Dispensing system for transferring chemical into a strainer basket assembly

A strainer basket system may include a reservoir in which a strainer basket is positioned and a chemical dispensing docking station. The chemical dispensing docking station may have a cavity that receives a container of chemical to be dispensed and a retention mechanism that is configured to mechanically engage and retain the container of chemical, when inserted into the cavity. The docking station may also include a piercing member positioned to pierce the container of chemical as the container of chemical is inserted into the cavity, thereby releasing chemical into the reservoir and/or strainer basket.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure relates to chemical dispensing and, more particularly, to systems and techniques for dispensing chemicals.

BACKGROUND

Chemical product dispensers are useful in many different chemical application systems, including water treatment systems like commercial cooling water systems, cleaning systems relating to food and beverage operations, laundry operations, warewashing operations (e.g., dishwashers), pool and spa maintenance, as well as other systems, such as medical operations. For example, chemical products used in water treatment systems may include oxidizing and non-oxidizing biocides to inhibit or destroy growth or activity of living organisms in the water being treated. As another example, chemical products used in food and beverage operations may include sanitizers, sterilants, cleaners, degreasers, lubricants, etc. Chemical products used in a warewashing or laundry operation may include detergent, sanitizers, stain removers, rinse agents, etc. Chemical products used in a laundry operation may include detergent, bleaches, stain removers, fabric softeners, etc. Chemical products used in cleaning of medical/surgical instrumentation may include detergents, cleaning products, neutralizers, sanitizers, disinfectants, enzymes, etc.

In practice, a chemical intended for use may be provided in concentrated form and then diluted on site to make a use solution. Providing concentrated chemical product to a user that is then diluted on site is useful to reduce packaging, shipping, and storage requirements that would otherwise be needed to provide an equivalent amount of product in ready-to-use form. However, a user receiving concentrated chemical typically needs to transfer the chemical from the container in which it is received into a system where the concentrated chemical will be diluted and/or used. To avoid inadvertent contact with the concentrated chemical during transfer, the user may be obligated to wear personal protective equipment (PPE), such as safety glasses, gloves, and/or protective clothing and/or perform the transfer in an area where an eye wash station is present. A chemical dispenser that can safely transfer concentrated chemical while limiting or eliminating the risk of inadvertent spilling during transfer would minimize the need for PPE during use, potentially reducing the amount of training needed to use the system and/or complexity of using the system.

SUMMARY

In general, this disclosure relates to systems, devices, and techniques for transferring chemical from a container in which the chemical is held into a reservoir where the chemical is intended to be used, such a reservoir containing a strainer basket. For example, a strainer basket system may include an outer reservoir and an inner strainer basket that is insertable into and removable from the outer reservoir. The strainer basket system can include a chemical dispensing docking station that facilitates the transfer of chemical from the container in which it is held into the inner strainer basket and/or outer reservoir. In some examples, the chemical dispensing docking station include a retention mechanism and a piercing member. The container of chemical to be dispensed may be inserted into the chemical dispensing docking station while closed. The piercing member can pierce the container, e.g., as the container is inserted into the docking station, causing the contents of the container to dispense into the strainer basket and/or reservoir. The retention member can mechanically engage the container in the docking station, for example helping to prevent the container from inadvertently being pulled out of the docking station while discharging its contents.

By configuring the chemical dispensing docking station to pierce and retain the container of chemical to be dispensed, the chemical dispensing docking station may provide a safe, non-contact transfer of chemical product out of the container in which it is stored and into the inner strainer basket and/or outer reservoir. In some implementations, a closed container of chemical—for example, a container of chemical with its cap removed and a closure film maintaining a seal over the outlet opening of the container—can be inserted into the chemical dispensing docking station. The container of chemical is opened after it is inserted into the chemical dispensing docking station, e.g., by the piercing member piercing the seal over the outlet opening. The retention member engages the container of chemical, e.g., to hold the container of chemical in the docking station while the contents are transferring out of the container. In this way, the likelihood that the user of the system is inadvertently exposed to chemical during transfer is reduced or eliminated. In some applications, the user may be authorized to transfer chemical using the chemical dispensing docking station without donning any special personal protective equipment and/or perform the transfer at a location that does not have an eye wash station.

A strainer basket system with reservoir, strainer basket, and chemical dispensing docking station according to the disclosure can be used for any desired application. As one non-limiting example, the strainer basket system may be used to prepare human-consumable food, such as fruit or vegetables, within a food preparation environment, such as a restaurant. In use, a food preparer may position the strainer basket inside of the reservoir and place the food to be washed inside of the strainer basket. The food preparer may take a cap off a container of concentrated chemical, exposing a film covering an opening of the container. The food preparer can then insert the container into the chemical dispensing docking station. As the container is being inserted into the chemical dispensing docking station, a piercing member of the docking station may pierce the film.

Prior to, concurrent with, and/or after the piercing member piercing the film, a retention member on the docking station may engage the container to hold the container in the docking station. For instance, in one example, the retention member may simultaneously engage with the container of concentrated chemical as the container is pierced by the piercing member. In another example, the user may insert the container of concentrated chemical into the chemical dispensing docking station to pierce the container and then pull the container of concentrated chemical back off the piercing member (e.g., a short distance) to engage the container with the retention mechanism. Pulling the container of concentrated chemical off the piercing member can remove the piercing member from the hole created into the container, increasing the flow rate of the chemical out of the hole for quicker discharge.

In any case, the contents of the container may be released and dispensed into the reservoir and/or strainer basket. The food preparer can add water to the strainer basket system (before and/or after dispensing the concentrated chemical), forming a diluted solution. For example, the diluted solution may be an antimicrobial wash solution for washing the food. In either case, the food preparer may or may not agitate the food within the strainer basket and then pull the strainer basket out of the reservoir, allowing residual solution to drain out of the strainer basket and leaving the washed food for subsequent use.

In one example, a strainer basket system is described that includes a reservoir, a strainer basket, and a chemical dispensing docking station. The reservoir defines an opening through which material can be introduced into the reservoir. The strainer basket is positioned inside of the reservoir and removable therefrom. The chemical dispensing docking station has a discharge aperture positioned to discharge chemical to be dispensed in at least one of the reservoir and the strainer basket. The example further specifies that the chemical dispensing docking station includes a cavity, a retention mechanism, and a piercing mechanism. The cavity is cavity configured to receive a container of chemical to be dispensed. The retention mechanism is configured to mechanically engage the container of chemical, when inserted into the cavity, and retain the container of chemical in the chemical dispensing docking station during dispensing. The piercing member is positioned to pierce the container of chemical as the container of chemical is inserted into the cavity, thereby releasing chemical to be dispensed through the discharge aperture.

In another example, a chemical dispensing docking station for a strainer basket assembly is described. The chemical dispensing docking station includes an upward-extending sidewall and a bottom wall which, collectively, define a cavity configured to receive a container of chemical to be dispensed, the bottom wall having a discharge aperture. The chemical dispensing docking station also includes a retention mechanism and a piercing member. The retention mechanism is configured to mechanically engage the container of chemical, when inserted into the cavity, and hold the container of chemical in the chemical dispensing docking station during dispensing. The piercing member is positioned to pierce the container of chemical as the container of chemical is inserted into the cavity, thereby releasing chemical to be dispensed through the discharge aperture.

In another example, a method of dispensing chemical into a strainer basket system is described. The method includes adding a material to be processed into a strainer basket that is positioned inside of a reservoir and dispensing a chemical into the strainer basket. The method specifies that dispensing the chemical includes inserting a container of the chemical into a receiving cavity of a chemical dispensing docking station having a discharge aperture positioned to discharge chemical to be dispensed in at least one of the reservoir and the strainer basket. The process of dispensing the chemical further includes engaging the container with a retention mechanism of the chemical dispensing docking station and piercing the container with a piercing member of the chemical dispensing docking station, thereby dispensing the chemical from the container into the strainer basket.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In general, this disclosure relates to a strainer basket system with chemical dispensing docking station for transferring chemical into a strainer basket assembly. The chemical dispensing docking station may provide safe, non-contact transfer of chemical product out of the container in which it is stored into the strainer basket assembly. In some implementations, the chemical dispensing docking station defines a cavity sized and/or shaped to that of the container to be inserted into the station. As the container is inserted into the receiving cavity, the container may be pierced by a piercing member, releasing the contents of the container to flow through a discharge aperture of the docking station and into the strainer basket assembly. Further, the docking station can include a retention mechanism. The retention mechanism may engage the container in the receiving cavity, e.g., to prevent the container from being inadvertently removed from the cavity after being pierced by the piercing mechanism and while still discharging chemical. In some implementations, the container engages the retention mechanism as the piercing mechanism pierces the container and/or the retention mechanism may engage the container after the piercing mechanism pierces the container (e.g., as a user pulls the container off the piercing mechanism to increase flow rate through the hole created in the container by the piercing mechanism).

The chemical dispensing docking station can have a variety of different configurations. In some examples, the chemical dispensing docking station is attachable to and detachable from the strainer basket and/or reservoir in which the strainer basket is positioned. For example, the chemical dispensing docking station may be clipped into a sidewall and/or edge of the strainer basket and/or reservoir. In other examples, the chemical dispensing docking station may be permanently integrated into the structure of the strainer basket and/or reservoir. For example, the chemical dispensing docking station may be molded or otherwise permanently integrated into a sidewall of the strainer basket or reservoir. When so configured, the chemical dispensing docking station may project inwardly or outwardly relative to a remainder of the sidewall defining the strainer basket or reservoir.

Independent of the specific configuration of the chemical dispensing docking station, the docking station may define a discharge aperture (also referred to as a discharge opening) through which chemical being dispensed exits the docking station. The discharge aperture can be positioned below the uppermost edges of the strainer basket and reservoir. In other words, the discharge aperture of the chemical dispensing docking station may be positioned inside of the strainer basket and/or reservoir. This positioning can help ensure that chemical exiting the discharge aperture flows directly into the strainer basket and/or reservoir without splashing or spilling outside of the assembly. This can minimize that likelihood that a user of the strainer basket system is exposed to chemical being dispensed.

FIGS.1and2are perspective and exploded views, respectively, of an example strainer basket system10that includes a reservoir12, a strainer basket14, and a chemical dispensing docking station16(also referred to as “docking station16” herein). Chemical dispensing docking station16is configured to receive a container18of chemical to be dispensed using the docking station into reservoir12and/or strainer basket14. In use, an operator can insert container18into docking station16. Docking station16can have various features that temporarily lock the container in the docking station16and pierce the container to dispense its contents. This combination of features may help prevent container18from releasing its contents until it is positioned at least partially into an interior of reservoir12and/or strainer basket14and may also help the container from being withdrawn from the docking station before it has discharged its entire contents.

Strainer basket system10inFIGS.1and2includes reservoir12and strainer basket14. Material to be processed in system10can be inserted into strainer basket14, e.g., before or after introducing chemical from container18into the system using docking station16. Strainer basket14can have holes that allow liquid to pass through the basket while solid material to be processed is retained in the basket. For example, in use, reservoir12can be filled with a diluent (e.g., water) and concentrated chemical introduced into the reservoir via docking station16to form a diluted use solution. Material to be processed can further be added to strainer basket14, causing the material to be exposed to the use solution within reservoir12. After suitably contacting the material with the use solution, strainer basket14can be pulled out of reservoir12(e.g., as illustrated inFIG.2) to extract the processed material from the residual use solution.

In general, reservoir12may be any structure configured to receive and hold strainer basket14and liquid for processing material placed in the reservoir and/or strainer basket. For example, reservoir12may define a bounded cavity that separates the contents therein from the external environment. Reservoir12may be formed by at least one sidewall20that extends from a terminal top end22to a terminal bottom end24. Reservoir12can have a closed bottom wall26that joins sidewall20at bottom end24of the sidewall. The top end22of sidewall20can define an opening into which strainer basket14is inserted into and removable from.

It should be appreciated that the descriptive terms “top” and “bottom” with respect to the configuration and orientation of components described herein are used for purposes of illustration based on the orientation in the figures. The arrangement of components in real world application may vary depending on their orientation with respect to gravity. Accordingly, unless otherwise specified, the general terms “first” and “second” may be used interchangeably with the terms “top” and “bottom” without departing from the scope of disclosure.

In the example ofFIG.1, reservoir12includes at least one sidewall20. Sidewall20extends upwardly (in the Z-direction indicated onFIG.1) from bottom end24. The number of sidewalls interconnected together to form the side structure of reservoir12extending between the top and22and bottom end24may vary depending on the shape of the reservoir. For example, a reservoir with a circular cross-sectional shape (e.g., in the X-Y plane) may be formed of a single sidewall whereas a reservoir with a square or rectangular cross-sectional shape may be defined by four interconnected sidewalls.

In general, reservoir12can define any polygonal (e.g., square, hexagonal) or arcuate (e.g., circular, elliptical) shape, or even combinations of polygonal and arcuate shapes. In some examples, such as the example shown inFIG.1, reservoir12is illustrated as having a circular cross-sectional shape. Reservoir12can be fabricated from a material that is chemically compatible with and chemically resistant to the type of chemical placed in the reservoir. In some examples, reservoir12is fabricated from a polymeric material, such as a molded plastic. In other examples, reservoir12is fabricated from a metal, such as aluminum or steel.

Strainer basket14is illustrated inFIGS.1and2as being insertable into and removable from reservoir12. Similar to reservoir12, strainer basket14may be formed by at least one sidewall28(FIG.2) that extends from a terminal top end30to a terminal bottom end32. Strainer basket14can have a bottom wall34that joins sidewall28at bottom end32of the sidewall. The top end30of sidewall28can define an opening into which material to be processed can be inserted into strainer basket14and removed therefrom. In some implementations, the top end30of sidewall28defines a round edge instead of a planar edge with 90 degree corners. Such a rounded edge may be easier to clean and less susceptible to contaminant accumulation than a planar edge.

In the example ofFIG.1, sidewall28of strainer basket14extends upwardly (in the Z-direction indicated onFIG.1) from bottom end32. The number of sidewalls interconnected together to form the side structure of strainer basket14extending between the top and30and bottom end32may vary depending on the shape of the reservoir. For example, a strainer basket with a circular cross-sectional shape (e.g., in the X-Y plane) may be formed of a single sidewall whereas a strainer basket with a square or rectangular cross-sectional shape may be defined by four interconnected sidewalls.

In general, strainer basket14can define any polygonal (e.g., square, hexagonal) or arcuate (e.g., circular, elliptical) shape, or even combinations of polygonal and arcuate shapes. Strainer basket14may typically be shape-indexed to a shape of reservoir12. For example, strainer basket14may have a same general shape as reservoir12but a slightly smaller size (e.g., in the X-Y plane indicated onFIGS.1and2) than the reservoir, allowing the strainer basket to be nested inside of the reservoir. InFIGS.1and2, strainer basket14and reservoir12are both illustrated as having a circular cross-sectional shape. Of course, strainer basket14may have a shape different than reservoir12without departing from the functionality of the strainer basket described herein. Similar to reservoir12, strainer basket14can be fabricated from a material that is chemically compatible with and chemically resistant to the type of chemical placed in the reservoir. In various examples, strainer basket14is fabricated from a polymeric material, such as a molded plastic, or a metal, such as aluminum or steel.

Unlike reservoir12, which has a closed sidewall20and bottom wall26to prevent liquid from flowing through the wall surfaces, strainer basket14includes at one or more openings36through which liquid can flow into and out of the strainer basket. In the configuration ofFIGS.1and2, strainer basket14is illustrated as having a plurality of vertically elongated openings (e.g., having a length in the Z-direction greater than a width in the X-Y plane) arrayed about a perimeter of the strainer basket. Strainer basket14can have a different arrangement, number, or configuration of openings without departing from the disclosure. In general, openings36may be sized smaller a size of the material to be processed in strainer basket system10to present the material from passing through the openings in the basket during use.

In use, strainer basket14can be positioned inside of reservoir12. Strainer basket14may be configured (e.g., sized and/or shaped) to nest down inside of reservoir12to a depth sufficient to position openings36in the strainer basket below top edge22of reservoir12. This can prevent liquid from flowing over the top edge of the reservoir. In some configurations, strainer basket14is positioned inside of reservoir12with the bottom surface of bottom wall32of the strainer basket positioned in contact with the top surface of the bottom wall26of the reservoir. In other configurations, strainer basket14may be positioned inside reservoir12with the bottom surface32of the strainer basket elevated above the bottom surface26of reservoir12. For example, strainer basket14may be positioned inside of reservoir12with a separation gap between the bottom surface of bottom wall32of the strainer basket in the top surface of the bottom wall26of the reservoir. The separation gap may allow liquid to flow between the bottom surfaces of the reservoir and strainer basket, e.g., to promote mixing of the chemical dispensed from container18with a diluent added to the reservoir.

FIG.3is a sectional view of strainer basket system10fromFIG.1illustrating an example offset40between the bottom surface of bottom wall32of strainer basket14and the top surface of bottom wall26of reservoir12. When bottom wall32of strainer basket14and/or bottom wall26of reservoir12are not planar, offset40may be measured at a location of minimal separation between the respective walls bottom walls. The distance defined by offset40may vary depending on the configuration and size of strainer basket system10. In some examples, offset40is less than 50 cm, such as less than 25 cm, less than 12 cm, less than 10 cm, less than 5 cm, less than 2.5 cm, or less than 1 cm. For example, offset40may range from 0.5 cm to 50 cm, such as from 1 cm to 25 cm. In other examples, the bottom surface of bottom wall32of strainer basket14contacts the top surface of bottom wall26of reservoir12such that offset40is zero. In some implementations, such as when using comparatively viscous chemicals, offset40may be minimized to improve mixing of the concentrated chemistry dispensed toward to bottom wall26of reservoir12throughout the reservoir and strainer basket (and contents therein).

With further reference toFIGS.1and2, strainer basket14is illustrated as having an outwardly extending lip or ridge42, which extends outwardly from sidewall28. Outwardly extending lip42may extend partially or fully about a perimeter of strainer basket14and be configured to be positioned over top edge22of reservoir12. Accordingly, when strainer basket14is positioned inside of reservoir12, outwardly extending lip42can rest on the top edge22of reservoir12, e.g., to hold the strainer basket in the reservoir while maintaining offset40. In addition, outwardly extending lip42may define a handle or gripping area external of reservoir12, which may provide a convenient location for a user to grasp strainer basket14without contacting chemical therein for pulling the strainer basket out of the reservoir. In other configurations, strainer basket14may be positioned entirely inside of reservoir12, e.g., with the top edge30of strainer basket14positioned below the top edge22of reservoir12, rather than resting on a top edge or surface of the reservoir.

While system10in the present disclosure is described as including reservoir12and strainer basket14, in other implementations of docking station16according to the disclosure, the docking station may be used with a reservoir12that does not include a strainer basket. For example, docking station16may be used with reservoir12to form a dilute use solution in applications where a strainer basket14is not needed. Example implementations include situations where reservoir12is a sink, a mop bucket, or other reservoir that does not utilize a strainer basket.

As briefly introduced above, strainer basket system10includes docking station16that is configured to receive a container18of chemical to be dispensed into the system. In different implementations, docking station16can be fabricated as a separate component from reservoir12and/or strainer basket14that can then be engaged or interlocked with one or both components. Alternatively, docking station16may be permanently integrated into reservoir12and/or strainer basket14, e.g., by molding the features together, permanently joined the features together such that the features cannot be detached without damaging the features, or otherwise inseparably integrating the docking station with the reservoir and/or strainer basket.

In the example ofFIGS.1and2, docking station16is illustrated as being removable from but interlockable with reservoir12and/or strainer basket14. Alternative configurations in which docking station16is molded with strainer basket14are discussed with respect toFIGS.8A,8B, and9below. The features and functionalities described as being attributable to docking station16herein can be used on either a detachable/removal configuration of the docking station or a permanently integrated configuration of the docking station. Accordingly, discussion of certain features or functionalities of docking station16with respect to one embodiment should be understand as being applicable to other embodiments herein and not limited to the specific embodiment with which the features or functionalities are described.

FIGS.4and5are illustrations of an example configuration of docking station16that can be used in a strainer basket system10, such as that described with respect toFIGS.1and2, herein.FIG.4is a perspective view of docking station16without container18of chemical inserted in the docking station.FIG.5is a sectional view of docking station16fromFIG.4illustrated with container18of chemical positioned in the docking station. In the illustrated configuration, docking station16defines a cavity50into which container18can be inserted. Docking station16is also illustrated as including a retention mechanism52that is configured to mechanically engage container18, when the container is inserted into the cavity50, and hold the container of chemical in the docking station during dispensing. Docking station16is further illustrated as including a piercing member54that is positioned to pierce container18, when the container is inserted into cavity50.

In general, cavity50may be an opening or void space in docking station16into which container18can be inserted. Docking station16can include a sidewall56that extends upwardly (in the Z-direction indicated onFIGS.4and5) from a bottom end58and defines the cavity. Docking station16may also include a bottom wall60(FIG.5) in which a discharge opening62is formed and through which chemical dispensed from container18can discharge from the docking station.

Cavity50may or may not be shape indexed to a shape of container18. For example, cavity50may have a shape complementary to the shape of the container18intended to be inserted into the cavity. InFIGS.4and5, cavity50is illustrated as define a circular cross-sectional shape to receive a container18that is circular shaped. However, cavity50can define any polygonal (e.g., square, hexagonal) or arcuate (e.g., circular, elliptical) shape, or even combinations of polygonal and arcuate shapes.

The depth of cavity50(in the Z-direction indicated onFIGS.4and5) can vary based on a variety factors, such as the size of container18intended to be inserted into the cavity and the amount of the container desired to project out of the cavity. For example, sidewall56may extend partially or fully along the length of container18, e.g., such that the container can be partially or fully inserted into cavity50. In some configurations, cavity50is of comparatively shallow depth so only a distal end or a distal tip of container18is insertable into the cavity. In other configurations, cavity50is comparatively deep so that an entire length of the container can be inserted in the cavity. In the illustrated arrangement, cavity50has a variable depth across its cross-section (in the X-Y plane) such that the rearward side of the cavity is deeper than the frontward side.

In practice, a chemical provider may supply different chemicals in similar reservoirs that are intended to be deployed for different applications. To help ensure that the end user does not inadvertently dispense the wrong chemical using strainer basket system10, a system of different docking stations16may be provided where each docking station defines a cavity50of different size and/or shape than the cavity of each other docking station. Each container18configured to be inserted into a specific cavity50of the system of docking stations may be incompatible with each other docking station configuration, e.g., such that a user cannot successfully insert an incorrect container into a docking station intended to receive a container containing a different type of chemical product.

In the illustrated configuration, container18is inserted into cavity50of docking station16by moving the container downwardly (in the negative Z-direction indicated onFIGS.4and5). In other configurations, container18may be inserted into docking station16from the side (e.g., by moving the container in the X-direction and/or Y-direction indicated onFIGS.4and5). In these alternative configurations, cavity50may have a different orientation relative to the longitudinal axis of reservoir12and strainer basket14, e.g., while still positioning outlet opening62inside of the reservoir and/or strainer basket.

To help prevent container18from inadvertently detaching from docking station16while dispensing chemical product, the container may be locked (reversibly or irreversibly) to the docking station. For these and other reasons, docking station16may include a retention mechanism52. Retention mechanism52may be a feature that mechanically engages container18, when the container is partially or fully inserted into cavity50(e.g., to the maximum depth allowed by the cavity or less than a maximum depth allowed by the cavity). Retention mechanism52can hold container18in the cavity while the container is dispensing its contents. For example, retention mechanism52can provide an engagement force to container18that prevents the container from being inadvertently pulled out of strainer basket system10while the container is dispensing its contents, which can lead to a spill.

Retention mechanism52can be implemented using a variety of different features. In the example illustrated inFIG.5, retention mechanism52is shown as a threaded connection between docking station16and container18. For example, retention mechanism52may be implemented by positioning threading encircling (extending about a perimeter of) discharge aperture62of docking station16. The threading of the docking station can engage with complementary threading on container18, when the container is inserted into cavity50. To insert container18into docking station16in such an example, the container may be inserted vertically downwardly until the container contacts a wall surface defining the threading and thereafter rotated to engage the threaded connection between the docking station container. As a container is threaded into the docking station, the container can move vertically further vertically downwardly into the cavity.

FIGS.6A and6Billustrate another configuration of retention mechanism52that can be used on docking station16, in addition to or in lieu of the threaded connection described with respect toFIG.5. In the illustrated example ofFIGS.6A and6B, retention mechanism52is illustrated as being implemented with a projection64extending at least partially (and in some examples fully) over cavity50(in the X-Y plane indicated onFIG.6A). Projection64can be positioned at a height selected based on the length of container18intended to be positioned in cavity50. For example, projection64can be positioned at a height configured to engage a bottom surface of container18, when the container is inserted into cavity50.

Once container18is inserted into cavity50, projection64may extend over at least a portion of the bottom surface of the container (where the bottom surface the container is the surface facing upwardly away from discharge aperture62). Projection64can engage the bottom surface of container18by pressing against the bottom surface, when the container is positioned in the cavity. Additionally or alternatively, projection64can engage the bottom surface of container18by acting as a contact surface or stop that the bottom surface of the container contacts when lifted vertically upwardly out of cavity50. For example, the bottom surface of container18maybe offset from projection64when the container is fully inserted into the cavity but may contact the projection if the user inadvertently attempts to lift the container out of the cavity. In some examples, projection64extends from a flexible arm or wall surface, allowing the projection to move in and out of engagement in order to insert and remove container18from cavity50. In other examples, projection64extends from an unmovable region of sidewall56defining cavity50.

Other configurations of a retention mechanism52can be used in addition to or in lieu of those discussed above. With further reference toFIG.5, retention mechanism52may be implemented by configuring docking station16to provide a friction fit between container18and the docking station. For example, docking station16may include a region (e.g., defined by sidewall56and/or an upwardly extending wall66) into which container18or portion thereof is configured to be inserted. For example, instead of having threading as illustrated inFIG.5, retention mechanism52may be defined by a friction fit between container18and a region of docking station16defined by wall66into which the distal tip or end of the container is intended to be inserted. In use, container18may be inserted vertically downwardly until the distal end of the container (e.g., defined by a region of narrower cross-section) begins entering discharge aperture62defined by wall66. A user may then provide an axially directed downward force to push the container into the region bounded by sidewall66, establishing a frictional engagement between docking station16and container18.

Independent of the configuration of retention mechanism52, the retention mechanism can engage container18to retain the container and prevent the container from being inadvertently pulled out of strainer basket system10while the container is dispensing its contents. Depending on the relative positioning and configuration of retention mechanism52and piercing member54, container18may engage retention mechanism52before, during, and/or after being pierced by piercing member54. For example, retention mechanism52may be positioned relative to piercing member54such that container18engage the retention mechanism as the container is being punctured by piercing member54. In some such implementations, the user inserts container18to a maximum depth into cavity50, causing the piercing member54to penetrate the container. Retention mechanism52may hold the container at the maximum insertion depth in the cavity, e.g., with piercing member54projecting into container18.

In other examples, retention mechanism52may be positioned relative to piercing member54such that the retention mechanism engages (e.g., contact) container18when the container is not inserted to a maximum depth into cavity50. For example, retention mechanism52may be offset from piercing member54a distance effective to allow the container of chemical to be pierced by the piercing member and then be withdrawn off the piercing member before and/or while engaging the retention mechanism. In some such implementations, the user inserts container18to a maximum depth into cavity50, causing the piercing member54to penetrate the container and then withdraws the container off the piercing member (e.g., partially but not fully retracting container18upwardly in cavity50). Retention mechanism52can help prevent container18from being fully withdrawn from cavity50is such configurations but allow the container to be withdrawn off piercing member54, e.g., such that the piercing member is offset from and/or does not project into container18. This can remove piercing member54from the hole created in container18by the piercing member upon initial insertion, e.g., to increase the flow rate of the concentrated chemical out of the hole created in the container as compared to when the chemical needs to flow through and/or are the piercing member in the hole.

FIGS.6C-6Fillustrate an example arrangement of retention mechanism52in which the retention mechanism is arranged relative to piercing member54to allow the container to be pulled off the piercing member after being punctured. In particular,FIGS.6C and6Dare top and side views, respectively, showing retention mechanism52implemented with a projection64extending at least partially over cavity50(e.g., as discussed above with respect toFIGS.6A and6B). As shown inFIGS.6C and6D, container18is inserted to a maximum depth into the receiving cavity of docking station16, causing piercing member54to pierce the container18for discharging its contents. When so positioned, piercing member54is positioned in an interior of container18, requiring chemical to flow through and/or around piercing member54to exit the hole created by the piercing member.

FIGS.6E and6Fare top and side views, respectively, showing the retention mechanism and piercing member arrangement ofFIGS.6C and6Dwith container18withdrawn off piercing member54. In use, the user can insert container18into the receiving cavity of docking station16, as shown inFIGS.6C and6D, causing piercing member54to pierce the container18for discharging its contents. After piercing member54pierces container18, the container can be pulled back off of piercing member54, e.g., until a bottom surface of the container contacts retention projection64defining retention mechanism52. By withdrawing container18off of piercing member54, the piercing member may no longer be positioned inside of the container. Rather, the distal end of piercing member54may be offset from the hole created in container18a distance, such as at least 1 mm, at least 2 mm, or at least 5 mm. The separation distance between the distal end of piercing member54and the hole created in container18may be set by controlling the position of retention mechanism52(e.g., projection64) relative to piercing member54and the length of container18intended to be used. In either case, the separation distance may increase the discharge rate out of container18, e.g., by removing the physical obstruction of piercing member54from the hole created in the container and/or allowing air to better enter the container to prevent or limit a vacuum.

In some examples in which docking station16is configured to allow container18to be withdrawn from piercing member54during dispensing, the docking station may include one or more features to help hold the container vertically above the piercing member (e.g., in contact with retaining mechanism52).FIGS.6G and6Hillustrate example features that can be used by docking station16to hold container18above piercing member54.

FIG.6Gis a top view of cavity50illustrating one or more example frictional contact features67(e.g., ribs) that can frictionally engage with an outer surface of container18. Frictional contact features67can frictionally engage with and hold container18above piercing member54, e.g., in contact with retention mechanism52.FIG.6His a side view of docking station16illustrating a biasing member69(e.g., spring) positioned to bias container18away from piercing member54. Biasing member69can directly contact container18or a retaining/contacting ring71may be positioned between the biasing member and container. In either case, a user can apply a compressive force to biasing member69when inserting container18into docking station16, causing the biasing member to compress and container18to be punctured by piercing member54. When the user stops applying downward force to container18, biasing member69can push container18off piercing member54and hold the container above the piercing member.

As introduced above in connection withFIG.5, docking station16includes a piercing member54. Piercing member54may be implemented as one or more projections that are positioned and configured to pierce into container18, e.g., as the container is inserted into cavity50. Accordingly, container18may be inserted into docking station16in a closed state but may be pierced by piercing member54as the container is inserted into the docking station. As a result, the contents of container18may not be release or otherwise be exposed for dispensing until the container has been inserted at least partially (and in some examples to the deepest extent possible) into cavity50of the docking station. This configuration can be useful to help prevent inadvertent spilling of chemical from container18, e.g., prior to or concurrent with inserting the container into docking station16.

FIG.7Ais an expanded view of an example piercing member arrangement that can be used on docking station16, which is shown without container18inserted into the docking station for purposes of illustration. In this configuration, piercing member54is positioned extending upwardly through discharge aperture62. As container18is moved axially downwardly into the discharge aperture, piercing member54can penetrate into the container to release its contents. Further, while piercing member54is shown projecting axially upwardly, piercing member54may additionally or alternatively project at a different angle, such as radially inwardly (laterally across the cross-section of docking station16). In general, piercing member54may extend in any direction suitable to puncture container18, as the container is inserted into docking station16.

In the specific configuration illustrated inFIG.7A, discharge aperture62of docking station16is illustrated as having a smaller cross-sectional area than the entire cross-sectional area of cavity50(in the X-Y plane indicated onFIG.7A). As a result, discharge aperture62is smaller than cavity50. Piercing member54is illustrated as extending upwardly and coaxially through discharge opening62. As a result, when container18is pushed toward discharge aperture62, piercing member54can pierce up into the container. The contents of the pierce container can then flow down over and/or around piercing member54and out through discharge aperture62.

In the particular illustrated configuration, docking station16defines a nested series of coaxial chambers. There is a first chamber forming cavity50that is defined by sidewall56. There is a second chamber coaxial with the first chamber defined by sidewall66(which can optionally form retention mechanism52). There is a third chamber coaxial with the first chamber and the second chamber defined by piercing member54. When container18includes a necked down region that defines the intended opening or discharge point for the container, the entire container can fit in the first chamber defined by sidewall56and the necked down region of the container can fit into the second chamber defined by sidewall66. Piercing member54can then project up into the neck down region of the container, breaching the material structure the container that holds the contents in the container. Once breached, chemical discharge from container18can flow through discharge aperture in the region defined between sidewall66and piercing member54and/or through a center of the piercing member.

Piercing member54may include one or more sharpened points or apexes57to help pierce the container during insertion.FIG.7Aillustrates piercing member54as including a single sharpened point57to help pierce container18during insertion. In other configurations, piercing member54can have multiple sharpened points (e.g., arrayed at different points around the perimeter of discharge aperture62). In still other examples, piercing member54may not include a sharpened point but may simply provide a blunt surface that is effective to penetrate container18, as the container is pushed into the piercing member. The specific configuration of piercing member54used may depend on the configuration of container18and the resistance of the container to being pierced by piercing member54.

In general, container18can be fabricated from any material that is chemically compatible with and chemically resistant to the type of chemical placed in the reservoir. In various examples, container is fabricated from a polymeric material, such as a molded plastic, or a metal, such as aluminum or steel. Container18may include a dispensing outlet that is covered with a film. The film may be a polymeric film, a metal or metallized film, or other film structure. The film may typically have a thickness less than a thickness of the remainder of container18, which allows the film to be punctured comparatively easier than puncturing the remainder of container18. In some examples, the dispensing outlet covered with film is further enclosed by a cap or other more rigid protective structure. This may help prevent the film from being inadvertently penetrated during transportation or storage. In use, the operator may remove the cap or more rigid protective structure from container18, exposing the underlying film. The operator may then invert container18to position the dispensing outlet of the container covered by film downwardly toward piercing member54. The operator can then move container18into cavity50, causing piercing member54to contact the film covering the dispensing outlet of the container and, as the container continues to move deeper into the cavity, puncture the film.

To help ensure that the film covering the dispensing outlet of container18is punctured deep enough to cause the contents of the container to adequately dispense, the height of piercing member54may be designed relative to the size of the dispensing outlet of container18. InFIG.7A, piercing member54is illustrated as having a height68. In some examples, height68of piercing member54is designed to be greater than the cross-sectional area (e.g., diameter) of the dispensing outlet of container18. When so configured, piercing member54may be able to puncture the film covering the dispensing outlet of container18and push the pierced film previously covering the dispenser outlet away from the outlet. This can help move the film previously covering the dispenser outlet to an offset side of the outlet, helping to prevent a residual flap of film from blocking free flow of chemical out of the pierce container. In various examples, the height68of piercing member54may range from 0.2 to 5 times the cross-sectional area of the dispensing outlet of container18, such as from 0.5 to 2 times the cross-sectional area of the dispensing outlet.

In general, piercing member54may be positioned at a location inside of docking station16that is deep enough such that the piercing member does not engage container18until the container is partially or fully inserted into the docking station. For example, piercing member54may be positioned relative to retention mechanism52such that the piercing member contacts container18concurrent with or after the retention mechanism engaging the container. In various examples, piercing member54may be positioned to pierce container18as the container is end of the container is being threaded into complementary threading, as the end of the container is being frictionally engaged with a frictionally engaging region of the docking station, and/or as the bottom end of the container is being engaged by projection64. Accordingly, in some examples, container18may not be breached by piercing member54until the container is being mechanically engaged by retention mechanism52, e.g., such that piercing member54pierces the container simultaneous with retention mechanism52engaging the container. Coordinating the engagement of piercing member54and retention mechanism52with container18may be useful to help lock the container in cavity50while piercing the container. When so implemented, this configuration may help prevent a user from inadvertently pulling container18back out of cavity50after the container has been pierced by piercing member54.

In one example illustrated inFIG.7A, docking station16includes a single sharpened point57projecting upwardly away from a remainder of the piercing member54. Configuring piercing member54with a single sharpened point57may be useful to asymmetrically pierce container18(e.g., a film covering dispensing outlet of the container). For example, when so configured, a film covering the dispensing outlet of container18may be entirely cut or detached on the side of piercing member54where sharpened point57is positioned but not on the opposite side of the piercing member lacking a sharpened point. This can create a hinged region of film that keeps the pierced film attached to container18but allows the pierced film to rotate out of the way of the dispensing outlet of container18.

In general, it is desirable if the entire volume of container18discharges quickly from the container upon the container being pierced. This reduces the processing time required for the operator to dispense the chemistry. Moreover, if container18empties quickly, it reduces the likelihood that the operator premature withdraws container18from docking station16expecting the container to be finished discharging. One or more design features may be incorporated into docking station16to help facilitate rapid discharge of container18upon being punctured. For example, as discussed above with respect toFIGS.6C-6F, docking station16may allow container18to be withdrawn off piercing member54after being punctured, removing the piercing member from the hole created in the container. Additional or alternatively, one or more flow-through apertures may be created in the wall structure (e.g., sidewall and/or bottom wall) defining piercing member54. The flow-through may be an opening in the wall that increases the open area through which chemistry exiting out of container18can pass.

FIGS.7B and7Care side and bottom perspective views, respectively, showing an example configuration of piercing member54in which the wall structure defining the piercing member includes one or more flow-through apertures55. In particular, in the illustrated example, each flow-through aperture55is illustrated as hole formed through a portion of the sidewall and bottom wall of the structure defining piercing member54although may have a different shape and/or configuration in different implementations. As illustrated, piercing member54includes a plurality (e.g., two, three, four, or more) of flow-through apertures55arrayed at different locations about the perimeter of the piercing member and/discharge aperture. Piercing member54can have a different number or positioning of flow-through apertures55, when used.

As another example flow enhancing feature that can be used in addition to or in lieu of those discussed above, docking station16may a cap which, when closed penetrates a wall surface (e.g. a bottom wall surface and/or sidewall surface) of the container to vent the container during discharge. This can allow air to enter the container through a different opening that the opening created by piercing member54, e.g., to help prevent a flow-restricting vacuum from forming in the container as concentrated chemical flows out the container.

FIGS.7D and7Eillustrate an example arrangement of docking station16in which the docking station includes an example cap100. Cap100can have a vented projection102. Cap100can be positionable over a bottom surface of container18, when the container is inserted into the receiving cavity of the docking station. For example, cap may be hingedly connected and configured to rotate closed over container18, when inserted into the receiving cavity of the docking station. Vented projection102may be a hollow lumen or tube the extends from cap100(e.g., downwardly, when the cap is closed). Vented projection102may or may not have a sharpened tip or other feature to help the projection puncture container18. In either case, the user can position container18in the receiving cavity of docking station16and close cap over the container. As the cap is positioned over the container, vented projection102can penetrate through the wall surface (e.g., bottom wall104) of the container, establishing fluid communication between an interior of the container and ambient air environment via the vent.

Container18may contain any type of material desired to be stored and dispensed using the container. Example chemicals that may be stored and dispensed using container include, but are not limited to, a biocide, an anti-microbial agent, a sanitizers, a sterilant, a cleaner, a degreaser, a lubricant, a detergent, a stain remover, a rinse agent, an enzyme, or combinations thereof. The chemical may typically be in a liquid from although in other applications may be in a solid form or a pseudo-solid/liquid form, such as a gel or paste. The chemical may be at a higher concentration than that desired for end use. Accordingly, the user may add a diluent such as water to reservoir12that is mixed with the concentrated chemical from container18to form a use solution. That being said, in other implementations, the chemical in container18may be at a ready-to-use concentration and may be introduced into reservoir12and used without further dilution.

As noted above, docking station16can be a separate component from reservoir12and/or strainer basket14that can then be engaged or interlocked with one or both components. Alternatively, docking station16may be permanently integrated into reservoir12and/or strainer basket14, e.g., by molding the features together. When docking station16is configured to be removable from and insertable into reservoir12and/or strainer basket14, the docking station may include one or more mechanical engagement features that engage with complementary surfaces and/or features on reservoir12and/or strainer basket14.

With further reference toFIGS.6A and6B, docking station16in the illustrated example is shown as include a clip70extending outwardly from sidewall56of the docking station. Clip70may engage with a lip or top edge of reservoir12and/or strainer basket14. For example, clip70may define a channel72into which the top edge of reservoir12and/or strainer basket can be positioned, interlocking the clip over the top edge.FIG.1illustrates such an example arrangement in which clip70is interlocked on the top edge of strainer basket14which, in turn, is rests on the top edge of reservoir12via ridge42.

Referring back toFIGS.6A and6B, docking station16may additionally or alternatively include one or more bayonet lugs74configured to be inserted into one or more corresponding bayonet receiver openings defined by sidewall20of reservoir12and/or sidewall28of strainer basket14. Bayonet lug74may be a projection that is insertable into a corresponding opening the sidewall of reservoir12and/or strainer basket14to interlock the docking station to the reservoir and/or strainer basket. For example, bayonet lug74can be inserted into a corresponding bayonet receiver openings defined by sidewall28of strainer basket14by inserting the lug into the opening and then pushing docking station16downwardly with respect to the strainer basket.

A variety of alternative configurations may be used to position docking station16relative to reservoir12and strainer basket14to dispense the contents of container18therein. For example, strainer basket system10may include a removable cover that can be positioned over the top of reservoir12(and strainer basket14, when the strainer basket is inserted into the reservoir). Docking station16may be formed in the lid or otherwise mounted to and/or in the lid. Accordingly, when the lid is placed on top of reservoir12with strainer basket14inside of the reservoir, docking station16may be positioned to discharge chemical from container18into the reservoir and/or strainer basket.

Instead of being configured to be removable from reservoir12and/or strainer basket14, docking station16may alternatively be permanent formed with or otherwise permanent integrated into the structure defining reservoir12and/or strainer basket14. For example, docking station16may be formed into sidewall20of reservoir12or into sidewall28of strainer basket14.

FIGS.8A and8Bare top and bottom perspective views, respectively, showing an example configuration of strainer basket14in which docking station16is formed in the upwardly extending sidewall28of the strainer basket. In particular, in the illustrated configuration, docking station16is formed in sidewall28of strainer basket14such that the discharge aperture62defined by the docking station is positioned on an external side of the strainer basket. As a result, when strainer basket14is inserted into reservoir12, discharge aperture62is positioned between sidewall20of the reservoir and sidewall28of the strainer basket. A similar positioning can be achieved by forming docking station16into sidewall20of reservoir12with discharge aperture62of the docking station being positioned on an internal side of the reservoir sidewall. In either case, positioning discharge aperture62of docking station16between reservoir12and strainer basket14may be useful to promote mixing between concentrated chemical discharged from the docking station and a diluent in the reservoir, e.g., rather than discharging the chemical on the material to be processed in the strainer basket. This configuration may also further shield the concentrated chemical discharged from container18via docking station16from inadvertent contact by a user. That being said, alternative implementations can position the discharge aperture62of docking station16on an internal side of strainer basket14.

To help facilitate discharge of chemical out of container18into reservoir12and/or strainer basket14(an optionally efficient mixing between the chemical and a diluent), strainer basket14may define a recessed channel80under discharge aperture62(FIG.8B). Recessed channel80may be a section of sidewall28that is recessed (e.g., inwardly toward a center of the basket) relative to a reminder of the sidewall. Recessed channel80can define a linear flow pathway extending from discharge aperture62to bottom wall26of reservoir12that is unimpeded by strainer basket14. For example,FIG.9is a sectional illustration of strainer basket system10illustrating an example flow pathway82that may be defined by the recessed channel80formed in strainer basket14ofFIGS.8A and8B.

In some configurations in which strainer basket14defines recessed channel80, the region of sidewall28defining the recessed channel may be devoid of apertures. For example, the region of sidewall28defining recessed channel80may be formed of a solid, unapertured section of material. This may help limit that extent to which concentrated chemical discharged from docking station16contacts material to be processed in strainer basket14until the concentrated chemical has intermixed with a diluent in reservoir12to form a use solution.

Independent of whether docking station16is removably attachable to or permanently integrated with reservoir12and/or strainer basket14, the docking station may discharge chemical from container18at a desired location in strainer basket system10. In general, the discharge aperture62defined by docking station16may be positioned at a location in strainer basket system10effective to dispense chemical into reservoir12and/or strainer basket14. In some examples, the discharge aperture62may be positioned sufficiently deep in the system such that the bottom surface of discharge aperture62is below the top edge of reservoir12and/or the top edge of strainer basket14, such as at least 25 cm below the top edge, at least 50 cm below the top edge, or at least 100 cm below the top edge of one or both structures.

While the bottom surface of discharge aperture62may be below the top edge of reservoir12and/or the top edge of strainer basket14, the bottom surface of discharge aperture62may also be positioned above bottom wall26of reservoir12a separation distance. This separation distance can facilitate mixing and dilution of chemical from container18during dispensing. The distance between the bottom surface of discharge aperture62and bottom wall26of reservoir12may be at least ¼ of the overall length of reservoir12, such as at least ½ of the overall length of the reservoir. Other positions and distances for locating discharge aperture62of docking station16can be used without departing from the scope of the disclosure.