CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] N/A

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

[0002] The present invention generally relates to chemical storage, but more particularly a secure chemical storage system.

2. Description of Related Art

[0003] Since the 1950s, 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. [0004] 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. However, 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.

[0005] Handling chemical in a foodservice facility is a thankless and potentially dangerous task. The majority of the chemicals are caustic and highly alkali which if spilled can result in clothing and skin bums. Industry standard 5-gallon containers often weigh more than 40 pounds and creates splashing when jostling around which can be dangerous to hands, face, and eyes. If tipped, large chemical containers can soak into shoes and socks and burn feet. Once the chemical is in place, it is quite common to install chemical refills in the wrong place, thereby creating an unsanitary process resulting in a foodservice facility out of compliance. Lastly, tampering with chemical, intentional or not, is also common and can reduce or even eliminate a chemical’s effectiveness altogether. Consequently, there is a need for a secure chemical storage system that prevents chemical mishandling, employee accidents, and unsanitary conditions for patrons. BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] It is an aspect of the present invention to provide 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.

[0007] In one embodiment, 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. In one embodiment, 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. In one embodiment, each chemical container is refillable. In one embodiment, the chemical storage vault is movable or stationary. In one embodiment, the chemical storage vault includes an alarm, wherein the alarm is configured to send a signal to a computer network. In another embodiment, monitoring devices are provided configured to automatically monitor the volume of the chemical of each chemical container. In yet another embodiment, 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. In one embodiment, the chemical of each chemical container of the plurality of chemical containers is a chemical source for sanitation equipment.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent when the following detailed description is read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0009] FIG. l is a schematic of a secure chemical storage system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0010] 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;

[0011] FIG. 3 is an exemplary system for monitoring chemical levels in the chemical storage containers according to an embodiment of the present invention; and,

[0012] 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

[0013] The following description is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make and use the invention and sets forth the best modes contemplated by the inventor of carrying out their invention. Various modifications, however, will remain readily apparent to those skilled in the art, since the general principles of the present invention have been defined herein to specifically provide a secure chemical storage system.

[0014] It is an object of the present invention to provide a secure chemical storage system that reduces chemical handling risks minimizing the potential for chemical burns via the handling of heavy chemical containers. It is another object of the present invention to provide a plurality of refillable storage containers that can be refilled via a pumping method.

[0015] It is an object of the present invention to provide a secure chemical storage system that is configured to store chemicals in a single common place for disposable and refillable chemical storage containers. It is another object of the present invention to provide a secure chemical storage system comprising a convenient, reliable, and efficient chemical level monitoring means. It is yet another object of the present invention to providing a secure chemical storage system having an automated means for monitoring and notifying a user of chemical levels, leading to timely refills. Overall, the present invention provides a safe, efficient means for handling chemical usage and inventory for food service facilities, and potentially other industries, leading to a more sanitary and safe environment for employees and patrons alike. [0016] FIG. 1 is a schematic of a secure chemical storage system 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Referring now to FIG. 1, the secure chemical storage system is illustrated. The secure chemical storage system comprises a single chemical storage vault 101 constructed from a high strength structural material preventing the unauthorized access inside. In one embodiment, 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. In one embodiment, the storage vault is mountable to one or more walls, free standing and stationary, or free standing and movable. For instance, in one embodiment, the free standing and movable vault may include caster wheels (not illustrated) enabling the vault to be moved as well known in the art. Preferably, the vault is fully enclosed such that unwanted access is controlled. In one embodiment, the fully enclosed vault is enclosed entirely via the structural material. In alternative embodiments, the fully enclosed vault is enclosed via the combination of the structural material and the one or more walls. In embodiments where the chemical storage vault is mounted to the one or more walls, the one or more walls may act as sides of the vault as well known in the art.

[0017] Still referring to FIG. l, 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. In alternative embodiments, 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.

[0018] The interior of the vault comprises a means for storing a plurality of chemical containers 104. In one embodiment, 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.

[0019] Referring now to FIG. 2, there are many possible configurations for the positioners. In one embodiment, 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. For instance, in some embodiments, the positioners may brace the containers from their outside surfaces (as illustrated), or the positioners may utilized other connection methods. Further in some embodiments, 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.

[0020] 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. In one embodiment, the identification system includes a color, emblem, or numeric code(s) matching method. For instance, 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. In one embodiment, 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. In one embodiment, 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. In one embodiment, the supply source may be provided by a chemical refill service company.

[0021] In one embodiment, 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. In some embodiments, 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. As previously mentioned, preferably, the chemical storage containers are reusable and refillable; however disposable containers may also be used.

[0022] Referring now to 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. In some embodiments, 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.

[0023] 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. For instance, if a measuring device senses an increase in chemical volume, the disconnecting of a supply line, or the removal of a container, a signal or alarm may be sent to an attendant CPU enabling an authorized user to check on the situation. In one embodiment, 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. For example, if 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. This is critical, as a diluted chemical used during operation can compromise the sanitation standards of the wares washed and/or rinsed in the warewasher, providing unsanitary conditions for patrons. It should be understood that a warewasher was used as an example, but other sanitation machines/equipment in fluid connectivity with chemical storage containers may be provided. For instance, 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.

[0024] Still referring now to FIG. 3, a quick-connect system 306 for the chemical storage container is provided. 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. In one embodiment, 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.

[0025] Referring now to FIG. 4, a network communication diagram of the secure chemical storage system is illustrated. In one embodiment, 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. In some embodiments, 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. In one embodiment, 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.

[0026] Although the invention has been described in considerable detail in language specific to structural features and or method acts, it is to be understood that the invention defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described. Rather, the specific features and acts are disclosed as exemplary preferred forms of implementing the claimed invention. Stated otherwise, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein, as well as the abstract, are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. Therefore, while exemplary illustrative embodiments of the invention have been described, numerous variations and alternative embodiments will occur to those skilled in the art. Such variations and alternate embodiments are contemplated, and can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. For instance, in some embodiments, the positioners can be unique to the specific chemical container, such that only the correct chemical container can be positioned in the designated position. This could be unique to chemical container size, shape, or a combination thereof.