COUNTERMOUNT DISPENSERS

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001]This application claims priority to and any benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/676,002, filed Jul. 26, 2024, the content of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002]The below counter portions of counter-mount soap dispenser are typically mounted to the shank that extends from the soap dispensing spout. These counter-mount soap dispensers suffer from a number of problems. In high traffic flow airports, for example, the restrooms are very busy and a lot of people have luggage with rollers. When people go to the sink to wash their hands, they often push their rollable luggage up under the counter. When the luggage strikes the counter-mount soap dispenser, the counter-mount soap dispenser may be damaged, put out of commission, or worse leak their contents. Having a counter-mount soap dispenser out of commission in high volume traffic flow areas is highly problematic as it causes delay, irritates users and may result in vandalism that causes extra janitorial work.

[0003]In addition, modern state of the art counter-top designs have resulted in decreased real estate under the counter, and/or leaves the under counter portions of the counter-mount soap dispensers exposed, which is often unsightly.

[0004]In addition, in high volume traffic areas, mechanical components, such as, for example, pumps and check valves, may wear out. When pumps wear out, they may not dispense the correct amount of fluid, they may leak, or simply stop operating. When this occurs, the entire counter-mount soap dispenser (or at least the below counter portion of the counter-mount soap dispenser) is typically replaced. Replacing the counter-mount soap dispenser is costly and time consuming.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005]Counter-mount soap dispensers are disclosed herein. An exemplary counter-mount soap dispenser system include a base housing. The base housing is configured to receive a supply of soap. The base housing includes a processor; memory; motor control circuitry; an object sensor input, and power circuitry located in the base housing. The system includes a pump pod located away from the base housing. The pump pod includes a pod housing, a pump and a motor located in the housing. The pump pod further includes a liquid inlet connector in fluid connection with a pump inlet and one or more fluid outlet connectors in fluid communication with a pump outlet. The pump pod further includes an electrical connector for electrically connecting the pump motor to the motor control circuitry. The pump pod is located at least a foot from the base housing.

[0006]An exemplary pump pod for a counter-mount dispenser system includes a housing, a pump and a motor located in the housing, a liquid inlet connector in fluid connection with a pump inlet, one or more fluid outlet connectors in fluid communication with a pump outlet and an electrical connector for electrically connecting the pump motor to the motor control circuitry.

[0007]Another exemplary counter-mount soap dispenser system includes a base housing that is configured to receive a supply of soap. A processor, memory, motor control circuitry, an object sensor input, and power circuitry are located in the base housing. The system includes a pump pod. The pump pod includes a housing. A pump and a motor are located in the housing. The pump pod includes a liquid inlet connector in fluid connection with a pump inlet and one or more fluid outlet connectors in fluid communication with a pump outlet. An electrical connector for electrically connecting the pump motor to the motor control circuitry is also included. The pump pod is located at least a foot from the base housing. A liquid supply tube extends from the base housing to the pump pod to place the fluid supply in the base housing in fluid communication with the pump in the pump pod. The system includes a soap dispensing spout. A fluid outlet tube extends from the pump pod and is configured to extend through the soap dispensing spout, and an object sensor located in the soap dispensing spout is also included.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0008]To further clarify various aspects of the present disclosure, a more particular description of inventive concepts will be made by reference to various aspects of the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the present disclosure and are therefore not to be considered limiting of the scope of the disclosure. Moreover, while the figures can be drawn to scale for some embodiments, the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale. Features and advantages of the present disclosure will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which:

[0009]FIG. 1 is a simplified schematic view of an exemplary embodiment of a counter-mount soap dispenser system installed in a restroom;

[0010]FIG. 2 is a simplified schematic view of another exemplary embodiment of a counter-mount soap dispenser system installed in a restroom;

[0011]FIG. 2A is a simplified schematic view of another exemplary embodiment of a counter-mount soap dispenser system installed in a restroom;

[0012]FIG. 2B is a simplified schematic view of another exemplary embodiment of a counter-mount soap dispenser system installed in a restroom;

[0013]FIG. 3 is another simplified schematic view of an exemplary embodiment of a counter-mount soap dispenser system installed in a restroom;

[0014]FIG. 4 is another simplified schematic view of an exemplary embodiment of a counter-mount soap dispenser system installed in a restroom;

[0015]FIG. 5 is a simplified schematic diagram of an exemplary pump pod for use in a counter-mount soap dispenser system;

[0016]FIG. 6 is a simplified schematic of an exemplary control circuit for use in a counter-mount soap dispenser system;

[0017]FIG. 7 is a prospective view of an exemplary embodiment of a pump pod;

[0018]FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary embodiment of a pump pod of FIG. 7;

[0019]FIG. 9 is a prospective view of an exemplary embodiment of a pump pod;

[0020]FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary embodiment of a pump pod of FIG. 9 having a first pump configuration;

[0021]FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary embodiment of a pump pod of FIG. 9 having a second pump configuration;

[0022]FIG. 12 is an exemplary embodiment of a connector for connecting a pump pod to a shank;

[0023]FIG. 13 is another exemplary embodiment of a pump pod;

[0024]FIG. 14 is a cross section of the pump part of FIG. 13;

[0025]FIG. 15 is a cross section of another exemplary embodiment of a pump pod;

[0026]FIG. 16 is an enlarged portion of the cross section of pump pod shown in FIG. 15;

[0027]FIG. 17 is a prospective view of the pump pod of FIG. 15;

[0028]FIG. 18 is an exemplary in-line reservoir that fits withing a pump pod; and

[0029]FIG. 19 is a prospective view with part of the housing removed of pump pod 15 with the reservoir of FIG. 18 located within.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0030]The following description refers to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate specific aspects of the present disclosure.

[0031]As described herein, when one or more components are described as being connected, joined, affixed, coupled, attached, or otherwise interconnected, such interconnection may be direct as between the components or may be indirect such as through the use of one or more intermediary components. Also as described herein, reference to a “member,” “component,” or “portion” shall not be limited to a single structural member, component, or element but can include an assembly of components, members, or elements. Also as described herein, the terms “substantially” and “about” are defined as at least close to (and includes) a given value or state (preferably within 10% of, more preferably within 1% of, and most preferably within 0.1% of).

[0032]“Circuit communication” as used herein indicates a communicative relationship between devices. Direct electrical, electromagnetic and optical connections and indirect electrical, electromagnetic and optical connections are examples of circuit communication. Two devices are in circuit communication if a signal from one is received by the other, regardless of whether the signal is modified by some other device. For example, two devices separated by one or more of the following—amplifiers, filters, transformers, optoisolators, digital or analog buffers, analog integrators, other electronic circuitry, fiber optic transceivers or satellites—are in circuit communication if a signal from one is communicated to the other, even though the signal is modified by the intermediate device(s). As another example, an electromagnetic sensor is in circuit communication with a signal if it receives electromagnetic radiation from the signal. As a final example, two devices not directly connected to each other, but both capable of interfacing with a third device, such as, for example, a CPU, are in circuit communication.

[0033]Also, as used herein, voltages and values representing digitized voltages are considered to be equivalent for the purposes of this application, and thus the term “voltage” as used herein refers to either a signal, or a value in a processor representing a signal, or a value in a processor determined from a value representing a signal.

[0034]“Signal”, as used herein includes, but is not limited to one or more electrical signals, analog or digital signals, one or more computer instructions, a bit or bit stream, or the like.

[0035]“Logic,” synonymous with “circuit” as used herein includes, but is not limited to hardware, firmware, software and/or combinations of each to perform a function(s) or an action(s). For example, based on a desired application or needs, logic may include a software controlled microprocessor or microcontroller, discrete logic, such as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or other programmed logic device. Logic may also be fully embodied as software. The circuits identified and described herein may have many different configurations to perform the desired functions. The exemplary methodologies provide instructions for creating logic to control desired functions.

[0036]The inventive concepts disclosed and claimed herein are not limited to the particular values or ranges of values used to describe the embodiments disclosed herein.

[0037]FIG. 1 is a simplified schematic view of an exemplary embodiment of a counter-mount soap dispenser system 100 installed on a countertop, such as, for example, a counter-top in a restroom. Dispenser system 100 is mounted with an above counter portion mounted to countertop 102. A sink 104 and faucet 106 are also shown for illustrative purposes. Counter-mount soap dispensing system 100 includes below counter unit 120. Below counter unit 120 includes a base housing 130. Base housing 130 is preferably mounted to wall 103. Mounting base housing 130 to wall 13 away from the front of the counter helps to protect base housing 130 and refill unit 122 from being hit and damaged by, for example, a rolling suitcase being pushed up under countertop 102. Mounting base housing 130 to back wall 103 also allows the base unit 130 to be protected from being struck with cleaning instruments, such as, for example, a mop when the restroom is being cleaned. In addition, locating base housing 130 on back wall 103 also makes it less likely that it will receive direct spray from power washers that may be used to periodically clean commercial restrooms.

[0038]Base housing 130 is configured to receive a replaceable refill unit 122. In some embodiments, counter-mount dispenser system 100 includes a refillable reservoir instead of the refill unit 122, or a combination of a refillable reservoir (not shown) and a replaceable refill unit. Exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts described herein may be used with these systems or other system not expressly described.

[0039]Counter-mount soap dispensing system 100 includes a soap dispensing spout 110 and an object sensor 112. Object sensor 112 may be, for example, an infrared (“IR”) sensor that is used to detect when a hand is located in a position to receive a dose of soap. Soap dispensing spout 112 includes a shank 114 that extends through countertop 102 and is used to secure soap dispensing spout 112 to the countertop. Shank 114 is hollow and includes a passageway that extends from below the counter to the tip of the spout 110.

[0040]Soap dispenser system 100 includes a pump pod 140. Pump pod 140 is configured to be located very close to shank 114 and preferably is connected to shank 114. Optionally, exemplary pump pod 140 can be mounted away from the shank, such as, being mounted to back wall 103. Because the pump pod 140 has a smaller profile, pump pod 140 can be connected to shank 114 and does not suffer the problems associated with the entire under counter mountain system connected to the Shank 114. Thus, even when connected to the shank, pump pod 140 is not likely to be accidentally damaged. Similarly, connecting the pump pod 140 to the back wall 103 would also prevent pump pod 140 from being contacted and damaged, by, for example, a rolling suitcase. Both positions also limit the likelihood that the pump pod 140 will receive direct spray from a pressure washer during cleaning of the restroom.

[0041]Pump pod 140 includes an electrical connector (not shown) for connecting to cable 146. Cable 146 places a pump motor (not shown) in the pump pod 140 in circuit communication with motor control circuitry (not shown) located in base unit 130. In addition, pump pod 140 includes a liquid inlet connector (not shown) that connects to liquid supply conduit 142. Liquid supply conduit 142 places a pump (not shown) located in pump pod 140 in fluid communication with liquid in refill unit 122. An optional one-way valve 180 is located in the liquid supply path. The optional one-way valve 180 may be located in the supply conduit 142, in the pump inlet (not shown), inside of the pump pod 140, or outside of the pump pod 140. Pump pod 140 includes a fluid outlet connector (not shown) for connecting to dispensing tube 144. Dispensing tube 144 extends from pump pod 140 up through the hollow shank 114 to the end of soap dispensing spout 110. As described in more detail below, pump pod 140 may be configured to pump liquid, a liquid/air mixture, or liquid and air separately. If pump pod 140 is configured to pump liquid and air separately, an additional fluid outlet connector (not shown) is required, as well as a second dispensing tube (not shown).

[0042]Pump pod 140 is configured to be readily removable and replaceable. In prior art systems, when a pump wears out or fails, the entire system, or at least the undercounter portion of the system is typically replaced. Replacing the system involves replacing the costly electronics, requires a trained installer, requires significant time, requires maintaining a supply of back-up counter-mount soap dispensers, and often results in lengthy downtime. The pump pods disclosed herein contain a housing configured to readily mounted. Located inside the housing is liquid pump, a foam pump or a liquid and air pump. If a pump fails or wears out, the pump pod is removed and replaced. This is cheaper than replacing the entire soap dispenser system, requires less costly inventory, and the pump pod can be easily replaced by janitorial staff.

[0043]As discussed below, the pump pods disclosed herein are configured to be readily removable and replaceable. Preferably, no tools are required. In addition, as discussed in more detail below, in some embodiments, the pump pods are configured to be removed/installed with a single hand, which is desirable, since the shank 114 is typically located behind the sink basin.

[0044]The counter-mount systems may include a “pump run” or pump/system prime input, such as a momentary contact pushbutton. The pump run allows one to easily trouble shoot the dispenser if it is not operating. The janitor or service technician can simply push the pump run pushbutton to see if the pump runs or if it is broken. If the pump does not operate, the pump is likely broken, and the janitor may simply replace the pump pod. If the pump operates, the problem is with a different part of the system. In addition, when a new refill is installed, or after the initial installation, the pump run pushbutton may be manually activated until soap is dispensed out of the spout to prime the soap dispensing system. The pump run pushbutton is also useful if the system refill unit or reservoir runs out of soap prior to being filled up or having the refill unit replaced. When the reservoir or refill unit runs dry, air may be pulled into the fluid flow path. Air in the fluid flow path may give the impression that the system is broken because no soap is dispensed when the hand sensor is activated. Activating the pump run allows the system to be purged of air. Also, using the hand sensor to cause the pump to operate to move the air out of the system is time consuming. The “pump run” input may also be referred to herein as a pump prime or system prime. Optionally, the pump prime input may be located on, or proximate, the below counter unit 102, such as, for example, on the base housing 130. In some instances, the pump run or pump prime input may be located remotely and placed in a convenient location, or in a location that is known to the janitorial staff, but not to the general public.

[0045]Exemplary liquid and fluid connectors may be any type of connector, such as, for example, quick connectors, friction fit connectors, shark-bite® connectors, ¼ turn Luer Lock connectors, smooth barb connectors, and the like. Preferably the connector is a quick connector that does not require tools to connect and disconnect.

[0046]FIG. 2 is a simplified schematic view of another exemplary embodiment of a counter-mount soap dispenser system 200 installed in a restroom. The exemplary soap dispenser system 200 is similar to counter-mount soap dispenser system 100 and like components are identified with the same numeric designation and are not redescribed herein. The counter-mount soap dispenser system 200 has a different pump pod 240. Pump pod 240 is similar to pump pod 140, however, pump pod 240 includes an additional connector (not shown) for connecting to cable 132. Cable 132 provides power to, and signals from, object sensor 112. In this embodiment, a second electrical connector (not shown) is connected to cable 250. Cable 250 provides power to a motor in pump pod 240 and object sensor 112 and provides signals from object sensor 112 to a processor in base housing 130. Cable 250 may be a single cable or multiple cables. Likewise, the connectors may be a single connector or multiple connectors.

[0047]FIG. 2A is a simplified schematic view of another exemplary embodiment of a counter-mount soap dispenser system 258 installed in a restroom. The exemplary soap dispenser system 258 is similar to counter-mount soap dispenser system 100 and like components are identified with the same numeric designation and are not redescribed herein. Counter-mount soap dispenser system 258 includes an in-line reservoir 260. In-line reservoir 260 is located in the liquid passageway in fluid conduit 142. Fluid conduit 142A extends from in-line reservoir 260 to the pump (not shown) in pump pod 240. In-line fluid reservoir 260 allows the counter-mount soap dispenser system 258 to continue to operate for a period of time after the refill unit 122, or reservoir runs dry. The in-line fluid reservoir 260 may be sized for a selected number of dispenser, such as, for example, 200 dispenses. This allows the refill unit 122 to be completely drained before replacement without the dispenser system 258 being rendered in operable.

[0048]FIG. 2B is a simplified schematic view of another exemplary embodiment of a counter-mount soap dispenser system 280 installed in a restroom. The exemplary soap dispenser system 280 is similar to counter-mount soap dispenser system 258 and like components are identified with the same numeric designation and are not redescribed herein. Counter-mount soap dispenser system 280 includes an in-line reservoir 270. In-line reservoir 270 is similar to in-line reservoir 260, however, in-line reservoir 2740 is located in base 130.

[0049]FIG. 3 is another simplified schematic view of an exemplary embodiment of a counter-mount soap dispenser system 300 installed in a restroom. The exemplary soap dispenser system 200 is similar to counter-mount soap dispenser systems above and like components are identified with the same numeric designation and are not redescribed herein. Counter-mount soap dispenser system 300 illustrates pump pod 340 secured to shank 114 in a first position, with pump pod 340 off to the side of shank 114. The cables and tubing are not shown for clarity.

[0050]FIG. 4 is another simplified schematic view of an exemplary embodiment of a counter-mount soap dispenser system 400 installed in a restroom. The exemplary soap dispenser system 200 is similar to counter-mount soap dispenser systems above and like components are identified with the same numeric designation and are not redescribed herein. Counter-mount soap dispenser system 400 illustrates pump pod 440 secured to the base of shank 114, with pump pod 440 in a second position or configuration below shank 114. The cables and tubing are not shown for clarity.

[0051]FIG. 5 is a simplified schematic diagram of an exemplary pump pod 500 for use in a counter-mount soap dispenser system. Pump pod 500 includes a housing 502. Pump pod 500 may be water-tight, meaning liquid cannot penetrate housing 502. Pump pod 500 may be water-resistant, meaning it may be splashed with water without water entering the inside of pump pod 500. In some embodiments, pump pod 500 has a small drain hole that allows liquid in pump pod 500 to drain. In some embodiments, pump pod 500 includes a one-way drain valve in the drain hole, so that any liquid that does get into pump housing 500 drains out, but is prevented from entering pump pod 500 through the drain hole.

[0052]Pump pod 500 includes pump 510 and motor 512 located in its interior. Pump pod 500 may be exemplary of any of the pump pods disclosed herein. Pump 510 may be a liquid pump, a foam pump, or a liquid and air pump. In some embodiments, pump 510 is a sequentially activated multi-diaphragm pump, such as those shown and disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 11,596,273 which are incorporated herein by reference. The exemplary pumps may be configured to pump liquid only, to pump liquid and air, to combine and pump liquid and air as a foam, or to pump liquid and pump air separately.

[0053]Pump 510 includes a liquid inlet 512 and a liquid outlet 514. A liquid inlet connector 520 is secure to housing 502. Liquid inlet connector 520 is placed in fluid communication with liquid inlet 512 through conduit 522. An optional one-way valve 550 is placed in the fluid flow path between liquid inlet connector 520 and pump inlet 512. Optionally, one-way valve 550 may be placed inside the pump pod housing 502 or outside the pump pod housing 502. Optionally one-way valve 550 may be as close to pump inlet 512 as possible. Optionally one-way valve 550 may be placed in the pump inlet 512. Optionally, optional one-way valve 550 may be placed on the downstream side of pump 520. Pump pod 500 includes a liquid outlet connector 530 which is placed in fluid communication with pump outlet 514 by conduit 532.

[0054]Liquid inlet connector 520 and liquid outlet connector 530 may be, for example, the connectors described above or any other connector for connecting pump pod 500 to tubbing used to carry fluid to or from pump pod 500. Preferably, the connectors 520, 530 are quick connect connectors that do not require tools to connect and disconnect the connectors from liquid inlet conduits (not shown) and liquid outlet conduits (not shown).

[0055]In addition, pump pod 500 includes an electrical connector 504. Electrical connector 504 is in circuit communication with motor 512 through cable 501. An optional pump run input 540 is secured to pump housing 502. Pump run input is in circuit communication with connector 504 through cable 541. Pump run input 540 may be a pushbutton, or other momentary contact element. Pump run input 540 causes the pump to operate. Pump run input 540 may be used to test the pump to ensure that the pump is operating and pumping fluid. In addition, pump run input 540 may be used to prime the counter-mount soap dispenser system (not shown).

[0056]FIG. 6 is a simplified schematic of an exemplary control circuitry 600 for use in a counter-mount soap dispenser system (not shown). Additional electrical components may be included in the counter-mount dispenser system that are not shown herein but would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to be included herein, such as, for example, power conditioning circuitry. The exemplary control circuitry is located within a base unit of an undercounter dispensing system. Preferably in a water resistant or water-tight housing. The exemplary control circuitry 600 includes processor 606, which is in circuit communication with memory 608. Processor 606 may be any type of processor, such as, for example, a microprocessor or microcontroller, discrete logic, such as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), other programmed logic device or the like. Depending on the need, memory 608 may be any type of memory, such as, for example, Random Access Memory (RAM); Read Only Memory (ROM); programmable read-only memory (PROM), electrically programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), flash, magnetic disk or tape, optically readable mediums including CD-ROM and DVD-ROM, or the like, or combinations of different types of memory. In some embodiments, the memory 608 is separate from the processor 606, and in some embodiments, the memory 608 resides on or within processor 606.

[0057]The control circuitry 600 may include a power supply (not shown) that is used to power the counter-mount dispenser. Power may be provided by a battery-on-the-refill (not shown). In some embodiments, control circuitry includes a back-up power pack 630 that may be used to power the counter-mount dispenser, or aid in powering the counter-mount dispenser, during periods of high use. Back-up power pack 630 may be one or more batteries that are configured to last the lifetime of the dispenser and may be used in conjunction with refill units that include batteries-on-the-refill (not shown).

[0058]Control circuitry 600 may be mounted on one or more circuit boards 602. Control circuitry 600 includes a power port 620. Power port 620 connects to one or more power sources and conditioners. Energy is provided to the power circuitry 622. Power circuitry 622 includes power conditioning circuitry and may include one or more storage devices, such as, for example, one or more capacitors.

[0059]Power circuitry 622 may be used to power any of the electrical components in the dispenser system, including for example, motor controller 660, object sensor 112, processor 606, one or more indicators (not shown), and any other electrical components required for dispenser products as described herein. Motor controller 660 provides power to pump motor 412.

[0060]Object sensor 112 senses when an object, such as, for example, a hand, is placed beneath the soap dispensing spout 110. An exemplary object sensor 112 is an IR sensor and includes an IR emitter and an IR receiver. Object sensor 112 is in circuit communications with processor 606. When an object is detected in the detection zone of sensor, the processor causes the motor controller 660 to power pump/motor 512 to dispense dose of fluid.

[0061]FIG. 7 is a prospective view of an exemplary embodiment of a pump pod 700. Pump pod 700 includes a housing 702. Pump pod 700 may be referred to as a universal pump pod. It is configured to contain a pump system that pumps air combined with liquid in a foam, a pump system that pumps only liquid, or a pump system that pumps both air and liquid separately. Pump pod 700 is configured to attach to a shank (not shown) by two different types of shank mounts. First shank mount 705 includes a collar 710. Collar 710 is configured to fit over the lower end of a shank. Collar 710 includes a pair of apertures 712. The pair of apertures 712 align with apertures (not shown) in shank (not shown). A pin (not shown) is inserted through the apertures 712 to mount pump pod 700 to the shank (not shown). In some embodiments, collar 710 is threaded and threads onto the shank. In some embodiments, collar 710 includes one or more interior ribs (not shown) that engage ribs (not shown) on the shank (not shown) to hold the pump pod 700 in place. This connection is particularly useful for pumping foam from the pump and allows the pump output to connect to a foam dispensing conduit (not shown) that is inside of the hollow shank (not shown).

[0062]Pump pod 700 includes a second shank mount 720. Second shank mount 720 includes two wings 722. The wings 722 extend along an outwardly opening angle. Second shank mount 720 includes a cylindrical opening 724. Cylindrical opening 724 is slightly smaller than a bracket (not shown) that pump pod 720 connects to. The bracket (not shown) is connected to the shank (not shown). Second shank mount 720 is resilient member and is biased to its original position shown in FIG. 7. When shank mount 720 is pushed over a cylindrical portion of the bracket (not shown), the wings 722 flex outward and expand cylindrical opening 724 until the shank is located in the cylindrical opening 724. Because shank mount 720 is resiliently biased toward its original position, it grips the bracket and retains the pump pod 700 in place. Optionally, a bracket, such as bracket 1200, may be utilized with this exemplary shank mount 720. The wings 722 may be flexed inward to connect to bracket 1200. Optionally, cylindrical opening 724 may be sized to be slightly smaller than the shank (not shown) and connect directly to the shank.

[0063]FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary embodiment of a pump pod 700. Pump pod 700 includes a pump 734, a pump motor 730, a one-way liquid inlet valve 770, a liquid inlet connector 750, and a foaming chamber 760. A fluid outlet connector (not shown) connects to foaming chamber 760. An optional foaming cartridge (not shown) may be located in the foaming chamber 760 to mix the liquid and air to form a foam. The foam cartridge may contain, for example, one or more screens or a sponges. Pump pod 700 includes a housing 702 that includes a first opening 701 for an electrical connection to motor 730, a second opening 703 for connecting a liquid inlet tube (not shown) to liquid inlet connector 750, and a third opening 705 for connecting the fluid outlet connector 762. In this exemplary embodiment, pump 734 pumps liquid and air that mix together as it is leaving the pump. The liquid and air are mixed in foaming chamber 760 and is dispensed through fluid outlet connector (not shown) and dispensed out of the soap dispenser (not shown).

[0064]FIG. 9 is a prospective view of another exemplary embodiment of a pump pod 900. Pump pod 900 includes a housing 902. Pump pod 900 is a universal pump pod and is configured to attach to a shank (not shown) by two different types of shank mounts in two different locations or configurations, which may be chosen based upon the type of pump located in the pump pod 900 and/or the mounting area. First shank mount 905 includes a collar 910. Collar 910 is configured to fit over the lower end of a shank. Collar 910 includes a pair of apertures 912. The pair of apertures 912 align with apertures (not shown) in shank (not shown). A pin (not shown) is inserted through the apertures 912 to mount pump pod 900 to the shank (not shown). In some embodiments, collar 910 is threaded and threads onto the shank. In some embodiments, collar 910 includes one or more interior ribs (not shown) that engage ribs (not shown) on the shank (not shown) to hold the pump pod 900 in place.

[0065]Pump pod 900 includes a second shank mount 920. Second shank mount 920 includes two wings 922. The wings 922 extend along an outwardly opening angle. Second shank mount 920 includes a cylindrical opening 924. Cylindrical opening 924 is slightly smaller than the shank that pump pod 920 connects to. Second shank mount 920 is resilient member and is biased to its original position shown in FIG. 9. When shank mount 920 is pushed over a shank (not shown), the wings 922 flex outward and expand cylindrical opening 924 until the shank is located in the cylindrical opening 924. Because shank mount 920 is resiliently biased toward its original position, it grips the shank and retains the pump pod 900 in place.

[0066]FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary embodiment of a pump pod 900. Pump pod 900 includes a pump 934, a pump motor 930, an optional one-way liquid inlet valve 970, a liquid inlet connector 950, and a pair of fluid outlet connectors 961, 962 (only one is visible in this view). One fluid outlet connector 961 is a liquid outlet of pump 934 and the second fluid outlet connector 962 is an air outlet of pump 934. The air and liquid are pumped separately to a mixing chamber (not shown) located in the soap dispensing spout (not shown). Pump pod 900 includes a first opening (not shown) for an electrical connection to motor 930 (optionally, a connector is connected to housing 902 and the connector connects to the motor 930). A second opening 951 for connecting a liquid inlet tube (not shown) to liquid inlet connector 950, and a third/forth opening 901 for connecting the fluid outlet connectors 761, 762. Universal pump pod 900 may include additional openings, such as, for example, opening 904 that may be used if universal pump pod 900 is fitted with a foam pump that pumps a liquid air mixture as a foam out of the top as shown in FIG. 11.

[0067]FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary embodiment of a pump pod 1100 of Pump pod 1100 is similar to pump pod 900 except pump pod 100 has a pump 1134 that is configured to pump a liquid air mixture in the form of a foam and pump 934 was configured to pump liquid and air separately. The pump pod housing and shank mounts are the same as the housing of FIG. 10. Pump pod 1100 includes a housing 1102. Pump pod 1100 is configured to attach to a shank (not shown) by two different types of shank mount. First shank mount 105 includes a collar 1110. Collar 110 is configured to fit over the lower end of a shank. Collar 110 includes a pair of apertures 1112. The pair of apertures 1112 align with apertures (not shown) in shank (not shown). A pin (not shown) is inserted through the apertures 1112 to mount pump pod 1100 to the shank (not shown). In some embodiments, collar 1110 is threaded and threads onto the shank. In some embodiments, collar 1110 includes one or more interior ribs (not shown) that engage ribs (not shown) on the shank (not shown) to hold the pump pod 1100 in place.

[0068]Pump pod 1100 includes a second shank mount 1120. Second shank mount 1120 includes two wings 1122. The wings 1122 extend along an outwardly opening angle. Second shank mount 1120 includes a cylindrical opening 1124. Cylindrical opening 1124 is slightly smaller than the shank that pump pod 1120 connects to. Second shank mount 1120 is resilient member and is biased to its original position. When shank mount 1120 is pushed over a shank (not shown), the wings 1122 flex outward and expand cylindrical opening 1124 until the shank is located in the cylindrical opening 1124. Because shank mount 1120 is resiliently biased toward its original position, it grips the shank and retains the pump pod 1100 in place.

[0069]Pump pod 1100 includes a pump 1134, a pump motor 1130, a one-way liquid inlet valve 1170, a liquid inlet connector 1150, a foaming chamber 1160, and a fluid outlet connector (not shown). Pump pod 1100 includes a first opening (not shown) for an electrical connection to motor 1130, a second opening 1101 for connecting a liquid inlet tube (not shown) to liquid inlet connector 1150, and a third opening 1103 for connecting the fluid outlet connector 1162. Pump pod 1100 may include additional openings configured to accept other pump configurations, as well as an optional drain opening 1104. Pump 1134 pumps liquid and air that mix together as it is leaving the pump. The liquid and air are mixed in foaming chamber 1160 and is dispensed through fluid outlet connector (not shown) and dispensed out of the soap dispenser (not shown).

[0070]In some embodiments, the base housing (not shown) is completely devoid of any mechanical components that are prone to wearing out. In some embodiments, the base housing contains mechanical components that connect the base housing to the refill unit, but do not get worn out from replacing the refill unit.

[0071]FIG. 12 illustrates an exemplary mounting bracket 1200. Mounting bracket 1200 includes shank engagement member 1202. Shank engagement member 1210 includes an opening 1212 for receiving a shank (not shown). In some embodiments, opening 1212 has an inner portion that is roughly the same size, or slightly smaller than the outside diameter of the shank (not shown). In some embodiments, the outer walls 1210 are resilient and expand outward to receive the shank (not shown). In some embodiments, shank engagement member 1210 includes a pair of openings 1214 (only one is shown) that match openings in the shank (not shown) and a pin (not shown) may be passed through the openings 1214 and the openings in the shank (not shown) to secure the bracket to the shank. Mounting bracket 1200 includes a receiving pocket 1230 formed in part by walls 1231, 1232, 1237 and 1238. The outer edge of walls 1231, 1232 may optionally have an inwardly facing bead or ledge 1236 to help secure a pod retaining member.

[0072]FIG. 13 is a first configuration of a universal pump pod 1300. Universal pump pod 1300 may be configured with different pump options, such as, for example, foam pumps that mix air and liquid at the pump outlet, foam pumps that pump liquid and air separately to be mixed at a location away from the pump, and liquid pumps. The universal pump pod housing 1302 includes a first side 1304 and a second side 1306. Pump pod 1300 includes a first shank connector 1309. First shank connector 1309 includes a first wing 1310 and a second wing 1312 that extend outward from one another. First win and second wings 1310, 1312 are elongated members and are made of a resilient material. First win and second wings 1310, 1312 may be flexed inward to fit within pocket 1230 of mounting bracket 1200. First shank connector 1309 may optionally be configured as any other shank connector described here.

[0073]Pump pod 1300 illustrates a liquid conduit 1340 for placing a reservoir (not shown) in a base (not shown) in fluid communication with pump 1404 (FIG. 14) and a cable 1342 for placing pump motor 1402 in circuit communication with electronics (not shown) in the base (not shown). The housing includes requisite openings for the conduit 1340 and cable 1342.

[0074]Housing 1302 includes an opening or slot 1315 that is configured to receive various pump outlet configurations. The opening 1315 is formed in housing portion 1304 and 1306. The opening 1315 may be formed in only one of the housing portions. When the housing portions 1304, 1306 are coupled together, they retain a pump configuration member 1416. The exemplary configuration illustrated in FIGS. 13 and 14 are for a liquid pump 1404. An exemplary liquid pump 1404 includes an optional one-way liquid inlet valve 1406 located at the pump inlet. A motor 1402 drives the pump. The pump outlet configuration member 1416 is configured to connect to a liquid outlet connector 1420 of pump 1404. Above the liquid outlet connector is a first plate 1421 and second plate 1322. A channel 1422 is formed between the two plates 1421, 1422. The channel 1422 is configured to receive a portion of the housing 1302 to secure the pump outlet configuration 1416 to the pump pod. A liquid outlet port 1320 extends upward from the top plate and is in fluid communication with the pump outlet. A quick connector 1330 and fluid outlet conduit 1332 releasably connect to the fluid outlet port 1320 to place the pump 1404 in fluid communication with a dispensing outlet (not shown).

[0075]FIG. 15 is a second configuration of universal pump pod 1300. Pump pod 1500 includes a foam pump outlet configuration member 1502 with a second shank connector 530. The housing 1302 is the same housing illustrated in FIG. 13. The foam pump outlet configuration 1502 is configured to connect to pump outlet connector 1513. Pump 1512 pumps both liquid and air into the pump outlet connector 1513. Located inside of pump outlet connector 1513 is a foam cartridge 1602 (FIG. 16). Foam cartridge 1602 includes forming media, such as, for example, one or more screens and/or sponges. Foam pump outlet configuration member 1502 includes a first cylindrical projection for receiving dispensing outlet conduit 1540. Foam pump outlet configuration member 1502 includes a second shank mount, which is a second cylindrical projection 1530 that is configured to fit around a shank (not shown) to connect the pump pod to the shank. One or more openings 1610 align with openings in the shank (not shown). A pin may be inserted through the one or more openings 1610 and the openings in the shank to retain the pump pod 1500 in place. Above the liquid outlet connector is a first plate 1534 and second plate 1532. A channel 1650 is formed between the two plates 1534, 1532. The channel 1650 receives a portion of the housing 1302 to secure the pump outlet configuration 1502 to the pump pod housing 1302. The first cylindrical projection 1630 may be configured similarly to the liquid outlet port 1320 and configured to receive a quick connector 1330 and fluid outlet conduit releasably connect to the fluid outlet port to place the pump in fluid communication with a dispensing outlet (not shown) as described above with respect to FIG. 13.

[0076]FIG. 17 is the pump pod 1500 configured with a foam pump configuration member 1502. FIG. 18 is an exemplary in-line fluid reservoir 1800 that is configured for to fit within the pump pod housing 1502. The exemplary in-line reservoir 1800 is configured with an opening 1832 that receives and secures pump 1902 in place. The reservoir includes a liquid inlet 1810 that is configured to receive liquid from the reservoir (not shown) in the base (not shown). FIG. 19 is a prospective view with a portion of the housing removed illustrating the in-line reservoir 1802 located in pump pod 1500. The reservoir includes a fluid outlet 1820 that is placed in fluid communication with pump inlet 1920. Liquid outlet 1820 is preferably located at the top of the in-line reservoir 1800. Some embodiments, however, may have the liquid outlet located at the bottom of the in-line reservoir 1800.

[0077]While various inventive aspects, concepts and features of the inventions may be described and illustrated herein as embodied in combination in the exemplary embodiments, these various aspects, concepts and features may be used in many alternative embodiments, either individually or in various combinations and sub-combinations thereof. It is not the intention of the applicant to restrict or in any way limit the scope of the appended claims to such detail. Unless expressly excluded herein, all such combinations and sub-combinations are intended to be within the scope of the present inventions. Still further, while various alternative embodiments as to the various aspects, concepts and features of the inventions—such as alternative materials, structures, configurations, methods, circuits, devices and components, software, hardware, control logic, alternatives as to form, fit and function, and so on—may be described herein, such descriptions are not intended to be a complete or exhaustive list of available alternative embodiments, whether presently known or later developed. Those skilled in the art may readily adopt one or more of the inventive aspects, concepts or features into additional embodiments and uses within the scope of the present inventions even if such embodiments are not expressly disclosed herein. Additionally, even though some features, concepts or aspects of the inventions may be described herein as being a preferred arrangement or method, such description is not intended to suggest that such feature is required or necessary unless expressly so stated. Still further, exemplary or representative values and ranges may be included to assist in understanding the present disclosure; however, such values and ranges are not to be construed in a limiting sense and are intended to be critical values or ranges only if so expressly stated. Moreover, while various aspects, features and concepts may be expressly identified herein as being inventive or forming part of an invention, such identification is not intended to be exclusive, but rather there may be inventive aspects, concepts and features that are fully described herein without being expressly identified as such or as part of a specific invention. Descriptions of exemplary methods or processes are not limited to inclusion of all steps as being required in all cases, nor is the order in which the steps are presented to be construed as required or necessary unless expressly so stated.