Apparatus for hands-free dispensing of a measured quantity of material
US7909209B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 22, 2009 |
| Grant date | Mar 22, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 22, 2029 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA47K5/1208
- WIPO fieldFurniture, games
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
An apparatus for automatically dispensing a fluid includes a container adapted to carry a supply of fluid, and a valve connected to the container, wherein actuation of the valve dispenses the fluid. Also included is an apparatus position indicator proximally associated with the container and an object sensor positioned near the valve. The object sensor monitors an area below where the valve dispenses when open and upon detection of an object opens the valve. Initial positioning of the apparatus triggers the apparatus position indicator to generate an appropriate signal until the object sensor is properly positioned. Once positioned the device may be permanently secured. A control circuit within the apparatus also allows programming of lighting indicators, dispense cycle size, and dispense quantities. The control circuit also provides for overload protection, motor braking and RF shielding.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.