Fluid dispensing system

The present invention discloses a fluid dispensing system that includes modularized components such as a flow-out member from which fluid dispenses, fluid displacement mechanism, including electronics associated therewith and a reservoir for storage of fluid. The flow-out member, fluid displacement mechanism, and components constituting the fluid dispensing system including the reservoir may have one of a linear or nonlinear cooperative relationship in terms of connectivity and operation, and may be positioned in one of a close proximity or remote locations from one another. Flow out member is provided that may moved in more that one direction to refill reservoir.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Field of the Invention

One or more embodiments of the present invention relates to fluid dispensing system and, more particularly, to an automated fluid dispensing system.

Description of Related Art

Conventional automatic soap dispensers are well known and have been in use for a number of years. Regrettably, due in part to a very tight, closed-system, interdependent integration design between the various components that constitute the conventional automatic soap dispensers, most require the use of a specifically designed proprietary components and in particular, proprietary soap reservoirs (or containers). Accordingly, for example, a soap container or bottle from one manufacturer of automatic soap dispenser cannot be used with another brand or manufacturer of automatic soap dispenser (or produced and sold by a third party manufacturer).

Further, most conventional automatic soap dispensers use a pump mechanism to displace (or cause to move) soap by being in direct contact with the soap. In other words, the soap must go through within the actual internal components of the pump in order to be displaced. For example, if a gear type pump (or reciprocating pump) is used, the soap contacts with and is displaced by the actual internal gears of the gear pump. The requirement of direct contact of soap with the internal components of pumps mechanisms of conventional automatic soap dispensers in order to displace the soap is disadvantageous as such a direct contact reduces the life of the pump. Further, if the pump has not been in operation for some time, the soap inside the pump will most likely loose moisture, loosing its fluidity (or viscosity), dry-out, and become solid, stuck to internal components of the pump.

Furthermore, most conventional automatic soap dispensers require a vertical linear line of cooperative relationship and in a very close proximity in terms of operation and connectivity between the various components thereof that constitutes the conventional automatic soap dispensers. Therefore, in order to assembly, install, and use most conventional automatic soap dispensers, a minimal vertically linear clearance under a vanity is required to fit the various components inline and vertically in close proximity therein.

Accordingly, in light of the current state of the art and the drawbacks to current dispensers mentioned above, a need exists for a fluid dispensing system that would be modularized, that would be isolated from the fluid being displaced, and that would not require linear cooperative relationship or close proximity between the components in terms of operation and connectivity.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A non-limiting, exemplary aspect of an embodiment of the present invention provides a fluid dispensing system, comprising:

a flow-out member from which fluid is dispensed;

fluid displacement mechanism that displaces fluid; and

a reservoir for fluid;

the modularized components have one of a linear or nonlinear cooperative relationship in terms of connectivity and operation, and are positioned in one of a close proximity or remote locations from one another.

These and other features and aspects of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description of preferred non-limiting exemplary embodiments, taken together with the drawings and the claims that follow.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The detailed description set forth below in connection with the appended drawings is intended as a description of presently preferred embodiments of the invention and is not intended to represent the only forms in which the present invention may be constructed and or utilized.

One or more embodiments of the present invention provide a fluid dispensing system that is fully modularized, isolated from the fluid that the fluid dispensing system is displacing, and does not require linear cooperative relationship or close proximity between the components in terms of operation and connectivity. Further, one or more embodiments of the present invention provide a fluid dispensing system that may use a flow-out member comprised of a single piece, sturdy material (e.g., copper base, nickel base, stainless steel, plastics, etc.), and that uses insulated connectivity without the additional requirement of sealants.

FIG. 1Ais a non-limiting, exemplary, illustration of an overall systems overview of a fully assembled fluid dispensing system in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention, andFIG. 1Bis a non-limiting, exemplary over view illustration of fluid dispensing system without showing an outflow member in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. As illustrated inFIGS. 1A and 1B, one or more embodiments of the present invention provide a fluid dispensing system100a, comprising a flow-out member102from which fluid is dispensed and a reservoir104for storage of fluid. Flow-out member102and reservoir104may have one of a linear or nonlinear cooperative relationship in terms of connectivity and operation, and may be positioned in one of a close proximity or remote locations from one another. Stated otherwise and as illustrated inFIGS. 1A and 1B, flow-out member102and reservoir104need not be linearly aligned or even positioned closed to one another. This provides space savings features and enables the use of a desired sized reservoir104(for example, much larger sized reservoir104may be used for even smaller compact cabinet space), particularly useful for commercial settings without requiring constant reordering of soap containers or soap refills from a specific manufacturer. As is apparent to those skilled in the art, space underneath sinks is very limited and hence, non-linear arrangement disclosed are beneficial. In general, fluid is displaced from fluid reservoir104(with the fluid flow shown by arrows140) via a housing108that accommodates a fluid displacement mechanism202(FIG. 2A), through connected outer stage tubing138(shown inFIG. 1A) and to outflow member102via dedicate path.

As further illustrated, one or more embodiments of the present invention provide for a fluid dispensing system100athat is comprised of flow-out member102with a nozzle134from which fluid is dispensed, with the nozzle134coupled with tube138. Flow-out member102is preferably comprised of a single piece to thereby prevent potential accumulation of bacterial growth found in the junction of conventional multi-piece spouts.

Flow-out member102incorporates a regulator106that controls fluid displacement mechanism202(accommodated within housing108) for controlled dispensing of fluid, wherein the fluid displaced, may follow a nonlinear path of a desired distance that spans from reservoir104to flow-out member102. This means that fluid displacement mechanism202and or reservoir104may be remotely located from each other and or from flow-out member102at a desired distance, limited only by the displacement capability of fluid displacement mechanism202and length of illustrated tubes.

In general, regulator106is comprised of a well known detector (a generally well known Infrared (IR detector)) that senses an object within its detection (or surveillance) zone. Regulator106further includes a well known controller602(FIG. 6A) that is in communication with the detector for processing sensed signals from the detector for control of fluid displacement mechanism202. Regulator106and its detector/controller are well known, conventional IR/controller unit that are extensively used in the automatic fluid dispensing systems. The detector, the controller, or both the detector and controller may be preferably positioned within flow-out member102to readily detect users hands.

In addition to accommodating fluid displacement mechanism202, housing108also accommodate a bypass or flush switch110associated with fluid displacement mechanism202, which enables bypassing of regulator control and functionality to flush out and bleed-out air or any fluid residue. Bypass or flush switch110may be positioned remotely from the rest of fluid displacement mechanism202and need not be accommodated within housing108, limited in distance from fluid displacement mechanism202only by the length of electric wiring connection. As illustrated inFIGS. 1A and 1B, housing108is associated with reservoir104by an adapter-conduit124(further detailed below).

Electric power and data between regulator106and fluid displacement mechanism202is routed via wiring112, and electric power for bypass or flush switch110and fluid displacement mechanism202is routed via wiring114. All electric power for all electric or electronic components may be supplied by a set of batteries housed within a battery box116and or use of an AC power adaptor118that may be plugged into an AC outlet power source. It should be noted that preferably, all electrical wirings of fluid dispensing system100ause insulated electrical wiring connectivity (e.g., the illustrated respective sensor or data/power connector plug120and power connector plug122) to thereby avoid having to use additional sealants, which reduces installation time and costs. Battery box116and or optional AC power adaptor118may be positioned remotely, limited in distance only by the length of electric wiring connections. As best illustrated inFIG. 1B, adapter-conduit124may optionally include a holding structure146for rerouting and securing tubes or wiring, if needed.

As further illustrated inFIGS. 1A and 1B, reservoir104, adapter-conduit124, and housing108may be supported on a mounting support (e.g., suspension bracket)126that as detailed below may include a removable barrier128(e.g., a lock-key) to securely retain adapter-conduit124in place and hence, the associated reservoir104. Fluid may be replenished by removing a simple cap150from top of adapter-conduit124or alternatively, reservoir104may be detached (unscrewed) from lower end of adapter-conduit124and directly refilled. As further detailed below, mounting support126itself is cantilevered by its connection to flow-out member102via washer128and shank fasteners130and nut152, with a lower end of flow-out member102having an O-ring washer132that provides a seal connection with support member126as illustrated.

FIGS. 2A and 2Bare non-limiting, exemplary partial views of fluid dispensing system in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.FIG. 2Aillustrates a perspective front-view of parts of fluid dispensing system with a first member214of housing108removed.FIG. 2Billustrates a perspective back or rear-view of the same, but with a second member216of housing108removed. As illustrated inFIGS. 2A and 2Band detailed below in relation toFIGS. 3A-1 to 3B-3, housing108is comprised of a first and second members214and216. Housing108accommodates fluid displacement mechanism202and a flush switch110, including wiring and circuitry (not shown inFIGS. 2A and 2B) for both, for powering fluid displacement mechanism202. Flow of the fluid is in the direction indicated by arrows140and is displaced from reservoir104via tube208of adapter-conduit124, a port structure410(best shown inFIGS. 4A, 4B, and 4C), tubing210, and through fluid displacement mechanism202, and out through outlet tubing212and into outer stage tubing138towards outflow member102. It should be noted that although fluid displacement mechanism202is generally accommodated within housing108, fluid displacement mechanism202may be remotely located outside housing108and away from the rest of the remaining components that constitute fluid dispensing system100a.

Reservoir104couples with adapter-conduit124, which, in turn, is coupled with first and second members214and216of housing108. Reservoir104may be coupled with adapter-conduit124through a variety of mechanisms, non-limiting example of which may include a threaded coupling that use complementary male-female threading found in most “bottle-cap” type containers, with reservoir104having the male threading222and adapter-conduit124accommodating the female threading404(FIG. 4C). In fact, reservoir104in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention may comprise of any generic bottle that has any generic type of connection or securing mechanism (in this non-limiting, exemplary instance, the bottle has top end220that is threaded222(best shown inFIG. 2A) that is screwed onto the female threaded connection404(best shown inFIG. 4C) of the adapter-conduit124. As further detailed below, adapter-conduit124functions as both an adapter to enable coupling of reservoir104with housing108and also a conduit to enable flow of fluid from reservoir104to flow-out member102and also possible flow of fluid from top of the adapter and into reservoir for refill.

FIGS. 3A-1 to 3B-3are non-limiting, exemplary illustrations of various views of a first and second housing members in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. As indicated above, housing108is comprised of first and second members214and216that coupled together to adapter-conduit124, and accommodate fluid displacement mechanism202and flush switch110, and wiring and circuitry for both, for powering fluid displacement mechanism202.

First member214(FIGS. 3A-1 to 3A-2) of housing108includes a set of coupling through-holes244athat align with complementary set of coupling blind-holes244bof second member216of housing108to receive fasteners to connect first and second members214and216to form housing108. First member214includes a first cavity254awith first set of restraining structures304a, and second member216includes a second cavity254bwith a second set of restraining structures304bthat when positioned together, securely restrain fluid displacement mechanism202from movement. First cavity254aof first member214further includes a compartment248with aperture302for accommodating access to flush switch110. As illustrated inFIGS. 3B-1 and 3B-2, second cavity254bof second member216further includes cylindrical protrusion326with a blind-hole328for fastening an anchoring flange242of fluid displacement mechanism202to second member216(as also shown inFIG. 2A).

First and second members214and216further include respective first connection portion316aand second connection portion316b, with first connection portion316acomprised of a first set of apertures238and first semi-cylindrical end320a, and second connection portion316bcomprised of corresponding set of cylindrical protrusions252with blind-holes330, commensurate with first set of aperture238, and a corresponding second semi-cylindrical end320bcommensurate with first semi-cylindrical end320a.

First and second members214and216also include respective mounting structure306a/bcomprised of first and second flanges308a/band310a/bthat are spaced apart to form a channel322a/bwith respective aligned grooves312a/band314a/b, which receive tube connection structures comprised of a connectivity fastener-plate234with a through-hole bolt that slides within and is secured in channel322a/b, with tube212passed through the through-hole of fastener-plate234, and secured between grooves312a/band314a/bof first and second member214and216by a set of tubing nuts232and234(as shown inFIG. 2A). First and second members214and216further include power/data wiring access port256a/bfor wiring112and power wiring access port258a/bfor wiring114.

FIG. 4Ais a non-limiting, exemplary illustration of an adapter-conduit in accordance with one or more embodiments of present invention.FIGS. 4B and 4Care non-limiting, exemplary illustration of various views of adapter-conduit and fluid displacement mechanism (without showing electrical wiring) in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.FIG. 4Dis a non-limiting, exemplary illustration of optional components used for providing covering for adapter-conduit. As illustrated inFIGS. 4A to 4D, adapter-conduit124is comprised of a hollow cylindrical structure with a top and a bottom distal ends224and246with respective top and bottom openings406and402. As indicated above, bottom distal end246of bottom opening402(FIG. 4C) has an interior bottom periphery408that is adapted to be coupled with a reservoir108. That is, reservoir104may be coupled with adapter-conduit124through a non-limiting, exemplary threaded coupling that use complementary male-female threading, with reservoir104having male threading222and adapter-conduit124accommodating female threading404(FIG. 4C).

As further illustrated inFIGS. 4A to 4D, adapter-conduit124also includes a mounting portion236protruded from a side of outer surface408with holes240for coupling with first and second members214and216of housing108. First and second members214and216are coupled with adapter-conduit124by aligning first set of apertures238of first connection portion316aof first member214with holes240of mounting portion236, and inserting the set of cylindrical protrusions252of second connection portion316bof second member216with blind-holes330through holes240and securing first and second members214and216to mounting portion236by fasteners fastened through aligned holes330,238, and240. When coupled with mounting portion236, corresponding set of first and second semi-cylindrical ends320a/bof first and second members214and216meet to form a cylindrical compartment (FIGS. 3A-1 to 3B-3) for securing tube210and tubing nut228, covering over threaded outlet port412.

As best illustrated inFIGS. 4A to 4C, adapter-conduit124includes a port structure410provided within hollow interior of adapter-conduit124that has an inlet port416(FIG. 4C) associated with tubing208, and a threaded outlet port412(FIGS. 4A and 4B) that extends out of a lateral opening414and is associated with the inlet port418of pump206of fluid displacement mechanism202by tubing210. Tubing nut228fastens over threaded outlet port412to secure tube210.

Port structure410is comprised of a hollow interior, forming a through-hole between inlet and outlet ports416and412. As illustrated, in this non-limiting exemplary instance, the orientation of inlet port416in relation to the orientation of outlet port412is non-linear and at an angle to accommodate the non-linear path of flow of fluid, which is a result of non-linear placement or positioning of reservoir104in relation to fluid displacement mechanism202. Additionally, port structure410may be an integral part of adapter-conduit124, forming a single piece component or alternatively, may comprise a separate piece that is positioned within hollow interior of adapter-conduit124, with outlet port412inserted though opening414and secured on adapter-conduit124with tubing nut228fastens over threaded outlet port412.

Port structure410defines a closed-circuit fluid system where fluid is directed to move within designated infrastructure, isolated from remaining components of fluid dispensing system. In other words, fluid is moved from reservoir104via tube208and into inlet port416, moving through the through-hole hollow portion of port structure410, and out and into outlet port412of port structure410and into tube210without contacting interior hollow chamber of adapter-conduit124.

Referring toFIG. 4D, adapter-conduit124may be optionally capped with a lid to cover over and prevent access to opening406thereof. As illustrated, adapter-conduit124is comprised of top distal end224with top opening406that has an interior top periphery420that may be adapted to receive and secure a detachable female threaded ring226for connection with an optional lid-adapter422to secure a lid mechanism424to cover over opening406(and hence, block access to reservoir104). Ring226may snap-fit into interior periphery structure of adapter-conduit124and bonded or alternatively, may form an integral part of adapter-conduit124, forming a single piece. Lid-adapter422may comprises a top distal end440that has a flange428and flat surfaces446, with top440having a top opening432. Lid-adapter422may also include a bottom distal end442that is threaded436, with bottom442having a bottom opening434. Male threads436of bottom distal end442couples with female threaded ring226. Lid mechanism424is comprised of a securing end426that is secured underneath flange428of lid-adapter422, and a lid430that is tethered to securing end426that covers over and closes access to opening432. As illustrated, securing end426and lid430are tethered by a flexible extension444that enables lid430to move along path446and cover over opening432. If the lid assembly illustrated inFIG. 4Dis used, mounting support226(further detailed below) may also be coupled with lid-adapter422, contacting flat surfaces446rather than top distal end of adapter-conduit124(shown inFIGS. 7A, 7B, and 9). It should be noted that alternatively, the entire lid assembly illustrated inFIG. 4Dmay be replaced by a simple lid150(FIG. 1A) that caps over opening406, without the need or requirement for lid-adapter422, tethered lid mechanism424, or separate threaded ring226. Further, threaded ring226may be an integrally molded part of adapter-conduit124rather than a separate piece.

Referring toFIG. 4A, top distal end224of adapter-conduit124couples with free end144of cantilevered suspension bracket126. Adapter-conduit124is comprised of a top outer periphery448adapted to be coupled with second (free) end144of mounting-support126(detailed further below in relation toFIGS. 5A to 5D). In particular, top outer periphery448is comprised of indentations450with sufficient size (depth, length, and width) to accommodate flanges260(FIG. 2A) of second end144of mounting support126within indentations450as best illustrated inFIGS. 1A to 2B, andFIG. 5D, enabling adapter-conduit124and the coupled reservoir104to be secured in position.

FIGS. 5A to 5Dare non-limiting, exemplary illustrations of the various views of mounting support in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. As illustrated, one or more embodiments of fluid dispensing system100afurther comprise mounting-support126having a first end142associated with flow-out member102, and a second end144supporting adapter-conduit124, nonlinearly positioning reservoir104in relation to flow-out member202at an axial length502of mounting-support126, and at a desired angle. Further, mounting-support126also includes a width504with sufficient span to position all components supported by mounting-support126(e.g., reservoir104) away from wall underneath a sink.

Referring toFIGS. 1A, 1B, and 5A to 5D, first end142of mounting-support126is associated with flow-out member102, which eliminates the need for drilling holes in the walls to secure the fluid dispensing system100a. In other words, mounting-support126enables self-securing fluid dispensing system100awithout requirement of direct connection with a wall. Accordingly, the only structure that securely holds fluid dispensing system100ais the countertop148with which flow-out member102is associated (best shown inFIG. 1A).

First end142of mounting-support126is comprised a first hole506for passing through tube138and wiring112, as illustrated inFIG. 1A. In some cases, first hole506may also be used for securing the flow out member102. This is true when a flow out member is used that employs a large diameter shank used for fastening as well as a conduit for hoses and wires. First end142further includes a second set of holes508that receive shank fasteners130of flow-out member102and are positioned around first hole506to secure first end142to flow-out member102through the countertop148at a desired orientation to thereby orient and position second end144of mounting-support126nonlinearly at a desired angle in relation to a structure. In other words, depending on the number of second set of holes508, the second end144of mounting-support126may be positioned at an angle in relation to a structure upon which flow-out member102is ultimately attached. In this non-limiting exemplary instance, second end144of mounting-support126shown inFIG. 1Ais oriented at 0 or 180 degrees in relation to the illustrated wall, but may be positioned and oriented at any radial position in relation to the wall such as one furthest from the wall or at 90 degrees orientation, which would facilitate in ease of access for removal and refill of reservoir104. The higher the number of secondary set of holes508, the greater the number of degrees of orientation and positioning of second end144.

Second end144of mounting-support126is comprised an opening510defined by three sides512,514, and516with angled flanges260that receive and engage with indentations450for mounting adapter-conduit124. Second end144also accommodates a removable barrier128that interlocks apertures518a/bof sides514and516to secure adapter-conduit124. Removable barrier128includes flanges520a/bthat may be inserted into apertures518a/bof sides514and516(best shown inFIG. 5D) to thereby securely lock adapter-conduit124, and flange522that rests within one of the indentations450of adapter-conduit124.

As illustrated inFIGS. 2A, 2B, and 4C and 4D, fluid displacement mechanism202may comprise of a combination of a drive mechanism204and pump206, with drive mechanism204actuating pump206for displacement of fluid. Drive mechanism204may be a motor, the actuation of which is under the control of regulator106, with wiring112providing power and data communication between regulator106, drive mechanism204, and power source116/118in well known manner. Pump206used is a well known peristaltic pump that may use silicone rubber tubing, for example. Peristaltic pumps are well known and readily available through many vendors. In general, most peristaltic pumps include an attached drive mechanism or motor and hence, they may be purchased as an integral pump-motor module, which include wiring terminals for connection to power/data for control of the drive mechanism204and pump206by regulator106.

FIG. 6Ais a non-limiting, exemplary schematic illustration of a wiring diagram for fluid dispensing system in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention, andFIG. 6Bis a non-limiting, exemplary flow chart for operation of the controller of the regulator in relation to the fluid displacement mechanism, including use of bypass or flush switch in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention, andFIGS. 6C-1 and 6C-2are a non-limiting, exemplary flowcharts for priming fluid dispensing system without using bypass or flush switch in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. As illustrated inFIG. 6A, an embodiment of the present invention includes a bypass or flush switch110, which when actuated, directly controls and powers motor204, bypassing controller602of regulator106. The remaining illustrated electrical wiring shown inFIG. 6Ais well known. It should be noted that controller602may be a conventional microprocessor unit with conventional electronic support infrastructure such as memory (Read Only Memory-ROM, Random Access Memory-RAM), input/output pins or ports, clock signal generator for operations, etc. that includes a firmware for operation.

In general, a benefit of using peristaltic pumps206is that they have a long life and use a flexible tube (a non-limiting example of which may include the use of silicone rubber tubing) within which fluid is transferred. This provides the added benefit that the fluid traverses through a pump tube and is isolated from pump components. In other words, the fluid flowing through fluid displacement mechanism202is isolated from drive mechanism204and internal components of pump206, confined within a set of flexible tubes unit it exists the nozzle134, which is how a peristaltic pump operates.

Regardless of the type of pump mechanism, in general, in most instances, once the fluid exits the nozzle134, fluid residue may remain at a tip of the nozzle134after use, which may accumulate and dry out, clogging nozzle134and being a source of bacteria. Referring toFIG. 6Band as detailed below, the present invention provides modified controller scheme that uses a routine to control drive mechanism204to retrieve (pull back or backflow) remaining fluid residue after operation of fluid dispensing system. As illustrated, controller602of regulator106is modified in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention so that drive mechanism204actuates pump206for a first duration to displace fluid in a first direction, and actuates pump206for another duration to displace fluid in a second direction, opposite the first direction to thereby retrieve or pull back remaining fluid residue at nozzle134after normal operations.

As detailed inFIG. 6B, controller602at operation604commences fluid displacement operations by determining if bypass or flush switch110is actuated (e.g., closed). If controller602determines that bypass switch110is actuated (e.g., closed—NO route), power is supplied to fluid displacement mechanism202, bypassing controller602and regulator106operations. At operation606, bypass switch110powers fluid displacement mechanism202, which operates for duration of the closure of bypass switch110to displace fluid in a first direction. The flush switch110may be used to bleed-out air remaining in the system.

If at operation604controller602determines that bypass switch110is not actuated (e.g., open—YES route), at operation608controller602determines if an object is sensed. An object positioned in front of sensor106will be detected within the surveillance zone of sensor106at which point, controller206would receive the sensed signal and execute operations612to622as detail further. If controller602does not receive a detect signal for a sensed object at operation608, no further action is taken at operation610. However, if controller602does received a detect signal for a sensed object at operation608by an exemplary IR detector, at operation612controller602activates fluid displacement mechanism202for a first duration to displace fluid in a first direction. At this point, fluid is moved from reservoir104and is dispensed from nozzle134for a first duration. Thereafter, at operation614controller602determines if a first duration is reached and if so, at operation616controller602stops fluid displacement mechanism202for a second duration and at operation618determines if a second duration is reached. After an end of second duration at operation618, controller602at operation620activates fluid displacement mechanism202for a third duration to displace fluid in a second direction, opposite the first direction and at operation622determines if a third duration is reached. This enables backflow of fluid residue at nozzle134back into the nozzle134and hose138partially located inside flow-out member102. Accordingly, pump206is controlled to displace fluid for a first duration in a first direction, then is stopped for a second duration, and finally is controlled to displace fluid for a third duration in a second direction, opposite the first direction to thereby retrieve or pull back remaining fluid residue at nozzle134after normal operations.

Therefore, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention, driving peristaltic pump206in a second direction for a third duration will pull in the residue material left within the tube. Accordingly, drive mechanism204actuates pump206for a first duration to displace fluid in a first direction for dispensing, and eventually actuates pump206for another duration to displace fluid in a second direction for retraction (or backflow) of fluid (which is opposite the first direction).

It should be noted that the third duration for pump reversal is sufficiently short period of time (much shorter than the first duration) so that only the small amount of residue (if any) that may potentially ooze out at nozzle134is pulled back into the tube138. Further, any fluid that is at or near the reservoir104(or that had just left the reservoir104) at the egress of reservoir (or ingress of the tubing208) may be returned into the reservoir104. Accordingly, generally, no part of the fluid that is returned into reservoir104is exposed to the external environment.

It should further be noted that since pump206is reversed, the present invention does not use a check (or one-way) valve in fluid displacement mechanism202. In general, prior art uses check valves within most pumping mechanism to allow fluid to flow through it in only one direction, while blocking backflows. However, placement of a check valve would defeat the purpose of driving peristaltic pump206in the second direction to clear nozzle134from any remaining residue.

As indicated above,FIGS. 6C-1 and 6C-2are non-limiting, exemplary flowcharts for priming fluid dispensing system without using bypass or flush switch in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. In general, when a user has completed fluid re-fill of reservoir104, the user needs to prime or prepare the system, which is to flush the fluid in order to get fluid up from fluid reservoir to fluid dispensing nozzle while bleeding out remaining air. This may be accomplished by using the flush or bypass switch110(as detailed inFIG. 6B) or alternatively, as indicated inFIGS. 6C-1 and 6C-2without using the bypass or flush switch110.

Referring toFIGS. 6C-1 and 6C-2, to avoid using the bypass or flush switch110(for example, the user does not wish to access under the sink, they may instead first position and place an object against sensor106within the surveillance zone of sensor106as indicated by user step624. For example, an object such as a towel may be wrapped around or positioned in front of sensor106within sensor surveillance zone. As indicated at operation626, object placed in front of sensor106will be detected within the surveillance zone of sensor106at which point, controller206receiving the sensed signal and executes operations612to622as described in detail with respect toFIG. 6B. However, after operation622, controller206via sensor106at operation640determines if object is removed before elapse of predetermined time. If object is removed quickly (before elapse of a predetermined time), no further action is taken as indicated at operation642. However, if at operation640controller206determines that the object is not removed before elapse of the predetermined time, controller206at operation644initializes sensor106and enables output of indicators (e.g., LED lights, etc.) that system is ready for operation. Thereafter, user may remove the object as indicated in the user step646, after which, controller206at operation648allows a predetermined time to elapse before further execution of the remaining operations (detailed inFIG. 6C-2). This delay operation648provides users with time to clear the flow-out member spill zone (where fluid is actually poured onto). For example, while removing object at operation646, it would not be desirable to commence operation654(FIG. 6C-2, detailed below).

Referring toFIG. 6C-1, once a predetermined time has elapsed at operation648, controller206at operation654(FIG. 6C-2) activates fluid displacement mechanism for a fourth duration to displace fluid in a first direction. In general, the fourth duration is the longer of all durations, which would allow fluid to travel from reservoir (recently refilled by user) and exist out of nozzle134. This primes the system by flushing out fluid and bleeding out remaining air therein. Thereafter, at operation656controller602determines if fourth duration has been reached and if so, operations616to622are executed as described above in relation toFIG. 6B, where at operation610the entire system becomes ready for use.

FIG. 6Dis a non-limiting, exemplary illustration of a fluid dispensing system shown inFIGS. 1A and 1Bthat uses a single reservoir with multiple displacement mechanisms, flow-out members, top fill ports, power sources, etc. in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. One or more flow-out members102may be associated with a single reservoir104that may or may not be located remote from the rest of the system. Further, the present invention may use a single or multiple top fill ports660to refill the reservoir104(only a single fill port660is illustrated). Additionally a single power source may be used for all of the units shown inFIG. 6Dinstead of an individually dedicated power source for each unit as shown.

FIGS. 7A and 7Bare non-limiting, exemplary front and rear exploded views of a fluid dispensing system in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. Fluid dispensing system100billustrated inFIGS. 7A and 7Bincludes similar corresponding or equivalent components, interconnections, functional, operational, and or cooperative relationships as fluid dispensing system100athat is shown inFIGS. 1A to 6D, and described above. Therefore, for the sake of brevity, clarity, convenience, and to avoid duplication, the general description ofFIGS. 7A and 7Bwill not repeat every corresponding or equivalent component, interconnections, functional, operational, and or cooperative relationships that has already been described above in relation to fluid dispensing system100athat is shown inFIGS. 1A to 6D.FIG. 7Ais non-limiting, exemplary exploded front perspective view of a fluid dispensing system in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention, andFIG. 7Bis non-limiting, exemplary exploded rear perspective view of the fluid dispensing system shown inFIG. 7Ain accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. As illustrated inFIGS. 7A and 7B, in this non-limiting, exemplary embodiment of the present invention, fluid dispensing system100bincludes an adapter-conduit702that is comprised of a top outer periphery704that is cylindrical with no indentations. In addition, in this non-limiting, exemplary embodiment a mounting support706is provided that includes a second end708with edges710that receive lid-adapter422and abut against and underneath securing end426of lid mechanism424when fully assembled.

FIGS. 8A and 8Bare non-limiting, exemplary illustrations a fluid dispensing system using a wall mount mounting support in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. The fluid dispensing system100cillustrated inFIGS. 8A and 8Bincludes similar corresponding or equivalent components, interconnections, functional, operational, and or cooperative relationships as fluid dispensing system100aand100bthat is shown inFIGS. 1A to 7B, and described above. Therefore, for the sake of brevity, clarity, convenience, and to avoid duplication, the general description ofFIGS. 8A and 8Bwill not repeat every corresponding or equivalent component, interconnections, functional, operational, and or cooperative relationships that has already been described above in relation to fluid dispensing system100aand100bthat is shown inFIGS. 1A to 7B. As illustrated inFIGS. 8A and 8B, in this non-limiting, exemplary embodiment of the present invention, fluid dispensing system100cincludes a mounting support802that is cantilevered on a wall rather than associated with flow-out member102. As best illustrated inFIG. 8B, mounting support802is comprised of a first end804with connection holes806that enable the mounting support802to be connected to a structure such as a wall using fasteners, and second free end144that is identical to mounting support126, which may optionally use removable barrier128. It should be noted that in this non-limiting, exemplary instance, adapter-conduit124top opening406may be optionally capped with a simple lid150as shown inFIG. 8A.

FIG. 9is non-limiting, exemplary illustration of a fluid dispensing system using a wall mount mounting support and lid configuration in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. The fluid dispensing system100dillustrated inFIG. 9includes similar corresponding or equivalent components, interconnections, functional, operational, and or cooperative relationships as fluid dispensing system100a,100b, and100cthat is shown inFIGS. 1A to 8B, and described above. Therefore, for the sake of brevity, clarity, convenience, and to avoid duplication, the general description ofFIG. 9will not repeat every corresponding or equivalent component, interconnections, functional, operational, and or cooperative relationships that has already been described above in relation to fluid dispensing system100a,100b, and100cthat is shown inFIGS. 1A to 8B. As illustrated inFIG. 9, in this non-limiting, exemplary embodiment of the present invention, fluid dispensing system100dincludes a mounting support902that is cantilevered on a wall rather than associated with flow-out member102, with a second end708.

FIGS. 10A to 10Eare non-limiting, exemplary illustrations a fluid dispensing system using a top fill-port in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. The fluid dispensing system100eillustrated inFIGS. 10A to 10Eincludes similar corresponding or equivalent components, interconnections, functional, operational, and or cooperative relationships as fluid dispensing system100a,100b,100c, and100dthat is shown inFIGS. 1A to 9, and described above. Therefore, for the sake of brevity, clarity, convenience, and to avoid duplication, the general description ofFIGS. 10A to 10Ewill not repeat every corresponding or equivalent component, interconnections, functional, operational, and or cooperative relationships that has already been described above in relation to fluid dispensing system100a,100b,100c, and100dthat is shown inFIGS. 1A to 9. As illustrated inFIGS. 10A to 10E, in this non-limiting, exemplary embodiment of the present invention, reservoir104of fluid dispensing system100emay be refilled through a countertop fill port1000without removal of reservoir104, with the countertop fill port1000extending out of countertop148(FIG. 1A) of a vanity. It should be noted that the refill fluid will not contact any part of the fluid dispensing system, with the exception of passing through an extender1002, flowing through the internal hollow chamber of adapter-conduit124/702, passing over exterior of port structure410, and into reservoir104. Countertop fill port1000includes hollow, threaded shank or extender1002that has sufficient height that extends from the coupled adapter-conduit124/702and out and onto the vanity countertop148. As detailed below, extender1002also includes a lid1010that may be used to cover over top opening1004of the countertop fill port1000.

Extender1002is generally threaded from outside and spans from adapter-conduit124/702passing through the thickness of the material of countertop148and out thereof. In general, optionally, the extender1002may also be coupled with the countertop148for a more secure connection. Extender1002includes a top1040that has a top opening1004that extends out of the body of countertop148and is covered over and capped by lid1010. In general, extender1002includes a fastener1014for coupling extender lower end1016with adapter-conduit124/702. It should be noted that lower end1016may be fastened onto female threaded ring226of adapter-conduit124/702and further secured therein by fastener1014.

Countertop fill port1000may include a lid1010to prevent vandalism and also, debris from entering into the fluid dispensing system100eand more particularly, into reservoir104via extender opening1004and through adapter-conduit124/702. Lid1010may comprise of a simple cap that covers over opening1004or may include the illustrated latch-lock mechanism1018for commercial use.

In general, latch-lock mechanism1018of lid1010may preferably be lockable if used in commercial setting and is comprised of a latch1020associated with lid1010that maintains lid1010in locked position with a retainer1026against the bias of a resilient member1024(secured by hinge pin1023), and is unlocked using a key1028. Key1028has two prongs1030that are inserted through commensurate set of holes1032of retainer1026to push away latch member protrusions1034from holes1032of retainer member1026(or the “keeper”), which pop opens lid1010due to force of resilient member1024. It should be noted that lid1010may be secured by any other well-known latch-lock mechanism1018and should not be limited to the illustrated latch-lock mechanism. To install latch-lock mechanism1018, extender1002is dropped through an assembled lid-retainer combination (with lid in fully open position) at lower end1016of extender1002, with the extender then coupled from lower end1016to adapter-conduit124/702. After fully installed, retainer-lid combination may be rotate to any orientation desired.

FIGS. 11A to 11D-5are non-limiting, exemplary illustrations of a fluid dispensing system using an extended fill-port directly associated with a flow-out member in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. The fluid dispensing system100fillustrated inFIGS. 11A to 11D-5includes similar corresponding or equivalent components, interconnections, functional, operational, and or cooperative relationships as fluid dispensing system100a,100b,100c,100d, and100ethat is shown inFIGS. 1A to 10E, and described above. Therefore, for the sake of brevity, clarity, convenience, and to avoid duplication, the general description ofFIGS. 11A to 11D-5will not repeat every corresponding or equivalent component, interconnections, functional, operational, and or cooperative relationships that has already been described above in relation to fluid dispensing system100a,100b,100c,100d, and100ethat is shown inFIGS. 1A to 10L. As illustrated inFIGS. 11A to 11D-5, in this non-limiting, exemplary embodiment of the present invention, flow-out member102is moved to allow access to countertop fill port1000. That is, flow-out member102is moved away from over the top of countertop fill port1000to an open position (FIGS. 11B and 11C) with full access to countertop fill port1000to thereby allow refill of reservoir104, with fluid moving along path1162, through adapter-conduit124/702, and into reservoir104. The benefits of providing countertop fill port1000directly underneath a moveable flow-out member102is that only a single hole would be required to be provided on countertop148for the entire fluid dispensing system100frather than the conventional two holes, where one hole would be used to mount flow-out member and the other hole would be to access a fill port to refill reservoir104. This provides an overall aesthetically pleasing look and feel in addition to lower overall cost of installation, including less intrusive damage to countertop148(an extra dedicated hole for the countertop fill port1000is no longer required).

The movement of flow-out member102from closed position (FIG. 11A) to a fully open position (FIGS. 11B and 11C) may be as illustrated, which is tilting (as shown by arrows1108) of flow-out member102to a side (right, left, front, back, and or some other angle other than 90 degree quadrants). Alternatively, flow-out member102may simply pivot (off-axis as shown by arrow1102) and be twisted about a longitudinal axis1104(central or eccentric) while rotated (as shown by arrow1106) and pulled away from over the top of countertop fill port1000to an open position. Accordingly, the movement of flow-out member102to open access to countertop fill port1000should not be limited to the illustrated tilting motion, but may vary, for example, by it being completely pulled away from the counter adapter.

As further illustrated, a lower end1110of flow-out member102may be associated with a hinge mechanism1112that enables a movement of flow-out member102. Any suitable type of hinge mechanisms (with or without an additional latch mechanism) that enables movement of the flow-out member102may be used. In this non-limiting, exemplary embodiment the illustrated hinge mechanism1112(best shown inFIG. 11B) is comprised of first and second O-ring leaf1114and1116connected together by pin1118and barrel1120combination. Hinge mechanism1112has minimal number of connection points for coupling O-ring leafs1114and1116respective with lower end1110of flow-out member102and countertop adapter1124, which enables hinge mechanism1112to be universally mounted to most types and styles of flow-out member102.

First O-ring leaf1114of hinge mechanism1112is coupled with a lower end1110of flow-out member102by a set of fasteners, with the remaining upper part of flow-out member102isolated by a non-corrosive material ring1122, protecting flow-out member102from excess soap residue. Second O-ring leaf1116is coupled with countertop adapter1124, which is connected to the top of countertop fill port1000and countertop148. It should be noted that in this non-limiting, exemplary embodiment, extender1002of countertop fill port1000may be an externally threaded, hollow shank without third section1040. Additionally, in this non-limiting, exemplary embodiment, hinge mechanism1112incorporates a well known type of a latch mechanism1126to detachably latch flow-out member securely onto countertop adapter1124.

FIGS. 11D-1 to 11D-7are non-limiting, exemplary illustrations of various views of an embodiment of a countertop adapter in accordance with one or more embodiments. As illustrated, instead of using countertop adapter1124that accommodates a single hinge mechanism1112to tilt1108flow-out member102to a single direction, the illustrated countertop adapter1128inFIG. 11D-1 to 11D-7may be used to allow tilting1108of flow-out member102in opposite directions1138and1140.

Countertop adapter1128(used in the orientation illustrated inFIG. 11D-1) includes a first (or top) member1130, a second (or bottom) member1132, with first and second members1130and1132detachably joined by first and second hinge mechanisms1134aand1134b. First member1130is comprised of a first hollow disc that accommodates lower end1110of flow-out member102(insertion orientation shown by arrow1164) at outer side. First member1130may be coupled with lower end1110of flow out member102in a well known method such as use of fasteners. Second member1132includes an internally threaded1156, hollow cylinder1154(FIG. 11D-2) protruded from outer side thereof, which accommodates a top distal end1042of countertop fill port1000.

First member1130includes a first internal compartment1152that houses a first leaf-barrel combination1148/1150a/bof first and second hinge mechanism1134a/b. Second member1132includes a second internal compartment (grooves or notches)1158that house or secure in place a second leaf-barrel combination1144/1146a/bof first and second hinge mechanism1134a/b. It should be noted that first member1130has a larger diameter than second member1132.

First leaf-barrel combination1148/1150a/bis comprised of a first O-ring leaf1148and first and second set of barrels1150aand1150bthat are placed at diametrically opposed positions of first O-ring leaf1148. Second leaf-barrel combination1144/1146a/bis comprised of a second O-ring leaf1144and first and second barrels1146aand1146bthat are placed at diametrically opposed positions of second O-ring leaf1144.

First and second barrels1146a/bof second O-ring leaf1144are positioned in between respective first and second set of barrels1150a/bof first O-ring leaf1148and are detachably coupled to form first and second hinge mechanism1134a/bby first and second removable pins1136a/b. First member1130includes first and second lateral through-holes1142a/b, axially aligned with first and second sets of barrels1150a/bof first O-ring leaf1148for receiving and securing removable pins1136a/b, with distal end of pins1136a/binserted into respective axially aligned blind-holes1160a/b.

When fully assembled, removing pin1136a(as illustrated inFIG. 11D-3), would allow first member1130to move along path1138, hinged at second hinge mechanism1134band hence, move coupled flow-out member102along path1138(as shown inFIG. 11D-1). Alternatively, a user may remove pin1136bthat would allow first member1130to move along path1140, hinged at first hinge mechanism1134aand hence, move coupled flow-out member102along path1140(as shown inFIG. 11D-1). Accordingly, using countertop adapter1128in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention enables flow-out member102to be tilted in diametrically opposed direction. For example, if left of flow-out member102is crowded and there is no room for tilting flow-out member102to left, countertop adapter1128would enable user to instead tilt flow-out member102to right or vice versa. It should be noted that the hinge mechanism1134a/bmay be replaced by a well known double acting hinge, with hinge leafs appropriately associated with first and second member1130and1132to allow the members to move in directions illustrated.

FIGS. 12A to 12Bare non-limiting, exemplary illustrations of a fluid dispensing system using a flow-out member with spout that opens access to fill-port in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. The fluid dispensing system100gillustrated inFIGS. 12A to 12Bincludes similar corresponding or equivalent components, interconnections, functional, operational, and or cooperative relationships as fluid dispensing system100a,100b,100c,100d,100e, and100fthat is shown inFIGS. 1A to 11D-5, and described above. Therefore, for the sake of brevity, clarity, convenience, and to avoid duplication, the general description ofFIGS. 12A to 12Bwill not repeat every corresponding or equivalent component, interconnections, functional, operational, and or cooperative relationships that has already been described above in relation to fluid dispensing system100a,100b,100c,100d,100e, and100fthat is shown inFIGS. 1A to 11D-5H. As illustrated inFIGS. 12A and 12B, in this non-limiting, exemplary embodiment of the present invention, instead of moving the entire flow-out member102moving, the present invention provides a flow-out member1202with a nozzle/cap1204moves along path1206to open access to countertop fill port1000. Flow-out member1202includes a hollow, cylindrical chamber1208with internally (female) threaded tubing, a lower end of which couples with distal end1042of extender1002for eventual access to reservoir104for refill. Accordingly, to refill reservoir104, nozzle/cap1204is first opened and next, fluid is poured through hollow, cylindrical chamber1208, which travels through and finally reaches into reservoir104.

Moveable nozzle/cap1204is coupled with rest of flow-out member1202by a hinge1210, and may be secured thereto by fastener1212, which engages a corresponding fastener hole1222. Flow (indicated by arrows1224) of fluid from reservoir104to flow-out member1202is similar with other embodiments with the exception that once fluid reaches top distal end1214of flow-out member1202(via hosing or tubing illustrated in previous embodiments), fluid moves out of an outlet1216(which functions as a seal) and into an inlet hole (or cavity)1218of moveable nozzle/cap1204, where fluid is directed to flow out of nozzle1220. Benefit of flow-out member1202with moving nozzle/cap1204is that the entire flow-out member (which has a larger, bulker mass than just the spout) need not be moved, which may be more suitable for compact area with less space for maneuverability.

Although the invention has been described in considerable detail in language specific to structural features and or method acts, it is to be understood that the invention defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described. Rather, the specific features and acts are disclosed as exemplary preferred forms of implementing the claimed invention. Stated otherwise, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein, as well as the abstract, are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. Further, the specification is not confined to the disclosed embodiments. Therefore, while exemplary illustrative embodiments of the invention have been described, numerous variations and alternative embodiments will occur to those skilled in the art. For example, location and positioning of the inlet port416and outlet port412of port structure407of adapter-conduit124/702may be varied. Any suitable types of couplers for the bottom (in relation to the reservoir), the top (in relation to the mounting-support), and mounting portion (in relation to the housing of the fluid displacement mechanism) may be used for adapter-conduit124/702. As another example, if the fluid displacement mechanism and or the reservoir are remotely located, the mounting-support and the adapter-conduit124/702may be eliminated. As yet another example, housing108might be smaller or larger; might not contain flush out switch110(specially when used with top fill systems). Switch110might be mounted to the side of108and the battery compartment might be integral to housing108. flow-out member102might be wall mounted (like a wall mounted faucets, for example). Such variations and alternate embodiments are contemplated, and can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

It should further be noted that throughout the entire disclosure, the labels such as left, right, front, back, top, bottom, forward, reverse, clockwise, counter clockwise, up, down, or other similar terms such as upper, lower, aft, fore, vertical, horizontal, oblique, proximal, distal, parallel, perpendicular, transverse, longitudinal, etc. have been used for convenience purposes only and are not intended to imply any particular fixed direction or orientation. Instead, they are used to reflect relative locations and/or directions/orientations between various portions of an object.

In addition, reference to “first,” “second,” “third,” and etc. members throughout the disclosure (and in particular, claims) is not used to show a serial or numerical limitation but instead is used to distinguish or identify the various members of the group.

In addition, any element in a claim that does not explicitly state “means for” performing a specified function, or “step for” performing a specific function, is not to be interpreted as a “means” or “step” clause as specified in 35 U.S.C. Section 112, Paragraph 6. In particular, the use of “step of,” “act of,” “operation of,” or “operational act of” in the claims herein is not intended to invoke the provisions of 35 U.S.C. 112, Paragraph 6.