HK1161215B - A refill container for receipt in a dispensing system - Google Patents

Description

Standby container for containment in a dispensing system

Technical Field

The present invention generally relates to dispensing systems. In particular, the present invention relates to keyed dispensers that only allow a designated refill container containing dispensable material to be installed in the dispenser and, if desired, installed by a selected distributor. More particularly, the present invention relates to electronically keyed fluid dispensing systems.

Background

It is well known to provide fluid dispensers for use in restaurants, factories, hospitals, bathrooms and homes. These dispensers may contain fluids such as soap, germicidal detergent, disinfectants, lotions, and the like. It is also known to provide dispensers with some similar pump actuation mechanism, wherein a user may push or pull a lever to dispense a quantity of fluid onto the user's hand. "hands-free" dispensers may also be used, wherein a user simply places their hand under the sensor to dispense a quantity of fluid. A related type of dispenser may be employed to dispense the powder or aerosol material.

Dispensers may hold a quantity of fluid directly, but these have been found to be messy and difficult to use. It is therefore known to use a refill bag or container which holds a quantity of fluid and provides a pump and nozzle mechanism. These spare bags are advantageous because they are easy to install and not prone to soiling. The dispenser may monitor usage to indicate when the refill bag is at a low level and provide other status information of the dispenser.

Manufacturers of these fluid materials support distributors to install dispensers in various locations and to place the manufacturer's products in the dispensers. In addition, the manufacturer relies on the distributor to place the correct refill bag within the dispenser housing. For example, medical personnel are very annoyed by having to dispense a lotion that can wet their hands when they want to use the anti-microbial soap instead. Accordingly, manufacturers provide keyed nozzle and pump mechanisms for each fluid refill bag so that only the appropriate refill bag can be installed in the corresponding fluid dispenser.

Distributors prefer this keyed system because their dispensers can only be refilled by themselves rather than by their competitors. Replacement of a refill container by an unauthorized distributor is sometimes referred to as "stuffing". In addition to providing keying between the dispenser and the fluid refill bag to ensure compatibility of the product in the dispenser, keying is employed to ensure that a competitor of the dispenser does not gain the services of the dispenser. Also, it is important for the manufacturer that competitors of the manufacturer cannot pack their products into their dispensers. Such activities may prevent the manufacturer from obtaining a sufficient economic return on the dispenser, which is typically sold at a cost price or less.

While mechanical keying helps to ensure that the correct refill bag is installed into the correct dispenser and that the dispenser maintains its business customer, these keying systems have been found to be deficient. For example, if a distributor's competitor does not install its refill bag into the distributor's dispenser device, the competitor may remove or change the keying mechanism. Thus, inferior quality fluid may be installed into a particular dispenser and a better distributor will lose business. Mechanical keying also requires high die costs to be borne by the manufacturer in order to design a particular nozzle and dispenser that are compatible with each other. In other words, each dispenser is keyed to a particular product, a particular distributor, or even a particular occasion. Thus, the inventory costs for maintaining a refill bag with a particular key are high. The lead time for making such a refill bag can be very long. Moreover, the particular identification of a particular keying device may be lost or damaged, making it difficult for a refill bag to determine which keying arrangement is required.

One method of attempting to control the type of product associated with a dispenser is disclosed in U.S. patent No. 6431400B1. This patent discloses a refill pouch that uses a wafer with an embedded magnet that must be properly oriented in the housing so that the magnet can be detected and the on/off switch effectively turned on. If the magnet cannot be detected, the dispenser will not function. Although effective for the purposes it addresses, the device disclosed in this patent suffers from the drawback that the installation of the refill container requires a specific orientation. This patent also discloses the use of a spiral coil on a printed circuit wafer on the bag that is inductively coupled to a similar spiral coil on the housing base support surface. The capacitor connected to the helical coil on the bag establishes the resonant frequency for a conventional frequency measurement circuit to provide identification. This design is presently considered to be disadvantageous because it does not provide for suitability for use in multiple dispensers. It is also believed that the disclosed structure suffers from coil misalignment, which may lead to misidentification of the bag. The use of a single coil as both a transmit and receive coil may result in misidentification of the bag.

Accordingly, there is a need in the art for a dispensing system that provides for the exchange of data between a refill container and a receiving housing. This data exchange can enable an improved keying system that eliminates the extremely high mold costs required for each new distributor and each new product associated with the dispenser. There is also a need for an improved keying system for fluid dispensers to ensure that the correct material is installed in the correct dispenser. It is also desirable to control the number of refill bags shipped to the distributor to ensure that the distributor uses the correct refill materials. There is also a need for a dispensing system with an identifiable refill container that minimizes the cost of the refill container. There is also a need for a container that can be received in a dispenser to ensure proper detection of the container identification.

Disclosure of Invention

In view of the foregoing, it is a first aspect of the present invention to provide an electronically keyed dispensing system and related method that utilizes a near field frequency response.

Another aspect of the invention, which will become apparent as the detailed description proceeds, is achieved by a refill container for receipt in a dispensing system, the container including an enclosure for carrying dispensable material, a pump mechanism coupled to the enclosure, a nozzle operatively connected to the pump mechanism, wherein actuation of the pump mechanism dispenses a quantity of material through the nozzle, and an identifier spaced from the enclosure, the identifier having one of a selected number of electronic tags.

It is a further aspect of the present invention to provide a dispensing system including a refill container having a dispensing interface extending axially therefrom, an identification collar disposed about the dispensing interface, and a module for removably receiving the identification collar and selectively actuating the dispensing interface when the identification collar is deemed compatible with the module.

Other aspects of the invention are achieved by a dispensing system comprising a housing having transmitting means and receiving means; a reserve container carrying a material and an electronic key, the reserve container being accommodated in the housing; an operating mechanism associated with one of the housing and the refill container; and a controller communicable with the transmitting and receiving means, the controller having mating keys, the transmitting means generating signals that are transmitted through the electronic keys and received by the receiving means for comparison with the mating keys to selectively actuate the operating mechanism.

It is a further aspect of the present invention to provide a container carrying dispensable material contained in a dispensing system, the container comprising a structure for carrying the dispensable material, a dispensing interface associated with the structure and operable to facilitate dispensing of a quantity of the dispensable material, and an identifier spaced from the structure, wherein the identifier has one of a selected number of electronic tags.

These and other aspects of the invention, as well as its advantages over prior art forms, which may be realized and attained by the improvements and improvements hereinafter described and claimed, will become apparent from the following description.

Drawings

For a complete understanding of the objects, techniques and structure of the invention, reference should be made to the following detailed description and accompanying drawings wherein:

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a keyed fluid dispenser made in accordance with the concepts of the present invention;

FIG. 1A is a front view of a housing cover of a dispenser;

FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the dispenser showing the module, identification collar and refill container;

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a dispenser;

FIG. 3 is a partially sectioned elevational view of the identification collar;

FIG. 4 is a right side front perspective view of the module with the slip ring and mounting ring installed;

FIG. 5 is a rear view of the module;

FIG. 6 is a front view of the module with the slip ring and mounting ring not shown;

FIG. 7 is a top view of the module;

FIG. 7A is a top view of an alternative tray for the pump actuator;

FIG. 7B is a cross-sectional view of an alternative tray and a refill container nozzle contained therein;

FIG. 8 is a bottom view of the module;

FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of the slide ring and the mounting ring;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the slide ring and the mounting ring assembled to each other in the pre-assembly position;

FIG. 11 is a front perspective view of the slip ring and the mounting ring after assembly with one another;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing the identification collar (without the refill container) and the slide ring and mounting ring assembly oriented relative to each other;

FIG. 13 is a top view of the identification collar (without the refill container) and the container release mechanism;

FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view taken along section line 14-14 of FIG. 13 showing the identification collar and release mechanism engaged with one another;

FIG. 15 is a schematic view of a keyed fluid dispenser;

FIG. 16 is an operational flow diagram of the operation of the fluid dispenser; and

FIG. 17 is a flow chart of the operation of an automatic ranging feature used with a hands-free sensor carried by a fluid dispenser.

Detailed Description

As will be appreciated from a reading of the background, a primary need for a dispensing system is to prevent a competitor's refill container from "stuffing" into a manufacturer's dispenser or a dispenser used by a distributor authorized by the manufacturer. The exemplary system disclosed herein meets this need by facilitating data sharing between a communication device associated with the refill container and a communication device associated with the dispenser housing. Data sharing includes, but is not limited to: the type of material in the reserve container; an identification code of the spare container; concentration ratio in the reserve container; an identification code of the distributor; quality control information such as manufacturing date and lot; the size of the pump and/or nozzle; the type of pump actuating mechanism associated with the dispenser; the type of dispenser location, e.g., restaurant, hospital, school, factory, etc.; usage history of the dispenser, etc. The communication devices referred to include, but are not limited to: a bar code; a magnetic storage medium; an optical storage medium; a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tag or smart tag; and related media. Of course, the communication means may consist of a coil with an associated capacitor.

A microprocessor-based controller is associated with the refill container or housing. A second controller may be used in a stand-alone device to add an additional level of security. The master controller is preferably used to facilitate data sharing between the communication devices. The controller controls a number of operating mechanisms that allow use of the dispensing system based on monitoring of the communication device undertaken by the controller. The controller also allows a single dispenser to accept and dispense material from more than one refill container or allows more than one dispenser to be controlled.

The independent means may be an electronic plug or key housed in the dispenser housing. Of course, the electronic keys may or may not provide: a power source, a first or second communication device, and a controller. The foregoing features and options may be appropriately selected according to the security features required by the distributor or manufacturer.

The dispensers disclosed herein may utilize an operating mechanism such as a push rod mechanism or a "hands-free" mechanism to dispense a quantity of fluid. The push-rod mechanism is operated by a user pushing a lever that actuates a pump mechanism carried by the refill container to dispense a metered amount of fluid. The "hands-free" device utilizes a sensor, an example of which is disclosed in U.S. patent No.6390329, which is incorporated herein by reference, wherein the sensor detects the presence of a human hand and then dispenses a metered amount of fluid. The operating mechanism may also include any locking member that allows access to the housing carrying the refill container. In other words, a locking element or set of locking elements may be used to prevent access to the refill container. If so, the dispensing system will not function if the controller prevents unlocking of the locking mechanism. Alternatively, the controller may cooperate with a mechanism capable of controlling the pump associated with the refill container, wherein incompatibility of the communication means prevents the pump from being actuated.

For operating hands-free dispensers and other dispensers that provide status information, it is known to provide a power source, such as a low voltage battery, in the fluid dispenser housing. Thus, the batteries contained in the fluid dispenser may be used to operate the controller and display of the particular dispenser. In other words, internal power may be employed to read a communication device or back-up container provided with a key. In this alternative embodiment, power may be provided externally by an electronic key inserted into the dispenser, as previously described. This feature saves the cost associated with providing power to each dispenser and replacing depleted batteries.

The above-listed features provide a dispensing system with significantly improved operating characteristics. Of course, the use of the communication device and its exchange of information facilitated by the controller may provide not only selective activation of the system, but also monitoring of the system. By collecting additional system information, the needs of the user, distributor and manufacturer of the dispenser can be met. For example, the frequency of use and peak hours of operation of the dispenser, and usage during a specified period of time, etc. may be determined. As will be appreciated from the detailed discussion that follows, the various features of the different embodiments may be used in many combinations and with one or more dispensers. Accordingly, the preferred embodiments will be described with reference to the following detailed description and accompanying drawings.

Fluid dispensing system utilizing near field frequency response key, electronic locking system and internal power source

Turning now to fig. 1-17, it can be seen that a dispensing system and associated method of use in accordance with the present invention is generally indicated by the numeral 100. In this particular embodiment, a near field frequency response system is employed to check the identity of the inserted refill container each time the dispensing mechanism is actuated.

The system 100 employs a housing 102 (shown in phantom) carried by a backplane (not shown). The housing cover 104 is selectively movable relative to the back plate. The cover 104 may be hinged, locked or otherwise attached to the back panel to allow replacement of the refill container and to keep the interior of the housing operational. It will also be appreciated that the locking mechanism between the covers may be driven by an electric motor.

A detailed view of the housing cover 104 is shown in fig. 1A. The cover 104 includes a viewing window 105 so that the interior of the dispenser 100 can be viewed if desired. Also extending from the housing is an LED indicator 106, wherein illumination of the indicator 106 indicates that the dispenser is operational and non-illumination of the LED indicates that the dispenser is not operational. The cover 104 further comprises a stepped nozzle wall 107 providing a nozzle aperture 108. The wall 107 is configured to provide a set of stepped semi-circular rings that are used to instruct a user where to place their hand to receive a metered amount of fluid. If desired, indicia may be provided on the stepped nozzle wall to further assist the user in hands-off.

A refill container 110 having an identification collar 112 is received in the housing. The container 110 and collar 112 are received together by the module 120. The module 120 includes a battery compartment 122 that carries a battery or batteries for powering an electric motor 124, the electric motor 124 also being held by the module. It should also be understood that module 120 may be powered directly, but it is generally considered preferable to use batteries. A pump actuator 126 is also carried by the module 120 for engaging the refill container in a manner to be described in detail hereinafter. The pump actuator includes a linkage and gearing assembly connected to a motor 124.

The refill container is generally designated by the numeral 110 and is shown in an uninstalled position in fig. 2 and in an installed position in fig. 1. The container 110 includes a cartridge 130 that holds the material to be dispensed by the system. The material may be a fluid, lotion, aerosol, powder or particulate as required by the end application. A neck 132 extends downwardly from the cartridge body 130 and a nozzle 134 extends from the neck 132. A pump mechanism 136 is associated with the nozzle 134 and is actuated by axial movement. The pump mechanism may provide a radially extending nozzle rim 137. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the pump mechanism 136 may be a pump top or other actuating device commonly used to dispense materials from collapsible containers. The pump mechanism and nozzle are together referred to as a dispense interface. Of course, the interface is that portion of the refill container or the like which carries the dispensable material and which cooperates with the dispensing system housing to function. In other words, the interface allows the container to be contained within the housing and facilitates dispensing of any form of material. At least one directional joint 138 extends from the neck 132. Of course, the neck may include two diametrically opposed orientation tabs 138. However, the orientation of the nipple 138 may be adjusted to accept a different type of collar 112. The neck 132 also provides a locking edge 139.

Fig. 2A shows an alternative embodiment of module 120. A significant difference between the module shown in the other figures and the module 120 shown in fig. 2A is that the pump actuator 126 completely surrounds the pump mechanism. The module 120 carries control circuitry, discussed in detail below, that includes key holes for receiving the electronic keys 412. The keys 412 may be color coded or otherwise identified to allow visual confirmation that the refill container with the corresponding visual identification is compatible with the key.

A collar, generally designated by the reference numeral 112 and preferably shown in fig. 2 and 3, is associated with the refill container for identifying the container to be used in a particular dispensing system. The collar 112 includes an outer surface 140 opposite an inner surface 142. The collar 112 has a collar bore 144 extending therethrough that is coaxial with the nozzle 134 when the collar is mounted on the neck 132. The outer surface 140 and the inner surface 142 are connected at the underside of the collar 112 by a chamfered nozzle edge 146 and at the top side by a neck edge 148. A pair of opposed notches 150 are formed in the neck rim 148 and are aligned to receive the respective orientation tabs 138 provided by the container. A plurality of internal catches 152 extend radially inwardly from the inner surface 142 and are deflected by the neck 132 as the neck 132 passes through the aperture 144. When the neck 132 moves far enough, the underside of the catch 152 rests against the locking edge 139. Thus, the collar 112 secures itself to the neck 132 and is difficult to remove once installed. In other words, when the collar 112 is mounted on the container, the notches 150 align with the tabs 138, thereby engaging the catches with corresponding surfaces on the neck and/or the box 130.

A groove 153 carrying a logo 154 is provided on the outer surface 142 between the nozzle edge 146 and the locking edge 139. As used herein, the term "label" refers to a label, indicia, or other distinguishing feature or characteristic associated with a cartridge. The identification portion allows identification of the material in the cartridge and associated pump mechanism. The label 154 carries a key 156 located in a plastic or other type of case. The key 156 includes an identification coil 158, which terminates in an identification capacitor 160, as shown in FIG. 15. The identification ring 154 includes an outer diameter 162 sized to be received by the module 120. The identification ring 154 may be color coded or provided with some other indicia to provide a visual fit that matches the keys 412. In other words, while the key provides a means of electronically ensuring that a refill container can be identified for a particular dispenser, the color coding of the key 412 and ring 154 can provide a direct visual indication of an incompatibility issue.

The outer surface 140 includes circumferential locking ribs 168 that interact with the module 120 in a manner to be described to secure the refill container 110. The locking rib 168 includes a leading edge 170 disposed between the flag ring 154 and the catch 152. The locking ribs 168 also provide a trailing edge 172 that extends toward the recess 150. The locking ribs 168 are periodically interrupted by the openings, and more specifically by the alignment slots 174. Only one alignment slot is required in this embodiment, but it should be understood that multiple alignment slots may be used. Moreover, the single alignment slot 174 is substantially aligned with one of the notches 150. Thus, when the identification collar is attached to the refill container, the alignment slot is properly positioned relative to the container. The locking lug 168 also includes a plurality of angled slots 174 that are uniformly disposed about the locking lug 168. In this embodiment, the locking lug provides three angled slots 174, but two, four or more angled slots may be used. Each angled slot 174 is defined by a pair of opposing angled edges 178 in the locking ledge 168. It will be appreciated that the hypotenuses taper in a manner extending from the leading edge to the trailing edge and oppose each other such that the chute is wider at the leading edge than at the trailing edge 172.

Referring now to fig. 4-8, it can be seen that the module 120 is configured to selectively carry and secure the refill container 110 while also performing a test of the end user's hand, determining the compatibility of the container 110 with the dispenser housing, and moving the pump actuator 126 to dispense the material in the cartridge 130 via the nozzle 134. The module 120 provides a main body 190 that includes a battery compartment 122 for carrying a battery, a circuit housing 194 for carrying a communication system (to be discussed), an infrared sensor 195 for detecting a user's hand, and a gear box 196 or transmission assembly that carries the motor 124 and appropriate linkages to drive the pump actuator 126. Although the sensor may be any type of sensor capable of detecting the presence of a target object without mechanical stimulation, this embodiment employs an infrared sensor. As described below, the sensor 195 performs a self-test to adjust for the relative environment in which the dispenser is located. The body 190 also carries a container release mechanism 200 for receiving and securing a refill container in the module 120. The container release mechanism 200 allows for insertion and securing of a refill container during use, effectively locking the container in place during such use. This mechanism provides for actuation of the lever to allow retraction of the container after the container contents have been fully dispensed.

Referring now to fig. 9-14, a container release mechanism, generally designated by the numeral 200, can be seen. The container release mechanism includes a mounting ring 210 secured to the body 190, and a slip ring 212 rotatably received on the mounting ring 210, the slip ring 212 cooperating with the mounting ring 210 to align and effectively secure the refill container when received. The slip ring 212 also allows the container to be released when the user causes the slip ring to rotate. Rings 210 and 212 also provide for interaction with the identification collar to enable the dispensing system to function.

As best shown in fig. 9, the mounting ring 210 includes a band 214 having a band aperture 216 therethrough. The selvedges provide an outer surface 218 opposite an inner surface 220. The surfaces 218 and 220 are connected at their respective ends by a container rim 222, the container rim 222 being opposite a body rim 224. An inner step 226 is formed on the inner surface 220, and as will be described later, the inner step 226 may provide a bearing surface for the flag 154. An alignment rib 228 extends axially along the inner surface 220 from the inner step 226. The alignment ribs are ultimately received in the alignment slots 174 of the identification collar 112. The outer surface 218 of the trim 214 provides a plurality of locking channels 230, wherein the locking channels 230 extend axially from the container rim and then laterally. Specifically, the locking channel includes an axial channel 232 adjacent a transverse bore 234. A slip ring shoulder 236 extends radially from the outer surface 218 and defines the bottom surface of the channel 232 and the bore 234. Thus, the channel 232 is defined by an axial channel end wall 238, the end wall 238 being substantially perpendicular to the axial channel side wall 240. In a similar manner, transverse bore 234 is formed by a transverse bore sidewall 242 and a transverse passage end wall 244, wherein transverse passage end wall 244 extends perpendicularly from sliding ring shoulder 236.

As best shown in fig. 14, immediately below the slip ring shoulder 236 is a receiving ring 246 formed between the shoulder and the body rim 224. Around the receiver ring 246 is a receiver coil 248 which may be encapsulated in plastic. The receive coil 248 is a wire that is wound around the loop 246 a predetermined number of times and both ends of the wire extend from the coil 248 for connection to a communication system. A clearance face 249 extends further axially from the receiving ring 246 and forms a portion of the outer surface 218. Immediately below gap face 249 is a firing ring 250 which terminates at body edge 224. A transmit coil 252, also having a predetermined number of turns, is wound around the transmit loop 250 with the ends of the coil extending therefrom for connection to a communication system. It will thus be appreciated that the gap face 249 between the receive coil 248 and the transmit coil 252 forms a coil gap 256. This gap is primarily defined by the positioning of the identification coil 158 when the refill container is inserted into the release mechanism 200. Details of the interaction between the identification coil and the receive and transmit coils will be discussed later. A mounting rim 258 extends radially from the body rim 224 and is aligned with and mates with the body 190. A mounting tab 260 extends from the outer surface and generally above the receiving ring 246 and extends radially outward to allow attachment of the release mechanism to the body 190.

The slip ring 212 includes an outer surface 262 and an inner surface 264. An outer rib 266 extends radially outward at one edge of the outer surface 262. A push rod 270 extends from the outer surface 262, wherein the back of the push rod 270 includes a spring button 272. A plurality of alignment locks 274 extend radially inwardly from the inner surface 264. In this embodiment, three alignment locks are used, but it should be understood that any number of alignment locks may be used, as long as the number corresponds to the number of locking channels 230 provided by the mounting ring 210. Each alignment lock 274 has a lock ramp 276 that extends at an angle from the ring bottom toward the ring top. It should be appreciated that the inner diameter of inner surface 264 is slightly larger than the other diameter of outer surface 218 of selvedge 214.

Referring now to fig. 10 and 11, it can be seen that the slip ring 212 is axially and slidably received on the mounting ring 210. In particular, it will be appreciated that the alignment lock 224 is aligned with a corresponding lock channel 230, and in particular an axial channel 232. Thus, the sliding ring shoulder 236 can rotate on the outer rib 266. As best shown in fig. 11, it will be appreciated that the slip ring may then be rotated counterclockwise to receive the alignment lock 274 in the transverse bore 234. When the alignment lock 274 is received in the transverse bore 234, the transverse bore sidewall 242 secures the alignment lock and prevents the sliding ring from axially disengaging the mounting ring. After the slip ring is assembled to the mounting ring, the release mechanism may be mounted to the body 190. Having described the module 120 and its relationship to the release mechanism in detail, the details of housing the identification collar in the release mechanism will be discussed.

Referring back to fig. 4-8, it can be seen that module 120 includes a body generally indicated by reference numeral 190. The body includes a rear wall 300 that provides a tab aperture 302 for receiving the mounting tab 260 of the mounting ring. A pair of opposing side walls 304 extend generally perpendicularly from the back wall 300. A mounting rim 306 extends from the rear wall 300 and the side wall 304 and is configured to be received in the mounting channel 258 provided by the trim 214. The mounting rim 306 provides a transmit coil step 308 that is supported on the mounting ring at the transmit ring 250. A receiver coil step 310 extends generally perpendicularly from the transmitter coil step 308 and a lug step 312 extends from the receiver coil step 310. A slip ring channel 314 extends from one of the side walls 304. Accordingly, all of these steps and channels are adapted to the outer rings and coils of the mounting and sliding rings such that the release mechanism is slidably supported by the body 190 and the mounting tabs 260 can be received in the tab apertures 302. It will be appreciated that the mounting tabs deflect locally when inserted into the holes and allow the module 120 to retain the release mechanism while passing through the thickness of the rear wall 300. When insertion is complete, the alignment rib and the sliding ring are positioned such that the locking ramp is in a position that only allows the sliding ring to partially rotate so that the locking ramp is no longer aligned with the axial passage 238. Thus, once the release mechanism is installed in the module, the slip ring is fixed and can only rotate a limited amount defined by the length of the transverse channel. This may be further facilitated by the push rod 270 being arrested by the body 190 in one rotational direction, and the locking channel bearing against the transverse channel end wall 244 in the other rotational direction.

The rear wall 300 includes a pair of opposing track apertures 320 that receive the pump actuating mechanism 126. The rear wall also provides a gear aperture 322 therethrough that receives components of the gearbox 196.

As best shown in FIG. 5, a gearbox or transmission assembly, generally indicated at 196, carries the motor 124 having a rotatable motor shaft 330. A set of gears may be rotationally moved by a motor shaft to actuate or move the pump actuator 126. Specifically, the motor shaft 330 provides a shaft gear 332 that meshes with an annulus gear a 334 that drives an annulus gear B336. The inner gear 336 also meshes with a circulation gear 338, which provides a cam surface 340 and also provides a cam actuator 342. The drive gear 344 is directly connected to the circulation gear 338 and provides a drive pin 346 that extends into the gear aperture 322. The microswitch 349 is connected to the circulation gear and, more specifically, the contacts of the microswitch rest against the cam surface 340. As the circulation gear 338 rotates, the cam actuator 343 actuates the microswitch, generating an appropriate electrical signal so that the system knows when the circulation gear has completed a full rotation.

As best shown in fig. 2, 4 and 6-8, the pump actuator 126 includes a tray generally indicated by reference numeral 350. A pair of opposing slide rails 352 extend from both sides of the tray 350 and are slidably received in the rail holes 320. Tray 350 includes a drive wall 354 having a drive slot 356 therethrough. It can be seen that a drive pin 346 extending from the drive gear 344 is received in the drive slot. A nozzle plate 358 extends perpendicularly from the actuating wall 354 and provides a nozzle aperture 360. Briefly, the nozzle aperture 360 engages with the pump mechanism 138 and/or is brought into engagement by the pump mechanism 138 when the refill container is positioned in the release mechanism. Thus, when the communication system is actuated to initiate a dispensing cycle, it rotates the motor shaft, driving the gear in the proper direction and thus rotating the drive pin 346 about the drive gear 344. When the drive pin 346 rotates, it engages with the drive groove 356 and moves the drive wall 354 in the up/down direction. When this occurs, the nozzle plate is driven up and down in the respective direction to engage the pump mechanism 136 to dispense the desired amount of fluid out of the nozzles 134. To complete the assembly of the release mechanism on the module 120, it should be understood that the spring 370 is inserted between the lever button 272 and the body 190. Of course, other biasing mechanisms may be used to bias the slip ring relative to the body wall.

Turning now to fig. 7A and 7B, an alternative tray, generally designated by the numeral 350', may be seen. Tray 350' operates in substantially the same manner as tray 350; however, the tray 350' provides a positive effect on the upstroke or dispensing cycle of the nozzle, and also on the return or downstroke after a certain amount of fluid has been dispensed. As in the previous tray embodiment, the tray 350 ' includes a pair of opposing slide rails 352 ' that are connected to each other by a drive wall 354 '. The slide rail 352' is slidably received in the rail hole 320. The drive wall 354 'provides a drive slot 356' that receives the pin 346. Nozzle plate 358 ' extends perpendicularly from transfer wall 354 ', and nozzle collar 361 extends from nozzle plate 358 '. Similar to nozzle bore 360, nozzle bore 362 extends through nozzle collar 361. When the reserve tank is installed, the nozzle extending from the reserve tank is received in the nozzle hole 362. A plurality of lifting tines 363 extend radially inwardly from the nozzle collar 361 and are positioned below the nozzle rim 137 when the refill container is installed. In a similar manner, a plurality of pushing tines 364 extend radially inward from nozzle collar 361; however, the pushing tines are disposed only half way around the nozzle aperture 362. When the refill container is installed, the biasing tines 364 are positioned above the nozzle rim 137.

As described above, the identification collar 112 is attached to the refill container 110. Each refill container is specifically identified by an associated identification collar 112, the identification collar 112 having a predetermined identification ring associated therewith. The importance of the identification ring will be discussed in more detail below. In any event, the identification collar 112 is aligned such that the neck 132 and nozzle 134 are oriented through the collar bore 144. The catch 152 is at least partially deflected by the neck 132 until it passes over and engages the locking edge 139. This secures the identification collar to the neck 132. It will be appreciated that when the identification collar is aligned with the refill container, the orientation tab 138 is aligned with the recess 150. Accordingly, the alignment slot 174 is oriented relative to the refill container 110 such that it may be received in the release mechanism. It should be understood that the identification collar 112 may be installed by the manufacturer of the fluid contained in the refill container or by a distributor at another location as desired.

After the housing is properly installed, initial loading of the refill container occurs as follows. Spare container 110 is oriented such that alignment slot 174 is directed toward alignment rib 228. After this initial alignment is made, the beveled edge 178 is properly positioned so that it engages the locking ramp 276. Thus, when an axially downward force is applied to the refill container, the ramp 276 engages the beveled edge 178. This causes the slip ring to deflect and rotate slightly against the action of the spring 370. In other words, the downward axial movement of the identification collar results in a partial rotational movement of the slip ring. This causes the locking ramps 276 to move within the respective transverse bores 234 until the ramps 276 no longer engage the respective beveled edges 178. When this occurs, the slip ring rotates back to its original position and locks the refill container in place. Specifically, the underside of the locking ramp 276 engages and is retained on the locking rib 168, specifically against the trailing edge 172. It will be appreciated that once the refill container is secured by the release mechanism, the orientation of the marker coil is in a plane parallel to the receiver and transmitter coils 252, and in particular the marker key is received in the coil gap 256. This alignment is maintained even during periodic operation of the drive assembly to begin dispensing fluid from the container.

After completely using up the fluid contained in the reserve container, the user opens the housing cover and presses the push rod, sliding the sliding ring in rotation. This moves the locking ramp 276 to a position aligned with the angled slot 176. The user may axially remove the refill container from the release mechanism while maintaining pressure on the push rod and thus the positioning of the locking ramp relative to the chute. The release mechanism is then ready to receive a new spare container as described above. It will be appreciated that the mechanism 136 engages the nozzle plate 358 when the refill container is properly received in the release mechanism. Specifically, the nozzle bore 360 partially or completely surrounds the nozzle and/or pump mechanism 136.

The identification key 156 also provides an outer diameter surface 162 that allows the surface 162 to be adjacently positioned relative to the annulus 246 when the refill container is received in the collar bore 144. It should also be appreciated that the identification coil 156 is mounted in the coil gap 256 in a coaxial and parallel relationship with and uniformly disposed between the transmit and receive coils. It will be appreciated that the identification portion, including at least the identification coil 156 and the identification capacitor 160, is spaced from the cartridge for mounting between the transmit and receive coils. While the indicia is coaxially positioned with respect to the pump mechanism and nozzle, it should be understood that the identification portion may be spaced from other surfaces of the cassette so long as the identification coil can cooperate with the transmit and receive coils.

The preferred location of the identification coil is in a parallel spatial relationship between the transmit and receive coils. In addition to providing alignment between the coils, the positional relationship of the coils may also facilitate efficient and minimal use of battery power. In practice, the transmit coil requires about 0.02 watts of power to operate in the frequency range of 10Hz to 10 KHz. This frequency range allows the use of an unlimited number of identification keys. In other words, this frequency range may be subdivided to obtain a number of keys. Of course, any frequency range or bandwidth may be specified. Thus, each identification capacitor has its own selected frequency range within the operating range. Of course, other power requirements and frequency ranges may be used, but the selected parameters are believed to provide optimal operation of the system 100. It should also be understood that the use of spaced apart coils in association with the transmit and receive coils makes it configured for use with any dispensable product. For example, a roll of paper towel may be secured by brackets extending from spaced apart marker coils. The cradle interfaces with the housing and holds the transmitter and receiver coils and when the proper signal is received, the proper length of paper towel can be dispensed.

Turning now to fig. 15, it can be seen that the system 100 includes a communication system 400 that includes a transmit coil and a receive coil. The system also includes a controller 402 that includes the necessary hardware, software and memory for implementing the communication system. The keys 412 are connected to the controller 402. in the preferred embodiment, the keys 412 are numeric keys in the form of a printed circuit board with designated interconnects that provide a reference value that can be compared to a value or label generated by the transmit/receive coil. Alternatively, the key may be a capacitor having a capacitance value matching that of the identification capacitor 160. It should be appreciated that any electrical component that allows the "modulation frequency" of the field coil to match a corresponding value in the controller may also be employed to enable the system 100. This corresponding value may be obtained by applying a mathematical function or operation to the detected frequency, thereby confirming its use in the system 100. In this embodiment, it is contemplated that up to 10 different capacitance values may be used and that the capacitance value of the corresponding numeric key or keys is connected to the controller. To facilitate the assembly process, each collar 112 and/or electronic key 412 may be color coded or embossed with indicia according to the capacitance value of the capacitor 160. This provides a readily identifiable visual indication of which collar refill container is associated with any given dispenser. The controller 402 provides operational control of the motor and display 413. the display 413 may be a liquid crystal display that provides operational information or other low cost display if desired.

Referring now to fig. 16, an operational flow diagram illustrating operational steps for manufacturing the dispensing system and refill container and utilizing the communication system 400 is generally indicated by reference number 420. The flow chart includes a series of manufacturing steps and a series of alternate replacement and operation steps. It should be understood with respect to the manufacturing steps that the key capacitor 412 is connected to the controller 402 and shipped with the dispensing unit to a particular distributor. At step 424, the manufacturer makes a number of refill containers and a predetermined number of identification coils with appropriate electronic keys, and in particular identification coils with associated identification capacitors. This allows the production and storage of a large number of universal-type spare containers. When an order is placed, the appropriate electronic key is associated with the refill container in step 426 simply by fitting a collar with the designated key onto the neck of the refill container. The assembled refill container and electronic key are then shipped to the appropriate distributor at step 428. This concludes the manufacturing step.

For the operation step, the distributor receives the spare containers with identification keys and installs them in the designated shell in step 430. When a dispensing event is subsequently detected by an infrared sensor or actuation of the pushrod, the controller generates a signal to energize the transmit coil, if appropriate, which generates a field that is detectable by the identification coil 156. In step 432, the coil-associated capacitor 160 in turn generates a unique electronic tag that is detectable by the receive coil 248. This near field frequency response is then sent back to the controller 310 for comparison to the key capacitance value 412 in step 434. If the data match and are deemed compatible with each other, the controller allows the motor 124 to be actuated and the metered material dispensed at step 436. However, if the controller does not detect a match signal, then the motor is not actuated in step 438 and the device is also inoperative.

Once the refill container is properly installed and the coils are positioned close to each other, use of the dispensing system can begin. In this embodiment, the user need only place his or her hand in a position that is detectable by the infrared sensor 195. When an object is detected beneath the sensor 195, an appropriate signal is sent to the communication system 400, and in particular the controller 402. As described above, the coil is energized and if the receiving coil is in range and a valid signal is detected, the controller initiates a dispense cycle by rotating the motor shaft 330. This causes the transmission assembly, including the various gears 332-338, to engage, thereby causing the cam surface 340 and the drive gear 344 to begin to rotate. Rotation of the drive pin 346 causes the tray to move in an up/down direction which, through engagement with the nozzle, causes fluid to be dispensed. The communication system can be programmed to allow multiple rotations of the cycle gear so that multiple dispensing cycles can be initiated when an object is detected only once under the infrared sensor. This count is maintained by a cam actuator engaged with microswitch 349.

In the case where an alternative tray embodiment is used, the drive pins 346 cause the tray to move in the up/down direction as previously described. However, this embodiment differs in that the lifting tines engage the underside of the nozzle rim 137 when the dispensing cycle begins, and the pushing tines 364 engage the top side of the nozzle rim 137 and push the nozzle downward toward its initial position at the end of the dispensing cycle or when the nozzle rim is in an upstroke. It will be appreciated that this embodiment is advantageous in that the pump mechanism and/or nozzle return to their initial positions, thereby ensuring the correct sequence of dispense cycles. Furthermore, it has been found that by returning the nozzle to its initial position, less material can be retained in the pump mechanism so that excessive or residual fluid does not interfere with the operation of the dispensing mechanism.

Yet another feature of the dispensing system is shown in the flow chart shown in fig. 17, which is generally designated by the reference numeral 500. This sequence of steps is related to the operation of the infrared sensor 195 and ensures that the positioning of the dispensing system is adapted to the different reflective environments in which it is installed. It will be appreciated that the dispensing system may be installed in a tiled bathroom fixture and therefore the reflective surface of the tile may inadvertently trigger the activation of the hands-free sensor. The reflective properties of the tile will vary depending on the amount of ambient, fluorescent, or other types of light to which the dispensing system is exposed. Accordingly, the infrared sensor associated with the controller 402 may periodically perform an automatic ranging routine to ensure that the dispensing system is operating properly under varying ambient light conditions. In a first step 502, an infrared sensor emits infrared energy. Next, in step 504, the controller observes the return signal received by the sensor and determines whether a target object is detected. If the target object is not detected, then the sensor increases the amount of infrared energy emitted in step 506 and the process returns to step 502. Referring back to step 504, if an object is detected, then the controller proceeds to step 508 to determine if the object is detected for more than 10 seconds or some other predetermined period of time. If the target is not detected for more than 10 seconds, then the process returns to step 506 and the infrared energy is again increased. However, if it is determined in step 508 that the object is detected for more than 10 seconds or some other predetermined period of time, then its power is reduced in step 510 until the object is no longer detected. Upon completion of step 510, processing returns to its normal operating mode in step 512.

Based on the above steps, it can be appreciated that the automatic ranging logic routine executed by the controller and infrared sensor allows for automatic adjustment of the desired target range used by the dispensing system. This feature is therefore advantageous in ensuring that the dispenser operates correctly in a wide variety of ambient light conditions.

The advantages of the present invention will be readily apparent based on the foregoing. In particular, this configuration eliminates mechanical keys and reduces the inventory of mechanical keys by using electronic keys. The electronic keys are much easier to maintain and easier to keep in inventory so that they can be used as needed. This configuration also greatly reduces the ability of a competitor to "stuff" an unauthorized refill container into the dispenser housing. This may be achieved by selecting the transmit and receive coils and the marker coil. Another advantage of the present invention is that the coil can be easily configured for use with a refill container and as part of the release mechanism.

It can thus be seen that the objects of the invention are satisfied by the structure presented above and the method of use thereof. While in accordance with the patent statutes, only the best mode and preferred embodiment has been presented and described in detail herein, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited thereto or thereby. For that reason, reference should be made to the following claims for an understanding of the true scope and breadth of the invention.

Claims (11)

1. A refill container for housing in a dispensing system, the container comprising:

a cartridge for carrying dispensable material;

a pump mechanism connected to the cartridge;

a nozzle operatively connected to the pump mechanism, wherein actuation of the pump mechanism dispenses a quantity of material through the nozzle;

a neck extending from the cassette body and carrying the pump mechanism and the nozzle; and

an identification ring disposed around the neck and spaced a predetermined distance from the cartridge body, wherein the identification ring has one of a selected number of electronic tags.

2. A refill container according to claim 1, wherein said identification ring comprises a coil having a capacitor connected thereto, wherein the capacitance value of said capacitor determines said electronic tag.

3. A refill container according to claim 2, further comprising a collar associated with said identification ring, wherein said collar is secured to said neck.

4. A refill container according to claim 2, wherein said identification ring is colour coded according to said capacitance value and has a tactile indicator corresponding to said capacitance value.

5. A refill container according to claim 1, wherein said container further comprises:

a collar carrying said identification ring in said spaced apart relationship with said case.

6. The refill container of claim 5 wherein the collar has an outer surface, an inner surface, and a collar bore therethrough, the pump mechanism being received in the collar bore; and

wherein said inner surface of said collar has at least one catch securing said collar to said case.

7. The refill container of claim 5 wherein the collar has an outer surface, an inner surface, and a collar bore therethrough, the pump mechanism being received in the collar bore; the collar further comprises:

a locking fin extending from the outer surface, the locking fin having a leading edge and a trailing edge;

wherein the locking lug has an alignment slot extending at least from the leading edge toward the trailing edge;

wherein the cartridge body provides at least one orientation tab and wherein the collar provides a recess for receiving the at least one orientation tab; and

wherein the alignment slot is aligned with the notch.

8. A refill container according to claim 1, wherein said identification ring is coaxial with said neck.

9. A refill container according to claim 1, wherein the cartridge body has at least one of a male portion and a female portion configured to engage a respective one of a female portion and a male portion in the dispensing system to retain the identification ring in an operative position when the refill container is associated with the dispensing system, and wherein the cartridge body is axially received by the dispensing system resulting in selective engagement by the dispensing system to secure the cartridge body.

10. A refill container according to claim 1, wherein said selected number of electronic tags span a range of frequencies.

11. The refill container of claim 10 wherein said frequency range is from 10Hz to 10KHz, wherein said frequency range is subdivided into said selected number of electronic tags, and wherein when exposed to an electric field, at least one of said selected number of electronic tags within said frequency range is generated.