Robert A Petit

US Patent:

52285987, Jul 20, 1993

Filed:

Jan 2, 1992

Appl. No.:

7/816685

Inventors:

Alexander Bally - Pittsburgh PA
Allen E. Brandenburg - Austin TX
Charles Kraeuter - Springdale PA
Robert G. Petit - Phillipston MA
James M. Rubenstein - San Antonio TX
Doris M. Wong - Pittsburgh PA
William E. Wood - Hudson MA

International Classification:

B67D 556

US Classification:

2221292

Abstract:

Disclosed is an apparatus for diluting and dispensing fluid concentrates which comprises a frame having a least one compartment therein for insertion of a liquid holding container. Mounted within the frame is a water valve housing which is adapted to interface with a venturi housing affixed to the liquid holding container. The water valve housing has affixed thereto a valve which is manually actuated. In response to the depression or release of the actuation means, the valve is substantially either fully open or fully closed. The water valve housing includes locking means for preventing the valve from being operated by the manual actuation means when the liquid holding container is not properly inserted into the dilution station. The refill modules of the present invention include the venturi housing and liquid holding container mentioned above. The venturi housing has an unlocking means extending therefrom which engages and unlocks the locking means of the water valve housing when the refill is properly installed in the dilution station.