U.S. patent application number 13/837741 was filed with the patent office on 2014-09-18 for counter mount above-counter fill dispensing systems and refill units for same.
This patent application is currently assigned to GOJO Industries, Inc.. The applicant listed for this patent is Eric M. Chalko, Nick E. Ciavarella, Rick J. Henry, Paul R. Metcalfe, Gregory L. Sliwinski, Scott E. Urban. Invention is credited to Eric M. Chalko, Nick E. Ciavarella, Rick J. Henry, Paul R. Metcalfe, Gregory L. Sliwinski, Scott E. Urban.
Application Number | 20140263421 13/837741 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 50780836 |
Filed Date | 2014-09-18 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140263421 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Urban; Scott E. ; et
al. |
September 18, 2014 |
COUNTER MOUNT ABOVE-COUNTER FILL DISPENSING SYSTEMS AND REFILL
UNITS FOR SAME
Abstract
Exemplary embodiments of dispensing systems and refill units for
dispensing systems are provided. One exemplary refill unit for a
counter mount dispenser includes a collapsed bag and a tube
extending down into the collapsed bag. A fitment is secured to the
collapsed bag. The fitment has a filling orifice. A pump for
pumping fluid out of the bag is also provided. The collapsed bag
fits through an opening in a countertop so that the collapsed bag
may be inserted from above the countertop through the opening and
at least a part of the collapsed bag extends below the countertop.
The collapsed bag is configured to be filled with a liquid after
being inserted through the opening in the countertop and the volume
of the collapsed bag expands when the collapsed bag is filled with
liquid.
Inventors: |
Urban; Scott E.; (University
Heights, OH) ; Metcalfe; Paul R.; (Solon, OH)
; Chalko; Eric M.; (Stow, OH) ; Ciavarella; Nick
E.; (Seven Hills, OH) ; Sliwinski; Gregory L.;
(Copley, OH) ; Henry; Rick J.; (Uniontown,
OH) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Urban; Scott E.
Metcalfe; Paul R.
Chalko; Eric M.
Ciavarella; Nick E.
Sliwinski; Gregory L.
Henry; Rick J. |
University Heights
Solon
Stow
Seven Hills
Copley
Uniontown |
OH
OH
OH
OH
OH
OH |
US
US
US
US
US
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
GOJO Industries, Inc.
Akron
OH
|
Family ID: |
50780836 |
Appl. No.: |
13/837741 |
Filed: |
March 15, 2013 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
222/23 ; 222/173;
222/66 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47K 5/14 20130101; A47K
2005/1218 20130101; A47K 5/1211 20130101; A47K 5/1217 20130101;
A47K 5/12 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
222/23 ; 222/66;
222/173 |
International
Class: |
A47K 5/12 20060101
A47K005/12 |
Claims
1. A refill unit for a counter mount dispenser comprising: a
collapsed bag; a tube extending down into the collapsed bag; a
fitment secured to the collapsed bag; the fitment having a filling
orifice; a pump for pumping fluid out of the bag; wherein the
collapsed bag fits through an opening in a countertop so that the
collapsed bag may be inserted from above the countertop through the
opening and at least a part of the collapsed bag extends below the
countertop; and wherein the collapsed bag is configured to be
filled with a liquid after being inserted through the opening in
the countertop and the volume of the collapsed bag expands when the
collapsed bag is filled with liquid.
2. The refill unit of claim 1 further comprising a dispense tube
extending upward from the fitment.
3. The refill unit of claim 2 wherein the collapsed bag may be
removed from a dispenser system through the opening in the
countertop after liquid is removed from the refill unit.
4. The refill unit of claim 2 further comprising: a mixing chamber;
an air inlet into the mixing chamber; a passageway from an output
of the liquid pump to the mixing chamber; and wherein the dispense
tube is in fluid communication with the mixing chamber such that
during operation a mixture of air and liquid may be forced through
the dispense tube and dispensed as a foam.
5. The refill unit of claim 4 further comprising an air compressor
secured to the refill unit.
6. The refill unit of claim 1 wherein the tube is a dip tube.
7. The refill unit of claim 1 wherein the collapsed bag is
folded.
8. The refill unit of claim 1 wherein the collapsed bag is
rolled.
9. The refill unit of claim 1 further comprising a container filled
with a fluid for filling the collapsed bag.
10. A refill system for a counter-mount dispenser comprising: a
container for holding a liquid; a refill bag having a width and a
length; a tube; the tube extending down into the refill bag;
wherein the refill bag is compressed toward the tube to reduce the
overall width of the refill bag to fit through a standard hole in a
countertop; wherein the container is configured to be releasably
placed in fluid communication with the refill bag to transfer fluid
from the container to the refill bag after the refill bag is
inserted through the hole in the countertop and the refill bag
expands as it fills with liquid.
11. A never out counter-mount dispenser system comprising: a spout
for mounting above a countertop; a first container for mounting
below a countertop; a second container for mounting below a
countertop; at least a portion of the spout is movable to expose an
opening from the spout to the first container and an opening from
the spout to the second container; the first container configured
for receiving a first refill bag; the second container configured
for receiving a second refill bag; circuitry for causing the never
out counter-mount dispenser system to dispense fluid from a first
refill bag in the first container until the first refill bag is
empty; circuitry for causing the never out counter-mount dispenser
system to dispense fluid from the second refill bag in the second
container once the first refill bag is empty.
12. The never out counter-mount dispenser system of claim 11
further comprising a housing for holding a first fitment located on
a first refill bag and a second fitment located on a second refill
bag above the surface of the countertop.
13. The never out counter-mount dispenser system of claim 12
further comprising a first refill bag and a second refill bag.
14. The never out counter-mount dispenser system of claim 11
further comprising an air compressor for providing compressed air
to mix with a liquid.
15. A counter-mount dispenser comprising: a housing mountable on a
countertop; at least a portion of the housing is movable to expose
an opening through the counter; an actuator for causing a fluid to
be pumped from a refill bag; a receiving area for receiving a first
empty refill bag, wherein at least a portion first empty refill bag
is configured to pass through the opening; wherein the first refill
bag is inserted into the dispenser from above the counter when the
refill bag is empty; wherein the first refill bag is fillable while
in the dispenser; and wherein the first refill bag is configured to
be removed from the counter-mount dispenser after the fluid is
pumped out of the first refill bag.
16. The counter-mount dispenser of claim 15 further comprising a
first refill bag.
17. The counter-mount dispenser of claim 16 further comprising a
receiving area for a second refill bag.
18. The counter-mount dispenser of claim 17 further comprising
refill selection circuitry for causing the actuator to dispense
fluid from the first refill bag until the first refill bag is empty
and to dispense fluid from the second refill bag until the second
refill bag is empty.
19. The counter-mount dispenser of claim 15 further comprising a
refill level sensor for determining whether a first or second
refill bag is empty.
20. The counter-mount dispenser of claim 15 further comprising an
indicator for indicating whether or not a refill bag is empty.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention relates generally to counter mount
dispensing systems, and more particularly to counter mount
dispensing systems that may be filled from above the counter in a
sanitary method, and sanitary refill units for such dispensing
systems.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Liquid dispenser systems, such as liquid soap and sanitizer
dispensers, provide a user with a predetermined amount of liquid
upon actuation of the dispenser. In addition, it is sometimes
desirable to dispense the liquid in the form of foam by, for
example, injecting air into the liquid to create a foamy mixture of
liquid and air bubbles. Some dispensing systems are mounted to a
counter top and have a spout on top of the counter while having
pumps and containers for holding liquid that are located under the
counter. These types of systems are commonly referred to either as
under-counter mount dispensing systems or counter mount dispensing
systems. As used herein, the term counter mount or under-counter
mount is used to describe a dispenser system that has a spout
located above the counter and the liquid that is dispensed is
retained below the counter.
[0003] There a few basic types of under-counter mount systems. The
first has a refillable container that a user removes, refills with
liquid and reinstalls, or simply pours liquid into the opening that
is located above the counter in some manual dispensers. These types
of dispensers are not desirable because bacteria can grow in the
container and contaminate the liquid. Another type of dispenser has
a refill unit that includes a liquid pump and a container. When the
container is empty, a user must go underneath the counter, remove
the empty refill unit and thrown it away. The new refill unit is
installed from underneath the counter. Although these types of
refills are more sanitary than refilling the container, these types
of refill units require a user to go underneath the counter to
refill the dispensing system.
SUMMARY
[0004] Exemplary embodiments of dispensing systems and refill units
for dispensing systems are provided. One exemplary refill unit for
a counter mount dispenser includes a collapsed bag and a tube
extending down into the collapsed bag. A fitment is secured to the
collapsed bag. The fitment has a filling orifice. A pump for
pumping fluid out of the bag is also provided. The collapsed bag
fits through an opening in a countertop so that the collapsed bag
may be inserted from above the countertop through the opening and
at least a part of the collapsed bag extends below the countertop.
The collapsed bag is configured to be filled with a liquid after
being inserted through the opening in the countertop and the volume
of the collapsed bag expands when the collapsed bag is filled with
liquid.
[0005] An exemplary refill system for a counter-mount dispenser
includes a container for holding a liquid. A refill bag having a
width and a length is also provided. A tube extends into the refill
bag. The refill bag is folded toward the tube to reduce the overall
width of the refill bag so that it fits through a standard hole in
a countertop. The container is configured to be releasably placed
in fluid communication with the refill bag to transfer fluid from
the container to the refill bag after the refill bag is inserted
through the hole in the countertop and the refill bag unfolds as it
fills with liquid.
[0006] An exemplary "never out" counter-mount dispenser system is
also disclosed. The system includes a spout for mounting above a
countertop, a first container for mounting below a countertop and a
second container for mounting below a countertop. At least a
portion of the spout is movable to expose an opening from the spout
to the first container and an opening from the spout to the second
container. The first container is for receiving a first refill bag
and the second container is for receiving a second refill bag. The
exemplary system includes circuitry for causing the never out
counter-mount dispenser system to dispense fluid from a first
refill bag in the first container until the first refill bag is
empty. It also includes circuitry for causing the never out
counter-mount dispenser system to dispense fluid from the second
refill bag in the second container when the first refill bag is
empty.
[0007] Another exemplary counter-mount dispenser includes a housing
mountable on a countertop. At least a portion of the housing is
movable to expose an opening through the counter. An actuator is
provided for causing a fluid to be pumped from a refill bag. A
receiving area is provided for receiving a first empty refill bag
and at least a portion of the first empty refill bag is configured
to pass through the opening. The first refill bag is inserted into
the dispenser from above the counter when the refill bag is empty
and the first refill bag is fillable while in the dispenser. The
first refill bag is also configured to be removed from the
counter-mount dispenser after the fluid is pumped out of the first
refill bag.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] These and other features and advantages of the present
invention will become better understood with regard to the
following description and accompanying drawings in which:
[0009] FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a cross-section of an
exemplary counter mount dispensing system with two refill
units;
[0010] FIG. 2 is a schematic view of a cross-section of an
exemplary refill bag for the counter mount dispenser system of FIG.
1 in a folded condition;
[0011] FIG. 3 is a schematic view of a cross-section of an
exemplary refill bag for the counter mount dispenser system of FIG.
1 in an unfolded condition;
[0012] FIG. 3A-3D illustrate an exemplary method of folding a
refill bag for the counter mount dispenser system of FIG. 1;
[0013] FIG. 4 is a schematic view of a cross-section of an
exemplary refill unit including a refill bag in a folded condition
and refill container for an counter mount dispenser system of FIG.
1;
[0014] FIG. 5 is a schematic view of a cross-section of the counter
mount dispenser system of FIG. 1 with the exemplary refill unit of
FIG. 4 inserted into the dispenser and with the refill bag being
filled;
[0015] FIG. 6 is a schematic view of a cross-section of an
exemplary counter mount foam dispensing system with two refill
units;
[0016] FIGS. 7A-7H illustrate another exemplary counter mount
dispensing system with a single refill unit and the process of
filling the exemplary counter mount dispensing system;
[0017] FIGS. 8A-8G illustrate another exemplary counter mount
dispensing system with a single refill unit and the process of
filling the exemplary under-counter mount dispensing system;
[0018] FIGS. 9A-9G illustrate another exemplary counter mount
dispensing system with a single refill unit and the process of
filling the exemplary counter mount dispensing system;
[0019] FIGS. 10A-10H illustrate another exemplary counter mount
dispensing system with a single refill unit and the process of
filling the exemplary under-counter mount dispensing system;
and
[0020] FIG. 11 illustrates a schematic diagram of exemplary
circuitry for operating touch free counter mount dispensing
system.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0021] An exemplary embodiment of a counter mount top-fill
dispenser system 100 is disclosed herein. The dispenser system 100
includes a spout 102 secured to a counter top 104. Spout 102 may be
secured to spout 102 by any means, such as, for example, by being
secured to housing 107. The exemplary spout 102 has a hinged cover
103 that may be opened to insert refill units 120, 140 into
dispenser system 100. Housing 107 extends through the opening 105
in the countertop 104. System 100 is designed to fit in a standard
opening 105, which is about 1 inch wide. Accordingly, the sanitary
refill bags 120, 130 are sized and folded to fit through housing
107.
[0022] Dispenser system 100 includes a electronics package 170.
Electronics package 170 includes a power supply, such as, a
plurality of batteries. In some embodiments, the power supply may
be a 120 volt power source and electronics package 170 may include
a transformer. An exemplary electronics package is described in
more detail with respect to FIG. 11. Object sensor and display
circuitry 180 provides a signal to electronics package 170 if an
object is present and alerts a user if one or both of the refill
bags 120, 140 are empty and need to be replaced. Dispenser system
100 also includes an actuator 172 to pump liquid from the refill
bag 128, 148 to the end 134, 154 of their respective dispense tubes
132, 152.
[0023] Dispenser system 100 includes a first protective container
112 and a second protective container 114. Protective containers
112, 114 may be rigid containers. In the present embodiment,
protective containers 112, 114 are bags. In some embodiments, the
protective containers 112, 114 may be made of a mesh type material.
In some embodiments, protective containers 112, 114 provide support
and protection for refill bags 128, 148, and in others merely
provide support. In some embodiments, containers 112, 114 retain
liquid in the event one of the refill bags 128, 148 rupture. In
some embodiments, containers 112, 114 have the ability to be
removed or opened to clean out any liquid that enters containers
112, 114 through a ruptured refill bag 128, 148. Refill bags 128,
148 may be made of any material, such as, for example,
Polyethylene, LLDPE, LDPE, MDPE, HDPE, Nylon, Vinyl and EVA
[0024] Secured to refill bags 128, 148 are fitments 122, 142. On
the lower side of fitments 122, 142 are dip tubes 130, 150. Dip
tubes 130, 150 extend down into the bottom of refill bags 128, 148
and are used to draw liquid up from the bottom of refill bags 128,
148. Fitments 122, 142 include pumps 126, 146 which are connected
to the dip tubes 130, 150. Fitments 122, 142 also include annular
projections 124, 144 for receiving delivery tubes 132, 152.
Movement of the pumps 126, 146 up and down pumps fluid from the
refill bags 128, 148 out through the dispense tubes 132, 152. In
some embodiments, the pumps 126, 146 are located in the bottom of
their respective refill bags 128, 148 and tubes 130, 150 are
delivery tubes to deliver the liquid products upward.
[0025] Actuator 172 is a long rod that extends from the electronics
package 170 below the counter top to above the counter top where
pumps 124, 144 are located. One or more level detection sensors
provide a signal to the electronics package 170 so that the
electronics package 170 can determine when a refill bag 128, 148 is
empty. Once a refill bag 128, 148 is empty, electronics package 170
illuminates an indicating light on object sensor and display
circuitry 180. In addition, actuator 172 rotates about 180 degrees
so that actuator arm 174 operates the pump on the refill unit 120
or 140 that is not empty. In embodiments with the liquid pump
located in the bottom of the refill bag or below the refill bag,
the actuator need not extend above the counter top.
[0026] The level sensors (not shown) may be optical sensors,
proximity sensors, floats, conductive sensors, weight sensors, or
the like. In some embodiments, conductive ink tracers (not shown)
extend down the dip tubes 130, 150, or inside of refill bags 128,
148. The conductive ink tracers may be used to provide a signal to
the electronics package. If there is fluid present in the refill
bag 128, 148, the fluid completes a circuit between two conductive
ink tracers. If the circuit is broken, the electronics package 170
may determine that the refill bag 128, 148 is empty.
[0027] FIGS. 2 and 3 illustrate an exemplary refill bag 128 (refill
bag 140 is identical and will not be described in detail herein).
FIG. 2 illustrates refill bag 128 in a folded state and FIG. 3
illustrates refill bag 128 in an unfolded state. As described
above, refill bag 128 includes fitment 122 a pump 124 and an
annular projection 123 that receives a dispense tube (not shown).
In addition, fitment 122 includes an opening (not shown) for
connecting to a container (not shown) to fill the refill bag 128
after the refill bag 128 is inserted into a dispenser system. In
some embodiments, the bottom of refill bag 128 tapers and is lower
in the center to cause liquid in the refill bag 128 to flow to the
dip tube 630 which is at the lowest point in the refill bag
128.
[0028] FIG. 3A is a cross-section of refill bag 128 and dip tube
130 of refill unit 120. The outer ends of refill bag 128 are folded
in and over again and again, see FIGS. 3B and 3C until the folds
are proximate the dip tube 130. The two folded portions are folded
together as shown in FIG. 3D and are held together by one or more
small pieces of tape 375. When refill bag 128 is filled with
liquid, the tape 375 releases and the refill bag 128 unfolds.
[0029] FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary refill unit 400 having a
container 402 connected to fitment 122. In some embodiments, refill
unit 400 is shipped to the customer as illustrated with the refill
unit 120 and dip tube connected to container 402. In some
embodiments, a user connects refill unit 120 to container 402.
Container 402 may be a rigid container with a vent (not shown), a
collapsible container, a plastic bag or the like.
[0030] FIG. 5 illustrates refilling the exemplary foam dispenser
system 100. Refill 120 is inserted through the opening in housing
107 and the refill bag 128 and dip tube 130 are directed to
protective container 112. Refill bag 128 and dip tube 130 are
directed to protective container 112 by one or more partitions (not
shown). In some embodiments, housing 107 holds fitment 122 above
the counter top 104 and off-set (particularly if two refill units
120, 140 are used in the dispensing system 100). Because the
opening 105 in the counter top 104 is only about 1 inch wide,
raising fitment 122 above the counter top 104 and off-set form the
center of the hole allows the upper portion 129 of refill bag 128
to expand and fill as much of the opening 105 as possible. This
allows fluid from container 402 to flow into refill bag 128 as
quickly as possible.
[0031] When container 402 is empty, container 402 is twisted to
remove the container 402. Twisting container 402 seals the opening
(not shown) in fitment 122 to seal refill bag 128. In some
embodiments, twisting container 402 permanently seals refill bag
128. In some embodiments, the opening (not shown) in fitment 122
has a one-way connector for connecting to container 122. In some
embodiments, container 122 moves a one-way valve to allow fluid to
flow into container 128. Once the container 402 is removed, a user
inserts dispensing tube 132 into annular projection 126 and closes
hinged cover 103 of spout 102 and the dispensing system is ready
for use. In some embodiments, removing container 402 breaks of a
frangible portion of the container 402 or fitment 122 to
permanently seal the opening in fitment 122 to prevent a user from
refilling refill bag 128 multiple times.
[0032] When a refill unit 120 or 140 is empty and needs to be
replaced, a user opens hinged cover 103 of spout 102 and pulls the
dispensing tube 132 or 152 out of the spout 102. The user pulls
fitments 122 or 142 upward, which pulls refill bag 128 or 148 and
dip tubes 130 or 150 upward through opening 105.
[0033] FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a foam
dispensing system 600. Foam dispensing system 600 is similar to
dispensing system 100 but also includes an air compressor 690 for
providing compressed air to mix with the liquid to cause the liquid
to be dispensed as a foam.
[0034] The dispenser system 600 includes a spout 602 secured to a
counter top 604. Spout 602 may be secured to spout 602 by any
means, such as, for example, by being secured to housing 607. The
exemplary spout 602 has a hinged cover 603 that may be opened to
insert refill units 620, 640 into dispenser system 600. Housing 607
extends through the opening 605 in the countertop 604. System 600
is designed to fit in a standard opening 605, which is about 1 inch
wide. Accordingly, the sanitary refill bags 620, 630 are sized and
folded to fit through housing 607 when empty and collapsed.
[0035] Dispenser system 600 includes one or more air compressors
690. In one embodiment, the one or more air compressors 690 are
permanently mounted in dispensing system 600. If the one or more
air compressors 690 are permanently mounted in dispenser system
600, the one or more air compressors 690 are releasably connected
to fitments 622 and 642. Air passages (not shown) and liquid
passages (not shown) in fitments 622 and 642 intersect in a mixing
chamber (not shown) as commonly known in the industry. One or more
foaming screens may be located in fitments 622, 642 or in annular
projection 622 and 646 to help generate foam.
[0036] In some embodiments, an air compressor is mounted on each of
fitments 622, 642 and is removable with the refill bag 628, 648 and
fitments 622, 642. The one or more air compressors 690 are shown
above the countertop 604, but may be located below the counter
top.
[0037] Dispenser system 600 includes an electronics package (not
shown) that is substantially the same as electronics package, which
is not shown for clarity. An exemplary electronics package is shown
and described with respect to FIG. 11. Object sensor and display
circuitry 680 provides a signal to electronics package when an
object is present and alerts a user if one or both of the refill
bags 620, 640 are empty and need to be replaced. Dispenser system
600 also includes an actuator (not shown) to pump liquid from the
refill bag 628, 648 to the end 634, 654 of their respective
dispense tubes 632, 652 and to pump air from the air compressor(s)
690.
[0038] Dispenser system 600 includes a first protective container
612 and a second protective container 614. Protective containers
612, 614 may be rigid containers. In the present embodiment,
protective containers 612, 614 are bags. Optionally, the protective
containers 612, 614 may be made of a mesh type material. In some
embodiments, protective containers 612, 614 provide support and
protection for refill bags 628, 648, and in others merely provide
support. In some embodiments, the protective containers 612, 614
are configured to contain any liquid that flows out of a ruptured
refill bag. In some embodiments, the protective container 612, 614
are configured to be removable, or opened to be cleaned if they are
contaminated by liquid from the refill bags 628, 648.
[0039] As described above, refill bags 628, 648 may be made of any
suitable material that may be folded to allow them to pass through
the opening 605 and strong enough to hold the liquid without
leaking.
[0040] Secured to refill bags 628, 648 are fitments 622, 642. On
the lower side of fitments 622, 642 are dip tubes 630, 650. Dip
tubes 630, 650 extend down into the bottom of refill bags 628, 648
and are used to draw liquid up from the bottom of refill bags 628,
648. Fitments 622, 642 include pumps 626, 1646 which are connected
to the dip tubes 630, 650. Fitments 122, 142 also include annular
projections 624, 644 for receiving delivery tubes 632, 652. As
described above, fitments 622, 644 also include air passages (not
shown), a mixing chamber (not shown), and one or more screens (not
shown). Movement of the pumps 626, 646 up and down pumps fluid from
the refill bags 628, 648 into the mixing chamber where it mixes
with air from the one or more air compressors 690, passes through
the screens and turns to foam which passes out through the dispense
tubes 632, 652. In some embodiments the pumps are located at the
bottom of the refill bags 628, 648 and tubes 630, 650 are delivery
tubes.
[0041] An actuator (not shown) operates liquid pumps 626, 646 and
the one or more air compressors 690. As described above, an
electronics package monitors the liquid level in the refill bag
628, 648 and when a refill bag, such as, for example, refill bag
628 is empty, the dispenser system 600 pumps liquid from the other
refill bag 648.
[0042] FIGS. 7A through 7H illustrate an exemplary dispensing
system 700. Dispensing system 700 may be a sanitary system in that
the all of the parts that contact liquid may be disposed of each
time the dispenser system is refilled. FIG. 7A illustrates an
exemplary refill unit 750. Refill unit 750 includes a container
751. Container 751 is a bag like container and includes a handle
760 for holding the refill unit 750. Container 751 is connected to
fitment 752 which includes a pumping mechanism not shown. Located
within container 751 is a dispensing tube 757. Dispensing tube 757
is protected from the liquid located within container 751 by a
sheath 758. Sheath 758 is connected to container 751 so when
container 751 is removed, the sheath 758 is also removed. Thus, the
outside of dispensing tube 757 is not covered by liquid after the
refill unit 750 is installed.
[0043] In addition, refill unit 750 includes a refill bag 754 and
dip tube 756. In one embodiment, refill bag 754 is rolled around
dip tube 756. In one embodiment, refill bag 754 is first folded and
then rolled around dip tube 756, and in one embodiment refill bag
754 is folded.
[0044] As may be seen in FIGS. 7B and 7C, a spout 702 is releasably
connected to a base 703. Pressing catch 703A inward allows spout
702 to lift off of base 703. Optionally, spout 702 may be hingedly
connected to base 703 and may swing out of the way. Once spout 702
is out of the way, the empty refill unit (not shown) is pulled
upward out of the dispenser system 700.
[0045] Refill unit 750 is positioned over the top of base 703 and
the refill bag 754 and dip tube 756 are lowered down through an
opening (not shown) in base 703 and counter top 710 as illustrated
in FIGS. 7D and 7E. When fitment 752 is located in its proper
place, a passage opens in fitment 752 allowing the liquid in
container 751 to flow into refill bag 754 which expands as
illustrated in FIG. 7F. The passage may open automatically, or be
opened by the user. As shown in FIG. 7G, once the refill bag 754 is
full and container 751 is empty, container 751 and sheath 758 are
removed leaving dispense tube 757 extending above base 703.
Dispense tube 757 is threaded up through spout 702 and spout 702 is
secured to base 703.
[0046] In some embodiments, dispenser 700 is an electronically
activated dispenser and includes the necessary components to sense
an object and operate a pump located in fitment 752. In some
embodiments, dispenser 700 is manually operated and the spout 702
may for example, move up and down with respect to base 703 to pump
fluid.
[0047] FIGS. 8A through 8G illustrate another exemplary embodiment
of a dispensing system 800. Dispensing system 800 includes a refill
unit 850. Refill unit 850 includes a container 851, a dispensing
tube 860, a fitment 856, a refill bag 854 and a dip tube 855
secured to fitment 856. Fitment 856 includes a pump (not shown) and
an annular projection 858 for receiving dispense tube 860. As
illustrated in FIGS. 8B and 8C, spout 802 separates from base 803
leaving an opening 805 through base 803 and counter top 810. Refill
bag 854 and dip tube 854 are lowered down through the opening 805
(FIG. 8D) so that the refill bag 854 hangs below the bottom of the
counter top 810. Optionally, a container (not shown) may be located
below the counter top 810 to support and/or protect refill bag
854.
[0048] As illustrated in FIG. 8E container 851 is connected to
fitment 856 and liquid flows down into refill bag 854. Once
container 851 is empty, the container 851 is removed and dispensing
tube 860 is attached to annular projection 858. Dispensing tube 860
is threaded up through spout 802 and spout 802 is connected to base
803.
[0049] In some embodiments, dispenser 800 is an electronically
activated dispenser and includes the necessary components to sense
and object and operate a pump located in fitment 856. In some
embodiments, dispenser 800 is manually operated and the spout 802
may for example, move up and down with respect to base 803 to pump
fluid.
[0050] FIGS. 9A through 9G illustrate yet another exemplary
embodiment of a dispensing system 900. Dispensing system 900
includes a refill unit 950. Refill unit 950 includes a dispensing
tube 960, a pump 956, dip tube 957, a refill bag 951 and a
cylindrical housing 962. Cylindrical housing 962 is sized to fit
through a standard opening in a counter top. Located below
cylindrical housing 962 is a lower portion 954 of refill bag
951.
[0051] As illustrated in FIGS. 9B and 9C, cylindrical housing 962
is lowered into opening 905. A user then gently squeezes refill bag
951 (FIG. 9F) causing fluid to flow under pressure, and/or due to
gravity, into lower portion 954 of refill bag 951. As the fluid
flows into the lower portion 954 of refill bag 951, refill bag 951
moves downward into and through cylindrical housing 962. In some
embodiments, dispensing system 900 includes a container 912 located
under the countertop 910 to support and protect refill bag 951.
Dispensing tube 960 is threaded up through spout 902 and spout 902
is connected to base 903. To remove an empty refill unit 950, a
user simply removes spout 902 and pulls upward on dispense tube 960
and or fitment 956.
[0052] FIG. 10 illustrates yet another embodiment of a dispensing
system 1000. Dispensing system 1000 is particularly useful in
locations that require a large number of dispensers. Dispenser
system 1000 includes a bulk container 1051 illustrated in FIG. 10A.
Bulk container 1051 includes pumping mechanism 1055 that pumps
fluid out of container 1051 through hose 1053. Hose, 1053 includes
a connector 1053A.
[0053] FIG. 10B illustrates a refill unit 1058. Refill unit 1058
includes a fitment 1052 that includes a pump (not shown). A
dispensing tube 1060 is secured to fitment 4052. In addition, a
refill port 1053 is in the side of fitment 1052. Refill unit 1058
also includes a refill bag 1054 and dip tube 1055. Refill bag 1054
is rolled around dip tube 1055 so that the refill bag 1054 will fit
through the opening in base 1003 and counter top 1010.
[0054] As illustrated in FIGS. 10C and 10D, spout 1002 is secured
to base 1003. Spout 1002 is split in two halves 1002A and 1002B.
First half 1002B is stationary and second half 1002A is hingedly
connected to base 1003. Second half 1002A rotates outward to expose
an opening in spout 1054. Refill unit 1058 is lowered through the
opening in spout 1002. As illustrated in FIG. 10F, base 1003
includes a door 1003A that opens to reveal an opening 1006 in base
1003. When refill unit 1058 is inserted into spout 1002, refill
port 1053 is aligned with opening 1006.
[0055] As illustrated in FIG. 10G, connector 1053A of hose 1053 is
connected through opening 1006 with refill port 1053. A user pumps
pump 1055 of bulk container 1051 and the refill bag 1054 is filled
(see FIG. 10H). Once the refill bag 1054 is filled, the user
removes hose 1053, closes door 1003A and closes the second half
1002A of spout 1002.
[0056] In some embodiments, dispenser system 1000 is an
electronically activated dispenser and includes the necessary
components to sense and object and operate a pump located in
fitment 1052. In some embodiments, dispenser system 1000 is
manually operated and the spout 1002 may for example, move up and
down with respect to base 1003 to pump fluid.
[0057] FIG. 11 illustrates a schematic diagram of exemplary
circuitry for operating touch free counter mount dispensing system
1100. Dispensing system 1100 has a spout 1102 located above counter
1108. Spout 1102 includes an object sensor 1104 and one or more
indicators 1106, such as, for example, light emitting diodes. The
light emitting diodes may, for example, provide indication of the
status of the dispensing system 1100 or the status of one or more
refill units (not shown) located within the dispenser system 1100.
Object sensor 1104 and indicator(s) 1106 are in circuit
communication with processor 1122, which is located in electronics
package 1120 located below counter top 1108.
[0058] Although the electrical components are described as being in
certain locations, or as being part of an "electronics package,"
the components may be located in any suitable location and more or
less components may be included. The term electronics package is
merely used for convenience and is not meant to limit the number of
components or their location.
[0059] "Circuit communication" as used herein indicates a
communicative relationship between devices. Direct electrical,
electromagnetic and optical connections and indirect electrical,
electromagnetic and optical connections are examples of circuit
communication. Two devices are in circuit communication if a signal
from one is received by the other, regardless of whether the signal
is modified by some other device. For example, two devices
separated by one or more of the following--amplifiers, filters,
transformers, optoisolators, digital or analog buffers, analog
integrators, other electronic circuitry, fiber optic transceivers
or satellites--are in circuit communication if a signal from one is
communicated to the other, even though the signal is modified by
the intermediate device(s). As another example, an electromagnetic
sensor is in circuit communication with a signal if it receives
electromagnetic radiation from the signal. As a final example, two
devices not directly connected to each other, but both capable of
interfacing with a third device, such as, for example, a CPU, are
in circuit communication.
[0060] Also, as used herein, voltages and values representing
digitized voltages are considered to be equivalent for the purposes
of this application, and thus the term "voltage" as used herein
refers to either a signal, or a value in a processor representing a
signal, or a value in a processor determined from a value
representing a signal.
[0061] "Signal", as used herein includes, but is not limited to one
or more electrical signals, analog or digital signals, one or more
computer instructions, a bit or bit stream, or the like.
[0062] "Logic," synonymous with "circuit" as used herein includes,
but is not limited to hardware, firmware, software and/or
combinations of each to perform a function(s) or an action(s). For
example, based on a desired application or needs, logic may include
a software controlled microprocessor or microcontroller, discrete
logic, such as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or
other programmed logic device. Logic may also be fully embodied as
software. The circuits identified and described herein may have
many different configurations to perform the desired functions.
[0063] The values identified in the detailed description are
exemplary and they are determined as needed for a particular
dispenser and/or refill design. Accordingly, the inventive concepts
disclosed and claimed herein are not limited to the particular
values or ranges of values used to describe the embodiments
disclosed herein.
[0064] Electronics package 1120 includes a power supply 1134. Power
supply 1134 may be any power supply, such as, for example, a
plurality of batteries. Optionally, electronics package 1120 may be
wired into an AC power source and power supply 1134 may include a
transformer. Power supply 1134 is in circuit communication with air
compressor drive circuitry 1126, refill selection circuitry 1130,
actuator drive circuitry 1136, processor 1122 and any other
circuitry that requires power.
[0065] Processor 1122 is in circuit communication with memory 1124.
Memory 1124 may be any type of memory, such as, for example, Random
Access Memory (RAM); Read Only Memory (ROM); programmable read-only
memory (PROM), electrically programmable read-only memory (EPROM),
electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM),
magnetic disk or tape, optically readable mediums including CD-ROM
and DVD-ROM, or the like, or combinations of different types of
memory. In some embodiments, the memory 1124 is separate from the
processor 1122, and in some embodiments, the memory 1124 resides on
or within processor 1122.
[0066] Processor 1122 is in circuit communication with refill level
sensor circuitry 1140 that allows processor 1122 to monitor the
liquid level in the refill units (not shown). Although certain
portions of "circuitry" are shown outside of the processor 1122,
some or all of the circuitry may be contained in logic in the
processor 1122 or on memory 1124. As described above, the refill
level sensor circuitry may include optical sensors, proximity
sensors, floats, conductive sensors, weight sensors, or the like,
and logic for providing an input to processor 1122. In some
embodiments, conductive ink tracers extend down the dip tubes (not
shown), or inside of refill bags (not shown). The conductive ink
tracers may be used to provide a signal to the processor 1122. If
there is fluid present in the refill bag, the fluid completes a
circuit between two conductive ink tracers. If the circuit is
broken, the processor 1124 may determine that the refill bag is
empty.
[0067] Processor 1122 is also in circuit communication with refill
selection circuitry 1130. Refill section circuitry 1130 is used by
processor 1122 to select one refill unit to pump fluid out of until
that refill unit is determined to be empty. If a refill unit is
determined to be empty, refill selection circuitry 1130 causes the
actuator to engage a second refill, and processor 1122 turns on an
indicator 1106 to notify a user that a refill is empty and needs to
be replaced. In some embodiments, refill selection circuitry 1130
is in circuit communication with a drive motor 1132 that
repositions an actuator to operate the second refill unit.
[0068] Processor 1122 is also in circuit communication with
actuator drive circuitry 1136. Actuator drive circuitry is in
circuit communication with drive motor 1138 which moves the
actuator to dispense fluid when processor 1122 determines that
object sensor 1104 has detected an object. In addition processor
1122 is in circuit communication with air compressor drive
circuitry 1126 (in a foam dispensing system). Air compressor drive
circuitry is in circuit communication with drive motor 1128 which
operates an air compressor (not shown) to mix air with liquid when
the dispensing system 1100 is operated. Optionally, one drive motor
may operate both the air compressor and the fluid pumps.
[0069] 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
appended claims to such detail. Additional advantages and
modifications will readily appear to those skilled in the art.
Moreover, elements described with one embodiment may be readily
adapted for use with other embodiments. Therefore, the invention,
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.
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