Patent Description:
The present disclosure relates generally to powder, seed, and liquid dispensing, and more particularly to devices for dispensing powders, seeds, and liquids.

Spices are commonly used around the world and there are various methods for doing that. Spices can be consumed in their original form (fresh/dehydrated herb or plant), ground or milled. The spices can be ground at home (by the end user) or can be bought ground. Spices may include salt, black pepper, paprika, ginger, oregano, basil, cumin, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice and many more.

Current methods for dispensing spices require the separate measurement of individual spices, which may prove imprecise and time-consuming. Current spice-dispensing systems may require users to manually measure the amounts of individual spices to be used, either by weight or by volume. This technique may prove imprecise, as spices may vary in density and potency for a variety of reasons including settling during shipment, the spices' origins, and the mode of storage. Furthermore, the manual measurement of spices may prove time-consuming as multiple spices may be required for a recipe, each requiring a separate measurement, possibly at a certain stage of the recipe. <CIT> discloses a spice dispensing device comprising a replaceable cartridge containing a volume of spice for dispensing in predetermined volumetric doses and a dispensing mechanism built in to the cartridge for isolating the predetermined volumetric dose and moving it toward an opening in the bottom of the cartridge.

Furthermore, traditional spice-dispensing systems lack compatibility with the Internet of Things (IoT). Because traditional spice-dispensing systems cannot connect with data processing or other computer systems, traditional spice-dispensing systems are not equipped to automatically measure spices in proportion for a recipe, to re-order spices automatically, or to collect user feedback.

Finally, the use of traditional spice-dispensing systems introduces the possibility of non-standard dispensations or contamination. As traditional spice-dispensing systems incorporate non-standard spice blends from a variety of sources, a measure of a specific spice may result in differing flavors for consumers dispensing the same spice from different sources. Further, as spice sources may be non-standardized, contaminants may enter the spice supply, either during production, shipping, retail, or storage, which may cause discolorations, variations in flavors, or, possibly, sickness.

It would therefore be advantageous to provide a solution that would overcome the challenges noted above.

A summary of several example embodiments of the disclosure follows. This summary is provided for the convenience of the reader to provide a basic understanding of such embodiments and does not wholly define the breadth of the disclosure. This summary is not an extensive overview of all contemplated embodiments and is intended to neither identify key or critical elements of all embodiments nor to delineate the scope of any or all aspects. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts of one or more embodiments in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later. For convenience, the term "some embodiments" or "certain embodiments" may be used herein to refer to a single embodiment or multiple embodiments of the disclosure. The invention comprises a dispensing device according to claim <NUM> and a material capsule according to claim <NUM>.

Certain embodiments disclosed include a dispensing device for dispensing material. The dispensing device comprises a dispensing head; a capsule magazine including at least one void; at least one material capsule, having a tubular shape, wherein the at least one material capsule is disposed within the at least one void in the material capsule magazine; a motor, operable to provide mechanical power for material dispensing operations, wherein the motor is disposed within the dispensing head; and a gear mechanically connected to the motor, wherein the gear is further disposed in connection with the at least one material capsule such that operation of the motor causes rotation of the gear and, in turn rotation of the at least one material capsule.

The subject matter disclosed herein is particularly pointed out and distinctly claimed in the claims at the conclusion of the specification. The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the disclosed embodiments will be apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

It is important to note that the embodiments disclosed herein are only examples of the many advantageous uses of the innovative teachings herein. In general, statements made in the specification of the present application do not necessarily limit any of the various claimed embodiments. Moreover, some statements may apply to some inventive features but not to others. In general, unless otherwise indicated, singular elements may be in plural and vice versa with no loss of generality. In the drawings, like numerals refer to like parts through several views.

<FIG> is a depiction of a dispensing device for dispensing spices according to an embodiment. In this example embodiment, the device <NUM> includes a predefined number (e.g., eight) of free-standing capsules <NUM>. In an embodiment, at least one of the capsules <NUM> may be inserted into a capsule magazine <NUM>, where the capsule magazine <NUM> attaches to the dispensing device head <NUM> and provides material <NUM> for dispensation.

In an example embodiment, the dispensing device includes a trigger <NUM> which, when pressed by a user, causes a selected spice to be dispensed. In an embodiment, the dispensing device includes a display <NUM>, a memory <NUM>, and a processing circuitry <NUM>, which allow for the dispensing of material <NUM> according to recipes downloaded to the device.

In an embodiment, the dispensing device also includes a capsule magazine <NUM> which may be attached to the device. In an embodiment, the capsule magazine <NUM> may contain at least one capsule <NUM>. In an embodiment, the capsule magazine <NUM> may be rotated relative to the device head <NUM> to align a capsule <NUM> for dispensation, thereby selecting an "active" capsule <NUM> from those installed in the magazine.

In an embodiment, the capsule magazine <NUM> may be filled or emptied by inserting and removing capsules <NUM> from slots in the capsule magazine <NUM>, allowing a user to exchange capsules <NUM> in a magazine <NUM>. The capsule magazine <NUM> may be removed from or attached to the dispensing device head <NUM>, allowing a user to exchange capsule magazines <NUM>. A user may exchange capsule magazines <NUM> corresponding to various spice profiles including, without limitation, profiles for different foods, dishes, flavor themes, and the like.

In an example embodiment, the capsules <NUM> may be filled with material <NUM> including, without limitation, spices, powders, seeds, liquids, or the like. In an embodiment, the capsules may be pre-filled with material <NUM>. In an embodiment, the capsules may be marked for recognition by the dispensing device by means including, without limitation, NFC tags, RFID tags, QR codes, bar codes, and the like.

The capsules include pushing elements <NUM> for pushing the material toward the opening or compacting or pressurizing the material contained. The capsules include a dispensing element for dispensing the material comprising an extending scraping blade. In an embodiment, the capsules may include block mechanism <NUM> for blocking or limiting the flow of dispensed materials, the mechanisms <NUM> including, without limitation, shut-off valves and the like.

In an embodiment, the dispensing device <NUM> may be connected to a user device <NUM> such as a smartphone, tablet, or computer to send usage data and/or receive flavor profiles. In an embodiment, the dispensing device <NUM> may connect with the user device via a wireless or wired communication protocol including, without limitation, Bluetooth®, Wi-Fi, and the like.

<FIG> is a right-isometric view of the dispensing device <NUM>, of <FIG> according to an embodiment. Note that some components hidden to show internal structure. In the example embodiment, the dispensing device includes an axis, a device head <NUM>, a capsule magazine <NUM>, and a plurality of capsules <NUM>.

The dispensing device head <NUM> may include a display <NUM>, a trigger <NUM>, a battery <NUM>, a motor <NUM>, and a gear <NUM>. In the example embodiment, the display <NUM> may be configured to show information related to device status and dispensing operations including, without limitation, remaining battery life, the "active" capsule, relevant spicing profiles, the amount of spice to be dispensed, and the like. In an embodiment, the dispensing device head <NUM> may include a sensor configured to read a code attached to each capsule to determine the capsules' contents by means including, without limitation, NFC, RFID, QR code, barcode, and the like.

In the example embodiment, the trigger <NUM> may be configured as a switch, controlling the flow of electrical power from the battery <NUM> to the motor <NUM>. The flow of electrical power from the battery <NUM> to the motor <NUM> may cause the motor <NUM> to turn a connecting member <NUM>. In the rotation of the connecting member <NUM>, extending from the motor <NUM> in the device head <NUM> to the gear <NUM>, which substantially contacts a toothed gear element <NUM> near the top of the capsule <NUM>, causes the attached gear <NUM> to rotate, thereby causing the "active" capsule <NUM> to rotate by engaging the toothed gear element <NUM> near the top of the capsule <NUM>.

In the example embodiment, the capsule magazine <NUM> contains a plurality of capsules <NUM> and a charging stand <NUM>. One capsule at a time is the "active" capsule <NUM>, selected for dispensation. The capsule magazine <NUM> may be configured to rotate about the axis of the device, allowing the user to select an "active" capsule <NUM> containing a material <NUM> for dispensation. In an embodiment, the user may select the "active" capsule <NUM> by means including, without limitation, manual rotation of the capsule magazine <NUM>, selection of capsules <NUM> through device displays and controls, selection of capsules through external devices such as smartphones, and the like.

In an embodiment, the capsule magazine includes a charging stand <NUM> affixed to the base of the capsule magazine <NUM>. The charging stand <NUM> may be configured to, in conjunction with an external power supply, recharge the battery <NUM>. In addition, the external power supply may be, without limitation, an AC adapter, a wireless charging station, an induction charging station, and the like.

The capsule <NUM> includes a contained material <NUM>, a pusher <NUM>, a pushing element <NUM>, a dispensing element, and an end cap. The dispensing element includes a scraper, configured to dispense material <NUM> in controlled amounts depending on the rotation of the capsule <NUM>.

In an embodiment, the dispensing element may be a scraper <NUM>, configured such that rotation of the capsule turns the contained material <NUM>, pushing the material against the scraper's blade, scraping loose an amount of material <NUM> for dispensation through an aperture in the dispensing element.

In an example not forming part of the claimed invention, the dispensing element may be a pump <NUM>, configured such that rotation of the capsule <NUM> in a first direction turns a set of wheels over a flexible barrier, creating pockets of material within the barrier, which further rotation of the capsule <NUM> pushes toward the aperture of the dispensing element for dispensation. In an example not forming part of the claimed invention, the pump <NUM> may be configured such that rotation of the capsule <NUM> in a second direction, opposite the first direction, causes liquid remaining in the flexible barrier to return to the capsule <NUM> for stable storage.

In an embodiment, each capsule <NUM> may be configured to engage with the gear <NUM> via a toothed gear mechanism <NUM> disposed near the top of the capsule <NUM>. In an embodiment, the capsule's <NUM> engagement with the gear <NUM> may render the capsule <NUM> rotatable via the motor <NUM>, allowing a user to control the rotation of capsules <NUM> and, thus, the dispensation of materials <NUM>, via the trigger <NUM>.

<FIG> is a forward view of a dispensing device <NUM> according to an embodiment. In the example embodiment, the dispensing device <NUM> includes a dispensing device head <NUM>, a capsule magazine <NUM>, and a plurality of capsules <NUM>. In an embodiment, such as in the example embodiment, the capsule magazine <NUM> may include a transparent viewing window <NUM>, allowing a user to observe the capsules <NUM> in the capsule magazine <NUM>. In an embodiment, such as in the example embodiment, each of the plurality of capsules <NUM> may be transparent, allowing a user to observe the contents of the capsules <NUM>.

<FIG> is a left-isometric view of a dispensing device <NUM> according to an embodiment. In the example embodiment, the device <NUM> includes a dispensing device head <NUM>, a capsule magazine <NUM>, and a plurality of capsules <NUM>.

<FIG> is a top view of a dispensing device <NUM> according to an embodiment. In an example embodiment, the dispensing device <NUM> includes a dispensing device head <NUM>, a capsule magazine <NUM>, and a plurality of capsules <NUM>. In the example <FIG>, the dispensing device head <NUM> is visible. In an embodiment, the surface of the dispensing device head may include, without limitation, displays, switches, buttons, triggers, and the like.

<FIG> is a bottom view of a dispensing device <NUM> according to an embodiment. In the example embodiment, the device includes a dispensing device head <NUM>, a capsule magazine <NUM>, and a plurality of capsules <NUM>. In the exemplary depiction, the capsule magazine <NUM> and plurality of capsules <NUM>, and the capsules' included end cap orientation tabs <NUM> and apertures <NUM>, are visible. In the exemplary embodiment, a plurality of capsules <NUM> are disposed at equal spacings in a circular pattern within the capsule magazine <NUM>. In the exemplary embodiment, the capsules' end cap apertures <NUM> are in closed states. In an embodiment, an "active" capsule <NUM> may be selected by rotation of the capsule magazine <NUM> by methods including, without limitation, manual rotation, computer-controlled rotation, and the like.

<FIG> is a forward cross-section of a dispensing device <NUM> according to an embodiment. In an example embodiment, the device 100includes a dispensing device head <NUM>, a capsule magazine <NUM>, and a plurality of capsules <NUM>, including a locking hub <NUM> and a pusher <NUM>. In an example embodiment, a capsule is selected as the "active" capsule <NUM>, and is displayed in contrast, its enclosed material <NUM> having a dark highlight in the depiction.

In an example embodiment, the capsule <NUM> includes a locking hub <NUM>. In an embodiment, the locking hub <NUM> may be disposed at an end of the capsule <NUM>, opposite the end cap <NUM>. In an embodiment, the locking hub <NUM> may be configured to engage with locking appendages of the dispensing device head <NUM>. In an embodiment, the capsule <NUM> is secured to the dispensing device head <NUM> via a set of locking appendages which contract to grip the locking hub <NUM>, and which may expand to release the locking hub <NUM>. The operation of the locking appendages may be controlled manually, through user activation, or may be automatic. In an embodiment, the locking appendages may be configured to automatically secure or release the capsule <NUM> upon detection of events such as, without limitation, selection of a new "active" capsule <NUM>, selection of a new capsule magazine <NUM>, and the like.

The device includes a pusher <NUM>. In an embodiment, the device includes a pushing element <NUM> of the screw actuator type. In an embodiment, the pusher may be active, such as a screw-type or rack and pinion actuator, or passive, such as a compression spring or an air spring.

In an embodiment, the dispensing device <NUM> may be configured to accept a capsule having a geometry other than that discussed, and to dispense material from such a capsule, provided that the capsule supports a mechanism providing for controlled dispensation of material upon rotation.

In an embodiment, the dispensing device <NUM> may be configured to receive, from the system, automatic or semi-automatic flavoring and dispensing programs instructing the dispensing device <NUM> of how to use the capsules <NUM>. The programs that are sent to the dispensing device <NUM> guide the dispensing device <NUM> with information including, without limitation, which capsules to use, what are the quantities from each capsule, the precise usage, timing, and dispensing type (how the motor should operate for dispensing the content of the capsule e.g. how fast/intense), and the like. The programs may be generated by the system by a set of algorithms according to a list of ingredients, a recipe, and a user's culinary preferences, or may be created by the user manually by specifying the program or saving his/her preferred past usage (e.g. "save my last sequence of flavoring as 'my spicy omelet'").

<FIG> is a forward view of a single capsule <NUM> in its full state. The capsule includes a material <NUM>, a pusher <NUM>, an end cap <NUM>, and a locking hub <NUM>. In an embodiment, the pusher <NUM> may be configured to compact or pressurize the contained material <NUM>, ensuring a uniform density and consistency for dispensation, and sealing the capsule against outside air and contaminants to preserve quality and freshness.

In an example embodiment, the pusher <NUM> is a circular plate, having first and second sides, wherein the second side contacts the material <NUM> contained and exerts a force proportional to the force exerted on the first side. In an embodiment, a force may be applied to the first side of the pusher <NUM> by means including, without limitation, passive means, such as compression springs and air springs, or active means, such as screw linear actuators and rack and pinion actuators.

In an embodiment, the pusher <NUM> may be an internal means for applying a force to the encapsulated material <NUM>, including, without limitation, a spring, an air spring, and the like. In an embodiment, the pusher <NUM> may be a means for applying a force to the encapsulated material <NUM>, external to the capsule <NUM>, such that the external pusher <NUM> applies pressure to every capsule <NUM>. The external pusher may be a mechanism including, without limitation, a screw-type linear actuator, a rack and pinion actuator, and the like.

<FIG> is an isometric view of a single capsule <NUM> in its full state. In an example embodiment, the capsule includes an end cap <NUM>, including orientation tabs <NUM>. The orientation tabs <NUM> may be aligned with corresponding apertures in the capsule magazine <NUM> to achieve a secure and stable placement of the capsule within the capsule magazine <NUM> and to hold the end cap <NUM> from rotating, while rotating the capsule.

<FIG> is a forward view of a single capsule <NUM> in a half-full state. The material <NUM> contained within the capsule <NUM> may be dispensed incrementally, with a calibrated unit of material dispensed per each unit of motor <NUM> action, wherein units of motor <NUM> action include, without limitation, motor time, motor turns, and motor torque.

In an embodiment, the dispensing device <NUM> may determine the quantity of material <NUM> dispensed according to factors including, without limitation, the type of capsule and the capsule's contents, the number of motor operation units completed in the current dispensing sequence, the movement of the pusher during the current dispensing sequence, the quantity of material dispensed per unit of motor operation and per unit of pusher movement, and the like. The determination of the values of relevant factors for calculation of material dispensation quantity may be made through data collection from sources including, without limitation, information elements attached to the plurality of capsules, a local memory chip containing configuration data such as, but not limited to, an amount of material of a certain type dispensed per motor operation unit, a central system managing dispensing device configuration data, and the like.

In an embodiment, the dispensing device <NUM> may be configured to collect usage data regarding dispensing operations. The dispensing device may be configured to collect information including, without limitation, the capsules <NUM> used, the amount of material <NUM> dispensed, and the date and time of dispensation. In an embodiment, the dispensing device may be configured to transmit the collected data, directly or through a mobile device such as smartphone, to a central system, such as a server or cloud service, whereby the central system may apply the transmitted information for services including, without limitation, collection of data related to dispenser and capsule usage, means by which users may order new capsules or devices, pushing updates and configuration data to dispensers, pushing spicing programs to dispensers, displaying messages to users such as commercial information, recipes, and diet and health information, and other like services.

<FIG> is a top view of a single capsule <NUM> according to an embodiment. In an embodiment, the capsule <NUM> may include a locking hub <NUM>, which may include a groove <NUM> configured to secure at least one locking appendage to the capsule <NUM>. In an embodiment, the at least one locking appendage may include a gripping arm, a gripping ring, and the like.

<FIG> is a bottom view of a single capsule <NUM> according to an embodiment. In an embodiment, the capsule <NUM> may include an end cap <NUM>, disposed at an end of the capsule <NUM> opposite the locking hub <NUM>. In an embodiment, the end cap may include an aperture <NUM> through which dispensed material <NUM> may pass. In an embodiment, the end cap <NUM> may be freely rotatable relative to the capsule <NUM>, such that the aperture <NUM> included in the end cap may be open, semi-closed, or closed.

In an embodiment, the rotation of the end cap <NUM> relative to the capsule <NUM> may render the end cap aperture <NUM> in open, semi-open, and closed states. While the configuration of the end cap aperture <NUM> may restrict the dispensation of material <NUM>, the measurement of material dispensed is achieved through control of the motor <NUM>, with calibrated material dispensations occurring per each unit of motor <NUM> activity.

In an embodiment, the end cap <NUM> may be configured to rotate relative to the capsule <NUM> at predefined events during a dispensing cycle. In an embodiment, the end cap <NUM> may be configured to rotate such that the end cap aperture <NUM> is in an "open" position at the start of a dispensing cycle, and to rotate such that the end cap aperture <NUM> is in a "closed" position at the end of a dispensing cycle.

<FIG> is a top-isometric view of a dispensing element <NUM>, placed inside an end cap <NUM> of a capsule <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the dispensing element <NUM> is configured to dispense disperse solids such as, without limitation, powders, seeds, granules, and the like. In one embodiment, the dispensing element <NUM> is a disk, including first and second faces, an aperture <NUM> extending through the dispensing element, through which dispensed material may pass, and a scraping blade <NUM> extending from the first face of the dispensing element. In the example embodiment, the dispensing element <NUM> is disposed within the capsule's <NUM> end cap <NUM>, such that the first face, and the extending scraping blade <NUM>, contact the material in the capsule <NUM> from below. The scraping blade <NUM> is configured to separate material upon rotation of the capsule <NUM>. The pusher <NUM> compacts the material into a single bulk, collected at the end of the capsule <NUM> nearest the end cap <NUM>, and the rotation of the capsule <NUM> forces the co-rotating material against the scraping blade <NUM>, causing the scraping blade <NUM> to knock loose a controlled amount of material per unit of motor activity.

In an embodiment, the dispensing element <NUM> may be configured to dispense material other than disperse solids, including materials such as, without limitation, liquids, vapors, and the like. In an embodiment, the dispensing element <NUM> may be configured to include a grinder, or the like, to standardize the consistency a material prior to dispensation.

<FIG> is a forward-isometric view of a dispensing element <NUM> according to an embodiment. In the example embodiment, the dispensing element <NUM> is depicted without a supporting end cap <NUM>, capsule <NUM>, or other structure. As depicted in <FIG>, the first face of the dispensing element <NUM>, and the extending scraping blade <NUM>, are depicted. The rotation of the capsule <NUM>, and subsequent engagement of the material with the scraping blade <NUM>, causes the dispensed material to separate from the bulk. In the example embodiment, the aperture <NUM> forms a passageway, allowing dispensed material to exit the capsule <NUM>.

<FIG> is a right-isometric view of the dispensing element <NUM>. In the example embodiment, the dispensing element <NUM> is depicted without a supporting end cap <NUM>, capsule <NUM>, or other structure. In the example embodiment, the aperture <NUM>, the first face of the dispensing element <NUM>, and the extending scraping blade <NUM>, are depicted.

<FIG> is a bottom view of a capsule end cap <NUM> in its open state. In an example embodiment, the capsule end cap <NUM>, disposed at the end of a capsule <NUM> opposite the locking hub <NUM>, includes an aperture <NUM> extending through the body of the end cap <NUM> and creating a passageway through which material may pass. The capsule end cap <NUM> may be freely rotatable relative to the capsule <NUM> and the dispensing element <NUM>, allowing the aperture <NUM> to be opened at the beginning of a dispensing sequence and closed at the end of the dispensing sequence.

In the example embodiment, the aperture <NUM> is in an open state, through which all dispensed material may pass, determined by the complete alignment of the end cap aperture <NUM> with the dispensing element aperture <NUM>.

<FIG> is a bottom view of the capsule end cap <NUM> in its semi-open state. In the example embodiment, the capsule end cap <NUM>, disposed at the end of a capsule <NUM> opposite the locking hub <NUM>, includes an aperture <NUM> extending through the body of the end cap <NUM> and creating a passageway through which material may pass. The aperture <NUM> may be in a semi-open state, through which some dispensed material may pass, determined by the partial alignment of the end cap <NUM> aperture <NUM> with the dispensing element aperture <NUM>.

<FIG> is a bottom view of the capsule end cap <NUM> in its closed state. In the example embodiment, the capsule end cap <NUM>, disposed at the end of a capsule <NUM> opposite the locking hub <NUM>, includes an aperture <NUM> extending through the body of the end cap <NUM> and creating a passageway through which material may pass. In an embodiment, the capsule end cap <NUM> is freely rotatable relative to the capsule <NUM> and the dispensing element <NUM>, allowing the aperture <NUM> to be opened at the beginning of the dispensing sequence and closed at the end of the dispensing sequence.

In the example embodiment, the aperture <NUM> is in a closed state, through which no dispensed material may pass, determined by the total non-alignment of the end cap aperture <NUM> with the dispensing element aperture <NUM>.

In an embodiment, the capsule end cap <NUM> may include orientation tabs <NUM>. In an embodiment, the orientation tabs <NUM> may be aligned with corresponding apertures in the capsule magazine <NUM> to achieve a secure and stable placement of the capsule <NUM> within the capsule magazine <NUM> and to hold the end cap <NUM> from rotating, while rotating the capsule.

<FIG> is a forward cross-section of a mechanism <NUM> locking the capsule to the dispensing device, according to an embodiment. In an example embodiment, the capsule locking mechanism <NUM> includes a capsule <NUM>, including a locking hub <NUM> and a pusher <NUM>, a pushing element <NUM>, and a locking ring <NUM>. In the example embodiment, the locking ring <NUM> is connected to the locking hub via the locking hub's groove <NUM>.

<FIG> is a forward-isometric view of the mechanism <NUM> locking the capsule <NUM> to the dispensing device <NUM>, according to an embodiment. In an example embodiment, the capsule locking mechanism <NUM> includes a capsule <NUM>, including a locking hub <NUM> and a pusher <NUM>, and a locking ring <NUM>. In the example embodiment, the locking ring <NUM> is connected to the locking hub via the locking hub's groove <NUM> and provides a plurality of locking tabs <NUM>, to which locking appendages may attach. In the example embodiment, the locking ring <NUM>, attached to the capsule <NUM>, includes a plurality of locking tabs <NUM> which may engage with locking appendages included in the dispensing device head <NUM> to provide a stable, secure connection between the capsule <NUM> and the dispensing device head <NUM> and to transfer a rotation movement from the motor to the capsule.

<FIG> is a forward view of a capsule <NUM> with a pump head <NUM>, for pouring liquids, according to an example not forming part of the invention. The capsule includes an end cap <NUM>, a pump head <NUM>, and a capsule body <NUM>. In the example not forming part of the invention, the pump head <NUM> may be rotatable relative to the capsule body <NUM>, such that rotation of the capsule body <NUM> activates the mechanism of the pump head <NUM>, allowing a user to dispense a defined amount of liquid per unit of motor action.

<FIG> is a forward-isometric view of a capsule <NUM> with a pump head <NUM>, for pouring liquids, according to an example not forming part of the invention. The capsule <NUM> includes an end cap <NUM>, a pump head <NUM>, and a capsule body <NUM>. In the example not forming part of the invention, the pump head <NUM> may be rotatable relative to the capsule body <NUM>, such that rotation of the capsule body <NUM> activates the mechanism of the pump head <NUM>, allowing a user to dispense a defined amount of liquid per unit of motor action. In the example not forming part of the invention, the orientation tabs <NUM>, which the end cap <NUM> includes, are shown.

<FIG> is a forward detail view of a capsule <NUM> with a pump head <NUM>, for pouring liquids, according to an example not forming part of the invention. In the example not forming part of the invention, the capsule <NUM> includes an end cap <NUM>, a pump head <NUM>, and a capsule body <NUM>. In the example not forming part of the invention, the pump head <NUM> may be rotatable relative to the capsule body <NUM>, such that rotation of the capsule body <NUM> activates the mechanism of the pump head <NUM>, allowing a user to dispense a defined amount of liquid per unit of motor action. In the example not forming part of the invention, the pump head's sink <NUM>, pump body <NUM>, and flexible barrier <NUM> are visible.

<FIG> is a bottom-isometric detail view of a capsule <NUM> with a pump head <NUM>, for pouring liquids, according to an example not forming part of the invention. The capsule <NUM> may include an end cap <NUM>, a pump head <NUM>, and a capsule body <NUM>. In the example not forming part of the invention, the pump head <NUM> may be rotatable relative to the capsule body <NUM>, such that rotation of the capsule body <NUM> activates the mechanism of the pump head <NUM>, allowing a user to dispense a defined amount of liquid per unit of motor action. In the example depiction, the aperture <NUM> and orientation tabs <NUM> included in the end cap <NUM> are visible.

<FIG> is a forward cross-section detail view, indicating internal components, of a capsule <NUM> with a pump head <NUM>, for pouring liquids, according to an example not forming part of the invention. In the example not forming part of the invention, the capsule body <NUM>, end cap <NUM>, and pump head <NUM>, including a sink <NUM>, disposed in contact with the contents of the capsule <NUM> and having a central channel <NUM> through which fluid may pass, a pump body <NUM>, having an inlet channel <NUM> co-axial to, and in fluid communication with, the sink's central channel <NUM>, and a flexible barrier <NUM>, disposed between the pump body <NUM> and the sink <NUM> and forming an arc centered around the sink's central channel <NUM>, are visible.

In an embodiment, liquid from the capsule body <NUM> flows through the sink's central channel <NUM> into the pump body <NUM>. In the exemplary example not forming part of the invention. the flexible barrier <NUM> creates a fluid connection between the pump body <NUM> and a dispensing aperture <NUM>. In the exemplary embodiment, rotation of the capsule <NUM> causes rotation of the sink <NUM> relative to the pump body <NUM> and flexible barrier <NUM>. In the example not forming part of the invention rotation of the sink <NUM> relative to the pump body <NUM> causes at least one wheel <NUM>, disposed between the sink <NUM> and the flexible barrier <NUM>, to roll along a path defined by the flexible barrier <NUM>.

In an example example not forming part of the invention, embodiment, the motion of the at least one wheel <NUM> causes the flexible barrier <NUM> to compress at the point of contact between the flexible barrier <NUM> and the at least one wheel <NUM>, creating at least one open fluid pocket. The motion of the at least one wheel <NUM> pushes the at least one open fluid pocket along the length of the flexible barrier <NUM>, allowing the liquid within the open fluid pocket to reach the dispensing aperture <NUM>. In the example not forming part of the invention, the motion of individual open fluid pockets with the rotation of the capsule <NUM> allows the dispensation of controlled amounts of liquid per unit of motor action, allowing the user to control liquid dispensation using the trigger <NUM>.

In an example not forming part of the invention, the pump head includes at least two wheels <NUM>. In such an embodiment, the motion of the at least two wheels <NUM> causes the flexible barrier <NUM> to compress at the point of contact between the flexible barrier <NUM> and the at least two wheels <NUM>, creating at least one sealed fluid pocket. The motion of the at least two wheels <NUM> pushes the at least one sealed fluid pocket along the length of the flexible barrier <NUM>, allowing the liquid within the at least one sealed fluid pocket to reach the dispensing aperture <NUM>. In the example not forming part of the invention, the motion of individual sealed fluid pockets with the rotation of the capsule <NUM> allows the dispensation of controlled amounts of liquid per unit of motor action, allowing the user to control liquid dispensation using the trigger <NUM>.

In an example not forming part of the invention, the capsule <NUM> may include a pusher <NUM> which provides constant pressure on the liquid contained in the capsule <NUM>. In such an embodiment, the pressure added by the pusher <NUM> ensures constant fluid flow between the capsule <NUM> and the flexible barrier <NUM>, through the sink <NUM> and the pump body <NUM>.

In an example not forming part of the invention, the capsule <NUM> may include a pusher <NUM> which serves as a seal for the material <NUM> contained in the capsule. In such an embodiment, the material contained within the capsule <NUM> may be a liquid, and the pusher <NUM> may be configured to move with the dispensation of liquid from the pump head <NUM>. In such an example not forming part of the invention, the pressure differential created by the dispensation of the liquid may be sufficient to move the pusher <NUM> to the meniscus, forming a seal between outside contaminants and the liquid in the capsule <NUM>.

<FIG> is a forward-isometric cross-section detail view, indicating internal components, of a capsule <NUM> with a pump head <NUM>, for pouring liquids, according to an example not forming part of the invention. In the example not forming part of the invention, the capsule body <NUM>, end cap <NUM>, and pump head <NUM>, including a sink <NUM>, disposed in contact with the contents of the capsule <NUM> and having a central channel <NUM> through which fluid may pass, a pump body <NUM>, and a flexible barrier <NUM>, disposed between the pump body <NUM> and the sink <NUM> and forming an arc centered around the sink's central channel <NUM>, are visible. In the example not forming part of the invention, liquid from the capsule body <NUM> flows through the sink's central channel <NUM> into the pump body <NUM>.

<FIG> is a forward cross-section detail view, indicating internal components, of a capsule <NUM> with a pump head <NUM>, for pouring liquids, according to an example not forming part of the invention. In the example depiction, the capsule body <NUM>, end cap <NUM>, and pump head <NUM>, including a sink <NUM>, disposed in contact with the contents of the capsule <NUM> and having a central channel <NUM> through which fluid may pass, a pump body <NUM>, and a flexible barrier <NUM>, disposed between the pump body <NUM> and the sink <NUM> and forming an arc centered around the sink's central channel <NUM>, are visible. In the example not forming part of the invention, liquid from the capsule body <NUM> flows through the sink's central channel <NUM> into the pump body <NUM>.

<FIG> is a right-isometric view of a pump head <NUM>, according to an example not forming part of the invention. In the example depiction, the capsule end cap <NUM>, the pump head <NUM>, including a sink <NUM>, disposed in contact with the contents of the capsule <NUM> and having a central channel <NUM> through which fluid may pass, a pump body <NUM>, and a flexible barrier <NUM>, disposed between the pump body <NUM> and the sink <NUM> and forming an arc centered around the sink's central channel <NUM>, are visible. In the example not forming part of the invention, liquid from the capsule body <NUM> flows through the sink's central channel <NUM> into the pump body <NUM>.

<FIG> is a right-isometric view of a pump head <NUM>, according to an example not forming part of the invention. In the example depiction, the capsule end cap <NUM>, the pump head <NUM>, including a pump body <NUM>, a flexible barrier <NUM>, disposed in contact with the face of the pump body <NUM> opposite the capsule end cap <NUM> and forming an arc centered around the pump body's inlet channel <NUM>, and a plurality of wheels <NUM>, disposed in contact with the flexible barrier <NUM>, are visible. In the exemplary embodiment, liquid from the capsule body <NUM> flows through the sink's central channel <NUM> into the pump body <NUM>.

<FIG> is a right-isometric view of a pump head <NUM>, according to an example not forming part of the invention. In the example depiction, the pump head <NUM>, including a pump body <NUM> and a flexible barrier <NUM>, disposed between the pump body <NUM> and the sink <NUM> and forming an arc centered around the pump body's inlet channel <NUM>, is visible. In the exemplary embodiment, liquid from the capsule body <NUM> flows through the sink's central channel <NUM> into the pump body <NUM>.

<FIG> is a top view of a pump head <NUM>, according to an embodiment. In the example not forming part of the invention, the pump head <NUM>, including a pump body <NUM> and a flexible barrier <NUM>, disposed between the pump body <NUM> and the sink <NUM> and forming an arc centered around the pump body's inlet channel <NUM>, is visible. In the example not forming part of the invention, liquid from the capsule body <NUM> flows through the sink's central channel <NUM> into the pump body <NUM>.

<FIG> is a bottom view of a pump head <NUM>, according to an example not forming part of the invention. In <FIG>, some components are hidden to reveal internal features. In the example not forming part of the invention, a pump body <NUM>, including an inlet channel <NUM>, an outlet channel <NUM>, a bypass tunnel <NUM> linking the inlet <NUM> and outlet <NUM> channels, and a dispensing aperture <NUM>, is visible. In the exemplary embodiment, liquid flows from the inlet channel <NUM> through the pump body <NUM> and into the outlet channel <NUM>. In the example not forming part of the invention, liquid flows from the pump body outlet channel <NUM> through the flexible barrier <NUM>, as depicted previously, and to the dispensing aperture <NUM>, where the liquid is dispensed. In an embodiment, the capsule <NUM> may include a pusher <NUM> which provides pressure, causing the liquid in the capsule <NUM> to flow as described without interruption.

<FIG> is a bottom cross-section view of a pump head <NUM>, according to an example not forming part of the invention. In the example not forming part of the invention, the capsule end cap <NUM>, the pump head <NUM>, including a pump body <NUM>, a flexible barrier <NUM>, disposed between the pump body <NUM> and the sink <NUM> and forming an arc centered around the pump body's inlet channel <NUM>, and a plurality of wheels <NUM>, disposed in contact with the flexible barrier <NUM>, are visible. In the exemplary embodiment, liquid from the capsule body <NUM> flows through the sink's central channel <NUM> into the pump body <NUM>.

<FIG> is a bottom view of a pump head <NUM>, according to an example not forming part of the invention. In the example not forming part of the invention, the capsule end cap <NUM>, including the end cap aperture <NUM> and the orientation tabs <NUM>, is visible. In the exemplary embodiment, liquid flows from the capsule <NUM>, through the pump head <NUM>, and through the capsule end cap aperture <NUM>, where it is dispensed.

<FIG> is a right-isometric view of a single capsule <NUM>, according to an embodiment. In the example embodiment, the capsule <NUM> includes a capsule body <NUM>, a pusher <NUM>, a pushing element <NUM>, a locking hub <NUM>, an end cap <NUM>, disposed at one end of the capsule opposite the locking hub <NUM>, and a dispensing element <NUM>, disposed within the end cap <NUM> and in contact with the material contained in the capsule <NUM>. In an embodiment, the end cap <NUM> may have a non-circular shape, allowing orientation by the same techniques applied to the orientation tabs discussed, and allowing manufacturers to design proprietary capsules for specific material blends.

<FIG> is a left-isometric view of a capsule end cap <NUM>, according to the invention. In the embodiment, an end cap <NUM> is depicted with a dispensing element <NUM>, within the end cap <NUM> and having first and second faces, an aperture <NUM> through the body of the dispensing element <NUM>, and a scraping blade <NUM> disposed adjacent to the aperture <NUM> and in contact with the material in the capsule <NUM>. In an embodiment, the end cap <NUM> may have a non-circular shape, allowing orientation by the same techniques applied to the orientation tabs depicted, and allowing manufacturers to design proprietary capsules for specific material blends.

<FIG> is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of a capsule-changing mechanism, according to an embodiment. In the example depiction, a plurality of capsules <NUM>, a motor <NUM>, and a gear <NUM>, are visible. In the example embodiment, activation of the motor <NUM> causes the motor <NUM> to turn a connecting element. In the example embodiment, the rotation of the connecting element causes the attached gear <NUM> to spin. In the example embodiment, the rotation of the gear <NUM>, disposed in contact with a toothed gear element <NUM> of the capsule <NUM>, causes the capsule <NUM> to rotate. In the example embodiment, the rotation of the capsule <NUM>, where a material and a dispensing element <NUM> are included in the capsule <NUM>, allows the dispensing element <NUM> to activate, dispensing the material contained within the capsule at a constant rate per unit of motor activity.

The various embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented as hardware, firmware, software, or any combination thereof. Moreover, the software is preferably implemented as an application program tangibly embodied on a program storage unit or computer readable medium consisting of parts, or of certain devices and/or a combination of devices. The application program may be uploaded to, and executed by, a machine comprising any suitable architecture. Preferably, the machine is implemented on a computer platform having hardware such as one or more central processing units ("CPUs"), a memory, and input/output interfaces. The computer platform may also include an operating system and microinstruction code. The various processes and functions described herein may be either part of the microinstruction code or part of the application program, or any combination thereof, which may be executed by a CPU, whether or not such a computer or processor is explicitly shown. In addition, various other peripheral units may be connected to the computer platform such as an additional data storage unit and a printing unit. Furthermore, a non-transitory computer readable medium is any computer readable medium except for a transitory propagating signal.

All examples and conditional language recited herein are intended for pedagogical purposes to aid the reader in understanding the principles of the disclosed embodiment and the concepts contributed by the inventor to furthering the art, and are to be construed as being without limitation to such specifically recited examples and conditions. Moreover, all statements herein reciting principles, aspects, and embodiments of the disclosed embodiments, as well as specific examples thereof, are intended to encompass both structural and functional equivalents thereof. Additionally, it is intended that such equivalents include any elements developed that perform the same function, regardless of structure.

It should be understood that any reference to an element herein using a designation such as "first," "second," and so forth does not generally limit the quantity or order of those elements. Rather, these designations are generally used herein as a convenient method of distinguishing between two or more elements or instances of an element. Thus, a reference to first and second elements does not mean that only two elements may be employed there or that the first element must precede the second element in some manner. Also, unless stated otherwise, a set of elements comprises one or more elements.

Claim 1:
A dispensing device (<NUM>) for dispensing material, comprising:
a dispensing head (<NUM>);
a capsule magazine (<NUM>), including at least one void;
at least one material capsule (<NUM>), having a tubular shape, a distal end and a proximal end, wherein the at least one material capsule (<NUM>) is disposed within the at least one void in the capsule magazine (<NUM>);
a motor (<NUM>), operable to provide mechanical power for material dispensing operations, wherein the motor (<NUM>) is disposed within the dispensing head (<NUM>); and
a gear (<NUM>) mechanically connected to the motor (<NUM>), wherein the gear (<NUM>) is further disposed in connection with the at least one material capsule (<NUM>) such that operation of the motor (<NUM>) causes rotation of the gear (<NUM>) and, in turn, rotation of the at least one materia capsule (<NUM>);
characterized in that
said at least one material capsule (<NUM>) comprises:
a. distal end cap (<NUM>) located at said distal end of said at least one material capsule (<NUM>) and comprising a dispensing element (<NUM>) comprising a first face and a second face; said first face facing material (<NUM>) located inside of said at least one material capsule (<NUM>);
b. a pusher (<NUM>) configured to compact said material (<NUM>) into a single bulk material;
characterized in that said dispensing element (<NUM>) comprises an extending scraping blade (<NUM>) located on said first face; and said rotation of said at least one material capsule (<NUM>) causes a rotation of said single bulk material against said extending scraping blade (<NUM>) to knock loose a calibrated unit of said single bulk material.