WO2023211464A1 - Système de stockage de produits chimiques sécurisé - Google Patents

Système de stockage de produits chimiques sécurisé Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2023211464A1
WO2023211464A1 PCT/US2022/026982 US2022026982W WO2023211464A1 WO 2023211464 A1 WO2023211464 A1 WO 2023211464A1 US 2022026982 W US2022026982 W US 2022026982W WO 2023211464 A1 WO2023211464 A1 WO 2023211464A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
chemical
container
secure
storage system
chemical storage
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2022/026982
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Robert Brooks
Original Assignee
Bwl Global S.À R.L.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Bwl Global S.À R.L. filed Critical Bwl Global S.À R.L.
Priority to PCT/US2022/026982 priority Critical patent/WO2023211464A1/fr
Publication of WO2023211464A1 publication Critical patent/WO2023211464A1/fr

Links

Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G05—CONTROLLING; REGULATING
    • G05B—CONTROL OR REGULATING SYSTEMS IN GENERAL; FUNCTIONAL ELEMENTS OF SUCH SYSTEMS; MONITORING OR TESTING ARRANGEMENTS FOR SUCH SYSTEMS OR ELEMENTS
    • G05B15/00—Systems controlled by a computer
    • G05B15/02—Systems controlled by a computer electric
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61L—METHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
    • A61L2/00—Methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects other than foodstuffs or contact lenses; Accessories therefor
    • A61L2/26—Accessories or devices or components used for biocidal treatment
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61L—METHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
    • A61L11/00—Methods specially adapted for refuse
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G05—CONTROLLING; REGULATING
    • G05B—CONTROL OR REGULATING SYSTEMS IN GENERAL; FUNCTIONAL ELEMENTS OF SUCH SYSTEMS; MONITORING OR TESTING ARRANGEMENTS FOR SUCH SYSTEMS OR ELEMENTS
    • G05B2219/00—Program-control systems
    • G05B2219/20—Pc systems
    • G05B2219/26—Pc applications
    • G05B2219/2613—Household appliance in general

Definitions

  • the present invention generally relates to chemical storage, but more particularly a secure chemical storage system.
  • warewashing technology requires drawing chemicals into the machine from a chemical source.
  • the source has been container of chemical stocked by a chemical supply company.
  • These chemicals are critical to prevent foodborne illness and are required by local health departments in order to operate as business.
  • These chemicals are purchased by the foodservice facility from chemical purveyors. Providing timely purchase and refill of the chemicals is required so that the foodservice facility can continue to operate and serve food.
  • Such a schedule requires training a low level employee, such as the dishwasher, to handle chemical safely and to prevent contaminating and tampering by the dishwasher or other restaurant staff.
  • Warewasher chemical supply companies have a developed a system where a warewasher is provided or leased to a food service facility at low cost in return for the food service provider’s promise and obligation to purchase warewasher chemicals for use in the warewasher and in other areas of the kitchen.
  • the warewasher chemical supplier typically installs the warewasher and other chemical dispensers, restocks chemicals, and maintains and repairs the warewasher as needed during the term of the agreement.
  • the chemical supply company will leave refilling and reconnecting chemical to the machine for the foodservice facility to perform, thereby shifting the burden of safety onto the foodservice facility.
  • the foodservice facilities are forced to train dishwashers on this safety process even though dishwashers have frequent turnover and need for training, often do not speak the language of the foodservice manager, and are incentivized to keep washing dishes ahead of ensuring safety.
  • a secure chemical storage system comprising a chemical storage vault having an exterior structure fully enclosing an interior space, wherein the interior space is configured to house a plurality of chemical containers, wherein each chemical container of the plurality of chemical containers are configured to contain a volume of a chemical; a lockable access location configured to lock the exterior structure of the chemical storage vault limiting access to the interior space from unauthorized users; and, a plurality of container positioners in the interior space of the chemical storage vault, wherein the plurality of container positioners are configured to securely position the plurality of chemical containers in place.
  • the plurality of container positioners includes an identification system configured to match each container of the plurality of chemical containers to a corresponding flexible refill hose.
  • a quick-connect system for at least one chemical container of the plurality of chemical containers is provided, the quick-connect system including a modular connection between each chemical container and a supply line, wherein the supply line is in configured to feed sanitation equipment.
  • each chemical container is refillable.
  • the chemical storage vault is movable or stationary.
  • the chemical storage vault includes an alarm, wherein the alarm is configured to send a signal to a computer network.
  • monitoring devices are provided configured to automatically monitor the volume of the chemical of each chemical container.
  • the monitoring devices are connected to a computer network, wherein the computer network includes sanitation equipment such that the operation is dependent on the monitoring devices sending a signal to the sanitation equipment that the volume and/or composition of the chemical is sufficient for operation.
  • the chemical of each chemical container of the plurality of chemical containers is a chemical source for sanitation equipment.
  • FIG. l is a schematic of a secure chemical storage system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 2 is an exemplary detailed view of a positioner for a chemical storage container with an indication system according to an embodiment of the present invention
  • FIG. 3 is an exemplary system for monitoring chemical levels in the chemical storage containers according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 4 is a network communication diagram of the secure chemical storage system according to an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
  • FIG. 1 is a schematic of a secure chemical storage system 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Referring now to FIG.
  • the secure chemical storage system comprises a single chemical storage vault 101 constructed from a high strength structural material preventing the unauthorized access inside.
  • the structural material is constructed of stainless angle iron, stainless rod stock, or any other suitable material known in the art. It is a particular advantage of the present invention that the storage vault is not limited to a specific installation location.
  • the storage vault is mountable to one or more walls, free standing and stationary, or free standing and movable.
  • the free standing and movable vault may include caster wheels (not illustrated) enabling the vault to be moved as well known in the art.
  • the vault is fully enclosed such that unwanted access is controlled.
  • the fully enclosed vault is enclosed entirely via the structural material.
  • the fully enclosed vault is enclosed via the combination of the structural material and the one or more walls.
  • the one or more walls may act as sides of the vault as well known in the art.
  • the chemical storage vault preferably comprises one lockable access location 102, wherein the lockable access location provides access into an interior portion 103 of the vault for authorized users while providing a level of security for unauthorized users.
  • multiple lockable access locations may be provided. Any combination of security features may be provided to deter tampering with the vault, including but not limited to, cameras, alarm systems, and warning insignia. The security features provide a means to prevent tampering with the exterior of the vault and access location; however there are also security features on the interior of the vault which will be described in greater detail below.
  • the interior of the vault comprises a means for storing a plurality of chemical containers 104.
  • positioners 105 are provided to retain each chemical container of the plurality of chemical containers.
  • the structural construction of the positioners is less critical than the goal of the positioners, which is to provide a secure location for each chemical container. This will be disused in the greater detail below.
  • the positioners may include structural braces/connectors 201 configured to hold and secure each chemical container 200 in position.
  • the construction of the structural braces/connectors may vary.
  • the positioners may brace the containers from their outside surfaces (as illustrated), or the positioners may utilized other connection methods.
  • the plurality of containers may secure each other in position via the proximity of each container’s position to the adjacent containers, like a book shelf. Any known method may be used, as long as the containers are stored in position while in the interior of the storage vault preventing accidental hazards and spills.
  • the means to prevent refilling errors during restocking is one of the primary advantages of the present invention. In current practice, it is common for the lowest level employee, having limited English language skills, to be in charge of restocking the chemical containers. Thus, by providing an identification system 202 it will greatly reduce misuse and errors.
  • the identification system provides a means to simplify the restocking process, making it easier and more intuitive to refill the correct chemical container.
  • the identification system includes a color, emblem, or numeric code(s) matching method.
  • each chemical container may include a color and/or symbol that match an identical color and/or symbol on the flexible refill hose 203. This provides an easy way to match the correct refill tube to the correct storage container, without the requirement to read labels.
  • the identification system includes a label matching method. For instance, when installing a chemical container into, a portion of the label from the chemical container may be removed and placed on the refill hose. Consequently, the user will know which refill tube corresponds with a specific chemical container when restocking.
  • the refill method comprises placing the flexible refill hose into the correct storage container, wherein the refill hose is configured to transfer chemical from a supply source into the storage container via a pumping means.
  • the pumping means may be an automated or manual pump as well known in the art.
  • the supply source may be provided by a chemical refill service company.
  • the chemical storage containers are commonly ranging from 1 to 10 gallon. However, it is understood that container volume may vary without departing from the spirit of the invention.
  • one or more containers may be connected in a daisy chain configuration such that the one or more containers act as a single large container.
  • the containers are constructed from a material that does not react to the chemicals which are stored, such as plastic.
  • the chemical storage containers are reusable and refillable; however disposable containers may also be used.
  • FIG. 3 a chemical storage container 300 with chemical level monitoring capabilities is illustrated. It is a particular advantage of the present invention to provide an automated means to monitor the chemical level or volume 301 in each chemical storage container.
  • the monitoring capabilities may include any of the following methods and devices, including but not limited to view windows 302, scales 303, and sensors 304, such as proximity sensors, diodes, conductivity sensors, as well as other sensors known in the art.
  • one or more of the monitoring capabilities may be integrated with a computer network allowing the chemical levels to be automatically and remotely monitored. This will be described in greater detail below.
  • the view window provides a simple means allowing a user to visually inspect the chemical level.
  • the sensors, diodes, and scales provide a quantifiable means to measure, record, and monitor the chemical levels by various methods. These measuring devices and methods may provide alerts when chemical levels reach predetermined levels, indicating the need for restocking, replacement, or refillment. This eliminates waste, while also making sure each chemical is properly stocked. Further, the measuring devices provided may also be utilized to prevent tampering in the unlikely event the exterior of the chemical storage vault is breached by an unauthorized user.
  • a signal or alarm may be sent to an attendant CPU enabling an authorized user to check on the situation.
  • the signal is sent to the warewasher in which the chemical storage container is in fluid conductivity with. This can be either through the computer network, or local network via direct connection.
  • the warewasher may provide an alert indicating the situation, possibly preventing the operation of the warewasher until the situation is resolved. This ensures the correct chemical, and proper composition of the chemical is provided during operation of the warewasher.
  • a user improperly diluted a chemical by adding water to extend the life of the chemical this would trigger a signal or alarm as the measuring devices sense the unauthorized increase in volume, altering an authorized or managing user, stopping the operation of the connected warewasher, or a combination thereof.
  • a warewasher was used as an example, but other sanitation machines/equipment in fluid connectivity with chemical storage containers may be provided.
  • the sanitation machines/equipment include but are not limited to a three compartment sink, floor cleaner, sanitation buckets, a presoak station, and a sanitizer and rinse station.
  • the quick-connect system provides a means for a technician or employee to easily and efficiently exchange chemical storage containers when restocking.
  • the quickconnect system includes a modular connection 307 between the chemical storage container and supply line 305.
  • the supply line is in configured to feed a warewasher 308, however as previously discussed any machine or equipment requiring chemicals for operations may be utilized.
  • Other equipment may be utilized including pumps/dispenser 309 as well known in the art. It should be understood that the drawing is not to scale.
  • the network 400 comprises a server 401 in communication with sanitation equipment 402, one or more computer systems 403, chemical storage vault 404, and monitoring devices 405 provided on the chemical storage containers.
  • the network is local, however in the preferred embodiment, the network is over the Internet, and the server is a remote server at a centralized location having the capability to monitoring a plurality of similar systems installed at various facilities.
  • the network provides a means for the equipment, devices, and computer systems to communicate with each other.
  • the one or more computer systems may be the computer systems for one or more authorized employees in charge of managing the secure chemical storage system.

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  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Epidemiology (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Automation & Control Theory (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Public Health (AREA)
  • Veterinary Medicine (AREA)
  • Warehouses Or Storage Devices (AREA)

Abstract

La présente invention concerne un système de stockage de produits chimiques qui comprend des cuves de stockage individuelles pour tous les produits chimiques de lavage de la vaisselle et les produits chimiques d'assainissement de cuisine dans son intérieur, un revêtement extérieur sécurisé assurant un accès limité à des emplacements spécifiques pour le personnel spécifié, une surveillance de niveau, et est relié à des commandes de lave-vaisselle conventionnel par une pluralité de tubes raccordés à des pompes. L'enceinte de stockage de produits chimiques devient la source de produits chimiques dont un lave-vaisselle a besoin pour laver et désinfecter la vaisselle.
PCT/US2022/026982 2022-04-29 2022-04-29 Système de stockage de produits chimiques sécurisé WO2023211464A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PCT/US2022/026982 WO2023211464A1 (fr) 2022-04-29 2022-04-29 Système de stockage de produits chimiques sécurisé

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PCT/US2022/026982 WO2023211464A1 (fr) 2022-04-29 2022-04-29 Système de stockage de produits chimiques sécurisé

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2023211464A1 true WO2023211464A1 (fr) 2023-11-02

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Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5348048A (en) * 1993-01-08 1994-09-20 Schirado Lowell C Quick connect coupling system
US20030012081A1 (en) * 2001-07-10 2003-01-16 Ecolab, Inc. Flow-based chemical dispense system
US20100024915A1 (en) * 2008-08-01 2010-02-04 Delaware Capital Formation, Inc. Rfid controlled chemical porportioner and dispenser
US20100146587A1 (en) * 2008-12-09 2010-06-10 Ecolab Inc. Authentication of controlled dosing processes
US20160184851A1 (en) * 2014-12-30 2016-06-30 GOJO Industries, Inc., Dispensing device

Patent Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5348048A (en) * 1993-01-08 1994-09-20 Schirado Lowell C Quick connect coupling system
US20030012081A1 (en) * 2001-07-10 2003-01-16 Ecolab, Inc. Flow-based chemical dispense system
US20100024915A1 (en) * 2008-08-01 2010-02-04 Delaware Capital Formation, Inc. Rfid controlled chemical porportioner and dispenser
US20100146587A1 (en) * 2008-12-09 2010-06-10 Ecolab Inc. Authentication of controlled dosing processes
US20160184851A1 (en) * 2014-12-30 2016-06-30 GOJO Industries, Inc., Dispensing device

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