Patent Description:
This disclosure relates to dispensing devices, such as soap pumps that are configured to dispense foamed soap. Known devices are disclosed in <CIT>, <CIT>, <CIT>, <CIT> and <CIT>.

Certain dispensing devices are configured to store and dispense a liquid soap to a user. This can require that the user manually foam the soap after the dispensation, which can be time consuming and/or inconvenient. Improper manual foaming of the soap can be wasteful and can reduce the cleaning efficacy of the soap.

The invention is directed to a dispensing device according to claim <NUM> and a method of dispensing foamed soap according to claim <NUM>. Various dispensing devices, such as foaming soap pumps, are disclosed. The soap pump includes a fluid storage unit, which also includes a reservoir configured to hold a quantity of product, such as liquid soap. The soap pump can include a fluid handling unit, which can include a pumping assembly and dispensing assembly. The soap pump is configured to withdraw liquid soap from the reservoir, convert the liquid soap to foamed soap, and dispense the foamed soap from the discharge assembly.

All the embodiments disclosed herein include a foaming soap pump. The foaming soap pump comprises a fluid storage unit. The fluid storage unit comprises a reservoir. The reservoir is configured to store liquid soap.

The foaming soap pump comprises a fluid handling unit. The fluid handling unit comprises a pumping assembly. The pumping assembly is configured to draw liquid soap from the reservoir. The pumping assembly comprises a pumping unit. The pumping unit comprises a plurality of compartments. The compartments have associated resilient members. The resilient members are actuatable between a first state and a second state. The volume of the compartment can be greater in the first state than in the second state. The pumping assembly comprises a motor. The motor is configured to drive an actuation member. The actuation member is configured to engage and disengage with the resilient members of the pumping unit. The pumping assembly is configured such that when the actuation member disengages from each resilient member, the resilient member moves from the second state to the first state. The movement thereby increases the volume in the compartment and draws liquid soap into the compartment. When the actuation member engages the resilient member, the resilient member moves from the first state to the second state. The movement decreases the volume in the compartment and expel liquid soap from the compartment.

The fluid handling unit comprises a dispensing assembly. The dispensing assembly is configured to receive a flow of soap from the pumping assembly. The dispensing assembly comprises a foaming unit. The foaming unit is configured to convert the soap into foamed soap. The dispensing assembly comprises a discharge nozzle. The discharge nozzle is configured to dispense the foamed soap out of the foaming soap pump.

The pumping unit comprises a plurality of compartments. Each compartment has a respective resilient member. The plurality of compartments can be about equally, or unequally, circumferentially spaced around an outlet conduit of the pumping assembly.

In certain embodiments, the resilient member can comprise a rubber diaphragm. In the first state the resilient member can have a convex shape. In the second state the resilient member can have a concave shape. In some embodiments, the foaming unit can comprise a screen in the flow path of the soap. The discharge nozzle can comprise an anti-drip valve.

The foaming soap pump can comprise a lighting assembly. The lighting assembly can comprise a light source and/or a light pipe. In some embodiments, the foaming soap pump can comprise a sensor device. The sensor device can be configured to detect the presence of an object adjacent the dispensing assembly. In some embodiments, the pumping unit can comprise a one-way valve. The one-way valve can be configured to permit soap to enter the compartment through an inlet passage. In some embodiments, the foaming soap pump can comprise an air inlet assembly. The air inlet can be configured to allow ambient air to enter the flow of liquid soap.

In some embodiments, the fluid storage unit can comprise a sleeve. The sleeve can be threadably connected with the reservoir. In some embodiments, the actuation member can comprise an arm. The arm can extend radially outward from a drive shaft connected with the motor.

According to one aspect, there is provided a method for dispensing foamed soap according to claim <NUM>. The method comprises drawing liquid soap from a reservoir. The method comprises mixing the liquid soap with air to form aerated soap. The method comprises encouraging the liquid soap into and out of a pumping assembly. The method comprises converting the aerated soap into foamed soap. The method comprises dispensing the foamed soap through a nozzle.

In some implementations, converting the aerated soap into foamed soap can comprise passing the aerated soap through a screen. Encouraging the liquid soap into and out of the pumping assembly comprises expanding a portion of a compartment to introduce the liquid soap into the compartment, and collapsing a portion of the compartment to expel the liquid soap from the compartment.

According to another aspect of the invention there is provided a dispensing device according to claim <NUM>. The dispensing device comprises a reservoir configured to store a liquid product. The dispensing device comprises a pumping assembly configured to draw the liquid product from the reservoir and to draw air through an air inlet, the liquid product and the air mixing to form an aerated product. The pumping assembly comprises a plurality of compartments and a plurality of resilient members. Each of the compartments can comprise at least one of the resilient members. Each of the resilient members can be movable between a convex state and a concave state. Each resilient member can extend outward of its respective compartment in the convex state. Each resilient member can extend into its respective compartment in the concave state.

The dispending device comprises a motor configured to drive an actuation member. The actuation member is configured to engage and disengage with the resilient members. Thus, in some embodiments the resilient members can be moved between the convex state and the concave state. This movement can provide a flow of liquid product into and out of the compartments.

The dispensing device comprises a foaming unit. The foaming unit is configured to convert the liquid product and air into a foamed product. The dispensing device comprises a discharge nozzle configured to dispense the foamed product out of the dispensing device.

The foaming unit can comprise a screen in the flow path of the aerated product. In some embodiments, the product can comprise soap. The resilient member can comprise a rubber diaphragm. In some embodiments, the discharge nozzle can comprise an anti-drip valve.

In some embodiments, the dispensing device can comprise a lighting assembly. The lighting assembly can comprise a light source and a light pipe. In some embodiments, each compartment can comprise a one-way valve. The one-way valve can be configured to permit aerated product to enter the compartment through an inlet passage.

The reservoir can be configured to removably engage with a pumping assembly. The reservoir can comprise a top. The top can comprise an outlet. The outlet can comprise a normally-closed valve. The reservoir can comprise a bottom. The reservoir can comprise a sidewall. The reservoir can comprise an inner chamber. The inner chamber can be configured to contain a volume of liquid soap. When the reservoir is engaged with the pumping assembly, a projection of the pumping assembly can be received in the valve of the top of the reservoir. This can thereby allow opening the valve and allowing liquid soap to flow out of the reservoir.

In some embodiments, the top of the reservoir can comprise an engaging feature. The engaging feature can be configured to engage with a corresponding engaging feature of the pumping assembly to couple the reservoir and the pumping assembly. In some embodiments, the top of the reservoir can comprise a recess. The recess can be configured to receive a portion of a motor when the reservoir is engaged with the pumping assembly.

In some embodiments, the engaging feature can comprise a recess with a flange and the corresponding engaging feature comprises an arm with a tooth. The recess can be configured to receive the tooth. The flange can be configured to abut with the tooth to maintain the coupling of the reservoir and the pumping assembly. In some embodiments, the engaging feature can be configured to engage with a second tooth. This engagement can deflect the arm outward. This engagement can remove the abutment of the flange and the tooth.

In some embodiments, the reservoir can comprise a conduit. The conduit can be in fluid communication with the outlet. A lower end of the conduit can be positioned adjacent a lower end of the chamber. In some embodiments, when the reservoir is engaged with the pumping assembly, the reservoir can support the weight of the pumping assembly.

Combinations of various features are also within the scope of this disclosure. For example, this disclosure includes a combination of the pumping assembly and the reservoir above or below. Some embodiments of the foaming soap pump comprise the reservoir described above or below. Certain embodiments of the dispensing device comprise the reservoir described above or below.

Certain features, aspects, and advantages of the subject matter disclosed herein are described below with reference to the drawings, which are intended to illustrate and not to limit the scope of the disclosure. Various features of different disclosed embodiments can be combined to form additional embodiments, which are part of this disclosure. No structures, features, steps, or processes are essential or critical; any can be omitted in certain embodiments.

Various improved dispensing devices are disclosed herein. The disclosed embodiments are described in the context of a foaming soap pump, due to particular utility in that context. However, the inventions disclosed herein can also be applied to other types of devices and in other contexts. For example, some or all of the subject matter disclosed herein can be used in other types of foam producers and/or dispensers, such as shaving cream dispensers, foamed-food dispensers, bubble dispensers, and otherwise.

<FIG> schematically illustrates an embodiment of a foaming soap pump <NUM>. As shown, the dispenser <NUM> includes a fluid storage unit <NUM> and a fluid handling unit <NUM>. In various embodiments, the fluid storage unit <NUM> and the fluid handling unit <NUM> are coupled, such as by a mechanism to enable selective coupling and decoupling. As shown, the fluid storage unit <NUM> can include a reservoir <NUM>. The fluid handling unit <NUM> can include a pump assembly <NUM> and a discharge assembly <NUM>. In various embodiments, the dispenser <NUM> is configured to withdraw liquid soap from the reservoir <NUM>, convert the soap to foamed soap, and dispense the foamed soap from the discharge assembly <NUM>.

The reservoir <NUM> can be any type of container, such as a rigid vessel, flexible bag or balloon, or otherwise. In the illustrated embodiment, the reservoir <NUM> is configured to contain a volume of liquid soap, such as liquid soap for hand washing. In some embodiments, the reservoir <NUM> can include a lid configured to form a seal at the top of the reservoir <NUM> for maintaining the liquid soap L within the reservoir <NUM>. In some embodiments, the reservoir <NUM> can include an air vent, so as to allow air to enter the reservoir <NUM> as the level of liquid soap L falls within the reservoir <NUM>. As illustrated, the reservoir <NUM> can be positioned below (e.g., at a lower elevation than) the pump assembly <NUM>. In some variants, a top of the reservoir <NUM> is positioned at a higher elevation than a portion of the pump assembly <NUM>, such as a portion of the pump assembly <NUM> being received in a recess in the reservoir <NUM> (e.g., to reduce the overall height of the dispenser <NUM>).

The reservoir <NUM> can include an outlet <NUM>, such as an aperture in an upper portion of the reservoir <NUM>. The outlet <NUM> can receive a conduit <NUM>, such as a length of tubing. The conduit <NUM> can fluidly connect the reservoir <NUM> and the pump assembly <NUM>. In some embodiments, the pump assembly <NUM> is configured to draw a flow of liquid soap from the reservoir <NUM> and through the conduit <NUM>. Certain embodiments include a fluid conveyor (e.g., a worm-screw, auger, or otherwise) that is configured to aid in withdrawing liquid soap from the reservoir <NUM> and/or conveying liquid soap to the pump assembly <NUM>. In some embodiments, the conduit <NUM> includes a vent that enables air to enter the conduit <NUM>, which can facilitate converting the liquid soap into aerated soap and/or foamed soap. In some variants, the vent is in the pump assembly <NUM>. As illustrated, the conduit <NUM> can extend into the reservoir <NUM>. For example, the conduit <NUM> can terminate at a bottom inner portion of the reservoir <NUM>.

As shown, the pump assembly <NUM> can include a motor <NUM> and a pumping unit <NUM>. The motor <NUM> can be configured to drive the pumping unit <NUM>. The motor <NUM> and the pumping unit <NUM> can be configured to draw liquid soap from the reservoir <NUM> and encourage the soap to the discharge assembly <NUM>. For example, the motor <NUM> can drive an arm that alternatingly compresses and expands one or more resilient diaphragms in the pumping unit <NUM>, thereby encouraging a flow of liquid soap into and out of the pump assembly <NUM>. In some embodiments, the pumping unit <NUM> can be a rolling pump, roller pump, diaphragm pump, or other type of pump. In some variants, the pumping unit <NUM> is configured to facilitate foaming of the liquid soap.

The pump assembly <NUM> can be connected to the discharge assembly <NUM> by a conduit <NUM>. In some embodiments, the discharge assembly <NUM> includes a foaming unit <NUM>, which can be configured to convert some or all of the liquid soap into foamed soap. In some implementations, the foaming unit <NUM> includes a flow enhancing member, such as a screen <NUM>. The screen <NUM> can be located in the flow path of the foamed soap such that the foamed soap passes through the screen <NUM>, thereby foaming the soap.

In some embodiments, the discharge assembly <NUM> includes a discharge nozzle <NUM>. The discharge nozzle <NUM> can be configured to dispense the foamed soap and/or to inhibit undesired dripping of soap (liquid or foamed) after a dispensing cycle ends. For example, the discharge nozzle <NUM> can include a one-way valve, such as a pin valve or duckbill valve, which can reduce the likelihood of drips.

In some embodiments, the nozzle <NUM> is positioned at a location that is spaced above a lower portion of the soap pump <NUM>, such as at or near the top of the soap pump <NUM>. This can make it more convenient for a user to place a hand or other body part under the nozzle <NUM>. In some implementations, the nozzle <NUM> is located on a cantilevered portion that extends outward from an upper portion of the soap pump <NUM>.

Certain embodiments include a control assembly <NUM>. As shown, the control assembly <NUM> can include an electronic control unit (ECU) <NUM>. The ECU <NUM> can include one or a plurality of circuit boards providing a hard wired feedback control circuit, a processor and memory devices for storing and performing control routines, or any other type of controller. The ECU <NUM> can be configured to control operation of the pumping assembly <NUM> and/or other components of the soap pump <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the control assembly <NUM> includes a user input device <NUM>. The user input device <NUM> can be any type of device for allowing a user to input a command into the ECU <NUM>. For example, the input device <NUM> can be a button that a user can activate (e.g., depress) to transmit a command to the ECU <NUM>. In some embodiments, the ECU <NUM> can be configured to actuate the motor <NUM> to drive the pumping unit <NUM> in response to the input device <NUM> being activated by a user. The ECU <NUM> can also be configured to provide other functions upon the activation of the input device <NUM>, such as signaling the soap pump <NUM> to dispense a predetermined amount (e.g., an amount suitable for washing hands or an amount suitable for washing cookware) or a continuous flow of foam soap. As shown, in some embodiments, the control assembly <NUM> comprises the input device <NUM>. The input device <NUM> can be located in the discharge assembly <NUM> or in other components of the dispenser <NUM>.

Various embodiments include a power supply <NUM>. The power supply <NUM> can be configured to supply electric power to the motor <NUM> and/or the control assembly <NUM>. The power supply <NUM> can be, for example, a battery or can include electronics for accepting AC or DC power. As shown, the power supply <NUM> can be located in the fluid handling unit <NUM>. In some variants, the power supply <NUM> is located in the fluid storage unit <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrate another embodiment of a dispenser device, such as a soap pump <NUM>. The soap pump <NUM> can include any of the features of the soap pump <NUM>. For example, the soap pump <NUM> can include a fluid storage unit <NUM> and a fluid handling unit <NUM>. As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the soap pump <NUM> can include an outer housing <NUM>, such as an outer sleeve. In some embodiments, the outer housing <NUM> can partially or completely contain the fluid storage unit <NUM> and/or the fluid handling unit <NUM>, which can include any of the features of the fluid storage unit <NUM> and the fluid handling unit <NUM>, respectively. The fluid handling unit <NUM> can include a reservoir <NUM> that is configured to store liquid soap.

As illustrated, in some embodiments, the outer housing <NUM> can surround some or all of the fluid storage unit <NUM> and a fluid handling unit <NUM>. In some embodiments, the outer housing <NUM> has a generally cylindrical or generally frustoconical shape. The outer housing <NUM> can include features to enhance the visual appearance of the soap pump <NUM>, such as a color, pattern, material, etc. In some embodiments, the outer housing <NUM> can be readily removable from the fluid storage unit <NUM> and/or the fluid handling unit <NUM>. This can enable a user to change the visual appearance of the soap pump <NUM>. For example, a user can remove a first version of the outer housing and replace it with a second version of the outer housing (e.g., with different color, pattern, material, etc.). Certain embodiments include a system comprising the fluid storage unit <NUM>, fluid handling unit <NUM>, and a plurality of outer housings <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the soap pump <NUM> is configured to aid a user in determining whether the liquid soap in the reservoir <NUM> is nearly exhausted. For example, the soap pump <NUM> can include a gap, such as between a bottom of the outer housing <NUM> and a bottom of the reservoir <NUM>. The gap can allow a user to see whether soap is present in the reservoir <NUM>. In certain implementations, the gap is at least about: <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, values between the aforementioned values, or other values. In some embodiments, the outer housing <NUM> includes a slit or window, such as a generally vertical notch. In certain variants, the slit or window can enable a user to view the amount of liquid soap in the reservoir <NUM>. Some variants include indicia to indicate the information related to the amount of liquid soap in the reservoir <NUM>, such as the volume and/or number of dispensations remaining.

Certain embodiments of the soap pump <NUM> include a lid <NUM>, such as a hinged or removable top. The lid <NUM> can be moved between open and closed positions. In the closed position, the lid can protect portions of the soap pump <NUM>, such as by inhibiting or preventing water (e.g., from a nearby sink) from entering the fluid storage unit <NUM>. In the open position, the lid can facilitate ready access to a portion of the fluid handling unit <NUM>.

As illustrated, the soap pump <NUM> can include a dispensing assembly <NUM>. The dispensing assembly <NUM> can include a nozzle <NUM>, through which foamed soap is dispensed. As shown, the nozzle <NUM> can be positioned on a portion of the dispensing assembly <NUM> that extends outward from (e.g., is cantilevered from) an upper portion of the housing <NUM>. This can make it more convenient for a user to place a hand or other body part under the nozzle <NUM> to receive a quantity of foamed soap.

<FIG> illustrate the soap pump <NUM> with the outer housing <NUM> and the lid <NUM> removed. As discussed in more detail below, the fluid storage unit <NUM> can include the reservoir <NUM>, which can be configured to store liquid soap. The fluid handling unit <NUM> can include a pumping assembly <NUM> that includes a motor <NUM> and a pumping unit <NUM>.

As shown, the fluid handling unit <NUM> can be positioned above the fluid storage unit <NUM>. For example, the fluid handling unit <NUM> can be supported by the fluid storage unit <NUM>. An elevated fluid handling unit <NUM> (e.g., relative to the fluid storage unit <NUM> and/or the surface on which the soap pump <NUM> rests) can position one or more input devices in a position that is more convenient for a user. For example, as shown, a power actuator <NUM>, coupling actuator <NUM>, and/or power supply <NUM> can be accessed via a top of the fluid handling unit <NUM>. In some embodiments, a portion of the fluid handling unit <NUM> is received in the fluid storage unit <NUM>. For example, as shown, a lower portion of the motor <NUM> can be received in a recess <NUM> in the reservoir <NUM>. This can aid in reducing the overall size (e.g., height) of the soap pump <NUM>. In certain implementations, an axial centerline of the fluid handling unit <NUM> is substantially collinear with an axial centerline of the fluid storage unit <NUM>. In various embodiments, the fluid storage unit <NUM> and the fluid handling unit <NUM> can be selectively coupled and decoupled, as is discussed below in more detail.

<FIG> illustrate an example of the fluid storage unit <NUM>. As mentioned above, the fluid storage unit <NUM> can include the reservoir <NUM>. The reservoir <NUM> can be any type of container, such as a vessel, bag, balloon, or otherwise. Typically, the reservoir <NUM> is configured to contain a volume of liquid soap, such as liquid soap for hand washing or dish washing. In some embodiments, the reservoir <NUM> comprises a cartridge. As shown, the reservoir <NUM> can include a top, bottom, and sidewall. The reservoir <NUM> can include a chamber for containing the liquid soap. In some embodiments, at a temperature of about <NUM> and a pressure of about <NUM> atmosphere, the liquid soap has a viscosity of at least about: <NUM> cP, <NUM> cP, <NUM> cP, <NUM> cP, <NUM> cP, <NUM> cP, <NUM> cP, viscosities between the aforementioned viscosities, or other viscosities.

In some embodiments, the fluid storage unit <NUM> includes a sleeve <NUM>. The sleeve <NUM> can be configured to connect and/or disconnect with the reservoir <NUM>, such as with a threaded connection <NUM>. This can enable the reservoir <NUM> to be selectively disconnected, such as by unscrewing the threaded connection when the volume of liquid soap in the reservoir <NUM> is substantially exhausted. In some embodiments, the reservoir <NUM> is a reusable item. For example, the disconnected reservoir <NUM> can be configured to be refilled with liquid soap (e.g., via an upper aperture in the reservoir <NUM>) and then reconnected with the sleeve <NUM>. In some variants, the reservoir <NUM> is a disposable item. For example, the disconnected reservoir <NUM> can be discarded and replaced with another reservoir.

The fluid storage unit <NUM> can include a conduit <NUM>, such as a flexible tube. The conduit <NUM> can extend into the reservoir <NUM>. As shown, the conduit <NUM> can terminate at or near a bottom end inside the reservoir <NUM>. In certain embodiments, the longitudinal length of the conduit <NUM> is greater than the height of the reservoir <NUM>. As shown, this can result in the conduit <NUM> bending within the reservoir <NUM> and/or an end of the conduit <NUM> being positioned against or adjacent a radially outside wall of the reservoir <NUM>. In some embodiments, the reservoir <NUM> has a concave bottom, which can encourage liquid soap toward a periphery of the reservoir <NUM> and/or toward the end of the conduit <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the fluid storage unit <NUM> includes an air vent <NUM>. The air vent <NUM> can allow air to enter the reservoir <NUM> as the level of liquid soap L falls within the reservoir <NUM>. In some embodiments, the air vent <NUM> includes a one-way valve, such as an umbrella valve, that is configured to allow air to enter the reservoir <NUM>.

With continued reference to <FIG>, the fluid storage unit <NUM> can include an outlet <NUM>, such as an opening in an upper portion of the fluid storage unit <NUM>. As shown, the outlet <NUM> can be connected with the conduit <NUM>. In various embodiments, the liquid soap can flow through the conduit <NUM> and the outlet <NUM> and be provided to the fluid handing unit <NUM>. In some implementations, the outlet <NUM> is configured to engage with a portion of the fluid handing unit <NUM>, such as by the outlet <NUM> receiving a protruding portion of the fluid handing unit <NUM>. In certain implementations, when the outlet <NUM> is engaged with the fluid handing unit <NUM>, the outlet <NUM> is configured to allow liquid soap to flow through the outlet <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the outlet <NUM> includes a connection feature, such as a seal or valve <NUM>. In certain implementations, in response to the outlet <NUM> being engaged with the fluid handling unit <NUM>, the valve <NUM> is opened, thereby placing the fluid handling unit <NUM> in fluid communication with the reservoir <NUM> via the outlet <NUM> and the conduit <NUM>. In some variants, when the outlet <NUM> is not engaged with the fluid handling unit <NUM>, the valve <NUM> is closed, thereby inhibiting or preventing liquid soap from flowing out of the fluid storage unit <NUM>. In some embodiments, the valve <NUM> is a poppet valve and/or is mechanically displaced by engagement with a portion (e.g., a projection) of the fluid handling unit <NUM>. For example, the valve <NUM> can be displaced in a direction substantially parallel with the axial axis of the soap pump <NUM>. In certain variants, the valve <NUM> includes a normally-closed slit that can be opened by, and/or that can receive a portion of, the fluid handling unit <NUM>. In some embodiments, the valve <NUM> is a one-way valve, such as a duckbill valve.

As mentioned above, the fluid storage unit <NUM> and the fluid handling unit <NUM> can be configured to selectively couple and decouple. Certain embodiments of the fluid storage unit <NUM> include features to facilitate such functionality. For example, the fluid storage unit <NUM> can include engaging features that engages with corresponding engaging features of the fluid handling unit <NUM>. As shown in the cross-sectional views of <FIG> and <FIG>, in some embodiments, the engaging features of the fluid storage unit <NUM> include a recess <NUM> with a flange <NUM> and the engaging features of the fluid handling unit <NUM> include an arm <NUM> with a first and second teeth <NUM>, <NUM>. As shown, the arm <NUM> can connect with the coupling actuator <NUM> (e.g., button) and can be biased by a biasing member <NUM>, such as a spring.

As also shown, when the fluid storage unit <NUM> and the fluid handling unit <NUM> are in the coupled state, the first tooth <NUM> of the arm <NUM> can be received in the recess <NUM> of the fluid storage unit <NUM>. The tooth <NUM> can engage (e.g., abut against) the flange <NUM>. In this configuration, the biasing member <NUM> is compressed between the coupling actuator <NUM> and a support <NUM>, thus applying a generally upward force on the arm <NUM>. However, the engagement of the tooth <NUM> with the flange <NUM> provides a physical interference, thereby maintaining the position of the arm <NUM>, as well as the coupling between the fluid storage unit <NUM> and the fluid handling unit <NUM>.

Some embodiments are decoupled by activating (e.g., depressing) the coupling actuator <NUM>. This can displace the arm <NUM> downward relative to the fluid storage unit <NUM>. In some embodiments, such movement of the arm <NUM> engages the second tooth <NUM> with a bottom portion of the fluid handling unit <NUM>. This can displace the arm <NUM> (e.g., radially outward), which can remove the physical interference between the tooth <NUM> and the flange <NUM>, thereby removing the coupling between the fluid storage unit <NUM> and the fluid handling unit <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrate an example of the fluid handling unit <NUM>. As mentioned above, the fluid handling unit <NUM> can receive a flow of liquid soap from the fluid storage unit <NUM> and/or can supply a flow of soap to the dispensing assembly <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the fluid handling unit <NUM> can include a power actuator <NUM>, coupling actuator <NUM>, and/or power supply <NUM>. The power actuator <NUM> can be configured to enable a user to turn the soap dispenser on and off. The coupling actuator <NUM> can be configured to facilitate coupling and decoupling of the fluid storage unit <NUM> and the fluid handling unit <NUM>, as is discussed above.

In some embodiments, the power supply <NUM> includes a battery, capacitor, or other power storage device. In certain implementations, the power supply <NUM> is contained in the fluid handling unit <NUM>. In some variants, at least a portion of the power supply <NUM> is located in the fluid storage unit <NUM>. For example, in certain embodiments (e.g., in some embodiments in which the reservoir <NUM> is a disposable item), a battery or other power storage device is located in the fluid storage unit <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the power supply <NUM> is configured to connect with an external power source for recharging, such as with a port or cord to connect with a universal serial bus (USB) cable and/or domestic power. In some embodiments, the power supply <NUM> is configured to engage with the cord. For example, the power supply <NUM> can include an engaging element (e.g., a magnet) that is configured to engage (e.g., magnetically couple) with a corresponding engaging element (e.g., another magnet) of the cord, which can aid in locating and/or securing the cord on the power supply <NUM>. For example, some embodiments are configured such that, when the engaging elements of the power supply <NUM> are engaged with the engaging elements of the cord, a contact of the power supply <NUM> is automatically electrically connected with a contact of the cord, thereby allowing electrical power to be provided from the cord to the power supply <NUM>. As shown, in some embodiments, the power supply <NUM> includes at least two engaging elements 118a, 118b and at least two contacts 118c, 118d. In certain implementations, the engaging elements 118a, 118b and contacts 118c, 118d are arranged in a circular shape. For example, as illustrated, the engaging elements 118a, 118b can be located on the circular shape at about <NUM>° and about <NUM>° and the contacts 118c, 118d can be located at about <NUM>° and about <NUM>°.

In some implementations, the power supply <NUM> is configured to engage with a head portion of the cord in multiple orientations and/or to enable a user to flip the head portion around yet still be able to engage with the power supply <NUM>. For example, in the embodiment shown in <FIG>, the head portion can engage with the contacts 118c, 118d in two positions (e.g., a first position as well as a second position that is flipped <NUM>° from the first position). In some implementations, the power supply <NUM> and/or the head portion are configured to facilitate engagement. For example, one of the power supply <NUM> and the head portion can include a projection and the other of the power supply <NUM> and the head portion can include a recess configured to receive the projection. In some embodiments, the head portion of the cord has a generally cylindrical shape.

In various embodiments, the power supply <NUM> is sealed, such as with a gasket, adhesive, welds, or otherwise. This can reduce the chance of water intrusion into the power supply <NUM> and/or fluid handling unit <NUM>. Certain implementations are configured to inhibit or prevent water from entering the power supply <NUM> and/or passing between the power supply <NUM> and a cover <NUM>. For example, in some embodiments, the contacts 118c, 118d pass through corresponding openings in the cover <NUM> and the contacts 118c, 118d are sealed with the cover <NUM> such that water is inhibited or prevented from passing through the openings. In some embodiments, with the cover <NUM> installed (see <FIG>) and from a top plan view of the fluid handling unit <NUM>, the only portion of the power supply <NUM> that is visible is the contacts 118c, 118d. In some embodiments, the contacts 118c, 118d comprise a material that is electrically conductive and resistant to corrosion in the presence of freshwater, such as stainless steel, copper, aluminum, or otherwise.

In some embodiments, the fluid handling unit <NUM> is configured to avoid accumulating water in and/or near the power supply <NUM>. This can reduce the chance of corrosion of the power supply <NUM> and/or other portions of the fluid handling unit <NUM>. As previously mentioned, the power supply <NUM> can be accessed via a top of the fluid handling unit <NUM> through the contacts 118c, 118d. For example, as shown in <FIG>, the contacts 118c, 118d can be positioned on a top of the fluid handling unit <NUM>. In comparison to having contacts that are positioned on a lower portion or bottom of the soap dispenser, such top positioning of the contacts 118c, 118d can reduce or eliminate the chance of water dripping down a side of the soap dispenser and into the power supply <NUM> and/or can further space the contacts 118c, 118d apart from a potentially wet surface (e.g., a sink or counter) that the soap dispenser is resting on. As shown in <FIG>, the contacts 118c, 118d can be substantially flush with the cover <NUM>. In certain variants, the contacts 118c, 118d can protrude upward from the cover <NUM>, such as by at least about <NUM>. In some embodiments, the contacts 118c, 118d are positioned in a bulge of the cover <NUM>, such as a hemispherical or frustoconical bulge. In various implementations, the contacts 118c, 118d are not positioned in a recess.

Certain embodiments include a casing <NUM>, such as a rigid plastic or metal shell. In some embodiments, the casing <NUM> includes an upper portion 156a and lower portion 156b. The portions 156a, 156b can be joined together, such as with fasteners, adhesive, and/or welding (e.g., ultrasonic welding). The casing <NUM> can be configured to protect and/or retain some or all of the components of the fluid handling unit <NUM>, such as the motor <NUM> and pumping unit <NUM>. In some embodiments, the casing <NUM> includes one or more seals <NUM> (e.g., rubber gaskets) that are configured to engage with the outer housing <NUM> and/or to inhibit water from passing between the casing <NUM> and the outer housing <NUM>.

As mentioned above, in some implementations, the fluid handling unit <NUM> includes a cover <NUM>. The cover <NUM> can engage with the casing <NUM> to seal and/or protect components of the fluid handling unit <NUM>, such as the motor <NUM> and pumping unit <NUM>. For example, the engagement between the cover <NUM> and the casing <NUM> can inhibit water and dirt from entering the fluid handling unit <NUM>. In some embodiments, the cover <NUM> engages a seal (e.g., a rubber gasket) to provide a generally liquid tight seal. In certain embodiments, the cover <NUM> is configured to shed water. For example, the cover <NUM> can be pitched, such as being higher at the radial middle than at the radial edge. In some embodiments, the cover <NUM> is substantially flat.

<FIG> illustrates the fluid handling unit <NUM> with the cover <NUM> and discharge assembly <NUM> hidden for presentation purposes. As shown, the fluid handling unit <NUM> can include a conduit <NUM>, which can connect with the discharge assembly <NUM>. As discussed in more detail below, the conduit <NUM> can deliver a flow of soap (e.g., liquid, aerated, and/or foamed soap) to the discharge assembly <NUM> for dispensation.

Some embodiments include visual indication features. For example, as illustrated in <FIG>, the fluid handling unit <NUM> can include an indicating assembly configured to provide an indication of one or more status conditions to a user. In some embodiments, the indicating assembly includes a lighting assembly. The lighting assembly can include a light pipe <NUM> that is configured to receive, carry, and/or emit light from a light source (not shown). As illustrated in <FIG>, in some embodiments, the light pipe <NUM> can be positioned around substantially the entire perimeter of the fluid handling unit <NUM>. In some embodiments, the light pipe <NUM> is made of a generally transparent plastic material. Further examples and details regarding illumination with light pipes can be found in <CIT>. Any structure, material, component, feature, method, or step described and/or illustrated in the '<NUM> Publication can be used in combination with, or instead of, any structure, material, component, feature, method, or step described and/or illustrated in this specification.

The light pipe <NUM> can include an inlet portion <NUM>, such as the illustrated generally axially extending projection. The inlet portion <NUM> can receive light from the light source, can carry the light around some or all of the length of the light pipe <NUM>, and/or can emit the light out of the light pipe <NUM>. As shown, in some embodiments, the light pipe <NUM> includes a plurality of inlet portions <NUM>, such as two inlet portions <NUM> with a circumferential gap therebetween.

Certain embodiments include an inner light pipe <NUM>, which can divide the area bounded by the light pipe <NUM> into a first area and a second area. For example, as shown in <FIG>, the inner light pipe <NUM> can divide the area bounded by the light pipe <NUM> into an area around the coupling actuator <NUM> and an area around the power actuator <NUM> and/or the power supply <NUM>. In some embodiments, the ratio of the first area to the second area is at least about: <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, ratios between the aforementioned ratios, or other ratios. The inner light pipe <NUM> can be configured to receive light from the light pipe <NUM>, to carry the light along some or all of the length of the inner light pipe <NUM>, and/or to emit the light out of the inner light pipe <NUM> (e.g., generally upwardly).

As mentioned above, the light source can be configured to transmit light into the light pipe <NUM>. In certain implementations, the light source is a light emitting diode. The light source can be configured to provide various colors of light (e.g., white, blue, green, yellow, and/or red) and/or various patterns of light (e.g., flashing on and off, gradually increasing in intensity and gradually decreasing in intensity, or otherwise). In some embodiments, the light source is part of the dispensing assembly <NUM>.

In some implementations, the soap pump <NUM> is configured such that the indicating assembly can transmit an indication into the ambient environment. For example, some embodiments are configured to transmit an audible sound, such as a beep, chirp, or song. Certain embodiments are configured to transmit light into the ambient environment. For example, the light pipe <NUM> can be configured to transmit light out of the soap pump <NUM> through a gap between the outer housing <NUM> and the lid <NUM> (see <FIG>). In various embodiments, the sound or light can provide an indication to a user. For example, sound or light can be provided during dispensation of foamed soap, which can confirm to a user that the soap pump <NUM> is operating. In some embodiments, the soap pump <NUM> is configured to transmit a certain color of light to indicate a status condition, such as red light to indicate that the amount of remaining soap and/or power is at or near a certain amount (e.g., less than about <NUM>% remaining). In certain embodiments, the soap pump <NUM> is configured to provide an indication (e.g., a light or audible sound) for a prescribed period of time, such as a time associated with a recommended hand washing duration (e.g., at least about <NUM> seconds).

In some implementations, the soap pump <NUM> is configured to provide (e.g., in response to an input from a user) illumination of the area generally in the vicinity of the soap pump <NUM>. This can assist a user in performing a task, such as navigating through and/or washing their hands in a darkened room. For example, the soap pump <NUM> can be configured to provide sufficient light to enable a user to find and operate plumbing fixtures in a bathroom at night. Certain embodiments include timer functionality, such as being configured to provide illumination for a certain amount of time (e.g., <NUM> minutes, <NUM> hour, <NUM> hours, etc.). In some implementations, the soap pump <NUM> provides generally continuous illumination. For example, the light source can be operated at a duty cycle such that the emitted light appears to a user to be uninterrupted. In various embodiments, the illumination of the light pipe <NUM> is controlled by an electronic control unit (ECU), which is described in further detail below.

As shown in the cross-sectional perspective view illustrated in <FIG>, the casing <NUM> can include an engaging member, such as a generally downwardly extending projection <NUM> with a passage <NUM>. As discussed above, in some embodiments, the projection <NUM> can engage with (e.g., be inserted into) the outlet <NUM> of the fluid storage unit <NUM>. In some implementations, engagement between the projection <NUM> and the outlet <NUM> opens a flow path between the fluid storage unit <NUM> and the fluid handling unit <NUM>. For example, the reservoir <NUM> can be in fluid communication with an inlet chamber <NUM> of the fluid handling unit <NUM>, thereby allowing liquid soap to flow into the inlet chamber <NUM>. In some embodiments, the liquid soap flows generally vertically through the inlet chamber <NUM>. As shown, in certain implementations, a longitudinal axis of the inlet chamber <NUM> is generally parallel with a longitudinal axis of the conduit <NUM>. In some embodiments, the longitudinal axis of the inlet chamber <NUM> and the conduit <NUM> are about collinear. In some variants, the longitudinal axis of the inlet chamber <NUM> is offset from (e.g., not collinear with and/or spaced generally horizontally apart from) the longitudinal axis of the conduit <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the inlet chamber <NUM> connects with an aerating chamber <NUM>. For example, the inlet chamber <NUM> can fluidly connect with the aerating chamber <NUM> via a bend. In some embodiments, the bend changes the direction of the flow of the soap, such as from flowing generally vertically to flowing generally horizontally. As shown, in some embodiments, the bend is about <NUM>°. In some variants, the bend is greater than or equal to about <NUM>° and/or less than or equal to about <NUM>°. Certain embodiments are configured such that soap flows through the aerating chamber <NUM> generally horizontally and through the inlet chamber <NUM> and/or the conduit <NUM> generally vertically.

The aerating chamber <NUM> can include an air inlet <NUM>. The air inlet <NUM> can be configured to allow air (e.g., ambient air) to enter the aerating chamber <NUM>. In some embodiments, the air inlet <NUM> can include a one-way valve, such as an umbrella valve. In certain variants, the aerating chamber <NUM> includes a venturi tube, which can aid in drawing air into the aerating chamber <NUM> via the air inlet <NUM>.

In various implementations, air from the air inlet <NUM> mixes with the liquid soap to form aerated soap. In some embodiments, the aerated soap is predominately liquid soap, with air bubbles mixed in. For example, the ratio of air to liquid soap can be less than or equal to about: <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, ratios between the aforementioned ratios, or other ratios. In certain variants, the ratio of air to liquid soap is about: <NUM>:<NUM>, <NUM>:<NUM>, <NUM>:<NUM>, ratios between the aforementioned ratios, or other ratios. In some embodiments, the aerated soap is predominately air. For example, the ratio of air to liquid soap can be greater than or equal to about: <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, ratios between the aforementioned ratios, or other ratios. In certain variants, the mixing of the air with the liquid soap forms foamed soap. Some embodiments are configured to vary the ratio of air to liquid soap, such as with a valve configured to adjust the amount of air and/or liquid soap that enters the aerating chamber <NUM>. In some variants, the valve is controlled by the ECU.

<FIG> illustrate an example of the pumping assembly <NUM>. As mentioned above, the pumping assembly <NUM> can include a motor <NUM> and a pumping unit <NUM>. The motor <NUM> can be configured to drive the pumping unit <NUM>. In some embodiments, such driving can withdraw liquid soap from the reservoir <NUM>, draw air into the aerating chamber <NUM> via the air inlet <NUM>, and/or encourage liquid and/or aerated soap into the pumping unit <NUM>. In some embodiments, such driving can encourage soap (e.g., liquid, aerated, and/or foamed) out of the pumping unit <NUM> and into the dispensing assembly <NUM> for dispensation out of the soap pump <NUM>. In various embodiments, driving of the motor <NUM> results in conversion of the liquid and/or aerated soap into foamed soap, such as by encouraging the liquid and/or aerated soap through a foaming unit (e.g., a screen), as is discussed in more detail below.

In certain embodiments, the motor <NUM> is an AC or DC electric motor, stepper motor, server motor, solenoid, stepper solenoid, or any other type of actuator. In some implementations, the motor <NUM> can be connected to the pumping unit <NUM> with a force transmitter device, such as a gear train or a flexible transmitter assembly (e.g., a belt, chain, or otherwise). The motor <NUM> can be connected with the power supply <NUM> such that the motor <NUM> can receive electric power from the power supply <NUM>. For example, in response to a call to dispense soap (e.g., from a sensor and/or a user input device), the ECU can instruct that electric power from the power supply <NUM> be provided to the motor <NUM> to drive the pumping unit <NUM> to dispense foamed soap from the soap pump <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the pumping assembly <NUM> can include the pumping unit <NUM>, which can be configured to encourage a flow of soap through the soap pump <NUM>. In some embodiments, the pumping unit <NUM> includes a diaphragm pump, peristaltic pump, or other type of pump. In some embodiments, the pumping unit <NUM> includes a rolling pump or roller pump. As described in more detail below, the pumping unit <NUM> can include one or more compartments each with an associated resilient member that is configured to increase and decrease the volume of portions inside the pumping unit <NUM> to alternatingly draw-in and expel-out soap.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the pumping assembly <NUM> can include a plurality of compartments, such as a first compartment 182a, second compartment 182b, and third compartment 182c. Certain variants include one, two, four, five, or more compartments. As shown, in some implementations, the compartments 182a-182c extend radially outward from and/or are circumferentially spaced around the conduit <NUM>. For example, the compartments can be about equally circumferentially spaced around the conduit <NUM>, such as three compartments spaced about <NUM>° apart, four compartments spaced about <NUM>° apart, or otherwise. In some implementations, the compartments 182a-182c are generally cylindrical or generally hemispherical.

As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the pumping assembly <NUM> can include a diaphragm unit, such as a rubber or plastic gasket with movable membranes. In some embodiments, the diaphragm unit includes a plurality of resilient members, such as one resilient member for each of the compartments. For example, as shown, the diaphragm unit can include diaphragms 190a-190c and each of the diaphragms 190a-190c can be associated with a respective one of the compartments 182a-182c. In some embodiments, the diaphragms 190a-190c are located in a lower or lowermost-most portion of the respective compartment. For example, the diaphragms 190a-190c can form a bottom wall of the compartments 182a-182c. As is also shown in <FIG>, some embodiments include outlet one-way valves, as are discussed in more detail below.

In certain implementations, diaphragm unit includes a tilting member <NUM>. The tilting member <NUM> can be connected with and/or engage the diaphragms 190a-190c. For example, the diaphragms 190a-190c can each have an extension portion (e.g., a downwardly extending leg) that connects with a lobe of the tilting member <NUM>. As shown, the tilting member <NUM> can connect with a shaft <NUM>. As discussed below, in various embodiments, the tilting member <NUM> is configured to tilt, pivot, and/or rock as the shaft <NUM> is moved.

The shaft <NUM> can be connected with an actuation member <NUM>, which can be connected with the motor <NUM>. In some embodiments, the actuation member <NUM> is configured to rotate about an output shaft axis of the motor <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the actuation member <NUM> can include an arm, such as a cantilevered element that extends radially outward from a drive shaft of the motor <NUM>. In some implementations, the actuation member <NUM> includes a recess 194a that is configured to receive the shaft <NUM>. As shown, the recess 194a can be radially offset from the output shaft axis of the motor <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the motor <NUM> is configured to rotate the actuation member <NUM>, which in turn rotates the shaft <NUM>. Because of the radial offset of the recess 194a, the shaft <NUM> can be moved in such a way that a tip of the shaft rotates in a generally circular path (e.g., around the output shaft axis of the motor <NUM>). In some implementations, movement of the shaft <NUM> causes the tilting member <NUM> to move, such as in a circumferential tilting, pivoting, and/or rocking manner. This can result in the lobes of the tilting member <NUM> actuating (e.g., pushing and pulling) on the extension portions of the diaphragms 190a-190c, thereby actuating (e.g., pushing, pulling, deforming, reshaping, etc.) one or more of the diaphragms 190a-190c.

In some embodiments, the tilting member <NUM> can actuate the diaphragms 190a-190c between the first state (e.g., convex state) and the second state (e.g., concave state). In certain implementations, rocking motion of the tilting member <NUM> can cause repeated compression and release of the diaphragms 190a-190c. This sequentially can change the volume of the compartments 182a-182c and/or can encourage a flow of soap into and out of the compartments182a-182c, as is described in more detail below.

In some embodiments, the diaphragms 190a-190c can pass through an intermediate state between the first and second states. The intermediate state can be a less convex state than the first state or a less concave state than the second state. In some variants, the intermediate state is a generally planar state.

The state of the diaphragms 190a-190c can be related to the position of the tilting member <NUM>. For example, in some embodiments, when the tilting member <NUM> is in a first position, the first diaphragm 190a can be convex, the second diaphragm 190b can be in an intermediate position, and the third diaphragm 190c can be concave. In a second position of the tilting member <NUM>, the first diaphragm 190a can be concave, the second diaphragm 190b can be convex, and the third diaphragm 190c can be in an intermediate position. And, when the tilting member <NUM> is in a third position, the first diaphragm 190a can be in an intermediate position, the second diaphragm 190b can be concave, and the third diaphragm 190c can be convex.

In various embodiments, the pumping unit <NUM> is connected with the aerating chamber <NUM>. For example, each of the compartments 182a-182c can be in fluid communication with the aerating chamber <NUM>, such as by an inlet passage <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. In some embodiments, the inlet passage <NUM> is connected with a staging chamber <NUM>, such as the illustrated chamber that is positioned above the compartments 182a-182c. In certain embodiments, the staging chamber <NUM> is positioned between an outer wall of the conduit <NUM> and an inner wall of the pumping assembly <NUM>.

Some embodiments are configured to enable liquid and/or aerated soap to flow (e.g., be drawn) into the compartments 182a-182c. For example, each of the compartments 182a-182c can be connected with the staging chamber <NUM> via an inlet passage 192a-192c. As shown in <FIG>, certain embodiments include a plurality of inlet passages 192a-192c, such as each compartments 182a-182c being connected to the staging chamber <NUM> by two, three, four, five, six, or more inlet passages. Some embodiments include features to reduce the chance of backflow of the soap. For example, each of the compartments 182a-182c can include an associated inlet one-way valve, such as an umbrella valve, duckbill valve, or other type of valve. The inlet one-way valve can be configured to inhibit or prevent liquid from flowing from the compartments 182a-182c into the staging chamber <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the pumping unit <NUM> is connected with the conduit <NUM>. For example, each of the compartments 182a-182c can be in fluid communication with the conduit <NUM>, such as by an outlet passage 195a-195c. In certain embodiments, less than all (e.g., one or two) of the compartments 182a-182c are in fluid communication with the conduit <NUM> at a time. Certain embodiments are configured to enable a flow of soap (e.g., liquid, aerated, and/or foamed soap) to be provided from one or more of the compartments 182a-182c to the discharge assembly <NUM> via the conduit <NUM>.

As mentioned above, some embodiments include outlet one-way valves 197a-197c, such as a flap valve, umbrella valve, duckbill valve, or other type of valve. The outlet one-way valves 197a-197c can each be associated with a respective one of the compartments 182a-182c. The outlet one-way valves 197a-197c can be configured to inhibit or prevent liquid from flowing from the conduit <NUM> back into the respective compartment. As shown in <FIG>, in certain implementations, the outlet one-way valves 197a-197c each include a deflectable member, such as a flap. In some embodiments, the flaps can be received in corresponding notches in a body of the pump assembly <NUM>. Each flap can be configured to open (e.g., deflect). For example, when the flap's associated compartment is expelling soap, the flap can open (e.g., be deflected by the flow of soap) to permit the soap to flow to the conduit <NUM>. In some embodiments, only one flap is open at a time.

Various operational states of the pumping unit <NUM> are schematically illustrated in <FIG>. As shown, in various states, the diaphragms 190a-190c can be actuated (e.g., compressed and released, pushed and pulled, moved back and forth, or otherwise actuated) between a first state and a second state. In some implementations, in the first state, the diaphragms extend downward and/or in a direction generally away from the top of their respective compartment. For example, in the first state, the diaphragms can have a convex shape (see compartment 182a in <FIG>). In various embodiments, the first state is a free and/or unactuated state of the diaphragm.

In certain embodiments, in the second state, the diaphragms extend upward and/or in a direction generally toward the top of their respective compartment. For example, in the second state, the diaphragms can have a concave shape (see compartment 182c in <FIG>). In certain variants, in the second state, the diaphragms are generally planar. In various embodiments, the second state is an actuated state of the diaphragms, as will be discussed in further detail below.

In some embodiments, the change in shape of a particular diaphragm results in a change in the volume of their diaphragm's associated compartment. For example, each compartment can have a greater volume when the associated diaphragm <NUM> is in the first state than when the diaphragm is in the second state. This can be because in the convex shape the diaphragm extends out of the compartment and thus add volume, while in the concave shape the diaphragm extends into the compartment and thus subtracts volume. In some embodiments, the ratio of the volume of the compartment in the first state to the volume of the compartment in the second state is at least about: <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, ratios between the aforementioned ratios, and other ratios.

In various embodiments, the movement of a diaphragm can encourage a flow of soap out of a respective compartment. For example, in some implementations, when the diaphragm moves from the first state to the second state, the volume of the respective compartment decreases (e.g., because the diaphragm changes from a convex shape to a concave or planar shape). This can reduce the volume in the compartment, which can increase the pressure in the compartment, which in turn can encourage soap to flow out of the compartment. For example, soap can be expelled into and through the outlet passage 195a-195c. As previously discussed, the outlet one-way valve can inhibit or prevent backflow of the soap.

Similarly, in some implementations, the movement of a diaphragm can encourage a flow of soap into a respective compartment. For example, in some implementations, when the diaphragm moves from the second state to the first state, the volume of the respective compartment increases (e.g., because the diaphragm changes from a concave or planar shape to a convex shape). This can increase the volume in the compartment, which can decrease the pressure in the compartment, which in turn can encourage soap to flow into the compartment. For example, soap can be drawn-in from the inlet passage <NUM> and/or the staging chamber <NUM>. As previously discussed, the inlet one-way valve can inhibit or prevent backflow of the soap.

In various embodiments, the diaphragms 190a-190c can move back and forth between the first and second states. This can alternatingly increase and decrease the volume of the respective compartments 182a-182c and/or alternatingly draw soap into and discharge soap from the compartments 182a-182c. Thus, in some embodiments, the movement of the diaphragms 190a-190c can produce a flow of soap from the reservoir <NUM> to the discharge assembly <NUM>.

<FIG> further illustrate example operational states of the pumping unit <NUM>, such as example movements of the diaphragms 190a-190c as well as the flow of soap into and out of the compartments 182a-182c. In <FIG>, the diaphragm of the compartment 182a is in the first state, the diaphragm of the compartment 182b is in the second state and the diaphragm of the compartment 182c is in an intermediate state. For example, this can be because the position of the tilting member <NUM> is pulling the compartments 182a, 182b and pushing the compartment 182c. As shown, soap can be drawn into the compartments 182a, 182b and can be encouraged out of the compartment 182c. As also shown, in some embodiments, the compartment in the intermediate state can be configured to slightly draw-in soap (e.g., less than the draw of the compartment in the first state). In some variants, the compartment in the intermediate state can be configured to slightly expel soap (e.g., less than the expulsion of the compartment in the second state) or substantially neither draw nor expel soap.

In the example illustrated in <FIG>, the diaphragm of the compartment 182b is in the first state, the diaphragm 182c is in the intermediate state, and the diaphragm of the compartment 182a is in the second state. As shown, soap can be drawn into the compartments 182b, 182c and can be encouraged out of the compartment 182a.

In the example of <FIG>, the diaphragm of the compartment 182c is in the first state, the diaphragm 182a is in the intermediate state, and the diaphragm of the compartment 182b is in the second state. As shown, soap can be drawn into the compartments 182a, 182c and can be encouraged out of the compartment 182b.

<FIG> illustrate an example of the dispensing assembly <NUM>. As shown, the dispensing assembly <NUM> can include a conduit <NUM>. The conduit <NUM> of the dispensing assembly <NUM> can engage (e.g., receive) the conduit <NUM> of the pumping assembly <NUM>, thereby providing a flow path for soap from the pumping assembly <NUM> into the dispensing assembly <NUM>. As illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, the dispensing assembly <NUM> can include a foaming unit <NUM>, passage <NUM>, sensor device <NUM>, and/or a light emitting portion <NUM>, each of which are discussed in more detail below.

As previously mentioned, the dispensing assembly <NUM> can include the nozzle <NUM>, through which foamed soap is dispensed. The nozzle <NUM> can be in fluid communication with the foaming unit <NUM> by the passage <NUM>, such as a generally horizontally extending passage. In some embodiments, the passage <NUM> is pitched, such as being lower at the foaming unit <NUM> than at the nozzle <NUM>. This can encourage non-dispensed soap to flow back into the foaming unit <NUM> and/or conduit <NUM>, which can reduce the chance of soap unintentionally dripping from the nozzle <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the passage <NUM> can have a variable width. For example, the passage <NUM> can taper. As illustrated, in certain embodiments, the passage <NUM> is narrower at a first end 200a (e.g., the end through which soap enters the passage <NUM>) than at a second end 200b (e.g., the end through which soap exits the passage <NUM>). In comparison to a passage <NUM> with a constant width, the passage <NUM> with a wider second end 200b can allow the use of a larger foaming unit <NUM> (e.g., screen or mesh). This can provide a larger area of contact between the soap and the foaming unit, which can result in an increase in the quantity and quality of the foamed soap. In some embodiments, because the foaming unit <NUM> can be an obstruction in the flow path of the soap, the foaming unit <NUM> can create a backpressure. In some embodiments, the increased size of the foaming unit <NUM> can increase the backpressure, which in turn can provide a better quality of foam.

In certain implementations, the ratio of the width W2 to the width W1 is at least about: <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, ratios between the aforementioned ratios, or other ratios. In some variants, a width W1 of the passage <NUM> can be substantially less than a maximum or nominal outer width W3 of the dispensing assembly. In some implementations, the ratio of the width W2 to the width W3 is at less than or equal to about: <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, ratios between the aforementioned ratios, or other ratios. In some embodiments, the passage <NUM> has a variable cross-sectional area (e.g., lateral width and vertical height), such as a cross-section that increases along it length (e.g., in a downstream direction). In some variants, the passage <NUM> is generally straight, untapered, and/or has a generally constant cross-sectional area.

In some embodiments, the passage <NUM> is a narrow channel in the dispensing assembly <NUM>, such as is shown in Figures 23A and. In some variants, the23B passage <NUM> is substantially narrower than it is long. For example, the ratio of the longitudinal length of the passage <NUM> to the width W1 can be at least about: <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, ratios between the aforementioned ratios, or other ratios. In certain implementations, the passage <NUM> has a volume that is substantially less than a volume of the dispensing assembly <NUM>. In some embodiments, the volume of the passage <NUM> is less than or equal to about <NUM>% of the volume of the dispensing assembly <NUM>. A passage <NUM> that is relatively narrow and/or that has a relatively small volume can facilitate priming of the soap pump <NUM>. This can be because, in certain embodiments, filling the passage <NUM> is a prerequisite to dispensing soap through the nozzle <NUM>, so a smaller volume of the passage <NUM> reduces the amount of soap needed to fill the passage <NUM> and/or the time needed to fill the passage <NUM>. Similarly, in some embodiments, a passage <NUM> that is relatively narrow and/or that has a relatively small volume can reduce the amount of air in the passage that is to be displaced (e.g., ejected from the dispensing assembly <NUM>) so that the soap can fill the passage <NUM>, and thus prime the soap pump <NUM>.

The nozzle <NUM> can be positioned on a portion of the dispensing assembly <NUM> that extends outward from (e.g., is cantilevered from) an upper portion of the housing <NUM>. This can make it more convenient for a user to place a hand or other body part under the nozzle <NUM> to receive a quantity of foamed soap. In some embodiments, the nozzle <NUM> is configured to reduce drips. For example, the nozzle <NUM> can include a valve, such as a pin valve or duckbill valve.

As indicated above, the dispensing assembly <NUM> can include a foaming unit <NUM>, such as is shown in <FIG>. The foaming unit <NUM> can be configured to convert the liquid and/or aerated soap from the pumping assembly <NUM> into foamed soap. In some embodiments, the foaming unit <NUM> includes active and/or moving components, such as an impeller. In some embodiments, the foaming unit <NUM> includes passive and/or moving components, such as a screen or a venturi tube.

In various embodiments, the foaming unit <NUM> includes a porous barrier, such as a screen (also called a mesh) in the flow path of the soap. The screen can be configured to convert liquid and/or aerated soap into foamed soap. For example, in some embodiments, as liquid and/or aerated soap passes through the screen, the pressure in the liquid and/or aerated soap can change (e.g., decrease), which can cause the soap to convert into foamed soap. Certain embodiments include a vent (not shown) configured to allow air to enter the foaming unit <NUM>, which can aid in producing foamed soap. The screen can be made of a corrosion-resistant material, such as plastic, aluminum, stainless steel, or otherwise.

As shown in <FIG>, certain embodiments include a plurality of screens, such as two screens 199a, 199b spaced apart from each other. In some implementations, the first screen (e.g., a mesh that is upstream and/or is closer to the soap entry point in the dispenser assembly <NUM>) has at least about <NUM> holes, has a pitch of about at least <NUM>, and/or has at least about <NUM> holes per unit of area, such as about <NUM> holes/cm<NUM>. In certain embodiments, the second screen (e.g., a mesh that is downstream and/or is closer to the soap exit point in the dispenser assembly <NUM>) has more holes in total and/or per unit area than the first screen. For example, in certain embodiments, the second screen has at least about <NUM> holes, has a pitch of at least about <NUM>, and/or has at least about <NUM> holes per unit of area, such as about <NUM> holes/cm<NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, in some implementations, the second screen has a larger diameter than the first screen, such as at least about <NUM>% greater. In some variants, the first screen has a larger diameter, more holes in total, a greater pitch, and/or more holes per unit area than the second screen.

In certain embodiments, the foaming unit <NUM> is located in or adjacent to the nozzle <NUM>. For example, in some embodiments, the foaming unit <NUM> (e.g., mesh) is positioned at or near the location at which the foamed soap is dispensed from the soap pump <NUM>. In some implementations, the screen is generally vertical, which can aid in reducing drips and/or in separating the foamed soap from the soap pump <NUM> (e.g., encouraging the foamed soap to fall away from the soap pump <NUM> by force of gravity). In some implementations, the screen is horizontal.

In some embodiments, the foaming unit <NUM> is configured to reduce the likelihood of drips. For example, the mesh can be generally planar and positioned at an angle with respect to horizontal, such as less than or equal to about: <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, angles between the aforementioned angles, or other angles. In some variants, the angle can encourage, by force of gravity, the foamed soap to slide down and separate from the screen during the dispensation cycle. In some embodiments, the angled mesh can reduce the chance of foamed soap remaining on the mesh (e.g., due to surface tension) after the dispensation cycle ends, which could otherwise subsequently form a drip that falls off of the soap pump <NUM>. In some implementations, the mesh can have a shape with an apex, such as a conical or hemispherical shape. Similar to the discussion above, the apex can encourage foamed soap to separate from the screen during the dispensation cycle and/or can reduce the chance of foamed soap remaining on the mesh after the dispensation cycle ends.

As mentioned above, in some embodiments, the dispensing assembly <NUM>, or other portions of the soap pump <NUM>, include a sensor device <NUM>. In some embodiments, the sensor device <NUM> can include an infrared type sensor, which can include a light emitting portion and a light receiving portion. The light emitting and light receiving portions can be separate, or can be part of the same device. Some embodiments are configured such that a beam of infrared light can be emitted from the light emitting portion. The light can be reflected off an object and received by the light receiving portion. This reflection can occur as a result of a user's hand or some object being placed near (e.g., in front of, under, or otherwise) the infrared sensor and reflecting back a portion of the emitted infrared light for a predetermined period of time and/or at a predetermined frequency. Further examples and details regarding sensor devices can be found in <CIT>. Any structure, material, component, feature, method, or step described and/or illustrated in the '<NUM> Patent can be used in combination with, or instead of, any structure, material, component, feature, method, or step described and/or illustrated in this specification.

The sensor device <NUM> can be configured to emit a trigger signal when the infrared light beam is reflected back to the light receiving portion. For example, if the sensor device <NUM> is activated and the light receiving portion receives the reflected infrared light emitted from the light emitting portion, then the sensor device <NUM> can emit a trigger signal. The trigger signal can be used for controlling operation of components of the soap pump <NUM>, such as operation of the motor <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the sensor device <NUM> can be operated in a pulsating mode. For example, the light emitting portion can be powered on and off in a duty cycle, such as for bursts lasting for only a short period of time (e.g., <NUM> second, <NUM> second, <NUM> second, etc.) and/or at a relatively slow frequency (e.g., three times per second, two times per second, one time per second, etc.).

In some embodiments, the sensor device <NUM> is active for a period of time and inactive for a period of time. For example, in some embodiments, the sensor device <NUM> is active for a duration of about <NUM> microseconds at a time and four times per second. Thus, for each second, the sensor device <NUM> is active for <NUM> microseconds and inactive for <NUM>,<NUM> microseconds. In certain embodiments, for each one second time period, the sensor device <NUM> can be active for less than or equal to about: <NUM> microseconds, <NUM> microseconds, <NUM> microseconds, <NUM>,<NUM> microseconds, values between the aforementioned values, or other values. In some implementations, as a percentage of each one second time period, the sensor device <NUM> is active less than or equal to: <NUM>%, <NUM>%, <NUM>%, <NUM>%, <NUM>%, percentages between the aforementioned percentages, or other percentages. Such cycling can substantially reduce power consumption. In some implementations, such cycling does not produce unacceptable results because, on the time scale of a user, the sensor device <NUM> is frequently reactivated (e.g., activated at least once each second). Thus, in certain implementations, the maximum time that a user would need to wait to trigger the sensor device <NUM> is less than or equal to one second. In some implementations, the sensor device <NUM> can appear to a user to be continuously activated.

The sensor device <NUM> can be connected to an ECU (not shown). The ECU can include one or more circuit boards with hard wired feedback control circuits, a processor, and memory devices for storing and performing control routines, or any other type of controller. In some embodiments, the ECU is positioned in the dispensing assembly <NUM>. In some embodiments, the ECU is positioned in the casing <NUM>. In various embodiments, the ECU can control aspects of the soap pump, such as controlling operation of the motor <NUM>, lighting assembly, or otherwise.

As indicated above, the ECU can be connected with a user input device, such as a button, dial, switch, or otherwise. In some embodiments, the ECU can receive an input signal from the user input device to vary the duration and/or amount of soap dispensed for one or more dispensation cycles. For example, the ECU can receive an input from a selector configured to enable a user to select varying degrees of duration and/or amount of soap. In some embodiments, the ECU can receive an input to provide a substantially continuous flow of soap, such as by a user activating the input device in a certain way, such as by pressing a button of greater than or equal to one second.

In some embodiments, the ECU is configured to control the light source described above. For example, the ECU can control the duration, pattern, and/or color of light. In some implementations, the ECU is configured to activate the light source in conjunction with the motor <NUM>, thereby illuminating the light pipe <NUM> when soap is being dispensed from the soap pump <NUM>. In some embodiments, the dispensing assembly <NUM> can include the light source and/or one or more emitting portions <NUM> that are configured to mate with the inlet portions <NUM> of the light pipe <NUM>, thereby transmitting light into the light pipe <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the soap pump <NUM> is configured to identify a characteristic of the fluid storage unit <NUM>. For example, the fluid storage unit <NUM> and/or the fluid handling unit <NUM> can include an identification feature that is configured to provide an indication of a characteristic of the reservoir <NUM>. The characteristic can be the reservoir's contents (e.g., hand soap, dish soap, lotion, etc.), volume, unique identification code, or otherwise.

In some embodiments, the identification feature includes a physical (e.g., mechanical) connection between the fluid storage unit <NUM> and the fluid handling unit <NUM>. For example, engagement of the fluid storage unit <NUM> and the fluid handling unit <NUM> can actuate one or more actuatable members, such as depressible fingers or buttons. In some implementations, the number and arrangement of the actuated actuatable members indicate a characteristic of the reservoir <NUM>. For example, in an embodiment with first and second actuatable members, actuation of the first member can indicate a first characteristic, actuation of the second member can indicate a second characteristic, actuation of the first and second members can indicate a third characteristic.

In some embodiments, the identification feature includes an electrical connection, such as a circuit that is completed when the fluid storage unit <NUM> and the fluid handling unit <NUM> are coupled. In certain variants, the identification feature includes a radio frequency transmitter and/or receiver, such as an active or passive radio frequency identification (RFID) tag and corresponding RFID tag reader. For example, the fluid storage unit <NUM> can include an RFID tag and the fluid handling unit <NUM> can include an RFID tag reader.

In certain implementations, the identification feature is configured to communicate a signal indicative of the characteristic to the ECU, which can perform the identification of the characteristic. For example, in certain embodiments, the ECU is configured to identify the characteristic by correlating the signal to a stored database of characteristics. In some embodiments, the ECU can implement an action in response to the signal and/or the identification of the characteristic. For example, in some variants, after receiving a signal that the fluid storage and fluid handling units <NUM>, <NUM> are coupled, the ECU can permit operation of the motor <NUM>. In some embodiments, the ECU is configured to vary the dispensation amount and/or duration in response to an identification of the contents of the reservoir <NUM>, such as a first amount and/or duration when the reservoir <NUM> contains hand soap and a second amount and/or duration when the reservoir <NUM> contains dish soap. In some implementations, the ECU is configured to track and/or predict aspects related to the usage of the reservoir <NUM>, such as the remaining volume of soap in the reservoir <NUM> and/or the number of remaining dispensations of soap in the reservoir <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates an example method <NUM> associated with the soap pump <NUM>. As shown, in block <NUM>, the method <NUM> can include decoupling the fluid storage unit <NUM> from the fluid handling unit <NUM>. In some embodiments, the decoupling includes activating (e.g., depressing) the coupling actuator <NUM>. This can displace the arm <NUM> downward relative to the fluid storage unit <NUM>. In some embodiments, such movement of the arm <NUM> engages the second tooth <NUM> with a bottom portion of the fluid handling unit <NUM>. This can displace the arm <NUM> radially outward, which can remove the physical interference between the tooth <NUM> with the flange <NUM>, thereby removing the coupling between the fluid storage unit <NUM> and the fluid handling unit <NUM>.

In block <NUM>, the method <NUM> can include removing the fluid storage unit <NUM> from outer housing <NUM>. For example, the fluid storage unit <NUM> can be lifted (e.g., generally vertically) out of the outer housing <NUM>.

In some embodiments, in block <NUM>, the method <NUM> includes decoupling the sleeve <NUM> of the fluid storage unit <NUM> from the reservoir <NUM> of the fluid storage unit <NUM>. For example, the decoupling can include unscrewing a threaded connection between the sleeve <NUM> and the reservoir <NUM>.

In block <NUM>, the method can include replenishing the reservoir <NUM>. In some embodiments, such as those in which the reservoir <NUM> is a reusable item, replenishing the reservoir <NUM> includes adding liquid soap into the reservoir <NUM>. For example, liquid soap can be added via an opening at or near an upper end of the reservoir <NUM>. In some embodiments, such as those in which the reservoir <NUM> is a one-time use item, replenishing the reservoir <NUM> includes replacing the reservoir <NUM> with another reservoir and/or disposing of the reservoir <NUM>.

In various embodiments, a method of coupling the fluid storage unit <NUM> from the fluid handling unit <NUM> includes reversing some or all of the actions described above. For example, the method of coupling the fluid storage unit <NUM> from the fluid handling unit <NUM> can include coupling the sleeve <NUM> of the fluid storage unit <NUM> with the reservoir <NUM> of the fluid storage unit <NUM>, such as by securing with a threaded connection between the sleeve <NUM> and the reservoir <NUM>. Certain embodiments include placing the fluid storage unit <NUM> within the outer housing <NUM>.

In some implementations, the method of coupling the fluid storage unit <NUM> and the fluid handling unit <NUM> includes coupling the fluid storage unit <NUM> with the fluid handling unit <NUM>. In some variants, this includes activating (e.g., depressing) the coupling actuator <NUM>, which can displace the arm <NUM>. For example, the arm <NUM> can be moved generally downward and/or against the bias of the biasing member <NUM>. Some implementations include receiving the tooth <NUM> in the recess <NUM>. Certain embodiments include engaging the tooth <NUM> with the flange <NUM>. Some variants include providing a physical interference between the tooth <NUM> with the flange <NUM>, thereby coupling the fluid storage unit <NUM> and the fluid handling unit <NUM>.

Terms of orientation used herein, such as "top," "bottom," "horizontal," "vertical," "longitudinal," "lateral," and "end" are used in the context of the illustrated embodiment. However, the present disclosure should not be limited to the illustrated orientation. Indeed, other orientations are possible and are within the scope of this disclosure. Terms relating to circular shapes as used herein, such as diameter or radius, should be understood not to require perfect circular structures, but rather should be applied to any suitable structure with a cross-sectional region that can be measured from side-to-side. Terms relating to shapes generally, such as "circular" or "cylindrical" or "semicircular" or "semi-cylindrical" or any related or similar terms, are not required to conform strictly to the mathematical definitions of circles or cylinders or other structures, but can encompass structures that are reasonably close approximations.

Conditional language, such as "can," "could," "might," or "may," unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain embodiments include or do not include, certain features, elements, and/or steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements, and/or steps are in any way required for one or more embodiments.

Conjunctive language, such as the phrase "at least one of X, Y, and Z," unless specifically stated otherwise, is otherwise understood with the context as used in general to convey that an item, term, etc. may be either X, Y, or Z.

The terms "approximately," "about," and "substantially" as used herein represent an amount close to the stated amount that still performs a desired function or achieves a desired result. For example, in some embodiments, as the context may permit, the terms "approximately", "about", and "substantially" may refer to an amount that is within less than or equal to <NUM>% of the stated amount. The term "generally" as used herein represents a value, amount, or characteristic that predominantly includes or tends toward a particular value, amount, or characteristic. As an example, in certain embodiments, as the context may permit, the term "generally parallel" can refer to something that departs from exactly parallel by less than or equal to <NUM> degrees.

Unless otherwise explicitly stated, articles such as "a" or "an" should generally be interpreted to include one or more described items. Accordingly, phrases such as "a device configured to" are intended to include one or more recited devices. Such one or more recited devices can also be collectively configured to carry out the stated recitations. For example, "a processor configured to carry out recitations A, B, and C" can include a first processor configured to carry out recitation A working in conjunction with a second processor configured to carry out recitations B and C.

Likewise, the terms "some," "certain," and the like are synonymous and are used in an open-ended fashion.

Overall, the language of the claims is to be interpreted broadly based on the language employed in the claims. The language of the claims is not to be limited to the non-exclusive embodiments and examples that are illustrated and described in this disclosure, or that are discussed during the prosecution of the application.

Although the dispensing devices have been disclosed in the context of certain embodiments and examples, the dispensing devices extend beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or uses of the embodiments and certain modifications and equivalents thereof. Various features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments can be combined with or substituted for one another in order to form varying modes of the conveyor. The scope of this disclosure should not be limited by the particular disclosed embodiments described herein.

Certain features that are described in this disclosure in the context of separate implementations can also be implemented in combination in a single implementation. Although features may be described above as acting in certain combinations, one or more features from a claimed combination can, in some cases, be excised from the combination, and the combination may be claimed as any subcombination or variation of any subcombination.

Additionally, other implementations are within the scope of this disclosure.

Some embodiments have been described in connection with the accompanying drawings. The figures are drawn to scale, but such scale should not be limiting, since dimensions and proportions other than what are shown are contemplated and are within the scope of the disclosed invention. Distances, angles, etc. are merely illustrative and do not necessarily bear an exact relationship to actual dimensions and layout of the devices illustrated. Components can be added, removed, and/or rearranged. Further, the disclosure herein of any particular feature, aspect, method, property, characteristic, quality, attribute, element, or the like in connection with various embodiments can be used in all other embodiments set forth herein. Additionally, any methods described herein may be practiced using any device suitable for performing the recited steps.

Claim 1:
A method of dispensing foamed soap, the method comprising:
drawing liquid soap from a reservoir (<NUM>);
encouraging the liquid soap into and out of a pumping assembly (<NUM>), wherein encouraging the liquid soap into and out of the pumping assembly (<NUM>) comprises:
expanding a portion of a compartment (182a) to introduce the liquid soap into the compartment (182a); and
collapsing a portion of the compartment (182a) to expel the liquid soap from the compartment (182a);
mixing the liquid soap with air to form aerated soap;
converting the aerated soap into foamed soap; and
dispensing the foamed soap through a nozzle (<NUM>).