Patent · US Expired

Electronically keyed dispensing systems and related methods of installation and use

US7028861B2 · kind B2 · utility

101Cited by
79References
63Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateDec 16, 2003
Grant dateApr 18, 2006
Priority date
Expiry dateDec 16, 2023

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
  • CPC primaryB41J2/17559
  • WIPO fieldTextile and paper machines
  • WIPO sectorMechanical engineering

Abstract

Dispensing systems are disclosed which utilize electronically powered key devices and/or identification codes associated with a refill container to preclude the need for mechanical keys. A first embodiment of the device utilizes a matching code stored in a radio frequency identification tag or bar code associated with a fluid refill container and an identification code associated with the dispenser housing. Matching of the codes by a controller allows for continued use of the dispenser via some type of operational mechanism. Another embodiment employs a key which carries the matching code wherein matching of the codes allows for actuation of a motor actuated pumping device. Yet another embodiment employs a blocking mechanism to prevent use of a dispenser's push bar if a key and dispenser housing do not have matching codes. And yet another embodiment requires the use of a key that has a matching code that matches the dispenser's identification code in order to permit initial access to the dispenser housing.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.