SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING SANITARY TOWELS FOR RESTAURANTS AND BARS

Abstract

An automated system and method for providing sanitary towels in restaurants and bars includes a tank assembly, a perforated drum assembly, a drive motor and drive gear assembly, a sanitizer solution source, a water source, a heating unit, one or more solenoid valves capable of governing the introduction and release of water and sanitizer solution into and from the tank assembly, one or more sensors capable of measuring solution temperature and sanitizer concentration, and a controller unit having at least one processor and memory. A method of use involves the programmable steps of filling the tank assembly, measuring the concentration of sanitizer, adjusting the concentration of sanitizer, measuring the temperature of the water and sanitizer solution, adjusting the temperature, agitating towels, and draining the water and sanitizer solution after a preferred amount of time.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present utility patent application claims priority benefit of the U.S. provisional application for patent Ser. No. 63/051,577 titled “Automated System and Method for Providing Sanitary Towels for restaurants and bars” filed on Jul. 14, 2020 under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e). The contents of this related provisional application are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes to the extent that such subject matter is not inconsistent herewith or limiting hereof.

RELATED CO-PENDING U.S. PATENT APPLICATIONS

Not applicable.

FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not applicable.

REFERENCE TO SEQUENCE LISTING, A TABLE, OR A COMPUTER LISTING APPENDIX

Not applicable.

COPYRIGHT NOTICE

A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material that is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or patent disclosure as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office, patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The invention relates generally to providing sanitized cleaning towels. More specifically, the invention relates to an automated system and method for providing sanitary towels for hospitality services, namely food and beverage establishments.

2. Description of the Related Art

In virtually every jurisdiction in the United States, restaurants and bars are required to abide by basic cleanliness and hygiene standards. Public health standards from the federal level down to the local level require not just clean, but sanitary food preparation and food service surfaces and utensils.

The United States and the rest of the world now have an increased awareness of infectious disease. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, improved sanitizing devices and techniques are not only desired, they have become a necessary element in both living and work spaces.

Germicidal techniques including the use of various types of chemical sanitizers have been developed to combat the contamination of surfaces, and are well known in the art. Numerous methods inventions have been created and implemented to clean and sanitize surfaces for food preparation and dining.

Restaurants and bars are generally required to have a bucket of sanitizing solution for towels to be sanitized before being used to wipe down surfaces. Many institutions utilize sanitizer solution buckets at every food prep area. Towels and/or wipe cloths that are used throughout food preparation, cooking and serving processes are required to be stored in a sanitizer solution to prevent harborage of microorganisms. In restaurants and bars, a bucket filled with a sanitizer solution is the preferred method of sanitizing surfaces for food and beverage preparation as well as for sanitizing surfaces for food and beverage consumption.

A typical sanitizer solution bucket contains an aqueous solution having a recommended concentration of a chemical sanitizer, usually chlorine bleach or quaternary ammonium chloride compounds commonly known as Quat. These two types of chemical sanitizers are approved by virtually every public health agency in the United States and beyond to reduce the number of microorganisms to safe limits on eating and drinking utensils as well as surfaces.

Maintaining a sanitizer bucket in restaurants requires diligence and time. In many jurisdictions, employees must change out the sanitizing solution every two hours. In other jurisdictions, the sanitizer solution must be kept at an optimal concentration. In many instances, employees do not have the time available to maintain the sanitizer bucket. Likewise, employers do not have the financial wherewithal to operate a payroll and maintain a sanitizer bucket system.

Presently, there exists a need for an improved, low maintenance, automated system and method for providing sanitary towels for restaurants and bars. Such a system must be able to easily replace current sanitizer buckets. Additionally, such as system must be able to insure that sanitizer solution maintains a sanitizer concentration optimized to current health and safety standards. Furthermore, such a system should reduce towel cleaning and sanitizing times and costs.

SUMMARY

The present invention is directed to an improved automated system and method for providing sanitary towels for restaurants and bars. Such a system and method overcomes the limitations which currently exist in traditional sanitizer bucket systems.

At its essence, the present invention is directed to an automated system for providing sanitary towels in a sanitizer solution which includes a corrosion resistant, waterproof tank assembly, a corrosion resistant rotatable perforated drum assembly, a drive motor and drive gear assembly, said drive gear assembly movably connecting the said drive motor to the said corrosion resistant rotatable perforated drum assembly, a sanitizer solution source; a water source; a heating unit, one or more solenoid valves capable of governing the introduction and release of water from the said water source and sanitizer solution from the said sanitizer source into the said corrosion resistant, waterproof tank assembly, one or more sensors capable of measuring solution temperature, one or more sensors capable of measuring solution sanitizer concentration, and a controller unit having at least one processor and memory.

The controller unit includes at least one processor and memory to cause the system to perform the functions of powering up and starting the system, filling the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly with a measured amount of water by way of opening one or more solenoid valves, measuring the concentration of sanitizer in the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly, adjusting the concentration of sanitizer in the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly, measuring the temperature of the water and sanitizer solution in the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly, adjusting the temperature of the water and sanitizer solution in the corrosion resistant tank assembly, agitating towels in the inner cavity of the corrosion resistant rotatable perforated drum assembly, draining the water and sanitizer solution from the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly, and repeating the process at regular intervals so as to provide sanitary towels in a restaurant or bar setting. A user can program the controller to adjust metrics such as the concentration of sanitizer in the solution, adjust the temperature of the solution, and the time when the sanitizer solution in the corrosion resistant, waterproof tank assembly should be changed.

One object of the present invention is to provide an automated system and method for providing sanitary towels for restaurants and bars that fits in the same space as current sanitizer buckets are kept and maintained. The system is designed to fit in the same space that sanitizer buckets are currently located and may exist as a permanent fixture or as a moveable and portable implementation. All a restauranteur or innkeeper need do is clamp the system in place, plug it in, place the system's drain hose in existing drain sinks, connect a sanitizer hose attachment, adjust the system's timing cycle and start.

A further object of the present invention is to reduce the need for having towels cleaned by a professional linen provider. Because the system and method for providing sanitary towels for restaurants and bars agitates towels in a rotating drum in a solution which has the side effect of bleaching towels, the need for having towels cleaned by a third party is substantially reduced.

Another object of the present invention is to streamline the process of providing sanitary towels for restaurants and bars. Employees of restaurants and bars should be able to devote more of their time to customers and providing quality food and beverage services. Every minute not spent replacing sanitizing solution is a minute better used in other areas of the bar or restaurant.

Another object of the invention is to provide and train employees with improved sanitary techniques for restaurants and bars by providing an easy to use and low-maintenance system and method for providing sanitary towels for restaurants and bars. Through the use of the system and method for providing sanitary towels for restaurants and bars, employees will become more knowledgeable of sanitary methods and techniques and provide customers a better drinking and dining experience.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention directed by way of example, and not by way of limitation, in the figures of the accompanying drawings and in which like reference numerals refer to similar elements and in which:

FIG. 1 is an isometric view of the system for providing sanitary towels for restaurants and bars in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 2 is a cross sectional view of the system for providing sanitary towels for restaurants and bars in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 3 illustrates a basic diagram view of a system for providing sanitary towels for restaurants and bars in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a typical computer system that, when appropriately configured or designed, may serve as a computer system for which the controller unit of the system for providing sanitary towels for restaurants and bars, and the components thereof, may be embodied; and

FIG. 5 is a flow diagram of a method for providing sanitary towels for restaurants and bars in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

Unless otherwise indicated illustrations in the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Terminology used herein is used for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. It must be understood that as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include the plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example, a reference to “an element” is a reference to one or more elements and includes all equivalents known to those skilled in the art. All conjunctions used are to be understood in the most inclusive sense possible. Thus, the word “or” should be understood as having the definition of a logical “or” rather than that of a logical “exclusive or” unless the context clearly necessitates otherwise. Language that may be construed to express approximation should be so understood unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meanings as commonly understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. Preferred methods, techniques, devices, and materials are described. But any methods, techniques, devices, or materials similar or equivalent to those described herein may be used in the practice or testing of the present invention. Structures described herein should also be understood to refer to functional equivalents of such structures.

References to “one embodiment,” “one variant,” “an embodiment,” “a variant,” “various embodiments,” “numerous variants,” etc., may indicate that the embodiment(s) of the invention so described may include particular features, structures, or characteristics. However, not every embodiment or variant necessarily includes the particular features, structures, or characteristics. Further, repeated use of the phrase “in one embodiment,” or “in an exemplary embodiment,” or “a variant,” or “another variant,” do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment although they may. A description of an embodiment with several components in communication with each other does not imply that all such components are required. On the contrary, a variety of optional components are described to illustrate the wide variety of possible embodiments and/or variants of the present invention.

“Sanitizer” refers to a substance or preparation for killing or reducing levels of pathogenic microorganisms, designed for use especially on food-processing equipment. In a restaurant or bar setting, sanitizers are used on surfaces and items to prevent foodborne illness.

A “computer” may refer to one or more apparatus and/or one or more systems that are capable of accepting a structured input, processing the structured input according to prescribed rules, and producing results of the processing as output. Examples of a computer may include: a personal computer (PC); a stationary and/or portable computer; a computer having a single processor, a computer having multiple processors, or a computer having multi-core processors, which may operate in parallel and/or not in parallel; a general purpose computer; a supercomputer; a mainframe; a super mini-computer; a mini-computer; a workstation; a micro-computer; a server; a client; an interactive television; a web appliance; a telecommunications device with internet access; a hybrid combination of a computer and an interactive television; a portable computer; a tablet personal computer; a personal digital assistant (PDA); a portable telephone; a portable smartphone; wearable devices such as smartwatches; application-specific hardware to emulate a computer and/or software, such as, for example, a digital signal processor (DSP), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), an application specific instruction-set processor (ASIP), a chip, chips, a system on a chip, or a chip set; a data acquisition device; an optical computer; a quantum computer; a biological computer; and generally, an apparatus that may accept data, process data according to one or more stored software programs, generate results, and typically include input, output, storage, arithmetic, logic, and control units.

The term “processor” may refer to any device or portion of a device that processes electronic data from registers and/or memory to transform that electronic data into other electronic data that may be stored in registers and/or memory. A “computing platform” may comprise one or more processors.

A “microcontroller” generally refers a small computer on a single integrated circuit. A microcontroller contains one or more central processing units (processor cores) along with memory and programmable input/output peripherals. A typical microcontroller includes a processor, memory and input/output (I/O) peripherals on a single chip.

An “algorithm” is here, and generally, considered to be a self-consistent sequence of acts or operations leading to a desired result. These include physical manipulations of physical quantities. Usually, though not necessarily, these quantities take the form of electrical or magnetic signals capable of being stored, transferred, combined, compared, and otherwise manipulated. It has proven convenient at times, principally for reasons of common usage, to refer to these signals as bits, values, elements, symbols, characters, terms, numbers or the like. It should be understood, however, that all of these and similar terms are to be associated with the appropriate physical quantities and are merely convenient labels applied to these quantities.

It will be readily understood by persons skilled in the art that the various methods and algorithms described herein may be implemented by appropriately programmed computers and computing devices. Typically, a processor (e.g., a microprocessor) will receive instructions from a memory or like device, and execute those instructions, thereby performing a process defined by those instructions. Further, programs that implement such methods and algorithms may be stored and transmitted using a variety of known media.

“Software” may refer to prescribed rules and/or instructions used to operate a computer. Examples of software may include: code segments in one or more computer-readable languages; graphical and or/textual instructions; applets; pre-compiled code; interpreted code; compiled code; and computer programs. An operating system or “OS” is software that manages computer hardware and software resources and provides common services for computer programs.

Certain embodiments described herein can be implemented in an operating environment comprising computer-executable instructions (e.g., software) installed on a computer, in hardware, or in a combination of software and hardware. The computer-executable instructions can be written in a computer programming language or can be embodied in firmware logic. If written in a programming language conforming to a recognized standard, such instructions can be executed on a variety of hardware platforms and for interfaces to a variety of operating systems. Although not limited thereto, computer software program code for carrying out operations for aspects of the present invention can be written in any combination of one or more suitable programming languages, including an object oriented programming languages and/or conventional procedural programming languages, and/or programming languages or other compilers, assemblers, interpreters or other computer languages or platforms.

A “computer system” may refer to a system having one or more computers, where each computer may include a computer-readable medium employing software to operate the computer or one or more of its components. Examples of a computer system may include: a distributed computer system for processing information via computer systems linked by a network; two or more computer systems connected together via a network for transmitting and/or receiving information between the computer systems; a computer system including two or more processors within a single computer; and one or more apparatuses and/or one or more systems that may accept data, may process data in accordance with one or more stored software programs, may generate results, and typically may include input, output, storage, arithmetic, logic, and control units.

A “network” may refer to a plurality of computers and associated devices that may be connected by communication channels to facilitate communication and resource sharing. A network may involve permanent connections such as cables or temporary connections such as those made through telephone, cable, wireless or other communication links. A network may further include hard-wired connections (e.g., coaxial cable, twisted pair, optical fiber, waveguides, etc.) and/or wireless connections (e.g., radio frequency waveforms, free-space optical waveforms, acoustic waveforms, etc.). Examples of a network may include, but are not limited to, an internet, such as the Internet or World Wide Web; an intranet; a personal area network (PAN); near field communication (NFC); a local area network (LAN); a wide area network (WAN); a virtual private network (VPN); internet of things (IoT); and a combination of networks, such as an internet and an intranet.

Aspects of the exemplary system and method for providing sanitary towels for restaurants and bars will be described below with reference to flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams of methods, steps, apparatus (systems) and computer program products according to embodiments of the invention. Persons skilled in the art will understand that each block of the flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions may be provided to a processor of a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, microcontroller, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, create means for implementing the functions/acts specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks.

The flowchart and block diagrams in the figures illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods, and computer program products according to various embodiments of the exemplary system for providing sanitary towels for restaurants and bars. It will become readily apparent to persons skilled in the art that each block in the flowchart or block diagrams may represent a module, segment, or portion of code, which comprises one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logical function(s). It will also be readily apparent to persons skilled in the art that in some alternative implementations, the functions noted in the block may occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example, two blocks shown in succession may, in fact, be executed substantially concurrently, or the blocks may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality involved. Although process steps, method steps, algorithms or the like may be described in a sequential order, such processes, methods and algorithms may be configured to work in alternate orders. In other words, any sequence or order of steps that may be described does not necessarily indicate a requirement that the steps be performed in that order. The steps of processes described herein may be performed in any practical order.

It will also be understood by persons skilled in the art that each block of the block diagrams and/or flowchart illustration, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and/or flowchart illustration, can be implemented by special purpose hardware-based systems that perform the specified functions or acts, or combinations of special purpose hardware and computer instructions. These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer readable medium that can direct a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other devices to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer readable medium produce an article of manufacture including instructions which implement the function/act specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks.

It will be readily understood by persons skilled in the art that the various methods and algorithms described herein may be implemented by appropriately programmed computers and computing devices. Typically, a processor (e.g., a microprocessor) will receive instructions from a memory or like device, and execute those instructions, thereby performing a process defined by those instructions. Further, programs that implement such methods and algorithms may be stored and transmitted using a variety of known media.

As is well known to those skilled in the art, many careful considerations and compromises typically must be made when designing the optimal manufacture or commercial implementation of such an automated system and method for providing sanitary towels for restaurants and bars. A commercial implementation in accordance with the spirit and teachings of the invention may be configured according to the needs of the particular application, whereby any aspect(s), feature(s), function(s), result(s), component(s), approach(es), or step(s) of the teachings related to any described embodiment of the present invention may be suitably omitted, included, adapted, mixed and matched, or improved and/or optimized by those skilled in the art.

The exemplary automated system and method for providing sanitary towels for restaurants and bars will now be described in detail with reference to embodiments thereof as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Unless otherwise indicated illustrations in the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale.

FIG. 1 is an isometric view of the system for providing sanitary towels for restaurants and bars in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In this view, the system for providing sanitary towels for restaurants and bars 100 comprises a corrosion resistant, waterproof tank assembly 102, a corrosion resistant rotatable perforated drum assembly 104, a controller unit 106, a lid or cover assembly 108, and a base or mounting assembly 110. In this view, the system for providing sanitary towels for restaurants and bars is cuboid shaped. However, persons having skill in the art will appreciate that any outward shape is achievable. By way of example, and not limitation, an outer cabinet can be fashioned from materials and methods known and appreciated in the art. Waterproofing can be achieved through welds, plastics, adhesives, sealants and other means and mechanisms known and understood by persons skilled in the art.

The system includes a corrosion resistant rotatable perforated drum assembly 104 positioned inside the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly 102. Such a rotatable perforated drum includes perforations for a water and sanitizer mixture to interact with towels which are placed inside the inner cavity of the rotatable perforated drum assembly 104. Additionally, the perforations allow for particulate matter to settle out of solution at the base of the corrosion resistant, waterproof tank assembly 102. Moreover, the perforations allow for the water and sanitizer mixture to drain away from towels inserted into the inner cavity of the rotatable perforated drum assembly 102.

FIG. 2 is a cross sectional view of the system for providing sanitary towels for restaurants and bars in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In this view, the system for providing sanitary towels for restaurants and bars 100 comprises a corrosion resistant, waterproof tank assembly 102, a corrosion resistant rotatable perforated drum assembly 104, a base or mounting assembly 106, a drive motor 202, and a drive gear assembly 204 which connects the drive motor to the corrosion resistant rotatable perforated drum assembly. Persons skilled in the art will appreciate that numerous electric motor and drive gear assemblies can be employed to produce desired results. Moreover, persons skilled in the art will understand that numerous techniques and materials can be used to configure an electric drive motor 202 and drive gear assembly 204 to a corrosion resistant, waterproof tank assembly 102 and a corrosion resistant rotatable drum assembly 104. The corrosion resistant rotatable perforated drum assembly is driven by the drive motor in such a manner so as to thoroughly mix and agitate towels in a sanitizing solution. By way of example, and not limitation, the drive motor 202 can rotate the corrosion resistant rotatable perforated drum assembly ninety degrees clockwise and then ninety degrees counterclockwise. Persons skilled in the art will appreciate that a controller unit 106 can be programmed to operate the drive motor at a desired speed and in desired directions depending on need. The object is to employ the electric motor to turn the corrosion resistant perforated rotatable drum in such a manner which allows for optimal cleaning and sanitizer distribution in the fibers of each towel.

As a reservoir for a sanitizing solution mixture, the corrosion resistant, waterproof tank assembly 102 can be made from a number of corrosion resistant materials such as, but not limited to, stainless steel or an impact resistant plastic. Other materials can consist of ceramic or plastic coated metals, other plastics, and various other waterproof and corrosion resistant materials known and appreciated in the art. In the one embodiment of the invention, the volume of the corrosion resistant, waterproof tank assembly 102 is ten gallons. In other embodiments, the volume may be increased or decreased depending on need. The corrosion resistant, waterproof tank assembly 102 is designed to be mounted to a flat surface such as a floor or a shelf or a wall.

As it will be immersed in a sanitizing solution mixture, the sanitizing mixture likely containing one or more corrosive or electronegative substances such as chlorine, the corrosion resistant rotatable perforated drum assembly 104 is also made from a number of corrosion resistant materials such as, but not limited to, impact resistant plastics such as, but not limited to high density polyethylene (HDPE). In one embodiment, the corrosion resistant rotatable perforated drum assembly 104 is made from stainless steel. Other materials consist of coated metals and/or metal alloys, other plastics and various other waterproof and corrosion resistant materials known and appreciated in the art. The corrosion resistant rotatable perforated drum assembly 104 includes a plurality of apertures to allow free flow of sanitizing solution between the outer and corrosion resistant rotatable perforated drum assembly 104 while keeping towels inside the corrosion resistant rotatable perforated drum assembly 104. The perforations further serve the purpose of allowing particulate matter to precipitate out of solution and settle at the base of the corrosion resistant, waterproof tank assembly 102. In embodiments of the invention, the corrosion resistant rotatable perforated drum assembly 104 may include numerous agitating means such as paddles 212 or a center mounted auger to allow for deeper cleaning and faster absorption of sanitizing solution by newly introduced towels. Such paddles or augers can be made from a pliable material so as to minimize splashing as well as to lessen the potential for injury.

In embodiments of the invention, a sensor assembly 208 can be mounted inside the corrosion resistant, waterproof tank assembly 102. By way of example, and not limitation, such a sensor assembly 208 can include one or more sensors capable of measuring the volume of solution inside the corrosion resistant, waterproof tank assembly 102. The sensor assembly 208 can also one or more sensors capable of measuring solution temperature. The sensor assembly 208 can further include one or more sensors capable of measuring solution sanitizer concentration. The sensor assembly 208 can further include one or more sensors capable of measuring solution pH. Additionally, the sensor assembly 208 can include one or more sensors capable of measuring solution hardness. Persons having skill in the art will appreciate that such a sensor array can be made to assume numerous configurations and conformations. Persons having skill in the art will further appreciate that numerous types of sensors from different manufacturers can be used. Of critical importance, each sensor must be able to function in a corrosive environment. Each sensor can be connected to the controller unit 106 where the controller unit can adjust metrics such as temperature and sanitizer concentration by sending signals to the system components.

In one embodiment of the invention, the system 100 is automatically filled with a water/sanitizing solution mixture. For example, and not by limitation, an inlet solenoid valve 206 may be placed on one side of the corrosion resistant, waterproof tank assembly 102. An outlet solenoid valve 206 may be placed at the bottom end of the corrosion resistant, waterproof tank assembly 102. Persons having skill in the art will readily appreciate that such valves may be opened and shut through electromagnetic solenoids or actuator motors known and appreciated in the art. Solenoid valves can regulate the amount of fluid which passes through them and are available for varying purposes. A controller unit 106 is used to govern the opening and closing of such valves, the opening and closing being timed or manually operated. Persons skilled in the art will readily appreciate that solenoid valves 206 may be used in more than one location and may be used to govern the sanitizer concentration. In one embodiment of the invention, the valves 206 are opened and closed by a solenoid mechanism which is controlled by the controller unit 106.

The water and sanitizer solution temperature inside the corrosion resistant, waterproof tank assembly 102 is governed by a heating element 210 which is configured to the controller unit 106. Persons having skill in the art will understand that there are numerous heating elements available in the art. Of primary importance is the heating element's ability to function in an environment containing corrosive or oxidative chemicals such as chlorine and chlorine-based sanitizers. A user, through the controller unit 106, can program the heating element 210 to achieve the desired temperature of the water and sanitizer solution.

FIG. 3 illustrates a diagram view of a system for providing sanitary towels for restaurants and bars in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In this view, the system for providing sanitary towels for restaurants and bars 100 is connected to a sanitizer reservoir 302 where a sanitizer line 304 connects to a water line 306 at a mixing junction or manifold 310 where various means ranging from a simple pipe junction to a mixing chamber may be used to mix the water/sanitizer solution and regulate the concentrations thereof before it is introduced into the corrosion resistant, waterproof tank assembly 102. In one embodiment of the invention, the sanitizer line proceeds directly to the corrosion resistant, waterproof tank assembly 102 where sanitizer and water are mixed inside the corrosion resistant, waterproof tank assembly 102. Persons having skill in the art will understand that numerous ways of mixing water with a sanitizing solution are available and may be implemented into the present invention.

In one embodiment of the invention, the water source 306 is a typically plumbed water source which couples with the corrosion resistant, waterproof tank assembly 102 at a junction where local water can enter under its own pressure. A water inlet 312 located at the upper end of the corrosion resistant, waterproof tank assembly can be coupled with a solenoid valve or a float valve or any other means for governing the water level inside the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly. In one embodiment of the invention, a solenoid valve 206 is used to introduce water with an electronic sensor capable of determining the water level is connected to the controller unit 106. In such a configuration, the water level can be automatically governed by the controller unit 106.

In one embodiment of the invention, a dosing pump 308 is used to introduce measured amounts of sanitizer into the system. The dosing pump 308 draws a measured amount of sanitizer solution into a chamber and injects the sanitizer into the corrosion resistant, waterproof tank or water line 306 or pipe which contains the water which will ultimately become sanitizer solution. Persons skilled in the art will appreciate that such dosing pumps are powered by either an electric motor or an air actuator. Such dosing pumps and have a controller that turns the pump on and off and manages the flow rate. In embodiments of the invention, a dosing pump 308 can be configured to the controller unit 106 of the invention to introduce measured amounts of sanitizer into the corrosion resistant, waterproof tank assembly.

The sanitizing solution can be drained from the corrosion resistant, waterproof tank assembly 102 through a drain line 312 into a drain 316. In one embodiment of the invention, a solenoid valve 206 is used to drain water and sanitizer solution. Such a solenoid valve is connected to the controller unit 106. An electromechanical pump can be used to facilitate drainage. In other embodiments of the invention, the drain line 312 can be positioned in such a way that gravity and atmospheric pressure will allow for drainage.

Because many jurisdictions require that sanitizer buckets not be in direct contact with the floor or ground, the corrosion resistant, waterproof tank assembly 102 may be mounted to another surface such as a shelf or dishwasher assembly. Such a mounting means 110 may include four legs and involve simply placing the corrosion resistant, waterproof tank assembly 102 on a flat surface. In other embodiments of the invention, the mounting means 110 may include a mounting bracket or other attachment means known and appreciated in the art.

The automated system and method for providing sanitary towels for restaurants and bars may be implemented as a permanent fixture, as a retrofit kit for commercial dishwasher systems, or as a portable unit which may be set up in places where existing sanitizer buckets are used. The system and method for providing sanitary towels for restaurants and bars may be configured to obtain water and sanitizing solution from currently existing commercial dishwasher systems. In other embodiments, the system and method may configure with a conventional water spigot and a drain. In one embodiment of the invention a sanitizing solution line is coupled to the sanitizing solution used in commercial dishwashers. In some embodiments, both water and the sanitizing solution may be either pumped in or aspirated in using ordinary water pressure. Persons skilled in the art will readily appreciate that numerous means are available for performing such a function.

A controller unit 106 can be implemented to govern every component of the system for providing sanitary towels for restaurants and bars. At its most basic, a controller could simply include a series of on-off switches to power each component. However, in the preferred embodiment, a controller unit may consist of a computer implemented means which controls a plurality of basic electronic circuits which, in turn, governs each component. In embodiments of the invention, the controller unit 106 can be networked into a restaurant's security and/or surveillance system, a computer system and/or an intra- or internet system. Persons having skill in the art will further appreciate that such a system and method can be implemented with other “smart” technologies such as utilities and telecommunication networks. An interface 318 such as a LCD display, a LCD touchscreen or dial or other functional equivalent can be configured to the controller unit 106. In larger restaurants and/or bars, multiple systems may be employed and networked together. In other embodiments, the controller unit may be programmed manually or may operate on pre-installed software or firmware.

The controller unit can include a display unit The controller unit 106 may include a plurality of various selectors that enable a user to interact with the controller unit 106 and thereby enter input related to the operation of the system for providing sanitary towels. By way of example, and not limitation, the controller unit 106 may include a power selector 320 to turn the system 100 on or off, a button temperature selector 322 for choosing a desired temperature to be used when a user interacts with the controller unit 106, a programming selector 324 for setting user-defined operation cycles, and a sanitizer concentration selector for setting recommended sanitizer concentration levels. Other examples of selectors 326 include a start/stop selector to initiate, pause, and/or resume an operation cycle and a stop selector or to terminate or pause an operation cycle.

In the preferred embodiment of the invention, a 110 volt power source is used. However, other power sources may be configured to operate the system depending on location and power availability. The components are 24 volt components known and appreciated in the art. The electric components can be governed through a controller unit 106. Persons having skill in the art will appreciate that numerous means and methods can be employed to implement such a system.

FIG. 4 illustrates a typical computer system that, when appropriately configured or designed, may serve as a computer system for which the controller unit 106 of the system for providing sanitary towels for restaurants and bars, and the components thereof, may be embodied. The computer system 400 includes at least one processor 402 (also referred to as central processing units, or CPUs) that may be coupled to storage devices including a primary storage 406 (typically a random-access memory, or RAM), a primary storage 404 (typically a read-only memory, or ROM). CPU 402 may be of various types including micro-controllers (e.g., with embedded RAM/ROM) and microprocessors such as programmable devices (e.g., RISC or SISC based, or CPLDs and FPGAs) and devices not capable of being programmed such as gate array ASICs (Application Specific Integrated Circuits) or general purpose microprocessors. As is well known in the art, primary storage 404 acts to transfer data and instructions uni-directionally or bi-directionally to the CPU and primary storage 406 typically may be used to transfer data and instructions in a bi-directional manner. The primary storage devices discussed previously may include any suitable computer-readable media known and appreciated in the art. A mass storage device 408 may also be coupled bi-directionally to CPU 402 and provides additional data storage capacity and may include any of the computer-readable media described above. Mass storage device 408 may be used to store programs, data and the like and typically may be used as a secondary storage medium such as a hard disk. It will be appreciated that the information retained within mass storage device 408, may, in appropriate cases, be incorporated in standard fashion as part of primary storage 406 as virtual memory.

The CPU is coupled to the various components 410 of the invention such as the sensor array, the solenoid valves, the heating unit, the drive motor and drive gear assembly, the switches and buttons. The CPU 402 may also be coupled to an interface 412 that connects to one or more input/output devices such as buttons, track balls, mice, keyboards, microphones, touch-sensitive displays, transducer card readers, magnetic or paper tape readers, tablets, styluses, voice or handwriting recognizers, or other well-known input devices such as, of course, other computers. Finally, CPU 402 optionally may be coupled to an external device such as a database or a computer or telecommunications or internet network using an external connection shown generally as a network 414, which may be implemented as a hardwired or wireless communications link using suitable conventional technologies. With such a connection, the CPU might receive information from the network, or might output information to the network in the course of performing the method steps described in the teachings of the present invention.

It will be understood by persons having skill in the art that memory storing computer readable instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the system for providing sanitary towels for restaurants and bars, by at least one processor, to perform the steps of powering up and starting the system, filling the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly with a measured amount of water by way of opening one or more solenoid valves, measuring the concentration of sanitizer in the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly, adjusting the concentration of sanitizer in the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly, measuring the temperature of the water and sanitizer solution in the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly, adjusting the temperature of the water and sanitizer solution in the corrosion resistant tank assembly, agitating towels in the inner cavity of the corrosion resistant rotatable perforated drum assembly, draining the water and sanitizer solution from the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly, and repeating the process at regular intervals so as to provide sanitary towels in a restaurant or bar setting. A user can program the controller to adjust metrics such as the concentration of sanitizer in the solution, adjust the temperature of the solution, and the time when the sanitizer solution in the corrosion resistant, waterproof tank assembly should be changed.

The invention can be further implemented as machine readable instructions detailing a method for operating a system for providing sanitary towels for restaurants and bars wherein the controller unit 106 controls functions such as, but not limited to, powering up and starting the system; filling the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly with a measured amount of water by way of opening one or more solenoid valves; introducing a measured amount of sanitizer solution into the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly by opening one or more solenoid valves; measuring concentration sanitizer in the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly with measured amount of water and sanitizer solution; adjusting the concentration of sanitizer in the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly with measured amount of water and sanitizer solution to required levels; measuring temperature of water and sanitizer solution in the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly; adjusting the temperature of water and sanitizer solution in the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly; draining the water and sanitizer solution from the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly. Further memory instructions such as a general method and workflow model shall be described in further detail.

FIG. 5 is a flow diagram of a method for providing sanitary towels for restaurants and bars in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The steps of such a flow diagram may be readily implemented through the use of a networked or non-networked controller unit 106 using a microprocessor or microcontroller means. A user can program metrics of the system's timing cycle through the controller unit. Such metrics include, but are not limited to, sanitizer concentration, solution temperature, motor speed, and fill and drain interval times.

The system is first powered up and the method of providing sanitary towels for restaurants and bars starts 502. For example, and not by way of limitation, the unit may be powered up upon a trigger by a motion sensor or video camera by a manager or employee entering the building. In embodiments of the invention, the system can be manually started by pressing a button or switch on the controller unit 106.

The system will then autofill the corrosion resistant, waterproof tank assembly with a measured amount of water 504. When activated, the controller unit will open one or more solenoid valves, or other suitable equivalent of a solenoid valve, which will allow water to enter the corrosion resistant, waterproof tank assembly. The water level can be governed by numerous means known and appreciated in the art. By way of example, a float valve could be used to keep a solution at a constant level. In other embodiments of the invention, the water can be measured by way of a sensor or flow meter. In one embodiment of the invention, the preferred amount of water and sanitizer mixture can measure anywhere between two and ten gallons depending on user requirements.

When the required amount of water is introduced into the corrosion resistant, waterproof tank assembly, a quantity of sanitizer mixture 506 is added or introduced to create a water and sanitizer solution. In one embodiment of the invention, the mixing of water and sanitizer solution is performed in a manifold outside of the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly. In other embodiments, the mixing of water and sanitizer solution is performed inside the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly. One or more sensors capable of measuring solution sanitizer concentration measures the concentration 508 of sanitizer in the water and sanitizer solution. The controller unit, through use of a dosing pump, can introduce measured amounts of sanitizer into the water and sanitizer solution until the concentration of sanitizer is at a desired level.

The system will then adjust the temperature of the water and sanitizer solution inside the corrosion resistant, waterproof tank assembly 102. A user can set the temperature 510 by programming the control unit. A sensor in the sensor array will measure the temperature. If the temperature is less than the desired temperature, the controller unit with activate the heating unit to raise the temperature. When the sensor detects the correct temperature 512, the controller unit will then turn off the heating unit.

Once the proper sanitizer concentration levels and proper temperatures have been achieved, a user may then add towels 514 to the corrosion resistant rotatable perforated drum assembly 104 of the corrosion resistant, waterproof tank assembly 102 506. Users can add towels at any time in the cycle. However, a minimum time in the system is recommended in order to insure the towels are sanitized before use. After the corrosion resistant, waterproof tank assembly 102 is filled with sanitizer solution and towels are inserted, the system begins to spin or move the corrosion resistant rotatable perforated drum assembly 516 thereby agitating and thoroughly sanitizing the towels. This agitation or spin cycle may be performed at timed intervals depending on need. The controller unit can allow for numerous user programs. After a given amount of time, the solution must be changed—in one instance two hours 518. The controller unit drains the corrosion resistant, waterproof tank assembly 520 by opening a solenoid valve and allowing the solution to drain. Draining can be achieved by a pump or by simple gravity and atmospheric pressure. The corrosion resistant rotatable perforated drum assembly can be programmed to spin or to remain stationary while the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly is drained. If the restaurant or bar is still open and use of the system is still required, the system can be refilled and reused 522. If not, then the drained system can be shut down 324. Persons having skill in the art will readily appreciate that these steps may be implemented through numerous means and methods. Persons having skill in the art will readily appreciate that other steps may be incorporated into such a method to facilitate or improve the method.

Having fully described at least one embodiment of the automated system and method for providing sanitary towels for restaurants and bars, other equivalent or alternative methods of implementing such an automated automated system and method for providing sanitary towels for restaurants and bars according to the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Various aspects of the invention have been described above by way of illustration, and the specific embodiments disclosed are not intended to limit the invention to the particular forms disclosed. The particular implementation of the automated system and method for providing sanitary towels for restaurants and bars may vary depending upon the particular context or application. By way of example, and not limitation, the system and method for the automated system and method for providing sanitary towels for restaurants and bars described in the foregoing was principally directed to providing sanitary cleaning towels in a bar or restaurant setting. However, similar techniques may instead be applied to other instances where sanitary towels are required, which implementations of the present invention are contemplated as within the scope of the present invention. The invention is thus to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the following claims. It is to be further understood that not all of the disclosed embodiments in the foregoing specification will necessarily satisfy or achieve each of the objects, advantages, or improvements described in the foregoing specification.

All the features disclosed in this specification, including any accompanying abstract and drawings, may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is one example only of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.

Although specific features of the automated system and method for providing sanitary towels for restaurants and bars are shown in some drawings and not others, persons skilled in the art will understand that this is for convenience. Each feature may be combined with any or all of the other features in accordance with the invention. The words “including,” “comprising,” “having,” and “with” as used herein are to be interpreted broadly and comprehensively, and are not limited to any physical interconnection. Claim elements and flowchart steps herein may have been numbered and/or lettered solely as an aid in readability and understanding. Any such numbering and lettering in itself is not intended to and should not be taken to indicate the ordering of elements and/or steps in the claims to be added at a later date.

Any amendment presented during the prosecution of the application for this patent is not a disclaimer of any claim element presented in the description or claims to be filed. Persons skilled in the art cannot reasonably be expected to draft a claim that would literally encompass each and every equivalent.

Claims

1. A system for providing sanitary towels in a sanitizer solution comprising:

a. a corrosion resistant, waterproof tank assembly;

b. a corrosion resistant rotatable perforated drum assembly;

c. a drive motor and drive gear assembly, said drive gear assembly movably connecting the said drive motor to the said corrosion resistant rotatable perforated drum assembly;

d. a sanitizer solution source;

e. a water source;

f. a heating unit;

g. one or more solenoid valves capable of governing the introduction and release of water from the said water source and sanitizer solution from the said sanitizer source into the said corrosion resistant, waterproof tank assembly;

h. one or more sensors capable of measuring solution temperature;

i. one or more sensors capable of measuring solution sanitizer concentration; and

j. a controller unit having at least one processor and memory.

2. The system of claim 1 wherein an electromechanical pump is used to introduce water and sanitizer solution into the corrosion resistant, waterproof tank assembly.

3. The system of claim 1 wherein the sanitizer solution from the sanitizer solution source is mixed in a manifold with water from the water source and introduced into the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly.

4. The system of claim 1 wherein a sanitizer solution is created by mixing the sanitizer solution from the sanitizer solution source and water from the water source inside the corrosion resistant, waterproof tank assembly.

5. The system of claim 1 further comprising one or more sensors for measuring pH.

6. The system of claim 1 further comprising one or more sensors for measuring water hardness.

1. The system of claim 1 wherein the controller unit having at least one processor and memory, said memory storing computer readable instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the system for providing sanitary towels by at least one processor to perform the functions of

a. starting the system;

b. filling the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly with a measured amount of water by way of opening one or more solenoid valves;

c. introducing a measured amount of sanitizer solution into the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly by opening one or more solenoid valves;

d. measuring concentration of sanitizer in the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly with measured amount of water and sanitizer solution;

e. adjusting the concentration of sanitizer in the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly with measured amount of water and sanitizer solution to required levels;

f. measuring temperature of water and sanitizer solution in the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly;

g. adjusting the temperature of water and sanitizer solution in the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly;

h. agitating towels in the inner cavity of the corrosion resistant rotatable perforated drum positioned inside the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly by rotating the said corrosion resistant rotatable perforated drum positioned inside the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly;

i. draining the water and sanitizer solution from the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly.

8. The system of claim 1 wherein the controller unit having at least one processor and memory is connected to, and can be controlled from, a network including one or more computers.

9. A method for providing sanitary towels for restaurants and bars using a system for providing sanitary towels comprising a corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly, a corrosion resistant rotatable perforated drum assembly positioned inside the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly, a drive motor and drive gear assembly, said drive gear assembly movably connecting the said drive motor to the said corrosion resistant rotatable perforated drum assembly, a sanitizing solution source, a water source, one or more sensors capable of measuring solution temperature, one or more sensors capable of measuring solution sanitizer concentration, a drain, and a controller unit having at least one processor, memory and a display, the method comprising the steps of:

a. powering up and starting the system;

b. filling the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly with a measured amount of water;

c. introducing a measured amount of sanitizer solution into the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly;

d. measuring concentration of sanitizer in the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly with measured amount of water and sanitizer solution using the said one or more sensors capable of measuring solution sanitizer concentration;

e. adjusting the concentration of sanitizer in the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly with measured amount of water and sanitizer solution to required levels;

f. measuring temperature of water and sanitizer solution in the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly using the said one or more sensors capable of measuring solution temperature;

g. adjusting the temperature of water and sanitizer solution in the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly;

h. placing towels into the inner cavity of the corrosion resistant rotatable perforated drum positioned inside the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly;

i. draining the water and sanitizer solution from the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly after a specific amount of time.

10. The method of Claim further comprising the step of agitating towels in the inner cavity of the corrosion resistant rotatable perforated drum positioned inside the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly by rotating the said corrosion resistant rotatable perforated drum positioned inside the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly.

11. The method of Claim further comprising the step of repeating the method at required intervals.

12. A method for operating a system for providing sanitary towels for restaurants and bars using a system for providing sanitary towels comprising a corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly, a corrosion resistant rotatable perforated drum assembly positioned inside the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly, a drive motor and drive gear assembly, said drive gear assembly movably connecting the said drive motor to the said corrosion resistant rotatable perforated drum assembly, a sanitizing solution source, a water source, one or more sensors capable of measuring solution temperature, one or more solenoid valves capable of governing the introduction and release of water from the said water source and sanitizer solution from the said sanitizer source into the said corrosion resistant, waterproof tank assembly, one or more sensors capable of measuring solution sanitizer concentration a drain, and a controller unit having at least one processor and memory storing computer readable instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the system for providing sanitary towels by at least one processor to perform the steps of:

a. filling the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly with a measured amount of water;

b. introducing a measured amount of sanitizer solution into the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly;

c. measuring concentration of sanitizer in the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly with measured amount of water and sanitizer solution using one or more sensors capable of measuring solution sanitizer concentration;

d. adjusting the concentration of sanitizer in the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly with measured amount of water and sanitizer solution to required levels;

e. measuring temperature of water and sanitizer solution in the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly using one or more sensors capable of measuring solution temperature;

f. adjusting the temperature of water and sanitizer solution in the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly;

g. agitating towels in the inner cavity of the corrosion resistant rotatable perforated drum positioned inside the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly by rotating the said corrosion resistant rotatable perforated drum positioned inside the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly;

h. draining the water and sanitizer solution from the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly; and

i. repeating the aforementioned steps as programmed.

13. The method of claim 12 wherein an electromechanical pump in communication with the control unit is used to introduce water and sanitizer solution into the corrosion resistant, waterproof tank assembly.

14. The method of claim 12 wherein a sanitizer solution is created by mixing sanitizer from in a manifold with water from the water source and introduced into the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly.

15. The method of Claim further comprising the step of agitating towels in the inner cavity of the corrosion resistant rotatable perforated drum positioned inside the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly by rotating the said corrosion resistant rotatable perforated drum positioned inside the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly.

16. The method of Claim further comprising the step of displaying an alert message when the concentration of the sanitizer in the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly is outside required levels.

17. The method of Claim further comprising the step of displaying the concentration of sanitizer in the water and sanitizer solution in the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly on one or more displays on the controller unit or a computer that is networked to the said controller unit.

18. The method of Claim further comprising the step of displaying the temperature of the water and sanitizer solution in the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly on one or more displays on the controller unit or a computer that is networked to the said controller unit.

19. The method of Claim further comprising the step of displaying the pH of the water and sanitizer solution inside the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly using one or more sensors capable of measuring solution pH and displaying the pH on one or more displays on the controller unit or a computer that is networked to the said controller unit.

20. The method of claim further comprising the step of displaying the hardness of the water and sanitizer solution inside the corrosion resistant waterproof tank assembly using one or more sensors capable of measuring solution hardness and displaying the solution hardness value on one or more displays on the controller unit or a computer that is networked to the said controller unit.