JP2019519258A - Sequential multi-partition foam pump, refill unit and dispenser system - Google Patents

Abstract

A typical foam dispenser includes a housing, a drive motor, and a foam pump operably coupled to the drive motor. The foam pump is fixed to a housing, and the foam pump includes a housing and a molded multi-chamber partition. The molded multi-chamber partition includes one liquid pump chamber, two or more air pump chambers, and an outlet valve. A mixing chamber is included which mixes the foamable liquid from the one liquid pump partition with the air from each of the two or more air pump chambers and is located downstream of the outlet valve. Also included are foam cartridges and outlets for dispensing foam.

Description

  The present invention relates generally to pumps, refill units for dispenser systems, and more particularly to sequentially acting multi-partition foam that mixes liquid soap, disinfectant or lotion with air to make and dispense foam. The present invention relates to a pump having a pump, a refill unit, and a dispenser.

  Liquid dispenser systems, such as liquid soap and disinfectant dispensers, provide the user with a predetermined amount of liquid when the dispenser is activated. Furthermore, it is sometimes desirable to dispense the liquid in the form of bubbles, for example, by injecting air into the liquid to produce a foam mixture of liquid and bubbles.

<Related application>
The present invention is directed to US Provisional Application No. 62 / 319,061, entitled "Sequentially Operated Multi-Partition Foam Pump, Refill Unit, and Dispenser System" filed on April 6, 2016, February 10, 2017. U.S. Application No. 15 / 429,389 entitled "High-quality non-aerosol hand sanitizing foam", filed December 5, 2016, "Sequential multi-partition foam pump, refill unit and dispensing system" U.S. Application No. 15 / 369,007, entitled "Sequential Multi-Partition Foam Pump, Refill Unit, and Dispenser System", filed on November 18, 2016; U.S. Application No. 15 / 355,112; U.S. Application No. 15 / 350,190 entitled "Improved Foam Cartridge", filed Nov. 14, 2016, and "Air / Liquid Ratio Foaming" filed Nov. 21, 2016 Dispensing systems, claims priority to and benefit of pump and refill unit entitled "U.S. Application Serial No. 15 / 356,795. Each of these is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

<Summary of the Invention>
The present application discloses exemplary embodiments of a plurality of sequentially actuated multi-partition foam pumps, a plurality of refill units and a plurality of dispenser systems, each refill unit sequentially corresponding multi-partition foam pumps Activate.

  A typical foam dispenser includes a housing, a drive motor, and a foam pump operably coupled to the drive motor. The foam pump is fixed to the housing, and the foam pump includes the housing and a molded multi-chamber partition. The molded multi-chamber partition includes one liquid pump chamber, two or more air pump chambers, and an outlet valve. A mixing chamber is included which mixes the foamable liquid from the liquid pump septum with air from each of the two or more air pump chambers, the mixing chamber being located downstream of the outlet valve. Also included are foam cartridges and outlets for dispensing foam.

  A typical refill unit for a foam dispenser includes a container holding a foamable liquid and a foam pump secured to the container. The foam pump includes a housing and a molded multi-partition chamber. The molded multi-partition chamber comprises one liquid pump chamber and three air pump chambers. The foam pump also includes an inlet valve, an outlet valve, and a mixing chamber downstream of the outlet valve for mixing the foamable liquid from the liquid pump chamber with air from each of the three air pump chambers. The refill unit further includes a foam cartridge in fluid communication with the mixing chamber and an outlet for dispensing foam, the outlet in fluid communication with the foam cartridge.

  Another typical foam dispenser includes a dispenser housing and a foam pump secured to the housing. The foam pump includes a pump housing and a molded multi-partition chamber. The molded multi-partition chamber comprises one liquid pump chamber and three air pump chambers. It also includes a rotatable drive mechanism that sequentially compresses the liquid pump chamber and the two or more air pump chambers. A rotatable drive mechanism is coupled to the drive motor. A mixing chamber is disposed downstream of the liquid and air pump chambers so as to mix the foamable liquid from the liquid pump chamber with the air from each of the three air pump chambers. A foam cartridge is included and in fluid communication with the mixing chamber. Additionally, the dispenser includes an outlet for dispensing foam, the outlet being in fluid communication with the foam cartridge.

  A typical refill unit for a foam dispenser includes a container holding a foamable liquid, a foam pump secured to the container, a foam cartridge, an outlet, and an actuation mechanism. The foam pump includes a housing, a liquid pump partition, a plurality of air pump partitions, and a mixing chamber. The liquid from the liquid pump septum and the air from the air pump septum mix in the mixing chamber to form a foam mixture. A foam cartridge is in fluid communication with the mixing chamber and the foam mixture travels through the foam cartridge. A dose of foam exits the foam cartridge, and the dose of foam is dispensed from the outlet of the refill unit. The actuation mechanism releasably connects to a drive system permanently attached to the dispenser. When the refill unit is connected to the dispenser and the drive system is actuated, the actuation mechanism sequentially actuates the liquid pump diaphragm and the plurality of air pump diaphragms. When the liquid and air pump partitions operate sequentially, the liquid pump partition pumps at least a partial dose of liquid into the mixing chamber and the air pump partition pumps at least a partial dose of air into the mixing chamber.

  Another typical refill unit for foam dispensers includes a container holding a foamable liquid, a foam pump connected to the container, a mixing chamber, a foam cartridge, an outlet, and a plate. The foam pump has a plurality of bulkhead pump chambers. At least one bulkhead pump chamber pumps liquid, and at least two bulkhead pump chambers pump air. A mixing chamber is disposed downstream of the plurality of septum pump chambers to mix the liquid and air to form a foam mixture. The foam cartridge is located downstream of the mixing chamber and the foam mixture passes through the foam cartridge and out of the foam cartridge as a concentrated foam. The foam is dispensed through the outlet of the refill unit. The plate is connected to a plurality of bulkhead pump chambers. When the refill unit is installed in the foam dispenser, the plate engages with the drive system permanently fixed to the foam dispenser, and when the refill unit is removed from the foam dispenser, the plate Is adapted to disengage from the drive system. By moving the plate about the axis, at least a partial dose of liquid is pumped into the mixing chamber and subsequently at least a partial dose of the first air dose is pumped into the mixing chamber, followed by a second air dose. At least a partial dose of is pumped into the mixing chamber.

  Another exemplary refill unit for foam dispensers includes a container for holding a foamable liquid, a sequentially actuated multi-partition foam pump secured to the container, a rocker plate, a pin, a foam cartridge, and a foam. Including the exit. The sequentially actuated multi-partition foam pump comprises a liquid pump partition for pumping the liquid into the mixing chamber, a first air pump partition for pumping air into the mixing chamber, and a second air pump partition for pumping air into the mixing chamber. Have. The oscillating plate is fixed to the liquid pump partition, the first air pump partition, and the second air pump partition. The pin has a first end connected to the rocker plate and a second end not fixed. As the second end of the pin moves within the annular passage, compression occurs sequentially to the liquid pump septum, the first air pump septum, and the second air pump septum. The second end of the pin is removably connected to an eccentric drive system permanently connected to the foam dispenser. The foam cartridge is downstream of the mixing chamber and the foam outlet is downstream of the foam cartridge. Foam is dispensed from the foam outlet.

  Another exemplary refill unit of the foam dispenser includes a container holding a foamable liquid, a sequentially actuated multi-separator foam pump, a plate, a foam cartridge, and an outlet. The sequentially actuated multi-partition foam pump includes a housing, a liquid pump portion fixed to the housing, an air pump portion fixed to the housing, a mixing chamber, and a pump outlet. The liquid pump portion has a liquid inlet, a liquid inlet valve, a liquid pump partition, a liquid outlet valve, and a liquid outlet. The air pump unit includes a first air inlet and a second air inlet, a first air inlet valve and a second air inlet valve, a first air pump partition and a second air pump partition, and a first air outlet. A valve and a second air outlet valve, and a first air outlet and a second air outlet. The mixing chamber is in fluid communication with the liquid outlet, the first air outlet, and the second air outlet. The liquid pump diaphragm pumps a single dose of liquid into the mixing chamber. The first air pump partition pumps one shot of air into the mixing chamber and mixes with the liquid to form a mixture of liquid and air. The second air pump partition pumps one shot of air into the mixing chamber and mixes it with the liquid and air mixture to form a foam mixture. The foam mixture is dispensed from the pump outlet. The plate is connected to the liquid pump partition, the first air pump partition, and the second air pump partition. When the refill unit is installed in the foam dispenser, the plate engages with the drive system permanently fixed to the foam dispenser and when the refill unit is removed from the foam dispenser, The plate is adapted to disengage from the drive system. Movement of the plate about the axis causes one shot of liquid shot to be pumped from the liquid pump partition into the mixing chamber, followed by one shot of air from the first air pump partition into the mixing chamber, and then one dose of air. Is pumped into the mixing chamber from the second air pump partition. The foam cartridge is in fluid communication with the pump outlet, and the outlet of the refill unit is in fluid communication with the foam cartridge. Foam is dispensed from the outlet of the refill unit. Furthermore, some typical refill units do not include plates, and the drive mechanism of the foam dispenser is adapted to sequentially compress the septum without the need for plates.

FIG. 7 is a typical embodiment of a refill unit for foam dispensers. It is a typical embodiment of a foam dispenser. Fig. 2 is a typical foam dispenser of Fig. 2 equipped with the typical refill unit of Fig. 1; FIG. 1 is an exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of a sequentially actuated multi-partition foam pump and motor from a first perspective. FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the exemplary embodiment of the sequentially actuated multi-partition foam pump and motor of FIG. 3 as viewed from a second perspective of the motor; FIG. 4 is a plan view of an exemplary septum assembly of the sequentially actuated multi-partition foam pump of the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 3; FIG. 6 is a bottom view of the exemplary septum assembly of FIG. 5; FIG. 4 is a plan view of a typical valve seat of the sequentially actuated multi-partition foam pump of the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 3; It is a bottom view of the typical valve seat of FIG. FIG. 4 is a plan view of a typical septum assembly seat of the sequentially actuated multi-partition foam pump of the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 3; It is sectional drawing along the AA of [FIG. 5]-[FIG. 9] of the liquid pump part of the sequential action | operation type multi-partition foam pump of [FIG. 3]. It is sectional drawing which followed the BB line of FIG. 5-[FIG. 9] of the 1st air pump part of the sequential action | operation type multi-partition foam pump of FIG. It is sectional drawing which followed the CC line of FIG. 5-[FIG. 9] of the 2nd air pump part of the sequential action | operation type multi-partition foam pump of FIG. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of another exemplary embodiment of a sequentially actuated multi-partition foam pump. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a refill unit having a sequentially actuated multi-partition foam pump. FIG. 13 is a rear view of an exemplary embodiment of a refill unit having a sequentially actuated multi-partition foam pump with a rear cover of FIG. 12; FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a refill unit having a sequentially actuated multi-partition foam pump without the rear cover of FIG. 12; FIG. 13 is a rear view of an exemplary embodiment of a refill unit having a sequentially actuated multi-partition foam pump without the rear cover of FIG. 12; It is a typical foam dispenser with a refill unit with a sequentially actuated multi-partition foam pump installed therein. It is a typical foam dispenser with the refill unit removed Fig. 16 is an exemplary motor and drive system for the exemplary foam dispenser of Fig. 16; FIG. 6 is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of a sequentially actuated multi-separator foam pump. FIG. 19B is an exploded perspective view of the sequentially operating multi-partition foam pump of FIG. 19A. FIG. 19B is an exploded side view of the sequentially actuated multi-partition foam pump of the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 19A. FIG. 19B is a cross-sectional exploded side view of the sequentially actuated multi-partition foam pump of the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 19A. FIG. 19B is a plan view of the sequentially actuated multi-partition foam pump of the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 19A. FIG. 19B is a front view of the sequentially actuated multi-partition foam pump of the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 19A. FIG. 19B is a side view of the sequentially actuated multi-partition foam pump of the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 19A. FIG. 21B is a side cross-sectional view along line AA of FIG. 21A of the sequentially actuated multi-partition foam pump of the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 19A. FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view along the line C-C of FIG. 21B of the sequentially actuated multi-partition foam pump of the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 19A. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of another exemplary embodiment of a sequentially actuated multi-partition foam pump. FIG. 7 is an exploded view of another exemplary embodiment of a sequentially actuated multi-partition foam pump. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a sequentially actuated four septum foam pump. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of a sequentially actuated four-separator foam pump. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a typical outlet nozzle. FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary outlet nozzle of FIG.

  The present application discloses typical embodiments of a refill unit having a foam dispenser and a sequentially actuated multi-separator foam pump. Some exemplary embodiments include a rocker plate and three or more pump partitions. The three or more pump partitions include at least one liquid pump partition and at least two air pump partitions. Each liquid pump septum has a liquid inlet for receiving a liquid such as, for example, a soap, a disinfectant, or a lotion, and each air pump septum has an air inlet for receiving air. Three or more pump partitions operate sequentially, and each pump partition operates once during an operating cycle. The actuation cycle begins with actuation of the fluid pump septum. In addition, the sequentially actuated multi-partition foam pump includes a mixing chamber. Each liquid pump partition pumps the liquid into the mixing chamber, and each air pump partition pumps air into the mixing chamber. The liquid mixes with air in the mixing chamber to form a foam mixture that is dispensed from the pump outlet. In some aspects of the invention, the foam mixture has an air: liquid ratio of about 7: 1 to about 10: 1. In some embodiments, the air: liquid ratio is greater than 10: 1, and in some embodiments less than 7: 1.

  A sequentially actuated multi-partition foam pump may be used in a foam dispenser. Typical foam dispensers include a housing, a motor, a refill unit, a sequentially actuated multi-partition foam pump, and a foam cartridge. The pump receives the foamable liquid from the refill unit, mixes the foamable liquid with air to form a foam mixture, and via the foam cartridge enriches the foam and dispenses the foam to the user.

  FIG. 1 shows a refill unit 100 for a foam dispenser. The refill unit 100 includes a collapsible container 102. The collapsible container 102 includes a neck 103 and a leak free moment connector 104. An example of a leak free momentary connector is described in U.S. Patent No. 6,871,679 entitled "Bags and Dispensing Systems Including Bags etc.", and "A connector apparatus for controlling liquid dispensing and a method of connecting the same". No. 7,647,954, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The refill unit comprises a supply of foamable liquid. In various embodiments, effervescent liquids included are, for example, soaps, disinfectants, cleaners, bactericides, lotions, and the like. The container is a collapsible container and can be made of a thin plastic or flexible bag-like material. In other embodiments, the container may be a non-collapsible container or other suitable configuration formed by a rigid housing member to contain the foamable liquid without leakage. In the case of non-collapsible containers, venting systems may be included. A typical venting system is described in U.S. Application No. 2015/0266657 entitled "A closed system for aspirating a dispenser container", U.S. Application No. 2015/025184 entitled "A pump with a container vent", and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 14 / 811,995, entitled "A Dispenser With Aerated Refill Unit And Aerated Refill Unit", which is incorporated herein by reference.

  FIG. 2 shows an exemplary embodiment of a non-contact foam dispenser 200. The non-contact foam dispenser 200 includes a housing 202, a motor 204, a foam pump 206, a refill unit connector 208, a foam cartridge 210, and a nozzle 212. Exemplary aspects of the foam cartridge 210 are presented and described in US Patent Application No. 20140367419, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The refill unit 100 may be connected to the refill unit connector 208 as shown in FIG. 2A. The refill unit 100 includes a foamable liquid such as a soap, a disinfectant, a lotion, a cleaning agent, and a germicide. Non-contact foam dispenser 200 is activated when sensor 214 detects the presence of a user or object. Upon detecting an object or user, sensor 214 sends a signal to a processing unit (not shown) within electronic control board 216. The electronic control board 216 transmits an output signal to the motor 204 to rotate the eccentric rocking plate actuator drive mechanism 301. Sensor 214 and electronic control board 216 receive power from power supply 218. In some embodiments, motor 204 receives power from power supply 218, and in other embodiments, the refill unit includes a power supply (not shown) that supplies power to a rechargeable power supply (not shown). . A typical embodiment of a refill unit comprising a power supply for supplying power to the oscillating plate actuator drive mechanism 301 (FIG. 3) is “a power system for a contactless dispenser including the power supply and the refill unit” No. 2014/0234140, the subject matter of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Electric power is supplied to the motor 204 to rotate the oscillating plate actuator drive mechanism 301. The rotation of the eccentric rocking plate actuator drive mechanism 301 sequentially compresses and expands the partition walls of the foaming pump 206 and pumps liquid and air into the mixing chamber 325. The liquid and air mix together to form a foam mixture. The foam mixture is extruded through the foam cartridge 210, which turns the foam into a concentrated foam. Concentrated foam is dispensed from foam dispenser 200 through nozzle 212.

  The refill unit 100 and the foam dispenser 200 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 are generally depicted as various different parts are used for many refill units 100 and foam dispenser 200, respectively. ing. Foam pump 206, generally indicated above, is described in more detail below. Some typical dispenser parts that can be used in accordance with the present invention are described in U.S. Application No. 8,960,498 entitled "Non-Contact Dispenser With Single-Cell Operation And Spare Battery", "Eccentrically Reversed" U.S. Patent No. 2014 / 00543.22, entitled Foam Dispenser and Refill Unit, and U.S. Application No. 2014 / entitled "Power Supply System for Non-Contact Dispenser and Refill Unit Including Power Supply" No. 0234140, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

  FIG. 3 is an exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of foam pump 206. Foam pump 206 is driven by motor 204. Foam pump 206 includes pump base 324, rocker plate 314, septum assembly seat 312, septum assembly 310, valve seat 308, outlet valves 323 A, 323 B, 323 C, screw 302, and cover 348. Valve seat 308, septum assembly seat 312 and pump base 324 are secured together by screws 302 in threaded holes 308A, 312A, 324A. The cover 348 is attached to the valve seat 308. The outlet valves 323A, 323B, 323C are fixed and installed on the valve seat 308.

  Partition assembly 310 includes three pump partitions 310A, 310B, 310C, with each pump partition 310A, 310B, 310C having a connector 311A, 311B, 311C. The septum assembly 310 is disposed at the septum assembly seat 312. The pump bulkheads 310A, 310B, 310C are disposed in the receiving holes 313A, 313B, 313C of the bulkhead assembly seat 312, and the three connectors 311A, 311B, 311C are three in the three rocker plate links 314A, 314B, 314C. It is connected to the swing plate 314 by inserting one connector 311A, 311B, 311C.

  Air enters the foam pump 206 through the pump air inlet 424 B (FIG. 4), and a liquid such as foam soap or germicide enters the foam pump 206 through the liquid inlet 352. The two pump partitions 310B, 310C receive air, and the remaining pump partitions 310A receive effervescent liquids such as, for example, soaps and disinfectants.

  FIG. 4 is another exploded view of a typical foam pump 206 viewed from different directions. As mentioned above, septum assembly 310 includes three pump septums 310A, 310B, 310C. Each pump septum 310A, 310B, 310C has a corresponding inlet valve 316A, 316B, 316C (visible in FIGS. 5 and 6). FIG. 4 also shows a bottom view of the valve seat 308. The bottom of the valve seat 308 has three regions corresponding to the three pump partitions 310A, 310B, 310C. Each region has three fluid outlet holes 309A, 309B, 309C, valve stem retention holes 329A, 329B, 329C (FIG. 7) extending through the valve seat 308, and fluid inlet grooves 319A, 319B, 319C. Fluid inlet grooves 319 A, 319 B, 319 C do not extend through valve seat 308.

  5 and 6 show top and bottom views, respectively, of an exemplary septum assembly 310 of the foam pump 206. FIG. In some embodiments, the septum assembly comprises natural rubber, EPDM, silicone, silicone rubber, TPE, TPU, TPV, vinyl and the like. Septum assembly 310 includes three molded pump septums 310A, 310B, 310C, and three corresponding inlet valves 316A, 316B, 316C. The top of the septum assembly 310 acts as a sealing gasket. The upper portion of the septum assembly 310 has flat portions 310F, and each pump septum 310A, 310B, 310C has a gasket wall 327A, 327B, which encloses the respective valve 316A, 316B, 316C and the pump septum 310A, 310B, 310C, It has 327C. Gasket walls 327A, 327B, 327C prevent valve seat 308 (FIG. 4 and FIG. 4) to prevent air and fluid such as liquid soap or disinfectant from leaking out of the foam pump 206 at locations other than the pump outlet 350 (FIG. 3). Seal against the bottom of FIG. One-way inlet valves 316A, 316B, 316C pump air, liquid soap or disinfectant when the pump diaphragms 310A, 310B, 310C have a negative pressure (i.e. when the pump diaphragms 310A, 310B, 310C expand) One-way inlet valves 316A, 316B, 316C enter diaphragms 310A, 310B, 310C and when pump diaphragms 310A, 310B, 310C have a positive pressure (eg, when pump diaphragms 310A, 310B, 310C are compressed) Seals the inlet holes 321A, 321B, 321C. The one-way inlet valves 316A, 316B, 316C are formed with flexible tabs and are made of the same material as the septum assembly 310.

  FIG. 7 is a plan view of an exemplary valve seat 308 of the foam pump 206. The one-way liquid outlet valve 323A is shown as transparent to more clearly indicate the flow of liquid 331A from the liquid outlet hole 309A into the mixing chamber 325. One-way liquid outlet valve 323A includes valve stem 357A (FIG. 3) inserted into bore 329A to secure one-way liquid outlet valve 323A to valve seat 308. FIG. The one-way liquid outlet valve 323A is normally closed and prevents air or liquid from flowing back from the mixing chamber 325 through the air outlet hole 309A into the liquid pump diaphragm 310A. The one way liquid outlet valve 323 opens when the liquid pump septum 310A is compressed to pump fluid.

  Similarly, the one-way air outlet valves 323B, 323C are shown as transparent to more clearly indicate the flow of air 331B, 331C from the air outlet holes 309B, 309C into the mixing chamber 325. Each one-way air outlet valve 323B, 323C includes a valve stem 357B, 357C (FIG. 3) inserted into the corresponding hole 329B, 329C to secure the one-way air outlet valve to the valve seat 308. One-way air outlet valves 323B, 323C are normally closed to prevent air or liquid from flowing back from mixing chamber 325 through air outlet holes 323B, 323C into air pump bulkheads 310B, 310C. The one-way air outlet valves 323B, 323C open when the corresponding air pump partition 310B, 310C is compressed to pump air.

  The valve seat 308 also includes a flow direction control wall 308E. The flow direction control wall 308E is provided with a flow path that helps the mixing of liquid and air. In this aspect, the flow direction control wall 308E is curved and tangentially intersects liquid and air. In some embodiments, the flow direction control wall 308E is designed and arranged to cause air to intersect the liquid at a desired angle, such that, for example, the flow paths intersect at an angle of 120 °. In some embodiments, flow direction control wall 308E is positioned such that the two air flow paths intersect the liquid flow path at about 180 °. The cross-flow design may be different for different types of liquids, for example, high quality foam can be obtained by crossing the liquid soap with two air flow paths from the front (180 °) On the other hand, by crossing the air path tangentially with the liquid path, high quality foams for foamable disinfectants can be obtained.

  FIG. 8 is a bottom view of an exemplary valve seat 308 for the foam pump 206. The valve seat 308 includes three liquid outlet holes 309A passing through the valve seat 308, and a liquid outlet valve hole 329A holding a one-way liquid outlet valve 323A. The valve seat 308 also includes a liquid inlet groove 319A extending partially into the valve seat 308 to provide a fluid path from the one-way liquid inlet valve 316A to the interior of the liquid pump septum 310A. Further, valve seat 308 includes a first set of three air outlet holes 309B passing through valve seat 308, and a second set of three air outlet holes 309C passing through valve seat 308. Also, the valve seat 308 includes air inlet grooves 319B, 319C extending partially into the valve seat 308, and includes air outlet holes 329B, 329C and one way air inlet valves 316B, 316C for holding the one way air outlet valves 323B, 323C. To provide an air path from the air pump to the inside of the air pump partition 310B, 310C.

  FIG. 9 is a plan view of an exemplary septum assembly seat 312 for a foam pump 206 of an exemplary embodiment. Partition assembly seat 312 includes three receiving holes 313A, 313B, 313C, and three inlet holes 321A, 321B, 321C. A fluid inlet 352, which can be coupled to the liquid outlet of the container 102, is in fluid communication with the inlet hole 321A. Each receiving hole 313A, 313B, 313C is sized to receive the dividing wall 310A, 310B, 310C. Each inlet hole 321A, 321B, 321C extends through the septum assembly seat 312 so that either air, liquid soap, or disinfectant can enter one of the septums 310A, 310B, 310C.

  In some embodiments, the foam mixture has an air: liquid ratio of about 7: 1 to about 10: 1. In some embodiments, the air: liquid ratio is greater than 10: 1, and in some embodiments less than 7: 1.

  In some exemplary embodiments, a flow control valve (not shown) is disposed between the container 102 of effervescent liquid and the pump 206. The flow control valve can be used to adjust the liquid: air ratio. If a higher liquid: air ratio is desired, the flow control valve is set to a lower flow rate that will cause the liquid pump diaphragm 310A to run out of liquid. Conversely, to increase the liquid: air ratio, the flow control valve may be opened larger to allow more liquid to flow to the pump 206. In some embodiments, the liquid pump diaphragm 310A can have a different volume than the air pump diaphragms 310B, 310C to adjust the liquid: air ratio. In some embodiments, a sponge (not shown) is inserted into the fluid pump septum 310A to reduce the volume of the fluid pump septum 310A. Not only does the sponge (not shown) reduce the volume, but in some embodiments, the sponge slows the flow of liquid through the liquid pump diaphragm 310A. In some embodiments, a throttling valve that includes a small hole having a diameter smaller than the liquid inlet may be used to restrict fluid flow.

  FIG. 10A is a cross-sectional view taken along the line AA of FIGS. 5-9, showing the liquid pump portion of the foam pump 206. FIG. In operation, as indicated by reference numeral 350B, the liquid pump partition 310A moves downward to expand the pump chamber 1002, thereby opening the liquid inlet valve 316A, the liquid inlet 352, the inlet hole 321A, and the liquid inlet groove The liquid can be drawn into the pump chamber 1002 through 319A. As the pump chamber 1002 expands, the pump chamber 1002 is filled with a liquid, such as liquid soap or disinfectant. When the fluid pump septum 310A is compressed (ie, the fluid pump septum 310A moves in the direction indicated by reference numeral 350A), the liquid is pumped in the direction indicated by reference numeral 340A. The liquid travels into the mixing chamber 325 through the one-way liquid outlet valve 323A through the liquid outlet hole 309A. While the one way liquid outlet valve 323A is normally closed, the one way liquid outlet valve 323A opens due to the pressure generated by the compression of the liquid pump chamber 1002. One-way liquid outlet valve 323A prevents air or liquid from flowing back into liquid pump septum 310A via liquid outlet hole 309A. Subsequently, the liquid pump partition 310A begins to expand, opening the liquid inlet valve 316A, and the process of drawing liquid into the liquid pump chamber 1002 through the liquid inlet hole 321A and the liquid inlet groove 319A is started again. The operating cycle of the foam pump 206 includes the operation of pumping the liquid from the liquid pump partition 310A through the liquid outlet hole 309A, through the liquid outlet valve 323A, and into the mixing chamber 325 (FIG. 7) once (described below) As such, the operation of feeding air twice continues.

  10B and 10C are cross-sectional views taken along the lines B-B and C-C of FIGS. 5-9, respectively, showing the air pump portion of the foam pump 206. FIG. In operation, the air pump bulkheads 310B, 310C move downward to expand the air pump chambers 1004, 1006, as indicated by reference numeral 350B, thereby opening the air inlet valves 316B, 316C, and the air inlet holes 321B. , 321 C and air inlet grooves 319 B, 319 C allow air to be drawn into the pump chambers 1004, 1006. When the pump chambers 1004, 1006 are filled with air, the air pump partitions 310B, 310C are compressed (moving in the direction indicated by reference numeral 350A). Compression of the air pump bulkheads 310B, 310C pumps air in the direction indicated by reference numeral 340A. Air travels through the air outlet holes 309B, 309C, through the one-way air outlet valves 323B, 323C, into the mixing chamber 325, and mixes with the foamable liquid. While the one way air outlet valves 323B, 323C are normally closed, the one way air outlet valves 323B, 323C open due to the pressure created by the compression of the air pump chambers 1004,1006. The one-way air outlet valves 323B, 323C prevent air or liquid from flowing back through the air outlet holes 309B, 309C into the air pump partitions 310B, 310C. Thereafter, the air pump partition walls 310B and 310C start to expand and draw air into the air pump chambers 1004 and 1006 through the air inlet holes 321B and 321C and the air inlet grooves 319B and 319C by opening the air inlet valves 316B and 316C. Resume the process. The operation cycle of the foam pump 206 includes a single liquid pumping operation (as described above), followed by the air pump valve wall 310B, the air pump hole 309B, the air outlet valve 323B, and the mixing chamber 325 (see FIG. 7) Including an operation of feeding air once into the inside. Furthermore, the operation cycle of the foam pump 206 includes an operation of feeding air once into the mixing chamber 325 (FIG. 7) from the air pump partition 310C through the air outlet hole 309C and through the air outlet valve 323C.

  The septum 310A, 310B, 310C operates sequentially, and the sequence of operations includes one pumping of a liquid, such as, for example, a soap or a disinfectant, by each of the three pump partitions 310A, 310B, 310C. The operating sequence of the pump diaphragms 310A, 310B, 310C depends on the configuration of the oscillating plate 314 (FIG. 3). As shown in FIG. 3, each pump bulkhead 310A, 310B, 310C has a connector 311A, 311B, 311C, and the three pump bulkheads 310A, 310B, 310C are in three rocker plate links 314A, 314B, 314C. The three connectors 311A, 311B, and 311C are inserted into and coupled to the swing plate 314. The oscillating plate 314 is coupled to an eccentric oscillating plate actuator that causes the oscillating plate 314 to be corrugated. When the rocking plate 314 is waved, the rocking plate links 314A, 314B and 314C move up and down. The upward movement compresses the pump septum 310A, 310B, 310C, and the downward movement causes the pump septum 310A, 310B, 310C to expand. The configuration of the wobble plate 314 compresses one pump septum 310A, 310B, 310C at a time, thereby causing the pump diaphragms 310A, 310B, 310C to be sequentially pumped. The configuration of rocker plate 314 also expands one pump septum 310A, 310B, 310C at a time, thereby sequentially filling the pump septums 310A, 310B, 310C. In a typical series of operations, the liquid pump diaphragm 310A pumps one shot of liquid, followed by the air pump diaphragm 310B pumping one shot of air, and the series of operations is as follows: the air pump diaphragm 310C is the second shot Pump the air and finish. This series of operations may be repeated any number of times, depending on the desired required dose of foam. The air from air pump septum 310B, 310C mixes with either the liquid from the liquid pump septum 310A in the mixing chamber 325 (FIG. 7) or the disinfectant, thereby producing a foam mixture. The foam mixture exits the foam pump 206 via the pump outlet 350.

  FIG. 4 shows the flow path of liquid soap or disinfectant in an exploded view. As the liquid pump septum 310A expands, the liquid enters the foam pump 206 via a liquid inlet 352 indicated by reference numeral 330A. The liquid travels through the one-way inlet valve 316A of liquid through the hole 321A in the septum assembly seat 312, as indicated by reference numeral 330B. As indicated by reference numerals 330D and 330E, the inlet valve 316A is open and the liquid travels through the groove 319A into the liquid pump diaphragm 310A.

  The liquid pump septum 310A compresses the liquid and pumps the liquid through the liquid outlet hole 309A, through the one-way liquid outlet valve 323A, and into the mixing chamber 325 (FIG. 7), as indicated by reference numeral 340A. . The air follows a similar flow path at the air pump bulkheads 310B, 310C. As the air pump bulkheads 310B, 310C expand, air is drawn into the air inlet 424B and travels through the holes 321B, 321C (FIG. 9) in the bulkhead assembly seat 312, one-way air inlet valves 316B, 316C (FIG. 5). And 6), move in the grooves 319B, 319C at the bottom of the valve seat 308, and move in the air pump partition 310B, 310C. As the air pump bulkheads 310B, 310C compress, air is forced through the holes 309B, 309C, through the one-way air outlet valves 323B, 323C (FIG. 7) into the mixing chamber 325 where it mixes with the liquid. Generate a foam mixture. The foam mixture is dispensed through an outlet 350 indicated by reference numeral 304B.

  FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of another exemplary embodiment of a sequentially actuated multi-partition foam pump 1100. The sequentially operating multi-partition foam pump 1100 includes a motor 1112, a motor shaft 1113, a rocking plate 1110, a rocking plate pin 1127, an eccentric rocking plate driving device 1120, a liquid pump dividing wall 1106, and two air pump dividing walls 1108 (1 Only one), a mixing chamber 1130, and a pump outlet 1114. The motor 1112 drives the motor shaft 1113 to rotate the motor shaft 1113. The rotation of the motor shaft 1113 rotates the eccentric rocking plate drive unit 1120, and the rotation of the eccentric rocking plate drive unit 1120 moves the rocking plate pin 1127 along the circular path, whereby the rocking plate 1110 is corrugated. In some aspects, the rocker plate 1110 includes a ball (not shown) that rests in a socket (not shown) on the pump housing, and the rocker plate pin 1127 extends outwardly and an eccentric rocker plate actuator Coupled to 1120, move the pin along a circular path so that the rocking plate 1110 is corrugated. When the rocking plate 1110 is waved, the ends connected to the three pump partitions 1106 and 1108 move up and down, and the three pump partitions 1106 and 1108 are sequentially compressed. A series of operations of mixing pump 1100 includes a single infeed operation with each of the three pump partitions 1106, 1108. The liquid pump diaphragm 1106 is activated first during the operating cycle, followed by two air pump diaphragms 1108 in sequence.

  Similar to the previous embodiment, in operation, the liquid pump diaphragm 1106 expands and contracts to pump fluid, and the air pump diaphragm 1108 (only one is shown) expands and contracts to pump air. As the liquid pump septum 1106 expands, the liquid inlet valve 1105 is opened and a liquid such as, for example, soap or disinfectant can enter the liquid pump chamber 1124 through the liquid inlet 1102. As the air pump bulkhead 1108 expands, the air inlet valve 1107 (only one shown) opens and air can enter the air pump chamber 1126 (only one shown) through the air inlet 1104. The circular movement of the rocking plate pin 1127 causes the end of the rocking plate 1110 to be undulated continuously. Rubbing causes the liquid pump diaphragm to be compressed, the liquid outlet valve 1116 opens, and liquid flows into the mixing chamber 1130 through the liquid outlet hole 1122. Subsequently, one of the air pump partitions 1108 is compressed by the waved oscillating plate 1110, the air outlet valve 1118 is opened, and the air flows through the air outlet hole 1123 to the mixing chamber 1130. Next, the other air pump partition (not shown) compresses the air and pumps it into the mixing chamber 1130. The air and liquid soap or disinfectant are combined in the mixing chamber 1130 to form a foam mixture. The foam mixture exits mixing pump 1100 via pump outlet 1114.

  12-15 show exemplary aspects of refill unit 1200. FIG. FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a refill unit 1200 having a sequentially actuated multi-partition foam pump 1206, and FIG. 13 shows a plurality of partitions 1510A, 1510B and 1510C with the backplate 1214 removed. FIG. 13 is another perspective view of an exemplary refill unit 1200 shown. FIG. 13 is a rear elevation view of the refill unit 1200, and FIG. 15 is a rear elevation view of the refill unit 1200 showing the plurality of partition walls 1510A, 1510B, 1510C with the back plate 1214 removed. The refill unit 1200 connects to the foam dispenser 1600 (FIGS. 16, 17). The refill unit 1200 includes a container 1202, a foam pump 1206, an operating mechanism 1304 (FIG. 13), a foam cartridge 1210, and a nozzle 1212. Refill unit 1200 includes refilling of the foamable liquid. In various embodiments, the effervescent liquid contained is, for example, a soap, a disinfectant, a cleaner, a disinfectant, a lotion, and the like. Container 1202 is a collapsible container and can be made of a thin plastic or flexible bag-like material. In some embodiments, the container 1202 is an unfolded container formed by a rigid or semi-rigid housing member or any other suitable arrangement for containing a foamable liquid without leakage. In the case of a non-foldable container, it may include, for example, any of the vent systems of the patents / applications incorporated above.

  The foam pump 1206 is similar to the pump described above and includes a housing 1208, a liquid pump septum 1510A (FIG. 15), air pump septums 1510B, 1510C, and a mixing chamber (not shown). The liquid pump partition 1510 A and the air pump partitions 1510 B, 1510 C are disposed in the housing 1208. The liquid pump diaphragm 1510A receives liquid from the container 1202 through the liquid inlet 1552 and the liquid inlet hole 1509A, and the liquid pump diaphragm 1510A pumps the liquid into the mixing chamber. The air pump partitions 1510 B, 1501 C receive air through at least one air inlet (not shown) and air inlet holes 1509 B, 1509 C, and the air pump partitions 1510 B, 1510 C pump air into the mixing chamber. The liquid pump diaphragm 1510A and the air pump diaphragm 1510B are sequentially actuated by the actuation mechanism 1304 (FIG. 13). The operation cycle of the foam pump 1206 includes an operation of pumping a single liquid from the liquid pump partition 1510A into the mixing chamber 325, and an operation of pumping a single air from the air pump partitions 1510B and 1510C to the mixing chamber. The actuation cycle starts with one shot of liquid from liquid pump septum 1510A and continues with one shot of air from air pump septum 1510B and one shot of air from air pump septum 1510C. The liquid and air combine in the mixing chamber (not shown) to form a foam mixture, which passes through the foam cartridge 1210 and exits the foam pump 1206 via the outlet 1212. Dispensing foam typically requires one or more actuation cycles or rotations. In some aspects of the invention, the foam mixture has an air: liquid ratio of about 7: 1 to about 10: 1. In some embodiments, the air: liquid ratio is greater than 10: 1, and in some embodiments less than 7: 1.

  In some exemplary embodiments, a flow control valve (not shown) is disposed between the foamable liquid container 1202 and the pump 1206. The flow control valve can be used to adjust the liquid: air ratio. If a higher liquid: air ratio is desired, then the flow control valve is set to a lower flow ratio that will cause the liquid pump diaphragm 1510A to run out of liquid. Conversely, to increase the liquid: air ratio, the flow control valve may be opened wider to allow more liquid to flow to the pump 1206. In some embodiments, the liquid pump diaphragm 1510A may have a different volume than the air pump diaphragms 1510B, 1510C to adjust the liquid: air ratio. In some embodiments, a sponge (not shown) is inserted into liquid pump septum 1510A to reduce the volume of liquid pump septum 1510A. Not only does the sponge (not shown) reduce the volume, but in some embodiments, the sponge slows the flow of liquid through the liquid pump diaphragm 1510A.

  The foam pump 1206 may include some or all of any of the aspects described herein. Additionally, the foam pump 1206 may have more than one liquid pump septum and one or more air pump septums.

  The actuation mechanism 1304 (FIG. 13) removably connects to the drive system of the motor 1706 (FIG. 17) permanently attached to the foam dispenser 1600. The actuation mechanism 1304 is covered by the back plate 1214.

  In some aspects, the actuation mechanism 1304 does not include the oscillating plate 1405 but may include a disc (not shown) and one or more springs (not shown). The disc is connected to the liquid pump partition 1510A and the air pump partitions 1510B and 1510C. One or more springs bias the disc outwardly, thereby biasing the liquid pump septum 1510A and the air pump septum 1510B, 1510C to their extended position. The drive system (not shown) on the dispenser includes wheels that move around the circumference of the disc. The point of contact between the wheel and the disc pushes that part of the disc downwards. As the wheel rotates around its periphery, the wheel sequentially compresses the liquid pump bulkhead 1510A and the air pump bulkheads 1510B, 1510C. As the wheels move past the bulkheads 1510A, 1510B, 1510C, the bulkheads 1510A, 1510B, 1510C are urged towards the expanded position by the bulkhead material and one or more springs, so that they will draw in a fluid state. To expand. In some embodiments, no spring is required and the septum material alone is sufficient to bias the septum 1510A, 1510B, 1510C to their expanded position.

  The above-described embodiment is merely an example, and the actuating mechanism 1304 may be configured to sequentially operate the liquid pump diaphragm 1510A and the air pump diaphragms 1510B and 1510C of the foam pump 1206.

  FIG. 13 is a back view 1214 of an exemplary embodiment of a refill unit 1200 having the sequentially actuated multi-partition foam pump 1206 of FIG. 12 with a back plate. The back plate 1214 has a hole 1301. The refill unit 1200 is attached to the foam dispenser 1600 (FIG. 16) by connecting the mounting mechanism 1304 to the drive system of the motor 1706 through the holes 1301 in the back plate 1214.

  14 and 15 are views of an exemplary embodiment of a refill unit 1200 having a sequentially actuated multi-partition foam pump 1206 with the backplate 1214 removed. The operating mechanism 1304 includes a rocking plate 1405, a rocking plate connection link 1407, and a pin 1409. Each rocker plate link 1407 is connected to the pump partition 1510A, 1510B, 1510C. In this exemplary embodiment, pin 1409 of actuation mechanism 1304 removably connects actuation mechanism 1304 to eccentric drive system 1707 (FIGS. 17 and 18) of motor 1706. Referring to FIGS. 17 and 18, a portion of pump 1206 of refill unit 1200 is received within socket 1701 of foam dispenser 1600, and actuation mechanism 1304 is removably connected to eccentric drive system 1707. . An eccentric drive system 1707 is mounted on the shaft 1809 of the motor 1706. Pin 1409 of actuation mechanism 1304 removably engages eccentric drive system 1707, and pin 1409 engages notch 1811. In some aspects, the eccentric drive system 1707 is connected to the actuating mechanism 1304, is part of the refill unit 1200, and removably connects to the shaft 1809 of the motor 1706. The above aspects are merely exemplary. Refill unit 1200 and motor 1706 may be configured such that refill unit 1200 may be removably attached to motor 1706 and motor 1706 may operate foam pump 1206.

  Referring to FIGS. 14 and 15, the eccentric drive system 1707 (FIGS. 17 and 18) causes the oscillating plate 1405 to be waved to sequentially operate the liquid pump partition 1510A and the air pump partitions 1510B and 1510C. As the liquid pump diaphragm 1510A expands, liquid moves from the container 1202 through the liquid inlet 1552 and the liquid inlet hole 1509A into the liquid pump diaphragm 1510A. Liquid pump septum 1510A is in the fill position when filled with liquid. As the air pump partitions 1510B, 1510C expand, air travels through the air inlet holes 1509B, 1509C through at least one air inlet (not shown) into the respective air pump partitions 1510B, 1510C. The air pump partitions 1510 B, 1510 C are in the fill position when filled with air. A typical operating cycle includes a single liquid pumping operation from the liquid pump diaphragm 1510A, followed by a single air pumping operation from the air pump diaphragm 1510B, followed by one from the air pump diaphragm 1510C. Includes an air feed operation.

  In some embodiments, each pump septum 1510A, 1510B, 1510C has a volume of about 0.1-1.0 mL. Pump partitions 1510A, 1510B, 1510C pump liquid and air into a mixing chamber (not shown), and the liquid and air combine to form a foam mixture. The foam mixture passes through the foam cartridge 1210 to produce a concentrated foam, which exits the refill unit 1200 via the nozzle 1212. In some embodiments, liquid pump septum 1510A has a volume of about 0.1-1.0 mL.

  In some embodiments, the dose of foam dispensed by the foam dispenser comprises about 0.3 mL to about 7.0 mL of liquid. In some embodiments, the foam dose comprises about 3 to 10 revolutions, including about 3 to 7 revolutions per dispensing, including about 5 to 10 revolutions. In some embodiments, the foam dose is about 0.3 mL for high concentrations of light stone gravel. In some embodiments, the foam dose is about 7.0 mL of liquid for heavy soaps such as grease wash soaps.

  In some embodiments, the dispenser comprises about 3 V to about 5 V, about 4 V to about 6 V, about 4 V to about 8 V, about 6 V to about 9.5 V, about 3 V to about 10 V Operate with the voltage of

  In some embodiments, the pump dispenses a dose of foam for about 0.3 seconds to 2 seconds, including about 0.5 seconds to 1.5 seconds, including about 0.5 seconds to 1 second. To be continuous. In some embodiments, for example, a foam disinfectant having about 1.2 mL of liquid is dispensed, and the dispensing time is about 0.6 seconds. In some embodiments, for example, with light and heavy soaps having about 0.3 mL to about 7.0 mL of liquid, the dispensing time is within less than about 1.50 seconds.

  In some embodiments, the oscillating plate drive actuator rotates at about 120 to about 480 revolutions per minute.

  In some embodiments, there are multiple liquid pump partitions, such as, for example, two liquid pump partitions, three liquid pump partitions, four liquid pump partitions. In some embodiments, for example, two air pump partitions, three air pump partitions, four air pump partitions, five air pump partitions, six air pump partitions, seven air pump partitions, eight air pump partitions, etc. There are multiple air pump partitions. In some embodiments, the number of air pump septum to liquid pump septum is 1: 1, 2: 1, 3: 1, 4: 1, 5: 1, 6: 1, 7: 1, and 8: 1. is there.

  19A-19B, 20A-20B, and 21A-21E are various views of another exemplary embodiment of a sequentially actuated multi-partition foam pump 1900. FIG. The foam pump 1900 is connected to the foam cartridge housing 1902 and the container receiver 1904, and the foam cartridge housing 1902 is connected to the nozzle 1906. Foam pump 1900 includes housing 1908, septum assembly 1910, pump outlet 1912, and pump cover 1914. Partition assembly 1910 includes three pump partitions 1916a, 1916b, 1916c. The three pump partitions 1916a, 1916b, 1916c include one liquid pump partition 1916a and two air pump partitions 1916b, 1916c. The septum assembly 1910 is merely exemplary, and the septum assembly 1910 may include more than three pump septums. Additionally, the septum assembly may include one or more liquid pump septums and / or one or more air pump septums.

  A container (not shown) is connected to the container provided with a closure 1904 so that liquid can enter the liquid inlet 1918. In operation, as the liquid pump septum 1916a expands, liquid is drawn through the liquid flow path 1920, past the liquid inlet valve 1922a, and into the liquid pump septum 1916a. Similarly, as the air pump bulkheads 1916b, 1916c expand, air is drawn through the holes through the air inlet valves 1922b, 1916c and into the air pump bulkheads 1916b, 1916c, respectively. As the fluid pump septum 1916a compresses, fluid is forced out of the fluid pump septum 1916a, causing the wall of the fluid outlet valve 1923, which is normally closed due to the inherent resiliency of the member, to distort away from the side wall 1927. It flows into the mixing chamber 2132 (FIG. 21E). Similarly, as the air pump partition compresses, air is pushed out of the air pump partitions 1916 b, 1916 c, causing the wall of the liquid outlet valve 1923 to distort away from the side wall 1927 and air flows into the mixing chamber 2132. When the pressure from the liquid or air is removed, for example, when the liquid pump partition 1916a or the air pump partitions 1916b, 1916c expand, the liquid outlet valve 1923 seals against the side wall 1927 and the outlet nozzle 1906 to the partitions 1916a, 1916b. Close the 1916c.

  The liquid and air combine in the mixing chamber 2132 to form a foam mixture, which exits the pump outlet 1912. After the foam mixture exits the pump outlet 1912, the foam mixture travels through the foam cartridge 1924. In this particular embodiment, foam cartridge 1924 includes mesh 1926 a, 1926 b and sponge 1928. The foam cartridge 1924 includes various members, for example, the foam cartridge 1924 member may include one or more mesh 1926 and / or one or more sponges 1928. The foam exits the foam cartridge 1924 and is dispensed from the outlet nozzle 1906 as a concentrated foam.

  The pump bulkheads 1916a, 1916b, 1916c operate sequentially, and the operation of the pump bulkheads 1916a, 1916b, 1916c can use any of the forms described in the various embodiments of the foam pump described herein. In one aspect, the fluid pump septum 1916a is actuated first during the actuation cycle, followed by sequential actuation of the two air pump septums 1916b, 1916c.

  FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view of another exemplary embodiment of a sequentially actuated multi-partition foam pump 2200. The sequentially actuated multi-partition foam pump 2200 is driven by a motor 2212 having a motor shaft 2213. The foaming pump 2200 includes a rocking plate 2210, a rocking plate pin 2227, an eccentric rocking plate drive 2220, one liquid pump partition 2206, two air pump partitions 2208 (only one is shown), a mixing chamber 2230, liquid Inlet 2202, liquid inlet valve 2205, air pump chamber 2226, air inlet 2204, air inlet valve 2207, outlet valve 2216, mixing chamber 2230, and outlet 2214.

  The motor 2212 drives a motor shaft 2213, which causes the motor shaft 2213 to rotate. The rotation of the motor shaft 2213 rotates the eccentric rocking plate drive 2220, and the rotation of the eccentric rocking plate drive 2220 moves the rocking plate pin 2227 along a circular track, whereby the rocking plate 2210 is Wave. In some aspects, the rocker plate 2210 includes a ball (not shown) that rests on a socket (not shown) on the pump housing, and the rocker plate pin 2227 extends outwardly and the eccentric rocker plate actuator 2220 The actuator moves the pin along a circular path, thereby causing the wobble plate 2210 to squeeze. When the rocking plate 2210 is waved, the ends connected to the three pump partitions 2206 and 2208 move up and down, and the three pump partitions 2206 and 2208 are sequentially expanded and compressed.

  Expansion of the fluid pump septum 2206 opens the fluid inlet valve 2205 and draws fluid, such as soap or disinfectant, into the fluid pump chamber 2224 through the fluid inlet 2202. Expansion of the air pump septum 2208 (only one shown) opens the air inlet valve 2207 (only one shown) and draws air into the air pump chamber 2226 through the air inlet 2204 (only one shown). Compression of the liquid pump septum 2206 compresses the liquid pump chamber 2224, thereby distorting the outlet valve 2216 to open and causing liquid to flow into the mixing chamber 2230. As one of the air pump partitions 2208 compresses, the air pump chamber 2226 compresses, thereby causing the outlet valve 2216 to deflect away from the sidewall and allow air to flow into the mixing chamber 2230. Similarly, the second air pump partition pumps air into the mixing chamber. Air and liquid soap or disinfectant are mixed together in mixing chamber 2230 to form a foam mixture. The foam mixture travels through the foam cartridge 2232 and exits the foam pump 2200 via the pump outlet 2214.

  A series of operations of the foam pump 2200 includes one feeding operation by each of the three pump partitions 2206 and 2208. The liquid pump diaphragm 2206 is activated first during the operating cycle, followed by the sequential operation of the two air pump diaphragms 2208.

  FIG. 23 is an exploded view of another exemplary embodiment of a sequentially actuated multi-partition foam pump 2300. The foam pump 2300 is driven by a motor 2304. The foam pump 2300 includes a pump housing 2324, a swing plate 2314, a partition assembly seat 2312, a partition assembly 2310, a valve seat 2308, inlet valves 2323 a, 2323 b and 2323 c, a gasket 2306, and a cover 2348. The cover 2348 is attached to the valve seat 2308, the gasket 2306 is disposed between the cover 2348, and the gasket 2306 seals around the air inlet hole 2325, the liquid inlet 2352, and the foam outlet 2350 to prevent fluid leakage Do. The inlet valves 2323 a, 2323 b, 2323 c are fixed and installed on the valve seat 2308.

  The partition assembly 2310 includes three pump partitions 2311 a, 2311 b and 2311 c, and each of the pump partitions 2311 a, 2311 b and 2311 c has a connector 2315. The septum assembly 2310 is within the septum assembly seat 2312. The pump bulkheads 2311a, 2311b, 2311c are disposed in the receiving holes 2313a, 2313b, 2313c of the bulkhead assembly seat 2312 respectively, and the three connectors 2315 are inserted into the three respective swing plate links 2317, The connector 2315 is connected to the rocking plate 2314.

  The bottom of the valve seat 2308 has three cylindrical projections 2351 a, 2351 b, 2351 c corresponding to the three pump partitions 2311 a, 2311 b, 2311 c respectively. The three pump partitions 2311a, 2311b, 2311c fit snugly to the three cylindrical projections 2351a, 2351b, 2351c and perform the function of a one-way liquid outlet valve. When the pump diaphragms 2311a, 2311b and 2311c expand and the inside of the pump diaphragms 2311a, 2311b and 2311c becomes negative pressure, the pump diaphragms 2311a, 2311b and 2311c are formed on the walls of the cylindrical projections 2351a, 2351b and 2351c, respectively. Sealing is performed to prevent the flow of fluid from between the pump partition 2311a, 2311b, 2311c and the wall of the cylindrical projection 2351a, 2351b, 2351c into the pump partition 2311a, 2311b, 2311c. When the pump diaphragms 2311a, 2311b and 2311c are compressed and the pressure inside the pump diaphragms 2311a, 2311b and 2311c becomes positive, the pump diaphragms 2311a, 2311b and 2311c move away from the walls of the cylindrical projections 2351a, 2351b and 2351c, respectively. Fluid from the pump bulkheads 2311a, 2311b, 2311c. When the positive pressure ceases or falls below the cracking pressure of the pump bulkheads 2311a, 2311b, 2311c, the pump bulkheads 2311a, 2311b, 2311c return to their normal position and the walls of the cylindrical projections 2351a, 2351b, 2351c. Seal against. Furthermore, each cylindrical projection 2351a, 2351b, 2351c has a valve seat 2308 and one or more fluid inlet holes 2309a, 2309b, 2309c extending in the respective valve stem retaining holes 2329a, 2329b, 2329c.

  Similar to the embodiment described above, during operation, when the liquid pump diaphragm 2311a expands, a vacuum is generated, and the liquid passes through the liquid inlet 2352, through the fluid inlet port 2309a, through the fluid inlet valve 2323a, to the liquid pump It is drawn into the partition wall 2311a. Similarly, when the air pump partition 2311b, 2311c expands, air passes through the air inlet 2325, through the air inlet holes 2309b, 2309c, through the fluid inlet valves 2323b, 2323c, and into the air pump partition 2311b, 2311c. Be drawn.

  When the liquid pump partition 2311 a contracts and a positive pressure is generated in the partition 2111 and the positive pressure reaches a predetermined cracking pressure, the partition 2311 a distorts away from the cylindrical wall 2351 a, and the liquid enters the mixing chamber 2372. Flow. When the air pump partition walls 2311b and 2311c contract and positive pressure is generated and the positive pressure reaches a predetermined cracking pressure, the partition walls 2311b and 2311c are distorted away from the cylindrical walls 2351b and 2351c, respectively, and the air is mixed in the mixing chamber It flows into 2372. The air and the liquid mix together to form a foam mixture which is pushed out of the outlet 2350. The foam mixture may be dispensed as it is or may be further purified using foam cartridges, sponges, nets, baffles, etc, and combinations thereof (not shown).

  In some embodiments, the liquid pump diaphragm 2311a includes a sponge (not shown) that limits the amount of liquid that can be drawn in and expanded to produce different air: liquid mixing ratios. In some embodiments, a flow control valve (not shown) may be attached to the liquid inlet 2352 to control the flow of liquid to adjust the air: liquid ratio.

  The pump partition walls 2311 a, 2311 b and 2311 c are expanded and compressed by the movement of the rocking plate 2314. The shaft 2303 of the motor 2304 is connected to an eccentric oscillating plate drive 2326. The rocking plate pin 2327 is connected to the eccentric rocking plate driving device 2326 in a region shifted from the center line of the motor shaft 2303. When the rocking plate pin 2327 deviates from the motor shaft, the rocking plate pin 2327 is circularly moved, whereby the end of the rocking plate 2314 is sequentially waved. Rubbing sequentially compresses and expands the pump partition walls 2311a, 2311b, and 2311c, and pumps the liquid and air.

  Figures 24 and 25 illustrate another exemplary embodiment of a sequentially actuated multi-partition foam pump 2400. The foam pump 2400 includes a pump housing 2402, a liquid inlet valve 2528, three air inlet valves 2538 (only one is shown), a swing plate 2504, one liquid pump partition 2506, three air pump partitions 2508 (only one) (Not shown), mixing chamber 2510, and foam pump outlet 2412. The foam pump 2400 is connected to and in fluid communication with a foam cartridge housing 2514 that contains a foam cartridge 2516. Foam cartridge 2516 is in fluid communication with outlet nozzle 2518. Foam pump 2400 also includes a liquid inlet 2420 in fluid communication with a container (not shown) that holds the foamable liquid. The liquid inlet 2420 is coupled to the foam pump 2400 such that the foamable liquid is directed into the liquid pump septum 2506.

  FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a foam pump 2400, a liquid inlet housing 2422 upstream of the liquid pump septum 2506, and three air inlet areas 2424A upstream of and corresponding to the three air pump partitions 2508, 2424B and 2424C are shown. In some aspects of the pumps described herein, the plurality of pump chambers, eg, one liquid pump chamber and two or more air pump chambers, are formed by a shaped multi-chamber partition.

  The fluid pump portion includes a pump septum 2506, a fluid pump septum inlet 2526, a fluid inlet valve 2528, a fluid pump septum chamber 2530, a fluid pump septum outlet 2532, and an outlet valve 2534. In this aspect, the outlet valve 2534 is integrally formed with the liquid pump septum 2506 and the air pump septum 2508. Liquid pump septum 2506, liquid pump septum inlet 2526, liquid inlet valve 2528, liquid pump septum chamber 2530, liquid pump septum outlet 2532, and liquid outlet valve 2534 may use any of the forms described herein. Each pneumatic delivery portion includes an air pump septum 2508, an air pump septum inlet 2536, an air inlet valve 2538, an air pump septum chamber 2540, an air pump septum outlet 2542, and an outlet valve 2534. The outlet valve 2534 is a cylindrical member that deflects away from the sealing wall to allow air or liquid to flow into the mixing chamber when the pump diaphragm is under positive pressure. Air pump septum 2508, air pump septum inlet 2536, air inlet valve 2538, air pump septum chamber 2540, air pump septum outlet 2534, outlet valve 2544 may use any of the forms described herein.

  In operation, the liquid pump septum 2506 expands and contracts to pump fluid, and the three air pump partitions 2508 expand and contract to pump air. The expansion of the liquid pump septum 2506 causes the liquid inlet valve 2528 to open and draw liquid into the liquid pump septum chamber 2530 via the liquid inlet 2526. Expansion of each air pump partition 2508 opens the corresponding air inlet valve 2538 and draws air into the corresponding air pump partition 2540. Air enters each air pump bulkhead 2508 via a corresponding air inlet 2536 (only one shown). Rocker plate 2504 is connected to a motor (not shown) and may take any of the forms described herein. The motor sequentially undulates the end of the oscillating plate 2504. Rubbing compresses the liquid pump septum 2506 so that the outlet valve 2534 opens in liquid and liquid flows into the mixing chamber 2510. The outlet valve 2534 is made of a flexible material such as the same material as the pump diaphragm 2506, 2508, and in some cases, the pump diaphragm 2506, 2508 and the outlet valve 2534 are formed as one piece. The flexible material can keep the outlet valve 2534 closed during expansion of the fluid pump septum 2506 and when the fluid pump septum 2506 is in a filled state. Meanwhile, during compression of the liquid pump diaphragm 2506, the flexible material of the outlet valve 2534 opens and the liquid flows into the mixing chamber 2510.

  Thereafter, in one of the air pump partitions 2508, the rocking plate 2504 is waved and compressed to open the outlet valve 2534 and allow air to flow into the mixing chamber 2510. The flexible material can keep the outlet valve 2534 closed during expansion of the corresponding air pump septum 2508 and also when the air pump septum 2508 is in the filled state. On the other hand, like the liquid, during compression of the air pump septum 2508, the flexible material of the outlet valve 2534 opens and air enters the mixing chamber 2510. Similarly, the remaining air pump partitions 2508 sequentially compress and pump air into the mixing chamber 2510. Within the mixing chamber 2510, the air and liquid mix to form a foam mixture. The foam mixture exits foam pump 2400 via pump outlet 2412.

  As described above, the liquid is directly pumped from the liquid pump partition 2506 into the mixing chamber 2510. In other words, the liquid does not have to travel through an additional conduit or path after exiting the liquid pump diaphragm 2506 and before entering the mixing chamber 2510. In some embodiments, the shorter the distance between the liquid pump septum outlet 2532 and the mixing chamber 2510, the better the efficiency of the foam pump 2400.

  After the foam mixture exits the foam pump 2400, the foam mixture travels within the conduit 2546 of the foam cartridge housing 2514 and enters the foam cartridge 2516. The foam cartridge housing 2514 is a curved tube that guides the foam mixture to flow downward. The downward flow of the foam mixture improves the production efficiency of the foam mixture. However, the foam cartridge housing can adopt any form that allows the foam mixture to exit from the outlet nozzle 2518.

  In any of the above aspects, the dimensions of the liquid path relative to the air path may vary. In certain embodiments, the fluid path is about 20 to less than 40 times less than the air path. Also, in certain embodiments, the liquid inlet and / or outlet valves have a cracking pressure higher than the air inlet and / or outlet valves.

  Typical embodiments of the foam pump may be used in a dispenser of soap or disinfectant. The refill unit described herein comprises at least a container holding a liquid. The refill unit is removable from the dispenser and can be replaced with a new refill unit. In some embodiments, the foam pump is a permanent part of the dispenser, and the refill unit includes a container and a fitting that connect to a fitting (not shown) of the foam pump. In some embodiments, the refill unit includes a foam pump secured to the container, and the foam pump is removably connected to a drive unit such as a motor permanently secured to the dispenser. In some embodiments, the refill unit includes a container, a foam pump, and a motor. In some embodiments, the refill unit includes a power source, such as, for example, a battery.

  In some embodiments, the dispenser comprises a direct current (DC) power supply. In some embodiments, the power supply comprises about 5 to about 9 V, about 6 to about 8 V, about 3 V, about 4.5 V, about 6 V, about 7.5 V, about It contains 8V and contains 3-9V, including about 9V.

  In some embodiments, the dispenser includes about 1.9 to 2.5 mL / sec, includes about 1.9 mL / sec, includes about 2.0 mL / sec, and includes about 2.1 mL / sec. From about 1 mL / sec to about 2.5 mL / sec, including about 2.2 mL / sec, including about 2.3 mL / sec, including about 2.4 mL / sec, and including about 2.5 mL / sec. Dispense in foam volume.

  The conventional mechanical piston type foam pump required 1.8 J per 12 mL of dispensed foam, resulting in 0.15 J per mL of foam. The liquid volume was 0.9 and the air: liquid ratio was 11: 1. A typical pump configured according to one aspect of the present invention required only 0.6 J per 12 mL of dispensed foam, resulting in 0.05 J per mL of foam. The liquid volume was 0.5 and the air: liquid ratio was 24: 1.

  In some exemplary embodiments, the motor used to drive the foam pump contains about 0.6 to 1.5 J, about 0.5 to 1.3 J, per production of 12 mL foam. Including 0.0 to 1.3 J, including about 0.9 to 1.3 J, including about 0.5 J, including about 0.6 J, including about 0.7 J, including about 0.8 J, and It consumes 0.4 to 1.5 J, including 0.9 J, including about 1.0 J, including about 1.1 J, including about 1.2 J, and including about 1.3 J.

  In some embodiments, the foam production volume comprises about 100-120 mL, comprises about 80 mL, comprises about 90 mL, comprises about 100 mL, comprises about 110 mL, and comprises about 120 mL, about 60-130 mL Foam.

  In some embodiments, the foam production volume comprises about 0.08 g / L, comprises about 0.09 g / L, comprises about 0.1 g / L, comprises about 0.11 g / L, and It has a foam density of about 0.08 g to about 0.125 g / L, including about 0.12 g / L.

  In some embodiments, the foam pump is adapted to produce a foam having an air ratio of about 10: 1. In some embodiments, the foam pump is adapted to produce a foam having an air ratio of about 9: 1. In some embodiments, the foam pump is adapted to produce a foam having an air ratio of about 8: 1. In some embodiments, the foam pump is adapted to produce a foam having an air ratio of about 7: 1. The foam pump is adapted to produce a foam having an air ratio of about 6: 1.

  Although the above-described embodiments generally include a pump having one liquid pump chamber and a plurality of air chambers, in some embodiments, the pump has more than one liquid pump chamber. In some embodiments, the pump has two or more liquid pump chambers. In some embodiments, two or more liquid pump chambers pump two or more different liquids.

  FIG. 26 is a perspective view of an exemplary foam outlet nozzle 2600 providing an ultra-high volume of foam soap. In this exemplary embodiment, the outlet nozzle 2600 is connected to a four chamber sequentially actuated septum foam pump 2602 as described herein, but the outlet nozzle 2600 may be used with other pumps. The pump 2602 includes a liquid inlet 2604 and three air inlets 2624 (only two shown) and an outwardly diverging outlet nozzle 2650.

FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary foam outlet nozzle 2600 of FIG. Foam outlet nozzle 2600 includes a fluid inlet 2702. Fluid inlet 2702 receives liquid / air mixture from foam pump 2602. The fluid travels in the passageway and passes through the mixing medium 2704, which may be, for example, a mesh that creates turbulent flow in the mixture to produce foam. The foam mixture passes through a second mixing medium 2708, which may for example be a mesh. Although this exemplary embodiment includes two mixing media 2704, 2708, it has been found that only one mixing media 2708 provides high quality foam in the novel design of the outlet nozzle 2600. The foam mixture passes through a passage having an inner diameter 2720 and moves into a second passage having an inner diameter 2722. In some embodiments, the inner diameter 2720 and 2722 is about 0.2 inches to about 0.35 inches. The foam outlet nozzle 2600 includes a flared tip 2710. In some embodiments, the flared tip 2710 has an inner diameter of about 0.5 inches to about 0.7 inches. Further, it has been found that the length 2730 of the spout 2709 affects the quality of the foam produced through the foam outlet nozzle 2600. In some embodiments, the spout length 2730 is about 0.3 inches to about 1.25 inches. Typical embodiments of the foam outlet nozzle 2600 produce at least 0.04 g / cm ³ , at least 0.04 g / cm ³ , at least 0.03 g / cm ³ , and at least 0.02 g / cm ³ . The density of the foam. There is no limit of influence, and it is believed that the high foaming volume is due to the large diameter outlet 2709 and the flared tip 2710. The retention time traveling in the tube can not be too short, and the foam breaks.

  In some exemplary embodiments, the liquid cylinder (not shown) of the foam pump 2602 may be a foam pump 2602 such as, for example, an empty operation, a small diameter liquid septum, a throttling valve, a throttling inlet, a sponge disposed in the liquid septum. Use a mechanism to narrow down the incoming liquid flow. In some embodiments, depending on the alcohol type and surfactant type soap formulation concentration, the nozzle 2600 of the foam pump 2602 may vary in design. The larger diameter nozzle with a single mesh foams a non-foaming soap formulation such as alcohol or a soap with a non-ideal surfactant to produce a foam with large bubbles. Better foamable formulations, when combined with smaller nozzle diameters and double nets, can produce high volume foams with homogeneous small cells.

  The present invention is made explicit by the description of its embodiments, which are described in considerable detail, but it is to be limited in all respects to the appended claims and in any respect to them: It is not the intention of the applicant. Additional advantages and improvements will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art. Further, elements described in one aspect can be readily adapted for use in other aspects. As a result, the invention in its broader aspects is not limited to the specific details, representative devices, and representative examples presented and described. Accordingly, departures may be made from the details without departing from the spirit or scope of applicant's general inventive concept.

Claims (20)

Case,
A drive motor, and a foam pump operably coupled to the drive motor and fixed to the housing;
The foam pump is
Case,
A molded multi-chamber partition including one liquid pump chamber, two or more air pump chambers and one or more outlet valves, and a foamable liquid from the liquid pump chamber from each of the two or more air pump chambers A mixing chamber downstream of the one or more outlet valves for mixing with air;
A foam dispenser, comprising: a foam cartridge in fluid communication with the mixing chamber; and an outlet in fluid communication with the foam cartridge for dispensing foam.   The dispenser according to claim 1, wherein the shaped multi-chamber septum further comprises one fluid inlet valve and two or more air inlet valves.   The dispenser according to claim 1, further comprising a quick disconnect connector in fluid communication with the foam pump and connected to a connector of a refill unit.   The dispenser according to claim 1, further comprising a refill unit.   The dispenser according to claim 1, wherein the shaped multi-chamber septum comprises at least three air pump chambers.   The dispenser according to claim 1, further comprising a flow control valve that controls the flow of liquid to the liquid pump chamber.   The dispenser according to claim 1, wherein the liquid pump chamber pumps about 0.1 to about 1.0 mL of liquid volume at each dose of dispensed foam.   The dispenser according to claim 1, wherein the liquid pump chamber is compressed 5 to 15 times at each dispense of foam.   The dispenser according to claim 1, wherein the foam pump is adapted to produce a foam having an air: liquid ratio of about 6: 1 to about 8: 1.   The dispenser according to claim 1, further comprising a DC power supply, wherein the power supply has a voltage of about 3 to 8V.   The dispenser according to claim 1, further comprising a DC power supply, said power supply having a voltage of about 6V. The dispenser according to claim 1, wherein the motor consumes about 0.05 to about 0.125 J per 1 mL aliquot.   The dispenser according to claim 1, wherein the foam is dispensed at a rate of about 2.0 to 2.4 mL / sec. A container holding a foamable liquid,
A foam pump fixed to said container, comprising a housing and a formed multi-chamber partition comprising one liquid pump chamber and three air pump chambers;
Inlet valve,
Outlet valve,
A mixing chamber downstream of the outlet valve for mixing the foamable liquid from the liquid pump chamber with the air from each of the three air pump chambers,
A refill unit for a foam dispenser, comprising: a foam cartridge in fluid communication with the mixing chamber; and an outlet in fluid communication with the foam cartridge for dispensing foam.   The liquid pump further includes a plate connected to the liquid pump partition and the air pump partition, and movement of the plate causes at least a partial dose of liquid to be pumped into the mixing chamber, followed by at least a partial dose of the first air dose. Is pumped into the mixing chamber, and then at least a partial dose of the second air dose is pumped into the mixing chamber, and then at least a partial dose of the third air dose is pumped into the mixing chamber The refill unit according to claim 14. Dispenser case,
A foam pump fixed to the housing;
The foam pump is
Pump housing,
A molded multi-chamber septum comprising one liquid pump chamber and two or more air pump chambers;
A rotatable drive mechanism for sequentially compressing the liquid pump chamber and the two or more air pump chambers;
The rotatable drive mechanism is coupled to a drive motor,
A mixing chamber downstream of the liquid pump chamber and the air pump chamber for mixing the foamable liquid from the liquid pump chamber with air from each of the three air pump chambers;
A foam cartridge in fluid communication with the mixing chamber;
An outlet in fluid communication with the foam cartridge for dispensing foam;
Including, foam dispenser.   17. The foam dispenser of claim 16, wherein the foam pump is adapted to produce a foam density of about 0.08 to about 0.125 g / L.   17. The dispenser according to claim 16, wherein the foam pump is adapted to produce a foam having an air: liquid ratio of about 6: 1 to about 8: 1.   17. The dispenser according to claim 16, further comprising a DC power supply, said power supply having a voltage of about 3 to 8V.   17. The dispenser of claim 16, further comprising a motor, wherein the motor consumes about 0.6 to about 1.5 J per 1 mL dispense.

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