U.S. patent application number 12/710401 was filed with the patent office on 2010-08-19 for toilet flusher having electromechanically induced release of active agent.
Invention is credited to Ralph Butter-Jentsch, Matthias Lueken, Hans-Georg Muhlhausen, Frank Pessel.
Application Number | 20100205732 12/710401 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39877868 |
Filed Date | 2010-08-19 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100205732 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Muhlhausen; Hans-Georg ; et
al. |
August 19, 2010 |
TOILET FLUSHER HAVING ELECTROMECHANICALLY INDUCED RELEASE OF ACTIVE
AGENT
Abstract
Dosing mechanism for free-flowing preparations, comprising a
dosing device having an energy source, a control unit, and a sensor
unit, and at least one first tank containing a first preparation
and that can be coupled to the dosing device, the dosing device
comprising a micropump controllable by the control unit and having
a specific delivery rate of less than 500 l/min.
Inventors: |
Muhlhausen; Hans-Georg;
(Dusseldorf, DE) ; Pessel; Frank; (Dusseldorf,
DE) ; Butter-Jentsch; Ralph; (Langenfeld, DE)
; Lueken; Matthias; (Dusseldorf, DE) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Henkel Corporation
10 Finderne Avenue
Bridgewater
NJ
08807
US
|
Family ID: |
39877868 |
Appl. No.: |
12/710401 |
Filed: |
February 23, 2010 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
PCT/EP08/60735 |
Aug 15, 2008 |
|
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|
12710401 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
4/226.1 ;
4/224 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B05B 9/0861 20130101;
E03D 9/005 20130101; B05B 12/1418 20130101; E03D 9/032 20130101;
B05B 9/0811 20130101; B05B 12/1409 20130101; B05B 12/122
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
4/226.1 ;
4/224 |
International
Class: |
E03D 9/02 20060101
E03D009/02 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Aug 24, 2007 |
DE |
10 2007 040 325.0 |
Claims
1. Dosing device comprising: a power source, a control unit, a
sensor unit, and at least one first container containing a first
preparation, wherein the first container is couplable to the dosing
device, wherein the control unit cooperates with the sensor unit
and the power source so that when there is a defined sensor signal,
the power source acts on a dispensing element and/or pump so that
at least the first preparation is dispensed from the first
container to the surroundings.
2. Dosing device according to claim 1, wherein the at least one
first container is couplable to the pressure side of the pump.
3. Dosing device according to claim 1, wherein the at least one
first container is couplable to the intake side of the pump.
4. Dosing device according to claim 1 further comprising a valve
arranged between the at least one first container and the pump.
5. Dosing device according to claim 6, wherein the valve is
actively controllable by the control unit so that a first control
signal induces opening of the valve and a second control signal
induces closing of the valve.
6. Dosing device according to claim 1 further comprising at least
one second container containing a second composition, wherein the
at least one second container is couplable to a dosing
apparatus.
7. Dosing device according to claim 6, wherein the dispensing of
the preparation is induced by a first pump couplable to the first
container and a second pump couplable to the second container.
8. Dosing device according to claim 1, wherein the at least one
first container further comprises an RFID label containing at least
information about the contents of the container and is readable by
the sensor unit.
9. Dosing device according to claim 6, wherein the dosing apparatus
is protected from splash water.
10. Dosing device according to claim 6, wherein the power source,
control unit, sensor unit and pump are cast so that the dosing
apparatus is waterproof.
11. Dosing device according to claim 6, wherein the dosing
apparatus is arranged on the outer edge of the toilet bowl.
12. Dosing device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit
(4) is a programmable microcontroller.
13. Dosing device according to claim 13, wherein a plurality of
dosing programs is stored on the microcontroller, these programs
being selectable and executable in accordance with the container
coupled to the dosing apparatus.
14. Dosing device according to claim 6 further comprising a
container couplable to the dosing apparatus.
15. Container according to claim 14 further comprising an RFID
label having at least information about the contents of the
container.
16. Container according to claim 14 further comprising a
pressure-equalizing valve.
17. Container according to claim 14 further comprising a nonreturn
valve.
18. Method for controlling the dosing device according to claim 1
comprising: receiving sensor signals containing at least
information about the contents of at least one container and/or
information representing at least one physical, chemical or
mechanical parameter, comparing the sensor signals with threshold
values, and generating a sensor signal when a condition defined by
comparison of the sensor signals with the threshold values is
met.
19. Method for controlling the dosing device according to claim 18,
wherein the condition defined by comparison of the sensor signals
with threshold values for generating a control signal is selected
according to the contents of at least one container.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application is a continuation of International
Patent Application No. PCT/EP2008/060735 filed 15 Aug. 2008, which
claims priority to German Patent Application No. 10 2007 040 325.0
filed 24 Aug. 2007, both of which are incorporated herein by
reference.
[0002] The invention relates to a toilet flusher having an
electromechanically induced release of preparations in and/or on a
toilet bowl.
[0003] Precise dosing of flowable or free-flowing compositions in
accordance with demand is of relevance for a variety of fields of
application.
[0004] In the household area, dosing of flowable substances has
gained increasing importance, based primarily on precise and
demand-controlled dosing of active ingredients so that, firstly,
the surroundings is protected through protection of resources and
avoidance of overdosing and misdosing and, secondly, efficacy of
the active ingredients thereby dosed is optimized.
[0005] Dosing of cleaning compositions and perfume compositions in
the toilet area is currently implemented by so-called toilet
flushers or fresheners. These are single-chamber or multichamber
containers, which are suspended in the toilet bowl in such a way
that an active ingredient is released from the toilet flusher into
the toilet bowl when flushing the toilet bowl with water.
[0006] Such devices are known from EP 0828902 or DE 10113036, for
example.
[0007] One important disadvantage of these toilet flushers is that
dosing depends essentially on the respective local flow conditions
in the toilet bowl during the flushing operation. However, these
flow conditions may vary greatly, depending on the type of toilet
and the positioning of the toilet flusher in and/or on the toilet
bowl. For example, with some types of toilets, it may happen that
no active ingredients are released from the toilet flusher because
of insufficient water or none at all flows over the toilet flusher
during the flushing operation, and therefore the dosing mechanism
of the toilet flusher is not triggered.
[0008] Furthermore, if flushing water overflows a toilet flusher
when used, this may result in a disturbance in the water guidance
intended by the toilet manufacturer reducing the flushing power of
the toilet.
[0009] It is therefore desirable to have a dosing device for the
release of active ingredients into a toilet bowl that implements
dosing of active ingredients into the toilet bowl in a manner
independent of the toilet flushing operation.
[0010] Furthermore, it is desirable if the active ingredient is
released not only after activation of flushing. For example, it
would be advantageous to dose perfumes or sudsing agents into the
toilet bowl immediately prior to use of the toilet as a preventive
measure against the possible release of odorous human metabolic
excretory products, which are often perceived as unpleasant, during
use of the toilet.
[0011] Furthermore, dosing devices referred to herein often have a
large design volume which is esthetically displeasing and often
poses functional problems because the usable space in a toilet bowl
is reduced due to the dosing devices hanging into the toilet
opening.
[0012] The present invention addresses these issues by providing a
toilet flusher which implements accurate dosing of compositions on
occurrence of defined mechanical, electrical, physical and/or
chemical parameters in or on the toilet bowl.
[0013] This is achieved by a toilet flusher comprising a power
source, a control unit and a sensor unit, which form a dosing
apparatus as well as at least one first container containing a
first preparation coupled to the dosing apparatus.
[0014] Coupled in this context means that the container can be
connected to the dosing apparatus in such a way that the interior
of the container is connected in a communicating manner to the
dosing apparatus, and leakage-free removal of preparation from the
container is implemented.
[0015] The inventive toilet flusher consists of various components
which may in turn be combined to form modules. The components of
the toilet flusher comprise at least one pump, a dispensing
element, a control unit, a sensor unit, a power source, a
container, a fastening means and a preparation. In a preferred
embodiment of the invention, the pump, control unit, sensor unit
and power source components may be combined to form the "dosing
apparatus" module. The components and modules are described
below.
Dosing Apparatus--
[0016] The power source needed for operation of the toilet flusher,
a control unit, a sensor unit and at least one pump are integrated
into the dosing apparatus. The dosing apparatus preferably consists
of a splash-proof housing, which prevents splashing water, which
may occur when using the inventive toilet flusher in a toilet bowl,
from penetrating into the interior of the dosing apparatus.
[0017] Furthermore, it is preferable for the dosing apparatus to be
situated on the outer edge of the toilet bowl, thus protecting
against the effects of splashing water and also permitting
convenient operation of the dosing apparatus. Furthermore, the
dosing apparatus does not penetrate into the interior of the
toilet, so the usable cross-sectional area of the toilet bowl is
not reduced by the arrangement on the outer edge.
[0018] Since preparations to be dosed may have a pH between 2 and
12, depending on intended application, all components of the toilet
flusher that come in contact with the preparations should have a
corresponding acid resistance and/or alkali resistance.
Furthermore, by suitable choice of materials, these components
should be largely chemically inert (e.g., inert with respect to
nonionic surfactants, enzymes and/or perfumes).
[0019] It is particularly advantageous to cast the electric
components of the inventive toilet flusher (e.g., power source,
control unit and sensor) separately or jointly with one another so
that the dosing apparatus is essentially waterproof (i.e., the
dosing apparatus is functional even when completely surrounded with
liquid). Casting materials that may be used include multicomponent
epoxy and acrylate casting compounds such as methacrylate esters,
urethane methacrylates and cyanoacrylates or two-component
materials with polyurethanes, silicones, epoxy resins.
[0020] An important advantage of the invention is seen in the
separation of the toilet flusher into a dosing apparatus and a
container couplable to the dosing apparatus, enabling the toilet
flusher to be used in a flexible manner for a wide variety of
application cases and adapted easily.
Pump--
[0021] A pump according to the present invention is a fluid energy
machine removing or conveying small quantities of a fluid in
particular by conversion of a mechanical drive power into a fluid
power.
[0022] Fluids refer to liquids and gases as well as mixtures
thereof and with solids.
[0023] Useful pumps include displacement pumps, oscillating pumps,
diaphragm pumps, piston pumps, rotary pumps, dynamic pumps,
centrifugal pumps, electrohydrodynamic pumps, electro-osmotic
pumps, magnetohydrodynamic pumps, surface-acoustic-wave pumps,
capillary force pumps, electrowetting pump, and thermocapillary
pump.
[0024] The pump can be connected to the power source either
directly or with the control unit in between.
[0025] In another embodiment of the invention, dispensing of at
least one preparation is induced by gravity without action of a
pump. Dispensing of the preparation from the container to the
surroundings in this configuration is controlled by a valve, for
example, which opens to release the preparation and is closable to
prevent dispensing. The valve can be controllable directly by the
power source or by the control unit connected in between.
[0026] The pump, the sensor and the control unit are advantageously
configured in such a way that a defined dispensing quantity of
active ingredient preparation is dispensed into the toilet bowl
independent of the arrangement of the toilet flusher in or on the
toilet bowl and/or the quantity of flushing water acting on the
toilet flusher.
[0027] By means of the pump, it is also possible for at least two
different defined dispensing quantities of at least one active
ingredient preparation to be releasable. An important advantage of
this embodiment of the invention is the dosing of active
ingredients into the toilet bowl on demand so that more effective
use of active ingredients in a manner that is more conservative
with resources may be induced.
[0028] In another preferred embodiment of the invention, the pump
is configured so that it is suitable for release of an active
ingredient preparation having a viscosity of <500 meas.
Micropump--
[0029] The delivery rate of a micropump is usually between 50 nL
and 100 mL per minute, preferably between 250 nL and 30 mL per
minute, especially preferably between 500 nL and mL per minute.
[0030] The micropump preferably has a design volume of less than 5
cm.sup.3, especially preferably less than 3 cm.sup.3, in particular
preferably less than 2 cm.sup.3.
[0031] The specific delivery rate of a micropump, based on the
ratio of the delivery rate to the design volume of a micropump, is
usually less than 500 (1/min). The specific delivery rate is
preferably between 1 and 300, especially preferably between 1.5 and
200, in particular preferably between 2 and 150, most especially
preferably between 2.5 and 100.
Diaphragm Pumps--
[0032] Diaphragm pumps are particularly advantageous for dosing of
cleaning preparations and active ingredient preparations as well as
perfume.
[0033] Diaphragm pumps usually comprise an inlet valve into and an
outlet valve out of a pump chamber, formed by a pump diaphragm and
an actuator.
[0034] The actuator induces a compression of the pump chamber
(mechanical action on the pump diaphragm when the intake valve is
closed) so that the fluid in the pump chamber is delivered through
the opened outlet valve out of the pump chamber.
[0035] If the ejection operation is concluded, the outlet valve is
closed and decompression of the pump chamber is induced by the
actuator, so the fluid is now drawn through the opened intake valve
into the pump chamber.
[0036] Through a suitable configuration and/or control of the
valves and the actuator, the direction of conveyance of the
micropump may be influenced and/or reversed.
[0037] The actuator of the diaphragm pump can be chosen from
electromotor, piezoceramic, bimetallic, memometallic, pneumatic,
peristaltic, electrostatic, electromagnetic, and thermal drive
units, for example.
[0038] The valves can be an active or passive valve. Passive valves
include flap valves, diaphragm valves or no-moving-parts
valves.
[0039] Depending on the field of application, dispensing of the
preparation from the dosing device on the pressure side may be
accomplished by drop, stream, spray, diffusion or evaporation.
[0040] For preparations which form deposits during prolonged
storage, it may be advantageous to arrange the container holding
the preparation on the pressure side of the pump. In this
configuration, only a fluid free of deposit-forming substances is
conveyed through the pump. In this case, it is particularly
advantageous to use air as the fluid.
[0041] The fluid is pumped into the container under pressure. The
container has a pressure-equalizing valve which releases the
product flow out of the container when a defined pressure in the
container is exceeded.
[0042] It is possible to use the dosing apparatus for a wide
variety of preparations without endangering the functionality of
the pump due to possible deposits or reactions between two
preparations.
Dispensing Elements--
[0043] Any type of devices suitable for dispensing an active
substance to the surroundings of the dosing device are referred to
as dispensing elements.
[0044] Dispensing elements include nozzles, spray heads, drop
dosing devices, foam spray heads, piezo elements, porous elements,
wick systems, capillary systems, atomizers, ultrasonic atomizers,
ionizing atomizers, etc.
[0045] For dispensing active ingredients into the toilet and/or the
inside surfaces of the toilet bowl, nozzles, spray heads, drop
dispensers, foam spray heads, piezo elements and the like are
particularly suitable.
[0046] For dispensing an active ingredient preparation into the
air, nozzles, nebulizers, spray heads, piezo elements, sintered
plates, porous elements, wick systems and the like are
suitable.
[0047] Dispensing elements can have the same or different spray
cone shapes for dispensing the preparations. For example, it is
conceivable for one dispensing element to create a jet having a
point-shaped application area, while another dispensing element
creates a planar application field. Various combinations of a wide
variety of spray foam shapes are also conceivable.
[0048] The dispensing element may also provide electrostatic
charging of active ingredient droplets so that wetting, adhesion
and/or distribution of the active ingredient on a surface and/or in
the air are improved.
[0049] Furthermore, the dispensing element may be designed as a
fan, configured either for improving the air by intake of foul
odors or with regard to optimized distribution of active ingredient
in and/or on the toilet bowl.
[0050] The dispensing elements may in particular be configured so
that one or more active ingredients are dispensed in different
directions from one another. A few possible configurations with
regard to the dispensing direction are listed in the following
table as examples, although this list is not intended to be
conclusive.
TABLE-US-00001 Dispensing direction A Dispensing direction B
Perfume dispensed into the Perfume dispensed into the surroundings
toilet bowl Cleaning agent dispensed Cleaning agent dispensed below
the edge into the toilet bowl of the toilet/during flushing or
outside of the flushing operation Cleaning agent dispensed Perfume
dispensed into the surroundings into the toilet bowl
[0051] Other desired combinations of the configurations listed in
the above table are also possible.
[0052] Furthermore, it is advantageous to arrange the dispensing
element movably on the bracket of the toilet flusher. The
dispensing element and the spray cone of the preparation may be
directed by the user in a targeted manner to wet a defined
application field in or on the toilet with the preparation in this
way.
[0053] The dispensing element(s) is/are advantageously configured
in such a way that a defined dispensing quantity of at least one
active ingredient preparation is directed independent of the
positioning of the toilet flusher on the toilet bowl, and is
applied to the interior of the toilet bowl in a defined manner.
Advantages of such an embodiment include more specific exposure of
the toilet bowl surfaces to one or more active ingredients so that
different surfaces may be treated with different active
ingredients. For example, in the case of a flat flusher, the pan
may be wetted with an active ingredient to prevent deposits while
an active ingredient to prevent lime deposits is applied to the
walls running in a funnel shape from the pan to the edge of the
toilet.
Control Unit--
[0054] A control unit according to the present application is a
device suitable for influencing conveyance of material, power
and/or information. To this end, the control unit influences the
converter with information which it processes in the sense of the
goal of the control.
[0055] Converters include, for example, pumps and/or valves.
[0056] Since the toilet flusher does not use any mechanical control
elements to release the product in a preferred embodiment of the
invention, the toilet flusher may be miniaturized to the extent
that it may also be used in applications in which the size of the
toilet flusher is critical.
[0057] In particular, the control unit may be a programmable
microprocessor. In a particularly preferred embodiment of the
invention, a plurality of dosing programs are stored in the
microprocessor which are selectable and executable in accordance
with the container coupled to the toilet flusher. It is also
conceivable for the dosing programs to be manually retrievable by
the user.
[0058] The control unit is preferably also arrange on the toilet
bowl facing outward from which it may easily be operated by the
user, in particular when the user is sitting on the toilet.
[0059] In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the
control unit may comprise a dosing program for introducing at least
two different active ingredient preparations into a toilet bowl or
into the surroundings of the toilet bowl in which at least two
different active ingredient preparations are released in at least
two successive times t.sub.1 and t.sub.2, wherein at least one
active ingredient preparation is introduced into the interior of a
toilet bowl.
[0060] An important advantage of such a dosing program includes an
optimized cleaning power due to extremely accurate control of
possible chemical reactions through a suitably time-offset release
of the corresponding preparation or preparations, a few examples of
which are listed in the following table, although this list is not
conclusively.
TABLE-US-00002 t.sub.1 t.sub.2 Advantage Cleaning agent in the
Perfume in the toilet Optimized release of perfume because the
toilet bowl in the bowl after the perfume is released into the
toilet bowl after the flushing operation flushing operation
flushing operation and therefore is not washed away with the
flushing water. The perfume is not "destroyed" by the cleaning
agent preparation. Perfume in the toilet Cleaning agent in the
Optimized release of perfume because the bowl immediately toilet
bowl during the perfume is released into the toilet bowl before
before use flushing operation the flushing operation and therefore
is not washed away with the flushing water. The perfume is not
"destroyed" by the cleaning agent preparation. Cleaning agent A in
Cleaning agent B in Cleaning agent A may prevent deposits in the
the toilet bowl the toilet bowl during toilet bowl by forming a
protective film of immediately before the flushing operation
cleaning agent A in the toilet bowl immediately use before use of
the toilet, this film then being flushed from the toilet surface
during the process of flushing cleaning agent B.
[0061] The control unit can be designed so that it is possible to
adjust parameters in the dosing programs. For example, sensor
threshold values can be adjusted during preconfiguration of the
toilet flusher, or by the user during use to induce release of
active ingredient at a certain sensor threshold value. The setting
of one or more parameters can be implemented by a suitably
configured input device on the toilet flusher. In this way, control
of the toilet flusher can be further optimized and adapted to a
certain application case.
Sensor Unit--
[0062] The sensor unit can include one or more active and/or
passive sensors for qualitative and/or quantitative detection of
mechanical, electric, physical and/or chemical variables sent as
control signals to the control unit.
[0063] In particular, sensors of the sensor unit include timers,
infrared sensors, brightness sensors, temperature sensors, motion
sensors, elongation sensors, rpm sensors, proximity sensors, flow
rate sensors, color sensors, gas sensors, vibration sensors,
pressure sensors, conductivity sensors, turbidity sensors, sound
sensors, lab-on-a chip sensors, force sensors, acceleration
sensors, inclination sensors, pH sensors, moisture sensors,
magnetic field sensors, RFID sensors, magnetic field sensors, Hall
sensors, biochips, odor sensors, hydrogen sulfide sensors and/or
MEMS sensors.
[0064] The sensor unit in its simplest conceivable embodiment can
also be embodied as a tilt, pressure or touch sensor.
[0065] For preparations whose viscosity fluctuates greatly as a
function of temperature, it is advantageous for volume and/or mass
control of the dosed preparations to provide flow rate sensors in
the dosing device. Suitable flow rate sensors include diaphragm
flow rate sensors, magnetic-inductive flow meters, mass flow rate
measurement according to the Coriolis method, eddy counter flow
rate measurement methods, ultrasonic flow rate measurement methods,
particulate flow rate measurement, ring-piston flow rate
measurement, thermal mass flow rate measurement or active pressure
flow rate measurement.
[0066] It is also conceivable to store a viscosity curve as a
function of temperature for at least one preparation in the control
unit, so that dosing is adjusted by the control unit in accordance
with the temperature and thus the viscosity of the preparation.
[0067] In another embodiment of the invention, a device for direct
determination of the viscosity of the preparation is provided.
[0068] The alternatives mentioned above for determining the dosing
quantity and/or viscosity of a preparation serve to generate a
control signal processed by the control unit for control of a pump,
whereby constant dosing of a preparation is induced.
[0069] In another preferred embodiment of the invention, the sensor
is configured so that detection of a flushing operation is
implemented without any significant influence on flow conditions in
the toilet bowl. For example, ultrasonic sensors may be used for
this purpose.
[0070] Power Source--
[0071] According to the present application, the power source is a
component of the dosing device, which is expedient for providing
power suitable for self-sufficient operation of the dosing
device.
[0072] The power source preferably supplies electricity. The power
source can be, for example, a battery, a power pack, solar cells or
the like.
[0073] It is particularly advantageous to design the power source
to be replaceable (e.g., in the form of a replaceable battery).
[0074] However, it is also possible for the power source to be a
mechanical power source such as a dynamo, which converts mechanical
or fluid energy into electric power. This can then be stored in
suitable storage elements such as a capacitor or battery.
Container--
[0075] A container according to the present application refers to a
packaging suitable for enclosing or holding preparations and can be
coupled to the dosing apparatus for dispensing the preparation.
[0076] An arrangement comprising two containers, preferably
separate from one another, with each containing an active
ingredient fluid, is especially preferred. However, multiple
storage containers for multiple active ingredient fluids may also
be provided. The storage containers are separated from one another
in order to suppress premature mixing of the active ingredient
fluids. They can be designed to be physically separate or as
separate components in a cohesive body.
[0077] The volume ratio formed from the design volume of the dosing
apparatus and the filling volume of the container preferably is
<1, especially preferably <0.1, in particular preferably
<0.05. With a given total design volume of the dosing apparatus
and the container, the predominant proportion of the design volume
is provided by the container and the preparation contained
therein.
[0078] The container usually has a filling volume of <5000 mL,
in particular <1000 mL, preferably <500 mL, especially
preferably <250 mL, most especially preferably <50 mL.
[0079] The invention is suitable for dimensionally stable
containers such as cups, tins, cartridges, bottles, canisters,
cans, boxes, drums or tubes, but can also be used for flexible
containers such as bags or sacks, in particular when used according
to the bag-in-bottle principle.
[0080] A container can also have multiple chambers which can be
filled with different compositions. It is also possible for a
plurality of containers to be arranged to form one unit (e.g., a
cartridge).
[0081] Examples of possible combinations of containers and/or
chambers having the corresponding preparations are summarized in
the following table for a few applications.
TABLE-US-00003 Container A Container B Container C Cleaning agent
Perfume Cleaning agent A Cleaning agent B Cleaning agent A Cleaning
agent B Perfume
[0082] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the container
has an RFID label containing at least information about the
contents of the container, readable by the sensor unit.
[0083] This information can be used to select a dosing program
stored in the control unit. In this way, optimal dosing program for
each preparation is always used. It is also possible that no dosing
is performed by the dosing device when no RFID label is present or
when an RFID label bears a false or defective identifier and,
instead of an optical or acoustic signal to be generated, alerts
the user to the presence of an error.
[0084] To rule out misuse of the containers, the containers may
also have structural elements which cooperate with corresponding
elements on the dosing apparatus according to a lock-and-key
principle, so that only containers of a certain type are coupled to
the dosing apparatus, for example. Furthermore, with this
embodiment it is possible for information about the container
coupled to the dosing apparatus to be transmitted to the control
unit so that the dosing device can be controlled in a manner
coordinated with the contents of the corresponding container.
[0085] In another embodiment of the invention, the container may be
under pressure. This is advantageous when the preparation is
sprayed or dispensed without requiring a pump in between. In this
case, the preparation can be dispensed, for example, in a manner
that is controlled and/or regulated by a control valve operatively
connected to the control unit. This embodiment has the additional
advantage that no power need be supplied by the power source for
conveying the preparation, so the power source can either be
designed with smaller dimensions or have a longer lifetime.
Fasteners--
[0086] The toilet flusher can additionally comprises fasteners to
affix the toilet flusher to the toilet bowl. Fasteners include
suction cups, adhesive tape, brackets or the like, for example.
[0087] Alternatively, the toilet flusher can be attached to the
toilet tank, the toilet seat or the toilet lid. Fasteners known in
the art can be used here.
Preparations--
[0088] Preparations according to the present application are
compositions containing at least one substance from the group of
cleaning agents and/or perfumes.
[0089] According to another preferred embodiment of the invention,
preparations include substances for modifying surfaces, in
particular, ceramic surfaces.
[0090] Preparations suitable according to the invention include,
for example, scent phases, in particular perfumed scent phases.
Such scent phases usually contain at least one perfume, preferably
perfume oil, at least one surfactant or one emulsifier, water and
optionally additional ingredients such as preservatives,
thickeners, chelating agents, dyes, additional surfactants or
emulsifiers, stabilizers, lime dissolvers, etc.
[0091] Bleach phases, in particular chlorine-containing bleach
phases, preferably hypochlorite-based bleach phases, are likewise
suitable as preparations according to the invention, wherein the
bleach phases can contain additional ingredients such as
thickeners, surfactants or emulsifiers, neutralizers, dyes,
perfumes, etc. in addition to the actual bleaching agent and/or
water.
[0092] Additional preparations suitable according to the invention
include lime-dissolving active ingredient phases, preferably acidic
lime-dissolving active ingredient phases. These lime-dissolving
active ingredient phases can contain additional ingredients such as
surfactants or emulsifiers, thickeners, perfumes, preservatives,
etc., in addition to the actual lime-dissolving agent--which is
preferably an organic or inorganic acid--and water.
[0093] It is also possible to use as preparations highly
concentrated surfactant phases, so-called suds boosters. Such
highly concentrated surfactant phases can also contain additional
conventional ingredients besides surfactants. Suds boosters are
advantageous in pretreating the toilet bowl with a carpet of foam,
for example, to prevent and/or reduce adherence of metabolic
excretory products on the toilet surface and/or to induce
encapsulation of bad odors.
[0094] Optionally also suitable according to the invention are
preparations having an antibacterial and/or fungicidal and/or
antiviral active ingredient phase, where the active ingredient
phase can optionally contain, in addition to the antibacterial
and/or fungicidal and/or antiviral active ingredient and water,
additional ingredients such as surfactants or emulsifiers,
thickeners, perfumes, preservatives, etc.
[0095] It is also possible for the preparations to have
enzyme-containing active ingredient phases. Such enzyme-containing
active ingredient phases can optionally contain, in addition to
enzyme(s) and water, additional ingredients such as surfactants or
emulsifiers, thickeners, perfumes, preservatives, etc.
[0096] It is likewise possible for preparations used according to
the invention to be absorbent active phases, in particular
odor-absorbing active phases. These can contain, in addition to the
absorbent, in particular odor absorbents and water, additional
ingredients if necessary, such as surfactants or emulsifiers,
thickeners, perfumes, preservatives, etc.
[0097] According to an especially preferred embodiment, the
inventive toilet flusher offers the possibility of using
combinations of different preparations in the storage containers,
such that one of the storage containers contains a scent phase as
defined above.
[0098] Examples of useful preparation combinations include perfumed
scent phases in combination with chlorine bleaches (which are not
stable when stored together), perfumed scent phases with a highly
concentrated surfactant phase (suds booster), scent phase with a
lime-dissolving acidic active ingredient phase, scent phase
combined with an antibacterial active ingredient phase, various
acid systems, scent phase combined with an enzyme-containing active
ingredient phase, perfumed acid phase combined with a water-tinting
phase, scent phase with an odor-absorbing phase, perfumed acid
phase with active oxygen, perfumed acid phase with a active
ingredient, thickened with polyacrylate, etc.
[0099] Of particular interest are viscous to gelatinous active
ingredient fluids having a viscosity in the range of a few thousand
mPas, in particular from 200 to 5000 mPas, preferably 500 to 3500
mPas (measured with a RotoVisko LVTV II, spindle 31, 5 rpm,
20.degree. C.).
[0100] In another preferred embodiment of the invention, the
preparations have a viscosity of less than 2000 mPas, in particular
less than 1000 mPas (measured with a RotoVisko LVTV II, spindle 31,
5 rpm, 20.degree. C.). Such low-viscosity to aqueous preparations
are suitable in particular when the preparation is to be sprayed in
or on the toilet bowel.
[0101] Due to the use of low-viscosity active ingredient
preparations, much faster and more accurate dosing is inducible in
combination with the inventive toilet flusher, and no thickener
systems need be used. Furthermore, active ingredient systems, which
may be prepared only with a low viscosity (e.g., based on chlorine
HCl, etc.), may also be used.
[0102] According to another embodiment of the invention, the
preparation can be under pressure. This is advantageous when the
preparation is sprayed or dispensed without requiring a pump in
between. In this case, dispensing of the preparation can be
controlled and/or regulated, for example, by a control valve
operatively connected to the control unit. This embodiment has the
additional advantage that no power need be supplied by the power
source for conveying the preparation, so the power source can be
designed with smaller dimensions or has a longer lifetime.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0103] FIG. 1 is schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a
toilet flusher according to the present invention having a
preparation container on the intake side of the pump.
[0104] FIG. 2 is schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a
toilet flusher according to the present invention having a
preparation container on the pressure side of the pump.
[0105] FIG. 3 is schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a
toilet flusher according to the present invention having a
two-chamber preparation container on the intake side of the
pump.
[0106] FIG. 4 is schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a
toilet flusher according to the present invention having a
passively valve-controlled two-chamber preparation container on the
intake side of the pump.
[0107] FIG. 4a is schematic block diagram of another embodiment of
a toilet flusher according to the present invention having an
actively valve-controlled two-chamber preparation container on the
intake side of the pump.
[0108] FIG. 5 is schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a
toilet flusher according to the present invention having two
pump-connected preparation containers.
[0109] FIG. 6 is a flow chart illustrating one embodiment of
controlling a toilet flusher with a pump.
[0110] FIG. 7 is a flow chart illustrating an embodiment of
controlling a toilet flusher having a pump and a multichamber
preparation container.
[0111] FIG. 8 is a flow chart illustrating an embodiment of
controlling a toilet flusher having multiple pumps and a
multichamber preparation container.
[0112] FIG. 9 is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a
toilet flusher according to the present invention having an RFID
label on a preparation container.
[0113] FIG. 10 is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a
toilet flusher according to the present invention having a
removable refilling container.
[0114] FIG. 11 is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a
toilet flusher according to the present invention having a
refilling container attached to the dosing apparatus.
[0115] FIG. 12 is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a
toilet flusher according to the present invention having a battery
integrated into the refilling container.
[0116] FIG. 13 is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a
toilet flusher according to the present invention having a
two-chamber refilling container and two pumps.
[0117] FIG. 14 is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a
toilet flusher according to the present invention having a
two-chamber refilling container, a pump and a control valve.
[0118] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a toilet
flusher according to the present invention having an extendable
bracket.
[0119] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a toilet
flusher according to the present invention having a removable
container and wick system.
[0120] FIG. 17 is a side view of one embodiment of a toilet flusher
according to the present invention having a dispensing element
arranged on a bracket end.
[0121] FIG. 18 is a top view of one embodiment of a toilet flusher
according to the present invention having a dispensing element
arranged on a bracket end attached to a toilet bowl.
[0122] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a toilet
flusher according to the present invention having individually
replaceable containers.
[0123] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a
dispensing element according to the present invention having an
integrated sensor unit and two dispensing nozzles.
[0124] FIG. 21 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a
dispensing element according to the present invention having an
integrated sensor unit, two dispensing nozzles and two spray
cones.
[0125] FIG. 22 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a toilet
flusher according to the present invention having a dispensing
element and two spray cones and attached to a toilet bowl.
[0126] FIG. 23 is a side view of one embodiment of a toilet flusher
according to the present invention having a dispensing element
arranged beneath the toilet edge and two differently oriented spray
cones.
[0127] FIG. 24 is a side view of one embodiment of a toilet flusher
according to the present invention having a dispensing element
arranged beneath the toilet edge and a spray cone directed beneath
the edge of the toilet.
[0128] FIG. 25 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a toilet
flusher according to the present invention having two individually
replaceable containers and an inspection flap in a closed position
and in an opened position.
[0129] FIG. 1 shows the inventive toilet flusher 1 consisting of
the dosing apparatus 2 and a container 9 connected to the dosing
apparatus 2 and containing a preparation 10.
[0130] The dosing device or apparatus 2 includes a power source 3,
control unit 4, sensor unit 5 and pump 6, preferably arranged in a
housing. The pump 6 is connected to the power source 3 via the
control unit 4. The control unit 4 is in turn connected to the
sensor unit 5, which sends control signals for controlling the pump
6 to the control unit 4.
[0131] The pump 6 has a pressure line 7 and an intake line 8, with
the intake line 8 connected to the container 9 containing the
preparation 10. The pump 6 thus delivers the flowable preparation
10 through the intake line 8 out of the container 9 into the
pressure line 7, from which the preparation 10 is dispensed to the
surroundings of the toilet flusher 1. The pressure line 7 can be
configured such that it counteracts gelation of the preparation
dispensed (e.g., by choice of a suitable diameter).
[0132] The container 9 can have a pressure-equalizing valve 11 for
inducing equalization of pressure between the surroundings and
interior of the container 9 when the pump 6 pumps the preparation
10 out of the container 9.
[0133] The pump 6 may be triggered by the control unit 4 so that
direction of conveyance of the pump is reversed and any preparation
still present in the pump 6 and lines 7 and 8 is delivered back
into the container 9. This backflushing can be advantageous when
the preparation 10 thickens, clogging the lines 7 or 8.
[0134] FIG. 2 shows another embodiment of the dosing device known
from FIG. 1 in which the container 9 is connected to the pump 6 on
the pressure side. Here the pump 6 builds up pressure in the
container 9 by pumping ambient air into the container 9, thereby
displacing the preparation out of the container 9. A valve 11 can
be provided on the preparation output side of the container 9,
enabling dispensing of the preparation 10 out of the container 9
when a defined pressure is reached in the container 9. This can be
advantageous when there is a defined spray stream-type or spray
mist-type dosing instead of dropwise dosing.
[0135] In addition, a nonreturn valve 11a can be provided in the
pressure line 7 between the pump 6 and the container 9, preventing
pressure built up in the container 9 from escaping through the
pressure line 7 when the pump 6 is stopped.
[0136] FIG. 3 shows the dosing apparatus 2 from FIG. 1 wherein a
two-chamber container formed from the containers 9 and 3 is
connected to the intake line 8 of the pump 6. The containers 9 and
13 can each contain different compositions 10 and 14.
[0137] The containers 9 and 13 can each have pressure-equalizing
valves 11, 12.
[0138] The output openings on the bottom sides of the containers 9
and 13 are connected to the intake line 8 and to the pump 6 so that
the preparations 10 and 14 are pumped through the intake line 8 in
defined ratios to one another. It may be necessary here for flow
conditions in the pressure lines 8 leading to the output openings
in the bottom sides of the containers 9 and 13 to be designed
accordingly.
[0139] When using more than two different preparations 10 and 14,
it is advantageous to control dosing so that two compatible
preparations are transferred one after the other through the lines
7, 8 and the pump 6.
[0140] Incompatibility of two preparations can be due, for example,
to an exothermic reaction, thickening, flocculation, a change in
pH, a color change or the like.
[0141] In addition, a third container containing a flushing fluid
that cleans the lines 7, 8 and the pump 6 of at least one of the
preparations 10, 14 can also be provided. Air can also be provided
for flushing the lines 7, 8 and the pump 6. By flushing the lines
7, 8 and the pump 6, it is possible to prevent residues of
incompatible preparations from coming in contact with one
another.
[0142] FIG. 4 shows a further embodiment of the toilet flusher 1
known from FIG. 3. The pressure lines 8 leading to the output
openings on the bottom sides of the containers 9 and 13 each have a
passive valve 15 and 16, allowing a defined setting of the dosing
ratios of the preparations 10 and 14 out of the containers 9 and
13.
[0143] The valves 15 and 16 may also be designed as
temperature-sensitive bimetal valves that open and/or close at a
defined temperature. In particular, the valves 15 and 16 can be
different bimetal valves so that, for example, on reaching a
defined temperature, only one preparation can be conveyed by the
pump 6 out of one of the containers 9 or 13.
[0144] The dosing apparatuses according to FIGS. 1-4 all have a
control unit 4 that regulates the pump 6 by processing signals from
the sensor unit 5.
[0145] FIG. 6 illustrates a basic control algorithm 20 in the form
of a flow chart.
[0146] The control algorithm 20 is activated as soon as the dosing
apparatus 2 is turned on. The control unit 4 receives signals from
the sensor unit 5 in a first process step 22. In the control unit
4, the received sensor signal is compared with a threshold value
stored in the control unit 4.
[0147] In subsequent process step 24, there is a check on whether
the sensor signal and the threshold value are in a defined ratio to
one another on the basis of a selection condition. If this
condition is met, the pump 6 is activated by process step 25. If
this condition is not met, sensor signals according to process step
22 are additionally received by the control unit and evaluated.
[0148] As can be seen from process steps 25-29, the pump 6 remains
in an activated state until a sensor signal is obtained that causes
the micropump to be deactivated based on comparison with a
threshold value stored in the control unit 4. According to this
procedure, preparation is pumped from the containers as long as the
sensor signal varies between two predefined threshold values for
activating and deactivating the pump 6.
[0149] Alternatively, it is also possible for the control described
in the introduction to be modified so that a simple trigger circuit
is implemented in which activation of the micropump according to
process step 25 results in dispensing of a defined quantity of
preparation, so that the micropump is automatically turned off
without requiring any additional deactivation condition for the
pump 6 based on sensor signals.
[0150] As shown in FIG. 4a, it is also possible to design the
valves 15 and 16 as components actively controlled by the control
unit 4. The mixing ratio of the two preparations 10 and 14 can thus
be influenced actively and in a time-variant manner.
[0151] The control for this embodiment is shown in FIG. 7 as a flow
chart 30.
[0152] FIG. 5 shows another possibility for active and time-variant
influencing of the mixing ratio. In this embodiment of the
invention, each containers 9 and 13 is coupled to a pump 6 and 19
individually regulated by the control unit 4. FIG. 8 shows the
corresponding control algorithm.
[0153] FIG. 9 shows the dosing device from FIG. 1 wherein an RFID
label 42 suitable for identifying the size and contents 10 of the
container 9 is arranged on the container 9.
[0154] The sensor unit 5 includes an RFID receiver unit able to
read out information from the RFID label 42 provided on the
container 9. This information is sent as a control signal to the
control unit 4 to induce dosing of the preparation 10 based on the
contents of the container 9. In particular, control signals induced
by the RFID label 42 can be used to select a dosing program stored
in the control unit.
[0155] In this manner, a universal dosing apparatus for a variety
of dosing applications can be provided, such as dosing of
preparations in dishwashers, washing machines, dryers, toilets or
in residential rooms.
[0156] As an alternative to the RFID label 42, those skilled in the
art may also provide other means for inducing automatic
identification of the container 9 and its contents 10 by the dosing
apparatus.
[0157] Furthermore, an additional dispensing device 43 can be
provided on the opening on the pressure side of the pressure line
7. This dispensing device 43 induces distribution of the
preparation into the surroundings of the dosing device 1 in a
manner different from dropwise dispensing. This may involve, for
example, a stream-type or spray mist-type of dispensing of the
preparation or a dispensing based on evaporation or diffusion. The
dispensing device 43 may therefore be designed as a nozzle,
atomizer, distributor plate or porous surface, for example. In
particular, the dispensing device may be designed so that it
counteracts gelation of the preparations released.
[0158] FIG. 10 shows the toilet flusher from FIG. 1 with a
container 9 detachable from the dosing apparatus 2. On its lower
end at the bottom, the container 9 has a connection 47 which can be
inserted into the receptacle 48 provided on the dosing apparatus 1.
The connection 47 can be sealed by a closure so that the
preparation 10 is prevented from running out of the container 9 at
first in the unused state of the container 9; however, this closure
is destroyed when the container 9 is inserted into the dosing
apparatus 2 and/or the connection 47 is inserted into the
receptacle 48, enabling release of the preparation 10 out of the
container 9 by the dosing apparatus 2 into the surroundings. FIG.
11 shows the toilet flusher in its assembled state.
[0159] The control unit 4 is also coupled to an acoustic converter
46 that converts a voltage and/or a current of the control unit
into an audible acoustic signal. The control unit 4 can include
memory for a plurality of acoustic signals and/or music and/or
speech recordings retrieved manually or triggered by a sensor and
executed (i.e., sent to the acoustic converter 46).
[0160] Furthermore, a lamp 44 can connected to the control unit 2
and turned off and on according to a predefined operating state of
the dosing unit 2. The lamp can be in the form of an LED or LCD
display, for example.
[0161] The dosing apparatus 2 can be turned on and off with the
operating element 45. Furthermore, it is possible for various
programs stored in the control unit 4 to be retrieved and executed
via the operating element 45.
[0162] FIG. 12 shows another embodiment of the inventive toilet
flusher in which the power source 3 in the form of a battery is
integrated into the container 9. The battery 3 is connected in an
electrically conducting manner to the dosing apparatus 2 via a
suitably designed coupling. The capacity of the battery 3 is
advantageously designed so that it supplies power to the dosing
apparatus 2 over the period of use until the preparation 10 has
been completely emptied from the container 9.
[0163] FIG. 13 illustrates a design of the inventive toilet
flusher, known generally from FIG. 5, shown here in a detailed
schematic diagram. The chamber 9 is subdivided by the wall 49 into
two chambers in which a first preparation 10 and a second
preparation 14 are stored. Each of the chambers is connected to the
surroundings, communicating through one pressure-equalizing valve
11 and/or 12 for each, and having a connection 47a and/or 47b at
its end on the bottom side.
[0164] FIGS. 15 to 17 show another embodiment of the inventive
toilet flusher. The toilet flusher includes a dosing apparatus 2
and container 9 which is detachably affixed to the dosing apparatus
2. The dosing apparatus has an elevated rear wall from which the
fastener 52 extends vertically in the form of a bracket. The
bracket 52 is positioned between the edge of the toilet and the
toilet seat, where it is affixed on the toilet bowl by the toilet
seat resting on it. As FIG. 17 shows, a suction button can also be
included on the dosing apparatus, additionally securing the toilet
flusher on the toilet by vacuum.
[0165] On the head side of the fastening means 52 facing upward, a
pressure and/or strain measurement sensor is provided as the sensor
unit 5. When a pressure is applied to this sensor unit 5 (e.g., by
someone using the toilet and sitting on the toilet seat), the
sensor unit 5 generates a corresponding signal which is relayed to
the control unit 4 of the dosing apparatus 2.
[0166] The container 9 is separable from the dosing apparatus, as
seen in FIG. 16. The container 9 has a wick system 50 in its
interior, with which preparation is dispensed by the dispensing
element 43a from the container 9 to the surroundings by
evaporation. The connection 47 and receptacle 48 in the dosing
apparatus 2 form a liquid-tight connection in the assembled state
of the container 9 and dosing apparatus 2.
[0167] A dispensing element 43 in the form of a nozzle head is
provided on the bracket 52. The nozzle head 43 is movably arranged
on the bracket 52 allowing it to be aligned by the user. The length
of the bracket 52 and thus the application point of the nozzle head
43 are adjustable by a telescoping arrangement 53 arranged between
the nozzle head 43 and the bracket 52. With the nozzle head 43, a
spray cone 54 is created from the preparation. As FIG. 18 shows,
this spray cone wets a defined application field in the toilet bowl
55.
[0168] FIG. 19 shows another alternative embodiment of the
inventive toilet flusher. In this embodiment, the containers 9 and
13 are fixedly connected to the dosing apparatus 2 and can be
refilled through an opening (not illustrated in FIG. 19).
[0169] FIG. 20 shows a dispensing element 43 arranged on the distal
end of the bracket 52 with an integrated sensor 5 and two nozzles
56 and 57. In this exemplary embodiment, the sensor 5 is embodied
as an infrared sensor or as an ultrasonic sensor.
[0170] The nozzles 56 and 57 can be configured so that they
generate the same or different spray cones 54a and 54b, illustrated
in FIG. 21. As shown in FIG. 22, the spray cones 54a and 54b can be
directed at the same application field in the interior of a toilet
bowl 55. However, it is also apparent from FIGS. 23 and 24 that it
is possible to aim the two spray cones in different directions.
[0171] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 23, the dispensing element
43 is affixed to the lower edge of the toilet bowl 55 on the inside
by a hook. The dispensing element 43 is therefore displaceably
arranged on the bracket 52, symbolized by the arrow in FIG. 23. In
addition, the toilet flusher 1 is affixed to the outer edge of the
toilet bowl 55 by a fastener 50, here designed as a suction
cup.
[0172] The dispensing element 43 has a first nozzle 56 and a second
nozzle 57 which are spaced apart from one another and arranged in
the dispensing element 43 in such a way that their respective spray
cones 54a and 54b point in different directions without
overlapping. For example, the spray cone 54a of the first nozzle 56
is directed into the interior of the toilet bowl 55 while the spray
cone 54b of the second nozzle 57 is directed at the edge of the
toilet bowl. As shown in FIG. 24, it is also possible for a spray
cone 54b to be directed beneath the edge of the toilet bowl 55. The
spray cones 54a and 54b may be formed from the same or different
composition.
[0173] A sensor unit 5 in the form of a capacitor sensor protrudes
away from the dispensing element beneath the edge of the toilet 55,
enabling it to be acted upon by water when the flushing water is
activated. The sensor 5 is shaped so that it does not have any
significant influence on the guidance of the flushing water in the
toilet bowl 55.
[0174] FIG. 25 shows another embodiment of the containers 9 and 13
and of the dosing apparatus 2. Here, the receptacle of the
containers 9 and 13 in the dosing apparatus is closable by a flap
58 pivotably arranged on the dosing apparatus 2. The two containers
9 and 13 may be removed from or inserted into the receptacle of the
dosing apparatus 2 separately in the opened state of the flap
58.
[0175] In another embodiment of the invention, FIG. 25 shows a
toilet flusher 1 having two individually replaceable containers 9
and 13 and an inspection flap 58 in the closed and opened position.
The inspection flap 58 is hinge-connected to the back wall of the
toilet flusher and is shaped so that the inspection flap 58 covers,
preferably completely, the containers 9 and 13 inserted into the
toilet flusher 1. The inspection flap 58 can be provided with
closing means, providing a childproof closure of the inspection
flap 58 with the toilet flusher and thus prevent unintended access
to the containers 9 and 13.
[0176] The lamps 44 and the operating element 45 are arranged on
the front side of the toilet flusher so that they are not covered
when the inspection flap 58 is closed, but instead are freely
accessible.
* * * * *