U.S. patent application number 10/927184 was filed with the patent office on 2005-04-14 for fabric article treating device and system with anti-microbial agent.
Invention is credited to Bedell, Cynthia Maria, DuVal, Dean Larry, McNamara, Barry Patrick, Ofosu-Asante, Kofi, Potter, Jill Marisa, Reeb, Heidi Lyn, Trajano, Trace Wendell de Guzman, Ward, Thomas Edward.
Application Number | 20050076532 10/927184 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34831503 |
Filed Date | 2005-04-14 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050076532 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Ward, Thomas Edward ; et
al. |
April 14, 2005 |
Fabric article treating device and system with anti-microbial
agent
Abstract
A fabric article treating device includes an interior dispenser
adapted for location inside of a fabric article drying appliance
and a reservoir adapted to contain a benefit composition. The
interior dispenser and the reservoir are adapted for fluid
communication with one another. At least a portion of the reservoir
is formed of a material comprising anti-microbial agent.
Inventors: |
Ward, Thomas Edward;
(Oregonia, OH) ; McNamara, Barry Patrick;
(Fairfield, OH) ; Bedell, Cynthia Maria;
(Cincinnati, OH) ; Potter, Jill Marisa;
(Cincinnati, OH) ; Reeb, Heidi Lyn; (Cincinnati,
OH) ; Ofosu-Asante, Kofi; (Cincinnati, OH) ;
DuVal, Dean Larry; (Lebanon, OH) ; Trajano, Trace
Wendell de Guzman; (Mason, OH) |
Correspondence
Address: |
The Procter & Gamble Company
IP Division Central Docketing, WHBC - FC Box 161
6110 Center Hill Avenue
Cincinnati
OH
45224
US
|
Family ID: |
34831503 |
Appl. No.: |
10/927184 |
Filed: |
August 26, 2004 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10927184 |
Aug 26, 2004 |
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10842926 |
May 11, 2004 |
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10842926 |
May 11, 2004 |
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10839549 |
May 5, 2004 |
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10839549 |
May 5, 2004 |
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10762152 |
Jan 21, 2004 |
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10762152 |
Jan 21, 2004 |
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10697736 |
Oct 29, 2003 |
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10762152 |
Jan 21, 2004 |
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10697734 |
Oct 29, 2003 |
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10762152 |
Jan 21, 2004 |
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10697685 |
Oct 29, 2003 |
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10762152 |
Jan 21, 2004 |
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10697735 |
Oct 29, 2003 |
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10697735 |
Oct 29, 2003 |
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10418595 |
Apr 17, 2003 |
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60568771 |
May 6, 2004 |
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60374601 |
Apr 22, 2002 |
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60426438 |
Nov 14, 2002 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
34/597 |
Current CPC
Class: |
D06F 35/00 20130101;
D06F 58/203 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
034/597 |
International
Class: |
D06L 001/00 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A fabric article treating device, comprising: an interior
dispenser adapted for location inside of a fabric article drying
appliance; a reservoir; wherein the interior dispenser and the
reservoir are adapted for fluid communication with one another;
wherein the reservoir is adapted to contain a benefit composition;
and wherein at least a portion of the reservoir is formed of a
material comprising anti-microbial agent.
2. The fabric article treating device of claim 1, wherein the
portion includes an interior coating.
3. The fabric article treating device of claim 1, wherein the
portion comprises a closure.
4. The fabric article treating device of claim 1, wherein the
reservoir comprises a closure and the portion comprises a closure
liner.
5. The fabric article treating device of claim 1, wherein the
reservoir comprises a closure and the portion comprises a closure
coating.
6. The fabric article treating device of claim 1, wherein the
portion comprises a reservoir body.
7. The fabric article treating device of claim 1, wherein the
portion comprises an internal surface of the reservoir adapted to
serve as headspace during use of the fabric article treating
device.
8. The fabric article treating device of claim 2, wherein the
reservoir comprises a material impregnated with an antimicrobial
agent.
9. The fabric article treating device of claim 2, wherein the
reservoir comprises an antimicrobial coating.
10. The fabric article treating device of claim 1, wherein the
anti-microbial agent comprises one or more organic or inorganic
compounds, or a combination thereof.
11. The fabric article treating device of claim 10, wherein the
anti-microbial agent comprises iodine, silver, zinc or a
combination thereof.
12. The fabric article treating device of claim 1, wherein the
reservoir is adapted for location on an interior portion of the
fabric article drying appliance.
13. The fabric article treating device of claim 1, wherein the
reservoir is adapted for location on an exterior portion of the
fabric article drying appliance.
14. The fabric article treating device of claim 1, wherein the
portion is molded from a composition comprising thermoplastic
material.
15. The fabric article treating device of claim 14, wherein the
portion is molded from a composition comprising thermoplastic
material impregnated with the anti-microbial agent.
16. The fabric article treating device of claim 1, wherein the
reservoir is configured to be removable.
17. The fabric article treating device of claim 1, wherein the
benefit composition further comprises a preservative.
18. The fabric article treating device of claim 17, wherein the
preservative comprises one or more preservatives selected from the
group consisting of hydantoins, isothiazolinones, methyl
isothiazolinones, benzisothiazolinones, sodium
hydroxymethylglycinate, and carbamates, and combinations
thereof.
19. A fabric article treating system, comprising: a fabric article
drying appliance having a chamber and a closure structure, the
closure structure having a closed position and at least one open
position, the closure structure allowing access to the chamber; a
reservoir for containing a benefit composition; a dispenser in
communication with the chamber; and a fluid handling system that
transports the benefit composition from the reservoir toward the
dispenser, thereby dispensing the benefit composition into the
chamber; wherein at least a portion of the reservoir is formed of a
material comprising anti-microbial agent.
20. The fabric article treating system of claim 19, wherein the
reservoir is removable.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Application Ser. No. 60/568,771 entitled "Uniform Delivery of
Compositions", filed on May 6, 2004 and is a continuation-in-part
of U.S. Ser. No. 10/842,926 entitled "Fabric Article Treating
System and Method", filed on May 11, 2004; which is a
continuation-in-part of U.S. Ser. No. 10/839,549 entitled
"Processes and Apparatuses for Applying a Benefit Composition to
One or More Fabric Articles During a Fabric Enhancement Operation",
filed on May 5, 2004; which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Ser.
No. 10/762,152, entitled "Volatile Material Delivery Method", filed
on Jan. 21, 2004; which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Ser. No.
10/697,736, entitled "Fabric Article Treating Method and Device
Comprising a Heating Means", filed on Oct. 29, 2003; U.S. Ser. No.
10/697,734, entitled "Thermal Protection of Fabric Article Treating
Device", filed on Oct. 29, 2003; U.S. Ser. No. 10/697,685, entitled
"Fabric Article Treating Device Comprising More Than One Housing",
filed on Oct. 29, 2003; and U.S. Ser. No. 10/697,735, entitled
"Fabric Article Treating Apparatus with Safety Device and
Controller", filed Oct. 29, 2003; each of which is a
continuation-in-part of U.S. Ser. No. 10/418,595, entitled "Fabric
Article Treating Method and Apparatus", filed on Apr. 17, 2003,
which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No.
60/374,601, filed Apr. 22, 2002 and U.S. Provisional Application
Ser. No. 60/426,438, filed Nov. 14, 2002.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to a fabric article treating
device for use with a fabric article drying appliance, and more
specifically to a unique fabric article treating device and system
for dispensing a benefit composition, which employ antimicrobial
agent.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Fabric article treating methods and/or apparatuses have been
evolving over the past twenty years. For example, U.S. Pat. No.
4,207,683 describes a conventional automatic clothes dryer that
incorporates a spray dispenser capable of dispensing liquids into
the drum of the dryer. U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,642,908, 5,771,604 and
6,067,723 describe other variations of conventional clothes drying
appliances.
[0004] There exists an ongoing need to develop a fabric article
treating method and/or apparatus, especially an in-home fabric
article treating method and/or apparatus, that improves/enhances
the deposition of fabric article actives or benefit agents on the
fabric articles being treated as compared to the currently existing
deposition methods and/or apparatuses.
[0005] One particular challenge presented in the delivery of fabric
article actives in the fabric article drying environment is the
effect of moisture or condensation and heat generated during the
drying of the fabric articles. Particularly, storage containers or
reservoirs of actives can act as a terrarium, a controlled
micro-climate that demonstrates a compact model of the hydrologic
cycle. Heat generated by the drying cycle in combination with the
aqueous benefit composition may develop an excess of humidity
inside an active storage container or reservoir, which can lead to
major environmental changes, including 1) evaporation of moisture
and 2) condensation of moisture on container or reservoir surfaces,
analogous to on the dome of a terrarium. The antimicrobial and/or
preservative agents in this benefit composition, typically are not
volatile, thus the water that evaporates from the benefit
composition and condenses on the container or reservoir surfaces is
unprotected and may support microbial growth. This water vapor and
subsequent condensation may be problematic especially on headspace
surfaces such as lids or caps above the benefit composition. If the
reservoir has an aerobic environment with a constant influx of
unsterile air, which is expected to be carrying air-born microbial
contaminants such as bacteria, and especially yeasts and fungi,
aerobic microorganisms are expected to have an increased
opportunity to contaminate and populate the container or reservoir,
especially in the unprotected water vapor/condensation. These
microbial air-born contaminants may consist of: 1) purely
vegetative microorganism such as Staphylococcus, Streptococcus,
Enterococcus, Pseudomonas, Burkholderia as well as other numerous
other non-spore forming microbial contaminants, including non-spore
forming, potentially pathogenic yeasts such as Candida; and 2)
spore forming contaminants such as various fungal species
(Aspergillus, Penicillium, Fusarium and other potentially
pathogenic species) are expected to be major air-born microbial
contaminants infiltrating the vents and caps of the reservoir
during use and refill operations. These potential fungal pathogens
are expected to be prevalent in and around the laundry room where
adequate moisture, abundant growth substrate (cotton and other lint
and debris) and warm temperatures are typically encountered and
will encourage active populations of these organisms on surfaces
(walls, floors, washer/dryer) and as air-born contaminants.
[0006] The potential microbial contamination in the water vapor or
condensate, is expected to become established, with substantially
increased population densities. The most problematic contaminants
would be spore forming microorganisms, since they could actively
increase in densities, form numerous more spores and result in
further and complete microbial contamination of the reservoir,
reservoir surfaces and condensation water. As the condensation
cools, or increases in size or volume, contaminated water droplets
may fall back into the benefit composition, resulting in potential
microbial insult to, not only the benefit composition, but also to
the treated fabrics in the drying appliance during application of
the benefit composition, and more importantly to the consumer who
may be exposed to these contaminants via wearing the contaminated
clothing or fabric items. Many of these microbial contaminants,
especially the non-spore-forming ones, may be eliminated during
drying assuming a full (20 to 30 min) and completed drying cycle
using the hottest settings. However, the spore-formers, in most
cases, even under the hottest settings, would be resistant and
could easily survive even these worse case drying conditions. More
importantly, if cooler settings or custom fluff settings are used
with the benefit composition, most if not all of the microbial
contaminants including both non-spore forming and spore-forming
contaminants could easily survive the treatment processes.
[0007] The evaporation and condensation cycling can also alter an
active composition's solute/solvent concentration. As such, it
would be advantageous to provide a fabric article treating device
comprising a reservoir which minimizes the potentials for microbial
growth.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] The present invention is directed to fabric article treating
devices and fabric article treating systems. More particularly, the
invention is directed to fabric article treating devices and
systems including a reservoir, at least a portion of which
reservoir is formed of a material comprising anti-microbial
agent.
[0009] One embodiment of the present invention is a fabric article
treating device. The fabric article treating device comprises an
interior dispenser adapted for location inside of a fabric article
drying appliance, and a reservoir. The interior dispenser and the
reservoir are adapted for fluid communication with one another. The
reservoir contains a benefit composition, and at least a portion of
the reservoir is formed of a material comprising anti-microbial
agent.
[0010] Another embodiment of the present invention is a fabric
article treating system. The fabric article treating system
comprises a fabric article drying appliance having a chamber and a
closure structure, the closure structure having a closed position
and at least one open position and allowing access to the chamber;
a reservoir for containing a benefit composition; a dispenser in
communication with the chamber; and a fluid handling system that
transports the benefit composition from the reservoir toward the
dispenser, thereby dispensing the benefit composition into the
chamber. At least a portion of the reservoir is formed of a
material comprising anti-microbial agent.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] While the specification concludes with claims particularly
pointing out and distinctly claiming the invention, it is believed
the same will be better understood from the following description
taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:
[0012] FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of an exemplary fabric
article treating device according to a first embodiment of the
present invention;
[0013] FIG. 2 is a schematic illustration of an exemplary fabric
article treating device according to a second embodiment of the
present invention;
[0014] FIG. 3 is a schematic illustration of an exemplary fabric
article treating device according to a third embodiment of the
present invention;
[0015] FIG. 4 is a schematic illustration of an exemplary closure
according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention;
[0016] FIG. 5 is a schematic illustration of an exemplary reservoir
according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention;
[0017] FIG. 6 is a schematic illustration of an exemplary fabric
article treating device according to a sixth embodiment of the
present invention;
[0018] FIG. 7 is a schematic illustration of an exemplary fabric
article treating device according to a seventh embodiment of the
present invention;
[0019] FIG. 8 is a schematic illustration of an exemplary fabric
article treating device according to a eighth embodiment of the
present invention;
[0020] FIG. 9 is a schematic illustration of an exemplary fluid
handling system according to a ninth embodiment of the present
invention;
[0021] FIG. 10 is a schematic illustration of an exemplary fabric
article treating device according to a tenth embodiment of the
present invention;
[0022] FIG. 11 is a schematic illustration of an exemplary fabric
article treating system according to a eleventh embodiment of the
present invention; and
[0023] FIG. 12 is a schematic illustration of an exemplary fabric
article treating device according to a twelfth embodiment of the
present invention.
[0024] The embodiments set forth in the drawings are illustrative
in nature and not intended to be limiting of the invention defined
by the claims. Moreover, individual features of the drawings and
the invention will be more fully apparent and understood in view of
the detailed description.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0025] Reference will now be made in detail to various embodiments
of the invention, examples of which are illustrated in the
accompanying drawings, wherein like numerals indicate similar
elements throughout the views.
[0026] Definitions
[0027] The phrase "fabric article treating system" as used herein
means a fabric article drying appliance, a non-limiting example of
which includes a conventional clothes dryer and/or modifications
thereof. The fabric article treating system also includes a fabric
article treating apparatus which may be discrete in relation to the
fabric article drying appliance and/or it may be integrated into
the fabric article drying appliance. Furthermore, the fabric
article treating apparatus may be integrated into a readily
replaceable portion of the fabric article drying appliance, a
non-limiting example of which includes a closure structure of the
drying appliance.
[0028] "Fabric article" or "fabric" as used herein means any
article that is customarily cleaned in a conventional laundry
process or in a dry cleaning process. The term encompasses articles
of fabric including, but not limited to, clothing, linen, drapery,
clothing accessories, leather, floor coverings, sheets, towels,
rags, canvas, polymer structures, and the like. The term also
encompasses other items made in whole or in part of fabric
material, such as tote bags, furniture covers, tarpons, shoes, and
the like.
[0029] As used herein, the term "benefit composition" refers to a
composition used to deliver a benefit to a fabric article.
Non-limiting examples of materials and mixtures thereof which can
comprise the benefit composition include: water, softening agents,
crispening agents, perfume, water/stain repellants, refreshing
agents, antistatic agents, antimicrobic agents, durable press
agents, wrinkle resistant agents, odor resistance agents, abrasion
resistance agents, solvents, and combinations thereof. The benefit
composition may comprise a liquid, a powder, a suspension, or
gaseous product, and/or a combination of such. In one embodiment,
the benefit composition includes a preservative. Various
preservatives which help maintain one or more properties of the
benefit composition are generally known in the art and are suitable
for use herein. Exemplary preservatives include hydantoins e.g.
Dantoguard Plus.TM. (Dimethylol-5,5-Dimethylhydantoin, DMDMH, and
including the fungicide IPBC, iodopropargyl-N-butylcarbamate)
commercially available from Lonza; isothiazolinones (e.g.
Kathon.TM. commercially available from Rohm & Haas, or
MicroCare ITL from Thor); and Integra 44.TM. (Sodium
hydroxymethylglycinate) commercially available from International
Specialty Products (ISP). Other preservatives may include
benzisothiazolin-3-ones, BIT (e.g. Proxel GXL.TM. from Avecia, or
Acticide B-20.TM. from Thor); methylisothiazolin-3-ones, MIT (e.g.
Neolone.TM. from Rohm & Haas or Acticide M20-S.TM. from Thor);
combination preservative systems such as Acticide MBS.TM. (BIT/MIT
mixture from Thor), Acticide IM.TM. (MIT & IPBC, also from
Thor), Dantoserve.TM. (DMDMH and BIT, from Lonza). This list is
designed to be representative, but not all inclusive.
[0030] As used herein "anti-microbial agent" refers to a compound
which is effective against bacteria, algae, fungus, mold and/or
mildew that may cause odor, stain, discoloration, unsightly
texture, decay, or deterioration of physical properties.
[0031] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary fabric article treating
device 20 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The
fabric article treating device 20 comprises an interior dispenser
25 adapted for location inside of a fabric article drying appliance
and a reservoir 30. The interior dispenser 25 and the reservoir 30
are adapted for fluid communication with one another, for example
via fluid line 32. In one embodiment, the fluid connection between
the interior dispenser 25 and the reservoir 30 comprises tubing
configured to allow the benefit composition to be transported from
the reservoir 30 to the interior dispenser 25. One exemplary tubing
comprises a polymeric tubing with one or more channels or conduits.
In one embodiment, the tubing is configured to allow the closure
structure on the fabric article drying appliance to maintain a
closed position while still permitting dispensing of the benefit
composition. The reservoir 30 contains a benefit composition and at
least a portion of the reservoir is formed of a material comprising
an anti-microbial agent. In one exemplary embodiment, the reservoir
30 is removable. In another exemplary embodiment, the reservoir 30
comprises a sealed pouch.
[0032] The reservoir 30 may be constructed of any material known in
the art and at least a portion of the reservoir is formed of a
material comprising an anti-microbial agent. Non-limiting examples
of such structural materials include polymeric materials including
but not limited to polypropylene, polyethylene, styrenics,
polyesters, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polycarbonates,
Poly(methyl methacrylate (PMMA), polyvinyls, Nylon, polyurethane,
acrylic, epoxies, acetates, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene,
fluoropolymers, latex, nitrile copolymers, nylons, polychloroprene,
polyvinylchloride, Rayon, rubbers (natural and synthetic),
silicone, and combinations thereof. Other exemplary materials of
construction include a metal, for example aluminum foil. In one
embodiment, the reservoir 30 comprises multiple layers of one or
more materials. In another embodiment, the reservoir 30 comprises a
single or multiple layer barrier film.
[0033] At least a portion of the reservoir is formed of a material
comprising an anti-microbial agent. In one exemplary embodiment,
the anti-microbial agent of the reservoir is effective to prevent
and/or minimize proliferation of anaerobic and/or aerobic bacteria.
In another exemplary embodiment, the anti-microbial agent comprises
one or more organic or inorganic compounds, or a combination
thereof. Non-limiting examples of anti-microbial agents include,
but are not limited to, iodine; silver; zinc;
2,4,4'-trichloro-2'-hydroxydiphenyl ether; silver zeolite; silver
glass; 4-t-butylamino-6-cyclopropylamino-2-methylthio-s-t- riazine;
thiabenzazole, 2-(4-thiazolyl)benzimidazole;
dichloro-octyl-isothiazolone; octyl-isothiazolone;
10,10-oxybisphenoxarsine; tebuconazole; tolnaftate; zinc
bis-(2-pyridinethiol-1-oxide); and quaternary compounds such as
Bardac, dialkyl dimethyl ammonium chloride, or Barquat, alkyl
dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride, (Lonza, Fairfield, N.J.,
USA).
[0034] In one embodiment, the anti-microbial agent is either melt
processed with the polymer material or is provided as an intimate
part of a coating, optionally as a cured coating composition to
provide durability. The incorporation of the anti-microbial agent
into a polymer product is performed by known methods such as dry
blending in the form of a powder or wet mixing in the form of
solutions, dispersions or suspensions, optionally in an inert
solvent, water or oil. The anti-microbial agent may be added
directly into the processing apparatus (extruders, mixers,
kneaders, etc.) in an inert atmosphere or ambient atmosphere. The
present anti-microbial agent may be added in the form of a master
batch or polymer concentrate.
[0035] Alternatively, or in addition, the anti-microbial agent may
be provided in a coating. The application of a coating including
the anti-microbial agent is for example performed by applying the
dissolved or dispersed agent to a material forming a portion of the
reservoir, for example on a polymeric reservoir body structure,
with or without subsequent evaporation of the solvent or the
suspension/dispersion material. The anti-microbial agent can also
be sprayed onto a polymer reservoir body structure. An applied
coating may be cured in any conventional manner. In another
exemplary embodiment, the anti-microbial agent is impregnated into
the material of the reservoir.
[0036] The present polymer products comprise for example about
0.005% to about 3.0% by weight of the active anti-microbial agent.
A single anti-microbial agent may be employed or any combination of
anti-microbial agents may be employed in order to achieve desired
results.
[0037] In one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 2, at least a
portion 36 of the reservoir 30 that is adapted to serve as a
headspace 38 during use of the fabric article treating device 20 is
formed of a material comprising an anti-microbial agent. The
headspace 38 is created in the reservoir 30 as the space between
the upper portion of the reservoir and the surface level of the
benefit composition. During use of the fabric article treating
device 20, the level of the benefit composition may change, thus
resulting in a change in the amount of headspace in the
reservoir.
[0038] In another embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 3, the
reservoir 30 further comprises a closure 40. In one exemplary
embodiment, the closure 40 is adapted to allow access to the
interior of the reservoir 30. For example, the closure 40 may be
removed from the reservoir 30 to allow the user to add a benefit
composition to the reservoir 30 and then the closure 40 can be
positioned back on the reservoir 30. In one exemplary embodiment,
at least a portion of the closure is formed of a material
comprising anti-microbial agent, in any of the manners discussed
above. For example, the closure may include an interior coating.
The interior coating may be formed of a material comprising an
anti-microbial agent.
[0039] In a further embodiment of the present invention, as
illustrated in FIG. 4, the closure 40 further comprises a closure
liner 43. In one embodiment, at least a portion of the closure
liner 41 is formed of a material comprising an anti-microbial
agent.
[0040] In another exemplary embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 5,
the fabric article treating device 20 further comprises a coating
41 on the interior of the body of the reservoir 30. In another
embodiment of the present invention, at least a portion of the
reservoir includes an interior coating 41. The coating may comprise
one or more anti-microbial agents.
[0041] In one exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the
reservoir 30 is adapted for location on an interior portion of the
fabric article drying appliance 20. For example, the reservoir may
be located in the chamber of the fabric article drying appliance.
Alternatively, the reservoir may be located within the fabric
article drying appliance, but not within the chamber of the fabric
article drying appliance. Further, the reservoir may be adapted for
location on an exterior portion of the fabric article drying
appliance.
[0042] The interior dispenser 25 may comprise at least one nozzle
for the purposes of distributing the benefit composition into the
fabric article drying appliance. Misting/atomizing of the benefit
composition can be achieved using any suitable spraying device such
as a hydraulic nozzle, sonic nebulizer, pressure swirl atomizers,
high pressure fog nozzle or the like to deliver target particle
size. Non-limiting examples of suitable nozzles include nozzles
commercially available from Spray Systems, Inc. of Pomona, Calif.
under the Model Nos. 850, 1050, 1250, 1450 and 1650. Another
suitable example of a nozzle is a pressure swirl atomizing nozzle
made by Seaquist Perfect Dispensing of Cary, Ill. under Model No.
DU-3813. In one exemplary embodiment, at least a portion of the
interior dispenser is formed of a material comprising an
anti-microbial agent.
[0043] In another exemplary embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 6,
the fabric article treating device 20 further comprises fitment 44,
which is one of corresponding male and female fitments, and the
reservoir 30, shown as a sealed pouch or carton, comprises the
other fitment 42 of the corresponding male and female fitments,
wherein the female fitment is configured to receive the male
fitment to establish the fluid communication between the interior
dispenser 25 and the reservoir 30. In the embodiment of FIG. 6, the
fitment 42 on the reservoir 30 is the female fitment, while the
corresponding male fitment 44 is adapted for fluid connection with
the dispenser 25, for example via a fluid handling system as
described hereafter. Various corresponding male and female fitments
which establish fluid communication are generally known in the art
and are suitable for use herein. One exemplary fitment that may be
utilized is available from IPN USA Corp. of Peachtree City, Ga.,
available as Clean-Clic.RTM. pouch fitments, model SBS-4. As one
skilled in the art will appreciate, any fitments can be utilized in
the present invention provided the fitments are configured to
maintain fluid communication between the reservoir 30 and the
interior dispenser 25.
[0044] In one exemplary embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 7, the
fabric article treating device 20 further comprises a fluid
handling system 55, a power source 50 and a controller 60. In one
exemplary embodiment, the fluid handling system 55 is configured to
transport the benefit composition from the reservoir 30 to the
interior dispenser 25. The interior dispenser 25 is configured to
deliver the benefit composition to one or more fabric articles in
the fabric article drying appliance. The power source 50 is
configured to provide electrical power as needed by the fluid
article treating device, such as the controller 60, the fluid
handling system 55, sensors, and any electrical needs of a user
interface. The controller 60 is configured to regulate the
dispensing of the benefit composition. For example, the controller
60 may determine the optimum time to dispense the benefit
composition, the quantity of benefit composition to be dispensed
and the rate at which to dispense the benefit composition. In one
embodiment, the fabric article treating device further comprises a
communication link adapted to provide communication between the
controller of the fabric article treating device and the fabric
article drying appliance. For example, the controller may send
and/or receive signals to/from the fabric article drying appliance
to determine the optimum benefit composition dispensing conditions
such as, time, length, etc.
[0045] Another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is
illustrated in FIG. 8. In this exemplary embodiment, the fabric
article treating device 20 further comprises a housing 65. The
housing 65 is adapted to receive various components of the fabric
article treating device, optionally, the housing may substantially
enclose and protect the components in their assembled form. For
example, as shown in FIG. 8, the housing may receive the power
source 50, the fluid handling system 55, the controller 60 and the
reservoir 30. In another embodiment, the housing may comprise a
tubing storage area adapted to contain a quantity of fluid line 32
to allow the user to customize the installation of the fabric
article treating device for the user's particular fabric article
drying appliance. The housing 65 may be constructed with any
materials known to one skilled in the art. Exemplary materials
include, but are not limited to, polymers, metals, fabric, wood,
and the like. The housing 65 may be located on the exterior or
interior of the fabric article drying appliance. In one exemplary
embodiment, at least a portion of the housing 65 is formed of a
material comprising an anti-microbial agent.
[0046] In one exemplary embodiment as illustrated in FIG. 9, the
fluid handling system 55 comprises a pump 70. The pump 70 is in
communication with the reservoir 30 and the interior dispenser 25
via fluid lines 72 and 74, respectively. The pump 70 is configured
to transport benefit composition from the reservoir 30 to the
interior dispenser 25 for dispensing of the benefit composition. In
one embodiment, the pump 70, comprises an piezo-electric pump. In
another embodiment, the pump 70 may comprise a diaphragm pump. As
one skilled in the art will appreciate any pump known to one
skilled in the art may be utilized to transport the benefit
composition from the exterior reservoir 30 to the interior
dispenser 25. Other exemplary pumps include piston pumps,
peristaltic pumps, and bellows-type pumps.
[0047] As noted above, one type of pump 70 that can be used in the
present invention is an piezo-electric pump. While an
piezo-electric pump has certain membranes or laminations which may
vibrate in a reciprocating-type fashion, the piezo-electric pumps
generally do not have major moving parts, such as rotating shaft
and bearings used with a rotator member to displace a fluid or
gaseous fluid, that experience wear over time. One commercially
available suitable piezo-electric pump usable in the present
invention is manufactured by PAR Technologies, LLC, located in
Hampton, Va., and marketed as the "LPD-Series" laminated
piezo-electric fluid pumps. Pumps which draw a relevantly low
current are particularly suitable in certain embodiments.
[0048] In another embodiment, the reservoir 30 may be positioned in
such a way to provide gravitation flow of the benefit composition
to the interior dispenser 25. For example, the reservoir 30 may be
mounted above the fabric article drying appliance to create static
head on the benefit composition to allow dispensing of the benefit
composition without the utilization of a pump.
[0049] Another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is
illustrated in FIG. 10. In this embodiment, as in previously
discussed embodiments, the fabric article treating device 20
comprises an interior dispenser 25 adapted for location inside of a
fabric article drying appliance and a reservoir 30 adapted to
contain a benefit composition, wherein at least a portion of the
reservoir 30 is formed of a material comprising an anti-microbial
agent. The interior dispenser 25 and the reservoir 30 are adapted
for fluid communication with one another. The device further
comprises a controller 60 in electrical communication with a sensor
75. In one exemplary embodiment, the sensor comprises a temperature
sensor. In another exemplary embodiment, the sensor 75 comprises a
light sensor. In yet another exemplary embodiment, the sensor 75
comprises a motion sensor. The controller 60 is adapted to send
and/or receive signals from the sensor 75 and to determine the
dispensing conditions for dispensing the benefit composition.
[0050] Another embodiment of the present invention, as illustrated
in FIG. 11, is a fabric article treating system 80. The fabric
article treating system 80 comprises a fabric article drying
appliance 35 having a chamber 81 and a closure structure 85, for
example, a door. The closure structure 85 has a closed position and
at least one open position. The closure structure 85 allows access
to the chamber 81 of the fabric article drying appliance 35. The
fabric article treating system 80 further comprises a reservoir 30
for containing a benefit composition; a dispenser 25 in
communication with the chamber 81; and a fluid handling system 55
that compels the benefit composition from the reservoir 30 toward
the dispenser 25, thereby dispensing the benefit composition into
the chamber 81. At least a portion of the reservoir 30 is formed of
a material comprising an anti-microbial agent, and as discussed
above, the reservoir 30 may be removable. In another embodiment,
the reservoir 30 comprises a sealed pouch.
[0051] Another embodiment of the present invention, as illustrated
in FIG. 12, is a fabric article treating system 80. The fabric
article treating system 80 comprises a fabric article drying
appliance 35 having a chamber 81 and a closure structure 85. The
closure structure 85 has a closed position and at least one open
position, wherein the closure structure 85 allows access to the
chamber 81. The fabric article treating system 80 further comprises
a reservoir 30 for containing a benefit composition and a dispenser
25 in communication with the chamber 81; a fluid handling system 55
that compels the benefit composition from the reservoir 30 toward
the dispenser 25, thereby dispensing the benefit composition into
the chamber 81; a closure structure sensor 88; and a controller 60
that initiates dispensing of the benefit composition. The
controller 60 is configured to prevent the benefit composition from
being dispensed when the closure structure sensor 88 indicates that
the closure structure 85 is not in the closed position. At least a
portion of the reservoir 30 is formed of a material comprising an
anti-microbial agent. In another embodiment, the fabric article
treating system 80 further comprises one or more additional sensors
75 in the chamber in communication with the controller.
[0052] The reservoir 30 may be mounted on the exterior portion of
the fabric article drying appliance 35, such as on the fabric
article drying appliance closure structure 85, or a side wall, a
top wall, an outer surface of a top-opening lid, or the like,
including a stand, wall or other household structure that is
separate from the fabric article drying appliance. Moreover, the
reservoir 30 may be mounted on any interior portion of the fabric
article drying appliance 35, examples of which include, but are not
limited to, the interior surface of the closure structure 85, the
drum of the fabric article drying appliance, the back wall, the
inner surface of a top opening lid, or the like.
[0053] Optionally, filters and/or filtering techniques can be used
to filter the benefit composition, if desired, for example at a
point between the reservoir 30 and the outlet of the dispenser 25.
Non-limiting examples of this include: utilizing a filter in the
interior dispenser 25 prior to dispensing of the benefit
compositions. Alternatively, the benefit composition may be
filtered prior to dispensing into the reservoir; or a combination
of filtering techniques may be employed.
[0054] The interior dispenser 25 and the reservoir 30 are adapted
for fluid communication with one another. In one embodiment, the
interior dispenser 25 and the reservoir 30 may be in electrical
connection with one another. Non-limiting examples of means for
connecting the interior dispenser 25 and the reservoir 30 may
include utilizing a flat cable (also referred to as a ribbon
cable), a wire, a wire or group of wires enclosed in a stealth of
woven or nonwoven material, a conduit (a non-limiting example of
which is a conduit for the benefit composition), or combination
thereof. The woven or nonwoven sheet may be used as a method of
attaching the interior dispenser 25 and the reservoir 30. The
interior dispenser 25 and the reservoir 30 may be used to provide a
means of gravitational counterbalancing so as to reduce unnecessary
tension on the wires and/or the connections.
[0055] The power source 50 may comprise chemical batteries, or any
electrical power source, including standard household line voltage,
or even solar power. Batteries may be utilized, and are
particularly suitable when the fabric article treating device 20 is
in the form of an add-on device for an existing fabric article
drying appliance 35. However, any appropriate power adapter can be
provided to convert an AC power source to the appropriate DC
voltages used in any electrical components of the fabric article
treating device 20, such as in the fluid handling system 55, the
controller 60, and any sensors 75.
[0056] As noted, the fabric article treating device 20 can include
optional sensors 75. Non-limiting examples of optional sensors
include a door (or lid sensor), a motion sensor, a humidity sensor,
and/or a temperature sensor. One non-limiting example of a door/lid
sensor is an optoelectronic device, such as an optocoupler or an
optical input sensor, e.g., a phototransistor or photodiode. When
the door/lid of the drying appliance is open, the door sensor will
change state, and will output a different voltage or current level
along an electrical conductor that leads from the door sensor back
to the controller. This can be used as a safety device to
immediately interrupt the dispensing of the benefit composition
from the interior dispenser 25. The optional door sensor could be
utilized even when a control system is integrated into the overall
conventional control system of the drying appliance. For example, a
drying appliance typically has its own door sensor which shuts off
the rotating drum of the dryer when the door becomes open. In this
instant, the optional door sensor can act as a backup or second
door sensor to the dryer's internal original sensor that shuts off
the rotating drum. One example which could be used as a door/lid
sensor is an NPN Phototransistor, Part No. PNA1801L, manufactured
by Panasonic, of Osaka, Japan. In another embodiment, a
communication link could be established between the drying
appliance and the controller, wherein the drying appliance would
send the controller a signal relating to the operational state of
the drying appliance (e.g., door open/closed, drying cycle,
temperature, etc.).
[0057] Another type of optional sensor 75 that can be utilized by
the fabric article treating device 20 of the present invention is a
motion sensor. For fabric article drying appliances 35 which
utilize a moving interior, such as a rotating drum, the motion
sensor can detect if a fabric article drying appliance is in use.
One example of a motion sensor is a vibration and movement sensing
switch manufactured by ASSEM Tech Europe Ltd., of Clifton, N.J.,
available as Model No. CW1600-3. Another type of optional motion
sensor that may be used in the present invention uses a light
source to direct (infrared) light at a surface, and the relevant
motion of that surface can be detected by the intensity and/or
frequency of the returning light. Such sensors can measure the
actual speed of rotation, if that information is desired.
[0058] Another optional sensor 75 that can be used in a fabric
article treating device 20 of the present invention is a humidity
sensor. The optional humidity sensor, together with the controller,
may be used to control the amount of composition being dispensed by
the interior dispenser 25, and also may be utilized to determine
the proper environmental conditions during an operational cycle in
which the dispensing event should take place. Additionally, this
humidity sensor may be used to maintain a specific humidity by
controlling the dispensing the benefit composition such that
optimal de-wrinkling and/or other benefits are achieved. Many
different types of humidity sensors could be used in conjunction
with the present invention, including variable conductivity
sensors. One such sensor is manufactured by Honeywell, of Freeport,
Ill. under the Model No. HIH-3610-001, although any of the HIH-3610
series, or other available sensors may be used.
[0059] A further optional sensor 75 that can be useful in the
fabric article treating device 20 of the present invention is a
temperature sensor, such as one that outputs an analog or digital
signal along the electrical conductor that leads back to the
controller.
[0060] As noted above, the fabric article treating device 20 may
comprise a controller 60. In one embodiment, the controller may be
a microcontroller. A suitable microcontroller is manufactured by
MicroChip, of Chandler, Ariz. under the Part No. PIC16LS876-04/P.
However, other microcontrollers made by different manufacturers
could also easily be used. In one exemplary embodiment, the
microcontroller includes on-board random access memory (RAM),
on-board read only memory (ROM), which comprises electrically
programmable non-volatile memory elements, as well as on-board
input and output lines for analog and digital signals. The
controller may also be used with a crystal clock oscillator,
although a RC circuit could be used instead as a clock circuit, if
desired. The clock circuit provides the timing of the clock as
necessary to operate the controller. In one embodiment, the
controller comprises a port that can be interfaced to an optional
programmable interface using a communication link, such as RS-232
communication link. The port allows a user to alter the program
information of the controller, such as dispensing options, etc.
[0061] One skilled in the art will appreciate that the controller
can be any type of microprocessor or microcontroller circuit
commercially available, either with or without on-board RAM, RAM,
or digital and analog input/output (I/O). Moreover, a sequential
processor may be used to control the fabric article treating device
20, or alternatively a parallel processor architecture or a logic
state machine architecture could be used. Furthermore, the
controller 60 may be integrated into an Application Specific
Integrated Circuit (ASIC) containing many other logic elements that
could be used for various functions, as desired, such functions
being optional depending upon the model of the fabric article
treating device 20 that will be sold to a consumer. To change model
features, the manufacturer need only program the ASIC or the
on-board RAM of the controller according to the special parameters
of that particular model, while using the same hardware for each of
the units.
[0062] It will also be understood that discrete digital logic could
be used instead of any type of microprocessor microcontroller unit,
or analog control circuitry could be used along with voltage
comparators and analog timers, to control the timing events and to
make decisions based on input levels of the various sensors that
are provided with the fabric article treating device 20.
[0063] It will be understood that the present invention can be
readily used in other types of fabric "treating" devices, and is
not limited solely to clothes "dryers". In the context of this
patent document, the terms "dryer" or "drying apparatus" or "fabric
article drying appliance" include devices that may or may not
perform a true drying function, but may involve treating fabric
without attempting to literally dry the fabric itself. As noted
above, the terms "dryer" or "drying apparatus" or "fabric article
drying appliance" may include a "dry cleaning" process or
apparatus, which may or may not literally involve a step of drying.
The term "fabric article drying appliance" as used herein, also
refers to any fabric treating device that utilizes moving air
directed upon one or more fabric articles, a non-limiting example
of which includes a clothes dryer, and modifications thereof. Such
devices include both domestic and commercial drying units used in
dwellings, laundromats, hotels, and/or industrial settings. In
addition, it should be noted that some drying appliances include a
drying chamber (or "drum") that does not literally move or rotate
while the drying appliance is operating in the drying cycle. Some
such dryers use moving air that passes through the drying chamber,
and the chamber does not move while the drying cycle occurs. Such
an example dryer has a door or other type of access cover that
allows a person to insert the clothing to be dried into the
chamber. In many cases, the person hangs the clothes on some type
of upper rod within the drying chamber. Once that has been done,
the door (or access cover) is closed, and the dryer can begin its
drying function. Dispensing of a benefit composition can take place
within such a unit, however, care should be taken to ensure that
the benefit composition becomes well dispersed within the drying
chamber, so that certain fabric items do not receive a very large
concentration of the benefit composition while other fabric items
receive very little of the benefit composition.
[0064] Exemplary fabric article treating devices and systems
include those described in co-pending U.S. application Ser. No.
10/697,735 filed on Oct. 29, 2003; U.S. application Ser. No.
10/697,685 filed on Oct. 29, 2003; U.S. application Ser. No.
10/697,734 filed on Oct. 29, 2003; U.S. application Ser. No.
10/697,736 filed on Oct. 29, 2003; and U.S. application Ser. No.
10/762,152 filed on 10/762,152.
[0065] All documents cited in the detailed description of the
invention are, in relevant part, incorporated herein by reference;
a citation of any document is not to be construed as an admission
that it is prior art with respect to the present invention.
[0066] While particular embodiments of the present invention have
been illustrated and described, it would be obvious to those
skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications can
be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the
invention. It is therefore intended to cover in the appended claims
all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of
this invention.
* * * * *