Liquid dispenser for a cooler and detergent bottle

Abstract

A liquid pump mechanism in a cooler to create a fountain type dispenser from the cooler and a liquid pump mechanism for a container that includes a viscous liquid such as detergent and/or fabric softener. The liquid pump mechanism includes a top portion and a bottom portion. The liquid pump mechanism includes an electric pump that is designed to cause fluid to flow into the bottom portion when the electric pump is activated. The bottom portion is fluidly connected or interconnected to the top portion such that fluid that flows into the bottom portion is designed to flow out of the bottom portion and to the top portion.

Claims

1. A liquid pump mechanism configured to dispense a viscous liquid from a container, said liquid pump mechanism including a top portion and a bottom portion that is positioned along a longitudinal axis of said liquid pump mechanism, an electric pump, a pressure relief valve, a flow control valve in a dispenser head, and a power supply configured to power said electric pump; said electric pump configured to cause air to flow into the container when said liquid pump mechanism is activated and is connected to the container, said air flow into said container causing an increase in pressure in the container to cause liquid in the container to flow into an opening in said bottom portion and to said top portion when said electric pump is activated, said bottom portion fluidly connected or interconnected to said top portion, said top portion including a dispenser activator and the dispenser head, said dispenser activator configured to activate and deactivate said electric pump, said dispenser head configured to enable fluid that flows to said top portion to exit said top portion through a dispenser opening in said dispenser head, said pressure relief valve configured to release pressure from the container when a predetermined pressure level exists in the container, said dispenser activator configured to cause both said control valve to move to an open position to allow fluid to pass through an opening in said dispenser and to cause said electric pump to be activated when said dispenser activator is in activated mode, and said dispenser activator configured to cause both said control valve to move to a closed position to inhibit fluid to pass through said opening in said dispenser head and to cause said electric pump to be deactivated when said dispenser activator is in a deactivated mode.

2. The liquid pump mechanism as defined in claim 1, wherein said top portion fully contains said electric pump and said top portion fully contains said power supply.

3. The liquid pump mechanism as defined in claim 1, wherein only a portion of said top portion includes a movable or removable power supply cover to enable a user to access said power supply located in said top portion, said power supply cover located on a back side of said top portion.

4. The liquid pump mechanism as defined in claim 3, wherein said movable or removable power supply cover including a plurality of ribs to facilitate in the movement of said movable or removable power supply cover.

5. The liquid pump mechanism as defined in claim 3, wherein said movable or removable power supply cover is movable in a direction that is parallel to said longitudinal axis of said liquid pump mechanism.

6. The liquid pump mechanism as defined in 1, wherein said dispenser activator includes a depressible button, said depressible button biased in a non-activation position, depression of said depressible button configured to cause said dispenser activator to be in said activated mode, non-depression of said depressible button configured to cause said dispenser activator to be in said deactivated mode.

7. The liquid pump mechanism as defined in claim 6, wherein said dispenser activator is positioned on a top side of said top portion.

8. The liquid pump mechanism as defined in claim 1, wherein said dispensing opening directs liquid downward from said dispensing opening that is generally parallel to said longitudinal axis of said liquid pump mechanism.

9. The liquid pump mechanism as defined in claim 1, wherein said flow control valve is connected to said dispenser activator, said flow control valve positioned in said disperser opening.

10. The liquid pump mechanism as defined in claim 1, wherein said top portion includes a container connector having an inner wall surface that includes a connector arrangement configured to connect to an opening of the container.

11. The liquid pump mechanism as defined in claim 10, including a connector adapter, a top portion of said connector adapter configured to be removably connectable to said connector of said container connector, a bottom portion of said connector adaptor configured to connect to the opening of the container, said top portion of the connector adapter having a different cross-section area than said bottom portion.

12. A method for converting a container into a container having an electric dispenser comprising: a. providing a liquid pump mechanism adapted to dispense a viscous liquid from the container, said liquid pump mechanism including a top portion and a bottom portion that is positioned along a longitudinal axis of said liquid pump mechanism, an electric pump, a pressure relief valve, a flow control valve in a dispenser head, and a power supply configured to power said electric pump; said electric pump configured to cause air to flow into the container when said liquid pump mechanism is connected to the container, said air flow into said container configured to cause an increase in pressure in the container to cause liquid in the container to flow into an opening in said bottom portion and to said top portion when said electric pump, said bottom portion fluidly connected or interconnected to said top portion, said top portion including a dispenser activator and the dispenser head, said dispenser activator configured to activate and deactivate said electric pump, said dispenser head configured to enable fluid that flows to said top portion to exit said top portion through a dispenser opening in said dispenser head, said pressure relief valve configured to release pressure from the container when a predetermined pressure level exists in the container, said dispenser activator configured to cause both said control valve to move to an open position to allow fluid to pass through an opening in said dispenser and to cause said electric pump to be activated when said dispenser activator is in activated mode, and said dispenser activator configured to cause both said control valve to move to a closed position to inhibit fluid to pass through said opening in said dispenser head and to cause said electric pump to be deactivated when said dispenser activator is in a deactivated mode; b. placing said bottom portion of said liquid pump mechanism into said container; and, c. actuating said dispenser activator to cause said dispenser activator to be in said activated mode so that said dispenser activator causes said control valve to move to said open position and to also cause power from said power supply to energizes said electric pump to cause air to flow into a top of the container to thereby cause a pressure increase in said container, which pressure increase causes fluid in the container to flow into said bottom portion through one or more openings in said bottom portion, to said top portion, and out through said dispenser head.

13. The method as defined in claim 12, wherein said dispenser activator includes a depressible button, said depressible button biased in said deactivated mode.

14. The liquid pump mechanism as defined in claim 12, wherein said flow control valve is connected to said dispenser activator, said flow control valve positioned in said disperser opening.

15. The method as defined in claim 12, wherein said top portion includes a container connector having an inner wall surface that includes a connector arrangement configured to connect to an opening of the container.

16. The method as defined in claim 15, including a connector adapter, a top portion of said connector adapter configured to be removably connectable to said connector of said container connector, a bottom portion of said connector adaptor configured to connect to the opening of the container, said top portion of the connector adapter having a different cross-section area than said bottom portion.

17. The liquid pump mechanism as defined in claim 1, wherein said bottom portion of said disperser head includes an air supply opening that allows air to enter into said container from said pump when said pump is activated and said liquid pump mechanism is connected to the container, said pressure relief valve is in fluid communication with both said electric pump and said air supply opening and is positioned between said pump and said air supply opening.

18. The liquid pump mechanism as defined in claim 6, wherein said flow control valve is connected to said dispenser activator, said flow control valve positioned in said disperser opening.

19. The liquid pump mechanism as defined in claim 18, wherein said control valve is biased in a closed position to inhibit fluid passing through said opening in said dispenser head.

20. The liquid pump mechanism as defined in claim 1, wherein said top portion includes a fluid opening that allows the air to be inserted into the container above a liquid level in the container when said liquid pump mechanism is connected to the container, said fluid opening is in fluid communication with said electric pump.

21. The liquid pump mechanism as defined in claim 10, wherein said top portion includes a container connector having an inner wall surface that includes a connector arrangement configured to connect to an opening of the container.

22. The method as defined in claim 12, wherein said bottom portion of said disperser head includes an air supply opening that allows air to enter into said container from said pump when said pump is activated and said liquid pump mechanism is connected to the container, said pressure relief valve is in fluid communication with both said electric pump and said air supply opening and is positioned between said pump and said air supply opening.

23. The method as defined in claim 13, wherein said flow control valve is connected to said dispenser activator, said flow control valve positioned in said disperser opening.

24. The method as defined in claim 23, wherein said control valve is biased in a closed position to inhibit fluid passing through said opening in said dispenser head.

25. The method as defined in claim 12, wherein said top portion includes a fluid opening that allows the air to be inserted into the container above a liquid level in the container when said liquid pump mechanism is connected to the container, said fluid opening is in fluid communication with said electric pump.

26. The method as defined in claim 15, including a connector adapter, a top portion of said connector adapter configured to be removably connectable to said connector of said container connector, a bottom portion of said connector adaptor configured to connect to the opening of the container, said top portion having a different cross-section area than said bottom portion.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

(1) Reference may now be made to the drawings, which illustrate several non-limiting embodiments that the invention may take in physical form and in certain parts and arrangements of parts wherein;

(2) FIG. 1 is a front elevation view of one non-limiting cooler in accordance with the present invention wherein the top portion of the liquid pump mechanism is portioned in an activation position;

(3) FIG. 2 is a front view of the cooler of FIG. 1;

(4) FIG. 3 is a top plan view of the cooler of FIG. 1;

(5) FIG. 4 is a front elevation view of the cooler of FIG. 1 wherein the top portion of the liquid pump mechanism as been rotated to a non-activation position;

(6) FIG. 5 is a top plan view of the cooler of FIG. 4;

(7) FIG. 6 is a front elevation view of the cooler of FIG. 1 without the lid;

(8) FIG. 7 is a front elevation view of the lid of the cooler without the liquid pump mechanism;

(9) FIG. 8 is an exploded view of the cooler of FIG. 1;

(10) FIG. 9 is a front elevation view of the one non-limiting liquid pump mechanism;

(11) FIG. 10 is a top plan view of the liquid pump mechanism of FIG. 9;

(12) FIG. 11 is a bottom elevation view of the liquid pump mechanism of FIG. 9;

(13) FIG. 12 is a bottom plan view of the liquid pump mechanism of FIG. 9;

(14) FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the liquid pump mechanism of FIG. 9;

(15) FIG. 14 front view of the bottom portion and a section of the elongated body of the liquid pump mechanism of FIG. 9;

(16) FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the bottom portion and a section of the elongated body of the liquid pump mechanism of FIG. 14;

(17) FIG. 16 is an enlarged elevation view of the bottom portion and lower portion of the elongated body of the liquid pump mechanism of FIG. 9;

(18) FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view along line 17-17 of FIG. 15;

(19) FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view along line 18-18 of FIG. 15;

(20) FIG. 19 is a front elevation view of one non-limiting embodiment of the liquid pump mechanism of the present invention;

(21) FIG. 20 is a side view of the liquid pump mechanism illustrated in FIG. 19;

(22) FIG. 21 is a top view of the liquid pump mechanism illustrated in FIG. 19;

(23) FIG. 22 is a front view of the liquid pump mechanism illustrated in FIG. 19;

(24) FIG. 23 is a sectional view of the liquid pump mechanism illustrated in FIG. 19 which is absent the connector adaptor;

(25) FIG. 24 is a sectional view of the liquid pump mechanism illustrated in FIG. 19 which includes a connector adaptor;

(26) FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view of the liquid pump mechanism illustrated in FIG. 19;

(27) FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional view of the liquid pump mechanism illustrated in FIG. 19 absent the connector adaptor;

(28) FIG. 27 is a front elevation view of another non-limiting embodiment of the liquid pump mechanism of the present invention;

(29) FIG. 28 is a side view of the liquid pump mechanism illustrated in FIG. 27 in the closed position;

(30) FIG. 29 is a side view of the liquid pump mechanism illustrated in FIG. 27 in the open or dispensing position;

(31) FIG. 30 is a side view of the liquid pump mechanism illustrated in FIG. 27 position above a container;

(32) FIG. 31 is a side view of the liquid pump mechanism illustrated in FIG. 27 positioned above a container and positioned above the connector adaptor;

(33) FIG. 32 is a sectional view of the liquid pump mechanism illustrated in FIG. 27;

(34) FIG. 33 is a cross-sectional view of the liquid pump mechanism illustrated in FIG. 27 in the closed position; and,

(35) FIG. 34 is a cross-sectional view of the liquid pump mechanism illustrated in FIG. 27 in the open or dispensing position.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF NON-LIMITING EMBODIMENTS

(36) Referring now to the drawings wherein the showings are for the purpose of illustrating non-limiting embodiments of the invention only and not for the purpose of limiting same, FIGS. 1-18 illustrate one non-limiting embodiment of the cooler that includes a liquid pump mechanism in accordance with the present invention. Referring now to FIGS. 1-8, there is illustrated a cooler 100 that is formed of a cooler body 200, a cooler lid 300 and a liquid pump mechanism 400.

(37) The cooler body is not limited in shape, size, material or color. Generally, the cooler body is formed of a durable material such as a plastic material; however, other or additional materials can be used. The cooler body generally is formed of multiple layers to facilitate in the insulation of a liquid in the interior of the cooler body; however, this is not required. The cooler body includes an internal cavity 202 that is designed to hold a liquid. The capacity of the internal cavity is non-limiting. Generally, the internal cavity is designed to hold 1-60 gallons of liquid; however, other sizes can be used. The general shape of the internal cavity is generally cylindrical as illustrated in FIG. 6; however, this is not required. The bottom of the cooler body is generally flat; however, this is not required.

(38) The top portion 210 of the cooler body generally includes a threaded region 212 that is designed to engage a corresponding threaded region on the cooler lid 300 so that the cooler lid can be connected and disconnected from the top portion of the cooler body; however, this is not required. The threaded region can fully or partially encircle the top portion of the cooler body. As illustrated in FIG. 6, the threaded region only partially encircles the top portion of the cooler body. As can be appreciated, the cooler lid can be connected to the top portion of the cooler body in other or additional ways (e.g., snap or friction fit, latch connection, etc.).

(39) The top portion of the cooler body can optionally include one or more handles 214, 216. The number of handles, and the size and shape of the one or more handles are non-limiting. Generally, the one or more handles are integrally formed with and non-detachable from the cooler body; however, it can be appreciated that the handles can be designed to be detachable from the body of cooler body.

(40) The cooler body can optionally include one or more outer surface structures that can be used to facilitate in the carrying of the cool body, movement of the cooler body, and/or the securing of the cooler body to a fixture. The number, shape and size of the outer surface structures are non-limiting. As illustrated in FIG. 6, the outer surface of the cooler body includes two ridged regions 220, 230. As can be appreciated, the less than two or more than two ridged regions can be formed on the cooler body. One or both of the ridged regions can be used to facilitate in securing the cooler body to a fixture (e.g., truck bed, table top, bench, etc.). For example, bungee cords, rope, etc. can be inserted in or under the ridges to facilitate securing the cooler body in a fixed position during the transport and/or use of the cooler; however, this is not required.

(41) The cooler lid 300 is designed to be removable connected to the cooler body; however, this is not required. The cooler lid is not limited in shape, size, material or color. Generally, the cooler body is formed of a durable material such as a plastic material; however, other or additional materials can be used. The cooler lid can be formed of multiple layers to facilitate in the insulation of a liquid in the interior of the cooler body; however, this is not required. The materials used to form the cooler lid can be the same or different from the materials used to form the cooler body. The bottom of the cooler lid includes one or more threads that are designed to engage with the threaded region 212 on the cooler body to facilitate in the connection and detachment of the cooler lid from the cooler body. As can be appreciated, the cooler lid can include other or additional structures to enable the cooler lid to be connected to the cooler body in other ways.

(42) The cooler lid is generally shaped such that when connected to the top portion of the cooler body, one or more corresponding structures on the cooler body and cooler lid are aligned; however, this is not required. For example, the cooler lid includes two handle portions 310, 312. The handles are generally positioned on the outer peripheral regions of the cooler lid; however, this is not required. These handle portions can be used to facilitate in the insertion and/or removal of the cooler lid form the cooler body. As illustrated in FIGS. 1, 2, and 4, when the cooler lid is fully inserted onto the cooler body, handle portions 310, 312 are aligned with handles 214, 216 on the cooler body. As is also illustrated in FIGS. 1, 2 and 4, other structures of the cooler lid such as the bottom edge 302 of the lower outer peripheral region 301 of the cooler lid have a similar shape and size such that when the cooler lid is fully inserted onto the cooler body, the bottom edge 302 closely aligns with the adjacently positioned top portion of the cooler body.

(43) As illustrated in FIG. 7, the top portion 304 includes several structures. The top portion can optionally include one or more cup or container cavities 320, 322 which an be used to receive a bottom portion of a cup or container so that one or more cups or container can be placed on the top portion of the cooler lid. The number, size, shape and location of the one or more container cavities on the cooler lid, when used, are non-limiting.

(44) The top portion of the cooler lid can include a recessed pump cavity 330. As illustrated in FIG. 7, a ridge 324 divides the container cavities from the pump cavity. The bottom surface 332 of the recessed pump cavity is positioned below the top surface of ridge 324. The ridge generally represents the highest structure on the cooler lid (e.g., thickest point on the cooler lid or most elevated point on the top portion of the cooler measured from the bottom edge 302); however, this is not required. The depth of the recessed pump cavity is selected so that a majority or all of the top portion of the liquid pump mechanism is positioned even with or below the top surface of the ridge or highest structure on the cooler lid when the top portion of the liquid pump mechanism is fully connected to the cooler lid as illustrated in FIG. 2. Generally, at least about 60 percent of the top portion of the liquid pump mechanism is positioned below the top surface of the ridge or highest structure on the cooler lid when the top portion of the liquid pump mechanism is fully connected to the cooler lid. Typically, at least about 75 percent of the top portion of the liquid pump mechanism is positioned below the top surface of the ridge or highest structure on the cooler lid when the top portion of the liquid pump mechanism is fully connected to the cooler lid. As illustrated in FIG. 7, a majority of the perimeter of the recessed pump cavity is generally raised above the bottom surface of the cooler lid as illustrated in FIG. 7. Generally, at least about 60% of the perimeter of the recessed pump cavity is raised above the bottom surface of the cooler lid. Typically, at least about 70% of the perimeter of the recessed pump cavity is raised above the bottom surface of the cooler lid. As illustrated in FIG. 7, the front portion of the recessed pump cavity does not include a raised portion or ridge; however, this is not required. In the other regions of the recessed pump cavity, rims 334, 336 and ridge 324 form the raised perimeter regions of the recessed pump cavity. The shape and height of rims 334, 336 and ridge 324 are non-limiting. The two rims are illustrated as having an arcuate shape and an upper sloped portion 335, 337; however, this is not required. The shape of the rims and the sloped portion of the rims are designed to facilitate in the support and rotational movement of the top portion of the liquid pump mechanism when the liquid pump mechanism is connected to the cooler lid.

(45) The bottom surface of the recessed pump cavity includes a pump opening 340. The pump opening passes fully through the cooler lid as illustrated in FIG. 7. The pump opening can include a tapered top edge 342; however, this is not required. The tapered top edge, when used, can facilitate in the insertion and/or connection of the top portion of the liquid pump mechanism to the cooler lid. The size and shape of the pump opening is non-limiting. Generally, the pump opening has a circular cross-sectional shape. Generally, the pump opening is positioned at the center of the recessed pump cavity as illustrated in FIG. 7; however, this is not required.

(46) Positioned about the pump opening is one or more rotational slots 350, 352. The one or more slots may or may not fully penetrate through the cooler lid. The one or more rotational slots can fully or partially encircle the pump opening. As illustrated in FIG. 7, both of the rotational slots only partially encircle the pump opening, are spaced from one another, have generally the same length and shape and size, and are spaced generally the same distance from the pump opening; however, this is not required. Generally, when the two or more slots are positioned at similar distances from the pump opening, the length of the two or more slots is generally the same; however, this is not required. However, when the two or more slots are positioned at different distances from the pump opening, the length of the two or more slots is generally different; however, this is not required. In one non-limiting arrangement, one or more slots fully encircle the pump opening. In another non-limiting arrangement, one or more slots do not fully encircle the pump opening. In such an arrangement, one or more slots only encircle up to about 90 percent of the pump opening, typically up to about 75 percent of the pump opening, more typically up to about 50 percent of the pump opening, still more typically up to about 49 percent of the pump opening, yet still more typically up to about 45 percent of the pump opening, and yet more typically up to about 40 percent of the pump opening.

(47) The cooler lid can optionally include a dispenser tab cavity 360. The dispenser tab cavity, when used, can be positioned on one or more sides of the recessed pump cavity. As illustrated in FIG. 7, the dispenser tab cavity is located on only one side of the recessed pump cavity. The dispenser tab cavity is designed to receive a dispenser tab that is located on the top portion of the liquid pump mechanism when the top portion of the liquid pump mechanism is rotated on the cooler lid to a non-operation position. The dispenser tab cavity is designed to both receive the dispenser tab and limit or prevent depression of the dispenser tab so as to inhibit or prevent the activation of the liquid pump mechanism and dispensement of liquid from the liquid pump mechanism when the top portion of the liquid pump mechanism is rotated on the cooler lid to a non-operation position. Generally, the rotational slots are designed to enable the top portion of the liquid pump mechanism to be rotated on the cooler lid between and operation position and a non-operation position, and to also limit the movement of the top portion of the liquid pump mechanism so that the dispenser tab can enter and exit the dispenser tab cavity and limiting or preventing damage to the dispenser tab when the dispenser tab enters and exits the dispenser tab cavity. When the dispenser tab is positioned in the dispenser tab cavity, the dispenser tab cavity can inhibit or prevent damage to the dispenser tab during the movement of the cooler and/or non-use of the liquid pump mechanism. The size and shape of the dispenser tab cavity is non-limiting.

(48) Referring now to FIG. 9, there is illustrated one non-limiting embodiment of a liquid pump mechanism 400 in accordance with the present invention. The liquid pump mechanism is designed to dispense liquid, not shown, from the cooler body 200 of cooler 100 into a glass, cup, container or the like. A variety of liquids can be dispensed by the liquid pump mechanism. Most liquids consumed by humans (e.g., water, fruit juice, vegetable juice, milk, soda, energy drinks, protein drinks, tea, coffee, etc.) can be dispensed by the liquid pump mechanism. The liquid pump mechanism of the present invention enables a user to create a fountain type dispenser from a cooler to enable convenient dispensing of liquid from the cooler without having to lift or tilt the cooler and then dispense liquid from the cooler.

(49) The liquid pump mechanism 400 includes a top portion 410, an elongated body 440 and a bottom portion 460. The materials and/or colors of the components of the liquid pump mechanism are non-limiting.

(50) As illustrated in FIGS. 15 and 16, the bottom portion 460 of the liquid has a generally cylindrical shape body 462 which has upper and lower tapered ends 464, 466; however, it can be appreciated that the bottom portion can have many other shapes. The bottom portion is generally formed of a plastic material; however, other or additional materials can be used to form all or a portion of the bottom portion. The length of the bottom portion is non-limiting. In one non-limiting design, the bottom portion has a length of about 0.5-8 inches, typically about 1-6 inches, and more typically about 1-4 inches. The cross-section size and shape of the bottom portion is also non-limiting. In one non-limiting design, when the bottom portion has a circular cross-section shape, the diameter is about 0.25-3 inches, typically about 0.5-2 inches, and more typically about 0.5-1.5 inches. The cross-sectional size and/or shape of the bottom portion can be constant or vary along the longitudinal length or central axis of the bottom portion.

(51) As best illustrated in FIGS. 14-16, the bottom end 468 of the bottom portion 460 includes an opening 470. As can be appreciated, the bottom portion can include more than one opening; however, this is not required. As can also be appreciated, the opening can be located in other or additional locations on the bottom portion; however, this is not required. The opening 470 is designed to enable liquid (not shown) in the body of the cooler to be drawn to the interior 472 of the bottom portion. The bottom portion is illustrated as including a centrally located circular opening in the bottom end; however, it can be appreciated that 1) the opening can have shapes other than a circular shape, 2) the opening does not have to be in the center of the bottom end, 3) the bottom portion can include more than one opening, 4) one or more openings can be positioned on the side of the bottom portion, and/or 5) an opening does not need to be positioned at the bottom end of the bottom portion. One or more base ribs 474 can be optionally connected to or formed on the bottom end of the bottom portion. The base ribs can be used to elevate the bottom end from a bottom surface of a container when the bottom portion is placed into a container. The spacing of the bottom end 168 from the bottom of a container facilitates in preventing the opening 470 from forming a seal with the bottom surface of the container and thereby inhibiting or preventing liquid in the container from being drawn through the opening 470 and into the interior 472 of the bottom portion. As illustrated in FIG. 16, four ribs 474 are positioned on the bottom end 468 of the bottom portion. As can be appreciated, when ribs are used, more than four or less than four ribs can be used. The shape of the ribs, when used, is non-limiting.

(52) Positioned in the interior 472 of the body 462 of the bottom portion 460 is an electric pump 480. The electric pump is designed to rotate a blade 482 which causes liquid in the cooler body to be drawn through opening 470 and into the interior 472 of bottom portion 460 as illustrated by the arrows in FIG. 15. A rotatable shaft 484 is connected between the electric pump and the blade. A sealing ring 486 can be used to form a liquid seal to inhibit or prevent liquid from contacting the electric pump and/or entering the interior of the electric pump. The electric pump in the bottom portion of the liquid pump mechanism is generally partially or fully sealed from the liquid that enters the interior of the bottom portion of the liquid pump mechanism; however, this is not required. The sealing of the electric pump has one or more advantages, namely 1) the electric pump is not damaged by the liquid, and/or 2) the liquid is not contaminated by the electric pump. The blade 482 includes a plurality of fins 483. As illustrated in FIG. 17, the blades can have an arcuate shape to facilitate in drawing liquid into the bottom portion when the electric pump rotates the blade. An electric pump mount chamber or brackets 488 can be used to mount the electric pump in the interior 472 of the bottom portion. As can be appreciated, more than one electric pump can be used to rotate one or more blades. As can also be appreciated, all or a portion of the electric pump can also or alternatively be positioned in the top portion and/or elongated body of the liquid pump mechanism. It has been found that by placing the electric pump fully or partially in the bottom portion of the liquid pump mechanism, the sound generated by the operation of the electric pump is significantly muffled, especially when the bottom portion is partially or fully immersed in liquid in a container. Furthermore, by placing the electric pump in the bottom portion, a smaller profile for the top portion can be obtained.

(53) A top opening 490 is positioned at or near the upper tapered end 464 of the bottom portion. As illustrated in FIG. 15, a connection flange 492 extends upwardly from tapered end 464 and terminates at top opening 490. The lower end 442 of elongated body 440 is illustrated as being fitted about connection flange 492 to form a connection between the elongated body 440 and the bottom portion 160. As illustrated by the arrows in FIG. 15, when the electric pump 480 rotates blade 482, liquid in the cooler body is drawn into the interior 472 of the bottom portion via opening 470, and then flows upwardly through the interior and out of the bottom portion via top opening 490 and into the inner passageway 444 of the elongated body. As can be appreciated, the bottom portion can include more than one top opening. As can also be appreciated, the size and/or shape of the one or more top openings are non-limiting. Furthermore, the location of the one or more top openings on the bottom portion is non-limiting.

(54) Generally, the lower end of the elongated body 440 is irremovably connected to the bottom portion 460; however this is not required. The elongated body is illustrated as having a generally cylindrical shape; however, the elongated body can have other or additional shapes. The cross-section shape and size of the elongated body is illustrated as being generally uniform along most of the longitudinal length of the elongated body; however, it can be appreciated that the cross-section shape and/or size of the elongated body can vary along the longitudinal length of the elongated body. The length of the elongated body is non-limiting. In one non-limiting design, the elongated body has a length of about 2-50 inches, and typically about 5-30 inches. The cross-section size of the elongated body is also non-limiting. In one non-limiting design, when the elongated body has a circular cross-section shape, the diameter is about 0.25-3 inches, and typically about 0.5-2 inches. One or more portions of the elongated body can be designed to be flexible and/or be formed of a flexible material; however, this is not required. When the elongated body is designed to be partially or fully flexible, such a design allows the elongated body to be more conveniently positioned in different shaped and sized containers. In one non-limiting design, the elongated body is formed of a flexible tubular material. The tubular material can be clear, partially clear, or colored or coated to partially or fully prevent viewing of the interior of the elongated body. Generally, the elongated body is a single, flexible piece of material; however, this is not required.

(55) As mentioned above, the interior of the elongated body includes one or more passageways 444 to enable liquid to flow from the lower end of the elongated body to the upper end 446 of the elongated body 440. The lower end 442 is illustrated as being stretched about connection flange 492 on the bottom portion. An adhesive can also be used to secure the elongated body to the bottom portion; however, this is not required. The outer surface of the connection flange 492 can include one or more connection ribs 493 to facilitate in maintaining the connection between the elongated body and the bottom portion; however, this is not required. As can be appreciated, other or additional arrangements can be used to form a connection between the bottom portion and the elongated portion. Generally, the connection between the bottom portion and the elongated body forms a liquid-proof seal; however, this is not required.

(56) The elongated body can include one or more inner passageways. The inner passageway 444 of the elongated body can include one or more electric wires 500, 502; however, this is not required. The electric wires can be coated with an insulating and/or protective material 504, 506; however, this is not required. When the power supply for the electric pump is partially or fully positioned in the top portion 410 and/or elongated body 440, one or more electric wires are typically positioned in one or more portions of the inner passageway of the elongated body so as to electrically connect the electric pump to the power supply. When one or more electric wires are positioned in the inner passageway of the elongated body, the one or more electric wires can be isolated from the liquid in the inner passageways; however, this is not required. The isolation of the one or more electric wires has one or more advantages, namely 1) the one or more electric wires are not damaged by the liquid, and/or 2) the liquid is not contaminated by the one or more electric wires. The isolation of the one or more wires, when used, can be achieved in several ways such as, but not limited to, 1) creating a separate passageway in the interior of the elongated body for the one or more electric wires which separate passageway is not in fluid communication with the one or more passageways for the liquid, 2) encasing the one or more electric wires in a tubing or other type of material, which tubing or material, and/or 3) coating the one or more electric wires with a coating (e.g., plastic coating, etc.). As illustrated in FIG. 18, the electric wires 500, 502 are coated with a protective/insulative coating 504, 506 and are also positioned in the inner cavity of protective tube 600. The lower end 604 of the protective tube 600 is illustrated as being connected to the top of electric pump 480. Generally, a liquid seal is formed between the lower end of the protective tube and the electric pump; however, this is not required. The top end of the protective tube is designed to be connected to the top portion 410 of the electric pump. Generally, a liquid seal is formed between the top end of the protective tube and the top portion; however, this is not required. In such an arrangement, the protective tube extends partially or fully along the length of the elongated body. In the non-limiting arrangement illustrated in FIGS. 15 and 18, the electric wires are positioned in the protective tube so as to isolate the electric wires from any liquid that flows in the inner passageway of the elongated body. The lower end of the protective tube is connected to the electric pump so that liquid flowing from the bottom portion into the elongated body does not enter the tube and/or contact the one or more electric wires. Likewise, the upper end of the protective tube is connected to the top portion of the electric pump so that liquid flowing in the elongated body into the top portion of the liquid pump mechanism does not enter the protective tube and/or contact the electric wires. The protective tube is generally formed of a flexible material; however, this is not required. The electric wires are also generally flexible; however, this is not required.

(57) Referring now to FIGS. 8-13, the top portion 410 of the liquid pump mechanism 400 includes a dispenser head 414 and a dispenser tab 420. As indicated by the arrow in FIG. 13, the dispenser tab 420 is designed to be slidably connected to the dispenser head 414. The dispenser tab is designed to slide in a rearward and forward direction as illustrated by the arrow in FIG. 13. The dispenser tab is designed to be depressed by a user or a cup or container to move the dispenser tab rearwardly to an actuation position to cause the actuation of the electric pump, which in turn causes liquid to flow into the bottom portion, through elongated body, into the body of top portion and out of dispenser opening 416 of dispenser head 414. The dispenser tab is generally biased in a forward position or non-activation position by a biasing arrangement, such as a spring 415 or the like; however, this is not required. When the dispenser tab is in the non-activation position, the electric pump is not actuated by the power supply. As can be appreciated, many other arrangements can be used to enable a user to cause liquid to be dispensed from the dispenser opening of dispenser head (e.g., switch, knob, button on top portion, motion sensor, touch sensor, etc.). The depression of the dispenser tab can be accomplished in at least two ways. The first method is by the user placing a glass, cup or other type of container under the dispenser opening of dispenser head and then manually pressing the dispenser tab. The top section 421 includes a curved surface that is designed to be conveniently depressed by the finger of a user. The top section can optionally include ribbed portions 423 or a non-smooth surface to facilitate in the user gripping and pushing the dispenser tab as the dispenser tab is moved rearwardly to the activation position. The second method is by positioning a cup or container below the dispenser opening and then pushing or pressing a portion of the cup or container against the bottom section 425 of the dispenser tab to move the dispenser tab rearwardly to the activation position. The bottom section can optionally include ribbed portions 427 or a non-smooth surface to facilitate in the cup or container gripping the dispenser tab as the dispenser tab is moved rearwardly to the activation position. The size and configuration of the top and bottom sections of the dispenser tab is non-limiting. Generally, the two sections have a different shape and the bottom section is larger than the top section as illustrated in FIG. 13; however, this is not required. The front face of the bottom section is generally 70-100° to bottom surface of the dispenser opening, and more particularly about 90° to the bottom surface of the dispenser opening; however, this is not required.

(58) As illustrated in FIG. 13, when the rear face 429 of the dispenser tab is moved a sufficient rearward distance, the rear face contacts an activation switch 431 which causes the electric pump to activate. Once a cup or container is removed from the bottom section of the dispenser tab and/or a user removes his/her finger from the top section of the dispenser tab, the spring 415 causes the dispenser tab to move forward thereby causing the rear face to move off the switch 431, which causes the electric pump to deactivate. As can be appreciated, may other arrangements can be used to activate and deactivate the electric pump.

(59) The body 412 of the top portion 410 of the liquid pump mechanism 400 has a generally oval or circular cross-sectional shape; however, it will be appreciated that the body can have many different shapes and/or sizes. The maximum cross-sectional size of the body is generally selected so that the body properly fits in the recessed pump cavity of the cooler lid and larger than in the pump opening in the recessed pump cavity. Such a design can be used to prevent the top portion from inadvertently falling inside the cooler. However, with respect to the bottom portion and the elongated body, the maximum cross sectional size is generally selected so that the bottom portion and the elongated portion can fit through the pump opening in the recessed pump cavity.

(60) The dispenser head 414 is illustrated as being positioned on the top surface of body 412; however, it will be appreciated that the dispenser head can be positioned on other or additional regions of the body of the top portion. Likewise, dispenser tab 420 is illustrated as being positioned on the dispenser head; however, it will be appreciated that the dispenser tab 420 can be positioned on other or additional regions of the top portion 410. As can further be appreciated, the size and/or shape of the dispenser head and the dispenser tab is non-limiting. The dispenser tab, body of the top portion, and/or the dispenser head can include a safety feature (e.g., tab lock, deactivation switch, dispenser head lock and unlock position, etc.) to prevent inadvertent actuation of the electric pump by a user; however this is not required.

(61) The dispenser head includes a fluid channel 417 that is positioned between and fluidly connected to the dispenser opening 416 and central channel 419. The shape and size of fluid channel 417, dispenser opening 416 and central channel 419 is non-limiting. Fluid channel 417 is generally angled upwardly between the point of connection to the central channel and the fluid channel. The upward angle of the fluid channel can be at a constant slope; however, this is not required. The upward angle is generally at about 1-10°, typically 2-7°, and more typically about 2-5°; however, other angles can be used. As illustrated in FIG. 13, the upward angle of the fluid channel is at a constant slope along the majority or fully length of the fluid channel; however, this is not required. As a result of this design, the elevation of the dispenser opening is greater than the lower point of connection 419A of the fluid channel to the central channel. As such, when the liquid pump mechanism is connected to the cooler lid and the cooler lid is connected to the cooler body, and the bottom of the cooler body is resting on a flat surface, the elevation of the dispenser opening is greater than the lower point of connection of the fluid channel to the central channel, there causing liquid in the fluid channel to flow back to the central channel when the electric pump is deactivated so that little of no liquid drips from the dispenser opening during the deactivation of the electric pump.

(62) As illustrated in FIG. 13, the base 433 of the central channel 419 is connected to upper end 446 of the elongated body 440. An adhesive can be used to secure the elongated body to the central channel; however, this is not required. The inner surface of the base of the central channel can include one or more connection ribs to facilitate in maintaining the connection between the elongated body and the central channel; however, this is not required. As can be appreciated, other or additional arrangements can be used to form a connection between the central channel and the elongated portion. Generally, the connection between the central channel and the elongated body forms a liquid proof seal; however, this is not required.

(63) As illustrated in FIGS. 11 and 13, the bottom surface 435 of body 412 of the top portion includes a battery cover 430 that is removable to enable a user to access the battery cavity 432 in the body of the top portion. The top portion can include one or more battery cavities. Positionable in the battery cavity is a power supply that is typically in the form of one or more batteries. The power supply is designed to supply electrical power to the electric pump when the dispenser tab is moved rearwardly to the actuation position. As can also be appreciated, the orientation of the one or more batteries in the battery cavity and the top portion is non-limiting. As can also be appreciated, the type of batteries used to power the electric pump is non-limiting. The battery cavities generally include electric connectors that are in turn directly or indirectly connected to wires 500, 502. The battery cover 430 can be connected to the bottom of the top portion by one or more screws 437; however, other or additional connection arrangements can be used.

(64) The top portion 410 of the liquid pump mechanism is designed to be rotatably connected to the cooler lid; however, this is not required. As illustrated in FIG. 13, a connection flange 439 that extends downwardly from the bottom surface 435 that is designed to be inserted into the pump opening 340 in the cooler lid. Generally, the cross-sectional shape of the connection flange is circular; however, this is not required. The length, size and shape of the connection flange are non-limiting. Generally, the cross-sectional shape of the connection flange is the same as the cross-sectional shape of the pump opening. The outer surface of the connection flange and/or the inner surface of the pump opening can include one or more engage arrangements (e.g., ribs, slots, etc.) to facilitate is connecting the connection flange in the pump opening; however, this is not required. Generally, the connection flanges enables the liquid pump mechanism to be connected and disconnected from the cooler lid; however, this is not required. The disconnecting of the liquid pump mechanism from the cooler lid can be used to facilitate in the cleaning of the component of the cooler, enable batteries to be replaced in the liquid pump mechanism, etc. The top portion of the liquid pump mechanism can be designed to be friction/compression fitted, snap fitted, twist fitted, etc. to the cooler lid; however, other or additional connection arrangements can be used.

(65) The bottom surface 435 of the top portion can also include one or more positioning tabs 441. As illustrated in FIG. 11, the bottom surface includes two positioning tabs. The positioning tabs are designed to fit into rotational slots 350, 352 on the cooler lid. The position tabs in combination with rotational slots control or limit the amount of rotation of the top portion of the liquid pump mechanism on the cooler lid. As illustrated in FIGS. 1-3, the top portion of the liquid pump mechanism is positioned in the activation or operational position. As mentioned above, in this position, liquid in the cooler body can be dispensed from the dispenser opening on the top portion of the liquid pump mechanism by moving the dispenser tab rearwardly to the activation position. As illustrated by the arrow in FIG. 1, the top portion of the liquid pump mechanism can be rotated counter-clockwise to cause the dispenser tab to move into the dispenser tab cavity 360 as illustrated in FIGS. 4-5. As mentioned above, the design of the dispenser tab cavity enables the dispenser tab to move into the dispenser tab cavity, but also inhibits or prevents the rearward movement of the dispenser tab while in the dispenser tab cavity, thereby inhibiting or preventing activation of the liquid pump mechanism. When the liquid pump mechanism is to be used again, the top portion of the liquid pump mechanism is rotated in the clockwise direction as indicated by the arrow in FIG. 5 until the dispenser tab exits the dispenser tab cavity. During the clockwise and counterclockwise rotation of the top portion of the liquid pump mechanism, the positioning tabs on the top portion and the rotational slots in the cooler lid control and limit the amount to which the top portion of the liquid pump mechanism can rotated in the clockwise and counterclockwise directions. As can be appreciated, the cooler lid and liquid pump mechanism can be designed such that the top portion of the liquid pump mechanism is rotated in the clockwise direction to cause the dispenser tab to move into the dispenser tab cavity.

(66) As can be appreciated, the cooler lid can be designed for use with two or more liquid pump mechanism; however, this is not required. In such an arrangement, the cooler lid would include a plurality of the structures discussed above to enable two or more liquid pump mechanism to be simultaneously used on the cooler as described above with regard to the single liquid pump mechanism.

(67) The cooler of the present invention has the advantage over the standard dispensers on cooler in that 1) the dispensing arrangement of the present invention can dispense liquids in the cooler even when the liquid level in the cooler is low without having to tip the cooler, 2) the dispensing arrangement provides for more convenient dispensing of liquid from the cooler to a user, and/or 3) the dispensing arrangement can reduce damage to the dispenser during the transport and/or storage of the cooler. As can be appreciated, the cooler lid and/or liquid pump mechanism can be offered or sold separately from any standard cooler. In such a situation, the cooler lid to the standard cooler is merely substituted for the cooler lid and/or liquid pump mechanism. As can be appreciated, the cooler lid and liquid pump mechanism of the present invention can be used on other coolers that can be used with a similar sized top portion or lid. As such, the liquid pump mechanism arrangement can be designed to be used with different coolers that can accommodate the lid that includes the liquid pump mechanism.

(68) As mention above, the ability to swivel the top portion of the liquid pump mechanism has the advantage of moving at least a portion of the dispenser head into the interior region of the cooler lid so as to reduce or prevent damage to the dispenser head when the cooler is being transported or not in use. The swiveling of the top portion can also be used to activate/deactivate the liquid pump mechanism; however, this is not required. The swiveling of the top portion can also be used to stop or limit flow of flow through the liquid pump mechanism; however, this is not required.

(69) Referring now to FIGS. 19-26, the liquid pump can be used to dispense detergent and/or other types of cleaning solutions. In one non-limiting embodiment, the liquid pump is designed to easily and effectively dispenses detergent and/or softener from the detergent and/or softener container without having the user lift or tilt the container. Non-limiting liquid pumps in accordance with the present invention are illustrated in FIGS. 19-26. The liquid pump can be designed to easily and simply fit onto the top opening of a detergent and/or softener container, and then the liquid pump can be activated by a user to dispense and aerate the liquid detergent and/or softener from the detergent and/or softener container without having to lift and pour the liquid detergent and/or softener from the container. The liquid pump is of particular use with dispensing liquid detergents and/or softeners; however, it will be appreciated that the liquid pump of the present invention can be used to dispense other types of liquids (e.g., bleach, ammonia, other types of liquid cleaning and/or disinfecting products, etc.).

(70) The shape, size and materials used for the liquid pump of the present invention is non-limiting. Generally, the liquid pump of the present invention will have a low profile configuration when inserted onto a detergent and/or softener container; however, this is not required. The liquid pump includes a tubular insert that is designed to be inserted into the detergent and/or softener container and to draw the detergent and/or softener out of the container. The tubular insert can be designed to be removable from the body of the liquid pump; however, this is not required.

(71) The body of the liquid pump includes a connecting/sealing arrangement that is designed to secure the liquid pump to the top opening of the detergent and/or softener out of the container. As can be appreciated, the sealing arrangement can have a variety of configurations and be formed of a variety of materials. One non-limiting arrangement is a threaded connection that is twisted onto the threaded rim of the detergent and/or softener of the container.

(72) The body of the liquid pump includes one or more pumps and a pump actuator. The pump is designed to cause the detergent and/or softener in the detergent and/or softener container to flow into the tubular insert and then be dispensed from the detergent and/or softener container. The pump can be designed to 1) direct air into the detergent and/or softener container to pressurize the detergent and/or softener container and cause the detergent and/or softener in the detergent and/or softener container to flow into the bottom opening of the tubular insert and up through and out of the liquid pump dispenser opening or hose opening, 2) direct air into a tubular insert and/or a fluid passageway connected to the tubular insert so as to cause a pressure drop within the lower portion of the tubular insert that results in the detergent and/or softener being drawn into the bottom opening of the tubular insert and up through and out of the liquid pump dispenser opening or hose opening, and/or 3) use one or more rotary blades to draw the detergent and/or softener into the bottom opening of the tubular insert and up through and out of the liquid pump dispenser opening or hose opening. As can be appreciated, other or additional arrangements can be used to cause the detergent and/or softener to be dispensed from the detergent and/or softener container by the liquid pump. The body of the liquid pump can include one or more actuators designed to activate/deactivate the one or more pumps in the liquid pump. The actuator can be in many different forms and be in many different locations on the liquid pump. One non-limiting form is a push button that is located on the top of the dispensement head that is attached to a hose as illustrated in FIGS. 19-26. As can be appreciated, many other arrangements can be used to actuate the one or more pumps in the liquid pump (e.g., switch, etc.). As can be appreciated, the push button can be located on the body of the liquid pump. When the push button is depressed, the button activates the one or more pumps and causes the detergent and/or softener to be dispensed from the detergent and/or softener container.

(73) The body of the liquid pump can include one or more power compartments that are used to hold one or more power cells (e.g., batteries, etc.) to power the one or more pumps; however, this is not required. The batteries, when used, can be designed to be replaceable and/or rechargeable; however, this is not required. As can be appreciated, the one or more pumps can be also or alternatively be powered by other means (e.g., solar cells, electric poser cord, etc.).

(74) The liquid pump can include a dispensing hose as illustrated in FIGS. 19-26 that enables a user to easily and conveniently direct the dispensed detergent and/or softener only a desired location (e.g., into a washer, onto a laundry item, etc.); however, this is not required. The actuator can be used to control the amount of detergent and/or softener that is dispensed from the detergent and/or softener container. The use of the dispensing hose is optional. The length of the dispensing hose is non-limiting. Generally, the dispensing hose is flexible; however, this is not required.

(75) The liquid pump can also be designed to not include a dispensing hose as illustrated in FIGS. 19-26. The dispensing opening is illustrated as being positioned on the body of the liquid pump. An actuation lever is also positioned on the body of the liquid pump and is used to activate the one or more pumps and cause the detergent and/or softener to be dispensed from the detergent and/or softener container. As can be appreciated, other types of actuation arrangements (e.g., button, switch, etc.) can be used to activate the one or more pumps of the liquid pump.

(76) FIGS. 19-26 illustrate one non-limiting embodiment of the liquid pump mechanism 100 in accordance with the present invention. Liquid pump mechanism 100 is designed to dispense fluid (not shown) from a container into a glass, cup, dishwasher, washing machine, sink, or the like. The type of container with which the liquid pump mechanism can be used is non-limiting. The liquid pump mechanism is particularly designed to pump detergents or fabric softener from a container; however, the liquid pump mechanism can be used to dispense other types of liquids. Detergents (e.g., washing machine detergent, dishwasher detergent, etc.) and fabric softeners generally have a higher viscosity than liquids such as water, milk, soft drinks, fruit juices, glass cleaners, ammonia, etc. Liquids such as water, milk, soft drinks, fruit juices, glass cleaners, ammonia and the like generally have a viscosity of about 0.9-1.1 centipoise at 20° C. The viscosity of detergents is generally at least about 3-200 centipoise at 20° C., and typically about 5-175 centipoise at 20° C., and more typically about 10-130 centipoise at 20° C. Prior art liquid pump mechanisms that are designed to pump lower viscous liquids cannot be used to pump higher viscous liquids such as detergents and fabric softeners. The liquid pump mechanism of the present invention is specifically designed to pump higher viscous liquids such as detergents and fabric softeners at an average rate of about 0.05-20 ounces per second, typically about 0.1-10 ounces per second, more typically about 0.1-10 ounces per second, and still more typically about 0.2-5 ounces per second.

(77) The liquid pump mechanism of the present invention enables a user to create a dispenser for a variety of detergent and/or fabric softener containers so as to enable convenient dispensing of detergent and/or fabric softener from containers without having to lift and then pour a liquid from the container.

(78) The liquid pump mechanism 100 includes a top portion 110 and a bottom portion 200. The materials and/or colors of the components of the liquid pump mechanism are non-limiting.

(79) The bottom portion 200 of the liquid pump mechanism has a generally cylindrical shape body 210; however, it can be appreciated that the bottom portion can have many other shapes. The bottom portion is generally formed of a plastic material; however, other or additional materials can be used to form all or a portion of the bottom portion. The length of the bottom portion is non-limiting. In one non-limiting design, the bottom portion has a length of about 0.5-20 inches, typically about 1-18 inches, and more typically about 3-15 inches; however, other lengths can be used. The cross-section size and shape of the bottom portion is also non-limiting. In one non-limiting design, when the bottom portion has a circular cross-section shape, the diameter is about 0.15-1 inches, typically about 0.2-0.5 inches, and more typically about 0.25-0.4 inches; however, other diameters can be used. The cross-sectional size and/or shape of the bottom portion can be constant or vary along the longitudinal length or central axis of the bottom portion.

(80) The bottom end of the bottom portion 200 includes an opening (not shown). As can be appreciated, the bottom portion can include more than one opening; however, this is not required. As can also be appreciated, the opening can be located in other or additional locations on the bottom portion; however, this is not required. The opening is designed to enable fluid (not shown) in a container to flow to the interior of the bottom portion. The bottom portion generally includes a centrally located circular opening in the bottom end; however, it can be appreciated that 1) the opening can have shapes other than a circular shape, 2) the opening does not have to be in the center of the bottom end, 3) the bottom portion can include more than one opening, and/or 4) one or more openings can be positioned on the side of the bottom portion. The bottom end of the bottom portion is generally spaced from the bottom of a container to facilitate in preventing the opening from forming a seal with the bottom surface of the container and thereby inhibiting or preventing fluid in the container from flowing into the opening and into the interior of the bottom portion.

(81) One or more portions of the bottom portion 200 can be designed to be flexible and/or be formed of a flexible material; however, this is not required. When the bottom portion is designed to be partially or fully flexible, such a design allows the bottom body to be more conveniently positioned in different shaped and sized containers. In one non-limiting design, the bottom portion is formed of a flexible tubular material. The tubular material can be clear, partially clear, or colored or coated to partially or fully prevent viewing of the interior 212 of the bottom body. The top end 220 of the bottom portion is designed to be connected to a connection flange 124 that extends downwardly from the top surface 122 of the connection cavity 120 of the top portion. The connection flange can optionally include a rib 126 to facilitate in the connection of the bottom portion to the connection flange. Generally, a liquid seal is formed between the top end of the bottom portion and the connection flange; however, this is not required.

(82) Referring now to FIGS. 25 and 26, the top portion can be designed to connect to different types of container. FIG. 25 illustrates a connection adaptor 140 connected inside of connection cavity 120. FIG. 26 illustrates the connection cavity that is absent the connection adaptor. The use of the connection adapter is optional. Referring now to FIG. 26, the connection cavity 120 includes a plurality of connection arrangement to enable the connection cavity 120 to be connected to a plurality of different sized openings on a container. The connection cavity includes a first threaded surface 132 and a second threaded surface 136. The first threaded surface 132 is located on the inner surface of the outer flange 130, and the second threaded surface 136 is located on the inner surface of inner flange 134. The diameter of the outer flange is greater than the diameter of the inner flange. As such, the first threaded surface 132 is designed to be threaded onto and connected to a larger diameter opening than the second threaded surface 136. When the first threaded surface 132 is threaded onto the corresponding outer threaded surface of a container opening, the lip of the container opening is positioned between first threaded surface 132 and the outer surface of the inner flange 134. When the second threaded surface 136 is threaded onto the corresponding outer threaded surface of a container opening, the lip of the container opening is positioned between second threaded surface 136 and the outer surface of the third flange 138.

(83) When the adapter connector is used, the adaptor connector can be designed to be threaded to the first and/or second threaded surface 132, 136. As illustrated in FIG. 25, the adaptor connector 140 is threaded to the first threaded surface 132. The upper portion 142 of the adaptor connector 140 includes a threaded surface 144 on the outer surface of the upper portion that is designed to be threaded onto the first threaded surface 132. The adapter connector can optionally include a stop flange 146 to limit the distance that the adaptor connector 140 can be threaded into the connection cavity 120. The lower portion 148 of the adaptor connector includes a threaded surface 149 on the outer surface of the lower portion. As can be appreciated, the inner surface can also or alternatively include a threaded surface; however, this is not required. The diameter of the lower portion is less than the diameter of the upper portion. The positioning of the threads on the outer surface of the lower portion enables the lower portion of the adaptor connector to connect to containers having threads on the inner surface of the container opening.

(84) Positioned in the interior of the top portion 110 of the liquid pump mechanism is motor chamber 150 that includes one or more electric pumps 152. The electric pump generally includes an electric motor that is designed to drive an air pump to cause air to be pumped into a container to which the liquid pump mechanism is attached. Generally, the electric motor drives a piston of the air pump, which in turn causes air to be pumped into a fluid tube 160. Generally, the fluid tube is connected at one end to the air pump and the other end is fluidly connected to the connection cavity 120 so that air from the air pump can flow into the connection cavity. As can be appreciated, other arrangements can be used to enable the air to flow from the air pump to the connection cavity. A valve can be included in the electric pump 152 to inhibit or prevent liquid from flowing into the air pump; however, this is not required. The air that is pumped into the top of the container causes the pressure in the container to increase, and thereby cause the fluid in the container to flow into the bottom opening of the bottom portion of the liquid pump mechanism and into the top portion of the liquid pump mechanism. The electric motor in the top portion of the liquid pump mechanism is generally partially or fully sealed from the fluid that enters the top portion from the bottom portion; however, this is not required. The sealing of the motor has one or more advantages, namely 1) the electric motor is not damaged by the fluid, and/or 2) the fluid is not contaminated by the motor.

(85) The body 112 of the top portion includes a battery cover 170 that is movable to enable a user to access the battery cavity 177 in the body of the top portion. One or more battery cavities can be located in the top portion. The one or more battery cavities are designed to contain one or more batteries 176. The power supply is designed to supply electrical power to the electric motor when the dispensing tab is actuated by a user. As can also be appreciated, the orientation of the one or more batteries in the battery cavity and the top portion is non-limiting. As can also be appreciated, the type of batteries used to power the electric motor is non-limiting. The battery cover 170 can be designed to be fully removable from body 112; however, this is not required. The outer surface of the battery cover 170 can optionally include one or more ribs 172 or other type of gripping structures to facilitate in the moving of the battery cover on the body so that a user can access the battery cavity; however, this is not required. The top of the battery cover also includes an optional arrow that functions as a visual indicator to inform a user how to open the battery cover; however, this is not required. The battery cover can optionally include one or more connection tabs that can be used to connect the battery cover to the body; however, this is not required. The body of the top portion can optionally include one or more connection tabs 176 that are designed to releasably secure the battery cover to body 112.

(86) The top portion 110 of the liquid pump mechanism 100 includes a dispenser head 180 that includes a dispensing button 182. The dispensing button 182 is generally designed to be depressible. The dispensing button is located at the front portion of the top portion; however, it can be appreciated that the dispensing button can be located in other regions of the top portion. The dispensing button is designed to be pushed downwardly; however, this is not required. The dispensing button can optionally include a recessed region 184 that visually or tactilely identifies the location on the dispensing button to be depressed by a user's finger. The depression of the dispensing button causes the dispensing button to move to the actuation position which is designed to cause the actuation of the electric motor. The dispensing button is optionally biased in the deactuation position by a spring 186 or some other biasing arrangement. As can be appreciated, many other arrangements can be used to enable a user to cause fluid to be dispensed from the dispenser opening of the dispenser head (e.g., switch, knob, button on top portion, motion sensor, touch sensor, etc.).

(87) The dispenser head 180 can optionally include a liquid valve 190 that controls the fluid flow through dispenser opening 192. When the dispensing button is moved to the actuation position, the liquid valve, when used, is caused to move downwardly to thereby unseal the dispenser opening 192 to thereby allow fluid that is flowing through dispenser channel 194 and include dispenser cavity 197 to flow out through dispenser opening 192. When the dispensing button is released by the user, the dispensing button is biased by spring 186 back to the deactuation position, thereby causing the liquid valve to move upwardly to reseal the dispenser opening 192 to terminate the flow of liquid from the dispenser opening.

(88) As illustrated in FIGS. 25 and 26, liquid that flows upwardly through the bottom portion is directed into dispenser channel 194 that directs the fluid to the dispenser cavity 197. The dispenser channel 194 can be in the form of a tube or formed channel in the interior of the top portion; however, this is not required. When the dispenser channel 194 is in the form of a tube, the bottom end of the tube is designed to connect to a connection flange 178 that extends upwardly from the base of the top portion. The connection flange can optionally include a rib 179 to facilitate in the connection of the bottom end of the dispenser channel 194 to the connection flange. Generally, a liquid seal is formed between the bottom end of the dispenser channel and the connection flange 178; however, this is not required. The top end of the tube is designed to connect to a connection flange 195 that extends outwardly from the dispenser cavity 197. The connection flange can optionally include a rib 196 to facilitate in the connection of the top end of the dispenser channel 194 to the connection flange. Generally, a liquid seal is formed between the top end of the dispenser channel and the connection flange 195; however, this is not required.

(89) As illustrated in FIGS. 25 and 26, the dispenser opening is oriented on the top portion so as to direct the dispensed liquid downwardly from the top portion; however, this is not required. Generally, the liquid is dispensed downwardly at a direction that is generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the fluid pump, which longitudinal axis is also generally parallel to or the same as the longitudinal axis of the bottom portion. When the dispenser button is depressed to cause actuation of the electric pump, which causes liquid in the container to flow from the dispenser opening, a user can optionally place a container and/or measuring cup under the dispenser opening to measure or obtain a desired amount of detergent and/or fabric softener from the container, and/or the user can position the container over a washing machine opening or dishwasher door and dispense the detergent and/or fabric softener directly into the washing machine or dishwasher.

(90) The body of the top portion 110 of the liquid pump mechanism has a maximum cross-sectional size that is generally selected so that the body cannot be inserted through the opening of a container; however, this is not required. Such a design can be used to prevent the top portion from inadvertently falling inside the container. Most containers that are used to hold detergents or fabric softeners have openings that are between about 0.5-3 inches. Generally, the maximum cross-sectional size of the body is selected so that the body of the top portion cannot be inserted through an opening of a container having a diameter of less than 5 inches, typically less than 4 inches, more typically less than 3 inches, and even more typically less than about 2.5 inches. However, with respect to the bottom portion, the maximum cross sectional size is generally selected so that the bottom portion can fit through an opening in a container. Generally, the maximum cross-sectional size of the bottom portion is selected so that the bottom portion can be fully inserted through an opening of a container having a diameter of less than 5 inches, typically less than 4 inches, more typically less than 3 inches, even more typically less than about 2.5 inches, still even more typically less than about 1.5 inches, yet still even more typically less than about 1 inch, and still even more typically less than about 0.75 inch.

(91) The top portion can be rotatably connected to the container; however, this is not required. The dispensing button can include a safety feature (e.g., tab lock, deactivation switch, etc.) to prevent inadvertent actuation of the electric pump by a user; however this is not required.

(92) As illustrated in FIGS. 19 and 20, the body 112 of the top portion can optionally include one or more recess side portions 113 that can be used by the user to facilitate in the gripping of the top portion during the actuation of the liquid pump mechanism.

(93) The liquid pump mechanism of the present invention is designed to easily and effectively dispense detergent and/or softener from the detergent and/or softener container without having the user lift or tilt the container. The liquid pump mechanism can be designed to easily and simply fit onto the top opening of a detergent and/or softener container, and then the liquid pump mechanism can be activated by a user to dispense the liquid detergent and/or softener from the detergent and/or softener container without having to lift and pour the liquid detergent and/or softener from the container. The liquid pump mechanism is of particular use with dispensing liquid detergents and/or softeners; however, it will be appreciated that the liquid pump mechanism of the present invention can be used to dispense other types of liquids (e.g., bleach, other types of liquid cleaning and/or disinfecting products, etc.).

(94) The liquid pump mechanism can be pre-connected to the container at the time of purchase of the liquid detergent and/or softener container, and/or the liquid pump mechanism can be a reusable device that is connected to a standard container and then removed from the container after the container is emptied and then connected to a new container.

(95) The shape, size and materials used for the liquid pump mechanism of the present invention are non-limiting. Generally, the liquid pump mechanism of the present invention will have a low profile configuration when inserted onto a detergent and/or softener container; however, this is not required. The liquid pump mechanism includes a tubular insert that is designed to be inserted into the detergent and/or softener container and to draw the detergent and/or softener out of the container. The tubular insert can be designed to be removable from the body of the liquid pump mechanism; however, this is not required.

(96) The body of the liquid pump mechanism includes a connecting/sealing arrangement that is designed to secure the liquid pump mechanism to the top opening of the detergent and/or softener out of the container. As can be appreciated, the sealing arrangement can have a variety of configurations and be formed of a variety of materials. One non-limiting arrangement is a threaded connection that is twisted onto the threaded rim of the detergent and/or softener of the container.

(97) The body of the liquid pump mechanism includes one or more electric pumps and a pump actuator. The electric pump is designed to cause the detergent and/or softener in the detergent and/or softener container to flow into the bottom portion of the liquid pump mechanism and then be dispensed from the top portion of the liquid pump mechanism. The electric pump can be designed to 1) direct air into the detergent and/or softener container to pressurize the detergent and/or softener container and cause the detergent and/or softener in the detergent and/or softener container to flow into the bottom opening of the tubular insert and up through and out of the liquid pump mechanism dispenser opening or hose opening, 2) direct air into bottom portion and/or a fluid passageway connected or interconnected to the bottom portion so as to cause a pressure drop within the lower portion of the bottom portion that results in the detergent and/or softener being drawn into the bottom opening of the bottom portion and up through and out of the top portion of the liquid pump mechanism, 3) use one or more rotary blades or reciprocating pistons to draw the detergent and/or softener into the bottom opening of the bottom portion and up through and out of the top portion of the liquid pump. As can be appreciated, other or additional arrangements can be used to cause the detergent and/or softener to be dispensed from the detergent and/or softener container by the liquid pump mechanism. The body of the liquid pump mechanism can include one or more actuators designed to activate/deactivate the one or more electric pumps in the liquid pump mechanism. The actuator can be in many different forms and be in many different locations on the liquid pump mechanism. As can be appreciated, many other arrangements can be used to actuate the one or more electric pumps in the liquid pump mechanism (e.g., switch, etc.). As can be appreciated, the push button can be located on the body of the liquid pump mechanism. When the push button is depressed, the button activates the one or more electric pumps and causes the detergent and/or softener to be dispensed from the top portion of the liquid pump mechanism.

(98) The body of the liquid pump mechanism can include one or more power compartments that are used to hold one or more power cells (e.g., batteries, etc.) to power the one or more electric pumps; however, this is not required. The batteries, when used, can be designed to be replaceable and/or rechargeable; however, this is not required. As can be appreciated, the one or more electric pumps can be also or alternatively be powered by other means (e.g., solar cells, electric power cord, etc.).

(99) The liquid pump mechanism can optionally include a dispensing hose that enables a user to easily and conveniently direct the dispensed detergent and/or softener only a desired location (e.g., into a washer, onto a laundry item, etc.); however, this is not required. The dispensing hose, when used, can be designed to be detachably connected to the top portion; however, this is not required. The length of the dispensing hose is non-limiting. Generally, the dispensing hose is flexible; however, this is not required.

(100) FIGS. 27-34 illustrate another non-limiting embodiment of the liquid pump mechanism 700 in accordance with the present invention. The liquid pump mechanism is particularly designed to pump detergents or fabric softener from a container; however, the liquid pump mechanism can be used to dispense other types of liquids as described above. The liquid pump mechanism is designed to pump higher viscous liquids such as detergents and fabric softeners at an average rate of about 0.05-20 ounces per second, typically about 0.1-10 ounces per second, more typically about 0.1-10 ounces per second, and still more typically about 0.2-5 ounces per second.

(101) The liquid pump mechanism 700 includes a top portion 710 and a bottom portion (not shown). The materials and/or colors of the components of the liquid pump mechanism are non-limiting.

(102) The bottom portion of the liquid pump mechanism, not shown, has a generally cylindrical shape body which can be similar in function, shape, structure, features and materials to the bottom portion as illustrated in FIGS. 19-26.

(103) The bottom end of the bottom portion includes an opening (not shown). As can be appreciated, the bottom portion can include more than one opening; however, this is not required. As can also be appreciated, the opening in the bottom portion can be located in other or additional locations on the bottom portion; however, this is not required. The opening is designed to enable fluid, not shown, in a container C to flow to the interior of the bottom portion. The bottom portion generally includes a centrally located circular opening in the bottom end; however, it can be appreciated that 1) the opening can have shapes other than a circular shape, 2) the opening does not have to be in the center of the bottom end, 3) the bottom portion can include more than one opening, and/or 4) one or more openings can be positioned on the side of the bottom portion. The bottom end of the bottom portion is generally spaced from the bottom of a container to facilitate in preventing the opening from forming a seal with the bottom surface of the container and thereby inhibiting or preventing fluid in the container from flowing into the opening and into the interior of the bottom portion; however, this is not required.

(104) One or more portions of the bottom portion can be designed to be flexible and/or be formed of a flexible material; however, this is not required. When the bottom portion is designed to be partially or fully flexible, such a design allows the bottom body to be more conveniently positioned in different shaped and sized containers. In one non-limiting design, the bottom portion is formed of a flexible tubular material. The tubular material can be clear, partially clear, or colored or coated to partially or fully prevent viewing of the interior of the bottom body. The top end of the bottom portion is designed to be connected to a connection flange 724 that extends downwardly from the top surface 722 of the connection cavity 720. The connection flange can optionally include a rib 726 to facilitate in the connection of the bottom portion to the connection flange. Generally, a liquid seal is formed between the top end of the bottom portion and the connection flange; however, this is not required.

(105) The top portion can be designed to connect to different types of containers C. FIG. 31 illustrates a connection adaptor 740 that can be removably connected inside of connection cavity 720. The use of the connection adapter is optional. The connection cavity 720 includes a plurality of connection arrangements to enable the connection cavity 720 to be connected to a container. The connection cavity includes a first threaded surface 732. The first threaded surface 732 is located on the inner surface of the outer flange 730. As such, the first threaded surface 732 is designed to be threaded onto and connected to a larger diameter opening on a container.

(106) When the adapter connector 740 is used, the adaptor connector is designed to be threaded to the first threaded surface 732. As can be appreciated, other connection arrangements can be used to connect the adaptor to the top portion. The upper portion 742 of the adaptor connector 740 includes a threaded surface 744 on the outer surface of the upper portion that is designed to be threaded onto the first threaded surface 732. The adapter connector can optionally include a stop flange 746 to limit the distance that the adaptor connector 740 can be threaded into the connection cavity 720. The lower portion 748 of the adaptor connector includes a threaded surface 749 on the outer surface of the lower portion. The diameter of the lower portion is less than the diameter of the upper portion. The positioning of the threads on the outer surface of the lower portion enables the lower portion of the adaptor connector to connect to a container C having threads T on the inner surface of the container opening O. As can be appreciated, the lower portion of the adaptor connector can include a threaded surface 751 in the interior surface to connect to smaller opening containers having threads on the outer surface of the container opening.

(107) As illustrated in FIG. 30, the top portion can be connected to a container C that has threads on the exterior of the opening or threads on the interior of the opening as illustrated in FIG. 31.

(108) When the top portion is connected to the container C, an airtight or partially airtight seal is formed between the top portion and container so that when the pump in the top portion is activate, the interior of the container can be pressurized to cause fluid in the container to flow into the bottom portion as will be described in more detail below.

(109) Referring now to FIGS. 32-34, positioned in the interior of the top portion 710 of the liquid pump mechanism is motor chamber 750 that includes one or more electric pumps 752. The electric pump generally includes an electric motor that is designed to drive an air pump to cause air to be pumped into a container to which the liquid pump mechanism is attached. Generally, the electric motor drives a piston of the air pump, which in turn causes air to be pumped into a fluid tube 760. Generally, the fluid tube is connected at one end to the air pump and the other end is fluidly connected to the connection cavity 720 so that air from the air pump can flow into the connection cavity. As can be appreciated, other arrangements can be used to enable the air to flow from the air pump to the connection cavity. A valve can optionally be included in the electric pump 752 to inhibit or prevent liquid from flowing into the air pump; however, this is not required. A pressure relief valve 753 can be optionally included to prevent over pressurization of the container during the operation of the pump. When a predetermined pressure is obtained in the container during the operation of the pump, the pressure relief valve is designed to allow air to flow from the pump and/or container and through the pressure relief valve and into the interior of the top portion 710 to inhibit or prevent over pressurization or ballooning of the container during the operation of the pump. As illustrated in FIG. 32, the pressure relief valve, when used, is generally positioned in the air flow path that is between the pump and the connection cavity; however, this is not required.

(110) During the operation of the pump, the air that is pumped into the top of the container causes the pressure in the container to increase, and thereby causing the fluid in the container to flow into the bottom opening of the bottom portion of the liquid pump mechanism and into the top portion of the liquid pump mechanism. The electric motor in the top portion of the liquid pump mechanism is generally partially or fully sealed from the fluid that enters the top portion from the bottom portion; however, this is not required. The sealing of the motor has one or more advantages, namely 1) the electric motor is not damaged by the fluid, and/or 2) the fluid is not contaminated by the motor.

(111) The body 712 of the top portion includes a battery cover 770 that is movable to enable a user to access the battery cavity 777 in the body of the top portion. One or more battery cavities can be located in the top portion. The one or more battery cavities are designed to contain one or more batteries 776. The power supply is designed to supply electrical power to the electric motor when the dispensing tab is actuated by a user. As can also be appreciated, the orientation of the one or more batteries in the battery cavity and the top portion is non-limiting. As can also be appreciated, the type of batteries used to power the electric motor is non-limiting. The battery cover 770 can be designed to be fully removable from body 712; however, this is not required. The outer surface of the battery cover 770 can optionally include one or more ribs 772 or other type of gripping structures to facilitate in the moving of the battery cover on the body so that a user can access the battery cavity; however, this is not required. The top of the battery cover also includes an optional arrow that functions as a visual indicator to inform a user how to open the battery cover; however, this is not required. The battery cover can optionally include one or more connection tabs that can be used to connect the battery cover to the body; however, this is not required. The body of the top portion can optionally include one or more connection tabs that are designed to releasably secure the battery cover to body 712.

(112) The top portion 710 of the liquid pump mechanism 700 includes a dispenser head 780 that includes a dispensing button 782. The dispensing button 782 is generally designed to be depressible. The dispensing button is located at the front portion of the top portion; however, it can be appreciated that the dispensing button can be located in other regions of the top portion. The dispensing button is designed to be pushed downwardly; however, this is not required. The dispensing button is pivotally connected to the top portion as illustrate din FIG. 32. The depression of the dispensing button causes the dispensing button to move to the actuation position which is designed to cause the actuation of the electric motor. The dispensing button is optionally biased in the deactuation position by a spring 786 or some other biasing arrangement. As can be appreciated, many other arrangements can be used to enable a user to cause fluid to be dispensed from the dispenser opening of the dispenser head (e.g., switch, knob, button on top portion, motion sensor, touch sensor, etc.).

(113) The dispenser head 780 can optionally include a liquid valve 790 that controls the fluid flow through dispenser opening 792. When the dispensing button is moved to the actuation position as illustrated in FIG. 34, the liquid valve, when used, is caused to move downwardly to thereby unseal the dispenser opening 792 to thereby allow fluid that is flowing through dispenser channel 794 to flow out through dispenser opening 792. When the dispensing button is released by the user, the dispensing button is biased by spring 786 back to the deactuation position as illustrated in FIG. 33, thereby causing the liquid valve to move upwardly to reseal the dispenser opening 792 to terminate the flow of liquid from the dispenser opening. The liquid valve generally includes a flexible seal 791 to seal the dispenser opening to form a liquid seal; however, it can be appreciated that other types of valve materials can be used to form a liquid seal.

(114) As illustrated in FIG. 34, when the dispensing button is depressed, the bottom surface of the dispensing button engages a top section 793 of the liquid valve and causes the valve to move downwardly and to compress spring 786. The top section 793 is illustrated as being optionally arcuate shaped to facilitate in the downward movement of the liquid valve when the dispensing button is depressed. The spring is illustrated as being partially encased in a spring cage 787 to ensure proper compression of the spring; however, this is not required. The bottom surface of the dispensing button is also designed to engage a pump button 753 when the dispensing button is depressed to thereby cause the pump to be activated. Generally, the spacing of the pump button from the bottom surface of the dispensing button is such that when the dispensing button is depressed, the liquid valve is moved to at least a partially opened positioned prior to the pump button being contacted by the dispensing button to activate the pump. Such an arrangement ensures that the liquid from the container can flow through the dispenser opening when the pump is activated.

(115) Liquid that flows upwardly through the bottom portion is directed into dispenser channel 794 that directs the fluid to the dispenser cavity 797. The dispenser channel 794 can be in the form of a tube or formed channel in the interior of the top portion; however, this is not required. When the dispenser channel 794 is in the form of a tube, the bottom end of the tube is designed to connect to a connection flange 778 that extends upwardly from the base of the top portion. The connection flange can optionally include a rib to facilitate in the connection of the bottom end of the dispenser channel 794 to the connection flange. Generally, a liquid seal is formed between the bottom end of the dispenser channel and the connection flange 778; however, this is not required. The top end of the tube is designed to connect to a connection flange 795 that extends outwardly from the dispenser cavity 797. The connection flange can optionally include a rib 796 to facilitate in the connection of the top end of the dispenser channel 794 to the connection flange. Generally, a liquid seal is formed between the top end of the dispenser channel and the connection flange 795; however, this is not required.

(116) As illustrated in FIGS. 33 and 34, the dispenser opening is oriented on the top portion so as to direct the dispensed liquid downwardly from the top portion; however, this is not required. Generally, the liquid is dispensed downwardly at a direction that is generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the fluid pump, which longitudinal axis is also generally parallel to or the same as the longitudinal axis of the bottom portion. When the dispenser button is depressed to cause actuation of the electric pump, which causes liquid in the container to flow from the dispenser opening, a user can optionally place a container and/or measuring cup under the dispenser opening to measure or obtain a desired amount of detergent and/or fabric softener from the container, and/or the user can position the container over a washing machine opening or dishwasher door and dispense the detergent and/or fabric softener directly into the washing machine or dishwasher.

(117) The body of the top portion 710 of the liquid pump mechanism has a maximum cross-sectional size that is generally selected so that the body cannot be inserted through the opening of a container; however, this is not required. Such a design can be used to prevent the top portion from inadvertently falling inside the container. However, with respect to the bottom portion, the maximum cross sectional size is generally selected so that the bottom portion can fit through an opening in a container. These sizes can be similar to the sizes as described above with regard to the dispenser illustrated in FIGS. 19-26.

(118) The top portion can be rotatably connected to the container; however, this is not required. The dispensing button can include a safety feature (e.g., tab lock, deactivation switch, etc.), not shown, to prevent inadvertent actuation of the electric pump by a user; however this is not required.

(119) The body 712 of the top portion can optionally include one or more recess side portions that can be used by the user to facilitate in the gripping of the top portion during the actuation of the liquid pump mechanism.

(120) The liquid pump mechanism of the present invention is designed to easily and effectively dispense detergent and/or softener from the detergent and/or softener container without having the user lift or tilt the container. The liquid pump mechanism can be designed to easily and simply fit onto the top opening of a detergent and/or softener container, and then the liquid pump mechanism can be activated by a user to dispense the liquid detergent and/or softener from the detergent and/or softener container without having to lift and pour the liquid detergent and/or softener from the container. The liquid pump mechanism is of particular use with dispensing liquid detergents and/or softeners; however, it will be appreciated that the liquid pump mechanism of the present invention can be used to dispense other types of liquids (e.g., bleach, other types of liquid cleaning and/or disinfecting products, etc.).

(121) The liquid pump mechanism can be pre-connected to the container at the time of purchase of the liquid detergent and/or softener container, and/or the liquid pump mechanism can be a reusable device that is connected to a standard container and then removed from the container after the container is emptied and then connected to a new container.

(122) The shape, size and materials used for the liquid pump mechanism of the present invention are non-limiting. Generally, the liquid pump mechanism of the present invention will have a low profile configuration when inserted onto a detergent and/or softener container; however, this is not required. The liquid pump mechanism includes a tubular insert that is designed to be inserted into the detergent and/or softener container and to draw the detergent and/or softener out of the container. The tubular insert can be designed to be removable from the body of the liquid pump mechanism; however, this is not required.

(123) The body of the liquid pump mechanism includes a connecting/sealing arrangement that is designed to secure the liquid pump mechanism to the top opening of the detergent and/or softener out of the container. As can be appreciated, the sealing arrangement can have a variety of configurations and be formed of a variety of materials. One non-limiting arrangement is a threaded connection that is twisted onto the threaded rim of the detergent and/or softener of the container.

(124) The body of the liquid pump mechanism includes one or more electric pumps and a pump actuator. The electric pump is designed to cause the detergent and/or softener in the detergent and/or softener container to flow into the bottom portion of the liquid pump mechanism and then be dispensed from the top portion of the liquid pump mechanism. The electric pump can be designed to 1) direct air into the detergent and/or softener container to pressurize the detergent and/or softener container and cause the detergent and/or softener in the detergent and/or softener container to flow into the bottom opening of the tubular insert and up through and out of the liquid pump mechanism dispenser opening or hose opening, 2) direct air into bottom portion and/or a fluid passageway connected or interconnected to the bottom portion so as to cause a pressure drop within the lower portion of the bottom portion that results in the detergent and/or softener being drawn into the bottom opening of the bottom portion and up through and out of the top portion of the liquid pump mechanism, 3) use one or more rotary blades or reciprocating pistons to draw the detergent and/or softener into the bottom opening of the bottom portion and up through and out of the top portion of the liquid pump. As can be appreciated, other or additional arrangements can be used to cause the detergent and/or softener to be dispensed from the detergent and/or softener container by the liquid pump mechanism. The body of the liquid pump mechanism can include one or more actuators designed to activate/deactivate the one or more electric pumps in the liquid pump mechanism. The actuator can be in many different forms and be in many different locations on the liquid pump mechanism. As can be appreciated, many other arrangements can be used to actuate the one or more electric pumps in the liquid pump mechanism (e.g., switch, etc.). As can be appreciated, the push button can be located on the body of the liquid pump mechanism. When the push button is depressed, the button activates the one or more electric pumps and causes the detergent and/or softener to be dispensed from the top portion of the liquid pump mechanism.

(125) The body of the liquid pump mechanism can include one or more power compartments that are used to hold one or more power cells (e.g., batteries, etc.) to power the one or more electric pumps; however, this is not required. The batteries, when used, can be designed to be replaceable and/or rechargeable; however, this is not required. As can be appreciated, the one or more electric pumps can be also or alternatively be powered by other means (e.g., solar cells, electric power cord, etc.).

(126) The liquid pump mechanism can optionally include a dispensing hose that enables a user to easily and conveniently direct the dispensed detergent and/or softener only a desired location (e.g., into a washer, onto a laundry item, etc.); however, this is not required. The dispensing hose, when used, can be designed to be detachably connected to the top portion; however, this is not required. The length of the dispensing hose is non-limiting. Generally, the dispensing hose is flexible; however, this is not required.

(127) It will thus be seen that the objects set forth above, among those made apparent from the preceding description, are efficiently attained, and since certain changes may be made in the constructions set forth without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, it is intended that all matter contained in the above description and shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. The invention has been described with reference to preferred and alternate embodiments. Modifications and alterations will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading and understanding the detailed discussion of the invention provided herein. This invention is intended to include all such modifications and alterations insofar as they come within the scope of the present invention. It is also to be understood that the following claims are intended to cover all of the generic and specific features of the invention herein described and all statements of the scope of the invention, which, as a matter of language, might be said to fall therebetween.