Multiple product dispensing system including dispenser for forming use solution from solid chemical compositions

US5494644A · kind A · utility

Assignee

• ECOLAB INC. · US

Inventors

• John E. Thomas · River Falls, US
• John E. McCall, Jr. · West St. Paul, US
• Daniel K. Boche · Eagan, US
• John J. Rolando · Woodbury, US
• Terry J. Klos · Minnetonka, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Dec 6, 1994
• Grant date: Feb 27, 1996
• Expiry date: Dec 6, 2014

Classification

• Technology area (CPC Y): Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
• CPC primary: Y10T137/4891
• WIPO field: Chemical engineering
• WIPO sector: Chemistry

Abstract

A multiple product dispensing system includes a plurality of use solution dispensers and a controller for selecting one of the dispensers according to a preset regimen, e.g., selecting different dispensers on different days of the week. Each dispenser dispenses a controlled concentration of use solution using a diluent delivery apparatus that delivers a diluent to form a liquid concentrate from a solid chemical composition, and to form make-up diluent for diluting the liquid concentrate and forming a use solution of controlled concentration. A foam reducer reduces the kinetic energy of the make-up diluent prior to mixing with the liquid concentrate to reduce foaming. An unskilled operator may operate the dispensing system to dispense a use solution of carefully controlled concentration, and the controller will automatically select the proper dispenser according to the preset regimen, without any additional input on the part of the operator. Therefore, the likelihood of operator error occurring is greatly reduced by the automatic selection of the proper dispenser and the control over use solution concentration.