Abstract:
Dilute chemical carrying systems include multiple embodiments of pressurizable and gravity feed reservoirs, and are provided for support and carriage of a segregated accommodation space, in some cases separately provided and in others integrally provided, for metered introduction of a concentrate into such reservoir. The structures both provide storage for concentrated chemical containers, and metered measurement while eliminating waste, make up time and minimizing contact between workers and the chemicals or nutrients in their concentrated state. Metering may be preferably provided by a pump assembly, and operational blocking of the pump assembly may be provided in separate or integrated structures. A concentrate container system enables users to recycle sealed containers to even further eliminate the necessity to directly handle concentrate.

Description:
This application is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. patent Ser. No. 10/206,722 filed Jul. 26, 2002, now abandoned, which is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. patent Ser. No. 10/124,205 filed Apr. 16, 2002, now abandoned. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates to the field of chemical applicators, and more particularly to applicators operating under pressure conditions both ambient and pressurized, for the delivery of plant nutrients and treatments which are commercially available in a more concentrated form than is required at application as a dilute form of the concentrate. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     In the botanical maintenance field, workers are called upon to apply a wide variety of chemicals to flora throughout the course of a busy work day. At the worse case, a worker needs to obtain a concentrated supply of a needed chemical or nutrient, measure a given amount of the concentrated nutrient into a container, add makeup diluent, typically water, to a level necessary to make up the final concentration, and then close and put away the concentrated supply container. 
     In terms of time, the worker is required to take a significant amount of time in pouring, measuring, or weighing the concentrated chemical, and in retrieving, handling, and restoring the concentrated chemical containers. Further, the process is not only wasteful in terms of time, but it is likely to be messy and produce significant spillage over a period of time. Further, where the concentrate is left at the “fill site”, a number of further problems arise. Any time that concentrate is left at the job site, hose bib, or utility sink, the disadvantages multiply. Functionally it means that the user must return to the site, and that if extra time had not been taken spills contaminate the site. Secondly, leaving chemical at an additional site can lead to liability if third parties come into contact with either the containers or the spills. 
     Spillage creates further negative impact from lost concentrate, the waste associated with clean up from paper towels disposed of and rags which become soiled more quickly, and most importantly from the increased contact with the chemical or nutrient in its concentrated form by the worker. Many of the chemicals and nutrients are harmful to workers, especially in their concentrated state. Spillage directly onto the skin of the worker is a particularly dangerous problem, with the degree of danger dependent upon the type and concentration of the chemical in question. Carriage is also a problem. Where a worker has one or two containers of concentrated chemical or nutrient which comprises the main ones of the materials to be used throughout the day, having to separately handle the concentrated material containers in addition to the main applicators, requires additional worker attention, time and trouble. Taking up the attention of the worker when his or her attention should be directed elsewhere enhances the danger potential, especially around plants where a worker could be injured upon impact by the plant. 
     What is needed is a system which frees the worker from having to worry about handling and spillage, especially with regard to the concentrated chemicals and nutrients which are used most often. The needed system should include ease of dispensing and re-stocking of the concentrated chemicals to eliminate worker handling and the associated negative impact of spillage. The end result of the needed system is reduced time for measuring, mixing and diluting, and increased worker safety, as well as to promote ease of usage so as to remove the barrier for people to feed their plants regularly. The needed system should also increase the time and ease of mixing and where possible prevent inadvertent spillage of concentrated chemicals and nutrients. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The system of the present invention includes the provision of a support of accommodation space on a gravity feed watering device or on a pressurized applicator to both provide storage for concentrated chemical containers, and metered measurement while eliminating waste, make up time and minimizing contact between workers and the chemicals or nutrients in their concentrated state, and to encourage and facilitate the regular feeding of plants, by reducing the trouble and bother associated with feeding plants to increase the regularity with which plants are fed and watered. The aforementioned mechanisms hold true for both commercial workers and home plant enthusiasts, especially hobby growers. Further, the invention makes it less dangerous to bring concentrated material into sensitive areas such as hotel lobbies and restaurants, common atrium areas and similar surroundings where minimum exposure is desired. In terms of commercial workers, the invention should reduce the liability while workers are on the job site by keeping chemicals from children and by reducing or eliminating what would be a further mixing station for the concentrated chemicals. 
     In normal usage, concentrated chemical or nutrient containers are stored in a position near the periphery of the entrance of the device, typically a watering device or applicator. From an initial empty state, displacement dispensers atop the concentrated chemical or nutrient containers applicators are activated to meter a pre-determined amount or multiples of such amount of concentrated chemical or nutrient into an opening of the device. Typically water is then added under flowing pressure into the opening to cause the metered chemical or nutrient to become mixed upon the rapid gravity introduction of the water or other mixture forming liquid. 
     Structure may be provided to prevent further concentrated chemical or nutrient from being dispensed and may include structure on the general device which blocks metering of the concentrated chemical or nutrient, or blocking members may be placed directly on the concentrated chemical or nutrient containers, or upon structure connected with the main applicator housing which supports the concentrated chemical or nutrient containers. In the alternative, a raised concentrate reservoir may be combined with a catch bib to insure that all chemical is either dispensed directly into the reservoir or collected in the bib for drainage into the main reservoir. 
     The manner of integration of the concentrated chemical or nutrient containers into the main applicator can be controlled in accord with shape to achieve important objectives. These objectives may include permitting or encouraging the use of generally compatible chemicals by integrating the container sizes to fit within a provided space. Chemicals which should never be used together can be placed in containers which will not physically fit within the support space, for example. 
     Container support and holding spaces may be configured to secure shapes and designs which are in existence or which may be in existence. In some cases, the size of the accommodated containers may be 7.5 inches, 8.5 inches, to 10.5 inches tall. The accommodated containers may be round or cylindrical or triangular or curved edge rectangular. The typical major width dimension may be 3.5 inches, 4 inches 4.5 inches or 5.0 inches. A typical minor width dimension may be 1.5 inches, 2.0 inches to 2.5 inches. The volume of the liquid containers may be from eight ounces to sixteen ounces to almost 40 ounces. 
     It is also contemplated that the applicator devices have support spaces which may specifically match with a concentrated chemical or nutrient container and in which the overall capacity of the applicator structure matches with the volume of concentrated chemical or nutrient metering capability of the concentrated chemical or nutrient containers. This opens further the ability to match concentrate containers with applicators. In some cases the accommodation space can be maximized to, in essence, provide an applicator with expanded concentrate containers. This in turn can enhance the use of applicators which are built around a single or even two or three concentrate containers. 
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     The invention, its configuration, construction, and operation will be best further described in the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which: 
     FIG. 1 is a top view of a gravity operated applicator utilizing container accommodation spaces securing matching shaped containers having dispensing mechanisms located adjacent a central opening in the applicator; 
     FIG. 2 is a side view of the gravity operated applicator illustrated in FIG. 1 showing its operation handle and more of the vertical detail of physical location of a first container and orientation of its pump applicator and spout extension; 
     FIG. 3 is a view taken along line  3  of FIG.  2  and illustrating the overall action of a pivotally attached flow disperser structure; 
     FIG. 4 is a view taken along line  4 — 4  of FIG.  3  and illustrating the flow disperser in a position covering the flow tube to which it is mounted; 
     FIG. 5 is a top view of a two container arrangement mounted around a pressurizable applicator container; 
     FIG. 6 is a more specialized pressurizable applicator container with an integrated concentrated chemical or nutrient container, especially useful where chemical mixing or specialized makeup metering is necessary; 
     FIG. 7 is a side view of the more specialized pressurizable applicator container seen in FIG. 6; 
     FIG. 8 illustrates a further embodiment in which an integral concentrate reservoir is mounted higher than the entrance to the main pressure chamber; 
     FIG. 9 is a top view of the embodiment of FIG.  8  and illustrating the flow path of material; 
     FIG. 10 is a left rear perspective view of a second embodiment of a gravity type applicator with integral concentrate container; 
     FIG. 11 is a right rear perspective view of the second embodiment of a gravity type applicator as seen in FIG. 10; 
     FIG. 12 is a partial view of the second embodiment of a gravity type applicator as seen in FIGS. 9 and 10 from a perspective similar to that seen in FIG. 10, but with the integral concentrate container shown separated and apart from the applicator; 
     FIG. 13 is a side view of the integral concentrate container seen in FIGS. 10-12; 
     FIG. 14 is a top view of the integral concentrate container seen in FIGS. 10-13; 
     FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a further embodiment of a more specialized pressurizable applicator container with a top mounted spillage prevention system mounted over an integrally mountable concentrated chemical or nutrient container; 
     FIG. 16 is an exploded view illustrating the applicator apart from a concentrate system including a cylindrical container, top adapter and pump assembly; 
     FIG. 17 is a cross sectional view of the applicator of FIGS. 15 and 16; 
     FIG. 18 is an exploded view of a cylindrically shaped concentrate supply container system; 
     FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a further embodiment of a gravity type applicator, again with the integral concentrate container shown separated and apart from the applicator; 
     FIG. 20 is a sectional view of the sprinkle screen; 
     FIG. 21 is a further embodiment of a gravity type applicator, with a modified upper reinforcement member and ramp style concentrate bottle holding mechanism; 
     FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a gravity type applicator with a modified upper reinforcement member having a downwardly directed flange for fitting within the top opening; and 
     FIG. 23 is a side sectional view taken along line  23 — 23  of FIG.  21  and showing internal details of the recessed sprinkle screen assembly seen in FIGS. 21 and 22. 
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT 
     The description and operation of the invention will be best initiated with reference to FIG. 1 which illustrates a top view of a gravity type applicator  11 . The gravity type applicator  11  has a housing  13  having a central opening  15 , shown larger than it might normally be provided for emphasis, to show common access by a first container  17  within a first container accommodation space  19 . Other structure may be provided for stabilizing the first container  17  within its container accommodation space  19 , however where the first container  17  is largely surrounded and supported, further structure is likely not necessary. First container  17  is typically filled with a plant nutrient or chemical and may include a pesticide, herbicide, nitrogen food or any concentrated chemical, typically in the liquid state. Container  17  has, from an upper perspective looking downward, a trapezoidal shape, or somewhat truncated triangular shape, and includes a pump applicator assembly  21  with a spout extension  23  which preferably extends over central opening  15  to allow for ease and secure gravitational deposition of dispensed liquids from container  17  and into a main reservoir of the gravity type applicator  11  and in which mixing may occur. An optional “c” shaped locking clip  24  may be provided to lock the spout extension  23  in an up position, to prevent further dispensing of the concentrate, and such clip  24  may be attached loosely to the pump applicator assembly  21 . The central opening  15  can be smaller so long as the extension  23  can gravitationally extend over it enough to reliably deposit a desired amount of concentrated material. 
     Further, it is preferable that the pump applicator assembly  21  have a known or pre-determined metering capability, typically in terms of ab even number of full stroke vertical pump shaft displacements to enable accurate metering of the nutrient or other chemical through the central opening  13 . This arrangement enables the user to take the guess work out of measurements and to reduce the reservoir replenishment steps to two, namely operating the pump applicator assembly  21  followed by the introduction of solvent, carrier or other effluent, typically water, into the reservoir connected to the central opening  15 . 
     Note that the first container accommodation space  19  registers the orientation of the first container  17  and insures that the first container  17  must be inserted in a way in which the pump applicator assembly  21  must be closest to the central opening  15 . Despite this physical ordering, the spout extension  23  still needs to be directed over the central opening  15 . If the spout extension  23  is ordered with respect to the first container  17 , either directly as by an upwardly extending boss which permits the spout extension  23  to be depressed only when the spout extension  23  is over the central opening; or by registration from the first container  17 , through the pump applicator assembly  21  and thence to the spout extension  23 , it can be seen that a mechanical scheme can be employed to prevent the pump operation when the spout extension  23  is in a position other than directly over the central opening  15 . Such a scheme can further help to prevent spillage and also prevent unwanted or inadvertent actuation of the pump mechanisms. In other words, during times when liquid from the first container  17  is not being metered into the central opening  15 , the turning of the spout extension  23  can provide a lockout mechanism. 
     Also seen is a second container  25  within a second container accommodation space  27 . The shape of both the second container  25  and the a second container accommodation space  27  are both round or cylindrical which is likely not to afford registration through the second container accommodation space  27  and second container  25 . However, registration may be made through a structure extending from the applicator  11  housing  13 , which is not seen in FIG. 1 for clarity of illustration. 
     Other structures seen in FIG. 1 include a flow tube  31  and an angle brace  33  between flow tube  31  and the main housing  13 . At the end of the flow tube  31 , a strainer or flow disperser  35  is pivotally mounted adjacent an open end  37  to enable flow dispersion and also to limit the flow to a convenient rate. Pivotal attachment enables the flow disperser  35  to be selectively utilized and possibly interchanged with other flow dispersers  35  having greater and lesser aperture areas. The top view of FIG. 1 omits any handle structure over the top of the applicator  11  so that the structures can be shown with greater clarity. 
     Referring to FIG. 2, a side view of applicator  11  illustrates an integral handle  41  which extends from a rear side  43  of the gravity type applicator  11 , upward and over the central opening  15  and toward a portion of the top of the gravity type applicator  11  near a front side  45 . From the view seen in FIG. 2, the view of first container  17  is most prominently seen. The first container accommodation space  19  is shown as an opening and pocket which allows the first container to take up or displace space within the reservoir  49  which may include a water level  51 . The degree to which the first container accommodation space  19  “invades” the reservoir  49  area will depend upon the size and configuration of reservoir  49  needed and the ability of one or more of the first and second containers  17  and  25  to either invade the space of the reservoir  49  or to become extended outboard of the applicator  11 . 
     Also seen in FIG. 2 is a pocket area  53  for insertion of an information placard which may include information on one or more of the concentrated chemicals or nutrients within first and second containers  17  and  25 , or relating to the use of gravity type applicator  11  in its expected mode of use. The physical structure of the pocket area  53  may include an attachable pocket onto a flat surface or a depressed surface within which a label may be attached. 
     FIG. 2 also illustrates the action of the flow disperser  35  and its pivoting connection  55  onto the flow tube  31 . As can be seen, the flow disperser  35  can be pivoted out of the way into a storage position or into place over the open end  37 . The user controls the position of the flow disperser  35  at will and the use of flow disperser  35 , especially depending upon which types of plant application is to be had such as a bulk application at the base or a sprinkling application at top. 
     Referring to FIG. 3, a closeup view taken along line  3  of FIG. 2 illustrates further details and including further details of operation. Flow disperser  35 , seen from side view, may have a catch  57  and a pair of spaced apart centering lugs  59  which may engage the inside edges of the flow tube  31 . Referring to FIG. 4, a view taken along line  4 — 4  of FIG. 3 illustrates a view looking onto the flow disperser  35  when it is in closed position. As can be seen, the flow disperser  35  has an array of apertures  59  to admit and disperse liquid from the flow tube  31 . Also seen are a pair of holder structures  61  which are used to engaged the catch  57  when the flow disperser  35  is desired to be fixed in an out-of-the-way upper position. 
     Referring to FIG. 5, a top view of a pressurizable applicator  101  typically includes a relatively thick, pressurizable body with a central opening  103  which may be threaded for facilitating attachment with a pump unit (not shown). A curved opening  105  may include an upper rail  107  for supporting several individual concentrated chemical or nutrient containers, such as a first concentrate container  111  or a second concentrate container  113 . Each of the first and second concentrate containers  111  and  113  includes a pump assembly  115  having a spout extension  117 . The ends of the spout extensions extend over the opening  103  to enable concentrate from the containers  111  and  113  to be dispensed directly into the opening  103  which leads to the reservoir  119 . The upper portion of the pressurizable applicator  101  may have a drain off collar  121  and spout  123  to assist in transfer of any dilute solution which must be removed at the time of cleaning of the pressurizable applicator  101 . 
     Pressurizable applicator  101  is preferably fitted with a hose  125  which is typically in constant communication with the reservoir into which the opening  103  leads. In many pressurized sprayers, the entire reservoir is pressurized while flow control is effected with a wand mounted at the end of a hose, and the pressurizable applicator  101  is shown in this type of configuration. A pressure release valve  127  for venting pressure to enable the pumping unit (not shown) to be removed from the pressurizable applicator  101  without having to expel the liquid from the reservoir  119 . 
     Referring to FIG. 6, a top view of an integrated pressurizable applicator  151  typically includes a relatively thick, pressurizable body with a central opening  153  leading to a reservoir  155 . The central opening  153  may be threaded for facilitating attachment with a pump unit (not shown). A curved area  157  identifies a liquid concentrate reservoir general area which is built into the body of the integrated pressurizable applicator  151 . A blocking rail  161  is placed to cooperate with a pump assembly  163  having a pump depression handle  165  and extended spout  167  having a tip end  169  positioned over the reservoir  155 . When in an upward position, as when the pump depression handle  165  is unactuated and in the upper position, the extended spout  167  is above the level of the blocking rail  161 . As such, if the extended spout  167 , which typically can turn 360° as in most pump assemblies including  163  is directed to any position other than a position where the tip end  169  is over the reservoir  155  or a drain off collar  171  seen adjacent the spout  173 , the pump assembly  163  cannot be actuated. Also seen is a short link chain  177  connected to the blocking rail  161  and also connected to a funnel  179 . Where the area  157  as an area for holding concentrate is integrated with the applicator  151 , a funnel  179  will help reduce spillage. Also seen are structures previously seen in FIG. 5, including a hose  125  and release valve  127 . 
     Referring to FIG. 7, a side view of the integrated pressurizable applicator  151  is shown with a pumping unit  181  having a prominent handle  183 . Typically the handle  183  can be locked with respect to the pumping unit  181  to permit the handle  183  to be utilized to carry the whole integrated pressurizable applicator unit  151 . It is also seen more clearly that the blocking rail  161  is an extension of the drain off collar  171 . 
     The area seen as curved area  157  in FIG. 6 is in fact an internally segregated reservoir area  157  now seen I FIG.  7 . The dashed barrier line  185  shows the boundary of the internal concentrate reservoir generally represented by the area  157 . Barrier  185  provides a physical segregation between an internal segregated area for holding concentrated chemicals or nutrients which are fed through an opening over which the pump assembly  163  is secured. The shape of the actual area of the concentrate holding volume will depend upon the shape and needs for the internal pressurizable reservoir  155 . As can be seen in FIG. 7, where the extended spout  167  is swung to the right and over the blocking rail  161  that it cannot be depressed. The funnel  179  is mounted in a manner that it will not be lost and in a position where it can be brought over to an opening which is underneath the pump assembly  163 , once the pump assembly  163  is removed to expose the opening into the area  157  occupied by the concentrate reservoir. Also shown is a pocket area  191  for placing instructions or labels onto the applicator  151 . It is understood that the blocking rail  161  could be provided from the pump assembly  163  so long as the cap portion of pump assembly  163  is registerable with respect to the orientation of the central opening  153 . 
     Referring to FIG. 8, a perspective view of an integrated pressurizable applicator  201  is shown as having an integral reservoir  203  mounted high upon what would otherwise be a continuation of a shoulder  205  of the integrated pressurizable applicator  201 . The high mounting of the integral reservoir  203  enables a gravity safety system in lieu of the pump lockout mechanism seen in FIG.  7 . Rather than disable the operation of a pump unit  211 , a contoured gravity bib  213  is seen immediately surrounding a cap  215 . Regardless of the position of a spout  217 , any concentrate will flow into a reservoir  219 . When the spout  217  is positioned directly over the reservoir  219 , the concentrate drops directly into the reservoir  219 . When the spout  217  is positioned elsewhere, any concentrate will flow onto the contoured gravity bib  213  and then into the reservoir  219 . Upon reaching the filling with solute step, solute can be caused to run along the contoured gravity bib  213  in order to wash it off, but with any excess concentrate going directly into the reservoir  219 . 
     As before, a hose  125  is seen, and also seen are threads  221  at the opening  223  which is again shown with a drain off collar  225 . Further, the degree of integration of the integral reservoir  203  to the applicator  201  main body  227  will depend upon both convenience and need. In the alternative, the contoured gravity bib  213  and drain off collar  225  could be made as a removable unit for attachment about a neck  229  of applicator  201  where it is desired to have a quick change complete applicator set. 
     Referring to FIG. 10, a left rear perspective view of a second embodiment of a gravity type applicator  301  includes an integral concentrate container  303 . The integral concentrate container  303  has a more gentle curve on the outside surface seen in FIG. 10, and a curved rear and bottom sides which fit into an accommodation space, not completely shown in FIG. 10 because it is occupied by the interfitting integral concentrate container  303 . 
     One aspect of the invention is the ability to provide a wide variety of integral concentrate containers  303  of different colors especially where any sort of applicator in this application is utilized. This will enable personnel, especially un-skilled worker personnel, to more easily keep up with the proper ones of the integral concentrate containers  303  to be used. The integral concentrate containers  303  may preferably be made of clear or light dispersive plastic which transmits enough light to show the liquid level inside. A tag may be used, especially which attaches onto a neck of integral concentrate container  303  which shows specific information including concentration, warnings, or special instructions, including instructions on dispensing the concentrate. 
     Most of the extent of the gravity type applicator  301 , with the exception of the integral concentrate container  303  forms a reservoir for being filled with plant nutrient solution typically predominantly including water. The gravity type applicator  301  is predominantly hollow having a large top opening  305  leading into an upper reservoir portion  307  which sits above an expanded base reservoir portion  309 . The expanded base reservoir portion  309  provides a wider and longer base which stabilizes the gravity type applicator  301  to reduce the chances of spilling even when the gravity type applicator  301  is inadvertently bumped or struck from a position near an upper portion of its structure. A stepped dividing zone  311  between the upper reservoir portion  307  and an expanded base reservoir portion  309  is a slanted shelf which extends from the front to the back of the gravity type applicator  301 . The shelf nature of the dividing zone  311  becomes a more steeply defined transition at the mid extent of the applicator  301 . At the rear extent, the dividing zone  311  forms its most horizontal shelf extent and meets a heel portion  313  near the junction of an arched handle  315 . This area provides a hand hold to facilitate plant feeding while the gravity type applicator  301  is raised over the user&#39;s head, the user typically grasping the rear heel portion  313  with the user&#39;s hand with the user&#39;s fingers placed aside either side of the arched handle  315  at the stepped dividing zone  311 . 
     The base reservoir portion  309  curves gently upward toward the front of the gravity type applicator  301  to provide some forward loading when the applicator  301  is tilted forward. This feature is combined with the arched handle  315  which extends from the heel portion  313 , across the top of the large top opening  305  and forward to the forward most end of the unified dividing zone  311  which forms the base of a spout portion  317 . The area immediately below the forward end of the arched handle  315  is an upwardly tilted portion of the expanded base reservoir portion  309  underneath the more flattened upwardly disposed forward portion of the dividing zone  311 . This has the effect of extending the expanded base reservoir portion  309  forward to both shift the center of gravity forward upon tilting, and also to move the bulk of the liquid away from the large opening  305  when the applicator  301  is tilted. This enables the user to worry less about spilling, even when the applicator  301  is nearly full and tilted significantly. 
     The spout-portion  317  extends to an expansion fitting  319  and then to a cylindrical portion  323  which may support optional engagement with a sprinkle screen assembly  325 . The sprinkle screen assembly  325  includes a cylindrical body portion  327  which supports a pair of oppositely oriented hinge fittings  329 , typically as a pair of oppositely disposed apertures. A pair of oppositely directed hinge projections  331  are integral with a sprinkle cover  333  which presents an outwardly curved multi aperture member. This enables the sprinkle cover  333  to be folded back into “butterfly style” held-open position where a user wants the sprinkle function disabled, and out of the way of a more open flow. 
     The arched handle  315  may preferably be hollow both to provide additional storage capacity especially at the rear of the applicator  301 , but also at the front of the applicator  301  adjacent the dividing zone  311 . The front of the applicator  301  adjacent the dividing zone  311  also serves as a source of displacement air so that as the applicator  301  is righted, all of the balancing air need not come from back as being pulled through the sprinkle cover  333 . 
     Adjacent the large top opening  305  a vertical feature is seen as a spout guide  339 . This structure is attached, preferably permanently, about a position adjacent and around a rim  341  of the large top opening  305 . It may be riveted with rivets  343  either to the material of the applicator  301 , or back onto its own material where provided to hook around the rim  341 . 
     The spout guide shown is designed to allow material to run out a bottom  345  of a ramp not completely seen in FIG.  10  and over a face  347  of a fitting  349  through which extends the rivet  343 . 
     On either side of the ramp, and again the full extent of the ramp is not seen in FIG. 10, are a pair of tall vertical projections  351  and  353  which lie to either side of and displaced slightly from a manual pump  355  having a spout  357 . A portion of spout  357  is obscured behind the projection  351 . The manual pump  355  is threadably attached to the top of the integral concentrate container  303 . 
     When the integral concentrate container  303  is placed in its accommodation space (to be more fully shown later), the spout  357  is simultaneously fitted into a position between the pair of projections  351  and  353  as the integral concentrate container  303  is being fitted into place. 
     Once in place, the position of both the integral concentrate container  303  and the projections  351  and  353  are such that the manual pump  355  spout  357  is not free to turn either way. The manual pump  355  may be actuated upwardly and downwardly by having the user press onto the top of the manual pump  355  in a deliberate manner. However, the manual pump  355  and spout  357  are protected from any generalized downward striking motion by the protection afforded by the projections  351  and  353 . 
     Where the manual pump  355  and spout  357  structures are upwardly spring loaded, they will return to their upper position as is seen in FIG.  10 . Where no spring loading is present, the manual pump  355  and spout  357  may be left in a downward position (not shown in FIG. 10) to provide even more protection against downward actuation. However, since most pump assemblies available commercially are spring loaded to assume an upward, ready-to-pump orientation, the projections  351  and  353  will be of especial value in providing coverage against inadvertent actuation when the manual pump  355  and spout  357  are in the upward position. 
     Further, the projections  351  and  353  provide a “locked in” guide which keeps the spout  357  in line and directly toward the large top opening  305 . 
     Reasonably non-destructive removal of the spout  357  from between the projections  351  and  353  can effectively be accomplished by removal of the integral concentrate container  303  from the applicator  301 . Conversely, and as can be seen in FIG. 10, the integral concentrate container can be loaded in a different orientation with the spout  357  not between the projections  351  and  353  so that reasonable care to load the integral concentrate container  303  into the applicator  301  should be exercised. The flared entrance to the space between the projections  351  and  353  facilitates the guiding of the spout  357  upon loading of the integral concentrate container  303  into the applicator  301 . 
     In terms of metering, the use of a guarded system provided by the projections  351  and  353  prevents unintended actuation while also facilitating the use of manual pumps  355  with different metering capability. For a given neck size or metering plunger area, metering limits are typically set by limiting the vertical height over which manual pump  355  can travel. A small metered flow would be accomplished by providing a manual pump  355  which might have only a quarter inch stroke from the top of its travel path to the bottom. In this case it would reside only in the lower area between the projections  351  and  353 . Since the projections  351  and  353  have a flared opening, it is not necessary for a high clearance of the spout  357  over the projections  351  and  353 . Manual pumps similar to manual pumps  355  of any operating height may be utilized in conjunction with the projections  351  and  353 . 
     Also seen is a base collar  359  of the manual pump  355  which further illustrates the advantages of the two projections  351  and  353  as a system which provides significant clearance for a wide variety of fittings or base collars  359  of a manual pump  355 . Further, in terms of a stabilizing force, note that arched handle  315  is not only attached adjacent two dividing zones  311 , but also by attachment arm  361  at the more forward end of the applicator  301  and by attachment arm  363  at the more rearward end of the applicator  301 . Both the attachment arms  361  and  363  attach the arched handle  315  to the upper sides of the upper reservoir portion  307 . Preferably, but not required, is the presence and hollow nature of the arched handle  315  and its communication with the upper reservoir portion  307  as well as the expanded base reservoir portion  309  at its two points of attachment adjacent the dividing zone  311 . This enables the arched handle  315  to hold additional water on a level with water in the higher of the upper reservoir portion  307  and expanded base reservoir portion  309  when the applicator  301  is tilted. In essence, expanded water holding capability combines with stability. In addition, displacement air can also readily flow through the arched handle  315  especially from its connection with the upper reservoir portion  307 . 
     Referring to FIG. 11, a perspective view of the other side of the applicator  301  illustrates a better view of the face  347  of the spout guide  339 . Now, above the bottom  345 , a curved ramp  371  can be seen. The geometry seen in FIG. 11, combined with that of FIG. 10 helps to complete an understanding of the flow of concentrate after it leaves the end of the spout  357 . The concentrate drops onto the ramp  371  to flow over the face  347 , and through the large top opening  305  into the upper reservoir portion  307 . The general configuration of the fitting  349  illustrates a construction that is self contained, and prevents any dispensed concentrate from entering any space between the fitting  349  and an upper surface  373  of the upper reservoir portion  307 . Further, the ramp  371  will be continually washed with fresh amounts of concentrate, of any type, and should generally operate to keep itself clean. Clearing water can also be introduced down the ramp  371  on each subsequent filling of the applicator  303  to keep it clean. 
     Notice also that gross volume measurement level marks are present, including a volume mark  375  to indicate a two gallon level and a volume mark  377  to indicate a one gallon level. Further volume marks can be supplied both on the upper reservoir portion  307  and farther down on the expanded base reservoir portion  309  where necessary. However, given the precision metering ability of the manual pump  355  and the more precise level measurement of concentrate from the concentrate container  303 , the user will be able to control the concentrations accurately without having smaller denomination measurements on the applicator  303  housing. 
     Referring to FIG. 12, an expanded view of the integral concentrate container  303  being removed from the gravity type applicator  301  illustrates further details thereof. The integral concentrate container  303  is seen as having a front face  381  separate from the outer surface of the upper reservoir portion  307 . An upper surface  383  reveals that the integral concentrate container  303  has a “D” shaped cross section which includes a curved surface  385  which extends in a continuous curve from a left to rear to right side smoothly. 
     This curved rear portion of its cross sectional shape allows the integral concentrate container  303  to fit into a compartment  391  which includes a floor surface  393 , a curved transition surface  395  and leading to a generally vertical, curved rear surface  397 . At the top of the compartment  391  a portion  399  of the upper surface  373  comes forward in a thin “U” shape to engage a mating surface located just below the base collar  359 . 
     A series of relationships can be used to keep the integral concentrate container  303  securely carried within the compartment  391 . These can include for example making floor surface  393  slightly lower than an edge  401 , or adjusting the portion  399  so that it works in conjunction with the floor surface  393  to “trap” the container  303 , such as by being able to be deflected upwardly. 
     Another mechanism is also shown in FIG. 12. A member  405  is seen on the integral concentrate container  303  which may be either a projection or a depression. Member  405  is positioned to complementarily contact a member  407  on the inside of the generally vertical, curved rear surface  397 . Member  407  is the other of a projection or depression and enables a hold in fit with the member  405 . The fit relationship can be snap, interference, latch, spring powered and the like or have a further relationship. 
     Also seen is the extension of the curved edge  401  along an extent adjacent both the floor  393  and upward along both sides adjacent to the generally vertical, curved rear surface  397 . The curvature of the edge can be severe or gentle to facilitate handling by increasing or decreasing the ease with which the human hand can grasp the integral concentrate container  303 . The “D” shaped curved surface  385  has a tighter radius of curvature at its rearmost extent to facilitate the rapid, easy loading of the integral concentrate container  303  into the compartment  391 . The integral concentrate container  303  can be, depending upon the details of orientation, loaded by angling the bottom in first or by first positioning the base collar  359  with respect to the portion  399  followed by pushing the bottom of the integral concentrate container  303  into place. In some configurations integral concentrate container  303  may be loaded in with a vertical orientation. Removal of the integral concentrate container  303  can be accomplished by grasping and pulling outwardly on the base collar  359 . 
     Front face  381  of the integral concentrate container  303  is shown as being marked with volumetric indicator marks  411 . Near the bottom of the integral concentrate container  303 , the front face  381  has an outward curvature  413  followed by a downward curvature  415  leading to a forwardly displaced vertical portion  417 . However, the integral concentrate container  303  need not have the exact shape details seen in FIG.  12 . Integral concentrate container  303  can also have manual assists for instances where it needs to be changed more quickly or more often. 
     Referring to FIG. 13, a side view of the integral concentrate container  303  is seen, without the manual pump  355  and with the base collar  359  removed to expose an upper neck  421  having a simple thread  423 . 
     Referring to FIG. 14, a top view of the integral concentrate container  303  again shows the upper neck  421  as having an opening  425 . The curved surface  385  is shown as having about 180° of curvature having an even radius about the upper neck  421 . The 180° of curvature levels into a flat portion  427  and a flat portion  429  identifiably seen for the first time in FIG.  14 . 
     Referring to FIG. 15, a further embodiment of a pressurized applicator is seen as integrated pressurizable applicator  501 . Applicator  501  has a body  503  having an integral internal reservoir (not shown in FIG. 15) and a concentrate container system  505  which includes a concentrate container  507 , neck unit  509  and a pump unit  511  of which can be seen a collar  513 , pump head  515  and spout  517 . 
     Above the collar  513  and also mounted above the body  503  is a potentially removable drainage basin  521 . Drainage basin  521  can be seen to act to prevent any downward motion on the pump head  515  by virtue of interference of the spout  517  with the drainage basin  521 . Only when the spout  517  is directed over the entrance, which is occupied by a pressurizing unit  523  in FIG. 15, will the pump head  515  have the ability to be depressed freely. Even where the spout  517  is not directly over the opening into the integral internal reservoir (not shown in FIG.  15 ), any dispensed concentrate will drain into such opening, assisted by the drainage basin  521 . An upper edge  525  of the drainage basin  521  radially and blockingly “tracks” the spout  517  throughout the portion of its radial pivot ability when it is not nearest the area within the drainage basin  521  which is shown in FIG. 15 to be occupied with the pressurizing unit  523 . 
     The radial distance of the upper edge  525  is seen to engage the spout  515  between its plunger  527  and spout tip  529 . It is to be emphasized that upper edge  525  may have a radially expanded distance to simply catch any drips from the spout  517  to direct those drips to the center opening (not shown in FIG.  15 ), or the spout  517  may have a reduced radial distance. In this case, the height of the upper edge  525  may be increased to block generally all but deliberate access to the pump head  515 . In an alternative configuration the height of the pump head  515  may be lowered, relative to the upper edge  525 , to further prevent inadvertent dispensing of concentrate. The rim  525  of the drainage basin  521  has an expanded radius portion surrounding the pressurizing unit  523  of which the pump handle  523  is visible in FIG.  15 . 
     Also seen extending to one side of the body  503  is a hose connection  531 . Drainage basin  521  is also seen as having a lower collar  533  which may form a partial or total support for the drainage basin  521 . A safety relief valve  535  is also seen on the body  503 . 
     Concentrate bottle  507  is shown as being supported by a shelf extension  541  extending from a lower portion of the body  503 . Structures to be shown will illustrate some possible structure to assist holding concentrate bottle  507  in place. Also seen is an indented area  543  which defines the body  503  legs or stability projections. 
     Referring to FIG. 16, a partially exploded view of the integrated pressurizable applicator  501  is shown with the concentrate container system  505  in a removed and exploded position. The concentrate container  507  is seen as a generally cylindrical container having an upper opening  555  surrounded by threads  557  on a circumferentially indented land  559 . From the land  559  the sides of the concentrate container  507  is generally linearly cylindrical, terminating in a curved transition  561  to a flat bottom  563 . A rim  565  exists at the top of the land  559  which is preferably enabled to accept a sealing member (not shown) and which is to be further illustrated with respect to a concentrate system. 
     A sealing member will preferably be of the type which adheres to an upper rim and which can be either punctured or peeled away. As will be shown, the integrated pressurizable applicator  501  utilizes a concentrate container system  505  which minimizes human contact with the concentrate and minimizes spillage. In the configuration shown, the puncturing of any covering seal will occur at its center due to the generally concentric nature of the concentrate container system  505 . 
     The neck unit  509  has a set of internal threads adjacent its underside for engagement with threads  557  of the concentrate container  507 . Neck unit  509  extends upwardly to a land  569  having threads  571 . Land  569  has an opening  573  at its upper end. The neck unit  509  acts as an adapter to the concentrate container  507 , and can differ as needed to accommodate different configurations of pump sets having different connection fittings. In the alternative a single solid container can be utilized. 
     To the right of the neck unit  509  and concentrate unit  507  is a pump set  575  which includes a boss  577  above the collar  513 , and a main housing  579  below the collar  513 . Below the main housing  579  is a pickup tube  581  having a lower end  583  which is cut at an angle to form a sharp tip. Also seen is the fact that the plunger  527  extends down into the boss  577 . 
     The concentrate container  507  is seen to fit into a curved space  585  formed by a portion of the outside of the body  503 . Space  585  has a projection  587  which engages an indentation (not shown) on the concentrate container  507 . The curved space  585  leads down to a shelf  589  which supports both the concentrate container  507  and an upward button protrusion  591 , which similarly fits into a small indentation (not shown) on the concentrate container  507 . Each of the members including projection  587  and upward button protrusion  591  limit the movement of the concentrate container  507  out of the curved space  585  by providing a general orthogonal entry into the body of the concentrate container  507 . 
     Changing of the concentrate container  507  is had by bringing the bottom outward and over the relatively low height upwardly projecting button protrusion  591 . The more upwardly located connection with the projection  587  enables a reduced removal angle. Removal can be completed by either having the pump set  575  lowered and angled out so that the spout  517  can clear an opening (not yet shown) in the drainage basin  521 . In the alternative, the collar can be threadably removed from the threads  571  by turning the boss  577  from within the drainage basin  521  to remove the pump set  575 . After removal of the pump set  575 , the empty concentrate container  501  with its attached neck unit  509  can be can be removed by either urging the bottom or the top of the concentrate container  507  laterally away from the body  503 . 
     Referring to FIG. 17, a sectional view of the integrated pressurizable applicator  501  is seen. The details of the pressurizing unit  523  are not shown beyond the partial and slight detail of the handle shape. Typically this pressurizing unit  523  threadably disengages internally from a neck  597  of the body  503  by turning the handle seen at the top of pressurizing unit  523  from either a locked position or a position of maximum angular displacement in one direction. In the unlocked (or unthreaded in the case of a threaded hold down) position, a handle is usually free to be raised and lowered to introduce pressure into a reservoir  599 . 
     As can be seen, the neck  597  forms an anchor to which the lower collar  533  is attached. Attachment may be by close fit, pin lock, gluing or any other acceptable method. In some of these methods, the drainage basin  521  may be removable. In the configuration shown, the locking down of the pressurizing unit  523  also causes the drainage basin  521  to be locked down and otherwise supported. 
     To the right of the lower collar  533 , the drainage basin  521  can be seen to have an opening  601  through which the boss  577  of the pump set  575  is seen to immediately extend. Depending upon the size of the pump head  515 , it is possible to angle the concentrate container  507  away from the body  503  with the drainage basin  521  still in place, and allow the plunger  527  to pass downwardly through the opening  591  without having to disconnect the pump set  575  from the concentrate container  507 . The ability and desirability to do this may depend not only on the overall size of the pump head  515 , but also the height and diameter of the material surrounding the opening  601 . Further, the material surrounding the opening  601  can be adjusted to engage the boss  577  or even the top of the collar  513  to provide further support to the drainage basin  521 . 
     As can be further seen, the concentrate container  507  is held in place by the projection  587  extending into an indentation  605 . Similarly, upward button protrusion  591  is seen protruding into an indentation  607  located at the bottom center of the concentrate container  507  and located at the center of generally flat bottom  563 . 
     Referring to FIG. 17, a more complete exploded view of the concentrate container system  505  illustrates some of the flexibility involved with the use of a wide mouth concentrate container  507  along with a neck unit  509 . As can be seen, the wide mouth concentrate container  507  may be supplied with a sealing plastic or foil or other thin planar sealing member  621  which engages the upper rim  565  of the circumferentially indented land  559 . Above the foil member  621 , and as an option, a reinforcement ring  623  having a smaller central aperture  625  is seen. The reinforcement ring  623  is especially useful for concentrating any puncturing forces from the pickup tube  583 . Concentration of puncture forces will prevent lateral wide tearing of the foil member  621 , and will prevent stretching of the surrounding areas of the foil member  621 . This can be particularly important if some sealing is desired around the pickup tube  583 . The reinforcement ring  623  smaller central aperture  625  gives the ability to (1) concentrate puncture area, (2) concentrate puncture forces, (3) limit tearing to a small area, and (4) provide some sealing about the pickup tube  583 . The reinforcement ring  623  can be made of flexible material to further accomplish this task. 
     Above the neck unit  509 , a smaller diameter sealing plastic or foil or other thin planar sealing member  631  is seen. Where a small area of material is provided, and depending upon the selection of material, a similarly small reinforcement ring  623  can be eliminated. The user can be supplied with a bottle having the dimensions of the combined concentrate container  507  and neck unit  509  or the user can be supplied with a simple concentrate container  507 , especially sealed with a foil member  621  and optional reinforcement member. 
     It is believed that where a liquid bottle is supplied, a single bottle with a small opening  573  would be desirable. Where a powder or dehydrated mixture is supplied, the concentrate container  507  may be supplied alone. This may include the case where water or other fluid is added to an undissolved powder. In both cases the system provides maximum flexibility to users, manufacturers, and concentrate suppliers. 
     Referring to FIG. 19, a further embodiment is seen as a gravity type applicator  651  which has features which are more centered and vertically oriented. A concentrate container  653  is seen a separated from the gravity type applicator  651 . Concentrate container  653  is vertically taller and thus has a little additional volume capability for a given set of other dimensions. 
     The floor surface  393  and generally vertical, curved rear surface  397  seen in gravity type applicator  301  is replaced by a pure vertical axis horizontal indentation  655  which may have no floor surface. A single projection  657  is seen extending from a point generally near the middle of the horizontal indentation  655  and matches bore  659  shown in phantom at the rear of the concentrate container  653 . Aside from support had just below the base collar  359 , the bore  659  connection with the projection  657  provides the only other support for the concentrate container  653 . Note also that the concentrate container  653  has been located more rearwardly than the position of concentrate container  303  with respect to gravity type applicator  301 . This offers different advantages of enabling user contact directly with the bottom of the concentrate container  653 , as well as a more centered center of gravity profile. 
     Projection  657  is seen as being cylindrical, but need not be. Projection  657 , as well as bore  659 , can be angled upwardly to obtain a better hold on the concentrate container  653 . Further, the projection  657 /bore  659  holding system can be supplemented by other holding structure possibly in conjunction with other structures. 
     In addition, a matching one piece holding and flow directing structure  661  is provided which includes a curved portion  663  and an enclosed guide structure  665  having a side opening  667 . The enclosed guide structure  665  has a bottom opening (not shown) preferably with a sleeved extension extending through a matching opening in a top surface  671  upon which the guide structure  665  is mounted. This enables dispensed concentrate to fall directly into the inside of the upper reservoir portion  307  to further eliminate surfaces, especially surfaces which are slightly horizontal which might come into contact with, and delay the entry of concentrate. The entry of the spout  357  into the opening  667  is by a slight turning motion, similar to that seen in gravity type applicator  301 . The flow directing structure  661  provides a more protected structure to both guard against inadvertent actuation as well as some added degree of isolation of the concentrate. Rivets  675  are seen holding the flow directing structure  661  atop the top surface  671 . 
     A more compact sprinkle screen assembly  681  is seen having a housing  683 . Referring to FIG. 20, a view of the detached compact sprinkle screen assembly  681  is seen having a cover  685  having side pinned projections  687 . The cover  685  has a series of holes  689  to enable a sprinkles flow when the cover  685  is rotated to a covering position within the housing  683 . The wall thickness of the cylindrical portion  323  should ideally be thin enough to insure that the cover  685  swings freely open. Detent notches both forwardly and rearwardly adjacent the housing  683  near the pinned projections  687 , will enable the cover  685  to be held in the open position. 
     Referring to FIG. 21, a side perspective view of a gravity type applicator  701  has a few additional features of note. At the left, a gravity type applicator  701  is seen to have a recessed sprinkle screen assembly  703  to provide additional protection for the sprinkle cover  685 . A matching one piece holding and flow directing structure  705  includes a neck reinforcement partially surrounding boss  707  to provide a more strengthened lock between the base collar  359  and top of a concentrate container  711 . The terminations of the boss  707  are wedge shaped which enable the gap between the base collar  359  and top of a concentrate container  711  to be used to mount it on the wedge shaped boss  707  to get a good lock on the holding of the concentrate container  711 . 
     The concentrate container  711  includes a pair of wedge shaped projections  713  near its base, one of which is seen in FIG.  1 . The wedge shaped projections  713  slip past a matching pair of interference structure projections (not shown in FIG. 21) on the inside of the vertical axis horizontal indentation  655 . The wedge shape of the projections  713  assist in ease of locking and in maintaining the concentrate container  711  into place. As before, the spout  357  of the manual pump  355  is guided into the side opening  667  as the concentrate container  711  is loaded onto the matching one piece holding and flow directing structure  705 . Also note that as a variation, a set of volumetric indicator marks  717  are located on the side of the concentrate container  711 . 
     Referring to FIG. 22, a further variation on the matching one piece holding and flow directing structure  705  is shown. A unitary combination matching one piece holding, rim and flow directing structure  721  is shown in exploded view over the gravity type applicator  701  seen in FIG.  21 . The combination matching one piece holding, rim and flow directing structure  721  may be particularly advantageous for cases where the large top opening  305  is not as finished as would be desired or where the top opening  305  needs to be utilized for additional stability. 
     The unitary combination matching one piece holding, rim and flow directing structure  721  has a downwardly directed flange  723  which fits into the opening  305  which helps to stabilize and register the unitary combination matching one piece holding, rim and flow directing structure  721 . A pair of apertures, including the aperture  725  which is seen on the unitary combination matching one piece holding, rim and flow directing structure  721  are used to hold it in place. With the additional stabilization of the flange  723 , a lesser number of apertures may be necessary. A pair of apertures  727  are seen on the upper surface  671  of the gravity type applicator  701  which align wit the apertures  725 . 
     In FIG. 22, one of two vertical projections  731  are seen just inside the lower extent of the vertical axis horizontal indentation  655 . 
     Referring to FIG. 23, a sectional view taken along lines  23 — 23  of FIG. 21 shows a recessed sprinkle screen assembly  703  which is oriented to open by pivoting in one direction only. A cover  741  has water flow apertures  743  and is mounted to pivot adjacent an interference projection  745 . On one side of the pivot of the cover  741 , an inside portion of the recessed sprinkle screen assembly  703  is provided as a sweeping surface  751 , so that the cover  741  will sweep toward the main body of the gravity type applicator  701 . At the other side of the pivot of the cover  741 , an inside portion of the recessed sprinkle screen assembly  703  includes a stop lip  753  which prevents motion of an abutting portion of the cover  741  from movement in the direction of the gravity type applicator  701 . 
     By providing movement in one direction only, a closer tolerance can be provided to enable the cover  741  to become more easily fixable in the open position. The interference projection  745  is used to keep the cover  741  in the open position. It is preferable to mark the cover  741  to indicate the direction of movement by pressing the side of the cover  741  nearest the sweeping surface  751 . Further, an extended forward portion of the housing of the recessed sprinkle screen assembly  703  provides additional protection for the cover  741  when it is in the open position. 
     Further, the flexibility for sealing will provide manufacturers and users with new options for recycling. By standardizing the containers in a way which maximizes their usage, recycling is facilitated. Recycling includes cleaning, re-filling with more concentrate and re-selling. The concentrate container system  505  also facilitates the use of colors to identify different types of concentrate. 
     While the present invention has been described in terms of a system for providing convenient metered concentrate with respect to a dilute dispenser system, the principles contained therein are applicable to other types of systems. 
     Although the invention is derived with reference to particular illustrative embodiments, many changes and modifications of the invention may become apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Therefore, included within the patent warranted hereon are all such changes and modifications as may reasonably and properly be included within the scope of this contribution to the art.