US20060138167A1 - Condiment dispenser - Google Patents
Condiment dispenser Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20060138167A1 US20060138167A1 US10/541,201 US54120105A US2006138167A1 US 20060138167 A1 US20060138167 A1 US 20060138167A1 US 54120105 A US54120105 A US 54120105A US 2006138167 A1 US2006138167 A1 US 2006138167A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- condiment
- shaft
- holder
- dispenser according
- bag
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
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Classifications
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D75/00—Packages comprising articles or materials partially or wholly enclosed in strips, sheets, blanks, tubes, or webs of flexible sheet material, e.g. in folded wrappers
- B65D75/52—Details
- B65D75/58—Opening or contents-removing devices added or incorporated during package manufacture
- B65D75/5861—Spouts
- B65D75/5872—Non-integral spouts
- B65D75/5877—Non-integral spouts connected to a planar surface of the package wall
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47G—HOUSEHOLD OR TABLE EQUIPMENT
- A47G19/00—Table service
- A47G19/12—Vessels or pots for table use
- A47G19/18—Containers for delivering jam, mustard, or the like
- A47G19/183—Containers for delivering jam, mustard, or the like by applying external pressure, i.e. by pumping or squeezing
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D35/00—Pliable tubular containers adapted to be permanently or temporarily deformed to expel contents, e.g. collapsible tubes for toothpaste or other plastic or semi-liquid material; Holders therefor
- B65D35/24—Pliable tubular containers adapted to be permanently or temporarily deformed to expel contents, e.g. collapsible tubes for toothpaste or other plastic or semi-liquid material; Holders therefor with auxiliary devices
- B65D35/32—Winding keys
- B65D35/34—Winding keys connected to, or associated with, tube holders
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D83/00—Containers or packages with special means for dispensing contents
- B65D83/0055—Containers or packages provided with a flexible bag or a deformable membrane or diaphragm for expelling the contents
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D2583/00—Containers or packages with special means for dispensing contents
- B65D2583/005—Dispensers provided with a replaceable cartridge, recharge or pouch located within the dispenser
Definitions
- This invention generally relates to dispensers for dispensing food products. More particularly, the present invention pertains to a condiment dispenser for dispensing desired amounts of condiment from a condiment-containing receptacle.
- Various types of food service establishments such as restaurants and fast food facilities serve a variety of food items. With at least some of the food items, patrons oftentimes prefer to consume the food item accompanied by one or more condiments. These condiments include ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, relish and possibly others.
- condiments are sometimes served or provided to the patrons in individual serving packages.
- Another approach involves providing containers of condiments from which customers can obtain the desired amount of condiment.
- some fast food establishments provide canisters of different condiments, each provided with a hand operated pump dispenser.
- food service establishments oftentimes find it more cost-effective to purchase rather large, industrial size containers of condiments from condiment suppliers. From these large containers, the food service establishment fills the smaller containers (e.g., the pump dispenser canisters mentioned above) which are made available to the patrons for individual dispensing and consumption.
- Food service establishments might also dispense a quantity of the condiment into a smaller container for use in dressing food items (e.g., sandwiches, hamburgers, etc.).
- the bags are provided with an exteriorly threaded tube that communicates with the interior of the bag.
- a removable cap covers the tube to ensure that the contents of the bag do not flow through the tube prior to use (e.g., during shipment and storage).
- the cap is removed and a spout is connected to the tube by threadably engaging an interiorly threaded ring on the spout with the exteriorly threaded portion of the tube.
- the spout includes an outlet end and a plastic element covering a hole provided in the spout. The plastic element is connected to a manually operated lever.
- the plastic element By manually pressing the lever, the plastic element is moved away from the hole in the spout so that condiment in the bag can flow by gravity through the hole and out of the outlet end of the spout. Upon releasing the lever, the plastic element automatically returns to its initial position covering the hole in the spout to stop further flow of condiment.
- condiment in the large container is not easily dispensed into the smaller containers for use by patrons.
- difficulties may be created with respect to storing the condiment in the large container after a portion of the condiment has been dispensed into the smaller container.
- the condiment can adhere to the inside surface of the spout and accumulate over time which may not be desirable.
- the spout is specifically designed to be removable so that once the bag is emptied to the extent possible, the spout is removed and attached to another bag.
- a condiment dispenser is comprised of a holder having walls which together define an interior of the holder, and a condiment container having an interior containing a quantity of an edible food condiment.
- the condiment container is provided with a dispensing nozzle through which the condiment in the condiment container is dispensed from the condiment container.
- the condiment container is adapted to be positioned in the interior of the holder with the dispensing nozzle accessible from outside the holder so that the condiment can be dispensed from the condiment container.
- the condiment dispenser also includes a shaft on which the condiment container is adapted to be wound to apply pressure to the condiment in the condiment container to dispense the condiment through the dispensing nozzle.
- a condiment dispenser for dispensing condiment from a condiment containing bag through a dispensing nozzle provided on the condiment containing bag comprises a holder having a plurality of upright walls surrounding an enclosed space in the holder which is adapted to receive the condiment containing bag so that the dispensing nozzle of the condiment containing bag is accessible rom outside the holder, and a shaft rotatably mounted at the holder and on which the condiment containing bag is adapted to be wound to apply pressure to the condiment in the condiment containing bag and thereby dispense the condiment in the condiment containing bag through the dispensing nozzle.
- a handle is connected to the shaft to rotate the shaft so as to wind the condiment containing bag on the shaft and apply pressure to the condiment in the condiment containing bag causing the condiment to be dispensed from the dispensing nozzle.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the condiment dispenser of the present invention.
- FIG. 2 is a perspective view of one version of a condiment-containing bag which can be used in the condiment dispenser shown in FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 3 is a perspective view of another condiment-containing bag which can be used in the condiment dispenser shown in FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the nozzle forming a part of either of the condiment-containing bags shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 .
- FIG. 5 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the condiment dispenser shown in FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 6 is an end view in cross-section of the pawl and ratchet arrangement disposed inside the handle housing shown in FIG. 1 .
- a condiment dispenser is comprised of three primary parts, namely a disposable condiment-containing bag 10 , a bag holder 30 and a pressure applying mechanism 50 .
- the condiment-containing bag 10 is adapted to be positioned in the bag holder 30 in the manner shown in FIG. 1 .
- the condiment-containing bag 10 is flexible and can be fabricated from various types of suitable plastic materials.
- the bag can be fabricated from a single ply, multi-layer material in which metallized PET is sandwiched between or disposed within a modified linear low density polyethylene material.
- EVOH e.g., EVOH
- the condiment-containing bag 10 can be produced by, for example, sealing together two plastic sheets along their peripheral edges to form an enclosed bag. Prior to completely sealing the condiment-containing bag, the appropriate condiment can be introduced into the bag 10 .
- These condiments are edible food condiments consumed with other food items and include ketchup (including ketchup-based sauces that may be flavored), mustard (including mustard-based sauces that may be flavored), mayonnaise (including mayonnaise-based sauces that may be flavored), tartar sauce, and other specialty sauces such as barbecue sauce.
- FIG. 2 illustrates one example of a suitable form of the condiment-containing bag.
- the illustrated condiment-containing bag 10 is generally rectangular in form (e.g., square), and is sealed in seal areas 12 along its peripheral edges.
- the condiment-containing bag 10 can be any desired size, preferably generally adapted to the size of the bag holder 30 .
- the condiment bag is preferably sized to contain more than one gallon of condiment, preferably between 1-5 gallons, and more preferably approximately 3 gallons of condiment.
- the condiment-containing bag is also provided with a dispensing nozzle 14 for dispensing condiment in the bag.
- the dispensing nozzle 14 is positioned in one corner of the bag. As the condiment is dispensed from the condiment-containing bag 10 , the condiment is directed to the bottom corner of the condiment-containing bag 10 . Positioning the dispensing nozzle 14 in the corner of the condiment-containing bag facilitates emptying as much of the condiment in the bag as possible.
- FIG. 4 illustrates an example of the dispensing nozzle 14 that can be attached to the condiment-containing bag 10 for dispensing condiment from the bag.
- the dispensing nozzle 14 is preferably made of plastic material and includes a flange 16 sealed to the bag and a spout 18 extending from the flange 16 .
- the spout 18 is cylindrical in shape, although other shapes are possible.
- the flange 16 is fixed to the condiment-containing bag 10 in any appropriate manner so that the interior of the cylindrical spout 18 communicates with the interior of the bag 10 .
- the dispensing nozzle 14 is fixed to the bag in a non-removable manner so that the dispensing nozzle 14 is discarded as a part of the bag 10 after the bag is emptied.
- the cylindrical spout 18 is provided with a valve 20 positioned near the open end of the spout 18 that is remote from the flange 16 .
- the valve 20 is in the form of a plastic membrane.
- This plastic membrane is comprised of a plastic disk provided with several slits 22 that intersect one another to form a cross-shaped pattern in the plastic membrane.
- the intersecting slits 22 thus form flaps that are able to open and allow condiment in the condiment-containing bag 10 to be dispensed upon application of a predetermined pressure to the condiment in the bag 10 .
- the valve 20 prevents condiment in the condiment-containing bag 10 from being dispensed from the bag 10 .
- the flaps formed by the slits 22 in the plastic membrane are forced open to allow condiment in the bag to be dispensed.
- the plastic membrane forming the valve 20 can be in the form of a silicone membrane, although other plastic materials such as polypropylene can be employed. Also, in the illustrated version, the plastic membrane forming the valve 20 includes two slits that intersect one another, although other numbers of slits may be employed depending upon, for example, the flow characteristics desired and the type of condiment.
- the dispensing nozzle 14 can also be provided with a peelable seal 24 that covers the remote end of the cylindrical spout 18 to thus cover the valve 20 prior to first use. To dispense condiment from the condiment-containing bag the first time, the peelable seal 24 is removed to expose the valve 20 .
- FIG. 3 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the condiment-containing bag 10 ′.
- This embodiment of the condiment-containing bag 10 ′ also possesses a generally rectangular form (e.g., square shape) that is sealed along its sides 12 ′.
- the nozzle 14 is positioned adjacent the bottom end of the condiment-containing bag 10 ′ at a point generally midway between the vertical sides of the bag.
- the condiment-containing bag 10 ′ shown in FIG. 3 is provided with additional seals 13 ′ that are generally diagonally oriented, extending from the vertical upright sides of the condiment-containing bag 10 ′ to the bottom side of the condiment-containing bag 10 ′.
- the bag holder 30 includes a front wall 32 , an oppositely positioned rear wall 34 , two oppositely positioned side walls 36 , and a bottom wall 33 .
- the front wall 32 , the rear wall 34 and the side walls 36 define an interior of the bag holder 30 that receives the condiment-containing bag 10 , 10 ′, with the top of the bag holder 30 being open to allow the condiment-containing bag 10 , 10 ′ to be placed in the bag holder 30 .
- the bag holder 30 possesses angled, generally diagonally oriented lower side walls 42 positioned between the upright side walls 32 and the bottom wall 33 of the bag holder 30 . These angled walls 42 help direct condiment in the condiment-containing bag 10 towards the nozzle 14 .
- the front wall 32 of the bag holder 30 is provided with a vertically extending through slot 38 .
- the nozzle 14 of the condiment-containing bag 10 . 10 ′ projects through the bottom portion of the slot 38 in the manner shown in FIGS. 1 and 5 .
- the slot 38 in the front wall 32 of the bag holder 30 opens to the top edge of the front wall 32 and extends vertically downward to a point spaced a small distance from the bottom 33 of the bag holder 30 . This allows the dispensing nozzle 14 to be relatively easily located in the illustrated position when the condiment-containing bag is placed in the bag holder 30 .
- the dispensing nozzle 14 is also seated or rests on the bottom of the slot 38 .
- the slot 38 and/or the dispensing nozzle 14 can also be appropriately configured to secure or engage the dispensing nozzle 14 in the slot 38 at the desired position (e.g., the illustrated position), such as by way of a snap-fit engagement.
- the bag holder 30 is preferably made of lightweight material such as plastic (e.g., ABS or other plastic materials suitable for the purpose) and is adapted to be mounted on a vertical wall or other suitable vertical structure. This can be accomplished by providing the bag holder 30 with an appropriate mounting mechanism.
- the rear wall 34 of the bag holder 30 can be outfitted with a pair of cut-outs adapted to receive mounting pegs, hooks or the like affixed to and extending from the wall or other vertical surface
- the bag holder 30 can be provided with hooks adapted to engage a mounting bar or other suitable structure.
- the bag holder 30 can thus be mounted at a suitable position so that the overall condiment dispenser is positioned at a location which facilitates its use.
- Each of the side walls 36 of the bag holder 30 is provided with a vertically extending slot 40 . As will be described in more detail below, these slots 40 in the side walls 36 receive a portion of the pressure applying mechanism for applying pressure to the condiment in the condiment-containing bag.
- the pressure applying mechanism 50 is comprised of a shaft 52 supported in a pair of slidable brackets 54 .
- the shaft can be made of metal (e.g., stainless steel), plastic or other suitable material acceptable for the environment.
- Each of the brackets 54 is mounted in the slot 40 in one of the side walls 36 of the bag holder 30 and is capable of sliding along the length of the respective side wall 36 .
- the oppositely positioned vertical sides of each bracket 54 are provided with respective grooves adapted to receive the edges of the side wall 36 that bound the slots 40 .
- the brackets 54 each function as a sliding bearing.
- the shaft 52 is rotatably supported in the brackets 54 and extends across the interior of the bag holder 30 .
- the condiment-containing bag 10 , 10 ′ is adapted to be wrapped around the shaft 52 .
- an appropriate mechanism can be provided to fix the end of the bag to the shaft 52 to prevent the condiment-containing bag from becoming separated from the shaft 52 .
- the shaft 52 can be provided with a slot in which is positioned the end of the condiment-containing bag.
- the pressure applying mechanism 50 further includes a ratchet 56 and a pawl 58 positioned adjacent one side of the bag holder 30 .
- the ratchet 56 is fixed to the shaft 52 so that the ratchet 56 and the shaft 52 rotate together as a unit, while the pawl 58 is mounted on the bracket 54 .
- the tip of the pawl 58 engages the teeth on the ratchet 56 in a way that permits rotation of the shaft 52 in one direction (e.g., the counterclockwise direction as seen from the right end of the shaft 52 in FIG. 1 ) while also preventing rotation of the shaft 52 in the opposite direction (e.g., the clockwise direction as seen from the right end of the shaft 52 in FIG. 1 ).
- the pressure applying mechanism 50 further includes a handle or lever 60 that is mounted at or fixed to a housing 70 .
- the handle 60 is operatively engageable with the shaft 52 in such a way that when the handle 60 is rotated in one rotational direction, the shaft 52 rotates together with the handle 60 and when the handle 60 is rotated in the opposite rotational direction, the handle 60 rotates relative to the shaft 52 .
- FIG. 6 illustrates the mechanism that permits this movement.
- a pawl 72 and a ratchet 74 are positioned within the housing 70 , with the ratchet 70 being fixed to the shaft 52 to rotate together with the shaft 52 .
- the pawl 72 is suitably secured in place inside the housing 70 and is biased by a spring 76 into engagement with the ratchet 72 .
- the rotation of the handle 60 in one direction causes the ratchet 74 and the handle to rotate together, thus rotating the shaft 52 .
- the handle 60 rotates relative to the ratchet 74 so that the shaft 52 does not rotate.
- the handle 60 allow the handle 60 to be rotated in the opposite direction (i.e., the clockwise direction as seen with reference to the right end of the shaft 52 shown in FIG. 1 ) without rotating the shaft 52 .
- the handle 60 can rotate the handle 60 in the clockwise direction without rotating the shaft 52 to reposition the handle 60 in a generally upwardly directed position.
- the handle 60 can then be rotated once again in the counterclockwise direction to dispense more condiment from the bag.
- the ratchet 74 and pawl 72 arrangement shown in FIG. 6 thus provides a more convenient operation of the handle 60 so that it is not necessary to rotate the handle through a full 360 degree rotation to dispense condiment from the bag.
- the condiment-containing bag can be wound on the shaft 52 in the opposite direction, in which case the handle 60 is operated in the direction opposite to that described above to dispense condiment from the condiment-containing bag 10 , 10 ′.
- a condiment-containing bag 10 , 10 ′ containing the desired type of condiment is placed in the bag holder 30 .
- the condiment-containing bag is positioned in the bag holder 30 so that the dispenser nozzle 14 projects outwardly from the front wall 32 and is positioned in the bottom portion of the slot 38 in the front wall 32 in the illustrated manner.
- the top end of the flexible 10 , 10 ′ is wrapped around the shaft 52 , possible being secured to the shaft 52 in an appropriate manner as mentioned above. This can be accomplished either before or after the bag is placed in the bag holder 30 .
- the peelable seal 24 on the end of the dispenser nozzle 14 is removed to expose the valve 20 .
- the condiment dispenser is now ready for use.
- the handle 60 When an individual is interested in dispensing condiment from the condiment-containing bag, such as for filling a small container for use by patrons or others, the handle 60 is rotated in the appropriate direction to further wind the flexible condiment-containing bag 10 , 10 ′ on the shaft 52 and increase the pressure within the bag. Referring to the condiment dispenser shown in FIG. 1 , this involves rotating the lever 60 in the counterclockwise direction as seen from the right end of the shaft 52 in FIG. 1 . This rotation of the handle 60 causes the shaft 52 to also rotate so that the flexible bag 10 , 10 ′ is further wrapped around the shaft 52 . The resulting increase in pressure within the condiment-containing bag causes condiment in the condiment-containing bag to be dispensed through the dispensing nozzle 14 .
- the valve 20 of the dispensing nozzle 14 is designed to remain closed until the pressure within the condiment-containing bag 10 , 10 ′ reaches or exceeds a predetermined pressure.
- This predetermined pressure can be selected by varying characteristics associated with the plastic membrane such as its thickness, material and rigidity, and the arrangement and number of slits 22 provided in the plastic membrane. Once the pressure in the flexible bag equals or exceeds the predetermined pressure value, the valve 20 automatically opens and condiment is dispensed through the dispensing nozzle 14 .
- the handle 60 is released, thus preventing further increase in pressure within the condiment-containing bag 10 , 10 ′.
- the pawl 58 engages the ratchet 56 to prevent reverse rotation of the handle 60 in the opposite direction.
- the pressure within the condiment-containing bag no longer exceeds the predetermined valve opening pressure. The valve 20 thus automatically closes and prevents additional condiment from being dispensed.
- the desired amount of condiment can be dispensed, with the valve 20 automatically closing each time the handle 60 is released.
- the pressure applying mechanism 50 is able to move downwardly relative to the bag holder 30 by virtue of the sliding or bearing engagement between the brackets 54 and the side walls 32 of the bag holder 30 .
- the bag 10 , 10 ′ thus continues to rest on the bottom of the bag holder 30 .
- the empty bag 10 , 10 ′ can be simply unwound from the shaft 52 and discarded, and replaced by a new filled condiment-containing bag.
- the entire condiment-containing bag is disposable, including the nozzle with the valve.
- the condiment dispenser here is thus able to dispense condiment in the desired amount in a relatively easy manner.
- the opening of the valve 20 to initiate dispensing occurs automatically when the handle 60 is rotated.
- the closing of the valve 20 to stop dispensing occurs automatically by simply releasing the handle 60 .
- This provides easy control of the dispensing operation as well as the amount of condiment dispensed.
- the wall dispenser is also versatile in that it can be mounted in a variety of locations to suit the user.
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- Containers And Packaging Bodies Having A Special Means To Remove Contents (AREA)
Abstract
A condiment dispenser includes a holder, and a condiment container adapted to be positioned in the holder and containing a quantity of an edible food condiment. The condiment container is provided with a dispensing nozzle through which the condiment in the condiment container is dispensed from the condiment container. The condiment container is adapted to be wound on a shaft that is rotatably supported on the holder so that rotation of the shaft applies pressure to the condiment in the condiment container to dispense the condiment through the dispensing nozzle.
Description
- This application claims priority to U.S. provisional application No. 60/437,730 filed on Jan. 3, 2003, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference.
- This invention generally relates to dispensers for dispensing food products. More particularly, the present invention pertains to a condiment dispenser for dispensing desired amounts of condiment from a condiment-containing receptacle.
- Various types of food service establishments such as restaurants and fast food facilities serve a variety of food items. With at least some of the food items, patrons oftentimes prefer to consume the food item accompanied by one or more condiments. These condiments include ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, relish and possibly others.
- These condiments are sometimes served or provided to the patrons in individual serving packages. Another approach involves providing containers of condiments from which customers can obtain the desired amount of condiment. For example, some fast food establishments provide canisters of different condiments, each provided with a hand operated pump dispenser. In the case of this latter approach, food service establishments oftentimes find it more cost-effective to purchase rather large, industrial size containers of condiments from condiment suppliers. From these large containers, the food service establishment fills the smaller containers (e.g., the pump dispenser canisters mentioned above) which are made available to the patrons for individual dispensing and consumption. Food service establishments might also dispense a quantity of the condiment into a smaller container for use in dressing food items (e.g., sandwiches, hamburgers, etc.).
- In the past, larger quantities of condiments have been packaged in bags which are used by food service establishments and the like in the manner described above. The bags are provided with an exteriorly threaded tube that communicates with the interior of the bag. A removable cap covers the tube to ensure that the contents of the bag do not flow through the tube prior to use (e.g., during shipment and storage). To dispense the condiment, the cap is removed and a spout is connected to the tube by threadably engaging an interiorly threaded ring on the spout with the exteriorly threaded portion of the tube. The spout includes an outlet end and a plastic element covering a hole provided in the spout. The plastic element is connected to a manually operated lever. By manually pressing the lever, the plastic element is moved away from the hole in the spout so that condiment in the bag can flow by gravity through the hole and out of the outlet end of the spout. Upon releasing the lever, the plastic element automatically returns to its initial position covering the hole in the spout to stop further flow of condiment.
- While it may be cost efficient to purchase large industrial size quantities of condiments, these approaches also present certain drawbacks. For example, condiment in the large container is not easily dispensed into the smaller containers for use by patrons. Also, difficulties may be created with respect to storing the condiment in the large container after a portion of the condiment has been dispensed into the smaller container. In the case of the bags mentioned above, as the condiment is dispensed from the spout, the condiment can adhere to the inside surface of the spout and accumulate over time which may not be desirable. In addition, the spout is specifically designed to be removable so that once the bag is emptied to the extent possible, the spout is removed and attached to another bag. This can create difficulties as the user may forget to remove the spout before discarding the emptied bag. Also, the spout must be cleaned prior to reuse to remove accumulated condiment on the interior of the spout. Also, it has been found to be somewhat difficult to completely empty the bag and so useful condiment may be discarded with the bag.
- A condiment dispenser is comprised of a holder having walls which together define an interior of the holder, and a condiment container having an interior containing a quantity of an edible food condiment. The condiment container is provided with a dispensing nozzle through which the condiment in the condiment container is dispensed from the condiment container. The condiment container is adapted to be positioned in the interior of the holder with the dispensing nozzle accessible from outside the holder so that the condiment can be dispensed from the condiment container. The condiment dispenser also includes a shaft on which the condiment container is adapted to be wound to apply pressure to the condiment in the condiment container to dispense the condiment through the dispensing nozzle.
- According to another aspect of the invention, a condiment dispenser for dispensing condiment from a condiment containing bag through a dispensing nozzle provided on the condiment containing bag comprises a holder having a plurality of upright walls surrounding an enclosed space in the holder which is adapted to receive the condiment containing bag so that the dispensing nozzle of the condiment containing bag is accessible rom outside the holder, and a shaft rotatably mounted at the holder and on which the condiment containing bag is adapted to be wound to apply pressure to the condiment in the condiment containing bag and thereby dispense the condiment in the condiment containing bag through the dispensing nozzle. A handle is connected to the shaft to rotate the shaft so as to wind the condiment containing bag on the shaft and apply pressure to the condiment in the condiment containing bag causing the condiment to be dispensed from the dispensing nozzle.
- Features and details associated with the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description considered with reference to the accompanying drawing figures in which like reference numerals designate like elements.
-
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the condiment dispenser of the present invention. -
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of one version of a condiment-containing bag which can be used in the condiment dispenser shown inFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of another condiment-containing bag which can be used in the condiment dispenser shown inFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the nozzle forming a part of either of the condiment-containing bags shown inFIGS. 2 and 3 . -
FIG. 5 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the condiment dispenser shown inFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 6 is an end view in cross-section of the pawl and ratchet arrangement disposed inside the handle housing shown inFIG. 1 . - Referring initially to
FIG. 1 , a condiment dispenser according to one illustrated embodiment of the invention is comprised of three primary parts, namely a disposable condiment-containingbag 10, abag holder 30 and apressure applying mechanism 50. The condiment-containingbag 10 is adapted to be positioned in thebag holder 30 in the manner shown inFIG. 1 . The condiment-containingbag 10 is flexible and can be fabricated from various types of suitable plastic materials. By way of example, the bag can be fabricated from a single ply, multi-layer material in which metallized PET is sandwiched between or disposed within a modified linear low density polyethylene material. Of course, other materials (e.g., EVOH) and constructions are possible. The condiment-containingbag 10 can be produced by, for example, sealing together two plastic sheets along their peripheral edges to form an enclosed bag. Prior to completely sealing the condiment-containing bag, the appropriate condiment can be introduced into thebag 10. These condiments are edible food condiments consumed with other food items and include ketchup (including ketchup-based sauces that may be flavored), mustard (including mustard-based sauces that may be flavored), mayonnaise (including mayonnaise-based sauces that may be flavored), tartar sauce, and other specialty sauces such as barbecue sauce. -
FIG. 2 illustrates one example of a suitable form of the condiment-containing bag. The illustrated condiment-containingbag 10 is generally rectangular in form (e.g., square), and is sealed inseal areas 12 along its peripheral edges. The condiment-containingbag 10 can be any desired size, preferably generally adapted to the size of thebag holder 30. The condiment bag is preferably sized to contain more than one gallon of condiment, preferably between 1-5 gallons, and more preferably approximately 3 gallons of condiment. - The condiment-containing bag is also provided with a dispensing
nozzle 14 for dispensing condiment in the bag. In the embodiment of the condiment-containing bag illustrated inFIG. 2 , the dispensingnozzle 14 is positioned in one corner of the bag. As the condiment is dispensed from the condiment-containingbag 10, the condiment is directed to the bottom corner of the condiment-containingbag 10. Positioning the dispensingnozzle 14 in the corner of the condiment-containing bag facilitates emptying as much of the condiment in the bag as possible. -
FIG. 4 illustrates an example of the dispensingnozzle 14 that can be attached to the condiment-containingbag 10 for dispensing condiment from the bag. The dispensingnozzle 14 is preferably made of plastic material and includes aflange 16 sealed to the bag and aspout 18 extending from theflange 16. In the illustrated embodiment, thespout 18 is cylindrical in shape, although other shapes are possible. Theflange 16 is fixed to the condiment-containingbag 10 in any appropriate manner so that the interior of thecylindrical spout 18 communicates with the interior of thebag 10. The dispensingnozzle 14 is fixed to the bag in a non-removable manner so that the dispensingnozzle 14 is discarded as a part of thebag 10 after the bag is emptied. - The
cylindrical spout 18 is provided with avalve 20 positioned near the open end of thespout 18 that is remote from theflange 16. In the illustrated embodiment of the dispensingnozzle 14 shown inFIG. 4 , thevalve 20 is in the form of a plastic membrane. This plastic membrane is comprised of a plastic disk provided withseveral slits 22 that intersect one another to form a cross-shaped pattern in the plastic membrane. The intersecting slits 22 thus form flaps that are able to open and allow condiment in the condiment-containingbag 10 to be dispensed upon application of a predetermined pressure to the condiment in thebag 10. More specifically, in the absence of pressure exceeding a predetermined pressure, thevalve 20 prevents condiment in the condiment-containingbag 10 from being dispensed from thebag 10. On the other hand, when pressure exceeding the predetermined pressure is applied to the condiment in the bag, the flaps formed by theslits 22 in the plastic membrane are forced open to allow condiment in the bag to be dispensed. - The plastic membrane forming the
valve 20 can be in the form of a silicone membrane, although other plastic materials such as polypropylene can be employed. Also, in the illustrated version, the plastic membrane forming thevalve 20 includes two slits that intersect one another, although other numbers of slits may be employed depending upon, for example, the flow characteristics desired and the type of condiment. - The dispensing
nozzle 14 can also be provided with apeelable seal 24 that covers the remote end of thecylindrical spout 18 to thus cover thevalve 20 prior to first use. To dispense condiment from the condiment-containing bag the first time, thepeelable seal 24 is removed to expose thevalve 20. -
FIG. 3 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the condiment-containingbag 10′. This embodiment of the condiment-containingbag 10′ also possesses a generally rectangular form (e.g., square shape) that is sealed along itssides 12′. In this version of the condiment-containingbag 10′, thenozzle 14 is positioned adjacent the bottom end of the condiment-containingbag 10′ at a point generally midway between the vertical sides of the bag. In addition, the condiment-containingbag 10′ shown inFIG. 3 is provided withadditional seals 13′ that are generally diagonally oriented, extending from the vertical upright sides of the condiment-containingbag 10′ to the bottom side of the condiment-containingbag 10′. Theseadditional seals 13′ impart a funnel-type configuration to thebag 10′ to help direct condiment in the condiment-containingbag 10′ towards thenozzle 14. In this way, condiment is prevented from collecting in the corners of the bag. It is thus possible with this configuration of the condiment-containingbag 10′ to position thenozzle 14 adjacent the bottom side of thebag 10′ while at the same time facilitating emptying as much of the condiment in thebag 10′ as possible. Thenozzle 14 forming a part of the condiment-containingbag 10′ shown inFIG. 3 can have a construction similar to the nozzle illustrated inFIG. 4 . - Turning back to
FIG. 1 , thebag holder 30 includes afront wall 32, an oppositely positionedrear wall 34, two oppositely positionedside walls 36, and abottom wall 33. Thefront wall 32, therear wall 34 and theside walls 36 define an interior of thebag holder 30 that receives the condiment-containingbag bag holder 30 being open to allow the condiment-containingbag bag holder 30. As further illustrated inFIG. 1 , thebag holder 30 possesses angled, generally diagonally orientedlower side walls 42 positioned between theupright side walls 32 and thebottom wall 33 of thebag holder 30. Theseangled walls 42 help direct condiment in the condiment-containingbag 10 towards thenozzle 14. - The
front wall 32 of thebag holder 30 is provided with a vertically extending throughslot 38. Thenozzle 14 of the condiment-containingbag 10. 10′ projects through the bottom portion of theslot 38 in the manner shown inFIGS. 1 and 5 . In the illustrated embodiment, theslot 38 in thefront wall 32 of thebag holder 30 opens to the top edge of thefront wall 32 and extends vertically downward to a point spaced a small distance from the bottom 33 of thebag holder 30. This allows the dispensingnozzle 14 to be relatively easily located in the illustrated position when the condiment-containing bag is placed in thebag holder 30. Of course, it is also possible to provide avertical slot 38 that stops short of the upper edge of thefront wall 32 if desired. The dispensingnozzle 14 is also seated or rests on the bottom of theslot 38. Theslot 38 and/or the dispensingnozzle 14 can also be appropriately configured to secure or engage the dispensingnozzle 14 in theslot 38 at the desired position (e.g., the illustrated position), such as by way of a snap-fit engagement. - The
bag holder 30 is preferably made of lightweight material such as plastic (e.g., ABS or other plastic materials suitable for the purpose) and is adapted to be mounted on a vertical wall or other suitable vertical structure. This can be accomplished by providing thebag holder 30 with an appropriate mounting mechanism. For example, therear wall 34 of thebag holder 30 can be outfitted with a pair of cut-outs adapted to receive mounting pegs, hooks or the like affixed to and extending from the wall or other vertical surface Alternatively, thebag holder 30 can be provided with hooks adapted to engage a mounting bar or other suitable structure. Thebag holder 30 can thus be mounted at a suitable position so that the overall condiment dispenser is positioned at a location which facilitates its use. - Each of the
side walls 36 of thebag holder 30 is provided with a vertically extendingslot 40. As will be described in more detail below, theseslots 40 in theside walls 36 receive a portion of the pressure applying mechanism for applying pressure to the condiment in the condiment-containing bag. - The
pressure applying mechanism 50 is comprised of ashaft 52 supported in a pair ofslidable brackets 54. The shaft can be made of metal (e.g., stainless steel), plastic or other suitable material acceptable for the environment. Each of thebrackets 54 is mounted in theslot 40 in one of theside walls 36 of thebag holder 30 and is capable of sliding along the length of therespective side wall 36. As best illustrated inFIG. 5 , the oppositely positioned vertical sides of eachbracket 54 are provided with respective grooves adapted to receive the edges of theside wall 36 that bound theslots 40. Thebrackets 54 each function as a sliding bearing. - The
shaft 52 is rotatably supported in thebrackets 54 and extends across the interior of thebag holder 30. The condiment-containingbag shaft 52. If desired, an appropriate mechanism can be provided to fix the end of the bag to theshaft 52 to prevent the condiment-containing bag from becoming separated from theshaft 52. By way of example, theshaft 52 can be provided with a slot in which is positioned the end of the condiment-containing bag. - The
pressure applying mechanism 50 further includes aratchet 56 and apawl 58 positioned adjacent one side of thebag holder 30. Theratchet 56 is fixed to theshaft 52 so that theratchet 56 and theshaft 52 rotate together as a unit, while thepawl 58 is mounted on thebracket 54. The tip of thepawl 58 engages the teeth on theratchet 56 in a way that permits rotation of theshaft 52 in one direction (e.g., the counterclockwise direction as seen from the right end of theshaft 52 inFIG. 1 ) while also preventing rotation of theshaft 52 in the opposite direction (e.g., the clockwise direction as seen from the right end of theshaft 52 inFIG. 1 ). - The
pressure applying mechanism 50 further includes a handle or lever 60 that is mounted at or fixed to ahousing 70. Thehandle 60 is operatively engageable with theshaft 52 in such a way that when thehandle 60 is rotated in one rotational direction, theshaft 52 rotates together with thehandle 60 and when thehandle 60 is rotated in the opposite rotational direction, thehandle 60 rotates relative to theshaft 52.FIG. 6 illustrates the mechanism that permits this movement. - As shown in
FIG. 6 , a pawl 72 and aratchet 74 are positioned within thehousing 70, with theratchet 70 being fixed to theshaft 52 to rotate together with theshaft 52. The pawl 72 is suitably secured in place inside thehousing 70 and is biased by aspring 76 into engagement with the ratchet 72. By virtue of the engagement of the pawl 72 with theratchet 74, the rotation of thehandle 60 in one direction causes theratchet 74 and the handle to rotate together, thus rotating theshaft 52. On the other hand, when thehandle 60 is rotated in the opposite direction, thehandle 60 rotates relative to theratchet 74 so that theshaft 52 does not rotate. Thus, by way of example, rotating thelever 60 in the counterclockwise direction as seen with reference to the right end of theshaft 52 shown inFIG. 1 causes theshaft 52 to be rotated in the direction of the arrow X shown inFIG. 1 . This rotation causes the condiment-containingbag shaft 52, thus increasing the pressure in thebag valve 20 to dispense condiment within the condiment-containing bag to through thedispenser nozzle 14. Once thehandle 60 is released, thepawl 58 prevents theshaft 52 from rotating in the opposite direction. Theratchet 74 and pawl 72 shown inFIG. 6 allow thehandle 60 to be rotated in the opposite direction (i.e., the clockwise direction as seen with reference to the right end of theshaft 52 shown inFIG. 1 ) without rotating theshaft 52. This permits the position of thehandle 60 to be readjusted without rotating the shaft. That is, with thehandle 60 oriented in a generally upwardly directed position, the user can rotate thehandle 60 in the counterclockwise direction to dispense condiment for the bag. When thehandle 60 reaches a generally downwardly directed position, the user can rotate thehandle 60 in the clockwise direction without rotating theshaft 52 to reposition thehandle 60 in a generally upwardly directed position. Thehandle 60 can then be rotated once again in the counterclockwise direction to dispense more condiment from the bag. Theratchet 74 and pawl 72 arrangement shown inFIG. 6 thus provides a more convenient operation of thehandle 60 so that it is not necessary to rotate the handle through a full 360 degree rotation to dispense condiment from the bag. - Of course, it is to be understood that the condiment-containing bag can be wound on the
shaft 52 in the opposite direction, in which case thehandle 60 is operated in the direction opposite to that described above to dispense condiment from the condiment-containingbag - To use the condiment dispenser illustrated in
FIG. 1 , a condiment-containingbag bag holder 30. The condiment-containing bag is positioned in thebag holder 30 so that thedispenser nozzle 14 projects outwardly from thefront wall 32 and is positioned in the bottom portion of theslot 38 in thefront wall 32 in the illustrated manner. To more easily place the condiment-containing bag in thebag holder 30, it is desirable to first remove thepressure applying mechanism 50. This can be rather easily accomplished because thebrackets 54 supporting theshaft 52 and the other parts of the pressure applying mechanism can be slid upwardly along theslots 40 and through the open top of the bag holder. - To secure the flexible condiment-containing
bag shaft 52, the top end of the flexible 10, 10′ is wrapped around theshaft 52, possible being secured to theshaft 52 in an appropriate manner as mentioned above. This can be accomplished either before or after the bag is placed in thebag holder 30. In addition, thepeelable seal 24 on the end of thedispenser nozzle 14 is removed to expose thevalve 20. The condiment dispenser is now ready for use. - When an individual is interested in dispensing condiment from the condiment-containing bag, such as for filling a small container for use by patrons or others, the
handle 60 is rotated in the appropriate direction to further wind the flexible condiment-containingbag shaft 52 and increase the pressure within the bag. Referring to the condiment dispenser shown inFIG. 1 , this involves rotating thelever 60 in the counterclockwise direction as seen from the right end of theshaft 52 inFIG. 1 . This rotation of thehandle 60 causes theshaft 52 to also rotate so that theflexible bag shaft 52. The resulting increase in pressure within the condiment-containing bag causes condiment in the condiment-containing bag to be dispensed through the dispensingnozzle 14. - The
valve 20 of the dispensingnozzle 14 is designed to remain closed until the pressure within the condiment-containingbag slits 22 provided in the plastic membrane. Once the pressure in the flexible bag equals or exceeds the predetermined pressure value, thevalve 20 automatically opens and condiment is dispensed through the dispensingnozzle 14. - Once the desired amount of condiment has been dispensed, the
handle 60 is released, thus preventing further increase in pressure within the condiment-containingbag handle 60 is released, thepawl 58 engages theratchet 56 to prevent reverse rotation of thehandle 60 in the opposite direction. Once thehandle 60 is released, the pressure within the condiment-containing bag no longer exceeds the predetermined valve opening pressure. Thevalve 20 thus automatically closes and prevents additional condiment from being dispensed. - By successively operating the
handle 60 in this manner, the desired amount of condiment can be dispensed, with thevalve 20 automatically closing each time thehandle 60 is released. As the condiment in the condiment-containing bag is dispensed, more of the bag becomes wound on theshaft 52. As this occurs, thepressure applying mechanism 50 is able to move downwardly relative to thebag holder 30 by virtue of the sliding or bearing engagement between thebrackets 54 and theside walls 32 of thebag holder 30. Thebag bag holder 30. - Also, as mentioned above, it is possible to reposition the handle by rotating the
handle 60 in the direction which is opposite the direction causing condiment to be dispensed from the bag. The user is thus free to position the handle at a desired position for dispensing condiment. - Once all of the condiment has been dispensed from the condiment dispenser, the
empty bag shaft 52 and discarded, and replaced by a new filled condiment-containing bag. Thus, with this construction, the entire condiment-containing bag is disposable, including the nozzle with the valve. - The condiment dispenser here is thus able to dispense condiment in the desired amount in a relatively easy manner. The opening of the
valve 20 to initiate dispensing occurs automatically when thehandle 60 is rotated. Similarly, the closing of thevalve 20 to stop dispensing occurs automatically by simply releasing thehandle 60. This provides easy control of the dispensing operation as well as the amount of condiment dispensed. The wall dispenser is also versatile in that it can be mounted in a variety of locations to suit the user. - The principles, preferred embodiments and modes of operation of the present invention have been described in the foregoing specification. However, the invention which is intended to be protected is not to be construed as limited to the particular embodiments disclosed. Further, the embodiments described herein are to be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive. Variations and changes may be made by others, and equivalents employed, without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Accordingly, it is expressly intended that all such variations, changes and equivalents which fall within the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined in the claims, be embraced thereby.
Claims (26)
1. A condiment dispenser comprising:
a holder having walls which together define an interior of the holder, one of the walls of the holder being provided with a through opening;
a condiment container having an interior containing a quantity of an edible food condiment, the condiment container being provided with a dispensing nozzle through which the condiment in the condiment container is dispensed from the condiment container, the condiment container being adapted to be positioned in the interior of the holder with the dispensing nozzle accessible from outside the holder so that the condiment can be dispensed from the condiment container;
a shaft on which the condiment container is adapted to be wound to apply pressure to the condiment in the condiment container to dispense the condiment through the dispensing nozzle.
2. The condiment-dispenser according to claim 1 , wherein the edible food condiment in the condiment container is one of ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, tartar sauce and barbecue sauce.
3. The condiment dispenser according to claim 1 , wherein the condiment container is a flexible condiment containing bag positioned in the interior of the holder with an upper portion of the condiment containing bag wound around the shaft.
4. The condiment dispenser according to claim 3 , wherein an end portion of the shaft extends through a slot in one of the walls of the holder, and including a handle connected to the end portion of the shaft to rotate the shaft and wind the condiment containing bag around the shaft.
5. The condiment dispenser according to claim 1 , wherein the holder has angled lower side walls.
6. The condiment dispenser according to claim 1 , wherein the dispensing nozzle is accessible from outside the holder by virtue of the dispensing nozzle being positioned in a vertically extending through slot in one of the walls of the holder.
7. The condiment dispenser according to claim 1 , wherein opposite end portions of the shaft are supported in respective brackets which are slidably supported in slots formed in the holder.
8. The condiment dispenser according to claim 1 , wherein the condiment container is comprised of a flexible plastic bag sealed along its peripheral edge, the flexible plastic bag having a plurality of corners the dispensing nozzle being positioned in one of the corners of the flexible plastic bag.
9. The condiment dispenser according to claim 1 , wherein the condiment container is comprised of a flexible plastic bag having angled seals and a bottom seal, the dispensing nozzle being positioned adjacent the bottom seal between the two angled seals.
10. The condiment dispenser according to claim 1 , wherein the dispensing nozzle comprises a flange fixed to the condiment container and a spout extending from the flange, the spout communicating with the interior of the condiment container.
11. The condiment dispenser according to claim 10 , wherein the dispensing nozzle is made of plastic material.
12. The condiment dispenser according to claim 10 , wherein the spout is provided with a valve which prevents the condiment in the condiment container from being dispensed upon application of a pressure less than a predetermined pressure and permits the condiment in the condiment container to be dispensed upon application of a pressure exceeding the predetermined pressure and.
13. The condiment dispenser according to claim 12 , wherein the valve is comprised of a plastic membrane provided with intersecting slits forming flaps in the plastic membrane.
14. The condiment dispenser according to claim 13 , wherein the plastic membrane is made of silicon.
15. The condiment dispenser according to claim 12 , further comprising a peelable seal on the spout covering the valve to prevent exposure of the valve prior to use.
16. The condiment dispenser according to claim 1 , further comprising a ratchet fixed to the shaft to rotate together with the shaft, and a pawl positioned to engage the ratchet to permit rotation of the pawl in one direction while preventing rotation of the pawl in an opposite direction.
17. The condiment dispenser according to claim 16 , wherein opposite end portions of the shaft are supported in respective brackets which are slidably supported in respective slots in the holder, the pawl being fixed to one of the brackets.
18. The condiment dispenser according to claim 1 , wherein the condiment container is a flexible condiment containing bag containing at least one gallon of the edible food condiment.
19. A condiment dispenser for dispensing condiment from a condiment containing bag through a dispensing nozzle provided on the condiment containing bag, the condiment dispenser comprising:
a holder having a plurality of upright walls surrounding an enclosed space in the holder which is adapted to receive the condiment containing bag so that the dispensing nozzle of the condiment containing bag is accessible rom outside the holder;
a shaft rotatably mounted at the holder and on which the condiment containing bag is adapted to be wound to apply pressure to the condiment in the condiment containing bag and thereby dispense the condiment in the condiment containing bag through the dispensing nozzle; and
a handle connected to the shaft to rotate the shaft so as to wind the condiment containing bag on the shaft and apply pressure to the condiment in the condiment containing bag causing the condiment to be dispensed from the dispensing nozzle.
20. The condiment dispenser according to claim 19 , including means for fixing a rotational position of the shaft after the shaft has been rotated to wind condiment containing bag on the shaft and apply pressure to the condiment in the condiment containing bag causing the condiment to be dispensed from the dispensing nozzle.
21. The condiment dispenser according to claim 20 , wherein the means for fixing includes a ratchet fixed to the shaft and a pawl engageable with the ratchet to permit rotation of the pawl in one direction while preventing rotation of the pawl in an opposite direction.
22. The condiment dispenser according to claim 19 , wherein the handle is connected to an end portion of the shaft which extends through a slot in one of the walls of the holder.
23. The condiment dispenser according to claim 19 , wherein the holder has angled lower side walls.
24. The condiment dispenser according to claim 19 , wherein the opening in the holder that is adapted to receive the dispensing nozzle of the condiment containing bag forms a part of a vertically extending through slot in the holder.
25. The condiment dispenser according to claim 19 , wherein the shaft includes opposite end portions, each of the end portions of the shaft being rotatably supported in a bracket that is slidably mounted on one of the walls of the holder.
26. The condiment dispenser according to claim 25 , further comprising a ratchet fixed to the shaft to rotate together with the shaft and a pawl engageable with the ratchet to permit rotation of the pawl in one direction while preventing rotation of the pawl in an opposite direction, the pawl being mounted on one of the brackets.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US10/541,201 US20060138167A1 (en) | 2003-01-03 | 2004-01-02 | Condiment dispenser |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US43773003P | 2003-01-03 | 2003-01-03 | |
PCT/US2004/000024 WO2004062393A2 (en) | 2003-01-03 | 2004-01-02 | Condiment dispenser |
US10/541,201 US20060138167A1 (en) | 2003-01-03 | 2004-01-02 | Condiment dispenser |
Publications (1)
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US20060138167A1 true US20060138167A1 (en) | 2006-06-29 |
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US10/541,201 Abandoned US20060138167A1 (en) | 2003-01-03 | 2004-01-02 | Condiment dispenser |
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US (1) | US20060138167A1 (en) |
CA (1) | CA2512506A1 (en) |
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US9717354B2 (en) | 2013-10-11 | 2017-08-01 | Gehl Foods, Llc | Food product dispenser and valve |
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USD798106S1 (en) | 2015-08-28 | 2017-09-26 | Gehl Foods, Llc | Valve |
USD830768S1 (en) | 2014-08-29 | 2018-10-16 | Gehl Foods, Llc | Valve |
USD839062S1 (en) | 2015-08-28 | 2019-01-29 | Gehl Foods, Llc | Tool |
US10194763B2 (en) | 2014-08-29 | 2019-02-05 | Gehl Foods, Llc | Food product dispenser and valve |
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Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
CA2512506A1 (en) | 2004-07-29 |
WO2004062393A2 (en) | 2004-07-29 |
WO2004062393A3 (en) | 2004-10-07 |
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