replaced with
manifold 1106. Manifold 1106 connects to liquid pump 1102 by, for
example, a snap fit connection. Manifold 1106 has a housing that
includes a longitudinal passageway 1110 therethrough. In addition,
manifold 1106 includes a funnel shaped air inlet opening 1108. Air
inlet opening 1108 is in fluid communication with longitudinal
passageway 1110.
[0081] A sanitary valve 1113 is inserted in longitudinal passageway
1110. Sanitary valve 1113 is a flexible resilient cup shaped valve
that has an opening 1114 in the bottom to allow passage of fluid
through passageway 1110. Sanitary valve 1113 includes an annular
extension. The annular extension covers the air inlet opening 1108
in passageway 1110. During operation, air under pressure that
enters air inlet opening 1108 deflects the annular extension and
enters longitudinal passageway 1110. When the air pressure is
removed the resilient annular extension seals air inlet opening
1108 and prevents liquid or foam from passing through air inlet
opening 1108 toward air compressor 1102. A mixing cartridge 1116 is
also located in longitudinal passageway 1110. Mixing cartridge 1116
may include one or more porous members, such as, for examples,
screens or sponges. An outlet nozzle 1120 is attached to the end of
manifold 1106 by any means such as, for example, a snap fit
connection. Outlet nozzle 1120 retains mixing cartridge 1116 and
sanitary valve 1112 within manifold 1106.
[0082] Air compressor 1102 is similar to air compressor 910. Air
compressor 1102 has a different air outlet nozzle 1104. Outlet
nozzle 1104 is made from a material that is selected to provide a
seal against funnel shaped air inlet opening 1108 when the liquid
refill unit 1101 is inserted into dispenser 1100 and the lid is
closed. The operation of the dispenser 1100 is substantially the
same as the operation described above with respect to FIG. 9.
During operation, force applied to activate dispenser 1100 also
aids in sealing of air compressor 1102 to funnel shaped manifold
air inlet 1108.
[0083] In some embodiments, the air pump includes an anti-microbial
substance molded into the air pump housing. One suitable
anti-microbial substance contains silver ions and or copper ions. A
silver refractory, such as, for example, a glass, oxide, silver
phosphate may be used. One suitable commercially available product
is Ultra-Fresh, SA-18, available from Thomson Research Associates,
Inc. The anti-microbial substance prevents mold or bacteria from
growing inside of the air pump.
[0084] In addition, in some embodiments, a vapor barrier, such as a
one-way woven vapor barrier, e.g. Gortex.RTM., is provided over the
air inlet into the air compressor to prevent moisture from entering
the air compressor.
[0085] While the present invention has been illustrated by the
description of embodiments thereof, and while the embodiments have
been described in considerable detail, it is not the intention of
the applicants to restrict or in any way limit the scope of the
invention to such details. Additional advantages and modifications
will readily appear to those skilled in the art. For example, where
components are releasably or removably connected or attached
together, any type of releasable connection may be suitable
including, for example, locking connections, fastened connections,
tongue and groove connections, etc. Still further, component
geometries, shapes and dimensions can be modified without changing
the overall role or function of the components. Therefore, the
inventive concept, in its broader aspects, is not limited to the
specific details, the representative apparatus and illustrative
examples shown and described. Accordingly, departures may be made
from such details without departing from the spirit or scope of the
applicants' general inventive concept.
[0086] While various inventive aspects, concepts and features of
the inventions may be described and illustrated herein as embodied
in combination in the exemplary embodiments, these various aspects,
concepts and features may be used in many alternative embodiments,
either individually or in various combinations and sub-combinations
thereof Unless expressly excluded herein, all such combinations and
sub-combinations are intended to be within the scope of the present
invention. Still further, while various alternative embodiments as
to the various aspects, concepts and features of the
inventions--such as alternative materials, structures,
configurations, methods, devices and components; alternatives as to
form, fit and function, and so on--may be described herein, such
descriptions are not intended to be a complete or exhaustive list
of available alternative embodiments, whether presently known or
later developed. Those skilled in the art may readily adopt one or
more of the inventive aspects, concepts or features into additional
embodiments and uses within the scope of the present invention even
if such embodiments are not expressly disclosed herein.
Additionally, even though some features, concepts or aspects of the
invention may be described herein as being a preferred arrangement
or method, such description is not intended to suggest that such
feature is required or necessary unless expressly so stated. Still
further, exemplary or representative values and ranges may be
included to assist in understanding the present disclosure;
however, such values and ranges are not to be construed in a
limiting sense and are intended to be critical values or ranges
only if so expressly stated. Moreover, while various aspects,
features and concepts may be expressly identified herein as being
inventive or forming part of an invention, such identification is
not intended to be exclusive, but rather there may be inventive
aspects, concepts and features that are fully described herein
without being expressly identified as such or as part of a specific
invention, the inventions instead being set forth in the appended
claims. Descriptions of exemplary methods or processes are not
limited to inclusion of all steps as being required in all cases,
nor is the order in which the steps are presented to be construed
as required or necessary unless expressly so stated.
* * * * *