Storage rack and adaptor for dispensing food product

Abstract

A rack is configured to receive a container for dispensing a food product includes a frame. A first shelf is coupled to the frame and defines a first aperture having an axis. A second shelf is coupled to the frame and defines a second opening coaxial with the first aperture. A first insert is positioned in the first aperture and includes a first flange engaging the first shelf and fins extending from the first flange across the aperture. A second insert is positioned in the second opening and includes a second flange engaging the second shelf and a wall extending across the opening from a first end at the second flange to a second end spaced from the flange. The first end defines a first opening having a first width and the second end defines a second opening having a smaller second width.

Description

Non-Provisional Patent Application Atty. Docket No. 850724.00213STORAGE RACK AND ADAPTOR FOR DISPENSING FOOD PRODUCTCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U. S. Provisional Application No.63 / 721,187, filed on November 15, 2024, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.BACKGROUND

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a dispensing system to dispense food products. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a dispensing system that includes a storage rack and an adaptor for dispensing a flowable food product.SUMMARY

[0003] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a rack can be configured to receive a container for dispensing a food product. The rack can include a frame. A first shelf can be coupled to the frame and can define a first aperture having an axis. A second shelf can be coupled to the frame and can define a second opening that is coaxial with the first aperture. A first insert can be positioned in the first aperture. The first insert can include a first flange that engages the first shelf and a plurality of fins that extend from the first flange and across the first aperture. A second insert can be positioned in the second opening. The second insert can include a second flange that engages with the second shelf and a wall extending across the opening from a first end at the second flange to a second end spaced from the second flange. The first end can define a first opening having a first width and the second end can define a second opening having a second width that is less than the first width.

[0004] In some examples, the plurality of fins can be configured to resiliently bend into the first aperture to accommodate the container.

[0005] In some examples, the wall can form a hollow cone so that the first width has a first diameter and the second width has a second diameter.

[0006] In some examples, the second insert can include a connector to releasably couple the second insert to the second shelf.1QB\99442558.1Non-Provisional Patent Application Atty. Docket No. 850724.00213

[0007] In some examples, at least one of the first shelf and the second shelf can be movably coupled to the frame.

[0008] In some examples, the rack can further include a coupler positioned so that the second shelf is between the first shelf and the coupler along the axis. The coupler can be configured to fluidly couple with the container to allow the food product to be dispensed.

[0009] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an adaptor can couple a container to a coupler for dispensing a food product from the container. The adaptor can include a body defining an opening that extends along an axis between a first end of the body configured to couple to the container and a second end of the body configured to couple to the coupler. The body can include a peripheral wall having a plurality of projections that extend from an exterior surface of the peripheral wall. A vent tube can be coupled to the body and positioned within the opening between the first end and the second end. The vent tube can extend away from the second end and past the first end of the body. A check valve can control a flow of air through the vent tube. The check valve can be configured to allow air to enter the container to equalize pressure within the container as the food product is dispensed from the container.

[0010] In some examples, the body can include the peripheral wall with a conical shape that defines the opening so that first end has first diameter and the second end has second diameter that is less than first diameter.

[0011] In some examples, the plurality of projections can be a convex shape extending from the exterior surface.

[0012] In some examples, the vent tube can extend from the peripheral wall and along the axis.

[0013] In some examples, the body can include a boss that extends into the opening and the vent tube can be coupled to the boss.

[0014] In some examples, the first end of the body can include threads configured to threadably couple with the container.

[0015] In some examples, the check valve can be a resilient member that is coupled a distal end of the vent tube.

[0016] In some examples, the vent tube can be configured so that the distal end of the vent tube is positioned within an air gap in the container when the food product is dispensed.2QB\99442558.1Non-Provisional Patent Application Atty. Docket No. 850724.00213

[0017] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a dispensing system can dispense a food product from a container. The dispensing system can include an adaptor including a first conical wall defining a first end configured to couple to the container and a second end configured to couple to a coupler, and a vent tube extending from an interior surface of the first conical wall so that a distal end of the vent tube is positioned in an air gap within the container when the food product is dispensed. A first receiver can include a flange defining a first opening having an axis and a plurality of fins that extend from the flange and across the first opening. The plurality of fins can be configured to resiliently flex to receive the container. A second receiver can include a second conical wall defining a second opening that is coaxial with the first opening and configured to receive the adaptor.

[0018] In some examples, the adaptor can include a plurality of projections on an exterior surface of the first conical wall to space the first conical wall from the second conical wall and allow air to pass between the first conical wall the second conical wall to the vent tube.

[0019] In some examples, the adaptor can include a check valve coupled to the distal end of the vent tube.

[0020] In some examples, the adaptor can extend through the second receiver so that the first end is on a first side of the second receiver and the second end is on a second side of the second receiver.

[0021] In some examples, the adaptor can include a first connector that engages a second connector on the second receiver to releasably secure the adaptor to the second receiver.

[0022] In some examples, the dispensing system can further include a dispensing head to dispense the food product and a pump system to pump the food product from the container to the dispensing head.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] The invention will be better understood and features, aspects, and advantages other than those set forth above will become apparent when consideration is given to the following detailed description thereof. Such detailed description makes reference to the following drawings.

[0024] FIG. 1 is an axonometric view of a dispensing system, according to aspects of the present disclosure.3QB\99442558.1Non-Provisional Patent Application Atty. Docket No. 850724.00213

[0025] FIG. 2 is another axonometric view of the dispensing system of FIG. 1 with a storage rack removed from a storage area.

[0026] FIG. 3 is another axonometric view of the dispensing system of FIG. 2 with a container removed from the storage rack.

[0027] FIG. 4 is an axonometric view of another example arrangement of the dispensing system of FIG. 1.

[0028] FIG. 5 is an axonometric view of yet another example arrangement of the dispensing system of FIG. 1.

[0029] FIG. 6 is an axonometric view of a storage rack and a pump system of the dispensing system of FIG. 1.

[0030] FIG. 7 is an exploded view of the storage rack and the pump system of FIG. 6.

[0031] FIG. 8 is a side view of the storage rack and pump system of FIG. 6.

[0032] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the storage rack and pump system of FIG. 8 taken along VIIII-VIIII.

[0033] FIG. 10 is an axonometric view of the storage rack of FIG. 5.

[0034] FIG. 11 is an axonometric view of an adaptor of FIG. 6.

[0035] FIG. 12 is a front view of the adaptor of FIG. 11.

[0036] FIG. 13 is a side view of the adaptor of FIG. 11.

[0037] FIG. 14 is a bottom view of the adaptor of FIG. 11.

[0038] FIG. 15 is a top view of the adaptor of FIG. 11.

[0039] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the adaptor of FIG. 13 taken through line XVI-XVI.

[0040] FIG. 17 is an axonometric view of another example of an adaptor for use with the dispensing system of FIG. 1.

[0041] FIG. 18 is a front view of the adaptor of FIG. 17.

[0042] FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of the adaptor of FIG. 18 taken through line XIX- XIX.

[0043] FIG. 20 is a top view of the adaptor of FIG. 10.

[0044] FIG. 21 is a bottom view of the adaptor of FIG. 10.4QB\99442558.1Non-Provisional Patent Application Atty. Docket No. 850724.00213DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0045] Before any embodiments of the invention are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of “including,” “comprising,” or “having” and variations thereof herein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items. Unless specified or limited otherwise, the terms “mounted,” “connected,” “supported,” and “coupled” and variations thereof are used broadly and encompass both direct and indirect mountings, connections, supports, and couplings. Further, “connected” and “coupled” are not restricted to physical or mechanical connections or couplings, and may also include fluid and electrical connections.

[0046] The following discussion is presented to enable a person skilled in the art to make and use embodiments of the invention. Various modifications to the illustrated embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles herein can be applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from embodiments of the invention. Thus, embodiments of the invention are not intended to be limited to embodiments shown, but are to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein. The following detailed description is to be read with reference to the figures, in which like elements in different figures have like reference numerals. The figures, which are not necessarily to scale, depict selected embodiments and are not intended to limit the scope of embodiments of the invention. Skilled artisans will recognize the examples provided herein have many useful alternatives and fall within the scope of embodiments of the invention.

[0047] One or more embodiments are described and illustrated in the following description and accompanying drawings. These embodiments are not limited to the specific details provided herein and may be modified in various ways. Further, other embodiments may exist that are not expressly described herein. Also, functions described as being performed by multiple components may be consolidated and performed by a single component. Similarly, functions described herein as being performed by one component may be performed by multiple components in a distributed5QB\99442558.1Non-Provisional Patent Application Atty. Docket No. 850724.00213manner. Additionally, a component described as performing particular functionality may also perform additional functionality not expressly described herein. For example, a device or structure that is “configured” in a certain way is configured in at least that way, but may also be configured in ways that are not expressly listed.

[0048] In addition, the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. For example, the use of “comprising,” “including,” “containing,” “having,” and variations thereof herein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items. Also as used herein, unless otherwise limited or defined, “or” indicates a non-exclusive list of components or operations that can be present in any variety of combinations, rather than an exclusive list of components that can be present only as alternatives to each other. For example, a list of “A, B, or C” indicates options of: A; B; C; A and B; A and C; B and C; and A, B, and C. Correspondingly, the term “or” as used herein is intended to indicate exclusive alternatives only when preceded by terms of exclusivity, such as “either,” “one of,” “only one of,” or “exactly one of. ” For example, a list of “one of A, B, or C” indicates options of: A, but not B and C; B, but not A and C; and C, but not A and B. A list preceded by “one or more” (and variations thereon) and including “or” to separate listed elements indicates options of one or more of any or all of the listed elements. For example, the phrases “one or more of A, B, or C” and “at least one of A, B, or C” indicate options of: one or more A; one or more B; one or more C; one or more A and one or more B; one or more B and one or more C; one or more A and one or more C; and one or more of A, one or more of B, and one or more of C. Similarly, a list preceded by “a plurality of’ (and variations thereon) and including “or” to separate listed elements indicates options of multiple instances of any or all of the listed elements. For example, the phrases “a plurality of A, B, or C” and “two or more of A, B, or C” indicate options of: A and B; B and C; A and C; and A, B, and C.

[0049] Dispensing systems are used to dispense food from a container. Containers come in various sizes and types, including, for example, flexible bags, rigid bottles or jugs, etc. Correspondingly, a rack for storing a container for dispensing can be configured to accommodate containers of different types and sizes. In some cases, it can be advantageous to arrange a container for dispensing so that a food product therein can be guided to a coupler of a pump system by gravity. This can help to improve container evacuation and reduce pump demand, particularly with6QB\99442558.1Non-Provisional Patent Application Atty. Docket No. 850724.00213highly viscous food products, such as mayo, syrups, honey, jam, etc. When provided in a rigid container, it can also be advantageous to equalize pressure in the container during dispensing to prevent a vacuum in the container that can result in container collapse.

[0050] Aspects of the present disclosure provide a dispensing system with a storage rack that can improve dispensing performance and consistency (e.g., for dispensing without introducing air into the system that results in spattering of the food product at an inconsistent flow rate). For example, the storage rack can include a frame that is configured to support a container so that an opening of the container is positioned below the rest of the container (e.g., to be at a lowest point on the container when the container is supported on the frame, relative to a direction of gravity). To support the container, the frame can include a first receiver and a second receiver that is positioned between the first receiver and a support surface that the rack is configured to be placed on. In some examples, at least one of the first receiver and the second receiver are configured as inserts that are coupled to corresponding first and second shelves that are coupled to the frame. The first receiver is configured to support an upper (e.g., first) end of the container. The first receiver can be compliant to accommodate containers having different sizes, shapes, etc. The second receiver can be configured as a guide that engages with the container and directs the container to a coupler of a pump system of the dispensing system. The second receiver can have a tapered peripheral wall (e.g., with a conical, pyramidal, or other shape) that defines opening to receive the container or an adaptor (e.g., with a coupler) that is attached to the container.

[0051] In some examples, the adaptor can be coupled to the container to provide a connection interface that is configured to couple with the pump system. The adaptor can have a tapered peripheral wall to fit within the opening of the second receiver so the adaptor is accurately and repeatably positioned as the container is swapped out for refilling. The tapered shape of the adaptor also helps to feed food product to the connection interface during dispensing to improve evacuation. As the food product is dispensed, the volume is reduced within the container and results in a corresponding drop in internal pressure. If the pressure differential between the external pressure (e.g., atmospheric pressure) and the internal pressure becomes too high, the container may collapse, which makes pumping more difficult and reduces evacuation efficiency.

[0052] To prevent container collapse, a vent can be provided to allow atmospheric air into the container. In some examples, the vent can be attached to the container, for example, by punching7QB\99442558.1Non-Provisional Patent Application Atty. Docket No. 850724.00213a hole in the container and optionally fitting a valve in the hole. In other examples, the vent can be integrated into the adaptor. For example, a vent tube can be coupled to the peripheral wall within the opening. The vent tube can include a valve (e.g., a rubber valve, ball check valve, reed valve, etc.). In either case it is advantageous to position an outlet of the vent tube in an airspace of the container within the container when the container is supported in the rack, as may prevent the food product from blocking the air.

[0053] FIGS. 1-5 depict an example of a dispensing system 100 according to aspects of the disclosure. The dispensing system 100 is configured to dispense a food product (e.g., flowable food product such as ketchup, mustard, mayo, etc., or granular food product such as granola, salt, pepper, etc.) from a container 108 (e.g., a rigid jug or bottle, a flexible bag, or another type of reservoir). The dispensing system 100 can include a dispensing head 101 to dispense food product from the container 108. The dispensing head 101 can include a user interface to allow a user to select a predetermined amount of food product to be dispensed, or to manually dispense a desired amount of food product. Examples of some types of dispensing heads 101 and their operation are described in U. S. Patent No. 10,961,105 and U. S. Patent Application Publication No.2023 / 0145776. As shown in FIGS. 1-5, the dispensing head 101 can be configured to dispense food product from one or more of the containers 108. Correspondingly, the dispensing system 100 can include one or more dispensing heads 101 depending on the particular application.

[0054] To move food product from the container 108 to the dispensing head 101, the dispensing system 100 can include transport system 102 to transport food product from the container 108 to the dispensing head 101. The dispensing head 101 can be configured to communicate with the transport system 102 to dispense the food product from the container 108. In the case of flowable food product, the transport system 102 can include a pump system 112 to pump the food product from the container 108 to the dispensing head 101. The pump system 112 can include one or more pumps 103, which may be contained within a housing 105. To transport the food product, tubing 106 or other forms of transportation lines can be used. For example, a first tube 107 can be coupled between the container 108 and the pump system 112 and a second tube 109 can be coupled between the pump system 112 and the dispensing head 101. In the case of granular food products, other types of dispensers, including conveyors, gravity feed systems, etc., can be used.8QB\99442558.1Non-Provisional Patent Application Atty. Docket No. 850724.00213

[0055] Depending on the application, the dispensing head 101 may be positioned remotely from the container 108, or the dispensing head 101 may be coupled to a housing that receives the container 108 (e.g., as a countertop unit). FIGS. 1-5 depict the dispensing system 100 in a countertop configuration, wherein the dispensing head 101 is coupled to a countertop 110 and the container 108 is stored below the countertop 110 (e.g., within a cabinet).

[0056] Regardless of the particular configuration of the dispensing system 100, the dispensing system 100 can further include a storage rack 104 to store the container 108 in an optimal position for dispensing. For example, in some cases, it may be desirable to store a container in an inverted position (e.g., with an opening of the container at below the rest of the container relative to the direction of gravity). In this way, food product can be caused to flow under the effects of gravity toward the opening as food product is being dispensed. For example, with highly viscous food products, such as mayo, which tend to retain their shape within the container after a portion of the food product is removed, the gravitational force can cause the mayo to settle at the opening after a dispensing event so that the system is primed for a subsequent dispensing event. This can prevent air from being sucked into the dispensing system 100 that can cause reduced flow rates at the dispensing head 101 and lead to inaccurate dispensing, or spurting or spraying of the food product during dispensing.

[0057] The storage rack 104 is configured to rest on a support surface 119 to support the container 108 thereon. In some cases, the support surface 119 can be the ground. In some cases, the support surface 119 can be a cupboard, countertop, or another support surface. Correspondingly, multiple storage racks can be used together as a storage system, and a single storage rack can be configured to support one or more containers 108 thereon. In the illustrated example, the support surface 119 is a sliding shelf 111 of the cupboard, which allows the containers 108 and storage racks 104 to be accessed easily when the container 108 needs to be replaced. Moreover, storage racks 104 can be oriented differently to allow multiple containers to be arranged in cupboard or other storage area. FIGS. 1-5 show examples of the storage rack 104 in various orientations. In some cases, multiple storage racks 104 may be in a side-by-side orientation (i.e., along the direction between the two sides of the cupboard) shown in FIG. 1. In some cases, the storage rack 104 can include multiple containers in a side-by-side orientation shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. In other cases, the storage rack 104 may include multiple containers in a front-to-back9QB\99442558.1Non-Provisional Patent Application Atty. Docket No. 850724.00213orientation (i.e., along the direction between the cupboard doors and back of the cupboard) shown in FIG. 4. In some cases, the storage rack 104 including multiple containers 108 can be in a side-by-side orientation with another storage rack 104 including multiple containers 108 shown in FIG. 5.

[0058] The storage rack 104 can also be configured to allow easy removal of a container that has emptied, allowing a full container to quickly and easily be provided. For example as shown in FIGS. 6-8, the storage rack 104 can include a coupler 160 that is configured to couple the container 108 to the first tube 107 so that the container 108 is in fluid communication with the transport system 102. The coupler 160 may be different types of quick connects (e.g., push to connect, cam lock, ball and sleeve, etc.). The coupler 160 can be connected to the container 108. With assistance from gravity, the pump system 112 can pump the food product from the container 108 through the coupler 160 to the pump 103, and then through the tubing 106 to the dispensing head 101. In some examples, the coupler 160 can be secured to the storage rack 104 so that the container 108 will engage the coupler 160 when it is inserted into the storage rack 104 and disengage the coupler 160 when it is removed from the storage rack 104.

[0059] As mentioned, above the container 108 can be stored in an inverted configuration to improve container evacuation. As illustrated in FIG. 9, the container 108 has a first end 114 and a second end 115. The first end 114 is a top of the container 108 that includes an opening 117 to allow food product to be evacuated from an interior 118 of the container 108. The second end 115 can be a bottom of the container 108 upon which the container 108 is configured to rest in an upright position when the container 108 is not received in the storage rack 104. However, as shown in FIGS. 1-5, when the container 108 is placed into the storage rack 104, the container 108 is in an inverted position so that the first end 114 of the container 108 is below second end 115 of the container. Therefore, the first end 114 is at a lowest point on the container 108 when the container 108 is supported by the storage rack 104, relative to the direction of gravity.

[0060] To insert the container 108 in the storage rack 104 and to remove the container 108 from the storage rack 104, the container 108 can be moved along an insertion axis 113 defined by the storage rack 104 (e.g., a receiver), as discussed in greater detail below. FIGS. 1, 2, 4, and 5 show the container 108 inserted into the storage rack 104 (e.g., in a first position). FIG. 3 shows10QB\99442558.1Non-Provisional Patent Application Atty. Docket No. 850724.00213the container 108 moved along the insertion axis 113 to be placed or removed from the storage rack 104 (e.g., in a second position).

[0061] The storage rack 104 can be configured to received and support a variety of sizes, shapes and types of containers or to guide the container 108 to the coupler 160 of the dispensing system 100 during insertion of the container 108 into the storage rack 104. Referring now to FIG. 6, the storage rack 104 can include a frame 116 that supports a first receiver 128 and a second receiver 132, which receive the container 108 and define the insertion axis 113 of the storage rack. Accordingly, the first receiver 128 and the second receiver 132 can be coaxial with one another. The second receiver 132 is positioned between the first receiver 128 and the coupler 160 or between the first receiver 128 and the support surface 119. The coupler 160 can be positioned along the insertion axis 113 so that the container 108 engages and disengages the coupler 160 when the container 108 is moved along the insertion axis 113. For example, when inserting the container 108, the first end 114 of the container 108 passes through the first receiver 128 and the second receiver 132 to engage with the coupler 160. When removing the container 108, the first end 114 of the container 108 is disengaged from the coupler 160 and passes through the first receiver 128 and the second receiver 132.

[0062] In some examples, the first receiver 128 or the second receiver 132 can be configured as an insert that is removeable from a shelf of the storage rack 104. Alternatively, the first receiver 128 or the second receiver 132 can be coupled to another structure instead of the frame 116 of the storage rack 104, such as in a direct mount application. Referring to FIGS. 6, 7 and 10, the storage rack 104 includes a first shelf 120 coupled to the frame 116, and a second shelf 124 coupled to the frame 116 between the first shelf 120 and the coupler 160 or support surface 119. The first shelf 120 defines a first aperture 140. The second shelf 124 defines a second opening 156 that is coaxial with the first aperture 140. The first shelf 120 is configured to receive a first receiver 128 and the second shelf 124 is configured to receive the second receiver 132. In that regard, the first receiver 128 and the second receiver 132 can be configured as first and second inserts, respectively.

[0063] The first receiver 128 and the second receiver 132 can optionally include handles 152 to allow a user to remove the receivers from the shelves (e.g., first shelf 120 and second shelf 124). In some examples, the handles 152 facilitate removal for cleaning, maintenance, or replacement of the receivers. In some examples, the handles 152 can be integrally formed with the receivers or11QB\99442558.1Non-Provisional Patent Application Atty. Docket No. 850724.00213can be separate components that are coupled to the receivers 128, 132. In some examples, the handles 152 can be positioned on opposite sides of the receivers to provide balanced lifting.

[0064] In some examples, the first receiver 128 or the second receiver 132 can include a connector 146 to selectively secure the receiver to the shelf. In some examples, the connector 146 can be a fastener, a snap-fit, twist-lock, or other suitable coupling mechanism. The connector 146 prevents inadvertent removal of the receivers during normal operation while allowing intentional removal when desired. In some examples, the connector 146 can include visual indicators to show when the receiver is properly secured to the shelf.

[0065] In some examples, at least one of the first shelf 120 or the second shelf 124 can be moveably or fixedly coupled to the frame 116. When the first shelf 120 or the second shelf 124 are moveably coupled to the frame 116, the shelves 120, 124 can be adjusted vertically along the frame 116 to accommodate containers 108 of different heights. For example, the first shelf 120 or the second shelf 124 can include slots, tracks, or adjustable brackets that allow the shelves to be repositioned. When the first shelf 120 or the second shelf 124 are fixedly coupled to the frame 116, the shelves 120, 124 provide a stable, permanent mounting configuration. For example, the shelves 120, 124 can be fixedly coupled via bolts, welding, or other permanent attachment methods.

[0066] The first receiver 128 can be configured to support and accommodate a variety of different types of containers. For example, the first receiver 128 can be configured to support an upper (e.g., second) end of the container 108. Referring to FIGS. 7-10, the first receiver 128 includes a first flange 136 (e.g., which can engage the first shelf 120 in some examples). In some cases, the first flange 136 can be circular. In other cases, the first flange 136 can be another shape, such as square or rectangular. The first flange 136 is an annular member (e.g., a circular, square, or other shape annulus) that defines a first opening 137 having a first axis 138 that corresponds to the insertion axis 113.

[0067] The first receiver 128 further includes a compliant member to accommodate containers of different shapes and sizes. The compliant member can resiliently deform to conform to the shape or size of the container received therein. In the illustrated example, the first receiver 128 includes a compliant member configured as a plurality of fins 144. The fins 144 can extend inward from the first flange 136 to extend toward (e.g., radially toward) the first axis 138. Accordingly, the fins 144 extend from the first flange 136 and across the first opening 137 (e.g., in a direction12QB\99442558.1Non-Provisional Patent Application Atty. Docket No. 850724.00213perpendicular to the first axis, or into the opening) to engage with the container 108. As the container 108 is inserted through the first opening 137, the fins 144 resiliently flex into the first opening 137 with the container (e.g., to extend through the first aperture 140). In this way, the plurality of fins 144 can flex to guide the container 108 through the first receiver 128 and to conform to the shape of the container 108 (e.g., the plurality of fins will flex or hug in a circular pattern along the side of a cylindrical jug). The fins 144 can resist tipping of the container 108 to maintain the container 108 in the inverted position, by providing a resistive force that holds the container stationary.

[0068] In some examples, the fins 144 can be formed from a resilient material such as rubber, silicone, or a flexible plastic. In some examples, the fins 144 can have varying thicknesses along their length to optimize flexibility and support characteristics. In some examples, the fins 144 can be tapered from a thicker base at the first flange 136 to a thinner tip. This tapering provides increased flexibility at the tip while maintaining structural integrity at the base. In some examples, the tapered configuration allows the fins 144 to conform more readily to irregular container shapes. The plurality of fins 144 can be arranged in a radial pattern around the first axis 138. In some examples, the fins 144 are evenly spaced around the circumference of the first opening 137. The spacing between adjacent fins 144 can be selected to provide adequate support while allowing sufficient flexibility. For example, the fins 144 can be spaced at intervals of 15 degrees, 30 degrees, or 45 degrees around the first opening 137. In some examples, the fins 144 can include surface features to enhance grip on the container 108. For example, these surface features can include ridges, bumps, or textured surfaces that increase friction between the fins 144 and the container 108. The enhanced grip prevents the container 108 from slipping or rotating within the first receiver 128 during dispensing operations. In some examples, the fins 144 can have different lengths to accommodate containers with varying diameters. In some examples, longer fins 144 can engage smaller diameter containers while shorter fins 144 provide clearance for larger diameter containers. This variable length configuration allows a single first receiver 128 to accommodate a broader range of container sizes without requiring multiple receiver configurations.

[0069] The second receiver 132 can be configured as a guide to direct the container 108 towards the coupler 160 as the container 108 is inserted. Still referring to FIGS. 7-10, the second receiver 132 includes a second flange 148. The second flange 148 is an annular member (e.g., a13QB\99442558.1Non-Provisional Patent Application Atty. Docket No. 850724.00213circular, square, or other shape annulus) that defines the second opening 156 having a second axis 157 that corresponds to the insertion axis 113. A peripheral wall 149 extends from a first end 150 (e.g., a proximal end) at the second flange 148 to a second end 151 (e.g., a distal end) that is spaced from the second flange 148. The peripheral wall 149 has a tapered shape relative to the second axis 157 to guide the container 108 during insertion. Correspondingly, a first opening 153 at the first end 150 of the peripheral wall 149 (e.g., 153 corresponding to the second opening 156 of the second flange 148) has a first width 154 that is greater than a second width 155 of the second opening 156.

[0070] The peripheral wall 149 of the container 108 can be shaped in accordance with a container or adaptor (e g., cover) that is fitted to the container 108 for dispensing. Accordingly, the first opening 153 can be a first shape (e.g., circular, square, rectangular), taken perpendicular to the second axis 157, and the second opening 156 can be a second shape (e.g., circular, square, rectangular), taken perpendicular to the second axis 157. In the illustrated example, the peripheral wall 149 forms a hollow cone so that the first width 154 is a first diameter and the second width 155 is a second diameter. In some cases, the peripheral wall 149 forms a hollow pyramid (e.g., a square pyramid or rectangular pyramid) so that the first width 154 is a first side length and the second width 155 is a second length.

[0071] In some cases, an adaptor 164 can be fitted to the container 108, which serves as an interface between the container 108 and the coupler 160 of the dispensing system 100, or the receiver (e.g., the second receiver 132). For example, with reference to FIGS. 6-11, the adaptor 164 is configured to couple with the first end 114 of the container 108. The adaptor 164 is shaped to fit within the second receiver 132 so that engagement between the adaptor 164 and the second receiver 132 causes the adaptor 164 to be guided into engagement with the coupler 160. More specifically, the adaptor 164 has a main body 168 that includes a peripheral wall 166 that defines an opening 175 that extends along an axis 177 between a first end 167 of the main body 168 and a second end 169 of the main body 168.

[0072] The peripheral wall 166 is tapered to fit within the opening of the second receiver 132. This allows the adaptor 164 to be accurately and repeatably positioned as the container 108 is swapped out for refilling. For example, an outer surface 162 of the peripheral wall 166 of the adaptor 164 can be configured to engage with an inner surface 163 of the peripheral wall 149 of14QB\99442558.1Non-Provisional Patent Application Atty. Docket No. 850724.00213the second receiver 132. When the adaptor 164 is received the second receiver 132 the adaptor 164 is coaxial with the second receiver 132 (e.g., to be align along the insertion axis). In some cases, the adaptor 164 can have a length 171 taken along the axis 177 of the adaptor 164 that is greater that a corresponding length 173 of the second receiver 132 taken along the second axis 157 of the second receiver 132. In this way, the first end 167 of the adaptor 164 is on a first side of the second receiver 132 (e.g., to be above the second receiver) and the second end 169 is on a second side of the second receiver 132 (e.g., to be below the second receiver).

[0073] The tapered shape of the main body 168 also helps with gravity feed the food product to the coupler 160 to improve evacuation. The main body 168 has a straight conical profile to guide the food product from the container 108 to the coupler 160. Correspondingly, an inner surface 174 that defines the opening 175 of the peripheral wall 166 guides food product from the container 108 to the coupler 160. The inner surface 174 optionally includes a coating that reduces friction and improves flowability of the food product along the inner surface 174. The inner surface 174 has a frustoconical shape. The frustoconical shape prevents formation of stagnate food product.

[0074] To couple with the container 108, the first end 167 of the adaptor 164 includes a first connection interface that is configured to couple to the container 108. In the illustrated example, the first end 167 is threaded to threadably engage with corresponding threads on the container 108. In other examples, the first end 167 can couple to the container 108 in other ways, for example, via clamps, fasteners, snap-fit connectors, etc. To couple with the coupler 160, the second end 169 of the adaptor 164 includes a second connection interface that is configured to couple to the coupler 160. In the illustrated example, the second end 169 of the adaptor 164 is configured as a quick connect fitting that mates with the coupler. This allows the adaptor 164 to connect with the coupler 160 by simply pressing the adaptor 164 into engagement with the coupler 160.

[0075] In other examples, other types of connection interfaces can be used. In some examples, the first end 167 can include bayonet connectors that twist-lock onto corresponding features of the container 108. In some examples, the first end 167 can include cam-lock mechanisms that provide quick engagement and release. In some examples, push-to-connect fittings can also be used to allow tool-free installation and removal of the adaptor 164. In some examples, the first end 167 can incorporate compression fittings that create a seal through mechanical compression. In some examples, magnetic coupling systems can provide secure attachment while allowing easy15QB\99442558.1Non-Provisional Patent Application Atty. Docket No. 850724.00213separation for cleaning. In some examples, snap-fit connectors with resilient tabs can engage corresponding grooves or recesses in the container 108. In some examples, the snap-fit connectors can include visual or audible indicators to confirm proper engagement. In some examples, clampstyle connectors can secure the adaptor 164 to the container 108 using adjustable bands or rings. For example, the clamp-style connectors can accommodate containers 108 with varying neck diameters.

[0076] As food product is dispensed, the volume of food product in the container is reduce, which can result in a corresponding pressure drop within the container. In some cases, when the pressure in the container drops below a threshold pressure, the container 108 may collapse due to the comparatively high external pressure (e.g., atmospheric pressure). If this occurs, pumping efficiency or evacuation efficiency can be reduced. Accordingly, it can be beneficial to provide a vent system to equalize internal container pressure with the external container pressure. This can reduce pump demand, thereby increasing pump longevity. Referring to FIGS. 11-16, the adaptor 164 includes a valve 184 (e.g., a check valve) that allows external air to enter the container 108 to replace an evacuated volume of the food product and equalize internal container pressure. In the illustrated example, the valve 184 is a resilient member (e.g., a rubber or elastomeric check valve) that can automatically open to allow air into the container. In other examples, other types of valves, including ball check valves, wafer valves, reed valves, flaps, etc. can be used.

[0077] In some cases, it is advantageous to have the valve 184 expel air into an air gap 185 (e g., a head volume) to prevent the air from becoming trapped in the food product, which may inhibit pressure equalization. As shown in FIG. 16, when the container 108 is inverted, food product can flow into the opening in the adaptor 164 to create the air gap 185 at the first end 114 of the container 108. The valve 184 can be configured to expel air into this air gap 185, either directly, or via tubing or piping that extend from the valve 184 into the air gap 185.

[0078] In the illustrated example, the valve 184 is positioned within the air gap 185 and in the internal space of container 108. More specifically, the valve 184 is coupled to and supported on a vent tube 176 to provide external pressure (e.g., atmospheric pressure) into the container 108. The vent tube 176 extends from the inner surface 174 of the peripheral wall 166. More specifically, the vent tube 176 is coupled to a boss 180 that is between the first end 167 and the second end 169 of the main body 168. The vent tube 176 extends parallel to the axis 177 from the boss 180 and past16QB\99442558.1Non-Provisional Patent Application Atty. Docket No. 850724.00213the first end 167 of the main body 168 to enter the container 108. The length of the vent tube 176 is selected so that the vent tube 176 extends entirely thought the food product and into the air gap 185 when the container 108 is in a full state. The valve 184 is coupled to a distal end of the vent tube 176 that is opposite a proximal end of the vent tube 176 that is coupled to the main body 168. In some cases, the vent tube 176 can be integrally formed with the main body 168 (e.g., as a single piece). In other examples, the vent tube 176 can be a separate component that is coupled to the main body 168. Correspondingly, the vent tube 176 can be sized to a particular container 108 or food product to ensure that the valve 184 is positioned in the air gap 185. In other examples, the valve 184 and vent tube 176 can be arranged differently. For example, the valve 184 can be coupled to or within the boss 180 and the vent tube 176 can extend from the valve 184 and into the air gap 185 to provide a pathway for the air passing through the valve 184.

[0079] Where an inlet for the valve 184 is provided in the main body 168 of an adaptor 164, airflow can be improved by providing a pathway between the second receiver 132 and the adaptor 164. For example, an opening can be provided in the second receiver 132, or the adaptor 164 can be spaced from the second receiver 132 to form an air channel.

[0080] Referring to FIGS. 11-14, the adaptor 164 can include a plurality of projections 188 (eg., fins, protrusions, bosses) that extend from the exterior surface 172 of the peripheral wall 166 of the main body 168. The projections 188 serve multiple functions in the dispensing system 100. The projections 188 provide structural support for the adaptor 164 within the second receiver 132. The proj ections 188 also create controlled spacing between the adaptor 164 and the second receiver 132. In the illustrated example, a lateral side (e.g., side opposite from the exterior surface 172) of the projections 188 are convex in shape extending from the exterior surface 172. The projections 188 engage with the peripheral wall 149 of the second receiver 132 to form a channel 189 therebetween. The channel 189 has a predetermined cross-sectional area that controls airflow rate. The cross-sectional area of the channel 189 can be selected based on the viscosity of the food product being dispensed. For highly viscous food products, a larger cross-sectional area may be beneficial to ensure adequate pressure equalization. For less viscous food products, a smaller cross-sectional area may be sufficient. The channel 189 allows air to pass between the peripheral wall 166 of the adaptor 164 and the wall of the second receiver 132 to enter the vent tube 176 (e.g., via the boss 180). The air enters the channel 189 from the external environment. The air travels along17QB\99442558.1Non-Provisional Patent Application Atty. Docket No. 850724.00213the channel 189 toward the boss 180. The boss 180 provides a connection point between the channel 189 and the vent tube 176. This configuration ensures a continuous airflow path from the external environment to the interior of the container 108.

[0081] In other examples, channels can be formed differently. For example, protrusions may extend from the second receiver 132. These protrusions on the second receiver 132 would create similar spacing and airflow channels. In some examples, a groove may be formed in the second receiver 132. The groove would provide a dedicated airflow path along the inner surface 163 of the second receiver 132. In yet another example, a groove may be formed in the adaptor 164. This groove would extend along the exterior surface 172 of the peripheral wall 166. The projections 188 can be arranged in various patterns around the circumference of the peripheral wall 166. In some examples, the projections 188 are evenly spaced around the circumference. Even spacing provides uniform support and consistent airflow characteristics. In other examples, the projections 188 may be arranged in groups or clusters. Grouped arrangements can provide enhanced structural support in specific areas while maintaining adequate airflow. In some examples, the height of the projections 188 can be selected to optimize both structural support and airflow.

[0082] FIGS. 17-21 illustrate an example adaptor 200, which is another example of an adaptor according to aspects of the disclosure. To that end, features of the adaptor 200 described below include reference numbers that are generally similar to those used in FIGS. 11-16, and discussion above applies to similar named and numbered items below, unless otherwise noted or required. For example, the adaptor 200 includes the main body 168 having the first end 167 and the second end 169, just as the adaptor 164 includes the main body 168 having the first end 167 and the second end 169.

[0083] In some examples, an interior surface of an adaptor that guides food product can be shaped to promote laminar flow of a food product. Such laminar flow can help improve dispensing efficiency or to reduce air entrapment within the food product. The particular configuration of the inner surface can be selected to promote laminar flow for a particular food product or types of food products. For example, the inner surface can be selected to account for suspended particulates, viscosity, or adhesion characteristics of the food product. In the illustrated example, the inner surface 174 has a curvilinear shape, such that, in cross section, the profile defines a curvilinear shape. As shown in FIG. 19, the inner surface 174 of the adaptor 200 includes an inflection point18QB199442558.1Non-Provisional Patent Application Atty. Docket No. 850724.00213178, where the main body 168 changes from a convex profile to a concave profile. This allows the inner surface 174 of the main body 168 to have a curvature profile that is beneficial for assisting the viscosity of the food product. In other examples, other profiles may be used, including for example, hyperbolic, parabolic, logarithmic, or other types of curvatures.

[0084] In some cases, the exterior surface can be shaped similar to the interior surface. This configuration defines a substantially constant wall thickness of a main body of an adaptor. For example, as shown in FIG. 19, the exterior surface 172 is substantially parallel to the inner surface 174. The main body 168 therefore has a substantially constant wall thickness. The constant wall thickness provides several advantages. The constant wall thickness ensures uniform structural strength throughout the main body 168. The constant wall thickness also facilitates manufacturing by enabling consistent material flow during molding processes. The constant wall thickness reduces material stress concentrations that could lead to failure. Additionally, the constant wall thickness provides predictable thermal expansion characteristics.

[0085] In some examples, the exterior surface 172 is non-parallel to the inner surface 174. The non-parallel configuration creates a variable wall thickness throughout the main body 168. The wall thickness can be optimized for different functional requirements along the length of the adaptor 200. For example, the wall thickness can be greater at the first end 167 to provide enhanced structural strength for coupling with the container 108. The wall thickness can be reduced toward the second end 169 to minimize material usage and weight. This variable thickness configuration allows for targeted reinforcement where structural loads are highest while reducing material in areas where less strength is required. In some examples, the exterior surface 172 can have a different curvature profile than the inner surface 174. The different curvature profiles can optimize both internal flow characteristics and external structural properties. The inner surface 174 can be shaped to promote laminar flow of the food product. The exterior surface 172 can be shaped to provide optimal engagement with the second receiver 132.

[0086] The projections 188 can be shaped to interface between the main body 168 and the second receiver 132. For example, the projections 188 are generally straight along their distal edges. The projections 188 have convex proximal ends coupled at the exterior surface 172 of the main body 168. The convex proximal ends distribute stress over a larger area of the exterior surface 172. This stress distribution prevents localized stress concentrations that could cause cracking. The19QB\99442558.1Non-Provisional Patent Application Atty. Docket No. 850724.00213straight distal edges provide consistent contact with the second receiver 132. The straight distal edges also maintain uniform spacing between the main body 168 and the second receiver 132.

[0087] The main body 168 includes a lip 204 between the first end 167 and the exterior surface 172. The lip 204 can be beneficial to support the first end 167 when the adaptor 200 is engaged with the second receiver 132. The lip 204 extends radially outward from the exterior surface 172. The lip 204 provides a bearing surface that contacts the second receiver 132. This bearing surface distributes loads from the adaptor 200 to the second receiver 132. The lip 204 also prevents overinsertion of the adaptor 200 into the second receiver 132. In some examples, the lip 204 can include a tapered edge to facilitate insertion. The tapered edge guides the adaptor 200 into proper alignment with the second receiver 132.

[0088] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to make and use the invention. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims.20QB\99442558.1

Claims

Non-Provisional Patent Application Atty. Docket No. 850724.00213CLAIMSI / We claim:

1. A rack configured to receive a container for dispensing a food product, the rack comprising:a frame;a first shelf coupled to the frame and defining a first aperture having an axis;a second shelf coupled to the frame and defining a second opening that is coaxial with the first aperture;a first insert positioned in the first aperture, the first insert including a first flange that engages the first shelf and a plurality of fins that extend from the first flange and across the first aperture; anda second insert positioned in the second opening, the second insert including a second flange that engages with the second shelf and a wall extending across the opening from a first end at the second flange to a second end spaced from the second flange, the first end defining a first opening having a first width and the second end defining a second opening having a second width that is less than the first width.

2. The rack of claim 1, wherein the plurality of fins are configured to resiliently bend into the first aperture to accommodate the container.

3. The rack of claim 1, wherein the wall forms a hollow cone so that the first width has a first diameter and the second width has a second diameter.

4. The rack of claim 1, wherein the second insert includes a connector to releasably couple the second insert to the second shelf.

5. The rack of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first shelf and the second shelf is movably coupled to the frame.21QB\99442558.1Non-Provisional Patent Application Atty. Docket No. 850724.002136. The rack of claim 1 further comprising a coupler positioned so that the second shelf is between the first shelf and the coupler along the axis, wherein the coupler is configured to fluidly couple with the container to allow the food product to be dispensed.

7. An adaptor to couple a container to a coupler for dispensing a food product from the container, the adaptor comprising:a body defining an opening that extends along an axis between a first end of the body configured to couple to the container and a second end of the body configured to couple to the coupler, the body including a peripheral wall extending between the first end of the body and the second end of the body and a plurality of projections that extend from an exterior surface of the peripheral wall;a vent tube coupled to the body and positioned within the opening between the first end and the second end, the vent tube extending away from the second end and past the first end of the body; anda check valve that controls a flow of air through the vent tube, the check valve configured to allow air to enter the container to equalize pressure within the container as the food product is dispensed from the container.

8. The adaptor of claim 7, wherein the body includes the peripheral wall with a conical shape that defines the opening so that first end has first diameter and the second end has second diameter that is less than first diameter.

9. The adaptor of claim 8, wherein a lateral side of the plurality of projections is a convex shape extending from the exterior surface.

10. The adaptor of claim 8, wherein the vent tube extends from the peripheral wall and along the axis.

11. The adaptor of claim 7, wherein the body includes a boss that extends into the opening and the vent tube is coupled to the boss.22QB\99442558.1Non-Provisional Patent Application Atty. Docket No. 850724.0021312. The adaptor of claim 7, wherein the first end of the body includes threads configured to threadably couple with the container.

13. The adaptor of claim 7, wherein the check valve is a resilient member that is coupled a distal end of the vent tube.

14. The adaptor of claim 13, wherein the vent tube is configured so that the distal end of the vent tube is positioned within an air gap in the container when the food product is dispensed.

15. A dispensing system for dispensing a food product from a container, the dispensing system comprising:an adaptor including:a first conical wall defining a first end configured to couple to the container and a second end configured to couple to a coupler, anda vent tube extending from an interior surface of the first conical wall so that a distal end of the vent tube is positioned in an air gap within the container when the food product is dispensed; anda first receiver including a flange defining a first opening having an axis and a plurality of fins that extend from the flange and across the first opening, the plurality of fins configured to resiliency flex to receive the container; anda second receiver including a second conical wall defining a second opening that is coaxial with the first opening and configured to receive the adaptor.

16. The dispensing system of claim 15, wherein the adaptor includes a plurality of projections on an exterior surface of the first conical wall to space the first conical wall from the second conical wall and allow air to pass between the first conical wall the second conical wall to the vent tube.23QB\99442558.1Non-Provisional Patent Application Atty. Docket No. 850724.0021317. The dispensing system of claim 15, wherein the adaptor includes a check valve coupled to the distal end of the vent tube.

18. The dispensing system of claim 15, wherein the adaptor extends through the second receiver so that the first end is on a first side of the second receiver and the second end is on a second side of the second receiver.

19. The dispensing system of claim 15, wherein the adaptor includes a first connector that engages a second connector on the second receiver to releasably secure the adaptor to the second receiver.

20. The dispensing system of claim 15, further comprising a dispensing head to dispense the food product and a pump system to pump the food product from the container to the dispensing head.24QB\99442558.1

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