Antidrip volumetric rapid filling machine

Claim 1

A system for filling containers with flowable substance from a source thereof, comprising: a volumetric metering chamber adapted to be connected to receive such substance from the source, and a bi-acting piston adapted for motion between predetermined limits within the chamber, for establishing controlled volumes of such substance; a submersible nozzle, connected to receive such controlled volumes of substance from the chamber, for discharge of such controlled volumes into such containers; and means for consistently removing drops of such substance from the nozzle tip after completion of each such discharge, without affecting the body of tHe substance in such container, comprising: means defining a vessel; means for establishing within the vessel a negative pressure with respect to ambient atmospheric pressure; means providing physical communication between the interior of the vessel and the immediate vicinity of the nozzle tip; and means for interrupting said communication during each such discharge, and after each such discharge while the nozzle tip contacts the body of the substance in such container; whereby drops of substance are sucked via the physical communication means and away from the immediate vicinity of the nozzle tip after each such discharge, but not until the nozzle tip is moved out of contact with the body of the substance.

Claim 2

A system for filling containers with flowable substance from a source thereof, comprising: a volumetric metering chamber adapted to be connected to receive such substance from the source, and a bi-acting piston adapted for motion between predetermined limits within the chamber, for establishing controlled volumes of such substance; a submersible nozzle, connected to receive such controlled volumes of substance from the chamber, for discharge of such controlled volumes into such containers; and means for consistently removing drops of such substance from the nozzle tip after completion of each such discharge, without affecting the body of tHe substance in such container, comprising: means defining a vessel; means for establishing within the vessel a negative pressure with respect to ambient atmospheric pressure; means providing physical communication between the interior of the vessel and the immediate vicinity of the nozzle tip; and means for interrupting said communication during each such discharge, and after each such discharge while the nozzle tip contacts the body of the substance in such container; whereby drops of substance are sucked via the physical communication means and away from the immediate vicinity of the nozzle tip after each such discharge, but not until the nozzle tip is moved out of contact with the body of the substance.

Claim 3

A system for filling containers with flowable substance from a source thereof, comprising: a volumetric metering chamber adapted for connection to receive such substance from the source, and a bi-acting piston adapted for motion between predetermined limits within the chamber, for establishing controlled volumes of such substance; a nozzle, connected to receive such controlled volumes of substance from the chamber, and adapted for insertion into such containers, for discharge of such controlled volumes into such containers; and means, responsive to insertion of the nozzle into such a container in filling position at the nozzle, for inhibiting discharge of such metering-chamber-controlled volumes of such substance in the absence of a container in such position; whereby air within such container prior to filling is impelled outward by the rising upper surface of flowable substance injected into such container below the mouth thereof, but no flowable substance is discharged if no container is present in filling position.

Claim 4

A system for filling containers with flowable substance from a source thereof, comprising: a volumetric metering chamber adapted for connection to receive such substance from the source, and a bi-acting piston adapted for motion between predetermined limits within the chamber, for establishing controlled volumes of such substance; a nozzle, connected to receive such controlled volumes of substance from the chamber, and adapted for insertion into such containers, for discharge of such controlled volumes into such containers; and means, responsive to insertion of the nozzle into such a container in filling position at the nozzle, for inhibiting discharge of such metering-chamber-controlled volumes of such substance in the absence of a container in such position; whereby air within such container prior to filling is impelled outward by the rising upper surface of flowable substance injected into such container below the mouth thereof, but no flowable substance is discharged if no container is present in filling position.

Claim 5

A system for filling containers with flowable substance having low viscosity, and for filling containers with flowable substance having a tendency to form suds, from a source of such substance, comprising: a volumetric metering chamber adapted for connection to receive such substance from the source, and a bi-acting piston adapted for motion between predetermined limits within the chamber to meter a predetermined volume of substance out of the chamber through an exhaust port thereof; the chamber having a number of ports, said number including a plurality of ports each of which functions as an exhaust port of the chamber during operation of the system, each of said plurality of ports being at a respective elevation; a dispensing nozzle for discharging such substance from a port of the chamber into such containers, said dispensing nozzle being at an elevation which is higher than the said elevation of each of the said plurality of ports; means, connected to the chamber and to the nozzle, defining a flow path from a port of the chamber to the nozzle; whereby bubbles in such substance within the chamber tend to escape, along the flow path, by buoyancy to and through the nozzle.

Claim 6

A system for filling containers with flowable substance having low viscosity, and for filling containers with flowable substance having a tendency to form suds, from a source of such substance, comprising: a volumetric metering chamber adapted for connection to receive such substance from the source, and a bi-acting piston adapted for motion between predetermined limits within the chamber to meter a predetermined volume of substance out of the chamber through an exhaust port thereof; the chamber having a number of ports, said number including a plurality of ports each of which functions as an exhaust port of the chamber during operation of the system, each of said plurality of ports being at a respective elevation; a dispensing nozzle for discharging such substance from a port of the chamber into such containers, said dispensing nozzle being at an elevation which is higher than the said elevation of each of the said plurality of ports; means, connected to the chamber and to the nozzle, defining a flow path from a port of the chamber to the nozzle; whereby bubbles in such substance within the chamber tend to escape, along the flow path, by buoyancy to and through the nozzle.

Claim 7

A system for filling containers with flowable substance from a source thereof, comprising: a volumetric metering chamber adapted to be connected to receive such substance from the source and having an inner cylindrical surface terminating in at least one shaped end wall; a port formed in the chamber at the same end of the chamber as the said wall; a bi-acting metering piston positioned within the chamber, and adapted for motion therein toward and away from said one end wall, to meter predetermined volumes of such substance out of the chamber via the port to such containers; and having an end surface facing said one end wall; the end surface and end wall being so shaped as to expel from the chamber via the port any gas bubbles within the chamber, at the end of the exhaust stroke when the said end surface most closely approaches the end wall; whereby metering accuracy is protected from degradation due to gas bubbles trapped within the chamber.

Claim 8

A system for filling containers with flowable substance from a source thereof, comprising: a volumetric metering chamber adapted to be connected to receive such substance from the source and having an inner cylindrical surface terminating in at least one shaped end wall; a port formed in the chamber at the same end of the chamber as the said wall; a bi-acting metering piston positioned within the chamber, and adapted for motion therein toward and away from said one end wall, to meter predetermined volumes of such substance out of the chamber via the port to such containers; and having an end surface facing said one end wall; the end surface and end wall being so shaped as to expel from the chamber via the port any gas bubbles within the chamber, at the end of the exhaust stroke when the said end surface most closely approaches the end wall; whereby metering accuracy is protected from degradation due to gas bubbles trapped within the chamber.

Claim 12

A system for filling containers with flowable substance from a supply thereof, comprising: a multiplicity of piston-chamber combinations, each having: a bi-acting piston, and means defining a closely-fitted chamber adapted to be connected to receive such substance from the supply, and enclosing the piston slidably between controlled limits, for metering precisely controlled volumes of such substance from the supply thereof; discharge means connected to receive such metered volumes of substance from the chamber and to discharge such volumes into such containers; means defining an actuating surface movable with the piston; limit means, fixed relative to the chamber and located and adapted to engage the actuating surface, for defining one end of the piston stroke; and means, responsive to manual manipulation, for effecting relative longitudinal adjustment of the actuating surface and limit means; whereby the overall volume of such substance metered by the piston and chamber from the supply into each container is adjustable by manipulation of the said adjustment-effecting means; and all of said combinations operating concurrently to fill a multiplicity of containers concurrently; and means for simultaneous adjustment, from a common control, of the relative positions of the entire multiplicity of actuating surfaces, each with respect to its respective limit means; whereby the overall volume dispensed from each of the multiplicity of piston-chamber combinations is adjustable in common with that from each of the others of the multiplicity, even while the system is operating.

Claim 13

A system for filling containers with flowable substance from a supply thereof, comprising: a multiplicity of piston-chamber combinations, each having: a bi-acting piston, and means defining a closely-fitted chamber adapted to be connected to receive such substance from the supply, and enclosing the piston slidably between controlled limits, for metering precisely controlled volumes of such substance from the supply thereof; discharge means connected to receive such metered volumes of substance from the chamber and to discharge such volumes into such containers; means defining an actuating surface movable with the piston; limit means, fixed relative to the chamber and located and adapted to engage the actuating surface, for defining one end of the piston stroke; and means, responsive to manual manipulation, for effecting relative longitudinal adjustment of the actuating surface and limit means; whereby the overall volume of such substance metered by the piston and chamber from the supply into each container is adjustable by manipulation of the said adjustment-effecting means; and all of said combinations operating concurrently to fill a multiplicity of containers concurrently; and means for simultaneous adjustment, from a common control, of the relative positions of the entire multiplicity of actuating surfaces, each with respect to its respective limit means; whereby the overall volume dispensed from each of the multiplicity of piston-chamber combinations is adjustable in common with that from each of the others of the multiplicity, even while the system is operating.

Claim 14

A system for filling containers with flowable substance from a supply thereof, comprising: a multiplicity of piston-chamber-plunger combinations, each having: a bi-acting piston, and means defining a closely-fitted chamber adapted to be connected to receive such substance from the supply, and enclosing the piston slidably between controlled limits, for metering precisely controlled volumes of such substance from the supply thereof; discharge means connected to receive such metered volumes of substance from the chamber and to discharge such volumes into such containers; a plunger attached to and movable with the piston, and extending longitudinally in a direction parallel to the longitudinal sliding motion thereof, through a compliantly-sealed aperture in the end wall of the chamber; actuating means secured to the end of the plunger outside the chamber and remote from the end fixed to the piston; limit means, fixed relative to the chamber and located and adapted to engage the actuating means, for defining one end of the piston stroke; and means, responsive to manual manipulation, for effecting relative longitudinal adjustment of the actuating means and limit means; whereby the overall volume of such substance metered by the piston and chamber from the supply into each container is adjustable by manipulatIon of the said adjustment-effecting means; and all of said combinations operating concurrently to fill a multiplicity of containers concurrently; and means for simultaneous adjustment, from a common control, of the relative positions of the entire multiplicity of actuating means, each with respect to its respective limit means; whereby the overall volume dispensed from each of the multiplicity of piston-chamber-plunger combinations is adjustable in common with that from each of the others of the multiplicity, even while the system is operating.

Claim 15

A system for filling containers with flowable substance from a supply thereof, comprising: a multiplicity of piston-chamber-plunger combinations, each having: a bi-acting piston, and means defining a closely-fitted chamber adapted to be connected to receive such substance from the supply, and enclosing the piston slidably between controlled limits, for metering precisely controlled volumes of such substance from the supply thereof; discharge means connected to receive such metered volumes of substance from the chamber and to discharge such volumes into such containers; a plunger attached to and movable with the piston, and extending longitudinally in a direction parallel to the longitudinal sliding motion thereof, through a compliantly-sealed aperture in the end wall of the chamber; actuating means secured to the end of the plunger outside the chamber and remote from the end fixed to the piston; limit means, fixed relative to the chamber and located and adapted to engage the actuating means, for defining one end of the piston stroke; and means, responsive to manual manipulation, for effecting relative longitudinal adjustment of the actuating means and limit means; whereby the overall volume of such substance metered by the piston and chamber from the supply into each container is adjustable by manipulatIon of the said adjustment-effecting means; and all of said combinations operating concurrently to fill a multiplicity of containers concurrently; and means for simultaneous adjustment, from a common control, of the relative positions of the entire multiplicity of actuating means, each with respect to its respective limit means; whereby the overall volume dispensed from each of the multiplicity of piston-chamber-plunger combinations is adjustable in common with that from each of the others of the multiplicity, even while the system is operating.

Claim 17

A system for filling containers with flowable substance, from a supply of such substance, comprising: a submersible nozzle adapted for insertion into such containers and having a closure device at its tip to prevent uncontrolled discharge of substance therefrom; means defining a chamber having a longitudinal direction, and connected to receive such substance from such supply, and connected to dispense such substance to the nozzle; a bi-acting piston enclosed within the chamber for closely-fitted longitudinal sliding motion therein, for metering precisely controlled volumes of such substance from such supply through the submersible nozzle into such containers; control-system means responsive to the piston, and comprising at least one piston-responsive member which is secured relative to the chamber, for reversing motion of the piston at each end of its stroke; actuating-surface defining means which move with the piston longitudinally; solid positive-stop means, longitudinally fixed relative to the chamber, and located and adapted to engage the actuating-surface defining means to positively halt the piston at each end of its stroke; and means for adjusting the distance which the piston may move longitudinally relative to the cylinder, between the two points at which the control-system means respond to the piston, and between the two points at which the actuating-surface defining means engage the solid positive-stop means; whereby the amplitude of piston excursion is positively but adjustably defined, and thus the metered volumes of such substance are substantially free of variation due to any time delay in operation of the control-system means.

Claim 18

A system for filling containers with flowable substance, from a supply of such substance, comprising: a submersible nozzle adapted for insertion into such containers and having a closure device at its tip to prevent uncontrolled discharge of substance therefrom; means defining a chamber having a longitudinal direction, and connected to receive such substance from such supply, and connected to dispense such substance to the nozzle; a bi-acting piston enclosed within the chamber for closely-fitted longitudinal sliding motion therein, for metering precisely controlled volumes of such substance from such supply through the submersible nozzle into such containers; control-system means responsive to the piston, and comprising at least one piston-responsive member which is secured relative to the chamber, for reversing motion of the piston at each end of its stroke; actuating-surface defining means which move with the piston longitudinally; solid positive-stop means, longitudinally fixed relative to the chamber, and located and adapted to engage the actuating-surface defining means to positively halt the piston at each end of its stroke; and means for adjusting the distance which the piston may move longitudinally relative to the cylinder, between the two points at which the control-system means respond to the piston, and between the two points at which the actuating-surface defining means engage the solid positive-stop means; whereby the amplitude of piston excursion is positively but adjustably defined, and thus the metered volumes of such substance are substantially free of variation due to any time delay in operation of the control-system means.

Claim 19

A system for filling containers with flowable substance, comprising: a supply of such substance; a plurality of volumetric metering chambers, each having a corresponding bi-acting piston adapted for motion within that chamber and between predetermined limits, for establishing individually controlled volumes of such substance; plural dispensing means for discharging such substance into such containers; means connected to the supply, the chambers and the dispensing means, and defining a corresponding plurality of flow paths from the supply to the dispensing means via the chambers and pistons; and means disposed along the flow paths for individually adjusting the discharge flow rates of such substance; whereby the flow rates to the respective containers may be equalized.

Claim 20

A system for filling containers with flowable substance, comprising: a supply of such substance; a plurality of volumetric metering chambers, each having a corresponding bi-acting piston adapted for motion within that chamber and between predetermined limits, for establishing individually controlled volumes of such substance; plural dispensing means for discharging such substance into such containers; means connected to the supply, the chambers and the dispensing means, and defining a corresponding plurality of flow paths from the supply to the dispensing means via the chambers and pistons; and means disposed along the flow paths for individually adjusting the discharge flow rates of such substance; whereby the flow rates to the respective containers may be equalized.

Claim 22

A system for filling containers with flowable substance from a supply thereof, comprising: a volumetric metering chamber and a bi-acting piston, adapted for motion between predetermined limits within the chamber, for establishing controlled volumes of such substance; discharge means for dispensing such substance into such containers; a multiple-port valve connected to ports at the two ends of the chamber and to the discharge means; and adapted to be connected to the supply; and having enclosed a spool which when cycling properly is driven between two positions in response to completion of motion by the piston in its two directions respectively; and which functions when in one of the two positions to direct such substance from the supply into a first port at one end of the chamber, and to direct such substance from a second port at the other end of the chamber to the discharge means; and which functions when in the other of the two positions to direct such substance from the supply into the said second port and from the said first port to the discharge means; the sliding motion of the spool within the valve being subject to objectionable static friction interfering with proper cycling; and means for indicating to a human operator when the spool moves from one of its positions to the other, whereby proper cycling may be verified.

Claim 23

A system for filling containers with flowable substance from a supply thereof, comprising: a volumetric metering chamber and a bi-acting piston, adapted for motion between predetermined limits within the chamber, for establishing controlled volumes of such substance; discharge means for dispensing such substance into such containers; a multiple-port valve connected to ports at the two ends of the chamber and to the discharge means; and adapted to be connected to the supply; and having enclosed a spool which when cycling properly is driven between two positions in response to completion of motion by the piston in its two directions respectively; and which functions when in one of the two positions to direct such substance from the supply into a first port at one end of the chamber, and to direct such substance from a second port at the other end of the chamber to the discharge means; and which functions when in the other of the two positions to direct such substance from the supply into the said second port and from the said first port to the discharge means; the sliding motion of the spool within the valve being subject to objectionable static friction interfering with proper cycling; and means for indicating to a human operator when the spool moves from one of its positions to the other, whereby proper cycling may be verified.

Claim 24

A system for filling containers with flowable substance, comprising: supply means for storing a supply of such substance; volumetric metering means for conducting precisely controlled volumes of such substance from the supply means, the metering means being sealed against entry of air from containers being filled; dispensing means, having a submersible portion defining a dispensing orifice, for conducting the volumes of substance from the metering means into such containers; positioning means, attached to the dispensing means, for moving the submersible portion into dispensing position within such containers; and control means, also attached to the dispensing means, for sealing the dispensing orifice at its tip when the submersible portion is not in dispensing position; whereby the dispensing orifice is opened at its tip to communicate the supply means with such containers via the metering means only when the submersible portion is in dispensing position, thereby avoiding uncontrolled release of such substance from the dispensing orifice.

Claim 25

A system for filling containers with flowable substance, comprising: supply means for storing a supply of such substance; volumetric metering means for conducting precisely controlled volumes of such substance from the supply means, the metering means being sealed against entry of air from containers being filled; dispensing means, having a submersible portion defining a dispensing orifice, for conducting the volumes of substance from the metering means into such containers; positioning means, attached to the dispensing means, for moving the submersible portion into dispensing position within such containers; and control means, also attached to the dispensing means, for sealing the dispensing orifice at its tip when the submersible portion is not in dispensing position; whereby the dispensing orifice is opened at its tip to communicate the supply means with such containers via the metering means only when the submersible portion is in dispensing position, thereby avoiding uncontrolled release of such substance from the dispensing orifice.

Claim 28

A system for filling containers with flowable substance, comprising: supply means for storing a supply of such substance; volumetric metering means for conducting precisely controlled volumes of such substance from the supply means; dispensing means, having a submersible portion defining a dispensing orifice, for conducting the volumes of substance from the metering means into such containers; positioning means, attached to the dispensing means, for moving the submersible portion into dispensing position within such containers; control means, also attached to the dispensing means, for sealing the dispensing orifice at its tip when the submersible portion is not in dispensing position; whereby the dispensing orifice is opened at its tip to communicate the supply means with such containers via the metering means only when the submersible portion is in dispensing position, thereby avoiding uncontrolled release of such substances from the dispensing orifice; vacuum means, comprising a vacuum vessel, for developing and maintaining a negative pressure differential, with respect to atmospheric pressure, within the vacuum vessel; suction means, defining conduits connected with the vesseL and with the dispensing means, and defining a drip-catching second orifice, for providing sealed physical communication between the vessel and the vicinity of the submersible portion of the dispensing means; secondary control means, operable upon the suction means, for interrupting sealed physical communication between the second orifice and the vacuum vessel via the conduits, when the submersible portion of the dispensing means is in or nearly in dispensing position; and for restoring sealed physical communication between the second orifice and the vacuum vessel when the submersible portion of the dispensing means is not in or nearly in dispensing position; whereby the second orifice provides suction at the submersible portion of the dispensing means, but only above the instantaneous level of substance within the container, for removing drips subsequent to filling.

Claim 29

A system for filling containers with flowable substance, comprising: supply means for storing a supply of such substance; volumetric metering means for conducting precisely controlled volumes of such substance from the supply means; dispensing means, having a submersible portion defining a dispensing orifice, for conducting the volumes of substance from the metering means into such containers; positioning means, attached to the dispensing means, for moving the submersible portion into dispensing position within such containers; control means, also attached to the dispensing means, for sealing the dispensing orifice at its tip when the submersible portion is not in dispensing position; whereby the dispensing orifice is opened at its tip to communicate the supply means with such containers via the metering means only when the submersible portion is in dispensing position, thereby avoiding uncontrolled release of such substances from the dispensing orifice; vacuum means, comprising a vacuum vessel, for developing and maintaining a negative pressure differential, with respect to atmospheric pressure, within the vacuum vessel; suction means, defining conduits connected with the vesseL and with the dispensing means, and defining a drip-catching second orifice, for providing sealed physical communication between the vessel and the vicinity of the submersible portion of the dispensing means; secondary control means, operable upon the suction means, for interrupting sealed physical communication between the second orifice and the vacuum vessel via the conduits, when the submersible portion of the dispensing means is in or nearly in dispensing position; and for restoring sealed physical communication between the second orifice and the vacuum vessel when the submersible portion of the dispensing means is not in or nearly in dispensing position; whereby the second orifice provides suction at the submersible portion of the dispensing means, but only above the instantaneous level of substance within the container, for removing drips subsequent to filling.

Claim 32

A system for filling containers with flowable substance, comprising: supply means for storing a supply of such substance; volumetric metering means, for conducting precisely controlled volumes of such substance from the supply means, comprising: means defining a cylindrical chamber and defining a plurality of ports therein, at least one port at each end of the chamber; a piston closely and slidably fitted within the chamber; compliant means for effecting a sliding seal between the outer circumference of the piston and the inner surface of the chamber, whereby the piston forms a movable wall cooperating with the first mentioned defining means to define first and second subchambers, each having at least one port; a multiport spool valve connected to the two said ports in the chamber, and also connected to receive such substance from the supply means, and also connected to discharge such substance to the dispensing means recited hereunder, all as follows: during a first half-cycle of operation, providing physical communication between the first subchamber and the supply means, whereby pressurized substance from the supply means forcibly moves the cylinder, enlarging the first subchamber and reducing the second subchamber, filling the first subchamber with such substance; and providing physical communication between the second subchamber and the dispensing means, whereby reduction of the second subchamber forcibly moves such substance out of the second subchamber to the dispensing means; and during a second half-cycle of operation, reversing the physical communication connections and thereby the functions of the two subchambers; whereby in each full cycle of operation the dispensing means receive a controlled volume of substance equal to twice the volume swept through by the piston in one stroke; dispensing means, having a submersible portion defining a dispensing orifice, for conducting the volumes of substance from the metering means into such containers; positioning means, attached to the dispensing means, for moving the submersible portion into dispensing position within such containers; and control means, also attached to the dispensing means, for sealing the dispensing orifice at its tip when the submersible portion is not in dispensing position; whereby the dispensing orifice is opened at its tip to communicate the supply means with such containers via the metering means only when the submersible portion is in dispensing position, thereby avoiding uncontrolled release of such substances from the dispensing orifice.

Claim 33

A system for filling containers with flowable substance, comprising: supply means for storing a supply of such substance; volumetric metering means, for conducting precisely controlled volumes of such substance from the supply means, comprising: means defining a cylindrical chamber and defining a plurality of ports therein, at least one port at each end of the chamber; a piston closely and slidably fitted within the chamber; compliant means for effecting a sliding seal between the outer circumference of the piston and the inner surface of the chamber, whereby the piston forms a movable wall cooperating with the first mentioned defining means to define first and second subchambers, each having at least one port; a multiport spool valve connected to the two said ports in the chamber, and also connected to receive such substance from the supply means, and also connected to discharge such substance to the dispensing means recited hereunder, all as follows: during a first half-cycle of operation, providing physical communication between the first subchamber and the supply means, whereby pressurized substance from the supply means forcibly moves the cylinder, enlarging the first subchamber and reducing the second subchamber, filling the first subchamber with such substance; and providing physical communication between the second subchamber and the dispensing means, whereby reduction of the second subchamber forcibly moves such substance out of the second subchamber to the dispensing means; and during a second half-cycle of operation, reversing the physical communication connections and thereby the functions of the two subchambers; whereby in each full cycle of operation the dispensing means receive a controlled volume of substance equal to twice the volume swept through by the piston in one stroke; dispensing means, having a submersible portion defining a dispensing orifice, for conducting the volumes of substance from the metering means into such containers; positioning means, attached to the dispensing means, for moving the submersible portion into dispensing position within such containers; and control means, also attached to the dispensing means, for sealing the dispensing orifice at its tip when the submersible portion is not in dispensing position; whereby the dispensing orifice is opened at its tip to communicate the supply means with such containers via the metering means only when the submersible portion is in dispensing position, thereby avoiding uncontrolled release of such substances from the dispensing orifice.

Claim 37

A system for filling containers with flowable substance from a supply thereof, comprising: a bi-acting piston, and means defining a closely-fitted chamber enclosing the piston slidably for motion of the piston between controlled limits, for metering precisely-controlled volumes of such substance conducted via supply tubulations into the chamber from the supply; dispensing means, connected to receive said volumes of substance from the chamber, for discharging said volumes into such containers; and means for removing air from the supply tubulations, comprising: means forming a section of the supply tubulations and defining a flow path, for such substance, whose cross-sectional area and length in relation to the velocity and viscosity of substance conducted therethrough are sufficiently large to permit rising of air bubbles within such moving substance from the bottom to the top of the said flow path during the time such substance traverses the length of the flow path; means defining an air-entrapment dome and an inlet thereto disposed for communication with the top of the said flow path and toward the downstream end of the said length thereof; and release means, responsive to the quantity of air accumulated within the dome, for discharging air from the dome to maintain the substance level therein above the top of the flow path; whereby the precise control of said volumes discharged into such containers is protected from degradation which would otherwise result from discharge of entrained air with such substance.

Claim 38

A system for filling containers with flowable substance from a supply thereof, comprising: a bi-acting piston, and means defining a closely-fitted chamber enclosing the piston slidably for motion of the piston between controlled limits, for metering precisely-controlled volumes of such substance conducted via supply tubulations into the chamber from the supply; dispensing means, connected to receive said volumes of substance from the chamber, for discharging said volumes into such containers; and means for removing air from the supply tubulations, comprising: means forming a section of the supply tubulations and defining a flow path, for such substance, whose cross-sectional area and length in relation to the velocity and viscosity of substance conducted therethrough are sufficiently large to permit rising of air bubbles within such moving substance from the bottom to the top of the said flow path during the time such substance traverses the length of the flow path; means defining an air-entrapment dome and an inlet thereto disposed for communication with the top of the said flow path and toward the downstream end of the said length thereof; and release means, responsive to the quantity of air accumulated within the dome, for discharging air from the dome to maintain the substance level therein above the top of the flow path; whereby the precise control of said volumes discharged into such containers is protected from degradation which would otherwise result from discharge of entrained air with such substance.

Claim 40

A system for filling containers with flowable substance from a supply of such substance, comprising: a bi-acting piston, and means defining a closely-fitted chamber enclosing the piston slidably between controlled limits, for metering precisely controlled volumes of such substance from the supply; means defining an actuating surface movable with the piston in an ''''in'''' direction and in an ''''out'''' direction relative to the chamber; a plurality of sensing means disposed for actuation by the actuating surface, so as to sense the progress of the piston to and from its respective operating limits, and thereby when suitably excited to generate functional signals of such progress, the said plurality of sensing means comprising ''''IN'''' sensing means disposed to sense positioning of the piston at a first one of its two operating limits; and in addition ''''SYSTEM READY'''' sensing means disposed to sense a ready condition of the system with respect to filling a particular container; a valve, having a plurality of ports, adapted to be connected to receive such substance from the supply and also connected to deliver such substance to the metering piston and chamber, and further adapted and connected to effect bidirectionality of fluid flow to and from the metering piston and chamber; the said valve having a spool with a plurality of necked-down portions formed therein, and the said spool being driven, in response to the said functional signals, between two alternative positions corresponding to and inducing the two alternative directions of fluid flow to and from the metering piston and chamber; dispensing means comprising: means defining an orifice and a dispensing passageway, connected with the said valve, for conducting the volume of substance from the piston and chamber via the valve into such containers; and orifice-control means, responsive to engagement of a component of the dispensing means with such container, for effecting discharge of such substance only in the presence of a container and for preventing admission of air via said orifice into the passageway; and first functional-signal interconnection means between sensing means and spool valve, adapted to drive the valve-spool to its position which initiates actuating-surface motion away from the ''''IN'''' sensing means only when the ''''IN'''' and ''''SYSTEM READY'''' sensing means are initially simultaneously actuated; whereby initiation of each half-cycle of operation away from the ''''IN'''' sensing means is contingent upon completion of the previous half-cycle of operation toward the ''''IN'''' sensing means; and second functional-signal interconnection means between the sensing means and a signal-utilization means, for actuation of the signal-utilization means if the ''''SYSTEM READY'''' sensing means are actuated but the ''''IN'''' sensing means are not actuated; whereby further system operation may be made contingent upon response to the signal-utilization means.

Claim 41

A system for filling containers with flowable substance from a supply of such substance, comprising: a bi-acting piston, and means defining a closely-fitted chamber enclosing the piston slidably between controlled limits, for metering precisely controlled volumes of such substance from the supply; means defining an actuating surface movable with the piston in an ''''in'''' direction and in an ''''out'''' direction relative to the chamber; a plurality of sensing means disposed for actuation by the actuating surface, so as to sense the progress of the piston to and from its respective operating limits, and thereby when suitably excited to generate functional signals of such progress, the said plurality of sensing means comprising ''''IN'''' sensing means disposed to sense positioning of the piston at a first one of its two operating limits; and in addition ''''SYSTEM READY'''' sensing means disposed to sense a ready condition of the system with respect to filling a particular container; a valve, having a plurality of ports, adapted to be connected to receive such substance from the supply and also connected to deliver such substance to the metering piston and chamber, and further adapted and connected to effect bidirectionality of fluid flow to and from the metering piston and chamber; the said valve having a spool with a plurality of necked-down portions formed therein, and the said spool being driven, in response to the said functional signals, between two alternative positions corresponding to and inducing the two alternative directions of fluid flow to and from the metering piston and chamber; dispensing means comprising: means defining an orifice and a dispensing passageway, connected with the said valve, for conducting the volume of substance from the piston and chamber via the valve into such containers; and orifice-control means, responsive to engagement of a component of the dispensing means with such container, for effecting discharge of such substance only in the presence of a container and for preventing admission of air via said orifice into the passageway; and first functional-signal interconnection means between sensing means and spool valve, adapted to drive the valve-spool to its position which initiates actuating-surface motion away from the ''''IN'''' sensing means only when the ''''IN'''' and ''''SYSTEM READY'''' sensing means are initially simultaneously actuated; whereby initiation of each half-cycle of operation away from the ''''IN'''' sensing means is contingent upon completion of the previous half-cycle of operation toward the ''''IN'''' sensing means; and second functional-signal interconnection means between the sensing means and a signal-utilization means, for actuation of the signal-utilization means if the ''''SYSTEM READY'''' sensing means are actuated but the ''''IN'''' sensing means are not actuated; whereby further system operation may be made contingent upon response to the signal-utilization means.

Claim 42

A system for filling containers with flowable substance from a supply of such substance, comprising: a bi-acting piston, and means defining a closely-fitted chamber enclosing the piston slidably between controlled limits, for metering precisely controlled volumes of such substance from the supply; and in conjunction: a plunger attached to and movable with the piston, and extending loNgitudinally in a direction parallel to the longitudinal sliding motion of the piston relative to its chamber, through an aperture formed in an end wall of the chamber, the aperture being provided with compliant seal means to permit sliding motion of the plunger therethrough in an ''''in'''' direction and in an ''''out'''' direction while maintaining pressurization of the chamber; actuating means secured to the end of the plunger outside the chamber and remote from the end fixed to the piston; a plurality of sensing means disposed for actuation by the actuating means, so as to sense the progress of the plunger to and from its respective operating limits, and thereby when suitably excited to generate functional signals of such progress; the said plurality of sensing means comprising ''''IN'''' sensing means disposed to sense positioning of the plunger at a first one of its two operating limits; and in addition ''''SYSTEM READY'''' sensing means disposed to sense a ready condition of the system with respect to filling a particular container; a valve, having a plurality of ports, adapted to be connected to receive such substance from the supply and also connected to deliver such substance to the metering piston and chamber, and further adapted and connected to effect bidirectionality of fluid flow to and from the metering piston and chamber; the said valve having a spool with a plurality of necked-down portions formed therein, and the said spool being driven, in response to the said functional signals, between two alternative positions corresponding to and inducing the two alternative directions of fluid flow to and from the metering piston and chamber; dispensing means comprising: means defining an orifice and a dispensing passageway, connected with the said valve, for conducting the volume of substance from the piston and chamber via the valve into such containers; and orifice-control means, responsive to engagement of a component of the dispensing means with such container, for effecting discharge of such substance only in the presence of a container and for preventing admission of air via said orifice into the passageway; and first functional-signal interconnection means between sensing means and spool valve, adapted to drive the valve-spool to its position which initiates plunger motion away from the ''''IN'''' sensing means only when the ''''IN'''' and ''''SYSTEM READY'''' sensing means are initially simultaneously actuated; whereby initiation of each half-cycle of operation away from the ''''IN'''' sensing means is contingent upon completion of the previous half-cycle of operation toward the ''''IN'''' sensing means; and second functional-signal interconnection means between the sensing means and a signal-utilization means, for actuation of the signal-utilization means if the ''''SYSTEM READY'''' sensing means are actuated but the ''''IN'''' sensing means are not actuated; whereby further system operation may be made contingent upon response to the signal-utilization means.

Claim 43

A system for filling containers with flowable substance from a supply of such substance, comprising: a bi-acting piston, and means defining a closely-fitted chamber enclosing the piston slidably between controlled limits, for metering precisely controlled volumes of such substance from the supply; and in conjunction: a plunger attached to and movable with the piston, and extending loNgitudinally in a direction parallel to the longitudinal sliding motion of the piston relative to its chamber, through an aperture formed in an end wall of the chamber, the aperture being provided with compliant seal means to permit sliding motion of the plunger therethrough in an ''''in'''' direction and in an ''''out'''' direction while maintaining pressurization of the chamber; actuating means secured to the end of the plunger outside the chamber and remote from the end fixed to the piston; a plurality of sensing means disposed for actuation by the actuating means, so as to sense the progress of the plunger to and from its respective operating limits, and thereby when suitably excited to generate functional signals of such progress; the said plurality of sensing means comprising ''''IN'''' sensing means disposed to sense positioning of the plunger at a first one of its two operating limits; and in addition ''''SYSTEM READY'''' sensing means disposed to sense a ready condition of the system with respect to filling a particular container; a valve, having a plurality of ports, adapted to be connected to receive such substance from the supply and also connected to deliver such substance to the metering piston and chamber, and further adapted and connected to effect bidirectionality of fluid flow to and from the metering piston and chamber; the said valve having a spool with a plurality of necked-down portions formed therein, and the said spool being driven, in response to the said functional signals, between two alternative positions corresponding to and inducing the two alternative directions of fluid flow to and from the metering piston and chamber; dispensing means comprising: means defining an orifice and a dispensing passageway, connected with the said valve, for conducting the volume of substance from the piston and chamber via the valve into such containers; and orifice-control means, responsive to engagement of a component of the dispensing means with such container, for effecting discharge of such substance only in the presence of a container and for preventing admission of air via said orifice into the passageway; and first functional-signal interconnection means between sensing means and spool valve, adapted to drive the valve-spool to its position which initiates plunger motion away from the ''''IN'''' sensing means only when the ''''IN'''' and ''''SYSTEM READY'''' sensing means are initially simultaneously actuated; whereby initiation of each half-cycle of operation away from the ''''IN'''' sensing means is contingent upon completion of the previous half-cycle of operation toward the ''''IN'''' sensing means; and second functional-signal interconnection means between the sensing means and a signal-utilization means, for actuation of the signal-utilization means if the ''''SYSTEM READY'''' sensing means are actuated but the ''''IN'''' sensing means are not actuated; whereby further system operation may be made contingent upon response to the signal-utilization means.

Claim 52

A system for filling containers with flowable substance from a supply thereof, comprising: a bi-acting piston, and means defining a closely-fitted chamber enclosing the piston slidably between controlled limits, for metering precisely controlled volumes of such substance from the supply; and in conjunction: means defining an actuating surface movable with the piston in an ''''in'''' direction and in an ''''out'''' direction relative to the chamber; a plurality of sensing means disposed for actuation by the actuating surface, so as to sense the progress of the piston to and from its respective operating limits, and thereby when suitably excited to generate functional signals of such progress, the said plurality of sensing means comprising ''''IN'''' sensing means disposed to sense positioning of the piston at a first one of its two operating limits; and ''''OUT'''' sensing means disposed to sense positioning of the piston at the other of its two operating limits; and in addition ''''CONTAINER READY'''' sensing means disposed to sense presence of a container in ready position for filling with respect to the system; ''''SYSTEM READY'''' sensing means disposed to sense a ready condition of the system with respect to filling a particular container; a valve, having a plurality of ports, adapted to be connected between the supply and the said chamber, and between said chamber and dispensing means recited hereinbelow; and adapted and connected to effect bidirectionality of fluid flow to and from the metering piston and chamber; the said valve having a spool with a plurality of necked-down portions formed therein, and the said spool being driven, in response to the said functional signals, between two alternative positions corresponding to and inducing the two alternative directions of fluid flow to and from the metering piston and chamber; dispensing means comprising: means defining an orifice and a dispensing passageway connected with said valve for conducting the volumes of substance from the piston and chamber via said valve into such containers; and orifice-control means, responsive to engagement of a component of the dispensing means with such container, for effecting discharge of such substance only in the presence of a container and for preventing admission of air via said orifice into the passageway; and first functional-signal interconnection means between sensing means and spool valve, adapted to drive the valve spool to its position which initiates actuating-surface motion toward the ''''OUT'''' sensing means only when the ''''IN'''' sensing means and ''''CONTAINER READY'''' sensing means are initially simultaneously actuated; and to drive the valve spool toward that posiTion which initiates actuating-surface motion toward the ''''IN'''' sensing means only if the ''''OUT'''' sensing means are actuated; whereby initiation of the first half-cycle of operation is contingent upon presence of a container, and initiation of the second half-cycle is contingent upon completion of the first half-cycle; and second functional-signal interconnection means between the sensing means and a signal utilization means, for actuation of the utilization means if the ''''SYSTEM READY sensing means are actuated but the ''''IN'''' sensing means are not actuated; whereby further system operation may be made contingent upon response to the signal-utilization means.

Claim 53

A system for filling containers with flowable substance from a supply thereof, comprising: a bi-acting piston, and means defining a closely-fitted chamber enclosing the piston slidably between controlled limits, for metering precisely controlled volumes of such substance from the supply; and in conjunction: means defining an actuating surface movable with the piston in an ''''in'''' direction and in an ''''out'''' direction relative to the chamber; a plurality of sensing means disposed for actuation by the actuating surface, so as to sense the progress of the piston to and from its respective operating limits, and thereby when suitably excited to generate functional signals of such progress, the said plurality of sensing means comprising ''''IN'''' sensing means disposed to sense positioning of the piston at a first one of its two operating limits; and ''''OUT'''' sensing means disposed to sense positioning of the piston at the other of its two operating limits; and in addition ''''CONTAINER READY'''' sensing means disposed to sense presence of a container in ready position for filling with respect to the system; ''''SYSTEM READY'''' sensing means disposed to sense a ready condition of the system with respect to filling a particular container; a valve, having a plurality of ports, adapted to be connected between the supply and the said chamber, and between said chamber and dispensing means recited hereinbelow; and adapted and connected to effect bidirectionality of fluid flow to and from the metering piston and chamber; the said valve having a spool with a plurality of necked-down portions formed therein, and the said spool being driven, in response to the said functional signals, between two alternative positions corresponding to and inducing the two alternative directions of fluid flow to and from the metering piston and chamber; dispensing means comprising: means defining an orifice and a dispensing passageway connected with said valve for conducting the volumes of substance from the piston and chamber via said valve into such containers; and orifice-control means, responsive to engagement of a component of the dispensing means with such container, for effecting discharge of such substance only in the presence of a container and for preventing admission of air via said orifice into the passageway; and first functional-signal interconnection means between sensing means and spool valve, adapted to drive the valve spool to its position which initiates actuating-surface motion toward the ''''OUT'''' sensing means only when the ''''IN'''' sensing means and ''''CONTAINER READY'''' sensing means are initially simultaneously actuated; and to drive the valve spool toward that posiTion which initiates actuating-surface motion toward the ''''IN'''' sensing means only if the ''''OUT'''' sensing means are actuated; whereby initiation of the first half-cycle of operation is contingent upon presence of a container, and initiation of the second half-cycle is contingent upon completion of the first half-cycle; and second functional-signal interconnection means between the sensing means and a signal utilization means, for actuation of the utilization means if the ''''SYSTEM READY sensing means are actuated but the ''''IN'''' sensing means are not actuated; whereby further system operation may be made contingent upon response to the signal-utilization means.

Claim 54

A system for filling containers with flowable substance from a supply thereof, comprising: a bi-acting piston, and means defining a closely-fitted chamber enclosing the piston slidably between controlled limits, for metering precisely controlled volumes of such substance from the supply; and in conjunction: a plunger attached to and movable with the piston, extending longitudinally in a direction parallel to the longitudinal sliding motion of the piston relative to its chamber, through an aperture formed in an end wall of the chamber, the aperture being provided with compliant seal means to permit sliding motion of the plunger therethrough in an ''''in'''' direction and in an ''''out'''' direction while maintaining pressurization of the chamber; actuating means secured to the end of the plunger outside the chamber and remote from the end fixed to the piston; a plurality of sensing means disposed for actuation by the actuating means, so as to sense the progress of the plunger to and from its respective operating limits, and thereby when suitably excited to generate functional signals of such progress; the said plurality of sensing means comprising ''''IN'''' sensing means disposed to sense positioning of the plunger at a first one of its two operating limits; and ''''OUT'''' sensing means disposed to sense positioning of the plunger at the other of its two operating limits; and in addition ''''CONTAINER READY'''' sensing means disposed to sense presence of a container in ready position for filling with respect to the system; ''''SYSTEM READY'''' sensing means disposed to sense a ready condition of the system with respect to filling a particular container; a valve, having a plurality of ports, adapted to be connected between the supply and the said chamber, and between said chamber and dispensing means recited hereinbelow; and adapted and connected to effect bidirectionality of fluid flow to and from the metering piston and chamber; the said valve having a spool with a plurality of necked-down portions formed therein, and the said spool being driven, in response to the said functional signals, between two alternative positions corresponding to and inducing the two alternative directions of fluid flow to and from the metering piston and chamber; dispensing means comprising: means defining an orifice and a dispensing passageway connected with said valve for conducting the volumes of substance from the piston and chamber via said valve into such containers; and orifice-control means, responsive to engagement of a component of the dispensing means with such container, for effecting discharge of such substance only in the presence of a container and for preventing admission of air via said orifice into the passageway; and first functional-signal interconnection means between sensing means and spool valve, adapted to drive the valve spool to its position which initiates plunger motion toward the ''''OUT'''' sensing means only when the ''''IN'''' sensing means and ''''CONTAINER READY'''' sensing means are initially simultaneously actuated; and to drive the valve spool toward that position which initiates plunger motion toward the ''''IN'''' sensing means only if the ''''OUT'''' sensing meAns are actuated; whereby initiation of the first half-cycle of operation is contingent upon presence of a container, and initiation of the second half-cycle is contingent upon completion of the first half-cycle; and second functional-signal interconnection means between the sensing means and a signal utilization means, for actuation of the utilization means if the ''''SYSTEM READY'''' sensing means are actuated but the ''''IN'''' sensing means are not actuated; whereby further system operation may be made contingent upon response to the signal-utilization means.

Claim 55

A system for filling containers with flowable substance from a supply thereof, comprising: a bi-acting piston, and means defining a closely-fitted chamber enclosing the piston slidably between controlled limits, for metering precisely controlled volumes of such substance from the supply; and in conjunction: a plunger attached to and movable with the piston, extending longitudinally in a direction parallel to the longitudinal sliding motion of the piston relative to its chamber, through an aperture formed in an end wall of the chamber, the aperture being provided with compliant seal means to permit sliding motion of the plunger therethrough in an ''''in'''' direction and in an ''''out'''' direction while maintaining pressurization of the chamber; actuating means secured to the end of the plunger outside the chamber and remote from the end fixed to the piston; a plurality of sensing means disposed for actuation by the actuating means, so as to sense the progress of the plunger to and from its respective operating limits, and thereby when suitably excited to generate functional signals of such progress; the said plurality of sensing means comprising ''''IN'''' sensing means disposed to sense positioning of the plunger at a first one of its two operating limits; and ''''OUT'''' sensing means disposed to sense positioning of the plunger at the other of its two operating limits; and in addition ''''CONTAINER READY'''' sensing means disposed to sense presence of a container in ready position for filling with respect to the system; ''''SYSTEM READY'''' sensing means disposed to sense a ready condition of the system with respect to filling a particular container; a valve, having a plurality of ports, adapted to be connected between the supply and the said chamber, and between said chamber and dispensing means recited hereinbelow; and adapted and connected to effect bidirectionality of fluid flow to and from the metering piston and chamber; the said valve having a spool with a plurality of necked-down portions formed therein, and the said spool being driven, in response to the said functional signals, between two alternative positions corresponding to and inducing the two alternative directions of fluid flow to and from the metering piston and chamber; dispensing means comprising: means defining an orifice and a dispensing passageway connected with said valve for conducting the volumes of substance from the piston and chamber via said valve into such containers; and orifice-control means, responsive to engagement of a component of the dispensing means with such container, for effecting discharge of such substance only in the presence of a container and for preventing admission of air via said orifice into the passageway; and first functional-signal interconnection means between sensing means and spool valve, adapted to drive the valve spool to its position which initiates plunger motion toward the ''''OUT'''' sensing means only when the ''''IN'''' sensing means and ''''CONTAINER READY'''' sensing means are initially simultaneously actuated; and to drive the valve spool toward that position which initiates plunger motion toward the ''''IN'''' sensing means only if the ''''OUT'''' sensing meAns are actuated; whereby initiation of the first half-cycle of operation is contingent upon presence of a container, and initiation of the second half-cycle is contingent upon completion of the first half-cycle; and second functional-signal interconnection means between the sensing means and a signal utilization means, for actuation of the utilization means if the ''''SYSTEM READY'''' sensing means are actuated but the ''''IN'''' sensing means are not actuated; whereby further system operation may be made contingent upon response to the signal-utilization means.

Claim 62

A system for filling containers with flowable substance, comprising: supply means for storing a supply of such substance under pressure; means defining a cylindrical chamber and at least one port at each end thereof; a piston closely and slidably fitted within the chamber for motion between predetermined limits; compliant means for effecting a sliding seal between the inner surface of the chamber and the outer surface of the piston, whereby the piston forms a movable wall cooperating with the first-mentioned defining means to define first and second subchambers, each having at least one port; dispensing means for conducting such substance into such containers; valve means comprising: means defining a cylindrical barrel and at least five ports therein spaced along the length thereof; a spool closely and slidably fitted within the barrel, and having at least two necked-down portions spaced along its length; the spool having at least two stable positions longitudinally within the barrel; means for driving the spool between the two stable positions in response to arrival of the piston in the chamber at the said predetermined limits; and means for effecting connection between the supply means, the ports of the valve barrel, the ports of the subchambers, and the dispensing means whereby the valve provides: during a first half-cycle of operation, with the spool in one of its two stable positions, physical communication between the first subchamber and the supply means, whereby pressurized substance from the supply means entering the first subchamber forcibly moves the cylinder, enlarging the first subchamber and reducing the second subchamber; and provides physical communication between the second subchamber and the dispensing means, whereby reduction of the second subchamber forcibly moves such substance out of the second subchamber to the dispensing means; and during a second half-cycle of operation, with the spool in the other of its two stable positions, physical communication between the second subchamber and the supply means, whereby pressurized substance from the supply means entering the second subchamber forcibly moves the cylinder, enlarging the second subchamber and reducing the first subchamber; and provides physical communication between the first subchamber and the dispensing means, whereby reduction of the first subchamber forcibly moves such substance out of the first subchamber to the dispensing means.

Claim 63

A system for filling containers with flowable substance, comprising: supply means for storing a supply of such substance under pressure; means defining a cylindrical chamber and at least one port at each end thereof; a piston closely and slidably fitted within the chamber for motion between predetermined limits; compliant means for effecting a sliding seal between the inner surface of the chamber and the outer surface of the piston, whereby the piston forms a movable wall cooperating with the first-mentioned defining means to define first and second subchambers, each having at least one port; dispensing means for conducting such substance into such containers; valve means comprising: means defining a cylindrical barrel and at least five ports therein spaced along the length thereof; a spool closely and slidably fitted within the barrel, and having at least two necked-down portions spaced along its length; the spool having at least two stable positions longitudinally within the barrel; means for driving the spool between the two stable positions in response to arrival of the piston in the chamber at the said predetermined limits; and means for effecting connection between the supply means, the ports of the valve barrel, the ports of the subchambers, and the dispensing means whereby the valve provides: during a first half-cycle of operation, with the spool in one of its two stable positions, physical communication between the first subchamber and the supply means, whereby pressurized substance from the supply means entering the first subchamber forcibly moves the cylinder, enlarging the first subchamber and reducing the second subchamber; and provides physical communication between the second subchamber and the dispensing means, whereby reduction of the second subchamber forcibly moves such substance out of the second subchamber to the dispensing means; and during a second half-cycle of operation, with the spool in the other of its two stable positions, physical communication between the second subchamber and the supply means, whereby pressurized substance from the supply means entering the second subchamber forcibly moves the cylinder, enlarging the second subchamber and reducing the first subchamber; and provides physical communication between the first subchamber and the dispensing means, whereby reduction of the first subchamber forcibly moves such substance out of the first subchamber to the dispensing means.