Device for dispensing fluids

Abstract

A reusable fluid dispenser (100) for dispensing fluids and a disposable fluid pack (200) for use with the reusable fluid dispenser (100) are provided. A plurality of different disposable fluid packs (200) may be used interchangeably with the same reusable fluid dispenser (100) such that a plurality of different fluids may be dispensed at a plurality of different flow rates without cross-contamination of the fluids. The reusable fluid dispenser (100) comprises a housing (102), a motor (106), a controller (114), a power supply (104), a decoder (110) and a lens array (116). The disposable fluid pack (200) comprises a fluid reservoir (202), a pump (204), and an encoder (206).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This technique relates to a device for dispensing fluids. More specifically, this technique relates to a reusable fluid dispenser for dispensing fluids and a disposable fluid pack for use in combination with the reusable fluid dispenser.

Background Art

[0002] Known spray devices for spraying fluids such as paints, cleaning products, pesticides, oils, degreasing fluids, etc. have a motor and a pump for transporting the fluid from a reservoir to the outside of a fluid nozzle at a predetermined flow rate or pressure. After use, the spray device is required to be thoroughly cleaned so that they can be used in combination with either the same type or different types of fluids in the future. However, thoroughly cleaning the nozzles, fluid reservoirs, and interconnecting tubes of such devices is often difficult. Other spray devices use a pressurized reservoir where gas pressure is introduced by a hand pump or the reservoir is pre-filled with fluid under pressure that keeps the fluid in a liquid state at ambient temperature.

[0003] Also, for example, in the commercial food and beverage industry, concentrates such as apple juice concentrate, cola flavoring, etc. can be provided in packs with attached radio frequency identification (RFID) tags, and it is also known to provide different fluid packs for use in combination with a motor. The RFID reader identifies the RFID tag in the pack and also communicates data such as the product type, its dilution ratio, i.e., the ratio at which the concentrate should be mixed with water, and the flow rate for dispensing the fluid. The RFID reader is read by a motor controller of a fluid dispenser that pumps the concentrate mixed with water at an appropriate flow rate. However, RFID tags and readers are expensive and thus not desirable for use in smaller spray devices such as those for the household market.

Summary of the Invention

Means for Solving the Problems

[0004] According to the first embodiment, a disposable fluid pack for use with a reusable fluid dispenser is provided. The disposable fluid pack comprises a pump comprising a fluid reservoir configured to be filled with fluid, an inlet and outlet communicating with the fluid reservoir, and a rotor, the rotor configured to form a power transmission unit coupled to a motor drive shaft, and the pump configured to pump fluid out of the outlet in a first direction from the fluid reservoir, and an encoder comprising encoded data, the encoded data defining at least one stop position of the rotor and a rotational speed of the rotor for pumping fluid from the fluid reservoir, and the encoder configured to be coupled to the rotor at a predefined position and to rotate with the rotor.

[0005] According to another embodiment, the encoder data defines the rotational speed as a plurality of spaced-out markings.

[0006] According to another embodiment, at least one stop position includes two or more evenly spaced stop positions.

[0007] According to another embodiment, at least one stop position includes two or more evenly spaced stop positions, and the multiple spaced markings are repeated between each of the two or more evenly spaced stop positions.

[0008] According to another embodiment, two or more evenly spaced stopping positions are each matched to the corresponding features of the rotor.

[0009] According to another embodiment, multiple spaced markings define angular velocity and / or acceleration profiles and deceleration profiles.

[0010] According to another embodiment, the encoder data further defines the pack information.

[0011] According to another embodiment, the encoder data further defines the direction of rotation.

[0012] According to another embodiment, the encoder is printed on or etched onto the rotor, or mounted thereon.

[0013] According to another embodiment, the pump is further configured to pump fluid in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

[0014] According to another embodiment, the outlet is coupled to a nozzle.

[0015] According to another embodiment, the outlet is connected to the injection line.

[0016] According to another embodiment, the outlet is coupled to a medical device or medical apparatus.

[0017] According to another embodiment, the pump includes a diluent pump, and a disposable fluid pack is further coupled to the diluent pump, the diluent inlet being configured to receive the diluent, and the diluent pump being configured to mix the diluent with the fluid from the fluid reservoir and pump the mixture out of the outlet.

[0018] According to another embodiment, a disposable fluid pack is configured for use within an article of a durable equipment.

[0019] According to another embodiment, the encoder comprises an encoder disk mounted on a rotor.

[0020] According to another embodiment, the encoder comprises an encoder sleeve or encoder drum that is attached to a rotor.

[0021] According to another embodiment, the pump includes a two-bore rotary pump and further includes a pump housing in which a rotor is disposed within the pump housing so as to form two chambers between the rotor and the pump housing.

[0022] According to another embodiment, the pump includes a three-bore rotary pump and further includes a pump housing in which a rotor is disposed within the pump housing so as to form three chambers between the rotor and the pump housing.

[0023] According to another embodiment, the pump includes a four-bore rotary pump and further includes a pump housing in which a rotor is disposed within the pump housing so as to form four chambers between the rotor and the pump housing.

[0024] According to another embodiment, the pump includes a five-bore rotary pump and further includes a pump housing in which a rotor is disposed within the pump housing so as to form five chambers between the rotor and the pump housing.

[0025] According to another embodiment, the nozzle includes a plurality of outlet holes.

[0026] According to another embodiment, the nozzle includes a plurality of outlet holes of different sizes.

[0027] According to another embodiment, the disposable fluid pack further includes a removable hollow wand configured to be attached to the pump outlet at a first end, and the wand includes a nozzle at its second end through which fluid exits.

[0028] According to another embodiment, the rotor forms a power transmission portion that couples with the motor drive shaft of the reusable fluid dispenser motor when the disposable fluid pack is connected to the reusable fluid dispenser, and the motor drive shaft is configured to drive the rotor and pump fluid from the fluid reservoir out of the outlet.

[0029] According to another embodiment, the outlet comprises a foaming nozzle.

[0030] According to another embodiment, the fluid reservoir comprises a concentrated fluid.

[0031] According to another embodiment, the rotational speed is selected according to the fluid in the fluid reservoir.

[0032] According to another embodiment, the disposable fluid pack further comprises a tube connecting the outlet of the pump to the nozzle.

[0033] According to another embodiment, the disposable fluid pack further comprises a tube connecting the inlet of the pump to the fluid reservoir.

[0034] According to a second embodiment, there is provided a reusable fluid dispenser for use in combination with a disposable fluid pack for dispensing a fluid. The reusable fluid dispenser includes a motor having a drive shaft configured to form a power transmission portion coupled to a rotor of a pump of the disposable fluid pack, a decoder and a lens array configured to read encoder data from an encoder of the disposable fluid pack, a controller configured to receive encoder data from the decoder and command the motor to rotate the drive shaft at a rotational speed and stop the drive shaft at any one of one or more predetermined stop positions defined by the encoder data, a power supply coupled to the controller, the motor, and the decoder, and a housing in which the motor, the decoder, the lens array, and the controller are disposed.

[0035] According to another embodiment, the decoder comprises a light emitter configured to emit light at the encoder and a light sensor configured to receive light reflected from the encoder.

[0036] According to another embodiment, the lens array is configured to focus light emitted from a light emitter onto an encoder and to focus light reflected from the encoder onto a light sensor.

[0037] According to another embodiment, the optical sensor is configured to detect light reflected from a plurality of spaced markings provided to the encoder when the encoder is rotating, the plurality of spaced markings define the rotational speed of the drive shaft and a predetermined stopping position of one or more of the drive shafts.

[0038] According to another embodiment, the decoder is configured to count a number of one or more predetermined stop positions detected per use, and the controller is configured to determine the amount of fluid delivered by the reusable fluid dispenser per use based on the counted number of one or more predetermined stop positions detected.

[0039] According to another embodiment, the reusable fluid dispenser further includes a releasably mounted pump of a disposable fluid pack to the reusable fluid dispenser and a releasably mounted means for counteracting the torque generated when the motor is activated.

[0040] According to another embodiment, the motor includes a stepper motor or a DC motor, the stepper motor or DC motor comprising a shaft encoder and a decoder, the decoder configured to measure the speed of rotation of the motor shaft during use, and the controller further configured to compare the measured rotational speed with the rotational speed defined by the encoder of a disposable fluid pack.

[0041] According to another embodiment, the reusable fluid dispenser further comprises a diluent inlet, the diluent inlet comprising a first end configured to be connected to a diluent source and a second end configured to be connected to the diluent inlet, which is supplied to a pump for a disposable fluid pack.

[0042] According to another embodiment, the reusable fluid dispenser further comprises an actuator, the activation of which powers the controller, motor, and decoder from a power source.

[0043] According to another embodiment, the power source includes a main power source.

[0044] According to another embodiment, the power source includes a battery.

[0045] According to another embodiment, the power supply is also located within the enclosure.

[0046] According to another embodiment, the reusable fluid dispenser includes a handheld reusable fluid dispenser.

[0047] According to a third embodiment, a reusable fluid dispenser for use with a disposable fluid pack for dispensing fluid is provided. The reusable fluid dispenser includes a motor having a drive shaft, the drive shaft being configured to form a power transmission unit coupled to the rotor of a pump of the disposable fluid pack, the motor being a stepper motor comprising a shaft encoder and a decoder, or a DC motor comprising a shaft encoder and a decoder, the shaft encoder defining the rotational speed of the drive shaft, a motor, a second decoder and lens array configured to read encoder data from the encoder of the disposable fluid pack, a controller configured to rotate the drive shaft at the rotational speed defined by the shaft encoder, receive encoder data from the second decoder and compare the rotational speed with the rotational speed measured by the encoder data, a power source coupled to the controller, motor and decoder, and a housing, the motor, decoder and controller being housed within the housing. The present invention provides, for example, the following: (Item 1) A disposable fluid pack for use with a reusable fluid dispenser, wherein the disposable fluid pack is A fluid reservoir configured to be filled with fluid, A pump comprising an inlet and outlet communicating with a fluid reservoir, a rotor, the rotor being configured to form a power transmission unit coupled to a motor drive shaft, and the pump being configured to pump the fluid from the fluid reservoir out of the outlet in a first direction, An encoder comprising encoded data, wherein the encoded data defines at least one stop position of the rotor and the rotational speed of the rotor for pumping the fluid from the fluid reservoir, and the encoder is configured to be coupled to the rotor at a predefined position and to rotate together with the rotor. A disposable fluid pack equipped with [features / equipment]. (Item 2) The encoder data defines the rotational speed as a plurality of spaced-out markings in the disposable fluid pack described in item 1. (Item 3) The disposable fluid pack according to item 1 or item 2, wherein the at least one stop position includes two or more evenly spaced stop positions. (Item 4) The disposable fluid pack according to item 2, wherein the at least one stop position includes two or more evenly spaced stop positions, and the plurality of spaced markings are repeated between each of the two or more evenly spaced stop positions. (Item 5) Each of the two or more evenly spaced stopping positions is matched to the corresponding feature of the rotor, as described in item 3 or 4, for a disposable fluid pack. (Item 6) The plurality of spaced-out markings define the angular velocity and / or acceleration profile and deceleration profile of the disposable fluid pack as described in any one of items 2-5. (Item 7) The encoder data further defines the disposable fluid pack as described in any one of items 1-6, which defines the pack information. (Item 8) The encoder data further defines the direction of rotation of the disposable fluid pack as described in any one of items 1-7. (Item 9) The encoder is a disposable fluid pack as described in any one of items 1-8, which is printed on or etched onto the rotor, or attached thereto. (Item 10) The disposable fluid pack according to any one of items 1-9, wherein the pump is further configured to pump the fluid in a second direction opposite to the first direction. (Item 11) The outlet is a disposable fluid pack as described in any one of items 1-10, which is coupled to the nozzle. (Item 12) The outlet is a disposable fluid pack as described in any one of items 1-10, which is connected to the injection line. (Item 13) The outlet is a disposable fluid pack according to any one of items 1-10, which is coupled to a medical device or medical apparatus. (Item 14) The disposable fluid pack according to any one of items 1-13, wherein the pump includes a diluent pump, and the disposable fluid pack further comprises a diluent inlet coupled to the diluent pump, the diluent inlet being configured to receive a diluent, and the diluent pump being configured to mix the diluent with the fluid from the fluid reservoir and pump the mixture out of the outlet. (Item 15) A disposable fluid pack as described in any one of items 1-14, configured for use within articles of durable equipment. (Item 16) A reusable fluid dispenser for use with disposable fluid packs for dispensing fluids, wherein the reusable fluid dispenser is A motor comprising a drive shaft, wherein the drive shaft is configured to form a power transmission section that connects to the rotor of the pump of the disposable fluid pack, A decoder and lens array configured to read encoder data from the encoder of the disposable fluid pack, A controller, wherein the controller receives encoder data from the decoder and is configured to command the motor to rotate the drive shaft at a certain rotational speed and to stop the drive shaft at one of a predetermined stop position, or one or more, defined by the encoder data. A power supply source coupled to the controller, the motor, and the decoder, A housing, wherein the motor, the decoder, the lens array, and the controller are arranged within the housing and A reusable fluid dispenser equipped with the following features. (Item 17) The reusable fluid dispenser according to item 16, wherein the decoder comprises an optical emitter configured to emit light in the encoder and an optical sensor configured to receive light reflected from the encoder. (Item 18) The reusable fluid dispenser according to item 17, wherein the lens array is configured to focus the light emitted from the optical emitter onto the encoder and to focus the light reflected from the encoder onto the optical sensor. (Item 19) The reusable fluid dispenser according to item 17 or 18, wherein the optical sensor is configured to detect the light reflected from a plurality of spaced markings provided to the encoder when the encoder is rotating, the plurality of spaced markings defining the rotational speed of the drive shaft and a predetermined stopping position of one or more of the drive shaft. (Item 20) The reusable fluid dispenser according to any one of items 16-19, wherein the decoder is configured to count a number of one or more predetermined stop positions detected per use, and the controller is configured to determine the amount of fluid delivered by the reusable fluid dispenser per use based on the counted number of one or more predetermined stop positions detected. (Item 21) A reusable fluid dispenser according to any one of items 16-20, further comprising a releasably mounted pump for the disposable fluid pack to the reusable fluid dispenser, and a releasably mounted means for counteracting the torque generated when the motor is activated. (Item 22) The motor includes a stepper motor or a DC motor, the stepper motor or DC motor comprising a shaft encoder and a separate decoder, the separate decoder being configured to measure the speed of rotation of the drive shaft during use, and the controller being further configured to compare the measured rotation speed with the rotation speed defined by the encoder of the disposable fluid pack, as described in any one of items 16-21. (Item 23) A reusable fluid dispenser for use with disposable fluid packs for dispensing fluids, wherein the reusable fluid dispenser is A motor comprising a drive shaft, wherein the drive shaft is configured to form a power transmission unit coupled to the rotor of the pump of the disposable fluid pack, and the motor includes a stepper motor comprising a shaft encoder and a decoder, or a DC motor comprising a shaft encoder and a decoder, wherein the shaft encoder defines the rotational speed of the drive shaft, A second decoder and lens array configured to read encoder data from the encoder of the disposable fluid pack, A controller, wherein the controller is configured to rotate the drive shaft at the rotational speed defined by the shaft encoder, receive encoder data from the second decoder, and compare the rotational speed with the rotational speed measured by the encoder data, A power supply source coupled to the controller, the motor, and the decoder, A housing, wherein the motor, the decoder, and the controller are arranged within the housing and A reusable fluid dispenser equipped with the following features. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0048] Embodiments will be described here with reference to the accompanying diagrams.

[0049] [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows an exploded view of a device for dispensing fluid. [Figure 2] Figure 2 illustrates an alternative exploded view of a device for dispensing fluid. [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows a magnified view of the encoder for a disposable fluid pack and the decoder for a reusable fluid dispenser. [Figure 3A] Figure 3A illustrates the lens array. [Figure 4] Figure 4 illustrates a device for dispensing fluids, which has an orifice as a nozzle. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows a magnified view of the orifice as a nozzle. [Figure 6A] Figure 6A schematically illustrates a two-bolus rotary pump. [Figure 6B] Figure 6B schematically illustrates a 3-bolus rotary pump. [Figure 7] Figure 7 illustrates multiple encoder disks. [Figure 8] Figure 8 illustrates an encoder sleeve or encoder drum. [Figure 9] Figure 9 illustrates a mounting mechanism for attaching a reusable fluid dispenser to a disposable fluid pack. [Figure 10] Figure 10 illustrates a reusable fluid dispenser equipped with a diluent inlet. [Figure 11] Figure 11 schematically illustrates a dilution rotary pump. [Figure 12A] Figures 12A and 12B illustrate the detergent capsules. [Figure 12B] Figures 12A and 12B illustrate the detergent capsules. [Figure 13A] Figure 13A illustrates a washing machine. [Figure 13B] Figure 13B shows a magnified view of a part of the washing machine shown in Figure 13A. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0050] Detailed explanation Embodiments illustrated in the accompanying figures will be referred to in detail here. In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are given as examples to provide a thorough understanding of the relevant teachings. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that these teachings can be put into practice without using these specific details.

[0051] A device for dispensing fluids is provided, comprising a reusable fluid dispenser and disposable fluid packs for use with the reusable fluid dispenser. Multiple different disposable fluid packs, or multiple different fluids, can be dispensed at the same or multiple different flow rates without contaminating the reusable fluid dispenser or cross-contamination between different disposable fluid packs. The reusable fluid dispenser comprises a housing, a motor, a power source, a controller such as a motor controller printed circuit board (PCB), a decoder, and a lens array. The disposable fluid pack comprises a fluid reservoir, a pump, and an encoder. During use, the motor of the reusable fluid dispenser is coupled to the pump of the disposable fluid pack, pressurizing the fluid from the fluid reservoir through the pump outlet. The fluid does not come into contact with the components of the reusable fluid dispenser, preventing cross-contamination between different fluids. Each disposable fluid reservoir's encoder includes encoder data defining at least one stop position and a dispensing flow rate for the fluid in the reservoir. When a disposable fluid pack is connected to the reusable fluid dispenser, the decoder reads the encoder data from the encoder and instructs the motor to rotate the disposable fluid pack's pump at the rotational speed defined in the encoder data, delivering the target flow rate. Because no expensive RFID or similar components are used, this device is suitable for sale in the consumer market and is a low-cost alternative to RFID-based systems in the commercial market.

[0052] Figures 1 and 2 illustrate alternative exploded views of device 1 for dispensing fluid. Device 1 comprises a reusable fluid dispenser 100 and a disposable fluid pack 200. The reusable fluid dispenser 100 comprises a housing 102, a power source 104, a motor 106, a controller 114 such as a motor controller PCB, a decoder 110, and a lens array 116. The housing 102 is configured such that the motor 106, controller 114, decoder 110, and lens array 116 are housed within the housing 102. In the embodiments illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, the power source 104 is also housed within the housing 102. However, the power source 104 is not limited to being housed within the housing 102. In the embodiments illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, the power source 104 is a battery. However, a primary power source may be used, in which case a suitable connection to the primary power source is provided within the housing 102, in contrast to the battery. Alternatively, the power source 104 may be configured to be removablely mounted to the housing 102, but protruding from it, similar to a rechargeable battery known in the art of power hand tools. Alternatively, the reusable fluid dispenser 100 may be configured to utilize either or both a battery power source and / or a main power source.

[0053] A motor 106, powered by a power source 104 and controlled by a controller 114, comprises a drive shaft 108. The drive shaft 108 protrudes out of the housing 102 and is removably connected to a pump 204 of a disposable fluid pack 200, forming a power transmission section that couples with the rotor of the pump 204. As shown in Figure 1-3, when the disposable fluid pack 200 is connected to a reusable fluid dispenser 100, the motor drive shaft 108 has a non-circular shape, and the rotor of the pump 204 also has a corresponding non-circular shape, so that the motor 106 can transmit rotational torque to drive the pump 204 of the disposable fluid pack 200. In one embodiment, when the motor drive shaft 108 is connected to the pump 204, the shape of the motor drive shaft 108 has multiple splines / grooves, so that the splines / grooves align with the protrusions / lobes, and the pump 204 has a corresponding protrusion / lobe shape. However, other corresponding external forms can also be used to form a power transmission section connecting the motor drive shaft 108 and the pump 204.

[0054] Figures 1, 2, and 3 illustrate a lens array 116 provided between the decoder 110 and encoder 206 of a disposable fluid pack 200. The lens array 116 comprises one or more lenses, preferably two lenses, as shown in Figure 3A. The lens array 116 may be molded from a plastic material that is transparent to the wavelength of light emitted by the decoder 110, preferably from red-tinted polycarbonate. In Figures 1 and 2, the lens array 116 is integrated into an optically clear partition 112, and the decoder 110 of the reusable fluid dispenser 100 is provided within a housing 102. The partition 112 is optically clear when the lens array 116 is integrated with the partition. However, in other arrays, the partition may be opaque. In other arrays, the decoder 110 may also be mounted on the partition 112, and / or the lens array 116 may be provided within the housing 102. The partition wall 112 may be connected to the motor in close proximity to the drive shaft 108. The partition wall 112 is only one known method for mounting the decoder 110 and / or lens array 116, and other means of mounting the decoder 110 and / or lens array 116 to the reusable fluid dispenser 100 may also be utilized.

[0055] Although not shown, the decoder 110 is connected to the power source 104 and the controller 114. According to one embodiment, the decoder 110 and the controller 114 may share the same PCB. As shown in Figure 1-3, the decoder 110 is provided in a fixed position relative to the axis of the motor drive shaft 108 so that the geometric relationship between the decoder 110 and the lens array 116 is fixed. In addition, the encoder 206 of the disposable fluid reservoir 200 is coupled to and permanently aligned with a feature on the rotor, such as one of the protrusions / lobes on the pump 204 or some other predefined feature. Thus, when the disposable fluid pack 200 is connected to the reusable fluid dispenser 100, the splines on the drive shaft 108 are aligned with the protrusions / lobes on the pump 204 of the disposable fluid pack 200 so that the radial and axial positions of the rotor are aligned with the drive shaft 108. The decoder 110, lens array 116, and encoder 206 are also aligned in a similar manner. The axial position of the encoder 206 is preserved by the alignment of the rotor onto the motor drive shaft 108.

[0056] The decoder 110 is configured to read encoder data from the encoder 206 of the disposable fluid pack 200 and to instruct the motor to rotate the drive shaft 108 at a rotational speed defined by the encoder data. The decoder 110 reads the encoder 206 when it is rotating. When power is transmitted to the motor 106, this causes the drive shaft 108 to start rotating, resulting in the rotation of the encoder 206. The decoder 110 can then read encoder data from the rotating encoder 206 and transmit it to the controller 114, which instructs the motor to rotate the drive shaft 108 at a defined rotational speed. When the reusable fluid dispenser 100 is deactivated, the motor 106 does not stop immediately; instead, the controller 114 stops the motor at the next or nearest stopping position. The controller 114 may process the signals received from the decoder to determine the speed, number, etc.

[0057] Figure 3 shows an enlarged view of one embodiment of an encoder 206 of a disposable fluid pack 200 and a decoder 110 of a reusable fluid dispenser 100. The decoder 110 comprises an optical emitter 110B and an optical sensor 110A. A lens array 116 is positioned between the decoder 110 and the encoder 206. To read encoder data from the encoder 206, a first lens of the lens array 116 is configured to focus light from the optical emitter 110B and direct the focused light onto the encoder 206. The light reflected from the encoder 206 is focused by a second lens of the lens array 116 and focused onto the optical sensor 110A. The decoder 110 transmits the encoder data to the motor controller 114.

[0058] As can be seen from Figure 3, the decoder 110 is aligned to see only a portion of the encoder 206 at any given time. The encoder 206 is coupled to the rotor and rotates with the rotor such that the portion of the encoder 206 visible to the decoder 110 changes during rotation. This is in contrast to known RFID systems in which the RFID does not have a physical connection to the rotor.

[0059] The controller 114 may determine whether the disposable fluid pack 200 is connected to the reusable fluid dispenser 100 or not. The light emitter 110B emits modulated light. As a result, even if light is detected by the light sensor 110A when the disposable fluid pack 200 is not present, the controller 114 can determine whether the detected light falls below a predetermined threshold. Light from sunlight or another source detected when the disposable fluid pack 200 is not connected to the reusable fluid dispenser 100 will fall below a predetermined threshold. Therefore, the controller 114 can determine that the disposable fluid pack 200 is not connected and that the motor may not be activated.

[0060] In addition, the light sensor 110A can also detect some of the light reflected from the light emitter 110B by the black markings provided on the encoder 206. However, since the light is modulated, the controller 114 can determine that this light is reflected light and not sunlight or light from another source, and can confirm that the disposable fluid pack 200 is connected to the reusable fluid dispenser 100.

[0061] The reusable fluid dispenser 100 is designed to be used multiple times with different disposable fluid packs 200. As a result, more "expensive" and less "recyclable" components such as the motor 106, controller 114, and decoder 110 are provided within the reusable fluid dispenser 100, while "cheaper" components such as the encoder 204, which are relatively inexpensive compared to known RFID systems, are provided within the reusable fluid dispenser 100. In addition, since the reusable fluid dispenser 100 is designed to be used with different disposable fluid packs 200, the orifice 208 through which the fluid exits and the pump 204 are provided as part of the disposable fluid pack 200. Therefore, the fluid does not flow through the components of the reusable fluid dispenser 100, and there is no cross-contamination when different disposable fluid packs 200 are used with the same reusable fluid dispenser 100. In addition, since the disposable fluid pack 200 can be discarded once the fluid reservoir 202 is empty, there is no need to clean the orifice 208 and fluid reservoir 202 between uses.

[0062] The disposable fluid pack 200 includes a fluid reservoir 202 that is pre-filled with fluid. An orifice 208 (illustrated as a nozzle in Figures 4 and 5) is connected to the outlet of a pump 204 so that the orifice 208 is in fluid communication with the fluid reservoir 202. In addition, the pump 204, which includes a rotor, is configured to pump fluid out of the orifice 208 in a first direction when the disposable fluid pack 200 is attached to the reusable fluid dispenser 100. The pump may be a unidirectional pump 204. Alternatively, the pump may be a bidirectional pump and may be capable of pumping fluid in a second direction, the second direction being opposite to the first direction. The ability to operate the pump in reverse, i.e., from the pump outlet to the pump inlet, may be used to clean the nozzle after each use.

[0063] In Figure 1-5, the fluid reservoir 202 is connected directly to the inlet of the pump 204, such that the opening of the fluid reservoir 202 is closed by the pump 204, and the inlet of the pump 204 is in direct fluid communication with the fluid in the fluid reservoir 202. In addition, the outlet of the pump 204 is connected directly to the orifice 208. However, a supply pipe may be provided to connect the fluid reservoir 202 to the inlet of the pump 204. Alternatively, or in addition, a supply pipe may be provided to connect the outlet of the pump 204 to the orifice 208. As a result, the fluid reservoir 202 may be provided remotely from the pump 204, and / or the orifice 208 may be provided remotely from the pump 204.

[0064] The fluid reservoir 202 may be a collapsible fluid reservoir 202 such as a pouch, bag, airless bottle, or tare bag, which allows a pump 204 having high vacuum capacity to draw all or substantially all of the fluid from the fluid reservoir 202. In addition, a collapsible reservoir fluid reservoir 202 that collapses as the fluid is drawn can prevent air from entering and can extend the life of many fluid types. The fluid reservoir 202 may have a rigid outer casing with a non-rigid liner inside a rigid outer casing, which is configured to collapse as the liquid is drawn out. Alternatively, the fluid reservoir 202 may have a rigid outer casing such as a syringe / vial, in which the stopper is retracted inward as the liquid is drawn out.

[0065] It is possible to use disposable fluid packs 200 of different sizes, each containing a different volume of fluid in a reservoir 202, accompanied by a reusable fluid dispenser 100.

[0066] Pump 204 is one of the pumps described in Quantex No. WO 2006 / 027548 A1 or No. WO 2013 / 050491 A1. TMA single-use pump may also be used. Figure 6A schematically illustrates an exemplary two-bolus rotary pump. The pump in Figure 6A comprises a rotor 11 that is press-fitted into a pump housing 10. Two chambers 23, 24 are formed between the rotor 11 and the pump housing 10, and each chamber 23, 24 generates a bolus that is constrained by the walls of the pump housing 10 as the rotor 11 rotates within the pump housing 10. As the rotor 11 rotates within the pump housing 10, a vacuum is generated, drawing fluid from the fluid reservoir 202 into the chamber 23 (through the inlet 14) and transporting the fluid in the chamber 24 to the orifice 208 (through the outlet 15). As the rotor continues to rotate, each bolus of fluid is transported around the pump from the inlet 14 to the outlet 15.

[0067] The pumps may be 2, 3, 4, or 5-bolus pumps, each having two, three, four, or five chambers. Figure 6B schematically illustrates a 3-bolus rotary pump. The pump in Figure 6B also comprises a rotor 11 that is press-fitted into the pump housing 10. However, the rotor 11 in Figure 6B is curved triangular in shape such that three chambers 51a, 51b, and 51c are formed between the rotor 11 and the pump housing 10, and each chamber 51a, 51b, and 51c creates a bolus that is constrained by the walls of the pump housing 10 as the rotor 11 rotates within the pump housing 10.

[0068] Figure 6A illustrates the rotor 11 at top dead center (TDC) position, where the spring mechanism 13 is in its most compressed state. The pump 204, having a two-bolus rotor, will stop at one of two bottom dead center (BDC) positions. Referring to Figure 6A, BDC is the position of the rotor 11 at a further rotation of 90° where the spring mechanism 13 is least compressed. BDC is desirable because the spring mechanism 13, made of rubber, acquires compression set over time, and the less it is compressed during periods of non-use, the better.

[0069] A pump 204 with a 3-bolus rotor will stop at one of three BDC positions. Referring to Figure 6B, BDC is the position of the rotor 11 at a further rotation of 60° where the spring means 59 is least compressed. A pump 204 with a 4-bolus rotor will stop at one of four BDC positions. A pump 204 with a 5-bolus rotor will stop at one of five BDC positions. Pumps with bolus rotors having more than five boluses can also be used, if appropriate.

[0070] Preferably, the pump 204 has a high vacuum capability that allows it to draw all or substantially all of the fluid from the fluid reservoir 202 while maintaining a consistent output flow rate, when the fluid reservoir 202 is a collapsible fluid reservoir 202. As a result, substantially all of the fluid can be drawn from the fluid reservoir by the pump 204, so there is virtually no waste.

[0071] The encoder 206 of the disposable fluid pack 200 includes encoder data that defines 1) at least one stopping position of the rotor and 2) the rotational speed of the rotor. The position and number of stopping positions are selected according to the type of pump 204 used in the disposable fluid pack 200. When the pump 204 has one or more BDC positions, the stopping positions should be aligned with one of the BDC positions. For example, if the pump has a 3-bolus rotor, one stopping position (i.e., one of the BDC positions) may be defined, or three stopping positions (i.e., one at each of the BDC positions) may be defined, so that the rotor can stop at any one of the three stopping positions. TDC may be used as a stopping position instead of BDC if required. When more than one stopping position is defined, the stopping positions must be evenly spaced.

[0072] At least one stop position is required so that the rotor can be stopped (and started) at a known position. If the rotor is not stopped at a known position, it would be difficult to connect another disposable fluid pack 200 because the splines and lobes would not be aligned. In particular, the high torque required to reverse drive the transmission of the motor 106 can prevent the drive shaft 108 from rotating unless the motor is not powered and the pump is axially and angularly constrained by the housing 102. As a result, the pump 204 of each new disposable fluid pack 200 has at least one stop position at a known consistent position.

[0073] Since the pump 204 is started from a known position, the number of swirls performed in each use, which correlates with the volume of fluid dispensed, may be determined by the controller 114.

[0074] The rotational speed defined in the encoder 206 sets the flow rate at which fluid from the fluid reservoir 202 is supplied to the orifice 208 and dispensed from there. The rotational speed is set according to the type of fluid in the fluid reservoir 202. In addition, the type of orifice 208 may be selected according to the type of fluid in the fluid reservoir 202. As is well known, different types of fluids have different viscosities and rheology and therefore may require different dispensing flow rates. As a result, each disposable fluid pack 200 may comprise an orifice 208 selected according to the type of fluid in the fluid reservoir 202 and a different fluid, and an encoder 206 that defines the flow rate required to dispense the fluid through the orifice 208. The flow rate, along with the size and type of the orifice 208 and the rheology of the fluid, determines the dispensing pressure, as is well known in the art.

[0075] Figures 4 and 5 illustrate the orifice 208 as a nozzle. However, other types of orifices may also be used; for example, when device 1 is to be used in the medical field, the orifice 208 may have an infusion line that is coupled to the outlet of the pump. In addition, the outlet of the pump may be coupled to a medical device / equipment. In one embodiment, when device 1 is to be used in the medical field, information from the decoder may be communicated from the decoder 110 or controller 114 to the medical device / equipment.

[0076] Since the orifice 208 is provided as part of a disposable fluid pack 200, different types of orifice 208 may be provided depending on the fluid in the reservoir 202. The orifice 208 may have multiple orifice outlets of the same or different sizes. "Multiple" includes "one or more". The size and / or number and / or location of the outlets in the orifice may be modified depending on the fluid in the reservoir 202. For example, it may be desirable to dispense a certain fluid as a fine mist (in which case the orifice may have many small outlets) or as a foam (in which case the orifice may introduce air into the fluid flow). The size and / or number and / or location of the outlets in the orifice may be selected depending on the required spray pattern. Furthermore, the size and / or number and / or location of the outlets in the orifice may be selected depending on the viscosity of the fluid in the reservoir 202. As a result, the reusable fluid dispenser 100 may be used in conjunction with a number of different disposable fluid packs 200 to dispense different types of fluids at different flow rates using different spray patterns.

[0077] The disposable fluid pack 200 can be configured according to the type of fluid to be dispensed. A disposable fluid pack 200 can be constructed having a fluid reservoir 202 of a material and size selected to be suitable for the fluid, and an orifice 208 selected based on the viscosity of the fluid and the required flow rate and / or spray pattern. The pump 204 may be a single-use pump or a single-use dilution pump (discussed in more detail below).

[0078] Device 1 may be used in conjunction with a removable wand, such as a rigid pipe or flexible hose, attached at its first end to the outlet of the pump. The wand may have a nozzle at its second end through which fluid exits. The wand provides the user of the device with a longer flow path and flexibility when directing the exiting fluid so that Device 1 is positioned at a distance from the exiting fluid. In addition, as discussed above, a supply pipe may be provided to connect the fluid reservoir 202 to the inlet of the pump 204 so that the fluid reservoir 202 may be supplied remotely from the pump 204 and / or so that a larger / heavier fluid reservoir 202 may be used.

[0079] The encoder 206 may be an encoder disc, encoder sleeve, or encoder drum, which is mounted on the rotor of the pump 204. The encoder is configured to be coupled to the rotor of the pump 204 at a predefined position and to rotate together with the rotor of the pump 204.

[0080] Figures 1, 3, and 7 illustrate encoder disks, while Figure 8 illustrates encoder sleeves or drums. As shown in Figures 1, 3, and 7, encoder disks have markings arranged coplanar with the surface of the disk, while, in contrast, as shown in Figure 8, encoder sleeves or drums have markings arranged radially around the periphery of the sleeve or drum. The encoder drum is a separate element mounted on the rotor of the pump 204, while the encoder sleeve is a printed winding that wraps around the extended portion of the rotor of the pump 204. Alternatively, the encoder sleeve may have markings printed or etched radially around the extended portion of the rotor of the pump 204. The encoder disk may be a separate disk mounted on the rotor, or it may be printed or etched directly onto the rotor. The encoder 206 may be mounted on the rotor, or printed or etched on it, at the time of manufacturing the pump 204, or when the pump 204 is mounted on the fluid reservoir 202, or when the fluid reservoir 202 is filled with a specific fluid. The encoder 204 may also be mounted on the rotor shaft on the pump 204.

[0081] As discussed above, when the disposable fluid pack 200 is connected to the reusable fluid dispenser 100, the drive shaft 108 is aligned with the pump 204 so that the radial and axial positions of the rotor relative to the drive shaft 108 are aligned, for example, the splines of the drive shaft 108 are aligned with the lobes of the pump 204. Since the encoder 206 is mounted on the rotor of the pump 204 at a predefined position, when the disposable fluid pack 200 is connected to the reusable fluid dispenser 100, the encoder 206 is aligned with the decoder 110 and the lens array 116.

[0082] Figure 7 illustrates several exemplary encoder disks. Each encoder disk has printed or etched markings (also referred to as encoder data). The markings define sections of specific width that indicate the bottom dead center (BDC) / stop position of the rotor of the pump 204. The encoder disk in Figure 7 is designed for a 3-bolus rotor, and the lines 300 indicate three stop positions. The BDC positions of the 3-bolus rotor are stop positions provided so that the reusable fluid dispenser 100 can stop the pump 204 at the nearest BDC position on the rotor. Additional markings are provided on each encoder disk between stop positions (i.e., symmetrical lines) that define the speed of rotation of the rotor. The frequency of markings between stop positions (i.e., BDC positions in Figure 7) affects the resolution, as the loop response becomes faster, thereby improving the accuracy of speed adjustment; i.e., more markings result in higher resolution. The markings are repeated between each stop position. The markings between each stop position have different widths and pitches compared to the width of the stop position markings, which allows information such as rotation speed, direction of rotation, angular velocity, acceleration, deceleration, and angular distance to be encoded. The angular distance commands the reusable fluid dispenser 100 to perform X rotations in a first direction (i.e., forward rotation) and Y rotations in a second direction (i.e., reverse rotation) with each operation of the actuator. The operation in the reverse direction causes a reverse flow of fluid, such that it returns from the outlet towards the reservoir 202. This can prevent the nozzle 208 from becoming blocked and / or reduce oxidation of the fluid at the end of each use. These markings may also provide additional information such as pack information. The pack information may include, upon request, any desired information such as the type of fluid in the reservoir, the volume of fluid in the reservoir, the expiration date of the fluid in the reservoir, and the manufacturing date. Stop position markings, along with intermediate markings, are used for motor loop control to maintain a constant motor speed independent of changes in torque and supply voltage.Alternatively, for a specific width of section indicating one or more stop positions, protrusions or recesses on the encoder 206 may define one or more stop positions.

[0083] As illustrated in Figure 7, each encoder disk is different, and each defines a different rotation speed. As mentioned above, the rotation speed may be selected depending on the fluid in the fluid reservoir 202. Thus, an appropriate encoder 206 is used depending on the fluid in the reservoir 202, the orifice 208, and the type of pump 204 used. Also, since at least one stopping position and rotation speed are defined by the encoder 206, the controller 114 can determine the number of rotations and thereby calculate the dose volume delivered per use. Known RFID can provide information about the pack and pump type (e.g., 2-bolus rotor or 3-bolus rotor), but known RFID does not know the rotor position during use and cannot count the number of rotations being performed.

[0084] As an alternative to mounting an encoder disk or sleeve to the pump 204, the encoder 206 may be applied directly to the pump 204 at the time of manufacture, for example, the encoder marking may be etched directly onto the rotor of the pump 204 by laser, or printed directly onto the rotor of the pump 204.

[0085] Pump 204 is not limited to the pump described above, having two or more boluses; other types of pumps may also be used. When such alternative pumps are used, encoder 206 may define a single stop position, detected for each full rotation of the rotor, to determine the number of rotations performed in each use. Markings defining the rotor's rotational speed, acceleration, deceleration, and pack information are also provided on each encoder disk.

[0086] When a disposable fluid pack 200 is connected to a reusable fluid dispenser 100, the decoder 110 reads encoder data and operates the pump 204 at a rotational speed defined by the encoder 206, and stops the pump at the nearest stop position defined by the encoder 206. As discussed above, the decoder 110 directs light from the light emitter 110B to the encoder 206, such as that shown in Figure 7, and uses a light sensor 110A to measure the reflected light. The light sensor 110A measures the reflected light received from the markings on the encoder 206 and transmits a signal to the controller 114. The signal from the decoder 110 is processed by the controller 114 to extract encoder data including at least one stop position. This encoder data may be used to set a defined motor speed, which may include an acceleration / deceleration profile and identification information about the disposable fluid pack 200. The lines may be black and white or another contrasting color combination of wavelengths compatible with the light sensor 110A.

[0087] When the disposable fluid pack 200 is connected to the reusable fluid dispenser 100, the encoder 206 is provided within a cavity of the reusable fluid dispenser 100, as shown in Figures 4 and 5. The cavity is tightly dimensionally fitted to prevent ambient light from reaching the lens array 116, in particular the light sensor 110A, which could otherwise reduce the performance of device 1.

[0088] The reusable fluid dispenser 100 is capable of delivering the correct flow rate for any liquid supplied in a disposable fluid pack 200 connected to the reusable fluid dispenser 100. Each disposable fluid pack 200 commands the reusable fluid dispenser 100 regarding the speed at which the motor 106 should rotate. This is in contrast to conventional dispenser devices, where the dispenser device commands the pump regarding the speed at which it should rotate.

[0089] The pump 204, encoder 206, and orifice 208 are integrated with the fluid reservoir 202 such that the pump 204, encoder 206, and orifice 208 are all discarded as part of a disposable fluid pack 200 once the fluid reservoir 202 is empty.

[0090] The reusable fluid dispenser 100 is configured to connect to a disposable fluid pack 200. In addition to the motor drive shaft 108 of the reusable fluid dispenser 100, which connects to the rotor of the disposable fluid pack 200 when the disposable fluid pack 200 is connected to the reusable fluid dispenser 100 by the end user, a detachable mounting means may also be provided. The detachable mounting means may be any detachable mounting device configured to connect the pump 204 and encoder 206 of the disposable fluid pack 200 to the reusable fluid dispenser 100 and to counteract the torque generated when the motor 106 is activated, and thus to keep the pump 204 in place. The detachable mounting device is also detachable in that it is configured to disconnect the pump 204 from the reusable fluid dispenser 100 so that the reusable fluid dispenser 100 can be used with another disposable fluid pack 200.

[0091] As can be seen from Figures 4 and 9, when the motor drive shaft 108 is connected to the rotor of the disposable fluid pack 200, the pump 204 is located within the cavity of the fluid dispenser 100, and the branched slots 450A, 450B of the fluid dispenser 100 are secured around either the inlet 204A or the outlet 204B or the pump 204. In addition, the encoder 206 is mounted on the rotor in a predefined position and is therefore also provided within the cavity of the reusable fluid dispenser 100.

[0092] Releasable mounting means may be provided to the usable fluid dispenser 100 and / or disposable fluid pack 200.

[0093] Figure 9 also illustrates a mounting arrangement, which includes a branched slot provided to a reusable fluid dispenser 100, in which a complementary bracket 454 is provided in the slot of the disposable fluid pack 200. As shown in Figure 9, both the reusable fluid dispenser 100 and the disposable fluid pack 200 are guided into an axially aligned state by features on the reusable fluid dispenser 100 and the disposable fluid pack 200. When the drive shaft 108 of the reusable fluid dispenser 100 engages with the rotor of the pump 204 of the disposable fluid pack 200 so as to create a power transmission connection, the bracket 454 connects to the branched slot 452. The bracket 454 and the branched slot 452 are provided to hold a fluid reservoir 202. As described above, in this arrangement where the branched slot 452 is not utilized, the fluid reservoir 202 may be connected to the pump via a supply pipe such that the fluid reservoir 202 is at a certain distance away.

[0094] The reusable fluid dispenser 100 also includes an actuator, such as a lever, switch, or button, provided on the housing. When activated, such as by pushing, pulling, or reversing, the actuator provides power from a power source to the controller 114 and, consequently, to the motor 106, which activates the motor 106. The motor 106, consequently, rotates the rotor of the pump 204 and dispenses fluid from the reservoir 202. Activation of the actuator also provides power from a power source to the controller 114 and, consequently, to the decoder 110, so that the decoder 110 can read the encoder 206. A signal from the decoder 110 is transmitted to the motor controller 114 and, consequently, to the motor 106, controlling the speed of rotation and, therefore, the fluid flow rate. The actuator may be required by the user to be held in the active position during use of the reusable fluid dispenser 100 so that the motor stops when the user removes their finger / hand from the actuator. According to one embodiment, the motor may be activated only when a disposable fluid pack 200 is connected to a reusable fluid dispenser 100 to prevent the motor from stopping at an arbitrary position, rather than when an encoder notifies the controller 114 of the nearest stop position. According to one embodiment, deactivation of the actuator causes the controller to notify the motor to stop at the nearest stop position before cutting off the power. According to one embodiment, deactivation of the actuator causes the controller 114 to notify the motor to operate in reverse rotation over a defined period (such as the number of cavities on the rotor) and cause a reverse flow of fluid such that it returns from the outlet towards the reservoir 202 before cutting off the power. This can prevent the nozzle 208 from becoming blocked and / or reduce fluid oxidation.

[0095] The fluid reservoir 202 of the disposable fluid pack 200 may contain a concentrate that will be mixed with a diluent such as water in device 1. Figure 10 illustrates a reusable fluid dispenser 100, further comprising a diluent inlet 400. A pipe, such as a hose pipe, for delivering the diluent is connected to the first end 400A of the diluent inlet 400 of the reusable fluid dispenser 100. The other end 400B of the diluent inlet 400 is connected to a diluent inlet 204A, which is supplied to the pump 204 of the disposable fluid pack 200 when the disposable fluid pack 200 is connected to the reusable fluid dispenser 100. Figure 10 illustrates the diluent inlet 204A as a tube that is part of the pump 204. The diluent inlet 204A is fluidly connected to the pipe that delivers the diluent. When the pump 204 is mounted on the motor drive shaft 108 and the power transmission connection is fabricated, a fluid connection is simultaneously fabricated between the diluent inlet 400 of the reusable fluid dispenser 100 and the diluent inlet 204A of the disposable fluid pack 200, with both shafts being parallel.

[0096] During use, the diluent passes through the pump 204, mixes with the fluid from the fluid reservoir 202 at the outlet of the pump 204, and exits through the orifice 208. As a result, during the use of device 1, the diluent is mixed with the fluid from the fluid reservoir 202 in the pump 204, and the mixed fluid does not come into contact with the components of the reusable fluid dispenser 100, preventing cross-contamination. Examples of concentrates that may be provided in the fluid reservoir 202 are automotive shampoos or insecticides that will be mixed with water prior to application. By providing only the concentrate in the fluid reservoir 202, the size of the disposable fluid pack 200 is reduced, reducing packaging and weight.

[0097] Figure 11 schematically illustrates an exemplary dilution rotary pump that may be used in a disposable fluid pack 200 described herein. The dilution rotary pump has the same external geometry as the pump described above. WO2014 / 135563 A1 describes the dilution rotary pump in more detail. The dilution rotary pump illustrated in Figure 11 is a four-bolus pump comprising a rotor 71 provided within a housing 70. The pump also comprises a seal 72, an inlet 74 connected to a fluid reservoir 202, an outlet 75 connected to an orifice 208, and a second inlet 76 which is a diluent inlet. As discussed above with reference to Figure 10, a pipe for delivering the diluent is connected to the diluent inlet 400 of the reusable fluid dispenser 100, which in turn is connected to the second inlet 76 (diluent inlet 204A in Figure 10) of the dilution pump. The dilution pump is configured to pass the diluent through an orifice 77, which abuts with the fluid flow from the fluid reservoir 202, to the outlet 75 of the pump. The ratio of the diluent to the concentrate (from the fluid reservoir 202) is a function of the rotational speed of the pump, as is known in the art.

[0098] Device 1 is configured to function when the diluent is supplied to the diluent inlet 400 at a known pressure, such as 1 and 1 / 2 bar. The diluent pressure may be set using a regulator provided to the diluent source. In some embodiments, for use in household settings, etc., Device 1 is configured to be attached to a standard hose pipe at the diluent inlet 400. The hose pipe is turned on to deliver water (diluent) to the diluent inlet 400, and then Device 1 is activated. When configured for use in industrial settings, Device 1 may be configured for use with different pressures as required, and the controller may operate a solenoid valve to start / stop the flow of the diluent in conjunction with the start and stop of the pump.

[0099] The diluent is delivered at a known pressure and passes through an orifice of a known diameter, and the pump 204 is controlled at a known rotational speed (defined by the encoder 206). Therefore, the flow rate is known, and thus the mixing ratio of the diluent and the concentrate (from the reservoir 202) can be precisely controlled, leading to high-precision dilution. This high-precision mixing may allow for higher concentrations of fluid to be used in the reservoir, potentially reducing weight and packaging costs.

[0100] According to one embodiment, a disposable fluid pack 200 is configured to dispense foam. In this embodiment, a foaming orifice 208 is provided for dispensing the foam, and the pump may be a diluent pump. Foaming is achieved by mixing a diluent with a fluid such as a concentrate from a fluid reservoir 202, and then pumping the mixture through a foaming orifice, which draws the mixture into the air, aerates the fluid, and generates foam.

[0101] Device 1 described herein may be a handheld unit, but is not limited to such an array.

[0102] Device 1 described herein for dispensing fluids is as follows: Home maintenance - for example, spraying abrasives, cleaning fluids, shower and window surfactants, Garden maintenance—for example, spraying insecticides, fertilizers, herbicides, wood preservatives, etc. Garage maintenance - for example, spraying penetrating oil, degreasing fluid, etc. Institutions - for example, dispensing cleaning and disinfecting agents for hospitals and hotels, Industrial applications include, for example, spraying road and tree marker paints, Medical applications—for example, intravenous, subcutaneous, or intestinal infusion, or the supply of fluids to or within another medical device. It can be used in a variety of different applications, including [mention specific applications here].

[0103] In medical procedure settings, it is crucial that the fluid dispenser dispenses the correct amount of fluid. Therefore, according to another embodiment, the motor of the reusable fluid dispenser 100 includes a stepper motor with a shaft encoder and a decoder, or a direct current (DC) motor with a shaft encoder and a decoder. In contrast to the embodiments described above, the shaft encoder of the stepper motor or DC motor defines the speed of rotation. When the stepper motor or DC motor is activated, it begins to rotate the drive shaft. The decoder can then read the shaft encoder and transmit a signal defining the speed of rotation of the motor to the motor controller 114. The disposable fluid pack 200 also includes an encoder 204, as described above. The encoder 204 of the disposable fluid pack 200 is used as a feedback device, read by the decoder 110 during the rotation of the drive shaft 108 to measure the speed of rotation. The controller 114 counts the number of rotations detected by the decoder 110 within a known time period to determine the actual speed of rotation. The controller 114 compares the actual rotational speed detected by the decoder 110 with the rotational speed defined by the shaft encoder, independently verifying that the stepper motor or DC motor 106 is rotating the pump at the correct rate, and therefore the correct amount of fluid is being dispensed. This mitigates a failure mode in which the pump is not engaged with the motor drive shaft to transmit power from the shaft to the pump rotor.

[0104] In further embodiments, the motor of the reusable fluid dispenser 100 includes a stepper motor with a shaft encoder and a decoder, or a DC motor with a shaft encoder and a decoder. According to this embodiment, the encoder 204 of the disposable fluid pack 200 defines the rotational speed as described above. The stepper motor or DC motor rotates at the speed defined by the encoder 204 of the disposable fluid pack 200, while the shaft encoder transmits a signal to the decoder for measuring the rotational speed. The controller is configured to compare the rotational speed defined by the encoder 204 with the rotational speed determined by the shaft decoder and to provide independent feedback that the rotational speed defined by the encoder 204 has been achieved. The shaft encoder and decoder on the motor drive shaft independently verify that the motor 106 is rotating the pump at the correct rate (as defined by the encoder 204). This mitigates a decimal failure mode in which the dispenser incorrectly sets an infusion rate that is substantially incompatible with the drug type.

[0105] In a further embodiment, the pump 204 is controlled at a defined rotational speed, and therefore at a defined flow rate, and the operating time is measured. The volume of volume may then be calculated from the flow rate and the measured time, or alternatively, by counting the number of pump boluses delivered by the rotor.

[0106] Washing machines and dishwashers are required to add a certain amount of detergent concentrate between refill cycles. To supply the correct amount of detergent during a wash cycle, detergent capsules are provided. Figures 12A and 12B illustrate several detergent capsules, and Figures 13A and 13B illustrate an exemplary washing machine. Each detergent capsule 500 is a disposable fluid pack 200, such as those described herein, for use with a diluent. As illustrated in Figures 12A and 12B, each detergent capsule 500 comprises a fluid reservoir 510 (containing the detergent concentrate), an inlet 520A and an outlet 520B, and a diluent pump and encoder 530 arranged at one end of the capsule. The encoder 530 is illustrated as a sleeve or drum encoder in Figures 12A and 12B, but a disk encoder may also be used. Inlet 520A is the inlet for the diluent (i.e., water) to the pump, and outlet 520B is the outlet from the pump through which the diluent and concentrate exit the capsule 500. The inlet from the reservoir 510 to the pump is not shown. The pump is arranged such that the rotor shaft is parallel to the inlets and outlets 520A and 520B, so that the motor drive shaft passes through a hole 525 in the center of the encoder 530, creating a fluid connection to the washing machine inlet and outlet ports, as well as a power transmission connection to the pump's rotor. The washing machine outlet port connects to the diluent inlet 520A, supplying water to the capsule 500, and the washing machine inlet port connects to the outlet 520B of the capsule 500 through which the diluent and concentrate exit the capsule 500 and enter the washing machine. The detergent capsule 500 is configured to fit into a corresponding opening 610 (shown in Figures 13A and 13B) which is supplied into the washing machine 600 or dishwasher. When the detergent capsule 500 is provided into the opening 610, the drive shaft of the motor, which is provided into the washing machine 600 or dishwasher, protrudes into the hole 525, so that the washing machine 600 or dishwasher can be considered a reusable fluid dispenser. According to one embodiment, each capsule contains a detergent concentrate in a 60:1 ratio. Such an arrangement allows the diluent to rinse the outlet of the pump and, upon removal, present a clean capsule.In addition, when a high concentration of detergent is used in reservoir 510, the volume of detergent concentrate per unit dose becomes very small, i.e., much smaller than the volume of any supply pipe from the pump to the washing chamber. Therefore, it is important to rinse through the pump outlet so that all of the concentrate eventually reaches the washing machine or dishwasher chamber.

[0107] Alternatively, the detergent capsule 500 may be equipped with a pump opposite the diluent pump. In this embodiment, the inlet 520A is a water inlet into the capsule 500 leading to the mixing chamber, and the outlet 520B is a water outlet from the capsule leading from the mixing chamber. The pump outlet communicates with the mixing chamber.

[0108] In an alternative solution, the detergent capsule 500 may comprise only an outlet 520B through which the detergent exits the capsule 500, with a pump facing the diluent pump. However, if such a capsule is removed, there is a possibility that the concentrated detergent may come into contact with the user's hands, which is undesirable.

[0109] Washing machines and / or dishwashers are durable equipment items that may be considered reusable fluid dispensers 100. Other durable equipment items, such as beverage dispensers or cocktail or smoothie dispensers, may also be considered reusable fluid dispensers 100.

[0110] To use device 1 as described herein, a disposable fluid pack is connected to a reusable fluid dispenser such that the drive shaft of the motor of the reusable fluid dispenser is connected to the rotor of the pump of the disposable fluid pack. Mounting means may also be used to mount the pump of the disposable fluid pack to the reusable fluid dispenser so that the disposable fluid pack does not become disconnected from the reusable fluid dispenser during use. Following the connection, a button (actuator) on the reusable fluid dispenser is activated by the user, which starts the motor of the reusable fluid dispenser. The drive shaft of the motor rotates the rotor of the pump and an encoder mounted thereon, which starts pumping fluid from the reservoir out of the orifice of the disposable fluid pack at a flow rate determined by the encoder. Following the deactivation (of the actuator), the motor stops the pump at a stop determined by the encoder. When the first disposable fluid pack becomes empty, or when a different fluid is required, the disposable fluid pack may be disconnected from the reusable fluid dispenser, and a different disposable fluid pack may be connected.

[0111] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many improvements and modifications can be made to the exemplary embodiments described above without departing from the scope of this technique.

Claims

1. A disposable fluid pack for use with a reusable fluid dispenser, wherein the disposable fluid pack is A fluid reservoir configured to be filled with fluid, A pump comprising an inlet and outlet communicating with a fluid reservoir, a rotor, the rotor being configured to form a power transmission coupling with a motor drive shaft, and the pump being configured to pump the fluid from the fluid reservoir out of the outlet in a first direction, An encoder comprising encoder data, wherein the encoder data defines at least one stop position of the rotor and the rotational speed of the rotor for pumping the fluid from the fluid reservoir, and the encoder is configured to be coupled to the rotor at a predefined position and to rotate together with the rotor, and A disposable fluid pack equipped with [features / equipment].

2. The disposable fluid pack according to claim 1, wherein the encoder data defines the rotational speed as a plurality of spaced-apart markings.

3. The disposable fluid pack according to claim 1, wherein the at least one stop position includes two or more evenly spaced stop positions.

4. The disposable fluid pack according to claim 2, wherein the at least one stop position includes two or more evenly spaced stop positions, and the plurality of spaced markings are repeated between each of the two or more evenly spaced stop positions.

5. Each of the two or more evenly spaced stopping positions is matched to a corresponding feature of the rotor, as described in claim 3.

6. The disposable fluid pack according to claim 2, wherein the plurality of spaced-out markings define angular velocity and / or acceleration and deceleration profiles.

7. The disposable fluid pack according to claim 1, wherein the encoder data further defines pack information.

8. The disposable fluid pack according to claim 1, wherein the encoder data further defines the direction of rotation of the rotor.

9. The disposable fluid pack according to claim 1, wherein the encoder is printed on the rotor, etched on the rotor, or attached to the rotor.

10. The disposable fluid pack according to claim 1, wherein the pump is further configured to pump the fluid in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

11. The outlet is coupled to a nozzle, as described in claim 1, for a disposable fluid pack.

12. The disposable fluid pack according to claim 1, wherein the outlet is coupled to a medical device or medical apparatus.

13. The disposable fluid pack according to claim 1, wherein the pump includes a diluent pump, and the disposable fluid pack further comprises a diluent inlet coupled to the diluent pump, the diluent inlet being configured to receive a diluent, and the diluent pump being configured to mix the diluent with the fluid from the fluid reservoir and to pump the mixture out of the outlet.

14. A reusable fluid dispenser for use with disposable fluid packs for dispensing fluids, wherein the reusable fluid dispenser is A motor comprising a drive shaft, wherein the drive shaft is configured to form a power transmission coupling with the rotor of the pump of the disposable fluid pack, A decoder and lens array configured to read encoder data from the encoder of the disposable fluid pack, A controller, wherein the controller receives encoder data from the decoder and commands the motor to rotate the drive shaft at a certain rotational speed and to stop the drive shaft at one of one or more predetermined stop positions defined by the encoder data, A power supply source coupled to the controller, the motor, and the decoder, A housing, wherein the motor, the decoder, the lens array, and the controller are arranged within the housing and A reusable fluid dispenser equipped with the following features.

15. The reusable fluid dispenser according to claim 14, wherein the decoder comprises an optical emitter configured to emit light in the encoder and an optical sensor configured to receive light reflected from the encoder.

16. The reusable fluid dispenser according to claim 15, wherein the lens array is configured to focus the light emitted from the light emitter onto the encoder and to focus the light reflected from the encoder onto the light sensor.

17. The reusable fluid dispenser according to claim 15, wherein the optical sensor is configured to detect the light reflected from a plurality of spaced markings provided to the encoder when the encoder is rotating, the plurality of spaced markings define the rotational speed of the drive shaft and a predetermined stopping position of the drive shaft above one or more of the above.

18. The reusable fluid dispenser according to claim 14, wherein the decoder is configured to detect one or more predetermined stop positions and to count the number of one or more predetermined stop positions detected per use, and the controller is configured to determine the amount of fluid delivered by the reusable fluid dispenser per use based on the counted number of one or more predetermined stop positions detected.

19. The reusable fluid dispenser according to claim 14, further comprising a releasably mounted pump of the disposable fluid pack to the reusable fluid dispenser, and a releasably mounted means for counteracting torque generated when the motor is activated.

20. The reusable fluid dispenser according to claim 14, wherein the motor includes a stepper motor or a DC motor, the stepper motor or DC motor comprising a shaft encoder and another decoder, the other decoder being configured to measure the speed of rotation of the drive shaft during use, and the controller being further configured to compare the rotational speed defined by the encoder of the disposable fluid pack with the measured rotational speed.

21. A reusable fluid dispenser for use with disposable fluid packs for dispensing fluids, wherein the reusable fluid dispenser is A decoder and lens array configured to read encoder data from the encoder of the disposable fluid pack, A motor comprising a drive shaft, wherein the drive shaft is configured to form a power transmission coupling with the rotor of the pump of the disposable fluid pack, and the motor includes a stepper motor comprising a shaft encoder and another decoder, or a DC motor comprising a shaft encoder and another decoder, wherein the shaft encoder defines the rotational speed of the drive shaft, A controller, wherein the controller is configured to rotate the drive shaft at the rotational speed defined by the shaft encoder, receive encoder data from the decoder, and compare the rotational speed defined by the shaft encoder with the rotational speed defined in the encoder data, A power supply source coupled to the controller, the motor, and the other decoder, A housing, wherein the motor, the other decoder, and the controller are arranged inside the housing, and A reusable fluid dispenser equipped with the following features.

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