Liquid dispenser and control system

Abstract

A liquid dispenser and control system includes a base member having an intake cavity with an axis for orientation in an upward direction, the intake cavity being sealingly mateable with a mouth opening of a replaceable liquid container which, when mated with the intake cavity, is in an inverted position for draining liquid through the mouth opening into the intake cavity. The intake cavity includes a sump into which liquid from the container can drain by gravity. The vent tube assembly has an intake end connectable to atmosphere or a source of gas, the vent tube assembly extending from the base member through the intake cavity, and has a venting end for positioning inside the container. A passageway extends through a portion of the base member, the passageway having an entry end and an exit end, the entry end connected to the sump, through which liquid from the sump can drain into the passageway. A sensor has a fluid path therethrough connected to the exit end of the passageway, the sensor for detecting when liquid flow through the passageway from the container ceases and is followed by gas from the container entering the sensor. A liquid conduit is connected to the fluid path of the sensor, for receiving liquid passing through the sensor.