U.S. patent application number 10/200392 was filed with the patent office on 2002-12-12 for system and method for controlling microorganisms and biofilms.
Invention is credited to Chandler, James W..
Application Number | 20020185419 10/200392 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 22549089 |
Filed Date | 2002-12-12 |
United States Patent
Application |
20020185419 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Chandler, James W. |
December 12, 2002 |
System and method for controlling microorganisms and biofilms
Abstract
Systems and methods for controlling the presence and growth of
microorganisms and biofilms in water lines is provided. The systems
include, for example, a valved, multi-port control manifold for
accepting inlet water to be treated and a filter for (1) reducing
particulate physical matter, (2) further reducing particulate
matter while also reducing the content of absorbable organics, and
(3) physically removing microorganisms. The system further includes
a mixing reservoir or chamber with specialized means for injecting
active agents such as biocides for additional control of planktonic
and sessile microbes. An optional pressurized storage vessel for
retaining and delivering filtered and treated water is also
disclosed. The methods include, for example, the step of
introducing an aqueous cleaner derived from natural citrus
botanicals into a water system.
Inventors: |
Chandler, James W.;
(Ashland, OH) |
Correspondence
Address: |
CALFEE HALTER & GRISWOLD, LLP
800 SUPERIOR AVENUE
SUITE 1400
CLEVELAND
OH
44114
US
|
Family ID: |
22549089 |
Appl. No.: |
10/200392 |
Filed: |
July 22, 2002 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10200392 |
Jul 22, 2002 |
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09662097 |
Sep 14, 2000 |
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6423219 |
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60153871 |
Sep 14, 1999 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
210/151 ;
210/317; 210/337 |
Current CPC
Class: |
C02F 1/505 20130101;
C02F 1/722 20130101; Y10T 137/4891 20150401; C02F 1/008 20130101;
C02F 2103/003 20130101; C02F 1/281 20130101; C02F 1/686 20130101;
C02F 1/285 20130101; C02F 9/005 20130101; C02F 1/50 20130101; C02F
2209/40 20130101; C02F 1/283 20130101; C02F 1/444 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
210/151 ;
210/317; 210/337 |
International
Class: |
B01D 036/02 |
Claims
I claim:
1. A filter for a fluid delivery system, the filter comprising (a)
a pre-filter for providing oxidation reduction reactions with the
fluid to be filtered; (b) a bio-filter substantially surrounded by
the pre-filter and for filtering microbials from the fluid; and (c)
a resilient spring device and a porous material, the resilient
spring device and porous material maintaining the pre-filter in a
substantially compacted state.
2. The filter of claim 1 wherein the pre-filter comprises a zinc
material.
3. The filter of claim 1 wherein the pre-filter comprises a copper
material.
4. The filter of claim 1 wherein the pre-filter comprises a
material having a zinc and copper blend.
5. The filter of claim 4 wherein the pre-filter further comprises a
substantially cylindrical shape.
6. The filter of claim 1 wherein the bio-filter comprises a ceramic
microbial filter.
7. The filter of claim 1 wherein the bio-filter comprises a porous
material.
8. The filter of claim 1 wherein the bio-filter comprises a porous
material having an approximately 0.9 micron pore structure.
9. The filter of claim 8 wherein the bio-filter further comprises a
polypropylene material housing the porous material.
10. The filter of claim 1 wherein the resilient device comprises at
least one compression spring.
11. The filter of claim 10 wherein the resilient device comprises a
food-grade material.
12. The filter of claim 10 wherein the resilient device comprises a
material having polypropylene.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This patent application is continuation of application Ser.
No. 09/662,097, now U.S. Pat. No. ______, filed Sep. 14, 2000,
which claims priority from provisional patent application Serial
No. 60/153,871 and filed Sep. 14, 1999.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] This invention relates generally to the control of
microorganisms and biofilms, and more particularly, to systems and
methods for controlling microorganisms and biofilms in water lines
through a combination of physical filtration, organic absorption,
and chemical treatment.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Microorganisms occur virtually everywhere in our environment
including the air, water, hard and soft surfaces, in human and
animal organs, blood and tissues. Some present no serious health
concerns and are considered non-pathogenic. However, other
microorganisms exist that can produce a wide variety of infections
and other medical ailments that can result in diseases or even
death. Such organisms are considered pathogenic. When conditions
are not adverse, all such organisms are able to grow and multiply
into vast concentrations and population diversity often manifesting
themselves into mass accumulations with vastly resilient properties
known as biofilms. Although biofilms have been ever-present in our
ecosystem and bodies, they have only recently become known to have
such a potentially devastating influence in problems relating to
everything from plugged piping and corroded metals to production of
progeny that can cause additional damage and infect both animals
and humans.
[0004] Microorganisms are generally classified into groups known as
bacteria, algae, fungi and yeast, protozoa and viruses. Of
particular relevance to the present invention are microorganisms
related to the production of water for general potability, as well
as dental, medical and other specialized water uses that usually
require even more meticulous control over the presence,
concentration, and removal of such entities. Organisms that are
free-floating in a liquid medium are known as "planktonic."
Organisms that have attached themselves to piping, organs, tissues
and other surfaces are known as "sessile." It has been shown that
the majority of microbial infections in the body are caused by
sessile communities of organisms known as biofilms.
[0005] Biofilms are basically aggregate communities of organisms
having a heterogeneous nature that are formed on solid surfaces and
can be potential reservoirs for enteric pathogenic bacteria. Dental
plaque is probably one of the best known types of biofilms.
Biofilms attach themselves by proteinaceous appendages called
fimbriae that "glue" themselves to available surfaces. Other
building blocks that are important in creating the physical
structure of biofilms include, for example, organic content in the
water that serves as both a food source and potential structural
components, slimy extracellular biopolymer secretions created by
the organisms themselves, cellular components from organisms that
have died-off and other factors. The extra-cellular biopolymer
consists mainly of water and polysaccharides. These biopolymers
provide a thickening effect that helps to stabilize the biofilm
even in the presence of a passing water flow. Divalent cations such
as calcium and magnesium help to cause gelation of some of the
biopolymers for an even stronger biofilm structure due to an
electrostatic interaction between carboxyolates on the
polysaccharides and the cations creating a bridging phenomenon.
Therefore, hard water that contains calcium and magnesium serves to
provide conditions favorable to the creation of even more resilient
structures. Consequently, biofilms can cause the plugging and/or
corrosion of piping and present a threat to humans and animals
alike for infection and disease. Hence, it is desirable to provide
a system and method for controlling microorganisms and biofilms in
water lines.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] According to a first embodiment of the present invention, a
system for controlling the presence of biofilms and micro-organisms
in fluids is provided that is particularly suited for supplying a
large medical or dental operatory. In particular, the system
includes an inlet for connection to a water source, a filter in
fluid communication with the inlet, a mixing reservoir in fluid
communication with the filter and having an active agent input. The
mixing reservoir provides for the mixing of water and the active
agent. The active agent input is preferably a reverse check-valve.
A pressurized storage tank is in fluid communication with the
mixing reservoir and stores the mixed fluid and active agent. The
pressurized storage tank preferably includes a pre-charged air
chamber for generating an internal pressure in the tank that can be
used to internally force fluid out from the tank. A control
manifold is in fluid communication with the pressurized storage
tank and controls the flow of fluid in the system.
[0007] The filter includes, for example, a first filter for
removing particulate matter from the fluid, a second filter for
removing carbon-activated matter from the fluid, and a third filter
for removing bacterial matter from the fluid. The first filter
preferably comprises a blown polypropylene element. The second
filter preferably comprises a porous carbon block element. The
third filter comprises a porous ceramic element.
[0008] The present invention also provides a system for controlling
biofilms and microorganisms in medical or dental water operatories
that is particularly suited for installations where space is
limited. The system includes a combination manifold and mixing
chamber that is in fluid communication with a combination
pre-filter and bio-filter. The combination manifold and mixing
chamber includes an active agent input, water inlet and pressurized
air inlet. The active agent input is preferably in the form of a
reverse check valve and feeds into a mixing chamber located within
the combination manifold and mixing chamber. The combination
pre-filter and bio-filter is in fluid communication with the water
feed inlet and the mixing chamber of the combination manifold and
mixing chamber. The pre-filter removes particulate matter and
carbon-activated matter from the water and the bio-filter removes
bacterial matter from the water. A plurality of valves are provided
for controlling the fluid output of the combination manifold and
mixing chamber.
[0009] The active agent can be biocidal, antiseptic, or both. The
terms "biocidal," "biocide," and "antiseptic" are used hereinafter
to denote any substance or effect that causes mortality in biofilms
and/or microorganisms. One such suitable biocidal active agent is a
chemical composition containing hydroperoxide ions, a phase
transfer catalyst, and a tracer color. The system of the present
invention can also employ the continuous presence of an antiseptic
active agent. One such antiseptic agent preferably includes an
aqueous cleaner derived from natural citrus botanicals such as, for
example, grapefruit seed extract. Other active agents include, for
example, Ultra-Kleen manufactured by Sterilex Corp., Bio-2000
manufactured by Micrylium Labs., and Eradic-All manufactured by
Theratechnologies.
[0010] The present invention also provides a method of controlling
biofilms and microorganisms in dental water systems. The method
include the steps of: filtering water for matter selected from the
group consisting of: particulate matter, carbon-activated matter,
bacterial matter, and combinations thereof; mixing an active agent
for controlling biofilms and microorganisms with the filtered water
to create a mixture; and causing the mixture to flow through the
dental water system. The step of mixing an active agent for
controlling biofilms and microorganisms with the filtered water to
create a mixture includes mixing a biocidal or antiseptic active
agent with the filtered water.
[0011] It is therefore an object of the present invention to
provide a method and system of controlling biofilms and
microorganisms in fluids that does not require the use of
electricity for operation.
[0012] It is a further object of this invention to provide a method
and system of controlling biofilms and microorganisms in dental
water lines that is capable of employing the constant presence of
an antiseptic active agent in the water.
[0013] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a
system and method of remotely filtering water.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] In the accompanying drawings which are incorporated in and
constitute a part of the specification, embodiments of the
invention are illustrated, which, together with a general
description of the invention given above, and the detailed
description given below, serve to example the principles of this
invention.
[0015] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a first embodiment of
the present invention;
[0016] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a second embodiment
of the present invention; and
[0017] FIG. 3 is a front elevational view of a preferred physical
arrangement of the first and second embodiments.
[0018] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a third embodiment of the
present invention.
[0019] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a fourth embodiment of the
present invention.
[0020] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional diagram illustrating a
combination manifold and mixing chamber of the fourth
embodiment.
[0021] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional diagram illustrating a
combination pre-filter and bio-filter of the fourth embodiment.
[0022] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a fifth embodiment of the
present invention.
[0023] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional diagram illustrating a manifold
structure of the fifth embodiment.
[0024] FIG. 10 is cross-sectional diagram illustrating an optional
mixing/reservoir chamber of the present invention.
[0025] FIG. 11 is an illustration of a reverse check valve of the
present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATED EMBODIMENT
[0026] Referring now to FIG. 1, a block diagram of the first
embodiment 100 of the present invention is shown. This embodiment
is particularly suited for supply large medical or dental
operatories where space is not a limiting consideration. In
particular, water from either a public or private source 102 enters
the system through a pipe or hose into a control valve 104. The
piping or hoses employed by the present invention are preferably
conventional 3/8" O.D..times.1/4" I.D. tubing, unless otherwise
noted. The control valve 104 and all other valves, unless otherwise
indicated, are of conventional ball-type or similar construction
providing for full-on, full-on, and partial-on positions
therebetween. Water proceeds directly through an inlet port 106 of
a manifold system controller 108 and exits through an exit port
112. The pressure of the water is also monitored and displayed by a
diaphragm-type pressure gauge 110 as it flows into the manifold
system controller 108.
[0027] Upon exiting the manifold system controller 108, the water
flows into an inlet port 114 of a filter manifold assembly 116.
Once in the filter manifold assembly 116, the water proceeds
through the manifold matrix and enters a first filter 118 for
removal of turbidity and suspended matter down to 5 microns in size
by a blown polypropylene element 120. The water passes downwardly
through the filter 118 and penetrates inwardly through the element
120. The water then moves upwardly into the manifold matrix and
downward into a second filter 122 where additional particles, if
any, are removed. The water then penetrates a semi-solid carbon
block 124 where chlorine, taste, odor and color residuals, if any,
and certain organics are removed. The water moves upwardly through
the center of the carbon element 124 back into the manifold matrix.
The water then enters into microbe filter 126 where particulates,
if any, and microorganisms such as, for example, bacteria and
protozoa are physically removed as the water passes inwardly
through a finely porous ceramic element 128 and then upwardly
through the center of the ceramic and back into the manifold
matrix. The filtered water then leaves the filter manifold matrix
through an outlet port 115.
[0028] The now filtered water proceeds to a first mixing reservoir
132. If active agents such as biocide(s) 129 or other chemicals are
to be added, they are injected into the first mixing reservoir 132
at an active agent injection port 130. The active agent injection
port preferably comprises a reverse check valve. One embodiment of
a reverse check valve of the present invention is shown in FIG. 11.
Referring now to FIG. 11, the reverse check valve preferably
includes a ball 1100 and spring 1102. As is conventional, spring
1102 urges ball 1100 against an input aperture until the spring
force is exceeded by an oppositely directed force causing ball 1100
to move away from the input aperture and allowing fluid to pass
through the check valve. Active agent injection is preferably
accomplished manually using a hypodermic syringe or similar device.
The syringe is inserted into the reverse check valve and the active
agent is injected into the mixing reservoir or chamber. Reverse
check valves are particularly suitable for use because they provide
for insertion of the syringe into the injection port and
self-sealing of the port after injection. This procedure may be
automated through conventional metering devices and automatic
injection systems. The active agent(s) such as biocide(s) 129 mix
with the filtered water to create a predetermined concentration of
the desired treatment chemical.
[0029] Referring once again to FIG. 1, the filtered and/or
chemically-treated water exits mixing reservoir 132 and enters into
a pressurized storage tank 136 by passing through valve 134. In
storage tank 136, a diaphragm separates a water compartment from an
air chamber 138 having a pre-charged air bladder that provides
pressure to the system for delivering water to services connected
at 148 and 150. The pre-charged air chamber 138 is only necessary
if the main inlet 102 from the source supply of water is shut off.
A conventional schraeder air valve 137 provides an inlet/outlet
port for the air charge, which is preferably set at about 28
psi.
[0030] As needed, water leaves the pressurized tank 136 through
valve 134 back into the multi-port manifold system controller 108
through valve 140 and inlet port 142. Inside the manifold system
controller 108, the water is directed from inlet 142 and feeds
outlet port valves 144 and 146. This embodiment shows two outlets
from the manifold system controller 108 that can be directed to two
separate locations, pieces of equipment, or dental water systems
through treated water outlets 148 and 150. Dental water systems
include, for example, all fluid communication devices including
plumbing (i.e., hoses tubes, pipes, valves, etc.), dental drills,
dental syringes, and any other piece of dental equipment requiring
a source of water. Additional locations or dental water systems can
be served from the same general system by creating additional
outlet ports. This can be accomplished by increasing the vertical
height of the manifold system controller 108 to accommodate
additional outlet ports and valves. The pressure of the outlet
water is read by a conventional pressure gauge 152.
[0031] When necessary or desired, the entire system 100 can be
relieved of water pressure and/or drained by closing the main
system inlet valve 104 on the manifold system controller 108 and
the water exits via a drain port 154 and drain port valve 156. The
water travels throughout the entire system and runs to a proper
drain 158. If only wishing to relieve system pressure, but not
drain the system, valve 104 and valve 134 on the storage tank 136
would be closed so as to save the water in storage. In this case,
on opening valve 156, there would only be a momentary release of
pressure and little water. If the entire system is to be drained
and pressure relieved, valves 104, 134, 156 are opened effectively
draining the entire system, including the contents of the storage
tank 136.
[0032] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, a second mixing reservoir 162 is
optional in the event additional active agents such as biocides 159
or chemicals are to be mixed separately from the first mixing
reservoir 132. Referring now to FIG. 2, a block diagram of a second
embodiment 200 of the present invention is shown that incorporates
the use of the second mixing reservoir 162. The element composition
of the second embodiment 200 is identical to that of the first
embodiment 100 and, therefore, the same reference numbers are used
to indicate the same elements. The description will now focus on
the use of the second mixing reservoir 162. In particular, through
the use of conventional detachable tubing, water exiting
pressurized storage tank 136 can be directed into second mixing
reservoir 162 in a convenient and simple manner. Similar to the
first mixing reservoir 132, active agents such as biocides 159 or
other chemicals are added by injection into the second mixing
reservoir 162 at injection port 160, passing through a conventional
reverse check valve located inside injection port 160. As described
earlier, active agent injection is preferably accomplished manually
using a hypodermic syringe or similar device. The needle of the
syringe is inserted through the reverse check valve and the active
agent is injected into the mixing reservoir. Also, as describe
earlier, this procedure may be automated through conventional
metering devices and automatic injection systems. The active
agent(s) such as biocides 159 mix with the filtered and treated
water to create a predetermined concentration of the desired
treatment chemical(s).
[0033] For the present invention, the preferred active agent for
attacking preexisting biofilms in piping, tubing and equipment is a
composition containing hydroperoxide ions and a phase transfer
catalyst. Such an active agent can be injected into the first
mixing reservoir 132 and mixed with filtered water that is
delivered to the pressurized storage tank 136 for delivery to the
entire system of piping, tubing and attached equipment. This agent
has the ability to destroy both planktonic and sessile organisms,
but more importantly attacks and dissolves the structural
components of the biofilm. The product should be both lipid and
water soluble acting as both oxidizer and hydrolyzer. The phase
transfer catalyst is mainly responsible for destruction of the
structural aspects of the biofilm. Water containing the agent at
about 7% concentration should be sent to all points throughout the
plumbing system of the present invention until a residual of the
agent emerges (as evidenced by a pink-colored tracing agent such as
Lorvi Disclosing Agent). After approximately 12 hours contact
within the system, excess chemical agents from the pressure tank
136 should be drained and new, fresh water allowed to enter from
the filter manifold 116. All exit points downstream of the system
should then be flushed or purged until such time all pink color has
ceased. This procedure effectively reduces or eliminates biofilms
from the system.
[0034] While the above-noted biocidal active agent and procedure
provides a biocidal effect that requires system flushing, the
present invention can also be used with the continuous presence of
an antiseptic active agent. In this case, the preferred antiseptic
active agent that can provide such a continuous presence in the
filtered water is a safe, natural product containing extracts from
grapefruit seeds containing diphenol hydroxybenzene complex. Such
an antiseptic agent is a heavy, viscous liquid that can be injected
in the proper amounts at the mixing reservoir to allow a certain
prescribed residual content. "Batches" of the filtered water with
the antiseptic agent can be created with reasonable accuracy by
mixing the proper amount of concentrated agent with a certain
volume of water that is stored in the pressure tank 136. In this
scenario, the main inlet (i.e., valve 104) to the system at the
manifold system controller would be closed so that new water
entering the system would not tend to dilute the mixture in storage
tank 136. The antiseptic agent is added to the system in the same
manner as the biocide(s) 129 (i.e., via mixing reservoir 132). When
the mixture is depleted, an new batch can be made following the
same steps, as described which only takes approximately two-three
minutes. This natural antiseptic agent has been shown to be highly
effective and tested against nearly 100 microorganisms including
gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, fungi & yeast,
certain viruses as well as Giardia and other protozoa. Therefore,
in addition to providing a biocidal effect to biofilms and other
organisms, the present invention also provides for a continuous
natural antiseptic effect that is safe for humans. This is
particularly useful in the context of dental water lines that may
be contaminated through system "suck-back."
[0035] FIG. 3 is a front elevational view of a preferred physical
arrangement of the first and second embodiments. As described
earlier, the same reference numbers have been used to designate the
same elements throughout FIGS. 1, 2, and 3. As shown, the system is
housed within a cabinet 302 having hinged doors and a lock (not
shown). The cabinet 302 is mounted on casters 304 that provide the
system with mobility, if required. Additionally, the storage tank
136 is shown attached to the inner wall of cabinet 302 with
stabilizer straps 306 that are fastened to the inner wall
preferably with screws. Furthermore, mixing reservoir 132 is
mounted to a side inner wall of cabinet 302 with mounting brackets
308 that are preferably attached to the side wall with screws.
Mixing reservoir 162 is similarly fastened. All system components
are firmly fastened or attached within the cabinet 302 with screws,
rivets, bolts, or other similar fasteners to prevent component
displacement from factory placement. The cabinet 302 is sized so as
to provide adequate access to all system components for regular
maintenance, repair, and/or inspection. So configured, the present
invention is applicable to dental operatories for control of dental
utility water line biofilms, medical facilities, laboratories,
military field applications, as a portable emergency water supply
station, and any application that requires the supply of
biologically safe water.
[0036] Referring now to FIG. 4, a third embodiment of the present
invention is shown. This embodiment is particularly suited for
installations where space is an important consideration. The system
400 includes a manifold 402 that is in fluid communication with a
pre-filter 408, bio-filter 410, and mixing chamber 420. The
manifold 402 is preferably of a cylindrical cross-section geometry.
However, other configurations including oval, rectangular, and
triangular cross-sectional geometry can also be employed. A
plurality of valves including valves 406, 412, 418, and 422 control
the flow into and out of the manifold 402. So configured, system
400 includes a two service modes and a maintenance mode of
operation. In the first service mode, filtered water is supplied to
the operatories. In the second service mode, filtered including a
residual amount of a natural active agent is supplied to the
operatories.
[0037] In the first service mode, water 404 from a city supply,
well, or other pressurized source enters the manifold 402 through
valve 406. A pressure gauge is provided for monitoring the pressure
of the water source. Water proceeds through the manifold 402 and
enters pre-filter 408. Pre-filter 408 is a granular-activated
carbon/sedimentation filter where particulates down to 25 microns
are removed from the water. After the pre-filter 408, the water
proceeds to bio-filter 410. Bio-filter 410 is a ceramic microbial
filter that physically traps bacteria, certain viruses, cysts,
protozoans, and other microbes. The ceramic microbial filter is a
porous structure having a 0.9 micron pore structure contained
within a polypropylene filter housing. After bio-filter 410, the
now filtered water again enters manifold 402 where it exits through
valve 412 and is directed to one or more dental operatories or a
storage vessel similar to storage tank 136 of FIGS. 1, 2, and 3.
The above-described service mode is accomplished placing valves 406
and 412 in the open position and valves 418 and 422 in the closed
position.
[0038] In the second service mode, the system 400 is first
depressurized by closing valves 406 and 418 and opening valve 422.
Once the system 400 is depressurized, valve 422 is also closed. A
concentrate of active agent is then injected through reverse
check-valve 426 into the manifold 402. The system 400 is now
pressurized with water by opening valve 406 causing the active
agent and filtered water to mix in mixing chamber 420. Once system
400 is pressurized, valve 406 is once again closed. Valve 418 is
opened to allow pressurized air 416 to enter manifold 402 to exert
pressure on the mixed active agent and filtered water residing in
mixing chamber 420. As the various appliances in the operatories
are used, the compressed air 416 forces the active agent and
filtered water mixture out of mixing chamber 420 and to dental
supply 414. As already described, this service mode is used with a
natural active agent such as, for example, grapefruit seed extract.
Once the mixing chamber has been emptied by the pressurized air
416, the above-described procedure must be repeated to replenish
the active agent and filtered water mixture in the mixing chamber
420.
[0039] It may be desirable on a weekly, monthly, or other frequency
basis, to add an active agent or cleaner to the system 400 for
destroying biofilms and organisms that may have entered the system
at one or more points further away from the filters. In this
maintenance mode, the system 400 is first depressurized by closing
valve 406 and opening valve 422 to drain the manifold and filters.
After the system 400 has drained, valve 422 is once again closed.
The active agent or cleaner is then injected with a syringe into
reverse check valve 426. Valve 406 is then opened to pressurize the
system 400 and to mix the active agent with the filtered water in
the mixing chamber 420. After pressurization and mixing, the valve
406 is once again closed. Pressurized or compressed air 416 is
introduced into the system 400 by opening valve 418. At this stage,
valves 406 and 422 are closed and valves 412 and 418 are open. The
pressurized air 416 is used for forcing the active agent mixture
out of the mixing chamber 420 and through valve 412 to the dental
operatories. In the operatories, an operator now runs the various
appliances that use the supplied water until the active agent
mixture begins to emerge from such appliances. The active agent
preferably includes a trace color (e.g., pink) so that the operator
can detect the emergence thereof from the appliances. The active
agent mixture preferably remains in the system 400 and dental
operatories for a prescribed period of time that can range from
minutes to hours depending on the type of active agent used.
Suitable active agents include the same agents as described in
connection with the embodiments of FIGS. 1, 2, and 3.
[0040] After disinfecting the system 400 and the operatories, the
active agent mixture is flushed therefrom. This accomplished by now
opening valve 422 to first flush manifold 402. Manifold 402 is
flushed by the pressurized air 416 emptying mixing chamber 420
through drain 424. The operatories are now flushed by closing valve
418 and opening valve 406 to pressurize system 400 with filtered
water. At this point, valves 406 and 412 are open and valves 418
and 422 are closed. The dental appliances in the operatories are
now flushed until the trace color of the active agent is no longer
present in the discharge.
[0041] Referring now to FIG. 5, a fourth embodiment of the present
invention is shown. Similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 4, this
embodiment is also particularly suited for installations where
space is an important consideration. The system 500 includes a
combination manifold and mixing chamber 502 that is in fluid
communication with a combination pre-filter and bio-filter 510. The
combination manifold and mixing chamber 502 is preferably of a
cylindrical cross-section geometry. However, other configurations
including oval, rectangular, and triangular cross-sectional
geometry can also be employed. A plurality of valves including
valves 506, 518, and 528 control the flow into and out of the
combination manifold and mixing chamber 502. Similar to the
embodiment of FIG. 4, the system 500 also includes two service
modes and a maintenance mode of operation. In the first service
mode, filtered water is supplied to the operatories. In the second
service mode, filtered including a residual amount of a natural
active agent is supplied to the operatories.
[0042] In the first service mode of operation, water 504 from a
city supply, well, or other pressurized source enters the
combination manifold and mixing chamber 502 through valve 506. A
pressure gauge is provided for monitoring the pressure of the water
source. Water proceeds through the manifold and mixing chamber 502
and enters combination pre-filter and bio-filter 510 through tubing
508. The combination pre-filter and bio-filter 510 is shown in more
detail in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 7.
[0043] Referring now to FIG. 7, the combination pre-filter and
bio-filter 501 includes a cylindrical housing 706 having input 702
and output 704. Within housing 706, a pre-filter 710 having a bed
of high-purity zinc and copper blend that provides for
reduction-oxidation reactions. The preferred blend of zinc and
copper is in the form of KDF 55 media. The pre-filter 710
preferably surrounds a cylindrical bio-filter 712. Bio-filter 712
is a ceramic microbial filter that physically traps bacteria,
certain viruses, cysts, protozoans, and other microbes. The ceramic
microbial filter is a porous structure having a 0.9 micron pore
structure contained within a polypropylene filter housing. A porous
pad 708, which is held in place by compression springs 714 and 716,
maintains pre-filter 710 in a compacted state and filters
particulates down to 10 microns. Compression springs 714 and 716
are preferably made from polypropylene or other food-grade
material. So configured, water enters input 702 and passes through
pad 708, pre-filter 710, and bio-filter 712 before it exits through
output 704.
[0044] Referring once again to FIG. 5, the now filtered water
leaves the combination pre-filter and bio-filter 510 and enters
combination manifold and mixing chamber 502 through tube 512. The
mixing chamber within combination manifold and mixing chamber 502
fills with filtered water. The filtered water is now ready to exit
the combination manifold and mixing chamber 502 on its way to
various dental operatories through dental supply 514.
[0045] Referring now to FIG. 6, a cross-sectional view of the
combination manifold and mixing chamber 502 of FIG. 5 is shown. The
combination manifold and mixing chamber 502 includes a mixing
chamber 602, supply water feed 604, compressed air feed 606, active
agent feed 608, miscellaneous port 610, dental supply port 612,
drain port 622 and filter output feed 614. All of the feeds and
ports are preferably threaded for easy configuration with standard
components such as valves, plugs, and quick connect and disconnect
tube fittings. As shown in FIG. 5, valve 506 is connected to supply
water feed 604, valve 518 is connected to compressed air feed 606,
and valve 528 is connected to drain port 622. In the embodiment
shown, miscellaneous port 610 is plugged. For ease of manufacture
of the mixing chamber 602, the drain port 622 is formed in a
removable end piece 618 that is threaded with threads 620 into and
forms part of the combination manifold and mixing chamber 502. A
rubber o-ring 616 is provided to seal the threaded interface.
[0046] In the second service mode, the system 500 is first
depressurized by closing valves 506 and 518 and opening valve 528.
Once the system 500 is depressurized, valve 528 is also closed. A
concentrate of active agent is then injected through reverse
check-valve 520 into the mixing chamber 602 (see FIG. 6). The
system 500 is now pressurized with water by opening valve 506
causing the active agent and filtered water mix in mixing chamber
602. Once system 500 is pressurized, valve 506 is once again
closed. Valve 518 is opened to allow pressurized air to enter
mixing chamber 602 to exert pressure on the mixed active agent and
filtered water residing. As the various appliances in the
operatories are now used, the compressed air forces the active
agent and filtered water mixture out of mixing chamber 602 and to
dental supply 514. As mentioned, this service mode is used with a
natural active agent such as, for example, grapefruit seed extract.
Once the mixing chamber has been emptied by the pressurized air,
the above-described procedure must be repeated to replenish the
active agent and filtered water mixture in the mixing chamber
602.
[0047] Similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 4, it may be
desirable on a weekly, monthly, or other frequency basis, to add an
active agent or cleaner to the system 500 for destroying biofilms
and organisms that may have entered the system at one or more
points further away from the filters. Referring now to FIG. 5, the
maintenance mode is initiated by depressurizing system 500 by
closing valve 506 and opening valve 528 to drain the manifold,
filters, and mixing chamber. After system 500 has drained to drain
530, valve 528 is once again closed. The active agent or cleaner is
then injected with a syringe into reverse check valve 520. Valve
506 is then opened to pressurize the system 500 and to mix the
active agent with the filtered water in the mixing chamber 602
(shown in FIG. 6). After pressurization and mixing, the valve 506
is once again closed. Pressurized or compressed air is introduced
into the system 500 by opening valve 518. At this stage, valves 506
and 528 are closed and only valve 518 is open. The pressurized air
is used for forcing the active agent mixture out of the mixing
chamber 602 and to the dental operatories through dental supply
514. In the operatories, an operator now runs the various
appliances that use the supplied water until the active agent
mixture begins to emerge from such appliances. As described
earlier, the active agent preferably includes a trace color (e.g.,
pink) so that the operator can detect the emergence thereof from
the appliances. The active agent mixture preferably remains in the
system 500 and dental operatories for a prescribed period of time
that can range from minutes to hours depending on the type of
active agent used. Suitable active agents include the same agents
as described in connection with the embodiments of FIGS. 1, 2, and
3.
[0048] After disinfecting the system 500 and the operatories, the
active agent mixture is flushed therefrom. The is accomplished by
now opening valve 528 to first flush the mixing chamber 602. The
mixing chamber 602 is flushed by the pressurized air forcing any
remaining active agent and water mixture through valve 528. The
operatories are now flushed by closing valve 518 and opening valve
506 to pressurize system 500 with filtered water. At this point,
valve 506 is the only open valve. The dental appliances in the
operatories are now flushed through dental supply 514 until the
trace color of the active agent is no longer present in the
discharge.
[0049] Still referring to FIG. 5, the system 500 includes removable
mounting flanges 524 and 522. Mounting flanges 524 and 522 allow
for system 500 to mounted in the shown upright position or almost
any other angle. The main consideration during mounting is that the
drain port of mixing chamber 602 should configured to be at the
lowest portion of the mounting to facilitate easy draining. The
mounting flanges 524 and 522 can be of a plurality of well-known
arrangements including arrangement for wall-mounting and mounting
to a tube.
[0050] Illustrated in FIG. 8 is a fifth embodiment of the present
invention that is particularly suited for a single operatory or
installations where space is an important consideration. The system
800 includes the same combination pre-filter and bio-filter 510 as
shown in system 500 of FIG. 5 and in the cross-sectional
illustration of FIG. 7. The system 800 includes a manifold 802 that
is in fluid communication with the combination pre-filter and
bio-filter 510 via tubes 812 and 814. The manifold 502 is
preferably of a cylindrical cross-section geometry. However, other
configurations including oval, rectangular, and triangular
cross-sectional geometry can also be employed. A plurality of
valves including valves 804 and 806 control the flow water and
compressed air 805 into and out of the system 800. Manifold 802
further includes an active agent injection port 810 and supply port
808. As described in the earlier embodiments, active agent
injection port 810 is preferably in the form of a reverse check
valve. Mounting flanges 816 and 818 are also provided for mounting
system 800 to a wall, cabinet, or other mounting or installation
surface. System 800 includes a service mode and a maintenance mode
of operation.
[0051] In the service mode, filtered water is supplied to the
operatories. More specifically, water 803 from a city supply, well,
or other pressurized source enters the manifold 802 through valve
804. As in earlier embodiments, a pressure gauge is provided for
monitoring the pressure of the water source. Water proceeds through
the manifold 802 and enters combination pre-filter and bio-filter
510 through tubing 812 where it is filtered. The now filtered water
leaves the combination pre-filter and bio-filter 510 and re-enters
manifold 802 through tube 814. The filtered water is now ready to
exit the manifold 802 via supply port 808 on its way to the
appliances of the connected dental operatory.
[0052] Referring now to FIG. 9, a cross-sectional view of the
manifold 802 of FIG. 8 is shown. The manifold 802 includes a first
channel 902 and a second channel 904. First channel 902 has a
supply water feed 906, a pressure gauge interface port 908, and an
exit 910 to filter 510. Second channel 904 has a compressed air
feed 912, active agent feed 914, dental supply port 916, and input
918 from filter 510. All of the feeds, ports, inputs, and exits are
preferably threaded for easy configuration with standard components
such as valves, plugs, and quick connect and disconnect tube
fittings.
[0053] With regard to the maintenance mode, it may be desirable on
a weekly, monthly, or other frequency basis, to add an active agent
or cleaner to the system 800 for destroying biofilms and organisms
that may have entered the system at one or more points further away
from the filters. Referring now to FIG. 8 once again, the
maintenance mode is initiated by depressurized system 800 by
closing valve 804 and running one or more of the appliances
connected to the dental supply port 808. In this manner, the
appliances are used to drain and depressurize manifold 802. After
system 800 has drained, an active agent or cleaner is then injected
with a syringe into reverse check valve 810. Valve 804 is then
opened to once again pressurize the system 800. At this point, a
single appliance in the operatory is run until the trace color of
the active agent appears in the appliance's discharge. This
procedure of depressurizing, introducing a quantity of active
agent, and re-pressurizing is repeated for each appliance in the
operatory because system 800 does not include a mixing or reservoir
chamber that can hold enough active agent to fill all of the
delivery lines to all of the dental appliances.
[0054] However, an optional mixing chamber/reservoir 1000 is shown
in cross-section in FIG. 10 that can be easily attached to the
supply port 808 of FIG. 8 to provide the required capacity. As
shown, mixing chamber/reservoir 1000 is preferably has a generally
cylindrical housing 1002 that includes an input feed 1004, supply
output 1006, and a drain connected to drain valve 1012. Supply
output 1006 is connected to a dip tube 1008 that preferably runs
through the center and almost entire depth of mixing
chamber/reservoir 1000.
[0055] In operation, filtered water or active agent mixture (i.e.,
active agent and filtered water) enters mixing chamber/reservoir
1000 through input feed 1004 and is contained within the interior
space 1010 thereof. To discharge the contents of mixing
chamber/reservoir 1000, air is forced into input feed 1004 thereby
pressurizing interior space 1010 and mixing chamber/reservoir 1000.
Running any appliance in the operatory connected to supply output
1006 will allow the pressurized air within interior space 1010 to
force any resident fluids out of interior space 1010 via dip tube
entrance 1012, through dip tube 1008 and supply output 1006 to the
appliance. The mixing chamber/reservoir 1000 can also be drained or
depressurized by opening valve 1012. Hence, coupling mixing
chamber/reservoir 1000 with system 800 of FIG. 8 provides the same
capacity and overall functionality is described for the earlier
embodiments.
[0056] While the present invention has been illustrated by the
description of embodiments thereof, and while the, embodiments have
been described in considerable detail, it is not the intention of
the applicants to restrict or in any way limit the scope of the
appended claims to such detail. Additional advantages and
modifications will readily appear to those skilled in the art. For
example, tubing or hose size may be changed, additional valves may
be added in the fluid flow paths, additional pressurized storage
tanks and mixing reservoirs may be added, pressure booster pumps
and flow meters can be installed within the system, an ultraviolet
light disinfection unit can be placed in the fluid flow path, and
option filtration modules for the reduction of dissolved solids in
the fluid can also be added to the system. Therefore, the
invention, in its broader aspects, is not limited to the specific
details, the representative apparatus, and illustrative examples
shown and described. Accordingly, departures may be made from such
details without departing from the spirit or scope of the
applicant's general inventive concept.
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