Liquid disposal container

Abstract

Liquid disposal containers comprise a housing with an internal chamber and an inlet opening along a top surface extending to the internal chamber. The internal chamber accommodates placement of a bladder therein that is part of a bladder assembly and that is in fluid flow communication with the inlet opening. The bladder assembly is removable from the container once the bladder is filled. The internal chamber is configured to enable the filled bladder to exit via gravity. A gate member is movable from a surface of the container from a first position preventing the exit of the filled bladder to a second position enabling the exit of the filled bladder. After filled bladder removal, a new bladder assembly is installed for continued container use. The container is removably connected with a member having an open volume disposed below the housing internal chamber for accumulating a plurality of filled bladders.

Description

[0001] LIQUID DISPOSAL CONTAINER

[0002] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0003] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 604,127 filed November 29, 2024, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0004] FIELD

[0005] Liquid containers and systems using the same as disclosed herein are specially engineered to accommodate dispensing liquid or fluid into the container for containment and / or disposal in a manner that is efficient and that avoids an unwanted release of vapor or fumes into the environment from the liquid or fluid dispensed into the container during and after the dispensing process.

[0006] BACKGROUND

[0007] Different types of liquids and fluids known in the art are used during a variety of different activities that may include but are not limited to the construction of buildings or other structures, use during manufacturing processes, and other activities where liquids or fluids are known to be used for certain purposes or to perform certain tasks. In an example, during the construction of commercial and / or residential buildings or the like, such liquids or fluids may be in the form of paints, solvents, cleaners, and the like. In many instances, such fluids or liquids used in these on-site activities may have high VOC, be flammable, or otherwise emit smells or vapors / gases or fumes that are unsafe and / or unhealthy.

[0008] In many instances the one-site use location where such liquids and fluids are used does not provide for a means of properly disposing or containing the liquids and fluids if unused or after use, in which case such liquids and fluids are often discarded to the surrounding environment. For example, in a construction site application it is known that such liquids and fluids are often dumped onto the ground, dirt, or surrounding landscaping or grass. Alternatively, in the event that such liquids and fluids are disposed into a trash bin or other similar container, the trash bin or other container may leak and is not equipped to prevent vapors from the liquid or fluid escaping such container and enter the surrounding environment or ending up in landfills. It is, therefore, desired that a container be constructed in a manner that facilitates placement at a worksite or the like, and that facilitates disposing liquid or fluid used at such worksite in a manner that minimizes or eliminates the emission of liquid or fluid vapors or fumes into the environment during or after disposing the liquid or fluid into the container, and that minimizes or eliminates leaking of the liquid or fluid once disposed into the container onto the ground. It is further desired that the container be constructed in a manner that enables the liquid or fluid dispensed therein to be removed from the container for appropriate treatment and / or disposal, and to facilitate repeat use of the liquid container at the same or different worksite or alternative use location.

[0009] SUMMARY

[0010] Containers and systems using the same as disclosed herein are configured for receiving and containing fluids or liquids that are dispensed therein in a manner that is safe so as to not impact the surrounding environment via unwanted emission of vapors, gases, and fluid. In an example, containers as disclosed herein comprise a housing that is configured having an internal chamber therein. In an example, the internal chamber is defined by a housing top member or section, a housing side member or section, and a housing bottom member or section, wherein the side member is attached at opposed ends to the top member and the bottom member. The housing includes an inlet opening that is disposed through a surface of the housing and that extends to the internal chamber. A bladder assembly comprising a bladder is disposed within the internal chamber, wherein the bladder is configured to accommodate a volume of liquid or fluid that is dispensed into the container, wherein the bladder assembly is in fluid communication with the inlet opening.

[0011] In an example, the bladder assembly comprises a stem that is configured for removable connection to the container. In an example, the bladder assembly comprises a diaphragm or valve element that is configured to permit one-way passage of liquid into the bladder and prevent the outward passage of vapor or gas from the bladder. In an example, the internal chamber is configured to permit the bladder assembly to move by gravity outwardly and away from the internal chamber once the bladder is filled with a desired volume of fluid or liquid. In an example, the housing internal chamber is configured having an open section and the bottom section may be tilted at downward angle moving towards the open section. In an example, the container comprises a gate member that is movable from a first position blocking the open section to a second position exposing the open section. In an example, the gate member is accessible from a top surface of the container housing so that once the bladder is filled it may be removed from the internal chamber by a user moving the gate member from the first position to the second position. In an example, the container may include an indicator that is visible from the housing top surface and that is configured to provide a visual indication of when the bladder is filled.

[0012] In an example, the container housing is part of a system that includes a support member, wherein the container is configured for use with the support member. In an example, the support member is configured having an open volume for accommodating a plurality of filled bladders as they are dispensed from the container. In an example, the support member may be a container in the form of a barrel or the like comprising a top opening into which the internal chamber of the container housing is disposed. In an example, the internal chamber is configured having a desired clearance space between an inside surface of the barrel and the container inside chamber open section to permit the passage of filled bladders therebetween and into the barrel open volume.

[0013] Once a filled bladder is dispensed from the container into the barrel, a replacement bladder assembly is disposed into the container for the continued use of the container to collect dispensed liquid or fluid. Once the barrel is filled with dispensed bladders, the container may be removed from the barrel and the barrel may be removed for the appropriate treatment of the liquid or fluid contained in the filled bladders. The container may then be positioned or mounted on an empty barrel for continued use. Configured in this manner, containers and systems using the same enable fluids and liquids to be dispensed in a manner that does not adversely impact the surrounding environment, and that enable use at worksites in the like where such a need exists.

[0014] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] Liquid containers as disclosed herein will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying figures:

[0016] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of an example liquid container as disclosed herein in an unassembled state;

[0017] FIG. 2 is a perspective top view of the example liquid container of FIG. 1 as disclosed herein in an assembled state;

[0018] FIG. 3 is a perspective bottom view of the example liquid container of FIG. 2 as disclosed herein;

[0019] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an example bladder assembly as used with example liquid containers as disclosed herein;

[0020] FIG. 5 a photograph of an example bladder assembly as used with example liquid containers as disclosed herein.

[0021] FIG. 6 is a perspective top view of an example bladder assembly in a filled state as used with example liquid containers as disclosed herein;

[0022] FIG. 7 are perspective views showing example steps for combining an example bladder assembly and installing the example bladder assembly into example liquid containers as disclosed herein;

[0023] FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing an example step for installing example liquid containers as disclosed herein onto a holding device such as a barrel;

[0024] FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing an example liquid container as disclosed herein installed onto a holding device such as a barrel;

[0025] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of an example liquid container as disclosed herein installed onto a holding device such as a barrel;

[0026] FIG. 11 is a perspective top view of an example liquid container as disclosed herein including one or more lifting or holding features; FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing an example liquid container as disclosed herein installed onto a holding device such as a barrel;

[0027] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional side view of the example liquid container of FIG. 12 as disclosed herein;

[0028] FIG. 14 is a top view of the example liquid container of FIG. 12 as disclosed herein;

[0029] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional top view of the example liquid container of FIG. 12 as disclosed herein.

[0030] FIG. 16 is an exploded perspective view of another example liquid container as disclosed herein in an unassembled state;

[0031] FIG. 17 is a perspective top view of the example liquid container of FIG. 16;

[0032] FIG. 18 is a perspective top view of the example liquid container of FIG. 16 in an assembled state including an example bladder assembly;

[0033] FIG. 19 is an exploded perspective view of an example bladder assembly in an unassembled state for used with liquid containers as disclose herein;

[0034] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the example bladder assembly of FIG. 19 in an assembled state;

[0035] FIG. 21 is an exploded perspective view of the example liquid container of FIG. 16 and a holding device such as a barrel in an unassembled state; and

[0036] FIG. 22 is a perspective view of the example liquid container as disclosed and holding device of FIG. 19 in an assembled state;

[0037] DESCRIPTION

[0038] Liquid containers as disclosed herein are generally constructed comprising a housing having an inside or internal cavity that is configured to accommodate a bag or bladder therein, wherein the bag or bladder is configured and sized to accommodate volume of liquid or fluid that is disposed into the container therein. In an example, the container housing comprises an inlet opening that passes through a top surface of the housing and that extends to a housing internal cavity disposed below the top surface. In an example, the bladder comprises a stem that is attached thereto and that is configured to provide a leak-tight fit within the container housing inlet opening when the bladder is installed therein. In an example, the bladder comprises a valve or the like that is attached thereto and that is configured to prevent fluid or liquid disposed therein, as well as vapor emitted from such fluid or liquid, to escape from the bladder. In an example, the housing internal cavity comprises a sidewall section that includes an open section that is sized to facilitate passage of the bladder outwardly from the internal cavity when the bladder is in a filled / full state or condition. In an example, a gate member is slidably disposed through a slotted opening in the container top surface and is positioned to block the open sidewall when in a down position (to prevent bladder passage out of the container internal cavity) and exposes the open sidewall when in an up position (to facilitate bladder passage out of the container internal cavity when the bladder is filled). In an example, the container housing is configured to enable connection or placement of the container on top of an object or device, such as a barrel or the like, that is configured to receive and store a number of filled bladders therein. In an example, the container housing is configured to fit on top of a barrel that is sized to receive and accommodate a number of filled bladders emptied from the housing internal cavity during repeated use of the container for subsequent transportation of the barrel containing such bladders and treatment / disposal of the fluid or liquid disposed and contained in the bladders.

[0039] FIG. 1 illustrates an example liquid container 10 as disclosed herein comprising a housing 12 that may be configured for placement and use at a worksite or the like for receiving the disposal of liquid. In an example, the housing 12 may be constructed having a rigid structure and may be configured to enable pick up and / or other type of movement by hand or by machine or by vehicle for removal and / or transport of the liquid container. In an example, the housing 12 may be made from a suitable rigid structure such as a plastic material, a metal material, a composite material, or the like and combinations thereof. The housing may be formed by molding process, welding together of one or more members, or any other technique known in the art for combining one or more panels. In an example, the housing may be formed from metal by the joining together of one or more elements or members, or may be made from a polymeric or plastic material by a mold process. However, the type of material used for making the housing and the manner that the housing is made is understood to vary depending on such factors as the particular end-use application, the size of the container, and / or the type of liquid to be disposed therein.

[0040] The container housing 12 as illustrated in FIG. 1 is in an unassembled state and comprises a top section or member 14 that includes a top surface 16 of the container, a sidewall section or member 18 configured for attachment with a bottom surface of the top member 14, and a base or bottom section or member 20 that is configured for attachment with the sidewall member 18. In an example, the top member 14 is circular in shape having an outside diameter 22 that is sized and configured to fit with a support member, object, or device, e.g., to fit over a top opening of an open container such as a barrel as better described below. In an example, at least a portion of the top member 14 may have a concave shape moving radially inward from the outside diameter and comprises an inlet opening 24 that in an example is located at a center position of the top member 14. Configured in such manner, e.g., having a concave shape along at least a portion if not the entirety of the top member 14, enables any fluid that may be spilled onto the top member top surface to move by gravity downwardly and radially inwardly to the inlet opening 24 for dispensing into the container. The inlet opening 24 extends axially through the top member and is configured to accommodate placement of a bladder assembly stem therein as better disclosed below. In an example, the container may include a cap 25 that is configured to cover the inlet opening 24 and / or a bladder assembly stem disposed in the inlet opening as better discussed below.

[0041] In an example, the container housing sidewall member 18 is configured having a cylindrical shape with a diameter that is smaller than the outside diameter 22 of the top member 14. In an example, the sidewall member 18 is configured having an open section 26 that extends a distance between opposed open sidewall ends 28. In an example, the open section 26 is sized to facilitate passage thereby of a bladder once filled a desired amount for removal of the filled bladder from the container housing as better described below. In an example, the sidewall member 18 has an axial length or height that is configured to accommodate a filled bladder therein once the sidewall member 18 is attached to the top member 14 and permit free movement of the filled bladder outwardly from the container via the open section 26. In an example, the opposed open sidewall ends 28 may each include a flat section 29 that extends a distance from each opposed open end 28 to a remaining cylindrical portion of the sidewall member 18.

[0042] In an example, the top member 14 is configured comprising a slotted opening 30 that is interposed between the inlet opening 24 and the outside diameter 22. In an example, the slotted opening 30 extends axially through the top member top surface 16 into the container and is configured having an elongated length for accommodating up and down slidable placement of a gate member 32 therein. In an example, the slotted opening 30 is positioned over the sidewall member opening section 26. In an example, the slotted opening 30 is positioned radially inwardly a desired amount from the sidewall member open section 26 (once the sidewall member is attached to the top member) so that the gate member 32 when installed within the slot and lowered therein is positioned radially inwardly of the sidewall member open section 26. In an example, the gate member 32 is sized having a width that is greater than that of the sidewall member open section 26 so that it may engage an inside surface of the opposed open sidewall ends 28, e.g., to prevent radial outward movement of the gate member 32 once lowered to close the sidewall member open section 26. In an example, the gate member 32 is sized having a height that when lowered down into the container substantially covers / closes the sidewall member open section 26. In an example, the gate member 32 includes a handle 34 that is attached to a top portion of the gate member 32 to facilitate lifting and lowering of the gate member 32 within slotted opening 30 of the container during use.

[0043] In an example, the base or bottom member 20 is configured having a generally circular shape with an outside diameter 36 sized to fit within the sidewall member 18. In an example, the bottom member is flat and a portion of the outside diameter 36 that is positioned over the sidewall section open section 26 is configured for placement with the open section opposed open sidewall ends 28. In an example, the bottom section outside diameter 36 includes a flat or linear section 38 that is configured for placement within the sidewall member open section 26 opposed sidewall ends 28.

[0044] FIG. 2 illustrates the example liquid container 10 as disclosed herein in an assembled state where sidewall member 18 is attached to the top member 14, and the bottom member 20 is attached to the sidewall member 18 opposite the top member 14. To complete assembly, the gate member 32 is inserted into the slotted opening 30 and slid downwardly therein until the handle 34 meets the top member top surface 16.

[0045] FIG. 3 illustrates another view of the example liquid container 10 as disclosed herein in an assembled state better showing the location and configuration of the sidewall member open section 26. Also illustrated is the top member 14 having a concave section 40 that extends radially inwardly from an outer lip section 42 adjacent the outside diameter 22, wherein the concave section 40 extends radially inwardly to a center section 44 of the top member. It is to be understood that this is only an example and that the top member 14 may be configured differently than as illustrated to include a concave section that occupies only a part or an entirety of the top member top surface 16. Alternatively, the top member may not include a concave section. Accordingly, any such variation of the shape of the housing tope member is understood to be within the scope of liquid containers as disclosed herein. Another feature of the liquid container is that that bottom member 20 may be attached or positioned relative to the sidewall member 18 in a manner so that the bottom member 20 is tilted at an angle relative to the top member 14. In an example, to facilitate bladder movement out of the liquid container 10 via the sidewall member open section 26 once the bladder is filled a desired amount and the gate member 32 is lifted to expose the sidewall member open section 26, it may be desired that the bottom member 20 be angled downwardly moving from a location of the sidewall member diametrically opposed from the open section 26 to the open section 26. In an example, the downward angle of departure of the bottom member 14 relative to the top member and toward the open section 26 may be from about 1 to 45 degrees, and from about 5 to 25 degrees. Such angle of departure is understood to be relative to a level surface of object upon which the liquid container is placed for the purpose of using gravity to assist in the outward movement of the filled bladder from the liquid container. In an example, the exact angle of departure can and will vary depending on such factors as the particular liquid container configuration, bladder configuration, size, and material, and the liquid container end-use application, and all such variations are understood to be within the scope of liquid containers as disclosed herein. Additionally, for purposes of facilitating filled bladder removal from the container via gravity, it may be desired to configure the bottom section to have a removed or recessed section adjacent the open section 26 to reduce surface contact and friction with the bladder assembly as better discussed below.

[0046] FIGS. 4 and 5 illustrate an example bladder or bag assembly 50 as used with liquid containers as disclosed herein. FIG. 4 illustrate an example bladder assembly 50 in an unassembled state comprising a stem 52 that is connected with a bladder 54, wherein the bladder 52 is shown in a rolled up or otherwise contracted state (to facilitate insertion into the top member inlet opening 24). In an example the stem 52 may be formed from rigid or semirigid material such as metal, polymer, plastic, composite or the like, that is capable of fitting within the inlet opening 24, e.g., by interference fit or the like. In an example, the stem 52 may be formed from a metallic material or a polymeric or plastic material. In an example, the stem 52 may include sealing feature(s) or element(s) disposed along an outer side surface that permit forming a leak-tight seal with the inlet opening 24 to thereby mitigate or prevent passage of vapor or gas from within the liquid container. The stem 52 may be attached to the bladder 54 by mechanical connection, or may be adhesively attached to the bladder 54, or the stem 52 may be an integral part of the bladder 54 formed by melting together or being formed together. In an example, the bag or bladder 54 may be formed from a polymeric or plastic material, such as polyurethane or the like, and may or may not be elastomeric.

[0047] In an example, the bladder assembly 50 comprises a check valve 56 or the like that is configured to permit one-way flow of liquid and gas into the bladder 54 and restrict or prevent outward passage of liquid or gas out of the bladder 54. In an example, the check valve 56 may be configured to fit within the stem. In an example, the check valve 56 may be in the form of a duck valve formed from a polymeric material or the like that is positioned downwardly into the stem 52 so that all liquid entering the stem pass through the check valve 56, and wherein a leak-tight seal exists between the check valve 56 and the stem 52. In an example, the check valve 56 may fit within the stem 52 mechanically, by screw or interference fit or the like, or the check valve 56 may be adhesively attached to the stem 53, or the check valve may be an integral part of the stem formed by melting or molding or the like. FIG. 5 illustrates an example bladder assembly 50 in an assembled state with the stem 52 attached to the bladder 54, and with the check valve 56 inserted into the stem 52. In an example, the bladder assembly 50 may be provided in the form of a one-piece design comprising the stem 52, bladder 54, and check valve 56, wherein two or more of such components may be integral with one another.

[0048] FIG. 6 illustrates an example bladder assembly 50 as disclosed herein in a filled state after liquid has been disposed into the bladder during use. In an example, the bladder 54 is configured having a shape that is designed to fit within an internal cavity of the liquid container when filled and facilitate removal from the internal cavity when filled, e.g., by lifting the gate member to expose the sidewall member open section, whereby such configuration operates to minimize unwanted friction or other surface contact between the bladder and the container internal cavity that may otherwise exist and impair removal movement of the bladder from the internal cavity by gravity or the like. In an example, before the bladder may be removed from the liquid container, the stem may be disconnected from the inlet opening 24 by appropriate means. In an example, where the stem is mechanically attached with the inlet opening, the stem may be removed by exerting downward force onto the stem that is sufficient to dislodge or move the stem downwardly within the inlet opening until the stem is detached therefrom. Once this is done, the filled bladder may be removed from the liquid container by lifting the gate member.

[0049] FIGS. 7 to 9 illustrate example steps that may be used to assemble liquid containers 10 as disclosed herein. FIG. 7 illustrates example steps 1 and 2, wherein step 1 comprises taking an example bladder assembly 50 and readying it for installation with the liquid container 10, which may include assembling the bladder assembly 50 itself, and / or contracting the bladder 54 for insertion into the liquid container 10, and / or installing an optional cap 25 onto the bladder assembly 50. Step 2 comprises inserting the bladder assembly 50 shown in step 1 into the liquid container 10, wherein the bladder assembly 50 is inserted into the inlet opening 24 of the liquid container 10.

[0050] FIG. 8 illustrates an example step 3 that comprises positioning the liquid container 10 over a support device, member, object or the like. In an example, the support device may be in the form of an open container 60 such as a barrel or the like. In an example, the barrel 60 may be configured and sized to both accommodate placement of the liquid container 10 thereon, and to accommodate and accumulate any number of filled bladder or bladder assemblies 50 that have been dispensed from the liquid container 10 during use. In an example, the barrel may in the form of a conventional 55-gallon barrel that may be formed from metal or the like. While a particular type and / or configuration of the support device has been described and illustrated, it is to be understood that liquid containers as disclosed herein may be configured for use with a number of differently configured and / or sized support devices that may vary depending on the particular end-use application, and that all such variations are intended to be within the scope of liquid containers as disclosed herein.

[0051] FIG. 9 illustrates an example step 4, wherein the example liquid container 10 has been installed over an open top of the support device or barrel 60 so that the top member 14 is resting on a lip of the open top and the center member and bottom member of the liquid container 10 is disposed into an open chamber of the barrel. In an example, the liquid container 10 may be resting by its own weight on top of the barrel, or may be mechanically attached to the top of the barrel, or may be secured to the barrel by a locking mechanism or locking assembly or the like to prevent unintended removal of the liquid container from the barrel. All such above noted variants are intended to be within the scope of liquid containers as disclosed herein.

[0052] FIG. 10 illustrates in cross-sectional view an example of the liquid container 10 as attached with an example barrel 60. As illustrated, the top member 14 is configured having an outer diameter 22 that is larger than the barrel opening 61 to enable resting placement of the top member on top of the barrel 60. As illustrated, the liquid container sidewall member 18 and bottom member 20 are each disposed inside of the barrel 60. A filled bladder 54 or bladder assembly 50 is disposed within an internal cavity or chamber 62 of the liquid container 10. Also illustrated is a clearance space 64 that exists between an inside wall surface 66 of the barrel and the sidewall member open section 26. In an example, the open section 26 is configured and sized to provide a desired clearance space 64 that is sufficient to permit passage of a filled bladder or bladder assembly thereby during removal or expulsion of the filled bladder or bladder assembly from the liquid container internal chamber 62 during use. In an example, as discussed above, the bottom member 20 is has a downward angle of departure moving towards the open section 26 to facilitate gravity movement of the filled bladder or bladder assembly outwardly from the internal chamber 62. An example trajectory or path of travel 68 of the filled bladder or bladder assembly outwardly from the liquid container and into the barrel is illustrated.

[0053] FIG. 11 illustrates an example liquid container 70 as disclosed herein that is configured to include one or more optional lifting or moving features 72 to facilitate installing, removing, or otherwise moving the liquid container by hand, by machine, or by vehicle or the like. In an example, the liquid container 70 may be formed by molding process from a polymeric, plastic, and / or composite material or the like, in which case such optional lifting features 72 may be provided by molding process. In an example where the liquid container is formed from metal, such optional one or more lifting features may be separate elements that are attached by conventional method such as by mechanical attachment, welded attachment, or the like. While certain optional lifting features have been illustrated and disclosed, it is to be understood that many variations and configurations of lifting features may be used and that all such variations and configurations are intended to be within the scope of liquid containers as disclosed herein.

[0054] FIG. 12 illustrates an example liquid container 80 as disclosed herein that is generally similar to the example liquid container described above. The liquid container 80 includes a top member comprising a lip 82 disposed around the top surface 84 that extends vertically upward a distance. The lip 82 is positioned concentrically around the inlet opening 86 and adjacent the outside diameter 88 and is engineered to prevent liquid being disposed into the liquid container inlet opening 86 from spilling over the liquid container top surface and onto the surrounding environment. The liquid container 80 also includes lifting or moving features 90 in the form of handles that extend vertically upwardly from the top member top surface 84 and that are configured to facilitate moving the liquid container upwardly or downwardly, e.g., when installing or removing the liquid container onto or off of a support device such as a barrel or the like. Also illustrated is the gate member 94 extending downwardly from the top member that is disposed in the slotted opening 94 in the top member and that comprises a handle 96 extending from the slotted opening. Such features are also illustrated in FIG. 14

[0055] In an example, the liquid container includes a locking assembly 100 that is configured to provide a removable locked attachment between the liquid container 80 and the barrel 92. In an example, the locking assembly is configured to fit with the outside diameter 88 of the liquid container and an outer lip of the barrel opening. In an example, the locking assembly can be configured in the form of a ring that extends entirely or partially around the liquid container outside diameter and barrel opening outer lip. In an example, the locking assembly can be configured to provide a quick release attachment therebetween. In an example, the locking assembly may be configured to accommodate attachment with a locking mechanism, such as a padlock and the like, or may be configured having a built-in locking mechanism. Configured in this matter, the locking assembly functions to provide a locked attachment between the liquid container and barrel to prevent an unwanted theft of the liquid container (by removal from the barrel) or unauthorized removal of the liquid container therefrom, and enable authorized removal of the liquid container, e.g., when the barrel is full. Such feature is also illustrated in FIG. 14. While a particular embodiment of a locking assembly 100 has been illustrated and disclosed, it is to be understood that variations of the same that operate to provide the same or similar function are possible and are intended to be included within the scope of liquid containers as disclosed herein. FIG. 13 illustrates the example liquid container 80 of FIG. 12, and the features such as the lip 88, the lifting or moving features 90, and the locking assembly 100. In an example, the liquid container 80 may comprise a level indicator assembly 102 that is configured in a manner that operates to provide an indication of the level of liquid as contained in the bladder or bag assemblies disclosed above. For example, once the level indicator assembly 102 provides an indication that the liquid container is full, then the gate member may be operated to dispense the bladder or bag assemblies from the liquid container into the barrel. In an example, the level indicator assembly 102 comprises an element that extends downwardly into the liquid container internal chamber 104 and that is configured to contact an upper surface of a bladder or bag assembly therein as the liquid container is being used. In an example, the element 106 may be ball-shaped to facilitate making contact with an upper surface of the bladder or bag assembly while accommodating some movement of the bladder and not piercing the same by contact during use. In an example, the level indicator comprises a rod element 107 or the like that is connected with the ball-shaped element 106 and that extends vertically within the internal chamber 104. In an example, the liquid container top member comprises a level indicator opening 108 (best illustrated in FIG. 12) that is configured to accommodate placement of the level indicator rod element 107 therethrough. In an example, the level indicator rod element 107 is sized having a length that operates to visually designate or show when the internal chamber is filled by extending a length above the liquid container top member. In an example, an end of the rod element extending above the liquid container top member may have a cap or the like at the end opposite the ballshaped element 106 that is sized larger than the level indicator opening 108 to prevent the rod element from falling through the level indicator opening. While a particular embodiment of a level indicator assembly 100 has been illustrated and disclosed, it is to be understood that variations of the same that operate to provide the same or similar function are possible and are intended to be included within the scope of liquid containers as disclosed herein.

[0056] FIG. 15 illustrates the example liquid container 80 with the top member removed for the purpose of illustrating the liquid container bottom member 110. In an example as described above the bottom member is oriented at a downward angle or slope relative to the top member moving towards the open section 112 in the sidewall member in which the gate member is movably disposed. In an example, for purposes of facilitating movement of filled bladders or bag assemblies outwardly from the liquid container internal chamber once the gate member is raised to expose the open section, it may be desired to remove a section 116 of the bottom member 100 that is adjacent the open section 112. In an example, the section 116 that is removed or cut out from the bottom member extends inwardly a distance from the open section a sufficient amount to provide a reduced surface area that operates to reduce surface friction of the filled bladders or bag assemblies adjacent the gate member to facilitate outward movement of the filled bladder or bag assemblies by gravity once the gate member is lifted to effectively dispense the filled bladders or bag assemblies from the liquid container by gravity action. While a particular embodiment of a removed section 116 of the bottom member has been illustrated and disclosed, it is to be understood that variations of the same that operate to provide the same or similar function are possible and are intended to be included within the scope of liquid containers as disclosed herein.

[0057] FIG. 16 illustrates another example liquid container 200 as disclosed herein comprising a housing 210 having a top section 212 with a top surface 214 as described above. The top section 212 is configured comprising a slotted opening 216 for accommodating up and down sliding movement of a gate member 218 therein as described above. In this example, a gate member guide element 220 is attached over the slotted opening 216 and is configured to help ensure / guide vertical positioning of the gate member 218 during up and down movement in the slotted opening 216. In an example, the guide element 220 is configured having a central opening 222 sized to accommodate placement of the gate member therein, and has a surrounding elevated sidewall structure 224 configured to provide a desired degree of vertical guidance and positioning of the gate member during use.

[0058] In an example, the gate member 218 may also include one or more stopping elements 226, 228 that are connected thereto. In an example, the stopping elements 226 and 228 are attached to the gate member 218 adjacent a bottom portion or edge of the gate member 218 and function to prevent the gate member from being upwardly removed from the container housing and guide element 220 during use. In an example, the container housing may include a release element 230 that is configured to releasably connect with a portion of the bag assembly. In an example, the release element 230 is configured having an end that is releasably connected with the stem of the bag assembly. In an example, configured in such manner, once the bag assembly is filled the release element 230 may be manually moved, e.g., lifted, to release the stem and bag assembly from its connection with the housing top member. In an example, the release element 230 may include a handle 232 to facilitate grasping by a person during use of the container. Once the filled bag assembly is released from the housing top member, e.g., using the release element 230, the bag assembly is free to move outwardly away from the housing internal chamber by gravity. In an example, the gate member 218 may include an opening 234 adjacent a top portion or edge that is used to move the gate member 218 up or down, e.g., by a user inserting their fingers therein.

[0059] In an example, the housing top surface 214 is flat and includes a pair of handles 236 attached thereto and that extend upwardly a distance therefrom, wherein the handles 236 are configured to facilitate moving the container housing 210 by hand, machine, or the like. The housing top surface 214 includes an inlet opening 238 that is centrally positioned and configured to accommodate placement of the bladder assembly therethrough. In an example, a drain element 240 is connected to the inlet opening 238 along a bottom surface of the top section 212, and is configured having an inwardly tapered profile, e.g., shaped as a funnel, moving from an outside diameter 242 of the drain element to a central opening 244, wherein the central opening 244 is configured to accommodate attachment of the bladder assembly therein. The tapered profile of the drain element 240 functions to direct or funnel liquid being passed through the housing inlet opening 238 to the drain element central opening 244 for passage to the bladder assembly. In an example, a drain cover 246 is connected with the housing top surface 214 and positioned to cover the container inlet opening 238. In an example, the drain cover 246 has a round shape and is flat. In an example where the container housing top surface 214 is flat, use of the drain cover 246 is desired to cover the inlet opening 238 to prevent the passage of any unwanted liquid, such as rain water when the container is being used in an outside environment, into the bladder for capture.

[0060] In an example, the container housing 210 includes the sidewall member 250 and bottom member 252 that are configured and attached in the manner described above to form the housing internal chamber for accommodating the bladder assembly therein. In an example, the bladder assembly 254 is configured as described above and is placed through the housing inlet opening 238 and is engaged within the drain element 240 central opening for receiving liquid in the bladder that is dispensed into the container in the manner described above. A releasable attachment mechanism 256 is used to attach the housing to a support device such as a barrel in the manner described above. The releasable attachment mechanism 246 may be configured in the same manner described above. FIG. 17 illustrates the example container 200 of FIG. 16 in an assembled state, with the bladder assembly ready to be disposed therein. FIG. 18 illustrates the example container 200 of FIGS. 16 and 17 in an assembled state with the bladder assembly 254 disposed therein and with the releasable attachment mechanism 246 connected therewith. FIG. 19 illustrates another example bladder assembly 260 as used with liquid containers as disclosed herein. In an example, the bladder assembly 260 may comprise a strainer 262 that is positioned at a top portion of the assembly for the purpose of filtering out any undesired solid particles from the liquid being dispensed. The strainer 262 may be configured comprising a plurality of openings that are sized and / or numbered, and / or positioned as desired for the purposes of filtering out solid particles of a certain size from the liquid being dispensed depending on the particular use application. In an example, the bladder assembly 260 comprises a diaphragm 264 or valve that, as described above, operates as a check valve to provide one way flow of liquid into the bladder assembly and prevent or minimize flow of vapor or gas outwardly from the bladder assembly to the surrounding environment. In an example, the bladder assembly 260 comprises a bladder or bag 266 that is configured to accommodate a desired volume of liquid therein during used as described above. FIG. 20 illustrates the bladder assembly 260 of FIG. 19 in an assembled state. In an example, the bladder assembly 260 comprising the strainer 262, diaphragm 264, and bladder 266 may be provided in the form of a multi-part construction or a one-piece construction as described above.

[0061] FIG. 21 illustrates the example liquid container 200 of FIGS. 16, 17, and 18 as uncombined with the bladder assembly 254 and a support device 270 in the form of a barrel as described above. FIG. 22 illustrates the example liquid container 200 of FIGS. 16, 17, and 18 as combined with the barrel 270 forming a system and as attached with the barrel by the releasable attachment mechanism 256 in the manner described above.

[0062] A feature of liquid containers as disclosed herein is that they are specially configured to accommodate the temporary placement of a bladder or bladder assembly therein for use in receiving liquid being dispensed into the liquid container, facilitate removal of a bladder or bladder assembly once filled, and facilitate accommodating reuse of the liquid container by installation of a replacement bladder or bladder assembly, thereby providing a cost-effective approach to repeatedly servicing the needs for liquid disposal and containment. Liquid containers as disclosed herein are specially configured to receive and dispense liquid using example bladders or bladder assemblies as disclosed herein that have been specially configured to prevent leakage of liquid, fumes, or gas from the collected liquid, thereby avoiding unwanted passage of such liquid or gas to the surrounding environment. Further, liquid containers as disclosed herein are configured for use with a container such as a barrel or the like for the purposes of accepting and accumulating the filled bladders or bladder assemblies as they are dispensed from the liquid container. Once an amount or volume of the filled bladder or bladder assemblies has been accumulated, the liquid container may be removed from the barrel and the barrel may be transported from the liquid collection site to a location and / or facility where the collected liquid may be treated and / or disposed of in a manner that is safe and / or environmentally proper. Accordingly, liquid containers as disclosed herein provide an efficient, safe, and environmentally proper way of handling the disposal of liquids at locations such as work sites or the like that are not otherwise equipped for safe and / or environmentally proper disposal and / or treatment of such liquids.

[0063] While liquid containers as disclosed herein have been described in the context of being used for containing liquid or fluid, it is to be understood that containers as disclosed herein may be used to contain materials such as slurries and the like that may include a combination of liquid and solid components or constituents. Thus, it is understood that containers as disclosed herein may be used to dispose of or contain materials other than liquids and fluids, and such use is understood to be within the scope of this disclosure.

[0064] The foregoing description and accompanying figures illustrate the principles, preferred embodiments and modes of operation of liquid containers as disclosed herein. However, such liquid containers should not be construed as being limited to the particular embodiments discussed above. Additional variations of the embodiments discussed above will be appreciated by those skilled in the art. Therefore, the above-described embodiments should be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive. Accordingly, it should be appreciated that variations to those embodiments can be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the pass through plate and electrical conductor constructions as defined by the following claims.

[0065] For example, the steps recited in any of the method or process descriptions may be executed in any order and are not limited to the order presented. Moreover, any of the functions or steps may be outsourced to or performed by one or more third parties. Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to the systems, apparatuses, and methods described herein without departing from the scope of the disclosure. For example, the components of the systems and apparatuses may be integrated or separated. Moreover, the operations of the systems and apparatuses disclosed herein may be performed by more, fewer, or other components and the methods described may include more, fewer, or other steps. Additionally, steps may be performed in any suitable order. As used in this document, “each” refers to each member of a set or each member of a subset of a set. Furthermore, any reference to singular includes plural embodiments, and any reference to more than one component may include a singular embodiment. Although specific advantages have been enumerated herein, various embodiments may include some, none, or all of the enumerated advantages.

[0066] In the detailed description herein, references to “in an example,” “various embodiments,” “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “an example embodiment,” etc., indicate that the embodiment described may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but every embodiment may not necessarily include the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Further, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it is submitted that it is within the knowledge of one skilled in the art to affect such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments whether or not explicitly described. After reading the description, it will be apparent to one skilled in the relevant art(s) how to implement the disclosure in alternative embodiments.

Claims

What is Claimed is1. A container for receiving a volume of liquid or fluid therein comprising: a housing defining an internal chamber therein; an inlet opening disposed through a surface of the housing extending to the internal chamber; and a bladder disposed within the internal chamber and in fluid communication with the inlet opening, wherein the bladder is configured to accommodate liquid or fluid that is dispensed into the container; wherein the internal chamber has an opening that is configured to accommodate passage of the bladder therethrough once filled and removal of the filled bladder from the container.

2. The container of claim 1, wherein the container includes a member that is movably disposed in the container and that is configured to block passage of a filled bladder from the internal chamber opening in a closed position and enable passage of the filled bladder from the internal chamber opening in an open position.

3. The container of claim 1, further comprising a check valve in communication with an opening of the bladder, wherein the check valve is configured to permit passage of liquid or fluid into the bladder and prevent passage of liquid or fluid or vapor / gases out of the bladder.

4. The container of claim 1, wherein the housing comprises a top section that defines a top surface of the container, a sidewall section connected with the top section, and a bottom section connected with the sidewall section.

5. The container of claim 1, wherein the housing internal chamber comprises a bottom section configured to accommodate placement of the bladder thereon, and wherein the bottom section has a downward angle of departure moving towards the internal chamber opening.

6. The container of claim 1, wherein the bladder is part of a bladder assembly comprising a stem and a check valve, and wherein the stem is connected with the bladder.

7. The container of claim 6, wherein the bladder assembly stem is configured to fit within the inlet opening.

8. The container of claim 6, wherein the container comprises a drain element connected with the inlet opening, and therein the bladder assembly stem is configured to fit within the drain element.

9. The container of claim 1, wherein the housing is configured to be placed on top of an open container, and wherein internal chamber opening is configured to provide a clearance with an inside wall of the open chamber sufficient to enable passage of a filled bladder from the container into the open chamber.

10. A system for containing and disposing dispensed liquid or fluid comprising: a container configured to accommodate receiving a volume of liquid or fluid being dispensed therein, the container comprising: a housing having a structurally rigid configuration and comprising an internal chamber disposed therein; a fluid inlet opening disposed in the housing and extending to the internal chamber; a bladder formed of a polymeric material disposed in the internal chamber, wherein the bladder includes an opening that is in fluid communication with the fluid inlet opening to receive liquid or fluid dispensed into the container; and a support member configured to accommodate placement of the housing thereon over an opening of the support member, wherein the support member comprises an open volume disposed below the container.

11. The system of claim 10, wherein the internal chamber comprises an open section that is configured to facilitate passage of a filled bladder outwardly from the internal chamber by gravity.

12. The system of claim 11, wherein the internal chamber comprises a bottom section and wherein the bottom section has a downward angle of departure in a direction of the open section.

13. The system of claim 11, wherein the container comprises a movable gate element that in a first position extends across the internal chamber open section to block a filled bladder from moving out of the internal chamber, and that in a second position exposes the internal chamber open section to permit movement of the filled bladder out of the internal chamber, wherein the movable gate element is accessible from a top surface of the container14. The system of claim 11, wherein the bladder is part of a bladder assembly that is removable from the carrier once the bladder is filled, and wherein the support member is configured to accommodate a plurality of filled bladders that have exited the carrier.

15. The system of claim 10, wherein the housing includes a concave top section for gravity directing fluid or liquid to the fluid inlet opening.

16. The system of claim 10, wherein the bladder is part of a bladder assembly that comprises a stem that is connected with the bladder, wherein the stem is connected with the fluid inlet opening.

17. A method for disposing a liquid or a fluid into a container comprising the steps of: introducing a volume of liquid or fluid into an internal chamber of a container housing through a fluid inlet opening extending through the housing and into the internal chamber; dispensing the volume of liquid or fluid introduced into the internal chamber into a bladder that is disposed in the internal chamber and in fluid communication with the fluid inlet opening; andwherein during the process of dispensing, a valve is used to prevent the liquid or fluid or vapor / gases dispensed into the bladder from passing outwardly from bladder.

18. The method as recited in claim 17, wherein during the step of dispensing, an open section in the internal chamber is blocked off.

19. The method as recited in claim 18, further comprising dispensing a bladder once filled with the volume of liquid or fluid from the container internal chamber.

20. The method as recited in claim 19, wherein the step of dispensing the bladder comprises moving a member of the container to unblock an open section of the internal chamber wherein the filled bladder moves by gravity out of the internal chamber and into a barrel onto which the container is positioned.

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