U.S. patent application number 13/207788 was filed with the patent office on 2012-02-09 for cartridge.
This patent application is currently assigned to Henkel AG & Co. KGaA. Invention is credited to Thorsten Bastigkeit, Dieter Eichholz, Salvatore Fileccia, Gerold Jans, Arnd Kessler, Hans-Georg Muhlhausen, Christian Nitsch, Roland Schmalz.
Application Number | 20120031930 13/207788 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 42077097 |
Filed Date | 2012-02-09 |
United States Patent
Application |
20120031930 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Fileccia; Salvatore ; et
al. |
February 9, 2012 |
CARTRIDGE
Abstract
The invention relates to a cartridge for coupling to a dosing
device which may be positioned within a domestic device for
dispensing at least one washing or cleaning agent preparation, the
cartridge having at least one chamber for storing at least one
free-flowing liquid or powder washing or cleaning agent preparation
and the cartridge is protected against ingress of rinsing water
into the chamber(s) when coupled to the dosing device. The
cartridge is provided with at least one outlet opening on the lower
side in gravity direction, in particular for gravity fed dispensing
of preparation from at least one chamber and at least one
ventilation opening on the underside in the direction of gravity
for ventilation of at least one chamber, wherein the ventilation
opening is separate from the outlet opening and the ventilation
opening has a communicating connection with at least one chamber of
the cartridge.
Inventors: |
Fileccia; Salvatore;
(Oberhausen, DE) ; Kessler; Arnd; (Monheim am
Rhein, DE) ; Eichholz; Dieter; (Iserlohn, DE)
; Muhlhausen; Hans-Georg; (Dusseldorf, DE) ;
Schmalz; Roland; (Waldburg, DE) ; Jans; Gerold;
(Waldburg, DE) ; Nitsch; Christian; (Dusseldorf,
DE) ; Bastigkeit; Thorsten; (Wuppertal, DE) |
Assignee: |
Henkel AG & Co. KGaA
Dusseldorf
DE
|
Family ID: |
42077097 |
Appl. No.: |
13/207788 |
Filed: |
August 11, 2011 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
PCT/EP2010/000454 |
Jan 27, 2010 |
|
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13207788 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
222/325 ;
222/129 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47L 15/4472 20130101;
A47L 15/4463 20130101; D06F 39/02 20130101; A47L 15/4454 20130101;
D06F 39/024 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
222/325 ;
222/129 |
International
Class: |
B65D 83/00 20060101
B65D083/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Feb 16, 2009 |
DE |
10 2009 009 120.3 |
Claims
1. A cartridge for coupling to a dispenser, positionable in the
interior of a household appliance, for delivering at least one
washing- and/or cleaning-agent preparation, the cartridge
encompassing at least one chamber for stocking at least one
flowable or pourable washing- and/or cleaning-agent preparation,
the cartridge being, in the state coupled with the dispenser,
protected from the entry of washing water into the chamber(s), the
cartridge encompassing at least one delivery opening, on the bottom
side in the direction of gravity, for delivery of preparation out
of at least one chamber, and encompassing at least one vent
opening, on the bottom side in the direction of gravity, for
venting at least one chamber, the vent opening being separated from
the delivery opening, and the vent opening being communicatingly
connected to at least one chamber of the cartridge.
2. The cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the cartridge
encompasses at least two chambers.
3. The cartridge according to claim 2, wherein a respective vent
opening and a respective delivery opening is provided for each
chamber.
4. The cartridge according to claim 2, wherein the chambers of the
cartridge are detachable from one another.
5. The cartridge according to claim 2, wherein the chambers of the
cartridge are fastened nondetachably to one another.
6. The cartridge according to claim 2, wherein the chambers are
separated from one another by separating webs.
7. The cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the cartridge is
embodied in multiple parts.
8. The cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the cartridge is
constituted from two shell-shaped elements.
9. The cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the cartridge is
constituted from a shell-shaped element and a cover-shaped
element.
10. The cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the bottom-side
vent opening is communicatingly connected to a vent conduit having
an end that faces away from the vent opening and that terminates,
when the cartridge is coupled to the dispenser and is in a delivery
position, above a maximum fill level of the cartridge.
11. The cartridge according to claim 10, wherein the vent conduit
is shaped integrally into or onto walls and/or webs of the
cartridge.
12. The cartridge according to claim 10, wherein at least one vent
conduit is constituted by joining a separating web of the
cartridge, shaped in the shell-shaped element, to two webs that
enclose the separating web and are arranged on the cartridge
element.
13. The cartridge according to claim 10, wherein the vent conduit
is constituted by intermaterially joining a separating web of the
cartridge shaped in the shell-shaped element to two webs that
enclose the separating web and are arranged on the cartridge
element.
14. The cartridge according to claim 10, wherein the vent conduit
is embodied as a dip tube.
15. The cartridge according to claim 10, further comprising a vent
conduit orifice, wherein a fluid level of the cartridge does not
allow for fluid to be present at the vent conduit orifice when the
cartridge is in an unopened, filled state in an oblique position of
up to 45.degree..
16. The cartridge according to claim 15, wherein the vent conduit
orifice (83) is arranged approximately centeredly on and/or in the
chamber wall of the cartridge top (10).
17. The cartridge according to claim 10, wherein the viscosity of a
flowable preparation (40), and the vent conduit (82), are
configured in such a way that the preparation (40) is not drawn by
capillary forces into the vent conduit (81) when the preparation
(40) is present at the vent conduit orifice (83).
18. The cartridge according to claim 10, wherein a vent chamber
(86) is arranged between the vent opening (5) and the vent conduit
(82).
19. A dispensing system for delivering at least one washing- and/or
cleaning-agent preparation into the interior of a household
appliance, made up of a dispenser and a cartridge that can be
coupled to the dispenser according to claim 1.
20. A dispensing system for delivering at least one washing- and/or
cleaning-agent preparation into the interior of a household
appliance, made up of a household appliance and a cartridge that
can be coupled to the household appliance, according to claim 1.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This is a continuation of International Application No.
PCT/EP2010/000454, filed Jan. 27, 2010, which claims priority to
German Patent Application No. DE 10 2009 009 120.3 filed Feb. 16,
2009, both of which are hereby incorporated by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The invention relates to water-conveying equipment such as
household appliances that employ components such as a cartridge, a
dispenser for coupling to a cartridge, and a dispensing system for
delivering a plurality of preparations. The invention particularly
relates to automatic dishwashers, washing machines, laundry driers,
or automatic surface cleaning systems that employ such
components.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Automatic dishwashing agents are available to consumers in a
plurality of presentations. In addition to traditional liquid
manual dishwashing agents, automatic dishwashing agents have become
increasingly significant as household automatic dishwashers have
become more common. These automatic dishwashing agents are
typically offered to the consumer in solid form, for example as a
powder or as tablets, but increasingly also in liquid form. For
some time, attention has focused chiefly on convenient dispensing
of washing and cleaning agents and on simplifying the working steps
required to carry out a washing or cleaning method.
[0004] Furthermore, one of the main objectives of manufacturers of
automatic cleaning agents is to improve the cleaning performance of
these agents, increasing attention recently having been paid to
cleaning performance in low-temperature cleaning cycles and/or in
cleaning cycles having reduced water consumption. To this end, new
ingredients, for example more-effective surfactants, polymers,
enzymes or bleaching agents, have been added to the cleaning
agents. Because new ingredients are available only to a limited
extent, however, and because for environmental and economic reasons
the quantity of the ingredients used per cleaning cycle cannot be
arbitrarily increased, there are natural limits to this approach to
a solution.
[0005] In this connection, apparatuses for multiple dispensing of
washing and cleaning agents have very recently come under scrutiny
by product developers. With regard to these apparatuses, a
distinction may be made between on the one hand dispensing chambers
integrated into the automatic dishwasher or textile washing
machine, and on the other hand separate devices independent of the
automatic dishwasher or textile washing machine. By means of these
apparatuses, which contain several times the quantity of cleaning
agent required to carry out a cleaning method, washing- or
cleaning-agent portions are automatically or semi-automatically
dispensed into the interior of the cleaning machine in the course
of multiple successive cleaning processes. For the consumer, the
need for manual dispensing for each cleaning and/or washing cycle
is eliminated. Examples of such apparatuses are described in
European patent application EP 1 759 624 A2 (Reckitt Benckiser) or
in German patent application DE 53 5005 062 479 A1 (BSH Bosch and
Siemens Hausgerate GmbH).
[0006] Accordingly, it is desirable to make available an improved
dispenser, an improved cartridge, and/or an improved dispensing
system.
[0007] Furthermore, other desirable features and characteristics of
the present invention will become apparent from the subsequent
detailed description of the invention and the appended claims,
taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and this
background of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] The present invention will hereinafter be described in
conjunction with the following drawing figures, wherein like
numerals denote like elements, and
[0009] FIG. 1 depicts an autonomous dispenser with a two chamber
cartridge in the separated and assembled states;
[0010] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an autonomous dispenser with
a two chamber cartridge, arranged in a drawer of an automatic
dishwasher;
[0011] FIG. 3 depicts a two chamber cartridge as it may be coupled
to an autonomous dispenser or to an internal machine-integrated
dispenser;
[0012] FIG. 4 depicts a two chamber cartridge assembled with an
internal machine-integrated dispenser;
[0013] FIG. 5 depicts a two chamber cartridge as it may be coupled
to an autonomous dispenser or to an external machine-integrated
dispenser;
[0014] FIG. 6 depicts a two chamber cartridge assembled with an
external machine-integrated dispenser;
[0015] FIG. 7 depicts a two chamber cartridge as it may be coupled
to an autonomous dispenser or to an autonomous machine-integratable
dispenser;
[0016] FIG. 8 depicts a two chamber cartridge assembled with an
autonomous machine-integrated dispenser;
[0017] FIG. 9 depicts a perspective view of an autonomous dispenser
with a refillable two chamber cartridge and a refill unit;
[0018] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a cartridge formed from a
trough-shaped and a cover-shaped cartridge element;
[0019] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a cartridge formed from two
trough-shaped cartridge elements;
[0020] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a cartridge formed from a
cell-shaped, bottomless container and a cartridge bottom;
[0021] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a cartridge formed from a
cell-shaped container open at the top, having a cartridge
cover;
[0022] FIG. 14 depicts a cartridge formed from two chamber
elements;
[0023] FIG. 15 depicts a cartridge with a refill pouch;
[0024] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a cartridge with a chamber
for delivering volatile substances;
[0025] FIG. 17 is a front view of a cartridge with three
chambers;
[0026] FIG. 18 is a plan view of a cartridge with three
chambers;
[0027] FIG. 19 is an exploded view of a two-part cartridge with a
trough-shaped and a plate-like cartridge element;
[0028] FIG. 20 is an exploded view of a two-part cartridge with a
cell-like container and a cartridge bottom;
[0029] FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a three chamber cartridge
with a dispenser, in the separated state;
[0030] FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a three chamber cartridge
with vent openings;
[0031] FIG. 23 is a perspective inside view into a three chamber
cartridge with a front wall removed;
[0032] FIG. 24 is a longitudinal sectioned view into a three
chamber cartridge;
[0033] FIG. 25 is a longitudinal sectioned view of a three chamber
cartridge coupled to a dispenser;
[0034] FIG. 26 is a schematic diagram of a configuration of a vent
conduit on a separating web of a cartridge;
[0035] FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view of a cartridge and a
dispenser in the uncoupled state; and
[0036] FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view of a cartridge and a
dispenser in a pivotable, latched-in state.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0037] The following detailed description of the invention is
merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the
invention or the application and uses of the invention.
Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any theory
presented in the preceding background of the invention or the
following detailed description of the invention.
[0038] The dispensing system according to the invention is made up
of the basic components of a cartridge filled with preparation and
a dispenser couplable to the cartridge, which dispenser is in turn
formed from further subassemblies such as, for example, a component
carrier, actuator, closure element, sensor, energy source, and/or
control unit.
[0039] It is preferred that the dispensing system according to the
present invention be movable. For purposes of the present
Application, "movable" means that the dispensing system is not
nondetachably connected to a water-conveying apparatus such as, for
example, an automatic dishwasher, washing machine, laundry dryer,
or the like, but instead is removable, for example, from an
automatic dishwasher or positionable in an automatic dishwasher by
the user, i.e. can be handled independently.
[0040] According to an alternative embodiment of the invention, it
is also conceivable for the dispenser to be connected,
nondetachably for the user, to a water-conveying apparatus such as,
for example, an automatic dishwasher, washing machine, laundry
dryer, or the like, and for only the cartridge to be movable.
[0041] In order to ensure operation at elevated temperatures such
as those that occur in individual washing cycles of an automatic
dishwasher, the dispensing system may be formed from materials that
are dimensionally stable up to a temperature of 120.degree. C.
[0042] Because the preparations to be dispensed may have a pH
between 2 and 12 depending on the intended utilization, all
components of the dispensing system that come into contact with the
preparations should exhibit appropriate acid and/or alkali
resistance. In addition, suitable material selection should ensure
that these components are largely chemically inert, for example
with respect to nonionic surfactants, enzymes and/or scents.
Cartridge
[0043] For purposes of the present Application, a "cartridge" is
understood as a packaging means that is suitable for encasing or
holding together flowable or pourable preparations, and is
couplable to a dispenser for delivering at least one
preparation.
[0044] In particular, a cartridge can also encompass multiple
chambers that are fillable with compositions differing from one
another. It is also conceivable for a plurality of containers to be
arranged into a cartridge unit.
[0045] It is advantageous for the cartridge to comprise at least
one outlet opening which is arranged such that gravity-effected
release of preparation out of the container can be brought about in
the utilization position of the dispenser. As a result, no further
conveying means are required for the release of preparation from
the cartridge, so that the construction of the dispenser can be
kept simple and manufacturing costs low.
[0046] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, at least one
second chamber is provided for receiving at least one second
flowable or scatterable preparation, the second chamber comprising
at least one outlet opening which is arranged such that a
gravity-effected product release from the second chamber can be
brought about with the dispenser in the utilization position. The
arrangement of a second chamber is particularly advantageous when
preparations that are not usually shelf-stable with one another,
for example bleaching agents and enzymes, are stocked in the
mutually separate containers.
[0047] It is furthermore conceivable for more than two, in
particular three to four chambers to be provided in and/or on a
cartridge. In particular, one of the chambers can be configured to
deliver volatile preparations, for instance a scent, into the
environment.
[0048] In a further embodiment of the invention, the cartridge is
embodied in one piece. As a result, the cartridges can be embodied
economically in one manufacturing step, in particular using
suitable blow molding methods. The chambers of a cartridge can in
this context be separated from one another by, for example, webs or
material bridges.
[0049] The cartridge can also be formed from multiple pieces, using
components manufactured by injection molding and then joined
together.
[0050] In addition, it is conceivable for the cartridge to be
shaped in multi-piece fashion such that at least one chamber,
preferably all the chambers, are individually removable from or
insertable into the dispenser. This makes it possible, if a
preparation from one chamber is being used at a different rate, to
replace an already empty chamber while the others, which may still
be filled with preparation, remain in the dispenser. Targeted and
demand-compatible refilling of the individual chambers with their
respective preparations can thereby be achieved.
[0051] The chambers of a cartridge can be fastened to one another
using suitable connection methods, thereby forming a container
unit. The chambers can be fastened detachably or nondetachably to
one another by a suitable positive, frictionally engaged, or
intermaterial connection. In particular, fastening may be affected
by one or more of the connection types from the group of the
snap-in connections, hook-and-loop connections, press connections,
melt connections, adhesive connections, welded connections,
soldered connections, screw connections, keyed connections, clamped
connections or flip-closure connections. In particular, fastening
may also be embodied by a heat-shrink sleeve, which in a heated
state is pulled over all or portions of the cartridge, and in the
cooled state fixedly surrounds the chambers and/or the
cartridge.
[0052] In order to provide advantageous residual emptying
properties for the chambers, the bottom of the chambers can be
inclined in the manner of a funnel toward the delivery opening.
Moreover, the inner wall of a chamber may be embodied, by suitable
material selection and/or surface configuration, in such a way that
little material adhesion of the preparation onto the internal
chamber wall occurs. This feature, too, allows the residual
emptying capability of a chamber to be further optimized.
[0053] The chambers of a cartridge can exhibit identical or
differing volumetric capacities. In a configuration having two
chambers, the ratio of the chamber volumes is preferably 5:1, in a
configuration having three chambers preferably 4:1:1, these
configurations in particular being suitable for use in automatic
dishwashers.
[0054] As mentioned above, the cartridge preferably possesses three
chambers. For use of such a cartridge in an automatic dishwasher,
it is particularly preferred that the first chamber contain an
alkaline cleaning preparation, the second chamber a enzymatic
preparation, and the third chamber a rinse aid, the volume ratio of
the chambers being equal to approximately 4:1:1.
[0055] A dispensing chamber can be embodied in or on a chamber
before the outlet opening in the flow direction of the preparation.
The dispensing chamber defines the quantity of preparation that,
upon the release of preparation from the chamber, is to be
delivered to the environment. This is particularly advantageous
when the closure element of the dispenser, which brings about
delivery of preparation from a chamber to the environment, can be
put only into a delivery state and a closed state, without
measurement or monitoring of the quantity delivered. The dispensing
chamber then ensures that a predefined quantity of preparation is
released without direct feedback of the quantity of preparation
currently being delivered. The dispensing chambers can be shaped in
single- or multi-piece fashion.
[0056] According to a further advantageous refinement of the
invention, one or more chambers comprise(s) in each case, in
addition to an outlet opening, a respective chamber opening
closable in liquid-tight manner. This chamber opening makes it
possible, for example, to refill the preparation stored in that
chamber.
[0057] In order to vent the cartridge chambers, it is possible to
provide venting capabilities in particular in the top region of the
cartridge, to ensure pressure equalization between the interior of
the cartridge chambers and the environment as the fill level drops.
These venting capabilities can be embodied, for example as a valve,
in particular a silicone slit valve, micro-openings in the
cartridge wall, or the like.
[0058] If, according to a further embodiment, the cartridge
chambers are vented not directly but rather via the dispenser, or
if no venting is provided, for example when using flexible
containers such as for example pouches, this has the advantage that
at elevated temperatures in the course of a washing cycle of a
dishwasher, a pressure is built up due to heating of the chamber
contents, which pressure presses the preparations to be dispensed
toward the outlet openings so that a good residual emptying
capability for the cartridge is thereby achievable. In addition,
with air-free packaging of this kind there is no risk of oxidation
of substances of the preparation; this makes a pouch package or
even bag-in-bottle package seem useful in particular for
oxidation-sensitive preparations.
[0059] The volume ratio, calculated from the physical volume of the
dispenser and the volumetric capacity of the cartridge, is equal
preferably to <1, particularly preferably <0.1, especially
preferably <0.05. This ensures that for a predefined total
physical volume of the dispenser and cartridge, the predominant
proportion of the physical volume is accounted for by the cartridge
and the preparation contained therein.
[0060] The cartridge usually has a volumetric capacity of <5000
ml, in particular <1000 ml, preferably <500 ml, particularly
preferably <250 ml, very particularly preferably <50 ml.
[0061] The cartridge can assume any desired three-dimensional
shape. It can for example be cubic, spherical or plate-like in
configuration.
[0062] The cartridge and the dispenser can in particular be
configured, with regard to their three-dimensional shape, in such a
way that they ensure the least possible loss of useful volume in
particular in an automatic dishwasher.
[0063] For utilization of the dispenser in automatic dishwashers,
it is particularly advantageous to shape the device by analogy with
tableware to be cleaned in automatic dishwashers. It can, for
example, be plate-shaped, having approximately the dimensions of a
dinner plate. As a result, the dispenser can be positioned in
space-saving fashion, for example, in the lower rack of the
dishwasher. Furthermore, correct positioning of the dispensing unit
is immediately and intuitively evident to the user thanks to the
plate-like shape. The cartridge preferably has a ratio of height to
width to depth of between 5:5:1 and 50:50:1, particularly
preferably approximately 10:10:1. The "slender" embodiment of the
dispenser and the cartridge makes it possible in particular to
position the device in the lower loading rack of an automatic
dishwasher in the receptacles provided for plates. This has the
advantage that the preparations delivered from the dispenser travel
directly into the washing bath and cannot adhere to other items
being washed.
[0064] Commercially available household automatic dishwashers are
usually designed so that provision is made to arrange larger items
to be washed, for instance pans or large plates, in the lower rack
of the automatic dishwasher. In order to prevent the user from
positioning the dispensing system less than optimally in the upper
rack, in an advantageous embodiment of the invention the dispensing
system is dimensioned so as to enable the dispensing system to be
positioned only in the receptacles of the lower rack provided
therefor. To this end, the width and height of the dispensing
system can be selected to be in particular between 150 mm and 300
mm, particularly preferably between 175 mm and 250 mm.
[0065] It is also conceivable, however, to embody the dispensing
unit in a cup shape, with a substantially circular or square base
outline.
[0066] In order to provide a direct visual check of the fill level,
it is advantageous to shape the cartridge at least in portions from
a transparent material.
[0067] In order to protect heat-sensitive constituents of a
preparation present in a cartridge from the effect of heat, it is
advantageous to manufacture the cartridge from a material having a
low thermal conductivity.
[0068] Another possibility for reducing the influence of heat on a
preparation in a chamber of the cartridge is to insulate the
chamber using suitable actions, for example by using thermal
insulation materials, such as for instance polystyrene foam, which
suitably surround the chamber or cartridge entirely or in part.
[0069] A further action for protecting heat-sensitive substances in
a cartridge, when a plurality of chambers are present, is the
arrangement thereof relative to one another.
[0070] It is, for example, conceivable for the chamber that
contains a heat-sensitive product to be partly or completely
surrounded by at least one further chamber filled with a product,
the latter product and latter chamber functioning in this
configuration as thermal insulation for the surrounded chamber.
This means that a first chamber that contains a heat-sensitive
product is partly or entirely surrounded by at least one further
chamber filled with a product, so that upon heating of the
environment, the heat-sensitive product in the first chamber
exhibits a slower rise in temperature than do the products in the
surrounding chambers.
[0071] In order to bring about a further improvement in thermal
insulation, when more than two chambers are used the chambers can
be arranged one around the other on the principle of Russian dolls,
thus forming a multi-layer insulation layer.
[0072] It is advantageous in particular for at least one
preparation that is stocked in a surrounding chamber to have a
thermal conductivity between 0.01 and 5 W/m*K, preferably between
0.02 and 2 W/m*k, particularly preferably between 0.024 and 1
W/m*K.
[0073] The cartridge is embodied, in particular, in dimensionally
stable fashion. It is also conceivable, however, to configure the
cartridge as a flexible packaging means, for instance as a tube. It
is furthermore also possible to use flexible containers such as
pouches, in particular if they are used in a substantially
dimensionally stable receiving vessel in accordance with the
"bag-in-bottle" principle. In contrast to the above-described
dimensionally stable packaging means (cartridge), the use of
flexible packaging means eliminates the need to provide a venting
system for pressure equalization.
[0074] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the cartridge
comprises an RFID label that at least contains information about
the contents of the cartridge and that is readable by the sensor
unit.
[0075] This information can be used in order to select a dispensing
program stored in the control unit. It is thereby possible to
ensure that the optimum dispensing program for a specific
preparation is always used. Provision can also be made that, in the
absence of an RFID label or in the case of an RFID label having an
incorrect or defective identifier, no dispensing is performed by
the dispensing apparatus and instead an optical or acoustic signal
is generated which notifies the user of the presence of the
fault.
[0076] In order to prevent incorrect use of the cartridge, the
cartridges can also comprise structural elements that interact with
corresponding elements of the dispenser on the lock-and-key
principle, so that for example only cartridges of a specific type
can be coupled to the dispenser. This embodiment furthermore makes
it possible for information about the cartridge coupled to the
dispenser to be transmitted to the control unit, with the result
that the dispensing apparatus can be controlled in a manner
coordinated with the contents of the corresponding container.
[0077] The outlet openings of a cartridge are preferably arranged
on a line, thus enabling a slender, plate-shaped embodiment of the
dispenser.
[0078] In the case of a pot- or cup-shaped embodiment of the
cartridge and/or a pot- or cup-shaped grouping thereof, it can also
be advantageous to arrange the delivery openings of the cartridge,
for example, in the form of a circular arc.
[0079] The cartridge is embodied in particular to receive flowable
washing or cleaning agents. Particularly preferably, a cartridge of
this kind comprises a plurality of chambers each for spatially
separated reception of preparations of a washing or cleaning agent
that differ from one another. By way of non-exhaustive example,
some possible combinations for filling the chambers with different
preparations are listed below:
TABLE-US-00001 Chamber 1 Chamber 2 Chamber 3 Chamber 4 Alkaline
Enzymatic Rinse aid -- cleaning cleaning preparation preparation
Alkaline Enzymatic Rinse aid Scent cleaning cleaning preparation
preparation Alkaline Enzymatic Rinse aid Disinfectant preparation
cleaning cleaning preparation preparation
[0080] The cartridge encompasses a cartridge bottom, which in the
utilization position is directed downward in the direction of
gravity and in which, in at least two chambers, there is provided
in each case at least one outlet opening arranged on the cartridge
bottom.
[0081] The cartridge is preferably formed from at least two
elements connected intermaterially to one another, such that the
connecting edge of the elements on the cartridge bottom extends
outside the outlet openings, i.e. the connecting edge does not
intersect the outlet openings.
[0082] The intermaterial connection can be produced, for example,
by adhesive bonding, welding, soldering, pressing, or
vulcanizing.
[0083] It is advantageous that the connecting edge extends along
the top, bottom, and side surfaces of the cartridge. As a result,
two cartridge elements can be manufactured in particular using the
injection molding method, such that either both elements are
embodied in trough-shaped fashion, or one element is trough-shaped
and the second element is cover-like.
[0084] To embody a two- or multi-chamber cartridge, at least one of
the two cartridge elements can encompass at least one separating
web that, when the elements are joined together, separates each two
adjacent chambers of the cartridge from one another.
[0085] As an alternative to embodying the cartridge from two
shell-shaped cartridge elements, it is also conceivable for one
cartridge element to be a cell-like container having at least one
chamber, and the second element to be the cartridge bottom or top
that is connected to the cell-like container in liquid-tight
fashion along the connecting edge.
[0086] It is of course also conceivable to combine the
aforementioned cartridge configurations in any suitable manner. For
example, it is possible to form a two-chamber cartridge from one
trough-like and one cover-like cartridge element, and to arrange a
third single- or multi-piece chamber on the top or the enveloping
surface of the cartridge thus formed.
[0087] In particular, a further chamber of this kind for receiving
a preparation can be arranged on the cartridge and configured so as
to bring about a delivery of volatile substances, for example
scents, from the preparation into the environment of the
chamber.
[0088] According to a preferable embodiment of the invention, the
outlet openings are each equipped with a closure that, in the state
coupled to a dispenser, allows preparation to flow out of the
respective chambers and, when the cartridge is in the uncoupled
state, substantially prevents an outflow of preparation. The
closure is configured in particular as a silicone slit valve.
[0089] The cartridge elements forming the cartridge are preferably
formed from a plastic, and can be shaped in a shared injection
molding process; it may be advantageous in this context to shape on
between the two elements a connecting web acting as a hinge, so
that after shaping, the two elements are butted against another by
folding over, and are connected intermaterially along the
connecting edge.
[0090] In a further embodiment of the invention, an energy source,
in particular a battery or rechargeable battery, is arranged on the
cartridge, preferably on the bottom of the cartridge. Means for
electrically coupling the energy source to the dispenser can
furthermore be provided on the cartridge.
[0091] In a further, preferred embodiment of the invention, the
cartridge for coupling to a dispenser, positionable in the interior
of a household appliance, for delivering at least one washing-
and/or cleaning-agent preparation comprises at least one chamber
for stocking at least one flowable or pourable washing- and/or
cleaning-agent preparation, the cartridge being, in the state
coupled with the dispenser, protected from the entry of washing
water into the chamber(s), and the cartridge encompassing at least
one delivery opening, on the bottom side in the direction of
gravity, for (in particular, gravity-effected) delivery of
preparation out of at least one chamber, and encompassing at least
one vent opening, on the bottom side in the direction of gravity,
for venting at least one chamber, the vent opening being separated
from the delivery opening (5) and the vent opening being
communicatingly connected to at least one chamber of the
cartridge.
[0092] It is particularly preferred for the cartridge to encompass
at least two chambers, very particularly preferably at least three
chambers. It is advantageous here that one ventilation orifice and
one release orifice are respectively provided for each chamber.
[0093] It is furthermore preferred that the bottom-side vent
opening be connected communicatingly to a vent conduit whose end
facing away from the vent opening terminates, when the cartridge
coupled to the dispenser is in the delivery position, above the
maximum fill level of the cartridge.
[0094] It is advantageous in this context that the vent conduit is
shaped entirely or partly into or onto the walls and/or webs of the
cartridge. In particular, the vent conduit can be shaped integrally
into or onto the walls and/or webs of the cartridge.
[0095] For this purpose, the vent conduit can advantageously be
formed by joining at least two elements forming the cartridge. For
example, a vent conduit can be formed by joining a separating web
of the cartridge, shaped in the shell-shaped element, to two webs
that are arranged on the cartridge element and enclose the
separating web.
[0096] It is advantageous in this context if the vent conduit is
formed by intermaterially joining, in particular by welding, a
separating web of the cartridge, shaped in the shell-shaped
element, to two webs that are arranged on the cartridge element and
enclose the separating web.
[0097] As an alternative thereto, the vent conduit can also be
embodied, for example, as a so-called dip tube.
[0098] In order to ensure venting of the cartridge even in an
oblique position, such as when the dispenser is placed in the plate
receptacle in an oblique position of up to 45.degree., the fluid
level of the cartridge does not reach the vent conduit orifice even
when the cartridge is in the unopened, filled state.
[0099] It is furthermore advantageous in this context to arrange
the vent conduit orifice approximately centeredly on and/or in the
chamber wall of the cartridge top.
[0100] In order to ensure functionality, for example, even
following a horizontal position of the cartridge, it is
advantageous if the vent conduit, and the viscosity of a flowable
preparation, are configured in such a way that the preparation is
not drawn by capillary forces into the vent conduit when the
preparation is present at the vent conduit orifice.
[0101] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the
invention, a vent chamber is arranged between the vent opening and
the vent conduit.
[0102] The cartridge can be embodied so that it can be arranged
detachably or fixedly in or on the automatic dishwasher or washing
machine and/or laundry dryer.
[0103] The outlet openings of the chambers of the cartridge, and
the inlet openings of the dispenser, are arranged and configured in
such a way that they are sequentially connected to one another by
pivoting the dispenser and cartridge, in the latched state, into
the coupled state.
[0104] It is advantageous in particular for the outlet openings of
the chambers to be arranged behind one another in a pivoting
direction.
[0105] It is very particularly preferred for the outlet openings of
the chambers to be arranged on a line (L) in a pivoting
direction.
[0106] It is furthermore advantageous for the outlet openings of
the chambers to be at approximately the same distance from one
another.
[0107] In a further, advantageous embodiment of the invention, the
greatest distance of an outlet opening of a chamber from the pivot
point (SP) of the cartridge is approximately 0.5 times the
cartridge length distance (L).
[0108] In particular, at least two chambers of the cartridge can
have volumes differing from one another.
[0109] Advantageously, the chamber of the cartridge having the
greatest volume is at the greatest distance from the pivot point
(SP) of the cartridge.
[0110] In a further embodiment of the invention, the vent opening
of a chamber is located, in a pivot direction upon coupling of the
cartridge to the dispenser, in each case before an outlet opening
of the chamber.
[0111] The ratio of the thickness (D) of the cartridge to the
length (L) of the cartridge is preferably approximately 1:20. The
ratio of the height (H) of the cartridge to the length (L) of the
cartridge is preferably approximately 1:1.2.
[0112] It is likewise preferred that the vent opening of a
cartridge be located, in a pivot direction upon coupling of the
cartridge to the dispenser, in each case before an outlet opening
of the chamber.
Light Guide
[0113] The cartridge for coupling to a dispenser, for delivering at
least one washing- and/or cleaning-agent preparation out of the
cartridge into the interior of a household appliance encompasses,
in a preferred embodiment of the invention, a light guide, arranged
in or on the cartridge, into which a light signal is couplable from
outside the cartridge.
[0114] In particular, the light guide can be shaped entirely or
partly in or on the walls and/or webs of the cartridge.
[0115] It is additionally advantageous to embody the light guide
integrally in or on the walls and/or webs of the cartridge.
[0116] The light guide is preferably made of a transparent plastic
material. It is also possible, however, to configure the entire
cartridge from a transparent material.
[0117] It is preferred that the light guide be suitable for guiding
light in the visible region (380 to 780 nm). It is particularly
preferable that the light guide be suitable for guiding light in
the near infrared region (780 nm to 3000 nm). It is especially
preferred that the light guide be suitable for guiding light in the
medium infrared region (3.0 .mu.m to 50 .mu.m).
[0118] The light signal that can be coupled into the light guide
is, in particular, a carrier of information, especially e.g. with
reference to the operating state of the dispenser and/or to the
fill level of the cartridge.
[0119] In a preferable refinement of the invention, the light guide
is embodied in such a way that the light signal couplable into the
light guide is also couplable back out of the light guide.
[0120] It may be advantageous in this context that the light guide
is embodied in such a way that the light signal is couplable out at
a point on the cartridge that is different from the point at which
the light signal is couplable into the cartridge.
[0121] Incoupling and/or outcoupling of the light signal can be
realized, in particular, at a prismatically configured edge of the
cartridge.
[0122] It is also advantageous that the light signal and the light
guide are configured in such a way that a light signal visible to a
user can be generated at and/or in the cartridge.
[0123] Advantageously, the light guide is surrounded at least in
portions, entirely or partly, by a material having a lower optical
refractive index. In particular, the material having the lower
optical refractive index can be a preparation stocked in a chamber
of the cartridge.
[0124] According to a further embodiment, the light guide can be
severed at least one point in the cartridge, in such a way that
preparation can fill the severed point.
Dispenser
[0125] The control unit necessary for operation, a sensor unit, and
at least one actuator are integrated into the dispenser. Preferably
an energy source is likewise arranged in the dispenser.
[0126] The dispenser is preferably made up of a
water-spray-protected housing that can prevent the penetration into
the interior of the dispenser of sprayed water such as can occur,
for example, upon use in an automatic dishwasher.
[0127] It is particularly advantageous to encapsulate in particular
the energy source, the control unit, and the sensor unit in such a
way that the dispenser is substantially water-tight, i.e. the
dispenser device is functional even when completely surrounded by
liquid. Encapsulation materials that can be used are, for example,
multi-component epoxy and acrylate encapsulating compounds such as
methacrylate esters, urethane methacrylates and cyanoacrylates, or
two-component materials having polyurethanes, silicones, epoxy
resins.
[0128] An alternative or supplement to encapsulation is represented
by enclosure of the components in an appropriately configured
moisture-tight housing. A configuration of this kind is further
explained in greater detail below.
[0129] It is particularly preferred that the dispenser encompass at
least one first interface that interacts with a corresponding
interface embodied in or on a water-conveying appliance, in
particular a water-conveying household appliance, preferably an
automatic dishwasher or washing machine, in such a way that a
transfer of electrical energy from the water-conveying appliance to
the dispenser is effected.
[0130] In an embodiment of the invention, the interfaces are
embodied by plug connectors. In a further embodiment, the
interfaces can be embodied such that a wireless transfer of
electrical energy is brought about.
[0131] It is particularly preferred in this context that the
interfaces be inductive transmitters and/or receivers of
electromagnetic waves. In particular, for example, the interface of
a water-conveying appliance, such as an automatic dishwasher, can
be embodied as a transmitter coil operated with alternating current
and having an iron core, and the interface of the dispenser as a
receiver coil having an iron core.
[0132] In an advantageous refinement of the invention, a second
interface is embodied respectively on the dispenser and on the
water-conveying appliance, for example an automatic dishwasher, for
the transfer of electromagnetic signals that represent in
particular operating-state, measurement, and/or control information
of the dispenser and/or of the water-conveying appliance such as an
automatic dishwasher.
[0133] Such an interface can, in particular, be embodied in such a
way that a wireless transfer of electromagnetic signals is brought
about. The wireless transfer of data can be realized, for example,
by radio transfer or IR transfer.
[0134] In an advantageous refinement of the invention, the
dispenser for delivering at least one washing- and/or
cleaning-agent preparation from a cartridge into the interior of a
household appliance comprises a light source by means of which a
light signal is couplable into a light guide of the cartridge. The
light source can be, in particular, an LED.
[0135] It is further possible for the light signal that is coupled
into the light guide of the cartridge, and that passes through the
light guide, to be capable of being sensed by a sensor present on
the dispenser.
[0136] In a further, advantageous embodiment of the invention, the
dispenser for delivering at least one flowable washing- and/or
cleaning-agent preparation into the interior of a household
appliance encompasses a cartridge couplable with the dispenser, the
cartridge stocking at least one flowable washing- and/or
cleaning-agent preparation and the cartridge comprising, at the
bottom in the direction of gravity, at least one outlet opening
that, in the state coupled with the dispenser, is connected
communicatingly to an inlet opening of the dispenser, the dispenser
and the cartridge comprising means which interact in such a way
that a detachable latching engagement is producible between the
dispenser and cartridge, the dispenser and cartridge being, in the
latched state, pivotable with respect to one another about a pivot
point (SP); and that the outlet opening of the cartridge and the
inlet opening of the dispensing bracket be configured such that
they are connected communicatingly, once latching has been
established between the cartridge and dispenser, by pivoting the
cartridge into the coupled state between the dispensing bracket and
cartridge.
[0137] In particular, it is preferred that the outlet openings of
the chambers and the inlet openings of the dispenser be arranged
and configured in such a manner that they become sequentially
connected to one another by pivoting the dispenser and cartridge,
in the latched state, into the coupled state.
[0138] It is particularly preferred that the inlet openings of the
dispenser be respectively arranged behind one another in a pivoting
direction.
[0139] It is very particularly preferred that the outlet openings
of the dispenser be arranged on a line (L) in a pivoting
direction.
[0140] The inlet openings of the dispenser can also, in particular,
be at approximately the same distance from one another.
[0141] According to a further advantageous embodiment, means can be
embodied on the dispenser and/or the cartridge which, in the
coupled state of the dispenser and cartridge, bring about
detachable fastening of the cartridge to the dispenser.
[0142] It is also advantageous to embody on the dispenser and/or
cartridge means which, with the cartridge and dispenser in the
latched state, bring about guidance of the cartridge upon pivoting
into the coupled state of the cartridge and dispenser.
Component Carrier
[0143] The dispenser encompasses a component carrier on which are
arranged at least the actuator and the closure element, as well as
the energy source and/or control unit and/or sensor unit and/or
dispensing chamber.
[0144] The component carrier comprises receptacles for the
aforesaid components, and/or the components are shaped in one piece
with the component carrier.
[0145] The receptacles for the components in the component carrier
can be provided for a frictionally engaged, positive, and/or
intermaterial connection between a respective component and the
corresponding receptacle.
[0146] It is further conceivable that for easy removal of the
components from the component carrier, the dispensing chamber,
actuator, closure element, energy source, control unit, and/or
sensor unit are arranged detachably on the component carrier.
[0147] It is also advantageous that the energy source, control
unit, and sensor unit are arranged on and/or in the component
carrier in a manner grouped into one subassembly. In an
advantageous refinement of the invention, the energy source,
control unit, and sensor unit are grouped together into one
subassembly. This can be realized, for example, by the fact that
the energy source, control unit, and sensor unit are arranged on a
shared electrical circuit board.
[0148] According to a further preferred embodiment of the
invention, the component carrier is embodied in trough-shaped
fashion, produced as an injection-molded part. It is particularly
preferred that the dispensing chamber be embodied in one piece with
the component carrier.
[0149] The component carrier makes possible, to a very large
extent, simple automatic population with the necessary components
of the dispenser. The component carrier can thus be preassembled in
its entirety, preferably automatically, and joined to a
dispenser.
[0150] The trough-shaped component carrier can be closed off after
population, in liquid-tight fashion, by a cover-like element. The
cover-like element can be embodied, for example, as a film that is
connected intermaterially and in liquid-tight fashion to the
component carrier and forms, with the trough-like component
carrier, one or more liquid-tight chambers. The cover-like element
can also be a bracket into which the component carrier is
introducible, the component carrier and bracket interacting, in the
assembled state, in such a way that a liquid-tight connection is
embodied between the component carrier and the bracket.
[0151] It is further preferred that when the dispenser is in the
utilization position, the receptacle for the actuator on the
component carrier be arranged above the dispensing chamber in the
direction of gravity, thereby allowing a compact conformation of
the dispenser to be realized. The compact design can be further
optimized by the fact that when the dispenser is in the utilization
position, the dispensing chamber inlet on the component carrier is
arranged above the receptacle of the actuator. It is also
preferable that the components on the component carrier be arranged
substantially in line with one another, in particular along the
longitudinal axis of the component carrier.
[0152] In a refinement of the invention, the receptacle for the
actuator comprises an opening that lies on a line with the
dispensing chamber outlet, so that a closure element can be moved
by the actuator back and forth through the opening and the
dispensing chamber outlet.
Actuator
[0153] An "actuator" for purposes of this Application is an
apparatus which converts an input variable into an output variable
of a different nature, and with which an object is moved or motion
thereof is generated, the actuator being coupled to at least one
closure element in such a way that the release of preparation from
at least one cartridge chamber can be brought about indirectly or
directly.
[0154] The actuator can be driven by drive systems selected from
the group of the gravity drives, ionic drives, electric drives,
motor drives, hydraulic drives, pneumatic drives, gear drives,
threaded spindle drives, ball screw drives, linear drives, roller
screw drives, worm drives, piezoelectric drives, chain drives,
and/or reaction drives.
[0155] The actuator can be embodied in particular from an electric
motor which is coupled to a linkage that converts the rotary motion
of the motor into a linear motion of a carriage coupled to the
linkage. This is advantageous in particular in the case of a
slender, plate-shaped embodiment of the dispensing unit.
[0156] There can be arranged on the actuator at least one magnet
element that, with a magnet element of identical polarity on a
dispenser, brings about a product delivery from the container as
soon as the two magnet elements are positioned opposite one another
in such a way that a magnetic repulsion of the identically
polarized magnet elements is brought about, and a non-contact
release mechanism is realized.
[0157] In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the
actuator is a bistable solenoid that, together with a closure
element that engages into the bistable solenoid and is embodied as
a plunger core, forms a pulse-controlled bistable valve. Bistable
solenoids are electromechanical magnets having a linear motion
direction, such that the plunger core locks in unenergized fashion
in each end position.
[0158] Bistable solenoids and/or bistable valves are known in the
existing art. A bistable valve requires one pulse for the change in
valve position (open/closed), and then remains in that position
until a counter-pulse is sent to the valve. The term
"pulse-controlled valve" is therefore also used. An essential
advantage of such pulse-controlled valves is that they consume no
energy in order to remain in the valve end positions (closure
position and delivery position), but require an energy pulse only
in order to change the valve position; the valve end positions may
thus be regarded as stable. A bistable valve remains in the
switched position that most recently received a control signal.
[0159] The closure element (plunger core) is shifted into one end
position by a current pulse. The current is switched off and the
closure element retains its position. The closure element is
shifted into the other end position by a current pulse. The current
is switched off and the closure element retains its position.
[0160] A bistable property can be implemented in solenoids in
various ways. On the one hand, splitting of the coil is known. The
coil is split more or less centeredly, thus creating a gap. A
permanent magnet is inserted into this gap. The plunger core itself
is machined down at both the front and back so that it has, in each
end position, a surface abutting in planar fashion with respect to
the magnet frame. The magnetic field of the permanent magnet flows
via this surface and the plunger core adheres here. Another
alternative possibility is the use of two separate coils. The
principle is similar to that of the bistable solenoid having a
split coil. The difference is that electrically, there are in fact
two different coils. Control is applied to them separately from one
another, depending on the direction in which the plunger core is to
be moved.
Closure Element
[0161] A "closure element" for purposes of this Application is a
component on which the actuator acts and which, as a consequence of
that action, brings about opening and/or closure of an outlet
opening.
[0162] The closure element can involve, for example, valves that
can be brought by the actuator into a product delivery position or
a closure position.
[0163] Embodiment of the closure element and the actuator in the
form of a solenoid valve, in which the metering unit is embodied by
the valve and the actuator by the electromagnetic or piezoelectric
drive system of the solenoid valve, is particularly preferred.
Especially when a plurality of containers, and thus of preparations
to be dispensed, are used, the use of solenoid valves allows the
dispensed quantity and dispensing times to be regulated very
accurately.
[0164] It is therefore advantageous to control the delivery of
preparations out of each outlet opening of a chamber using a
solenoid valve, by the fact that the solenoid valve indirectly or
directly determines the release of preparation out of the product
delivery opening.
Sensor
[0165] A "sensor" for purposes of this Application is a measured
variable transducer or sensing element that can sense specific
physical or chemical properties and/or the material nature of its
environment, qualitatively or, as a measured variable,
quantitatively.
[0166] The dispensing unit preferably comprises at least one sensor
that is suitable for sensing a temperature. The temperature sensor
is embodied in particular for sensing a water temperature.
[0167] It is further preferred that the dispensing unit encompass a
sensor for sensing conductivity, with which, in particular, the
presence of water and/or the spraying of water, in particular in an
automatic dishwasher, is sensed.
[0168] In a refinement of the invention, the dispensing unit
comprises a sensor that can determine physical, chemical, and/or
mechanical parameters from the environment of the dispensing unit.
The sensor unit can encompass one or more active and/or passive
sensors for qualitative and/or quantitative sensing of mechanical,
electrical, physical, and/or chemical variables, which are conveyed
as control signals to the control unit.
[0169] The sensors of the sensor unit can be selected, in
particular, from the group of the timers, temperature sensors,
infrared sensors, brightness sensors, motion sensors, elongation
sensors, rotation speed sensors, proximity sensors, flow sensors,
color sensors, gas sensors, vibration sensors, pressure sensors,
conductivity sensors, turbidity sensors, acoustic pressure sensors,
"lab on a chip" sensors, force sensors, acceleration sensors, tilt
sensors, pH sensors, moisture sensors, magnetic field sensors, RFID
sensors, Hall sensors, biochips, odor sensors, hydrogen sulfide
sensors, and/or MEMS sensors.
[0170] Especially in the case of preparations whose viscosity
fluctuates greatly as a function of temperature, it is advantageous
in terms of monitoring the volume and/or mass of the dispensed
preparations to provide flow sensors in the dispensing apparatus.
Suitable flow sensors can be selected from the group of the
diaphragm flow sensors, magnetic induction flow meters, mass flow
measurement using the Coriolis method, vortex meter flow
measurement methods, ultrasonic flow measurement methods, suspended
solid particle flow measurement, oscillating piston flow
measurement, thermal mass flow measurement, or differential
pressure flow measurement.
[0171] It is also conceivable for a temperature-dependent viscosity
curve of at least one preparation to be stored in the control unit,
the dispensing action being adapted by the control unit in
accordance with the temperature and thus the viscosity of the
preparation.
[0172] In a further embodiment of the invention, an apparatus for
directly determining the viscosity of the preparation is
provided.
[0173] The alternatives set forth above for determining the
dispensed quantity and/or viscosity of a preparation serve to
generate a control signal that is processed by the control unit to
control a metering unit, in such a way that substantially constant
dispensing of a preparation is brought about.
[0174] The data line between the sensor and control unit can be
realized by way of an electrically conductive cable, or
wirelessly.
[0175] A wirelessly embodied data line is embodied in particular by
the transfer of electromagnetic waves. It is preferred to embody a
wireless data line in accordance with accepted standards such as,
for example, Bluetooth, IrDA, IEEE 802, GSM, UMTS, etc.
[0176] In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the
sensor is arranged at the bottom of the dispenser, the bottom of
the dispenser being directed, in the utilization position, downward
in the direction of gravity. It is particularly preferred in this
context that the sensor unit encompass a temperature sensor and/or
a conductivity sensor. A configuration of this kind ensures that
water is conveyed by the spray arms of the dishwasher onto the
underside of the dispenser and thus brought into contact with the
sensor. Because the distance between the spray arms and the sensor
is as short as possible as a result of the bottom-side arrangement
of the sensor, the water experiences only slight cooling between
emergence at the spray arms and contact with the sensor, so that a
maximally accurate temperature measurement can be carried out.
Control Unit
[0177] A "control unit" for purposes of this Application is an
apparatus that is suitable for influencing the transportation of
material, energy, and/or information. For this purpose, the control
unit influences actuators with the aid of data, in particular
measurement signals of the sensor unit, which it processes as
defined by the control objective.
[0178] The control unit can be in particular a programmable
microprocessor. In a particularly preferred embodiment of the
invention, a plurality of dispensing programs, which in can be
selected and executed in a manner corresponding to the container
coupled to the dispenser, are stored on the microprocessor.
[0179] In a preferred embodiment, the control unit has no
connection to the household appliance control system that is
possibly present. No data, in particular electrical or
electromagnetic signals, are therefore exchanged directly between
the control unit and the household appliance control system.
[0180] In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the control
unit is coupled to the household appliance control system that is
present. This coupling is preferably embodied wirelessly. It is
possible, for example, to position a transmitter on or in an
automatic dishwasher, preferably on or at the dispensing chamber
recessed into the door of the automatic dishwasher, which
transmitter wirelessly transfers a signal to the dispensing unit
when the household appliance control system brings about
dispensing, for example, of a cleaning agent out of the dispensing
chamber, or of rinse aid.
[0181] Multiple programs for the release of different preparations,
or for the release of products in different application instances,
can be stored in the control unit.
[0182] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, invocation of
the corresponding program can be brought about by way of
corresponding RFID labels, or geometric information carriers shaped
on the container. For example, it is possible to use the same
control unit for a plurality of applications, for example to
dispense cleaning agents in automatic dishwashers, to deliver
perfumes in the context of room scenting, to apply cleaning
substances into a toilet bowl, etc.
[0183] For the dispensing of, in particular, preparations that tend
to gel, the control unit can be configured in such a way that on
the one hand dispensing occurs in a sufficiently short time to
ensure a good cleaning result, and on the other hand the
preparation is not dispensed so quickly that gelling of the surge
of preparation occurs. This can be achieved, for example by way of
an interval-type release, the individual dispensing intervals being
adjusted so that they completely trigger the correspondingly
dispensed quantity during one cleaning cycle.
[0184] The delivery of preparations out of the dispenser can occur
sequentially or simultaneously.
Energy Source
[0185] For purposes of this Application, an "energy source" is
understood as a component of the dispensing system that is useful
for making available energy suitable for operation of the
dispensing system and/or the dispenser. The energy source is
preferably configured in such a way that the dispensing system is
autonomous.
[0186] The energy source preferably makes available electrical
energy. The energy source can be, for example, a battery, a
rechargeable battery, a power supply, solar cells, or the like.
[0187] It is particularly advantageous to embody the energy source
exchangeably, for example in the form of a replaceable battery.
[0188] A battery can be selected, for example, from the group of
the alkaline manganese batteries, zinc-carbon batteries,
nickel-oxyhydroxide batteries, lithium batteries, lithium-iron
sulfide batteries, zinc-air batteries, zinc chloride batteries,
mercury oxide-zinc batteries, and/or silver oxide-zinc
batteries.
[0189] Suitable as rechargeable batteries are, for example, lead
batteries (lead dioxide/lead), nickel-cadmium batteries,
nickel-metal hydride batteries, lithium ion batteries, lithium
polymer batteries, alkaline manganese rechargeable batteries,
silver-zinc rechargeable batteries, nickel hydride batteries,
zinc-bromine batteries, sodium-nickel chloride batteries, and/or
nickel-iron batteries.
[0190] The rechargeable battery can be configured in particular so
that it can be recharged by induction.
[0191] It is also conceivable, however, to embody mechanical energy
sources made up of one or more helical springs, torsional or
torsion-bar springs, flexural springs, air springs or gas-pressure
springs, and/or elastomer springs.
[0192] The energy source is dimensioned in such a way that the
dispenser can execute approximately 300 dispensing cycles before
the energy source is depleted. It is particularly preferred that
the energy source be capable of executing between 1 and 300
dispensing cycles, very particularly preferably between 10 and 300,
more preferably between 100 and 300, before the energy source is
depleted.
[0193] In addition, means for energy conversion can be provided in
or on the dispensing unit, which means generate a voltage with
which the rechargeable battery is charged. These means can be
embodied, for example, as a dynamo that is driven by water flows
during a washing cycle in a dishwasher, and that delivers to the
rechargeable battery the voltage thus generated.
Vibratory Atomizer
[0194] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the
dispensing system comprises at least one vibratory atomizer, by
means of which it is possible to convert a preparation into, and/or
keep it in, the gas phase. It is thus conceivable, for example, to
use the vibratory atomizer to vaporize, nebulize and/or atomize
preparations, with the result that the preparation transitions into
the gas phase and/or forms an aerosol in the gas phase, the gas
phase usually being air.
[0195] This embodiment is particularly advantageous for use in an
automatic dishwasher or washing machine in which corresponding
release of preparation into the gas phase takes place in a closable
washing compartment. The preparation introduced into the gas phase
can become uniformly distributed in the washing compartment, and
become deposited on the items to be washed that are located in the
automatic dishwasher.
[0196] The preparation released by the vibratory atomizer can be
selected from the group of the surfactant-containing preparations,
enzyme-containing preparations, odor-neutralizing preparations,
biocidal preparations, and antibacterial preparations.
[0197] As a result of application of the cleaning preparations from
the gas phase onto the items being washed, a uniform layer of the
corresponding cleaning preparation is applied onto the surface of
the items being washed. It is particularly preferable for the
entire surface of the items being washed to be wetted by the
cleaning preparation.
[0198] A number of advantageous effects may thereby be achieved
before the start of a water-releasing cleaning program of the
automatic dishwasher. On the one hand, a suitable cleaning
preparation can suppress the creation of unpleasant odors as a
result of biological decomposition processes taking place in food
residues adhering to the items being washed. On the other hand, an
appropriate cleaning preparation can "soften" the food residues
that may possibly be adhering to the items being washed, so that
they can be easily and completely detached during the dishwasher
cleaning program, in particular in the case of low temperature
programs.
[0199] It is additionally possible to apply a preparation by means
of the vibratory atomizer onto the items being washed after an
automatic dishwasher cleaning program has ended. This can involve,
for example, a preparation having antibacterial action or a
preparation for modifying surfaces.
APPLICATION EXAMPLES
[0200] In principle, the dispensing system of the kind described
above is suitable for use in or in conjunction with water-conveying
apparatuses of any kind.
[0201] The dispensing system according to the present invention is
suitable in particular for use in water-conveying household
appliances such as automatic dishwashers and/or washing machines,
but is not limited to such use.
[0202] In general, it is possible to use the dispensing system
according to the present invention wherever dispensing of at least
one, preferably multiple preparations into a liquid medium, in
accordance with an external physical or chemical parameter that
triggers or controls a dispensing program, is required.
[0203] It is thus also conceivable, for example, to use the
dispensing system in household robots, such as for example
automatic floor cleaning machines, for dispensing cleaning
substances into a toilet bowl or toilet flushing tank, in
water-conveying cleaning devices such as, for example, pressure
washers, in window-washing systems for vehicles, plant watering
systems, steam ironing devices, valves, and the like.
LIST OF REFERENCE CHARACTERS
[0204] 1 Cartridge [0205] 2 Dispenser [0206] 3 Chamber [0207] 4
Cartridge bottom [0208] 5 Outlet opening [0209] 6 Half-shell-shaped
element [0210] 7 Half-shell-shaped element [0211] 8 Connecting edge
[0212] 9 Separating web [0213] 10 Cartridge top [0214] 11 Cartridge
side surface [0215] 12 Cartridge side surface [0216] 13 Cartridge
front wall [0217] 14 Cartridge back wall [0218] 15 Energy source
[0219] 16 Control unit [0220] 17 Sensor unit [0221] 18 Actuator
[0222] 19 Closure element [0223] 20 Dispensing chamber [0224] 21
Dispensing chamber inlet [0225] 22 Dispensing chamber outlet [0226]
23 Component carrier [0227] 24 Rubber grommet [0228] 25
Compensating washer [0229] 26 Predispensing chamber [0230] 27
Outlet chamber [0231] 28 Receptacle [0232] 29 Receptacle [0233] 30
Fitting [0234] 31 Chamber wall [0235] 32 Conduit [0236] 33 Conduit
[0237] 34 Opening [0238] 35 Seal [0239] 36 Seal [0240] 37
Indicating and control elements [0241] 38 Automatic dishwasher
[0242] 39 Automatic dishwasher door [0243] 40 Preparation [0244] 41
Tableware drawer [0245] 42 Adapter [0246] 43 Depression [0247] 44
Holding elements [0248] 45 Chamber [0249] 46 Opening [0250] 47
Interface [0251] 48 Interface [0252] 49 Opening [0253] 50 Adapter
[0254] 51 Refill cartridge [0255] 52 Chamber [0256] 53 Dispensing
chamber [0257] 64 Pouch [0258] 65 Opening [0259] 66 Material bridge
[0260] 81 Vent opening [0261] 82 Vent conduit [0262] 86 Vent
chamber [0263] 99 Peripheral collar [0264] 100 Vent opening collar
[0265] 101 Peripheral edge [0266] 102 Peripheral wall segment
[0267] 104 Ramp [0268] 105 Collar [0269] 106 Opening
[0270] FIG. 1 shows, in the separated and the assembled state, an
autonomous dispenser 2 having a two-chamber cartridge 1.
[0271] Dispenser 2 comprises two dispensing chamber inlets 21a, 21b
for repeatedly detachable reception of the corresponding outlet
openings 5a, 5b of chambers 3a, 3b of cartridge 1. Located on the
front side are indicating and control elements 37 that indicate the
operating state of dispenser 2 and/or act on it.
[0272] Dispensing chamber inlets 21a, 21b further comprise means
that, upon placement of cartridge 1 onto dispenser 2, cause outlet
openings 5a, 5b of chambers 3a, 3b to open, so that the interior of
chambers 3a, 3b is communicatingly connected to dispensing chamber
inlets 21a, 21b.
[0273] Cartridge 1 can be made up of one or more chambers 3a, 3b.
Cartridge 1 can be embodied in one piece with multiple chambers 3a,
3b, or in multiple pieces, the individual chambers 3a, 3b then
being joined together into a cartridge 1 in particular by means of
intermaterial, positive, or frictionally engaged connecting
methods.
[0274] Fastening can be accomplished, in particular, by means of
one or more connection types from the group of the snap-in
connections, press connections, melt connections, adhesively bonded
connections, weld connections, solder connections, screw
connections, keyed connections, clamped connections, or
flip-closure connections. Fastening can, in particular, be embodied
by a heat-shrink sleeve, which in a heated state is pulled over at
least portions of the cartridge, and in the cooled state fixedly
surrounds the cartridge.
[0275] In order to provide advantageous residual emptying
properties for cartridge 1, the bottom of cartridge 1 can be
inclined in the manner of a funnel toward delivery opening 5a, 5b.
Moreover, the inner wall of cartridge 1 can be embodied, by
suitable material selection and/or surface configuration, in such a
way that little adhesion of material onto the internal cartridge
wall occurs. This feature, too, allows the residual emptying
capability of cartridge 1 to be further optimized.
[0276] Chambers 3a, 3b of cartridge 1 can have volumetric
capacities that are identical or are different from one another. In
the case of a configuration having two chambers 3a, 3b, the ratio
of the chamber volumes is preferably 5:1, in the case of a
configuration having three chambers preferably 4:1:1, these
configurations being suitable in particular for use in automatic
dishwashers.
[0277] One connection method can also consist in plugging chambers
3a, 3b into one of the corresponding dispensing chamber inlets 21a,
21b of dispenser 2, and thereby fastening them with respect to one
another.
[0278] The connection between chambers 3a, 3b can in particular be
embodied detachably, in order to permit separate replacement of a
chamber.
[0279] Chambers 3a, 3b each contain a preparation 40a, 40b.
Preparations 40a, 40b can have identical or different
compositions.
[0280] Advantageously, chambers 3a, 3b are produced from a
transparent material so that the fill level of preparations 40a,
40b is visible to the user from outside. It may also be
advantageous, however, to produce at least one of the chambers from
an opaque material, especially if the preparation present in that
chamber contains light-sensitive ingredients.
[0281] Outlet openings 5a, 5b are configured so that they embody,
with the corresponding dispensing chamber inlets 21a, 21b, a
positive and/or frictionally engaged, in particular liquid-tight,
connection.
[0282] It is particularly advantageous that each of the outlet
openings 5a, 5b is embodied so that it fits onto only one of the
dispensing chamber inlets 21a, 21b, thereby preventing a chamber
from being inadvertently put onto an incorrect dispensing chamber
inlet.
[0283] Cartridge 1 usually has a volumetric capacity of <5000
ml, in particular <1000 ml, preferably <500 ml, particularly
preferably <250 ml, very particularly preferably <50 ml.
[0284] In the assembled state, dispensing unit 2 and cartridge 1
can be adapted in particular to the geometries of the appliances on
or in which they are utilized, so as to ensure the least possible
loss of useful volume. To use dispensing unit 2 and cartridge 1 in
automatic dishwashers, it is particularly advantageous to shape
dispensing unit 2 and cartridge 1 by analogy with tableware to be
cleaned in automatic dishwashers. Dispensing unit 2 and cartridge 1
can thus, for example, be plate-shaped, having approximately the
dimensions of a dinner plate. As a result, the dispensing unit can
be positioned in space-saving fashion in the lower rack.
[0285] In order to provide a direct visual check of the fill level,
it is advantageous to shape cartridge 1 at least in portions from a
transparent material.
[0286] In order to protect heat-sensitive constituents of a product
present in a cartridge from the effect of heat, it is advantageous
to manufacture cartridge 1 from a material having low thermal
conductivity.
[0287] Outlet openings 5a, 5b of cartridge 1 are preferably
arranged on a line and/or in alignment, thus enabling a slender,
plate-shaped embodiment of the dispensing metering unit.
[0288] FIG. 2 shows an autonomous dispenser having a two-chamber
cartridge 1 in dishwasher drawer 11, the automatic dishwasher door
39 of an automatic dishwasher 38 being open.
[0289] FIG. 3 shows a two-chamber cartridge 1 separated into an
autonomous dispenser 2 and an internal, machine-integrated
dispenser. Cartridge 1 is embodied in this context in such a way
that it is couplable both to autonomous dispenser 2 and to the
machine-integrated dispenser (not depicted); this is indicated by
the arrows depicted in FIG. 3.
[0290] Shaped onto that side of automatic dishwasher door 39 which
is directed toward the interior of automatic dishwasher 38 is a
depression 43 into which cartridge 1 can be inserted, outlet
openings 5a, 5b of cartridge 1 being, as a result of the insertion,
communicatingly connected to adapter pieces 42a, 42b. Adapter
pieces 42a, 42b are in turn coupled to the machine-integrated
dispenser.
[0291] In order to fasten cartridge 1 in depression 43, holding
elements 44a, 44b that ensure frictionally engaged and/or positive
fastening of the cartridge in depression 43 are provided on
depression 43. It is of course also conceivable for corresponding
holding elements to be provided on cartridge 1. Holding elements
44a, 44b can preferably be selected from the group of the snap
connections, latch connections, snap/latch connections, clamped
connections, or plug connections.
[0292] During the operation of automatic dishwasher 38, preparation
40a, 40b is conveyed by the machine-integrated dispenser out of
cartridge 1 and through adapter elements 42a, 42b to the
corresponding washing cycle.
[0293] FIG. 4 shows cartridge 1, known from FIG. 3, as installed in
door 39 of an automatic dishwasher 38.
[0294] A further embodiment of the invention is illustrated in FIG.
5. FIG. 5 shows cartridge 1, known from FIG. 3, with a chamber 45
that is arranged at the top of cartridge 1 and comprises in its
enveloping surface a plurality of openings 46. Chamber 45 is
preferably filled with an air freshening preparation that is
delivered through openings 46 to the environment. The air
freshening preparation can encompass, in particular, at least one
scent and/or one odor-counteracting substance.
[0295] In contrast to the arrangement as known from FIG. 3 and FIG.
4 of cartridge 1 in the interior of an automatic dishwasher 1, it
is also possible to provide a depression 43, having adapter
elements 42a, 42b for coupling to cartridge 1, on an outer surface
of an automatic dishwasher 38. This is depicted by way of example
in FIG. 5 and FIG. 6.
[0296] Cartridge 1 illustrated in FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 can of course
also be arranged, with a chamber 45 containing an air freshening
substance, in a correspondingly embodied receptacle in the interior
of an automatic dishwasher 38.
[0297] A further embodiment of the invention is shown in FIG. 7.
Here dispenser 2 can be coupled to cartridge 1, as correspondingly
indicated by a first arrow on the left in the drawing. Cartridge 1
and dispenser 2 are then coupled as one subassembly, via interface
47, 48, to the dishwasher, as indicated by the arrow on the right.
Dispenser 2 comprises an interface 47 through which data and/or
energy are transferred to and/or from dispenser 2. A depression 43
for the reception of dispenser 2 is provided in door 39 of
dishwasher 38. Provided in depression 43 is a second interface 48
that transfers data and/or energy to and/or from dispenser 2.
[0298] Data and/or energy are preferably exchanged wirelessly
between first interface 47 on dispenser 2 and second interface 48
on dishwasher 38. It is particularly preferred that energy be
transferred from interface 48 of dishwasher 38 wirelessly via
interface 47 to dispenser 2. This can occur, for example,
inductively and/or capacitively.
[0299] It is further advantageous also to configure the interface
for the transfer of data wirelessly. This can be achieved using
methods known in the existing art for the wireless transfer of
data, for example by radio transfer or IR transfer.
[0300] Alternatively, interfaces 47, 48 can also be embodied by
means of integrated plug connections. Advantageously, the plug
connections are embodied in such a way that they are protected from
the penetration of water or moisture.
[0301] FIG. 9 shows a cartridge 1 whose chambers 3a, 3b are
fillable via the top-side openings 49a, 49b, for example by means
of a refill cartridge 51. Openings 49a, 49b of cartridge 1 can be
embodied, for example, as silicone slit valves that open upon
penetration by adapter 50a, 50b and close again upon removal of
adapter 50a, 50b, thereby preventing unintentional outflow of
preparation from the cartridge.
[0302] Adapters 50a, 50b are embodied in such a way that they can
penetrate openings 49a, 49b of cartridge 1. Advantageously,
openings 49a, 49b of cartridge 1, and adapter 50a, 50b, are
configured in terms of their position and size in such a way that
the adapter can engage into openings 49a, 49b only in one
predefined position. This allows, in particular, incorrect filling
of cartridge chambers 3a, 3b to be prevented, and ensures that the
respectively identical or compatible preparation travels out of a
chamber 52a, 52b of refill cartridge 51 into the corresponding
chamber 3a, 3b of cartridge 1.
[0303] Further exemplifying embodiments of the cartridge known from
the previous illustrations are shown in FIG. 10 to FIG. 16.
[0304] In a first embodiment that is reproduced in FIG. 10,
cartridge 1 is made up of a first trough-shaped element 6 and a
second plate- or cover-like element 7; FIG. 10 shows the two
elements 6, 7 in the unassembled state. The second plate- or
cover-like element 7 is dimensioned so that when cartridge 1 is in
the assembled state, the element completely covers first
trough-shaped element 6 along connecting edge 8.
[0305] First trough-shaped element 6 is formed by cartridge top 10,
cartridge side surfaces 11 and 12, and cartridge bottom 4. The two
chambers 3a, 3b of cartridge 1 are defined by separating web 9. A
respective outlet opening 5a, 5b is provided on cartridge bottom 4
for each of the chambers 3a, 3b. Cartridge 1 is formed by
intermaterial joining of first trough-shaped element 6 to second
plate- or cover-like element 7.
[0306] A further possible configuration of the cartridge is shown
by FIG. 11, in which two cartridge elements 6, 7 are once again
visible in the not-yet-assembled state. The two cartridge elements
6, 7 are embodied mirror-symmetrically, so that in the assembled
state the connecting edges 8 of the two elements 6, 7 rest
completely on one another. Outlet openings 5a and 5b are embodied
only on bottom 4 of first cartridge element 6, so that connecting
edge 8 of elements 6, 7 on cartridge bottom 4 extends outside
outlet openings 5a, 5b, and connecting edge 8 therefore does not
intersect outlet openings 5a, 5b. More reliable sealing of outlet
openings 5a, 5b can thereby be ensured, since material deformations
in the region of outlet openings 5a, 5b, in particular because of
thermal loads, are more uniform, and an abutting and/or connecting
edge 8 does not result in an inhomogeneous deformation that can
subsequently result in undesirable sealing problems.
[0307] FIG. 12 shows a variant of the cartridge known from FIG. 10
and FIG. 11. In this embodiment, first cartridge element 6 is
configured as a one-piece cell-shaped bottomless plastic container.
Cartridge 1 is formed by fitting bottom 4 onto container 6 along
connecting edge 8, as indicated by the arrow in the Figure. Bottom
4 comprises a first opening 5a and a second opening 5b which, when
cartridge 1 is in the assembled state, permit preparation to flow
out of the respective chambers 3a, 3b.
[0308] As an alternative thereto, it is also conceivable for a
cartridge element 6 to be embodied as a cell-like container open at
the top and having chambers 3a, 3b, and the second element as
cartridge cover 10 that is connected to the cell-like container
open at the top, in liquid-tight fashion, along connecting edge 8,
as is evident from FIG. 13.
[0309] FIG. 14 illustrates the fact that cartridge 1 can be formed
from two chambers 3a, 3b shaped separately from one another. In
this variant embodiment, the two chambers 3a, 3b are connected
intermaterially, positively, and/or in frictionally engaged fashion
to one another, detachably or nondetachably, and thus form
cartridge 1.
[0310] FIG. 15 shows cartridge 1, known from FIG. 13, as a
receiving vessel for a pouch 64 filled with preparation 40, so that
by insertion of the pouch into the cartridge chambers, as indicated
by the arrows in the illustration, a so-called "bag-in-bottle"
vessel is embodied. Openings 65a, 65b of pouch 64a, 64b are shaped
in such a way that they can be plugged into openings 5a, 5b of
cartridge 1. Openings 65a, 65b are preferably shaped as
dimensionally stable plastic cylinders. It is on the one hand
conceivable for each pouch 64a, 64b to be positioned into a
corresponding chamber of cartridge 1, but it is also possible to
embody a multichamber pouch, connected via a web 66, that is
inserted as a whole into the cartridge.
[0311] FIG. 16 shows a refinement of the cartridge known from FIG.
10 to FIG. 14, in which a further chamber 45 for receiving a
preparation is arranged on the cartridge and is configured in such
a way that a delivery of volatile substances from the preparation
into the environment of chamber 45 is brought about.
[0312] Chamber 45 can contain, for example, volatile scents or air
freshening substances, which are delivered through openings 46 of
chamber 45 to the environment.
[0313] It is further evident that openings 5a, 5b are closed off by
silicone slit valves that have an X-shaped slit.
[0314] FIG. 17 shows a further possible embodiment of cartridge 1
having three chambers 3a, 3b, 3c. First chamber 3a and second
chamber 3b have an approximately identical volumetric capacity.
Third chamber 3c has a volumetric capacity that is approximately
five times as great as that of one of chambers 3a or 3b. Cartridge
bottom 4 comprises a ramp-like step in the region of third chamber
3c. Thanks to this asymmetrical conformation of cartridge 1, it is
possible to ensure that cartridge 1 is couplable, in a position
provided therefore, with dispenser 2, and to prevent insertion in
an incorrect position by way of a corresponding configuration of
dispenser 2 with respect to a bracket.
[0315] The plan view of the cartridge illustrated in FIG. 18 shows
separating webs 9a and 9b that separate the chambers of cartridge 1
from one another. The cartridge known from FIG. 17 and FIG. 18 can
be formed in various ways.
[0316] In a first variant that may be gathered from FIG. 19,
cartridge 1 is formed from a first trough-like cartridge element 7
and a second cover- and/or plate-like cartridge element 6. Shaped
in trough-like cartridge element 7 are separating webs 9a and 9b by
which the three chambers of cartridge 1 are embodied. Outlet
openings 5a, 5b, 5c are arranged on bottom 4 of trough-shaped
cartridge element 7, underneath the respective chambers of
cartridge 1.
[0317] As may further be gathered from FIG. 19, bottom 4 of the
cartridge comprises, in the region of third chamber 3c, a ramp-like
step that embodies on the chamber bottom a downward slope in the
direction of third outlet opening 5c. This ensures that preparation
present in this chamber 3c is always directed toward outlet opening
5c, and that good residual emptying characteristics for chamber 3c
are thus achieved.
[0318] When cartridge 1 is in the assembled state, trough-shaped
cartridge element 7 and cover-like cartridge element 6 are
connected intermaterially to one another along the shared
connecting edge 8. This can be realized, for example, by welding or
adhesive bonding. Webs 9a, 9b are of course also connected
intermaterially to cartridge element 6 when cartridge 1 is in the
assembled state.
[0319] Connecting edge 8 here does not extend through outlet
openings 5a-c; this avoids sealing problems, in particular in the
state coupled to the dispenser, in the region of openings 5a-c.
[0320] FIG. 20 shows a further embodiment of the cartridge. Here
first cartridge element 6 is embodied in cell-like fashion and
comprises an open bottom. The separately shaped bottom 4 can be
inserted, as a second cartridge element 7, into the bottom-side
opening of cell-like cartridge element 6 and connected
intermaterially along the shared connecting edge 8. The advantage
of this variant is that cell-like element 6 can be economically
manufactured using a plastic blow-molding method.
[0321] FIG. 21 shows a further embodiment of cartridge 1 and of
dispenser 2 in the state not coupled to one another. Cartridge 1 of
FIG. 21 will be explained further with reference to FIG. 22.
[0322] FIG. 22 is a perspective view of cartridge 1 known from FIG.
21. Outlet and vent openings 5, 81 are arranged, alternatingly with
one another, on cartridge bottom 4. One outlet opening 5 and one
vent opening 81 is provided for each of the chambers in cartridge
1.
[0323] The region of cartridge bottom 4 on which the outlet and
vent openings are arranged is surrounded by a peripheral collar 99.
This collar 99 on the one hand brings about structural
reinforcement of cartridge 1 in the bottom region, which prevents
deformation in the bottom region especially upon insertion of
cartridge 1, when corresponding applied pressures act on bottom
region 4 in order to couple cartridge 1 to dispenser 2, thereby
enabling controlled and secure insertion of cartridge 1 into
dispenser 2.
[0324] Collar 99 further offers protection from undesired
mechanical effects on the closures of the outlet and vent openings.
As is evident from FIG. 22, outlet and vent openings 5, 81 are set
back with respect to collar 99, so that openings 5, 81 are, for
example, protected from the direct action of objects that are
larger than the openings.
[0325] As is further visible in FIG. 22, outlet and vent openings
5, 81 each comprise a collar 100. This collar 100 enclosing outlet
and vent openings 5, 81 also serves for structural reinforcement of
outlet and vent openings 5, 81 in bottom region 4 of cartridge 1.
In addition, collar 100 can serve to strengthen closure means of
outlet and vent openings 5, 81, for example closure plugs or
closure covers.
[0326] Collar 100 of one of outlet and vent openings 5, 81 is set
back with respect to collar 99, so that collar 100 does not project
above the edge of collar 99.
[0327] It may further be gathered from FIG. 22 that cartridge 1 is
embodied asymmetrically with regard to its axis Z-Z. The effect of
this asymmetry is that cartridge 1 is couplable to dispenser 2, in
particular to inlet openings 21 of dispenser 2, in only one defined
way. The result is to embody a mechanical lock-and-key principle
between cartridge 1 and dispenser 2, preventing incorrect operation
upon coupling of cartridge 1 to dispenser 2.
[0328] The asymmetry of cartridge 1 is brought about, inter alia,
by the fact that bottom 4 comprises two planes, the first plane
being formed by collar 99 that encloses outlet and vent openings 5,
81 and the second plane being a bottom segment that is offset via a
ramp 104 toward cartridge top 10, as is clearly apparent e.g. in
FIG. 22.
[0329] Proceeding from ramp 104, there extends from the bottom
section of the second plane a further collar 105 that comprises an
opening 106. Opening 106 forms, with hook 56 shaped on hinge 55, a
detachable latching connection to retain cartridge 1 in the coupled
state with dispenser 2.
[0330] Also evident FIG. 22 is a peripheral edge 101 in the lower,
bottom-side region of cartridge 1. Extending from this edge 101 in
the bottom direction is a peripheral wall segment 102 of cartridge
1 that is set back toward the interior of cartridge 1 so that a
shoulder extending toward the interior of the cartridge is embodied
between edge 101 and wall segment 102.
[0331] Dispenser 2 is embodied in such a way that peripheral wall
segment 102 can be introduced into a collar of dispenser 2; with
cartridge 1 and dispenser 2 in the coupled position, edge 101 of
the cartridge rests on the collar of the dispenser, so that the
space surrounded by a collar of dispenser 2 is protected at least
from the entry of sprayed water. The collar of dispenser 2 and edge
101 of the cartridge can also, in particular, be configured so that
with cartridge 1 and dispenser in the coupled state, entry of water
into the space of the dispenser surrounded by the dispenser collar
is prevented by a substantially sealing contact of edge 101 on the
dispenser collar.
[0332] In addition, the inwardly offset wall segment 102 of the
cartridge, in conjunction with the dispenser-side collar, brings
about guidance of cartridge 1 upon insertion into dispenser 2.
[0333] Cartridge 1 is formed from two elements that are positively
welded to one another at the peripheral connecting edge 8. FIG. 23
shows cartridge 1 known from FIG. 22 with a cover-like element
removed along connecting edge 8, so that FIG. 23 provides a view
into the interior of cartridge 1.
[0334] It is evident that cartridge 1 is subdivided by the two
separating webs 9a, 9b into three chambers, each of the chambers
having at the bottom, in the direction of gravity, an outlet
opening 5.
[0335] Arranged at the bottom end of separating webs 9 are vent
chambers 86 that enclose vent openings 81 on the inner side of the
cartridge. Vent chambers 86 serve on the one hand for structural
reinforcement of cartridge bottom 4 in the region of vent openings
81, so that deformation upon coupling of cartridge 1 to dispenser 2
is prevented, and on the other hand for connection between vent
openings 81 and vent conduits 82. As is visible in particular from
FIGS. 23 to 25, vent chambers 86 are of cuboidal configuration.
Vent chambers 86 are connected communicatingly to vent conduit 82
(not evident from FIGS. 22 to 25).
[0336] FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view of cartridge 1 and the
dispenser in the coupled state. It is evident that when dispenser 2
and cartridge 1 are in the coupled state, inlets 21 of peg-like
configuration project into the interior of cartridge chambers 3 via
their respective vent chambers 86, peg-like inlets 21 of dispenser
2 embodying a liquid-tight connection with outlet openings 5 of the
cartridge so that preparation can travel out of chambers 3 only
through the interior of the peg-like inlets 21 into dispenser
2.
[0337] FIG. 26 schematically depicts the shaping of a vent conduit
by joining two cartridge elements 6, 7. In the upper part of FIG.
26, the two cartridge elements 6, 7 are illustrated in the state
separated from one another. Cartridge element 7 is of plate-like
configuration, two webs 84, 85 spaced apart from one another
extending perpendicular to cartridge element 7. Webs 84, 85 are
configured so that they can surround a web 9 shaped on cartridge
element 6; this is visible in the lower part of FIG. 26. The fit is
selected so that the inner sides of webs 84, 85 readily touch web
9. With cartridge elements 6, 7 in the assembled state, the two
webs 84, 85 and web 9 form vent conduit 81. It is particularly
advantageous to connect the ends of webs 84, 85 to web 9
intermaterially, in particular by welding.
[0338] While at least one exemplary embodiment has been presented
in the foregoing detailed description of the invention, it should
be appreciated that a vast number of variations exist. It should
also be appreciated that the exemplary embodiment or exemplary
embodiments are only examples, and are not intended to limit the
scope, applicability, or configuration of the invention in any way.
Rather, the foregoing detailed description will provide those
skilled in the art with a convenient road map for implementing an
exemplary embodiment of the invention, it being understood that
various changes may be made in the function and arrangement of
elements described in an exemplary embodiment without departing
from the scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims
and their legal equivalents.
* * * * *