Automatic dispensing apparatus having low power consumption
US4921150A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 26, 1988 |
| Grant date | May 1, 1990 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 26, 2008 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T137/86389
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An apparatus for automatically dispensing flowable material from a disposable container includes a novel electronic control circuit for providing improved and more efficient operation over prior art devices. The electronic control circuit includes a photoelectric emitter, and a phototransistor detector adapted to receive energy reflected from a target such as a user's hands. The control circuit includes a first timing circuit for periodically activating the detector for a predetermined first time period equal to approximately one percent (1%) of the period between operating cycles of the detector. The control circuit also includes a second timing circuit, triggered by the first timing circuit, for activating the emitter during a latter portion of the first time period during which the detector is activated to thereby enable the detector to stabilize after power up. The emitter generates a high energy pulse having a predetermined duty cycle preferably at least one order of magnitude less than the duty cycle of the detector. The electronic control circuit further includes a detector circuit, responsive to sensing of electromagnetic radiation reflected from the target to generate an a…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.