Disposable Chemical Injector for Pool Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pool and spa chemical dispensing systems pose safety hazards due to corrosive chemicals and complex, prone-to-failure pumping mechanisms, leading to potential property damage and bodily harm.
Innovation Solution
A disposable chemical container system with a pump and integrated sensors, processing devices, and communication circuits that allow safe, controlled dispensing of chemicals into pool or spa systems, minimizing user exposure and automating chemical replenishment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If complex pumping mechanisms (peristaltic or diaphragm pumps) are used for chemical dispensing, then chemical injection capability is achieved, but device complexity increases and reliability decreases due to prone-to-failure components
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the chemical containment function (disposable container) from the dispensing function (reusable pump unit), allowing the complex pump mechanism to be simpler and the chemical to be isolated in a sealed container that is replaced rather than maintained
Solution Approach 2:
The chemical container is designed as a disposable component that is replaced when empty or expired, eliminating the need for complex cleaning, maintenance, and sterilization procedures associated with reusable chemical storage and dispensing systems
2Ease of operation
If users handle corrosive chemicals directly for transfer or application, then chemical application is achieved, but safety risks increase due to potential skin contact, eye contact, or property damage
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces an intermediary sealed container and automated dispensing mechanism between the user and the corrosive chemical, allowing the user to never directly contact the hazardous substance while still achieving the desired chemical application
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service chemical application through automated or semi-automated dispensing mechanisms that eliminate the need for users to manually handle, transfer, or apply corrosive chemicals, thereby maintaining ease of operation while dramatically improving safety
3Productivity
If chemical containers are opened and transferred to dispensing systems, then chemical dispensing is achieved, but property damage risk increases due to potential spills that can quickly damage concrete and metal
Solution Approach 1:
The chemical is pre-sealed in a closed container system before being introduced to the dispensing mechanism, and the connection between container and pump is designed to maintain sealing integrity throughout the dispensing process, preventing spills before they can occur
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses sealed transfer mechanisms and intermediate containment structures that prevent direct exposure of corrosive chemicals to the environment, eliminating the spill damage pathway while maintaining dispensing functionality
Data Source
AI summary
A chemical injector for use with a pool system can include an assembly having a disposable chemical container (214) and a pump (106,216). The disposable chemical container can fluidly seal a chemical in an inner volume of the disposable chemical container. The pump can be coupled to the disposable chemical container for injecting the chemical into the fluid flow of the pool system.