Multiple use wash counter and timer
First Claim
1. Apparatus for measuring the usage of a fluid dispenser which discharges a predetermined amount of fluid upon actuation of an actuator and that provides at least two timers for use by users of the apparatus, comprising:
- a) a switch coupled to the actuator, wherein said switch generates a use signal upon actuation of the actuator;
b) a processor for receiving said use signal and incrementing a counter by one, said processor generating a flag signal;
c) at least two timers for receiving said flag signal, each said timer providing a sensory output depending upon said flag signal; and
d) said processor adjusting said flag signal depending upon the operational status of said at least two timers.
4 Assignments
0 Petitions
Accused Products
Abstract
A fluid dispenser which discharges a predetermined amount of fluid upon actuation of a actuator includes a counter and at least two timers for use by users of the device. The apparatus further includes a switch coupled to the actuator wherein the switch generates a use signal. An operating circuit is carried by the dispenser and provides a processor which receives the use signal and increments or decrements a counter by one. Additionally, the processor generates a flag signal to indicate which of the timers is in use. Each timer has associated therewith a distinct sensor output such as a sound or light to indicate to the user the start of a washing cycle and completion thereof. In the event more than two users are present, the sensor output is not provided. However, a counting event is still recognized. Of course, multiple users of the device or sensor outputs could be provided if desired.
91 Citations
14 Claims
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1. Apparatus for measuring the usage of a fluid dispenser which discharges a predetermined amount of fluid upon actuation of an actuator and that provides at least two timers for use by users of the apparatus, comprising:
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a) a switch coupled to the actuator, wherein said switch generates a use signal upon actuation of the actuator; b) a processor for receiving said use signal and incrementing a counter by one, said processor generating a flag signal; c) at least two timers for receiving said flag signal, each said timer providing a sensory output depending upon said flag signal; and d) said processor adjusting said flag signal depending upon the operational status of said at least two timers. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7)
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8. A multiple use wash counter and timer comprising:
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a) a housing for carrying a fluid, said housing having an actuator which when actuated dispenses a quantity of the fluid; b) a power supply; c) an operating circuit connected to said power supply and coupled to said actuator, said operating circuit having a counter which is incremented upon actuation of said actuator; and d) at least two timers coupled to said operating circuit, each said timer generating a distinct sensory output upon actuation of said actuator and at expiration of a time sequence. - View Dependent Claims (9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14)
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Specification