MXPA99000740A - Additive dispensing apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

An additive dispensing apparatus for a fluid system is disclosed which includes a head having a body portion (11) adapted and configured for fluid communication with the fluid system and having a flow path extending therethrough. A fluid inlet portion (14) of the flow path defines a relatively high pressure region and a fluid outlet portion (16) of the flow path defines a relatively low pressure region. A canister is operatively associated with the body portion and structure is provided for facilitating fluid communication between the fluid inlet portion and the interior of the canister. A collapsible container (22) is disposed within the canister for containing a liquid additive for dispensment into the fluid system and structure is provided for facilitating fluid communication between the collapsible container and the fluid outlet portion, whereby the differential pressure between the interior of the canister and the interior of the collapsible container effectuates a proportional dispensment of liquid additive into the fluid system.

Description

ADDITIVE DISTRIBUTION APPARATUS CROSS REFERENCE TO THE RELATED APPLICATION This application claims the benefit of the Provisional US Patent Application Number 60 / 024,003, filed on August 7, 1996.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a liquid distribution apparatus, more particularly, to a system for distributing a dosed amount of liquid additives in a fluid flowing through a filtration system. 2. Background of Related Art Fluid filtration systems frequently require the distribution of additives in the fluid that flows through it to alter or modify the characteristics of the fluid, that is, to chemically react with the fluid to counteract certain harmful effects of the fluid in the system, or complement the important features that have deteriorated in the fluid over time.

For example, in an internal combustion engine, the lubrication oil left untreated is frequently subjected to deterioration caused by suspended materials such as combustion residues and particles produced by wear and abrasion of the moving parts of the machine. In addition, deterioration can occur from the depletion of pre-existing additives in the machine oil. To counteract the deteriorating effects caused by the decomposition of the machine oil, several mechanisms have been developed.

In a mechanism of the kind described in US Pat. No. 4,075,097 to Paul, an oil filter is included having a closure containing a filter and a body of a relatively solid, oil-soluble polymer having oil additives formed therein. composed with this.

The polymer body is placed such that it dissolves at a relatively linear rate to prevent concentrations of the additives during the service life of the filter. It is described in the North American Patent Number No. 4,265,748 to Villani et al., A similar mechanism, which includes an oil filter that includes a tubular member that contains a mixture of additives. The tubular member has at least one opening closed by a diaphragm made of a material soluble in the lubricant. In both of these prior art additive systems, the additive is not introduced into the oil flow in a dosed amount proportional to the oil flow through the system. In addition, there is no mechanism to prevent dispersion of the additive when the oil flow is temporarily discontinued.

Another example of a fluid system in which additives are used is in the feed water line of a steam boiler by convection. In these systems, mineral scale inhibitors can be added to reduce or eliminate, depending on the mineral content in the fluid, the scales in the boiler tubes. Flake deposits in the system retard heat flow and increase metal temperatures. The reduction or elimination of the scales of the boiler reduces the maintenance and the inactive time of the boiler. In addition, the life of the boiler and its associated parts is prolonged. Also, additives can be used in the feedwater to reduce dissolved oxygen. Since dissolved oxygen is the largest factor in the correction of steel surfaces in contact with water, the deaeration of the replacement water and the feed water in the quarry fluid systems is of vital importance. Typically, partial deaeration is achieved either by boiling or passing the fluid through a tray or a sprinkler type deaeration heater. Subsequently, it is usual to supplement the deaeration of the feed water by adding a scavenging agent such as sodium sulfite or hydrazine to effect the complete removal of the residual oxygen. Corrosion of fluid system components can also occur from acid conditions in the fluid. This can weaken the system lines due to the loss of metal. PH-altering agents can be added to counteract the acid nature of the fluid Several methods have been employed to facilitate the addition of liquid additives to the boiler feed water and the replacement water of the fluid systems. One such method is the manual addition of additives in the replacement water storage tank of the fluid system. This method is problematic, because it is difficult to completely mix the additive in the fluid and ensure the correct proportion of additive to the fluid since the ratio of the additive to the fluid changes each time the tank reaches its maximum. Also, many fluid systems include utility line feed water supplies, thereby eliminating the ability to use a storage tank to introduce additives in the manner described above.

Another method used in conjunction with online food supplies is online chemical injection systems. Exemplifying this approach is the system currently available under the trade name AQUAprep, catalog number D2684, from Barnstead / Thermolyne Corporation, of Dubuque, I A. This device includes a vial having a flow inlet route and an exit route of flow and a rigid cartridge that contains a quantity of chemical additive. A rigid additive flow limiter is provided at the upper end of the bottle in communication with the flow exit path of the device. The flow restrictor consists of a rigid plug constructed of a semi-porous material having an axial hole extending through it of extremely small diameter. In use, as the feed water flows through the device, the additive is removed from the bottle, through the axial hole in the plug, and into the flow stream. This device has the disadvantage of not providing a precise proportion of the chemical additive. This is partly due to the partial mixing of the feed water with the chemical additive in the cartridge and partly due to the inherent time delay of the system caused by the backflow of the bottle after periods of inactivity in the system. In addition, because the chemical concentration is determined by the bore of the limiter, the limiters must be experienced during the initial adjustment to obtain an acceptable initial flow rate.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The present invention, described later, eliminates the disadvantages exhibited in the prior art by using new apparatus and method of distributing predetermined proportions of liquid additives to the feed lines of the fluid filtration systems.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the additive dispensing apparatus comprises a head having a body wherein a fluid flow path is provided. The fluid flow path includes an inlet portion d which defines a region of a relatively high inlet pressure and outlet portion that defines at least in part a region of relatively low pressure.

A removable bottle is operatively associated with the head. The bottle includes an axial connector portion and can be easily removed for replacement using a quarter-turn quick release mechanism. Communication for fluids between the inlet portion of the fluid flow path and the inner region of the bottle is adjusted by at least one radially extended opening in the axial, connecting portion. Communication for fluids between the inner region of the bottle and the fluid outlet portion is adjusted by a plurality of axially extending openings formed in the connector portion.

A collapsible container is placed inside the rigid container to contain liquid reagent for distribution in the fluid system. A feeding tube provides communication to fluids between the collapsible container and the outlet portion. The feeding tube may include a check valve that only allows the additive to enter from the collapsible container. Preferably, the check valve is in the form of a duckbill valve.

In accordance with the present invention and as understood by those skilled in the art, as the liquid flows through the plurality of openings extending axially to the outlet portion, a pressure differential is established between the interior region of the flask and the exit portion. Because the collapsible container is in fluid communication with the outlet portion, its contents are at the same relatively low pressure as the fluid in the outlet portion and a pressure differential is established between the fluid within the flask and the additive inside the folding container. Accordingly, the collapsible container responds to its pressure differential when folded, causing the additive to be distributed through the feed tube and up to the fluid flow in the outlet portion. From the above, it can be understood that as the flow rate of the system changes, so does the pressure differential, and therefore, the amount of additive fed into the fluid flow stream.

The apparatus also includes a quarter-turn holding mechanism that facilitates quick replacement of the bottle. The mechanism includes a spring-loaded retainer that slidably extends through a portion of the head body and protrudes downwardly beyond the bottom surface of the body. A grooved joint plate is secured to the bottom surface of the head body to retain the spring and retainer. The grooved joint plate includes a slotted opening having two mating notches. Two joining tabs are attached to the axial connecting portion and pair of engaging grooves are formed in the upper surface of the bottle. The bottle removably attaches to the body of the head by aligning first the joining tabs with the mating notches of the slotted opening and passing the connecting portion upwards to the head. Once the connecting portion is seated in the head, the bottle is turned a quarter of a turn. The bottle is secured in place when the retainer aligns with and extends into one of the latching slots.

These and other features of the present invention will become more readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the present detailed description of the invention taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS So that those skilled in the art to which the present invention corresponds will more readily understand how to make and use the additive dispensing apparatus described herein, the preferred embodiments of the invention will be described in detail later herein with reference to the drawings, where: Figure 1 is a side elevational view of a fluid system employing two of the additive dispensing apparatuses of the present invention arranged in series; Figure 2 is a perspective view of an additive dispensing apparatus constructed in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 is a sectional view of parts of the apparatus of Figure 2 with the parts separated for ease of illustration; Figure 4 is a cross-sectional side elevation view of the apparatus shown in Figure 2, communicating with a manifold of a fluid system and illustrating the fluid flow path through it; Figure 5 is a plan view of the upper part of the rigid container as seen along line 5-5 of Figure 3 illustrating the lid of the container and the axial flow holes formed therein; Figure 6 is a side elevation view of a fluid system employing two of the additive dispensing apparatuses of the present invention and a filter cartridge, all mounted on a support structure, and each arranged in series; Figure 7 is a perspective view of another additive dispensing apparatus constructed in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention; Figure 8 is a perspective view with separation of parts of the apparatus of Figure 7 with the parts separated for ease of illustration; Figure 9 is a cross-sectional side elevational view of the apparatus shown in Figure 7 illustrating the fluid flow path through it; Y Figure 10 is a cross-sectional side elevational view of yet another additive dispensing apparatus constructed in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED MODALITIES Referring now to the drawings, in which like reference numerals are identified in similar structural elements of the present invention, there is illustrated in Figure 1 the additive distribution apparatus constructed in accordance with the present invention and each generally designated by Reference number 10. The dispensing devices 10 are used in a fluid system to improve various characteristics of the fluid flowing through it such as, for example, its content of minerals and oxygen, and the pH. Having two of these apparatuses in a system as shown in Figure 1 allows the addition of two additives. Additional devices may be required as required. Subsequently, assemblies that include various additive instruction apparatuses will be described as being arranged in series. However, as can be easily understood by those skilled in the art, the various apparatuses can alternatively be arranged in parallel. The chosen arrangement will depend on the application.

Referring in detail to Figure 1, the fluid system 20 includes a header manifold 72 having angled support supports 46 for attachment to a support structure such as a wall or column. A first tube connector 52 is threaded to the inner side of the manifold 72 for communication with an inlet tube 48. A 78 check valve / flow regulator assembly as well as a second tube connector 53 are attached to the outside side of the manifold 72 for communication with a connecting tube 50. Two additive distribution apparatuses 10 are in fluid communication with the manifold 72 of the head. An automatic discharge valve 84 is attached to the manifold 72 allowing the air to be discharged from a new cartridge 34 as well as the depressurization of the system during maintenance.

With reference in particular to Figure 4, an additive dispensing apparatus and the individual head are shown. The inlet tube 48 is sealedly connected to the first tube connector 52. The first tube connector 52 is threaded to a first side wall of the head manifold 72 using tapered tube threads. The manifold 72 includes a first fluid passage 56 extending therethrough to provide communication for fluids between the first tube connector 52 and the bottom surface of the manifold. Similarly, the outlet tube 50 is sealedly connected to the second tube connector 53. The second tube connector 53 is threaded to a second side wall of the head manifold 72 using tapered tube threads. The manifold 72 includes a second fluid passage 58 that provides communication for fluids between the second tube connector 53 and the bottom surface of the manifold. The second fluid passage 58 extends through the bottom surface of the manifold, close to the first fluid passage 56.

In operation, the system fluid passes through the inlet tube 48, through the manifold 72, and up to the dispensing apparatus 10. As will be described in more detail below, the fluid is then treated by the addition of an additive The liquid passes in parallel through both additive distribution devices 10, returning to the manifold 72 between them. After passing through the second distribution apparatus 10, the treated fluid returns to the manifold 72 and then to the fluid system through the outlet pipe 50. As illustrated in the drawings that follow, the address dates have solid lines they will indicate the main flow of fluid of the system while the arrows that have dashed lines will indicate the additional flow.

Referring now to Figures 2 to 5, the additive dispensing apparatus 10 includes a head assembly 44 and a removable bottle assembly 34. These assemblies and the component parts thereof are made of materials substantially resistant to chemicals to ensure the integrity of the device throughout its life of operation. The head assembly includes a body 11 of the head. Partially extending upwards from the bottom surface and formed in a depression in the bottom of the head body 1 1 is a cylindrical passage 57, with a smooth, stepped hole, side and top walls. Partially extending downwardly from the upper surface of the body 1 1 is an inlet portion 14 that provides communication for fluids between the upper surface of the body 1 1 and the side wall of the cylindrical passage 57. A chamfered shoulder 61 is formed in the portion of inlet 14 to reduce its diameter as it intersects the cylindrical passage 57. Also extending partially downwardly from the upper surface of the body 1 1 is an outlet portion 16 which provides communication for fluids between the upper surface of the body 1 1 and the upper wall of the body. cylindrical passage 57. The exit portion 16 extends through the upper surface of the body 1 1 proximate the entry portion 14. The entry portion 14, the cylindrical passage 57, and the exit portion 16 together form a route of flow through the body 1 1.

With continued reference to Figures 3 and 4, the discarded bottle assembly 34 includes a rigid cylindrical container 18, fused to a rigid container cap 62 with a fusible welding ring 66 through methods such as RF welding that are well known in the art.

Extending from the top of the rigid cap 62 of the container is an axial, cylindrical connecting portion 63 having side and top walls. A cylindrical passage 65 is concentrically formed within the axial connecting portion 63 that extends from the inside of the rigid container / lid assembly 18,62 to the upper wall of the axial connecting portion. Communication for fluids between the cylindrical passageway 65, the connecting portion and the exterior of the axial connecting portion 63, is provided through two radially extending openings 94, which pass through the side wall of the connecting portion. 63, a plurality of axially extending openings 96 passing through the upper wall of the connecting portion 63, and an axially extending, concentrically located feed tube opening 40 that also passes through the wall upper of the connecting portion 63, axial.

The first O-ring 64 is seated in a first radial groove 79 in the outer wall of the connecting wall 63, axial between the radially extending openings 94 and the upper wall thereof. An O-ring 64 prevents the flow of fluid between the inlet portion 14 and the outlet portion 16. A second O-ring 54 sits in a second radial groove 81 in the outer wall of the connecting portion 63, axially just below of the openings 94 that extend radially. The O-ring 54 ensures that the fluid does not leak out of the fluid system. A sleeve 67 is located concentrically adjacent to the walls of the opening 40 of the axially extending feed tube, partially the cylindrical passage 65 of the connecting portion for joining the feed tube assembly 42.

Enclosed within the rigid container / lid assembly 18,62 is a collapsible container 22 containing a given volume of a liquid additive 90. The collapsible container 22 is constructed in the form of a flexible bag defined by two sheets of the laminated polyethylene product. -Nylon that are sealed around the edges thereof by known means. Other materials well known in the art can be used to construct the bag containing the additive. A male thread adapter 68 is sealed within the upper edge of the folding bag to provide a joining attachment.

A lower feed tube 36 snaps into an upper feed tube 38 trapping a duckbill check valve 30 between them and forming the feed tube assembly 42. The check valve 30 is oriented so that the flow can only receive upwardly through the feed tube assembly during operation. The upper feed pipe 38 is sealedly connected to the adapter 68 with a coupling collar 70, female threaded. The upper end of the upper feed tube 38 presses into the concentric sleeve 67.

Referring now to Figure 3, a retainer 76 is illustrated as part of a quarter-turn retention mechanism that slidably extends through a portion of the upper surface of the body 11 and protrudes downward further. beyond the bottom surface of the body to facilitate the attachment of the removable bottle 34 to the body 1 1 of the head. The retainer is deflected downward by the retaining spring (not shown).

The bottom surface is secured and, inside the depression of the body 1 1, there is a grooved connection plate 88. The plate 88, which includes a slotted opening 88, retains the retainer 76 and the retaining spring to the body 1 1 of the head. Two connecting tongues 80 attached to the lower side wall below the second O-ring 54 of the axial connecting portion 63, and a pair of retention grooves 74 formed in the upper surface of the rigid lid 62 of the container, also form a part of the retention mechanism, of a quarter turn, of the apparatus 10.

The removable flask 34 is removably attached to the head assembly 44 with the quarter-turn retaining mechanism to first align the tie tabs 80 in 1 axial connecting portion 63 with the mating notches of the slotted opening 98 in the junction plate 88 and passing the connector portion up through the plate. After the connecting portion 63 is fully seated in the head 44, the bottle 34 is turned a quarter of a turn. The container lid 62 is secured therein in place when the spring-loaded retainer 76 is aligned with and extends with one of the two retaining grooves 74.

Referring now to Figures 4 and 5, in operation, the liquid additive 90 is distributed in a fluid system in the following manner. The fluid flows from the inlet tube 48, through the first fluid passage 56 of the manifold 72, and to the inlet portion 14 of the body 1 1 of the head. The fluid then passes through the openings 94 that extend radially in the side wall of the connector portion 63, axial in the inner region 26 of the removable bottle 34. The fluid then travels through the plurality of openings 96 that extend axially in the upper wall of the axial connecting portion 63, and to the exit portion 16 of the body 11. As will be described later, it is at this point that the liquid additive 90 is introduced into the fluid flow. The fluid then flows from the outlet portion 16 back to the manifold 62 through the second fluid passage 58 and to the outlet tube 50 of the fluid system. If there are several additive distribution systems, as illustrated, for example, in Figure 1, the fluid will travel a similar route through each system, typically in series, however, they can be arranged in parallel.

Significant to the operation of the system is the pressure drop caused by the reduction in the cross-sectional area of the flow path since the fluid of the system flows through the plurality of axially extending openings 96. This pressure drop causes a region of relatively high pressure upstream of the openings 96 and a region of relatively low pressure current below the openings 96. Due to the proximity of the opening 40 of the feed tube to the openings 96 that extend axially, a pressure differential is established between the fluid in the inner region 26 of the bottle 24 and the additive 90 in the collapsible container 22. With the set pressure difference, the liquid additive 90 is expelled from the collapsible container 22 to the stream of fluid through the feed tube assembly 42 and out of the opening 40 of the feed tube.

During operation, the duckbill check valve 30 in the feed tube assembly 42 provides several advantages. This allows the collapsible container 22 to fold as the liquid additive 90 is distributed, and prevent the fluid from flowing back to the collapsible container. These attributes prevent the liquid additive 90 from being diluted, ensuring a consistent flow of additive when the fluid system is operating intermittently. The check valve also ensures that the liquid, undiluted additive flows instantly when the fluid system is turned on. It can be appreciated to appreciate by a person skilled in the art that the restrictive nature, inherent in the supply tube voltage 42, can be changed to alter the feed rate of the liquid additive 90. For example, the increase in the diameter of the tube Feeding or increasing the flexibility of the check valve would serve to increase the speed of distribution. The magnitude of the pressure differential can be changed to alter the feed rate of the additive. For example, increasing the cross-sectional area of the plurality of axially extending apertures 96 will reduce the pressure differential, thereby reducing the feed rate.

It should be noted that although several reductions in the area of the cross section are shown in the flow path, at each point there is a pressure drop, it is only necessary for the invention to have a reduction in the flow path. However, it is essential to the operation of this invention that the region within the removable flask 34 be located, upstream of the reduction in the reduction path in the cross-sectional area of the flow path, and that the outlet 40 of the feed tube is located downstream of the reduction in the cross-sectional area of the flow path, so as to establish a pressure differential between the fluid immediately inside the rigid container 18 and the additive within the collapsible container 22 It is readily apparent to one skilled in the art that it is necessary for the practice of this invention to have the differential pressure drop within the immediate vicinity of the collapsible container as described herein. The development of the pressure differential, for example, can also be created through a flow nozzle inserted into the line of the fluid system with the additive distributor, which includes the rigid container, the collapsible container, and appropriate connections, which they unite remotely With reference to Figure 6, an alternative assembly 120 is illustrated which includes components constructed in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Two additive dispensing apparatuses 10 are included which communicate with a manifold 72 in a manner similar to the system described above; a filter cartridge 86 for the removal of particles, oil, and other matter suspended in the fluid of the system; and a meter 92 for inspecting line pressure in the system. Using the apparatus of the present invention in this arrangement has a considerable advantage. Particularly, it allows the conditioning of the system fluid in a convenient location as opposed to having the components dispersed throughout the system. This reduces the maintenance time and improves the modularity of the system. In addition, because the components are all linked to an individual collector, the possible number of leak points is reduced.

Referring now to Figures 7 to 9, another embodiment of the additive distribution apparatus constructed according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention is illustrated, and is generally described by reference number 1 10. A support 146 is included for attachment to a support structure such as a wall or column.

The additive dispensing apparatus 110 includes a head body 1 1 and a removable bottle assembly 134. The inlet pipe 148 is sealedly connected to a first pipe connector 152 which is screwed to a first side wall of the head body 1 1 1 using tapered pipe thread. Similarly, an outlet pipe 150 is sealedly connected to a second pipe connector 153 that is threaded to an upper surface of the head body 11 1 using tapered pipe threads. Partially extending upwardly from and formed in a depression in the bottom surface of the body 1 1 1 of the head is a cylindrical, smooth-bore, stepped passage 157 having side and top walls. Extending horizontally through the body 11 of the head is an inlet portion 114 which provides fluid communication between the first tube connector 152 and the side wall of the cylindrical passage 157. A step shoulder 161 of the inlet portion 1 is formed. to reduce its diameter as it crosses the cylindrical passage 157. Extending vertically downwards from the upper surface of the body 1 1 1 is an exit portion 1 16 which provides a communication for fluid between the surface and the upper wall of the cylindrical passage 157. the inlet portion 114, the cylindrical passage 157 and the outlet portion 1 16 together form the flow path through the body 1 1 1. Two protrusions of the ovule 169 are formed in the walls of the depression of the bottom surface.

With continued reference to Figure 9, the section bottle assembly 134 including a rigid cylindrical container 1 18 fused to a rigid cap 162 of the container with a fusible weld ring 166. The axial, cylindrical connecting portion 163 having side and top walls is extending from the top of the rigid container lid 162. A cylindrical passage 165 is concentrically formed within the axial connector portion 163 extending from the inside from the rigid container-lid assembly 1, 18, 162, to the upper wall of the axial connector portion. Communication for fluids between the cylindrical passage 165 of the connector portion and the exterior of the axial, connecting portion 163 and provided through two radially extending openings 194 which pass through the side wall of the connector portion 163, a plurality of axially extending openings 163 passing through the upper wall of the connecting portion 163, and an axially extending, concentrically located feeding tube opening 140, which also passes through the upper wall of the connecting portion 163.

A first O-ring 164 is sealed in a first radial groove 179 in the outer wall of the axial connecting portion 163 between the radially extending openings 194 and the upper wall of the connecting portion thereof. The O-ring 164 prevents the flow of fluid between the inlet portion 1 14 and the outlet portion 1 16. A second O-ring 154 is seated in a second radial slot 181 in the outer wall of the connecting portion, axial 163 just below the openings 194 that extend radially. The O-ring 154 ensures that the fluid does not escape from the fluid system. A concentrically located sleeve 167 is positioned adjacent the walls of the radially extending feed tube opening 140, partially in the cylindrical passage 165 of the connector portion for the attachment of an upper feed collar / tube 138. Two lobes of junction 160 are attached to the upper-outer periphery of the rigid container 1 18 and can be coupled with the lobe nubs 169 to allow attachment of the removable bottle 134 to the body 1 1 1 of the head.

Enclosed within the rigid container / lid assembly 1 18, 162 is a collapsible container 122. A male thread adapter 168 is sealed within the upper edge of the collapsible bag to provide a joining attachment.

An inner feeding tube 136 is snapped into the upper feed tube / collar 138, between which a duckbill check valve 130 is trapped. The duckbill check valve 130 is oriented so that the flow can progress upwardly only through the inner feed tube 136 and the upper feed pipe / collar 138 during operation. The upper feed tube / collar 138, which has female threads, is sealedly threaded to the adapter 168. The upper end of the upper feed tube / collar 138 snaps into the concentric sleeve 167. A support plate 182 of the foldable container is located at the base of the rigid, cylindrical container 118 to provide support for the collapsible container 122.

Referring now to Figure 9, in operation, liquid Additive 190 is distributed in a fluid system in the following manner. The fluid flows from the inlet tube 148 and into the inlet 114 of the body 11 of the head. The fluid then passes through the openings 194 extending radially in the side wall of the axial, connecting portion, 163 to the region 196 of the removable bottle 134. The fluid then travels through the plurality of openings 196 that extend axially in the upper wall of the collecting portion, axial 163 and to the outlet portion 1 16 of the body 1 1 1. The liquid additive 190 is distributed in the fluid flow using the pressure differential between the fluid in the inner region 126 of the bottle 134 and the additive of the collapsible container 122 in the same manner as described above to distribute the additive in the preferred embodiment of the present invention. The treated fluid then flows from the outlet portion 116 to the outlet tube 150 of the fluid system.

Referring now to Figure 10, there is still illustrated another embodiment of the additive dispensing apparatus constructed in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, and is designated generally by the reference numeral 210. This alternative embodiment of the apparatus 210 of additive distribution includes a body 21 1 of the head and a removable bottle assembly 234.

Extending horizontally through the body 21 1 of the head is a first flow path having a fluid inlet portion 214 and a fluid outlet portion 216. Partially extending upwards from the bottom surface of the body 211 of the head is a cylindrical passage 257 of smooth, stepped hole, having side and top walls. A restriction 271 protrudes into the first flow path causing the fluid outlet portion 216 to be a region of relatively low pressure compared to the fluid inlet portion 214. A second flow path 221 extends from the inlet portion 214 to the upper wall of the cylindrical passage 257. A feed tube passage 277 extends from the upper wall of the cylindrical passage 257 to the exit portion 216. A third route flow 232 extends from the upper wall of the cylindrical passage 257 to the outlet portion 216.

With continued reference to Figure 10, the removable bottle assembly 234 includes a rigid, cylindrical container 218 threadably sealed to a rigid container lid 262. Extending from the top of the lid 262 d rigid container is an axial, cylindrical connecting portion 283 having side and top walls. A cylindrical passage 265 is concentrically formed within the axial, connecting portion 263 extending from the interior of the rigid container / lid assembly 218, 262 to the upper wall of the axial, connecting portion 263. The communication for fluid between the passageway cylindrical, 265 of the connecting portion and the exterior of the upper wall of the connecting portion 263, axial is provided through a first and a second axially extending path 273, 275 and a feeding tube opening 240, which extends axially, which is located concentrically.

A second O-ring 254 is seated in a second radial groove 281 in the lower outer wall of the connecting portion 263. The O-ring 254 ensures that the fluid does not leak out of the fluid system. A concentrically located sleeve 267 is positioned adjacent to the walls of the axially extending feed tube opening 240, the length of the cylindrical passage 265 of the connector portion for attachment of the inner feed tube 236. When the detachable container 234 is properly installed in the body 21 1 of the head, a first route 273 extending axially with the second flow path 221, the second route 265 extending axially aligning the third flow path 232, and the exit 240 is aligned of the feed tube is aligned with the passage 277 of the feed tube.

Enclosed within the rigid container / lid assembly 218,262 is a collapsible container 222. An adapter 268 is sealed within the upper edge of the collapsible bag to provide a attachment. The lower feed tube 236 snaps into concentrically located sleeve 267 trapping a duckbill type check valve 230 therebetween. The check valve 230 is oriented so that the flow can process only upwards through the assembly during operation. The lower feed tube 236 snaps into the adapter 268. The liquid additive 290 fills the foldable container bag.

The liquid additive 290 is distributed in the fluid system in the following manner. The fluid flows from the fluid system to the inlet portion 214 of the body 21 1 of the head. The fluid then divides, continuing partially beyond the limiter 271 to the outlet portion and partially passing to the second flow path 221. The fluid flowing to the second flow path 221 travels through the first route 273 which is extends axially and then to the inner region 226 of the removable bottle 234 by means of the cylindrical passage 265. The fluid then flows through the second axially extending route 265, via the cylindrical route 265, through the third route of flow 232, and up to the outlet portion 216 of the body 21 1 of the head.

The fluid then passes to the fluid system. Because the passage 277 of the feeding tube is in communication with the outlet portion 216 of a relatively low pressure, there is a pressure differential between the inner region 226 of the bottle 234 and the liquid additive within the collapsible container 222. both, the additive is distributed from the foldable container 222; through the lower feed tube 236; duckbill valve 230; and the sleeve 267 located concentrically; the outlet of the feed tube in passage 240, 277; to exit portion 216; and even the fluid system.

While the invention has been described with respect to a preferred embodiment, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that various changes and / or modifications may be made to the invention without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention as defined by the attached claims.

Claims (33)

1. An additive distribution apparatus for a fluid system, characterized in that it comprises: a) a head having the body portion adapted and configured to adapt for fluids to the fluid system having a flow path that is obtained through it; b) a fluid inlet portion of the flow path defining a region of a relatively high pressure, and a fluid outlet portion of the flow path defining at least in part a region of a relatively low pressure; c) a helmet operatively associated with the body portion having the inner region; d) a means for providing communication for fluids between the fluid inlet portion and the inner region of the bottle; e) a collapsible container positioned within the interior region of the flask having an interior region for containing liquid additive for distribution in the fluid system; and f) a means for providing communication for fluids between the collapsible container and the fluid outlet portion, whereby the pressure differential between the interior region of the flask and the interior region of the collapsible container effect a proportional distribution of the liquid additive of the system of fluid.

2. An additive dispensing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the bottle includes an elongated enclosure having opposite upper ends at the bottom, and a terminal cover provided at the upper end, this end cap having a connecting portion, commercial provided in it.

3. An additive dispensing apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that it further comprises a means for releasably connecting the bottle to the body portion to facilitate the expeditious replacement of the bottle.

4. An additive dispensing apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that the means for removably manufacturing the bottle to the body portion comprises at least one tongue on one of the body portion and the axial connector portion, and a portion thereof. slotted, complementary to one of the body portion and the axial connecting portion for releasably receiving at least one tongue.

5. An additive dispensing apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that it further comprises a retention groove formed in the end cap and a retainer operatively connected to the body portion for releasably coupling the retention groove to hold the end cap in an operating position, predetermined.

6. An additive dispensing apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that it further comprises a means for providing communication for fluids between the inner region of the bottle and the fluid outlet portion.

7. An additive dispensing apparatus according to claim 6, characterized in that the means for providing communication for fluids between the inner region of the bottle and the fluid exit portion comprises a plurality of axially extending openings formed in the connecting portion.

8. An additive dispensing apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that the means for providing communication for fluids between the fluid inlet portion and the inner region of the bottle includes at least one axially extending opening formed in the connector portion, axial.

9. An additive dispensing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the means for providing communication for fluids between the collapsible container and the fluid outlet portion is an elongate feed tube.

10. An additive dispensing apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that it further comprises a valve means operatively associated with the means for providing communication for fluids between the collapsible container and the fluid outlet portion to control the distribution of additive through from this.

11. An additive dispensing apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that the valve means is a check valve to allow the liquid additive to enter only from the collapsible container.

12. An additive dispensing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the check valve is defined by a duckbill type check valve.

13. An additive distribution apparatus for a fluid system, characterized in that it comprises a) a head having a body portion adapted and configured to communicate for fluids with the fluid system having a flow path extending therethrough; b) a fluid inlet portion of the first flow path defining a region of a relatively high pressure, and a fluid outlet portion of the first flow path that at least partially defines a region of a relatively low pressure; c) a bottle operatively associated with the body portion having an interior region; d) a second flow path that provides communication for fluids between the inlet portion of the first flow path and the inner region of the vial; e) a collapsible container positioned within the interior region of the container having an interior region for containing liquid additive for distribution in the fluid system; and f) means for providing communication for fluids between the collapsible container and the fluid outlet portion, whereby the pressure differential between the inner region of the flask and the interior region of the collapsible container effects a proportional distribution of the liquid additive in the container. fluid system.

14. An additive dispensing apparatus according to claim 13, characterized in that the bottle includes an elongate enclosure having opposite upper ends at the bottom, and a terminal cover provided at the upper end, the end cap having a connecting portion, initial, provided in it.

15. An additive dispensing apparatus according to claim 13, characterized in that it further comprises means for releasably connecting the bottle to the production of the body to facilitate the expedited bottle of the bottle.

16. An additive dispensing apparatus according to claim 13, characterized in that it further comprises a third flow path that provides communication for fluids between the inside of the bottle and the outlet portion of the fluid.

17. An additive dispensing apparatus according to claim 13, characterized in that the means for providing communication for fluids between the collapsible container and the fluid outlet portion is an elongate feed tube.

18. An additive dispensing apparatus according to claim 13, characterized in that it further comprises a valve means operatively associated by means to provide communication for fluids between the collapsible container and the fluid outlet portion to control the distribution of additive through of this one

19. An additive dispensing apparatus according to claim 18, characterized in that the valve means is a check valve to allow the liquid additive to only enter from the collapsible container.

20. An additive distribution apparatus according to claim 19, characterized in that the check valve is held by a duckbill type check valve.

21. A fluid system, characterized in that it comprises: a) a conduit means for transmitting the fluid; b) an additive dispensing apparatus, which includes: i) a body portion adapted and configured to communicate for fluids with the fluid system having a flow path that is obtained through it, the flow path that includes a fluid inlet portion that includes a region of a relatively high pressure and a fluid outlet portion that contains at least in part a region of a relatively low pressure; ii) a bottle operatively associated with the portion of the body having an interior region; iii) a means for providing communication for fluids between the fluid inlet pressure and the inner region of the bottle; iv) a collapsible container positioned within the interior region of the flask and having an interior region for containing liquid additive in the distribution in the fluid system; and v) means for providing communication for fluids between the interior region of the collapsible container and the fluid exit portion; c) a connecting means for providing communication for fluids between the conduit means and the fluid inlet portion and between the fluid outlet portion and the conduit means; and d) a means in the fluid system for establishing a relatively high pressure region within the inlet position and the relatively low pressure region within the outlet portion, whereby, the pressure differential between the inner region of the bottle and the interior region of the collapsible container effect a proportional distribution of the liquid additive in the fluid system.

22. An additive dispensing apparatus according to claim 21, further comprising a means for facilitating communication for fluids between the inner region of the bottle and the fluid outlet portion.

23. An additive dispensing apparatus according to claim 21, characterized in that the connection means is a manifold having an in-line filter joint and further comprising a filter cartridge operatively linked to the filter junction to allow filtration of the filter. fluid as it passes through the fluid system.

24. An additive dispensing apparatus according to claim 21, characterized in that the means for establishing the relatively high pressure region within the inlet portion and the relatively low pressure region within the outlet portion includes a flow restriction between the entrance portion and the exit portion of the conduit.

25. An additive distribution apparatus for a fluid system, characterized in that it comprises: a) a head having a body portion adapted and configured to communicate for fluids with the fluid system and having a flow path extending therethrough; b) a flow entry portion of the flow path defining a relatively high pressure region, and a fluid exit portion of the flow path defining at least in part a region of relatively low pressure; c) a bottle, operatively associated with the body portion, having an inner region and ends of upper and opposite ends; d) a terminal layer provided on the upper end of the bottle and having an axial connecting portion provided therein, e) at least one radially-extending break formed in the axial, connecting portion to provide communication for fluids between the portion of fluid inlet and the inner region of the bottle; f) a plurality of axially extending openings formed in the axial, connecting portion to provide communication for fluids between the inner region of the bottle and the fluid outlet portion; g) a collapsible container positioned within the interior region of the flask and having an interior region for containing liquid additive for distribution in the fluid system; and h) an elongate feed tube positioned between the collapsible container and the fluid outlet portion to provide communication for fluids therebetween, whereby the precipitation differential between the inner region of the flask and the interior region of the collapsible container effect a distribution proportional of the liquid additive in the fluid system.

26. An additive dispensing apparatus for use in conjunction with a fluid system including a head defining a fluid flow path having at least in part a relatively high pressure region and a relatively low pressure region, and a enclosure in communication for fluids with the region of relatively high pressure and defining the interior region, the apparatus is characterized in that it comprises: a) a collapsible container positioned within the interior region of the enclosure and having an interior region for containing liquid additive for distribution in the fluid system; b) a conduit means for facilitating communication for fluids between the collapsible container and the relatively low pressure region; and c) a means operatively associated with the collapsible container for controlling the flow of the liquid additive from the collapsible container.

27. An additive dispensing apparatus according to claim 26, characterized in that it also comprises a means for connecting in the form of a mountain the confinement of the head.

28. An additive dispensing apparatus according to claim 26, characterized in that it further comprises a means for providing access to the outer enclosure to allow the removal of the collapsible container.

29. An additive dispensing apparatus according to claim 28, characterized in that the inner access means of the enclosure includes a portion of a male thread formed in one of the closure head and a portion of a female thread formed in one of the head and the enclosure.

30. An additive dispensing apparatus according to claim 28, characterized in that the interior access means of the enclosure includes a quarter-turn fastening means formed in the head and in the enclosure.

31. An additive dispensing apparatus according to claim 26, characterized in that it also includes a means for filling the collapsible container.

32. An additive dispensing apparatus according to claim 26, characterized in that it further comprises a valve means operatively associated with the conduit means.

33. An additive dispensing apparatus according to claim 32, characterized in that the valve means is a check valve to allow the liquid additive to only enter from the collapsible container.