Patent ID: 6068160
Filing Date: 2000-05-30
Classification: A23G,B67D

Abstract:
A system for pneumatically dispensing a product, said system comprising:a receptacle having a passageway therein for holding said product, said receptacle having a first end and a second end;a free-floating piston within said passageway in said receptacle, said receptacle, said piston, and said first end defining a chamber;a pressurized gas source containing pressurized gas in fluid communication with said chamber,a first valve between said pressurized gas source and said chamber, whereby said pressurized gas flows through said first valve and into said chamber when said first valve is open, said pressurized gas causing said piston to move away from said first end and toward said second end, forcing said product out of said receptacle;a vacuum generator that generates a vacuum in said chamber, said system further comprising a second valve between said vacuum generator and said chamber, said vacuum extending through said second valve when said second valve is open between said vacuum generator and said chamber, said vacuum causing said piston to move toward said first end and away from said second end; anda release valve in fluid communication with said chamber, said pressurized gas in said chamber flowing through said release valve when said release valve is open.