Apparatus that dispenses chemicals to devices using chemicals in central service / sterile processing departments

Abstract

A chemical dispensing apparatus (100) for dispensing to a washer / disinfector system chemicals stored in a plurality of containers (102) includes a plurality of chemical compartments (P1, P2, P3, 700) for receiving respective ones of the plurality of containers (102). Each of the plurality of chemical compartments includes a container holder (104) for receiving a respective one of the plurality of containers (102), a key receiver (706) having a predefined keyway (707a, 707b), the key receiver (706) configured to selectively receive a key (414a, 414b) assigned to a respective one of the plurality of containers (102), a damper (1000,1100) configured to cooperate with at least a portion of a container inserted into the container holder (104) to reduce a speed of the container during loading of the container into the container holder, a reservoir (712) including an inlet, the reservoir (712) configured to store the chemical dispensed from the container (102), and a sealing member (714) movable between a first position closing the inlet of the reservoir and a second position opening the inlet to the reservoir (712).

Description

APPARATUS THAT DISPENSES CHEMICALS TO DEVICES USINGCHEMICALS IN CENTRAL SERVICE / STERILE PROCESSING DEPARTMENTSField of the Invention

[0001] The present invention is generally directed to chemical dosing systems for use with medical washers / disinfectors.Background of the Invention

[0002] Systems for washing and disinfecting medical instruments include various types of apparatuses. For example, endoscope and surgical instrument washer / disinfectors (W / D) may perform washing, disinfection, and rinsing processes. In each process, a liquid agent is pressurized by a feed pump via, for example, an electromagnetic valve, and then the pressurized agent is guided through a chemical line and injected into a washing bath via the electromagnetic valve. A flow sensor senses the amount of liquid agent to be injected and, using the sensed amount of liquid, a predetermined amount of agent is injected into a feed tank.

[0003] The liquid agent may be dispensed to the W / D by a dosing system, which generally includes one or more conduits or tubes that fluidically couple a bottle containing the liquid agent to a feed pump. A controller commands the feed pump to deliver a specified amount of agent based on various system operating parameters and user inputs.

[0004] Referring to Fig. 14, illustrated is a conventional dosing system 1400, which includes a bottle 1402 fluidically coupled to a W / D 1404 via one or more tubes 1406a, 1406b and a pump 1408. Such conventional dosing systems require an operator to directly introduce a pick-up tube 1410 of each tube 1406a into the bottle 1402 to dispense the agent to the W / D 1404, where the bottle 1402 is generally remotely located in a separate room.The bottle 1402 is generally heavy and may contain up to 10 liters of chemical (although larger volumes may be used), and is typically located close to the floor in a retention pan.

[0005] Shortcomings of conventional dosing systems include:• a non-negligible volume of agent remains in the bottle when the bottle is considered empty;• there is risk of an operator introducing the pickup tub into the wrong bottle and then risk of using the wrong agent during a cleaning process;• during bottle change out some contents may drip on to the floor (slip hazard and risk of contact between operator and agent);• air exposure of agent in normal operation;• space necessary to locate the agent bottles used during cycles (separate room);• bottle may be heavy and difficult to handle;• possibility of using incorrect agents that are not compatible with the washer parts and validated cycles;• possibility to top off or refill a bottle with the volume of agent that remains in a used bottle considered empty with agents not compatible with the washer. of the Invention

[0006] A chemical dosing system according to the present invention includes a bottle holder for holding one or more bottles (e.g., 5-10 liters) having chemicals stored therein, and a dispensing apparatus having multiple chemical compartments. Each chemical compartment includes one of a key receiver or a key that is unique to the respective chemical compartment (the key receiver and key having a unique shape), whereby each bottle includes the other of the key receiver or the key that is unique to the chemical storedin the bottle. The key / key receiver arrangement ensures that only the correct chemical can be loaded into each chemical compartment. Each chemical compartment also includes a damper system to assist in loading and unloading bottles into each chemical compartment (e.g. the damper system can absorb energy and reduce bottle impact), and a sealing member that minimizes exposure of chemical in the chemical compartment to air and / or prevents debris from entering the chemical compartment when a bottle is not inserted therein (e.g., during a bottle change out).

[0007] Advantages of the chemical dosing system in accordance with the invention include:• Improved ergonomics• Reduced user contact with chemicals• Less chemical waste• Reduced footprint

[0008] According to one aspect of the invention, a chemical dispensing apparatus for dispensing to a washer / disinfector system chemicals stored in a plurality of containers is provided, the chemical dispensing apparatus including a plurality of chemical compartments for receiving respective ones of the plurality of containers. Each of the plurality of chemical compartments includes: a container holder for receiving a respective one of the plurality of containers; a key receiver having a predefined keyway, the key receiver configured to selectively receive a key assigned to a respective one of the plurality of containers; a damper configured to cooperate with at least a portion of a container inserted into the container holder to reduce a speed of the container during loading of the container into the container holder; and a sealing member movable between a first position closing an inlet of a reservoir and a second position opening the inlet to the reservoir.

[0009] In one embodiment, the chemical dispensing apparatus includes the reservoir, wherein the reservoir is configured to store the chemical dispensed from thecontainer.

[0010] In one embodiment, the chemical dispensing apparatus includes an empty reservoir level switch disposed in the reservoir, the empty reservoir level switch operative to provide an indication of sufficient chemical in the reservoir to perform at least one wash / disinfect cycle.

[0011] In one embodiment, the chemical dispensing apparatus includes comprising a spill pan disposed below the reservoir and operative to contain chemical that has leaked from the reservoir and / or the container.

[0012] hi one embodiment, the damper is configured to provide tactile feedback as a container is secured in the container holder.

[0013] In one embodiment, the dispensing apparatus includes a latch configured to selectively lock and release the container in the container holder, wherein the damper in combination with the latch is configured to provide the tactile feedback.

[0014] In one embodiment, the damper is configured to apply a force to the received container in a direction out of the container holder.

[0015] In one embodiment, the damper is configured to lift an empty container during unloading of the container from the container holder.

[0016] In one embodiment, the damper comprises a resiliently deformable member.

[0017] In one embodiment, the resiliently deformable member comprises at least one of a spring or an elastic band.

[0018] In one embodiment, the container holder comprises a first axis extending in a direction of insertion of a container into the container holder, and the damper comprises at least one elongated member configured to move along the first axis.

[0019] In one embodiment, the resiliently deformable member is configured to bias the at least one elongated member along the first axis.

[0020] In one embodiment, the damper includes a base, and the at least one elongated member is movably attached to the base.

[0021] In one embodiment, the base is fixedly attached to the container holder.

[0022] In one embodiment, the at least one elongated member comprises a proximal end movably attached to the base and a distal end configured to contact the container, further comprising a bumper disposed on the distal end of the at least one elongated member.

[0023] In one embodiment, the elongated member is formed from a first material and the bumper is formed from a second material, the second material different from the first material.

[0024] hi one embodiment, the chemical dispensing apparatus includes the resiliently deformable member is disposed between the base and the bumper.

[0025] In one embodiment, the chemical dispensing apparatus includes a sealing member actuator disposed at an entrance of the chemical compartment, the sealing member actuator operatively coupled to the sealing member and configured to move the sealing member between the first position and the second position based on the presence or absence of a container in the container holder.

[0026] In one embodiment, the predefined key way comprises at least one slot or notch disposed in a predetermined radial location about the key receiver.

[0027] In one embodiment, the chemical dispensing apparatus includes a seal disposed at an entrance of the chemical compartment, the seal configured to interface with at least a portion of the container to create an air-tight seal therebetween.

[0028] In one embodiment, the chemical dispensing apparatus includes a filter configured to receive the chemical from the container, and to output filtered chemical to the reservoir.

[0029] In one embodiment, the chemical dispensing apparatus includes an emptycontainer level switch disposed in the reservoir, the empty container level switch operative to provide an indication of the presence or absence of chemical in the container.

[0030] In one embodiment, the chemical dispensing apparatus includes a shut off valve actuator configured to cooperate with a shut of valve disposed on the container to enable or inhibit flow of chemical from the container.

[0031] In one embodiment, the chemical dispensing apparatus includes the plurality of containers.

[0032] In one embodiment, the chemical dispensing apparatus includes the plurality of containers, wherein each container comprises a shut off valve configured to cooperate with the shut off valve actuator to enable or inhibit flow of chemical from the container.

[0033] In one embodiment, each container comprises a collar having a key member configured to cooperate with the key receiver of a respective one of the plurality of chemical compartments.

[0034] In one embodiment, each container includes a plurality of handles integrally formed in the container.

[0035] In one embodiment, the chemical dispensing apparatus includes a latch configured to selectively lock and release the container in the container holder, and the damper is configured to eject the container upon the latch transitioning from a locked state to a released state.

[0036] In one embodiment, upon insertion of the container into the container holder the sealing member is configured to let air enter into the container to enable the liquid to be dispensed.

[0037] According to another aspect of the invention, a container is provided that is configured to hold a fluid and operate in combination with a dispensing apparatus, the dispensing apparatus comprising a container holder for holding one or more containers, aguide member for guiding the one or more containers into the container holder, and a damper operative to functionally interact with the container, the container sized and configured to fit within the container holder, a portion of the container configured to interact with the guide member to maintain a position of the container within the container holder when inserted, and the container configured to interact with the damper during insertion and removal of the container from the container holder.

[0038] In one embodiment, the container includes reinforcement members disposed along a surface of the container, the reinforcement members configured to substantially maintain a shape of the container while container contains and dispenses the fluid.

[0039] hi one embodiment, the reinforcement members comprise at least one of rib structures, textures, regions of varying thickness, or regions having different materials.

[0040] In one embodiment, the container includes a handle configured to lift the container.

[0041] In one embodiment, the handle is integrally formed with the container.

[0042] In one embodiment, the container includes a neck having an open end, wherein the handle is disposed on a wall of the container that is opposite the open end.

[0043] In one embodiment, the handle is disposed along a longitudinal axis of the container.

[0044] In one embodiment, the container includes a neck having an open end, and at least one alignment key disposed on the neck and configured to cooperate with a key collar to provide a predefined orientation of the key collar relative to the container.

[0045] In one embodiment, the alignment key comprises at least one of a slot, notch or groove formed in a portion of the neck.

[0046] In one embodiment, the container includes a key collar attached to the neck, the key collar including a key way configured to cooperate with a key receiver of thechemical dispensing apparatus to provide a predefined orientation of the container relative to the chemical dispensing apparatus when the container is inserted into the container holder.

[0047] In one embodiment, the chemical dispensing apparatus includes a reservoir having an inlet, and a sealing member movable between a first position closing the inlet and a second position opening the inlet, and wherein upon insertion or removal of the container into the container holder the container is configured to open or close the sealing member.

[0048] hi one embodiment, the container includes multiple containers attached to each other, each individual container including a respective opening.

[0049] hi one embodiment, the multiple containers are formed as a unitary structure.

[0050] In one embodiment, the container includes a lift member for lifting the container, the lift member integrally formed within two opposing side walls of the container.

[0051] In one embodiment, the lift member comprises a handle, a recess formed in opposing sides of the container, or a strap attached to the container.

[0052] In one embodiment, the container includes a shut off valve disposed at an opening of the container, the shut off valve operative to selectively enable or inhibit flow of fluid from the container.

[0053] According to another aspect of the invention, a method for filling a container with a liquid is provided for a container including a neck having an open end and at least one alignment key disposed on the neck, the method comprising: dispensing the liquid into the open end of the neck; and attaching a key collar to the neck, the key collar including at least one key member disposed on a peripheral surface of the key collar and at least one guide member disposed on an interior surface of the key collar, whereinthe at least one guide member cooperates with the at least one alignment key to provide a predefined orientation of the at least one key member relative to the neck.

[0054] In one embodiment, the method includes, prior to dispensing, preparing the container for receiving the liquid.

[0055] In one embodiment, preparing includes cleaning the container.

[0056] In one embodiment, the method includes subsequent to dispensing the liquid into the container, sealing the open end.

[0057] In one embodiment, sealing includes attaching a removable cap to the open end.

[0058] To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, the invention, then, comprises the features hereinafter fully described and particularly pointed out in the claims. The following description and the annexed drawings set forth in detail certain illustrative embodiments of the invention. These embodiments are indicative, however, of but a few of the various ways in which the principles of the invention may be employed. Other objects, advantages and novel features of the invention will become apparent from the following detailed description of the invention when considered in conjunction with the drawings.Brief Description of the Drawings

[0059] The invention may take physical form in certain parts and arrangement of parts, a preferred embodiment of which will be described in detail in the specification and illustrated in the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof.

[0060] Fig. 1A illustrates an exemplary dosing system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention, the dosing system having a bottle holder with four compartments.

[0061] Fig. IB illustrates a W / D with an exemplary dosing system in accordance with the invention installed external to the W / D.

[0062] Fig. 1C illustrates a W / D with an exemplary dosing system in accordance with the invention installed internal to the W / D.

[0063] Fig. 2 illustrates a four-compartment bottle holder with bottles installed therein in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0064] Fig. 3 illustrates a front panel of a bottle holder enclosure in accordance with the invention.

[0065] Fig. 4 illustrates a bottle having a dispensing apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the invention installed thereon.

[0066] Fig. 5 is a detailed view of the dispensing apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0067] Fig. 6 illustrates an exemplary collar of the dispensing system of Figs. 4 and 5, the collar having keys.

[0068] Fig. 7 is an exploded view of an exemplary dispensing apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0069] Fig. 8 is an exploded view of an exemplary key and keyhole receiver of the dispensing apparatus of Fig. 7.

[0070] Fig. 9 is a side view of a bottle inserted into an exemplary dispensing system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0071] Fig. 10A illustrates an exemplary damper assembly of the dispensing system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0072] Fig. 10B illustrates the exemplary damper used in the damping system of Fig. 10A.

[0073] Fig. 1 1A illustrates an exemplary damper assembly of the dispensing system in accordance with another embodiment of the invention.

[0074] Fig. 1 IB illustrates the exemplary damper used in the damping system of Fig. 11A.

[0075] Fig. 12 illustrates an exemplary flapper of the damping system of Fig. 10A.

[0076] Fig. 13A illustrates four chemical compartments with a first damping system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention, each compartment having different pieces removed relative to the other compartments.

[0077] Figs. 13B and 13C illustrate four chemical compartments with a second damping system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention, each compartment having different pieces removed relative to the other compartments.

[0078] Fig. 14 illustrates a conventional dosing system.

[0079] Figs. 15A-15D are top, bottom, left-side and right-side perspective views, respectively, of an exemplary bottle in accordance with the invention that may be used with the dispensing apparatus.

[0080] Figs. 16 and 17 are top and bottom views of the bottle of Figs. 15A-15D.

[0081] Figs. 18A-18D are front, back, left and right side views of the bottle of Figs.15A-15D.

[0082] Fig. 19 is a perspective view of the bottle of Figs. 15A-18D with the key collar in accordance with the invention installed on the bottle.

[0083] Fig. 20 is a top view of the bottle of Figs. 15A-18D with the key collar in accordance with the invention installed on the bottle.Detailed Description of the Invention

[0084] Aspects of the present invention will now be described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. Such aspects may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided sothat this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey its scope to those skilled in the art. Further, it will be understood that the figures are not necessarily to scale.

[0085] The word “about” when immediately preceding a numerical value means a range of plus or minus 10% of that value, e.g., “about 50” means 45 to 55, “about 25,000” means 22,500 to 27,500, etc., unless the context of the disclosure indicates otherwise, or is inconsistent with such an interpretation. For example, in a list of numerical values such as “about 49, about 50, about 55, “about 50” means a range extending to less than half the interval(s) between the preceding and subsequent values, e.g., more than 49.5 to less than 52.5. Furthermore, the phrases “less than about” a value or “greater than about” a value should be understood in view of the definition of the term “about” provided herein.

[0086] Referring initially to Figs. 1A-1C, a chemical dosing system 100 in accordance with the present invention is generally comprised of one or more containers 102 (e.g., bottles) containing ultra-concentrated liquid chemicals (e.g., detergents and lubricants), a bottle holder 104 for holding the one or more bottles 102, and a dispensing apparatus 106 having multiple chemical compartments, each of which are each described in further detail below. The chemical dosing system 100 in accordance with the present invention can be installed as an external standalone dosing system 100a removably connected to a W / D 108, as best seen in Fig. IB. Alternatively, the chemical dosing system 100 may be installed as an integrated internal system 100b of a W / D 110, as shown in Fig. 1C.

[0087] The exemplary dosing system 100 is intended for use with a single-chamber W / D 108 to hold one or more chemical bottles 102 in a reduced space location, to fill a reservoir with liquid chemicals stored in the bottles 102, and to dose the chemicals into a W / D chamber. In the illustrated embodiment of Fig. 1A the bottle holder 104 includes four bottle holder compartments P1-P4 (each bottle holder compartment corresponding to a respective chemical compartment of the dispensing apparatus 106, as discussed in more detail below) and thus the single dosing system 100 is suitable for dosing chemicals fromup to four bottles of liquid chemicals. As will be appreciated, the bottle holder 104 may be configured with a different number of bottle holder compartments as required by the specific application. The bottle holder 104 preferably is configured for loading bottles in an upside down orientation to ensure a minimal amount of liquid chemicals remain in the bottle when the bottle is considered empty, although other orientations of the bottle 102 are possible.

[0088] As shown in Figs 1A, 1C, and 2, the bottle holder 104 has multiple bottle compartments P1-P4 for holding bottles 102. Preferably, each bottle holder compartment P1-P4 has a shape that guides the bottle 102 into the compartment and provide a reference orientation. The front 110 of the bottle holder 104 (i.e., the surface visible to a user when installed in the W / D) may include an indicator 112, such as an LED indicator or the like, associated with each bottle compartment P1-P4 for indicating to a user whether the respective bottle 102 is empty and needs replacement, and / or if a bottle is present and / or secured.

[0089] Moving to Figs. 4-6, the bottle 102 according to an embodiment of the invention will now be described. The bottle 102 is comprised of a bottle body 400 including a plurality of side walls 401, a top wall 402, a neck base 404, a bottle cap 406 comprised of a key collar 408 that attaches to the neck base 404, a seal / guide member 409 and a shut off valve 410 extending through an opening in the key collar 408. The shut off valve 410 may be biased toward the closed position by a biasing member, such as a spring or the like (not shown). The bottle 102 preferably has a square or rectangular shape that guides the bottle 102 into the bottle compartment P1-P4 so as to provide a reference orientation for one or more key members of the collar 408, as discussed in further detail below. The bottle 102 also includes a removable bottle cover 412 for covering / protecting the shut off valve 410 during transport, the bottle cover 412 cooperating with the seal / guide member 409 of the bottle cap 406 to hold bottle cover to the bottle cap. The bottle 102 is preferablydimensioned to hold 3.5-4 liters of chemical, thereby ensuring the bottle is not excessively heavy.

[0090] In the illustrated embodiment, the key collar 408 has first and second key members 414a, 414b extending outward therefrom. The key members 414a, 414b of the key collar 408 can be used to uniquely identify the key collar 408 and, thus, the bottle 102 to which the key collar 408 is attached. For example, each key collar 408 includes key members 414a, 414b oriented 180 degrees apart from one another, and internal guide members 600a, 600b (best seen in Fig. 6) also orientated 180 degrees apart from one another. To distinguish between key collars, a first key collar 408 may have the key members 414a, 414b aligned with the guide members 600a, 600b, while a second key collar may have the key members 414a, 414b, angularly offset from the guide members 600a, 600b, e.g., 45 degrees, 90 degrees, etc. Because the guide members 600a, 600b dictate the orientation of the key collar 408 on the bottle, the offset between the guide members 600a, 600b and the key members 414a, 414b can be used uniquely identify the chemical stored in the bottle. Alternatively or additionally, the number of key members 414a, 414b can be increased to provide additional identification information. Bottles 102 containing different chemicals can be assigned key collars 408 having a specific key member configuration. As discussed in further detail below, each chemical compartment can have a unique key hole receiver (discussed below with respect to Fig. 8) that corresponds to a specific key member configuration, thereby ensuring only a unique collar 408 will be accepted in the chemical compartment. Thus, by assigning specific collars 408 to bottles 102 having specific chemicals, it can be ensured that each chemical compartment of the dispensing apparatus 106 receives only a specific bottle 102 and thus a specific chemical.

[0091] Preferably, the key collars 408 are tamper resistance such that bottle refilling is prevented. For example, the key collars 408 may require a specific tool to install andremove the key collars 408 from the bottle 102. Alternatively, the bottle may be a single use bottle where the key collar 408 is not removable from the bottle 102 without destroying the bottle 102. To assist in identification of the specific key collar 408 (i.e., the orientation of the key members 414a, 414b), the collars 408 may be color coded to help differentiate between different chemicals. The key collar 408 may include one or more guide members 600 disposed along an interior surface 416 of the key collar 408, as best seen in Fig. 6. The guide members 600, which corresponds to a respective slot in the neck base 404, help guide the key collar 408 onto the bottle 102 and also inhibit rotation of the key collar 408 relative to the bottle 102, thereby ensuring the correct orientation of the key members 414a, 414b, relative to the bottle body 400.

[0092] Moving now to Figs. 7-13C, illustrated is an exemplary chemical compartment 700 of the dispensing apparatus 106 in accordance with the present invention. As noted above, the dispensing apparatus 106 includes multiple chemical compartments, each chemical compartment configured to receive liquid chemical from a bottle 102. For clarity, only a single chemical compartment is discussed herein. Other than the orientation of the key receiver (discussed below), the other chemical compartments 700 of the dispensing apparatus 106 have the same general configuration.

[0093] Each chemical compartment 700 of the dispensing apparatus 106 includes an annular seal 702 that engages with the guide / seal member 409 of a bottle 102 (best seen in Fig. 9) to provide a liquid-tight seal therebetween. The seal formed between the annular seal 702 and the bottle 102 minimizes contact between air and chemicals when a bottle 102 is installed in a bottle holder compartment P1-P4. The seal 702 includes small holes 1300 (best seen in Fig. 13 A) that allow a pressure balance (e.g., the holes allow air to move in and out of the compartment) to maintain atmospheric pressure, thereby allowing the liquid chemicals to flow out of the bottle 102. In the illustrated embodiment, two holes are present on each seal, the holes arranged 180 degrees apart from each other. A shut offvalve actuator 704 is disposed adjacent to the seal 702, where as a bottle 102 is inserted into the bottle holder compartment P1-P4, the shut off valve actuator 704 engages the shut off valve 410 of the bottle cap 406 and causes the shut off valve 410 to move against the biasing element and open, thereby enabling the flow of liquid chemical out of the bottle 102 into the chemical compartment 700. Conversely, as the bottle 102 is removed from the bottle holder compartment P1-P4, the shut off valve actuator 704 disengages the shut off valve 410 of the bottle cap 406 and causes the biasing member to close the shut off valve 410, thereby inhibiting the flow of liquid chemical from the bottle 102 into the chemical compartment 700. In the illustrated embodiment, the3 system employs the inverted bottle principle, where liquid flows out of the bottle as long as air can enter the bottle

[0094] Each chemical compartment 700 of the dispensing apparatus 106 further includes a key hole receiver 706 disposed beneath and adjacent to the shut off valve actuator 704. The key hole receiver 706 includes first and second key hole receiver notches 707a, 707b (best seen in see Fig. 8) configured to receive the first and second key members 414a, 414b of the key collar 408. While only two key hole receivers 706 are illustrated, more or fewer receivers may be implemented depending on the application requirements. The key hole receiver 706 (and particularly the notches) ensures that only a corresponding key collar 408 (and thus a specific bottle having a specific chemical) can be inserted into a specific chemical compartment. It is noted that the key configuration of the key collar 408 and the keyhole receiver 706 may be reversed, i.e., the notches 707a, 707b may be formed in the collar 408 and the key members 414a, 414b may be formed in the key hole receiver 706

[0095] A key hole receiver locator 708 is disposed below and adjacent to (preferably immediately adjacent to) the key hole receiver 706. Each key hole receiver locator 708 includes locating holes 708a that cooperate with guide pins 706a of the key hole receiver706. The locating holes 708a dictate an orientation of the guide pins 708a and thus an orientation of the key hole receiver 706 within the compartment. Each bottle holder compartment P1-P4, due to the location of the compartment relative to the chemical compartment 700, may orient the bottles in a slightly different manner relative to other compartments P1-P4, and the key hole receiver locator 708 correctly orients the key hole receiver 706 for the particular chemical compartment. More specifically, each key hole receiver locator 708 is different for each of the different chemical compartments 700. In this regard, the hole locations in the key hole receiver locator 708 are in different regions for each chemical compartment 700 so as to orient the notches of the key hole receiver 706 at different angular orientations. The corresponding bottles 102 for each chemical compartment 700 have key collars 408 with key members 414a, 414b oriented that match the particular orientation of the key hole receiver notches 707a, 707b.

[0096] Accordingly, the key hole receiver 706 is the same for all chemical compartments 700, but has a different orientation for each compartment 700 according to the orientation of the key hole receiver locator 708. It should be appreciated that the orientation of the key members 414a, 414b on the collar 408 must match the orientation of the notches 707a, 707b of the key hole receiver 706 in order for the bottle 102 to be fully seated in the chemical compartment. This prevents a bottle 102 from being installed into the wrong chemical compartment.

[0097] Arranged along a bottom portion of each chemical compartment 700 of the dispensing apparatus 106 is a filter 710 that filters liquid chemicals dispensed from the bottle 102 prior to the liquid chemicals being received by a reservoir 712. The filter 710 prevents particles above a given size from entering the W / D as well as flow meter malfunction. A sealing member, such as flapper 714 (best seen in Figs. 7, 10A, 12 and 13A-13C), is arranged above the reservoir 712. The flapper 714, which is mounted to a flapper pivot 714a arranged on a support portion 714b attached to a top portion of thereservoir, is movable between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the flapper 714 is biased against an opening in the reservoir to seal the reservoir 712 and prevent entry and exit of chemicals and / or air through the opening (to reduce contact of the chemical in the reservoir with air when the bottle 102 is removed from the bottle holder compartment P1-P4). In the second position, the flapper 714 is moved away from the opening in the reservoir 712 thereby permitting chemicals dispensed from the bottle 102 to enter the reservoir 712.

[0098] A flapper actuator 715 is arranged at an entry region of the chemical compartment, the flapper actuator 715 mechanically coupled to the flapper 714 via rod 1001 (best seen in Fig. 10A). As a bottle 102 is inserted into a bottle holder compartment P1-P4, the bottle displaces flapper actuator 715, which in turn causes the flapper 714 to move from the first (closed) position to the second (open) position. When a bottle 102 is unloaded from a bottle holder compartment P1-P4, the flapper actuator 715 is released by the bottle 102 thereby releasing the flapper actuator 715 and moving the flapper 714 from the open position to the closed position covering the reservoir.

[0099] Accordingly, the flapper 714 minimizes contact between the liquid chemical in the reservoir 712 and air when a bottle 102 is removed from a bottle holder compartment P1-P4 (i.e., the liquid chemical can dry with air contact, and the flapper can minimize or eliminate such drying of the chemical). The flapper 714 also prevents debris from entering the reservoir 712.

[0100] Each chemical compartment 700 also includes an empty bottle level sensor 716, which provides a signal to a controller 800 (See Fig. 8) when the respective reservoir 712 reaches a predetermined level indicative of an empty bottle 102. More specifically, the empty bottle level sensor 716 can be arranged in and a predetermined distance from the bottom of the reservoir 712 such that when the sensor 716 is triggered there still is sufficient chemical in the reservoir 712 to perform at least one more W / D cycle. In thismanner, when the chemical reaches a level that triggers the empty bottle level sensor 716, the operator is notified by the controller 800 that the bottle is empty but still can perform a W / D cycle using the remaining chemical in the reservoir 712. Additionally, a low level sensor 718 is disposed at or near the bottom of the reservoir 712 and provides a signal to the controller 800 when the liquid level in the reservoir 712 is below a minimum threshold. If, prior to a W / D cycle, the low level sensor 718 indicates a low level in the reservoir 712 the controller 800 prevents the start of a W / D cycle until the reservoir is replenished. If, during a W / D cycle, the low level sensor 718 indicates a low level in the reservoir 712, the controller 800 continues with the in-process W / D cycle as there is sufficient chemical to complete the cycle. Upon completing the cycle, the controller 800 prevents any further W / D cycles until the reservoir is replenished.

[0101] Disposed in a bottom region of the reservoir 712 is a fitting 900 (Fig. 9) that fluidically couples the reservoir 712 to a pump (not shown). The pump is fluidically coupled to a flow meter and injector (not shown), both of which are operatively coupled to the controller 800. The controller 800, based on a desired amount of chemical for a wash cycle (i.e., a setpoint), controls the pump based on data from the flow meter to deliver a precise amount of chemical.

[0102] A latch 720 selectively secures the bottle 102 into the bottle holder compartments Pl- P4 to maintain the bottle 102 in the correct position whether filled or empty so as to ensure the shut off valve 410 engages the shut off valve actuator 704. The latch 720 can provide tactile feedback such that a user knows (feels) when a bottle 102 is latched and unlatched. To remove the bottle 102 from the bottle holder compartment Pl- P4, the user presses the latch 720, which releases the bottle, and the user can lift the bottle 102 from the compartment. Each chemical compartment 700 also includes peristaltic pumps (not shown) for injecting the liquid chemical from the reservoir 712 into thewashing / disinfecting chamber, and optionally includes a drip pan (not shown) to collect chemical in case of chemical leak.

[0103] Referring specifically to Figs. 10A, 10B and 13 A, each chemical compartment 700 includes a damping system 1000 that provides tactile confirmation that the bottle 102 is correctly inserted into the chemical compartment 700. The damping system 1000 also can reduce bottle speed during loading, and can assist in lifting an empty bottle 102 out of the compartment. In one embodiment, the damping system 1000 is generally comprised of a damper ring 1002, and first and second damper springs 1004a, 1004b. In the illustrated embodiment the damper springs 1004a, 1004b are formed from an elastic material, e.g., rubber, but other materials may be utilized. For example, the damper springs may be formed as coil springs formed from steel or other metallic substance. The damper ring 1002 engages with the top wall 402 of a bottle 102 when the bottle is inserted into a bottle holder compartment Pl -P4. Once the bottle 102 engages with the damper ring 1002, the first and second damper springs 1004a, 1004b provide a bias that resists the downward movement of the bottle 102. In this regard, the damping system 1000 reduces the downward speed of the bottle 102 if dropped into the bottle holder compartment P1-P4, thereby reducing risk of damage. When a bottle 102 is empty, the bias generated by the damper springs 1004a, 1004b applies an upward force to the bottle 102, thereby tending to lift the bottle and facilitate removal of the bottle 102 from the bottle holder compartment P1-P4. For example, when the user presses the latch 720 the bottle 102 is released, and the damper springs 1004a, 1004b move the bottle 102 upward, facilitating removal of the bottle from the compartment P1-P4.

[0104] Referring now to Figs. 11 A, 1 IB, 13B and 13C, illustrated is a damping system 1100 in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. As will be understood from the following discussion, the damping system 1100 of Figs. 11A and 11B provides the same functionality as the damping system 1000 of Figs. 10A and 10B, but the structureutilized to implement that functionality is different. Fig. 13C is similar to Fig. 13B, but for clarity the flapper 714 has been removed in Fig. 13C to enable viewing inside the device.

[0105] In the embodiment of Figs. 1 1A, 1 IB, 13B and 13C the damping system 1100 includes a base 1102, which in the illustrated embodiment is in the form of a first base part 1102a and a second base part 1102b attached to the first base part 1102a. For example, one or more fasteners 1104 may secure the second base part 1102b to the first base part 1102a. The first and second base parts 1102a, 1102b each include one or more through holes 1106 for receiving an elongated member 1108, as discussed in more detail below. The base 1102 may be secured, for example, to the bottle holder 104, the reservoir 712 or a support structure 1109 of the dosing system 100 via one or more fasteners 1110, such as screws, rivets or the like. While the base 1102 is shown as a multi-part assembly, it will be appreciated that the base 1102 may be formed a one-piece structure.

[0106] One or more elongated members 1108 are disposed in respective ones of the one or more through holes 1106, the elongated members 1108 being movable relative to the base 1102. A proximal end of each elongated member 1108 (i.e., the ends closest to the base 1102) may include a stopper 1112, e.g., a fastener, an end portion formed larger than the through hole 1106, or other means for limiting movement of the elongated member in one direction. A distal end of each elongated member 1108 (i.e., the ends furthest from the base 1102) may include a bumper 1114 secured to the distal end. The bumpers 1114 are operative to protect the bottle as it initially contacts the elongated member 1108.

[0107] The elongated member 1108 may be formed from a first material, such as metal, plastic or the like, and the bumper 1114 may be formed from a second material that is different from the first material, such is rubber or other like materials. When the damper 1100 is secured to the dosing system, each elongated member 1108 is movable in a direction of insertion / removal of the bottle 102. For example, a first axis may be definedas extending in a direction of insertion of the bottle 102 into the container holder. Each elongated member 1108 then is movable along the first axis.

[0108] Coupled to each elongated member 1108 and the base 1102 is a respective resiliently deformable member 1116. The resiliently deformable member 1116 is configured to bias the distal end of the at least one elongated member 1108 away from the base 1102 in a direction of the first axis. For example, the resiliently deformable member 1116 may be a coil spring or the like arranged concentrically with the elongated member and disposed between the base 1102 and the bumper 1114, the spring being in compression and thus tending to urge the distal end of the elongated member away from the base 1102. As a bottle 102 engages with the bumper 1114, the spring provides a bias that resists the downward movement of the bottle 102. Like the first embodiment, the damping system 1100 reduces the downward speed of the bottle 102 if dropped into the bottle holder compartment P1-P4, thereby reducing risk of damage. When a bottle 102 is empty, the bias generated by the one or more springs 1116 applies an upward force to the bottle 102, thereby tending to lift the bottle and facilitate removal of the bottle 102 from the bottle holder compartment P1-P4. For example, when the user presses the latch 720 the bottle 102 is released, and the one or more springs 1116 move the bottle 102 upward, facilitating removal of the bottle from the compartment P1-P4.

[0109] Referring now to Figs. 15A-18D, illustrated is another embodiment of a bottle (also referred to as a container) 1500 that may be used with the dispensing apparatus 100 in accordance with the invention. While a single bottle 1500 is shown, multiple bottles may be formed as a unitary multi-chamber bottle, where each bottle chamber is separate and distinct from other bottle chambers of the multi-chamber bottle. The exemplary bottle 1500 includes top 1502, bottom 1504, left-side wall 1506, right-side wall 1508, front-side wall 1510 and back-side wall 1512, all joined together to define a chamber for holding a fluid, such as a chemical. The bottle 1500 is sized and configured to fit within the bottleholder 106 so as to secure the bottle 1500 therein. In this regard, when the bottle 1500 is inserted into the bottle holder 106, a portion of the bottle’s walls interacts with the bottle holder 106 to maintain a position of the bottle 1500 within the bottle holder 106 and enable dispensing of the fluid. Latch 720 selectively secures the bottle in the holder 106 and, once secured, fluid in the bottle 1500 may be dispensed into the dispensing apparatus 100. In the exemplary embodiment the bottle 1500 has a rectangular shape, although other shapes are possible. Preferably, the shape of the bottle corresponds to the shape of the bottle holder 106.

[0110] The bottle 1500 may optionally include a handle 1514 integrally formed with one or more of the bottom 1504, left-side wall 1506, right-side wall 1508, front-side wall 1510 or back-side wall 1512, the handle configured to enable a person to lift the bottle 1500. The handle 1514 may be arranged parallel to a longitudinal axis of the bottle 1500. In the illustrated embodiment, the handle is arranged along a longitudinal axis (major axis) of the bottle 1500. A valley 1515 is formed in the side of the bottle 1500 (in the illustrated embodiment, the front-side wall 1510) in which the handle 1514 is formed, the valley 1515 enabling a user to fully grasp the handle 1514. The valley 1515 is defined by two walls 1515 a, 1515b sloping downward (in toward the bottle) at an angle relative to the side wall (e.g., front side wall 1510) in which the handle 1514 is formed, and a valley floor 1515c spans between the two walls 1515a, 1515b. In the illustrated embodiment, the side wall (e.g., front-side wall 1510) includes rounded portions 1515d to gradually transition from the side wall to the walls 1515a, 1515b and from the walls 1515a, 1515b to the valley floor 1515c. Such rounded portions 1515d are merely exemplary and other configurations are possible, including a right angle.

[0111] Alternatively or additionally, the bottle 1500 may include lifting members 1516a, 1516b for grasping and lifting the bottle 1500 from the bottle holder 106. In one embodiment the lifting members 1516a, 1516b are in the form of recesses integrallyformed within opposing walls of the bottle 1500. Preferably, the lifting members 1516a,1516b include a bottom perimeter wall 1518a, 1518b that is formed at an angle relative to the side walls such that a user can securely grasp and pull the bottle 1500 while it is in the bottle holder 106 to load / unload and transport the bottle 1500. For example, the perimeter wall 1518a, 1518b may have an angle of 60 degrees or more relative to the side wall to help reduce slippage as a user pulls the bottle 1500 from the bottle holder 106. In another embodiment, the lifting members may be in the form of straps attached to the bottle or integrally formed therewith. To secure such straps, the bottle may include through-holes and / or reinforced regions to which the straps may be attached.

[0112] The bottle 1500 can optionally include reinforcement members 1520 disposed along one or more surfaces of the bottle 1500. The reinforcement members 1520, which may be ribs, textures, regions of increased thickness, use of more rigid materials, etc. integrally formed within the bottle surfaces, assist to substantially maintain a shape of the bottle 1500 while bottle 1500 contains the fluid (e.g., during storage and transport of the bottle) and as the fluid is dispensed from the bottle (e.g., to counteract negative pressure as the fluid is dispensed from the bottle). In this regard, “substantially maintain the shape of the container” means that the bottle shape, when empty, containing fluid and / or loaded in the dispensing apparatus 100, does not change by more than 3 percent. The ribs 1520 may have a uniform thickness, depth and / or cross section along the surface of the bottle 1500 or may vary in thickness, depth and / or cross section between regions of the bottle 1500.

[0113] A neck 1530 extends from the top 1502 of the bottle 1500, the neck 1530 having an open end 1532 to provide access into and out of the bottle chamber. The neck 1530 includes a base 1534 having a top flange 1536, and a collar alignment portion 1538 disposed on the base 1534. Disposed in a peripheral surface of the collar alignment portion 1538 is one or more alignment keys 1540, which in the illustrated embodiment are in theform of a notch or slot. In another embodiment, the alignment keys 1540 may be in the form of one or more grooves formed in a top surface of the collar alignment portion 1538.

[0114] The key collar 406 may be placed on the collar alignment portion 1538, where the alignment key 1540 cooperates with the key collar 408 to maintain a predefined orientation of the key collar 408 relative to the bottle 1500. A sealing surface 1542 is formed over the collar alignment portion 1538, the sealing surface operative to form a liquid-tight seal between the bottle 1500 and the key collar 406. The sealing surface 1542 may include a gasket, O-ring, or the like to provide the liquid-tight seal.

[0115] A threaded receiver 1544 is disposed over the sealing surface 1542, threads of the threaded receiver 1544 corresponding to threads of the seal / guide member 409 of the key collar 406. The key collar 406 may be secured to the bottle 1500 by placing the key collar 406 on the neck 1530 and rotating the key collar 406 such that the one or more internal guide members 600a, 600b align with the one or more alignment keys 1540 of the bottle 1500. The seal / guide member 409 of the key collar 406 then may be rotated such that the threads of the seal / guide member 409 engage with the threads of the threaded receiver 1544 to secure the key collar 406 to the bottle 1500. Figs. 19 and 20 are a perspective view and a top view, respectively, of the bottle 1500 with the key collar 406 installed thereon.

[0116] As the bottle 1500 is inserted into and removed from the bottle holder 106, the neck 1530 and / or the top 1502 interact with the damper system 1000 of the chemical dispensing apparatus 100 (see, e.g., Fig. 10A). In this regard, the damper system 1000 can provide resistance that eases the bottle 1500 into position within the bottle holder 106, and can also assist in removing the bottle (by providing an upward force out of the bottle holder 106). Further, and as discussed with respect to Figs. 4-7, as the bottle 1500 is inserted into the bottle holder 106, the key collar 406 includes a key way configured to cooperate with the key hole receiver 706 of the chemical dispensing apparatus 100 to provide a predefinedorientation of the bottle 1500 relative to the chemical dispensing apparatus 100 and permit fluid to be dispensed from the bottle. For example, if the key hole receiver 706 and the key collar 406 correspond to one another, the bottle 1500 may be completely seated in the bottle holder 106. As the bottle 1500 approaches its fully seated position (or is removed from the fully inserted position) the bottle 1500 opens (or closes) the sealing member. If the key hole receiver 706 and the key collar 406 do not correspond to one another, then the bottle 1500 will not completely seat in the bottle holder 106 and the sealing member will remain closed, thereby inhibiting fluid from being dispensed from the bottle.

[0117] To fill the bottle, liquid is dispensed into an open end of the neck. Prior or subsequent to filling the bottle, a key collar is attached to the neck, the key collar including at least one key member disposed on a peripheral surface of the key collar and at least one guide member disposed on an interior surface of the key collar. The at least one guide member cooperates with the at least one alignment key to provide a predefined orientation of the at least one key member relative to the neck. Once filled, the bottle is sealed, e.g., a cap is placed on the open end of the bottle.

[0118] Whether a new bottle or a previously-filled bottle is being filled with liquid, prior to dispensing the liquid into the bottle the bottle is prepared for receiving the liquid. Such preparation can include, for example, cleaning and / or sterilizing the bottle using, for example, a chemical sterilization processes.

[0119] Although the invention has been shown and described with respect to a certain embodiment or embodiments, equivalent alterations and modifications may occur to others skilled in the art upon the reading and understanding of this specification and the annexed drawings. In particular regard to the various functions performed by the above described elements (components, assemblies, devices, compositions, etc.), the terms (including a reference to a "means") used to describe such elements are intended to correspond, unless otherwise indicated, to any element which performs the specified function of the describedelement (i.e., that is functionally equivalent), even though not structurally equivalent to the disclosed structure which performs the function in the herein exemplary embodiment or embodiments of the invention. In addition, while a particular feature of the invention may have been described above with respect to only one or more of several embodiments, such feature may be combined with one or more other features of the other embodiments, as may be desired and advantageous for any given or particular application.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A chemical dispensing apparatus for dispensing to a washer / disinfector system chemicals stored in a plurality of containers, the chemical dispensing apparatus comprising a plurality of chemical compartments for receiving respective ones of the plurality of containers, each of the plurality of chemical compartments including: a container holder for receiving a respective one of the plurality of containers; a key receiver having a predefined keyway, the key receiver configured to selectively receive a key assigned to a respective one of the plurality of containers; a damper configured to cooperate with at least a portion of a container inserted into the container holder to reduce a speed of the container during loading of the container into the container holder; and a sealing member movable between a first position closing an inlet of a reservoir and a second position opening the inlet to the reservoir.

2. The chemical dispensing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising the reservoir, wherein the reservoir is configured to store the chemical dispensed from the container.

3. The chemical dispensing apparatus according to any one of claims 1-2, further comprising an empty reservoir level switch disposed in the reservoir, the empty reservoir level switch operative to provide an indication of sufficient chemical in the reservoir to perform at least one wash / disinfect cycle.

4. The chemical dispensing apparatus according to any one of claims 2-3, further comprising a spill pan disposed below the reservoir and operative to contain chemical that has leaked from the reservoir and / or the container.

5. The chemical dispensing apparatus according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein the damper is configured to provide tactile feedback as the container is secured in the container holder.

6. The chemical dispensing apparatus according to claim 5, further comprising a latch configured to selectively lock and release the container in the container holder, wherein the damper in combination with the latch is configured to provide the tactile feedback.

7. The chemical dispensing apparatus according to any one of claims 1-6, wherein the damper is configured to apply a force to the received container in a direction out of the container holder.

8. The chemical dispensing apparatus according to any one of claims 1-7, wherein the damper is configured to lift an empty container during unloading of the container from the container holder.

9. The chemical dispensing apparatus according to any one of claims 1-8, wherein the damper comprises a resiliently deformable member.

10. The chemical dispensing apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the resiliently deformable member comprises at least one of a spring or an elastic band.

11. The chemical dispensing apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the container holder comprises a first axis extending in a direction of insertion of a container into the container holder, and the damper comprises at least one elongated member configured to move along the first axis.

12. The chemical dispensing apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the resiliently deformable member is configured to bias the at least one elongated member along the first axis.

13. The chemical dispensing apparatus according to any one of claims 10-12, wherein the damper further comprises a base, and the at least one elongated member is movably attached to the base.

14. The chemical dispensing apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the base is fixedly attached to the container holder.

15. The chemical dispensing apparatus according to any one of claims 11-14, wherein the at least one elongated member comprises a proximal end movably attached to the base and a distal end configured to contact the container, further comprising a bumper disposed on the distal end of the at least one elongated member.

16. The chemical dispensing apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the elongated member is formed from a first material and the bumper is formed from a second material, the second material different from the first material.

17. The chemical dispensing apparatus according to any one of claims 15-16, wherein the resiliently deformable member is disposed between the base and the bumper.

18. The chemical dispensing apparatus according to any one of claims 1-17, further comprising a sealing member actuator disposed at an entrance of the chemical compartment, the sealing member actuator operatively coupled to the sealing member and configured to move the sealing member between the first position and the second position based on the presence or absence of a container in the container holder.

19. The chemical dispensing apparatus according to any one of claims 1-18, wherein the predefined keyway comprises at least one slot or notch disposed in a predetermined radial location about the key receiver.

20. The chemical dispensing apparatus according to any one of claims 1-19, further comprising a seal disposed at an entrance of the chemical compartment, the seal configured to interface with at least a portion of the container to create an air-tight seal therebetween.

21. The chemical dispensing apparatus according to any one of claims 1-20, further comprising a filter configured to receive the chemical from the container, and to output filtered chemical to the reservoir.

22. The chemical dispensing apparatus according to any one of claims 1-21, further comprising an empty container level switch disposed in the reservoir, the empty container level switch operative to provide an indication of the presence or absence of chemical in the container.

23. The chemical dispensing apparatus according to any one of claims 1-22, further comprising a shut off valve actuator configured to cooperate with a shut of valve disposed on the container to enable or inhibit flow of chemical from the container.

24. The chemical dispensing apparatus according to claim 23, further comprising the plurality of containers, wherein each container comprises a shut off valve configured to cooperate with the shut off valve actuator to enable or inhibit flow of chemical from the container.

25. The chemical dispensing apparatus according to any one of claims 1-24, further comprising the plurality of containers.

26. The chemical dispensing apparatus according to any one of claims 1-25, wherein each container comprises a collar having a key member configured to cooperate with the key receiver of a respective one of the plurality of chemical compartments.

27. The chemical dispensing apparatus according to any one of claims 1-26, wherein each container includes a plurality of handles integrally formed in the container.

28. The container according to any one of claims 1-27, wherein the dispensing apparatus comprises a latch configured to selectively lock and release the container in the container holder, and the damper is configured to eject the container upon the latch transitioning from a locked state to a released state.

29. The container according to claim 1-2, wherein upon insertion of said container into said container holder said sealing member is configured to let air enter into said container to enable the liquid to be dispensed.

30. A container configured to hold a fluid and operate in combination with a dispensing apparatus, said dispensing apparatus comprising a container holder for holding one or more containers, a guide member for guiding the one or more containers into the container holder, and a damper operative to functionally interact with the container, said container sized and configured to fit within the container holder, a portion of said container configured to interact with said guide member to maintain a position of the container within the container holder when inserted, and said container configured to interact with said damper during insertion and removal of the container from the container holder.

31. The container according to claim 30, wherein said container comprises reinforcement members disposed along a surface of the container, said reinforcement members configured to substantially maintain a shape of the container while container contains and dispenses the fluid.

32. The container according to claim 31, wherein said reinforcement members comprise at least one of rib structures, textures, regions of varying thickness, or regions having different materials.

33. The container according to any one of claims 30-32, further comprising a handle configured to lift said container.

34. The container according to claim 33, wherein said handle is integrally formed with said container.

35. The container according to claim 34, further comprising a neck having an open end, wherein said handle is disposed on a wall of said container that is opposite said open end.

36. The container according to any one of claims 33-34, wherein said handle is disposed along a longitudinal axis of said container.

37. The container according to any one of claims 30-36, further comprising a neck having an open end, and at least one alignment key disposed on said neck and configured to cooperate with a key collar to provide a predefined orientation of said key collar relative to said container.

38. The container according to claim 37, wherein said alignment key comprises at least one of a slot, notch or groove formed in a portion of said neck.

39. The container according to any one of claims 37-38, further comprising a key collar attached to said neck, said key collar including a key way configured to cooperate with a key receiver of said chemical dispensing apparatus to provide a predefined orientation of said container relative to said chemical dispensing apparatus when said container is inserted into said container holder.

40. The container according to any one of claims 30-39, wherein the chemical dispensing apparatus includes a reservoir having an inlet, and a sealing member movablebetween a first position closing said inlet and a second position opening said inlet, and wherein upon insertion or removal of said container into said container holder said container is configured to open or close said sealing member.

41. The container according to any one of claims 30-40, wherein said container comprises multiple containers attached to each other, each individual container including a respective opening.

42. The container according to claim 41, wherein said multiple containers are formed as a unitary structure.

43. The container according to any one of claims 30-42, further comprising a lift member for lifting said container, said lift member integrally formed within two opposing side walls of said container.

44. The container according to claim 43, wherein said lift member comprises a handle, a recess formed in opposing sides of said container, or a strap attached to said container.

45. The container according to any one of claims 30-44, further comprising a shut off valve disposed at an opening of said container, said shut off valve operative to selectively enable or inhibit flow of fluid from said container.

46. A method for filling a container with a liquid, the container comprising a neck having an open end and at least one alignment key disposed on the neck, the method comprising: dispensing the liquid into the open end of the neck; andattaching a key collar to the neck, the key collar including at least one key member disposed on a peripheral surface of the key collar and at least one guide member disposed on an interior surface of the key collar, wherein the at least one guide member cooperates with the at least one alignment key to provide a predefined orientation of the at least one key member relative to the neck.

47. The method according to claim 46, further comprising prior to dispensing, preparing the container for receiving the liquid.

48. The method according to claim 47, wherein preparing includes cleaning the container.

49. The method according to any one of claims 46-48, further comprising subsequent to dispensing the liquid into the container, sealing the open end.

50. The method according to claim 49, wherein sealing includes attaching a removable cap to the open end.

Images