Abstract:
A solid product dispenser can be used to form a dilute liquid solution from a block of solid concentrate. In cases where only a small amount of liquid solution is needed, the solid product dispenser may dissolve the block of solid concentrate quickly and substantially uniformly to provide a solution of controlled concentration. This can be contrast with larger dispensing applications where a dispenser may dissolve a block of concentrate slowly at the start and more rapidly as the dispensing progresses, producing a solution with an average concentration higher than if only a small amount of solution were produced using the dispenser. In one example, the solid product dispenser includes a fluid distribution reservoir and a solid product reservoir positioned inside of the fluid distribution reservoir and over a platform on which the solid product sits. High pressure fluid flows between the two reservoirs, turbulently contacting the solid product.

Description:
TECHNICAL FIELD 
       [0001]    This disclosure relates to solid product dispensers and, more particularly, to chemical dispensers that form liquid chemical solutions from solid product concentrates. 
       BACKGROUND 
       [0002]    Aqueous chemical solutions are used in a variety of situations. For example, in different applications, aqueous cleaning solutions are used to clean, sanitize, and/or disinfect kitchens, bathrooms, schools, hospitals, factories, and other similar facilities. Aqueous cleaning solutions include one or more chemical species dissolved in water. The chemical species impart various functional properties to the water such as cleaning properties, antimicrobial activity, and the like. In different applications, an aqueous cleaning solution may be supplied by a manufacturer in a dilute, ready-to-use form or as a concentrate that is diluted onsite to form a working solution. Supplying a concentrate has the advantages of reducing shipping costs and minimizing the amount of onsite storage required to hold the chemical before use. 
         [0003]    One way to supply concentrated chemical for onsite dilution is to provide solid chemical concentrate that is dissolved in an onsite dispenser to produce a comparatively dilute working solution. For example, a chemical can be provided as a powdered, flaked, or granular solid that is dissolved onsite in a dispenser. Another form of solid concentrate is a “cast” or block solid that is typically cast within a mold or container. The block solid can be dissolved by spraying a solvent on the block, thereby dissolving the exposed surface of the block to form a working solution. The working solution falls into a reservoir or is directed by a conduit to a cleaning apparatus. When the chemical compound is completely utilized, a fresh solid block can be inserted into the dispenser to recharge the dispenser for continued operation. 
         [0004]    While a solid block chemical concentrate can be convenient to transport, store, and use, it can be challenging to control the concentration of the chemical in the working solution formed by applying solvent to the solid block. The rate at which the solid block erodes can change based on factors such as the temperature of the solvent, the length of time the solvent is applied to the block, the volume of solvent applied to the block, and similar factors. For example, the solid block may dissolve slowly upon being first wetted with solvent and dissolve more rapidly as solvent is continuously applied to the block. As a result, the collected solution produced during a dispense event can have a chemical concentration that is an average of the different chemical concentrations released during the dispense event. When an operator generates a comparatively large volume of working solution, the variability in the chemical concentration during the dispense event may be averaged away and negligible. However, when an operator seeks to generate a comparatively small volume of working solution, such as an amount to fill a handheld spray bottle, the variability in the chemical concentration may be more impactful. 
       SUMMARY 
       [0005]    In general, this disclosure is directed to solid product dispensers and the dispensation of aqueous chemical solutions from solid chemical concentrates. In one configuration according to the disclosure, a solid product dispenser is configured to generate a dilute aqueous solution from a solid chemical concentrate by indirectly applying pressurized fluid to the solid chemical concentrate. The solid product dispenser includes a fluid supply inlet to supply pressurized fluid to the solid chemical concentrate. Instead of positioning the outlet of the fluid supply inlet to spray pressurized fluid directly against the solid chemical concentrate, the fluid supply inlet may be positioned to direct pressurized fluid in a space adjacent to and in fluid communication with the solid chemical concentrate. For example, the solid chemical concentrate can be positioned on an elevated platform having fluid openings within a dispenser housing. The pressurized fluid can be directed at a region in the housing adjacent to the elevated platform. When fluid is discharged under pressure into the housing, the fluid may travel vertically downward under a pressure greater than gravity force until the fluid is redirected generally horizontally towards the platform. The pressurized fluid can flow across and upwardly through the platform, providing turbulent flow of pressurized fluid that erodes the surface of the solid chemical concentrate positioned on the platform. The resulting working solution can discharge through an outlet located below the platform. The combination of pressurized fluid and indirect application of fluid to the solid chemical concentrate can provide a consistent erosion rate across the dispense cycle. Accordingly, while the solid product dispenser can be used in any application and to produce any desired volume of working solution, the solid product dispenser may be beneficially utilized to generate comparatively small volumes of working solution. For example, the solid product dispenser may be used to generate a volume of working solution suitable to fill a handheld spray bottle, a cleaning rag bucket, a mop bucket, or other small volume application. 
         [0006]    A solid product dispenser according to the disclosure can have a variety of other features in addition to or in lieu of indirect application of pressurized fluid to a solid chemical concentrate. In one example, the dispenser has built-in backflow prevention to prevent working solution from backing up into the fluid supply inlet through which fresh fluid (e.g., water) is provided in the case of a flow obstruction. For example, the dispenser may include an overflow opening (e.g., air gap) positioned between the fluid supply inlet and the reaction portion of the reservoir where fluid intermixes with solid product concentrate. If working solution backs up in the working portion of the reservoir, the working solution can spill out through the overflow openings before entering the fluid supply inlet. When so configured, the solid product dispenser may be connected to a fluid source without requiring the use of a separate backflow device, such as a vacuum breaker. 
         [0007]    As an additional example, the solid product dispenser can be configured as a modular unit, allowing multiple units of the same dispenser to be used in series. For example, solid product dispenser may have a fluid supply manifold that has inlet, outlet, and distribution lines as well as a valve. The inlet can be connected to a source of pressurized fluid, such as pressurized municipal water. Actuation of the valve can control whether pressurized fluid received through the inlet line is delivered through the outlet line (e.g., without contacting any concentrated chemical in the dispenser), through the distribution line (e.g., for application to concentrated chemical in the dispenser), or through both lines. The outlet line can be connected to one or more downstream dispensers (directly or indirectly). For example, multiple dispenser units containing the same or different concentrated chemicals can be arranged side-by-side with the inlet of one dispenser connected to the outlet of an adjacent dispenser. In this manner, a single location for connecting to a source of pressurized fluid can be used to supply multiple solid product dispenser units. 
         [0008]    In one example, a solid product dispenser is described that includes a fluid distribution reservoir having an outlet configured to dispense a chemical solution formed in the fluid distribution reservoir, a fluid supply inlet configured to supply a pressurized fluid to the fluid distribution reservoir, and a platform located in the fluid distribution reservoir, the platform being configured to hold a solid product and expose the solid product to the pressurized fluid. The solid product dispenser also includes a solid product reservoir located in the fluid distribution reservoir, the solid product reservoir being configured to surround a portion of the solid product positioned on the platform and thereby shield the portion of the solid product from contact with the pressurized fluid. The fluid supply inlet of the solid product dispenser is positioned to dispense pressurized fluid between the fluid distribution reservoir and the solid product reservoir such that pressurized fluid is configured to flow past the solid product reservoir and contact the platform, causing the pressurized fluid to redirect against the solid product and form the chemical solution via erosion of the solid product. 
         [0009]    In another example, a dispenser is described that includes a water distribution reservoir having a base wall and at least one sidewall extending vertically upwardly from the base wall. The water distribution reservoir also includes an outlet extending through the base wall and configured to dispense a chemical solution formed in the water distribution reservoir. The dispenser also includes a platform and a concentrated chemical reservoir. The platform is located inside of the water distribution reservoir and elevated above the base wall and outlet extending therethrough and is configured to hold a solid block of concentrated chemical and allow fluid to flow between the solid block of concentrated chemical and the outlet. The concentrated chemical reservoir is located in the water distribution reservoir and at least partially encloses the solid block of concentrated chemical in a region above the platform. The dispenser also includes a plurality of water supply inlets positioned about a perimeter of the concentrated chemical reservoir and configured to direct pressured water between the at least one sidewall of the water distribution reservoir and the concentrated chemical reservoir, causing pressured water to contact the solid block of concentrated chemical adjacent the platform and form the chemical solution via erosion of the solid block of concentrated chemical. 
         [0010]    In another example, a method is described that includes discharging pressurized fluid between a sidewall of a fluid distribution reservoir and a sidewall of a solid product reservoir located in the fluid distribution reservoir, where the solid product reservoir contains a block of solid product positioned on a platform raised above a base wall of the fluid distribution reservoir. The method also includes directing the pressurized fluid toward the platform, thereby causing the pressurized fluid to change from a vertical flow direction with respect to gravity to a horizontal flow direction and contact the platform, providing a turbulent flow of pressurized fluid that erodes the block of solid product positioned on the platform. The method further includes discharging a chemical solution formed from erosion of the block of solid product through an outlet formed through the base wall of the fluid distribution reservoir. 
         [0011]    The details of one or more examples are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features, objects, and advantages will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS 
         [0012]      FIG. 1  is a perspective illustration of an example solid product dispenser according to the disclosure. 
           [0013]      FIG. 2  is an exploded perspective view of the example solid product dispenser of  FIG. 1 . 
           [0014]      FIGS. 3A and 3B  are different sectional views of the example solid product dispenser of  FIG. 1  showing different example features of the dispenser. 
           [0015]      FIG. 4  is a focused sectional view on a set of features illustrated in  FIGS. 3A and 3B . 
           [0016]      FIG. 5  is a side view illustration of the solid product dispenser of  FIG. 1  showing an example overflow outlet. 
           [0017]      FIG. 6  is a top view illustration of the solid product dispenser of  FIG. 1  showing an example number and arrangement of fluid supply inlets. 
           [0018]      FIG. 7  is a cross-sectional illustration of the solid product dispenser of  FIG. 1  showing an example drip catch configuration. 
           [0019]      FIG. 8  is a perspective illustration of an example arrangement of multiple solid product dispensers. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0020]    In general, the disclosure relates to systems, devices, and techniques for dispensing liquid products by contacting a fluid with a solid product, thereby causing the solid product to erode and enter the fluid to form the liquid product being dispensed. While the disclosed solid product dispensers can be used in any application where formation of a liquid product from a solid substrate is desired, in particular applications, the dispensers are used to form a chemical cleaning and/or sanitizing solution from a solid concentrated chemical. For example, a solid product dispensed using the dispenser may be a sanitizer, a detergent, a ware wash composition, a floor care composition, and automotive cleaning composition, or any other desired concentrated chemical. The fluid used to erode the solid product during a dispense event is typically water, although other fluids (e.g., an organic liquid) can be used in appropriate applications. 
         [0021]    In some examples, the solid product dispenser includes a pair of reservoirs nested one inside of another. The inner reservoir is configured to receive and hold a block of solid product intended to be eroded and dispended during multiple dispense events. The outer reservoir is configured to distribute fluid and contact the fluid with solid product being dispensed. For example, a platform may be positioned on the inside bottom surface of the outer reservoir to provide an elevated surface on which the solid product is positioned. The inner reservoir can be positioned above the platform so a small gap exists between the top of the platform and the bottom of the inner reservoir, exposing the solid product within the gap. 
         [0022]    To distribute fluid, one or more fluid supply inlets can be positioned between the inner reservoir and the outer reservoir. In operation, the fluid supply inlets can discharge pressurized fluid into the reservoir. The pressurized fluid can flow parallel to the inner reservoir in which the solid product is held until reaching the base of the outer reservoir on which the platform is positioned. Upon reaching the base of the outer reservoir, the flow of pressurized fluid may be directed generally parallel to the bottom surface of the solid product and the platform on which the solid product is positioned. The flow of fluid can contact the platform with the resulting obstructions in the flow path of the fluid creating turbulence that redirects at least a portion of the fluid flow against the bottom surface of the solid product. The turbulent flow of pressurized fluid may erode the solid product at a generally consistent and controlled rate, providing controlled release of solid product to the working solution being formed. 
         [0023]    While the solid product dispenser can include a variety of features, in one configuration, the dispenser includes an overflow outlet, which may also be referred to as an air gap, extending through the outer reservoir. The overflow outlet may be above the platform on which the solid product resides but below the discharge point of the one or more fluid supply inlets supplying pressurized fluid to the dispenser. For example, pressurized fluid discharging from the fluid supply inlets may flow past the overflow outlet before reaching the base of the outer reservoir and the platform positioned thereon. As a result, if liquid fluid builds up inside of the outer reservoir, for example due to an obstruction of the reservoir outlet, the liquid can discharge through the overflow outlet before backing up into the fluid supply inlets. The overflow outlet feature can be achieved by positioning the fluid supply inlet above the contact area were the fluid erodes the solid product, in contrast to other dispenser configurations that directly spray the underside of the solid product. Such a feature can be useful to provide a dispenser that can be installed at a wide variety of end use locations without needing to install backflow protection devices at each specific location where the dispenser is to be installed. 
         [0024]      FIG. 1  is perspective illustration of an example solid product dispenser  10  according to the disclosure. Dispenser  10  includes a housing  12 , an inlet line  14 , and a dispensing outlet  16 . Housing  12  houses the various components of the dispenser, including the components that control contact between fluid received through inlet line  14  and a solid product contained within the housing. Housing  12  may include a removable cover and/or retractable lid to periodically replace exhausted solid product with fresh solid product as well as inspect or repair the internal components of the dispenser. Inlet line  14  may be a fluid conduit and/or fluid connector configured to connect dispenser  10  to a source of fluid. Dispensing outlet  16  is configured to dispense working solution generated using the dispenser into a container for transport to a subsequent distribution location or use. 
         [0025]    In the illustrated example, dispensing outlet  16  of dispenser  10  is shown as being configured (e.g., sized and/or shaped) to connect to a handheld spray bottle. Handheld spray bottles typically have an elongated liquid reservoir with a pump actuator threadingly coupled to the top of the reservoir. With the illustrated dispenser, the pump actuator can be removed from the handheld spray bottle and the open threaded end of the bottle inserted into dispensing outlet  16 . Dispenser  10  can generate working solution and dispense the working solution into the spray bottle in response to inserting the spray bottle into dispensing outlet. Dispenser  10  may continue generating and dispensing working solution until the bottle reservoir is removed from dispensing outlet  16 , whereupon the dispenser stops delivering fluid to a solid product contained in housing  12 . 
         [0026]    While dispenser  10  in  FIG. 1  illustrates one example configuration of dispensing outlet  16 , it should be appreciated that other dispensing outlets can be used, and a dispenser according to the disclosure is not limited to the example configuration of  FIG. 1 . For example, other configurations, dispenser  10  may include a fluid conduit projecting out of dispensing outlet  16 . The fluid conduit may be positionable in a bucket (e.g., mop bucket), reservoir of a mobile cleaning unit, or other fluid containment structure. Alternatively, dispensing outlet  16  of dispenser  10  may be piped to deliver chemical solution to one or more units which utilize such solution. For example, dispenser  10  may be piped to deliver chemical solution to a ware wash machine, laundry machine, automotive wash, or any other desired application. 
         [0027]    Dispenser  10  can be activated a number of different ways to generate and dispense cleaning solution. In some examples, dispenser  10  includes a user interface (e.g., push button) that a user engages to activate the dispenser. In other examples, dispenser  10  includes a sensor (e.g., non-contact/touchless sensor or contact sensor) which, upon sensing activation of a dispense event, causes the dispenser to generate and dispense solution. For example, dispenser  10  may include a sensor which senses the presence of a spray bottle reservoir, when placed in dispensing outlet  16 , and responds by generating and dispensing solution through the dispensing outlet. In still other examples, dispenser  10  may periodically and/or automatically activate to generate solution, for example, in response to an out-of-product signal received reservoir to which the dispenser dispenses. 
         [0028]      FIG. 2  is an exploded perspective view showing an example arrangement of components that can be housed within dispenser  10 . In the illustrated example, dispenser  10  includes a fluid distribution reservoir  18  (also referred to herein as “water distribution reservoir  18 ” or “distribution reservoir  18 ”), a solid product reservoir  20  (also referred to herein as “concentrated chemical reservoir  20 ” or “product reservoir  20 ”), and at least one fluid supply inlet  22 . Product reservoir  20  is located inside of fluid distribution reservoir  18  and configured to receive and hold a solid product  24  to be dispensed. For example, solid product  24  may be a single, unitary block of concentrated chemical which is configured to erode upon application of fluid to the surface of the product. The at least one fluid supply inlet  22 , which is illustrated as being a plurality of fluid supply inlets, may be in selective fluid communication with inlet line  14  ( FIG. 1 ) and configured to supply fluid to fluid distribution reservoir  18 . 
         [0029]    In operation, dispenser  10  can generate a liquid solution by contacting fluid with solid product  24  inside of fluid distribution reservoir  18 . Pressurized fluid can be delivered through fluid supply inlet  22  to fluid distribution reservoir  18 . The pressurized fluid can flow past product reservoir  20  until reaching the base of fluid distribution reservoir  18  upon which solid product  24  is supported. For example, solid product  24  may be positioned on a platform elevated above the bottom surface of fluid distribution reservoir  18  and may project beyond the lowermost extend of product reservoir  20 . Pressurized fluid distributed through fluid supply inlet  22  can interact with solid product  24  by flowing adjacent to and in contact with the portion of the product resided on the platform elevated above the base of fluid distribution reservoir. As the pressurized fluid contacts solid product  24 , the fluid can wear away the outer surface of the solid product, causing the worn away portion of the solid product to enter the fluid and thereby form a working solution containing the solid product. 
         [0030]    The working solution generated inside of fluid distribution reservoir  18  of dispenser  10  can be discharged through an outlet in the base of the reservoir. In the illustrated example of  FIG. 2 , a drip catch  26  is positioned downstream of the outlet such that solution produced using dispenser  10  flows through the drip catch before being dispensed through dispensing outlet  16 . Drip catch  26  can prevent drips that may otherwise occur at the end of a dispense event from dropping out through dispensing outlet  16 , instead catching the drips to be conveyed out during a subsequent dispense event. 
         [0031]      FIGS. 3A and 3B  (referred to collectively as “ FIG. 3 ”) are different sectional views of dispenser  10  showing an example configuration of components in the dispenser. As shown in  FIG. 3 , dispenser  10  includes previously-mentioned fluid distribution reservoir  18 , product reservoir  20 , fluid supply inlet  22 , and solid product  24 . Solid product  24  is illustrated in  FIG. 3  as being hollow for purposes of visualization, although in practice solid product  24  would typically be a continuous, integral mass of material, such as molded, cast, pressed, or extruded block of material. In the illustrated example, dispenser  10  also includes a platform  28  on which solid product  24  is positioned and an outlet  30  formed in fluid distribution reservoir  18 . Platform  28  elevates solid product  24  above a base wall  32  that forms a bottom surface of fluid distribution reservoir  18 . Outlet  30  is configured to dispense a chemical solution formed in distribution reservoir  18  by erosion of solid product  24 . 
         [0032]    Product reservoir  20  in the illustrated configuration is positioned inside of fluid distribution reservoir  18 . In some examples, such as that illustrated in  FIG. 3 , product reservoir is positioned inside of fluid distribution reservoir  18  such that the perimeter of the fluid distribution reservoir surrounds the perimeter of the product reservoir (e.g., in the X-Y plane indicated on  FIG. 3 ). For example, product reservoir  20  can be positioned inside of fluid distribution reservoir  18  such that a separation gap exists between the product reservoir and the fluid distribution reservoir. The separation gap may define a cavity through which fluid can flow and chemical solution can be generated during operation of dispenser  10 . The distance between product reservoir  20  and fluid distribution reservoir  18  can vary, e.g., based on the desired throughput of the dispenser. 
         [0033]    In addition, although product reservoir  20  in  FIG. 3  is surrounded about its entire perimeter by fluid distribution reservoir  18 , in other configurations, only a portion of product reservoir  20  may be positioned inside of fluid distribution reservoir  18 . For example, product reservoir  20  and fluid distribution reservoir  18  may share a common wall surface with the remaining portion of the product distribution reservoir projecting away from the shared wall into the interior of distribution reservoir  18 . In general, product reservoir  20  may be positioned inside of fluid distribution reservoir  18  to the extent needed to expose solid product  24  inside of product reservoir  20  to fluid conveyed through distribution reservoir  18 . 
         [0034]    Fluid distribution reservoir  18  may be any receptacle or chamber for holding fluid during generation of a working fluid inside of dispenser  10 . In the example of  FIG. 3 , distribution reservoir  18  comprises a basin that extends outwardly (e.g., in the X and Y directions) and vertically upwardly (e.g., in the Z-direction) from the outlet  30 . Fluid distribution reservoir  18  includes base wall  32  and at least one sidewall  34  which, collectively, bound and define the reservoir. 
         [0035]    Base wall  32  may be a generally horizontal surface that forms a lowermost surface of distribution reservoir  18 . In some examples, base wall  32  slopes towards outlet  30  to facilitate drainage of working solution through the outlet. The at least one sidewall  34  can extend vertically away from the base wall, thereby increasing the height and volume of the reservoir. The at least one sidewall  34  is illustrated as being implemented with four sidewalls to form a generally rectangular cross-sectional shape. While distribution reservoir  18  is illustrated as defining a substantially rectangular shape, in other examples the reservoir can define other shapes. For example, distribution reservoir  18  can define any polygonal (e.g., square, hexagonal) or arcuate (e.g., circular, elliptical) shape, or even combinations of polygonal and arcuate shapes. 
         [0036]    Product reservoir  20  is configured to receive solid product  24  and position the product inside of fluid distribution reservoir  18 . Product reservoir  20  may be a receptacle or chamber (e.g., an annulus) that at least partially, and in some examples fully, surrounds and/or encloses solid product  24  around its perimeter over at least a portion of the length of the solid product. For example, product reservoir  20  may provide a wall surface positioned between fluid discharged from fluid supply inlet  22  and solid product  24 , shielding the portion of the product positioned behind the wall surface from contact with the fluid. This can help prevent premature erosion of solid product  24  over regions not intended to be contacting with flowing fluid, providing more consistent erosion and concentration control. 
         [0037]    Dispenser  10  in  FIG. 3  includes a top wall  36  positioned above fluid supply inlet  22  and bounding fluid distribution reservoir  18 . Product reservoir  20  extends vertically downwardly from, and in the illustrated example through, top wall  36 . In particular, product reservoir  20  extends from a first terminal end  38 A to a second terminal end  38 B, with the first terminal end  38 A being vertically elevated relative to the second terminal end  38 B. Product reservoir  20  has an open top end defined by first terminal end  38 A through which solid product  24  is inserted. Product reservoir  20  also has an open bottom end defined by second terminal end  38 B, allowing solid product  24  to fall through the bottom of the product reservoir (e.g., under the force of gravity) and rest on platform  28 . In other examples, the top end and/or bottom end of product reservoir  20  may be partially or fully sealed. 
         [0038]    Typically, product reservoir  20  has a size and shape that matches and is complementary to the size and shape of the solid product  24  intended to be inserted into the reservoir. For example, where solid product  24  is configured with a cylindrical shape, product reservoir  20  may also be cylindrically shaped and have an inner diameter larger than the outer diameter of the solid product. In general, product reservoir  20  can 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, the size and shape of solid product  24  and product reservoir  20  are coordinated to provide a matching lock and key arrangement, preventing a user from inserting a solid product not intended for use in dispenser  10  into the dispenser. 
         [0039]    Dispenser  10  also includes platform  28  positioned inside of fluid distribution reservoir  18 . Platform  28  can have a variety of different configurations, as discussed in greater detail with respect to  FIG. 4 . In general though, platform  28  can provide a surface raised above base wall  32  of distribution reservoir  18  on which solid product  24  rests. For example, platform  28  may be one or more structures projecting vertically upwardly away from base wall  32 , thereby allowing fluid to flow between a vertical lowermost surface of solid product  24  and base wall  32 . In different examples, platform  28  may be integrally (e.g., permanently) formed with fluid distribution reservoir  18  or product reservoir  20 , or may be a physically separate structure located inside of distribution reservoir  18 . 
         [0040]    Independent of whether platform  28  is formed with or separate from one or more of the reservoirs comprising dispenser  10 , the platform may positioned relative to product reservoir  20  to receive and support solid product  24 . For example, platform  28  may be positioned between a lowermost end of product reservoir  20  defined by second terminal end  38 B and base wall  32  of distribution reservoir  18 . When so configured, solid product  24  inserted into product reservoir  24  can travel along the length of the product reservoir until the lowermost end of the solid product exits the open bottom end of the product reservoir and lands on an upper surface of platform  28 . In some examples, such as the example shown in  FIG. 3 , a geometric center of product reservoir  20  is co-axial with a geometric center of platform  28  (e.g., via an axis extending vertically with respect to gravity), thereby aligning the bottom opening of the product reservoir with the top surface of the platform. 
         [0041]    When configured as shown in  FIG. 3 , fluid supply inlet  22  is positioned at a vertically elevated location above platform  28  and in a cavity formed between fluid distribution reservoir  18  and product reservoir  20 . Fluid supply inlet  22  is configured to deliver pressurized fluid from a fluid supply and discharge the fluid into distribution reservoir  18 . In other examples, fluid supply inlet  22  can extend through sidewall  34  of distribution reservoir  18  or have a different positioning in dispenser  10  than illustrated. 
         [0042]    In operation, fluid supply inlet  22  discharges pressurized fluid into fluid distribution reservoir  18 . The pressurized fluid can flow vertically downwardly between fluid distribution reservoir  18  and product reservoir  20  as indicated by arrows  40  in  FIG. 3 . As the pressurized fluid contacts sidewall  34  and/or base wall  32  of distribution reservoir  18 , the fluid may change flow direction from a general downward vertical direction indicated by arrows  40  to a generally horizontal direction indicated by arrows  42 . For example, upon changing direction, the pressurized fluid may flow toward outlet  30  of distribution reservoir  18 . 
         [0043]    As the pressurized fluid flows along base wall  32  and/or sidewall  34 , the fluid can flow around and through platform  28 . For example, platform  28  may function to both support solid product  24  and provide obstructions to the flow path of the fluid. As a result, as the flowing fluid contacts platform  28 , at least a portion of the fluid may be redirected upwardly against the bottom surface of solid product  24 . Additionally, platform  28  may create discontinuities in the flow of the fluid, helping to create or maintain a turbulent fluid flow regime in the region of platform  28  and solid product  24 . For example, the fluid flowing between and/or around platform  28  and solid product  24  may be characterized by chaotic velocity changes that vary erratically in magnitude and direction (and may exhibit a Reynolds number greater than 2100). The turbulent flow can help to erode solid product  24  more rapidly than if the fluid flows under laminar conditions, which may help initiate quick erosion of the solid product during small volume dispense events. 
         [0044]    As pressurized fluid erodes solid product  24 , the eroded solid product can intermix with the fluid to form a chemical solution intended to be dispensed from dispenser  10 . The chemical solution is discharged through outlet  30  formed in base wall  32  of distribution reservoir  18 . Typically, outlet  30  is positioned proximate platform  28  and solid product  24  such that pressurized fluid introduced via fluid supply inlet  22  flows simultaneously towards the outlet and the solid product. For example, in the configuration of  FIG. 3 , outlet  30  is positioned vertically below the bottom surface of solid product  24  and platform  28  on which the solid product resides. In some examples, a geometric center of outlet  30  is co-axial with a geometric center of platform  28  and/or product reservoir  20 , thereby aligning the features in a vertically stacked arrangement. 
         [0045]    The configuration of outlet  30  can vary, for example depending on the flow characteristics of the dispenser and intended throughput of the dispenser. For example, the size and shape of outlet  30  (or multiple outlets, when used) can vary depending on the amount of fluid backup desired and, corresponding, the amount of solid product  24  wetted by fluid backup. If outlet  30  is sized large relative to the volume of pressurized fluid dispensed from fluid supply inlet  22 , the fluid may pass through distribution reservoir  18  without accumulating in the reservoir. By contrast, if outlet  30  is sized smaller relative to the volume of pressurized fluid dispensed from fluid supply inlet  22 , fluid may accumulate in fluid distribution reservoir  18  during the course of a dispense event. As fluid accumulates, the liquid level in distribution reservoir  18  may rise, wetting solid product  24  along the sides of the product (e.g., up into product reservoir  20 ), increasing the surface area of the solid product subject to erosion. Therefore, while dispenser  10  is generally described as providing pressurized fluid that flows between distribution reservoir  18  and product reservoir  24  and that contacts and is redirected by platform  28  not all pressurized fluid dispensed may exhibit such flow behavior. Rather, such flow behavior may be exhibited upon activation of dispenser  10  with subsequent incoming fluid flowing into a pool of fluid accumulated inside of fluid distribution reservoir  18 . 
         [0046]    In different examples, outlet  30  of fluid distribution reservoir  18  may have a fixed open area or an adjustable open area. Configuring outlet  30  to be adjustable (e.g., having a diameter that can be varied larger and smaller) may be useful to control the amount of fluid backup inside of distribution reservoir  18 . In turn, because fluid backup impacts the amount of surface area of solid product  24  wetted, this can adjust the concentration of solid product in the chemical solution dispensed from dispenser  10 . 
         [0047]    As mentioned above, solid product  24  can be any suitable composition intended to be dispensed via dispenser  10 . As examples, solid product  24  may be a detergent, a sanitizer, a floor care product, a ware wash product, an automotive product, a pest control product (pesticide), a hard surface cleaner, a water treatment additive (e.g., for cooling towers, waste water treatment, boiler feed water, swimming pools, and/or drinking water) or any other desired chemical composition or combination of chemical compositions. In some examples, solid product  24  is a single, physically integral solid that is positionable inside of product reservoir  20 . For example, solid product  24  may be formed by casing, molding, extrusion, or pressing. Solid product  24  may be one or more blocks of solid chemical, a powder, a flake, a granular solid, or other suitable form of solid. Examples of solid product suitable for use in dispenser  10  are described, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 4,595,520, U.S. Pat. No. 4,680,134, U.S. Reissue Pat. Nos. 32,763 and 32,818, U.S. Pat. No. 5,316,688, U.S. Pat. No. 6,177,392, and U.S. Pat. No. 8,889,048. The surface of solid product  24  can erode by degrading and shearing off from the remainder of the product in response to being wetted with fluid. In different examples, solid product may or may not react with fluid to form a resulting chemical solution dispensed from dispenser  10 . The composition of solid product  24  may be controlled so the product degrades over multiple sequential dispense events, thereby necessitating only periodic replacement of the solid product with replacement unit of the product. 
         [0048]    In general, solid product  24  can have any polygonal (e.g., square, hexagonal) or arcuate (e.g., circular, elliptical) shape, or even combinations of polygonal and arcuate shapes. Further, as mentioned above, the size and shape of solid product  24  and product reservoir  20  may be coordinated to provide a matching lock and key arrangement to prevent insertion of the wrong solid product into the wrong dispenser. For example, a detergent may be formed in a pentagonal shape, a sanitizer formed in a hexagonal shape, and a floor care product formed in a square shape. The dispensers used for each solid product can have a corresponding shape indexed product reservoir  20 . 
         [0049]    Any desired type of fluid can be introduced into dispenser  10  to form a chemical solution from erosion of solid product  24 . Generally, the fluid is a liquid, such as a solvent selected to erode solid product  24 . Typically, water or an aqueous-based fluid will be used as the fluid that is dispensed through fluid supply inlet  22 , although non-aqueous (e.g., organic) fluids can be used in appropriate applications. When water is used as the fluid, the water may be supplied directly from a source without treatment (e.g., pressurized municipal water main, well) or may be first treated (e.g., via filtration, ion exchange). 
         [0050]    The pressure of the fluid dispensed from fluid supply inlet  22  and/or contacting solid product  24  impacts the rate of erosion of the solid product and, correspondingly, the concentration of the solid product in the resulting chemical solution. Typically, the fluid is pressurized an amount sufficient to impact solid product  24  with a force greater than what would be generated if the solvent was accelerated only under the force of gravity inside of fluid distribution reservoir  18 . For example, the fluid in these applications may be pressurized to a pressure above what can be generated by gravity inside of dispenser  10 . While the pressure of the pressurized fluid dispensed from fluid supply inlet  22  and/or contacting solid product  24  can vary, in some applications, the pressure ranges from 5 pounds per square inch (psig) to 100 psig, such as 10 psig to 80 psig, from 20 psig to 70 psig, or from 50 psig to 75 psig. In other configurations, dispenser  10  may be operated by discharging unpressurized fluid from fluid supply inlet  22  and allowing pressure to build as the fluid accelerates under the force of gravity inside of distribution reservoir  18 . Additional fluid control features are described in greater detail with respect to  FIG. 6 . 
         [0051]    The volume of fluid dispensed from fluid supply inlet  22  during a dispense event (or the combination of the inlets when multiple are used) can vary based on factors such as the amount of chemical solution desired to be dispensed and the desired concentration of the chemical solution. In some examples, fluid supply inlet  22  (or the combination of the inlets when multiple are used) are configured to dispense less than 20 gallons during a single dispense event, such as less than 10 gallons, less than 5 gallons, less than 1 gallon, or less than ½ gallon. For example, dispenser  10  may discharge from approximately ⅛ gallon to approximately 1 gallon of fluid inside of fluid distribution reservoir  18  during a dispense event. A dispense event may be measured from activation of dispenser  10  to deactivation of the dispenser and may produce an amount of chemical solution sufficient to fill a container fluidly coupled to the dispenser, such as a handheld spray bottle. 
         [0052]    As briefly noted above, platform  28  can have a variety of different features and configurations.  FIG. 4  is a focused sectional view on platform  28  illustrated in  FIG. 3  showing an example arrangement of features. As shown, platform  28  is formed of a plurality of pegs  44  extending vertically upwardly from base wall  32  of fluid distribution reservoir  18 . Each peg  44  may be an elongated member having a cross-sectional area (e.g., in the Z-Y plane indicated on  FIG. 4 ) less than the cross-sectional area of solid product  24  with which the peg contacts. Pegs  44  can have any suitable size, shape, and length. As examples, each peg  44  may have a height ranging from 0.05 inches to 0.5 inches (e.g., 0.025 inches) and a cross-sectional area ranging from 0.005 square inches to 0.1 square inches (e.g., 0.012 square inches). For instance, when each peg  44  is a cylinder, the cylinder may have a diameter ranging from 0.05 inches to 0.25 inches (e.g., 0.13 inches). The distance between adjacent pegs may range from 0.01 inches to 0.5 inches. For example, depending on the size and number of pegs, the percentage of the bottom surface area of solid product  24  in contact with pegs  44  may range from 0.05% to 25%, such as from 0.1% to 5%. 
         [0053]    In some examples, each of pegs  44  extends to the same vertical position inside of distribution reservoir  18  to collectively provide a flat surface on which solid product  24  rests. Each peg  44  may be spaced from each other peg a distance sufficient to allow fluid to flow between adjacent pegs. Accordingly, when fluid is discharged from fluid supply inlet  22 , the fluid can flow in the spaces between adjacent pegs and up against solid product  24 . 
         [0054]    While pegs  44  provide one example way of implementing platform  28 , other types of structures that can support solid product  24  and allow fluid flow thereunder can be used without departing from the scope of the disclosure. For example, platform  28  may be implemented using a grate and/or rows of bars extending upwardly inside of dispenser  10 . 
         [0055]    Independent of the specific structure used to elevate solid product  24  and define platform  28 , the structure may form flow obstructions that help create and/or maintain turbulent fluid flow that contacts solid product  24 . For example, as pressurized fluid flows toward outlet  30 , fluid may impinge against the structure raised above base wall  32  and supporting solid product  24 . This can create discontinuities in the path of the fluid flow, turbulizing the flow. In addition, the discontinuities in the path of the fluid flow can cause the fluid to redirect and bounce off the support structure. At least a portion of this flow may be redirected from a lateral flow pathway directed towards outlet  30  to a longitudinal flow pathway directed to solid product  24  on platform  28 . 
         [0056]    The amount of solid product  24  eroded during operation of dispenser  10  can be controlled, in part, by controlling the positioning of solid product reservoir  20  relative to platform  28 . In  FIG. 4 , platform  28  forms a top surface  46  contacting a bottom surface of solid product  24 . Further, the top surface  46  of platform  28  is vertically spaced from a bottom edge  48  of product reservoir  20  a distance  50 . As a result, solid product  24  protrudes downwardly below solid product reservoir distance  50  and may be exposed to flowing fluid during operation of the dispenser. In some examples, distance  50  may range from 0.1 inches to 5 inches, such as 0.5 inches to 2 inches, although other separation distances can be used and the disclosure is not limited in this respect. 
         [0057]    When platform  28  is implemented using pegs  44 , the pegs can support solid product  24  above base floor  32  as fluid flows through the spaces therebetween. Pegs  44  may be sized to be shorter than the depth of the fluid so that the fluid will contact at least a portion of solid product  24  as it flows through pegs  44 . Taller pegs  44  can support solid product  24  further above base wall  32  of the dispenser than shorter pegs, thereby supporting solid product  24  further out of the fluid and changing the amount of surface contact therebetween. Peg heights may be optimized in a laboratory or factory prior to implementation into dispenser  10  so that a desired amount of interaction between solid product  24  and the fluid may occur depending on specific fluid flow conditions or a range thereof. In some examples, adjustable or interchangeable pegs may be used, allowing the end user to change the height of pegs  44 . In addition, pegs  44  may be affixed to a peg plate, which may itself be entirely replaceable by the user. The number or area density of pegs may vary from embodiment to embodiment. It will be appreciated, however, that a lower number of pegs may result in more exposed surface area of solid product  24  and, correspondingly, more mass of the solid product per surface area of pegs. If solid product  24  is not adequately supported by pegs  44 , the solid product  24  may sink down onto the pegs and become embedded therein. Conversely, if too many pegs are used, the density of the pegs may inhibit the flow of fluid between adjacent pegs. 
         [0058]    In addition to or in lieu of the features discussed above, dispenser  10  can have a variety of other design features to support safe and efficient operation of the dispenser. For instance, in one example, dispenser  10  includes an overflow outlet formed in fluid distribution reservoir  18  that is configured to prevent fluid backup in the case of an occluded outlet  30 .  FIG. 5  is a side view illustration of dispenser  10  from  FIG. 1  showing an example overflow outlet  52 . Dispenser  10  is illustrated in  FIG. 5  without housing  12  for purposes of illustration. 
         [0059]    As shown in  FIG. 5 , overflow outlet  52  is positioned above platform  28  (indicated by position  54 ) and below fluid supply inlet  22  (indicated by position  56 ). For example, a lowermost extent of overflow outlet  52  may be vertically elevated with respect to an uppermost extent of platform  28  and an uppermost extent of overflow outlet  52  lower than a lowermost extent of fluid supply inlet  22 . In operation, pressurized fluid discharging from fluid supply inlet  22  may flow past overflow outlet  52  before reaching base wall  32  ( FIG. 3 ) of fluid distribution reservoir  18  and platform  28  positioned thereon. If liquid fluid builds up inside of distribution reservoir  18 , for example due to an obstruction of outlet  30 , the liquid can discharge through overflow outlet  52  before backing up into fluid supply inlet  22 . 
         [0060]    By elevating fluid supply inlet  22  with respect to platform  28  as shown in the illustrated configuration of dispenser  10 , overflow outlet  52  can be built directly into the dispenser as illustrated in  FIG. 5 . This can allow dispenser  10  to be connected directly to a source of fluid (e.g., pressurized main water) without using a backflow protection device (e.g., vacuum breaker) on the fluid supply line. This can provide a universal dispenser system that can be installed in a variety of worldwide locations without necessitating more involved, site-specific modifications. 
         [0061]    The number of overflow outlets  52  and the size and positioning of the outlets can vary, e.g., based on specific configuration of dispenser  10  and any local regulations concerning backflow protection features. In general, the total free area of overflow outlet  52  (or outlets, if multiple are used) may be sufficient to prevent fluid from backing up above the outlets (and into fluid supply inlet  22 ) under maximum fluid discharge conditions. In the configuration of  FIG. 5 , dispenser  10  has one overflow outlet  52  on one side of fluid distribution reservoir  18  and an identical overflow outlet on the opposite side of the reservoir (not shown in  FIG. 5 ). Other configurations are possible, and it should be appreciated that the disclosure is not limited in this respect. 
         [0062]    As noted above with respect to  FIG. 2 , dispenser  10  has at least one fluid supply inlet  22 , which in  FIG. 2  is illustrated as four fluid supply inlets. Each fluid supply inlet can be in selective fluid communication with inlet line  14  ( FIG. 1 ) and configured to supply fluid to fluid distribution reservoir  18 . While any desired number of fluid supply inlets  22  can be used in dispenser  10 , configuring the dispenser with multiple fluid supply inlets can be useful to provide a more even distribution of fluid around solid product  24  than if a lesser number of fluid supply inlets are used. For example, if dispenser  10  is configured with only a single fluid supply inlet  22 , solid product  24  may preferentially erode on the side of the dispenser on which the inlet directs incoming fluid. Overtime, this can cause solid product  24  to erode asymmetrically and tilt on platform  28 , potentially impacting the consistency of the concentration of the solid product released during a dispense event. By utilizing multiple fluid supply inlets configured to dispense fluid at different positions around the perimeter of solid product  24 , the solid product may erode more evenly. 
         [0063]      FIG. 6  is a top view of dispenser  10  showing an example number and arrangement of fluid supply inlets  22 . In this example, four fluid supply inlets  22  are positioned about the perimeter of solid product  24 , e.g., at 90 degrees with respect to each other. Each fluid supply inlet  22  is pointed downwardly into a cavity between fluid distribution reservoir  18  and product reservoir  20 , although other configurations and orientations are possible. Fluid supply inlets  22  can be positioned substantially equidistant from each other about the perimeter of solid product reservoir  20  and solid product  24  to help provide uniform fluid dispensing during a dispense event. While  FIG. 6  illustrates dispenser  10  as having four fluid supply inlets  22 , the dispenser can have a greater (e.g., five, six, or more) or lesser (e.g., three, two, one) number of inlets. 
         [0064]    In different examples, each fluid supply inlet  22  may or may not control the flow characteristics (e.g., pressure, velocity) of fluid discharged from the inlet. For example, fluid supply inlet  22  may be an orifice of a fluid supply line that discharges pressurized fluid supplied upstream of the inlet. In this configuration, fluid flow through fluid supply inlet  22  may be controlled by a valve but the fluid supply inlet itself does not impact the pressure or velocity of the fluid. 
         [0065]    In another example, fluid supply inlet  22  comprises a pressure control device, such as a fluid restriction the changes the flow characteristics (e.g., the pressure and/or velocity) of fluid passing through the inlet. For example, fluid supply inlet  22  may be a jet or nozzle (e.g., a Venturi nozzle) having a region of reduced cross-sectional area that changes (e.g., increases or decreases) the pressure and/or velocity of fluid passing through the inlet as compared to immediately upstream of the inlet. In one configuration, each fluid supply inlet  22  has a pressure control device that is a pressure compensating flow regulator configured to provide a substantially constant flow rate of the pressurized fluid even if a pressure of the pressurized fluid varies. Such a pressure compensation device is commercially available from Neoperl®. A pressure compensating device can be useful to help provide a substantially constant volume of incoming fluid to dispenser  10  even if the pressure of a pressurized fluid source is changing. 
         [0066]    With further reference to  FIG. 2 , dispenser  10  in the illustrated example includes a drip catch  26  positioned downstream of outlet  30  such that solution produced using dispenser  10  flows through the drip catch before being dispensed through dispensing outlet  16  ( FIG. 1 ). Drip catch  26  can prevent drips that may otherwise occur at the end of a dispense event from dropping out through dispensing outlet  16 , instead catching the drips to be conveyed out during a subsequent dispense event. 
         [0067]      FIG. 7  is a cross-sectional illustration of dispenser  10  showing an example configuration of drip catch  26 . Drip catch  26  is positioned below outlet  30 . Drip catch  26  includes a comparatively small reservoir  58  and a siphon tube  60  in fluid communication with the small reservoir and dispensing outlet  16 . Drip catch  26  can hold a small volume of chemical solution to prevent excess solution from undesirably dripping from the dispenser  10  after use. Chemical solution discharging through outlet  30  is retained in reservoir  58  before being siphoned out through siphon tube  60 . At the end of a dispense event, any drips falling through outlet  30  can be retained in reservoir  58  without being siphoned out through tube  60 . Such drips can collect in reservoir  58  until a subsequent dispense event, whereupon the accumulated drips will be discharged out of the reservoir with a flow of freshly generated chemical solution. While  FIG. 7  illustrates one example configuration of a drip catch, other types of drip catch structures can be used without departing from the scope of the disclosure. For example, a plumbing p-trap may be used as an alternative design for drip catch  26 . Other drip catch configurations are also possible. 
         [0068]    Dispenser  10  according to the disclosure can be used in a variety of different applications to solubilize and dispense a variety of different solid products. In some applications, dispenser  10  is used as a single, standalone unit to dispense a single solid product. In other applications, multiple dispenser units  10  may be installed in a single location to provide redundant dispensers with the same solid product and/or different dispensers dispensing different solid products. 
         [0069]    In applications where multiple units of dispenser  10  are intended to be used together (although not necessarily simultaneously) and geographically collocated, each dispenser may be configured with an interconnectable fluid distribution system. The interconnectable fluid distribution system can allow the dispenser units to be plumbed in series from a single common fluid source. 
         [0070]      FIG. 8  is a perspective illustration of an example arrangement of multiple solid product dispensers  10 A- 10 D (collectively “dispensers  10 ”), each of which can have the design of dispenser  10  described with respect to  FIGS. 1-7 . Each dispenser  10  in  FIG. 8  is shown without various components (e.g., housing  12 , fluid distribution reservoir  18 , product reservoir  20 ) for purposes of illustration. In the illustrated example, each dispenser  10  has a pressurized fluid supply manifold  62  that includes and inlet line  64 , a supply line  66 , and an outlet line  68 . Inlet line  64  is configured to connect to a source of fluid (either directly or indirectly via one or more dispenser units  10 ). Supply line  66  is configured to convey fluid from inlet line  64  to fluid supply inlets  22 . Outlet line  68  is configured to convey fluid from inlet line  64  to a downstream dispenser  10 . In some examples, pressurized fluid supply manifold  62  also includes a valve  70  configured to control fluid communication inlet line  64  and supply line  66 . For example, the position of valve  70  can dictate whether pressurized fluid is conveyed from inlet line  64  to supply line  66  or outlet  68 , or both supply line  66  and outlet  68 . Such an arrangement can facilitate modular implementation of dispenser  10 , allowing multiple dispensers to be fluidly connected in series. 
         [0071]    Various examples have been described. These and other examples are within the scope of the following claims.