Multi-Chemical Dispensing Device with Flow Selector Valve
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current chemical dispensing devices cannot dispense multiple chemicals from a single device, select different dilution ratios, or adjust fill rates effectively, failing to meet the need for versatility in chemical mixing and dilution processes.
Innovation Solution
A chemical dispensing device with a flow selector valve and multiple proportioners that allow for the mixing of chemical concentrates with water at various dilution ratios and water flow rates, utilizing check valves to manage fluid flow and prevent backflow, enabling the dispensing of multiple chemicals at multiple rates and ratios.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single chemical dispensing device is used, then device simplicity is maintained, but the ability to dispense multiple chemicals and select different dilution ratios is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The dispensing device is segmented into multiple independent proportioners (first proportioner, second proportioner) that can operate simultaneously or independently. Each proportioner handles a specific chemical concentrate with its own dedicated water supply and discharge system. This segmentation allows multiple chemicals to be dispensed from a single device while maintaining functional independence, resolving the contradiction between versatility and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates a universal flow selector valve that can direct water flow to different proportioners and control dilution ratios for multiple chemicals through a single interface. The valve assembly serves multiple functions: selecting which proportioner receives water, controlling the water flow rate, and enabling different dilution ratios. This multi-functionality allows the device to handle multiple chemicals with various dilution requirements without requiring separate devices for each function.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple proportioners are added to dispense different chemicals, then chemical variety increases, but device complexity and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple proportioners are merged into a single integrated dispensing device with a common flow selector valve assembly. The valve assembly consolidates the control functions for all proportioners into one location, allowing the user to select which proportioner receives water and control the water flow rate through a single interface. This merging approach enables multiple chemicals to be dispensed while maintaining simple operation through centralized control.
3Reliability
If check valves are added to prevent backflow, then fluid flow control improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Check valves are incorporated into the water supply lines of each proportioner to automatically prevent backflow without requiring manual intervention or complex control systems. The check valves self-regulate the fluid flow direction based on pressure differential, allowing the system to maintain reliability and proper fluid control while minimizing the need for additional complex valve control mechanisms.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables users to dispense multiple chemicals from a single device at various rates and dilution ratios, ensuring precise control over the mixing process, improving operational efficiency and flexibility in chemical applications.
Implementation Method 1
When the water supply to a proportioner is turned on, the flow of water through the proportioner creates a suction force that draws the chemical concentrate into the proportioner
Implementation Method 2
A second check valve is operably disposed between the flow selector valve and the first proportioner, wherein the second check valve is biased closed in a first direction opposite of fluid flow from said flow selector valve to said first proportioner. The second check valve is operable to open upon a suction force that acts in the direction of the first direction of fluid flow
Implementation Method 3
When the suction force is no longer present after turning off the water supply to one of the proportioners, the open check valves close and the atmospheric air pressure allows any chemical concentrate remaining in the chemical dispensing device to drain back into the bulk container
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-chemical dispensing device comprising a concentrate supply of at least one chemical concentrate, a flow selector valve in fluid communication with said concentrate supply, and at least two proportioners, each proportioner in fluid communication with the flow selector valve. The flow selector valve may include a dilution member comprising one or more aligned orifice pairs, each orifice pair including an first orifice and a second orifice in fluid communication with the concentrate supply. Each orifice has an opening area to provide a known dilution ratio at a known flow rate therethrough. Each proportioner is connected to a supply of motive fluid. The concentrate dispensing device includes a plurality of check valves that close off the system when one of the water supplies is turned on. The plurality of check valves are also configured to allow the chemical concentrate to drain out of the multi-chemical dispensing device using gravity.