BR112021023963B1 - Separator basket system and chemical dispensing coupling station. - Google Patents

Abstract

A separator basket system, a chemical dispensing coupling station, and a method for dispensing chemical. A separator basket system may include a reservoir in which a separator basket is positioned and a chemical dispensing coupling station. The chemical dispensing coupling station may have a cavity that receives a chemical container to be dispensed and a retention mechanism that is configured to mechanically engage and retain the chemical container when inserted into the cavity. The coupling station may also include a piercing element positioned to pierce the chemical container as the chemical container is inserted into the cavity, thereby releasing the chemical into the reservoir and/or the separator basket.

Description

RELATED TOPICS

[001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application 62/854,881, filed May 30, 2019, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[002] This disclosure relates to the dispensing of chemicals and, more particularly, to systems and techniques for dispensing chemicals.

BACKGROUND

[003] Chemical dispensers are useful in many different chemical application systems, including water treatment systems such as commercial cooling water systems, cleaning systems related to food and beverage operations, laundry operations, dishwashing operations (e.g., dishwashers), pool and spa maintenance, as well as other systems such as medical operations. For example, chemicals used in water treatment systems may include oxidizing and non-oxidizing biocides to inhibit or destroy the growth or activity of living organisms in the water being treated. As another example, chemicals used in food and beverage operations may include disinfectants, sterilizers, cleaning agents, degreasers, lubricants, etc. Chemicals used in a dishwashing or laundry operation may include detergent, disinfectants, stain removers, rinsing agents, etc. Products used in a laundry operation may include detergents, bleaches, stain removers, fabric softeners, etc. Chemicals used in cleaning medical/surgical instruments may include detergents, cleaning agents, neutralizers, sanitizers, disinfectants, enzymes, etc.

[004] In practice, a chemical intended for use may be supplied in concentrated form and then diluted on-site to make a solution for use. Supplying the concentrated chemical to a user that is then diluted on-site is useful for reducing the packaging, shipping, and storage requirements that would otherwise be necessary to supply an equivalent quantity of product in a ready-to-use form. However, a user receiving concentrated chemical typically needs to transfer the chemical from the container in which it is received to a system where the concentrated chemical will be diluted and/or used. To avoid inadvertent contact with the concentrated chemical during transfer, the user may be required to wear personal protective equipment (PPE), such as safety glasses, gloves, and/or protective clothing, and/or perform the transfer in an area where an eyewash station is present. A chemical dispenser that can safely transfer concentrated chemicals, while limiting or eliminating the risk of inadvertent spillage during transfer, would minimize the need for PPE during use, potentially reducing the amount of training required to use the system and/or the complexity of using the system.

SUMMARY

[005] In general, this disclosure refers to systems, devices and techniques for transferring chemical product from a container in which the chemical product is held to a reservoir where the chemical product is intended to be used, such reservoir containing a separator basket. For example, a separator basket system may include an outer reservoir and an inner separator basket that is insertable into and removable from the outer reservoir. The separator basket system may include a chemical dispensing coupling station that facilitates the transfer of chemical product from the container in which it is held to the inner separator basket and/or outer reservoir. In some examples, the chemical dispensing coupling station includes a retention mechanism and a piercing element. The chemical container to be dispensed may be inserted into the chemical dispensing coupling station while closed. The piercing element may pierce the container, for example, when the container is inserted into the coupling station, causing the contents of the container to dispense into the separator basket and/or reservoir. The retaining element can mechanically engage the container in the coupling station, for example, helping to prevent the container from being inadvertently pulled out of the coupling station while unloading its contents.

[006] By configuring the chemical dispensing coupling station to pierce and retain the chemical container to be dispensed, the chemical dispensing coupling station can provide a safe, contactless transfer of chemical from the container in which it is stored to the filter separator basket and/or external reservoir. In some implementations, a closed chemical container—for example, a chemical container with its cap removed and a closing film maintaining a seal over the container's outlet opening—can be inserted into the chemical dispensing coupling station. The chemical container is opened after it is inserted into the chemical dispensing station, for example, by the piercing element piercing the seal over the outlet opening. The retaining element engages with the chemical container, for example, to hold the chemical container in the coupling station while the contents are transferred out of the container. In this way, the likelihood of the system user being inadvertently exposed to chemical during transfer is reduced or eliminated. In some applications, the user may be authorized to transfer chemicals using the chemical dispensing docking station without wearing any special personal protective equipment and/or perform the transfer in a location that does not have an eyewash station.

[007] A separator basket system with reservoir, separator basket, and chemical dispensing coupling station according to the disclosure can be used for any desired application. As a non-limiting example, the separator basket system can be used to prepare consumable human foods, such as fruits or vegetables, within a food preparation environment, such as a restaurant. In use, a food preparer can position the separator basket inside the reservoir and place the food to be washed inside the separator basket. The food preparer can remove a lid from a concentrated chemical container, exposing a film covering an opening of the container. The food preparer can then insert the container into the chemical dispensing coupling station. When the container is inserted into the chemical dispensing coupling station, a piercing element of the coupling station can pierce the film.

[008] Before, simultaneously with, and/or after the piercing element perforates the film, a retaining element on the coupling station may engage with the container to hold the container in the coupling station. For example, in one example, the retaining element may engage simultaneously with the concentrated chemical container when the container is perforated by the piercing element. In another example, the user may insert the concentrated chemical container into the chemical dispensing coupling station to perforate the container and then pull the concentrated chemical container back out of the piercing element (e.g., a short distance) to engage the container with the retaining mechanism. Pulling the concentrated chemical container out of the piercing element may remove the piercing element from the hole created in the container, increasing the flow rate of the chemical out of the hole for faster discharge.

[009] In any case, the contents of the container may be released and dispensed into the reservoir and/or separator basket. The food preparer may add water to the separator basket system (before and/or after dispensing the concentrated chemical), forming a diluted solution. For example, the diluted solution may be an antimicrobial washing solution for washing the food. In any case, the food preparer may or may not agitate the food within the separator basket and then pull the separator basket out of the reservoir, allowing the residual solution to drain out of the separator basket and leaving the washed food for subsequent use.

[0010] In one example, a separator basket system is described that includes a reservoir, a separator basket, and a chemical dispensing coupling station. The reservoir defines an opening through which material can be introduced into the reservoir. The separator basket is positioned within the reservoir and removable from it. The chemical dispensing coupling station has a discharge opening positioned to discharge chemical to be dispensed into at least one of the reservoir and the separator basket. The example further specifies that the chemical dispensing coupling station includes a cavity, a retention mechanism, and a piercing mechanism. The cavity is a cavity configured to receive a chemical container to be dispensed. The retention mechanism is configured to mechanically engage the chemical container when inserted into the cavity and retain the chemical container in the chemical dispensing coupling station during dispensing. The piercing element is positioned to pierce the chemical container when the chemical container is inserted into the cavity, thereby releasing the chemical to be dispensed through the discharge opening.

[0011] In another example, a chemical dispensing coupling station for a separator basket assembly is described. The chemical dispensing coupling station includes an upward-extending side wall and a bottom wall that collectively define a cavity configured to receive a chemical container to be dispensed, the bottom wall having a discharge opening. The chemical dispensing coupling station also includes a retention mechanism and a piercing element. The retention mechanism is configured to mechanically engage the chemical container when inserted into the cavity and to hold the chemical container in the chemical dispensing coupling station during dispensing. The piercing element is positioned to pierce the chemical container when the chemical container is inserted into the cavity, thereby releasing the chemical to be dispensed through the discharge opening.

[0012] In another example, a method for dispensing a chemical to a separator basket system is described. The method includes adding a material to be processed to a separator basket that is positioned within a reservoir and dispensing a chemical to the separator basket. The method specifies that dispensing the chemical includes inserting a container of the chemical into a receiving cavity of a chemical dispensing coupling station having a discharge opening positioned to discharge the chemical to be dispensed into at least one of the reservoir and the separator basket. The process for dispensing the chemical further includes engaging the container with a retaining mechanism of the chemical dispensing coupling station and piercing the container with a piercing element of the chemical dispensing coupling station, thereby dispensing the chemical from the container to the separator basket.

[0013] The details of one or more examples are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the following description. Other features, objects and advantages will become apparent from the description and the drawings and claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] FIGS. 1 and 2 are perspective and exploded views, respectively, of an example separator basket system according to the disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 3 is a sectional view of the example separator basket system of FIG. 1 illustrating an example deviation between a lower wall of the separator basket and the lower wall of the reservoir.

[0016] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an example docking station that can be used in the system of FIGS. 1 and 2.

[0017] FIG. 5 is a sectional view of the example coupling station of FIG. 4 illustrated with a chemical container positioned on the coupling station.

[0018] FIGS. 6A and 6B examples of retention mechanism configurations that can be used in the coupling station in the system of FIG. 1.

[0019] FIGS. 6C-6F illustrate an example configuration of a retention mechanism in which the retention mechanism is arranged to allow the container to be pulled out of the drilling element after being drilled.

[0020] FIGS. 6G and 6H illustrate example features that can be used by a coupling station to hold a container above a drilling element.

[0021] FIG. 7A is an expanded view of an example drilling element arrangement that can be used in the coupling station in the system of FIG. 1.

[0022] FIGS. 7B and 7C are viewed in side and bottom perspective, respectively, showing an example configuration of a drilling element having one or more straight-through openings.

[0023] FIGS. 7D and 7E illustrate an example cover arrangement for a docking station.

[0024] FIGS. 8A and 8B are viewed in top and bottom perspective, respectively, showing an example configuration of a separator basket that can be used in the system of FIG. 1.

[0025] FIG. 9 is a sectional illustration of the example separator basket of FIGS. 8A and 8B.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] In general, this disclosure refers to a separator basket system with a chemical dispensing coupling station for transferring chemical to a separator basket assembly. The chemical dispensing coupling station may provide safe, contactless transfer of the chemical from the container in which it is stored to the separator basket assembly. In some implementations, the chemical dispensing coupling station defines a cavity sized and/or shaped to that of the container to be inserted into the station. When the container is inserted into the receiving cavity, the container may be punctured by a piercing element, releasing the contents of the container to flow through a discharge opening of the coupling station and into the separator basket assembly. Additionally, the coupling station may include a retention mechanism. The retention mechanism may engage the container in the receiving cavity, for example, to prevent the container from being inadvertently removed from the cavity after being punctured by the piercing mechanism and while still discharging the chemical. In some implementations, the container engages with the retention mechanism when the piercing mechanism pierces the container and/or the retention mechanism may engage with the container after the piercing mechanism has pierced the container (for example, when a user pulls the container out of the piercing mechanism to increase the flow rate through the hole created in the container by the piercing mechanism).

[0027] The chemical dispensing coupling station may have a variety of different configurations. In some examples, the chemical dispensing coupling station is attachable and detachable from the separator basket and/or reservoir in which the separator basket is positioned. For example, the chemical dispensing coupling station may be attached to a side wall and/or edge of the separator basket and/or reservoir. In other examples, the chemical dispensing coupling station may be permanently integrated into the structure of the separator basket and/or reservoir. For example, the chemical dispensing coupling station may be molded or otherwise permanently integrated into a side wall of the separator basket or reservoir. When thus configured, the chemical dispensing coupling station may project inward or outward relative to a remainder of the side wall defining the separator basket or reservoir.

[0028] Regardless of the specific configuration of the chemical dispensing coupling station, the coupling station may have a discharge opening (also referred to as a discharge port) through which the chemical being dispensed exits the coupling station. The discharge opening may be positioned below the uppermost edges of the separator basket and reservoir. In other words, the discharge opening of the chemical dispensing coupling station may be positioned inside the separator basket and/or reservoir. This positioning can help ensure that the chemical exiting the discharge opening flows directly into the separator basket and/or reservoir without splashing or spilling out of the assembly. This can minimize the likelihood of a user of the separator basket system being exposed to the chemical being dispensed.

[0029] FIGS. 1 and 2 are perspective and exploded views, respectively, of an example separator basket system 10 comprising a reservoir 12, a separator basket 14, and a chemical dispensing coupling station 16 (also referred to as “coupling station 16” in this document). The chemical dispensing coupling station 16 is configured to receive a chemical container 18 to be dispensed using the coupling station for the reservoir 12 and/or the separator basket 14. In use, an operator may insert the container 18 into the coupling station 16. The coupling station 16 may have various features that temporarily lock the container in the coupling station 16 and pierce the container to dispense its contents. This combination of features can help prevent container 18 from releasing its contents until it is at least partially positioned inside reservoir 12 and/or separator basket 14, and can also help prevent the container from being removed from the docking station before it has discharged its entire contents.

[0030] The separator basket system 10 in FIGS. 1 and 2 includes reservoir 12 and separator basket 14. Material to be processed in the system 10 can be inserted into the separator basket 14, for example, before or after introducing chemical from container 18 into the system using coupling station 16. The separator basket 14 may have holes that allow liquid to pass through the basket while solid material to be processed is retained in the basket. For example, in use, reservoir 12 can be filled with a diluent (e.g., water) and concentrated chemical introduced into the reservoir via coupling station 16 to form a diluted solution for use. The material to be processed can also be added to the separator basket 14, causing the material to be exposed to the working solution inside the reservoir 12. After adequately contacting the material with the working solution, the separator basket 14 can be pulled out of the reservoir 12 (for example, as illustrated in FIG. 2) to extract the processed material from the residual working solution.

[0031] In general, the reservoir 12 can be any structure configured to receive and retain the separator basket 14 and the liquid for processing material placed in the reservoir and/or the separator basket. For example, the reservoir 12 can define a delimited cavity that separates its contents from the external environment. The reservoir 12 can be formed by at least one side wall 20 that extends from an upper end 22 to a lower end 24. The reservoir 12 can have a closed lower wall 26 that joins the side wall 20 to the lower end 24 of the side wall. The upper end 22 of the side wall 20 can define an opening into which the filter basket 14 is inserted and removed.

[0032] It should be appreciated that the descriptive terms “upper” and “lower” in relation to the configuration and orientation of the components described herein are used for illustrative purposes based on the orientation in the Figures. The arrangement of components in real-world applications may vary depending on their orientation relative to gravity. Therefore, unless otherwise specified, the general terms “first” and “second” may be used interchangeably without the terms “upper” and “lower” without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

[0033] In the example of FIG. 1, the reservoir 12 includes at least one side wall 20. The side wall 20 extends upwards (in the Z direction indicated in FIG. 1) from the lower end 24. The number of side walls interconnected together to form the side structure of the reservoir 12 extending between the upper end 22 and the lower end 24 may vary depending on the shape of the reservoir. For example, a reservoir with a circular cross-sectional shape (e.g., in the X-Y plane) may be formed from a single side wall, whereas a reservoir with a square or rectangular cross-sectional shape may be defined by four interconnected side walls.

[0034] In general, reservoir 12 can define any polygonal (e.g., square, hexagonal) or arched (e.g., circular, elliptical) shape, or even combinations of polygonal and arched shapes. In some examples, such as the example shown in FIG. 1, reservoir 12 is illustrated as having a circular cross-sectional shape. Reservoir 12 can be manufactured from a material that is chemically compatible and chemically resistant to the type of chemical placed in the reservoir. In some examples, reservoir 12 is manufactured from a polymeric material, such as a molded plastic. In other examples, reservoir 12 is manufactured from a metal, such as aluminum or steel.

[0035] The filter basket 14 is illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 as being insertable and removable from the reservoir 12. Similar to the reservoir 12, the separator basket 14 may be formed by at least one side wall 28 (FIG. 2) extending from an upper end terminal 30 to a lower end terminal 32. The separator basket 14 may have a lower wall 34 that joins the side wall 28 at the lower end 32 of the side wall. The upper end 30 of the side wall 28 may define an opening into which the material to be processed may be inserted into and removed from the separator basket 14. In some implementations, the upper end 30 of the side wall 28 defines a rounded edge instead of a planar edge with 90-degree corners. This rounded edge may be easier to clean and less susceptible to contaminant buildup than a planar edge.

[0036] In the example of FIG. 1, the side wall 28 of the separator basket 14 extends upwards (in the Z direction indicated in FIG. 1) from the lower end 32. The number of side walls interconnected together to form the side structure of the separator basket 14 extending between the upper end 30 and the lower end 32 may vary depending on the shape of the reservoir. For example, a separator basket with a circular cross-sectional shape (e.g., in the X-Y plane) may be formed by a single side wall, whereas a separator basket with a square or rectangular cross-sectional shape may be defined by four interconnected side walls.

[0037] In general, the separator basket 14 can define any polygonal (e.g., square, hexagonal) or arched (e.g., circular, elliptical) shape or even combinations of polygonal and arched shapes. The separator basket 14 can typically be indexed by shape to a reservoir shape 12. For example, the separator basket 14 can have the same general shape as the reservoir 12, but a slightly smaller size (e.g., in the X-Y plane indicated in FIGS. 1 and 2) than the reservoir, allowing the separator basket to be nested within the reservoir. In FIGS. 1 and 2, the separator basket 14 and the reservoir 12 are both illustrated as having a circular cross-sectional shape. Obviously, the separator basket 14 can have a different shape from the reservoir 12 without departing from the functionality of the separator basket described herein. Similar to reservoir 12, the separator basket 14 can be manufactured from a material that is chemically compatible and chemically resistant to the type of chemical placed in the reservoir. In several examples, the separator basket 14 is manufactured from a polymeric material, such as a molded plastic, or a metal, such as aluminum or steel.

[0038] Unlike the reservoir 12, which has a closed side wall 20 and bottom wall 26 to prevent liquid from flowing through the wall surfaces, the filter basket 14 includes one or more openings 36 through which liquid can flow into and out of the separator basket. In the configuration of FIGS. 1 and 2, the separator basket 14 is illustrated as having a plurality of vertically elongated openings (e.g., having a length in the Z direction greater than a width in the X-Y plane) arranged around a perimeter of the separator basket. The separator basket 14 may have a different arrangement, number, or configuration of openings without deviating from disclosure. In general, the openings 36 may have a size smaller than a size of the material to be processed in the separator basket system 10 to prevent material from passing through the openings in the basket during use.

[0039] In use, the separator basket 14 can be positioned inside the reservoir 12. The separator basket 14 can be configured (e.g., sized and/or formed) to nest inside the reservoir 12 to a sufficient depth to position the openings 36 in the separator basket below the upper edge 22 of the reservoir 12. This can prevent liquid from flowing over the upper edge of the reservoir. In some configurations, the separator basket 14 is positioned inside the reservoir 12 with the lower surface of the lower wall 32 of the separator basket positioned in contact with the upper surface of the lower wall 26 of the reservoir. In other configurations, the separator basket 14 may be positioned within the reservoir 12 with the lower surface 32 of the separator basket raised above the lower surface 26 of the reservoir 12. For example, the separator basket 14 may be positioned within the reservoir 12 with a separation gap between the lower surface of the lower wall 32 of the separator basket and the upper surface of the lower wall 26 of the reservoir. The separation gap may allow liquid to flow between the lower surfaces of the reservoir and the filter basket, for example, to promote mixing of the chemical dispensed from the container 18 with a diluent added to the reservoir.

[0040] FIG. 3 is a sectional view of the separator basket system 10 of FIG. 1 illustrating an example of deviation 40 between the lower surface of the lower wall 32 of the separator basket 14 and the upper surface of the lower wall 26 of the reservoir 12. When the lower wall 32 of the separator basket 14 and/or the lower wall 26 of the reservoir 12 are not planar, the deviation 40 can be measured at a location of minimum separation between the respective lower walls. The distance defined by the deviation 40 can vary depending on the configuration and size of the separator basket system 10. In some examples, the deviation 40 is less than 50 cm, such as less than 25 cm, less than 12 cm, less than 10 cm, less than 5 cm, less than 2.5 cm or less than 1 cm. For example, the deviation 40 can vary from 0.5 cm to 50 cm, as well as from 1 cm to 25 cm. In other examples, the lower surface of the lower wall 32 of the separator basket 14 contacts the upper surface of the lower wall 26 of the reservoir 12 so that the deviation 40 is zero. In some implementations, such as when using comparatively viscous chemicals, the deviation 40 can be minimized to improve mixing of the concentrated chemicals dispensed towards the lower wall 26 of the reservoir 12 throughout the reservoir and the separator basket (and the contents therein).

[0041] With additional reference to FIGS. In figures 1 and 2, the separator basket 14 is illustrated as having an outward-extending lip or rib 42, which extends outward from the side wall 28. The outward-extending lip 42 may extend partially or fully around a perimeter of the separator basket 14 and be configured to be positioned over the upper edge 22 of the reservoir 12. Therefore, when the separator basket 14 is positioned within the reservoir 12, the outward-extending lip 42 may rest on the upper edge 22 of the reservoir 12, for example, to hold the separator basket in the reservoir while maintaining deviation 40. Furthermore, the outward-extending lip 42 may define a handle or gripping area outside the reservoir 12, which may provide a convenient location for a user to grasp the separator basket 14 without coming into contact with the chemical to pull the separator basket out of the reservoir. In other configurations, the separator basket 14 may be positioned entirely within the reservoir 12, for example, with the upper edge 30 of the separator basket 14 positioned below the upper edge 22 of the reservoir 12, instead of resting on an edge or upper surface of the reservoir.

[0042] Although system 10 in the present disclosure is described as including reservoir 12 and separator basket 14, in other implementations of coupling station 16 according to the disclosure, coupling station may be used with a reservoir 12 that does not include a separator basket. For example, coupling station 16 may be used with reservoir 12 to form a diluted use solution in applications where a separator basket 14 is not required. Example implementations include situations where reservoir 12 is a sink, a mop bucket, or another reservoir that does not utilize a separator basket.

[0043] As briefly presented above, the separator basket system 10 includes a coupling station 16 which is configured to receive a container 18 of chemical product to be dispensed into the system. In different implementations, the coupling station 16 can be manufactured as a separate component from the reservoir 12 and/or the separator basket 14 which can then be engaged or interlocked with one or both components. Alternatively, the coupling station 16 can be permanently integrated into the reservoir 12 and/or the separator basket 14, for example, by molding the features together, permanently bonding the features together so that the features cannot be detached without damaging the features, or otherwise inseparably integrating the coupling station with the reservoir and/or the separator basket.

[0044] In the example of FIGS. 1 and 2, the coupling station 16 is illustrated as being removable, but interlockable with the reservoir 12 and/or the separator basket 14. Alternative configurations in which the coupling station 16 is molded with the separator basket 14 are discussed in relation to FIGS. 8A, 8B and 9 below. The features and functionalities described as being attributable to the coupling station 16 in this document may be used in either a detachable/removable configuration of the coupling station or a permanently integrated configuration of the coupling station. Therefore, the discussion of certain features or functionalities of the coupling station 16 in relation to one embodiment should be understood as being applicable to other embodiments herein and not limited to the specific embodiment with which the features or functionalities are described.

[0045] FIGS. 4 and 5 are illustrations of an example configuration of the coupling station 16 that can be used in a separator basket system 10, such as that described in relation to FIGS. 1 and 2, herein. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the coupling station 16 without the chemical container 18 inserted in the coupling station. FIG. 5 is a sectional view of the coupling station 16 of FIG. 4 illustrated with the chemical container 18 positioned in the coupling station. In the illustrated configuration, the coupling station 16 defines a cavity 50 into which the container 18 can be inserted. The coupling station 16 is also illustrated as including a retention mechanism 52 that is configured to mechanically engage the container 18 when the container is inserted into the cavity 50, and to hold the chemical container in the coupling station during dispensing. The coupling station 16 is further illustrated as including a piercing element 54 which is positioned to pierce the container 18 when the container is inserted into the cavity 50.

[0046] In general, the cavity 50 may be an opening or an empty space in the coupling station 16 into which the container 18 may be inserted. The coupling station 16 may include a side wall 56 that extends upward (in the Z direction indicated in FIGS. 4 and 5) from a lower end 58 and defines the cavity. The coupling station 16 may also include a lower wall 60 (FIG. 5) in which a discharge opening 62 is formed and through which chemical dispensed from the container 18 may discharge from the coupling station.

[0047] Cavity 50 may or may not have a shape indexed to a shape of container 18. For example, cavity 50 may have a shape complementary to the shape of container 18 intended to be inserted into the cavity. In FIGS. 4 and 5, cavity 50 is illustrated as defining a circular cross-section shape to receive a container 18 that is circular in shape. However, cavity 50 may define any polygonal (e.g., square, hexagonal) or arched (e.g., circular, elliptical) shape or even combinations of polygonal and arched shapes.

[0048] The depth of cavity 50 (in the Z direction indicated in FIGS. 4 and 5) may vary based on various factors, such as the size of the container 18 intended to be inserted into the cavity and the amount of the container that is desired to project out of the cavity. For example, the side wall 56 may extend partially or fully along the length of the container 18, for example, so that the container may be partially or fully inserted into cavity 50. In some configurations, cavity 50 is comparatively shallow, so that only a distal end or a distal tip of container 18 is insertable into the cavity. In other configurations, cavity 50 is comparatively deep, so that the entire length of the container may be inserted into the cavity. In the illustrated arrangement, cavity 50 has a variable depth throughout its cross-section (in the X-Y plane) so that the posterior side of the cavity is deeper than the anterior side.

[0049] In practice, a chemical supplier may supply different chemicals in similar containers that are intended to be deployed for different applications. To help ensure that the end user does not inadvertently dispense the wrong chemical using the separator basket system 10, a system of different coupling stations 16 may be provided, where each coupling station defines a cavity 50 of a different size and/or shape from the cavity of each other coupling station. Each container 18 configured to be inserted into a specific cavity 50 of the coupling station system may be incompatible with each other coupling station configuration, for example, so that a user cannot successfully insert an incorrect container into a coupling station intended to receive a container containing a different type of chemical.

[0050] In the illustrated configuration, the container 18 is inserted into the cavity 50 of the coupling station 16 by moving the container downwards (in the negative Z direction indicated in FIGS. 4 and 5). In other configurations, the container 18 may be inserted into the coupling station 16 from the side (for example, by moving the container in the X and/or Y directions indicated in FIGS. 4 and 5). In these alternative configurations, the cavity 50 may have a different orientation relative to the longitudinal axis of the reservoir 12 and the separator basket 14, for example, while still positioning the outlet opening 62 within the reservoir and/or the separator basket.

[0051] To help prevent container 18 from inadvertently detaching from the coupling station 16 while dispensing chemical, the container may be locked (reversibly or irreversibly) in the coupling station. For these and other reasons, the coupling station 16 may include a retention mechanism 52. The retention mechanism 52 may be a feature that mechanically engages with container 18 when the container is partially or fully inserted into the cavity 50 (e.g., up to the maximum depth permitted by the cavity or less than a maximum depth permitted by the cavity). The retention mechanism 52 may hold container 18 in the cavity while the container is dispensing its contents. For example, the retention mechanism 52 may provide an engagement force to container 18 that prevents the container from being inadvertently pulled out of the separator basket system 10 while the container is dispensing its contents, which could lead to a spill.

[0052] The retention mechanism 52 can be implemented using a variety of different features. In the example illustrated in FIG. 5, the retention mechanism 52 is shown as a threaded connection between the coupling station 16 and the container 18. For example, the retention mechanism 52 can be implemented by positioning a thread encircling (extending around a perimeter) the discharge opening 62 of the coupling station 16. The thread of the coupling station can engage with the complementary thread on the container 18 when the container is inserted into the cavity 50. To insert the container 18 into the coupling station 16 in such an example, the container can be inserted vertically downwards until the container contacts a wall surface defining the thread and after that rotated to engage the threaded connection between the coupling station container. When a container is threaded onto the coupling station, the container can move vertically further downwards into the cavity.

[0053] FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate another configuration of the retaining mechanism 52 that can be used in the coupling station 16, in addition to or in place of the threaded connection described in relation to FIG. 5. In the example illustrated in FIGS. 6A and 6B, the retaining mechanism 52 is illustrated as being implemented with a projection 64 extending at least partially (and in some examples completely) over the cavity 50 (in the X-Y plane indicated in FIG. 6A). The projection 64 can be positioned at a height selected based on the length of the container 18 intended to be positioned in the cavity 50. For example, the projection 64 can be positioned at a height configured to engage with a lower surface of the container 18 when the container is inserted into the cavity 50.

[0054] Once the container 18 is inserted into the cavity 50, the projection 64 may extend along at least a portion of the container's lower surface (where the lower surface of the container is the surface facing upwards away from the discharge opening 62). The projection 64 may engage the lower surface of the container 18 by pressing against the lower surface when the container is positioned in the cavity. Additionally or alternatively, the projection 64 may engage the lower surface of the container 18 by acting as a contact surface or stop that the lower surface of the container contacts when lifted vertically upwards out of the cavity 50. For example, the lower surface of the container 18 may be deflected from the projection 64 when the container is fully inserted into the cavity, but may contact the projection if the user inadvertently attempts to lift the container out of the cavity. In some examples, projection 64 extends from a flexible arm or wall surface, allowing the projection to move in and out of the engagement in order to insert and remove container 18 from cavity 50. In other examples, projection 64 extends from a stationary region of the side wall 56 defining cavity 50.

[0055] Other configurations of a retention mechanism 52 may be used in addition to or in place of those discussed above. With further reference to FIG. 5, the retention mechanism 52 may be implemented by configuring the coupling station 16 to provide a friction fit between the container 18 and the coupling station. For example, the coupling station 16 may include a region (e.g., defined by the side wall 56 and/or an upward-extending wall 66) into which the container 18 or a portion thereof is configured to be inserted. For example, instead of having threading as illustrated in FIG. 5, the retention mechanism 52 may be defined by a friction fit between the container 18 and a region of the coupling station 16 defined by the wall 66 into which the distal tip or end of the container is intended to be inserted. In use, the container 18 can be inserted vertically downwards until the distal end of the container (e.g., defined by a narrower cross-sectional region) begins to enter the discharge opening 62 defined by the wall 66. A user can then apply an axially downward force to push the container into the region bounded by the side wall 66, establishing a frictional engagement between the coupling station 16 and the container 18.

[0056] Regardless of the configuration of the retaining mechanism 52, the retaining mechanism can engage with the container 18 to retain the container and prevent the container from being inadvertently pulled out of the separator basket system 10 while the container is dispensing its contents. Depending on the positioning and relative configuration of the retaining mechanism 52 and the piercing element 54, the container 18 can engage with the retaining mechanism 52 before, during, and/or after being pierced by the piercing element 54. For example, the retaining mechanism 52 can be positioned relative to the piercing element 54 so that the container 18 engages with the retaining mechanism when the container is being pierced by the piercing element 54. In some of these implementations, the user inserts the container 18 to a maximum depth in the cavity 50, causing the piercing element 54 to penetrate the container. The retention mechanism 52 can hold the container at the maximum insertion depth in the cavity, for example, with the drilling element 54 projecting into the container 18.

[0057] In other examples, the retaining mechanism 52 may be positioned relative to the piercing element 54 such that the retaining mechanism engages (e.g., contacts) the container 18 when the container is not inserted to a maximum depth in the cavity 50. For example, the retaining mechanism 52 may be offset from the piercing element 54 by an effective distance to allow the chemical container to be pierced by the piercing element and then pulled out of the piercing element before and/or while engaging the retaining mechanism. In some of these implementations, the user inserts the container 18 to a maximum depth in the cavity 50, causing the piercing element 54 to penetrate the container and then pulls the container out of the piercing element (e.g., partially but not fully retracting the container 18 upwards into the cavity 50). The retention mechanism 52 can help prevent the container 18 from being completely removed from the cavity 50 in such configurations, but allows the container to be removed from the drilling element 54, for example, so that the drilling element is diverted from and/or does not project into the container 18. This can remove the drilling element 54 from the hole created in the container 18 by the drilling element upon initial insertion, for example, to increase the flow rate of the concentrated chemical out of the hole created in the container compared to when the chemical needs to flow through and/or is the drilling element in the hole.

[0058] FIGS. 6C-6F illustrate an example arrangement of the retention mechanism 52 in which the retention mechanism is arranged relative to the drilling element 54 to allow the container to be pulled out of the drilling element after being drilled. In particular, FIGS. 6C and 6D are top and side views, respectively, showing the retention mechanism 52 implemented with a projection 64 extending at least partially over the cavity 50 (e.g., as discussed above in relation to FIGS. 6A and 6B). As shown in FIGS. 6C and 6D, the container 18 is inserted to a maximum depth into the receiving cavity of the coupling station 16, causing the drilling element 54 to pierce the container 18 to discharge its contents. When positioned in this way, the drilling element 54 is positioned inside the container 18, requiring the chemical to flow through and/or around the drilling element 54 to exit the hole created by the drilling element.

[0059] FIGS. 6E and 6F are top and side views, respectively, showing the retention mechanism and drilling element arrangement of FIGS. 6C and 6D with the container 18 removed from the drilling element 54. In use, the user can insert the container 18 into the receiving cavity of the coupling station 16, as shown in FIGS. 6C and 6D, causing the drilling element 54 to pierce the container 18 to discharge its contents. After the drilling element 54 pierces the container 18, the container can be pulled out of the drilling element 54, for example, until a lower surface of the container contacts the retention projection 64, setting the retention mechanism 52. When removing the container 18 from the drilling element 54, the drilling element can no longer be positioned inside the container. Instead, the distal end of the drilling element 54 can be displaced from the hole created in the container 18 by a distance, such as at least 1 mm, at least 2 mm, or at least 5 mm. The separation distance between the distal end of the drilling element 54 and the hole created in the container 18 can be adjusted by controlling the position of the retention mechanism 52 (e.g., projection 64) relative to the drilling element 54 and the length of the container 18 intended to be used. In any case, the separation distance can increase the discharge rate out of the container 18, for example, by removing the physical obstruction of the drilling element 54 from the hole created in the container and/or by allowing air to enter the container better to prevent or limit a vacuum.

[0060] In some instances where coupling station 16 is configured to allow container 18 to be removed from the piercing element 54 during dispensing, the coupling station may include one or more features to help retain the container vertically above the piercing element (e.g., in contact with the retention mechanism 52). FIGS. 6G and 6H illustrate example features that may be used by coupling station 16 to hold container 18 above the piercing element 54.

[0061] FIG. 6G is a top view of cavity 50 illustrating one or more example friction contact features 67 (e.g., ribs) that can engage by friction with an external surface of the container 18. The friction contact features 67 can engage by friction and hold the container 18 above the drilling element 54, for example, in contact with the retaining mechanism 52. FIG. 6H is a side view of the coupling station 16 illustrating a deflecting element 69 (e.g., spring) positioned to deflect the container 18 away from the drilling element 54. The deflecting element 69 can directly contact the container 18 or a retaining/contact ring 71 can be positioned between the deflecting element and the container. In any case, a user can apply a compressive force to the deflector element 69 when inserting the container 18 into the coupling station 16, causing the deflector element to compress and the container 18 to be pierced by the drilling element 54. When the user stops applying downward force to the container 18, the deflector element 69 can push the container 18 out of the drilling element 54 and hold the container above the drilling element.

[0062] As shown above in connection with FIG. 5, the coupling station 16 includes a piercing element 54. The piercing element 54 can be implemented as one or more projections that are positioned and configured to pierce the container 18, for example, when the container is inserted into the cavity 50. Consequently, the container 18 can be inserted into the coupling station 16 in a closed state, but can be pierced by the piercing element 54 when the container is inserted into the coupling station. As a result, the contents of the container 18 may not be released or otherwise exposed for dispensing until the container has been inserted at least partially (and in some examples to the deepest possible extent) into the cavity 50 of the coupling station. This configuration can be useful to help prevent inadvertent spillage of chemical from the container 18, for example, before or during insertion of the container into the coupling station 16.

[0063] FIG. 7A is an expanded view of an example drilling element arrangement that can be used in coupling station 16, which is shown without the container 18 inserted in the coupling station for illustrative purposes. In this configuration, the drilling element 54 is positioned extending upwards through the discharge opening 62. When the container 18 is moved axially downwards to the discharge opening, the drilling element 54 can penetrate the container to release its contents. Furthermore, although the drilling element 54 is shown projecting axially upwards, the drilling element 54 can additionally or alternatively project at a different angle, such as radially inwards (laterally through the cross-section of coupling station 16). In general, the drilling element 54 can extend in any direction suitable for drilling the container 18 when the container is inserted into coupling station 16.

[0064] In the specific configuration illustrated in FIG. 7A, the discharge opening 62 of the coupling station 16 is illustrated as having a cross-sectional area smaller than the entire cross-sectional area of the cavity 50 (in the X-Y plane indicated in FIG. 7A). As a result, the discharge opening 62 is smaller than the cavity 50. The drilling element 54 is illustrated as extending upwards and coaxially through the discharge opening 62. As a result, when the vessel 18 is pushed towards the discharge opening 62, the drilling element 54 can drill into the vessel. The contents of the drilling vessel can then flow downwards over and/or around the drilling element 54 and out through the discharge opening 62.

[0065] In the particular illustrated configuration, the coupling station 16 defines a nested series of coaxial chambers. There is a first chamber forming the cavity 50 which is defined by the side wall 56. There is a second coaxial chamber with the first chamber defined by the side wall 66 (which may optionally form the retention mechanism 52). There is a third coaxial chamber with the first chamber and the second chamber defined by the piercing element 54. When the container 18 includes a necked region that defines the intended opening or discharge point for the container, the entire container can fit into the first chamber defined by the side wall 56 and the necked region of the container can fit into the second chamber defined by the side wall 66. The piercing element 54 can then project upwards into the necked region of the container, breaking the container material structure that retains the contents within the container. Once ruptured, the chemical discharge from container 18 can flow through the discharge opening in the defined region between the side wall 66 and the drilling element 54 and/or through a center of the drilling element.

[0066] The piercing element 54 may include one or more sharp points or apices 57 to aid in piercing the vessel during insertion. FIG. 7A illustrates the piercing element 54 as including a single sharp point 57 to aid in piercing the vessel 18 during insertion. In other configurations, the piercing element 54 may have multiple sharp points (e.g., arranged at different points around the perimeter of the discharge opening 62). In still other examples, the piercing element 54 may not include a sharp point but may simply provide a blunt surface that is effective in penetrating the vessel 18 when the vessel is pushed into the piercing element. The specific configuration of the piercing element 54 used may depend on the configuration of the vessel 18 and the resistance of the vessel to be pierced by the piercing element 54.

[0067] In general, container 18 can be manufactured from any material that is chemically compatible and chemically resistant to the type of chemical placed in the container. In several examples, the container is manufactured from a polymeric material, such as a molded plastic, or a metal, such as aluminum or steel. Container 18 may include a dispensing outlet that is covered with a film. The film may be a polymeric film, a metal or metallized film, or another film structure. The film may typically have a thickness less than the thickness of the rest of the container 18, which allows the film to be punctured comparatively more easily than puncturing the rest of the container 18. In some examples, the film-covered dispensing outlet is further enclosed by a cap or other more rigid protective structure. This can help prevent the film from being inadvertently penetrated during transport or storage. In use, the operator can remove the cap or more rigid protective structure from the container 18, exposing the underlying film. The operator can then invert container 18 to position the container's dispensing outlet covered by the film downwards toward the piercing element 54. The operator can then move container 18 into cavity 50, causing the piercing element 54 to contact the film covering the container's dispensing outlet and, as the container continues to move deeper into the cavity, pierce the film.

[0068] To help ensure that the film covering the dispensing outlet of container 18 is perforated deep enough to cause the contents of the container to be dispensed properly, the height of the perforating element 54 can be designed relative to the size of the dispensing outlet of container 18. In FIG. 7A, the perforating element 54 is illustrated as having a height of 68. In some examples, the height of 68 of the perforating element 54 is designed to be greater than the cross-sectional area (e.g., diameter) of the dispensing outlet of container 18. When thus configured, the perforating element 54 may be able to perforate the film covering the dispensing outlet of container 18 and push the perforated film covering the dispenser outlet away from the outlet. This can help move the film previously covering the dispenser outlet to a side away from the outlet, helping to prevent a residual flap of film from blocking the free flow of chemical out of the perforating container. In several examples, the height 68 of the perforating element 54 can vary from 0.2 to 5 times the cross-sectional area of the dispensing outlet of the container 18, as well as from 0.5 to 2 times the cross-sectional area of the dispensing outlet.

[0069] In general, the drilling element 54 can be positioned in a location within the coupling station 16 that is deep enough so that the drilling element does not engage the container 18 until the container is partially or fully inserted into the coupling station. For example, the drilling element 54 can be positioned relative to the retaining mechanism 52 so that the drilling element contacts the container 18 simultaneously with, or after, the retaining mechanism engages the container. In several examples, the drilling element 54 can be positioned to pierce the container 18 when the container is the end of the container being threaded onto a complementary thread, as the end of the container is being friction-engaged with a friction-engaging region of the coupling station, and/or as the lower end of the container is being engaged by the projection 64. Consequently, in some examples, the container 18 cannot be broken by the drilling element 54 until the container is mechanically engaged by the retaining mechanism 52, for example, so that the drilling element 54 pierces the container simultaneously with the retaining mechanism 52 engaging the container. The coordination of the engagement of the drilling element 54 and the retaining mechanism 52 with the container 18 can be useful to help lock the container in the cavity 50 while piercing the container. When implemented in this way, this configuration can help prevent a user from inadvertently pulling container 18 back out of cavity 50 after the container has been pierced by the piercing element 54.

[0070] In an example illustrated in FIG. 7A, the coupling station 16 includes a single sharp point 57 that projects upward away from a remainder of the piercing element 54. The configuration of the piercing element 54 with a single sharp point 57 can be useful for asymmetrically piercing the container 18 (e.g., a film covering the dispensing outlet of the container). For example, when thus configured, a film covering the dispensing outlet of the container 18 can be fully cut or detached on the side of the piercing element 54 where the sharp point 57 is positioned, but not on the opposite side of the piercing element without a sharp point. This can create a hinged region of film that keeps the perforated film attached to the container 18, but allows the perforated film to rotate out of the way of the dispensing outlet of the container 18.

[0071] In general, it is desirable that the entire volume of container 18 be discharged quickly from the container as the container is being punctured. This reduces the processing time required for the operator to dispense the chemical. Furthermore, if container 18 empties quickly, this reduces the likelihood that the operator will prematurely remove container 18 from the coupling station 16 while waiting for the container to finish discharging. One or more design features may be incorporated into the coupling station 16 to help facilitate the rapid discharge of container 18 after it has been punctured. For example, as discussed above in relation to FIGS. 6C-6F, the coupling station 16 may allow container 18 to be removed from the puncture element 54 after it has been punctured by removing the puncture element from the hole created in the container. Additionally or alternatively, one or more direct flow openings can be created in the wall structure (e.g., side wall and/or bottom wall) by defining the perforation element 54. The direct flow can be an opening in the wall that increases the open area through which the chemical exiting the container 18 can pass.

[0072] FIGS. 7B and 7C are shown in side and bottom perspective, respectively, showing an example configuration of the drilling element 54 in which the wall structure defining the drilling element includes one or more direct flow openings 55. In particular, in the illustrated example, each direct flow opening 55 is illustrated as a hole formed through a portion of the side wall and the bottom wall of the structure defining the drilling element 54, although it may have a different shape and/or configuration in different implementations. As illustrated, the drilling element 54 includes a plurality (e.g., two, three, four or more) of direct flow openings 55 arranged in different locations around the perimeter of the drilling element and/or the discharge opening. The drilling element 54 may have a different number or positioning of direct flow openings 55 when used.

[0073] As another example of a flow-enhancing feature that can be used in addition to or in place of that discussed above, coupling station 16 may have a lid that, when closed, penetrates a wall surface (e.g., a bottom wall surface and/or side wall surface) of the container to vent the container during discharge. This may allow air to enter the container through an opening other than the opening created by the piercing element 54, for example, to help prevent the formation of a flow-restricting vacuum in the container as the concentrated chemical flows out of the container.

[0074] FIGS. 7D and 7E illustrate an example arrangement of the coupling station 16 in which the coupling station includes an example lid 100. The lid 100 may have a vented projection 102. The lid 100 may be positionable over a lower surface of the container 18 when the container is inserted into the receiving cavity of the coupling station. For example, the lid may be hinged and configured to rotate closed over the container 18 when inserted into the receiving cavity of the coupling station. The vented projection 102 may be a hollow lumen or tube extending from the lid 100 (e.g., downwards when the lid is closed). The vented projection 102 may or may not have a sharp point or other feature to assist the projection in piercing the container 18. In either case, the user may position the container 18 in the receiving cavity of the coupling station 16 and close the lid over the container. As the lid is positioned over the container, the vented projection 102 can penetrate through the wall surface (e.g., bottom wall 104) of the container, establishing fluid communication between the interior of the container and the ambient air environment through ventilation.

[0075] Reservoir 18 may contain any type of material desired to be stored and dispensed using the container. Examples of chemicals that may be stored and dispensed using the reservoir include, but are not limited to, a biocide, an antimicrobial agent, a sanitizer, a sterilizer, a cleaner, a degreaser, a lubricant, a detergent, a stain remover, a rinsing agent, an enzyme, or combinations thereof. The chemical may be in liquid form, although in other applications it may be in solid form or a pseudosolid/liquid form, such as a gel or paste. The chemical may be at a higher concentration than that desired for end use. Consequently, the user may add a diluent, such as water, to reservoir 12, which is mixed with the concentrated chemical in container 18 to form a usable solution. That said, in other implementations, the chemical in container 18 may be at a ready-to-use concentration and may be introduced into reservoir 12 and used without further dilution.

[0076] As noted above, the coupling station 16 may be a separate component from the reservoir 12 and/or separator basket 14 which may then be engaged or interlocked with one or both components. Alternatively, the coupling station 16 may be permanently integrated into the reservoir 12 and/or separator basket 14, for example, by molding the features together. When the coupling station 16 is configured to be removable and insertable into the reservoir 12 and/or separator basket 14, the coupling station may include one or more mechanical coupling features that engage with complementary surfaces and/or features on the reservoir 12 and/or separator basket 14.

[0077] With further reference to FIGS. 6A and 6B, the coupling station 16 in the illustrated example is shown as including a clamp 70 extending outward from the side wall 56 of the coupling station. The clamp 70 may engage with a lip or an upper edge of the reservoir 12 and/or the separator basket 14. For example, the clamp 70 may define a channel 72 in which the upper edge of the reservoir 12 and/or the separator basket may be positioned by interlocking the clamp over the upper edge. FIG. 1 illustrates such an example arrangement in which the clamp 70 is interlocked onto the upper edge of the separator basket 14 which, in turn, is supported on the upper edge of the reservoir 12 via rib 42.

[0078] With reference again to FIGS. 6A and 6B, the coupling station 16 may additionally or alternatively include one or more bayonet eyelets 74 configured to be inserted into one or more corresponding bayonet receiving openings defined by the side wall 20 of the reservoir 12 and/or side wall 28 of the separator basket 14. The bayonet eyelet 74 may be a projection that is insertable into a corresponding opening in the side wall of the reservoir 12 and/or separator basket 14 to interlock the coupling station to the reservoir and/or separator basket. For example, the bayonet eyelet 74 may be inserted into corresponding bayonet receiving openings defined by the side wall 28 of the filter basket 14 by inserting the eyelet into the opening and then pushing the coupling station 16 down relative to the separator basket.

[0079] A variety of alternative configurations can be used to position the coupling station 16 in relation to the reservoir 12 and the separator basket 14 to dispense the contents of the container 18 into the same. For example, the separator basket system 10 may include a removable lid that can be positioned over the top of the reservoir 12 (and the separator basket 14, when the separator basket is inserted into the reservoir). The coupling station 16 may be formed on the lid or otherwise mounted to and/or the lid. Consequently, when the lid is placed on top of the reservoir 12 with the separator basket 14 inside the reservoir, the coupling station 16 can be positioned to discharge the chemical from the container 18 into the reservoir and/or the separator basket.

[0080] Instead of being configured to be removable from the reservoir 12 and/or the separator basket 14, the coupling station 16 can alternatively be permanently formed or otherwise permanently integrated into the structure defining the reservoir 12 and/or the separator basket 14. For example, the coupling station 16 can be formed on the side wall 20 of the reservoir 12 or on the side wall 28 of the separator basket 14.

[0081] FIGS. 8A and 8B are shown in top and bottom perspective, respectively, showing an example configuration of separator basket 14 in which coupling station 16 is formed on the side wall 28 extending upwards from the separator basket. In particular, in the illustrated configuration, coupling station 16 is formed on the side wall 28 of the filter basket 14 so that the discharge opening 62 defined by the coupling station is positioned on an outer side of the separator basket. As a result, when the separator basket 14 is inserted into the reservoir 12, the discharge opening 62 is positioned between the side wall 20 of the reservoir and the side wall 28 of the separator basket. A similar positioning can be achieved by forming coupling station 16 on the side wall 20 of the reservoir 12 with the discharge opening 62 of coupling station being positioned on an inner side of the side wall of the reservoir. In both cases, positioning the discharge opening 62 of the coupling station 16 between the reservoir 12 and the separator basket 14 can be useful for promoting mixing between concentrated chemical discharged from the coupling station and a diluent in the reservoir, for example, instead of discharging the chemical onto the material to be processed in the separator basket. This configuration can also further protect the concentrated chemical discharged from the container 18 via coupling station 16 from inadvertent contact by a user. That said, alternative implementations could position the discharge opening 62 of the coupling station 16 on an inner side of the separator basket 14.

[0082] To help facilitate the discharge of chemical from container 18 to reservoir 12 and/or separator basket 14 (an optionally efficient mixing between the chemical and a diluent), the separator basket 14 may define a recessed channel 80 under the discharge opening 62 (FIG. 8B). The recessed channel 80 may be a section of side wall 28 that is recessed (e.g., inwards towards a center of the basket) relative to a remainder of the side wall. The recessed channel 80 may define a linear flow path extending from the discharge opening 62 to the bottom wall 26 of reservoir 12 that is unobstructed by the separator basket 14. For example, FIG. Figure 9 is a sectional illustration of the separator basket system 10 illustrating an example flow path 82 that can be defined by the recessed channel 80 formed in the separator basket 14 of Figures 8A and 8B.

[0083] In some configurations where separator basket 14 defines recessed channel 80, the side wall region 28 defining the recessed channel may be devoid of openings. For example, the side wall region 28 defining recessed channel 80 may be formed by a section of solid material without openings. This may help to limit the extent to which concentrated chemical discharged from coupling station 16 contacts material to be processed in separator basket 14 until the concentrated chemical has mixed with a diluent in reservoir 12 to form a usable solution.

[0084] Regardless of whether the coupling station 16 is removablely attachable or permanently integrated with the reservoir 12 and/or the separator basket 14, the coupling station can discharge chemical from the container 18 at a desired location in the separator basket system 10. In general, the discharge opening 62 defined by the coupling station 16 can be positioned at a location in the separator basket system 10 effective for dispensing chemical to the reservoir 12 and/or the separator basket 14. In some examples, the discharge opening 62 can be positioned sufficiently deep in the system so that the lower surface of the discharge opening 62 is below the upper edge of the reservoir 12 and/or the upper edge of the separator basket 14, such as at least 25 cm below the upper edge, at least 50 cm below the upper edge, or at least 100 cm below the upper edge of one or both structures.

[0085] Although the lower surface of the discharge opening 62 may be below the upper edge of the reservoir 12 and/or the upper edge of the separator basket 14, the lower surface of the discharge opening 62 may also be positioned above the lower wall 26 of the reservoir 12 at a separation distance. This separation distance may facilitate the mixing and dilution of the chemical from the container 18 during dispensing. The distance between the lower surface of the discharge opening 62 and the lower wall 26 of the reservoir 12 may be at least % of the total length of the reservoir 12, such as at least Vi of the total length of the reservoir. Other positions and distances for locating the discharge opening 62 of the coupling station 16 may be used without departing from the scope of disclosure.

[0086] Several examples have been described. These and other examples are within the scope of the following claims.

Claims (16)

1. Separator basket system (10), characterized in that it comprises: a reservoir (12) defining an opening (36) through which material can be introduced into the reservoir (12); a separator basket (14) that is positioned inside the reservoir (12) and removable from it; a chemical dispensing coupling station (16) having a discharge opening (62) positioned to discharge chemical to be dispensed into at least one of the reservoir (12) and the separator basket (14), the chemical dispensing coupling station (16) comprising: a cavity (50) configured to receive a container (18) of chemical to be dispensed; a retention mechanism (52) configured to mechanically engage the chemical container (18) when inserted into the cavity (50), and retain the chemical container (18) in the chemical dispensing coupling station (16) during dispensing; a piercing element (54) positioned to pierce the chemical container (18) when the chemical container (18) is inserted into the cavity (50), thereby releasing chemical to be dispensed through the discharge opening (62). 2. System according to claim 1, characterized in that the chemical dispensing coupling station (16) comprises one of: a side wall (20) extending upwards defining the cavity (50) and a clamp (70) extending outwards from the side wall (20) which is configured to engage with an edge of at least one of the reservoir (12) and the separator basket (14), thereby interlocking the chemical dispensing coupling station (16) to the separator basket (14); and a bayonet eyelet (74) configured to be inserted into a corresponding bayonet receiving opening (36) defined by at least one of the reservoir (12) and the separator basket (14), thereby interlocking the chemical dispensing coupling station (16) to the separator basket (14). 3. System according to claim 1, characterized in that: the reservoir (12) comprises a side wall (20) extending upwards and a bottom wall (26), the separator basket (14) comprises a side wall (20) extending upwards and a bottom wall (32), and the chemical dispensing coupling station (16) is formed on the side wall (20) extending upwards of the reservoir (12) or on the side wall (20) extending upwards of the separator basket. 4. System according to claim 3, characterized in that the chemical dispensing coupling station (16) is positioned on an external surface of the side wall (20) extending upwards from the separator basket (14), thereby positioning the discharge opening (62) between the reservoir (12) and the separator basket (14). 5. System according to claim 3, characterized in that the side wall (20) extending upwards from the separator basket (14) comprises a plurality of openings (36) configured to allow liquid to flow into and out of the separator basket (14), wherein the recessed channel region of the side wall (20) extending upwards is devoid of openings (36). 6. System according to claim 1, characterized in that the distance between the discharge opening (62) of the chemical coupling station and a lower wall (26) of the reservoir (12) is greater than half the total length of the reservoir (12). 7. System according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the retention mechanism (52) comprises threading surrounding the discharge opening (62) which is configured to engage with complementary threading on the chemical container (18). 8. System according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the chemical dispensing coupling station (16) comprises a side wall (20) extending upwards defining the cavity (50) and the retention mechanism (52) comprises a projection (64) extending at least partially over the cavity (50), the projection being positioned to engage on a lower surface of the chemical container (18). 9. System according to claim 8, characterized in that the projection (64) is deflected from the drilling element (54) an effective distance to allow the chemical container (18) to engage with the drilling element (54) and then be removed from the drilling element (54) and against the projection. 10. System according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the piercing element (54) extends upwards through the discharge opening (62) of the chemical dispensing coupling station (16) which is configured to pierce into the chemical container (18) as the chemical container (18) is moved axially downwards into the cavity (50) during insertion. 11. System according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the piercing element (54) is positioned to pierce the chemical container (18) as the chemical container (18) is mechanically engaged by the retaining mechanism (52). 12. System according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the chemical dispensing coupling station (16) comprises a side wall (20) extending upwards and a bottom wall (60) through which the discharge opening (62) is formed, the discharge opening (62) having a cross-sectional area smaller than the cross-sectional area of the cavity (50) and the piercing element (54) comprises one or more teeth positioned coaxially with the discharge opening (62). 13. System according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the discharge opening (62) of the chemical dispensing coupling station (16) is positioned laterally offset from a side wall (20) of the separator basket (14) and below a surface higher up the reservoir (12), when the separator basket (14) is positioned inside the reservoir (12). 14. Chemical dispensing coupling station (16) for a separator basket assembly (14) as defined in claim 1, characterized in that it comprises: a side wall (20) extending upwards and a bottom wall (20) which collectively define a cavity (50) configured to receive a chemical container (18) to be dispensed, the bottom wall having a discharge opening (62); a retention mechanism (52) configured to mechanically engage the chemical container (18) when inserted into the cavity (50), and retain the chemical container (18) in the chemical dispensing coupling station (16) during dispensing; and a piercing element (54) positioned to pierce the chemical container (18) when the chemical container (18) is inserted into the cavity (50), thereby releasing chemical to be dispensed through the discharge opening (62). 15. Coupling station according to claim 14, characterized in that it further comprises at least one of: a clamp (70) extending outward from the side wall (20) which is configured to engage with a lip of at least one of a reservoir (12) and a separator basket (14) positioned in the reservoir (12), thereby interlocking the chemical dispensing coupling station (16) to the separator basket (14); and a bayonet eyelet (74) configured to be inserted into a corresponding bayonet receiving opening (36) defined by at least one of the reservoir (12) and the separator basket (14), thereby interlocking the chemical dispensing coupling station (16) to the separator basket (14). 16. Coupling station according to claim 14, characterized in that the retention mechanism (52) comprises at least one of: a thread surrounding the discharge opening (62) which is configured to engage with complementary threading on the chemical container (18); and a projection (64) extending at least partially over the cavity (50), the projection being positioned to engage on a lower surface of the chemical container (18) when the chemical container (18) is inserted into the cavity (50).