Multiple product dispensing system including dispenser for forming use solution from solid chemical compositions

A dispensing system for dispensing use solution, the dispensing system comprising:

• (a) first and second dispensers for dispensing first and second use solutions, respectively, each dispenser including:
• (1) a manifold having an inlet port and first and second outlet ports, the inlet port being constructed and arranged to receive a flow of diluent;
• (2) mixing means, in fluid communication with the first outlet port of the manifold, for mixing the diluent with a solid chemical composition to form a liquid concentrate, the mixing means including a first flow restrictor for restricting the flow of diluent through the first outlet port, and a first outlet tube for dispensing the liquid concentrate;
• (3) diluting means, in fluid communication with the second outlet port of the manifold, for diluting the liquid concentrate with diluent to form a use solution, the diluting means including a second flow restrictor for restricting the flow of diluent through the second outlet port, and a second outlet tube in fluid communication with the second outlet port and disposed within the first outlet tube;
• whereby the concentration of the use solution is related to the respective flow rates through the first and second outlet ports;
• and
• (4) foam reducing means, coupled to the second outlet tube, for decreasing the kinetic energy of the diluent from the second outlet port prior to diluting the liquid concentrate, the foam reducing means including a plurality of flexible members disposed at the end of the second outlet tube and defined by longitudinal slits formed in the end of the second outlet tube;
• and
• (b) a controller, coupled to the first and second dispensers, the controller including selecting means for selecting one of the dispensers according to a preset regimen, and dispensing means for dispensing the use solution from the selected dispenser.

A method of dispensing a use solution, the method comprising the steps of:

• (a) providing a dispensing system including first and second dispensers for respectively dispensing first and second use solutions;
• an operator activated switch for receiving an operator request to activate the dispensing system to dispense a use solution;
• and a controller, coupled to the operator activated switch and the first and second dispensers, and storing a preset regimen;
• (b) detecting activation of the operator activated switch by an operator, with the controller;
• (c) automatically selecting one of the dispensers according to the preset regimen, with the controller, wherein the operator does not select one of the dispensers when making the operator request;
• and
• (d) dispensing the use solution from the selected dispenser in response to activation of the operator activated switch.