Abstract:
An apparatus for use with a water softening system including an outer bucket, an inner container having a first end, and a plug, where the plug is received within the first end of the inner container for supporting the inner container and allowing brine to be retained within the inner container. A plurality of apertures extend around a periphery of the plug for providing access between the inner container and the outer bucket. An agitator is positioned within the plug for agitating water retained within the outer bucket. The agitation of the water in the outer bucket causes the water to flow through the plurality of recesses to contact the brine forming a mixture able to improve the operation of the water softening system.

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     The present invention relates generally to receptacles and, more specifically, to an insert for suspending a quantity of soluble material within a tank whereby the soluble material passes into solution with the fluid in the tank. The insert is a brine mixing apparatus positionable within a water tank for the purposes of creating a regenerant solution used in water softening system. The receptacle can selectively vary in height to keep most of the soluble material dry until needed. Air from an air source agitates the water, accelerating the passing of the soluble material into solution with the tank water. 
     2. Description of the Prior Art 
     There are other receptacle device designed for mixing. Typical of these is U.S. Pat. No. 4,121,300 issued to Cosma, et al. on Oct. 17, 1978. 
     Another patent was issued to Gauer, et al. on Feb. 2, 1988 as U.S. Pat. No. 4,722,797. Yet another U.S. Pat. No. 5,651,880 was issued to Johnson on Jul. 29, 1997 and still yet another was issued on May 4, 1999 to Dalton, et al. as U.S. Pat. No. 5,900,143. 
     Another patent was issued to Kamitani, et al. on Sep. 7, 1999 as U.S. Pat. No. 5,948,220. Yet another U.S. Pat. No. 6,379,630 was issued to Wilfong, et al. on Apr. 30, 2002. Another was issued to Zwicky on Feb. 28, 1962 as U.K. Patent No. GB890,285 and still yet another was issued on Sep. 23, 1994 to Bontemps, et al. as French Patent No. FR2702763. 
     Another patent was issued to Kenichiro on Oct. 18, 1994 as Japanese Patent No. JP6288812. Yet another International Patent Application No. WO96/12556 was issued to Hammonds on May 2, 1996. Another was issued to Wetherington on Mar. 28, 2002 as International Patent Application No. WO02/24318 and still yet another was issued on Sep. 11, 2003 to Vautour as Canadian Patent No. CA2375789. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 4,121,300 
     Inventor: Earl Jesse Cosma 
     Issued: Oct. 17, 1978 
     A system for treating dry protein material in brine solutions comprises a tank for receiving the protein material and brine solution a container having a screened bottom end an agitator inserted through its open upper end for creating a vortex mixing action in the brine solution in which the container is immersed in the brine holding tank. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 4,722,797 
     Inventor: Gary W. Gauer 
     Issued: Feb. 2, 1988 
     A method and apparatus for selecting the quantity of salt to be used during each regeneration of a water softener system. The quantity of salt used during each regeneration is approximately equal to the quantity of salt needed to regenerate the resin bed to a preselected design capacity, which is less than the maximum capacity of the resin bed. The design exchange capacity is approximately equal to the exchange capacity of the resin bed at a particular salt dosage, wherein the exchange capacity of the bed at the particular salt dosage divided by the particular salt dosage is generally equal to or greater than 2850. The system is regenerated when at the end of any preselected time period, the percentage of the design capacity of the resin bed used since the last regeneration cycle exceeds a predetermined percentage. In determining the salt dosage used during each regeneration cycle, the exchange capacity of the resin bed is determined for various salt dosages. The available exchange capacity of the resin bed is determined by subtracting the exchange capacity of the resin bed used since the last regeneration from the selected design capacity of the resin bed. The salt dosage used during each regeneration is approximately equal to the salt dosage of the resin bed at the design exchange capacity less the salt dosage of the resin bed at the available exchange capacity of the resin bed. The apparatus of the present invention utilizes a micro-computer to automatically make the necessary calculations to determine when to regenerate the resin bed and to determined the proper salt dosage fill time to the brine tank prior to each regeneration. A turbine water meter located in the soft water outlet line measures the water usage since the last regeneration. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,651,880 
     Inventor: Stanley O. Johnson 
     Issued: Jul. 29, 1997 
     A salt dispenser for placement within a water softener brine tank has a cylindrical, rectangular or square plastic sleeve with multiple holes which allow the passage of water while retaining salt pellets. The salt dispenser is particularly advantageous for brine tanks which do not support the salt pellets or crystals above the bottom of the tank. The salt dispenser allows water to access the salt within the brine tank from all sides which leads to an even reduction in the height of the salt bed within the salt dispenser. Many water softener systems are supplied with brine tanks in which the salt rests directly on the bottom of the brine tank. Water is supplied to the brine tank by a float valve which also functions to allow brine to be withdrawn from the tank. After brine is withdrawn the float valve permits water to be added until a predetermined water level is reached. The introduction of water into the brine tank causes some of the salt pellet crystals to dissolve. Water is introduced from a single point the salt within the brine tank and the salt pellets can become steeply sloped towards the water inlet. The salt dispenser allows the water to access the salt within the brine tank from all sides and thereby leads to an even reduction in the height of the salt bed within the salt dispenser. The interior of the salt dispenser tank also may be divided by partitions or concentric sleeves. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,900,143 
     Inventor: Keith Raymond Dalton 
     Issued: May 4, 1999 
     A portable container (2) for purifying drinking water (4), which container (2) comprises a body portion (6) for containing the drinking water (4), a handle (8) for lifting the container (2) for water pouring and water re-filling purposes, an ozone generator (10) for generating ozone from air, an air pump (12) for delivering air to the ozone generator (10) in order to produce a mixture of air and ozone and for delivering the mixture of air and ozone to the drinking water (4) in the body portion (6), and a filter (14) for the drinking water (4), and the container (2) being such that the mixture of air and ozone delivered to the drinking water (4) in the body portion (6) causes the drinking water (4) and the mixture of air and ozone continuously to pass through the filter (14) whereby the filter (14) filters the drinking water (4), and the ozone purifies both the water and the filter means (14). 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,948,220 
     Inventor: Yoshinori Kamitani, et al. 
     Issued: Sep. 7, 1999 
     A production system of electrolyzed water of the type which includes a first brine tank arranged to store an amount of saturated brine, a second brine tank arranged to be supplied with the saturated brine from the first brine tank through an electrically operated pinch valve and fresh water from an external source of water through an electrically operated water supply valve for storing an amount of diluted brine, and an electrolyzer arranged to electrolyze the diluted brine supplied from the second brine tank for production of electrolyzed water. In the production system, there are provided a conductivity sensor for detecting conductivity of the diluted brine in the second brine tank, an ammeter for detecting a direct current applied to the electrolyzer, and an electric controller adapted to control the pinch valve in such a manner that the second brine tank is supplied with the saturated brine from the first brine tank when the conductivity of the diluted brine detected by the sensor becomes lower than a reference value and to correct the reference value in accordance with the direct current detected by the ammeter. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 6,379,630 
     Inventor: Rudy B. Wilfong, et al. 
     Issued: Apr. 30, 2002 
     A salt grid for supporting salt above a portion of a concentrated brine solution in a brine tank for use in a water softening system. The grid comprises first and second platforms disposed at first and second elevational levels with respect to the vertical wall of the brine tank. The fluid level in the brine tank can be adjusted to be higher than the lower platform of the salt grid but lower than the upper platform of the salt grid. In this manner, salt dissolves only above the lower platform part of the grid and consequently, the dirt included in the salt only passes through the lower platform of the grid. The brine well which transports brine solution from the brine tank to the resin tank is located away from the localized area in which the dirt collects at the bottom of the brine tank. Leg extension members may be attached to the supporting legs of the salt grid to further raise the salt grid above the bottom of the brine tank, thereby increasing the volume of brine solution which forms below the salt grid. 
     U.K. Patent Number GB890,285 
     Inventor: John Frederick Zwicky 
     Issued: Feb. 28, 1962 
     An apparatus for ensuring uniformity in mixtures of caustic soda solution or acid in water comprises a Venturi pump 4 to which de-ionized water is supplied through a pipe 1 to a storage tank 5. The secondary liquid is lifted from the vessel 2 through a pipe 3. The amount of water supplied may be adjusted by a valve 6. A tube 8 of microporous material extends across the bottom of the tank 5; there is a valve 7 adapted to put the pipe 3 into communication with both or either the tube 8 and for the vessel 2, so that the solution in tank 5 may be recirculated with or without the addition of additive as well as water. The additive may for example be regenerant caustic soda solution for resin-ion exchange water-deionizing apparatus, or concentrated acid. Solid caustic soda to be dissolved may be placed in a basket 9 at the Venturi outlet. 
     French Patent Number FR2702763 
     Inventor: Jean-Claude Bontemps, et al. 
     Issued: Sep. 23, 1994 
     Water softening plant including: at least one storage container for cation exchange resin, at least one storage container for stocking salt and for preparing brine, connecting means for joining these storage containers to each other, to an inlet for water to be treated and to an outlet for treated water, switching means for selectively establishing communications between the means of coupling, and programming means arranged for controlling the said switching means, characterised in that the storage container for stocking salt and for preparing brine (4) is made in the form of a movable drawer arranged to be capable of being moved away from the remainder (1) of the plant with a view to being filled with salt and to being reintegrated into the remainder of the plant once this filling has been performed and in that flexible connections (6) are provided between the said storage container and the remainder of the plant with a view to allowing the movement of the said storage container produced in the form of a drawer. 
     Japanese Patent Number JP6288812 
     Inventor: Takematsu Kenichiro, et al. 
     Issued: Oct. 18, 1994 
     PURPOSE: To provide a device for detecting the level of salt water in a salt water tank and the concentration of salt water whereby a prescribed quantity of salt water having a prescribed concentration of salt water is reserved in a tank of a water softener and an ion exchange resin is surely recycled. CONSTITUTION: In a salt water tank 4 communicating with a resin cylinder 2 filled with an ion exchange resin 1 via a control valve 3 and a salt water line 6, a pressure sensor 10 that detects the quantity (level) of a salt water required for recycling the ion exchange resin 1 and the concentration of salt water is provided on a bottom section thereof. The pressure sensor 10 and a control device 12 are connected to each other via a signal line 11 and the control device 12 and a control valve 3 are connected to each other via a signal line 11′. 
     International Patent Application Number WO96/12556 
     Inventor: Carl L. Hammonds 
     Issued: May 2, 1996 
     An apparatus and method for injecting dry particulate material into a fluid flow line including a removable material supply unit (18) having an outer rigid container (55) and a sealed flexible bag (54) for the dry particulate material. The removable material supply unit (18) is mounted on a container support (13) above a mixing chamber (12) with a valve member (40) controlling the flow or dispensing of the dry particulate material into the mixing chamber (12). A pump (32) when energized exerts a vacuum in the mixing chamber (12). Water enters the mixing chamber (12) from an elliptical discharge opening (10) tangential to mixing chamber (12) to provide a vortex. Pump (32) exerts a vacuum within the mixing chamber (12) above the level of the water so that any upward migration of moisture from the water in the mixing chamber (12) is prevented by the vacuum when pump (30) is energized. 
     International Patent Application Number WO02/24318 
     Inventor: William S. Wetherington 
     Issued: Mar. 28, 2002 
     An apparatus and method for mixing a dry chemical contained within a container. A probe (100) is utilized to puncture an opening in the container (16) and thereafter the probe is extended through the opening. A mixture or liquid is directed to and through the probe and, as the liquid or mixture exits the probe, the dry chemical is dissolved and mixed with the liquid or mixture. Thereafter, the resulting mixture gravitates downwardly through the opening in the container to an underlying tank (16). Associated with the tank is a concentration controller (80) that is operatively connected to a pump (90) that pumps the mixture from the tank to and through the probe. Effectively, the concentration controller periodically activates the pump to maintain the concentration level of the mixture in the tank within a pre-selected range. 
     Canadian Patent Number CA2375789 
     Inventor: David Vautour 
     Issued: Sep. 11, 2003 
     The invention is a hopper having a valve controlled water inlet for varying the water flow and therefore the concentration of a brine mix. The hopper has a base positioned catch basin for collecting the brine solution as it flows out the overflow drains. 
     SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT INVENTION 
     The present invention relates generally to receptacles and, more specifically, to an insert for suspending a quantity of soluble material within a tank whereby the soluble material passes into solution with the fluid in the tank. The insert is a brine mixing apparatus positionable within a water tank for the purposes of creating a regenerant solution used in water softening system. The receptacle can selectively vary in height to keep most of the soluble material dry until needed. Air from an air source agitates the water, accelerating the passing of the soluble material into solution with the tank water. 
     A primary object of the present invention is to provide a brine tank insert that overcomes the shortcomings of the prior art. 
     Another secondary object of the present invention is to provide a brine tank insert that may be incorporated into new and existing brine tanks, or all-in-one water softener systems. 
     Another object of the present invention is to provide a brine tank insert that provides a device for circulating the water within the brine tank. 
     Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a brine tank insert that provides a device to keep the brine dry until needed. 
     Still yet another object of the present invention is to provide a brine tank insert that can whose height can be adjusted to accommodate different size tanks. 
     Another object of the present invention is to provide a brine tank insert having apertures positioned at the bottom of the brine tank and having a press fitting to accommodate and secure the aerator in its respective position. 
     Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a brine tank insert having an aerator that is press fitted into the bottom portion of the tank that is connected to an air pump via air tube. 
     Still another object of the present invention is to provide a brine tank insert wherein the aerator provides an air supply to circulate the water. 
     Another object of the present invention is to provide a brine tank insert wherein circulation of the water more efficiently cleans the resin beads. 
     Still yet another object of the present invention is to provide a brine tank insert that is simple and easy to use. 
     Another object of the present invention is to provide a brine tank insert that is inexpensive to manufacture and operate. 
     Additional objects of the present invention will appear as the description proceeds. 
     The foregoing and other objects and advantages will appear from the description to follow. In the description reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which forms a part hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration-specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. These embodiments will be described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention, and it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that structural changes may be made without departing from the scope of the invention. In the accompanying drawings, like reference characters designate the same or similar parts throughout the several views. 
     The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present invention is best defined by the appended claims. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING FIGURES 
       In order that the invention may be more fully understood, it will now be described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawing in which: 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of the brine tank insert of the present invention; 
         FIG. 2  is a perspective view of the brine tank insert of the present invention; 
         FIG. 3  is a perspective view of the brine tank insert of the present invention; 
         FIG. 4  is a cutaway perspective view of the brine tank insert of the present invention; 
         FIG. 5  is a sectional illustrative view of the brine tank insert of the present invention; 
         FIG. 6  is a perspective view of the brine tank insert of the present invention; 
         FIG. 7  is a perspective view of the brine tank insert of the present invention; 
         FIG. 8  is a table of disadvantages associated with non-circulating brine regenerant of prior art; 
         FIG. 9  is a table of advantages of the brine tank insert of the present invention circulating the brine regenerant; 
         FIG. 10  is a table of the main objectives of the brine tank insert of the present invention; 
         FIG. 11  is a table of means by which the circulation of the water in the brine tank may be achieved; 
         FIG. 12  is a table of different types of cleaning elements (brine) to keep dry until consumption is needed; 
         FIG. 13  is a table of the compatibility of the brine tank insert of the present invention with individual tank or system requirements; and 
         FIG. 14  is an illustrative view of a cross section of the brine tank insert of the present invention. 
     
    
    
     DESCRIPTION OF THE REFERENCED NUMERALS 
     Turning now descriptively to the drawings, in which similar reference characters denote similar elements throughout the several views, the Figures illustrate the brine tank insert of the present invention. With regard to the reference numerals used, the following numbering is used throughout the various drawing Figures. 
     
       
         
               
               
             
           
               
                   
               
             
             
               
                 10 
                 Brine tank insert of the present invention 
               
               
                 12 
                 pump 
               
               
                 14 
                 pump air hose 
               
               
                 16 
                 pump electrical cord 
               
               
                 18 
                 outer bucket 
               
               
                 19 
                 plug 
               
               
                 20 
                 inner cylinder 
               
               
                 21 
                 first end of inner cylinder 
               
               
                 22 
                 pump bracket 
               
               
                 24 
                 aerator 
               
               
                 26 
                 base 
               
               
                 28 
                 threads 
               
               
                 30 
                 water 
               
               
                 32 
                 brine 
               
               
                 34 
                 air flow directional arrows 
               
               
                 36 
                 transverse throughbore 
               
               
                 38 
                 base positioned aperture 
               
               
                 40 
                 bell aperture 
               
               
                 42 
                 stanchion 
               
               
                 44 
                 stanchion top 
               
               
                 46 
                 stanchion bottom 
               
               
                 48 
                 first end air hose 
               
               
                 50 
                 second end air hose 
               
               
                 52 
                 first end electrical cord 
               
               
                 54 
                 second end electrical cord 
               
               
                 56 
                 first end of pump 
               
               
                 58 
                 second end of pump 
               
               
                 60 
                 outlet 
               
               
                 64 
                 plug aperture 
               
               
                 66 
                 plug top 
               
               
                 68 
                 plug bottom 
               
               
                 70 
                 aperture threads 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT 
     The following discussion describes in detail one embodiment of the invention (and several variations of that embodiment). This discussion should not be construed, however, as limiting the invention to those particular embodiments. Practitioners skilled in the art will recognize numerous other embodiments as well. For definition of the complete scope of the invention, the reader is directed to appended claims. 
     Turning now descriptively to the drawings, in which similar reference characters denote similar elements throughout the several views,  FIGS. 1 through 14  illustrate a brine tank insert of the present invention which is indicated generally by the reference numeral  10 . 
       FIG. 1  is a perspective cutaway view of the brine tank insert  10  of the present invention. The brine tank insert  10  includes an outer bucket  18  for retaining fluid therein. An inner cylinder or container  20  having a central recess is received within the outer bucket  18 . The shape of both the inner cylinder  20  and the outer bucket  18  are described for purposes of example only and the bucket and cylinder  18 ,  20  may be formed in any geometric shape. A first end  21  of the inner cylinder  20  receives a plug  19 , thereby forming a cavity for retaining brine  32 , as shown hereinafter with specific reference to  FIG. 14 . The brine tank insert  10  also includes an aerator  24  for aerating the fluid in the outer bucket  18 . The aerator  24  is comprised of a base  26  and a stanchion  42 . The base  26  permits the aerator  24  to be press fitted into a base of the outer bucket  18 . The stanchion  42  includes a top  44  and a bottom  46 . The bottom  46  of the stanchion  42  is attached to the base  26 . A transverse throughbore  36  is located at the bottom  46  of the stanchion  42  proximate to the base  26 . A plurality of threads  28 , shown in  FIG. 3 , are located along the perimeter of the stanchion  42  proximate to the top  44  of the stanchion  42 . The plug  19  is rotatively secured to the stanchion  42  via the threads  28 . Herein, the plug is bell shaped. However, this is for purposes of example only, and the plug  19  can be of any geometric shape that provides for the easy shuffling of the brine  32  and to keep a majority of the brine  32  dry until needed. The plug  19  has a top  66  and a bottom  68 . A plug aperture  64  is centrally disposed within the plug  19 , and runs from the top  66  to the bottom  68  of the plug  19 . The plug aperture  64  contains a plurality of aperture threads  70 , not shown. Each respective aperture thread  70  corresponds to each respective thread  28 , enabling the plug  19  to be rotatively secured to the stanchion  42 . The aperture threads  70  and the threads  28  also permit the height at which the plug  19  is placed along the stanchion  42  to be varied. The outer walls of the plug  19  contain a plurality of bell apertures  40  therein for providing air circulation, shown in  FIG. 14 . A perimeter of the plug  19  has a plurality of base positioned apertures  38  (each aperture is represented by an “X”) therearound, shown hereinafter with specific reference to  FIGS. 1 ,  3 ,  4 , and  14 . 
     The top  44  of the stanchion  42  is connected to a first end  48  of an air hose  14 . A second end  50  of the air hose  14  is connected to a pump  12 . The pump  12  is electrically powered and is connected to an outlet  60  by an electrical cord  16 . The pump  12  is attached to the outside of the outer bucket  18  by a pump bracket  22 . However, the pump bracket  22  is for purposes of example only and any support device can be used to support the pump  12  at any location where pump  12  functionality is maintained. 
     The outer bucket  18  has an upper open end, a closed lower end, and is filled with water to a desired level. The inner cylinder or container  20  is filled with brine  32 , shown in  FIG. 14 . The plug  19  is adjusted on the stanchion  42  to a desired height and fitted into the inner cylinder  20 . The inner cylinder  20 , plug  19  and stanchion  42  are placed within the outer bucket  18 . The water flows from the outer bucket  18  into the inner cylinder  20  via the plurality of base positioned apertures  38 . The water fills the inner cylinder  20  from the base up to the water level in the outer bucket  18 , thereby submerging the brine  32  at the base of the outer bucket  18 . The pump  12  pumps air through the air hose  14 , The air then flows through the stanchion  42  and exits the stanchion  42  through the transverse throughbore  36 . The air then agitates the water causing the water to be circulated. Some of the air also flows back into the plug  19  where it flows through the bell apertures  40  for loosening and rinsing the brine  32 . The submerged brine  32  will continually dissolve until the saturation and desired brine solution levels are achieved. The brine tank insert  10  also keeps the brine  32  within the inner cylinder  20  and not submerged in the fluid while the submerged brine  32  evenly dissolves. 
       FIG. 2  is a perspective view of the brine tank insert  10  of the present invention. The brine tank insert  10  includes the outer bucket  18  for retaining fluid therein. The inner cylinder  20  having a central recess is received within the outer bucket  18 . The first end  21  of the inner cylinder  20  receives a plug  19 , thereby forming a cavity for retaining brine  32 , as shown hereinafter with specific reference to  FIG. 14 . The brine tank insert  10  also includes the aerator  24  for aerating the fluid in the outer bucket  18 . The aerator  24  is comprised of the base  26  and the stanchion  42 . The base  26  permits the aerator  24  to be press fitted into the base of the outer bucket  18 . The stanchion  42  includes the top  44  and the bottom  46 . The bottom  46  of the stanchion  42  is attached to the base  26 . The transverse throughbore  36  is located at the bottom  46  of the stanchion  42  proximate to the base  26 . The plug  19  is rotatively secured to the stanchion  42  via the threads  28 . The height of the plug  19  can be adjusted along the stanchion&#39;s  42  length, between the top  44  and bottom  46  thereof. 
     The top  44  of the stanchion  42  is connected to the first end  48  of the air hose  14 . The second end  50  of the air hose  14  is connected to the pump  12 . The pump  12  is electrically powered and is connected to the outlet  60 , shown in  FIG. 1 , by an electrical cord  16 . The pump  12  is attached to the outside of the outer bucket  18  by the pump bracket  22 . However, the pump bracket  22  is for purposes of example only and any support device can be used to support the pump  12  at any location where pump  12  functionality is maintained. 
       FIG. 3  is a cutaway perspective view of the brine tank insert  10  of the present invention. The brine tank insert  10  includes the outer bucket  18  for retaining fluid therein. The inner cylinder  20  having a central recess is received within the outer bucket  18 . The first end  21  of the inner cylinder  20  receives a plug  19 , thereby forming a cavity for retaining brine  32 , as shown hereinafter with specific reference to  FIG. 14 . The brine tank insert  10  also includes the aerator  24  for aerating the fluid in the outer bucket  18 . The aerator  24  is comprised of the base  26  and the stanchion  42 , The base  26  permits the aerator  24  to be press fitted into the base of the outer bucket  18 . The stanchion  42  has the top  44  and the bottom  46 . The bottom  46  of the stanchion  42  is attached to the base  26 . The transverse throughbore  36  is located at the bottom  46  of the stanchion  42  proximate to the base  26 . The threads  28  are located along the perimeter of the stanchion  42  proximate to the top  44  of the stanchion  42 . The plug  19  is rotatively secured to the stanchion  42  via the threads  28 . Herein, the plug  19  is bell shaped. However, this is for purposes of example only, and the plug  19  can be of any geometric shape that provides for the easy shuffling of the brine  32  and to keep a majority of the brine  32  dry until needed. The plug  19  has the top  66  and the bottom  68 . The plug aperture  64  is centrally disposed within the plug  19 , and runs from the top  66  to the bottom  68  of the plug  19 . The plug aperture  64  contains the aperture threads  70 . Each respective aperture thread  70  corresponds to each respective thread  28  enabling the plug  19  to be rotatively secured to the stanchion  42 . The aperture threads  70  and the threads  28  also permit the height at which the plug  19  is placed along the stanchion  42  to be varied. The outer walls of the plug  19  contain the plurality of bell apertures  40  therein for providing air circulation, shown in  FIG. 14 . A perimeter of the plug  19  has a plurality of base positioned apertures  38  therearound, shown hereinafter with specific reference to  FIG. 14 . 
     The top  44  of the stanchion  42  is connected to the first end  48  of the air hose  14 . The second end  50  of the air hose  14  is connected to the pump  12 . The pump  12  is electrically powered and is connected to the outlet  60 , shown in  FIG. 1 , by an electrical cord  16 . The pump  12  is attached to the outside of the outer bucket  18  by the pump bracket  22 . However, the pump bracket  22  is for purposes of example only and any support device can be used to support the pump  12  at any location where pump  12  functionality is maintained. 
       FIG. 4  is a cut-away perspective view of the brine tank insert  10  of the present invention. The brine tank insert  10  includes the outer bucket  18  for retaining fluid therein. The inner cylinder  20  having a central recess is received within the outer bucket  18 , shown in  FIG. 2 . The first end  21  of the inner cylinder  20  receives a plug  19 , thereby forming a cavity for retaining brine  32 , as shown hereinafter with specific reference to  FIG. 14 . The brine tank insert  10  also includes the aerator  24  for aerating the fluid in the outer bucket  18 . The aerator  24  is comprised of the base  26  and the stanchion  42 . The base  26  permits the aerator  24  to be press fitted into the base of the outer bucket  18 . The stanchion  42  has the top  44  and the bottom  46 . The bottom  46  of the stanchion  42  is attached to the base  26 . The transverse throughbore  36  is located at the bottom  46  of the stanchion  42  proximate to the base  26 . The threads  28  are located along the perimeter of the stanchion  42  proximate to the top  44  of the stanchion  42 . The plug  19  is rotatively secured to the stanchion  42  via the threads  28 . Herein, the plug  19  is bell shaped. However, this is for purposes of example only, and the plug  19  can be of any geometric shape that provides for the easy shuffling of the brine  32  and to keep a majority of the brine  32  dry until needed. The plug  19  has the top  66  and the bottom  68 . The plug aperture  64  is centrally disposed within the plug  19 , and runs from the top  66  to the bottom  68  of the plug  19 . The plug aperture  64  contains the aperture threads  70 , not shown. Each respective aperture thread  70  corresponds to each respective thread  28  enabling the plug  19  to be rotatively secured to the stanchion  42 . The aperture threads  70  and the threads  28  also permit the height at which the plug  19  is placed along the stanchion  42  to be varied. The outer walls of the plug  19  contain the plurality of bell apertures  40  therein for providing air circulation, shown in  FIG. 14 . A perimeter of the plug  19  has a plurality of base positioned apertures  38  therearound, shown hereinafter with specific reference to  FIG. 14 . 
       FIG. 5  is a sectional illustrative view of the brine tank insert  10  of the present invention. The brine tank insert  10  includes the outer bucket  18  for retaining fluid therein. The inner cylinder  20  having a central recess is received within the outer bucket  18 , shown in  FIG. 2 . The first end  21  of the inner cylinder  20  receives a plug  19 , thereby forming a cavity for retaining brine  32 , as shown hereinafter with specific reference to  FIG. 14 . The brine tank insert  10  also includes the aerator  24  for aerating the fluid in the outer bucket  18 . The aerator  24  is comprised of the base  26  and the stanchion  42 . The base  26  permits the aerator  24  to be press fitted into the base of the outer bucket  18 . The stanchion  42  includes the top  44  and the bottom  46 . The bottom  46  of the stanchion  42  is attached to the base  26 . The transverse throughbore  36  is located at the bottom  46  of the stanchion  42  proximate to the base  26 . The plug  19 , shown in  FIG. 1 , is rotatively secured to the stanchion  42  via threads  28 . The height at which the plug  19  is placed along the stanchion  42  is variable. The outer walls of the plug  19  contain the plurality of bell apertures  40  therein for providing air circulation, shown in  FIG. 14 . A perimeter of the plug  19  has a plurality of base positioned apertures  38  therearound, shown hereinafter with specific reference to  FIG. 14 . 
     The top  44  of the stanchion  42  is connected to the first end  48  of the air hose  14 . The second end  50  of the air hose  14  is connected to the pump  12 . The pump  12  is electrically powered and is connected to the outlet  60 , shown in  FIG. 1 , by an electrical cord  16 . The pump  12  is attached to the outside of the outer bucket  18  by the pump bracket  22 . However, the pump bracket  22  is for purposes of example only and any support device can be used to support the pump  12  at any location where pump  12  functionality is maintained. 
     The outer bucket  18  is filled with water to a desired level. The inner cylinder  20  is filled with brine  32 , shown in  FIG. 14 . The plug  19  is adjusted on the stanchion  42  to a desired height and fitted into the inner cylinder  20 , The inner cylinder  20 , plug  19  and stanchion  42  are placed within the outer bucket  18 . The water flows from the outer bucket  18  into the inner cylinder  20  via the plurality of base positioned apertures  38 . The water fills the inner cylinder  20  from the base up to the water level in the outer bucket  18 , thereby submerging the brine  32  at the base of the outer bucket  18 . The pump  12  pumps air through the air hose  14 . The air then flows through the stanchion  42  and exits the stanchion  42  through the transverse throughbore  36 . The air then agitates the water causing the water to be circulated. Some of the air also flows back into the plug  19  where it flows through the bell apertures  40  for loosening and rinsing the brine  32 . The submerged brine  32  will continually dissolve until the saturation and desired brine solution levels are achieved. The brine tank insert  10  also keeps the brine  32  within the inner cylinder  20  and not submerged in the fluid while the submerged brine  32  evenly dissolves. 
       FIG. 6  is a perspective view of the brine tank insert  10  of the present invention. The brine tank insert  10  includes the outer bucket  18  for retaining fluid therein. The inner cylinder  20  having a central recess is received within the outer bucket  18 , shown in  FIG. 2 . The first end  21  of the inner cylinder  20  receives a plug  19 , thereby forming a cavity for retaining brine  32 , as shown hereinafter with specific reference to  FIG. 14 . The brine tank insert  10  also includes the aerator  24  for aerating the fluid in the outer bucket  18 . The aerator  24  is comprised of the base  26  and the stanchion  42 . The base  26  permits the aerator  24  to be press fitted into the base of the outer bucket  18 . The stanchion  42  has the top  44  and the bottom  46 . The bottom  46  of the stanchion  42  is attached to the base  26 . The transverse throughbore  36  is located at the bottom  46  of the stanchion  42  proximate to the base  26 . The threads  28  are located along the perimeter of the stanchion  42  proximate to the top  44  of the stanchion  42 . The plug  19  is rotatively secured to the stanchion  42  via the threads  28 . The height at which the plug  19  is placed along the stanchion  42  can be varied. 
     The top  44  of the stanchion  42  is connected to the first end  48  of the air hose  14 . The second end  50  of the air hose  14  is connected to the pump  12 . The pump  12  is electrically powered and is connected to the outlet  60 , shown in  FIG. 1 , by an electrical cord  16 . The pump  12  is attached to the outside of the outer bucket  18  by the pump bracket  22 . However, the pump bracket  22  is for purposes of example only and any support device can be used to support the pump  12  at any location where pump  12  functionality is maintained. 
       FIG. 7  is a perspective view of the brine tank insert  10  of the present invention. The brine tank insert  10  includes the outer bucket  18  for retaining fluid therein. The inner cylinder  20  having a central recess is received within the outer bucket  18 , shown in  FIG. 2 . The first end  21  of the inner cylinder  20  receives a plug  19 , thereby forming a cavity for retaining brine  32 , as shown hereinafter with specific reference to  FIG. 14 . The brine tank insert  10  also includes the aerator  24  for aerating the fluid in the outer bucket  18 . The aerator  24  is comprised of the base  26  and the stanchion  42 . The base  26  permits the aerator  24  to be press fitted into the base of the outer bucket  18 . The stanchion  42  includes the top  44  and the bottom  46 . The bottom  46  of the stanchion  42  is attached to the base  26 . The transverse throughbore  36  is located at the bottom  46  of the stanchion  42  proximate to the base  26 . The plug  19  is rotatively secured to the stanchion  42  via the threads  28 . The height of the plug  19  can be adjusted along the stanchion&#39;s  42  length, between the top  44  and bottom  46  thereof. 
     The top  44  of the stanchion  42  is connected to the first end  48  of the air hose  14 . The second end  50  of the air hose  14  is connected to the pump  12 . The pump  12  is electrically powered and is connected to the outlet  60 , shown in  FIG. 1 , by an electrical cord  16 . The pump  12  is attached to the outside of the outer bucket  18  by the pump bracket  22 . However, the pump bracket  22  is for purposes of example only and any support device can be used to support the pump  12  at any location where pump  12  functionality is maintained. 
       FIG. 8  is a table of the disadvantages of non-circulating brine regenerant of the prior art. In brine regeneration, a brine solution is used to make the water purification systems run more efficiently by removing the hard ions from the resin beads, which remove the hard ions from the water in the first place, thereby allowing the resin beads to continue to remove the hard ions from the water. When brine regenerant is not circulated, problematic conditions such as the bridging of salt/potassium solution and the crystallization of the salt/potassium solution occur. Another problem that occurs when the brine regenerate is not circulated is that a bottom slurry of salt/potassium solution forms. In addition to the above mentioned problems, lack of circulation makes for a weakened and thus less effective brine regeneration. The weak brine regeneration causes increased expenditures in the time and money expended to achieve the proper brine regeneration. The above mentioned problems contribute to increased wear and tear on the brine tanks, thus causing increased maintenance and repair thereof. 
       FIG. 9  is a table of the advantages of using a circulating brine regenerant as in the brine tank insert  10  of the present invention. In brine regeneration, a brine solution is used to make the water purification systems run more efficiently by removing the hard ions from the resin beads, which remove the hard ions from the water in the first place, thereby allowing the resin beads to continue to remove the hard ions from the water. Circulation of the brine regenerant prevents both the bridging of and the crystallization of the salt/potassium solution. Circulation of the brine regenerant also prevents a slurry of salt/potassium solution from forming on the bottom of the tanks. A consistent strong brine regeneration is created through the circulation thereof. Prevention of bridging, crystallization and slurry formation keeps the brine tank clean and makes for ease of repairs and maintenance of the brine tank. The circulation of the brine regenerant also keeps the small amount of dirt, which builds up after regernations, mixed in the brine solution. The dirt then gets rinsed out of the system, also facilitating maintenance of the tank. 
       FIG. 10  is a table of the main objectives of the brine tank insert  10  of the present invention. The main objective of the brine tank insert  10  is to provide cleaner, better tasting water while saving time and money. This objective and others are achieved through the circulation of the brine tank water. The circulation ensures consistent brine saturation into the water, resulting in a strong brine and improved regeneration. The brine tank insert  10  also keeps the brine dry until it is needed, thereby reducing brine consumption and reducing maintenance and repair needs. The brine tank insert  10  is also compatible with existing or new tanks and systems thereby enhancing the consumer&#39;s ability to save time and money. 
       FIG. 11  is a table of the means by which the circulation of the water in the brine tank may be achieved. A main objective of the brine tank insert  10  of the present invention is to provide circulation of the brine tank water. The circulation ensures consistent brine saturation into the water resulting in a strong brine and improved regeneration. Circulation may be achieved by use of an air pump and bubbler tube. Circulation can also be achieved through the use of other mechanical devices/systems. Alternatively, circulation can be achieved through the use of mechanical devices/systems. Furthermore, circulation can also be achieved through means other than electrical/mechanical devices/systems that may result in improved efficacy and/or cost effectiveness. 
       FIG. 12  is a table of the different types of cleaning elements (brine). Keeping the cleaning element dry until needed for regeneration reduces brine consumption, improves the handling, and reduces the maintenance and repairs needed. The plastic resin beads are covered with the hard ions from the hard water. The brine solution washes over the beads and exchanges the hard ions for the softer ions in the solution. The hard ions can then be rinsed away, and the beads are once again able to receive the hard ions from the hard water. The brine tank insert  10  of the present invention is suitable with various brine solutions, such as those containing elements such as salt, potassium, and other elements or compounds that are or could be used as a cleaning element. 
       FIG. 13  is a table describing the compatibility of the brine tank insert  10  of the present invention. An objective of the brine tank insert  10  is to provide the manufacturer and end user the flexibility to incorporate the brine tank insert  10  to suit their needs. The brine tank insert&#39;s  10  ability to adapt to existing or new systems enhances the consumer&#39;s ability to save time and money. The brine tank insert  10  can be retrofitted into existing brine tanks, retrofitted into existing all-in-one water softening systems, and incorporated into new brine tanks and all-in-one systems. Also, as discussed hereinabove with specific reference to  FIG. 1 , the height of the brine tank insert  10  can be adjusted to ensure proper emersion of the cleaning element (brine) into the water. 
       FIG. 14  is an illustrative view of a cross section of the brine tank insert  10  of the present invention. The brine tank insert  10  includes the outer bucket  18  for retaining fluid therein. The inner cylinder  20  having a central recess is received within the outer bucket  18 . The first end  21  of the inner cylinder  20  receives a plug  19 , thereby forming a cavity for retaining brine  32 . The brine tank insert  10  also includes the aerator  24  for aerating the fluid in the outer bucket  18 . The aerator  24  is comprised of the base  26  and the stanchion  42 . The base  26  permits the aerator  24  to be press fitted into the bottom of the outer bucket  18 . The stanchion  42  includes the top  44  and the bottom  46 . The bottom  46  of the stanchion  42  is attached to the base  26 . The transverse throughbore  36  is located at the bottom  46  of the stanchion  42  proximate to the base  26 . The plurality of threads  28  are located along the perimeter of the stanchion  42  proximate to the top  44  of the stanchion  42 . The plug  19  is rotatively secured to the stanchion  42  via the threads  28 . Herein, the plug  19  is bell shaped. However, this is for purposes of example only, and the plug  19  can be of any geometric shape that provides for the easy shuffling of the brine  32  and to keep a majority of the brine  32  dry until needed. The plug  19  has the top  66  and the bottom  68 . The plug aperture  64  is centrally disposed within the plug  19 , and runs from the top  66  to the bottom  68  of the plug  19 . The plug aperture  64  contains the plurality of aperture threads  70 . Each respective aperture thread  70  corresponds to each respective thread  28  enabling the plug  19  to be rotatively secured to the stanchion  42 . The aperture threads  70  and the threads  28  also permit the height at which the plug  19  is placed along the stanchion  42  to be varied. The outer walls of the plug  19  contain the plurality of bell apertures  40  therein for providing air circulation, shown in  FIG. 14 . A perimeter of the plug  19  has a plurality of base positioned apertures  38  therearound. 
     The top  44  of the stanchion  42  is connected to the first end  48  of the air hose  14 . The second end  50  of the air hose  14  is connected to the pump  12 . The pump  12  is electrically powered and is connected to the outlet  60 , shown in  FIG. 1 , by an electrical cord  16 . The pump  12  is attached to the outside of the outer bucket  18  by the pump bracket  22 . However, the pump bracket  22  is for purposes of example only and any support device can be used to support the pump  12  at any location where pump  12  functionality is maintained. 
     The outer bucket  18  is filled with water to a desired level. The inner cylinder  20  is filled with brine  32 . The plug  19  is adjusted on the stanchion  42  to a desired height and fitted into the inner cylinder  20 . The inner cylinder  20 , plug  19  and stanchion  42  are placed within the outer bucket  18 . The water flows from the outer bucket  18  into the inner cylinder  20  via the plurality of base positioned apertures  38 . The water fills the inner cylinder  20  from the base up to the water level in the outer bucket  18 , thereby submerging the brine  32  at the base of the outer bucket  18 . The pump  12  pumps air through the air hose  14 . The air then flows through the stanchion  42  and exits the stanchion  42  through the transverse throughbore  36 . The air then agitates the water causing the water to be circulated. Some of the air also flows back into the plug  19  where it flows through the bell apertures  40  for loosening and rinsing the brine  32 . The submerged brine  32  will continually dissolve until the saturation and desired brine solution levels are achieved. The brine tank insert  10  also keeps the brine  32  within the inner cylinder  20  and not submerged in the fluid while the submerged brine  32  evenly dissolves. 
     It will be understood that each of the elements described above, or two or more together may also find a useful application in other types of devices differing from the type described above. 
     While certain novel features of this invention have been shown and described and are pointed out in the annexed claims, it is not intended to be limited to the details above, since it will be understood that various omissions, modifications, substitutions and changes in the forms and details of the device illustrated and in its operation can be made by those skilled in the art without departing in any way from the spirit of the present invention. 
     Without further analysis, the foregoing will so fully reveal the gist of the present invention that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily adapt it for various applications without omitting features that, from the standpoint of prior art, fairly constitute essential characteristics of the generic or specific aspects of this invention.