WO2009073718A1

WO2009073718A1 - System and method for dispensing materials

Info

Publication number: WO2009073718A1
Application number: PCT/US2008/085398
Authority: WO
Inventors: Wayne L. Summons; Osamu Yazaki
Original assignee: Sunstar Engineering Inc; Sashco Inc
Current assignee: Sunstar Engineering Inc; Sashco Inc
Priority date: 2007-12-03
Filing date: 2008-12-03
Publication date: 2009-06-11
Anticipated expiration: 2010-06-03

Abstract

A material dispensing system and method of use include a casing that receives the material. A dispensing line is placed in communication with the material when disposed within the casing. A fluid supply selectively delivers fluid under pressure toward the casing in a manner that urges the material from within the casing and through the dispensing line. The casing may be worn by an individual using a harness. A collapsible receptacle may be used to hold the material while it is in the casing and collapses as the fluid supply urges the material from within the casing and the receptacle.

Description

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DISPENSING MATERIALS

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS

[0001] This patent application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/992,055, entitled "System And Method For Dispensing Materials," filed on December 3, 2007, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Dispensing systems have been widely used in many different industries and in a wide array of particular applications. For example, in the construction industry, caulking, chinking material, adhesives and other viscous materials have been delivered to job sites in disposable containers for application at the job site. Oftentimes, the containers used have been bulk containers, including single and multi-gallon containers. After the materials have been dispensed, the bulk containers have simply become waste. The waste bulk containers have typically been transported to landfills and other refuse facilities for disposal. Such waste bulk containers have rarely been recycled, due to material residue that has remained in the containers. Globally, the construction industry has used countless quantities of these bulk material containers on a daily basis. This has contributed to an overuse of landfill and refuse facilities, the holding capacities of which have been dwindling at an alarming rate.

[0003] Common uses of bulk material dispensing systems at various job sites have required the development of portable dispensing systems. For example, U.S. Patent No. 4,651,897, entitled "Portable Progressive Cavity Pump", owned by the assignee of the present matter, discloses a portable dispensing system that includes a rigid framework, mounted on a pair of wheels. A platform extends perpendicularly outwardly from the framework and is adapted to support a bulk material container. A carriage is slideably mounted to the framework, and a winch and cable assembly allows an operator to raise and lower the carriage. The carriage supports a motor, drive shaft and pump, with the pump having a downwardly extending, disk- like follower plate oriented parallel to the platform. When a container is placed on the platform, the carriage is lowered to press the follower plate against the materials. The motor drives the pump, and, as the material is removed from the container and dispensed through a hose, the weight of the carriage, pump and motor drives the follower plate into the container. That system provided a system that was easily transported from one job site to another and could be reasonably moved from one area of a job site to another using the wheeled frame. However, that system, and those like it, suffered from an inability to move with the user simultaneously. While portable, such systems have been too heavy for a single operator to move while dispensing materials. Moreover, while somewhat simple in construction and operation, the Systems have used a myriad of components that required continued servicing and replacement. Furthermore, such systems have used bulk material containers and failed to address the issue of overused landfill and refuse facilities.

SUMMARY

[0004] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary, and the foregoing Background, is not intended to identify key aspects or essential aspects of the claimed subject matter. Moreover, this Summary is not intended for use as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0005] The system for dispensing a material is generally provided with a casing having upper and lower end portions, at least one sidewall, and an inner chamber that may receive the material to be dispensed. A dispensing line is coupled at one end with the casing such that it is in open fluid communication with the material to be dispensed when the material is within the inner chamber of the casing. A fluid supply is coupled with the casing and selectively delivers a volume of fluid, under pressure, toward the casing such that the material to be dispensed is urged from within the casing. The casing is provided as a reusable component that is not discarded. The system may be provided with one or more overpressure burst points to limit damage caused by an over pressurization or failure of the casing. [0006] In one aspect, a receptacle may be provided, having an open upper end portion, a bottom wall and at least one sidewall. The sidewall may be formed to permit the bottom wall and open upper end portion of the receptacle to be selectively moved toward and away from one another. The receptacle may have an interior that is adapted to hold the material to be dispensed. When placed within the inner chamber of the casing, the bottom wall and open upper end portion of the receptacle are urged toward one another when the fluid supply is actuated, urging the material through the dispensing line. In one aspect, the receptacle may be fully compacted to a fraction of its original size once the material has been dispensed. Accordingly, the use of such disposable receptacles greatly limits use of landfill and refuse facilities.

[0007] In another aspect, the receptacle may be provided with a flexible sidewall to promote the collapsing nature of the receptacle. A stiffening rib may be engaged with the sidewall of the receptacle, generally parallel with the bottom wall, intermediate the upper end portion and the bottom wall of the receptacle.

[0008] In at least one embodiment, the fluid supply may include a tank of pressurized gas and a supply line that is operatively coupled between the tank of pressurized gas and the casing. Various portable tank designs may be used, such that they may be easily transported by a user of the system. In one aspect, the tank may be worn or otherwise supported by the user. Another aspect of the system provides a harness, coupled with the casing, in a manner that permits a user to wear the system while it is in use. In all, the system may be provided to be relatively light weight to be transported on the person of a user for extended application periods.

[0009] In various embodiments, a protective bumper may be associated with the system to protect the casing and lid components. In some embodiments, the protective bumper may be provided in the form of a lower bumper that envelopes a substantial portion of the casing and an upper bumper that covers portions of the Hd. It is contemplated that the bumpers may be formed from a variety of plastics and rubbers that will provide the system with enhanced durability.

[0010] Where the system is used in relatively cold climates, a warming sleeve may be disposed around the casing to maintain or elevate the temperature of the system and its contents. In one embodiment, the wanning sleeve may be provided as an insular blanket having a plurality of lines passed throughout the blanket that carry either electrical current or a heated liquid. In other embodiments, the warming blanket may use a volume of known chemicals that produce a heat reaction when mixed.

[0011] These and other aspects of the present system and method will be apparent after consideration of the Detailed Description and Figures herein. It is to be understood, however, that the scope of the invention shall be determined by the claims as issued and not by whether given subject matter addresses any or all issues noted in the Background or includes any features or aspects recited in this Summary.

DRAWINGS

[0012] Non-limiting and non-exhaustive embodiments of the present invention, including the preferred embodiment, are described with reference to the following figures, wherein like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the various views unless otherwise specified.

[0013] Figure 1 depicts an isometric view of one embodiment of a receptacle that may be used with the material dispensing system.

[0014] Figure 2 depicts a partial, front elevation view of one embodiment of a material dispensing system, prior to placing a receptacle of dispensing material within a casing.

[0015] Figure 3 depicts the material dispensing system of Figure 2 after the receptacle has been positioned within an inner chamber of the casing.

[0016] Figure 4 depicts the material dispensing system of Figure 3 and possible embodiments of a cap and lid that may be used to enclose the receptacle within the casing.

[0017] Figure 5 depicts one contemplated embodiment of a dispensing nozzle and one end portion of a dispensing line, which may be used with the material dispensing system, as material is dispensed therefrom. [0018] Figure 6 depicts a partial view of the material dispensing system of Figure 3 after a substantial portion of the material has been dispensed and the receptacle is removed from the casing.

[0019] Figure 7 depicts a perspective view of one contemplated embodiment of the material dispensing system in a portable arrangement.

[0020] Figure 8 depicts a perspective view of another contemplated embodiment of the material dispensing system in a portable arrangement.

[0021] Figure 9 depicts a partially exploded view of the material dispensing system depicted in Figure 8.

[0022] Figure 10 depicts an elevation view of embodiments of a casing and lid that may be used with the material dispensing system.

[0023] Figure 11 depicts a cut-away, elevation view of one embodiment of the material dispensing system.

[0024] Figure 12 depicts an elevation view of one embodiment of the material dispensing system and provides relative dimensions for the particular embodiment depicted.

[0025] Figure 13 depicts a perspective view of one contemplated embodiment of the material dispensing system and a pair of bumpers that may be used with the system.

[0026] Figure 14 depicts an elevation view of another embodiment of the material dispensing system and a warming sleeve that may be used with the system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0027] Embodiments axe described more folly below with reference to the accompanying figures, which form a part hereof and show by way of illustration, specific exemplary embodiments. These embodiments are disclosed in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention. However, embodiments may be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments set forth herein. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense.

[0028] A system 10 is provided for dispensing a generally flowable material 12 to a point of use. The system 10 is provided with a casing 14 having an open upper end portion 16, a lower end portion 18, and at least one sidewall 20. With reference to Figure 2, the casing 14 is depicted as having a generally cylindrical shape with a single annular sidewall 20. However, it is contemplated that the casing 14 may be provided in a variety of shapes and may have a plurality of sidewalls 20, as any selected shape would naturally dictate. While it is contemplated that the system 10 may be provided as a stationary unit, one or more embodiments of the system 10 are provided as portable units to be transported from one point of use to another with relative ease by a solitary user. Accordingly, the casing 14 may be formed from nearly any material. However, relatively lightweight and inexpensive materials, such as aluminum, various polymers and the like, will be preferred.

[0029] In one aspect, the inner chamber 22 of the casing 14 will be adapted to receive a volume of the material 12. It is contemplated that the material 12 may be disposed directly within the inner chamber 22 or that one of the various containers or liners of varying materials could be disposed within the inner chamber 22 to receive the material 12. In at least one embodiment, the casing 14 is provided with a removable lid 24 that encloses the open upper end portion 16 and the inner chamber 22 of the casing 14. It is contemplated that the lid 24 may be coupled with the casing 14 by a hinge that enables the Hd 24 to move between open and closed positions with respect to the open upper end portion 16. Irrespective of whether the Hd 24 is provided in a removable or coupled fashion with respect to the casing 14, one or more securement structures should be provided to adequately secure the lid 24 in a closed position. For example, one or more bolts 26 may be provided to extend from the open upper end portion 16 of the casing 14. Apertures 28 may be formed through the lid 24 to receive the bolts 26 when the lid 24 in its closed position. Nuts 30, or other similar fasteners, may be used to engage the bolts 26 and tightly secure the lid 24 with the casing 14. In at least one aspect, the engagement between the lid 24and the open upper end portion 16 of the casing 14 may be provided in a generally air-tight fashion. Gaskets or other forms of seals may be provided between the lid 24 and the casing 14. However, many embodiments of the system 10 provide that such sealing may be unnecessary.

[0030] A dispensing line 32, having a first end portion 34 and a second end portion 36, may be associated with the casing 14. Specifically, the first end portion 34 of the dispensing line 32 may be operatively coupled with the casing 14 such that it is placed in open fluid communication with the material 12 when the material 12 is disposed within the inner chamber 22 of the casing 14. In at least one aspect, the second end portion 36 of the dispensing line 32 may be coupled with a dispensing nozzle 38, which may include a dispensing tip 40 and an actuation mechanism, such as the lever 42 depicted in Figure 5. Other known actuating devices may be used, however, in place of the lever 42. Similarly, a multitude of dispensing tips 40 may be incorporated within the system 10 according to the desired output of the material 12, which will be dictated by the needs of each particular use.

[0031] A fluid supply 44 should be operatively coupled with the casing 14 and capable of selectively delivering a volume of fluid, under pressure, toward the casing 14 such that, when the fluid supply 44 is actuated, the material may be urged from within the inner chamber 22 of the casing 14 and through the dispensing line 32. In at least one embodiment, the fluid supply 44 may include a tank 46 of pressurized gas, such as air, nitrogen, and the like. In at least one alternate embodiment, the fluid supply 44 may use a liquid, such as hydraulic fluid and the like, as the pressurized fluid. Regardless, a supply line 48 may be operatively coupled between the tank 46 of pressurized gas and the casing 14. A regulator 50, or other similar device, may be provided for regulating the delivery of the pressurized gas from the tank 46 to the casing 14. The pressure at which the fluid is delivered within the fluid supply 44 will vary according to the type of material 12 being dispensed, the configuration of the system 10, and certain environmental conditions that include ambient temperature, relative humidity, and the like. However, it has been found that certain viscous materials, such as chinking compounds, are adequately dispensed when the fluid supply delivers the fluid at a pressure range approximating 60 psi to 120 psi.

[0032] In one or more embodiments, it is contemplated that the fluid supply 44 will employ the use of a tank 46 or other such container to store an operating volume of fluid. In one aspect, the tank46 may be provided as a stationary unit, providing a supply line 44 of sufficient length to satisfy the operating distances intended by the user. However, the tank 46 may be associated with a wheeled frame assembly (not depicted) to enable greater portability. Likewise, the size of the tank 46 may be provided such that a simple handle may be provided that allows the user to easily carry the tank 46 while dispensing the material 12. In another embodiment, depicted in Figure 7, however, the tank 46 may be provided with a harness or clip 52 that is shaped and sized to be worn by the user as an accessory, either with another article worn by the user or over a portion of the user, such as the shoulders or waist of the user.

[0033] In at least one embodiment, a receptacle 54 may be provided to hold the material 12 within the inner chamber 22 of the casing 14. In one aspect, the receptacle 54 will have an open upper end portion 56, a bottom wall 58, and at least one sidewall 60, that define an interior portion 62. The receptacle 54 may be comprised of nearly any suitable material for use with the material 12. As such, while it is contemplated that the receptacle 54 may be provided to be reusable, a disposable form may provide ease and efficiency of use as refilling the receptacle 54 will not be necessary. While the Figures depict the receptacle 54 as being generally cylindrical in shape, the shape of the receptacle 54 may vary according to the design of the system 10 and may be dictated by the shape of the casing 14. More particularly, the shape and size of the inner chamber 22 may determine the desired shape and size of the receptacle 54.

[0034] In one aspect, the sidewall 60 of the disposable receptacle 54 will be provided in a manner that allows the open upper end portion 56 and the bottom wall 58 to be selectively moved toward one another as the material 12 is dispensed from within the interior portion 62. Different design considerations may be implemented with respect to the sidewall 60 to accommodate a collapsible nature. For example, the sidewall 60 may be formed to have one or more pleated or telescoping sections that permit selective collapsing of the sidewall 60 as the material 12 is dispensed. In one embodiment, however, the sidewalls 60 are constructed from a flexible material. The choice of materials used to construct the receptacle 54 may depend upon the type of material 12 being dispensed from the system 10. However, it has been found that various plastics, metals, and different combinations of materials, suffice to store and dispense a wide variety of materials 12. In one particular example, plastic laminated film is used to construct the sidewall 60. The laminated films may include metal foils of various types, laminated between synthetic resins such as, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyester, nylon and the like.

[0035] In one aspect, the bottom wall 58 may be formed from a flexible material including one or more of those described with respect to the sidewall 60. However, in at least one embodiment, the bottom wall 58 is provided to be generally rigid and shaped to approximate a lateral cross-section of the inner chamber 22 of the casing 14. In such an embodiment, the peripheral edge portions of the bottom wall 58 may be secured to the bottom edge portions of the sidewall 60 in one of several known methods. The bottom wall may be formed from a wide variety of materials. For example, various plastics or metals enable the receptacle 54 to receive most materials 12 and provide a sufficient rigidity to support a dispensing operation, as described herein below.

[0036] The open upper end portion 56 of the receptacle 54 my be provided with a generally rigid, open frame member 64. The open frame member 64 may be constructed from various materials, such as plastic, metal, and the like. In one aspect, the open frame member 64 will tend to keep the sidewall 60 in an open presentation throughout a dispensing operation. Depending on the shape and orientation of the open frame member 64, engagement between tabs 66 or other such structures extending from the open frame member 64 may substantially limit relative movement between the casing 14 and the receptacle 54, when the receptacle is in a use position with respect to the casing 14.

[0037] Depending on the structures provided to the sidewall 60 to permit it to collapse or otherwise allow the open upper end portion 56 and the bottom wall 58 to move toward one another, portions of the sidewall 60 may be forced inwardly and toward the opening in the open upper end portion 56 as the receptacle 54 collapses. Such a displacement of the sidewall 60 may restrict the flow of the material 12 or otherwise decrease the likelihood that nearly all of the material 12 will be dispensed from within the receptacle 54. Accordingly, one or more stiffening ribs 68 may be coupled with the sidewall 60. In one aspect, the stiffening rib 68 may be provided as an annular ring, positioned intermediate the open upper end portion 56 and the bottom wall 58. The stiffening rib 68 may be oriented generally parallel with the bottom wall 58 of the receptacle 54, intermediate the open upper end portion 56 and the bottom wall 58. In this manner, an even distribution of support may be provided to the sidewall 60 that may cause the sidewall 60 to collapse in an substantially linear fashion.

[0038] In at least one embodiment, a cap 70 may be provided having an opening 72 formed therethrough. The cap 70 may be disposed between the open upper end portion 16 of the casing 14 (and the open upper end portion 56 of the receptacle 54, when used) and the lid 24. A recess 74 may be formed in a bottom surface of the cap 70 to promote flow of the material from the open upper end portion 16 of the casing 14 (or the open upper end 56 of the receptacle 54) through the opening 72 in the cap 70. In one aspect, the recess 74 may be formed to have one of a generally hemispherical, conical, elliptical, or otherwise tapered shape. In this manner, the shape of the recess 74 will direct the flowing material 12 through the opening 72 of the cap 70, as well as the opening in the lid 24. Moreover, the recess 74 will provide a volume of space in which excess material related to the sidewall 60 may collect without interfering with the flow of the material 12, if portions of the sidewall 60 are expelled from the open upper end portion 56 of receptacle 54 as it collapses. [0039] In at least one embodiment, a harness 76 may be coupled with the casing 14 in order to provide a unit that may be carried on the person of a user as the material 12 is dispensed. In one aspect, the harness 76 may be provided in the form of one or more shoulder straps, such as depicted in Figure 7. In this manner, the system 10 may be supported over one or both shoulders of the individual. Similarly, the harness may include a belt that may be wrapped around the user's waist. In either case, a pad 78 may be provided to be disposed between the casing 14 and the user, as the system 10 is supported by the user's body. For example, the pad 78 may be provided to be disposed between the casing 14 and the user's back when the harness 76 is used to support the system 10, like a backpack.

[0040] In use, a volume of the material 12 is disposed within the inner chamber 12 of the casing 14 in one of the various manners described previously. For example, material 12 may be directly disposed within the inner chamber 22 or one of various liners that are disposed within the inner chamber 22. When using this methodology, however, it may be preferable to use a follower plate within the inner chamber 22, between the material 12 and the fluid supply 44. Depending on the liner used to hold the material 12 (if one is used at all), a follower plate will provide an engagement surface on which the fluid from the fluid supply 44 may act, ensuring that substantially all the material 12 is dispensed from the system 10. In another aspect, however, the material 12 may be disposed within the disposable receptacle 54, which may, in turn, be disposed within the inner chamber 22. The generally rigid bottom wall 58 of the receptacle 54 provides a sufficient engagement surface on which the fluid supply 44 may act.

[0041] The user may then, optionally, position the cap 70 closely adjacent the open upper end portion 16 of the casing 14 with the recess 74 facing the material 12. The Hd 24 is then closed against the open upper end portion 16 of the casing 14 and secured in position. The fluid supply 44 may then be actuated so that a volume of fluid is delivered under pressure toward the casing 14 such that pressure is ultimately exerted against material 12, regardless of the manner in which it is disposed within the casing 14. The user then manipulates the dispensing line 32 to position the dispensing tip 40 of the dispensing nozzle 38 closely adjacent a location to which the material 12 is to be dispensed. Finally, the user actuates the dispensing nozzle 38 to enable pressure from the fluid supply 44 to urge the material from the casing 14 and through the dispensing line 32. This may be accomplished, for example, by engaging the bottom wall 58 of the receptacle 54 with the pressurized fluid from the fluid supply 44, causing the bottom wall 58 and open upper end portion 56 of the receptacle 54 to be urged toward one another, causing the material 12 within the receptacle 54 to exit the receptacle 54 and pass through the dispensing line 32.

[0042] Many of the examples and methods provided herein describe a system 10 wherein fluid pressure is applied to a lower or bottom surface of a volume of material 12, dispensing the material 12 from an open upper end portion of the system 10. It is contemplated, however, that the converse may be true and the pressure may be exerted against an upper or top wall of a volume of the material 12 to dispense the material 12 from an open bottom end portion of the system 12. Other similar variations, including side directed pressure and dispensing, are also contemplated.

[0043] With reference to Figures 8-14, an alternate embodiment is generally depicted as system 110. The system 110 may be used according to various methods for dispensing a generally flowable material 112 to one or more points of use. In many embodiments, the system 110 is provided with a casing 114 having an open upper end portion 116, a lower end portion 118, and at least one sidewall 120. The casing 114 is depicted as having a generally cylindrical shape, with a single annular sidewall 120; however, other shapes are contemplated. In some embodiments, the lower end portion may be provided with a generally curved shape to encourage a uniform pressure distribution within an inner chamber 122 of the casing 114. In at least one embodiment, one or more overpressure burst points may be formed in the casing 114 to limit damage caused by an over pressurization or failure of the casing 114. In all other respects, however, the inner chamber will be shaped to receive a volume of the material 112, with or without one of various containers or liners. In various embodiments, a receptacle 54, such as that described previously, may be provided to hold the material 112 within the inner chamber 122 of the casing 114. [0044] In various embodiments, the casing 114 is provided with a removable Hd 124 that encloses the open upper end portion 116 and the inner chamber 122 of the casing 114. The lid 124 may be coupled with the casing 114 by a hinge 126 that enables the lid 124 to move between open and closed positions with respect to the open upper end portion 116. One or more securement structures may be provided to secure the lid 124 in a closed position. In some embodiments, a band clamp 128 may be used to secure the lid 124 in a closed position with respect to the casing 114. In at least one embodiment, a v-band, having a v-shaped cross-section, may be used to grasp outer faces of mating flanges of the Hd 124 and casing 114. A latch may be provided to the band clamp 128 for opening and securing opposite free ends of the band clamp with one another. A gasket 130 may be formed from a wide array of suitable materials and disposed between the opposing peripheral flanges of the lid 124 and the casing 114 to ensure a tight, sealing engagement between the lid 124 and the casing 114 when the band clamp 126 is placed in a secured position. However, some embodiments of the system 110 may provide that such additional sealing structures are unnecessary. The casing 114 may be formed from a variety of materials. In some embodiments, relatively lightweight and inexpensive materials, such as aluminum, various polymers and the like may be used, while other materials, such as stainless steel, may be desirable in other embodiments.

[0045] As described with respect to the system 10, a dispensing line 32 may be associated with the casing 114. A first end portion 34 of the dispensing line 32 may be operatively coupled with an opening in the casing 114 such that it is placed in open fluid communication with the inner chamber 122. In various embodiments, the second end portion 36 of the dispensing line 32 may be coupled with a dispensing nozzle 38, which may include a dispensing tip 40 and an actuation mechanism, such as the lever 42, a trigger, or other known mechanism. A fluid supply 44 should be operatively coupled with the casing 114 and capable of selectively delivering a volume of fluid into the inner chamber 122 of the casing 114 and through the dispensing line 32. As described previously, the fluid supply 44 may include a tank 46 of pressurized gas or liquid. A regulator 50 or other similar device may be provided for regulating the delivery of the pressurized gas or fluid from the tank 46 to the casing 114. In some embodiments, the tank 46 may be provided as a stationary or portable unit. In portable embodiments, the tank 46 may be provided with a harness or clip 52 that is shaped to be worn over a portion of the user, such as the shoulders or waist of the user, or engage an accessory worn by the user.

[0046] In some embodiments, a cap 132 may be provided having an opening 134 formed therethrough. The cap 132 may be positioned between the open upper end portion 116 of the casing 114 (and the open upper end portion 56 of the receptacle 54, when used) and the Hd 124. A recess 136 may be formed in a bottom surface of the cap 132 to promote flow of the material 112 from the open upper end portion 116 of the casing 114 (or the open upper end 56 of the receptacle 54) through the opening 134 in the cap 132. In some embodiments, the recess 136 may be generally hemispherical, conical, elliptical, or otherwise tapered in shape. In some instances, the recess 136 may provide a volume of space in which excess material related to the sidewall 60 may collect without interfering with the flow of the material 112. In at least one embodiment, a tube 138 may be provided to extend outwardly from the cap 132 to position the opening 134 in fluid communication with the opening in the lid 124 that is associated with the first end portion 34 of the dispensing line 32. A gasket may be formed from a wide array of suitable materials and disposed between the opening 134 and the opening in the lid 124 to ensure a tight, sealing engagement between the lid 124 and the tube 138. Other openings may be formed through the casing 114 or lid 124. Contemplated exemplary uses for such openings may include openings to receive a pressure gauge, a pressure regulator, a relief valve (for manual release of pressure), a check valve (for automated relief of pressure), or an inlet hose connector to receive the distal end portion of a line extending from the fluid supply 44.

[0047] In at least one embodiment, the cap 132 may be provided with a sidewall 139 that extends upwardly from the cap 132 at a peripheral edge portion. In some instances, this may provide the cap 132 with a dish-shape. The sidewall 139 will be shaped to fit within the upper opening of the inner chamber 122 of the casing 114 or the receptacle 54, where used. A lip or flange may be provided to extend radially from a top portion of the sidewall 139 and may include a sealing gasket. The lip may be shaped to engage the peripheral edge portion of the receptacle 54 and create a seal through which the material 112 is prevented from passing. In some embodiments, pressure may be exerted between the lid 124 and the casing 114 with the lip of the sidewall 139 disposed therebetween.

[0048] It will be desirable to seal the immediate vessel that holds the material 112 to ensure it is only dispensed from the dispensing nozzle 38. However, with reference to Figure 11, it may be desirable to permit the fluid pressure, afforded by the fluid supply 44, to engage the receptacle 54, when used, from all directions. In such instances, the fluid supply may be delivered to an upper end portion, lower end portion or side of the system 110. Fluid zones, which are in open fluid communication with one another, may be defined between the receptacle 54 and the casing 114 at their upper end portions, lower end portions and along their sides. To ensure the free passage of fluid within the system 110 and a relatively equal fluid pressure within the zones, openings 141 may be formed along the upper peripheral edge portion of the inner chamber 122. The openings 141 will define air channels that may also be provided using other structural details, including tubes and the like, that extend between the various fluid zones.

[0049] In various embodiments, a protective bumper may be associated with the system 110 to protect the casing 114 and lid 124. In some embodiments, the protective bumper may be provided in the form of a lower bumper 140 that envelopes a substantial portion of the casing 1 14 and an upper bumper 142 that covers portions of the lid 124. The upper bumper 142, in such embodiments, may extend outwardly from the upper surface of the lid 124 and provide an opening 144 through which access to the openings in the lid 124 may be readily obtained. Similarly, the lower bumper 140 may extend outwardly from a lower surface of the casing 114 and provide an opening 146 through which a user may freely access a fluid supply opening formed in the casing 114. In either or both of the lower bumper 140 and upper bumper 142, elongated openings 148 may be formed adjacent distal edges of the bumpers to provide hand holds for enabling a user to easily grasp and move the system 110. Such elongated openings 148 would further provide an entry point for supply lines and hoses. For the lower bumper 140, this may enable the system 110 to be placed on the ground or other operating surface in a stable manner, while one or more lines extend from the bottom portion of the casing 114. It is contemplated that the bumpers may be formed from a variety of plastics and rubbers that will provide the system 110 with enhanced durability. In some embodiments, mechanical fasteners or bonding materials such as adhesives may be used to couple the bumpers with the casing 114 and the lid 124. However, other embodiments may simply apply a layer of semi-fluid rubber, plastic or composite that is allowed to cure in position on the casing 114 and Hd 124.

[0050] It is contemplated that the system 110 may be used in relatively cold climates. Some materials 112 may have a tendency to become too viscous or even solidity in such conditions. Accordingly, a warming sleeve 150 may be disposed around the casing 114 to maintain or elevate the temperature of the system 110 and its contents. In one embodiment, the warming sleeve 150 may be provided as an insular blanket having a plurality of lines passing throughout the blanket that carry either electrical current or a heated liquid. In either case, a supply, such as a battery or liquid warming unit, and pump may be associated with the warming sleeve 150. In other embodiments, the warming blanket 150 may be provided with one or more pockets that receive one or more volumes of known chemicals that produce a heat reaction when mixed. In such instances, disposable packets may be inserted and removed from the warming blanket. In other embodiments, the warming blanket 150 may be provided as a disposable unit with the chemicals permanently embedded within the warming blanket 150. Where the warming blanket 150 uses electrical resistance lines to produce the heat, a selector may be provided that enables the user to control the heat output of the unit and selectively activate and deactivate the warming blanket 150.

[0051] In various embodiments, the system 110 may be secured to a harness 76 (as described previously), a wheeled cart (not depicted), or other frame member. In some embodiments, a mounting bracket 152 may be formed in the lower bumper 140 or otherwise secured with the casing 114 and exposed by an opening in the lower bumper 140. The bracket may be provided in a universal nature with a plurality of mounting holes to receive one or more mechanical fasteners that will secure the bracket 150 to the harness 76, wheeled cart, or other frame member. In other embodiments, hooks or other tabs may extend from the bracket 152 to engage opposing mating structures on the harness 76, wheeled cart, or other frame member. [0052] In use, the system 110 may be used similarly to the manners described with respect to the system 10. A volume of the material 112 is disposed directly within the inner chamber 122 or one of various liners or containers that are disposed within the inner chamber 122. The user may then position the cap 132 closely adjacent the open upper end portion 116 of the casing 114 with the recess facing the material 112. The lid 124 is then closed against the open upper end portion 116 of the casing 114 and secured in position with the band clamp 128. The fluid supply 44 may then be coupled with the system 110 and actuated so that a volume of fluid is delivered under pressure toward the casing 114 such that pressure is ultimately exerted against material 112, regardless of the manner in which it is disposed within the casing 114. The dispensing line 32 may then be operated in a common fashion to position the dispensing tip 40 of the dispensing nozzle 38 closely adjacent a location to which the material 112 is to be dispensed.

[0053] Although the systems 10 and 110 have been described in language that is specific to certain structures, materials, and methodological steps, it is to be understood that the invention defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific structures, materials, and/or steps described. Rather, the specific aspects and steps are described as forms of implementing the claimed invention. Since many embodiments of the invention can be practiced without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, the invention resides in the claims hereinafter appended. Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers or expressions, such as those expressing dimensions, physical characteristics, etc. used in the specification (other than the claims) are understood as modified in all instances by the term "approximately." At the very least, and not as an attempt to limit the application of the doctrine of equivalents to the claims, each numerical parameter recited in the specification or claims which is modified by the term "approximately" should at least be construed in light of the number of recited significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques. Moreover, all ranges disclosed herein are to be understood to encompass and provide support for claims that recite any and all subranges or any and all individual values subsumed therein. For example, a stated range of 1 to 10 should be considered to include and provide support for claims that recite any and all subranges or individual values that are between and/or inclusive of the minimum value of 1 and the maximum value of 10; that is, all subranges beginning with a minimum value of 1 or more and ending with a maximum value of 10 or less (e.g., 5.5 to 10, 2.34 to 3.56, and so forth) or any values from 1 to 10 (e.g., 3, 5.8, 9.9994, and so forth).

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A system for dispensing a material, the system comprising: a receptacle having an open upper end portion, a bottom wall and at least one sidewall; said sidewall being formed to permit said bottom wall and open upper end portion to be selectively moved toward one another; said receptacle having an interior adapted to hold the material to be dispensed; a casing having upper and lower end portions, at least one sidewall, and an inner chamber that is sized and shaped to receive at least a substantial portion of said receptacle in a use position; a dispensing line having first and second opposite end portions; said first end portion being operatively coupled with said casing such that it is in open fluid communication with the interior of said receptacle when said receptacle is in said use position; and a fluid supply operatively coupled with said casing and capable of selectively delivering a volume of fluid, under pressure, toward said casing such that the bottom wall and open upper end portion of said receptacle are urged toward one another.

2. The system of claim 1 wherein the bottom wall of said receptacle is comprised of a generally rigid plate.

3. The system of claim 2 wherein the open upper end portion of said receptacle is comprised of a generally rigid, open frame member.

4. The system of claim 1 wherein the sidewall of said receptacle is comprised of a flexible material.

5. The system of claim 4 wherein the sidewall of said receptacle is provided with a stiffening rib, oriented generally parallel with the bottom wall of said receptacle, intermediate the open upper end portion and the bottom wall of said receptacle.

6. The system of claim 1 wherein said fluid supply is comprised of a tank of pressurized gas and a supply line that is operatively coupled between said tank of pressurized gas and said casing.

7. The system of claim 1 further comprising:

a harness, coupled with said casing; said harness being formed to be worn by an individual.

8. The system of claim 7 wherein said harness is comprised of a pair of shoulder straps.

9. The system of claim 7 wherein said fluid supply is comprised of a portable tank of pressurized gas and a supply line that is operatively coupled between said tank of pressurized gas and said casing.

10. The system of claim 1 wherein said casing includes a lid that encloses the open upper end portion of said receptacle and the inner chamber of said casing when said receptacle is in said use position; the lid being movable between open and closed positions with respect to the inner chamber of said casing.

11. The system of claim 10 further comprising: a cap, having an opening formed therethrough, disposed between said lid and the open upper end portion of said receptacle.

12. The system of claim 11 wherein said cap is provided with a recess formed in a bottom surface of said cap; said recess being in open communication with the opening in said cap and shaped to promote flow of the material from the open upper end portion of said receptacle through the opening in said cap.

13. The system of claim 11 wherein said cap is provided with a tube that extends outwardly from an upper surface of said cap; said opening being positioned at a distal end portion of said tube.

14. The system of claim 13 wherein said cap is provided with at least one sidewall that extends upwardly from the upper surface of said cap to define an upper recess.

15. The system of claim 14 wherein the at least one sidewall of said cap is substantially disposed within the interior of the receptacle when the cap is in a use position.

16. The system of claim 14 wherein the at least one sidewall is provided with a lip that extends radially from a distal end portion of the at least one sidewall; said lip coupled with an upper peripheral edge portion of the receptacle in a sealing engagement when said cap is placed in a use position.

17. The system of claim 16 wherein the opening through said cap is placed in an operative sealing engagement with an opening formed through said lid when said cap and said lid are placed in a use position.

18. The system of claim 1 further comprising at least one bumper engaged with said casing.

19. The system of claim 18 further wherein said bumper is comprised of a lower bumper that is operatively coupled with said casing and an upper bumper that is operatively coupled with a lid associated with said casing.

20. The system of claim 19 wherein at least one of said upper and lower bumpers include at least one elongated openings that are positioned to permit a user to pass objects completely though the at least one elongated openings.

21. The system of claim 1 further comprising a warming sleeve coupled with an exterior portion of the casing.

22. The system of claim 1 further comprising (i) a first fluid pressure zone between an upper end portion of the receptacle and a lid associated with said casing; (ii) a second fluid pressure zone between a lower end portion of the receptacle and bottom portion of casing; said first fluid pressure zone and said second fluid pressure zone being in open fluid communication with one another.

23. A method of dispensing a material, the method comprising: providing a receptacle having an open upper end portion, a bottom wall and at least one sidewall; said sidewall being formed to permit said bottom wall and open upper end portion to be selectively moved toward and away from one another; said receptacle having an interior at least partially filled with the material to be dispensed; providing a dispensing system comprising: a casing having upper and lower end portions, at least one sidewall, and an inner chamber that is sized and shaped to receive at least a substantial portion of said receptacle in a use position; a dispensing line having first and second opposite end portions; said first end portion being operatively coupled with said casing such that it is in open fluid communication with the interior of said receptacle when said receptacle is in said use position; and a fluid supply operatively coupled with said casing and capable of selectively delivering a volume of fluid, under pressure, toward said casing such that the bottom wall and open upper end portion of said receptacle are urged toward one another; disposing said receptacle within the inner chamber of said casing; actuating said fluid supply so that a volume of fluid is delivered under pressure toward said casing such that pressure is exerted on the bottom wall of said receptacle; manipulating said dispensing line so that a second end portion of said dispensing line is positioned adjacent a location to which the material is to be dispensed; and actuating said dispensing line to enable pressure from said fluid supply may cause the bottom wall and open upper end portion of said receptacle to be urged toward one another, causing the material within the receptacle to exit said receptacle and pass through said dispensing line.

24. The method of claim 23 further comprising: providing a harness, coupled with said casing; and positioning said harness such that it is worn by an individual prior to actuating said fluid supply.

25. The method of claim 24 wherein said harness is worn on shoulders of the individual.

26. The method of claim 24 further comprising: providing at least a portion of said fluid supply as a portable tank of pressurized gas and a supply line that is operatively coupled between said tank of pressurized gas and said casing; the individual supporting said tank.

27. The method of claim 23 further comprising: providing a removable lid that encloses the open upper end portion of said receptacle and the inner chamber of said casing when said receptacle is in said use position; providing a cap, having an opening formed therethrough, disposed between said lid and the open upper end portion of said receptacle; said cap being provided with a recess formed in a bottom surface of said cap that is in open communication with the opening in said cap and shaped to promote flow of the material from the open upper end portion of said receptacle through the opening in said cap.

28. A system for dispensing a material, the system comprising: a casing having upper and lower end portions, at least one sidewall, and an inner chamber that is adapted to receive the material to be dispensed; a dispensing line having first and second opposite end portions; said first end portion being operatively coupled with said casing such that it is in open fluid communication with the material to be dispensed when the material to be dispensed is disposed within said casing; and a fluid supply operatively coupled with said casing and capable of selectively delivering a volume of fluid, under pressure, toward said casing such that, when said fluid supply is actuated, the material is urged from within the inner chamber of said casing and through said dispensing line.

29. The system of claim 28 further comprising: a generally rigid bottom wall positioned within said casing between the material to be dispensed and said fluid supply to be, engaged by said fluid supply when said fluid supply is actuated, and assist in urging the material to be dispensed from within the inner chamber of said casing.

30. The system of claim 28 further comprising: a harness, coupled with said casing; said harness being formed with at least one shoulder strap that may be worn by an individual.