MXPA97008088A - Container of vacuum storage and dispensing - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a dispensing and storage container comprising: means for storing product to be dispensed, storage means having an upper end and a lower end, an upper closure fixed to an upper end of the storage means a lower closure fixed to the lower end of the storage means, wherein the lower closure further comprises: a lower chassis plate, the lower chassis plate is mounted within the lower closure, a collar molded integrally to an inner wall of the lower closure a support housing molded integrally to an inner wall of the lower closure: a rotary arrow, the arrow has a first end and a second end, the first end extends through the collar, the second end resides within the support housing; a handle attached to the first end of the arrow, a portion control container attached to the arrow, portion control vessel has an opening, a discharge valve cam knob fixed to the arrow, the cam knob activates a dump valve, and a vacuum line closure valve cam knob attached to the arrow, The cam knob activates the vacuum line closing valve, means to release and create a vacuum in the storage media, the upper closure and the lower closure, and means to remove the product from the storage media.

Description

VACUUM STORAGE CONTAINER AND DISPENSER FIELD OF THE INVENTION This invention relates generally to a vacuum storage container and dispenser for use with perishable goods, the manufacture of products and products, and more particularly for use with roasted coffee beans, to extend life in the market. 10 storage of the perishable article for several months, BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The conservation of food is achieved by controlling Jb and, where possible, destroying the agendas of putpcaon de ai imon o. The puff pcion of food is any organoleptic change, that is, any change of touch, visual, smell or taste, which the consumer considers to be an unacceptable departure from the normal state. The agents of the 2U pu + pc on of foodstuffs are present in abundance, not only within the years, but also in the environments where alirnen-ios grows, they are cured, processed and stored- These can include microorganisms -such as Bacteria and rnolde or a wide variety of chemical and physical factors., Particular importance is oxygen and moisture, which can degrade some products during a short period. They have invented a number of preservation techniques, including canning, dehydration, refrigeration, chemical additives and irradiation to stop the different types of food putri- tion. Ground coffee is a food product, for example, that is vacuum-packed in order to maintain freshness for the consumer assortment. "Obviously, however, the caí-e begins to lose its freshness at the moment in which it falls. The container is opened and the vacuum is lost in the surrounding atmosphere, which is usually wet to a substantial degree. Because of this, consumers demand whole grain coffee that can be ground into small portions before processing. However, the supply of whole-grain cappuccino to consumers at a retail sale is plagued with similar difficulties, since whole-grain coffee is susceptible to the gradual, but continuous, permeation of oxygen and moisture leading to rancidity of the product. The roasted whole grain coffee is now sold in what is commonly known in the industry as an atmo spheric storage container. These can include food containers from which a consumer removes coffee beans with the help of a shovel. (which may present hygiene problems), storage container that offer a spigot mechanism free flow in the bottom operated by a cam, or storage containers with a portion control device designed to dispense a red ermi amount of coffee beans. In general, these storage containers of c faith are designed to achieve a basic or e: tvo: make easy the dispensation of the product. Typically, a supermarket consumer selects the whole grain coffee from these storage containers, distributes the coffee beans in a coffee grinder, grinds the coffee, and then takes the ground coffee beans to his or her home for personal use. Unfortunately, these atmospheric storage vessels allow air and moisture to enter. When exposed to these elements, the roasted coffee beans quickly give off their aroma, freshness and different flavor. These containers can also be opened by the consumer and foreign objects are inserted to contaminate the product, as such, the consuming public does not always obtain fresh, pure coffee beans. A general object of the invention is to provide a moisture resistant container designed so that perishable items, such as coffee beans or other food products, can be retained within it, free of interaction with air and moisture, to preserve its f escura.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The present invention refers to a vertical or vertical cylinder that is filled with a perishable article or food product, such as a whole-grain coffee. The cylinder is held in a vacuum by a vacuum pump that is connected to the cylinder. cylinder by vacuum lines. After selecting the particular perishable item desired, the consumer rotates a handle or knob that opens a dispensing door. The handle, which is attached to a rotating arrow, causes the arrow to rotate thus by rotating a cam knob. The cam knob moves a valve, which also opens to the vacuum, allowing air to enter the cylinder, and allowing the vacuum to be released. Perishable items, such as coffee beans, flow through the dispensing door into the consumer's bag. With the help of an assist spring, the rotary arrow and dispensing door then return to a closed position - a sensor or pressure sensor notes the lack of vacuum and directs the pump to the vacuum of the vacuum conditions that turn to set to maintain the freshness of the product. In one aspect, the invention comprises means for storing, under reduced atmospheric pressure, a product to be distributed; means for removing a portion of the product from the storage medium; means for creating and maintaining a pressure difference within the storage medium; and means for temporarily removing the pressure difference during the removal or storage of the portion of the product The invention may further comprise means for detecting and recreating the pressure difference within the storage medium The invention may further comprise means for inhibiting selectively the operation of the remover means - In another aspect, the invention comprises a storage container and dispenser having a cylinder with an upper end and a lower end.An upper closure is attached to the upper end- and a lower closure to the lower end- Means are provided for releasing and creating a vacuum in the cylinder, top closure, and bottom closure to maintain the freshness of the perishable article.Another aspect still discloses a unit of merchandise for storing and distributing perishable items comprising a plurality of goods. Storage containers and dispensers Each container includes a cylinder which has an upper end and a lower end. An air-tight top closure seals to the upper end and a bottom air-tight closure to the lower end. Also, a means is provided for releasing and creating a pressure change within the containers The foregoing has broadly delineated the features and technical advantages of the present invention so that the detailed description of the invention will follow. Further features and advantages of the invention forming the subject of the claims of the invention will be described below.It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the described concept and specific modality can be used promptly as? basis for modifying or designing other structures to carry out the other purposes of the present invention; Also, those skilled in the art must realize that said equivalent constructions do not move away (Jel spirit and scope of the invention co o). they are established in Jas BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form a part of the specification, illustrate the embodiments of the present invention, and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention. In the drawings: FIG. it is a pictorial view of a merchandise unit illustrating the basic components of an apparatus (ie, the present invention; Figure 2 is a front view of the merchandise unit illustrated in Fig. 1, Fig. 3 is a side view; in the cross section of the merchandise unit illustrated in Fig. 1; Figure 4 is a rear view of the merchandise unit illustrated in Figure 5; Figure 5 is an exploded front view of a container of the present invention; Figure 6 is a left side view (Jel container illustrated in Figure 5, Figure 7fi is a top view of the container illustrated in Figure 5, Figure 7 is a bottom view of the container illustrated in Figure 5; S, Figure 8 is a transverse cross sectional view of a rotating shaft, vessel (portion control, valves and cams, and dispensing port of a modality of the present invention; cross section (ie a cylinder, lower closure, rotating arrow, control container, portion, and lower chassis plates of another embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 10 is a schematic block diagram (ie a vacuum system) OF THE PRESENT INVENTION It should be noted that the drawings illustrate only typical embodiments of the invention and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of their scope, since the invention will admit other equally effective modalities.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION This invention generally relates to an empty storage container and dispenser-pair-to be used with perishable items, particularly food products, and more particularly for use with roasted whole grain coffee, to extend shelf life. storage of the perishable item for several months.

Figure 1 shows a p ctical view of a merchandise unit 10 which illustrates the basic components of the apparatus of the present invention. The merchandise unit 10, which has a later-left wall HA, a right side wall 11B, a rear wall 11C, is preferably made of particle board with a laminated finish, such as wood, Formica,? another laminar high pressure. The merchandise unit 10 is about 1.22 to about 3.05 meters long, and about 0.61 to about 2. 44 inlets wide, and about 0.15 to about 0.61 meters deep. Near the bottom of the LO merchandise unit, there are a number of shelves 14 A, J4B and 14C. Whole grain and ground coffee packages can be placed on sale to the consumer and in the upper delivery of shelves 1 and 14B. The packages can be held in storage trays that have a spring to hold the packages close to the front of the unit for self-presentation. Shelf 14 C supports two coffee millers 12A and 12B (see figure 2), and a utility shelf 20. Coffee millers are models outside normal shelves, one of which is used to ingest grains (Fig. coffee without flavor and the other for flavored coffee beans The utility shelf has three compartments 16, 17 and IB The cornpartimen-t or 10 can hold smaller packages of whole grain and ground coffee presented in similar trays ernpujadoras The compartment 17, which has a hinged door, stores a vacuum pump and associated mechanical devices that will be described later.The company can be used to store empty bags where the consumer can add grains of fall or inoperative fe .. Near the upper part of the merchandise unit there are a number of containers with vacuum storage and dispensers 30 Hays with roasted whole brown coffee. To assist the consumer with their selection of coffee bean, the utility shelf 20 may have an interactive component 22 of the consumer. A spill tray (not shown) can be placed in the upper portion of the utility shelf 20 to trap misaligned coffee beans that do not fall into a consumer's bag when they are released from antifreezing containers. The merchandise unit, shelf, shelf and compartment can be manufactured from a variety of materials, such as wood, steel, aluminum, plastic and the like. In addition, the merchandise unit can be decorated and designed in many ways with the use of such materials as chrome, brass, wooden strips, wood laminates or advertising materials such as banners and exhibitions. The merchandise unit can have lighting mounted on the walls or shelves As also seen in the fi les 2 a, the merchandise unit 10 has a plurality of storage containers and dispensers 30 .. Each container can be filled with a type different from coffee beans, such as Brazilian coffee beans or Colombian coffee beans, or grains of flavored coffee, enough of a variety to attract the consumer's interest, since there is a type 5 grain per container 30 , the products remain separate and can be dispensed separately.In the preferred embodiment, 10 containers are shown, two rows of five containers each, in a merchandise unit of L.22 meters of an However, the number (Jo containers is not limited, since aspects of the present invention are as useful for a container as for hundreds of containers, the merchandise unit is very flexible in design. For example, an individual container for domestic use could be designed, as well as a double modular unit that has 20 containers for use industrial. Figure 4 also shows the arrangement of the lines to the vacuum LO, which will be discussed later, which leave the rear wall 11C of the merchandise unit 10. Now changing figures 5 and 6, an exploding front view is shown and? n left side view of? n container of the present invention ,. To begin, the invention comprises means for storing, under reduced atmospheric pressure, a product to be distributed. For example, the storage container and dispenser 30 comprises an elongated, hollow, transparent cylinder 32, a '? i: upper closure 40 and a lower closure 60. A dispensing nozzle 70, through which the coffee beans can flow, is fixed to the lower end of the container 30. The dispensing nozzle O is designed to make such length and meter that would be difficult, but it would be impossible for one to reach inside to interfere with the inner workings of the lower seal 60. The container 30 may also have means for diverting the product, such as a deviation tab. n 72 fixed to the dispensing nozzle 70"Ll cylinder 32 osta made of polycarbonate or seamless noise or acrylic plastic usually configured as a tube. It is important that the cylinder is made of a material that is impervious to the variety of flavors observed in the gourmet coffee products with great popularity. For example, oils used in flavored gourmet coffees, such as cinnamon, hazelnut and hazelnut flavors, tend to cause small cracks and breaks that develop over time on the plastics of coffee containers. and associated plastic machinery (a procedure called quartering). Accordingly, the cylinder 32 can be made of different types (such as tempered glass or non-acrylic plastics such as acrylic polypropylene butadiene styrene (ABS).) The elongated cylinder 32 will normally be around (Je 10.16 to about 30.48 centimeters in diameter, with a preference of 20.32 centimeters, and from around 25.4 to approximately 152.4 centimeters in height, preferably 76.2 to 01.44 centimeters. From then on, it can be seen that the cylinder 32 can be of any diameter and length, subject to a source of sufficient vacuum, the inside of the cylinder is somehow smooth and of a uniform diameter and the upper and lower delivery are preferably covered with air-tight seals 40 and 60. Alternatively, the storage medium may be any air-tight seal capable of supporting the product to be dispensed, such as a spherical, cylindrical, combo or rectangular seal, and may star made of a variety of materials suitable for the product being stored and the vacuum conditions desired. Also shown in Figures 5 and 6 is a handle or knob 38 which is a consumer used to activate the system. The handle 38 is curved and has several indentations to provide a tactile clamping surface. Since its dimensions can vary greatly, preferably the handle is about * 2.54 to about 7.52 centimeters long and about 1.27 to about 5.08 centimeters wide, and is located around 1.27 to about 2.54. centimeters from the outside (Jel bottom closure * 60. An inverted cone (not shown) is fixed to the lower enclosure 60 by two boards (not shown) and inside the cylinder 32. The inverted cone, with its tip pointing upwards, As a result, the coffee beans located on the center of the cylinder 32 are diverted to the sides for equal rotation of the product, as such, the coffee beans first added to the cylinder are first fed into the portion control container 80 for consumer use. An upper closure 40 is fixed to the upper end of the cylinder 32 having a cover or lid 42 that can be removed so that the coffee beans can be poured into the cylinder., the whole roasted coffee beans that were vacuum packed in bags in a coffee roasting plant can be opened and poured into the cylinder on site (cylinder, can be completely filled with grains (Je cafe or any small portion thereof A flat gasket or ring 44A will form a secure seal with the cover 42 and the top closure 40. In the operating or air gap, it is evident that the need for a locking cover is It has already eliminated that the vacuum locks the cover automatically, however, for additional safety, for example when the vacuum is turned off, a mechanism (lock) can lock the cover in place. Container 30 shows the handle 30, upper iron 40, cover 42 and ring 44. A lower closure is attached to the lower end of the cylinder 32 to which the dispensing nozzle 70 is fixed. The dispensing nozzle 70 can also be attached to the cover plate. chasi s lower 180B, If desired, a flat gasket or ring 44 B can form a secure seal with the dispensing nozzle 70 and the lower enclosure SO. The upper and lower fasteners 40 and 60 are cc-circumferenced by SOP and 50B dependent flange, arranged to use the upper and lower ends of the cylinder 32. A flat gasket or ring 6 and 6 B is disposed around the Internal circumference of the upper and lower fasteners, or more preferably, a gasket, which in the operative manner is placed on the edge of the cylinder 32 to form a secure seal. Of course, elastoine compounds are excellent choices for sollo or board material. They store elastic energy, adjust surface irregularities, and are resistant to many chemicals. Figure 7B shows a bottom view of the container 30 showing the handle 38, lower closure 60, dispensing nozzle 70 and ring 0 44B. The upper and lower closures 40 and 60 normally occur around 10.16 to about 30.48 centimeters in diameter, preferably 20.32 centimeters, and around G.08 to about 20.32 centimeters in height, preferably 12.7 centimeters. The upper and infencer closures are used inwards in the extrusions not connected to the cylinder 32 to a diameter less than the diameter of the cylinder, preferably to approximately 12.7 centimeters. The closures are molded by injection of plastic material. A vacuum line 00 fixed to the rear of the dispensing nozzle 70 of the container 30 in Figure 0, Co or described below is shown in connection with Figure 8, the line to the vacuum 00 is connected to an elbow piece. 91 found inside the dispensing nozzle 70 and bottom closure '60. Accordingly, each container 30, and s? Cylinder 32, where the perishable items are stored, is in fluid communication with the vacuum system of the present invention. Figure 0 is a cross-sectional view of an arrow, portion control container, valves and cams, and dispensing door of one embodiment of the present invention. The parts of the work, which will be discussed below, are mounted on a lower chassis plate 100B having vertical supports 182 and 184, which are contained within the lower closure * 60 of the container 30. Under the elongated cylinder 32 there is a tunnel upper 180A, As discussed below, coffee beans maintained in cylinder 32 can flow to tr-birds from an opening in the upper tunnel 180A on a portion control vessel 00, similarly, below and in attachment To the lower chassis plate 180B is the dispensing nozzle 70, As discussed below, the coffee grains held in the portion 80 control container can flow through an opening in the lower chassis plate. 180B in the dispensing nozzle 70. A main drive element of the merchandise system is an arrow or rotating shaft 100. The arrow may be aluminum pin, polycarbonate, polycarbonate filled with fiberglass, stainless steel, or other metals and materials appropriate for the conta. The rotating shaft 100 has a diameter of about 0.635 to about 1.27 centimeters and a length in some way longer than the diameter of the lower closure 60, preferably about 20.32 centimeters. An end 102 of the arrow is attached to the handle or knob 38, which the consumer uses to activate the system. The other end 104 of the arrow resides in a U-shaped reta seat or support housing (not shown) fixed or integrally molded to the inner wall of the lower closure 60. The handle can be glued, fitted with a rivet, screw , bolt, keyhole, or otherwise connected to end 102 of arrow 100, A collar 112, such as a mach ring 0 seal or cup seal, can be integrally fixed or molded to the inner wall of the bottom seal 60 to provide a seal wherein the end 102 of the arrow 100 leaves the closure for the handle. As discussed above, since the arrow 100 is longer than the lower closure 60, the arrow extends through the lower closure to provide an end 102 to which the handle 38 can be attached. arrow there is a dispensing portion or dispensing control conta 80, a return assist spring (not shown) a cam pin 122 for activating a discharge valve 120, a cam knob 132 for activating a valve of lclosure to vacuum 130. Arrow 100 is supported by two supports in l106 and 100 that maintain 1st L7 arrow in "true or straight" direction. A connector roll 140, which opens a dispensing door 150, is attached to the side of the portion control container 80. The dispensing container also comprises a means, such as a vacuum relief valve, to temporarily eliminate the pressure difference during the period of time. Removal or storage of the product from the storage medium. Discharge valve 120 is a vertical movement valve at the rear of the unit. The discharge valve has a valve stem 124, valve plate 125, valve seat 126 and a return spring 128. The valve stem, valve plate, and valve seat are all molded parts. The atmosphere is in fluid communication with the valve seat 126. The discharge valve is activated by a cam knob 122 on the main arrow 100. When the container * 30 is "closed", the valve stem 124 is discharged. is in a straight position. Since the valve plate 125 is "seated" in the upper part of the valve seat 126 no air is allowed in the container 30. As the consumer rotates the handle 38, which is attached to the extr-emo 102 of the arrow 100 in the dextrogram direction, the cam knob 122 pushes the valve stem 124 of the discharge valve 120, thus pulling the valve plate 125 from the valve seat 126, This "empties the vacuum" allowing air to enter the container 30, Without the discharge valve, the consumer would not have enough force to break and seal the vacuum of the container. If desired, such a feature can be used to prevent theft or unauthorized access to the contents of the storage container and dispenser 30, Co, or such, the dispensing container may further comprise a means to selectively inhibit the means for removing a portion of the product of the storage medium. For example, the valve 120 may be blocked from operating until allowed, perhaps as a result of a payment for the product.When the main arrow 100 returns to its closed position, the cam knob 122 stops pressing on the valve stem. 124, and the return spring 128 straightens the valve stem 124. This returns to seat the valve plate 125, and prevents additional air from entering the container 30. The container-dispenser also comprises a means for creating and maintaining a pressure difference. In the storage medium, for example, a vacuum line closing valve has a valve stem 134, valve plate 135, valve seat 136 and return spring 138. A vacuum line 90, for a piece of elbow 91, is in communication with the valve seat 136. The vacuum line shutoff valve is a compression type valve.When the container 30 is "closed", the valve plate 135 is not "seated". In the valve seat 136. As such, a vacuum can be created within the container 30. As the arrow 100 rotates in the direction of dextrorotatory, a cam knob 132 presses the valve plate 135 into the top of the valve seat 136, down over the opening of the piece, elbow 91. This seals or closes the vacuum line 90 so that a vacuum pump 160 does not rotate while the consumer is using the unit. When the main arrow 100 returns to the closed position, the valve plate 135 raises the valve seat 136, opening the line to vacuum 90. The pump 160 is turned on and the vacuum is re-created, a help spring return (not shown) is also fixed on the rotary shaft or shaft 100. This spring should assist the consumer by helping to close the dispensing door 150 and returning the main arrow LOO to the closed position when the consumer has concluded his purchase. A connecting roller or tension cable 140, such as a small steel wire, is connected to the dispensing door 150 at one end and to the portion control container 80 at the other end. The connector roller 140 pushes the dispensing door 150 open to allow the coffee beans to come out, and wing the dispensing door so that it closes as the arrow 100 returns to the closed position. In another embodiment, the connector roller 140 can be replaced by a chain. The dispensing door 150 must be completely closed to form a perfect seal to maintain vacuum conditions within the cylinder 32. As such, there may be a 0 ring seal (not tested) on which the door rests ( Thinking 150 when closed The dispensing door rotates along a "pivot point" defined by two hinge poles molded to the lower chassis plate 1001! In general, the dispensing means of the dispensing container may comprise a means to maintain a portion of the product, such as a control container. The portion, which has an opening and an opening in fluid communication therewith, and a means for moving the fastener means, such as a rotating arrow, from a feeding position, where the product enters the chamber through the opening, into a dispensing position, where the product leaves the chamber through the opening. serving or dispensing cup 80 is a "floating drum" on the main shaft 100 that can be a molded part or two or more pieces sonically welded together. Although the portion cont 80 container is illustrated as a cylinder or drum, it may also comprise a dispensing cup or cone that is not cylindrical. The portion control container has a small opening or slot 82, which, when in the closed or fed position, is closest to the upper tunnel 180A and the bottom of the cylinder 32, so that the whole grain coffee can fall through the opening in the upper tunnel 1B0A, through the opening of the portion control container 82, and 'in the portion control container. The portion control container 80 is designed to hold a The volume of the perishable article will be distributed, so that the size of the container will hold approximately 0.113 kg of whole grain coffee When the consumer rotates the handle 38 that is fixed to the end 102 of the arrow 100, which in turn is fixed to the portion control container 00, the container rotates in the direction of dextror to the lower chamfer plate 100B and to the dispensing nozzle 70, the small opening 82 of the portion control container 80 then be directly on the dispensing door now open 150 in a dispensing position, so that the previously measured amount of the perishable article can flow through the opening in the lower chassis plate 180B, through the dispensing nozzle 70, and in the Consumer's bag If desired, the unit can have a "clutch" built into the portion control container. As such, the main shaft 100 can rotate approximately fifteen degrees (15 ° C) before (it starts to rotate the portion control drum 80.) However, the valves 120 and 130 can be activated the dispensing door 150 can be opened immediately. A stop is attached to the upper part of the portion control container 80 near the opening 82. The stop aligns the opening 82 of the control portion vessel 80 with the opening in the upper tunnel 3 BOA for the closed position. , and aligns the opening 82 with the opening in the lower chassis plate 180B for the open position.The stop 84 also limits the rotation of the portion control container 80 to '.- ">; approximately one hundred and eighty degrees (180 ° C) "In alternative embodiments, the stop 84 may be fixed to the side of the portion control container 80 or to the arrow 100. In another embodiment, to prevent trapping of debris and grains between the ey. Container 80 of portion 80 and upper tunnel 100 and 180B lower chassis plate where it rotates, I can include a number of brushes, such as nylon brushes, to direct the grains of coffee in the control container of portion 80 »In In alternative embodiments, the metered dispensing system described above can be replaced by a spring-loaded swing gate or the like where the consumer controls the desired amount of product. Now changing figure 9, it shows? Na view in cylinder cross section 32, lower closure 60, rotary arrow 100, portion control container 80, and lower chassis plate 180B of another embodiment in the present invention »Pair-to observe with ease, valves, cams and dispensing door described above have been removed. He The cylinder 32 rests within a flange 50B of the lower closure 60. The cylinder is fixed to the lower ceiling with a silicone gasket. The portion control container 80 with s? opening 82 is fixed to rotating shaft 100. In addition, there is an upper tunnel 107 and a driving tunnel 186 near the upper part of lower closure 60 to facilitate the impulse of perishable items held inside cylinder 32, such as coffee beans, in the small opening 02 (Jel container (Je portion control 00. The rotary shaft 100 is supported by supports 106 and 108, which are part of the lower chassis plate 180B. lower chassis 180B has an opening or discharge door 190 to tr-poultry from which perishable items may exit from the inner closure 60; a ring 0 194 forms a seal between the lower chassis plate 180B and the closure lower 60, which are sustained together by a plurality of flat head screws 1 6, Several of the components of the storage container and dispenser 30 can be removed and disassembled for routine maintenance. With laß vacuum conditions released, the dispensing nozzle 70 and dispensing door 150 can be removed from the lower closure 60, Similarly, the handle 38 can be removed from the arrow 100, The screws 196 can be unscrewed from the lower chassis plate 180B, The plate of lower chassis, rotating arrow, portion control container, valves and cams can then be slid out from the bottom of the inward closing J or. In another modality, ol cylinder 32 and closing infepor 60 can have multiple chambers (Je mode que? Na amount The measurement of coffee beans can be transferred from a higher chamber to a lower chamber, from which it can be dispensed later. The upper and lower chambers can be maintained through the same or separate lines to the vacuum. In this modality (Jad, only a portion of the coffee beans are "at risk" of being exposed to oxygen thus cvnventing the customer malicious that the dispensing door 150 can sustainably hold with a stick or other article, in the open position Now, changing Figure 10, a schematic block diagram of the vacuum system of the present invention is shown. vacuum 90 is connected to the back of each container 30. To prevent cross-contamination of coffee flavors or aromas, there is an in-line check valve 164 per container.Retention valves 164 are one-way valves that do not they leave air in the containers 30 of the vacuum lines »The vacuum lines 90 of the front row of the 5 containers are joined with connectors T 98 to form an empty line 92, Of similar type, the Vacuum lines 90 of the rear row of the 5 containers are joined with connectors T 90 to form a vacuum line 94. After, the vacuum line of the front row 92 and the vacuum line of the rear row 94 are joined with a T 99 connector to form a vacuum line 96, which is in fluid communication with the vacuum pump 160, The frontal vacuum lines are "hidden" within a double bend (not shown) and branch off each individual container 30. The rear vacuum lines are "hidden" behind the rear wall 11C of the unit. As seen in Figure 4, the vacuum lines converge at the rear of the merchandise unit 10 to form a vacuum line 96 that is connected to a vacuum pump 160. For convenience, vacuum lines they can be secured to the rear wall 11C with safety locks. There is also a one-way check valve 165 placed between pressure switch 162 and the vacuum pump 160, to maintain the vacuum, the vacuum pump 160 can be any suitable reci rock or rotary pump to create a vacuum pump. empty in the container 30 »For example, the vacuum pump can be an oil-based reciprocating piston pump that can ignite to recreate the vacuum» lias preferably, a diaphragm pump will be used to create the vacuum »In general The dispensing container may comprise a means for detecting and recreating the pressure difference within the storage medium. For example, the vacuum pump 160 is connected to a pressure switch 162 which activates the "off" or "on" of the vacuum pump 160. When the pressure switch 162 detects a lack of vacuum or insufficient vacuum in the line at vacuum 96, it activates a switch, thus sending a signal that closes the solenoid purge valve 185 and activates the vacuum motor 170. The motor enc enc turns on, turning the pump to vacuum 160, which recreates the vacuum in the system. When the vacuum on the system reaches a pre-used level, the pressure switch L62 sends a signal that opens the solenoid purge valve 185, deactivates the motor 170, and turns off the pump to vacuum 160. It may be desired to measure * and display changes in air pressure with a mechanical pressure gauge 172. The simplest mechanical gauges that can be used are the gauge diaphragm, Bourdon gauge, and capacitance manometer. Of course, a variety of direct and indirect gauges can be used to measure the reduced pressures of the system to the particular vacuum being used. The difference of vacuum or pressure created within the storage medium, measured between the pressure inside the storage medium. and the pressure outside the storage medium, they should be in the scale of about 0 centimeters of the water column (i-lg) to approximately 76.2 centimeters of column 'Jo mercurio (Hy), and preferably around from 25.4 to 33.02 centimeters of mercury column (Hg). The vacuum pump 160, sample calibrator 172, engine 170, pressure switch 162, and solenoid 105 are concealed, enclosed within the compartment 17 of the utility shelf 20 »If desired, the compartment 17 can be covered or covered with materials that reduce noise »Typically, the vacuum motor 170 and the vacuum pump 160 are contained within a unit. It is contemplated that the vacuum pump 160 may vary in intensity in accordance with the wishes of the owner of the container, and, like the switch 162, may be purchased as an article off the shelf. The alternating current (A / C) source 174 is a normal electrical current through an energy band. In another aspect of this invention, an interactive consumer component 22 is provided, which can be fixed on or inside the compartment door. 17, which helps the consumer in his selection (ie coffee beans) In one embodiment, the interactive consumer component 22 comprises a screen with push pads or push buttons and selective dialogue, similar to the components of a computer machine. -a automatic.In another modality, component 22 may also include a digital voice device that can provide a short, educationally descriptive recording, which concerns the particular coffee bean or selected coffee blend, be it flavor coffee, unmixed varieties, or mozzied varieties. In the use of this invention, the cover or lid 42 in the top closure 40 removes and the perishable article is poured into the cylinder 32. The cover 42 is replaced and the cylinder is then kept under vacuum by pump 160 which it is connected to the cylinder by the vacuum lines 90, 92 or 94 and 96. After selecting the particular perishable article desired, the consumer rotates a knob 38 that opens the dispensing door 150. This knob, which is fixed to the rotary arrow 100 , causes the arrow to rotate, and thus the cam knob 122 rotates. The cam knob moves the discharge valve L20, which opens the vacuum, allowing it to enter cylinder 32, and allowing the vacuum to be released. The perishable article, such as coffee beans, flows through the dispensing nozzle 70 into the consumer's bag. With the assistance of a help spring 114, the rotary shaft 100 and dispensing door 150 return to a closed position. A pressure switch 162 notices the lack of vacuum and triggers the pump to vacuum 160, so that vacuum conditions are recreated to maintain the freshness of the perishable article. With this construction, a vacuum is maintained so that no exhaust air makes contact with the perishable article that causes its deterioration and no foreign matter makes contact with the perishable article. Although the device has been described particularly for ußarße with roasted whole grain coffee, it is evident that the vacuum storage container and dispenser can be used for a variety of food products or perishable items where long storage life is desired. As such, the invention is capable of wide application and readily adapts to other fields, uses and applications. Also note that some situations may require an increase in pressure, and in that situation, the principles of this invention can be used. Although the present invention and its advantages have been described in detail, it is to be understood that various changes, substitutions and alterations can be made therein away from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims (1)

1. NOVELTY OF THE INVENTION CLAIMS 1. - A dispensing container, comprising at least one means for storing *, under reduced atmospheric pressure, the product to be dispensed; means, controlled by a user, to remove a portion of said product from said storage means; means for creating and maintaining a pressure difference within said storage means, said measured difference between the pressure within said storage means and the pressure outside said storage means; and means for temporarily eliminating said pressure difference during the removal of said portion of said product "2" - The container * according to claim 1, further characterized in that it comprises: means for detecting said pressure difference within said container; storage medium. 3. The container * according to claim 1, further characterized by understanding: means for recreating said pressure difference within said storage means. 4. The container according to claim 2, further characterized in that I understand means, controlled by said detection means, to recreate said pressure difference within said storage means » 5. - The container according to claim 1, further comprising: means for selectively inhibiting the operation said blunt or medium. 6, - The container according to claim 1, further characterized in that said storage means comprises a cylinder,? . - The holder according to claim 1, further characterized in that said remover means comprises: means for supporting a portion of said product, said fastening means having a chamber and an opening, said opening in fluid communication with said chamber; and means for moving said fastener means from a feeding position, wherein said product enters said aber- tora, to a dispensing position, wherein said product exits said opening. claim 1, further characterized in that said means for creating and maintaining a vacuum pump communicates in fluid communication with said storage means »9» - The container according to claim 1, further characterized in that said means of temporary removal it comprises a discharge valve 10. The container according to claim 2, further characterized in that said detector means comprises a pressure switch. 11, The container according to claim 1, further characterized in that said pressure difference is from about 0 centimeters of mercury column to about 76.2 centimeters of mercury column, 12"- The container according to claim 1 , further characterized in that said pressure difference is about 25.4 centimeters of mercury column at approximately 33. 02 centimeter of mercury column, 13.- The container according to claim 7, further characterized because said moving means comprises a rotating arrow. 14. A storage container and ispenser which comprises: means for storing product to be dispensed, said storage means having a upper end and a lower outer row *; a top closure fixed to said upper end of said storage means; an inner closure * fixed to said lower third oar of said storage node; means for releasing and creating a vacuum in said storage means, said upper closure, and said lower closure; and means for removing * said product from said means of storage "15" »- The storage and dispensing container according to claim 14, further characterized in that it comprises: a dispensing nozzle fixed to said lower closure. 16. The storage container and dispenser according to claim 15, further characterized in that it comprises: means for diverting said product, said deflection means fixed to said dispensing nozzle. 17. The storage container and dispenser according to claim 14, further characterized in that said storage means comprises a cylinder 10. The storage container and dispenser according to claim 14, further characterized by that said storage means comprises an elongated, hollow, transparent tube made of seamless extruded polycarbonate 19. The storage and dispensing container according to claim 14, further characterized in that said upper closure comprises a removable cover. 20"- The storage container and dispenser- according to claim 14, further characterized in that said lower closure comprises: a lower chassis plate, said lower chassis plate being mounted within the lower closure; a collar molded integrally to an inner wall of the lower closure; A support housing integrally molded to an inner wall of the lower closure; a rotating arrow, said arrow having a first end and a second end, said first end extending through said collar, said second ex-pad residing inside said housing (Je support; a handle fixed to said extreme end of said arrow; a portion control vessel attached to said arrow, said portion control vessel having an ture; a discharge valve cam knob affixed to said arrow, said cam knob which activates a cam; discharge valve, and a vacuum valve cam cam lock knob attached to said arrow, said cam knob activates said shutoff valve (Je line to vacuum »21.- The container storage and dispenser according to claim 14, further characterized in that said means for releasing and creating empty comprises: a line to the vacuum fixed to said bottom closure, and a vacuum pump in fluid communication with said line to the vacuum, 22. A container resistant to storage to store and dispose of perishable items, comprising a vertical storage cylinder filled with a perishable article, said cylinder being held under a vacuum by a vacuum pump. connected to said cylinder by vacuum lines; means for releasing said vacuum before dispensing said perishable article from said storage cylinder; and means for recreating said vacuum after dispensing said perishable article from said storage cylinder "23. - A storage container for storing to store and dispense perishable items, comprising: a vertical storage cylinder that is filled with a perishable article, said cylinder being kept under a vacuum by a vacuum pump connected to said cylinder by lines to the void; means for releasing said vacuum before dispensing said perishable article from said storage cylinder; and means for recreating said vacuum after dispensing said perishable article from said storage cylinder. 24. The container resistant to wetting of form with claim 23, further characterized in that said means for releasing said vacuum comprises a vacuum line closing valve in fluid communication with said lines in vacuum. 25. The container resistant to wetting in accordance with claim 23, further characterized in that said means for recreating said vacuum comprises a pressure switch in fluid communication with said vacuum pump, said pressure switch being able to turn on or off said vacuum pump in response to the absence or presence d? said emptiness. 26.- A unit of merchandise for storing and dispensing perishable items, comprising: a plurality of storage containers and dispensers, said containers comprising a cylinder having an upper end and a lower end, an upper seal airtight at air fixed to said upper end of said cylinder, and a lower air tight seal fixed to said lower end of said cylinder; and means for releasing and creating a negative pressure within said containers. "27" - The merchandise unit according to claim 26, further characterized in that it comprises an interactive component of consumption to assist the consumer in the selection of the perishable items. .