CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS FOR WATER SOFTENER SYSTEMS

Abstract

A water treatment system for treating a water supply includes a tank, a dispenser, and a control system. The tank is in fluid communication with the water supply for receiving a flow of water from the water supply. The dispenser is configured to be coupled to the tank and configured to dispense a water treatment material into a storage reservoir of the tank. The control system is configured to generate a water treatment solution in the storage reservoir by combining the water and the water treatment material.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 174,133, filed April 13, 2021, the disclosure of which is hereby expressly incorporated by reference herein.

[0002] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE The present disclosure relates generally to water treatment, and more specifically to a water treatment system for reducing water hardness. [Background technology]

[0003] Water softeners or treatment systems are used to reduce the concentration of hard minerals in water supplies or the buildup of hard minerals in the pipes and fittings through which the water flows. Reducing hard minerals in water can reduce limescale buildup and extend the life of appliances and industrial water systems.

[0004] In a typical water treatment system, a water supply may be introduced into a vessel or cartridge that contains water treatment materials, such as softener salts. The water flows through the cartridge and contacts the water treatment materials, which then react with hard minerals in the water to reduce water hardness and prevent buildup on piping and fittings.

[0005] However, such water treatment systems may solidify the water treatment material itself if the water treatment material is stagnant for an extended period of time. When the water treatment material solidifies in an aqueous environment, it does not react as well as the water flowing through the system, reducing the effectiveness of the water treatment system. Thus, it may be difficult to adequately and effectively treat the hard minerals without wasting large amounts of water treatment material. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present disclosure may include one or more of the following features and combinations thereof.

[0007] A water treatment system for treating a water supply may include a tank, a dispenser, and a control system. The tank may be in fluid communication with the water supply to receive a flow of water from the water supply. The dispenser may be configured to be coupled to the tank and configured to dispense a water treatment material at a predetermined flow rate into a storage reservoir of the tank. The control system may be configured to generate a water treatment solution in the storage reservoir by combining the water and the water treatment material. The control system may be configured to dose the water treatment solution from the storage reservoir into the water supply.

[0008] In some embodiments, the tank can include a tank housing and a cartridge mount. The tank housing can be formed to define a storage reservoir. The cartridge mount can be coupled to the tank housing. The cartridge mount can be formed to include a tank opening disposed in communication with the storage reservoir.

[0009] In some embodiments, a dispenser can be configured to be coupled to a cartridge mount of the tank, and the dispenser can be configured to dispense the water treatment material at a predetermined flow rate through a tank opening in the cartridge mount and into a storage reservoir of the tank.

[0010] In some embodiments, the control system may include an adder in fluid communication with the storage reservoir and the water supply, and a controller coupled to the adder. The adder may be configured to add the water treatment solution to the water supply. The controller may be configured to instruct the adder to add a predetermined amount of the water treatment solution to the water supply.

[0011] In some embodiments, a dispenser may include a cartridge and a dispensing system. The cartridge may be configured to store the water treatment material. The dispensing system may be configured to control dispensing of the water treatment material through an opening in the cartridge at a predetermined flow rate.

[0012] In some embodiments, the cartridge can include a body and a neck coupled to the body. The body can be formed to include an interior storage area for storing the water treatment material. The neck can be formed to include an opening disposed to communicate with the interior storage area.

[0013] In some embodiments, the neck can be configured to be coupled to a cartridge mount of the tank. The dispensing system can be configured to control dispensing of the water treatment material through an opening in the neck of the cartridge at a predetermined flow rate.

[0014] In some embodiments, the dispensing system may include an auger and a knob. The auger may extend through a body of the cartridge into the interior storage area and block an opening in the cartridge to prevent the water treatment material from migrating through the opening. The knob may be coupled to a first end of the auger located outside the interior storage area.

[0015] In some embodiments, the auger can be configured to rotate about an axis. The knob can be configured to be rotated by a user to rotate the auger about the axis. In this manner, the auger can collect a predetermined amount of water treatment material and transport the predetermined amount of water treatment material through the opening to dispense the water treatment material at a predetermined flow rate into the storage reservoir.

[0016] In some embodiments, the auger may include a shaft and a helical thread. The shaft may be shaped to include a first end, a second end axially spaced from the first end to define a length of the shaft, and an outer surface extending between and interconnecting the first end and the second end. The helical thread may be coupled to the outer surface of the shaft. The helical thread may extend radially outward from and circumferentially around the outer surface of the shaft along at least a portion of the length of the shaft. In some embodiments, a portion of the helical thread may be located at the opening of the neck to block migration of water treatment material from the interior storage area.

[0017] In some embodiments, the cartridge mount of the tank may include a gate. The gate may be configured to change between a closed position and an open position. In the closed position, the gate may close the tank opening and block access to the storage reservoir through the tank opening. In the open position, the gate may move away from the tank opening and allow access to the storage reservoir through the tank opening.

[0018] In some embodiments, the control system may further include a gate actuator coupled to the gate and a cartridge sensor coupled to the cartridge mount of the tank. The gate actuator may be configured to move the gate between a closed position and an open position. The cartridge sensor may be configured to detect whether a dispenser is coupled to the cartridge mount.

[0019] In some embodiments, a controller can be coupled to the gate actuator and the cartridge sensor, and the controller can be configured to direct the gate actuator to move the gate to an open position when the cartridge sensor detects that the dispenser is coupled to a cartridge mount on the tank.

[0020] In some embodiments, the control system may further include a first valve in fluid communication with the water supply source and a tank inlet conduit in fluid communication between the first valve and the storage reservoir. The first valve may be configured to modify the flow of water from the water supply source through the tank inlet conduit to the storage reservoir.

[0021] In some embodiments, the control system may further comprise a mixer, which may be located within the storage reservoir, and which may be configured to mix the water treatment solution within the storage reservoir to prevent the water treatment solution from settling within the storage reservoir.

[0022] In some embodiments, the mixer can be a hydraulic mixer in fluid communication with the water source downstream of the first valve. Flow of water downstream of the first valve through the hydraulic mixer can cause the hydraulic mixer to mix the water treatment solution in the storage reservoir.

[0023] In some embodiments, the control system may further comprise a second valve in fluid communication with the input device, an input conduit in fluid communication between the second valve and the storage reservoir, and a flushing conduit in fluid communication between the second valve and the storage reservoir. The second valve may be configured to change between an input position and a flushing position. In the input position, the second valve may allow flow of the water treatment solution from the storage reservoir to the input device and may block flow through the flushing conduit. In the flushing position, the second valve may allow flow through the flushing conduit and may block flow through the input conduit.

[0024] In some embodiments, the control system may further comprise a level sensor. The level sensor may be located in the storage reservoir and may be coupled to the controller. The level sensor may be configured to measure a fill level of the water treatment solution in the storage reservoir. In some embodiments, the controller may be configured to direct the second valve to change the flow rate between the input conduit and the flushing conduit to the input based on the fill level of the water treatment solution in the storage reservoir measured by the level sensor.

[0025] In some embodiments, the control system may further comprise a mixer, which may be located within the storage reservoir, and which may be configured to mix the water treatment solution within the storage reservoir to prevent the water treatment solution from settling within the storage reservoir.

[0026] In some embodiments, the control system may further comprise a level sensor. The level sensor may be located in the storage reservoir and may be coupled to the controller. The level sensor may be configured to measure a fill level of the water treatment solution in the storage reservoir.

[0027] According to another aspect of the disclosure, a dispenser adapted for use in a water treatment system to dispense a water treatment material into a reservoir of water may include a cartridge and a dispensing system. The cartridge may be configured to store the water treatment material. The dispensing system may be configured to control dispensing of the water treatment material through an opening in the cartridge.

[0028] In some embodiments, the cartridge may include a body and a neck coupled to the body. The body may be formed to include an interior storage area for storing the water treatment material. The neck may be formed to include an opening disposed to communicate with the interior storage area. In some embodiments, a dispensing system may be configured to control dispensing of the water treatment material through the opening in the neck of the cartridge.

[0029] In some embodiments, the dispensing system can include an auger and a knob. The auger can extend through a body of the cartridge into the interior storage area and block an opening in the cartridge to prevent the water treatment material from migrating through the opening. The knob can be coupled to a first end of the auger located outside the interior storage area.

[0030] In some embodiments, the auger can be configured to rotate about an axis. A knob can be configured to be rotated by a user to rotate the auger about the axis. In this manner, the auger can collect a predetermined amount of water treatment material and transport the predetermined amount of water treatment material through the opening to dispense the water treatment material at a predetermined flow rate from the internal storage area.

[0031] In some embodiments, the auger of the dispensing system may include a shaft and a helical thread. The shaft may be shaped to include a first end, a second end axially spaced from the first end to define a length of the shaft, and an outer surface extending between and interconnecting the first and second ends. The helical thread may be coupled to the outer surface of the shaft. The helical thread may extend radially outward from and circumferentially around the outer surface of the shaft along at least a portion of the length of the shaft.

[0032] In some embodiments, a portion of the helical threads may be located at the opening in the neck to block migration of the water treatment material from the interior storage area, hi some embodiments, the helical threads may extend along at least half of the length of the shaft.

[0033] In some embodiments, the helical threads may be shaped to define fins. The fins may be axially spaced apart from one another relative to the axis.

[0034] According to another aspect of the disclosure, a method of treating a water supply with a water treatment solution may include providing a tank in fluid communication with the water supply and a first dispenser.

[0035] In some embodiments, the tank can include a tank housing and a cartridge mount coupled to the tank housing. The tank housing can be formed to define a reservoir. The cartridge mount can be formed to include a tank opening disposed in communication with the reservoir.

[0036] In some embodiments, the first dispenser can be configured to be coupled to a cartridge mount of the tank. The first dispenser can be configured to dispense the water treatment material through the tank opening at a predetermined flow rate.

[0037] In some embodiments, the method may further include directing a first flow of water into a reservoir of the tank. The method may further include detecting a first predetermined fill level of liquid in the reservoir and ceasing to flow the first flow of water into the reservoir when the first predetermined fill level is detected.

[0038] In some embodiments, the method may further include dispensing the water treatment material in the first dispenser through the tank opening into the water in the reservoir at a predetermined flow rate. The method may further include detecting a second predetermined fill level of liquid in the reservoir and ceasing dispensing of the water treatment material into the reservoir when the second predetermined fill level is detected.

[0039] In some embodiments, the method may further include mixing the water in the reservoir with the water treatment material to produce a water treatment solution. The water treatment solution may be configured to react with hard minerals in the feedwater supply to reduce the hardness of the feedwater supply. The method may further include dispensing a quantity of the water treatment solution into the feedwater supply to reduce the hardness of the feedwater supply.

[0040] In some embodiments, the method may further include detecting a third predetermined fill level of liquid in the reservoir. The third predetermined fill level may correspond to the reservoir being empty.

[0041] In some embodiments, the method may further include flowing a second flow of water into the reservoir of the tank to flush the reservoir after a third predetermined fill level is detected. The method may further include detecting a first predetermined fill level of liquid in the reservoir and ceasing flowing the second flow of water into the reservoir when the first predetermined fill level is detected.

[0042] In some embodiments, the method may further include dosing the water in the reservoir into a water supply to empty the reservoir for replenishing the water treatment solution. The method may further include detecting a third predetermined fill level in the reservoir and stopping the dosing of water when the third predetermined fill level is detected.

[0043] In some embodiments, the method may further include repeating the steps of flowing a first flow of water into a reservoir of the tank, detecting a first predetermined fill level of liquid in the reservoir, and stopping the input of water when a third predetermined fill level is detected, followed by stopping the flow of the first flow of water into the reservoir when the first predetermined fill level is detected.

[0044] In some embodiments, the method may further include removing a first dispenser coupled to the cartridge mount of the tank that is empty and coupling a second dispenser to the cartridge mount that is full. The method may further include dispensing the water treatment material in the second dispenser through the tank opening into the water in the reservoir at a predetermined flow rate.

[0045] In some embodiments, the method may further include repeating the steps of detecting a second predetermined fill level of liquid in the reservoir, stopping dispensing of the water treatment material into the reservoir when the second predetermined fill level is detected, mixing the water in the reservoir with the water treatment material to produce a water treatment solution, and dispensing a predetermined amount of the water treatment solution into the water supply.

[0046] In some embodiments, the method may further include providing a control system. The control system may include an applicator in fluid communication with the reservoir and a controller coupled to the applicator. The applicator may be configured to applicate the water treatment solution to the feedwater source. The controller may be configured to direct the applicator to dispense a predetermined amount of the water treatment solution to the feedwater source. In some embodiments, the water treatment material may be citric acid.

[0047] According to another aspect of the disclosure, a water treatment system for treating a feedwater source may include a tank, a dispenser, and a control system. The tank may be in fluid communication with the feedwater source to receive a flow of water from the feedwater source. The dispenser may be configured to be coupled to the tank and configured to dispense a water treatment material into a storage reservoir of the tank. The control system may be configured to generate a water treatment solution in the storage reservoir by combining water and the water treatment material. The control system may be configured to dispense the water treatment solution from the storage reservoir into the feedwater source. In some embodiments, the water treatment material is citric acid.

[0048] In some embodiments, the tank can include a tank housing and a cartridge mount coupled to the tank housing. The tank housing can be formed to define a storage reservoir. The cartridge mount can be formed to include a passageway disposed in communication with the storage reservoir.

[0049] In some embodiments, the control system may include an adder in fluid communication with the storage reservoir and the water supply, and a controller coupled to the adder. The adder may be configured to add the water treatment solution to the water supply. The controller may be configured to instruct the adder to add a predetermined amount of the water treatment solution to the water supply.

[0050] In some embodiments, a dispenser may include a cartridge and a dispensing system. The cartridge may be configured to store the water treatment material. The dispensing system may be configured to control dispensing of the water treatment material from the cartridge.

[0051] In some embodiments, the cartridge can include a body and a neck coupled to the body. The body can be formed to include an interior storage area for storing the water treatment material. The neck can be formed to include an opening disposed to communicate with the interior storage area.

[0052] In some embodiments, the neck can be configured to be coupled to a cartridge mount of the tank. The dispensing system can be configured to control dispensing of the water treatment material through an opening in the neck of the cartridge.

[0053] In some embodiments, the dispensing system may include an upper valve coupled to a neck of the cartridge and a lower valve coupled to the upper valve on an opposite side of the cartridge. The upper valve may be disposed above an opening formed by the neck of the cartridge. The lower valve may be coupled to the upper valve at a pivot point. The lower valve may be configured to rotate about an axis of rotation at the pivot point.

[0054] In some embodiments, the top valve may be formed to include a plurality of top openings, which may be circumferentially spaced about the axis of rotation.

[0055] In some embodiments, the lower valve may be formed to include a plurality of lower openings, which may be circumferentially spaced about the axis of rotation.

[0056] In some embodiments, the dispensing system may be configured to change between a closed orientation and an open orientation. In the closed orientation, the plurality of lower openings formed in the lower valve may be offset from the plurality of upper openings formed in the upper valve such that the plurality of lower openings and the plurality of upper openings are covered to prevent the water treatment material from being dispensed through the opening in the neck of the cartridge. In the open orientation, the plurality of lower openings formed in the lower valve may be aligned with the plurality of upper openings formed in the upper valve to allow the water treatment material to be dispensed through the opening in the neck of the cartridge.

[0057] In some embodiments, a cartridge mount of a tank may include a cartridge mount housing, a gate, and a gate controller. The cartridge mount housing may be coupled to the tank housing. The cartridge mount housing may be formed to define a passageway in fluid communication with the storage reservoir. The gate may be mounted within the passageway of the cartridge mount housing. The gate may be configured to change between a closed position, in which the gate blocks access to the storage reservoir through the passageway, and an open position, in which the gate allows access to the storage reservoir through the passageway. The gate controller may be coupled to the gate. The gate may be configured to control movement of the gate between the closed and open positions.

[0058] In some embodiments, the gate controller of the cartridge mount may include a shaft, a gear, and a gear ring. The shaft may extend through the cartridge mount housing along a shaft axis. The shaft may be configured to rotate about the shaft axis. The gear may be coupled to an end of the shaft for rotation with the shaft. The gear ring may be coupled to the cartridge mount housing. The gear ring may be configured to rotate about an axis of rotation relative to the cartridge mount housing.

[0059] In some embodiments, the gearing can be configured to rotate in a first direction about the axis of rotation from a first position to a second position, in the first position the gate can be in a closed position, and in the second position the gate can be in an open position.

[0060] In some embodiments, the gearing can be configured to rotate about the axis of rotation from the second position to the first position in a second direction. The second direction can be opposite to the first direction.

[0061] In some embodiments, the gear can be formed to define teeth that mate with teeth formed on a gear ring such that rotation of the gear ring about the axis of rotation from a first position to a second position rotates the shaft about the shaft axis to change the gate from a closed position to an open position.

[0062] In some embodiments, the control system may further comprise a cartridge mount lock and a cartridge sensor. The cartridge mount lock may be coupled to the cartridge mount. The cartridge mount lock may be configured to change between a locked position and an unlocked position. In the locked position, the cartridge mount lock may engage with the gate controller to block rotation of the gate controller between the first position and the second position. In the unlocked position, the cartridge mount lock may be spaced from the gate controller to allow rotation of the gate controller between the first position and the second position. The cartridge sensor may be coupled to the cartridge mount of the tank. The cartridge sensor may be configured to detect whether a dispenser is coupled to the cartridge mount.

[0063] In some embodiments, a controller can be coupled to the cartridge mount lock and the cartridge sensor, and the controller can be configured to instruct the cartridge mount lock to move from a locked position to an unlocked position when the cartridge sensor detects that a dispenser is coupled to the cartridge mount of the tank.

[0064] In some embodiments, the control system may further include an inlet valve in fluid communication with the water supply. The inlet valve may be configured to vary the flow of water from the water supply to the storage reservoir.

[0065] In some embodiments, the water treatment system may further comprise a tank inlet conduit in fluid communication with the water supply and the inlet valve, a fill conduit in fluid communication with the inlet valve and the storage reservoir, and a flush conduit in fluid communication with the inlet valve and the storage reservoir. The flush conduit may include a nozzle coupled to an end of the flush conduit. The nozzle may be configured to spray a stream of water from the water supply.

[0066] In some embodiments, the inlet valve may be configured to change between a fully closed position, a fill position, and a flush position. In the fully closed position, the inlet valve may block the flow of water through the fill conduit and the flush conduit to prevent water from being provided to the storage reservoir. In the fill position, the inlet valve may direct the flow of water through the fill conduit and block the flow of water through the fill conduit. In the flush position, the inlet valve may direct the flow of water through the flush conduit and block the flow of water through the fill conduit.

[0067] In some embodiments, the control system may further comprise a level sensor located in the storage reservoir. The level sensor may be coupled to the controller. The level sensor may be configured to measure a fill level of the water treatment solution in the storage reservoir.

[0068] In some embodiments, the controller may be configured to direct the inlet valve to change between a fully closed position, a fill position, and a flush position. The controller may be configured to direct the inlet valve to change between different positions based on a fill level of the water treatment solution in the storage reservoir as measured by the level sensor.

[0069] In some embodiments, the control system may further comprise a mixer located within the storage reservoir, The mixer may be configured to mix the water treatment solution within the storage reservoir to prevent the water treatment solution from settling within the storage reservoir.

[0070] According to another aspect of the disclosure, a dispenser assembly may be adapted for use in a water treatment system to dispense a water treatment material into a reservoir of water. The dispenser assembly may include a cartridge mount and a dispenser. The cartridge mount may be coupled to the water treatment system including the tank. The dispenser may be configured to be selectively coupled to the cartridge mount.

[0071] In some embodiments, a dispenser may include a cartridge and a dispensing system. The cartridge may be configured to store the water treatment material. The dispensing system may be coupled to the cartridge. The dispenser may be configured to control the dispensing of the water treatment material.

[0072] In some embodiments, the cartridge may include a body and a neck. The body may be formed to include an interior storage area for storing the water treatment material. The neck may be coupled to the body. The neck may be formed to include an opening disposed to communicate with the interior storage area. A dispensing system may be configured to control dispensing of the water treatment material through the opening in the neck of the cartridge.

[0073] In some embodiments, the dispenser may be configured to be inserted into the cartridge mount and rotate about an axis of rotation in a first direction to change the dispensing system from a closed orientation to an open orientation. In the closed orientation, the dispensing system may block dispensing of the water treatment material through an opening in the neck of the cartridge. In the open orientation, the dispensing system may move to allow the water treatment material to move through the opening in the cartridge to dispense the water treatment material from the internal storage area to the water reservoir, and the water treatment material is citric acid.

[0074] In some embodiments, the dispensing system may include an upper valve coupled to a neck of the cartridge and a lower valve coupled to the upper valve on an opposite side of the cartridge. The upper valve may be disposed above an opening formed by the neck of the cartridge. The lower valve may be coupled to the upper valve at a pivot point. The lower valve may be configured to rotate about an axis of rotation at the pivot point.

[0075] In some embodiments, the upper valve can be formed to include a plurality of upper openings spaced circumferentially about the axis of rotation. In some embodiments, the lower valve can be formed to include a plurality of lower openings spaced circumferentially about the axis of rotation.

[0076] In some embodiments, the plurality of lower openings formed in the lower valve can be offset from the plurality of upper openings formed in the upper valve when the dispensing system is in a closed orientation such that the plurality of lower openings and the plurality of upper openings are covered to prevent the water treatment material from being dispensed through the opening in the neck of the cartridge. In some embodiments, the plurality of lower openings formed in the lower valve can be aligned with the plurality of upper openings formed in the upper valve when the dispensing system is in an open orientation to enable the dispensing of the water treatment material through the opening in the neck of the cartridge.

[0077] In some embodiments, the upper valve can be formed to include a body and a spring arm. The body can be formed to define a plurality of upper openings. Each of the spring arms can extend from the body. Each of the spring arms can be configured to bias axially relative to the axis of rotation from an engaged position to a disengaged position. In the engaged position, each spring arm can engage the lower valve to block rotation of the lower valve while the lower valve is in a closed orientation. In the disengaged position, each spring arm can bias to allow the lower valve to rotate from a closed orientation to an open orientation.

[0078] In some embodiments, the lower valve can be formed to include a planar body, an alignment pin, and a guide slot. The planar body can be formed to include a plurality of lower openings. The alignment pins can each extend axially from the planar body away from the upper valve relative to the axis of rotation. The guide slots can each extend axially through the planar body relative to the axis of rotation and circumferentially at least partway around the axis of rotation.

[0079] In some embodiments, each of the alignment pins can be configured to engage with the cartridge mount when the dispenser is inserted into the cartridge mount. Each of the alignment pins can be configured to engage with the cartridge mount to secure the lower valve relative to the cartridge mount when the dispenser is inserted into the cartridge mount. In some embodiments, each of the guide slots can be configured to receive a portion of one of the spring arms.

[0080] In some embodiments, the cartridge mount may include a cartridge mount housing, a gate, and a gate controller. The cartridge mount housing may be formed to define a passageway in fluid communication with a reservoir of water included in the water treatment system. The gate may be mounted within the passageway of the cartridge mount housing. The gate may be configured to change between a closed position, in which the gate blocks access through the passageway, and an open position, in which the gate allows access through the passageway. The gate controller may be coupled to the gate and configured to control movement of the gate between the closed and open positions.

[0081] In some embodiments, the gate controller of the cartridge mount may include a shaft, a gear, and a gear ring. The shaft may extend through the cartridge mount housing along a shaft axis. The shaft may be configured to rotate about the shaft axis. The gear may be coupled to an end of the shaft for rotation with the shaft. The gear ring may be coupled to the cartridge mount housing. The gear ring may be configured to rotate about an axis of rotation relative to the cartridge mount housing.

[0082] In some embodiments, the gearing can be configured to rotate in a first direction about the axis of rotation from a first position to a second position, in the first position the gate can be in a closed position, and in the second position the gate can be in an open position.

[0083] In some embodiments, the gear can be formed to define teeth that mate with teeth formed on a gear ring such that rotation of the gear ring about the axis of rotation from a first position to a second position rotates the shaft about the shaft axis to change the gate from a closed position to an open position.

[0084] In some embodiments, the dispenser may cooperate with a gate controller on the cartridge mount to control the dispensing of the water treatment material. In this manner, as the dispenser rotates about an axis of rotation in a first direction, the dispenser may engage gearing on the gate controller to rotate the gate controller from a first position to a second position, thereby moving the gate from a closed position to an open position.

[0085] According to another aspect of the disclosure, a method of treating a water supply with a water treatment solution may include providing a tank in fluid communication with the water supply and a first dispenser.

[0086] In some embodiments, the tank can include a tank housing and a cartridge mount coupled to the tank housing. The tank housing can be formed to define a reservoir. The cartridge mount can be formed to include a tank opening disposed in communication with the reservoir.

[0087] In some embodiments, the first dispenser can be configured to be coupled to a cartridge mount of the tank. The first dispenser can be configured to dispense the water treatment material through the tank opening.

[0088] In some embodiments, the method may further include directing a first flow of water into a reservoir of the tank. The method may further include detecting a first predetermined fill level of liquid in the reservoir and ceasing to flow the first flow of water into the reservoir when the first predetermined fill level is detected.

[0089] In some embodiments, the method may further include dispensing the water treatment material in the first dispenser through the tank opening into the water in the reservoir. The method may further include detecting a second predetermined fill level of liquid in the reservoir and mixing the water treatment material with the water in the reservoir to generate the water treatment solution when the second predetermined fill level is detected.

[0090] In some embodiments, the water treatment solution can be configured to react with hard minerals in the feedwater source to reduce the hardness of the feedwater source. The method can further include dosing a quantity of the water treatment solution into the feedwater source to reduce the hardness of the feedwater source.

[0091] In some embodiments, the method may further include detecting a third predetermined fill level of liquid in the reservoir. The third predetermined fill level may correspond to the reservoir being empty.

[0092] In some embodiments, the method may further include flowing a second flow of water into the reservoir of the tank to flush the reservoir after the third predetermined fill level is detected. The method may further include detecting a fourth predetermined fill level of liquid in the reservoir and ceasing flowing the second flow of water into the reservoir when the fourth predetermined fill level is detected.

[0093] In some embodiments, the method may further include dosing the water in the reservoir into a water supply to empty the reservoir for replenishing the water treatment solution. The method may further include detecting a third predetermined fill level in the reservoir and stopping the dosing of water when the third predetermined fill level is detected.

[0094] In some embodiments, the method may further include repeating the steps of flowing a first flow of water into a reservoir of the tank, detecting a first predetermined fill level of liquid in the reservoir, and stopping the input of water when a third predetermined fill level is detected, followed by stopping the flow of the first flow of water into the reservoir when the first predetermined fill level is detected.

[0095] In some embodiments, the method may further include removing a first dispenser coupled to the cartridge mount of the tank that is empty and coupling a second dispenser to the cartridge mount that is full. The method may further include dispensing the water treatment material in the second dispenser through the tank opening into the water in the reservoir.

[0096] In some embodiments, the method may further include repeating the steps of detecting a second predetermined fill level of liquid in the reservoir, mixing the water in the reservoir with the water treatment material to produce a water treatment solution when the second predetermined fill level is detected, and dispensing a predetermined amount of the water treatment solution into the water supply.

[0097] These and other features of the present disclosure will become more apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0098] [Figure 1] 1 is an elevational view of a water treatment system for treating a water supply with a water treatment solution, showing that the water treatment system includes a system housing for enclosing other components of the water treatment system. [Diagram 2] A view similar to FIG. 1 but showing the water treatment system with the system housing removed to show that the water treatment system includes a tank in fluid communication with the water supply source for receiving a flow of water from the water supply source, a dispenser coupled to a cartridge mount of the tank for dispensing water treatment material into a storage reservoir of the tank, and a control system for generating a water treatment solution in the storage reservoir by combining water with the water treatment material and dispensing the water treatment solution from the storage reservoir into the water supply source. [Diagram 3] 3 is a diagram similar to FIG. 2 showing the control system included in the water treatment solution includes an input in fluid communication with the storage reservoir and the water supply for inputting the water treatment solution into the water supply, a valve system for altering the flow through the water treatment system, and a controller coupled to the input and valves for controlling the input of the water treatment solution into the water supply. [Figure 4] 2 is a schematic diagram of the water treatment solution of FIG. 1 , showing the water treatment system in a first stage of a fill mode, where the controller has instructed a first valve coupled to the inlet of the tank to change to an open position, where the valve allows water flow from the water source to fill the storage reservoir of the tank. [Diagram 5]5 is a schematic diagram similar to FIG. 4 showing the water treatment system in a second stage of the fill mode in which the controller directs the first valve to change to a closed position in which the valve blocks the flow of water from the water source, the empty dispenser is removed from the cartridge mount, and the gate of the cartridge mount changes from an open position (as shown in FIG. 4) to a closed position in which the gate blocks access to the storage reservoir through the tank opening. [Figure 6] 6 is a schematic diagram similar to FIG. 5 showing the water treatment system in a third stage of the fill mode in which a new, full dispenser is coupled to the cartridge mount and a gate of the cartridge mount is changed to an open position to allow a user to dispense citric acid contained in the dispenser into the water in the storage reservoir. [Figure 7] 7 is a schematic diagram similar to FIG. 6 showing the water treatment system in a treatment mode in which a mixer included in the control system is instructed to change from an off mode to an on mode to mix water and citric acid to form a water treatment solution, and an injector is instructed to inject a controlled amount of the water treatment solution into the water supply. [Figure 8] 8 is a schematic diagram similar to FIG. 7 showing the water treatment system in a first stage of a flush mode with the controller directing the first valve to change to an open position to allow water flow from the water supply to fill the storage reservoir of the tank. [Figure 9] 9 is a schematic diagram similar to FIG. 8 but showing the water treatment system in a second stage of the flush mode in which the controller has instructed the first valve to change to a closed position and the injector has been instructed to flush the storage reservoir by draining water from the storage reservoir so that more water treatment solution can be created. [Figure 10]FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a dispenser included in the water treatment solution of FIG. 1, showing that the dispenser includes a cartridge configured to be coupled to a tank, the cartridge having a body for storing a water treatment material and a neck coupled to the body and forming an opening in the dispenser, and a dispensing system for controlling the dispensing of the water treatment material through the opening in the neck of the cartridge at a predetermined flow rate. [Figure 11] A view similar to FIG. 10 with the dispenser coupled to the cartridge mount of the tank, showing that the dispensing system included in the dispenser includes an auger extending through the body of the cartridge into the internal storage area and blocking an opening in the cartridge to prevent water treatment material from moving through the opening, and a knob coupled to a first end of the auger located outside the internal storage area and configured to be rotated to rotate the auger and cause the auger to dispense a controlled amount of water treatment material through the opening. [Figure 12] FIG. 11 is an elevational view of the dispenser of FIG. 10 showing that the dispenser further includes a cap coupled to the neck of the cartridge. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a view similar to FIG. 12, showing the cap removed from the neck of the cartridge. [Figure 14] FIG. 2 is an elevation view of a control system included in the water treatment system of FIG. 1 , showing that the control system further includes a user interface configured to receive input from a user to control a mode of the system and also to provide information and / or instructions via sound or light. [Figure 15A] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of a water treatment system showing that the water treatment system includes a tank in fluid communication with a water supply source for receiving a flow of water from the water supply source, a dispenser coupled to a cartridge mount of the tank for dispensing a water treatment material into a storage reservoir of the tank, and a control system for generating a water treatment solution in the storage reservoir by combining water and the water treatment material and dispensing the water treatment solution from the storage reservoir into the water supply source. [Figure 15B]FIG. 15B is a view similar to FIG. 15A showing the control system includes a controller and a valve in communication with the controller and coupled to the tank inlet conduit for controlling the flow of water between a fill conduit for unlimited filling of the storage reservoir of the tank and a flush conduit with a spray nozzle for flushing the storage reservoir between refills of the tank. [Figure 15C] FIG. 15B is a view similar to FIG. 15B, showing that the control system further includes a sensor, a mixer, and an ultraviolet light in communication with the controller, the sensor configured to measure the fill level of the water / solution in the storage reservoir of the tank, the mixer configured to mix the water treatment solution in the storage reservoir to prevent the water treatment solution from settling in the storage reservoir, and the ultraviolet light configured to kill bacteria that may grow in the storage reservoir of the tank. [Figure 16] FIG. 15B is a schematic diagram of the water treatment solution of FIG. 15A showing the water treatment system in a first stage of a fill mode in which the controller has instructed the valve to change from a fully closed position, in which the valve blocks the flow of water to the storage reservoir of the tank, to a fill position, in which water flow from the water source through the fill conduit is permitted to fill the storage reservoir of the tank. [Figure 17] 27 is a schematic diagram similar to FIG. 16 showing the water treatment system in a second stage of the fill mode in which the controller commands the valve to change to a fully closed position, an empty dispenser is removed from the cartridge mount, and the gate of the cartridge mount changes from an open position (as shown in FIG. 29) to a closed position (as shown in FIG. 28) in which the gate blocks access to the storage reservoir through the tank opening. [Figure 18] A schematic diagram similar to FIG. 17 showing the water treatment system in a third stage of the fill mode in which a new, full dispenser is coupled to the cartridge mount, changing the gate of the cartridge mount to an open position and causing the dispenser to dispense the water treatment composition contained in the dispenser into the water in the storage reservoir. [Figure 19]19 is a schematic diagram similar to FIG. 18 showing the water treatment system in a fourth stage of the fill mode in which a mixer included in the control system is instructed to change from the off mode to the on mode to mix the water with the water treatment composition to form a water treatment solution. [Figure 20] 20 is a schematic diagram similar to FIG. 19, showing the water treatment system in a treatment mode in which the dispenser is instructed to dispense a controlled amount of water treatment solution into the water supply. [Figure 21] 21 is a schematic diagram similar to FIG. 20 showing the water treatment system in a first stage of a flush mode where the controller has instructed the valve to change to a flush position allowing water flow from the water supply source through the flush conduit to spray water into the storage reservoir of the tank to flush the storage reservoir. [Figure 22] 22 is a schematic diagram similar to FIG. 21 showing the water treatment system in a second stage of flush mode in which the controller has instructed the valve to change to a fully closed position and the injector has been instructed to flush the storage reservoir by draining water from the storage reservoir so that more water treatment solution can be created. [Figure 23] FIG. 15B is a perspective view of a dispenser included in the water treatment system of FIG. 15A, showing that the dispenser includes a cartridge configured to be coupled to a cartridge mount of a tank and a dispensing system coupled to an opening of the cartridge for controlling dispensing of water treatment material through the opening of the cartridge by changing between a closed orientation (as shown in FIG. 23A) and an open orientation (as shown in FIG. 23B). [Figure 23A] FIG. 24 is a detailed view of the dispenser of FIG. 23 showing the dispensing system in a closed orientation with the opening blocked to prevent flow of water treatment material through the opening. [Figure 23B] FIG. 23B is a view similar to FIG. 23A showing the dispensing system changed to an open orientation with the openings aligned to allow water treatment material to flow from the dispenser through the openings. [Figure 24]FIG. 24 is an exploded view of the dispenser of FIG. 23, showing that the dispenser includes a cartridge, a dispensing system, and a cap extending above the dispensing system and configured to couple to the neck of the cartridge, and that the dispensing system includes an upper valve configured to be coupled to the cartridge and a lower valve configured to be coupled to the upper valve at a pivot point. [Diagram 25] FIG. 25 is a perspective view of the top valve included in the dispenser of FIG. 24, showing that the top valve includes a body formed to include multiple top openings, an engagement flange extending radially away from the body on an opposite side of the body relative to the cartridge / rotation axis, and a spring arm extending from the body and configured to be axially biased relative to the cartridge axis. [Figure 25A] FIG. 26 is a detailed view of FIG. 25 showing that each spring arm is formed to include a locking pin extending axially from the end of the corresponding spring arm relative to the axis, each locking pin having a variable diameter. [Figure 26] FIG. 25 is a perspective view of a lower valve included in the dispenser of FIG. 24, showing that the lower valve includes a planar body formed to include a plurality of lower openings configured to align with the upper openings of the upper valve when in an open orientation, alignment pins each extending axially from the underside of the planar body away from the upper valve, and guide slots each configured to receive a lock pin of a corresponding spring arm of the upper valve to secure the upper and lower valves to one another and to assist in guiding the lower valve as it rotates relative to the upper valve. [Figure 26A] FIG. 27 is a detail view of FIG. 26 showing that each slot is formed to include a counterbore at one end of the guide slot, the counterbore having a diameter larger than the diameter of the corresponding guide slot that is equal to the larger diameter of the locking pin. [Figure 27]29 is an exploded view of a cartridge mount included in the tank of FIG. 15A, showing that the cartridge mount includes a cartridge mount housing formed to include a passageway, a gate mounted within the passageway of the cartridge mount housing to change between a closed position (as shown in FIG. 28) and an open position (as shown in FIG. 29), and a gate controller configured to control movement of the gate between the closed and open positions, and further showing that the cartridge mount housing includes a dispensing system receiver adapted to receive an end of a cartridge with a dispensing system, a conduit configured to be coupled to the tank housing, and a grid configured to be positioned between the receiver and the conduit. [Figure 28] FIG. 27 is a perspective view of the cartridge mount of FIG. 27 showing that the gate controller includes a gear coupled to the gate for rotation therewith and a gear ring coupled to the cartridge mount housing, the gear formed to include teeth that mate with the teeth of the gear ring, and the gear ring configured to rotate about an axis of the cartridge relative to the cartridge mount housing between a first position (as shown in FIG. 30) and a second position (as shown in FIG. 31) to drive rotation of the gate between a closed position and an open position. [Figure 29] 29 is a view similar to FIG. 28 showing the gearing of the gate controller rotating about an axis from a first position to a second position to change the gate from a closed position to an open position. [Diagram 30] FIG. 28 is a perspective view of the cartridge mount of FIG. 27 showing that the dispensing system receiver is molded to include a flange receiving slot configured to receive a corresponding mating flange of the upper valve, an alignment pin hole configured to receive a corresponding alignment pin of the lower valve, and a rib configured to extend into the corresponding guide slot of the lower valve, further showing that a portion of the flange receiving slot aligns with a notch formed in the gear ring of the gate controller when the gear ring is in a first position. [Diagram 31] FIG. 31 is a view similar to FIG. 30 showing the gear ring of the gate controller moved to a second position such that the notch in the gear ring has rotated about the cartridge axis. [Diagram 32] FIG. 15B is a schematic perspective view of a dispenser inserted into a cartridge mount included in the water treatment system of FIG. 15A, showing the cartridge mount and dispenser in a sealed configuration with the gate in a closed position, the gearing of the gate controller in a first position, and the dispensing system in a closed orientation to prevent any water treatment material from being dispensed into the storage reservoir. [Diagram 33] FIG. 33 is a view similar to FIG. 32 showing the dispenser inserted into the cartridge mount such that the engagement flange extends into the flange receiving slot and notch. [Diagram 34] Figure 34 is a perspective view of the dispenser and cartridge mount of Figure 32 with a portion of the dispenser and cartridge mount separated to show that the ribs align with the guide slots of the lower valve when the dispenser is inserted into the cartridge mount. Figure 34A is a detailed view of Figure 34 showing that the locking pin of the upper valve sits in the guide slot so that it engages the lower valve to block rotation of the dispensing system. [Diagram 35] Figure 35 is a view similar to Figure 34, showing the dispenser being inserted into the cartridge mount with a downward axial force causing the rib to partially deflect the spring arm of the upper valve from the guide slot so that the dispenser is free to rotate about the cartridge axis. Figure 35A is a detailed view of Figure 35, showing the locking pin of the upper valve spaced from the guide slot so that the larger diameter portion of the locking pin is outside the counterbore, allowing rotation of the dispenser about the cartridge axis. [Diagram 36] 15B is a schematic perspective view of the cartridge mount and dispenser of the water treatment system of FIG. 15A, showing the cartridge mount and dispenser in a sealed configuration. [Figure 37]37 is a view similar to FIG. 36 showing the cartridge mount and dispenser modified to a non-sealed configuration with the gate in an open position, the gate controller gearing in a second position, and the dispensing system in an open orientation to allow the dispenser to rotate and dispense water treatment material into the storage reservoir. [Figure 38] FIG. 36 is a cross-sectional view of the cartridge mount and dispenser of FIG. 36 taken along line 36-36, showing the gearing of the gate controller in a first position to place the gate in a closed position to block the passageway, and showing the dispensing system in a closed orientation such that the upper valve covers the lower opening of the lower valve to block any water treatment material from flowing through the passageway. [Figure 39] FIG. 37 is a cross-sectional view of the cartridge mount and dispenser of FIG. 37 taken along line 37-37, showing the gate controller gearing in a second position to place the gate in an open position to open the passageway, and the dispensing system in an open orientation such that the upper opening of the upper valve is aligned with the lower opening of the lower valve to allow water treatment material to flow through the passageway. [Diagram 40] FIG. 15B is an elevation view of a control system included in the water treatment of FIG. 15A, showing that the control system further includes a user interface configured to receive input from a user to control the mode of the system and also to provide information and / or instructions to the user via sound or light. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0099] For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the present disclosure, reference will now be made to certain exemplary embodiments illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same.

[0100] A first embodiment of an exemplary water treatment system 10 for treating a water supply 20 with a water treatment solution 22 is shown in Figures 1-9. The water treatment system 10 includes a tank 12 and a dispenser 14 configured to be coupled to the tank 12, as shown in Figures 1-14. A second embodiment of a water treatment system 210 is shown in Figures 15A-40.

[0101] The water treatment system 10 includes a tank 12, a dispenser 14, and a control system 16, as shown in Figures 1-13. The tank 12 is in fluid communication with the water supply 20 for receiving a flow of water from the water supply 20. The dispenser 14 is coupled to the tank 12 and configured to dispense a water treatment material 24 (in an exemplary embodiment, citric acid powder) into a storage reservoir 30 of the tank 12 at a predetermined flow rate. The control system 16 is configured to generate a water treatment solution 22 in the storage reservoir 30 of the tank 12 by combining the water and the water treatment material 24. Once the water treatment solution 22 is generated, the control system 16 may be configured to input the water treatment solution 22 from the storage reservoir 30 into the water supply 20.

[0102] In a typical water treatment system, a water supply may be introduced into a container or cartridge that contains a water treatment material, i.e., citric acid. The water flows through the cartridge and contacts the water treatment material. As the water contacts the water treatment material, the water treatment material reacts with hard minerals in the water to reduce the water hardness.

[0103] However, the reaction of the water treatment material with hard minerals in the water may change as the water passes through the cartridge, thereby reducing the effectiveness of the water treatment material. For example, the water treatment material may solidify or crystallize if it remains stagnant for an extended period of time, reducing its ability to dissolve and react with the water flowing through the system. As a result, the water hardness remains high and the solidified water treatment material must be replaced. Continuous replacement of water treatment material can be expensive and wasteful.

[0104] To effectively and precisely treat the feedwater source, the present disclosure teaches that the water treatment system 10 doses the feedwater source 20 with a water treatment solution 22 using a doser 62 included in the system 10. Unlike other water treatment systems that introduce the feedwater source 20 to a water treatment material 24, the water treatment system 10 stores the water treatment solution 22 which is dosed into the feedwater source 20 as needed.

[0105] The system 10 includes a tank 12 for storing the water treatment solution 22, and an injector 62 for injecting a predetermined amount of the water treatment solution 22 into the feedwater source 20 so that the water treatment solution 22 can effectively react with the hard minerals. In this way, the hardness of the feedwater source 20 is reduced better than other water treatment systems.

[0106] To hold the water treatment solution 22, the tank 12 includes a tank housing 26 and a cartridge mount 28, as shown in Figures 2 and 4-9. The tank housing 26 is formed to define a storage reservoir 30. The cartridge mount 28 is coupled to the tank housing 26 and is formed to include a tank opening 32 disposed in communication with the storage reservoir 30.

[0107] The cartridge mount 28 includes a gate 34, as shown in Figures 2 and 4-9. The gate 34 is configured to change between a closed position (as shown in Figure 5) and an open position (as shown in Figures 3-4 and 6-9). In the closed position, the gate 34 closes the tank opening 32 and blocks access to the storage reservoir 30 through the tank opening 32. In the open position, the gate 34 moves away from the tank opening 32 and allows access to the storage reservoir 30 through the tank opening 32.

[0108] To add the water treatment material 24 to the water in the storage reservoir 30, the dispenser 14 is configured to dispense the material 24 at a predetermined flow rate into the water contained in the storage reservoir 30. The dispensing of the water treatment material 24 can be important to effectively generate the water treatment solution 22. If the water treatment material 24 is added too quickly, the water treatment material 24 may clump together, not mix properly with the water, and form a deposit of crystallized material. The dispenser 14 dispenses the water treatment material 24 at a predetermined flow rate such that the water treatment material 24 effectively dissolves in the water in the storage reservoir 30.

[0109] The dispenser 14, as shown in Figures 2 and 4-13, includes a cartridge 36, a cap 38, and a dispensing system 40. The cartridge 36 is shaped to define an interior storage area 46 configured to store the water treatment material 24. The cap 38 is configured to be coupled to the cartridge 36 to block any water treatment material 24 from exiting the cartridge 36. The dispensing system 40 is configured to control the dispensing of the water treatment material 24 from the cartridge 36 at a predetermined flow rate.

[0110] The cartridge 36, as shown in Figures 4-11 and 13, includes a body 42 and a neck 44. The body 42 is formed to include an interior storage area 46 that stores the water treatment material 24. The neck 44 is coupled to the body 42 and is formed to include an opening 48 disposed to communicate with the interior storage area 46.

[0111] In the exemplary embodiment, the neck 44 is configured to couple to the cartridge mount 28 of the tank 12, as suggested in Figures 10 and 11. The neck 44 is molded to include threads 50 that mate with the cartridge mount 28 to couple the cartridge 36 to the cartridge mount 28. In this manner, the water treatment material 24 dispensed from the cartridge 36 is added to the water in the storage reservoir 30 of the tank 12 to produce the water treatment solution 22.

[0112] The dispensing system 40 is configured to control the dispensing of the water treatment material 24 through the opening 48 in the neck 44 of the cartridge 36 at a predetermined flow rate. The dispensing system 40 controls the dispensing of the water treatment material 24 such that the addition of the water treatment material 24 to the water in the storage reservoir 30 is controlled over a predetermined period of time. In this manner, the water may not become oversaturated with the water treatment material 24 too quickly. If the water treatment material 24 is added too quickly, the water treatment material 24 may clump together and form clumps in solution, which may affect the effectiveness of the solution 22 in treating the feedwater source 20.

[0113] In the exemplary embodiment, dispensing system 40 includes an auger 52 and a knob 54, as shown in Figures 4-11. Auger 52 extends through body 42 of cartridge 36 into interior storage area 46 and is configured to rotate about axis 49 of dispensing system 40. Auger 52 blocks opening 48 of cartridge 36 to prevent water treatment material 24 from moving directly through opening 48. Knob 54 is coupled to a first end 59 of auger 52 located outside of interior storage area 46.

[0114] Knob 54 is configured to be rotated by a user to rotate auger 52 about axis 49. In this manner, auger 52 collects a predetermined amount of water treatment material 24 and transports the predetermined amount of water treatment material 24 through opening 48 to dispense the water treatment material 24 at a predetermined flow rate into storage reservoir 30.

[0115] Auger 52 includes a shaft 56 and a helical thread 58, as shown in Figures 10 and 11. Shaft 56 is shaped to include a first end 59, a second end 60 axially spaced from first end 59 to define a length of the shaft, and an exterior surface 61. Exterior surface 61 extends between and interconnects first end 59 and second end 60. Helical thread 58 is coupled to exterior surface 61 of shaft 56.

[0116] The helical threads 58 extend radially outward from the outer surface 61 of the shaft 56 and circumferentially around the outer surface of the shaft along at least a portion of the length of the shaft, as shown in Figures 10 and 11. The helical threads 58 have a portion that lies at the opening of the neck 44 to block migration of the water treatment material 24 from the interior storage area 46.

[0117] In an exemplary embodiment, the helical threads 58 extend along at least half the length of the shaft 56. In other embodiments, the helical threads 58 may extend more or less than half the length of the shaft 56.

[0118] The helical threads 58 are shaped to define fins 63, as shown in Figures 10 and 11. The fins 63 are axially spaced apart from one another relative to the axis. At least one of the fins 63 abuts an inner surface of the neck 44 within the opening 48 to block migration of the water treatment material 24 from the interior storage area 46.

[0119] When knob 54 is rotated by a user, auger 52 rotates, causing fins 63 of helical threads 58 to move within opening 48 and carry water treatment material 24 from area 46 and across opening 48. The spacing of fins 63 along axis 49 determines the predetermined amount of water treatment material 24 dispensed with each rotation of knob 54.

[0120] 2-14, the control system 16 includes an input device 62 in fluid communication with the storage reservoir 30 and the water supply 20, and a controller 64 coupled to the input device 62. The input device 62 is configured to input the water treatment solution 22 into the water supply 20. The controller 64 is configured to direct the input device 62 to input a predetermined amount of the water treatment solution 22 into the water supply 20 such that the water treatment solution 22 reacts with hard minerals in the water supply 20, thereby reducing water hardness.

[0121] The dosing device 62 is configured to douse a quantity of water treatment solution 22 into the water supply 20 at a rate that varies based on the water flow rate through the dosing device 62. The dosing device 62 is configured to douse a quantity of water treatment solution 22 at a first rate when the dosing device 62 determines that water is flowing through the dosing device 62 at a first water flow rate. When the water flow rate increases to a second water flow rate that is greater than the first water flow rate, the dosing device 62 is configured to increase the dosing rate proportional to the second flow rate. Conversely, when the water flow rate decreases to a third water flow rate that is less than the first water flow rate and the second water flow rate, the dosing device 62 is configured to decrease the dosing rate proportional to the third flow rate.

[0122] In this manner, an accurate and proportionate amount of water treatment solution 22 may be added to the feedwater 20 as compared to other methods of introducing water to the water treatment material 24. Injecting the water treatment solution 22 into the water flowing through the dosing device 62 based on the water flow rate may prevent the feedwater 20 from becoming over- or under-saturated with the water treatment solution 22. In other embodiments, the dosing device 62 may be configured to determine the pH level of the water and vary the injection of a predetermined amount of water treatment solution 22 based on the measured pH level.

[0123] The control system 16 further includes a plurality of valves 66, 68, sensors 70, 72, a mixer 74, and a gate actuator 76, as shown in Figures 2-9. The valves 66, 68 control the flow into the storage reservoir 30 and the flow to the input 62. The sensors 70, 72 are configured to detect aspects of the system 10 and provide feedback to the controller 64. The mixer 74 is located in the storage reservoir 30. The mixer 74 is configured to mix the water treatment solution 22 in the storage reservoir 30 to prevent the water treatment solution 20 from settling in the storage reservoir 30. The gate actuator 76 is coupled to the gate 34 and configured to move the gate 34 between a closed position and an open position.

[0124] The plurality of valves includes a first valve 66 in fluid communication with the water supply source 20 and the storage reservoir 30, and a second valve 68 in fluid communication with the storage reservoir 30 and the input device 62, as shown in Figures 2-9. The first valve 66 is configured to modify the flow of water from the water supply source 20 to the tank 12. The second valve 68 controls the fluid connection of the input device 62 to the storage reservoir 30.

[0125] In the exemplary embodiment, the first valve 66 is in fluid communication with a tank inlet conduit 65, as shown in Figures 2-9. The tank inlet conduit 65 is in fluid communication between the first valve 66 and the storage reservoir 30. The first valve 66 is configured to modify the flow of water from the water supply 20 through the tank inlet conduit 65 to the storage reservoir 30.

[0126] The controller 64 is configured to vary the first valve 66 between an open position (as shown in Figures 4 and 8) and a closed position (as shown in Figures 5-7 and 9). In the open position, the first valve 66 allows the flow of water from the water supply source 20 to the storage reservoir 30 through the tank inlet conduit 65. In the closed position, the first valve 66 blocks the flow of water from the water supply source 20 to the storage reservoir 30 through the tank inlet conduit 65.

[0127] 2-9, the second valve 68 is in fluid communication between the input 62, the input conduit 67, and the flushing conduit 69. The input conduit 67 and the flushing conduit 69 are both in fluid communication between the second valve 68 and the storage reservoir 30. In some embodiments, clips (not shown) may extend between the tank housing 26 and the conduits 67, 69 and may couple the conduits 67, 69 in place on the tank housing 26.

[0128] The second valve 68 is configured to change between an input position (as shown in FIGS. 4-8) and a flushing position (as shown in FIG. 9). In the input position, the second valve 68 allows flow of water treatment solution 22 from the storage reservoir 30 to the input 62 and blocks flow through the flushing conduit 69. In the flushing position, the second valve 68 allows flow through the flushing conduit 69 and blocks flow through the input conduit 67.

[0129] The sensors 70, 72 include a level sensor 70 and a cartridge sensor 72, as shown in Figures 2-11. The level sensor 70 is located within the storage reservoir 30 and is coupled to the controller 64. The level sensor 70 is configured to measure a fill level 30A-30E of the water treatment solution 22 within the storage reservoir 30. The cartridge sensor 72 is coupled to the cartridge mount 28 of the tank 12. The cartridge sensor 72 is configured to detect whether the dispenser 14 is coupled to the cartridge mount 28.

[0130] The controller 64 is configured to command the valves 66, 68 to change between their corresponding positions based on feedback from the fill sensor 70. The controller 64 is configured to command the first valve 66 to change between an open position and a closed position to vary the flow of water into the storage reservoir 30 based on the fill levels 30A-30E measured by the fill sensor 70. The controller 64 is configured to command the second valve 68 to vary the flow path of liquid into the input 62 between the input conduit 67 and the flushing conduit 69 based on the fill levels 30A-30E measured by the level sensor 70.

[0131] The controller 64 is coupled to the gate actuator 76 and the cartridge sensor 72. The controller 64 is configured to instruct the gate actuator 76 to move the gate 34 to an open position if the cartridge sensor 72 detects that the dispenser 14 is coupled to the cartridge mount 28 of the tank 12. Conversely, if the cartridge sensor 72 does not detect that the dispenser 14 is coupled to the cartridge mount 28, the controller 64 is configured to instruct the gate actuator 76 to move the gate 34 to a closed position to block access through the tank opening 32. This prevents any of the materials and / or liquids therein from coming into contact with a user during refilling.

[0132] The system 10 is configured to operate in three different modes: fill mode 1100 (as shown in FIGS. 4-6), treatment mode 1200 (as shown in FIG. 7), and flush mode 1300 (as shown in FIGS. 8 and 9). Fill mode 1100 is when the reservoir of water treatment solution 22 in the tank 12 needs to be replenished. Treatment mode 1200 is when water treatment solution 22 is introduced into the water supply 20. Flush mode 1300 is after the reservoir of water treatment solution 22 has been depleted and prior to fill mode 1100 in order to flush out any remaining fluid in the storage reservoir 30 and clean the tank 12. Stages 1100, 1200, 1300 are repeated to refill the water treatment solution reservoir as soon as it is depleted.

[0133] The fill mode 1100 includes three stages: a first stage 1100A (as shown in FIG. 4), a second stage 1100B (as shown in FIG. 5), and a third stage 1100C (as shown in FIG. 6). In the first stage 1100A of the fill mode 1100, the storage reservoir 30 is empty and the controller 64 instructs the first valve 66 to change to an open position to allow a first flow of water 20A from the water supply 20 to the tank 12. The first valve 66 remains in the open position until the fill sensor 70 detects a first predetermined fill level 30A in the storage reservoir 30. When the fill sensor 70 detects the first predetermined fill level 30A in the storage reservoir 30, the controller 64 instructs the first valve 66 to change to a closed position.

[0134] The first predetermined fill level 30A corresponds to the storage reservoir 30 being approximately 75% of its maximum capacity. In an exemplary embodiment, the first predetermined fill level 30A is approximately 1.3 gallons or approximately 74% of the capacity of the storage reservoir 30.

[0135] In a second stage 1100B of the fill mode 1100, the user is instructed to replace the old, empty dispenser 14 with a new, full dispenser 14 containing the water treatment material 24, i.e., citric acid powder, to be added via the tank opening 32. To do so, the user removes the old, empty dispenser 14 from the cartridge mount 28, which causes the cartridge sensor 72 to detect that the dispenser 14 is no longer coupled to the cartridge mount 28. In response, the controller 64 instructs the gate actuator 76 to move the gate 34 to a closed position.

[0136] The user then couples a new, full dispenser 14 to the cartridge mount 28 for dispensing, which causes the cartridge sensor 72 to detect that the dispenser 14 is coupled to the cartridge mount 28. In response, the controller 64 directs the gate actuator 76 to move the gate 34 to the open position so that the water treatment material 24 is ready to be dispensed.

[0137] In a third stage 1100C of the fill mode 1100, the user is instructed to add water treatment material 24 to the storage reservoir 30 by rotating knob 54, as shown in FIG. 6. Rotation of knob 54 rotates auger 52 and dispenses a predetermined amount at a predetermined flow rate into the storage reservoir 30. The user continues to dispense water treatment solution 24 into the reservoir 30 until fill sensor 70 detects a second predetermined fill level 30B in the storage reservoir 30. In an exemplary embodiment, when fill sensor 70 detects the second predetermined fill level 30B in the storage reservoir 30, the dispenser 14 should be empty or near empty.

[0138] When fill sensor 70 detects a second predetermined fill level 30B in storage reservoir 30, controller 64 indicates that system 10 is now in processing mode 1100B. The user is then instructed to stop turning knob 54 on dispensing system 40, and controller 64 instructs system 10 to begin processing mode 1200.

[0139] In treatment mode 1200, the controller 64 instructs the mixer 74 to change from an off mode (as shown in FIGS. 4-6 and 8-9) to an on mode (as shown in FIG. 7). In the on mode, the mixer 74 is instructed to mix the water and the water treatment material 24 to completely dissolve the water treatment material 24 in the water to produce the water treatment solution 22. The controller 64 then instructs the dispenser 62 to dispense a predetermined amount of the water treatment solution 22 into the supply water 20.

[0140] The controller 64 directs the dosing device 62 to dosing a predetermined amount of water treatment solution 22 at a predetermined flow rate based on the water flow rate through the conduit 21. The dosing device 62 is configured to detect the water flow rate and dosing a predetermined amount of water treatment solution 22 at a proportional flow rate based on the water flow rate. The dosing device 62 is configured to change the dosing rate in response to changes in the water flow rate.

[0141] The processing mode 1200 ends when the fill sensor 70 detects a third predetermined fill level 30C in the storage reservoir 30, corresponding to the reservoir 30 being depleted or empty. The controller 64 then initiates a flush mode 1300, as shown in FIG.

[0142] The flush mode 1300 includes two stages, a first stage 1300A and a second stage 1300B, as shown in Figures 8 and 9. In the first stage 1300A of the flush mode 1300, the controller 64 instructs the first valve 66 to change to an open position to allow the second flow of water 20B to flow into the reservoir 30 to flush the tank 12 after a third predetermined fill level is detected by the fill sensor 70, as shown in Figure 8.

[0143] The first valve 66 remains in the open position until the fill sensor 70 detects the first predetermined fill level 30A. When the fill sensor 70 detects the first predetermined fill level 30A, the controller 64 instructs the first valve 66 to change to a closed position, thereby triggering the second stage 1300B of the flush mode 1300.

[0144] In the second stage 1300B of the flush mode 1300B, as shown in Figure 9, the controller 64 directs the second valve 68 to change to the flushing position to allow flow through the flushing conduit 69 to the dosing device 62. The controller 64 simultaneously directs the dosing device 62 to continuously dosing the fluid in the reservoir 30 to the water supply 20. The dosing device 62 dosing the fluid in the reservoir 30 to the water supply 20 to empty the reservoir 30 for refilling with the water treatment solution 22.

[0145] The second stage 1300B ends when the fill level sensor 70 detects the third predetermined fill level 30C. Once the third predetermined fill level 30C is detected, the controller 64 commands the second valve 68 to move to the load position and signals the user to begin the fill mode 1100.

[0146] In an exemplary embodiment, control system 16 includes a user interface 77, as shown in Figures 1, 4-9, and 14. User interface 77 is coupled to controller 64 and configured to receive input from a user. User interface 77 indicates to the user when system 10 is in each of the different modes 1100, 1200, 1300 and provides instructions to the user via sounds, lights, digital displays, or other similar communication means to indicate that action is required.

[0147] The user interface 77 includes an input system 78, an output system 79 coupled to the input system 78, and a communication unit 80 coupled to the input 78 and the output system 79, as shown in Figures 4-9 and 14. The input system 78 and the output system 79 are both coupled to the controller 64 for receiving and transmitting information to the controller 64. The communication unit 80 is coupled to the controller 64 and the input system 78 and the output system 79, and is configured to receive and transmit information to a wireless device, such as a smartphone, tablet, computer, or another suitable device.

[0148] Input system 78 is configured to provide input from a user through buttons, sensors, a combination thereof, or any suitable alternative. In an exemplary embodiment, the input system is a fill button 78B that, when pressed by a user, instructs controller 64 to initiate a fill mode 1100. In other embodiments, input system 78 may be an app for a smart device that allows a user to control system 10.

[0149] The output system 79 is configured to provide instructions or information to a user. The output system includes a set of fill level visual indicators 70A, 70B, 70C, 70D, a set of status visual indicators 79A, 79B, 79C, 79D, 79E, and a speaker 81, as shown in Figure 14. The visual indicators 70A, 70B, 70C, 70D, 79A, 79B, 79D, 79E are LED lights in the exemplary embodiment.

[0150] The fill level visual indicators 70A, 70B, 70C, 70D are coupled to the fill level sensor 70 and are configured to receive a signal from the sensor 70 corresponding to the fill levels 30A-30E of the storage reservoirs 30. Based on the fill levels 30A-30E of the reservoirs 30, the visual indicators 70A, 70B, 70C, 70D emit a light indicative of the fill levels 30A-30E of the reservoirs 30.

[0151] In an exemplary embodiment, the fill level visual indicators 70A, 70B, 70C, 70D include a first fill level indicator 70A, a second fill level indicator 70B, a third fill level indicator 70C, and a fourth fill level indicator 70D, as shown in FIG. 14. The first fill level indicator 70A indicates when the storage reservoir 30 is filled with the water treatment solution 22 to its maximum capacity. The second fill level indicator 70B indicates when the storage reservoir 30 contains about 75% of its maximum capacity. The third fill level indicator 70C indicates when the storage reservoir 30 contains about 50% of its maximum capacity. The fourth fill level indicator 70D indicates when the storage reservoir 30 contains about 25% of its maximum capacity.

[0152] The controller 64 is configured to instruct the first fill level indicator 70A to be turned on when the fill level sensor 70 detects a second predetermined fill level 30B, i.e. 100% of the maximum capacity of the storage reservoir 30. The controller 64 is configured to instruct the first fill level indicator 70A to be turned off and the second fill level indicator 70B to be turned on when the fill level sensor 70 detects the first predetermined fill level 30A, i.e. 75% of the maximum capacity of the storage reservoir 30. The controller 64 is configured to instruct the second fill level indicator 70B to be turned off and the third fill level indicator 70C to be turned on when the fill level sensor 70 detects a fourth predetermined fill level 30D, i.e. 50% of the maximum capacity of the storage reservoir 30. The controller 64 is configured to instruct the third fill level indicator 70C to be turned off and the fourth fill level indicator 70D to be turned on when the fill level sensor 70 detects a fifth predetermined fill level 30E, i.e., 25% of the maximum capacity of the storage reservoir 30.

[0153] When the controller 64 commands one of the fill level indicators 70A, 70B, 70C, 70D to be turned on, the corresponding indicator 70A, 70B, 70C, 70D is configured to emit a light to a user. In some embodiments, the indicators 70A, 70B, 70C, 70D may emit a constant light. In other embodiments, the indicators 70A, 70B, 70C, 70D may emit a flashing light.

[0154] In some embodiments, the fill level indicators 70A, 70B, 70C, 70D may emit light having the same color, in other embodiments, the fill level indicators 70A, 70B, 70C, 70D may emit light having different colors, or some of the indicators 70A, 70B, 70C, 70D may be the same color while some of the others are different colors.

[0155] Status visual indicators 79A, 79B, 79C, 79D, 79E are coupled to controller 64 and configured to indicate a stage of system 10. The status visual indicators include a fill mode indicator 79A, an added powder indicator 79B, a process mode indicator 79C, a flush mode indicator 79D, and an empty indicator 79E, as shown in Figure 14. Each of indicators 79A, 79B, 79C, 79D, 79E is directed by controller 64 to emit a light to indicate the mode of system 10 to a user.

[0156] In an exemplary embodiment, the controller 64 directs each of the indicators 79A, 79B, 79C, 79D, and 79E to emit a blinking light when turned on. In other embodiments, each of the indicators 79A, 79B, 79C, 79D, and 79E is configured to emit a continuous light when directed to be turned on by the controller 64.

[0157] In some embodiments, indicators 79A, 79B, 79C, 79D, 79E may emit light having the same color, in other embodiments, indicators 79A, 79B, 79C, 79D, 79E may emit light having different colors, or some of indicators 79A, 79B, 79C, 79D, 79E may be the same color while some of the others are different colors.

[0158] The fill mode indicator 79A is configured to emit a light when the system 10 is in the fill mode 1100. When a user presses the fill button 78B, the controller 64 instructs the fill mode indicator 79A to turn on, while the other indicators 79B, 79C, 79D, 79E are instructed to remain off. When the system 10 enters the third stage 1100C of the fill mode 1100, the controller 64 instructs the additive powder indicator 79B to turn on along with the fill mode indicator 79A.

[0159] Upon completion of the fill mode 1100, the controller 64 commands the fill mode indicator 79A and the added powder indicator 79B to be turned off and commands the process mode indicator 79C to be turned on. The process mode indicator 79B remains on until the fill sensor 70 detects the third predetermined fill level 30C and the flush mode 1300 is initiated.

[0160] Once the flush mode 1300 is initiated, the controller 64 commands the process mode indicator 79C to be turned off and commands the flush mode indicator 79D to be turned on. The flush mode 1300 is completed as the third predetermined fill level 30C is again detected by the sensor 70. Detection of the third predetermined fill level 30C by the sensor 70 after the flush mode 1300 signals the controller 64 to command the flush mode indicator 79D to be turned off and to command the empty indicator 79E to be turned on. At the same time, the controller 64 may command the speaker 81 to emit an alarm or noise to inform the user that the storage reservoir 30 is empty and that the fill mode 1100 should be initiated.

[0161] Communications unit 80 is coupled to controller 64 and to input system 78 and output system 79, and is configured to use wireless signals to communicate with a user's smartphone, tablet, computer, or another suitable device. The wireless signals may be BLUETOOTH, Wi-Fi, or any suitable alternative.

[0162] Once the fill mode 1100 is completed and the fill level sensor 70 detects the second predetermined fill level 30B, the controller 64 is configured to instruct the communication unit 80 to send a signal via Wi-Fi to the user's wireless device, via a phone app or SMS notification, indicating that the storage reservoir 30 is at a 100% fill level and that the processing mode 1200 is in progress.

[0163] During treatment mode 1200, when the water treatment solution 22 in the reservoir 30 becomes depleted, the controller 64 is configured to instruct the communication unit 80 to send a signal via Wi-Fi to the user's wireless device indicating the new fill level in the reservoir 30.

[0164] The controller 64 is configured to instruct the communication unit 80 to transmit, via Wi-Fi, a first signal to the user's wireless device indicating that the storage reservoir 30 is at 100% of its maximum capacity when the fill level sensor 70 detects the second predetermined fill level. At the same time, the first fill level indicator 70A is configured to turn on.

[0165] The controller 64 is configured to instruct the communication unit 80 to transmit, via Wi-Fi, a second signal to the user's wireless device indicating that the storage reservoir 30 is at 75% of its maximum capacity when the fill level sensor 70 detects the first predetermined fill level 30A. At the same time, the first fill level indicator 70A is configured to be turned off and the second fill level indicator 70B is configured to be turned on.

[0166] The controller 64 is configured to instruct the communication unit 80 to transmit, via Wi-Fi, a third signal to the user's wireless device indicating that the storage reservoir 30 is at 50% of its maximum capacity when the fill level sensor 70 detects the fourth predetermined fill level 30D. At the same time, the second fill level indicator 70B is configured to be turned off and the third fill level indicator 70C is configured to be turned on.

[0167] The controller 64 is configured to instruct the communication unit 80 to transmit, via Wi-Fi, a fourth signal to the user's wireless device indicating that the storage reservoir 30 is at 25% of its maximum capacity when the fill level sensor 70 detects the fifth predetermined fill level 30E. At the same time, the third fill level indicator 70C is configured to be turned off and the fourth fill level indicator 70D is configured to be turned on.

[0168] The controller 64 is configured to instruct the communication unit 80 to send a fifth signal to the user's wireless device, via Wi-Fi, when the fill level sensor 70 detects the third predetermined fill level 30C, indicating that the storage reservoir 30 is at 0% of its maximum capacity. The fifth signal also indicates that the flush mode 1300 is in progress and that a new dispenser 14 is needed. In some embodiments, the controller 64 is configured to send the fifth signal to the business to indicate that a new dispenser 14 should be sent to the user. When the user is ready to begin the fill mode 1100, the steps are repeated to create more water treatment solution 22 in the storage reservoir 30.

[0169] In the exemplary embodiment, the tank 12, dispenser 14, and control system 16 are contained within a system housing 18 included in the water treatment system 10. The system housing 18 mounts a user interface 77 of the control system 16 such that the user interface 77 can be easily accessed by a user. The system housing 18 is also configured to limit user access to the tank 12.

[0170] The system housing 18 encloses the tank 12, the dispenser 14, and the control system 16, as shown in FIG. 1. The housing 18 is molded to define a tank window 17 and a cartridge access port 19, as shown in FIG. 1. The tank window 17 is a transparent window for indicating the fill level of the tank 12. The cartridge access port 19 is configured to allow access to the cartridge mount 28 of the tank 12 such that the dispenser 14 may be selectively coupled to the cartridge mount 28.

[0171] The water source 20 is coupled to the inlet 23 and outlet 25 of a conduit 21 contained within the system housing 18. A dosing device 62 is coupled to the conduit 21 downstream of the inlet 23. The water source 20 flows through the dosing device 62 and through the inlet 23 of the conduit 21 and then through a first valve 66. When the valve 66 is in a closed position, it directs the flow of water to the outlet 25 of the system 10.

[0172] 2 and 3. The mixer 74 is in fluid communication with the water source 20 downstream of the first valve 66. The mixer 74 is fluidly coupled to the conduit 21 downstream of the valve 66 such that the flow of water downstream of the first valve 66 through the hydraulic mixer 74 causes the hydraulic mixer 74 to mix the water treatment solution 22 in the storage reservoir 30, i.e., rotate the agitator 74A in the reservoir 30.

[0173] During the fill mode 1100, the valve 66 changes to an open position, directing the flow of water into the storage reservoir 30. Thus, the valve 66 blocks the flow of water through the mixer 74 to the outlet 25. Once the storage reservoir 30 is at the first predetermined fill level 30A, the valve 66 changes to a closed position, directing the flow of water to the outlet 25.

[0174] In an exemplary embodiment, the water treatment system 10 may further include a bypass conduit 27, as shown in Figure 1. Flow through the conduits 21, 27 may be controlled using a number of valves.

[0175] In the exemplary embodiment, the water treatment system 10 is coupled to a power source 15. In some embodiments, the power source 15 may be included in the system 10. The power source 15 is configured to provide power to different components of the system 10.

[0176] Another embodiment of a water treatment system 10 according to the present disclosure is shown in Figures 15A-22. Water treatment system 210 is substantially similar to water treatment system 10 shown in Figures 1-14 and described herein. Accordingly, like reference numbers in the 200 series indicate features that are common between water treatment system 10 and water treatment system 210. The description of water treatment system 10 is incorporated by reference as it applies to water treatment system 210, except where it conflicts with the specific description and drawings of water treatment system 210.

[0177] The water treatment system 210 includes a tank 212, a dispenser 214, and a control system 216, as shown in Figures 15A-22. The tank 212 is in fluid communication with the water supply 220 for receiving a flow of water from the water supply 220. The dispenser 214 is coupled to the tank 212 and configured to dispense a water treatment material 224 into a storage reservoir 230 of the tank 212. The control system 216 is configured to generate a water treatment solution 222 in the storage reservoir 230 of the tank 212, and to dispense the water treatment solution 222 from the storage reservoir 230 into the water supply 220.

[0178] The tank 212, as shown in Figures 15A-22, includes a tank housing 226 and a cartridge mount 228 coupled to the tank housing 226. The tank housing 226 is formed to define a storage reservoir 230. The cartridge mount 228 is formed to include a transfer passageway 232P in fluid communication with the storage reservoir 230. The passageway 232P defines an inlet opening 232 disposed to communicate with the passageway 232P.

[0179] The cartridge mount 228 is configured to receive the dispenser 214, as shown in Figures 17, 32, and 33. The cartridge mount 228 and the dispenser 214 cooperate to dispense the water treatment material 224 into the storage reservoir 230 during refilling of the tank 212.

[0180] The cartridge mount 228 and dispenser 214 are configured to change between a sealed configuration (as shown in Figures 17, 36, and 38) and an unsealed configuration (as shown in Figures 18-20, 37, and 39). In the sealed configuration, the water treatment solution 224 in the dispenser 214 is blocked from flowing through the passageway 232P to the storage reservoir 230. In the unsealed configuration, the water treatment solution 224 in the dispenser 214 can flow through the passageway 232P to the storage reservoir 230.

[0181] The cartridge mount 228 includes a cartridge mount housing 233, a gate 234, and a gate controller 235, as shown in FIGS. 27-39. The cartridge mount housing 233 is coupled to the tank housing 226 and is formed to include a transfer passage 232P in fluid communication with the storage reservoir 230 of the tank housing 226. The gate 234 is mounted within the passage 232P of the cartridge mount housing 233. The gate 234 is configured to change between a closed position (as shown in FIG. 28) that blocks access to the storage reservoir 230 and an open position (as shown in FIG. 29) that allows access to the storage reservoir 230 through the tank opening 232 and the passage 232P. The gate controller 235 is configured to control movement of the gate 234 between the closed position and the open position.

[0182] The gate 234 is in a closed position when the cartridge mount 228 and dispenser 214 are in a sealed configuration, as shown in Figures 32-36. In the closed position, the gate 234 closes the tank opening 232 and blocks access to the storage reservoir 230 through the passageway 232P.

[0183] The gate 234 is in an open position when the cartridge mount 228 and dispenser 214 are in an unsealed configuration, as shown in Figure 37. In the open position, the gate 234 has moved to allow access to the storage reservoir 230 through the tank opening 232 and passageway 232P.

[0184] Cartridge mount housing 233 includes a dispensing system receiver 237 and a conduit 239, as shown in Figures 27-39. Dispensing system receiver 237 is adapted to receive an end of cartridge 236 with dispensing system 240. Conduit 239 is positioned to extend between and interconnect receiver 237 and tank housing 226. Conduit 239 is formed to include inlet opening 232 and transfer passage 232P.

[0185] In an exemplary embodiment, the cartridge mount housing 233 further includes a grid 241, as shown in Figures 27, 30, and 31. The grid 241 is disposed between the receiver 237 and the conduit 239 via the opening 232 to divide the opening 232 into a plurality of smaller openings. The plurality of smaller openings assists in distributing the water treatment material 224 across the opening 232 and the passageways 232P.

[0186] The gate 234 is mounted in the passage 232P of the conduit 239 to control the flow of the water treatment material 224 through the passage 232P and into the storage reservoir 230. In an exemplary embodiment, the gate 234 is a butterfly valve, as shown in Figures 28 and 29. In other embodiments, the gate 234 can be another suitable valve.

[0187] The gate controller 235 includes a shaft 243, a gear 245, and a gear ring 247, as shown in FIGS. 27-39. The shaft 243 extends through the conduit 239 along a shaft axis 243A and is configured to rotate about the shaft axis 243A. The gate 234 is coupled to the shaft 243 for rotating therewith about the axis 243A. The gear 245 is coupled to an end of the shaft 243 outside the conduit 239 for rotating therewith. The gear ring 247 is coupled to the mount housing 233 and is configured to rotate relative to the mount housing 233 about a cartridge axis 249 (also referred to as a rotation axis 249) perpendicular to the shaft axis 243A.

[0188] The gear ring 247 is configured to rotate about the cartridge axis 249 between a first position (as shown in FIGS. 28 and 30) and a second position (as shown in FIGS. 29 and 31). In the first position, the gate 234 is in a closed position. In the second position, the gate 234 is in an open position.

[0189] When gear 245 is formed to define teeth 245T that mate with teeth 247T formed on gear ring 247, movement of gear ring 247 drives movement of gear 245, as shown in Figures 28-31. Rotating gear ring 247 about cartridge axis 249 in a first direction from a first position to a second position rotates gear 245 about axis 243A in a first rotational direction, as shown in Figures 28-31. Rotation of gear 245 in the first rotational direction drives rotation of shaft 243 to change gate 234 from a closed position to an open position.

[0190] Conversely, rotating gear ring 247 about cartridge axis 249 in a second direction from the second position back to the first position, i.e., the direction opposite to the first direction, rotates gear 245 about axis 243A in a second rotational direction. The second rotational direction is opposite to the first rotational direction. Rotation of gear 245 in the second rotational direction drives rotation of shaft 243 to change gate 234 from an open position to a closed position.

[0191] In the exemplary embodiment, when the dispenser 214 is inserted into the dispensing system receiver 237 of the cartridge mount housing 233, the dispenser 214 engages with a gear ring 247 of the gate controller 235. In this manner, rotation of the dispenser 214 in either a first direction or a second direction causes the gear ring 247 to rotate about the cartridge axis 249.

[0192] For example, when the dispenser 214 rotates in a first direction, the rotation of the dispenser 214 causes the gear ring 247 to rotate with the dispenser 214 in the first direction from a first position to a second position. This in turn drives the rotation of the gear 245 and thus the gate 234 to rotate about the axis 243A in the first rotational direction from a closed position to an open position.

[0193] When the dispenser 214 rotates in the second direction, the rotation of the dispenser 214 causes the gear ring 247 to rotate with the dispenser 214 in the second direction from the second position to the first position. This in turn drives the rotation of the gear 245 and thus the gate 234 to rotate about the axis 243A in the second rotational direction from the open position to the closed position.

[0194] By linking the dispenser 214 to the gate controller 235, the transfer passage 232P is closed by the gate 234 as soon as the dispenser 214 is not inserted into the cartridge mount housing 233. In this way, the user cannot access the storage reservoir 230. In addition, the cartridge mount hose 233 and the gate controller 235 cooperate to block removal of the dispenser 214 from the dispensing system receiver 237 when the gear ring 247 is in the second position. This prevents any of the materials and / or liquids therein from coming into contact with the user during refilling.

[0195] Turning again to the dispenser 214, the dispenser 214 includes a cartridge 236, a cap 238, and a dispensing system 240, as shown in Figures 23-26A. The cartridge 236 is shaped to define an interior storage area 246 configured to store the water treatment material 224. The cap 238 is coupled to the cartridge 236 to couple the dispensing system 240 to the cartridge 236. The dispensing system 240 is configured to block any water treatment material 224 from exiting the cartridge 236. The dispensing system 240 is configured to control the dispensing of the water treatment material 224 from the cartridge 236.

[0196] The cartridge 236 includes a body 242 and a neck 244, as shown in Figures 24, 38, and 39. The body 242 is formed to include an interior storage area 246 that stores the water treatment material 224. The neck 244 is coupled to the body 242 and is formed to include an opening 248 disposed to communicate with the interior storage area 246. In the illustrative embodiment, the dispensing system 240 is configured to control the dispensing of the water treatment material 224 through the opening 248 in the neck 244 of the cartridge 236.

[0197] Dispensing system 240 includes an upper valve 251 and a lower valve 253, as shown in Figures 23A-26A. Upper valve 251 is coupled to neck 244 of cartridge 236 and is disposed above an opening 248 formed by neck 244 of cartridge 236. Lower valve 253 is coupled to upper valve 251 on the opposite side of cartridge 236 at pivot point 240P. Cap 255 extends above upper valve 251 and lower valve 253 and is coupled to neck 244 of cartridge 236.

[0198] The upper valve 251 and the lower valve 253 are each formed to include a plurality of openings 255, 257, as shown in Figures 23A-26A. The upper valve 251 is formed to include a plurality of upper openings 255 that are circumferentially spaced apart about the cartridge axis 249. The lower valve 253 is formed to include a plurality of lower openings 257 that are circumferentially spaced apart about the cartridge axis 249.

[0199] Typically, the upper valve 251 and the lower valve 253 are fixed or locked relative to one another in a closed orientation, as shown in Figures 23A and 38. In the closed orientation, an opening 257 formed in the lower valve 253 is offset from an opening 255 formed in the upper valve 251 such that the multiple openings 255, 257 of each valve 251, 253 are covered to prevent the water treatment material 224 from exiting the cartridge 236.

[0200] However, the lower valve 253 is configured to rotate relative to the upper valve 251, cartridge 236, and cap 238 about the cartridge axis 249 into an open orientation, as shown in Figures 23B and 39. In the open orientation, the lower opening 257 of the lower valve 253 is aligned with the upper opening 255 of the upper valve 251 to allow the water treatment material 224 to flow out of the cartridge 236.

[0201] To dispense the water treatment material 224, the cartridge 236 is inserted into the dispensing system receiver 237 of the cartridge mount 228, as shown in Figures 32 and 33. Insertion of the cartridge 236 into the dispensing system receiver 237 unlocks the lower valve 253 from the upper valve 251 to allow the lower valve 253 to rotate about the cartridge axis 249. Rotation of the cartridge 236 in a first direction changes the lower valve 251 from a closed orientation to an open orientation. In this manner, the lower opening 255 of the upper valve 251 is aligned with the lower opening 257 of the lower valve 253 to allow the water treatment material 224 to flow out of the cartridge 236.

[0202] As discussed above, the dispenser 214 cooperates with the gate controller 235 of the cartridge mount 228 to control the dispensing of the water treatment material 224 into the tank housing 226, as shown in Figures 36-39. In the sealed configuration, the gate 234 is in a closed position, the gear ring 247 of the gate controller 235 is in a first position, and the dispensing system 240 is in a closed orientation to prevent any water treatment material 224 from being dispensed into the storage reservoir 230. In the non-sealed configuration, the gate 234 is in an open position, the gear ring 247 of the gate controller 235 is in a second position, and the dispensing system 240 is in an open orientation to allow the water treatment material to be dispensed into the storage reservoir 230. In the non-sealed configuration, the dispenser 214 is also blocked from axial movement along the cartridge axis 249 relative to the cartridge mount 228.

[0203] The upper valve 251 further includes a body 282, an engagement flange 283, and a spring arm 284, as shown in Figures 25 and 25A. The body 282 is formed to include a plurality of upper openings 255. The engagement flange 283 extends radially away from the body 282 on an opposite side of the body 282 relative to the cartridge axis 249. The spring arm 284 extends from the body 282 and is configured to bias axially relative to the cartridge axis 249.

[0204] In the exemplary embodiment, each spring arm 284 is formed to include a locking pin 284P that extends axially relative to the cartridge axis 249, as shown in Figures 25 and 25A. Each of the locking pins 284P is formed on an end 284E of the spring arm 284.

[0205] In the exemplary embodiment, the neck 244 of the cartridge 236 has a notch 244N and the cap 238 has a notch 238N for the engagement flange 283 to extend through the cartridge 236, as shown in Figure 24. In this manner, when the top valve 251 is placed in the opening 248, the engagement flange 283 extends through the cartridge.

[0206] The lower valve 253 further includes a planar body 286, an alignment pin 287, and a guide slot 288, as shown in Figures 26 and 26A. The planar body 286 is formed to include a plurality of lower openings 257. The alignment pin 287 extends from a lower surface 286S of the planar body 286 away from the upper valve 251. The guide slots 288 extend axially through the planar body 286 relative to the cartridge axis 249 and extend circumferentially at least partway around the axis 249. Each of the guide slots 288 is configured to receive a lock pin 284P of a corresponding spring arm 284 of the upper valve 251 to secure the upper valve 251 and the lower valve 253 relative to one another.

[0207] In the exemplary embodiment, each of the guide slots 288 has a counterbore 288B at one end of the guide slot 288, as shown in Figures 26 and 26A. The counterbore 288B has a diameter 288D2 that is larger than the diameter 288D1 of the slot 288, as shown in Figure 26A.

[0208] In the exemplary embodiment, the locking pin 284P has two diameters, as shown in FIG. 25A. The first diameter D1 is equal to the diameter 288D1 of the slot 288. The second diameter D2 is equal to the diameter 288D2 of the counterbore 288D. In this way, when the locking pin 284P is located in the counterbore 288D, the locking pin 284P blocks rotation of the dispensing system between the open and closed orientations because the locking pin 284P, having the larger diameter D2, cannot fit into the guide slot 288.

[0209] However, when the spring arm 284 is biased from the locked position to the unlocked position, the portion of the locking pin 284P having the larger diameter D2 is moved out of the counterbore 288B and the portion of the locking pin 284 having the smaller diameter D1 is within the guide slot 288. Thus, the dispensing system can freely change between the open and closed orientations.

[0210] The dispensing system receiver 237 is molded to include flange receiving slots 290, alignment pin holes 291, and ribs 292, as shown in Figures 30, 31, and 34A. Each of the flange receiving slots 290 is configured to receive a corresponding mating flange 283 of the upper valve 251. A portion of the flange receiving slots 290 is configured to align with a notch 247N formed in the gear ring 247 of the gate controller 235 when the gear ring 247 is in a first position. Each of the alignment pin holes 291 is configured to receive a corresponding alignment pin 287 of the lower valve 253. Each of the ribs 292 is configured to extend into a corresponding slot 288 of the lower valve 253.

[0211] The end of the cartridge 236 with the dispensing system 240 can be inserted into the cartridge mount 228 when the cartridge mount 228 and the dispenser 214 are in a sealed configuration. Before the dispensing system 240 is inserted into the cartridge mount 228, the lower valve 253 is locked with respect to the upper valve 251 and prevented from rotating with respect to the upper valve 251, as shown in Figures 32, 34, and 34A.

[0212] 33, when the dispensing system 240 is inserted into the cartridge mount 228, the engagement flange 283 extends into the flange receiving slot 290 and into the notch 247N. At the same time, the alignment pin 287 extends into the alignment pin hole 291 to block the rotation of the lower valve 253.

[0213] Additionally, rib 292 extends into spring arm slot 288 simultaneously as dispensing system 240 is inserted into cartridge mount 228, as shown in Figures 34-35A. As rib 292 extends into corresponding spring arm slot 288, rib 292 engages locking pin 284P of spring arm 284. This causes spring arm 284 to bias and disengage lower valve 253 such that lower valve 253 is unlocked from upper valve 251 and is free to rotate relative to upper valve 251, as shown in Figures 35 and 35A.

[0214] In the exemplary embodiment, the flange receiving slot 290 extends partially axially into the dispensing system receiver 237 and partially circumferentially around the axis 249, as shown in Figures 29 and 37. When the gear ring 247 is in the first position, the notch 247N is aligned with the axis portion 290A of the flange receiving slot 290 such that the engagement flange 283 may extend into the flange receiving slot 290 and notch 247N, as shown in Figure 36.

[0215] As the cartridge 236 is then rotated in a first direction, the engagement flange 290 moves along the circumferential portion 290C of the flange receiving slot 290, as shown in FIG. 37. At the same time, the engagement flange 290 engages the gear ring 247 in the notch 247N, causing the gear ring 247 to rotate about the axis 249 in the first direction to a second position. Thus, the dispensing system receiver 237 engages the engagement flange 290 of the dispensing system 240 to block axial movement of the dispenser 214 along the axis 249 and prevent removal of the dispenser 214 while the cartridge mount 228 and dispenser 214 are in the unsealed configuration.

[0216] The control system 216 includes an input device 262 in fluid communication with the storage reservoir 230 and the water supply 20, and a controller 264 coupled to the input device 262, as shown in Figures 15A-22. The input device 262 is in fluid communication with an input line 267 located in the storage reservoir 230 of the tank 212. The input device 262 is configured to input the water treatment solution 222 into the water supply 220. The controller 264 is configured to instruct the input device 262 to input a predetermined amount of the water treatment solution 222 into the water supply 220, such that the water treatment solution 222 reacts with hard minerals in the water supply 220, thereby reducing water hardness.

[0217] In the exemplary embodiment, the input line 267 has a protective housing 267H and a screen filter 267S, as shown in Figures 15A-22. The protective housing 267 surrounds the input line 267. The screen filter 267S is coupled to the end of the input line 267 at the bottom of the storage reservoir 230 to prevent other materials that may have somehow entered the tank 212 from flowing through the input line 267 to the input device 262.

[0218] The control system 216 further includes an inlet valve 266, sensors 270, 272, a mixer 274, and a cartridge mount lock 276, as shown in FIGS. 15A-22. The valve 266 controls the flow of water into the storage reservoir 230. The sensors 270, 272 are configured to detect aspects of the system 210 and provide feedback to the controller 264. The mixer 274 is located in the storage reservoir 230. The mixer 274 is configured to mix the water treatment solution 222 in the storage reservoir 230 to prevent the water treatment solution 220 from settling in the storage reservoir 230. The cartridge mount lock 276 is coupled to the cartridge mount 228 and configured to block rotation of the gate controller 235 when the dispenser 214 is not inserted into the dispensing system receiver 237 of the cartridge mount 228.

[0219] In an exemplary embodiment, the control system 216 further includes an ultraviolet light 271, as shown in FIG 15C. The ultraviolet light 271 is located within the storage reservoir 230 and is coupled to the controller 264. The ultraviolet light 271 is configured to emit ultraviolet light within the storage reservoir 230 to kill microorganisms (e.g., bacteria, fungi, yeast, etc.) within the storage reservoir 230.

[0220] In other embodiments, the control system 216 may not include the ultraviolet light 271. Depending on the concentration level of the water treatment solution 222, the ultraviolet light 271 may not be required to kill in the storage reservoir 230. If a lower concentration of the water treatment solution 222 is used to prime the feedwater source 220, ultraviolet light may be required to kill microorganisms in the storage reservoir 230.

[0221] The sensors 270, 272 include a level sensor 270 and a cartridge sensor 272, as shown in Figures 15A-22. The level sensor 270 and the cartridge sensor 272 are each coupled to the controller 264. The level sensor 270 is located within the storage reservoir 230 and is configured to measure a fill level 230A-230G of the water treatment solution 222 within the storage reservoir 230. The cartridge sensor 272 is coupled to the cartridge mount 228 and is configured to detect whether the dispenser 214 is coupled to the cartridge mount 228.

[0222] In an exemplary embodiment, the cartridge sensor 272 is an RFID sensor. The dispenser 214 includes an RFID tag, and the sensor 272 is configured to detect the RFID tag on the dispenser 214 and provide feedback to the controller 264 when a new dispenser 214 is inserted into the cartridge mount 228.

[0223] In other embodiments, the cartridge sensor 272 may be another suitable sensor, such as a pressure sensor. The pressure sensor may be configured in some embodiments to detect the weight of the dispenser 214. In other embodiments, the pressure sensor may be a spring / level system configured to depress / disengage in response to the weight of the dispenser 214, allowing the dispenser 214 to rotate.

[0224] The level sensor 270 is configured to measure multiple fill levels of the tank 212, as shown in FIG. 15C. The level sensor 270 is configured to measure the maximum capacity of the reservoir 230 having the water treatment solution 222, i.e., fill level 230B. The level sensor 270 is configured to measure when the tank 212 is at about 97% / 96.7% of the maximum capacity of the reservoir 230, i.e., fill level 230A. The level sensor 270 is configured to measure when the tank 212 is at about 75% of the maximum capacity of the reservoir 230, i.e., fill level 230E. The level sensor 270 is configured to measure when the tank 212 is at about 50% of the maximum capacity of the reservoir 230, i.e., fill level 230F. The level sensor 270 is configured to measure when the tank 212 is at about 25% of the maximum capacity of the reservoir 230, i.e., fill level 230G. The level sensor 270 is configured to measure when the tank 212 is at approximately 3% / 2.7% of the maximum capacity of the reservoir 230, i.e., fill level 230D. The level sensor 270 is configured to measure when the tank 212 is at approximately 0% of the maximum capacity of the reservoir 230, i.e., fill level 230C.

[0225] The cartridge mount lock 276 is coupled to the controller 264, as shown in Figures 17-19, and is configured to change between a locked position and an unlocked position based on feedback from the cartridge sensor 272. The cartridge mount lock 276 is normally in the locked position to block rotation of the gate controller 235 when the cartridge sensor 272 fails to detect the RFID tag of the dispenser 214. This may mean that the dispenser 214 is not inserted in the cartridge mount 228 or that a counterfeit cartridge may be inserted. This prevents undesired material from being dispensed into the tank 212.

[0226] When the cartridge sensor 272 detects the RFID tag of the dispenser 214, the controller 264 instructs the cartridge mount lock 276 to change from a locked position to an unlocked position. In the unlocked position, the cartridge mount lock 276 is spaced away from the gate controller 235 so that the gate controller 235 is free to rotate to allow the user to dispense the water treatment material 224.

[0227] Inlet valve 266 is coupled to tank inlet conduit 265 such that valve 266 is in fluid communication with water supply 220 and storage reservoir 230, as shown in Figures 15B-22. Valve 266 is in fluid communication with fill conduit 265F and flush conduit 269. Both fill conduit 265F and flush conduit 269 are in fluid communication with storage reservoir 230.

[0228] The valve 266 is configured to control the flow of water to the fill conduit 265F and / or the flush conduit 269. The fill conduit 265F is unrestricted to quickly fill the storage reservoir 230 of the tank 212. The flush conduit 269 has a spray nozzle 269N such that when water is directed through the flush conduit 269, the water is sprayed by the nozzle 269N to flush the storage reservoir 230 of residual water treatment solution 222 between refills of the tank 212.

[0229] The valve 266 is configured to change between a fully closed position, a fill position, and a flush position. In the fully closed position, the valve 266 blocks the flow of water through the fill conduit 265F and the flush conduit 269 to prevent water from being added to the storage reservoir 230, as shown in FIG. 17. In the fill position, the valve 266 directs the flow of water through the fill conduit 265F and blocks the flow of water through the fill conduit 265F, as shown in FIG. 16. In the flush position, the valve 266 directs the flow of water through the flush conduit 269 and blocks the flow of water through the fill conduit 265F, as shown in FIG. 21.

[0230] In the exemplary embodiment, the inlet valve 266 is a solenoid valve 266. The controller 264 is configured to command the valve 266 to change between a fully closed position, a fill position, and a flush position based on the mode of the system 210. The controller 264 is configured to command the inlet valve 266 to change between a restrictive position, a fill position, and a flush position, and to vary the flow of water into the storage reservoir 30 based on the fill levels 230A-230G measured by the fill sensors 270.

[0231] The system 210 is similar to the system 10 of FIGS. 1-14 in that the system 210 is configured to operate in three different modes: a fill mode 1100 (as shown in FIGS. 16-19), a treatment mode 1200 (as shown in FIG. 20), and a flush mode 1300 (as shown in FIGS. 21 and 22). The fill mode 1100 is when the reservoir of water treatment solution 222 in the tank 212 needs to be replenished. The treatment mode 1200 is when water treatment solution 222 is introduced into the water supply 220. The flush mode 1300 is after the reservoir of water treatment solution 222 has been depleted and prior to the fill mode 1100 in order to flush out any remaining fluid in the storage reservoir 230 and clean the tank 212. The stages 1100, 1200, 1300 are repeated to refill the water treatment solution reservoir as soon as it is depleted.

[0232] The fill mode 1100 includes three stages: a first stage 1100A (as shown in FIG. 16), a second stage 1100B (as shown in FIG. 17), a third stage 1100C (as shown in FIG. 18), and a fourth stage 1100D (as shown in FIG. 19). In the first stage 1100A of the fill mode 1100, the storage reservoir 230 is empty and the controller 264 directs the inlet valve 266 to change to the fill position to allow a first flow 220A of water from the water supply 220 through the fill conduit 265F into the tank 212. The inlet valve 266 remains in the fill position until the fill sensor 270 detects a first predetermined fill level 230A in the storage reservoir 230. When the fill sensor 270 detects a first predetermined fill level 230A in the storage reservoir 230, the controller 264 instructs the inlet valve 266 to change to a fully closed position.

[0233] In the second stage 1100B of the fill mode 1100, the user is instructed to replace the old empty dispenser 214 with a new full dispenser 214 containing the water treatment material 224, i.e., citric acid powder, to be added to the tank 212. To do so, the user may need to remove the old empty dispenser 214 from the cartridge mount 228. To remove the old empty dispenser 214, the cartridge 236 rotates in a second direction to move the gate controller 235 to a first position, which moves the gate 234 to a closed position. At the same time, the rotation of the cartridge 236 changes the dispensing system 240 to a closed orientation. When the gate controller 235 is in the first position, the dispensing system 240 is free to be removed from the cartridge mount 228.

[0234] The user then inserts a new, full dispenser 214 into the cartridge mount 228 for dispensing. To insert the dispenser 214, the user must align the alignment pin 287 with the alignment pin hole 291 in the dispensing system receiver 237. This simultaneously aligns the engagement flange 283 with the flange receiving slot 290 so that the new, full dispenser 214 may be inserted into the dispensing system receiver 237 of the cartridge mount 228, as shown in FIGS.

[0235] Upon inserting the dispenser 214, the cartridge sensor 272 determines whether the dispenser 214 is coupled to the cartridge mount 228 by detecting the RFID tag of the dispenser 214. If the sensor 272 detects the RFID tag of the dispenser 214, the controller 264 instructs the cartridge mount lock 276 to move to an unlocked position so that the gate controller 235 is free to rotate and the water treatment material 224 is ready to be dispensed.

[0236] In a third stage 1100C of the fill mode 1100, the user is instructed to add water treatment material 224 to the storage reservoir 230 by rotating the dispenser 214 causing the cartridge mount 228 and dispenser 214 to change from a sealed configuration to an unsealed configuration, as shown in Figure 18. After inserting the dispenser 214, the user applies a downward axial force that partially deflects the spring arm 284 from the guide slot 288, thereby unlocking the lower valve 253 from the upper valve 251, as shown in Figures 34-35A.

[0237] Then, while still applying the downward axial force, the user rotates the dispenser 214 in a first direction, as shown in Figures 36 and 37. Rotating the dispenser 214 in the first direction causes the cartridge mount 228 and the dispenser 214 to change from a sealed configuration to a non-sealed configuration, allowing the water treatment material to be dispensed into the storage reservoir 230. In other words, the gearing 247 of the gate controller 235 changes to a second position causing the gate 234 to change to an open position and the dispensing system 240 to change to an open orientation.

[0238] In an exemplary embodiment, the controller 264 instructs the cartridge mount lock 276 to move to a locked position such that the gate controller 235 is blocked from rotation, thereby blocking rotation of the dispenser 214 while the water treatment material 224 is being dispensed. In some embodiments, rotation of the dispenser 214 moves the cartridge mount lock 276 back to the locked position, thereby blocking rotation of the dispenser 214.

[0239] Once the water treatment material 224 is dispensed into the storage reservoir 230, the fill sensor 270 detects a second predetermined fill level 230B in the storage reservoir 230. In an exemplary embodiment, when the fill sensor 270 detects the second predetermined fill level 230B in the storage reservoir 230, the dispenser 214 should be empty.

[0240] When the fill sensor 270 detects the second predetermined fill level 230B in the storage reservoir 230, the controller 264 indicates that the system 210 is in the fourth stage 1100D, or mixing cycle of the fill mode 1100, as shown in Figure 19. During the fourth stage 1100D, the controller 264 instructs the mixer 274 to change from the off mode to the on mode. In the on mode, the motor 274M coupled to the mixer 274 is instructed to mix the water and the water treatment material 224 to completely dissolve the water treatment material 224 in the water to generate the water treatment solution 222.

[0241] In the exemplary embodiment, the mixer 274 includes an agitator 274A that extends into the storage reservoir 230, as shown in Figure 15C. The agitator 274A is supported by a bearing 274B that is coupled to the bottom of the tank housing 226.

[0242] The controller 264 executes the fourth stage 1100D or mixing cycle for a predetermined mixing period, in an exemplary embodiment, the predetermined mixing period is about 3 minutes or more.

[0243] Upon completion of the fourth stage 1100D of the fill mode 1100, the controller 264 instructs the cartridge mount lock 276 to move to the unlocked position to release and remove the dispenser 214, and the controller 264 indicates that the system 210 is now in the process mode 1100B. The user is then instructed to remove the dispenser 214, and the controller 64 instructs the system 10 to begin the process mode 1200.

[0244] In treatment mode 1200, controller 264 directs dosing device 262 to dose a predetermined amount of water treatment solution 222 into water supply 220. Controller 264 directs dosing device 262 to dose a predetermined amount of water treatment solution 222 at a predetermined flow rate based on the water flow rate through conduit 221. Dosing device 262 is configured to detect the water flow rate and dosing the predetermined amount of water treatment solution 222 at a proportional flow rate based on the water flow rate. Dosing device 262 is configured to change the dosing rate in response to changes in the water flow rate.

[0245] The processing mode 1200 ends when the fill sensor 270 detects a third predetermined fill level 230C in the storage reservoir 230, corresponding to the reservoir 230 being depleted or empty. The controller 264 then initiates the flush mode 1300, as shown in Figures 20 and 21.

[0246] The flush mode 1300 includes two stages, a first stage 1300A and a second stage 1300B, as shown in Figures 20 and 21. In the first stage 1300A of the flush mode 1300, the controller 264 instructs the valve 266 to change to a flush position, as shown in Figure 20. In the flush position, the valve 266 directs the second flow of water 220B through the flush conduit 269 into the reservoir 230 to flush the tank 212 after a third predetermined fill level is detected by the fill sensor 270.

[0247] The first valve 266 remains in the flush position until the fill sensor 270 detects the fourth predetermined fill level 230D. When the fill sensor 270 detects the first predetermined fill level 30A, the controller 264 instructs the first valve 266 to change to the fully closed position, as shown in FIG. 21, thereby triggering the second stage 1300B of the flush mode 1300.

[0248] In the second stage 1300B of the flush mode 1300B, as shown in Figure 21, the controller 264 directs the dosing device 262 to continuously dosing fluid in the reservoir 230 into the water supply 220. The dosing device 262 dosing fluid in the reservoir 230 into the water supply 220 to empty the reservoir 230 for refilling with the water treatment solution 222.

[0249] The second stage 1300B ends when the fill level sensor 270 detects the third predetermined fill level 230C. Once the third predetermined fill level 230C is detected, the controller 264 directs the valve 266 to the fill position to refill the tank 212 and signals the user to begin the fill mode 1100.

[0250] In an exemplary embodiment, the control system 216 includes a user interface 277, as shown in Figure 40. The user interface 277 is coupled to the controller 264 and is configured to receive input from a user. The user interface 277 indicates to the user when the system 210 is in each of the different modes 1100, 1200, 1300 and provides instructions to the user via sounds, lights, digital displays, or other similar communication means to indicate that treatment is required or in progress.

[0251] 40, includes an input system 278, an output system 279 coupled to the input system 278, and a communication unit 280 coupled to the input system 278 and the output system 279. Both the input system 278 and the output system 279 are coupled to the controller 264 for receiving and transmitting information to the controller 264. The communication unit 280 is coupled to the controller 264 and the input system 278 and the output system 279, and is configured to receive and transmit information to a wireless device, such as a smartphone, a tablet, a computer, or another suitable device.

[0252] In an exemplary embodiment, the user interface 277 includes a QR code 277Q, as shown in Figure 40. The QR code 277Q is configured to be scanned by a user using a wireless device, such as a smartphone, tablet, computer, or another suitable device. This allows the user to access apps for the wireless device and link the system 210 to a user profile. The system 210 is given a specific device ID as part of the user profile setup.

[0253] The input system 278 is configured to provide input from a user through a button, a sensor, a combination thereof, or any suitable alternative. In an exemplary embodiment, the input system is a fill button 278B that, when pressed by a user, instructs the controller 264 to initiate the fill mode 1100. In other embodiments, the input system 278 may be a button on an app that allows the user to control the system 210. In some embodiments, the fill button 278 is configured to emit a constant or flashing light.

[0254] The output system 279 is configured to provide instructions or information to a user. The output system 279 includes a set of fill level visual indicators 270A, 270B, 270C, 270D and a set of status visual indicators 279A, 279B, 279C, 279D, 279E, as shown in Fig. 40. The fill level visual indicators 270A, 270B, 270C, 270D correspond to the fill level markers of the level sensor 270. The visual indicators 270A, 270B, 270C, 270D, 279A, 279B, 279D, 279E are LED lights in the exemplary embodiment.

[0255] The fill level visual indicators 270A, 270B, 270C, 270D are configured to receive a signal from the sensor 270 corresponding to the fill levels 230A-230E of the storage reservoirs 230. Based on the fill levels 30A-30E of the reservoirs 230, the visual indicators 270A, 270B, 270C, 270D emit a light indicative of the fill levels 30A-30E of the reservoirs 30.

[0256] In an exemplary embodiment, the fill level visual indicators 270A, 270B, 270C, 270D include a first fill level indicator 270A, a second fill level indicator 270B, a third fill level indicator 270C, and a fourth fill level indicator 270D, as shown in FIG. 40. The first fill level indicator 270A indicates when the storage reservoir 230 is filled with the water treatment solution 222 to the maximum capacity of the reservoir 230. The second fill level indicator 270B indicates when the storage reservoir 230 contains about 75% of the maximum capacity of the reservoir 230. The third fill level indicator 270C indicates when the storage reservoir 230 contains about 50% of the maximum capacity of the reservoir 230. The fourth fill level indicator 270D indicates when the storage reservoir 230 contains about 25% of the maximum capacity of the reservoir 230. In the exemplary embodiment, the fourth fill level indicator 270D is configured to change to indicate when the storage reservoir 230 contains approximately 0% of the reservoir's 230 maximum capacity.

[0257] The controller 264 is configured to instruct the first fill level indicator 270A to be turned on when the fill level sensor 270 detects a second predetermined fill level 230B, i.e. 100% of the maximum capacity of the storage reservoir 230. The controller 264 is configured to instruct the first fill level indicator 270A to be turned off and the second fill level indicator 270B to be turned on when the fill level sensor 270 detects a fifth predetermined fill level 230E, i.e. 75% of the maximum capacity of the storage reservoir 230. The controller 264 is configured to instruct the second fill level indicator 270B to be turned off and the third fill level indicator 270C to be turned on when the fill level sensor 270 detects a sixth predetermined fill level 230F, i.e. 50% of the maximum capacity of the storage reservoir 30. The controller 264 is configured to instruct the third fill level indicator 270C to be turned off and the fourth fill level indicator 270D to be turned on when the fill level sensor 270 detects a seventh predetermined fill level 230G, i.e. 25% of the maximum capacity of the storage reservoir 30. The controller 264 is configured to change the fourth fill level indicator 270D when the fill level sensor detects the third predetermined fill level 230C, i.e. 0% of the maximum capacity of the storage reservoir 230.

[0258] When the controller 264 commands one of the fill level indicators 270A, 270B, 270C, 270D to be turned on, the corresponding indicator 270A, 270B, 270C, 270D is configured to emit a light to the user. In some embodiments, the indicators 270A, 270B, 270C, 270D may emit a constant light. In other embodiments, the indicators 270A, 270B, 270C, 270D may emit a flashing light. For example, the fourth level indicator 270D may change from a constant light to a flashing light when the controller 264 fill level sensor 270 detects a change from the seventh predetermined fill level 230G to the third predetermined fill level 230C.

[0259] In some embodiments, the fill level indicators 270A, 270B, 270C, 270D may emit light having the same color, in other embodiments, the fill level indicators 270A, 270B, 270C, 270D may emit light having different colors, or some of the indicators 270A, 270B, 270C, 270D may be the same color while some of the others are different colors.

[0260] The status visual indicators 279A, 279B, 279C, 279D, 279E are coupled to the controller 264 and are configured to indicate a stage of the system 10. The status visual indicators include a fill indicator 279A, a replace cartridge indicator 279B, a mix indicator 279C, a process mode indicator 279D, and a flush mode indicator 279E, as shown in Figure 40. Each of the indicators 279A, 279B, 279C, 279D, 279E is directed by the controller 264 to emit a light to indicate to a user the mode of the system 210.

[0261] In an exemplary embodiment, the controller 264 directs each of the indicators 279A, 279B, 279C, 279D, and 279E to emit a blinking light when turned on. In other embodiments, each of the indicators 279A, 279B, 279C, 279D, and 279E is configured to emit a continuous light when directed to be turned on by the controller 264.

[0262] In some embodiments, the indicators 279A, 279B, 279C, 279D, 279E may emit light having the same color, in other embodiments, the indicators 279A, 279B, 279C, 279D, 279E may emit light having different colors, or some of the indicators 279A, 279B, 279C, 279D, 279E may be the same color while some of the others are different colors.

[0263] After the user scans the QR code 277Q to configure the system 210, the communication unit may emit a sound to the user indicating that it is time to add a new dispenser 214. When the fill button 278 emits a flashing light, the user is prompted to press the fill button 278B. Additionally, the app may send a notification to the user to insert the new dispenser 214.

[0264] The fill indicator 279A is configured to emit a light when the system 210 is in the first stage 1100A of the fill mode 1100. When a user presses the fill button 278B, the controller 264 instructs the fill mode indicator 279A to turn on, while the other indicators 279B, 279C, 279D, 279E are instructed to remain off.

[0265] When the system 210 enters the third stage 1100C of the fill mode 1100, the controller 264 instructs the replace cartridge indicator 279B to turn on and the fill indicator 279A to turn off. The user then inserts the dispenser 214 into the cartridge mount 228 and the cartridge sensor 272 detects the RFID tag of the dispenser 214. The controller 264 then instructs the cartridge mount lock 276 to change to an unlocked mode so that the user can rotate the dispenser 214 to dispense the water treatment material 224.

[0266] Upon completion of the third stage 1100C of the fill mode 1100, the controller 264 instructs the replacement cartridge indicator 279B to be turned off and instructs the mixing indicator 279C to be turned on. Upon completion of the fourth stage 1100D, the controller 264 instructs the mixing indicator 279C to be turned off and instructs the process mode indicator 279D to be turned on. The process mode indicator 279D remains on until the fill sensor 270 detects the third predetermined fill level 230C and the flush mode 1300 is initiated.

[0267] Once the flash mode 1300 is initiated, the controller 264 commands the process mode indicator 279D to be turned off and commands the flash mode indicator 279E to be turned on. The flash mode 1300 is completed as the third predetermined fill level 230C is again detected by the sensor 270. Detection of the third predetermined fill level 230C by the sensor 270 after the flash mode 1300 signals the controller 264 to command the flash mode indicator 279E to be turned off and to command the fill button 278B to emit a flashing light. At the same time, the controller 264 may command the speaker to emit an alarm or noise to inform the user that the storage reservoir 230 is empty and that the fill mode 1100 should be initiated.

[0268] Communications unit 280 is coupled to controller 264 and input system 278 and output system 279, and is configured to use wireless signals to communicate with a user's smartphone, tablet, computer, or another suitable device. The wireless signals may be BLUETOOTH, Wi-Fi, or any suitable alternative.

[0269] Once the fill mode 1100 is completed and the fill level sensor 270 detects the second predetermined fill level 230B, the controller 264 is configured to instruct the communication unit 280 to send a signal via Wi-Fi to the user's wireless device, via a phone app or SMS notification, indicating that the storage reservoir 230 is at a 100% fill level and that the processing mode 1200 is in progress.

[0270] During the treatment mode 1200, when the water treatment solution 222 in the reservoir 230 becomes depleted, the controller 264 is configured to instruct the communication unit 280 to send a signal via Wi-Fi to the user's wireless device indicating the new fill level in the reservoir 230.

[0271] The controller 264 is configured to instruct the communication unit 280 to transmit, via Wi-Fi, a first signal to the user's wireless device indicating that the storage reservoir 230 is at 100% of its maximum capacity when the fill level sensor 270 detects the second predetermined fill level. At the same time, the first fill level indicator 270A is configured to turn on.

[0272] The controller 264 is configured to instruct the communication unit 280 to transmit, via Wi-Fi, a second signal to the user's wireless device indicating that the storage reservoir 230 is at 75% of its maximum capacity when the fill level sensor 70 detects the fifth predetermined fill level 230E. At the same time, the first fill level indicator 270A is configured to be turned off and the second fill level indicator 270B is configured to be turned on.

[0273] The controller 264 is configured to instruct the communication unit 280 to transmit, via Wi-Fi, a third signal to the user's wireless device indicating that the storage reservoir 230 is at 50% of its maximum capacity when the fill level sensor 270 detects the sixth predetermined fill level 230F. At the same time, the second fill level indicator 270B is configured to be turned off and the third fill level indicator 270C is configured to be turned on.

[0274] The controller 264 is configured to instruct the communication unit 280 to transmit, via Wi-Fi, a fourth signal to the user's wireless device indicating that the storage reservoir 230 is at 25% of its maximum capacity when the fill level sensor 270 detects the seventh predetermined fill level 230G. At the same time, the third fill level indicator 270C is configured to be turned off and the fourth fill level indicator 270D is configured to be turned on.

[0275] The controller 264 is configured to instruct the communication unit 280 to send a fifth signal, via Wi-Fi, to the user's wireless device when the fill level sensor 270 detects the third predetermined fill level 230C, indicating that the storage reservoir 230 is at 0% of its maximum capacity. The fifth signal also indicates that the flush mode 1300 is in progress and that a new dispenser 214 is needed. In some embodiments, the controller 264 is configured to send the fifth signal to the business to indicate that a new dispenser 214 should be sent to the user. When the user is ready to begin the fill mode 1100, the steps are repeated to create more water treatment solution 222 in the storage reservoir 230.

[0276] In the exemplary embodiment, the tank 212, the dispenser 214, and the control system 216 are contained within a system housing 218 that is included in the water treatment system 210. The system housing 218 mounts a user interface 277 of the control system 216 such that the user can easily access the user interface 277. The system housing 218 is also configured to limit user access to the tank 212. The system housing 218 encloses the tank 212, the dispenser 214, and the control system 216, as shown in FIG. 15A.

[0277] The water supply 220 is coupled to an inlet 223 and an outlet 225 of a conduit system 221A, 221B contained in the system housing 218. The conduit system 221A, 221B splits into a main line 221A and a fill line 221B. An input 262 is coupled to the main line 221A downstream of the inlet 223. The water supply 220 flows through the inlet 223 and a portion of the flow flows through the input 262 to the main line 221A and then to the outlet 225. When the valve 266 is in one of the fill or flush positions, another portion of the flow flows to the fill line 221B and through the valve 266 to the storage reservoir 230. When the valve 266 is in the fully closed position, the entire flow flows through the main line 221A to the outlet 225.

[0278] 15A, the water treatment system further includes a filter 213. The filter 213 is in fluid communication with the water supply 220. The filter 213 is located upstream of the valve 266 on the fill line 221B.

[0279] In an exemplary embodiment, the water treatment system 210 may further include a bypass conduit 227, as shown in Figure 15A. The flow through the conduits 221, 227 may be controlled using a number of valves.

[0280] In the exemplary embodiment, the water treatment system 210 is coupled to a power source 215. In some embodiments, the power source 215 may be included in the system 10. The power source 215 is configured to provide power to different components of the system 210.

[0281] While the present disclosure has been shown and described in detail in the foregoing drawings and description, it is to be understood that the same is to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive in character, and that only exemplary embodiments thereof have been shown and described, and that all changes and modifications which come within the spirit of the disclosure are desired to be protected.

Claims

1. 1. A water treatment system for treating a water supply source, the water treatment system comprising: a tank in fluid communication with the water supply source for receiving a flow of water from the water supply source, the tank including: a tank housing formed to define a storage reservoir; and a cartridge mount coupled to the tank housing and formed to include a passageway disposed in communication with the storage reservoir; a dispenser configured to be coupled to the cartridge mount of the tank and configured to dispense a water treatment material into the storage reservoir of the tank; a control system configured to generate a water treatment solution in the storage reservoir by combining the water with the water treatment material, and configured to introduce the water treatment solution from the storage reservoir into the water supply; The water treatment system comprises: an input device in fluid communication with the storage reservoir and the water supply source and configured to input the water treatment solution into the water supply source; and a controller coupled to the input device and configured to instruct the input device to input a predetermined amount of the water treatment solution into the water supply source.

2. The dispenser comprises: a cartridge configured to store the water treatment material, the cartridge including: a body formed to include an internal storage area for storing the water treatment material; and a neck coupled to the body and formed to include an opening disposed to communicate with the internal storage area, the neck configured to couple to the cartridge mount of the tank; 10. The system of claim 1, comprising: a dispensing system configured to control the dispensing of the water treatment material through the opening in the neck of the cartridge.

3. The dispensing system comprises: an upper valve coupled to the neck of the cartridge and positioned above the opening defined by the neck of the cartridge; a lower valve coupled to the upper valve opposite the cartridge at a pivot point and configured to rotate about an axis of rotation at the pivot point; the upper valve is formed to include a plurality of upper openings spaced circumferentially about the axis of rotation, and the lower valve is formed to include a plurality of lower openings spaced circumferentially about the axis of rotation; The dispensing system comprises: a closed orientation, wherein the plurality of lower openings formed in the lower valve are offset from the plurality of upper openings formed in the upper valve such that the plurality of lower openings and the plurality of upper openings are covered to prevent the water treatment material from being dispensed through the openings in the neck of the cartridge; and an open orientation, in which the plurality of lower openings formed in the lower valve are aligned with the plurality of upper openings formed in the upper valve to enable dispensing of the water treatment material through the openings in the neck of the cartridge. The system of claim 2 , configured to vary between

4. The cartridge mount of the tank is a cartridge mount housing coupled to the tank housing and configured to define the passageway in fluid communication with the storage reservoir; a gate mounted within the passage of the cartridge mount housing and configured to change between a closed position, in which the gate blocks access to the storage reservoir through the passage, and an open position, in which the gate allows access to the storage reservoir through the passage; a gate controller coupled to the gate and configured to control movement of the gate between the closed position and the open position. The system of claim 1 .

5. The gate controller of the cartridge mount a shaft extending through the cartridge mount housing along a shaft axis and configured to rotate about the shaft axis; a gear coupled to an end of the shaft for rotation therewith; a gear ring coupled to the cartridge mount housing and configured to rotate relative to the cartridge mount housing about the axis of rotation, the gate is configured to rotate about the axis of rotation in a first direction from a first position in which the gate is in the closed position to a second position in which the gate is in the open position, and to rotate about the axis of rotation in a second direction opposite to the first direction from the second position to the first position. and a gear ring; 5. The system of claim 4, wherein the gear is shaped to define teeth that mate with teeth formed on the gear ring such that rotation of the gear ring about the axis of rotation from the first position to the second position rotates the shaft about the shaft axis to change the gate from the closed position to the open position.

6. The control system further comprises: a cartridge mount lock coupled to the cartridge mount and configured to change between a locked position in which the cartridge mount lock engages the gate controller to block rotation of the gate controller between the first position and the second position and an unlocked position in which the cartridge mount lock moves away from the gate controller to allow rotation of the gate controller between the first position and the second position; and a cartridge sensor coupled to the cartridge mount of the tank and configured to detect whether the dispenser is coupled to the cartridge mount; 6. The system of claim 5, wherein the controller is coupled to the cartridge mount lock and the cartridge sensor, and the controller is configured to instruct the cartridge mount lock to move from the locked position to the unlocked position when the cartridge sensor detects that the dispenser is coupled to the cartridge mount of the tank.

7. The control system further comprises: The system of claim 1 , comprising an inlet valve in fluid communication with the water supply and configured to modify the flow of water from the water supply to the storage reservoir.

8. The system further comprises: a tank inlet conduit in fluid communication with the water source and the inlet valve; a fill conduit in fluid communication with the inlet valve and the storage reservoir; a flush conduit in fluid communication with the inlet valve and the storage reservoir, the flush conduit including a nozzle coupled to an end of the flush conduit and configured to spray the flow of water from the water supply; The inlet valve is a fully closed position in which the inlet valve blocks the flow of water through the fill conduit and the flush conduit to prevent water from being supplied to the storage reservoir; a fill position in which the inlet valve directs the flow of the water through the fill conduit and blocks the flow of the water through the fill conduit; a flush position, the inlet valve directing the flow of water through the flush conduit and blocking the flow of water through the fill conduit; The system of claim 7, configured to vary between

9. The control system further comprises: a level sensor located within the storage reservoir and coupled to the controller, the level sensor configured to measure a fill level of the water treatment solution in the storage reservoir; 9. The system of claim 8, wherein the controller is configured to instruct the inlet valve to change between the fully closed position, the fill position, and the flush position based on the fill level of the water treatment solution in the storage reservoir measured by the level sensor.

10. The control system further comprises:

13. The system of claim 1, further comprising a mixer located within the storage reservoir and configured to mix the water treatment solution within the storage reservoir to prevent the water treatment solution from settling within the storage reservoir.

11. 1. A dispenser assembly adapted for use in a water treatment system for dispensing a water treatment material into a reservoir of water, the dispenser assembly comprising: a cartridge mount coupled to a water treatment system including a tank; a dispenser configured to be selectively coupled to the cartridge mount, a cartridge configured to store the water treatment material, the cartridge including: a body formed to include an interior storage area for storing the water treatment material; and a neck coupled to the body and formed to include an opening disposed to communicate with the interior storage area; a dispensing system coupled to the cartridge and configured to control the dispensing of the water treatment material through the opening in the neck of the cartridge; a dispenser comprising: the dispenser is configured to be inserted into the cartridge mount and rotate about an axis of rotation in a first direction to change the dispensing system from a closed orientation that blocks dispensing of the water treatment material through the opening in the neck of the cartridge to an open orientation that allows the dispensing system to move through the opening in the cartridge to dispense the water treatment material from the internal storage area to the reservoir of water, the water treatment material being citric acid; Dispenser assembly.

12. The dispensing system comprises: an upper valve coupled to the neck of the cartridge and positioned above the opening defined by the neck of the cartridge; a lower valve coupled to the upper valve opposite the cartridge at a pivot point and configured to rotate about an axis of rotation at the pivot point; the upper valve is formed to include a plurality of upper openings spaced circumferentially about the axis of rotation, and the lower valve is formed to include a plurality of lower openings spaced circumferentially about the axis of rotation; the plurality of lower openings formed in the lower valve are offset from the plurality of upper openings formed in the upper valve when the dispensing system is in the closed orientation such that the plurality of lower openings and the plurality of upper openings are covered to prevent the water treatment material from being dispensed through the openings in the neck of the cartridge; the plurality of lower openings formed in the lower valve are aligned with the plurality of upper openings formed in the upper valve when the dispensing system is in the open orientation to enable dispensing of the water treatment material through the openings in the neck of the cartridge. The dispenser assembly of claim 11.

13. The upper valve is a body formed to define the plurality of upper openings; spring arms each extending from the body and each configured to be axially biased relative to the axis of rotation from a locked position in which each spring arm engages and blocks rotation of the lower valve while the lower valve is in the closed orientation, to an unlocked position in which each spring arm is biased to allow the lower valve to rotate from the closed orientation to the open orientation; The dispenser assembly of claim 12 formed to include.

14. The lower valve is a planar body formed to include the plurality of lower openings; alignment pins each extending axially from the planar body away from the upper valve relative to the axis of rotation, the alignment pins each configured to engage the cartridge mount to secure the lower valve relative to the cartridge mount when the dispenser is inserted into the cartridge mount; guide slots each extending axially through the planar body relative to the axis of rotation and at least partway circumferentially about the axis of rotation, each configured to receive a portion of one of the spring arms; The dispenser assembly of claim 12 formed to include.

15. The cartridge mount is a cartridge mount housing configured to define a passageway in fluid communication with the reservoir of water contained in the water treatment system; a gate mounted within the passageway of the cartridge mount housing and configured to change between a closed position in which the gate blocks access through the passageway and an open position in which the gate allows access through the passageway; and a gate controller coupled to the gate and configured to control movement of the gate between the closed position and the open position. The dispenser assembly of claim 11.

16. The gate controller of the cartridge mount a shaft extending through the cartridge mount housing along a shaft axis and configured to rotate about the shaft axis; a gear coupled to an end of the shaft for rotation therewith; a gear ring coupled to the cartridge mount housing and configured to rotate relative to the cartridge mount housing about the axis of rotation, the gate is configured to rotate in the first direction about the axis of rotation from a first position in which the gate is in the closed position to a second position in which the gate is in the open position. and a gear ring; the gear is shaped to define teeth that mate with teeth formed on the gear ring such that rotation of the gear ring about the axis of rotation from the first position to the second position rotates the shaft about the shaft axis to change the gate from the closed position to the open position.

16. The dispenser assembly of claim 15.

17. 17. The dispenser assembly of claim 16, wherein the dispenser cooperates with the gate controller of the cartridge mount to control the dispensing of the water treatment material such that as the dispenser rotates about the axis of rotation in the first direction, the dispenser engages with the gear ring of the gate controller to rotate the gate controller from the first position to the second position, thereby moving the gate from the closed position to the open position.

18. 1. A method for treating a water supply with a water treatment solution, the method comprising: providing a tank in fluid communication with the water supply and a first dispenser, the tank including a tank housing formed to define a reservoir and a cartridge mount coupled to the tank housing and formed to include a tank opening disposed in communication with the reservoir, the first dispenser configured to be coupled to the cartridge mount of the tank and configured to rotate about an axis to enable the water treatment material to be dispensed from the first dispenser; flowing a first flow of water into the reservoir of the tank; detecting a first predetermined fill level of liquid in the reservoir and ceasing the flow of the first water flow into the reservoir when the first predetermined fill level is detected; dispensing the water treatment material in the first dispenser through the tank opening into the water in the reservoir; detecting a second predetermined fill level of the liquid in the reservoir, and when the second predetermined fill level is detected, mixing the water in the reservoir with the water treatment material to produce the water treatment solution configured to react with hard minerals in the water supply to reduce hardness of the water supply; dispensing a quantity of the water treatment solution into the water supply to reduce the hardness of the water supply; A method comprising:

19. The method further comprises: detecting a third predetermined fill level of the liquid in the reservoir corresponding to the reservoir being empty; flowing a second flow of water into the reservoir of the tank after the third predetermined fill level is detected to flush the reservoir; detecting a fourth predetermined fill level of the liquid in the reservoir and ceasing the flow of the second water flow into the reservoir when the fourth predetermined fill level is detected; discharging the water in the reservoir into the water supply so as to empty the reservoir for replenishing the water treatment solution; detecting the third predetermined fill level in the reservoir and stopping the introduction of water when the third predetermined fill level is detected; 20. The method of claim 18, comprising:

20. The method further comprises: Repeating the steps of: flowing the first flow of water into the reservoir of the tank; detecting the first predetermined fill level of the liquid in the reservoir; after the step of stopping the introduction of water when the third predetermined fill level is detected, stopping the flow of the first water flow into the reservoir when the first predetermined fill level is detected; Repeating the steps of: removing the first dispenser coupled to the cartridge mount of the tank, the first dispenser being empty, and coupling a second dispenser to the cartridge mount, the second dispenser being full; dispensing the water treatment material in the second dispenser through the tank opening into the water in the reservoir; Repeating the steps of: detecting the second predetermined fill level of the liquid in the reservoir and mixing the water in the reservoir with the water treatment material to produce the water treatment solution when the second predetermined fill level is detected; dispensing the predetermined amount of the water treatment solution into the water supply; Repeating the steps of:

20. The method of claim 18, comprising:

21. The system of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the water treatment material is citric acid.

22. A dispenser assembly according to any one of claims 11 to 17, wherein the water treatment material is citric acid.

23. The method according to any one of claims 18 to 20, wherein the water treatment material is citric acid.

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