Seasoning dispensing device

Abstract

In one aspect, a condiment dispensing device for dispensing a condiment from a condiment container is disclosed. The condiment dispensing device includes a housing configured to surround at least a portion of the condiment container when the condiment dispensing device is installed within the housing. A dispensing port extends from the condiment dispensing device to dispense the condiment from the condiment dispensing device. A pump is provided within the housing to push the condiment into the dispensing port and out of the condiment dispensing device. The condiment dispensing device further includes a substantially continuous flow path having an inlet configured to mate with the condiment container and an outlet present within the dispensing port to dispense the condiment. The substantially continuous flow path is installed as a single member from the inlet to the outlet and extends through the pump.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 056,138, filed July 24, 2020, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 068,619, filed August 21, 2020, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 135,120, filed January 8, 2021, all of which are incorporated by reference in their entirety. [Technical Field]

[0002] The present disclosure relates to fluid dispensing devices, and more particularly to non-contact condiment dispensing devices. [Background technology]

[0003] Restaurants often provide customers with one or more condiments for their food. Examples of these condiments include ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, and barbecue sauce. Restaurants provide condiments to customers in a variety of forms. Some restaurants provide individual condiment packets, each containing a small amount of the condiment. Restaurants may stock bins containing multiple such condiment packets for customers to pick up and spread on their food. Some restaurants may provide large containers of condiments and a hand pump that customers use to dispense the condiments for use in their dishes.

[0004] The use of condiment packs and hand pump solutions increases the risk of germs, bacteria, and disease transmission because customers come into contact with items, such as condiment packs or hand pumps, that have been touched by other customers. Thus, the above solutions for providing condiments to customers can facilitate the transfer of germs and bacteria between customers. This is particularly problematic in restaurants, where customers eat immediately after applying condiments to their food and then bring their hands close to their mouths.

[0005] Providing a contactless condiment dispensing solution is challenging because condiments must be dispensed to customers in a manner that is safe for human consumption. The condiments must engage food-safe components, and the dispensing device must be easily cleanable to prevent contamination. Many existing condiment dispensing devices include several components that flow as the condiment is dispensed to the user. During assembly of these components, bacteria or other contamination can inadvertently be introduced into the fluid flow path at the joints between these components. Another drawback of existing condiment dispensing devices is that installation of the condiment containers is often cumbersome and difficult due to the size and / or bulky nature of the condiment containers.

[0006] Other non-contact fluid dispensing devices, such as soap dispensing devices, are not designed for use with food and are not food-safe. Specifically, non-contact soap dispensing devices are typically designed to be refilled and not require periodic cleaning. Therefore, non-contact soap dispensing devices are not designed to mitigate contamination and be easily disassembled for cleaning, as is required for food products. Furthermore, compared to various condiments, soap fluid products are often uniform throughout, have low viscosity, and contain fewer particles within the fluid. Furthermore, each condiment has different viscosity and fluid properties, making it difficult to dispense the condiments in a controlled manner. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] 1 is a front perspective view of a seasoning dispensing device according to a first embodiment, as viewed from above; [Figure 2] 2 is a perspective view seen from above showing the seasoning dispensing device of FIG. 1 with the lid removed from the container of the seasoning dispensing device. FIG. [Figure 3] 2 is a perspective view of the condiment dispensing device of FIG. 1 as seen from below the upper portion thereof. FIG. [Figure 4] 2 is a perspective view from below of the lid of the condiment dispensing device of FIG. 1 with the bottom cover partially removed. FIG. [Figure 5] 2 is a perspective view from under the lid of the condiment dispensing device of FIG. 1 with the bottom cover completely removed. FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of the condiment dispensing device of FIG. 1 shown with a charging cable. [Figure 7A] FIG. 10 is a front perspective view of a seasoning dispensing device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 7B] FIG. 7B is a front perspective view of the condiment dispensing device of FIG. 7A shown with the front cover removed. [Figure 8] FIG. 7B is an exploded perspective view of the seasoning dispensing device of FIG. 7A. [Figure 9A] FIG. 7B is a front view of the seasoning dispensing device of FIG. 7A. [Figure 9B] FIG. 7B is a side view of the seasoning dispensing device of FIG. 7A. [Figure 9C] 9A is a cross-sectional view of the condiment dispensing device of FIG. 7A taken along line CC of FIG. 9A. [Figure 9D] 9A is a cross-sectional view of the condiment dispensing device of FIG. 7A taken along line DD of FIG. 9A. [Figure 9E] FIG. 7B is a partially see-through front view of the condiment dispensing device of FIG. 7A. [Figure 10A] FIG. 7B is a front perspective view of a portion of the condiment dispensing device of FIG. 7A shown without the front cover. [Figure 10B] FIG. 10B is a front perspective view similar to FIG. 10A with the pump cover and tubing removed. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a front perspective view of a seasoning dispensing device according to a third embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective view of the seasoning dispensing device of FIG. 11. [Figure 13A] FIG. 12 is a front view of the seasoning dispensing device of FIG. [Figure 13B] FIG. 12 is a right side view of the seasoning dispensing device of FIG. 11. [Figure 13C] 13B is a cross-sectional view of the condiment dispensing device of FIG. 11 taken along line CC of FIG. 13A. [Figure 13D] 13B is a cross-sectional view of the condiment dispensing device of FIG. 11 taken along line DD of FIG. 13A. [Figure 13E] FIG. 12 is a partially see-through front view of the seasoning dispensing device of FIG. 11. [Figure 13F]FIG. 12 is a left side view of the seasoning dispensing device of FIG. 11. [Figure 14A] 12 is a perspective view of the pouch punching device of the seasoning dispensing device of FIG. 11 as seen from above. FIG. [Figure 14B] FIG. 12 is a plan view of the pouch punching device of the seasoning dispensing device of FIG. 11. [Figure 14C] 14C is a cross-sectional view of the pouch punching device of FIG. 14A taken along line 14C-14C of FIG. 14B. [Figure 14D] FIG. 14B is a side view of the pouch punching device of FIG. 14A. [Figure 14E] FIG. 14B is a front elevational view of the pouch punching device of FIG. 14A. [Figure 15] FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective view of the modified seasoning dispensing device of FIG. 11. [Figure 16A] FIG. 16 is a front view of the seasoning dispensing device of FIG. 15. [Figure 16B] FIG. 16 is a right side view of the seasoning dispensing device of FIG. 15. [Figure 16C] 16B is a cross-sectional view of the condiment dispensing device of FIG. 15 taken along line CC of FIG. 16A. [Figure 16D] 16B is a cross-sectional view of the condiment dispensing device of FIG. 15 taken along line DD of FIG. 16A. [Figure 16E] FIG. 16 is a partially see-through front view of the seasoning dispensing device of FIG. 15. [Figure 17A] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a seasoning dispensing device according to a fourth embodiment, as seen from above. [Figure 17B] FIG. 17B is a front perspective view of the lid and pouch carrier of the condiment dispensing device of FIG. 17A. [Figure 17C] FIG. 17B is a rear perspective view of the lid and pouch carrier of the condiment dispensing device of FIG. 17A. [Figure 17D] FIG. 17B is an exploded perspective view of the lid and pouch carrier of the condiment dispensing device of FIG. 17A. [Figure 17E] 17B is a front elevational view of a lid, a pouch carrier, and a condiment pouch inserted into a container of the condiment dispensing device of FIG. 17A. FIG. [Figure 18A] FIG. 17B is a top perspective view of the lid of the condiment dispensing device of FIG. 17A. [Figure 18B]FIG. 17B is a front elevational view of the lid of the condiment dispensing device of FIG. 17A. [Figure 18C] FIG. 17B is a right side elevational view of the lid of the condiment dispensing device of FIG. 17A. [Figure 18D] 18D is a cross-sectional view of the lid of FIG. 18A taken along line 18D-18D of FIG. 18B. [Figure 19A] FIG. 18B is a top perspective view of the bottom cover of the lid of FIG. 18A. [Figure 19B] FIG. 18B is a bottom view of the bottom cover of the lid of FIG. 18A. [Figure 20A] FIG. 17B is a top perspective view of the lid of the seasoning dispensing device of FIG. 17A according to the second embodiment. [Figure 20B] FIG. 17B is a front view of the lid of the condiment dispensing device of FIG. 17A according to the second embodiment. [Figure 20C] FIG. 17B is a right side view of the lid of the condiment dispensing device of FIG. 17A according to the second embodiment. [Figure 20D] 20D is a cross-sectional view of the lid of FIG. 20A taken along line 20D-20D of FIG. 20B. [Figure 21A] 17B is a perspective view of the condiment dispensing device of FIG. 17A, seen from below, of a tube support member. FIG. [Figure 21B] 17B is a bottom view of the tube support member of the condiment dispensing device of FIG. 17A. FIG. [Figure 21C] 17B is a plan view of the tube support member of the condiment dispensing device of FIG. 17A. FIG. [Figure 21D] FIG. 17B is a right side view of the tube support member of the condiment dispensing device of FIG. 17A. [Figure 22A] 17B is a front perspective view of a front portion of the pouch carrier of the condiment dispensing device of FIG. 17A. FIG. [Figure 22B] 17B is a plan view of the front portion of the pouch carrier of the condiment dispensing device of FIG. 17A. FIG. [Figure 22C] FIG. 17B is a front view of the front portion of the pouch carrier of the condiment dispensing device of FIG. 17A. [Figure 22D] FIG. 17B is a right side view of the front portion of the pouch carrier of the condiment dispensing device of FIG. 17A. [Figure 23A] FIG. 17B is a front perspective view of a rear portion of the pouch carrier of the condiment dispensing device of FIG. 17A. [Figure 23B]17B is a plan view of the rear portion of the pouch carrier of the condiment dispensing device of FIG. 17A. FIG. [Figure 23C] FIG. 17B is a front view of the rear portion of the pouch carrier of the condiment dispensing device of FIG. 17A. [Figure 23D] FIG. 17B is a right side view of the rear portion of the pouch carrier of the condiment dispensing device of FIG. 17A. [Figure 23E] FIG. 17B is a rear view of the rear portion of the pouch carrier of the condiment dispensing device of FIG. 17A. [Figure 24A] 17B is a perspective view of the pouch punching device of the seasoning dispensing device of FIG. 17A as seen from below. FIG. [Figure 24B] 17B is a bottom view of the pouch punching device of the condiment dispensing device of FIG. 17A. [Figure 24C] FIG. 17B is a left side view of the pouch punching device of the seasoning dispensing device of FIG. 17A. [Figure 24D] FIG. 17B is a rear view of the pouch punching device of the seasoning dispensing device of FIG. 17A. [Figure 25] AH shows the step of placing a condiment pouch into condiment dispensing container 400 of FIG. 17A for use. [Figure 26A] FIG. 17B is a top perspective view of a pouch punching device of the condiment dispensing device of FIG. 17A according to another embodiment. [Figure 26B] 17B is a perspective view from below of a pouch punching device of the condiment dispensing device of FIG. 17A according to another embodiment. FIG. [Figure 26C] FIG. 17B is a plan view of a pouch punching device of the condiment dispensing device of FIG. 17A according to another embodiment. [Figure 26D] FIG. 17B is a side view of a pouch punching device of the condiment dispensing device of FIG. 17A according to another embodiment. [Figure 26E] FIG. 17B is a bottom view of the pouch punching device of the condiment dispensing device of FIG. 17A according to another embodiment.

[0008] Elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and are not necessarily drawn to scale or to include all features, options, or accessories. For example, the dimensions and / or relative positions of some elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help improve understanding of various embodiments of the present invention. Also, common but well-understood elements that are useful or necessary in commercially feasible embodiments are often not drawn so as to not obscure too much the view of these various embodiments of the present invention. While certain acts and / or steps may be described or depicted in a particular order of occurrence, those skilled in the art will understand that such specificity with respect to order is not actually required. Terms and phrases used herein have the ordinary technical meanings that would be ascribed to such terms and phrases by those skilled in the art, unless a different, specific meaning is otherwise specified herein. MODES FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0009] With reference to Figure 1, a condiment dispensing device 100 according to a first embodiment is shown. As shown, the condiment dispensing device 100 includes a housing or container body 102 and a lid 104. With reference to Figure 2, the lid 104 is removable from the container body 102. The lid 104 can be removed to fill or refill the condiment contained within the container body 102.

[0010] The container body 102 includes a bottom 106, a sidewall 108, and a rim 110 for the end of the container body 102 opposite the bottom 106. The container body 102 therefore defines a cavity 112 that can contain a fluid or other contents.

[0011] The bottom 106 of the container body 102 is designed to rest on a surface (e.g., a table or countertop) to support the container body 102 and lid 104 in an upright position. In the illustrated embodiment, the bottom 106 is substantially rectangular, with the sidewalls 108 extending substantially perpendicularly from the bottom 106. Thus, in one embodiment, the container body 102 has a rectangular prism shape. In other embodiments, the container body 102 may have other shapes (e.g., cylindrical, triangular).

[0012] The sidewall 108 of the container body 102 may include a surface for placement of a label 114 identifying the condiment contained within the container body 102. The label 114 may include the brand and type of condiment (e.g., ketchup, mustard, etc.) contained within the container body 102. The exterior of the container body 102 may have a color corresponding to the particular type of condiment. For example, ketchup is red, mustard is yellow, yakiniku is maroon, and mayonnaise is cream white. In the illustrated embodiment, the container body 102 is formed from a plastic material dyed a desired color, such as red. In another embodiment, the exterior of the container body 102 is covered with a sticker, plastic or paper wrap, or colored, for example, with paint. A rim 110 of the container body 102 supports the lid 104. In the illustrated embodiment, the lid 104 rests on the rim 110. The lip 116 of the lid 104 contacts the edge 110 of the container body 102 when the lid 104 is placed on the container body 102. In some embodiments, the lid 104 may include attachment features for securing the lid 104 to the container body 102. As an example, the lid 104 may be secured to the container body 102 by clipping or by elastic force of a member. The lid 104 or the container body 102 may include a button for releasing the lid 104 from the container body 102.

[0013] In the illustrated embodiment, the rim 110 includes a notch 118 through which the dispensing spout 120 of the lid 104 extends. In other embodiments, the dispensing spout 120 of the lid 104 extends outward from the container body 102 above the rim 110, and thus the rim 110 does not include the notch 118.

[0014] The container body 102 may be formed from a plastic material. Exemplary forms of plastic include acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS).

[0015] A condiment may be disposed within cavity 112 of container body 102 for dispensing to a user. The condiment may be contained within a bag or pouch. The condiment may be any condiment, including, by way of example, ketchup, mustard, barbecue, mayonnaise, and relish. Condiment dispensing device 100 is configured to pump and dispense any of a variety of condiments having a wide range of viscosities, densities, and flow rates.

[0016] 1-4 , the lid 104 includes a top cover 122, a sidewall 124, and a bottom cover 126 that define a cavity 128. The lid 104 also includes a fluid passage, such as a tube 130, and a dispensing spout 120 extending from the sidewall 124 of the lid 104. The dispensing spout 120 includes a sensor 132 and a dispensing spout 134. The components of the lid 104 may be formed of a plastic, such as ABS, by way of example. The top cover 122 of the lid includes a surface 136 that may include a label 138. The label 138 may indicate to a customer that the condiment dispensing device 100 is contactless and does not need to be touched to dispense the condiment. In another example, the label 138 indicates the brand and / or type of condiment to a customer. The bottom cover 126 is removably attached to the sidewall 124 of the lid 104 to provide access to the cavity 128. The bottom cover 126 includes a hole 140 through which the tube 130 extends into the cavity 128 .

[0017] 1, 3, and 4, dispensing spout 120 is connected to sidewall 124 and extends away from sidewall 124 of lid 104. Sidewall 124 includes a notch 142 or hole through which tube 130 extends from cavity 128 along dispensing spout 120 to dispensing opening 134. Dispensing opening 134 is located at the end of dispensing spout 120 and may be an opening at the outlet end of tube 130. Dispensing opening 134 at the end of tube 130 may be oriented downward to direct fluid dispensed from dispensing spout 120 downward. Locating dispensing opening 134 away from the container reduces the likelihood that a customer will come into contact with container body 102 when dispensing the condiment. For example, spacing the dispensing opening 134 away from the container body 102 provides space for a customer to place a dish under the dispensing opening 134 when dispensing condiment onto a particular portion of the dish without the dish coming into contact with the container body 102. Reducing the potential for customer contact with the condiment dispensing device 100 can reduce the potential for the transfer of germs, bacteria, and / or illness between customers.

[0018] In another form, dispensing opening 134 may include a one-way valve through which the condiment is forced. Dispensing opening 134 at the end of tube 130 may be connected to a valve. The valve may be designed such that a force is required to force the condiment through the valve, and the condiment quickly stops passing through dispensing opening 134 and the valve as soon as the force falls below a minimum threshold. This may reduce the likelihood of the condiment dripping from dispensing opening 134 onto a surface below.

[0019] Sensor 132 may sense when to dispense condiments. Sensor 132 may be a motion sensor for detecting when a user places their hand, a plate, or food item under dispensing opening 134. In one embodiment, sensor 132 is a passive infrared (PIR) sensor. In another embodiment, sensor 132 is a microwave motion sensor. Sensor 132 may detect motion below dispensing spout 120 or dispensing opening 134. In another example, sensor 132 may be a proximity sensor, such as an infrared proximity sensor. Sensor 132 may detect when an object approaches the underside of dispensing spout 120 and / or dispensing opening 134. For example, sensor 132 may detect an object located 2 to 12 inches below dispensing spout 120. Sensor 132 is electrically coupled to circuit board 148 of lid 104. Sensor 132 provides a signal to circuit board 148 indicative of the detected motion and / or the proximity of an object to sensor 132. As described above, the outlet end of the tube 130 may be the dispensing opening 134 or may be connected to a dispensing valve. The tube 130 extends within the dispensing opening 120, through a notch 142 in the sidewall 124 of the lid 104, and into the cavity 128 of the lid 104. The tube 130 extends through the cavity 128, through a hole 140 in the bottom cover 126 of the lid 104, and into the cavity 112 of the container body 102. An end 144 of the tube 130 within the container body 102 may be in contact with the condiment within the container body 102. The tube 130 thus forms a flow path for fluid from the condiment pouch through the condiment dispensing device 100 to the dispensing opening 134. The tube 130 can be removed and replaced with a clean tube 130 to clean the condiment dispensing device 100. Additionally, the tube 130 may be cleaned or replaced with a new tube 130. Because the tube 130 forms a significant portion (or the entirety) of the condiment flow path and is the only component that comes into contact with the condiment, the condiment dispensing device 100 can be quickly and easily cleaned without disassembling the pump or other components that form part of the condiment flow path, as is the case with other condiment dispensing devices.

[0020] In the illustrated embodiment, the inlet end 144 of the tube 130 is adapted to be inserted into a bag or pouch containing a condiment. As shown, the end 144 of the tube 130 includes an angled tip. The angled tip can assist in piercing a portion of the bag or pouch, such as a port, for insertion into the bag. The end 144 of the tube 130 may be positioned at or near the bottom of the container body 102, thereby drawing fluid to the bottom of the bag or pouch and relying in part on gravity to empty the pouch. The tube 130 is suitable for the flow of any type of condiment and may be formed of a flexible, food-safe material, such as silicone or rubber. The tube 130 may have an inner diameter in the range of approximately 3-9 mm, more specifically, in the range of approximately 4-6 mm. The tube 130 may have an outer diameter in the range of 4-20 mm, more specifically, in the range of 7-9 mm. The tube 130 may have a wall thickness of approximately 1.5 mm, allowing the tube 130 to be sufficiently compressed to allow fluid to be pumped through the tube 130 via the pump 152. The tube 130 may be flexible and configured to be compressed to approximately 20% of its outer diameter. To achieve suitable compressibility characteristics, the tube 130 may have a Shore A hardness value in the range of approximately 55-65. The tube 130 may have a tensile strength in the range of approximately 9-12 μPa, more specifically, a tensile strength of 10.5 μPa. The tube 130 may have a breaking elongation value in the range of 450-550%, more specifically, 500%. The tube 130 may have a tear strength value in the range of approximately 23-28 N / nm, more specifically, 26 N / nm.

[0021] The end 144 may further include a disk 146 disposed thereon that contacts the pouch or a port of the pouch upon insertion of the end 144 into the pouch. The disk 146 may limit the distance the end 144 of the tube 130 can be inserted into the pouch containing the condiment. The disk 146 may help prevent the condiment from escaping the pouch along the outside of the tube 130. In some embodiments, the disk 146 may be used to seal a hole or port in the pouch containing the condiment so that a vacuum can be formed within the pouch when the condiment is drawn through the tube 130. In another example, the end 144 of the tube 130 and / or the disk 146 may be inserted into a port on the pouch containing the condiment. The disk 146 can engage the port to lock the disk 146 into the port. In yet another example, the end 144 of the tube 130 is inserted into the end of a bag piercing device configured to engage a port in the condiment pouch. The end of the tube 140 may be inserted into the tubular opening of the bag piercing device and held by a friction fit. Creating a vacuum within the pouch can help draw a greater amount of condiment from the pouch so that the amount of condiment in the pouch is minimized when the condiment pouch is replaced.

[0022] 4 and 5, the cavity 128 in the lid 104 may include a portion of the tube 130, a circuit board 148, a battery 150, and a pump 152. The tube 130 extends from the cutout 142 in the lid 104, through a pump housing 154 of the pump 152, through a hole 140 in the bottom cover 126, and to the container body 102. With reference to FIG. 5, the cover 155 of the pump housing 154 has been removed. The pump 152 is a peristaltic pump. The tube 130 is disposed in a loop 156 that surrounds the outer periphery of the pump housing 154. The tube 130 may be a flexible tube, for example, a silicone rubber tube. The pump housing 154 may include a groove or track that corresponds to the loop 156 of the tube 130. The loop 156 of the tube 130 may be positioned within the groove or track of the pump housing 154. A roller 158 is positioned within the loop 156. The rollers 158 include a plurality of rounded arms 160 extending from a central body 162 of the rollers 158. The rounded arms 160 may be or include wheels or rollers that engage the tubes 130 of the annulus 156. The rollers 158 may be attached at the central body 162 to an electric motor 164 that rotates the rollers 158 about their axes. The rollers 158 may be made of plastic. In operation, the electric motor 164 rotates the rollers 158, bringing the rounded arms 160 into contact with the tubes 130. When the rounded arms 160 are brought into contact with the tubes 130, the rounded arms 160 pinch or compress the tubes 130 against the pump housing 154. As the rounded arm 160 is rotated by the electric motor 164, the rounded arm 160 is moved along the tube 130, continuing to pinch the tube 130 against the pump housing 154. Thus, the movement of the rounded arm 160 along the tube 130 forces fluid (e.g., air or condiment) along the length of the tube in the direction of the movement of the rounded arm 160. This also creates a vacuum in the section of the tube behind the rounded arm 160, drawing fluid along the tube 130 in the direction of the movement of the rounded arm 160. The roller 160 may include wheels that engage and roll on the tube 130 as the electric motor 164 moves along the tube to reduce friction between the roller 158 and the roller, including a battery.Using a peristaltic pump to dispense the condiment eliminates the need for the pump 152 to come into direct contact with the condiment, as the pump 152 only contacts the exterior surface of the tube 130 and does not contact the condiment when dispensing the condiment.

[0023] The electric motor 164 may be a servo motor, which may be desirable if a precise amount of condiment is to be dispensed. The motor 164 can rotate the roller 158 a number of revolutions (e.g., 180 degrees or 360 degrees) corresponding to a certain amount of condiment to be dispensed (e.g., 30 grams). The amount of fluid dispensed per revolution depends on the inner diameter of the tube 130, the size of the ring 156 of the tube 130 within the pump housing 154, the type of fluid in the tube 130, the size of the roller 158 and rounded arm 160, and the amount of force the rounded arm 160 applies to the tube 130 of the ring 156. The pump 152 and tube 130 may be configured to enable the pump 152 to dispense a wide variety of condiments at an appropriate flow rate. By way of example, the ring 156 may have a diameter ranging from 20 to 50 mm. The roller-wrapped arm 160 of the roller 158 extends from the center point of the roller 158 to the loop 156, compressing the tube 130 in the annular body 156 so that the inner diameter of the tube 130 is reduced by 20 to 90% when the roller 158 contacts the rounded arm 160. This configuration allows the condiment dispensing device 100 to pump and dispense a wide variety of condiments at acceptable flow rates. In some embodiments, the speed of the pump 152 is adjusted based on the type of condiment to dispense each condiment at approximately the same flow rate. The pump may dispense the condiments at a flow rate ranging from approximately 3 to 10 grams per second.

[0024] In one embodiment, pump 152 is configured to be powered by a 6V, 12V, or 24V DC power source. Pump 152 may receive power from battery 150 or from a power conditioning circuit on circuit board 148. Pump 152 is configured to pump fluid through tubing 130 at a flow rate that varies depending on the speed of electric motor 164 and the inner diameter of tubing 130. As an example, if tubing 130 has an inner diameter of 4 millimeters, pump 152 moves fluid through tubing 130 at a flow rate of up to approximately 150 mL / min. As another example, if tubing 130 has an inner diameter of 2 millimeters, pump 152 moves fluid through tubing 130 at a flow rate of up to approximately 50 mL / min.

[0025] Circuit board 148 may be or may include a controller, such as a microcontroller or processor. Circuit board 148 may be electrically coupled to sensor 132, electric motor 164, and battery 150. Circuit board 148, sensor 132, and / or pump 152 may receive power from battery 150. Battery 150 may be a rechargeable battery, such as a lithium-ion battery. In other embodiments, other battery types may be used, such as, for example, standard household battery cells (e.g., AA, C, or D batteries). Circuit board 148 may be electrically coupled to sensor 132 via a wire or ribbon 166 that extends from circuit board 148, through notch 142 in sidewall 124 of lid 104, along dispensing spout 120, and to sensor 132. Circuit board 148 may provide power to sensor 132 via ribbon 166. Sensor 132 may also communicate with circuit board 148 via the ribbon. For example, the sensor 132 may provide a signal to the circuit board 148 indicating whether motion is detected or whether an object is in proximity to the sensor 132. The sensor 132 may continuously provide sensor data to the circuit board 148 for processing and analysis. In another example, the sensor 132 provides a signal to the circuit board 148 only when motion is detected or when an object is detected in proximity to the sensor 132.

[0026] Upon receiving a signal from sensor 132 indicating that motion has been detected or that an object is in proximity to sensor 132, a controller on circuit board 148 may determine whether to activate pump 152 to dispense condiment. In one example, the controller activates pump 152 upon receiving a communication from sensor 132 indicating that motion has been detected or that an object is in proximity to sensor 132. In another example, the controller processes the communication to determine the length of time that motion was detected or the object was in proximity to sensor 132. For example, the controller may be configured to monitor the motion signal for a period of time, such as one or two seconds, before dispensing condiment. Requiring detection of motion for the sensor period may reduce the likelihood of condiment being dispensed when the user is not present or when sensor 132 detects motion not intended to request the dispensing of fluid. Similarly, if sensor 132 is a proximity sensor, the controller may be configured to dispense condiment only after an object has been in proximity to sensor 132 for a minimum period of time.

[0027] The controller may be configured to delay dispensing fluid for a period of time after determining that the user desires to dispense condiment (e.g., due to user movement or proximity). The controller may wait, for example, one or two seconds before operating pump 152 to dispense condiment. This allows time for the user to position their container, dish, or food item under dispensing opening 134 before the condiment is dispensed. This reduces dispensing of fluid when the user is not ready, which could result in condiment being dispensed onto the surface on which the container rests or in a location not desired by the user. Condiment dispensing device 100 may indicate to the user when condiment is about to be dispensed. This may be done, for example, by using an indicator light located on the dispensing opening or another portion of condiment dispensing device 100. The indicator light may, for example, illuminate green when condiment dispensing device 100 detects that the user desires condiment and is about to dispense, allowing the user to position the container or food item accordingly.

[0028] When the controller activates the pump 152, the controller may send a signal to the electric motor 164 to operate. The electric motor 164 rotates the roller 158, causing the rounded arm 160 to contact the tube 130 and force the condiment through the tube 130 and out the dispensing opening 134. The controller may provide a signal to the electric motor 164 until the desired amount of condiment is dispensed. In other embodiments, the controller sends a signal indicating how far to operate at a certain speed. If the electric motor 164 is a servo motor, the controller may provide a signal indicating how far to rotate or to what position. The controller may be programmed to operate the electric motor 164 based on the amount of condiment dispensed. The controller may be programmed with different settings for each condiment. For example, the controller may operate the motor 164 at a different speed for each condiment to provide the appropriate flow rate. As another example, the motor 164 may be rotated further for a particular condiment. This may be done to accommodate different viscosities and densities of condiments. This may also be done to dispense a fixed amount of condiment within a fixed period of time. For example, condiment dispensing device 100 may dispense 30 grams of condiment in a 5-second period. Electric motor 164 may be operated to achieve this dispensing rate based on the fluid properties of the condiment.

[0029] In some forms, the lid 104 includes a user interface, such as one or more buttons disposed thereon, through which a user can input the type of condiment inserted into the container body 102. The user interface may be in communication with the circuit board 148 and provide a signal to the circuit board 148 indicating the type of condiment. The electric motor 164 may then be operated by the controller accordingly.

[0030] Once the electric motor 164 has forced a certain amount of condiment out of the dispensing opening 134 of the dispensing spout 120, the controller and / or electric motor 164 may stop operating so that no more fluid is dispensed. In one embodiment, the controller signals the electric motor 164 to operate in the reverse direction after the desired amount of condiment has been dispensed. This quickly stops the dispensing of the condiment and draws the condiment further into the tube 130, away from the dispensing opening 134, reducing dripping of the condiment from the dispensing opening 134.

[0031] The controller may be configured to delay dispensing for a period of time after a dispense cycle. This allows the user to move their plate, container, or food item out of range of sensor 132 before dispensing another dose of condiment. If sensor 132 detects that the user continues to desire more condiment (e.g., the plate, container, or food item remains under sensor 132), the controller may delay dispensing the condiment for a period of time to ensure that the user has had time to move away from sensor 132. The controller may delay for a period of time, such as 1 second, 2 seconds, or 3 seconds, before dispensing another dose of condiment. This provides the user with sufficient time to move their plate, container, or food item out of range of sensor 132 if they no longer desire additional condiment. This may reduce the likelihood that the controller will dispense condiment after the user has moved their plate, container, or food item away from dispensing end 134.

[0032] In other embodiments, the controller is configured to continue dispensing condiment until the sensor no longer detects the presence of the user (e.g., their plate, container, or food) under the sensor 132. The controller may also be configured to immediately stop dispensing if it determines that the user is pulling their plate, container, or food away from the dispensing end 134.

[0033] The condiment dispensing device 100 may include a microphone coupled to the controller to receive a user's verbal command to dispense. The condiment dispensing device 100 may dispense a condiment to a user based on a determination that the user has said a trigger word, such as "dispense." The condiment dispensing device 100 may dispense a quantity of condiment before stopping the dispensing of the condiment. In another example, the condiment dispensing device 100 may dispense a quantity of condiment until the user has said another trigger word, such as "stop." Upon a determination, e.g., by the controller, that the user has said "stop," the controller may cause the pump 152 to stop dispensing the condiment.

[0034] The battery 150 is attached to the lid 104 and electrically powers the electrical components of the lid 104. The battery 150 may be electrically coupled to other electrical components by a wire or ribbon 166. The battery 150 is rechargeable via a charging port 168 located on the back of the lid 104. The battery 150 is connected to the charging port 168 via a wire 170. As shown in FIG. 6 , a charging cord 172 may include a first end 174 configured to be connected or plugged into the charging port 168 to charge the battery 150 within the lid 104. A second end 176 of the charging cord 172 may be configured to be inserted into a power source. As shown, the second end 176 of the charging cord 172 is USB. The second end 176 may be inserted into a USB port to power and recharge the battery 150. In other embodiments, the battery 150 is comprised of one or more replaceable standard batteries (e.g., four AA batteries). The replaceable battery may be removed and replaced with a new battery. In some forms, the removed battery may be recharged via a battery charger. In yet other embodiments, the lid 104 includes a power cord that may be inserted into a standard wall outlet to provide power to the lid 104. The lid 104 may include power conditioning circuitry to provide appropriate power to the electronics within the lid 104.

[0035] Each condiment dispensing device container 100 may include two or more lids 104. Using multiple lids 104 allows one lid 104 to be used with the container body 102 to dispense condiments, while the other lids are charging or already charged and ready to replace the lid 104 currently in use with the container body 102 when the battery 150 charge becomes too low. Each lid 104 may include an indicator 178 that indicates the charge level of the battery 150 of the lid 104 to a user or employee. As shown in FIG. 6 , the lid 104 includes a row of three LEDs positioned along the top rear edge of the lid 104. The LEDs may be used to indicate the charge level of the battery 150 to a user in different ways. In one example, if all three LEDs are lit, the battery charge is high; if two of the three LEDs are lit, the battery charge level is medium; and if only one LED is lit, the battery charge level is low. If an LED is off or flashing, this may indicate that the battery needs to be recharged or that the lid 104 needs to be replaced. In another example, the LED is a multi-color LED. The LED may display a green light when the battery is fully charged, an orange light when the battery level is low, and a red light when the battery is out of charge and needs to be replaced. In another embodiment, indicator 178 may be a display screen, such as a liquid crystal display (LCD), that displays the charge level of battery 150.

[0036] Indicator 178 may also indicate one or more aspects of the condiment dispensing container to the user. For example, the control device may determine the level of condiment remaining in container body 102 and display that amount via the indicator. In one example, the control device indicates via indicator 178 when the condiment level is low. In another embodiment, indicator 178 is used to indicate when one or more components of condiment dispensing container 100 are not functioning properly, for example, when pump 152 or a sensor is not functioning.

[0037] Indicator 178 may also include communication circuitry configured to communicate with one or more remote devices. The communication circuitry may be configured to communicate via direct wireless signals, such as Bluetooth, Zigbee, and / or Z-Wave. Additionally or alternatively, the communication circuitry may communicate via a network, such as a cellular network or a Wi-Fi network. In this embodiment, indicator 178 may communicate to a restaurant or employee computer that the condiment level in condiment dispensing container 100 is low or that battery 150 in condiment dispensing container 100 has a low charge level and needs to be recharged or replaced.

[0038] 6, lid 104 may further include a power button 180 for turning lid 104 on and off. When lid 104 is on, controller 152 may operate pump 152 to dispense condiment in response to detection by sensor 132. When lid 104 is off, controller 152 is not powered and condiment dispensing container 100 may not dispense condiment.

[0039] In operation, the inlet end 144 of the tube 130 may be inserted into a pouch or port containing the condiment. The pouch may be inserted into the container body 102. The lid 104 may rest on the rim 110 of the container body 104 with the dispensing spout 120 aligned with the notch 118. The power button 180 may be pressed to power on the condiment dispensing device 100. A user may then place a plate, container, or food item below the dispensing spout 134 of the dispensing spout 120. The sensor 132 sends a signal to the circuit board 148 indicating that the condiment should be dispensed. The circuit board 148, via a controller, communicates with the electric motor 164 of the pump 152, causing the electric motor 164 to rotate. The rotation of the electric motor rotates the roller 158, causing the rounded arm 160 to contact the tube 130 of the annular body 156. As the rounded arm 160 moves along the tube 130 of the annular body 156, the rounded arm 160 forces a fluid (e.g., air or seasoning) along the tube 130 toward the dispensing opening 134. The movement of the fluid through the tube 134 toward the dispensing opening 134 creates a vacuum within the tube 130, drawing the fluid from the condiment pouch toward the pump housing 154. The condiment is thus drawn from the condiment pouch and dispensed to the user through the dispensing opening 134. The circuit board 148 can operate the motor 164 at a constant speed for a period of time to dispense a fixed amount of seasoning to the user. After the period of time has elapsed, the circuit board 148 stops operation of the electric motor 164. Even when the electric motor 164 is not operating, the rounded arm 160 remains engaged with the tube 130 of the annular body 156, holding the seasoning in its position within the tube 130. This prevents the condiment from both exiting the dispensing opening 134 and back into the condiment pouch.

[0040] After a certain period of use, the condiment dispensing device 100 may need to be cleaned. To clean the condiment dispensing device 100, the device may be turned off by pressing the power button 180. This prevents the device 100 from dispensing condiment through the dispensing port 134 in response to a signal from the sensor 132 if condiment remains to be dispensed. The lid 104 may be removed from the container body 102. The end 144 of the tube 130 may be removed from the condiment pouch. The condiment pouch may be discarded for refilling or may be cleaned. The bottom cover 126 of the lid 104 may be removed by pulling the end 140 of the tube 130 through the hole 140. The cover 155 of the pump housing 154 may be removed. The tube 130 may be removed from the pump housing 154 by pulling the ring 156 of the tube 130 from the rollers 158. The tube 130 may be pulled out of the dispensing spout 120. The tube 130 may then be cleaned and / or replaced with a clean tube 130. The tube 130 may be made of a transparent or partially see-through material, which can aid in determining when the interior of the tube 130 is clean. The condiment dispensing device 100 may be reassembled with a clean tube 130 by reversing the disassembly steps.

[0041] 7A-9E, a condiment dispensing container 200 according to a second embodiment is shown. Condiment dispensing container 200 may include many of the same and / or similar internal components of condiment dispensing container 100, which operates similarly to the first embodiment described above, but arranged differently as described below.

[0042] 7A-8 , condiment dispensing container 200 includes container body 202 formed with front cover 204 and rear cover 206. Front cover 204 may be formed of plastic, such as high-impact polystyrene sheet (HIPS) or a rigid plastic such as styrene. Rear cover 206 may be formed of metal, such as steel or aluminum. Front cover 204 may be removable from rear cover 206 to access components housed within container body 202, for example, to refill condiments. Front cover 204 may be attached to rear cover 206, for example, by snapping onto flange 208 of rear cover 206. Front cover 204 may be attached by fasteners near the bottom of the front cover and releasably coupled to the rear cover at the top of front cover 204 so that front cover 204 can rotate away from the front of rear cover 206 to provide access to the interior of container body 202. In another embodiment, the front cover 204 may be attached to the back cover 206 by fasteners near the top and bottom of the front cover.

[0043] Front cover 204 includes a surface for displaying a label or otherwise indicating the condiment within condiment dispensing container 200 to a user.

[0044] The back cover 206 includes keyhole slots 210 in the vertical walls 216 for attaching the back cover 206 to a surface. In one form, the back cover 206 can be attached to a wall via the keyhole slots 210. For example, fasteners, such as screws, may extend from the wall. The keyhole slots 210 can engage with the fasteners to removably attach the back cover 206 to the wall. In another form, the back cover 206 can be attached to a stand 212. The stand 212 may be formed of a metal, such as steel or aluminum, for example. The stand 212 includes a bottom 214 and a vertical wall 216 extending substantially perpendicularly from an end of the bottom 214. The stand 212 may include supports 218 extending from the bottom 214 to the vertical wall 216 to provide additional strength and stability to the connection between the base 214 and the vertical wall 216.

[0045] The vertical wall 216 of the stand 212 includes a protrusion 220 that corresponds to the keyhole slot 210 on the back cover of the container body 202. The keyhole slot 210 may receive the protrusion 220 on the vertical wall 216 to attach the back cover 206 to the stand 212.

[0046] Rear cover 206 further includes a base portion 222 extending vertically from the lower end of vertical wall 216 of rear cover 206. Base portion 222 may support the contents contained within container 200. Base portion 222 may include dispensing hole 223 and hole 225. When attached to a wall or stand 212, base portion 222 is positioned above a horizontal surface (e.g., base 214 of the stand, floor, or countertop) so that a container or food item can be placed between base portion 222 and the horizontal surface. This allows the condiment to be dispensed from the bottom of container body 202.

[0047] Condiment dispensing container 200 may include a bag or pouch 224 containing the condiment. Pouch 224 may be formed from a plastic, such as a multi-layer laminate including one or more layers of polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Pouch 224 may be placed within pouch holder 226. Pouch holder 226 may be formed from a plastic, such as polycarbonate, HIPS, or styrene. Pouch holder 226 may be attached to vertical wall 216 of rear cover 206. Pouch holder 226 holds pouch 224 upright within condiment dispensing container 200. Pouch holder 226 includes a cutout portion 228 through which a tube 230 can be connected to pouch 224. Tube 230 may be suitable for the flow of any type of condiment and may be formed from a flexible, food-safe material, such as silicone or rubber. Tube 230 may have an inner diameter of 3 to 5 mm and an outer diameter of 4 to 8 mm. Tube 230 may be connected to pouch 224 as described above with respect to condiment dispensing container 100. Similar to condiment dispensing container 100, condiment dispensing container 200 may include pump 232 including electric motor 234, battery 236, circuit board 238 including a control device, and sensor 240. Each of these components may be attached to base portion 222 of rear cover 206. Sensor 240 may be positioned to extend through hole 225 in base portion 222 of rear cover 206 to sense movement under or proximity to base portion 222 of rear cover 206. The components may operate in a manner similar to that described with respect to the corresponding components of condiment dispensing container 100. For example, battery 236 provides power to the electrical components. When circuit board 238 receives a signal from sensor 240 indicating that condiment should be dispensed, it activates pump 232 to force condiment out of dispensing end 242 and through tube 230 .

[0048] 10A-B , the tube 230 extends from the condiment pouch 224 through the pump 232. The pump 232 may be a peristaltic pump including a roller 158 with one or more arms 160, as described with respect to the condiment dispensing device 100. The tube 230 may thus form a loop around the pump housing 233 of the pump 232. The tube 230 then extends to a dispensing end 242 that extends through the dispensing hole 223 in the back cover 206. The dispensing tube 230 may be secured to the back cover 206 and oriented such that the dispensing end 242 of the tube 230 faces downward. The pump 232 includes a pump housing 233 and a cover 235. The cover 235 may be removably attached to the pump housing 233. In one example, the cover 235 is snap-fit ​​onto the pump housing 233. The cover 235 may help hold the tube 230 in the annular shape within the pump housing 233 when the tube 230 is installed within the pump 232. The tube 230 may need to be removed for cleaning. Therefore, it is advantageous to provide a cover 235 that can be easily removed from the pump housing 233 to remove the tube 230. As shown, the pump 232 is positioned on the side of the condiment container 200 such that the cover 235 is accessible for removal from the pump housing 233 when the front cover 204 is removed. Locating the cover 235 so that it is accessible allows the condiment dispensing device container 200 to be more easily cleaned or serviced (e.g., replacing the tube 230).

[0049] Because the condiment dispensing container 200 dispenses condiments to a user for use with a dish, the condiment dispensing container 200 must be washable. For example, the condiment dispensing container 200 needs to be easily disassembled so that employees (e.g., restaurant staff) can easily disassemble the condiment dispensing device 200 for cleaning. In particular, the condiment flow path, for example, the tube 230, needs to be washable. Cleaning the tube 230 can reduce the possibility of contamination within the condiment dispensing device 200 and the condiments dispensed to the user. To clean the condiment dispensing device 200, the front cover 204 may be removed from the back cover 206. The tube 230 may be disconnected from the condiment pouch 224, for example, by pulling the end of the tube 230 (or a pouch piercing device 246 attached thereto) through a port or hole 244 in the condiment pouch 224. The cover 235 of the pump 232 may be removed, for example, by forcefully pulling the cover 235 away from the pump housing 233. The tube 230 may then be withdrawn from the pump housing 233. The dispensing end 242 may be withdrawn from the dispensing hole 223 in the back cover 206. The tube 230 may then be cleaned and / or replaced with a clean tube 230. The condiment dispensing device 100 may be reassembled with a clean tube 230 by reversing the disassembly steps. Because the tube 230 and pouch piercing device 246 form the length of the fluid flow path from the condiment pouch 224 to the dispensing opening, the condiment dispensing device 200 can be quickly cleaned by cleaning or replacing the tube 230 and pouch piercing device 246, unlike prior art condiment dispensing devices that require disassembly and cleaning of the pump and several other components of the dispensing device along the condiment flow path.

[0050] 11-13F, a condiment dispensing device container 300 according to a third embodiment is shown. Condiment dispensing container 300 is similar in many respects to condiment dispensing container 200 of FIGS. 7A-10B, and the differences are detailed in the following discussion. For simplicity, the prefixes g2h for features of condiment dispensing container 200 are replaced with g3h for similar structures in condiment dispensing container 300. For example, the same feature designated by reference numeral 202 with respect to condiment dispensing container 200 is designated by reference numeral 302 with respect to condiment dispensing container 300.

[0051] The front cover 304 of the condiment dispensing container 300 is magnetically attached to the rear cover 306. The rear cover 306 includes one or more magnets attached to a flange 308 that interact with corresponding magnets affixed along the sidewall of the front cover 304. By way of example, the magnets may be neodymium magnets. In other embodiments, one or more of the magnetic connection points on the front cover 304 or rear cover 306 do not include a magnet, but rather include a ferromagnetic metal material such as iron, nickel, cobalt, gadolinium, or dysprosium and / or a steel alloy containing a ferromagnetic metal, which is attracted to the corresponding magnet and holds the front cover 304 to the rear cover 306. The front cover 304 also includes a fastener 305 that extends through the top of the front cover 304 and into a corresponding hole on a tab 307 of the rear cover 306 to further removably secure the front cover 304 to the rear cover 306. In one example, the fastener 305 is a nylon thumbscrew. Thus, to remove the front cover 304 from the back cover 306, the fasteners 305 are removed and force is applied to pull the front cover away from the back cover 306. The front cover 304 can be quickly removed to provide access to the internal components of the condiment dispensing container 300, for example, to replace the condiment pouches 324 or to clean the tubes 330. Similarly, the front cover 304 can be reattached to the back cover 306 by aligning the front cover 304 with the back cover 306 and bringing the magnetic connection points of the front cover 304 into close proximity with the corresponding magnetic connection points of the back cover 306. The magnetic attraction holds the front cover 304 to the back cover 306. The fasteners 305 can be inserted through the top of the front cover 304 and through the holes in the tabs 307 of the back cover 306 to further secure the front cover 304 to the back cover 306.

[0052] The front cover 304 further includes a wall 309 depending downwardly from the bottom portion of the front cover 304. The wall 309 guides a user of the condiment dispensing container 300 when aligning a dish, container, or food item to receive the condiment from the condiment dispensing container 300. This helps indicate to the user where the condiment should be dispensed to avoid dispensing the condiment in an undesired location (e.g., spilling the condiment on the base 314 of the stand 312 or on a surface below the condiment dispensing container 300). The wall 309 prevents the user from positioning their dish, container, or food item too far behind the condiment dispensing container 300. The wall 309 may further include a line disposed along the wall 309 that indicates to the user the height at which the dish, container, or food item should be positioned to receive the condiment. Guiding the user to place their plate, container, or food at a certain height can help prevent the user from contacting their plate, container, or food with the dispensing end 340 of the tube 330 of the condiment dispensing container 300.

[0053] The back cover 306 further includes slots 313 in the vertical walls 316 for attaching the back cover 306 to the stand 312. The vertical walls 316 of the stand 312 include hook protrusions 315 configured to extend through the slots 313 in the back cover 306 to attach the back cover 306 to the stand 312. As shown, the hook protrusions 315 include a horizontal portion extending from the front of the vertical wall 316 and a vertical portion extending upward from the end of the horizontal portion distal to the vertical wall 316. To attach the back cover 306 to the stand 312, the slots 313 in the vertical walls 316 of the back cover 306 are aligned with the hook protrusions 315 of the stand 312. The vertical portions of the hook protrusions 315 are passed through the slots 313 in the back cover 306. Once the vertical portions have passed through the slots 313, the back cover 306 may be lowered so that the upper ends of the slots 313 hang over the horizontal portions of the hook protrusions 315. To remove the back cover 306 from the stand 312, the back cover 306 needs to be moved upward and away from the stand 312 so that the vertical portions of the hook protrusions 315 again pass through the slots 313. In this way, the hook protrusions 315 of the stand 312 removably attach the back cover 306 to the stand 312.

[0054] Condiment dispensing container 300 may also be mounted to a wall rather than being attached to stand 312. The plate may be secured to the wall, for example, via one or more screws. The plate may further include a protrusion, such as a screw, extending from the front surface of the plate that engages with keyhole slot 310 in rear cover 306 to attach rear cover 306 to the plate. The plate may be shaped to correspond to the shape of rear cover 306 so that front cover 304 substantially covers the plate.

[0055] 13E, the battery 336 (or battery pack) is attached to the front of the pouch holder 326. Attaching the battery pack to the front of the pouch holder 326 can facilitate removal of the battery pack or the batteries 336 held by the battery pack. Improving accessibility of the battery pack or the batteries 336 held by the battery pack facilitates battery replacement when one or more batteries need to be charged or replaced. For example, if the battery pack holds four AA batteries, positioning the battery pack on the front of the pouch holder 326 can facilitate access to the battery pack when the front cover 304 is removed, potentially reducing the time required to maintain the condiment dispensing device 300 to replace the four AA batteries.

[0056] 12 and 13F, condiment dispensing container 300 includes a power switch 348. As shown, power switch 348 is attached to a flange 308 of rear cover 306. Front cover 204 may include a sidewall hole through which power switch 348 can be accessed. In some forms, a portion of power switch 348 extends through a hole in front cover 304, making control of power switch 348 more accessible. In the illustrated embodiment, power switch 348 is a slide switch with a selector portion extending through a hole in the sidewall of front cover 304. In other embodiments, power switch 348 may be another type of switch, such as a push-lock, DIP, push-to-make, rocker, rotary, or toggle switch, as examples.

[0057] The power switch 348 may allow the condiment dispensing container 300 to be turned on and off by moving the switch 348 between an on position and an off position. The power switch 348 may be connected to a circuit board 338 that controls the operation of the pump 332. The circuit board 338 or its controller may be configured to no longer operate the pump 332 when the power switch 348 is in the "off" position. The power switch 348 may also be configured to connect or disconnect the battery 336 from the pump 332, the circuit board 338, and / or the sensor 340. When the power switch 348 is in the "off" position, power is not supplied to the pump 332, the circuit board 338, and / or the sensor 340, which prevents the condiment dispensing container 300 from dispensing condiment into the tube 330, even though movement or action under the sensor 340 would otherwise cause the condiment to be dispensed. For example, if an employee is cleaning base 314 of stand 312, the employee can move power switch 348 to the off position to clean base 314 and prevent condiment from being inadvertently dispensed. Power switch 348 can also be moved to the off position when not in use to, for example, conserve power or to reduce additional wear on components of condiment dispensing container 300 when a pouch is empty or not attached to condiment dispensing container 300.

[0058] The pump 332 may be removably attached to the back cover 306 by a clip 352 attached to a base 322 of the back cover 306. Referring to FIG. 12 , the clip 352 includes a base 354 and two arms 356 extending from the base 354. Each arm 356 includes a cradle portion 358 for receiving the pump 332. As shown, the cradle portions 358 have a curved cross-section that substantially corresponds to the outer surface of the pump housing 333. The arms 356 are resiliently deflectable relative to one another such that the pump 332 may be inserted into the cradle portion 358 between the arms 356 by forcing the arms 356 apart. The arms 356 are biased back to their original positions to apply a force to the pump 332, thus securing the pump 332 to the back cover 306. The arms 356 may be forced apart to remove the pump 332 from the back cover 306. Thus, the pump 332 can be quickly removed from the back cover 306 for cleaning or servicing the condiment dispensing device container 300.

[0059] 12 and 14A-E, the condiment dispensing device container 300 includes a pouch piercing device 360 ​​having a first end 362 for piercing a condiment pouch 324 and a second end 364 for attaching to the tube 330. The first end 362 includes a tubular portion 366 for insertion into the opening of the inset portion of the condiment pouch 324. The tubular portion 366 can engage with the inset portion of the condiment pouch 324 such that the pouch piercing device 360 ​​remains connected thereto by a friction fit. As shown, the tubular portion 366 further includes a lip or ridge 368 through which the inset portion of the condiment pouch 324 passes or hooks to secure the pouch piercing device 360 ​​to the inset portion of the condiment pouch 324. The tubular portion 366 may include an angled end 370 having an angled tip 372 at its end. The angled tip 372 may be sharp and configured to be pressed against a portion of the condiment pouch 324 to pierce the pouch 324. The tubular portion 366 of the pouch piercing device 360 ​​may be pushed into the condiment pouch 324 through the hole formed by the angled tip 372. The condiment within the pouch 324 may then flow out of the pouch through the tubular portion 366 of the pouch piercing device 360 ​​positioned within the pouch 324. The angled end 370 of the tubular portion 366 is angled to help keep the opening of the tubular portion 366 open to allow the condiment to flow. The inclusion of the angled end 370 reduces the likelihood that the opening will be blocked by or drawn against a portion of the pouch when suction is present within the tube 330.

[0060] The pouch piercing device 360 ​​may include a flange or plate 374 disposed between the first end 362 and the second end 364. The plate 374 may be positioned to engage a portion of the pouch 324 and / or a fitting within the pouch 324 to which the pouch piercing device 360 ​​connects to prevent the pouch piercing device 360 ​​from being inserted too far into the pouch 324 (e.g., through both walls of the pouch 324). As the pump 332 begins to draw the condiment from the pouch 324 via the pouch piercing device 360, the plate 374 may remain engaged with the pouch and assist in forming a seal between the pouch piercing device 360 ​​and the pouch 324. Forming a seal may create a vacuum within the pouch 324 when the pump 332 is actuated, which may assist in more completely emptying the pouch 324. Plate 374 may have a substantially square cross-section with recesses 376 along one or more sides that allow a user to firmly and ergonomically grip pouch punching device 360 ​​when inserting pouch punching device 360 ​​into pouch 324 and when removing pouch punching device 360 ​​from pouch 324.

[0061] The second end 364 of the pouch piercing device 360 ​​is configured to attach to the tube 330 extending through the pump 332. The second end 364 may be a reducer that narrows the diameter of the tubular portion 366 to the diameter of the tube 330. The tube 330 may vary in size based on the condiment in the pouch 324 and / or the desired flow rate of the condiment to be dispensed to a user through the tube 330. The second end 364 may include a tip 378 that is inserted into the end of the tube 330. The outer diameter of the tip 378 may be sized to fit within the inner diameter of the tube 330. The tip 378 may be sized to be inserted into the end of the tube 330 and secured thereto by a friction fit. In the illustrated embodiment, the tip 378 includes angled ridges 380 disposed about the circumference of the tip 378. Angled ridges 380 extend radially from tip 378 and engage the inside of tube 330 to help secure pouch piercing device 360 ​​to tube 330. Angled ridges 380 may be configured to be relatively easy to insert into tube 330, but require a large amount of force to withdraw tip 378 from tube 330.

[0062] The dispensing end 342 of the tube 330 may extend through a rubber grommet 382 disposed within the dispensing hole 323 of the back cover 306. The rubber grommet 382 may hold the dispensing end 342 of the tube in place and in the correct orientation for dispensing the condiment to a user.

[0063] 15-16E, the condiment dispensing device 300 is shown with some modifications, as described below. The pump 332 is rotated approximately 90° from the pump 332 shown in FIGS. 12-14F, with the pump cover 335 facing the front of the condiment dispensing device 300 and away from the rear cover 306. Rotating the pump 332 so that the pump cover 335 faces forward may facilitate removal of the pump cover 335 to remove the tube 330 for replacement or cleaning. The pump 332 may be mounted to the underside of the pouch holder 326 rather than by a stand, as shown in FIGS. 12-14F. As shown in FIGS. 15-16E, a mounting bracket 353 is attached to the underside of the pouch holder 326. The mounting bracket 353 includes holes configured to receive fasteners for attaching the pump 332 thereto. Mounting bracket 335 may have a recess for receiving a portion of pump housing 333 when pump 332 is mounted to bracket 335. Pump 332 includes a flange having a hole extending therethrough. To mount the pump to pouch holder 326, the hole in the flange of pump 332 is aligned with the hole in mounting bracket 353, and a fastener is extended therethrough to removably mount pump 332 to pouch holder 326.

[0064] The sensor 340 of the modified condiment dispensing device 300 includes a cover 341 that can be placed over the sensor 340. This can help protect the sensor 340 from fluids, such as condiments, if the pouch 324 leaks or fluids are spilled into the condiment dispensing device 300, for example, during cleaning or replacement of the pouch.

[0065] 17A-25H, a condiment dispensing container 400 according to a fourth embodiment is shown. Condiment dispensing container 400 is similar in many respects to the condiment dispensing containers of the previous embodiments, with the differences being highlighted in the following discussion. For simplicity, the prefix "1" in reference numerals to features of drug dispensing container 100 of the first embodiment is replaced with "4" for similar structures in drug dispensing container 100. For example, the same feature designated by reference numeral 102 with respect to condiment dispensing container 100 is designated by reference numeral 402 with respect to condiment dispensing container 400. Many of the features of condiment dispensing container 400 may be the same as those shown and described for condiment dispensing container 100, but in a different arrangement.

[0066] The main difference between the condiment dispensing container 400 of the first embodiment and the condiment dispensing container 400 of the fourth embodiment is that a condiment container, such as a condiment pouch 425, is placed in a subframe or pouch carrier 482 of the lid 404 and inserted into an opening in a housing, such as the container body 402. The pump 452 is located on the bottom surface of the pouch carrier 482, not in a cavity in the lid as in the first embodiment. The underside of the lid 404 may include a recess to form an internal chamber, further increasing the volume accommodated by the container 400 and lid 404 and allowing the condiment dispensing device container 400 to accommodate a larger pouch 425.

[0067] 17A-E, condiment dispensing device 400 includes a container body 402 and a lid 404. With reference to FIGS. 17B-C, lid 404 includes a pouch carrier 482 attached thereto. Lid 404 and pouch carrier 482 are removable from container body 402. Lid 404 can be removed to fill or refill the condiment contained within container body 402 (see FIGS. 25A-H). Pouch carrier 482 supports the condiment pouch and pump 452 such that when lid 404 is placed on container body 402, pouch carrier 482, condiment pouch 425, and pump 452 are positioned as a unit.

[0068] The container body 402 is similar to the container body 102 of the first embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-6. The container body 402 may be formed of a plastic material. Examples of plastic materials include acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). The container body 402 includes a bottom 406, a sidewall 408, and a rim 410 at an end of the container body 402 opposite the bottom 406. The container body 402 thus defines a cavity 412 into which the pouch carrier 482 and the condiment pouch 425 may be inserted. The container body 402 conceals the pouch carrier 482 and the condiment pouch 425 from view of restaurant customers or patrons.

[0069] The sidewall 408 of the container body 402 may include a surface for placement of a label 414 identifying the condiment contained within the container body 402. The label 414 may include the brand and type of condiment (e.g., ketchup, mustard, etc.) within the container body 402. The exterior of the container body 402 may have a color corresponding to the type of condiment. For example, ketchup may be red, mustard may be yellow, yakiniku may be maroon, and mayonnaise may be white with a black rim. In the illustrated embodiment, the container body 402 is formed from a plastic material dyed a desired color, for example, red. In another embodiment, the exterior of the container body 402 is covered with a sticker, plastic or paper wrap, or colored, for example, with paint. A rim 410 of the container body 402 supports the lid 404. In the illustrated embodiment, the lid 404 rests on the rim 410. The lip 416 of the lid 404 contacts the edge 410 of the container body 402 when the lid 404 is placed on the container body 402. In some embodiments, the lid 404 may include attachment features for securing the lid 404 to the container body 402. As an example, the lid 404 may clip or snap onto the container body 402. The lid 404 or the container body 402 may include a button for releasing the lid 404 from the container body 402.

[0070] In the illustrated embodiment, the rim 410 includes a notch 418 through which the dispensing spout 420 of the lid 404 extends. In other embodiments, the dispensing spout 420 of the lid 404 extends outward from the container body 402 above the rim 410, and thus the rim 410 does not include the notch 418.

[0071] A condiment pouch 425 may be disposed within the cavity 412 of the container body 402. In this embodiment, the condiment pouch 425 is supported by a pouch carrier 482 or subframe of the lid 404 (see FIG. 17E ). Thus, the condiment pouch 425 can be inserted or withdrawn from the container body 402 as the pouch carrier 482 is inserted or withdrawn from the cavity 412 of the container body 402. This allows the condiment pouch 425 to be easily connected to the tube 430 when the lid 404 is removed from the container body 402, allowing access to the inlet end of the tube 430 and the pouch piercing device. Once the condiment pouch 425 is connected to the tube 430 and the tube 430 is positioned about the pump 452 and extends to the dispensing spout, the condiment pouch 425, pouch carrier 482, pump 452, and tube 430 may be inserted into the container body 402 as a single, fully connected and assembled member. The tube 430 may be similar to the tube 130 described above, having similar dimensions and characteristics. The condiment in the condiment pouch 425 may be any condiment, including, by way of example, ketchup, mustard, barbecue, mayonnaise, and relish. The condiment dispensing device 400 is configured to pump and dispense any of a variety of condiments having a wide range of viscosities, densities, and flow rates.

[0072] 18A-19B, the lid 404 according to the first embodiment includes a top cover 422, a side wall 424, and a bottom cover 426 that define a cavity 428 within the lid 404. The lid 404 also includes a dispensing spout 420 extending from the side wall 424 of the lid 404.

[0073] In this first lid embodiment, lid 404 has an increased height to increase the volume accommodated by container body 402 and lid 404. By way of example, lid 404 has a height of approximately 128 millimeters from the bottom of side wall 424 to the top of top lid 422. In this particular embodiment, lid 404 has an increased height such that condiment dispensing container 404 can contain 5 liters of condiment pouch 425.

[0074] 20A-D, a lid 404f according to a second embodiment is shown. The lid 404f has a smaller height than the lid 404 of the first embodiment. As an example, the lid 404f has a height of approximately 95.9 millimeters from the bottom of the side wall 424f to the top edge of the top cover 422f. The lid 404f of this second embodiment can be used with a smaller container body (not shown) having a rim with dimensions corresponding to the dimensions of the side wall 424f of the lid 404f, allowing the lid 404f to rest on the rim of the container body. The use of a smaller sized lid and / or container body may be desirable when a smaller sized condiment pouch 425 is used with the condiment dispensing container 400. For example, if a 2.5 L condiment pouch 425 is used instead of a 5 L condiment pouch 425, the lid 404f and smaller container body may be used. The lid 404f of the second embodiment may be used to reduce the overall size of the condiment dispensing container 400. The lid 404f of the second embodiment is otherwise structurally and functionally similar to the lid 404 of the first embodiment. The height of the lid 404f may be adjusted to provide additional volume within the condiment dispensing container 400 for the condiment pouch 425. If less volume is needed to accommodate the condiment pouch 425, a lid of a smaller height may be used. In other embodiments, the length and width of the lid 404f and the container body may be increased or decreased to provide a desired volume within the condiment dispensing container 400. For brevity and clarity, the lid 404 of the first lid embodiment will be used throughout the following description, but it should be understood that the lid 404f of the second lid embodiment may be used as well.

[0075] In other embodiments, the height or dimensions of container body 402 are adjusted to provide a desired volume contained within condiment dispensing container 400. For example, the height of container body 402 and the length of pouch carrier 482 may be increased to accommodate larger sized condiment pouches 425.

[0076] Lid 404 includes tabs 421 depending from top surface 422. Each tab 421 includes an aperture 421A through which a prong or fastener may be extended to attach pouch carrier 482 to lid 404, as described in more detail below.

[0077] The dispensing spout 420 includes a channel 420A for receiving a fluid pathway support, such as a tube support member 484. Referring to FIGS. 21A-D, the tube support member 484 includes an elongated body 486 sized to fit within the channel 420A of the dispensing spout 420. The body 486 includes a hole for mounting the sensor 432 therein and a series of retainers, such as tube holder clips 488, for receiving and holding a fluid path, such as a tube 430, along the tube support member 484. The tube holder clips 488 include arms 488A separated by a gap. To attach the tube 430 to the tube holder clips 488, the tube 430 is pushed through the gap and between the arms 488A, where the tube 430 can be attached. In the illustrated embodiment, the arms 488A are rounded to fit the outer diameter of the tube 430. Together, arms 430A form a partial ring that encircles 50% or more of the circumference of tube 430, helping to retain tube 430 without substantially compressing or reducing its diameter when attached to tube support member 484. Tube support member 484 further includes an opening 434A near the end of dispensing spout 420. Tube support member 484 may include a rounded or arcuate protrusion 486A extending from body 486 between tube holder clip 488 and opening 434A. Rounded protrusion 486A provides a rounded surface along which tube 430 engages as it bends toward opening 434A in tube support member 484, supporting tube 430 and preventing it from kinking.

[0078] The sensor 432 is attached to the end of the tube support member 484 so that the sensor 432 extends through a hole 432A adjacent to the opening 434A of the tube support member 484. The tube support member 484 includes a living hinge 490 between the sensor hole 432A and the opening 434A. The tube support member 484 includes a mounting hole 484A through which a fastener is extended to attach the tube support member 484 to the dispensing spout 420. The mounting hole 484A is located in the portion of the tube support member 484 having the sensor hole 432A and is spaced from the opening 434A by the living hinge 490. This allows the tube support member 484 to be bent at the living hinge 490 to allow access to the tube holder clip 488 and the dispensing device opening 434 while remaining attached to the dispensing spout 420 via the fastener. Thus, the tube 430 can be installed in the tube support member 484 by bending the side of the tube support member 484, including the tube holder clip 488, to a position away from the dispensing port 420, inserting the tube 430 into the opening 434a, and attaching the tube 430 to the tube holder clip 488. Bending the tube support member 484 to the installed position allows the tube 430 to be easily removed and replaced and / or cleaned. This allows a single tube 430 to be removably installed and used to form a condiment flow path, or a substantial portion thereof, through the condiment dispensing device 400 with fewer components that come into contact with the condiment and require cleaning / replacement. This also allows the outlet end of the tube 430 to function as a dispensing opening for discharging the condiment from the condiment dispensing device 400 by providing access to the opening 434a by moving the tube support member 484 to the installed position. Upon installation of the tube 430, the tube support member 484 may be moved back toward the dispensing position with the tube support member 484 aligned with the dispensing spout 420. The tube support member 484 may be releasably coupled to the dispensing spout 420 at the dispensing position. The attachment process is shown and described in further detail below with respect to Figures 25A-H.

[0079] The lid 404 may be formed of a plastic such as ABS, for example. The top cover 422 of the lid 404 includes a surface 436 that may include a label 438. The label 438 may indicate to customers that the condiment dispensing device 400 is contactless, meaning that they do not need to touch the device 400 to dispense condiments. In another example, the label 438 indicates the brand and / or type of condiment to the customer. The top cover 422 includes an opening 422A in which a light 423A (e.g., an LED) may be mounted to indicate whether the condiment dispensing container 400 is currently dispensing condiment. The top cover 422 also includes an opening 422B in which a light 423B (e.g., an LED) may be mounted to indicate the charge level of the battery 450 of the condiment dispensing container 400. The use of these lights is described in more detail below.

[0080] 19A-B, bottom cover 426 of lid 404 may be shaped to fit within the interior of sidewall 424 of lid 404. In some embodiments, the shape of the periphery of bottom cover 426 matches the shape formed by the inner surface of sidewall 424. Bottom cover 426 includes fastener-receiving annular portion 426A through which fasteners (e.g., screws or bolts) can be extended to attach bottom cover 426 to the sidewall of lid 404 and / or top cover 422. In other embodiments, bottom cover 426 may be configured to clip or elastically snap onto top cover 422. Bottom cover 426 includes hole 441 that allows access to dial 443 used to set the dispense time of condiment dispensing container 400. Referring to FIG. 19B, the bottom surface of bottom cover 426 of lid 404 may include markings indicating the current dispense time setting. For example, condiment dispensing container 400 may be set to dispense condiment within a range of 1 to 8 seconds. The dispense time may be set by rotating dial 443 to the desired dispense time setting, as indicated by markings on bottom cover 426. Dial 443 may include or be coupled to a potentiometer, variable capacitor, variable resistor, or rotary switch that generates a variable output. Dial 443 may be electrically coupled to circuit board 448 such that the variable output is communicated to a controller on circuit board 448. The controller operates pump 452 for a period of time related to the variable output of dial 443. For example, if the variable output ranges from 0 to 5 volts, each 0.6 volt increment may correspond to a dispense time (e.g., a 0.6 volt output selects a 1-second dispense cycle, a 1.2 volt output selects a 2-second dispense cycle, etc.). In some forms, a screwdriver or similar tool is inserted through hole 441 to rotate or adjust dial 443 to select the dispense time. This may be desirable to prevent accidental adjustment of dispense settings.

[0081] Adjusting the dispense cycle length allows condiment dispensing device 400 to be used to dispense a variety of condiments. The size of the dispensed condiment dose can be adjusted via dial 443 by adjusting the dispense cycle length. The dose size may also be adjusted based on the condiment being pumped through tube 430. A thicker or more viscous condiment (e.g., mayonnaise) may require a longer dispense time to provide the same size dose as a less viscous condiment (e.g., ketchup). By including an input to set the dispense cycle length, a variety of different condiments can be dispensed with the same condiment dispensing device 400. Lid 404 and pouch carrier 482 may be inserted into container body 402, displaying the condiment contained in condiment pouch 425 within pouch carrier 482.

[0082] Dispensing spout 420 is connected to sidewall 424 and extends away from sidewall 424 of lid 404. As described above, opening 434A is disposed at the end of dispensing spout 420 within tube support member 484. Opening 434A may receive tube 430 therein and direct the end of tube 430 forming dispenser opening 434 downward to indicate the dispensing location of the condiment discharged from dispenser opening 434. Opening 434A may be formed by an annular collar extending from the bottom surface of tube support member 484 to assist in directing the outlet end of tube 430. Dispensing opening 434 at the outlet end of tube 430 may be disposed downward when within opening 434A to direct fluid dispensed from dispensing spout 420 downward. Positioning the dispensing spout 434 at the end of the dispensing spout 420 and away from the container 402 reduces the likelihood of a customer coming into contact with the container body 402 when dispensing the condiment. For example, positioning the condiment dispensing spout 434 at the end of the dispensing spout 420 and away from the container body 402 allows a customer to place a plate under the condiment dispensing spout 434 when dispensing the condiment onto a specific portion of a plate without the plate coming into contact with the container body 402. Reducing the likelihood of customer contact with the condiment dispensing device 400 reduces the likelihood of the transfer of germs, bacteria, and / or illness between customers.

[0083] In another form, dispensing opening 434 may include or be attached to a one-way valve through which the condiment is forced. For example, an opening at the end of tube 430 may be connected to a valve. The valve may be designed such that force is required to force the condiment through the valve and quickly stops the condiment from passing through dispensing opening 434 and the valve as soon as the force falls below a minimum threshold. This may reduce the likelihood of the condiment dripping from dispensing opening 434 onto a surface below.

[0084] Sensor 432 may sense when to dispense condiments. Sensor 432 may be a motion sensor for detecting when a user places their hand, a plate, or food item under dispensing opening 434. In one embodiment, sensor 432 is a passive infrared (PIR) sensor. In another embodiment, sensor 432 is a microwave motion sensor. Sensor 432 may detect motion beneath dispensing spout 420 or dispensing opening 434. In another embodiment, sensor 432 may be a proximity sensor, such as an infrared proximity sensor. Sensor 432 may detect when an object approaches the underside of dispensing spout 420 and / or dispensing opening 434. For example, sensor 432 may detect an object located 2 to 12 inches below dispensing spout 420. Sensor 432 is electrically coupled to circuit board 448 in lid 404. Sensor 432 provides a signal to circuit board 448 indicative of the detected motion and / or the proximity of an object to sensor 432.

[0085] As described above, the outlet end of tube 430 may be dispensing opening 434 or may be connected to a dispensing valve. Tube 430 extends along tube support member 484 within dispensing port 420 to pouch carrier 482. Referring to FIG. 17B , tube 430 extends along the length of pouch carrier 482 to pump 452, around pump 452, and to the inlet end of pouch piercing device 460. Thus, tube 430 forms a substantially continuous flow path from condiment pouch 425 to dispensing opening 434. Tube 430 may be installed as a single piece that can be removed for replacement and / or cleaning. Using such a single piece of tube 430 to form the fluid flow path allows for easier cleaning and / or replacement because there are fewer parts to remove and clean. Using tube 430 can reduce bumps, cavities, corners, etc. along the flow path where condiment can accumulate and be difficult to remove during cleaning. Additionally, contamination can be reduced by reducing the number of components that the liquid comes into contact with as it travels from the condiment pouch 425 to the dispensing outlet. The tube 430 is suitable for the flow of any type of condiment and may be made of a flexible, food-safe material such as silicone or rubber. The tube 430 may have an inner diameter of approximately 3-9 mm and an outer diameter of approximately 5-15 mm. By way of example, the tube 430 has an inner diameter of approximately 5 mm and an outer diameter of approximately 8 mm.

[0086] 17B-E, the condiment dispensing device container 400 includes a pouch carrier 482 or subframe. The pouch carrier 482 includes a front portion 482A and a rear portion 482B. The pouch carrier 482 defines an interior chamber or space into which a condiment pouch 425 can be inserted such that the pouch 425 can be supported by the pouch carrier 482 so that the pouch 425 can be transported together with the lid 404 (see FIG. 17E).

[0087] 22A-D, the front portion 482A of the pouch carrier 482 includes a sidewall or plate 483 and a base 485 at the lower end of the plate 483. The plate 483 includes an opening 483C therein through which the pouch piercing device 460 extends to connect the pouch 425 to the pump 452. The front surface of the plate 483 further includes a series of retainers, such as tube holder clips 483A, for receiving and holding the tube 430 along the plate 483 as the tube 430 extends from the pump 452 to the tube support member 484. These tube holder clips 483A may be similar to the tube holder clips 488 of the tube support member 484. The tube holder clips 483A include arms 488B separated by a gap. To attach the tube 430 to the tube holder clips 483A, the tube 430 is pushed through the gap and between the arms 483B to attach the tube 430 thereto. These clips 483A allow the tubing to be quickly removed and securely attached to the pouch carrier 482 for cleaning and assembly. Referring to Figure 17B, the tube holder clips 483A may be offset to one side of the plate 483 depending on the position of the tube 430 as it extends from the outlet end of the pump 452 to prevent the tube 430 from kinking. In other embodiments, the outlet of the pump 452 may be centered along the plate 483 so that the tube 430 extends along the center of the plate 483 to the dispensing spout 420.

[0088] The top end of the plate 483 includes tabs 487 extending substantially perpendicularly away from the plate 483. Each tab 487 includes an angled prong 487A that is inserted into a hole 421A in a tab 421 of the lid 404. To attach the front portion 482A to the lid 404, the front portion 482A is positioned so that the tabs 487 are between the complementary tabs 421 of the lid 404. The front portion 482A is then slid along the surface of the tab 421 of the lid 404 until the prongs 487A align with the holes 421A in the tab 421 and securely engage the holes 421A due to the resilient force of the member. The tabs 487 of the pouch carrier 482 and the tabs 487 of the lid 404 may temporarily deflect from one another when attaching the front portion 482A to the lid 404, and then resiliently return to their original positions as the prongs 487A securely engage the holes 421A due to the resilient force of the member. The angled surfaces of the angled prongs 487A can help bias the tabs 487, 421 away from each other. In other embodiments, the front portion 482A can be attached to the lid 404 via one or more fasteners.

[0089] Plate 483 may further include flanges 489 along its sides that extend perpendicularly away from plate 483. These flanges 489 may provide increased strength to front portion 482A to prevent plate 483 from substantially bending. Flanges 489 may also define cavities or areas on the front surface of plate 483, including tube holder clips 483A, to prevent tubes 430 and / or tube holder clips 483A from catching on surfaces as lid 404 and pouch carrier 482 are moved and transported. For example, flanges 489 may extend far enough from plate 483 that when lid 404 and pouch carrier 482 are inserted into container 402 in direction 479, flanges 489 space tubes 430 and tube holder clips 483A from container body 402 so that tubes 430 and tube holder clips 483A do not catch on or grab edge 410, as shown in FIG. 17E .

[0090] A base 485 of the front portion 482A defines a cavity for the pump 452. The pump 452 may be mounted close to the outlet of the condiment pouch 425 to enable the pump to efficiently draw fluid from the pouch 425 and force the fluid through the tube 430 to the dispensing device outlet. Performance of the pump 452 may be improved by positioning the pump 452 closer to the outlet opening of the condiment pouch 425 to shorten the length of the flow path or tube 430 between the condiment pouch 425 and the pump 452. As an example, the inlet of the pump 452 is preferably within 100 mm, and more preferably within 90 mm, of the outlet opening of the condiment pouch 425. As shown, the base 485 includes a bottom surface 485A, a first sidewall surface 485B, a second sidewall surface 485C, and a pouch support surface 485D. First sidewall surface 485B includes two holes therein through which fasteners are extended to secure pump 452 to base 485. Base 485 further includes a mounting collar 491A used to attach front portion 482A to rear portion 482B, as described below. Base 485 also includes mounting tabs 492A and recesses 492B for receiving mounting tabs on rear portion 483B to attach front portion 482A to rear portion 482B.

[0091] 23A-D, rear portion 482B of pouch carrier 482 includes sidewalls or plates 493 and a base 495. Plate 493 includes tabs 497 extending substantially perpendicularly therefrom, each including an angled prong 497A. Tabs 497 and prongs 497A are used to affix rear portion 482B of pouch carrier 482 to tab 421 of lid 404, similar to the attachment of front portion 482A to tab 421 of lid 404. In other embodiments, rear portion 482B is attached to lid 404 via fasteners.

[0092] The base 495 of the rear portion 482B is configured to attach to the base 485 of the front portion 482A. The base 495 also includes a bottom surface 495A, a first sidewall 495B, a second sidewall 495C, and a pouch support surface 495D, or base member. The base 495 of the rear portion 482B includes an attachment ring 491B that aligns with the attachment ring 491A of the base 485 of the front portion 482A. A clip 499 snaps onto the aligned attachment rings 491A, 491B to hold the front and rear portions 482A, 482B together. The ends of the clip 499 can be placed over the rings 491A, 491B of the adjacent front and rear portions 482A, 482B to attach the front and rear portions 482A, 482B together. Clip 499 includes a curved body that is curved to correspond to the shape of annular bodies 491 A, 491 B. Each end of clip 499 includes a protrusion 499A with a rod-like tip that is configured to hook onto the inside of annular bodies 491 A, 491 B of both front and rear portions 482A, 482B of pouch carrier 482.

[0093] The base 495 of the rear portion 482B further includes a mounting tab 493A that can be inserted into a complementary recess 492B in the base 485 of the rear portion 482B. The base also includes a recess 493B for receiving the mounting tab 492A. The mounting tabs 492A, 493A may include hooks that resiliently engage or hook into portions of the complementary recesses to hold the front portion 482A and the rear portion 482B of the pouch carrier 482 together.

[0094] Thus, to attach the front and rear sections 482A, 482B together, the loops 491A, 491B are aligned with one another. The mounting tabs 492A of the front section 482A are inserted into the recesses 493B of the rear section 482B, and the mounting tabs 493A of the rear section 482B are inserted into the recesses 492B of the front section 482A. Next, clips 499 are positioned over the adjacent, aligned loops 491A of the front section 482A and 491B of the rear section 482B. The clips 499 are positioned so that the barbed projections 499A engage the ends of the loops 491A, 491B. Next, a force is applied to the clips 499, deflecting the barbed projections 499A outward on the loops 491A, 491B. Once the rod-shaped projection 499A passes through the interior of the annular bodies 491A, B, the rod-shaped projection 499A elastically returns to its initial position. A clip 499 is placed over each of the annular bodies 491A, B of the front and rear portions 482A, 482B. The clip 499 helps secure the front portion 482A to the rear portion 482B to create the pouch carrier 482.

[0095] When the front portion 482A and the rear portion 482B of the pouch carrier 482 are attached together, the pouch support surfaces 485D, 495D are aligned to form a base or support surface on which the condiment pouch 425 can rest. As shown in FIG. 17E , the pouch carrier 482 thus defines a space between the plate 483 of the front portion 482A, the plate 493 of the rear portion 482B, the pouch support surfaces 485D, 495D, and the lid 404 for the condiment pouch 425. The pouch 425 can rest on the pouch support surfaces 485D, 495D. Additionally, when the front portion 482A and the rear portion 482B of the pouch carrier 482 are attached together, the bases 485D, 495 form a cavity in which the pump 452 and the motor 464 are housed.

[0096] 23E, the rear side of plate 493 of rear portion 482B includes fins 494 configured to cooperate and engage with corresponding guide tracks on container body 402. Container body 402 includes corresponding fins that form guide tracks along which fins 494 of pouch carrier 482 slide. The guide tracks serve to guide pouch carrier 482 as it is inserted into and removed from container body 402. The guide tracks also secure pouch carrier 482 to container body 402.

[0097] 24A-D, the pouch piercing device 460 includes a body extending along a longitudinal axis and having a first end, such as a piercing end 462, for piercing the condiment pouch 425, and a second end, such as an outlet or connection end 464, for attachment to the tube 430. The piercing end 462 includes a tubular portion 466 for insertion into an opening in a fitting of the condiment pouch 425. The tubular portion 466 can engage with the fitting of the condiment pouch 425 such that the pouch piercing device 460 remains connected thereto by a friction fit. The tubular portion 466 can be inserted into an attachment opening in a fitting of the pouch 425 having an inner diameter smaller than the inner diameter of the tubular portion 466. When the tubular portion 466 is inserted into the attachment opening of the fitting, the fitting can resiliently expand to fit snugly around and accommodate the tubular portion 466. As shown, tubular portion 466 further includes a lip or ridge 468 on the smaller diameter portion of pouch piercing device 460 through which the attachment opening of the fitment passes or hooks to secure pouch piercing device 460 to the fitment of condiment pouch 425. Once the attachment opening passes ridge 468, the attachment opening resiliently returns to its original smaller diameter and hooks onto ridge 468 to secure the attachment to pouch piercing device 460.

[0098] Tubular portion 466 may include an angled surface or end 470 having an angled protrusion or tip 472 at its end. Angled tip 472 may be sharp and configured to be pressed against a portion of condiment pouch 425 to pierce pouch 425. Tubular portion 466 of pouch piercing device 460 may be forced into condiment pouch 425 through the hole formed by angled tip 472. The angle of angled end 470 helps gradually enlarge and / or tear the opening formed by angled tip 472 as tubular portion 466 is inserted into condiment pouch 425. Condiment within pouch 425 may then flow out of the pouch through tubular portion 466 of pouch piercing device 460 disposed within pouch 425. The angle of angled end 470 of tubular portion 466 further helps keep the opening of tubular portion 466 open for condiment flow by preventing the walls or portions of the pouch from covering or blocking the opening. Including angled end 470 reduces the likelihood that a portion of pouch 425 will block or be drawn against the opening when suction is present within tube 430, as less of the opening formed by angled end 470 will lie across it. The upper end of angled end 470 opposite angled tip 472 is adjacent to ridge 468, reducing the length the mating portion must slide over tubular portion 466 before elastically returning to its original position, thereby reducing the difficulty of securing pouch pier 460 when inserting piercing end 462 into the mating portion of pouch 425.

[0099] In the illustrated embodiment, the piercing end 462 of the pouch piercing device 460 further includes an annular ridge 466A that forms a step 468A over which another type of fitting that may be used with the condiment pouch 425 can pass. The annular ridge 466A may have a larger diameter than the tubular portion 466 and be configured to engage with a fitting having a larger attachment opening. Similar to the attachment process described above, the piercing end 462 of the pouch piercing device 460 may be inserted into the attachment opening of the attachment device. The attachment opening may resiliently expand to accommodate the annular ridge 466A beyond the step 468A of the annular ridge 466A and into the tubular portion having a smaller diameter than the annular ridge 466A. The fitting of the condiment pouch 425 may hook onto the step 468A, causing the fitting to attach to the piercing end 462 of the pouch piercing device 460. The piercing end 462 of the pouch piercing device 460 may further include longitudinal ridges or fins 468B. When the piercing end 462 is inserted into the mating portion of the condiment pouch 425, the fins 468B can prevent the mating portion from twisting or rotating within the mating portion. For example, the fins 468B can increase frictional engagement between the piercing end 462 and the mating portion, helping to maintain the pouch piercing device 460 in a seated position. In some embodiments, the fins 468B may help damage or irreversibly deform the mating portion to prevent the pouch 425 from being reused. Condiment pouches 425 are often difficult to properly clean before refilling and reuse; therefore, deforming the mating portion of the pouch 425 may inhibit and prevent the condiment pouch 425 from being reused. In another form, the inlay may include longitudinal slots for receiving the fins 468B such that the pouch piercing device 460 cannot rotate within the inlay when the fins 468B are within the longitudinal slots. Thus, the illustrated pouch piercing device 460 is adapted for use with two different condiment pouch attachment types.

[0100] Pouch piercing device 460 may include a flange or plate 474 disposed between piercing end 462 and connecting end 464. Plate 474 may be positioned to engage a portion of pouch 425 to which pouch piercing device 460 is connected and / or a fitting within pouch 425 to prevent pouch piercing device 460 from being inserted too far into pouch 425 (e.g., through both walls of pouch 425). When pump 452 begins to draw condiment from pouch 425 via pouch piercing device 460, plate 474 may remain engaged with the pouch and prevent pouch piercing device 460 from being inserted further into pouch 425. Plate 474 may have a substantially square cross-section with recesses 476 along one or more sides. Recess 476 allows the user to firmly and ergonomically grip pouch piercing device 460 when inserting pouch piercing device 460 into pouch 425 and when removing pouch piercing device 460 from pouch 425.

[0101] The connecting end 464 of the pouch punching device 460 may include a tip 478 that is inserted into the end of the tube 430. The outer diameter of the tip 478 may be sized to fit within the inner diameter of the tube 430. The tip 478 may be sized to be inserted into the end of the tube 430 and secured thereto by a friction fit. In the illustrated embodiment, the tip 478 includes rounded ridges 481 disposed about the circumference of the tip 478. The rounded ridges 481 extend radially from the tip 478 and engage the inside of the tube 430 to help secure the pouch punching device 460 to the tube 430.

[0102] The pouch piercing device 460 extends through an opening 483c in the front portion 482a of the pouch carrier 482. In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 24A-D , the pouch piercing device 460 includes a plate 475 and is attached to the second tubular portion 464B via a support member 477. The plate 475 provides a surface against which a user can press or apply force when inserting the pouch piercing device 460 into the condiment pouch 425. For example, the plate 475 functions as a push plate against which a user can place their palm to push the pouch piercing device 460 into the condiment pouch 425 or its mating portion. The plate 475 also helps prevent the vertical tubular portion 464B or its tip 478 from contacting the wall of the container body 402. This prevents potential contamination of the vertical tubular portion 464B or the tip 478. It should be noted that plate 475 may be sized so that it cannot pass through opening 487 in front portion 482A. When pouch punching device 460 is positioned within pouch carrier 482, plate 475 of pouch punching device 460 prevents pouch punching device 460 from passing completely through opening 487. This may prevent pouch punching device 460 from being pulled too far away from pump 452 and pushing on tube 430 or pump 452 when tube 430 is attached to it. This may help reduce force applied to pump 452 when pouch 425 is removed, which could otherwise cause damage. In some embodiments, plate 475 is configured to attach to front portion 482a to hold pouch punching device 460 in place. For example, plate 475 may snap onto plate 483 of front portion 482A or may be affixed to front portion 482A by fasteners.

[0103] 26A-E, another embodiment of a pouch punching device 460 is shown that is similar in many respects to the pouch punching device 460 described with respect to the pouch punching device 460 of FIGS. 24A-D, with the primary difference being that the pouch punching device 460 does not include a plate 475 or a support 477. A user can insert the piercing end 462 into the mating portion of the pouch 425 by pressing or grasping another portion of the pouch punching device 460, such as the plate 474. The angled tip 472 may also be sharper or more pointed than in the embodiment of FIGS. 24A-D to aid in piercing and / or tearing the bag 425 during insertion.

[0104] As described above, the tube 430 connects to the connection end 464 of the pouch piercing device 460. Angled tubular sections 464A,B allow the tube 430 to extend downward from the pouch piercing device 460 to the pump 452. The tube 430 passes through the pump 452, upward along the plate 483 of the front portion 482A, and along the dispensing spout 420 before terminating at the opening 434A in the tube support member 484. In some embodiments, the distance between the condiment pouch 425 and the pump 452 is less than 90 millimeters. As described above, locating the pump 452 close to the condiment pouch 425 can be advantageous for improving performance and efficiency in pumping fluid through the tube 430, particularly in embodiments in which a peristaltic pump 452 is used. This reduces the length of the tube on which suction is relied upon to draw fluid (e.g., air and / or condiment) toward the pump 452.

Claims

1. A seasoning dispensing device that supplies seasoning from a seasoning container, a housing configured to surround at least a portion of the seasoning container when the seasoning dispensing device is installed therein; a dispensing port extending from the seasoning dispensing device for supplying the seasoning from the seasoning dispensing device; a pump provided inside the housing to push the seasoning into the dispensing opening and out of the seasoning dispensing device; a continuous flow path having an inlet configured to couple with the condiment container and an outlet present within the dispensing spout for delivering the condiment; a sensor for detecting a user; a controller for actuating the pump in response to the sensor; Equipped with the continuous flow path extends through the pump as a single unit from the inlet to the outlet; the control device is configured to operate the pump in a forward direction to dispense the condiment without contact by the user and to operate the pump in a reverse direction to draw the condiment from the outlet. Condiment dispensing device.

2. 10. The condiment dispensing device according to claim 1, further comprising a subframe supporting the motor, the subframe allows the condiment container to be installed within the subframe such that the subframe, the condiment container, and the pump can be installed within the housing as a single member; Condiment dispensing device.

3. 3. The condiment dispensing device according to claim 1, wherein the pump is a peristaltic pump.

4. 4. A seasoning dispensing device according to claim 1, wherein the continuous flow path includes a portion at the pump position having an inner diameter in the range of approximately 4 to 6 millimeters and a Shore hardness in the range of approximately 55 to 65.

5. 5. The seasoning dispensing device according to claim 1, wherein the inlet of the continuous flow path is less than about 100 mm from the inlet side of the pump.

6. A seasoning dispensing device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising a pouch perforation portion having a perforation end configured to be inserted into the seasoning container, and a connection end configured to be coupled to the inlet of the continuous flow path.

7. 7. The seasoning dispensing device according to claim 1, wherein the continuous flow path has only two ports, the inlet and the outlet.

8. 8. The condiment dispensing device according to claim 1, wherein the outlet extends through an opening in the dispensing spout.

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