System and method for managing liquid waste

Abstract

A system for managing liquid waste includes: a first liquid container for receiving liquid waste; a liquid transfer pump fluidly connected to the first liquid container; and a second liquid container fluidly connected to the liquid transfer pump. When the second liquid container is fluidly connected to the liquid transfer pump, the liquid transfer pump can be selectively activated to transfer liquid waste from the first liquid container to the second liquid container. A method for managing liquid waste includes the following steps: receiving liquid waste into the first liquid container; monitoring the liquid volume in the first container; connecting the second liquid container to the liquid transfer pump connected to the first liquid container; after the received liquid volume in the first liquid container reaches a predetermined level, transferring liquid from the first liquid container to the second liquid container using the liquid transfer pump; and removing the liquid transferred to the second liquid container.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of Chinese Patent Application No. 202080044364.3 (filed on April 22, 2020, entitled "System and Method for Managing Liquid Waste").

[0002] Cross-reference to related applications

[0003] This application claims the benefit of provisional patent application serial number 62 / 842,974, filed on May 3, 2019, under 35 U.S.SC §119(e), the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0004] This disclosure relates to systems and methods for collecting and disposing of liquid waste. Background Technology

[0005] Some instruments (such as diagnostic and clinical analyzers) perform processes that generate liquid waste. This liquid waste must be managed during and / or after instrument operation, including collection, temporary storage, and disposal. Typically, this liquid waste is collected on-board in an onboard liquid waste collection container (e.g., a bottle) and temporarily stored there. This liquid can be collected from onboard sources, such as from aspirators, drains, etc.

[0006] During continuous operation of the instrument, the liquid waste collection container must be emptied periodically or replaced with an empty container, as it will become full of collected liquid waste. Typically, the liquid waste container is emptied by removing it from the instrument to empty its contents or by replacing the full container with an empty one. However, the instrument must be paused while the liquid waste collection container is being removed, as there is no container to collect the liquid waste. This necessitates pausing the instrument whenever the liquid waste collection container needs to be emptied or replaced, which negatively impacts the instrument's throughput. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The following is a simplified overview to provide a basic understanding of some aspects described herein. This overview is not a comprehensive overview of the claimed subject matter. It is neither intended to identify key or essential elements of the claimed subject matter nor to depict its scope. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description to follow.

[0008] Various aspects of this disclosure are embodied in a system for managing liquid waste. The system may include a first liquid container configured to receive liquid from a liquid source, a liquid transfer pump fluidly connected to the first liquid container, and a second liquid container fluidly connected to the liquid transfer pump. The liquid transfer pump is configured to selectively activate when the second liquid container is fluidly connected to the liquid transfer pump to transfer liquid from the first liquid container to the second liquid container.

[0009] Depending on other aspects, the system may also include a differential pressure source, to which a first liquid container is connected to draw liquid from the liquid source into the first liquid container.

[0010] Depending on other factors, the differential pressure source may include a vacuum pump.

[0011] Depending on other aspects, the system may also include a filter located between the vacuum pump and the first liquid container.

[0012] Depending on other aspects, the filter may include a bleach fume filter.

[0013] Depending on other aspects, the system may also include a mounting block on which a filter and a first liquid container are mounted.

[0014] Depending on other aspects, the system may also include a filtration loop that connects the top fluid of the first liquid container to the bottom of a filter supported on a mounting block.

[0015] According to other aspects, the first liquid container may include an intermediate top wall, a first tower extending above the intermediate top wall, and a second tower extending above the intermediate top wall. The first tower includes a liquid inlet for receiving liquid from a liquid source into the first liquid container, and the second tower includes a vacuum fitting attached to the second tower to draw liquid from the liquid source into the first liquid container.

[0016] Depending on other aspects, liquid transfer pumps may include bellows pumps.

[0017] Depending on other aspects, the system may also include a motor for operating the liquid transfer pump and a drive mechanism for connecting the motor to the liquid transfer pump.

[0018] Depending on other aspects, the system may also include a lift valve associated with the second liquid container for controlling the flow of liquid into the second liquid container.

[0019] According to other aspects, the system may also include a floating switch in a first liquid container, wherein when the liquid in the first liquid container reaches a predetermined level, the floating switch is connected to a liquid transfer pump to start the liquid transfer pump.

[0020] According to other aspects, the system may also include a connector fitting for fluidly connecting a second liquid container to a liquid delivery pump and a drip management system configured to draw liquid from the connector fitting into a first liquid container.

[0021] According to other aspects, the system may also include a connector fitting for fluidly connecting a second liquid container to a liquid delivery pump, a drip management system configured to draw liquid from the connector fitting into a first liquid container, and a vacuum pump connected thereto to the first liquid container to draw liquid from a liquid source into the first liquid container. The connector fitting may include an internally threaded connector member and an externally threaded connector member received within the internally threaded connector member. The drip management system may include a connection port communicating with the internally threaded connector member, a fluid conduit connecting the connection port to the first liquid container, and a drip control valve configured to allow fluid flow through the fluid conduit when the drip control valve is in an open configuration and to prevent fluid flow through the fluid conduit when the drip control valve is in a closed configuration.

[0022] According to other factors, the drip control valve is a solenoid valve.

[0023] According to other aspects, after the liquid transfer pump is stopped after the liquid is transferred from the first liquid container to the second liquid container, the drip control valve is configured and controlled to be in the open configuration.

[0024] According to other aspects, after the liquid is transferred from the first liquid container to the second liquid container and the liquid transfer pump is shut down, the drip control valve is configured and controlled to be in the open configuration for a specified period of time and in the closed configuration at all other times.

[0025] According to other aspects, the second liquid container includes a body, a connector frame extending laterally from the body and including a horizontal portion and defining a bottom wall, and a liquid delivery connector fitting extending downward from the bottom wall of the horizontal portion of the connector frame for fluidly connecting the second liquid container to a liquid delivery pump.

[0026] According to other aspects, the system may also include a connector interface fluidly connected to a liquid delivery pump and including an upward-facing liquid connector fitting configured to operatively engage with a downwardly extending liquid delivery connector fitting of a second liquid container to fluidly connect the liquid delivery pump to the second liquid container.

[0027] Depending on other aspects, the system may also include a liquid tray formed in and surrounding an upward-facing liquid connector fitting within the connector interface.

[0028] Depending on other aspects, the system may also include a drip management system configured to draw liquid from a liquid tray into a first liquid container or from a liquid delivery connector fitting operably connected to a connector interface and a second liquid container into the first liquid container.

[0029] According to other aspects, the drip management system may include a connection port attached to a connector interface, a fluid conduit connecting the connection port to a first liquid container, and a drip control valve. The drip control valve is configured to allow fluid to flow through the fluid conduit when the drip control valve is in an open configuration, and to prevent fluid from flowing through the fluid conduit when the drip control valve is in a closed configuration.

[0030] According to other factors, the drip control valve is a solenoid valve.

[0031] According to other aspects, when the liquid transfer pump is shut down after the liquid has been transferred from the first liquid container to the second liquid container, the drip control valve is configured and controlled to be in the open configuration.

[0032] According to other aspects, after the liquid is transferred from the first liquid container to the second liquid container and the liquid transfer pump is shut down, the drip control valve is configured and controlled to be in the open configuration for a specified period of time and in the closed configuration at all other times.

[0033] Depending on other aspects, the system may also include a discharge line connected to the second liquid container, and a discharge pump fluidly connected to the discharge line for conveying liquid from the second liquid container to a discharge port via the discharge line.

[0034] According to other aspects, the system may also include a second float switch in a second liquid container, wherein when the liquid in the second liquid container reaches a predetermined level, the second float switch is connected to a discharge pump to start the discharge pump.

[0035] Depending on other aspects, the system may also include a leak detection sensor.

[0036] According to other aspects, the first and second liquid containers and the liquid delivery pump are supported in a drawer of the instrument, and the drawer is configured to be laterally movable between an open position providing access to one or more of the first and second liquid containers and the liquid delivery pump and a closed position concealing the first and second liquid containers and the liquid delivery pump.

[0037] Depending on other factors, the connector interface is attached to the drawer.

[0038] According to other aspects, the first liquid container includes an intermediate top wall, a liquid inlet tower extending above the intermediate top wall, a liquid inlet fluidly connected to the liquid inlet tower at a location above the intermediate top wall through which the first liquid container receives liquid from a liquid source, and a vacuum tower extending above the intermediate top wall, wherein a differential pressure source is connected to the vacuum tower at a location above the intermediate top wall.

[0039] Other aspects of this disclosure are embodied in a method for managing liquid waste, the method comprising: a) receiving liquid from a liquid source into a first liquid container; b) monitoring the amount of liquid in the first liquid container; c) connecting the second liquid container to a liquid transfer pump connected to the first liquid container by lowering a first connector fitting of the second liquid container to engage with a second connector fitting connected to the outlet of a liquid transfer pump; d) after the amount of liquid received in the first liquid container reaches a predetermined level, as determined in step b), transferring liquid from the first liquid container to the second liquid container using the liquid transfer pump; and e) removing the liquid transferred to the second liquid container during step d).

[0040] According to other aspects, step e) includes using a discharge pump fluidly connected to the second liquid container to deliver liquid from the second liquid container to a drain outlet.

[0041] According to other aspects, step e) also includes monitoring the liquid level in the second liquid container with a second float switch, generating a pump start signal when the second float switch detects that the liquid volume in the second liquid container has reached a predetermined liquid level, and transmitting the pump start signal to the drain pump to start the drain pump and deliver the liquid from the second liquid container to the drain pipe.

[0042] Depending on other aspects, the method may also include stopping the liquid transfer pump before step e).

[0043] According to other aspects, step e) includes pouring liquid from the second liquid container through an opening in the second liquid container.

[0044] According to other factors, steps a) and e) occur simultaneously.

[0045] According to other aspects, the first and second liquid containers and the liquid delivery pump are supported in a drawer of the instrument. The drawer is configured to be laterally movable between an open position providing access to one or more of the first and second liquid containers and the liquid delivery pump and a closed position concealing the first and second liquid containers and the liquid delivery pump, and step e) further includes moving the drawer laterally to the open position and removing the second liquid container from the drawer after the liquid delivery pump is deactivated.

[0046] According to other aspects, the first connector fitting may include an externally threaded fitting extending downward from the second liquid container, and the second connector fitting includes an upwardly facing internally threaded fitting and is configured to receive the externally threaded fitting.

[0047] According to other aspects, step b) includes monitoring the liquid level in the first liquid container with a float switch, and step c) includes generating a pump start signal when the float switch detects that the liquid volume in the first liquid container has reached a predetermined liquid level, and transmitting the pump start signal to the liquid transfer pump to start the liquid transfer pump and transfer the liquid from the first liquid container to the second liquid container.

[0048] According to other aspects, the method may also include, after step d) and before step e), drawing liquid from the connection between the first connector fitting and the second connector fitting into a first liquid container.

[0049] Other aspects of this disclosure are embodied in a liquid container system comprising a liquid container including an intermediate top wall, a liquid inlet tower extending above the intermediate top wall, a liquid inlet fluidly connected to the liquid inlet tower at a location above the intermediate top wall through which the liquid container receives liquid from a liquid source, and a vacuum tower extending above the intermediate top wall and fluidly connected to it at a location above the intermediate top wall to draw liquid into the liquid container through the liquid inlet.

[0050] Depending on other aspects, the liquid container system may also include a filter in fluid communication with the vacuum tower of the liquid container.

[0051] Depending on other aspects, the liquid container system may also include a mounting block on which the filter and liquid container are mounted.

[0052] Depending on other aspects, the liquid container system may also include a filtration loop that connects the vacuum tower of the liquid container to the bottom of a filter supported on a mounting block.

[0053] Depending on other aspects, the liquid container system may also include a level sensor configured to detect the liquid level within the liquid container.

[0054] Depending on other aspects, the level sensor may include a float switch extending from a float switch connector mounted to the intermediate top wall into the interior of the liquid container.

[0055] Depending on other aspects, the liquid container system may also include a conveying fitting installed in the intermediate top wall, the conveying fitting having a tube extending from the conveying fitting into the interior of the liquid container.

[0056] Depending on other aspects, the liquid container system may also include a delivery line fitting installed in an intermediate top wall, having a pipe extending from the delivery line fitting into the interior of the liquid container, a delivery pump fluidly connected to the delivery fitting, and a delivery container fluidly connected to the delivery pump.

[0057] Depending on other aspects, the liquid container system may also include a level sensor configured to detect the liquid level within the liquid container. The level sensor is operatively connected to a transfer pump so that when the level sensor detects that the liquid level within the liquid container has reached a specified level, the transfer pump is activated to transfer a certain amount of liquid from the liquid container to a transfer container.

[0058] Depending on other aspects, the liquid container system may also include a delivery container interface configured to releasably connect the delivery container to the delivery pump.

[0059] According to other aspects, the delivery container may include a body, a connector frame extending laterally from the body and including a horizontal portion and defining a bottom wall, and a liquid delivery connector fitting extending downward from the bottom wall of the horizontal portion of the connector frame and configured for fluidly connecting the delivery container to a liquid delivery pump.

[0060] Depending on other aspects, the liquid delivery connector fitting may include a connector extending downward from a horizontal portion of the connector housing and a liquid channel extending through the liquid delivery connector fitting.

[0061] According to other aspects, the liquid container system may also include a delivery container interface configured to releasably connect a delivery container to a delivery pump, the delivery container interface including an upward-facing receiver opening configured to receive a connector fitting of a liquid delivery connector.

[0062] Depending on other aspects, the delivery container interface may include a liquid tank, and the receiver opening may be disposed within the liquid tank.

[0063] Depending on other aspects, the liquid container system may also include one or more O-rings disposed on the joint.

[0064] According to other aspects, the transport container also includes a cover removably fixed to an opening formed in the body of the transport container, wherein the opening is configured to empty the contents of the transport container after the cover is removed.

[0065] Depending on other aspects, the delivery container may also include a handle fixed to the body.

[0066] Other aspects of this disclosure are embodied in a liquid container system including a delivery container for receiving liquid delivered to a delivery container by a liquid delivery pump. The delivery container may include a body, a connector frame extending laterally from the body and including a horizontal portion and defining a bottom wall, and a liquid delivery connector fitting extending downward from the bottom wall of the horizontal portion of the connector frame and configured for fluidly connecting the delivery container to the liquid delivery pump.

[0067] Depending on other aspects, the liquid delivery connector fitting may include a connector extending downward from a horizontal portion of the connector housing and a liquid channel extending through the liquid delivery connector fitting.

[0068] According to other aspects, the liquid container system may also include a delivery container interface configured to releasably connect a delivery container to a delivery pump, the delivery container interface including an upward-facing receiver opening configured to receive a connector fitting of a liquid delivery connector.

[0069] Depending on other aspects, the delivery container interface includes a liquid tank, and the receiver opening is disposed within the liquid tank.

[0070] Depending on other aspects, the liquid container system may also include one or more O-rings disposed on the joint.

[0071] According to other aspects, the transport container also includes a cover removably fixed to an opening formed in the body of the transport container, and the opening is configured to empty the contents of the transport container after the cover is removed.

[0072] Depending on other aspects, the delivery container also includes a handle fixed to the body.

[0073] Other features and characteristics of the subject matter of this disclosure, as well as the function of related elements and combinations of components of the method of operation, structure, and economy of manufacture, will become more apparent when the following description and appended claims are considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, all of which form part of this specification, wherein similar reference numerals denote corresponding components in the various figures. Attached Figure Description

[0074] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein and form a part of the specification, illustrate various embodiments of the subject matter of this disclosure. In the drawings, similar reference numerals indicate the same or functionally similar elements.

[0075] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an implementation of the liquid waste management system disclosed herein.

[0076] Figure 2 This is a front perspective view of the vacuum storage unit of the liquid waste management system.

[0077] Figure 3This is a rear perspective view of the vacuum storage unit of the liquid waste management system.

[0078] Figure 4 This is a rear perspective view of the vacuum storage unit of a liquid waste management system, with the filter omitted from the diagram.

[0079] Figure 5 This is a front perspective view of the vacuum reservoir of the liquid transfer pump that is fluidly connected to the liquid waste management system.

[0080] Figure 5A It is the transverse front cross-section of the vacuum storage device.

[0081] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of the transfer pump module of the liquid waste management system.

[0082] Figure 7 This is a side view of the delivery pump module.

[0083] Figure 8 This is a rear perspective view of the vacuum storage unit and removable container interface of the liquid waste management system, with the filter and filter mounting block omitted from the figure.

[0084] Figure 9 This is a top perspective view of the removable delivery container of the liquid waste management system.

[0085] Figure 10 This is a partial perspective view of a portion of the transport container.

[0086] Figure 10A yes Figure 10 A side sectional view of the liquid delivery connection between the delivery container and the removable container interface along the AA direction.

[0087] Figure 10B yes Figure 10 A side sectional view of the liquid delivery connection between the delivery container and the removable container interface along the BB direction.

[0088] Figure 11 This is a bottom perspective view of the transport container.

[0089] Figure 12A This is a side perspective view showing the lift valve inside the delivery container in the closed position.

[0090] Figure 12B This is a side perspective view showing the lift valve inside the output container in the open position.

[0091] Figure 13 This is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a liquid waste management system.

[0092] Figure 14This is a perspective view of an exemplary treatment instrument that can be integrated with a liquid waste management system.

[0093] Figure 15 This is a perspective view of a drawer of an exemplary processing instrument that can support a liquid waste management system.

[0094] Figure 16 This is a perspective view of the delivery container, showing the liquid level sensor located inside the container.

[0095] Figure 17 This is a side view of the delivery container, showing the level sensor located inside the container.

[0096] Figure 18 This is a perspective view of the liquid level sensor. Detailed Implementation

[0097] Although various aspects of the subject matter of this disclosure may be implemented in various forms, the following description and accompanying drawings are intended only to disclose some of these forms as specific examples of the subject matter. Therefore, the subject matter of this disclosure is not intended to be limited to the forms or embodiments described and illustrated as such.

[0098] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which they pertain. All patent applications, publications, and other publications mentioned herein are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. If any definition given in this section contradicts or is inconsistent with a definition given in a patent application, publication, or other publication, the definition given in this section shall prevail over the definition incorporated herein by reference.

[0099] Unless otherwise indicated or implied by the context, as used herein, “a / an” means “at least one” or “one or more”.

[0100] This specification may use relative spatial and / or directional terms to describe the location and / or orientation of components, devices, positions, features, or portions thereof. Unless expressly stated or otherwise specified by the context of this specification, such terms (including (but not limited to) top, bottom, above, below, on top of, under, on top of, upper part, lower part, left side, right side, front, rear, adjacent, adjacent, between, horizontal, vertical, diagonal, longitudinal, transverse, radial, axial, etc.) are used conveniently to refer to such components, devices, positions, features, or portions thereof in the accompanying drawings and are not intended to be restrictive.

[0101] Furthermore, unless otherwise stated, any specific dimensions mentioned in this specification are merely exemplary embodiments of apparatus for implementing aspects of this disclosure and are not intended to be limiting.

[0102] The term “about” is used applicable to all numerical values ​​specified herein, whether or not they are precisely indicated. This term generally refers to a range of numbers that, in the context of this disclosure, would be considered by one of ordinary skill in the art to be a reasonable deviation from the listed numerical values ​​(i.e., having an equivalent function or result). For example, but not intended to be limiting, this term can be interpreted as including a deviation of ±10% from a given numerical value, provided that such deviation does not alter the final function or result of the value. Thus, in some cases, as one of ordinary skill in the art will understand, a value of about 1% can be interpreted as ranging from 0.9% to 1.1%.

[0103] As used herein, the term "adjacent" means close or adjacent. Adjacent objects may be separated from each other or may be in actual or direct contact with each other. In some cases, adjacent objects may be connected to each other or may form an integral part of each other.

[0104] As used herein, the terms “substantially” and “truly” refer to a considerable degree or extent. When used in conjunction with, for example, events, situations, characteristics, or attributes, these terms may refer to instances where an event, situation, characteristic, or attribute occurs precisely, and instances where an event, situation, characteristic, or attribute is close to occurring, for example, taking into account the typical tolerance levels or variability of the embodiments described herein.

[0105] As used herein, the terms “optional” and “optionally” mean that the components, structures, elements, features, events, situations, characteristics, or attributes subsequently described may or may not be included or occur, and the description includes instances where the components, structures, elements, features, events, situations, characteristics, or attributes are included or occur, as well as instances where they are not included or do not occur.

[0106] The terms "fluid connectivity," "fluid connection," "fluidly connected," and similar terms refer to direct fluid connectivity or connection. For example, two areas may be fluidly connected to each other via an unobstructed fluid passage (e.g., a channel, conduit, pipe, tube, hose, etc.) that enables fluid transport connecting the two areas, or may be fluidly connected or connected, for example, when two areas are connected via a fluid passage that enables fluid transport and may include a valve disposed therein, they may be fluidly connected to each other, wherein fluid connectivity can be established between the two areas when the valve is actuated. Fluid connectivity or connection between two areas is not limited to the actual fluid flow conditions between the two areas.

[0107] When used in conjunction with a component for transferring liquid from one component or location to another component or location that is spatially different from the first component or location, the term "pipeline" refers to any component capable of such transfer, including, for example, rigid or flexible conduits, channels, pipes, tubes, hoses, or combinations of two or more thereof.

[0108] The liquid waste management system disclosed in this article is Figure 1 and Figure 13 The figure is indicated by reference numeral 100 in the attached drawing. Figure 13 The diagram shows a schematic general block diagram illustrating the various components of system 100, while Figure 1 A specific implementation of system 100 is shown.

[0109] In various embodiments, system 100 includes a vacuum reservoir 110 (a first liquid container that is not typically removed from system 100 or is not easily removed from system 100) and a removable delivery container 140 (a second liquid container that can be removed from system 100). The vacuum reservoir 110 and delivery container 140 may each be a rotomolded bottle made of low-density polyethylene (LDPE). System 100 also includes a delivery pump module 200 comprising a pump (described in more detail below) that delivers liquid from the vacuum reservoir 110 to the delivery container 140 via a delivery line 204 (e.g., PVC pipe). The vacuum reservoir 110 passes through a filter 128 (see vacuum line 180 and vacuum filter loop (line) 116). Figure 3 It is connected to a vacuum or other differential pressure. Liquid waste is drawn from liquid waste source 276 into vacuum storage 110 through liquid waste inlet line 182 (e.g., PVC pipe) connected to vacuum storage 110.

[0110] like Figure 14 and Figure 15 As shown and still referenced Figure 1 Components of system 100 (e.g., vacuum reservoir 110, delivery container 140, and delivery pump module 200) can be supported on a rack or movable drawer 302 of processing instrument 300. Figure 15 The front panel with handles on the front wall of the drawer is omitted from the figure. Processing instrument 300 can be a chemical or biological analyzer, such as a molecular analyzer for performing nucleic acid-based amplification reactions. Exemplary processing instruments that can be incorporated into system 100 include analyzers described in U.S. Patent Nos. 8,731,712 and 9,732,374 and International Publication No. WO 2019 / 014239 A1, and those available from Hologic, Inc. (Marburg, Massachusetts). and Panther In one embodiment, when liquid is delivered from vacuum reservoir 110 to delivery container 140, delivery container 140 can be periodically removed from system 100 for emptying without disconnecting vacuum reservoir 110 from vacuum line 180 or liquid waste inlet line 182. Therefore, when delivery container 140 is removed from system 100 for emptying, vacuum reservoir 110 can continuously receive liquid waste via liquid waste inlet line 182, and the operation of processing instrument 300 does not need to be interrupted.

[0111] like Figure 1 , Figure 13 and Figure 14 As shown, system 100 may optionally include a discharge line 184 connected to the delivery container 140 and coupled to the pump 262 for periodically drawing liquid from the delivery container 140 to the discharge port 260 or a large-capacity storage container, thereby reducing or eliminating the need to remove the delivery container 140 for emptying.

[0112] The vacuum reservoir 110 may be configured with a non-uniform top surface. For example... Figure 2 As shown, for example in various embodiments, the vacuum reservoir 110 includes an intermediate top wall 122 having a liquid inlet tower (or first tower) 120 and a vacuum tower (or second tower) 124 extending above the intermediate top wall 122. A liquid waste inlet line 182 is connected to the liquid inlet tower 120 at the waste inlet fitting 112 (see...). Figure 3 and Figure 4 Waste inlet fitting 112 may include a right-angle barb fitting with NPT (National Pipe Taper) threads. Waste inlet fitting 112 is preferably formed of a bleach-compatible material, such as PP, PVDF, etc. Alternatively, waste inlet fitting 112 may be a quick-connect fitting. Vacuum filter circuit 116 connects to vacuum tower 124 at vacuum fitting 114 and extends into filter mounting block 126, which is supported against recessed wall 138 (see...). Figure 4 and Figure 5 ) filter 128 (see Figure 3A concave wall 138 is formed on one side of the vacuum reservoir 110. One end of the filter 128 is in fluid communication with the vacuum filter circuit 116 via the filter mounting block 126, and the vacuum line 180 is connected to the opposite end of the filter 128 at the filter outlet fitting 130. The vacuum filter circuit 116 includes a tube (e.g., PVC) for drawing air through the top of the vacuum reservoir 110. To draw a vacuum through the vacuum reservoir 110 without liquid entering the vacuum line 180, the vacuum circuit 116 is connected to the vacuum reservoir 110 at the vacuum tower 124 to prevent fluid from entering the filter circuit 116. The vacuum fitting 114 may include a right-angle barbed fitting with NPT (National Pipe Taper) threads. The vacuum fitting 114 is preferably formed of a bleach-compatible material, such as PP, PVDF, etc. Alternatively, the vacuum fitting 114 may be a quick-connect fitting.

[0113] Filter 128 has a specific direction requiring flow to enter from the bottom inlet at filter mounting block 126. In one embodiment, filter mounting block 126 is a machined PVC block mounted to the bottom of waste drawer 302. Filter mounting block 126 provides an airflow path from vacuum fitting 114 connected to vacuum reservoir 110 to filter 128. Mounting block 126 provides mating surfaces to integrate filter 128 into system 100. In one embodiment, filter 128 has an inlet and an outlet, and external threaded connections on both sides to engage quick-disconnect fittings. Mounting block 126 preferably interfaces with filter 128 to form an hermetically tight seal between block 126 and filter 128, and filter 128 can be installed / removed by connecting / disconnecting filter outlet fitting 130. Filter 128 can be pulled upward and will disconnect from mounting block 126. In one embodiment, filter 128 comprises a bleach fume filter. In one embodiment, filter 128 is a capsule with external threaded fitting connections at both ends, such as those available from CPC in St. Paul, Minnesota. The bottom of the capsule contains a granular chemical medium that filters the bleach odor from the exhaust gas. The top of the capsule contains a 0.2μm PTFE filter.

[0114] The vacuum tower 124 includes a threaded opening 136 on its upper surface, configured to receive a mating threaded cap (not shown). Opening 136 is a maintenance access point that allows a field service engineer (FSE) to inspect the vacuum reservoir during troubleshooting. The FSE can pour in liquid (water or endotoxin, etc.) to flush the reservoir or test the level sensor float for proper function.

[0115] A vacuum from a vacuum source (e.g., a vacuum pump) is applied via vacuum line 180 through filter 128, filter mounting block 126, and vacuum filter circuit 116 to vacuum reservoir 110 at vacuum tower 124. Therefore, liquid waste from a liquid waste source is drawn into vacuum reservoir 110 at liquid inlet tower 120 via liquid waste inlet line 182. Liquid inlet tower 120 and vacuum tower 124, positioned above intermediate top wall 122, help limit or prevent the extraction of foam from vacuum reservoir 110 via vacuum.

[0116] The floating switch connector 132 is mounted to the intermediate top wall 122 (see...). Figure 2 , Figure 5 , Figure 5A and Figure 8 It is connected to a float switch 134 (continuous level sensor), which extends into the vacuum reservoir 110 below the intermediate top wall 122.

[0117] like Figure 5 As shown, the delivery pump module 200 is connected to the vacuum reservoir 110 via a delivery line 204 (e.g., a PVC pipe). Reference Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 The delivery pump module 200 includes a delivery pump 202, which may include a bellows pump (e.g., available from GRIPumps in Belleville, Ohio) powered by a pump motor 210, the pump motor 210 having a pump drive that connects the output of the pump motor 212 to the delivery pump 202. The delivery pump 202 includes a pump inlet port 208 and a pump outlet port 206. A liquid delivery line 204 connects to the delivery pump 202 at the pump inlet port 208 and to a vacuum reservoir 110 at a delivery fitting 118 mounted in the intermediate top wall 122. In various embodiments, a tube (or suction tube) 119 (see...) Figure 5A The tube or suction pipe 119 extends from the delivery fitting 118 into the vacuum reservoir 110 below the intermediate top wall 122. The pump outlet line 218 is connected at one end to the pump outlet port 206.

[0118] The delivery pump module 200 may also include a leak detection sensor 214. The leak detection sensor 214 may include a foil having a serpentine conductor made of silicon and stainless steel, which short-circuits when exposed to liquid. A printed circuit board 216 may be provided with power and logic elements for controlling the liquid waste management system 100.

[0119] refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7 The delivery pump module 200 also includes a delivery container interface 230, which releasably connects the delivery container 140 to the delivery pump 202. For example... Figure 6and Figure 7 As shown, the delivery container interface 230 is mounted above the delivery pump 202. In one embodiment, the delivery container interface 230 is attached to the drawer 302. The pump outlet line 218 connects to the interface 230 at fitting 240 (see also...). Figure 10A , Figure 10B ).

[0120] like Figure 9 and Figure 11 As shown, the delivery container 140 includes a body 158 with a cover 144 removable from the container's opening to empty the delivery container 140. The delivery container 140 may also include a handle 146. The delivery container 140 can be manually emptied by lifting the delivery container 140 with the handle 146 from a shelf or drawer (e.g., drawer 302) on which the liquid waste management system 100 is supported, and the cover 144 can be removed to allow the delivery container 140 to be emptied. As noted, a discharge line 184 may optionally be connected to the delivery container 140 at a fitting 142 on top of the delivery container 140 (see [link to documentation]). Figure 1 Meanwhile, a straw (not shown) extends from accessory 142 into the delivery container 140.

[0121] The delivery container 140 may also include a connector holder 148 extending laterally from the body 158. The connector holder 148 includes a horizontal portion 150, side walls 152 and 154, and an externally threaded delivery inlet fitting 234 extending downward from the bottom wall of the horizontal portion 150. The side walls 152 and 154 and the horizontal portion 150 define a... Figure 10 The opening recess 156 of the receiving and conveying container interface 230 shown. For example... Figure 10 , Figure 10A , Figure 10B As shown, the externally threaded delivery inlet fitting 234 extends into a conformally fitted internally threaded receiver 246 disposed within a liquid tank 242 formed on top of the removable container interface 230, thereby fluidly connecting the delivery container 140 to the liquid delivery pump 202. Therefore, the liquid delivery pump 202 can pump liquid from the vacuum reservoir 110 and into the delivery container 140 via the delivery line 204.

[0122] like Figure 11 As shown, the delivery container 140 may also include a recess 168 formed in the bottom surface 166 of the body 158 and an inclined groove 167 extending partially upward from the bottom surface 166 to a sidewall 169 below the connector holder 148. The recess 168 is in a handheld position when the user pours liquid from the delivery container 140. The groove 167 is a ramp for a mechanical presence sensor (not shown) with a retractable rod that indicates the presence of the delivery container 140 when pressed. The ramp 168 facilitates the proper placement of the bottle into the drawer and the gradual pressing of the mechanical switch.

[0123] As an alternative to mechanical switches, reed switches incorporate a magnet for presence sensors. (Reference) Figure 11 Magnet 155 may be mounted within the outer surface of the delivery container 140 surrounding the opening recess 156. In one embodiment, when the delivery container 140 is in its operating position relative to the delivery container interface 230 and the pump module 200 (e.g. Figure 1 As shown), a magnetic proximity sensor (e.g., sensor 243 mounted in the delivery container interface 230) Figure 8 Magnet 155 was detected.

[0124] refer to Figure 12A and Figure 12B The delivery container 140 may include a lift valve 160, which is disposed within an inlet port 164 of the container wall 162 within the horizontal portion 150 of the connector holder 148, or within the delivery inlet fitting 234. The lift valve 160 is configured to be in a closed position when the delivery pump 202 is not pumping liquid from the vacuum reservoir 110 (e.g., Figure 12A (As shown) Move to the open position when the transfer pump 202 is pumping liquid (e.g.) Figure 12B (As shown). Therefore, the pressure differential caused by the delivery pump 202 opens the lift valve 160 to allow liquid to be pumped into the delivery container 140, and the lift valve 160 closes when there is no pressure differential to prevent liquid from escaping from the delivery container 140.

[0125] The delivery container 140 may also include a level sensor for detecting the liquid level within the container 140 and providing a signal indicating that the container should be emptied or should be emptied as soon as possible. Exemplary level sensors that can be incorporated into the delivery container 140 include... Figure 16 , Figure 17 and Figure 18 The level sensor 266 is indicated by reference numeral 266 in the accompanying drawings. The level sensor 266 includes a sensor bracket 280, which can be secured to the wall of the delivery container 140 by screws or rivets 281 and 283. The level sensor 266 also includes a lower float 282 and an upper float 288. The lower float 282 is pivotally mounted to the sensor bracket 280 by pin 286 and includes a magnet 284 mounted in the face of the float 282. Similarly, the upper float 288 is pivotally mounted to the sensor bracket 280 by pin 292 and includes a magnet 290 mounted in the face of the float 288.

[0126] When there is little or no liquid in the delivery container 140, the lower float 282 will be suspended in the downward position, such as... Figures 16 to 18As shown, a magnet 284 is thus presented in an outward-facing direction on the wall facing the conveying container 140. The outward-facing magnet 284 will be detected by a lower magnetic proximity sensor 304 installed in the front wall of the drawer 302, such as... Figure 15 As shown. Therefore, a positive signal from the lower proximity sensor 304 indicating the detection of magnet 284 will indicate that the delivery container 140 is empty or nearly empty. When liquid begins to fill the delivery container 140, the buoyancy of float 282 will cause float 282 to rotate around pin 286, thereby moving magnet 284 from the outward-facing direction. Therefore, the lower proximity sensor 304 will no longer detect the magnet, thus indicating that liquid is being delivered into the delivery container 140.

[0127] When the liquid level in the delivery container 140 reaches the upper float 288, the buoyancy of the float 288 will cause it to rotate upwards around the pin 292. Figures 16 to 18 The position shown places the magnet 290 in an outward-facing direction toward the wall of the conveying container 140. The outward-facing magnet 290 will be detected by an upper magnetic proximity sensor 306 mounted in the front wall of the drawer 302, as... Figure 15 As shown. Therefore, a positive signal from the upper magnetic proximity sensor 306 indicating the detection of a positive signal from the magnet 290 will indicate that the liquid in the delivery container 140 is at or near the level at which the delivery container 140 should be emptied. An alarm (e.g., visual and / or audible) can signal the operator to empty the container 140. Alternatively, a positive signal from the upper magnetic proximity sensor 306 can activate a drain pump (described below) to remove liquid from the container 140.

[0128] Before the liquid in the delivery container 140 reaches the upper float 288, the float 288 will be suspended downwards, thereby positioning the magnet 290 away from the outward-facing direction. Therefore, the magnet will not be detected by the upper proximity sensor 306.

[0129] Figure 10A and Figure 10B The characteristics of the connection between the delivery container 140 and the delivery container interface 230 are shown. The externally threaded delivery inlet fitting 234 (also referred to herein as a liquid delivery connector fitting) includes a connector 235 extending downward from a horizontal portion 150 of the connector holder 148 into an internally threaded receiver opening 246 formed in the container interface 230, and a liquid passage 237 extending through the fitting 234. One or more O-rings 248 may be disposed between the outer surface of the connector 235 and the inner surface of the internally threaded receiver opening 246. The O-rings 248 are preferably formed of a bleach-compatible material, such as EPDM or... The flow channel 241 extends from the bottom of the receiver opening 246 through the fitting 240. (As...) Figures 16 to 18As shown, tube 239 extends from delivery inlet fitting 234 into the delivery container 140 and extends through handle 146 to clamp 294 on sensor holder 280. Drip channels 250, 252 extend from the bottom of receiver opening 246 to drip control valve 232 connected to drip line connector fitting 244. Drip line connector fitting 244 may include a right-angle barb fitting with NPT (National Pipe Taper) threads and is preferably formed of a bleach-compatible material, such as PP, PVDF, etc. Reference Figure 8 A drip line 238 (e.g., a PVC pipe) connects to a drip line connector fitting 244 at the delivery container interface 230 and extends to a drip line fitting 256 disposed in the liquid inlet tower 120 of the vacuum reservoir 110. The drip line fitting 256 may include a right-angle barb fitting with NPT (National Pipe Taper) threads and is preferably formed of a bleach-compatible material, such as PP, PVDF, etc. A drip control valve 232 (which may be a solenoid valve) controls the flow through the drip line 238. The drip control valve 232 opens simultaneously and / or after the liquid is pumped into the delivery container 140 by the delivery pump 202. In one embodiment, the drip control valve 232 is configured and controlled to be in an open configuration after the liquid delivery pump 202 has been deactivated and before the delivery container 140 is removed from the system 100 for liquid waste disposal. In one embodiment, the drip control valve 232 is opened only for a predetermined period of time (e.g., a few seconds (2 to 10 seconds)) and draws liquid from: (i) the interface between the outer surface of the connector 235 and the inner surface of the internal thread receiver opening 246 (e.g., from the gap 247 between the connector 235 and the internal thread receiver opening 246 (see...) Figure 10A (ii) a liquid passage 237 extending through the externally threaded delivery inlet fitting 234. In another embodiment, drawer 302 is locked during instrument operation and can be unlocked, for example, using a touchscreen of the instrument control computer (e.g., a waste management screen). When the operator requests to unlock drawer 302, but before the instrument unlocks drawer 302, the drip control valve 232 may be opened for a brief period (e.g., 2 to 10 seconds) to remove liquid from the externally threaded delivery inlet fitting 234 before the delivery bottle 140 is removed from drawer 302. A drip line 238 connected to the drip control valve 232 is connected to a vacuum reservoir 110 under vacuum. When the drip control valve 232 is open, any remaining liquid on or inside the surface of the internally threaded receiver opening 246 or the liquid tank 242 is drawn back into the vacuum reservoir 110 under vacuum through the drip line 238.

[0130] Figure 13The diagram illustrates the operation of the liquid waste management system 100 and the interrelationships of its various components. A vacuum reservoir 110 is connected to a differential pressure source, such as a vacuum pump 274, which draws air from the vacuum tower 124 of the vacuum reservoir 110 via a vacuum filter loop 116, a filter 128, and a vacuum line 180. Liquid waste is drawn from a liquid waste source (e.g., one or more suction devices 276) into the liquid inlet tower 120 of the vacuum reservoir 110 via a liquid waste inlet line 182.

[0131] The liquid level in the vacuum reservoir 110 is monitored by a float switch 134, which communicates directly or indirectly (e.g., via a system controller) with the transfer pump 202 via wired or wireless communication, as shown in the transfer pump signal communication path 270. When the liquid level in the vacuum reservoir 110 reaches a predetermined level determined by the float switch 134, an activation signal is transmitted to the transfer pump 202. In one embodiment, the float switch 134 transmits the liquid level height in the vacuum reservoir 110 as a fraction or percentage of the maximum height. When this percentage exceeds a software-defined threshold controlling the operation of the liquid waste management system 100, a command is sent to the transfer pump 202 to activate it.

[0132] Other devices may be used to monitor the amount of liquid in the vacuum reservoir 110, such as a scale (not shown) for measuring the weight of the vacuum reservoir 110 and its contents, or a contact switch (not shown) mounted on the inner surface of the vacuum reservoir 110 and activated when in contact with the liquid inside the vacuum reservoir 110.

[0133] Then, the transfer pump 202 is started to transfer liquid from the vacuum reservoir 110 to the transfer container 140 via the liquid transfer line 204 and the pump outlet line 218. The transfer container 140 is connected to the pump outlet line 218 via a transfer inlet fitting 234 provided on the horizontal portion 150 of the connector frame 148. The transfer pump 202 may be started for a specified period of time until all liquid is removed from the vacuum reservoir 110 (i.e., when the liquid height percentage drops to 0%), as determined by the float switch 134, the scale, or the internal contact switch, or until a specified amount of liquid is removed from the vacuum reservoir 110, as determined by the float switch 134, the scale, the internal contact switch, or a flow meter (not shown).

[0134] The drip control valve 232 communicates directly or indirectly with the delivery pump 202 via wired or wireless communication, as shown in the drip valve signal communication path 272, such that when the delivery pump 202 pumps liquid into the delivery container 140 (and / or shortly thereafter), the valve 232 opens, thereby drawing liquid under vacuum from the delivery inlet fitting 234, the internal thread receiver 246, and / or the liquid tank 242 into the vacuum reservoir 110 through the drip line 238.

[0135] As described above, the delivery container 140 can be emptied manually. Alternatively, a drain pump 262 (e.g., a bellows pump available from GRI Pumps in Belleville, Ohio) can be provided, connecting the delivery container 140 to the drain port 260 via a drain line 184. The liquid level within the delivery container 140 can be monitored by a level sensor 266 within the delivery container 140. The level sensor 266 can communicate directly or indirectly (e.g., via a system controller) with the drain pump 262 via wired or wireless communication, as shown in the drain pump signal communication path 268. When the liquid in the delivery container 140 reaches a predetermined level determined by the level sensor 266, an activation signal is transmitted to the drain pump 262. Other devices can be used to monitor the amount of liquid in the delivery container 140, such as a scale (not shown) that measures the weight of the delivery container 140 and its contents, or a contact switch (not shown) mounted on the inner surface of the delivery container 140 that is activated upon contact with the liquid within the delivery container 140.

[0136] Then, the discharge pump 262 is started to draw liquid from the delivery container 140 to the discharge port 260 through the discharge line 184. The discharge pump 262 may be started for a specified period of time until all liquid has been removed from the delivery container 140, as determined by the level sensor 266, scale, or internal contact switch, or until a specified amount of liquid has been removed from the delivery container 140, as determined by the level sensor 266, scale, internal contact switch, or flow meter (not shown).

[0137] The liquid waste management system 100 may include an indicator, such as an alarm, warning light, audio and / or visual message generator, coupled to the level sensor 266 to indicate that the liquid level in the delivery container 140 has reached or exceeded a predetermined threshold. In some embodiments, the instrument stops processing the sample once the predetermined threshold is reached. Advance warnings may be provided to avoid situations where sample processing must be stopped.

[0138] control system

[0139] The liquid waste management system 100 may include a controller 500, which monitors, communicates with, and / or controls components of the system 100, including one or more of a delivery pump 202, a drip control valve 232, a float switch 134, a level sensor 266 (which includes proximity sensors 304, 306), a discharge pump 262, a proximity sensor 243, and a vacuum pump 274. The controller 500 may communicate wired or wirelessly with each component monitored and / or controlled by the controller 500. To avoid obscuring the figures, Figure 13The communication lines between the controller 500 and the components of the system 100 are not shown.

[0140] Controller 500 may include a computer system for executing software (which may include firmware) that performs the operation, control, and monitoring of the liquid waste management system 100. Controller 500 may be implemented by one or more logic elements, such as a computer, embedded controller, programmable gate array, application-specific integrated circuit, programmable logic device, etc., and may include or access data storage memory, which may include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), flash memory, and other types of memory now known or hereafter developed. Controller 500 may also include additional memory, including, for example, hard disk drives and / or removable storage drives, representing tape drives, optical disk drives, USB slots, memory card interfaces, internet storage, cloud-based storage, or any storage medium or format now known or hereafter developed. Storage devices and storage units used herein may include any storage medium for persistent and / or volatile storage of electronic data now known or hereafter developed. Such data may be stored in a database within the storage medium, which may include any data structures and formats now known or hereafter developed, including, for example, relational databases, object databases, flat files, lists, etc., or combinations thereof.

[0141] In alternative embodiments, some or all of the memory may include other similar means for allowing computer programs or other instructions to be loaded into the computer system. Such means may include, for example, removable storage units and interfaces. Examples of such means may include Memory Sticks and Memory Stick interfaces, Secure Digital Cards and interfaces, and other portable media and interfaces that allow software and data transfer to controller 500.

[0142] The software includes instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, which, when executed by the logic elements of the controller 500, cause the control and computing hardware to perform one or more automatic or semi-automatic processes.

[0143] The computer system of controller 500 may also include a communication interface that allows information (e.g., power, control and feedback signals, software, data, etc.) to be transmitted between controller 500 and external devices. Examples of communication interfaces may include modems, network interfaces (e.g., Ethernet cards), communication ports, PCMCIA slots and cards, USB ports, FireWire ports, Bluetooth, or any interface now known or developed in the future. Information transmitted via the communication interface is in the form of signals, which may be electronic, electromagnetic, optical, or other signals that can be received by the communication interface.

[0144] The computer system of controller 500 may also include one or more input devices, such as a touch screen, stylus, keyboard, mouse or other pointing device, microphone (speech recognition), data scanner (e.g., barcode, RFID, etc.). The computer system may also include various output devices, including indicator lights, displays, printers, tactile (e.g., vibration) indicators, and audio speakers.

[0145] In this document, the terms “computer program medium,” “computer-readable medium,” and “computer-usable medium” are used to refer to media in general, such as removable storage units, hard disks installed in hard disk drives, and other non-transitory devices for providing software and data to controller 500.

[0146] A computer program (also known as computer control logic) is stored in one or more portions of memory that are part of or accessed by the controller 500. The computer program may also be received via a communication interface. Such a computer program may include algorithms that, when executed, enable the computer system of the controller 500 to control the operation of the liquid waste management system 100 according to various aspects disclosed herein.

[0147] In embodiments where various aspects of the subject matter disclosed herein are implemented using software, the software may be stored in a computer program product and loaded into the computer system of controller 500 using a removable storage drive, hard disk drive, interface, and / or communication interface. When executed by the processor of controller 500, the control logic (software) causes the processor to perform functional aspects of the subject matter as described herein via the aforementioned systems, devices, apparatuses, sensors, encoders, etc. The operating system can perform basic tasks such as recognizing input from input devices, sending output to output devices, managing files and system resources, and managing various processes of the computer programs embodied on the computer system.

[0148] The controller 500 may include a standalone system dedicated to the liquid waste management system 100, or one or more components of the controller 500—such as processors, memory, interfaces, input / output devices, etc.—may be a shared part of a global controller that controls one or more components of an instrument or laboratory in addition to the liquid waste management system 100.

[0149] Example

[0150] Example 1. A system for managing liquid waste, the system comprising: a first liquid container configured to receive liquid from a liquid source; a liquid transfer pump fluidly connected to the first liquid container; and a second liquid container fluidly connected to the liquid transfer pump, wherein the liquid transfer pump is configured to selectively activate when the second liquid container is fluidly connected to the liquid transfer pump to transfer liquid from the first liquid container to the second liquid container.

[0151] Example 2. The system according to Example 1 further includes a differential pressure source, to which a first liquid container is connected to draw liquid from the liquid source into the first liquid container.

[0152] Example 3. The system according to Example 2, wherein the differential pressure source includes a vacuum pump.

[0153] Example 4. The system according to Example 3 further includes a filter located between the vacuum pump and the first liquid container.

[0154] Example 5. The system according to Example 4, wherein the filter includes a bleach fume filter.

[0155] Example 6. The system according to Example 4 or 5 further includes a mounting block on which the filter and the first liquid container are mounted.

[0156] Example 7. The system according to Example 6 further includes a filtration circuit that connects the top fluid of the first liquid container to the bottom of a filter supported on a mounting block.

[0157] Example 8. The system according to any one of Examples 3 to 7, wherein the first liquid container includes: an intermediate top wall; a first tower extending above the intermediate top wall; and a second tower extending above the intermediate top wall; wherein the first tower includes a liquid inlet for receiving liquid from a liquid source into the first liquid container, and wherein the second tower includes a vacuum fitting in the second tower, to which a vacuum pump is attached to draw liquid from the liquid source into the first liquid container.

[0158] Example 9. The system according to any one of Examples 1 to 8, wherein the liquid transfer pump includes a bellows pump.

[0159] Example 10. The system according to any one of Examples 1 to 9 further includes a motor for operating the liquid transfer pump and a drive device for connecting the motor to the liquid transfer pump.

[0160] Example 11. The system according to any one of Examples 1 to 10 further includes a lift valve associated with the second liquid container for controlling the flow of liquid into the second liquid container.

[0161] Example 12. The system according to any one of Examples 1 to 11 further includes a float switch in a first liquid container, wherein when the liquid in the first liquid container reaches a predetermined level, the float switch is connected to a liquid transfer pump to start the liquid transfer pump.

[0162] Example 13. The system according to any one of Examples 1 to 12 further includes a connector fitting for fluidly connecting a second liquid container to a liquid delivery pump and a drip management system configured to draw liquid from the connector fitting into a first liquid container.

[0163] Example 14. The system according to Example 1 further includes: a connector fitting for fluidly connecting a second liquid container to a liquid delivery pump; a drip management system configured to draw liquid from the connector fitting into a first liquid container; and a vacuum pump connected thereto to the first liquid container to draw liquid from a liquid source into the first liquid container, wherein the connector fitting includes an internally threaded connector member and an externally threaded connector member received within the internally threaded connector member, and wherein the drip management system includes a connection port communicating with the internally threaded connector member, a fluid conduit connecting the connection port to the first liquid container, and a drip control valve configured to allow fluid to flow through the fluid conduit when the drip control valve is in an open configuration, and to prevent fluid from flowing through the fluid conduit when the drip control valve is in a closed configuration.

[0164] Example 15. The system according to Example 14, wherein the drip control valve is a solenoid valve.

[0165] Example 16. The system according to Example 14 or 15, wherein after the liquid delivery pump is stopped after the liquid is delivered from the first liquid container to the second liquid container, the drip control valve is configured and controlled to be in the open configuration.

[0166] Example 17. According to the system described in Example 16, after the liquid transfer pump is stopped after the liquid is transferred from the first liquid container to the second liquid container, the drip control valve is configured and controlled to be in an open configuration for a specified time period and in a closed configuration at all other times.

[0167] Example 18. The system according to any one of Examples 1 to 12, wherein the second liquid container comprises: a body; a connector frame extending laterally from the body and including a horizontal portion and defining a bottom wall; and a liquid delivery connector fitting extending downward from the bottom wall of the horizontal portion of the connector frame for fluidly connecting the second liquid container to a liquid delivery pump.

[0168] Example 19. The system according to Example 18 further includes a connector interface fluidly connected to a liquid delivery pump and including an upward-facing liquid connector fitting configured to operatively engage with a downwardly extending liquid delivery connector fitting of a second liquid container to fluidly connect the liquid delivery pump to the second liquid container.

[0169] Example 20. The system according to Example 19 further includes a liquid tray formed in the connector interface and surrounding the upward-facing liquid connector fitting of the connector interface.

[0170] Example 21. The system according to Example 20 further includes a drip management system configured to draw liquid from a liquid tray into a first liquid container or from a liquid delivery connector fitting operably connected to a connector interface and a second liquid container into the first liquid container.

[0171] Example 22. The system according to Example 21, wherein the drip management system includes: a connection port attached to a connector interface; a fluid conduit connecting the connection port to a first liquid container; and a drip control valve configured to allow fluid to flow through the fluid conduit when the drip control valve is in an open configuration, and to prevent fluid from flowing through the fluid conduit when the drip control valve is in a closed configuration.

[0172] Example 23. The system according to Example 22, wherein the drip control valve is a solenoid valve.

[0173] Example 24. The system according to Example 22 or 23, wherein when the liquid delivery pump is stopped after the liquid is delivered from the first liquid container to the second liquid container, the drip control valve is configured and controlled to be in the open configuration.

[0174] Example 25. According to the system described in Example 24, after the liquid delivery pump is stopped after the liquid is delivered from the first liquid container to the second liquid container, the drip control valve is configured and controlled to be in an open configuration for a specified time period and in a closed configuration at all other times.

[0175] Example 26. The system according to any one of Examples 1 to 21 further includes: a discharge line connected to the second liquid container; and a discharge pump fluidly connected to the discharge line for conveying liquid from the second liquid container to a discharge port through the discharge line.

[0176] Example 27. The system according to Example 26 further includes a second float switch in a second liquid container, wherein when the liquid in the second liquid container reaches a predetermined level, the second float switch is connected to a discharge pump to start the discharge pump.

[0177] Example 28. The system according to any one of Examples 1 to 27 further includes a leak detection sensor.

[0178] Example 29. The system according to any one of Examples 1 to 28, wherein the first and second liquid containers and the liquid delivery pump are supported in a drawer of the instrument, and the drawer is configured to be laterally movable between an open position providing access to one or more of the first and second liquid containers and the liquid delivery pump and a closed position concealing the first and second liquid containers and the liquid delivery pump.

[0179] Example 30. The system according to any one of Examples 19 to 25, wherein the first and second liquid containers and the liquid delivery pump are supported in a drawer of the instrument, and the drawer is configured to be laterally movable between an open position providing access to one or more of the first and second liquid containers and the liquid delivery pump and a closed position concealing the first and second liquid containers and the liquid delivery pump, and wherein a connector interface is attached to the drawer.

[0180] Example 31. The system according to any one of Examples 2 to 7, wherein the first liquid container includes: an intermediate top wall; a liquid inlet tower extending above the intermediate top wall; a liquid inlet fluidly connected to the liquid inlet tower at a location above the intermediate top wall through which the first liquid container receives liquid from a liquid source; and a vacuum tower extending above the intermediate top wall, wherein a differential pressure source is connected to the vacuum tower at a location above the intermediate top wall.

[0181] Example 32. A method for managing liquid waste, the method comprising: a) receiving liquid from a liquid source into a first liquid container; b) monitoring the amount of liquid in the first liquid container; c) connecting the second liquid container to a liquid transfer pump connected to the first liquid container by lowering a first connector fitting of the second liquid container to engage with a second connector fitting connected to the outlet of a liquid transfer pump; d) after the amount of liquid received in the first liquid container reaches a predetermined level, as determined in step b), transferring the liquid from the first liquid container to the second liquid container using the liquid transfer pump; and e) removing the liquid transferred to the second liquid container during step d).

[0182] Example 33. The method according to Example 32, wherein step e) includes using a discharge pump fluidly connected to the second liquid container to deliver liquid from the second liquid container to a drain outlet.

[0183] Example 34. According to the method of Example 33, step e) further includes using a second float switch to monitor the liquid level in the second liquid container, generating a pump start signal when the second float switch detects that the liquid volume in the second liquid container has reached a predetermined liquid level, and transmitting the pump start signal to the discharge pump to start the discharge pump and transport the liquid from the second liquid container to the drain pipe.

[0184] Example 35. The method according to Example 32 further includes stopping the liquid transfer pump before step e).

[0185] Example 36. The method according to Example 35, wherein step e) includes pouring liquid from the second liquid container through an opening in the second liquid container.

[0186] Example 37. The method according to Example 35 or 36, wherein steps a) and e) occur simultaneously.

[0187] Example 38. The method according to any one of Examples 35 to 37, wherein the first and second liquid containers and the liquid delivery pump are supported in a drawer of the instrument, wherein the drawer is configured to be laterally movable between an open position providing access to one or more of the first and second liquid containers and the liquid delivery pump and a closed position concealing the first and second liquid containers and the liquid delivery pump, and wherein step e) further includes moving the drawer laterally to the open position and removing the second liquid container from the drawer after the liquid delivery pump is deactivated.

[0188] Example 39. The method according to any one of Examples 32 to 38, wherein the first connector fitting includes an externally threaded fitting extending downward from the second liquid container, and the second connector fitting includes an upwardly facing internally threaded fitting and is configured to receive the externally threaded fitting.

[0189] Example 40. The method according to any one of Examples 32 to 39, wherein step b) includes monitoring the liquid level in the first liquid container with a float switch; and step c) includes generating a pump start signal when the float switch detects that the amount of liquid in the first liquid container has reached a predetermined liquid level; and transmitting the pump start signal to the liquid transfer pump to start the liquid transfer pump and transfer the liquid from the first liquid container to the second liquid container.

[0190] Example 41. The method according to any one of Examples 32 to 40 further includes, after step d) and before step e), drawing liquid from the connection between the first connector fitting and the second connector fitting into a first liquid container.

[0191] Example 42. A liquid container system including a liquid container, wherein the liquid container includes: an intermediate top wall; a liquid inlet tower extending above the intermediate top wall; a liquid inlet fluidly connected to the liquid inlet tower at a location above the intermediate top wall through which the liquid container receives liquid from a liquid source; and a vacuum tower extending above the intermediate top wall and fluidly connected thereto at a location above the intermediate top wall to draw liquid into the liquid container through the liquid inlet.

[0192] Example 43. The liquid container system according to Example 42 further includes a filter in fluid communication with the vacuum tower of the liquid container.

[0193] Example 44. The liquid container system according to Example 43 further includes a mounting block on which the filter and the liquid container are mounted.

[0194] Example 45. The liquid container system according to Example 44 further includes a filter circuit that connects the vacuum tower fluid of the liquid container to the bottom of a filter supported on a mounting block.

[0195] Example 46. The liquid container system according to any one of Examples 42 to 45 further includes a liquid level sensor configured to detect the liquid level inside the liquid container.

[0196] Example 47. The liquid container system according to Example 46, wherein the liquid level sensor includes a floating switch extending from a floating switch connector mounted to the intermediate top wall into the interior of the liquid container.

[0197] Example 48. The liquid container system according to any one of Examples 42 to 47 further includes a conveying fitting installed in the intermediate top wall, the conveying fitting having a tube extending from the conveying fitting into the interior of the liquid container.

[0198] Example 49. The liquid container system according to Example 42 further includes: a delivery line fitting having a pipe extending from the delivery line fitting into the interior of the liquid container and installed in the intermediate top wall; a delivery pump fluidly connected to the delivery fitting; and a delivery container fluidly connected to the delivery pump.

[0199] Example 50. The liquid container system according to Example 49 further includes a liquid level sensor configured to detect the liquid level in the liquid container. The liquid level sensor is operatively connected to a transfer pump so that when the liquid level sensor detects that the liquid level in the liquid container has reached a predetermined level, the transfer pump is activated to transfer a certain amount of liquid from the liquid container to a transfer container.

[0200] Example 51. The liquid container system according to Example 46 or 50 further includes a delivery container interface configured to releasably connect the delivery container to the delivery pump.

[0201] Example 52. The liquid container system according to Example 49, wherein the delivery container includes: a body; a connector frame extending laterally from the body and including a horizontal portion and defining a bottom wall; and a liquid delivery connector fitting extending downward from the bottom wall of the horizontal portion of the connector frame and configured for fluidly connecting the delivery container to a liquid delivery pump.

[0202] Example 53. The liquid container system according to Example 52, wherein the liquid delivery connector fitting includes a connector extending downward from a horizontal portion of the connector frame and a liquid channel extending through the liquid delivery connector fitting.

[0203] Example 54. The liquid container system according to Example 53 further includes a delivery container interface configured to releasably connect the delivery container to the delivery pump, the delivery container interface including an upward-facing receiver opening configured to receive a connector of a liquid delivery connector fitting.

[0204] Example 55. The liquid container system according to Example 54, wherein the delivery container interface includes a liquid tank and a receiver opening is disposed within the liquid tank.

[0205] Example 56. The liquid container system according to any one of Examples 53 to 55 further includes one or more O-rings disposed on the connector.

[0206] Example 57. A liquid container system according to any one of Examples 52 to 56, wherein the delivery container further includes a cap removably fixed to an opening formed in the body of the delivery container, wherein the opening is configured to empty the contents of the delivery container after the cap is removed.

[0207] Example 58. A liquid container system according to any one of Examples 52 to 57, wherein the delivery container further includes a handle fixed to the body.

[0208] Example 59. A liquid container system comprising a delivery container for receiving liquid delivered to a delivery container by a liquid delivery pump, wherein the delivery container comprises: a body; a connector frame extending laterally from the body and including a horizontal portion and defining a bottom wall; and a liquid delivery connector fitting extending downward from the bottom wall of the horizontal portion of the connector frame and configured for fluidly connecting the delivery container to the liquid delivery pump.

[0209] Example 60. The liquid container system according to Example 59, wherein the liquid delivery connector fitting includes a connector extending downward from a horizontal portion of the connector frame and a liquid channel extending through the liquid delivery connector fitting.

[0210] Example 61. The liquid container system according to Example 60 further includes a delivery container interface configured to releasably connect a delivery container to a delivery pump, the delivery container interface including an upward-facing receiver opening configured to receive a connector of a liquid delivery connector fitting.

[0211] Example 62. The liquid container system according to Example 61, wherein the delivery container interface includes a liquid tank, and the receiver opening is disposed within the liquid tank.

[0212] Example 63. The liquid container system according to any one of Examples 59 to 62 further includes one or more O-rings disposed on the connector.

[0213] Example 64. A liquid container system according to any one of Examples 59 to 63, wherein the delivery container further includes a cap removably fixed to an opening formed in the body of the delivery container, wherein the opening is configured for emptying the contents of the delivery container after the cap is removed.

[0214] Example 65. A liquid container system according to any one of Examples 59 to 64, wherein the delivery container further includes a handle fixed to the body.

[0215] Although the subject matter of this disclosure, including various combinations and sub-combinations of features, has been described and illustrated in considerable detail with reference to certain illustrative embodiments, those skilled in the art will readily understand other embodiments, variations and modifications thereof, that are covered within the scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, the description of such embodiments, combinations and sub-combinations is not intended to convey that the claimed subject matter requires features or combinations of features other than those expressly stated in the claims. Therefore, the scope of this disclosure is intended to encompass all modifications and variations covered within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

[0216] In summary, this application includes, but is not limited to, the following:

[0217] 1. A system for managing liquid waste, the system comprising:

[0218] A first liquid container configured to receive liquid from a liquid source;

[0219] A liquid delivery pump fluidly connected to the first liquid container; and

[0220] A second liquid container may be fluidly connected to the liquid transfer pump, wherein the liquid transfer pump is configured to selectively activate to transfer liquid from the first liquid container to the second liquid container.

[0221] 2. The system according to claim 1 further includes a differential pressure source, wherein the first liquid container is connected to the differential pressure source to draw liquid from the liquid source into the first liquid container.

[0222] 3. The system according to item 2, wherein the differential pressure source includes a vacuum pump.

[0223] 4. The system according to item 3 further includes a filter located between the vacuum pump and the first liquid container.

[0224] 5. The system according to claim 4, wherein the filter comprises a bleach fume filter.

[0225] 6. The system according to item 4 or 5 further includes a mounting block on which the filter and the first liquid container are mounted.

[0226] 7. The system according to item 6 further includes a filter circuit that fluidly connects the top of the first liquid container to the bottom of the filter supported on the mounting block.

[0227] 8. The system according to any one of claims 3 to 7, wherein the first liquid container comprises:

[0228] Middle top wall;

[0229] The first tower extending above the intermediate top wall; and

[0230] A second tower extending above the central top wall;

[0231] The first tower includes a liquid inlet for receiving liquid from the liquid source into the first liquid container, and the second tower includes a vacuum fitting in the second tower, wherein a vacuum pump is attached to the vacuum fitting to draw liquid from the liquid source into the first liquid container.

[0232] 9. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the liquid transfer pump comprises a bellows pump.

[0233] 10. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 9 further includes a motor for operating the liquid transfer pump and a drive mechanism for connecting the motor to the liquid transfer pump.

[0234] 11. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 10 further includes a lift valve associated with the second liquid container for controlling the inflow of liquid into the second liquid container.

[0235] 12. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 11 further includes a float switch in the first liquid container, wherein when the liquid in the first liquid container reaches a predetermined level, the float switch is connected to the liquid transfer pump to start the liquid transfer pump.

[0236] 13. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 12 further includes a connector fitting for fluidly connecting the second liquid container to the liquid delivery pump and a drip management system configured to draw liquid from the connector fitting into the first liquid container.

[0237] 14. The system according to item 1 further includes:

[0238] Connector fittings for connecting the second liquid container to the liquid delivery pump;

[0239] A drip management system configured to draw liquid from the connector fitting into the first liquid container; and

[0240] A vacuum pump is connected to the first liquid container to draw liquid from the liquid source into the first liquid container, and wherein the connector fitting includes an internally threaded connector member and an externally threaded connector member received within the internally threaded connector member, and wherein the drip management system includes a connection port communicating with the internally threaded connector member, a fluid conduit connecting the connection port to the first liquid container, and a drip control valve, wherein the drip control valve is configured to allow fluid to flow through the fluid conduit when the drip control valve is in an open configuration, and to prevent fluid from flowing through the fluid conduit when the drip control valve is in a closed configuration.

[0241] 15. The system according to item 14, wherein the drip control valve is a solenoid valve.

[0242] 16. The system according to item 14 or 15, wherein the drip control valve is configured and controlled to be in the open configuration after the liquid delivery pump is deactivated following the transfer of liquid from the first liquid container to the second liquid container.

[0243] 17. The system according to claim 16, wherein after the liquid delivery pump is deactivated following the transfer of liquid from the first liquid container to the second liquid container, the drip control valve is configured and controlled to be in the open configuration for a predetermined time period and in the closed configuration at all other times.

[0244] 18. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the second liquid container comprises:

[0245] main body;

[0246] A connector frame extending laterally from the main body, including a horizontal portion and defining a bottom wall; and

[0247] A liquid delivery connector fitting that extends downward from the bottom wall of the horizontal portion of the connector frame for fluidly connecting the second liquid container to the liquid delivery pump.

[0248] 19. The system of claim 18 further includes a connector interface fluidly connected to the liquid delivery pump and including an upward-facing liquid connector fitting configured to operatively engage with the downwardly extending liquid delivery connector fitting of the second liquid container to fluidly connect the liquid delivery pump to the second liquid container.

[0249] 20. The system according to claim 19 further includes a liquid tray formed in the connector interface and surrounding the upward-facing liquid connector fitting of the connector interface.

[0250] 21. The system according to claim 20 further includes a drip management system configured to draw liquid from the liquid tray into the first liquid container or from a liquid delivery connector fitting operably connected to the connector interface and the second liquid container into the first liquid container.

[0251] 22. The system according to claim 21, wherein the drip management system comprises:

[0252] The connection port is attached to the connector interface;

[0253] Connect the connection port to the fluid conduit of the first liquid container; and

[0254] A drip control valve, wherein the drip control valve is configured to allow fluid to flow through the fluid conduit when the drip control valve is in an open configuration, and to prevent fluid from flowing through the fluid conduit when the drip control valve is in a closed configuration.

[0255] 23. The system according to item 22, wherein the drip control valve is a solenoid valve.

[0256] 24. The system according to item 22 or 23, wherein when the liquid delivery pump is deactivated after the liquid has been delivered from the first liquid container to the second liquid container, the drip control valve is configured and controlled to be in the open configuration.

[0257] 25. The system according to item 24, wherein after the liquid delivery pump is deactivated following the transfer of liquid from the first liquid container to the second liquid container, the drip control valve is configured and controlled to be in the open configuration for a predetermined time period and in the closed configuration at all other times.

[0258] 26. The system according to any one of items 1 to 21, further comprising:

[0259] The discharge line connected to the second liquid container; and

[0260] A discharge pump is fluidly connected to the discharge line for conveying liquid from the second liquid container to the discharge port through the discharge line.

[0261] 27. The system according to claim 26 further includes a second float switch within the second liquid container, wherein when the liquid in the second liquid container reaches a predetermined level, the second float switch is connected to the discharge pump to activate the discharge pump.

[0262] 28. The system according to any one of items 1 to 27 further includes a leak detection sensor.

[0263] 29. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 28, wherein the first and second liquid containers and the liquid delivery pump are supported in a drawer of the instrument, and the drawer is configured to be laterally movable between an open position providing access to one or more of the first and second liquid containers and the liquid delivery pump and a closed position concealing the first and second liquid containers and the liquid delivery pump.

[0264] 30. The system according to any one of claims 19 to 25, wherein the first and second liquid containers and the liquid delivery pump are supported in a drawer of the instrument, and the drawer is configured to be laterally movable between an open position providing access to one or more of the first and second liquid containers and the liquid delivery pump and a closed position concealing the first and second liquid containers and the liquid delivery pump, and wherein the connector interface is affixed to the drawer.

[0265] 31. The system according to any one of claims 2 to 7, wherein the first liquid container comprises:

[0266] Middle top wall;

[0267] A liquid inlet tower extending above the intermediate top wall;

[0268] A liquid inlet is fluidly connected to the liquid inlet tower at a location above the intermediate top wall, through which the first liquid container receives liquid from the liquid source; and

[0269] A vacuum tower extending above the intermediate top wall, wherein the differential pressure source is connected to the vacuum tower at a location above the intermediate top wall.

[0270] 32. A method for managing liquid waste, the method comprising:

[0271] a) Receive liquid from the liquid source into the first liquid container;

[0272] b) Monitor the amount of liquid in the first liquid container;

[0273] c) Connecting the second liquid container to the liquid delivery pump connected to the first liquid container by lowering the first connector fitting of the second liquid container to engage with the second connector fitting connected to the outlet of the liquid delivery pump;

[0274] d) After the amount of liquid received in the first liquid container reaches a predetermined level, as determined in step b), the liquid is transferred from the first liquid container to the second liquid container using the liquid transfer pump; and

[0275] e) Remove the liquid delivered to the second liquid container during step d).

[0276] 33. A liquid container system including a liquid container, wherein the liquid container comprises:

[0277] Middle top wall;

[0278] A liquid inlet tower extending above the intermediate top wall;

[0279] A liquid inlet is fluidly connected to the liquid inlet tower at a location above the intermediate top wall, through which the liquid container receives liquid from the liquid source; and

[0280] A vacuum tower extending above the intermediate top wall, with a pressure differential source fluidly connected to it at a location above the intermediate top wall to draw liquid into the liquid container through the liquid inlet.

[0281] 34. A liquid container system comprising a delivery container for receiving liquid delivered to the delivery container by a liquid delivery pump, wherein the delivery container comprises:

[0282] main body;

[0283] A connector frame extending laterally from the main body, including a horizontal portion and defining a bottom wall; and

[0284] A liquid delivery connector fitting extends downward from the bottom wall of the horizontal portion of the connector frame and is configured to fluidly connect the delivery container to the liquid delivery pump.

Claims

1. A liquid container system including a liquid container, wherein the liquid container comprises: Middle top wall; Liquid inlet tower extending above the central top wall; A liquid inlet is fluidly connected to the liquid inlet tower at a location above the intermediate top wall, and the liquid container receives liquid from the liquid source through the liquid inlet; A vacuum tower extending above an intermediate top wall and having a pressure differential source fluidly connected to the vacuum tower at a location above the intermediate top wall to draw liquid into a liquid container through a liquid inlet, wherein the intermediate top wall is positioned between the liquid inlet tower and the vacuum tower. A delivery line fitting, which is installed in an intermediate top wall and has a tube extending from the delivery line fitting into the interior of the liquid container; A delivery pump connected to the delivery fittings; as well as A delivery container fluidly connected to a delivery pump, wherein the delivery container includes: a body; a connector frame extending laterally from the body, including a horizontal portion and defining a bottom wall; and a liquid delivery connector fitting extending downward from the bottom wall of the horizontal portion of the connector frame and configured for fluidly connecting the delivery container to the liquid delivery pump.

2. The liquid container system according to claim 1 further includes a filter in fluid communication with the vacuum tower of the liquid container.

3. The liquid container system of claim 2 further includes a mounting block on which the filter and the liquid container are mounted.

4. The liquid container system of claim 3 further includes a filter circuit that fluidly connects the vacuum tower of the liquid container to the bottom of a filter supported on a mounting block.

5. The liquid container system according to any one of claims 1 to 4 further includes a liquid level sensor configured to detect the liquid level within the liquid container.

6. The liquid container system of claim 5, wherein the level sensor includes a floating switch extending from a floating switch connector mounted to the intermediate top wall into the interior of the liquid container.

7. The liquid container system according to claim 1 further includes a liquid level sensor configured to detect the liquid level in the liquid container, the liquid level sensor being operatively connected to a transfer pump so as to start the transfer pump to transfer a certain amount of liquid from the liquid container to the transfer container when the liquid level sensor detects that the liquid level in the liquid container has reached a predetermined liquid level.

8. The liquid container system of claim 1, wherein the liquid delivery connector fitting includes a connector extending downward from a horizontal portion of the connector frame and a liquid passage extending through the liquid delivery connector fitting.

9. The liquid container system of claim 8 further includes a delivery container interface configured to releasably connect the delivery container to the delivery pump, the delivery container interface including an upward-facing receiver opening configured to receive a connector of a liquid delivery connector fitting.

10. The liquid container system of claim 9, wherein the delivery container interface includes a liquid tank and the receiver opening is disposed within the liquid tank.

11. The liquid container system according to any one of claims 8 to 10, further comprising one or more O-rings disposed on the connector.

12. The liquid container system of claim 1, wherein the delivery container further includes a cap removably attached to an opening formed in the body of the delivery container, wherein the opening is configured to empty the contents of the delivery container after the cap is removed.

13. The liquid container system of claim 1, wherein the delivery container further includes a handle fixed to the body.

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