JPH0699000B2 - Liquid chemical handling equipment - Google Patents

Abstract

A container (10) for storage, transport and dispensing of liquid chemicals uses a collapsable thin film pouch (12) which is sealed to a fitment (14) and is positioned within a bottle (16). The cap (20) provides an inner seal (60) and an outer seal (62) is removed and the container (10) is connected to either a manual (100) or an automated (200) dispensing system which includes a valve probe (110) which breaks the inner seal (60). In the manual system (100) the bottle (16) is inverted so that flow of liquid from the pouch (12) is gravity assisted. In the automated system (200), the container (10) is placed within a pressure vessel (208 and 210) and air pressure is applied both to the outside of the bottle (16) and also to the inside of the bottle (16) to assist in collapsing the pouch (12) and forcing the liquid out of the pouch (12).

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to liquid chemicals including acids, solvents, bases, photoresists, dopants, inorganics, organics, biological solutions, drugs and radioactive chemicals and the like. Container for storage, transportation and use of. In particular, the invention relates to a container that uses a disposable film pouch in a bottle or overpack, and a dispensing device for use with the container.

2. Description of the Prior Art Users of liquid chemicals are currently very limited in their choice of packaging, supply and disposal methods for those chemicals. One prior art device dispenses and supplies chemicals from a storage source (typically a 55 gallon drum) to the point of use. Dispensing and feeding equipment of this kind, including drums, plumbing and automatic feeding equipment, are very expensive and can only be used by a small number of manufacturers, in sufficient quantities to justify the high costs.

The second and most widely used alternative is to handle bottled liquid chemicals made from glass or polyethylene. However, this alternative has some drawbacks.

Specifically, glass and polyethylene have been found to provide both particulate contamination and metal ion extracts that greatly impair the desired level of purity of liquid chemicals. In addition, the dispensing methods used with glass and polyethylene bottles also compromise the purity of the chemical contents. Manual decants can further chemicals to air pollution and compromise the safety of technicians who handle bottles. In the case of glass bottles, there is still a risk of breakage. Even the slightest misuse of a bottle can be very dangerous if it breaks. The disposal of empty bottles is also of great concern. Disposal generally requires triple washing, labeling, and shredding prior to sanitary disposal. This process is labor intensive and time consuming.

A third alternative is the use of blow molded fluoropolymer bottles. This alternative approach maintains manual bottle handling (as opposed to bulk supply), yet fluoropolymer bottles introduce significant inertness to the maintenance of the chemicals being handled. However, these blow molded bottles are very expensive and therefore
Costs have only been justified by the use of recovery schemes in which bottles are returned to the manufacturer for processing and reuse.
However, withdrawal schemes pose a number of logical problems for suppliers as well as users.

There is a continuing need for improved containers and equipment for the storage, transportation and use of liquid chemicals. In particular, there is a continuing need for fluoropolymer bottles or containers that can provide the handling characteristics of automated feeders at a much lower price.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention is a pouch made of an inert, corrosion resistant plastic film and a fitting that provides an opening through which the pouch can be filled and emptied. A container for liquid chemicals, comprising: an outer bottle or overpack surrounding the pouch; and a retaining means for engaging the mounting component to retain the pouch and the mounting component in the bottle.

When the pouch is filled with liquid chemical, the container is capped with a break seal to close the fitting opening.

The contents of the container can be dispensed in several different ways. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a dispensing closure is attached to the cap of the container, which includes a probe that breaks the seal provided by the cap. The distribution closure includes a valve, which is normally closed to impede liquid flow until the distribution closure is inserted into the distribution receptacle (receptacle). The valve opens when the dispensing closure and receiver are engaged, allowing liquid chemical flow from the pouch, through the valve, and through the outlet to the metered or other liquid flow control device.

In another embodiment of the invention, automatic dispensing of pouch contents is accomplished by a device that includes a pressure vessel with a vessel disposed therein. The vents allow air to enter the space between the inner wall of the bottle and the pouch. Since the inside of the pressure vessel is pressurized, there is no pressure difference between the inside and outside of the bottle, but the pouch is under pressure, and this pressure is applied from the pouch through the fitting and to the mouth of the fitting. Crush the pouch so that the liquid is pushed out through the valve probe inserted into the pouch.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the container of the present invention.

FIG. 2 shows the first with the cap of the container removed.
It is a perspective view similar to a figure.

FIG. 3 is a sectional view taken along line 3-3 of FIG.

Figures 4A and 4B are top and side views of the pouch and fittings of the container of Figures 1-3.

5A and 5B are perspective views of the container holding device of FIGS. 1 to 3.

FIG. 6 is a top view of the cap of the container of FIG.

FIG. 7 is a top view of another embodiment of the cap.

8A and 8B are cross-sectional views taken generally along line 8-8 of FIG. 7, showing the cap during shipping and during opening of the vent and removal of the tear seal.

9 is a perspective view showing a manual dispenser for use with the container of FIG.

FIG. 10 is an exploded sectional view of the manual dispensing device of FIG.

FIG. 11 is a sectional view of the manual dispensing device of FIG. 9 and shows a state during operation.

Fig. 12 shows another manual dispenser equipped with a metering pump.
FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an automatic dispensing device for use with the container of the present invention.

14A and 14B are side views showing the pressure vessel and drawer of FIG. 13 in two different states.

FIG. 14C is a front view of the device of FIG.

15A, 15B and 15C are side views showing the container cover in three different states.

16A and 16B are a top view and a rear view of the pressure vessel.

FIG. 17 is a sectional view taken along line 17-17 of FIG. 16A.
Figure 4 shows the dispensing valve mechanism of the illustrated automatic device.

Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiment 1. Container (FIGS. 1-8) FIGS. 1-6 show a preferred embodiment of the container 10.
This embodiment includes five major components: an inner pouch 12, a fitting 14, an outer bottle 16, a retainer 18 and a cap 20.

Pouch 12 is best shown in FIGS. 3, 4A and 4B, but is preferably constructed of a fluoropolymer film such as polytetrafluoroethylene in a thickness range of 1 to 20 mils. The film sheet 21 is folded,
Form two opposing equal film sheets 21A and 21B. The heat seals 23A to 23C surrounding the outer edges of the sheets 21A and 21B form the pouch 12.

Depending on the liquid to be filled, other film laminates such as nylon, mylar, or metal foil can be added to the layers of fluoropolymer film. For example, a reflective metal foil can be used on the exterior surface of the pouch 12 when the liquid chemical stored in the pouch 12 is photoresist or other photosensitive liquid.

As shown in Figures 4A and 4B, the shape of the heat-sealed pouch 12 is contoured to minimize stress at the joint. The capacity of the pouch 12 is preferably slightly larger than the bottle (or overpack) 16.

Access to the interior of the pouch 12 for filling and dispensing is through a fitting 14 extending through a hole 25 in the top of the seat 21. Pouch 12 and fittings 14
Are composed of similar materials so that a heat seal assembly can be formed. As shown in FIG.
Has an opening 22 with a lip 24 at its upper end, an intermediate neck 26, and a lower shoulder or flange 28.
The flange 28 is a pouch 12 that surrounds the hole 25 with a seal 29.
Heat-sealed to the top of the.

The outer bottle or overpack 16 provides the mechanical support and protection required by the pouch 12 during filling, shipping, processing and dispensing (use). The bottle 16 is generally made of a plastic material such as polyethylene,
Other materials, including metals, can also be used, depending on governmental regulatory requirements for the handling of the particular liquid chemical contained in the container 10. The outer bottle 16 typically has a bottom 30,
Side wall 32, beveled top 34, wide outer threaded mouth
36 is a generally cylindrical closed container having an integral handle 38. Since the container 10 is typically used in an inverted position in a manual or automatic dispenser, it is desirable that the wall of the top 34 be sloped. The sloping wall of the top 34 ensures that the fitting 14 is in the lowest position when the container 10 is inverted.

Retaining device 18, best shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, is a clamshell ring that includes a pair of semi-circular segments 40A and 40B joined by an integral hinge 42. Each segment 40A, 40B includes a substantially horizontal portion 44A, 44B, an upwardly projecting portion 46A, 46B having upper flanges 48A, 48B, and a downwardly projecting wall portion 50A, 50B.
The intersection of the walls 50A, 50B and the horizontal portions 44A, 44B defines a pair of flanges 52A, 52B. Vents 54A and 54B are provided in the horizontal portions 44A and 44B.

As shown in FIG. 3, the retainer 18 is positioned around the fitting 14 such that the top edges of the upwardly projecting portions 46A and 46B engage the underside of the flange 24 of the fitting 14. The retainer 18 is positioned within the mouth 36 of the bottle 16 such that the walls 50A-50B are adjacent the inner wall of the mouth 36 and the flanges 52A-52B engage an annular shoulder 56 near the top inner surface of the mouth 36. To be done.

The flanges 48A, 48B provide a gripping surface that allows the retainer 18 to be withdrawn from the mouth 36 after the pouch 12 has been emptied and the cap 20 has been removed.

The opening 22 in the fitting 14 is closed by a break seal membrane 60, which is preferably a fluoropolymer film material. Membrane 60 (as described in more detail below) is preferably scored to facilitate rupture when used with a suitable dispensing connector.

The cap 20 is preferably constructed of a plastic material such as polypropylene and has internal threads for engaging the external threads of the mouth 36 of the bottle 16. Cap 20 is a mounting part
It is designed to be screwed onto the bottle 16 to a predetermined torque to ensure a liquid-tight and air-tight seal between the 14 and the membrane 60 and between the cap 20 and the bottle 16.

The cap 20 also includes a tear-off outer seal, which in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1, 3, and 6 has a lined adhesive film with a pull tab 64.
62. The film 62 covers the main central opening 66 of the cap 20 in addition to the vent opening 68. The film 62 remains in place and provides a backup seal for the container 10 until the contents of the container 10 are about to be dispensed (used). At that time, the film 62 is peeled off by grasping the pull tab 64 and pulling it up. As a result, the main opening
66 and the vent opening 68 are exposed, but the membrane 60 is still in place, providing a seal until a suitable dispenser is attached to the cap 20.

The gas vent 68 and vents 54A and 54B should be
It provides a passage for air to enter the interior of the container 10 between the and the wall of the bottle 16. This allows air pressure to help deflate pouch 12 as the liquid is dispensed.

In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the cap 20 is a pouch 12.
A coded key or slot 70 is provided in the flange 71 that uniquely identifies the particular liquid chemical contained therein.
These slots 70 engage specific dispensing devices to ensure that only the proper container is connected to the dispensing device.

Figures 7, 8A and 8B show another embodiment of a cap for use with the container of the present invention. Figure 7,
The cap 80 shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B is preferably a molded plastic cap of polypropylene with a one-piece tear off portion 82 and tear off tab.
With 84. A knockout 86 is located substantially below the tab 84 and covers the vent opening 88.

The cap 80 has four alignment pins 90 protruding upward,
The pin 90 is used for proper alignment of the dispensing mechanism above the cap 80 and also serves to protect against accidental opening if the bottle 16 and cap 80 are dropped.
In addition, the flange 93 is provided with a key-coded slot 92 that identifies the particular liquid chemical contained within the container, thus allowing the container to be connected to the wrong dispenser. Work hard to prevent A shallower slot 93 is formed along the periphery of the flange 93 for gripping, allowing air to pass through when the dispenser is placed on the cap 80.

When the degassing opening 88 is opened, the tab 84 is pushed down so that the ramp 95 engages the projecting portion 86 and the projecting portion 86.
The connection between the cap and the rest of the cap 80 is broken at one end to open the vent opening 88. The main path is then removed by pulling up on the tab 84, removing the part 82 and the cap 80.
The connection between the rest of and is broken.

The container 10 of the present invention has significant advantages over prior art containers for liquid chemicals. First, the portions of container 10 that contact liquid chemicals (ie, pouch 12 and fittings 14) are composed of materials such as fluoropolymers, which in terms of particle shedding and elimination of metal ion leaching, Superior to traditional glass or polyethylene containers.

Second, the outer bottle 16, preferably made of plastic or metal, provides a more robust construction than prior art glass containers.

Third, the container 10 is less permeable than a polyethylene container due to the use of fluoropolymer in all parts (pouch 12, fitting 14 and membrane 60) that actually contact liquid chemicals.

Fourth, the pouch 12 and fittings 14 are made of fluoropolymer, but by providing mechanical strength and protection by an outer bottle 16 of polyethylene or metal, the container 10
While the overall cost of the product will be lower than a blow-molded container consisting of fluoropolymer alone, it can still provide the advantages of fluoropolymer materials.

Fifth, pre-cleaning of the damp surface of the pouch 12 is facilitated prior to heat sealing while the flat fluoropolymer film 21 forming the pouch 12 is unrolled.

Sixth, preferably the pouch 12 is evacuated prior to filling,
This allows a seal connection during filling. This eliminates the need to vent the expelled air and helps maintain the chemical purity of the liquid chemical introduced and charged into the pouch. Alternatively, the pouch 12 can be leak-tested with nitrogen immediately after manufacture, and the nitrogen can be maintained intact until the liquid chemical is filled.

Seventh, there is no need to destroy the entire container at the time of disposal after use. Instead, grasp the flanges 48A, 48B of the holding device 18,
It is only necessary to pull out the fitting 14 and the pouch 12 via the mouth 36 of the bottle 16. The deflated pouch 12 and fitting 14 are then simply discarded. The retainer 18 and bottle 16 did not come in contact with liquid chemicals and can be reused or discarded without rigorous cleaning procedures.

Eighth, container 10 with cap 20 provides two seals, including break seals or membranes 60 that are only pierced when properly used with a dispensing valve. In addition, the cap 20 also seals the bottle 16. This protects the contents from air pollution during shipping and storage.

Ninth, liquid chemicals are actually "double-packed." That is, it is contained in two parts, the pouch 12 and the bottle 16, which increases safety during handling and transportation.

With the container 10 of the present invention, dispensing can be accomplished using several different techniques. Cap 20 (or 80)
By removing the, you can easily open the container,
Then you can pour it upside down by hand. Alternatively, the cap 20 (or 80) can be removed and the tube inserted into the pouch 12 via the fitting 14 and the pump can be used to pump the contents.

Yet another way to dispense the contents of the container 10 is to use a manual dispense valve assembly to which the container 10 is connected. The manual system shown in FIGS. 9-12 includes a valve assembly connected to the container and a platform that supports the container in an inverted position for gravity-based dispensing.

The container 10 can also be preferably used in an automatic device as shown in FIGS. 13 to 17. The container 10 is placed in a pressure container and pressurized gas is supplied to the outer surface of the pouch 12,
The contents are squeezed out of the pouch 12 via a mating connection and distribution pipe.

The rest of the specification will describe in more detail the manual and automatic devices for use with the container 10. In all of these devices, the cap 20 or 80 of the container 10 is held in place so that the user is not exposed to direct contact with the contents of the pouch 12.
Furthermore, contamination during dispensing is minimized because only the fluoropolymer moieties come into contact with the liquid chemicals.

2. Manual Dispensing Device (FIGS. 9-12) Referring to FIGS. 9-11, a preferred embodiment of a manual dispensing device 100 including a male dispensing closure 102, a female receiver 104 and a base 106. Show. The male dispensing closure 102 is first fitted to the cap 20 while the container 10 is in the upright position, and then the container 10 and dispensing closure 102 combination is inverted (as shown in FIG. 9) to form a female Receiver 10
4 is inserted (as shown in Figure 11).

Distribution closure 102, as best shown in FIG.
Is the probe 110, check valve body 112, check valve housing 11
3, including lock ring 114, key code cover 116, locking tab 118, key tab 120, bolt 122, check valve plunger 124, spring 126, and O-rings 128, 130 and 132.

Key tab 1 carried on the outer edge of the key code cover 116
20 engages with the key code slot 70 of the cover 20 to ensure that the dispensing device 100 is a suitable device for use with the container 10. Once the outer flange 71 of the cover 20 has passed the key tab 120, it is spaced apart on the perimeter.
1 locking tabs 118 and key code cover 116
Seated in. The lock ring 114 is rotatable to move the locking tab 118 and cannot be removed once the flange 71 has passed the locking tab 118.

The tip 134 of the probe 110 breaks through the membrane 60 as the dispensing closure 102 is inserted into the cap 20. Probe 110
The O-ring 128 provides a seal between the inner wall of the neck 26 of the fitting 14 and the outer wall of the probe 110 as the material moves into the fitting 14.

The probe 110 has a central bore 136 connected at one end to the inlet passage 138 and at the opposite end to the interior of the check valve body 112. When the probe 110 is inserted into the fitting 14, a liquid passage is established from the interior of the pouch 12 through the passage 138 and the central hole 136 to the interior of the check valve 112. But,
The check valve 124 is normally seated on the check valve body and the O-ring 132 seals the outlet of the check valve body 112 so that even the distribution closure 102 fits into the cap 20 and the container 1
No liquid is dispensed when the 0 is inverted.

The female receiver 104 is mounted on the top plate 140 of the base 106 by screws 142.
Attached to. The base 106 also includes a separator 144 to provide an underside of the plate 140 for an outlet tube 146 and a fitting 148.

A manifold 150 is attached in the female receiver 104. Manifold 150 includes a cavity 152 for receiving check valve body 112. At the bottom of the cavity 152, the outlet passage 154
And there is a protrusion 156. Container 10 and dispensing closure 102
When is lowered over the base 106, the check valve body 112 is inserted into the cavity 152, while the check valve housing 113 is housed in the male receiver 104. O-ring 130 is a check valve body
A seal is formed between the 112 and the manifold 150, while the projection 156 pushes the check valve plunger 124 upwards to disengage the plunger 124 and from the pouch 12 to the outlet passage 154 and then via the fitting 148 to the outlet pipe 146. Allow the liquid to flow.

Spring-loaded plunger assembly 158 replaces female receiver 104
Is attached to the side wall of. The tip of the plunger 160 fits in the annular groove 162 of the check valve housing 113. When removing the container 10 and dispensing closure 102 from the female receiver 104, the plunger 160 must first be pulled back against the biasing force of the spring 164.

A spring loaded pin 166 is mounted vertically on the bottom of the receiver 104 and pushes the bottom surface of the check valve housing 113 upwards. The bias spring 168 applies a force that biases the pin 166 upward. When the plunger 160 is pulled back to release the dispensing closure 102 from the receiver 104, the spring 168 and pin 166 provide an automatic force to move the dispensing closure 102 vertically to facilitate manual disengagement. To do.

This upward force also causes the check valve plunger 124 to
As it is disengaged from 56, plunger 124 and O-ring 1
A seat 32 is seated against the non-return valve body 112, ready for manual removal of the container 10 and closure 102 from the receiver 104. Spring loaded plunger 158
Once removed, container 10 and dispensing closure 102
Can be removed with both hands without leaking residual liquid. The empty container 10 is then placed upright and the dispensing closure 102 is removed as it connects to the next full container.

FIG. 12 shows another embodiment of a manual dispensing device, which is substantially similar to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 9 to 11, in FIG. 12 the embodiment of FIGS. 9 to 11 Components that are similar to components are labeled with similar reference numbers.

The main difference between the embodiment of FIG. 12 and the embodiments of FIGS. 9-11 is that the embodiment of FIG. 12 includes a metering pump 190. The metering pump 190 is supported on the base 106 and has an outlet.
It is connected to 146. The metering pump 190 is preferably
Only fluoropolymer material is used in its parts that come into contact with liquid chemicals, including graduated cylinder 192, plunger 1
94, outlet 196 and outlet 198.

When the plunger 194 is pulled upward, liquid from the container 10 is sucked into the cylinder 192 through the output pipe 146 and further through the inlet check valve (not shown). In the preferred embodiment, the cylinder 192 is graduated so that the user can select the distance (stroke) with which the plunger 194 can be raised, thereby selecting the amount of liquid to be dispensed. Next, when the plunger 194 is moved downward, the inlet check valve closes and liquid is forced out through the outlet check valve (not shown), outlet 196 and drain 198.

Providing the dispensing device of the present invention with a metering pump 190 provides a convenient, safe and accurate method for dispensing metered liquid chemicals while eliminating the need to remove the cap from the container and making it an expensive pump. Eliminates the need for dip tubes (which generate particles that can contaminate liquids) or extend into the interior of open containers, which can be messy and increase contamination from tampering.

3. Automatic Dispenser (FIGS. 13-17) FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an automatic dispenser 200 for use with the container 10 'of the present invention. The container 10 'is substantially similar to the container 10 shown in the previous figures, but with two handles 38 and a cap 80 (shown in Figures 7, 8A and 8B). The point of use is different.

The automatic dispenser 200 includes a main housing 202 with a roller drawer 204, which is shown in FIG. 13 in an open condition. Both housing 202 and drawer 204 are supported by wheels 206 so that dispenser 200 can be moved from one location to another as needed.

The container 10 'is placed in a pressure container constituted by a pressure can 208 and a cover 210. The pressure can 208 is rotatably supported by a pair of brackets 212, and the brackets 212 are arranged on both sides of the pressure can 208 and attached to the drawer 204. The shaft 214 extends outward from both sides of the pressure can 208, is pivotally mounted in the bracket 212, and extends through the upper end of the bracket 212.

Track arm 216, cam follower 218, and slide 22
The linkage formed by 0 is connected to the shaft 214,
The upright position shown in Figures 13 and 14A (drawer 2
(When 04 is opened), the pressure can 208 is swung from the inverted state shown in FIGS. 14B and 14C (when the drawer 204 is closed).

The cover 210 covering the pressure can 208 is opened and closed by the cover locking air cylinders 222A to 222D and the cover lifting cylinder 22.
4, 226A and 226B, and cover tilt cylinder 228A
And controlled by 228B. When the cover 210 is in place and is sealed over the pressure can 208, the flow path between the flexible conduit 230 and the vessel 10 'within the sealed pressure vessel is covered. Established through 210.

When loading a new container 10 'into the dispensing device 200, the roller drawer 204 is withdrawn. Next, the changeover switch 232 on the operation panel 234 is rotated to the "open" position. At this time, air cylinders 222A through 222D are actuated to release the locking mechanism of cover 210 and cylinders 224, 226A and 226B lift cover 210, as best seen in FIGS. 15A and 15B. The tilt cylinders 278A and 228B then tilt the cover 210 rearward to allow access to the interior of the pressure can 208, as shown in FIG. 15C.

Peel tab 84 for cap 80 on new chemical container
Is removed, the break seal film is exposed and the gas vent opening 88 of the cover 80 is opened. Container 10 '
Is then manually lifted and stored in pressure can 208.

The operator then turns the changeover switch 232 to the "load" position. Cylinders 228A and 228B tilt cover 210 directly above and behind pressure can 208. The operator then manually depresses the key coded knob 236 located on the pressure can cover 210 until the key code cone 286 (shown in FIG. 17) contacts the cap 80.

The knob 236 is then rotated until the cone 286 mates and engages the keyed slot in the cap 80. Due to the special design of the key code engagement mechanism (discussed in more detail below in connection with FIG. 17), rotation of knob 236 causes probe 2 to rotate.
Not transmitted to 38 and conduit 230.

The changeover switch 232 is then turned to the "closed" position and the air cylinders 224, 226A and 226B lower the cover 210 into place. At the same time, cylinders 222A through 222 on cover 210
D activates and opens the clamp for final positioning on pressure can 208. As the cover 210 descends onto the pressure can 208, the probe 238 (Fig. 17) penetrates the break seal membrane 60 of the container 10 'and seals the inner neck 26 of the fitting 14. Once the cover 210 is fully lowered, pressure is automatically relieved from the clamping cylinders 222A-222D, which can lock the cover 210 in place.

The operator then closes the drawer 204. This is a pressure can 2
The pressure can 208 is rotated into an inverted state via a linkage (link mechanism) constituted by a track arm 216, a cam follower 218 and a slide 220 on both sides of the 08. The pressure can 208 is shown in FIGS. 14A and 14B as
Corresponding to "open drawer" and "close drawer" states 2
Presented in two different states.

Once drawer 204 is fully closed, transfer switch 232
Is turned to the "pressure" position. This allows compressed air to enter pressure can 208 through air tube 249 and into the space between the inner wall of bottle 16 and pouch 12. In this way, air pressure is applied to both sides of the bottle 16 wall, so that the bottle 16 is not subjected to a pressure gradient.

Pressure gauge 250 and regulator 252 on operator panel 234 allow the operator to adjust the air pressure applied to pouch 12. The compressed air is introduced into the pressure can 208 only when the distribution button 254 on the operation panel 234 is pressed, or when an external electric signal is supplied to the distribution device 200. In normal undistributed mode, air pressure is not maintained within pressure can 208.

In the preferred embodiment of the invention, an air flow switch (not shown) detects the flow of compressed air into the pressure can 208 during dispensing. When compressed air enters pressure can 208, pouch 1
The liquid in 2 is squeezed out of the container 10. When the pouch 12 is emptied, the air flow ceases due to the total elimination of liquid by the air in the pressure can 208. The airflow switch detects this cessation of flow and sends an electrical signal to the alarm which alerts the operator to replace the bottle.

In the case of an air or electrical obstruction, the container 1 is closed even when the drawer 204 is closed and the pressure can 208 is inverted.
No 0'chemical content will leak out of the pressure can 208.
The cover 210 remains rigidly secured by the clamp mechanism and pressurized air to the cylinders 222A-222D is required to open the cover 210 from the pressure can 208.

Another safety feature of dispenser 200 is that if an operator attempts to withdraw drawer 204 during dispense,
Automatic pressure relief. Similarly, if the drawer 204 is not fully closed, air pressure cannot be introduced into the pressure can 208. In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the air pressure within pressure can 208 is not completely relieved and pressure can 208 is
The interlock circuit also prevents the cover 210 from being removed from the pressure can 208 when not in the upright position shown in FIGS. 13 and 14A.

Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of the cover 210 and pressure can 208 along with a portion of the container 10 '. As shown in FIG. 17, the cover 210 includes a main cover plate 270, which includes an O-ring 272 for sealing the cover plate 270 and the inner wall of the pressure can 208. The clamp mechanism or locking mechanism of cover 210 is clamp 274, clamp ring
275, dowel pin 276, support block 278 and connecting ring 280
including. Clamp air cylinders 222A through 222D are mounted between cover plate 270 and connecting ring 280.

When the air cylinders 222A-222D are actuated, their pistons move upward, lifting the connecting ring 280. This causes motion to be transmitted through the support block 278 and the mating pin 276, causing an outward motion of the clamp 274. In the absence of air pressure applied to cylinders 222A-222D, biasing springs in cylinders 222A-222D tend to push connecting ring 280 back to the position shown in FIG. 17 and clamp 274 via mating pin 278. , Pull radially inwardly to the position shown in FIG.

A dome 282 is fixedly attached to the center of the cover plate 270, and the dome 282 supports the sleeve 284 and the key code cone 286. O-ring 288 is cone 286 and dome 2
Seal between the inner wall of 82. The shoulder bolt 290 connects the sleeve 284 and the cone 286 to each other. Knob 236
Are attached to the upper end of the sleeve 284 by bolts 292.

The relative position of sleeve 284 and cone 286 with respect to dome 282 in the axial direction is determined by the position of adjustable stop piece 294. Locknut 296 holds adjustable stop piece 294 in place. Adjustable stop piece 2
The purpose of 94 is to allow the device 200 to accommodate manufacturing tolerances for all parts.

Sleeves 284 and 286 are allowed to rotate with respect to dome 282. Rotational force is applied to sleeve 2 by knob 236.
Added to 84 and cone 286. This makes the cone 286
Is rotated so that the key tabs 298 can be aligned with the respective key slots of the cap 80.
As shown in FIG. 17, the mating pin 300 has a key tab 298.
On the inner surface of cone 286.

Recess 302 on the inner surface of cone 286 and pin 90 of cap 80
Alignment with helps in proper alignment of cone 286 with cap 80.

Coupling 304 is coaxially mounted within sleeve 284. The upper end of the coupling 304 is connected to the conduit 230. A probe 238 is connected to the lower end of the coupling 304. The O-ring 306 is the flange 308 of the probe 238.
And a cone 286 to form a seal. The tip 310 of the probe 238 is sharp and comprises an O-ring 312 that forms a seal with the neck region of the fitting 14.

The probe 238 has a T-shaped passage 314, which is open at the end 310 and is connected to the valve chamber 316. A check valve constituted by a spring 318, a disc 320 and a poppet 322 is arranged in the valve chamber 316.

The passage 324 of the coupling 304 connects the interior of the valve chamber 316 with the conduit 230. The spring 318 biases the poppet 322 to the normally closed position, as shown in FIG. Due to the air pressure applied to the pouch 12, when hydraulic pressure is present in the container 10, the hydraulic pressure causes the poppet 322 to disengage, leading from the pouch 12 through the passage 314, valve chamber 316 and flow passage 324 to the conduit 230. Create a liquid flow.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 17, coupling 304 and probe 238 do not rotate with knob 234, sleeve 284 and cone 286. This aligns the key tab 298 with each corresponding key slot in the cap 80 without causing any rotation of the probe 238, which causes rotation to the knob 236.
To be added to.

During dispensing, air pressure is applied inside the pressure can 208, bottle 1
Allowed to go inside 6. The passage for the air flow is provided in part by a notch or groove on the periphery of the cap 80. It passes through the space between the cap 80 and the cone 286. The air flows through the recess 302 in the cone 286 and the cap.
Flow through 80 vents 88 (FIGS. 8A and 8B).
Once inside the cap 80, air flows into the interior of the bottle 16 through the slots 54A and 54B (see FIGS. 5A and 5B) of the retainer 18. Air pressure tends to deflate pouch 12, which pushes fluid through probe 238 and coupling 304. The same air pressure is applied to both the outer and inner walls of bottle 16, so the bottle
The wall strength of 16 is not a factor in the ability to distribute fluid under pressure.

4. Conclusion The present invention provides an important alternative to the prior art devices for handling and transporting liquid chemicals. The present invention provides a low cost, robust container for easy disposal of parts that come into contact with chemicals. Furthermore, the present invention is well suited for manual and automatic dispensing in a safe manner that completely avoids contact between the contents of the container and personnel and the atmosphere.

Although the present invention has been described in connection with the preferred embodiment,
Those skilled in the art will appreciate that changes can be made in form and detail without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims (11)

[Claims] 1. A pouch of sealed flexible film having an interior for holding a liquid, a fitting sealed to the pouch and having an opening in communication with the interior of the pouch, the pouch being provided through the opening. After being filled with liquid, the seal means for sealing the opening, the bottle having the opening communicating with the inside, and the mouth of the bolt are fitted and arranged so as to cover the mouth of the bottle and fittings. A cap and a vent that allows air to flow around the pouch inside the bolt as liquid is dispensed from the pouch, securing the fitting in the opening with the pouch inside the bottle In order to do so, a liquid chemical handling device comprising a container consisting of a holding means for fitting the mouth of the bottle and a fitting. 2. A liquid chemical handling system according to claim 1 wherein the retaining means comprises first and second retaining device segments and hinge means connecting the segments. 3. A generally conical shoulder flange portion wherein the fitting is an opening, a flange adjacent the opening, a neck portion connected to the opening, a neck portion connected to the neck portion and sealed to the pouch. The liquid chemical handling device according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising: 4. The liquid chemical handling device of claim 3 wherein the sealing means includes a membrane covering the opening in the fitting. 5. The liquid chemical handling device of claim 3 wherein the cap has a vent to allow air to enter the interior of the bottle around the pouch as the liquid is dispensed from the pouch. . 6. The liquid chemical handling device of claim 1 wherein the cap has a main central opening substantially aligned with the opening in the fitting and has a removable seal covering the main central opening. 7. A probe which can be inserted into an opening through a sealing means and which has a channel therein, and a liquid chemical which is connected to the probe and which is dispensed from the pouch through the channel. A liquid chemical handling device according to claim 1 further comprising a dispensing device comprising receiving means. 8. A means for supplying a pressurized fluid between the inner wall of the bottle and the pouch so as to push the liquid out of the pouch via a flow path in the probe, and an inner chamber for holding the container. 8. The liquid chemical handling device of claim 7, further comprising: a pressure vessel having: and means for supplying a fluid to supply a pressurized fluid to the inner chamber of the pressure vessel. 9. The pressure vessel further comprises a pressure can and a cover supporting the probe, and the dispensing device further comprises means for inverting the pressure vessel and securing the cover on the pressure can in a closed position. Means for moving the cover between the open and closed positions, including means for lifting the cover and tilting the cover, and means for securing and moving. The liquid chemical handling device of claim 7 further comprising means for controlling. 10. The dispensing device further comprises sealing means for providing a seal between the probe and the opening, normally closed valve means for controlling flow through the flow path, and the probe on the pouch. 9. A liquid chemical handling device according to claim 8 including means for opening the valve means after being inserted. 11. A cap engagement means associated with a probe, further comprising cap engagement means for engaging a cap while the probe is inserted through the cap and sealing means into the opening. Liquid chemical handling device according to item 7 of the above.