Patent ID: 6705356
Filing Date: 2004-03-16
Classification: A23G,B67D,F25C,G07F

Abstract:
A method for automatically controlling the dispensing of a flowable product into a container from a product dispensing machine without user or container contact with the dispensing machine for improved sanitation and for preventing transmission of germs by surface-to-surface contact, said method comprising the steps of:a) providing an optical fiber unit that extends between a light source and a predetermined container-receiving region below a product dispensing nozzle for transmitting light from the light source into the predetermined region from an end of the optical fiber unit; b) sensing light reflected back to the end of the optical fiber unit from a wall surface of a container positioned within the predetermined region and below the product dispensing nozzle; c) providing a signal responsive to the sensing of reflected light from the container wall surface and automatically initiating contactless dispensing of the product from the product dispensing nozzle into the container when the container is within the predetermined region; d) continuing automatic dispensing of the product for the duration of the time the container is within the predetermined region; and e) terminating dispensing of the product upon withdrawal of the container from the predetermined region, and including means for allowing dispensing machine cleaning without automatically actuated product dispensation.