MXPA05012159A - Method and apparatus for mass based dispensing - Google Patents

Abstract

A method and apparatus for dispensing of a product based on weight as a load cell (22) which supports a structure holding the product (20a) to be dispensed. The weight of the product (20a) that is dispensed is determined by use of a controller (23). A dispenser (200) dispenses an amount of concentrate using a diluent to form a use solution. The dispenser (200) includes a housing (201) having a cavity. A product holder (210) is positioned to support the concentrate in the cavity of the housing (201). A load cell housing (207) is operatively supported by the housing. More than one load cell (240) is positioned in the load cell housing (207). The product holder (2 10) is supported on the more than one load cell (240), wherein weight of the concentrate is determined. A dispenser (200) dispenses an amount of concentrate in a container (204) using a diluent to form a use solution. A dispenser includes a housing (201). A product holder (2 10) is positioned to support the container (204) with the concentrate in the cavity of the housing. The product holder (210) carried by a scale (240), wherein weight of the concentrate is concerned. A moveable container holder (215) is moveable between a first position and a second position. The container holder is positioned between the housing (201) and the container (204). A cover (216) is operatively connected to the container holder (215) at a connection. A cam surface is adjacent the housing (201). The cover (216) has a cam (216d) for contacting the cam surface (201 a), wherein when the cover (216) is moved from a closed position to an open position, the connection moves upward, thereby carrying the container holder (215) and the container (204) which are moved upward lifting the container (204) off of the product holder (2 10).

Description

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DISTRIBUTION BASED ON MASS BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention This invention relates, in general, to distributors and, more particularly, to a method and apparatus for delivering a product based on dough. 2. Description of the Prior Art Distributors who use a diluent to erode a product, such as a detergent, are well known. The product to be delivered is typically a solid product and can take the form of either a solid block of chemical, granules or a cast product. An example of such a dispenser is found in U.S. Patent 4,826,661 to Copeland et al. This patent discloses a distributor of solid block chemicals for cleaning systems. The dispenser includes a spray nozzle to direct a uniform dissolution spray onto a surface of a solid block of cleaning composition. The nozzle sprinkles on the exposed surface of the solid block, dissolving a portion of the block and forming a concentrate of product. This is just an example of a distributor that uses a thinner and is also just an example of the type of product that can be supplied. It is recognized that there are many different distributors that use diluents to erode and distribute a portion of a product, which can have any number of forms. Once the product is supplied, it is often necessary to know how much of the product has been supplied. There are at least two main types of systems that have been developed to determine the amount of product that has been supplied. The first is based on the amount of time the product was exposed to the diluent. Although such systems are useful, systems are more susceptible to changes, depending on the amount of product that is exposed to the diluent, the pressure at which the diluent is delivered or the temperature at which the diluent is delivered. Therefore, in many applications, it is necessary to supply more product than is actually required in order to be known that a sufficient quantity of product is supplied. Another method that has been used is to examine the conductivity of the concentrated solution in order to determine the amount of product that has been supplied. Again, this system has its own unique problems, such as the need to add chemicals to the product in order to allow the dilute concentration to be examined. In addition, conductivity based distributors typically require an on / off cycle to achieve an asymptotic approach to the concentration establishment point. The conductivity is also influenced by the concentration of the product as a function of temperature and total conductivity. Frequently, protected cabling is required for distributors based on conductivity.

The present invention addresses the problems associated with the devices of the prior art and provides a method and apparatus for delivering mass-based product.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION In one embodiment, the invention is a dispenser for supplying a quantity of concentrate by the use of a diluent in order to form a use solution. The dispenser includes a housing that has a cavity. The cavity is adapted to receive the concentrate. The housing has an inlet, whereby the diluent enters the cavity and erodes the concentrate in order to create a use solution. The housing has an outlet, through which the solution of use leaves the cavity. A product container is placed to support the concentrate in the housing cavity. A foil is also provided. A support member has a first end and a second end. The first end is operatively connected to the foil and the second end is operatively connected to the product container, where the weight of the concentrate is determined. In another embodiment, the invention is a distributor system for supplying a quantity of concentrate by the use of a diluent in order to form a use solution. The dispensing system includes a container for supporting a concentrate, the container having an opening. A housing has a cavity that is adapted to receive the container. The accommodation has an entrance and an exit. A nozzle is placed next to the entrance. An inlet conduit is operatively connected to the nozzle, whereby the diluent is sprayed onto the concentrate, through the opening in the container, eroding the concentrate and forming a use solution. A product container is placed in the housing cavity. A foil is also provided. A support member has a first end and a second end. The first end is operatively connected to the foil and the second end is operatively connected to the product container, where the weight of the concentrate is determined. An outlet conduit is operatively connected to the outlet of the housing, where the use solution leaves the housing cavity. In another embodiment, the invention is a method for supplying a quantity of concentrate in a use solution by the use of a diluent to erode the concentrate. The method comprises the addition of the diluent to the concentrate. The weight of the concentrate is determined as the concentrate is eroded by the diluent. The method also includes the determination of the moment in which the quantity of concentrate has been supplied in order to create the use solution based on the weight of the concentrate. The diluent is stopped being added to the concentrate when the amount has been eroded and any remaining use solution is supplied. In another embodiment, the invention is a method for delivering an amount of an ingredient from a dispenser having a containment device for containing the ingredient. The method includes the supply of the ingredient from the distributor. The containment device, ingredient and any diluent in the ingredient are weighed as the ingredient is dispensed from the dispenser. The moment when the amount of the ingredient is dispensed from the dispenser is then determined based on the weight of the containment device, the ingredient and any diluent and the distribution of the ingredient is stopped. In another embodiment, the invention is a distributor for the supply of a quantity of concentrate that uses a diluent to form a solution of use. The distributor has an inlet conduit to provide the diluent to the concentrate in order to erode the concentrate and form a use solution. A foil is provided to weigh the concentrate as the concentrate is eroded by the diluent. A controller is used to determine when the amount of concentrate and the solution of use have been supplied by the diluent, based on the weight of the concentrate. In another embodiment, the invention is a dispenser for delivering a quantity of concentrate in order to form a diluted solution. The dispenser has a housing that has a cavity, adapted the cavity to receive the concentrate. The housing has an outlet, through which the concentrate that has been eroded leaves the cavity. A product container is placed to support the concentrate in the housing cavity. The distributor includes a foil. A support member has a first end and a second end, the first end is operatively connected to the foil and the second end is operatively connected to the product container, where the weight of the concentrate is determined. In another embodiment, the invention is a method for delivering an amount of ingredient from a dispenser having a containment device for containing the ingredient. The method includes the erosion of the ingredient in order to supply that portion of the ingredient eroded from the distributor. The containment device and the ingredient are weighed after erosion. The amount of ingredient that has been supplied is determined based on the weight of the containment device and the ingredient. In a modality, the invention is a distributor for supplying a quantity of concentrate by the use of a diluent in order to form a use solution. The dispenser includes a housing having a cavity, adapted to the cavity to receive a concentrate. The housing has an entrance, whereby the diluent enters the cavity and erodes the concentrate in order to create a solution for use. The housing has an outlet, through which the solution of use leaves the cavity. A product container is placed in order to support the concentrate in the housing cavity. A load cell housing is operatively supported by the housing. More than one load cell is placed in the load cell housing, the product container is supported on more than one load cell, where the weight of the concentrate is determined. In another embodiment, the invention is a load cell housing for use with a dispenser in order to supply a quantity of concentrate by the use of a diluent to form a use solution. The load cell housing includes a first load cell having a first end and a second end. The load cell housing also includes a base member. A reception area is operatively connected to the base member in which the first load cell is placed. The first end of the first load cell is secured to the base member. A top member is placed on the base member, the upper member for transporting the concentrate. The second end of the first load cell is secured to the upper member. A top member is placed under the first end of the first load cell in order to limit the compression deflection and a printed circuit board is placed above the first end of the first load cell in order to limit the stress deviation from the first end. In one embodiment, the invention is a dispenser for supplying a quantity of concentrate in a container by the use of a diluent in order to form a use solution. The dispenser includes a housing that has a cavity. The cavity is adapted to receive a concentrate. The housing has an entrance, through which the diluent enters the cavity and erodes the concentrate in order to create a solution for use. The housing has an entrance, through which the solution of use leaves the cavity. A product container is placed to support the container with the concentrate in the housing cavity. The product container is transported through a lamella, where the weight of the concentrate is determined. The accommodation has a container entrance. A movable container support is movable between a first position and a second position. The container support is placed between the housing and the container. A cover is used for the entrance to the container. The container holder is operatively connected to the cover in a connection. A cam surface is adjacent to the housing. The cover has a cam for contacting the cam surface, wherein the cover moves from a closed position to an open position, the connection moves upwards, thus transporting the support of the container and the container moving upwards displacing the container. Container outside the product holder. In another embodiment, the invention is a method of loading a concentrate container into a dispenser. The dispenser has a housing that has a cavity to receive the container, a product holder is transported by a foil and a movable container holder and a cover are operatively connected to the movable container support. The method includes raising the cover, wherein the movement of the cover elevates the container support away from the product support. The insertion of the container in the movable container support and the decrease of the cover, wherein the container support is lowered onto the product support, whereby excessive shock to the foil during loading is prevented.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figure 1 is a perspective view, generally seen from below, of the dispenser of the present invention; Figure 2 is a perspective view, generally seen from above, of the dispenser shown in Figure 1; Figure 3 is an enlarged, perspective view, generally seen from above, of the dispenser shown in Figure 1; Figure 4 is an enlarged perspective view, generally seen from below, of the dispenser shown in Figure 1; Fig. 5 is a flow chart illustrating an embodiment of the invention, in which an ingredient is supplied by erosion of the ingredient with a diluent; Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating the weight of a distributor ingredient of the dispenser of Figure 1; Figure 7 is a schematic of a portion of the dispenser shown in Figure 1; Figure 8 is a top plan view of the dispenser shown in Figure 1; Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view, taken generally along lines 9-9 in Figure 8; with a capsule; Figure 10 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of Figure 1; Figure 1 1 is a front elevational view of another embodiment of a dispenser of the present invention, with broken portions; Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view of the dispenser shown in Figure 1 1, taken generally along lines 12-12; Figure 13 is an enlarged perspective view of the dispenser shown in Figure 1 1; Figure 14 is an enlarged perspective view of the load cell housing shown in Figure 1 1; Figure 15 is a top plan view of the load cell housing shown in Figure 14, with a portion removed; Figure 1 6 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the upper housing and lower housing showing the cross section with the other components, not in cross section, in order to illustrate the assembly thereof; Figure 17 is a perspective view of the upper housing viewed from below; Figure 18 is a perspective view of the lower housing generally seen from above; Figure 19 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a dispenser according to the present invention, with the cover in a raised position; Figure 20 is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment shown in Figure 19, with the cover in a closed position; Figure 21 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the dispenser shown in Figure 20; Figure 22 is an enlargement of a portion of Figure 16; Figure 23 is a graph of a distributor using three load cells; and Figure 24 is an enlargement of a portion of Figure 23.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF A PREFERRED MODE Referring to the drawings, in which similar numbers represent similar parts throughout the various views, a distributor is generally displayed at 1 0. The distributor 10 is shown mounted on a mounting panel 1 1 or other suitable mounting structure, which is suitable for mounting on a wall or other support surface (not shown). The support surface is typically a wall of a room, or a surface that is strong enough to support the dispenser 10. However, it is understood that the dispenser 10 can be assembled in various manners well known in the art, including a dispenser. Free support. The mounting panel 1 1 is a support member and has an upper edge 1 1 a having two key track openings 1 1 b. The openings 1 1 b have a larger segment to allow the openings 1 1 b to be placed on top of a mounting terminal (not shown). The mounting terminal is secured on a mounting surface and the distributor then falls on the mounting terminal and is held by the closed top portion of the openings 1 1 b. A lower edge 1 1 c has two openings 1 1 d, which are adapted to receive a fastener, such as a screw or bolt, to further secure the mounting panel 1 1 to the mounting surface. The distributor 10 includes a housing 12 which is preferably molded as a one piece plastic member, although it is understood that the housing 12 could be made of another suitable material, such as stainless steel and formed of multiple pieces. The housing 12 has an outer wall 12a having a cavity 12b. The outer wall 12a has a larger diameter in the upper part in order to accommodate the capsule 20. The outer diameter of the outer wall 12a is narrowed in its base or emptying region 12c. The emptying region 12c, as will be described more fully below, provides a collecting region for the use solution. The emptying region 12c has an inlet 13 and an outlet 14. The inlet 13 is a cylinder that extends beyond the emptying region 12c. The inlet has a perforation 13a which provides a fluid communication to the cavity 12b. An inlet conduit, such as an inlet mating 15, has a first end 15a for connection to a supply of diluent and a second end 15b which is operatively connected to a first end 16a of a connector elbow 16. The second end 16b of the connector elbow 16 is operatively connected to the inlet 13. The diluent is then able to enter the cavity 12b under pressure. A separate spray nozzle 30 can be used to further direct the diluent, as is well known in the art. The outlet 14 is an opening towards the internal cavity 12b through which an outlet conduit is connected, such as an outlet hose 17. This allows the direction of the use solution towards a desired location. The housing 12 has an upper edge 12d and a lower edge 12e. The edges are connected by frames 12f, only one of which is shown, it being understood that a similar pattern is used on the left side of the distributor 10, as seen in the figures. A mounting member 12g extends between the edges 12d, 12e and has two openings 12h through which a fastening member, such as a bolt, can be secured to secure the housing 12 to the mounting panel 1 1. A similar mounting member with openings is used on the left side of the distributor, as seen in the drawings. A support bracket 21 is operatively connected to the mounting panel 1 1 by means of. suitable fastening means, such as screws. The support bracket 21 is generally T-shaped and has three holes 21 a formed in its base 21 b. Only two of the holes 21 a are shown in figure 4. Figure 4 clearly shows the place where the three holes 1 1 e are formed in the mounting panel 1 1. Suitable fasteners, such as screws, secure the bracket 21 to the panel 1 1 through three holes 21 a and 1 e. A support section 21 c extends from the base 21 b and provides a support surface on which the load cell (or resistance gauge) 22 is placed. Figure 10 is an enlarged perspective view of the support bracket 21. and the load cell 22. The support section 21 c has a top surface that is at two different heights. A first section 21 d is a generally planar surface supporting the load cell 22. A second section 21 e is a flat surface which is generally lower than the first section 21 d and, therefore, is separated from the load cell 22. The distance between the second section 21 and the load cell 22 is separated at a suitable distance, such as 150 percent of the maximum deviation of the load cell 22. The second section 21 e allows, therefore, that the cell load 22 bends down. However, if the load cell 22 receives too much of a force, the second section 21 e will limit the amount of bending of the load cell 22. The load cell 22 is secured to the support 21 c of the support bracket 21 by any suitable method, such as screws (not shown), inserted through holes 21 d. The type of load cell used would depend, of course, on the weight to be measured. A typical weight of a capsule 20, with product, is between 8 to 10 pounds. Therefore, a load cell of 5 kilograms (1 1 pounds) was selected, although it is understood that other load cells would be selected, depending on the weight to be measured. An example of a suitable load cell is the Model Load Cell RL-1521 -5kg provided by Rice Lake Weighing Systems, located in Rice Lake, Wisconsin. As will be described more fully below, a controller 23 having a keypad 24 and a deployment device 25 is connected to the load cell 22. The controller includes the necessary hardware and software to process the weight values detected by the load cell 22. The controller 23 can be any suitable controller. However, it has been found that a single chip plate, such as SOC-3000/3001 from Cybertech Netanya Israel, is easy to use. The foil of a single chip 23 includes the pre-amplifier, A / D converter, deployment engines, keyboard controller, serial communication, embedded CPU and programmable data memory and program per field. Because the purpose of the load cell 22 is to determine the weight of the product 20a inside the capsule or container 20 that is supplied, the weight of. the capsule 20 must be supported by the load cell 22. A structure for carrying it out is the use of a mounting bracket assembly, generally designated 40, and a product container 50. The mounting bracket assembly 40 has a triangular base 41 Two mounting holes 41 a are formed therein and are used to hold the base 41 to the load cell 42. The screws (not shown) are inserted through the holes 41 a and into the load cell 22 to secure the base 41 to load cell 42. A supporting end, generally designated at 42, extends upwardly from base 41. The support extremity, in the embodiment shown, has three end sections 43-45. The end sections 43-5 are of sufficient structural strength to support the product container 50 and the capsule 20. The end sections 43-45 are secured to the base 41 by suitable means such as a friction fit at perforations 46-48. The end sections 43-45 extend through the support openings 1 8 in the lower part of the housing 12. The upper ends, 43a-45a of the end sections 43-45 support the product container 50. It is preferred , but it is not necessary, that the extremities 43-45 and the product container 50 are a one-piece construction. Enlarged views, Figures 3-4, are for illustrative purposes only. Accordingly, the actual construction is as shown in Figure 9, where the extremities 43-45 are integral with the product container 50, however, it is understood that they can be made of a multi-part construction. The product container 50 has a conical, upper member 51, in which three holes 51 a are formed. The holes 51 a are provided to make it easier to move the product container 50. The conical member 51 has an upper projection 51 b. The conical member 51 is operatively connected to a generally cylindrical section 52. The cylindrical section 52 has a bore 52a that is sized and configured to receive the neck portion 20b of the capsule 20. Three cylindrical projections 53 are downwardly dependent from the drain section 12c. Only two of the projections 53 are shown in Figure 3, it being understood that the projections 53 are placed to receive the end sections 43-45. Accordingly, the ends 43-45 of the product container 50 are placed through the perforations 18 and the ends 43-45 are secured, through appropriate means, to base 41. Then, when the capsule 20 is placed in the product container 50, the weight of the capsule 20, the product inside the capsule 20a, the product container 50 and the mounting bracket assembly 40 are all supported on the load cell 22. The capsule 20 is shown as generally cylindrical and having a neck 20b. The neck 20b forms an opening in which the product 20a is filled. A cap is then placed in the capsule 20 and the capsule 20 is in a packing and transport condition. When the user uses the capsule 20, it is necessary to remove the cap so that the product 20a is exposed to the diluent mist. It is understood that other forms and configurations may also be used, with the associated redesign of the distributor to accommodate any different shape or size. It is also understood that, in addition to using containers or capsules of different sizes, the product container could be easily redesigned to accept briquettes, powders or product blocks that are not found inside a container. One way to do this would be to have a screen through the product container with walls or screens that extend vertically to contain the loose product. The distributor would be designed in such a way that the weight is again transported by the load cell 22. This would again allow many different types of ingredients to be supplied. In addition, the distributor 10 is shown having a spray that is sprayed vertically to erode the product 20a. It is also understood that other designs could use the present invention and that they have to introduce the diluent in other places. It is also understood that the weight-based system can be used to supply a product that does not have to erode the product to be delivered. Erosion can be by dew, as previously described, or by flooding. The product can also be separated by grinding or perforation by mechanical action. Accordingly, it is noted that there are several ways to erode the product 20a. A preferred embodiment, and the manner shown in the figures, show the use of a diluent to dissolve the product 20a. However, the erosion of the product 20a can also take place by other mechanical methods, such as drilling or grinding. The present invention has applicability in many areas, in addition to those already discussed. The following is a list of at least some of the areas in which the invention may be used. In the area of pesticide disposal supply equipment, a load cell could be used to measure a pre-established amount of insecticide ready for use, which would allow the user to document the proof of delivery for regulatory compliance, while ensuring that a consistent dose be used for each application. The use in the vehicle cleaning market could include the use of a chemical measuring device for a vehicle care product distributor. The product could be in solid, liquid or gel form. The supply would be by conventional means such as a recycling system for solid products or pumping systems for liquids or gels. The load cell would measure precise weight changes in the product that is being supplied from a concentrate in order to create a ready-to-use solution or an intermediate solution that can be diluted at the user's convenience. The prior art methods require chemical or volumetric measurements by operators of product use in order to ensure the supply of reproducible product. Since each type of product varies enormously in chemical components for vehicle cleaning products, different chemical tests need to be developed and validated for each new product. The batch variations in batch in solids dissolution proportions they require very strict quality control measurements and they greatly restrict the development of new products from solid systems. Large variations in the temperature of use of the product due to seasonal temperature variations in the vehicular cleaning market have negative effects on the viscosities of liquid products. Variations in water pressure within the vehicle cleaning sites result in large changes in product supply since many dilution systems rely on siphon technology. These variations often result in unacceptable differences in product supply. All variations require human intervention to adjust the chemical supply system. The use of load cell technology would allow reproducible product delivery regardless of the chemical composition. This presents the possibilities for greater flexibility and product formulation. Concerns about the variation in the solubility differences of solid products or changes in viscosity in liquids with temperature would be eliminated since only changes in weight are measured. The simplicity of the distributor design would also result in the same distribution technology being used for many chemical products since chemical measurement systems do not need to be considered for each product. Still another area where the present invention could be used is in the areas of concierge and health care. The janitorial business would be able to use the technology of the present invention to accurately deliver two chemical components as well as binding chemicals for floor care. For health care, the present invention would be capable of being used for the delivery test of cleaners and disinfectants. There is also a need to provide very accurate amounts of chemicals for instrument care and hard surface cleaning. The technology would be available for both liquid and solid products. The present invention is also applicable for home care. The invention is capable of being used as a platform for the exact proportion of solids, liquids or concentrates when used in conjunction with a device that can quantify an amount of water passing through a pipe. For example, if a known volume of water is used and the load cell could detect the amount of concentrate supplied, a proportion would be known. Therefore, in an exact distributor of this type, the user would establish a proportion. While the water is filling the container of use, the concentrate is supplied. The distribution of the concentrate occurs until the proportion is satisfied. If a known quantity of water is passed through a pipe at a fixed time, the distributor could supply the concentrate to suit the ratio. For example, if 1 00 milliliters of water are passed through the distributor, a known amount of concentrate would be needed to meet the established ratio. The known amount of concentrate could be supplied and stopped when the load cell is satisfied. The present invention is also applicable to laundry systems. The current laundry systems serve two machines at a relatively high cost. The system is both complex and expensive. The load cell technology of the present invention would reduce both the cost and the complexity of a current laundry dealer. In addition, the current laundry system for liquids also has significant disadvantages since there is no empty drum alarm and there is no way to compensate for the reduced emission of the peristaltic pumping manifold. The load cell technology of the present invention would allow the exact delivery of the peristaltic pump over time, providing a signal of when to change the squeeze tube, and allow and empty the warning device. This would be a significant improvement over the prior art. The foregoing is not an exhaustive list, but are only additional examples of the applicability of the present invention. Figure 6 is a flow chart illustrating the effect of the diluent spray on the ingredient block in the dispenser of Figure 1. The mantissa is time and the ordinate is weight in grams. The time 150 before the beginning of the spray represents the start of combined weight, indicated in approximately (0) grams, for purposes of illustration. The dew starts at time 152 at which point two things begin to happen. First, the pressure of the diluent sprayed on the underside of the ingredient block depends somewhat on the combined weight of the load cell 22. Second, the added weight from the diluent that accumulates in the capsule 20 tends to cause a combined weight increased. In this way, the combined weight in the load cell 22 initially decreases until the time 154 at which point the combined weight reaches an initial minimum of approximately minus four (-4) grams. After time 154, the added weight of the diluent in the capsule 20 causes the combined weight to increase significantly. However, over time, the added weight of the diluent in the capsule 20 tends to stabilize as the ingredient block erodes. As the ingredient block erodes, its weight decreases. Thus, at time 156 the combined weight reaches a maximum at approximately sixteen (16) grams. After time 1 56 the ingredient block continues to erode as the diluent continues to spray. Since the added weight of the diluent in the capsule 20 has stabilized, the combined weight continues to decrease during time 158 until the dew is discontinued. The diluent mist is discontinued at time 160, resulting in a momentary weight gain for the combined weight as the rising pressure of the ingredient block is discontinued. After a momentary weight gain caused by the lack of upward pressure in the ingredient block by the diluent spray, the diluent continues to drain from the capsule 20 during the time period 162, resulting in almost the final weight in time 164 of approximately minus twenty-six (-26) grams. The difference between the start weight at time 150 of about zero (0) grams and the final weight of about minus twenty-six (-26) grams, once the diluent has been drained from the capsule 20, of twenty-six (26) grams represents the amount of ingredient supplied. However, note that the difference between the maximum weight of approximately sixteen (16) grams and the weight in time 160 of approximately minus nine (-9) grams when the spray is discontinued is only twenty-five (25) grams. This is because the ingredient was eroded from the ingredient block during time 166, between time 152 when the spray starts and time 156 when the maximum is measured, and also during time 162 as the diluent drains. of the capsule 20. This process can be more easily understood in relation to the flow chart of Figure 5. A requested quantity of the required ingredient is established (block 1 10). The load cell 22 weighs the ingredient (block 1 12). A valve is turned on (block 1 14) at time 152, initiating the diluent spray against the ingredient block. Optionally, the process waits (block 1 16) so that a minimum weight is reached at time 154. The process waits (block 1 1 8) for the diluent that is added by spray to accumulate in the capsule 20 and increase the weight combined Note that if the stage represented by block 16 is omitted, it is still appropriate to wait for the weight gain in block 1 18. Alternatively, if the stage represented by block 16 is not omitted, then it is no longer necessary wait for the weight gain and the stage represented by block 1 18. Alternatively, the steps represented by both blocks 1 16 and 1 18 could be omitted in the process, being able to continue directly to block 120. In block 120, the The method reaches a combined maximum weight at time 156 and, once found, records the peak weight (block 122). Again optionally, the process expects weight loss (block 124). The load cell 22 measures (block 126) the amount of weight lost from the maximum weight or peak recorded. Optionally, the process adjusts a displacement (block 128) which is explained below. The process determines (block 130) whether the lost weight measured is equal to an amount that will result in a supplied amount of ingredient that equals the amount required. When such a determination is made, the valve is turned off (block 132) by discontinuing the diluent spray against the ingredient block. The process is stopped (block 134) until the process is repeated by fixing again a required quantity (block 1 10). Since some of the ingredient will be eroded from the ingredient block during time 166 (between time 152 when the spray starts and time 156 when weight loss begins to register) and during time 162 (while the remaining diluent is drained) of capsule 20), the amount of weight loss from capsule 20 during time 158 does not necessarily equal the total weight of the eroded ingredient and, nevertheless, supplied. However, an amount of the ingredient that is additionally supplied during time 166 and time 162 can be calculated and / or estimated by a variety of means. For example, this quantity can be determined empirically from previously supplied cycles. Alternatively, the decline of the curve 148 can be determined throughout or portion of time 158 and an original maximum 168 can be determined by regression to add an amount of the eroded ingredient during time 166. The amount of additional ingredient eroded during the times 166 and 162 can be added to the method in block 128 by adjusting the time 160 in which the diluent spray is discontinued. For example, if it is determined that the additional amount of the ingredient supplied during the time periods 166 and 162 is equal to about one (1) gram, then the time 160 can be adjusted to turn off the diluent spray when the measured weight loss is equal to the required amount of ingredient minus one (1) gram. The method of the present invention is further described in the co-pending application of E. U. Series No. 10 / 436,454, filed May 12, 2003, entitled "Methods of Supply" by Richard Mehus et al.

One point in the design of a mass-based distributor is to protect the load cell from the vertical shock load. One method for doing this is to use the support bracket 21 in order to prevent the load cell 22 from deforming beyond its maximum. In addition, another way to further reduce the vertical shock load would be to isolate the capsule 20 from the product holder 50 as the capsule 20 is loaded. This can be accomplished through the use of a cylinder within a cylinder concept. That is, an additional cylinder (not shown) would be added to the distributor 10. The additional cylinder would be designed and configured to receive the capsule 20. However, as the cover is raised (not shown in the figures, but which is would seat in the upper part of housing 12), the cylinder would also rise. Then, the capsule would be loaded into the cylinder and the capsule 20 would not be able to contact the product container 50. That is, the cylinder would prevent the capsule from traveling all the way to the product container. Then, as the cover is lowered, the cylinder, which contains the capsule 20, is lowered and allows the capsule 20 to rest on the product container 50. Another point to consider in the design of a load cell distributor is minimize torsion and provide protection against deformation for the load cell. One way to address this issue is to align the forces above the load cell so that they are vertical over the load cell 22. Also, by securing the housing 12 to the mounting panel 11 and securing the support bracket 21 to panel 1 1, protection against deformation is provided. In addition, the jacket or housing will provide isolation from the load cell so that the load cell 22 is not inadvertently shaken or moved by someone passing by or other sources of force that can contact the load cell 22. Another issue to consider is to prevent moisture from contacting the load cell 20. There are several ways to address this issue. One design would be to use a cover covering the distributor 10 and prevent the load cell from becoming wet from splashes or sprays, if the distributor 10 were used in an environment where dews could exist, such as from lava frets. The coating of the load cell 22 with a moisture protective cover can be beneficial. Also, when the dispenser 10 is used as a spray distributor, as the dispenser shown in this embodiment, having the upper portions of the support openings 18 extending above the lower part of the emptying region, it is avoided that the water or the spray easily fall through the opening 1 8 on the load cell 22. Still another point is the reduction of any interference by vibration and the protection provided by it. One way to do this is to electronically compensate the vibration with logic in appropriate software. Another solution is to physically isolate or isolate the distributor 10 from the mounting surface. Standard industrial cushioning materials, such as air chambers or rubber, can be used. This will help avoid the resonance frequency. In addition, there are other beneficial designs that can be incorporated into the distributor 10. In cases where a capsule is not used, such as the use of a solid block of product, the current form of the product can be used to block the distributor 1 0 to make certain that the right product is supplied to the right dealer. This would prevent, for example, placing a block of detergent in a dispenser when a rinse aid should be in the dispenser. Products sold under the GEOSYSTEM brand of Ecolab Inc. are an example of such products that can be used without a capsule. When a capsule is used, the package design of the capsule can be used to design locking systems to ensure that the right product is dispensed from the correct distributor. As well, designs that provide electrical locks can be used. Packaging identification systems such as radio frequency identification systems can be incorporated into the capsule 20, as well as bar codes that can be read electronically, in order to adjust the supply profiles based on the detected product. ^ As shown in Figure 11, a distributor is generally exposed at 200. The dispenser 200 is another embodiment according to the present invention. It has been found that by using multiple charging beams, there is a means to average the emission of the charging beams and to develop a better resolution on a single load cell. The distributor 200 includes a housing 201 which is designed to be mounted on a suitable mounting surface (not shown). The support surfaces typically are a wall of a room, or a surface that is strong enough to support the dispenser 200. However, it is understood that the dispenser 200 can be assembled in various ways, well known in the art, including the dispenser. of free permanence. The housing 201 includes an assembly section 202 and a cylindrical section 203. The sections 202 and 203 are preferably molded as a one-piece plastic member, although it is understood that the housing 201 could be made from other suitable materials, such as stainless steel, and formed of multiple pieces. The mounting section 202 has two openings 202a formed on one side and two similar openings formed on the other side (not shown in Figure 13). The openings 202a are used to mount the housing 201 on the support surface. The cylindrical section 203 has a cavity 203a which is formed by the inner wall 203b. The cavity is sized to accommodate the capsule 204, which contains the concentrate. The inner wall 203b has a circular projection 203c formed around its lower part. A draining section 205 is operatively connected to the lower part of the housing 201 and provides a collecting region for the use solution. The emptying has an entrance, similar to the first modality. The inlet is formed in the lower part of the emptying section 205 near the center and provides an entrance to the inlet conduit 206 which provides fluid communication of the diluent to the cavity 203a. The emptying section 205 has three indentations 205b formed in the lower part of the emptying section 205. Only two of the indentations are shown in Figure 13, the third being hidden from view. However, the three indentations 205b are separated 120 degrees from each other and dimensioned and configured to receive and support the load cell housing 207, as will be described more fully below. An outlet 206 provides the outflow of the dispenser 200 from the use solution formed by the diluent and the concentrate. A spray nozzle 208 is in fluid communication with a pipe 209 which in turn is connected to the inlet 206. The pipe 209 is preferably molded as a portion of the pouring section 205. A product container 210 has a cross-section hopper 21 1 which is dimensioned and configured to conform to the external shape of the neck of the capsule 204. The product container 21 0 then has a cylindrical section 212 having a tip or protrusion 212a formed therein. The projection 212a provides a surface on which the neck 204a of the capsule 204 rests when the dispenser 200 is operational. A second hopper section 213 is operatively connected to the cylindrical section 212. This is the hopper section 213 that rests. on the load cell housing 207, as will be more fully described later. A second cylindrical section 214 is operatively connected to the hopper section 213 and extends underneath around the pipe 209. During the operation, the capsule 204 is placed in the product container 210, which in turn is transported by the load cell housing 207. Accordingly, the weight of the capsule 204 and the product container 210 are weighed by the cell load. However, to protect the load cell housing 207 from the extreme shock by dropping the capsule 204 directly on the load cell housing 207, the present invention utilizes a movable capsule or container holder 215. The container support 215 it includes a cylindrical wall portion 215a to which a circular edge 215b is connected in the lower part. Then, a tapered section 215c extends downward from the edge 215b. The cylindrical wall portion 215a is sized and configured to fit the interior of the cavity 203a so that it can move downward and upward. At the top and rear of the wall portion 21 5a a cover mounting member 215d is formed. The cover mounting member 215d terminates in a cylindrical portion 215e that is used to rotatably connect to a cover 216. The cover 216 has a cover portion 216a that is dimensioned and configured to cover the cavity 203a. A slot 216b is dimensioned and configured to receive the cylindrical portion 215e of the container support in order to make a snap fit between the cover 216 and the support 215. The cover has an extension 216c on which a cam 216d is formed. The cam 216d acts on a cam surface 201 to which it is located at the top of the mounting section 202. When the cover 216 is raised, as shown in Figure 12, the cover mounting member 215d is transported. towards the upper position, which necessarily elevates the entire container support 215. When the container support 215 rises, it raises the capsule 204 also as the capsule 204 rests on the projection 215b. This provides a distance X as shown in Figure 12, between the projection 212a and the neck 204a. Accordingly, if a capsule is loaded by simple dropping or forced into the dispenser 200, the force would not be absorbed by the product container 210, but rather would be absorbed by the container support 215, the tapered section 215c and the projection 215b. When lowered, the cam 216d, together with a pivot section of the cover 216, will cause the cover mounting member 215d to lower as the distance of the slot 21 6b which is above the cam surface 21 6d is smaller, which in turn will allow the capsule 204 to be held in the product container 210. This will be further described with respect to the distributor 30. Accordingly, this allows the concentrate inside the capsule 204 to be despite, as discussed with the previous modality. A magnetic switch has a first portion 295a and a second part 295b to indicate whether or not the cover is closed. Referring now especially to Figures 14-17, the load cell housing 207 will be described in greater detail. The present distributor 200 uses more than one load cell. As shown in the mode for the distributor 200, three load cells are used, although it is also understood that two or more than three can be used. The housing 207 includes a base member 218 and an upper member 228. Three projections 21 9 are spaced 120 degrees apart and dimensioned and configured to rest on the indentations 205b. The housing 207 is in the general shape of a ring. The base member 218 includes a circular wall 220 defining a shoulder 220a. The wall 220 and the shoulder 220a form a structure for receiving the upper member 278. An inner wall 221 separates from the wall 220 and forms a ring in which three load cells 240 are placed. Three sets of splitter members 222, 223 define three reception areas 224 in which the load cells 240 are placed. The load cells or strain gauges 240 are suitably mounted on a load beam or base member 240a which is generally rectangular. The base member 240a has a first mounting opening 240b and a second opening 240c. The opening 240b is located above a perforation 218b. A terminal 241 secures the first end of the base member 240a to the base member 21 8. The second bore 218c is formed in each receiving area 224 below the second free end of the base member of the load cell 240a. The receiving area 224 is dimensioned and configured so that the length of the base member 240a is substantially the same. This will prevent the torsion from affecting the load cell by not allowing the base member 240a to rotate. The first end of the load cell that is close to the wall 223 has a very minimal space such as 0.003 inches. The other end, next to the wall 222 has a space of approximately 0.005 inches. The space is slightly larger to allow upward and downward movement of the free end of the load cell 240. Also, with the first end secured to the base member, the first end is the dominant end for turn protection of the load cell 240. However, the receiving area 224 is dimensioned to limit the amount of torque that can be applied to the load cell 240 through the base member 240a. Three suspensions 225, with openings 25a, are also operatively connected to the base member 21 8 and separated at 120 degree intervals. The load cells 240 are connected to the printed circuit board 242 by cables (not shown). The cables of the load cell 240 would pass through the rectangular opening 242a. The additional mounting holes 242b, 242c are also formed above each of the reception areas 224. The printed circuit panel 242 is of known construction. The upper member 228 has a generally planar top surface 228a with a cylindrical side wall 228b. The side wall 228b is dimensioned and configured to fit around the wall 220 and over the top edge 220a. The upper surface has three projections 229 that extend upwards. The protrusions have an inclined surface 229a which is adapted and configured to receive the lower portion of the cylindrical section 212 of the product container 210. Three protrusions 230 are formed on the underside of the housing 228 and have perforations 230a formed therein. As discussed previously, the base member 240a or load beam has its first end secured to the base member 218 by a terminal 241. The other end of the base member 240a is secured by the terminal 251 through the opening 240c to the boss 230, thereby securing the movable end of the base member 240a to the top member 228. The PC panel 242 is secured to the leg member. base 218 by screw 243. An electrical cord 290 is generally shown in Figure 12. Referring to Figures 18 and 22, it can be seen that two stop members 280 are formed around the bore 218c. The stop members 280 are in the general shape of an arch. The stops 280 extend above the inner surface of the base member 218. As can be more readily seen in Figure 22, the stop members 280 will limit the deflection of the load beam 240a. There is typically a maximum deviation provided by the manufacturers for a rated weight. Typically, this is 150 percent of the assessed charge. The response to deformation is linear to weight. If the deviation is set to 100 percent of the load, by multiplying the deviation value by 1.5 yields of a maximum deviation before there is potential damage to the strain gauge 240. A stop, such as the stop 280, in this point of deviation provides a means to avoid deviation beyond the maximum deviation assessed. The stops 280 protect the deformation gauge 240 from being overloaded. By using multiple load cells, there is a means of averaging the emission and developing a better resolution on a single load cell. The load cells in both modalities, either single or multiple, use strain gauge technology that has a linear emission as weight changes. The circular load cell housing 207 houses more than one, and as shown, three load cells. The multiple load cells provide sensors for accurate weight measurement under varying loading conditions that can result from detergent tablets dissolving unevenly. Multiple load cells also reduce individual variations induced by vibration. Also, if a load cell fails, it is possible to compensate by using the two surviving load cells and adjustment algorithms. The load cell housing 207 can be sealed after assembly to provide environmental protection of the surrounding chemicals. Although it is not shown, the load cell may contain an electronic device that stores a digital data sheet that is programmed by the manufacturer. This data sheet will contain calibration data of the load cell, as well as load cell service information. The resident data sheet is accessed by a driver for an automatic load cell configuration. This eliminates the need for conditioning load cell signals thus reducing the costs of the load cell. For example, the analog front end of the controller can use a 24-byte analog-to-digital converter to measure signals from each sensor in the load cell. The resolution of the measured product weight is at least 20,000 counts with a sample rate of 50 samples per second. The controller adds the signal emissions from the load cell sensors, providing a total weight measurement. Together with the emission of the sum sensor, the controller also provides a discrete emission of each sensor in the load cell assembly. This configuration allows the exact calibration of the system as well as the proportion of data that is used to evaluate the uniformity of the solid detergent as it dissolves. When a sensor in the load cell supports a disproportionate amount of weight, there may be a potential problem, such as, a non-uniform spray supplied to the solid product surface due to damage or clogged spray nozzles. The controller can provide an automatic zero reset routine that ensures exact weight measurement each time a new solid rinse capsule or block is placed in the dispenser. An automatic tare function can also be used so that the weight of the device. Solid product support and empty capsule container are removed from the weight reading. The operation and use of the distributor 200, except for the previously described, is similar to the distributor 10 and will not be repeated. Referring to Figures 23 and 24, a graph of the weight detected by each load cell is shown as the number of cycles increases. As previously discussed, a suitable controller would provide the total weight when using the three inputs of the three load cells. It can be seen that, in Figure 23, through most cycles, the load cells are relatively accurate in the amount of weight detected. Figure 24 is an enlarged view of the end of the cycles shown in Figure 23. The number of cycles has been renumbered starting with 1. The amount of discrepancy between the weight detected by each load cell is more easily observed in Figure 24 as the scale is enlarged. However, it can also be observed that for the load cell 1, at approximately 1 50 cycles, the detected weight is negative, thus indicating that the load cell 240 is in tension. As the concentrate is distributed inside the capsule or container 204, towards the end of the cycles, larger pieces will be dislodged and there will be a non-uniform weight distribution, as evident by the graph shown in Figure 24. The characteristic of multiple load cells of the present invention is advantageous in the proportion of an exact measurement of the amount of concentrate actually delivered.

Referring now to Figures 19-21, there is generally another disclosed embodiment of the present invention and shows a dispenser 300. The dispenser 300 is more similar to the first embodiment shown in Figures 1-10. However, the additional feature of a moveable housing has been added to avoid shock. According to the above, this feature will be discussed in greater detail to give a better understanding of how the movable container support operates, also shown and discussed with respect to the distributor 200. In general, the distributor 300 includes a product container 31 0 which is supported on a supporting end 312 by end sections 31 1. The supporting end 312 is placed, in turn, on the upper part of the load cell 313 which is placed on the support bracket 314. The spray nozzle 315 extends towards the capsule 316. An inlet hose 330 used to supply the diluent to the nozzle 315. An outlet conduit 340 conveys the use solution from the distributor. As can be seen in Figure 1 9, the movable container holder 317 is generally circular in shape and slidably fits within the housing 318. The movable container holder 317 includes the cylindrical wall portion 317a operatively connected to an edge 317b, which, in turn, has a tapered section 317c connected thereto. When the capsule 316 is initially placed in the dispenser 300, the capsule sits on the edge 317b and is also supported by the tapered sections 317c. This separates the neck 316a from the capsule 316 away from the product container 310. The cover 320 includes a cover 320a having a groove 320b formed therein. The movable container holder 317 has cover mounting members 317d with a cylindrical portion 317e that clicks into the slot 320b. The cover 320 has an extension 320c with a cam 320d at one end. The cam operates on a cam surface 318a of the housing 31 8. Figure 20 shows the cover in a downward position after the cover has been rotated. As can be seen, the distance Z is smaller in Figure 20 than in Figure 19. When comparing Figure 19 and Figure 20, it can be seen that the action of the cam raises and lowers the member 317d and, consequently, the container Movable 17, which supports the capsule, until it is in the closed position, the capsule 316 is supported on the product container 310 that is transported by the load cell. Since the cylindrical wall portion 31 7a is rigid, the edge 317b is necessarily lowered by the same amount. As can be seen in Figure 20, the edge 317b is now below the capsule 316 and the entire weight of the capsule is transported by the product container 310. As shown in Figure 19, the product container 310 is isolated of any obstruction that could occur from the capsule 316 that is dropped into the dispenser 300. Referring now to Figure 21, a method for mounting the dispenser 300 on a mounting surface 400 is shown in greater detail. Since the vibrations are One consideration, the mounting mechanism shown in Figure 21 helps reduce vibration and thus allows the load cells to more accurately weigh the capsule and its contents. The mounting panel 250 that is used to mount the dispenser 300 on the mounting surface 400 has an opening into which an elastomeric member 401 is inserted. The elastomeric member can be made of any suitable material with a suitable durometer, such as 55-65. The member 401 can also take any suitable size or shape, such as a cylindrical member as shown. A hard, cylindrical plastic insert 402 is placed inside the bore 401 a of the member 401. Then, a screw 403 is inserted through a bore in the plastic insert 402 and secured in the mounting surface 400. The plastic insert has sufficient structural strength to withstand the compressive force in order to secure the distributor 300 to the mounting surface. The similar elastomer member, the insert and the screw can also be used with respect to the other modes shown. Since the distributor 300 is a single load cell, the use and operation will be quite similar to the distributor 10, except for what was discussed above and, therefore, will not be repeated. The above specification, examples and data provide a complete description of the manufacture and use of the composition of the invention. Since many embodiments of the invention can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, the invention resides in the appended claims hereinafter.

Claims (47)

1. CLAIMS 1. A distributor for supplying a quantity of concentrate by the use of a diluent in order to form a solution for use, characterized in that it comprises: a) a housing having a cavity, adapted to the cavity to receive a concentrate; b) the housing having an entrance, through which it enters the cavity diluent and erodes the concentrate in order to create a solution of use; c) the housing that has an outlet, by means of which the solution of use leaves the cavity; d) a container of product placed to support the concentrate in the housing cavity; e) a lamella; f) a support member having a first end and a second end, the first end operatively connected to the foil and a second end operably connected to the product container, wherein the weight of the concentrate is determined.
2. 2. The dispenser according to claim 1, characterized in that the foil is a load cell. The dispenser according to claim 2, characterized in that it further comprises a controller operatively connected to the load cell, wherein the weight of the concentrate is determined during a supply cycle. 4. The dispenser according to claim 3, characterized in that the controller is a foil of a single chip. The dispenser according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises: a) a support member; b) the housing operably connected to the support member; c) a support bracket operatively connected to the support member; and d) the lamella operatively connected to the support bracket. The dispenser according to claim 5, characterized in that it further comprises: a) a mounting bracket having a base operatively connected to the support bracket; b) a support end having a first end operably connected to the mounting bracket and a second end supporting the product container; and c) the housing having an opening through which the support end extends. The dispenser according to claim 6, characterized in that it further comprises: a) the support extremity having at least three end sections; and b) the product container having at least three corresponding cavities, adapted and configured to receive the end sections, whereby the end sections support the product container. The dispenser according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises a mounting structure, the housing is operatively connected to the mounting structure and the support member is operatively connected to the mounting structure. 9. A distributor system for supplying a quantity of concentrate by the use of a diluent in order to form a solution for use, characterized in that it comprises: a) a container for containing the concentrate, the container having an opening; b) a housing having a cavity, the cavity adapted to receive the container; c) the accommodation that has an entrance and an exit; d) a nozzle placed next to the inlet; e) an inlet conduit operatively connected to the nozzle, whereby the diluent is sprayed onto the concentrate, through the opening in the container, eroding the concentrate and forming a use solution; f) a product container placed in the housing cavity; g) a lamella; h) a support member having a first end and a second end, the first end connected to the foil and a second end connected to the product container, wherein the weight of the concentrate is determined; and i) an outlet duct operatively connected to the outlet of the housing, wherein the use solution leaves the housing cavity. The distributor system according to claim 9, characterized in that the lamella is a load cell. eleven . The distributor system according to claim 10, characterized in that it also comprises a controller operatively connected to the load cell. The distributor system according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises: a) a support member; b) the housing operably connected to the support member; c) a support bracket operatively connected to the support member; d) the lamella connected operatively to the support bracket; e) a mounting bracket having a base operatively connected to the support bracket; f) a supporting end having a first end operably connected to the mounting bracket and a second end supporting the product container; and g) the housing having an opening through which the support end extends. The distributor system according to claim 9, characterized in that it further comprises a mounting structure, the housing is operatively connected to the mounting structure and the support member is operatively connected to the mounting structure. 14. A method for supplying a quantity of concentrate in a use solution by the use of a diluent in order to erode the concentrate, characterized in that it comprises: a) adding the diluent to the concentrate; b) determine the weight of the concentrate as the concentrate is eroded by the diluent; c) determine when the amount of concentrate has been eroded in order to create the use solution based on the weight of the concentrate; d) stopping the addition of the diluent to the concentrate; and e) supply the use solution. 15. A method for supplying an amount of an ingredient from a dispenser having a containment device for containing the ingredient, characterized in that it comprises: a) supplying the ingredient from the dispenser; b) weight the containment device, ingredient and any diluent in the ingredient as the ingredient is supplied from the dispenser; c) determining when the quantity of ingredient has been supplied from the distributor based on the weight of the containment device, the ingredient and any diluent in the ingredient; and d) stop the distribution of the ingredient. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that the containment device comprises a container that contains the ingredient, the ingredient being solid. 17. A dispenser for supplying a quantity of concentrate by the use of a diluent in order to form a use solution, characterized in that it comprises: a) an inlet conduit to provide the diluent to the concentrate in order to erode the concentrate and form a use solution; b) a lamella to weigh the concentrate as the concentrate is eroded by the diluent; and c) a controller to determine when the amount of concentrate in the use solution has been supplied by the diluent, based on the weight of the concentrate. The distributor according to claim 1 6, characterized in that the lamella is a load cell. 9. The dispenser according to claim 18, characterized in that the controller is a foil of a single chip. 20. The dispenser according to claim 19, characterized in that it further comprises the controller having a keyboard and a deployment device. twenty-one . A distributor for supplying a quantity of concentrate in order to form a diluted solution, characterized in that it comprises: a) a housing having a cavity, the cavity adapted to receive a concentrate; b) the housing having an outlet, by means of which the eroded concentrate leaves the cavity; c) a container of product placed to support the concentrate in the cavity of the housing; d) a lamella; and e) a support member having a first end and a second end, the first end operatively connected to the foil and the second end operatively connected to the product container, wherein the weight of the concentrate is determined. 22. The dispenser according to claim 21, characterized in that the foil is a load cell. 23. The dispenser according to claim 22, characterized in that it further comprises a controller operatively connected to the load cell, wherein the weight of the concentrate is determined during a supply cycle. 24. The dispenser according to claim 23, characterized in that the controller is a foil of a single chip. 25. A method for delivering a quantity of ingredient from a dispenser having a containment device for containing the ingredient, characterized in that it comprises: a) eroding the ingredient in order to supply that portion to the eroded ingredient from the dispenser; b) weight the containment device and ingredient after erosion; and c) determining the amount of ingredient that has been supplied from the dispenser based on the weight of the containment device and ingredient. 26. The method according to claim 25, characterized in that it further comprises stopping the supply of the ingredient based on the amount of the ingredient that has been supplied. 27. A dispenser for supplying a quantity of concentrate by the use of a diluent in order to form a use solution, characterized in that it comprises: a) a housing having a cavity, adapted to the cavity to receive a concentrate; b) the housing that has an entrance, through which the diluent enters the cavity and erodes the concentrate to create a solution of use; c) the housing that has an outlet, by means of which the solution of use leaves the cavity; d) a container of product placed to support the concentrate in the housing cavity; e) a load cell housing operatively supported by the housing; and f) more than one load cell placed in the load cell housing, the product container supported in more than one load cells, where the weight of the concentrate is determined. 28. The dispenser according to claim 27, characterized in that the more than one load cells are supported in a circular configuration. 29. The dispenser according to claim 28, characterized in that it further comprises a controller operatively connected to more than one load cells, wherein the weight of the concentrate is determined during a supply cycle. 30. The dispenser according to claim 29, characterized in that there are at least three load cells. 31 The dispenser according to claim 27, characterized in that the load cell housing further comprises: a) a base member having a reception area in which one of the more than one load cells is placed, wherein a first end of the one or more than one load cells is movable in response to a load from the product container; and b) a first stop member positioned under the first end to limit the compression deviation of the first end. 32. The dispenser according to claim 31, characterized in that it further comprises: a) the one or more than one load cells having a length; and b) the reception area is dimensioned and configured to limit the rotation of one of the more than one load cells. 33. The dispenser according to claim 32, characterized in that it further comprises a second stop member positioned above the first end in order to limit the strain deformation of the first end. 34. The dispenser according to claim 33, characterized in that it further comprises a printed circuit board secured to the base and to one of the more than one load cells placed between the printed circuit board, wherein the printed circuit board is the second stop member. 35. A load cell housing for use with a dispenser for supplying a quantity of concentrate by the use of a diluent in order to form a use solution, characterized by the housing of the load cell because it comprises: a) a first cell of charge having a first end and a second end; b) a base member; c) a reception area operably connected to the base member in which the first load cell is placed; d) the first end of the first load cell secured to the base member; e) a top member positioned on the base member, the upper member for transporting the concentrate; f) the second end of the first load cell secured to the upper member; g) a stop member positioned under the first end of the first load cell in order to limit compression deformation; and h) a printed circuit board above the first end of the first load cell for limiting the strain of the first end. 36. The cell housing according to claim 35, characterized in that it further comprises the printed circuit board secured to the base member. 37. The cell housing according to claim 36, characterized in that it further comprises the receiving area that is dimensioned and configured to limit the rotation of the first load cell. 38. The housing according to claim 35, characterized in that it further comprises a second load cell and a second receiving area. 39. The housing according to claim 38, characterized in that it also comprises a third load cell and a third reception area. 40. The housing according to claim 39, characterized in that the housing is generally circular, the printed circuit board is in the shape of a ring and the load cells are generally separated 120 degrees from each other. 41 A distributor for supplying a quantity of concentrate in a container by the use of a diluent in order to form a use solution, characterized in that it comprises: a) a housing having a cavity, adapted to the cavity to receive a concentrate; b) the housing that has an entrance, whereby the diluent enters the cavity and erodes the concentrate to create a solution for use; c) the housing having an outlet, whereby the use solution leaves the cavity; d) a container of product placed to support the container with the concentrate in the cavity of the housing, conveyor the product container by a lamella, where the weight of the concentrate is determined; e) the housing having a container entry; f) a movable container support, movable the support between a first position and a second position, placed the container support between the housing and the container; g) a cover for the entrance of the container, the container support connected operatively to the cover at a concentration; h) a cam surface adjacent to the housing; and i) the cover having a cam for contacting the cam surface, wherein, when the cover moves from a closed position to an open position, the connection moves upwards, thus transporting the container support and the container, which move up, displacing the product support container. 42. The dispenser according to claim 41, characterized in that the foil is a load cell. 43. The dispenser according to claim 42, characterized in that it further comprises a controller operatively connected to the load cell, wherein the weight of the concentrate is determined during a supply cycle. 44. The dispenser according to claim 43, characterized in that it further comprises: a) a mounting member operatively connected to the housing, the housing having a mounting hole; b) an elastomeric member positioned in the mounting hole; and c) a mounting screw positioned in the mounting hole to secure the mounting member to a mounting surface. 45. The dispenser according to claim 44, characterized in that it further comprises a hard plastic insert having an insertion hole, the insert being placed in the mounting hole. 46. A method of loading a concentrate container into a dispenser, the dispenser having a housing having a cavity for receiving the container, transporting the product container by a foil, a movable container support and a cover operatively connected to the movable container support, the method comprising: a) raising the cover, wherein the movement of the cover elevates the container support outside the product container; b) Insert the container in the movable container holder; and c) lowering the cover, where the container support is lowered onto the product container, where excessive shock to the foil is prevented during loading. 47. The method according to claim 46, characterized in that the cover is raised and lowered by a turning movement on a cam and a cam surface. RESU EN A method and apparatus for the distribution of a product based on weight as a load cell (22) that holds a structure containing the product (20a) to be supplied. The weight of the product (20a) that is distributed is determined by use of a controller (23). A distributor (200) supplies a quantity of concentrate by the use of a diluent in order to form a use solution. The distributor (200) includes a housing (201) having a cavity. A product container (210) is positioned to support the concentrate in the housing cavity (201). A load cell housing (207) is operatively held by the housing. More than one load cell (204) is placed in the housing of the load cell (207). The product container (210) is supported on more than one face cell (240), where the weight of the concentrate is determined. A distributor (200) supplies a quantity of concentrate in a container (204) by the use of a diluent in order to form a use solution. A distributor includes a housing (201). A product container (21 0) is placed to support the container (204) with the concentrate in the housing cavity. The product container (210) is transported by a lamella (240), where the weight of the concentrate is concentrated. A movable container support (215) is movable between a first position and a second position. The container support is placed between the housing (201) and the container (204). A cover (216) is operatively connected to the container support (215) in a connection. A cam surface is adjacent to the housing (201). The cover (216) has a cam (216d) for contacting the cam surface (201 a), wherein, when the cover (216) moves from a closed position to an open position, the connection moves upward, transporting thus to the container support (215) and the container (204) which moves upwards, moving the container (204) out of the product container (210).