Liquid container support and probe-type hygienic liquid dispensing system

US5289855A · kind A · utility

Assignee

• ELKAY MANUFACTURING COMPANY · US

Inventors

• Henry E. Baker · Litchfield, US
• John B. Baker · Litchfield, US
• David Baker · Seattle, US
• Peter K. Baker · Bethlehem, US
• Edward H. Donselman · Freeport, US
• Ronald C. Katz · Willowbrook, US

Key dates

• Filing date: May 6, 1993
• Grant date: Mar 1, 1994
• Expiry date: May 6, 2013

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B67D3/0032
• WIPO field: Handling
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

A hygienic liquid dispensing system includes a removable mounting apparatus adapted to fit on the upper portion of a water cooler cabinet and to define an annular ring for supporting the shoulder of an inverted bottle or container thereon. The mounting apparatus also defines a tapered entry portion having a closed inner wall extending downwardly and inwardly from the annular ring for receiving the neck of the inverted container therein. The container neck opening is closed by a cap having a lid portion to overlie and sealingly close the opening and an annular skirt portion extending axially away from the lid to surround a portion of the container neck. The lid portion is provided with an axially inwardly extending recess including an outer sleeve and an inner plug portion connected thereto. An upstanding feed probe is dimensioned for forcible insertion into the recess for separating the plug portion from the sleeve to permit the discharge of liquid from the container when the inverted container shoulder is supported on the annular ring of the mounting apparatus.