U.S. patent application number 16/620062 was filed with the patent office on 2020-06-25 for laundry liquid dispensing system.
The applicant listed for this patent is Conopco, Inc., D/B/A Unilever, Conopco, Inc., D/B/A Unilever. Invention is credited to Mark Albert Assies, Hugo Copini, Eric Smeding, Marije van Zwet, Michael Wittenberg.
Application Number | 20200199801 16/620062 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 59034591 |
Filed Date | 2020-06-25 |
United States Patent
Application |
20200199801 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Assies; Mark Albert ; et
al. |
June 25, 2020 |
LAUNDRY LIQUID DISPENSING SYSTEM
Abstract
A laundry liquid dispensing system comprising (a) a container
containing a laundry liquid, said container having an elongate
cross section adapted for letterbox delivery wherein the container
width is at least twice the container depth and the container depth
is less than 5 cm; (b) a dispensing device configured to house the
container in a dispensing orientation; (c) a metered dosing device
for dispensing, a dose of the laundry liquid from the container via
a self-closing aperture, wherein the laundry liquid has a viscosity
in the range 200-1500 cps @ 21 s-1.
Inventors: |
Assies; Mark Albert; (Delft,
NL) ; Copini; Hugo; (Delft, NL) ; Smeding;
Eric; (Rotterdam, NL) ; Wittenberg; Michael;
(Delft, NL) ; van Zwet; Marije; (Delft,
NL) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Conopco, Inc., D/B/A Unilever |
Englewood Cliffs |
NJ |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
59034591 |
Appl. No.: |
16/620062 |
Filed: |
May 30, 2018 |
PCT Filed: |
May 30, 2018 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/EP2018/064259 |
371 Date: |
December 6, 2019 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
D06F 33/37 20200201;
D06F 39/02 20130101; D06F 2105/42 20200201; D06F 39/022
20130101 |
International
Class: |
D06F 33/37 20060101
D06F033/37; D06F 39/02 20060101 D06F039/02 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Jun 9, 2017 |
EP |
17175272.8 |
Claims
1. A laundry liquid dispensing system comprising: (a) a container
containing a laundry liquid, the container having an elongate cross
section configured for letterbox delivery, wherein the container
width is at least twice the container depth and the container depth
is in the range between 5 cm and 1 cm; (b) a dispensing device
configured to house the container in a dispensing orientation; (c)
a dosing device configured for dispensing, on actuation, a dose of
the laundry liquid from the container via a self-closing dispensing
aperture, wherein the laundry liquid has a viscosity in the range
between 200 to 1500 cps.
2. A laundry liquid dispensing system according to claim 1 wherein
the dosing device is a metered dosing device attached either to the
dispensing device or the container.
3. A laundry liquid dispensing system according to claim 1 wherein
the system includes a membrane configured to close the dispensing
aperture after dispensing.
4. A laundry liquid dispensing system according to claim 1 wherein
the dispensing device has a housing comprising a container support
configured to support the container in the dispensing orientation
and which is movable relative to the housing to effect dispensing
of the laundry liquid.
5. A laundry liquid dispensing system according to claim 1 wherein
the dispensing device comprises a squeeze mechanism which squeezes
the container to effect dispensing of the laundry liquid via the
metered dosing device.
6. A laundry liquid dispensing system according to claim 5, wherein
the squeeze mechanism is connected to the container support such
that downward movement of the container support actuates the
squeeze mechanism and so in turn effects dispensing.
7. A laundry liquid dispensing system according to claim 6 wherein
the squeeze mechanism is resilient such that once the container
support has moved down, it returns to the its original
position.
8. A laundry liquid dispensing system according to claim 1 wherein
the container has a stepped profile.
9. A laundry liquid dispensing system according to claim 1 wherein
the container has a primary wall and an opposing rear wall and the
squeeze mechanism engages the primary and rear faces.
10. A laundry liquid dispensing system according to claim 4,
wherein the container support provides a recess with a
corresponding cross sectional shape to that of the container.
11. A laundry liquid dispensing system according to claim 1 wherein
the maximum depth of the container is in the rage between 4 cm and
1 cm and the maximum width of the container is in the range between
30 cm and 2 cm.
12. A laundry liquid dispensing system according to claim 3,
wherein the membrane comprises a silicone material.
13. A laundry liquid dispensing system according to claim 1 wherein
the laundry liquid comprises a volatile benefit agent.
14. A laundry liquid dispensing system according to claim 1 wherein
the laundry liquid comprises a cleaning polymer.
15. A laundry liquid dispensing container wherein the container
comprises an elongate cross section with maximum depth in the range
between 4 cm and 1 cm and maximum width in the range between 30 cm
and 2 cm, the container containing a laundry liquid comprising
viscosity in the range between 200 to 1500 cps.
Description
[0001] The present invention relates to a laundry liquid dispensing
system.
[0002] Laundry liquids are commonly provided in bottles from which
the liquid may be poured either directly into a washing receptacle
such as a washing machine drum or via an intermediate dispensing
device such as a washing machine draw, or a dosing shuttle.
Concentrated Laundry liquids offer potential benefits in both
financial and environmental terms, however such potential benefits
may only be realized fully if the consumer doses differently (less)
than when dosing more diluted liquids. However, with concentrated
liquids, it can be difficult for some consumers to judge the dose
visually. Even with tap dispensers and large viewing windows to
view fill levels, it can still be difficult especially when doses
become smaller (as with concentrated liquids) because the change in
the liquid level is so small. Also, if the liquid is viscous it may
adhere to any viewing windows to make accurate readings difficult.
For smaller laundry loads, the problem is exacerbated as the dosing
volumes may be very small. On top of this, some consumers do not
have the time or the inclination to measure doses with sufficient
accuracy, and end up using much more of the concentrated liquid
than is necessary or indeed optimal from a performance standpoint
let alone environmental/financial.
[0003] At the same time, many time-pressed consumers prefer to buy
certain laundry products via the internet for home delivery. If the
outer delivery packaging is too large, this may require the
consumer to be present at home to receive the package which may
defeat the purpose if the reason the consumer is too busy is
because they are at work or they travel etc. For more frequent
purchases, this may be highly impractical. Letterbox delivery can
be effected with the consumer away from home but this imposes
certain restraints on the laundry dosing system and components.
[0004] One problem with laundry liquids with are posted/delivered
to the consumer is that the package does not stand on a shop shelf
prior to purchase and use, but is instead in transit, moving. This
can give rise to increase stresses and leakage. Whilst outer
packaging can provide some protection, very vulnerable items can be
damaged as when they drop and hit the floor following letterbox
delivery.
[0005] The objective of the invention to provide a laundry liquid
dispensing system whereby accurate dosing can be achieved without
consumer dose measurement and reduced reliance on in-store
purchasing which can be at least in part replaced by internet
purchases and home delivery
[0006] The invention provides a laundry liquid dispensing system
comprising:
(a) a container containing a laundry liquid, said container having
an elongate cross section adapted for letterbox delivery wherein
the container width is at least twice the container depth and the
container depth is less than 5 cm; (b) a dispensing device
configured to house the container in a dispensing orientation; (c)
a dosing device for dispensing, on actuation by the consumer, a
unit dose of the laundry liquid from the container via a
self-closing dispensing aperture; wherein the laundry liquid has a
viscosity in the range 200-1500 cps.
[0007] Preferably the dosing device is a metered dosing device.
[0008] With a dispensing system of the invention, the laundry
containers may be shipped direct to the consumer for letterbox
delivery which does not require the consumer to be present to
receive the package. The specific range of viscosity of the liquid
balances the needs of shock absorption and dispensing. On the one
hand a higher viscosity provides constrained internal motion within
the liquid and so the liquid can absorb better the energy/forces
experienced e.g. during transit, and when the package falls from
the letterbox to the floor/collection basket etc. This reduces the
possibility of leakage. At the same time the viscosity must allow
for fast and accurate dispensing from a shallow container via a
metered dosing device. The invention thus can provide an effective
and appealing direct-to-consumer laundry liquid dispensing system
for the time pressed consumer.
[0009] With a elongate cross section, the container may be
stackable in a cupboard which can afford space saving benefits.
[0010] Preferably the dispensing system incorporates a removable
dosing device (shuttle), for dosing which may be located below the
dispensing aperture. The laundry liquid may be dispensed into the
dosing device and this is then placed directly into the washing
drum.
[0011] The dispensing system may include a dosing device locator,
which constrains the position of the dosing device directly below
the dispensing aperture so avoiding spillages. The locator may
comprise a recess in the base of the dispensing device.
[0012] Preferably the container has a closed base at one end and at
an opposing end, a dispensing part, and the dispensing orientation
of the container is such that the dispensing part is downward and
the closed base upward, often called an `upside down` container or
a `tote`.
[0013] Preferably the dispensing device comprises a membrane
comprising a self-closing dispensing aperture and this membrane is
operative to close the dispensing aperture after dispensing.
Preferably the membrane comprises silicone. This reduces the
possibility of leakage after dispensing.
[0014] Preferably the dispensing device comprises a housing
comprising a container support for supporting the container in the
dispensing orientation and which is movable relative to the housing
to effect dispensing of the laundry liquid.
[0015] Preferably, the dispensing device comprises a squeeze
mechanism which squeezes the container to effect dispensing of the
laundry liquid via the metered dosing device.
[0016] Preferably the squeeze device is connected to the container
support such that downward movement of the container support
actuates the squeeze mechanism and so in turn effects dispensing.
The container support may be manually moved by simply pressing down
on the container or container support. Preferably the squeeze
mechanism is resilient such that once the container support has
moved down, it returns to the its original position. The dispensing
of the liquid may take place on the downward stroke or on the
return stroke or it may span both.
[0017] Either the container or the device may comprise the metered
dosing device. The metered dosing device may be removable after
use, such that further purchases may re-use a single device, being
purchase with a simply cap. A suitable metered dosing device is the
Smart Dosing device by Weena Plastics Group (Netherlands).
[0018] Suitable metered dosing devices are disclosed in WO16105189
A3, where a liquid dosing device for a container comprises a dosing
chamber having a front end and a back end.
[0019] An outlet passage is located at the front end. A plunger is
located in the dosing chamber, divides it in a front and a back
space, and is moveable between a forward position in which the
plunger closes off the outlet passage, and a backward position, in
which the front space has a maximal volume. An inlet passage
provides fluid communication between the front space and the
container. A timer passage provides fluid communication between the
container and the back space. A release passage, being greater than
the timer passage, provides fluid communication between the back
space and the container.
[0020] A valve assembly at the release passage comprises a valve
seat located at the back end of the dosing chamber and a membrane
on a side of the valve seat facing away from the back space. The
membrane is made of an elastic foil having a uniform thickness. It
has a stationary portion that is fixed and at least one moveable
flap which is connected to the stationary portion by a hinge
portion. The flap is moved away from the valve seat in the open
state and bears against the valve seat in the closed state of the
valve assembly.
[0021] The hinge portion is elastically flexed when the flap is
moved away from the valve seat and is in a rest state when the flap
bears against the seat.
[0022] Any suitable metered dosing device with a self-sealing
dispensing aperture may be used. The dispensing device may comprise
multiple sections which are provided flat-packed for letterbox
delivery to the consumer. The consumer may then assemble the device
from said multiple sections. Thus the invention may comprise a kit
for assembling the laundry dispensing system. Alternatively the
dispensing device may be provided and delivered without the need
for any assembly (other than to insert a container).
[0023] Preferably the device is manually operated, requiring no
power.
[0024] Preferably the container has a stepped profile. This
provides a force transfer surface for transmitting the downward
push force on the container (as the user pushes down on the base)
to the container support which then activates the squeeze
mechanism.
[0025] The container may have all or part of its walls thickened to
provide some resistance to the squeezing action of the squeeze
mechanism. This allows smaller doses to be achieved per squeeze.
Having only those portions thickened which are in the vicinity of
the squeezing mechanism enables the remaining part of the bottle to
be lightweight.
[0026] The container preferably has a primary wall and an opposing
rear wall, said walls connected along their two respective sides by
respective side walls. Preferably these are flattened but each wall
interconnects with its adjacent walls via smooth outer profiles.
Preferably the squeeze mechanism engages the primary and rear
faces. Advantageously the container support provides a recess which
is shaped to ensure the container's primary and rear walls (ie
those with larger more flexible areas) are aligned to engage the
squeeze mechanism. This is necessary due to the lack of radial
symmetry. The width of the primary and rear walls is preferably at
least three, more preferably four times the width of the side
walls. Preferably the width of the primary wall is preferably
substantially the same as that of the rear wall. Preferably the
sides walls have substantially equal width.
[0027] The container cross section may be curved or angular, or a
combination of both. For example the container may have an elongate
elliptical cross section whereby all surfaces have some curvature.
Alternatively, the container may have a basic elongate elliptical
cross section but with each face flattened so that the container
has visible edge regions where adjacent walls meet.
[0028] Preferably the maximum depth of the container is less than 4
cm, more preferably less than 3 cm. The maximum depth may be less
than 2 cm.
[0029] Preferably the maximum width of the container is less than
30 cm, preferably less than 25 cm, more preferably less than 20 cm.
Most preferably the width is less than 15 cm.
[0030] Preferably the laundry benefit agent is a volatile benefit
agent. This together with the squeeze-operated device means the
laundry liquid exits under increased stress and speed which
enhances consumer experience by enhancing release of the volatile
benefit agent during dispensing.
[0031] The viscosity of 200-700 cPs provides for excellent and
rapid dynamic mixing during squeezing but without splashing as it
enters the dosing device. Preferably the viscosity is measured at
room temperature (21 degrees) using a Brookfield Viscometer.
Preferably the viscosity is 200-700 cps measured at at shear rate
of 21 s-1.
[0032] The fluid may be a liquid or a gel. Preferably the gel is
pourable.
[0033] The volatile benefit agent is an agent which is volatile and
which confers a benefit to fabric.
[0034] Suitable volatile benefit agents include but are not limited
to perfumes, insect repellents, essential oils, sensates such as
menthol and aromatherapy actives, preferably perfumes. Mixtures of
volatile benefit agents may be used.
[0035] The total amount of volatile benefit agent is preferably
from 0.01 to 10% by weight, more preferably from 0.05 to 5% by
weight, even more preferably from 0.1 to 4.0%, most preferably from
0.15 to 4.0% by weight, based on the total weight of the fluid.
Perfume
[0036] The preferred volatile benefit agent is a perfume.
[0037] Thus the consumer experience is greatly enhanced by a
greater perfume sensation and this then `primes` the consumer for
enhanced enjoyment of the particular perfume during later
activities e.g. during hand washing or after washing and drying
when handling the fabrics.
[0038] The perfumes of the of the invention also comprise an
unconfined (also called non-encapsulated) volatile benefit agent.
Where the volatile benefit agent is a perfume, the perfumes
described below are suitable for use as the encapsulated volatile
benefit agent and also as the unconfined perfume component.
[0039] Any suitable perfume or mixture of perfumes may be used.
[0040] Useful components of the perfume include materials of both
natural and synthetic origin. They include single compounds and
mixtures. Specific examples of such components may be found in the
current literature, e.g., in Fenaroli's Handbook of Flavor
Ingredients, 1975, CRC Press; Synthetic Food Adjuncts, 1947 by M.
B. Jacobs, edited by Van Nostrand; or Perfume and Flavor Chemicals
by S. Arctander 1969, Montclair, N.J. (USA). These substances are
well known to the person skilled in the art of perfuming,
flavouring, and/or aromatizing consumer products, i.e., of
imparting an odour and/or a flavour or taste to a consumer product
traditionally perfumed or flavoured, or of modifying the odour
and/or taste of said consumer product.
[0041] By perfume in this context is not only meant a fully
formulated product fragrance, but also selected components of that
fragrance, particularly those which are prone to loss, such as the
so-called `top notes`.
[0042] Top notes are defined by Poucher (Journal of the Society of
Cosmetic Chemists 6(2):80 [1955]). Examples of well known top-notes
include citrus oils, linalool, linalyl acetate, lavender,
dihydromyrcenol, rose oxide and cis-3-hexanol. Top notes typically
comprise 15-25% wt of a perfume liquid and in those embodiments of
the invention which contain an increased level of top-notes it is
envisaged at that least 20% wt would be present within the
encapsulate.
[0043] Some or all of the perfume or pro-fragrance may be
encapsulated, typical perfume components which it is advantageous
to encapsulate, include those with a relatively low boiling point,
preferably those with a boiling point of less than 300, preferably
100-250 Celsius and pro-fragrances which can produce such
components.
[0044] It is also advantageous to encapsulate perfume components
which have a low Clog P (ie. those which will be partitioned into
water), preferably with a Clog P of less than 3.0. These materials,
of relatively low boiling point and relatively low Clog P have been
called the "delayed blooming" perfume ingredients and include the
following materials: Allyl Caproate, Amyl Acetate, Amyl Propionate,
Anisic Aldehyde, Anisole, Benzaldehyde, Benzyl Acetate, Benzyl
Acetone, Benzyl Alcohol, Benzyl Formate, Benzyl Iso Valerate,
Benzyl Propionate, Beta Gamma Hexenol, Camphor Gum, Laevo-Carvone,
d-Carvone, Cinnamic Alcohol, Cinamyl Formate, Cis-Jasmone,
cis-3-Hexenyl Acetate, Cuminic Alcohol, Cyclal C, Dimethyl Benzyl
Carbinol, Dimethyl Benzyl Carbinol Acetate, Ethyl Acetate, Ethyl
Aceto Acetate, Ethyl Amyl Ketone, Ethyl Benzoate, Ethyl Butyrate,
Ethyl Hexyl Ketone, Ethyl Phenyl Acetate, Eucalyptol, Eugenol,
Fenchyl Acetate, Flor Acetate (tricyclo Decenyl Acetate), Frutene
(tricycico Decenyl Propionate), Geraniol, Hexenol, Hexenyl Acetate,
Hexyl Acetate, Hexyl Formate, Hydratropic Alcohol,
Hydroxycitronellal, Indone, Isoamyl Alcohol, Iso Menthone,
Isopulegyl Acetate, Isoquinolone, Ligustral, Linalool, Linalool
Oxide, Linalyl Formate, Menthone, Menthyl Acetphenone, Methyl Amyl
Ketone, Methyl Anthranilate, Methyl Benzoate, Methyl Benyl Acetate,
Methyl Eugenol, Methyl Heptenone, Methyl Heptine Carbonate, Methyl
Heptyl Ketone, Methyl Hexyl Ketone, Methyl Phenyl Carbinyl Acetate,
Methyl Salicylate, Methyl-N-Methyl Anthranilate, Nerol,
Octalactone, Octyl Alcohol, p-Cresol, p-Cresol Methyl Ether,
p-Methoxy Acetophenone, p-Methyl Acetophenone, Phenoxy Ethanol,
Phenyl Acetaldehyde, Phenyl Ethyl Acetate, Phenyl Ethyl Alcohol,
Phenyl Ethyl Dimethyl Carbinol, Prenyl Acetate, Propyl Bornate,
Pulegone, Rose Oxide, Safrole, 4-Terpinenol, Alpha-Terpinenol,
and/or Viridine
[0045] Preferred non-encapsulated perfume ingredients are those
hydrophobic perfume components with a C log P above 3. As used
herein, the term "C log P" means the calculated logarithm to base
10 of the octanol/water partition coefficient (P). The
octanol/water partition coefficient of a perfume raw material (PRM)
is the ratio between its equilibrium concentrations in octanol and
water. Given that this measure is a ratio of the equilibrium
concentration of a PRM in a non-polar solvent (octanol) with its
concentration in a polar solvent (water), C log P is also a measure
of the hydrophobicity of a material--the higher the C log P value,
the more hydrophobic the material. C log P values can be readily
calculated from a program called "C LOG P" which is available from
Daylight Chemical Information Systems Inc., Irvine Calif., USA.
Octanol/water partition coefficients are described in more detail
in U.S. Pat. No. 5,578,563.
[0046] Perfume components with a C log P above 3 comprise: Iso E
super, citronellol, Ethyl cinnamate, Bangalol,
2,4,6-Trimethylbenzaldehyde, Hexyl cinnamic aldehyde,
2,6-Dimethyl-2-heptanol, Diisobutylcarbinol, Ethyl salicylate,
Phenethyl isobutyrate, Ethyl hexyl ketone, Propyl amyl ketone,
Dibutyl ketone, Heptyl methyl ketone, 4,5-Dihydrotoluene, Caprylic
aldehyde, Citral, Geranial, Isopropyl benzoate,
Cyclohexanepropionic acid, Campholene aldehyde, Caprylic acid,
Caprylic alcohol, Cuminaldehyde, 1-Ethyl-4-nitrobenzene, Heptyl
formate, 4-Isopropylphenol, 2-Isopropylphenol, 3-Isopropylphenol,
Allyl disulfide, 4-Methyl-1-phenyl-2-pentanone, 2-Propylfuran,
Allyl caproate, Styrene, Isoeugenyl methyl ether, Indonaphthene,
Diethyl suberate, L-Menthone, Menthone racemic, p-Cresyl
isobutyrate, Butyl butyrate, Ethyl hexanoate, Propyl valerate,
n-Pentyl propanoate, Hexyl acetate, Methyl heptanoate,
trans-3,3,5-Trimethylcyclohexanol, 3,3,5-Trimethylcyclohexanol,
Ethyl p-anisate, 2-Ethyl-1-hexanol, Benzyl isobutyrate,
2,5-Dimethylthiophene, Isobutyl 2-butenoate, Caprylnitrile,
gamma-Nonalactone, Nerol, trans-Geraniol, 1-Vinylheptanol,
Eucalyptol, 4-Terpinenol, Dihydrocarveol, Ethyl 2-methoxybenzoate,
Ethyl cyclohexanecarboxylate, 2-Ethylhexanal, Ethyl amyl carbinol,
2-Octanol, 2-Octanol, Ethyl methylphenylglycidate, Diisobutyl
ketone, Coumarone, Propyl isovalerate, Isobutyl butanoate,
Isopentyl propanoate, 2-Ethylbutyl acetate,
6-Methyl-tetrahydroquinoline, Eugenyl methyl ether, Ethyl
dihydrocinnamate, 3,5-Dimethoxytoluene, Toluene, Ethyl benzoate,
n-Butyrophenone, alpha-Terpineol, Methyl 2-methylbenzoate, Methyl
4-methylbenzoate, Methyl 3, methylbenzoate, sec. Butyl n-butyrate,
1,4-Cineole, Fenchyl alcohol, Pinanol, cis-2-Pinanol, 2,4,
Dimethylacetophenone, Isoeugenol, Safrole, Methyl 2-octynoate,
o-Methylanisole, p-Cresyl methyl ether, Ethyl anthranilate,
Linalool, Phenyl butyrate, Ethylene glycol dibutyrate, Diethyl
phthalate, Phenyl mercaptan, Cumic alcohol, m-Toluquinoline,
6-Methylquinoline, Lepidine, 2-Ethylbenzaldehyde,
4-Ethylbenzaldehyde, o-Ethylphenol, p-Ethylphenol, m-Ethylphenol,
(+)-Pulegone, 2,4-Dimethylbenzaldehyde, Isoxylaldehyde, Ethyl
sorbate, Benzyl propionate, 1,3-Dimethylbutyl acetate, Isobutyl
isobutanoate, 2,6-Xylenol, 2,4-Xylenol, 2,5-Xylenol, 3,5-Xylenol,
Methyl cinnamate, Hexyl methyl ether, Benzyl ethyl ether, Methyl
salicylate, Butyl propyl ketone, Ethyl amyl ketone, Hexyl methyl
ketone, 2,3-Xylenol, 3,4, Xylenol, Cyclopentadenanolide and Phenyl
ethyl 2 phenylacetate 2.
[0047] It is commonplace for a plurality of perfume components to
be present in a formulation. In the fluids of the present invention
it is envisaged that there will be four or more, preferably five or
more, more preferably six or more or even seven or more different
perfume components from the list given of delayed blooming perfumes
given above and/or the list of perfume components with a Clog P
above 3 present in the perfume.
Insect Repellent
[0048] In chemical terms, most repellent actives belong to one of
four groups: amides, alcohols, esters or ethers. Those suitable for
use in the present invention are liquids or solids with a
relatively low melting point and a boiling point above 150.degree.
C., preferably liquids. They evaporate slowly at room temperature.
Where the volatile benefit agent is an insect repellent, the
repellents described below are suitable for use as the encapsulated
volatile benefit agent and also as the unconfined repellent
component.
[0049] Many suitable insect repellents are related to perfume
species (many fall into both classes). The most commonly used
insect repellents include: DEET (N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide),
essential oil of the lemon eucalyptus (Corymbia citriodora) and its
active compound p-menthane-3,8-diol (PMD), Icaridin, also known as
Picaridin, D-Limonene, Bayrepel, and KBR 3023, Nepetalactone, also
known as "catnip oil", Citronella oil, Permethrin, Neem oil and Bog
Myrtle. Preferred insect repellents are related to perfume
species.
[0050] Known insect repellents derived from natural sources
include: Achillea alpina, alpha-terpinene, Basil oil (Ocimum
basilicum), Callicarpa americana (Beautyberry), Camphor, Carvacrol,
Castor oil (Ricinus communis), Catnip oil (Nepeta species), Cedar
oil (Cedrus atlantica), Celery extract (Apium graveolens), Cinnamon
(Cinnamomum zeylanicum, leaf oil), Citronella oil (Cymbopogon
fleusus), Clove oil (Eugenic caryophyllata), Eucalyptus oil (70%+
eucalyptol, also known as cineol), Fennel oil (Foeniculum vulgare),
Garlic Oil (Allium sativum), Geranium oil (also known as
Pelargonium graveolens), Lavender oil (Lavandula officinalis),
Lemon eucalyptus (Corymbia citriodora) essential oil and its active
ingredient p-menthane-3,8-diol (PMD), Lemongrass oil (Cymbopogon
flexuosus), Marigolds (Tagetes species), Marjoram (Tetranychus
urticae and Eutetranychus orientalis), Neem oil (Azadirachta
indica), Oleic acid, Peppermint (Mentha.times.piperita), Pennyroyal
(Mentha pulegium), Pyrethrum (from Chrysanthemum species,
particularly C. cinerariifolium and C. coccineum), Rosemary oil
(Rosmarinus officinalis), Spanish Flag Lantana camara (Helopeltis
theivora), Solanum villosum berry juice, Tea tree oil (Melaleuca
alternifolia) and Thyme (Thymus species) and mixtures thereof.
[0051] Preferred encapsulated insect repellents are mosquito
repellents available from Celessence, Rochester, England.
Celessence Repel, containing the active ingredient Saltidin.TM. and
Celessence Repel Natural, containing the active Citrepel.TM. 75.
Saltidin is a man made molecule developed originally by the Bayer
Corporation. Citrepel is produced from eucalyptus oils and is high
in p-menthane-3,8-diol (PMD). A preferred non-encapsulated
repellent is Citriodiol.TM. supplied by Citrefine.
Aromatherapy Materials and Essential Oils
[0052] Another group of volatile benefit agents with which the
present invention can be applied are the so-called `aromatherapy`
materials. These include components of essential oils such as Clary
Sage, Eucalyptus, Geranium, Lavender, Mace Extract, Neroli, Nutmeg,
Spearmint, Sweet Violet Leaf and Valerian
Viscosity Modifier
[0053] The viscosity of the fluid may be achieved intrinsically,
arising from the particular ingredients/combinations of the fabric
treatment fluid.
[0054] The fabric treatment fluid may also comprise a viscosity
modifier added to regulate viscosity so that it lies within the
range of the invention. The viscosity modifier may comprise any
component or combination of components as described hereinbelow
which modifies e.g. increases or decreases the viscosity of the
composition.
[0055] The viscosity modifier may comprise a hydrotrope. The
hydrotrope may be a short-chain functionalized amphiphiles.
Examples of short-chain amphiphiles include the alkali metal salts
of xylenesulfonic acid, cumenesulfonic acid and octyl sulphonic
acid, and the like. In addition, organic solvents and monohydric
and polyhydric alcohols with a molecular weight of less than about
500, such as, for example, ethanol, isoporopanol, acetone,
propylene glycol and glycerol, may also be used as hydrotropes.
[0056] The viscosity modifier may comprise one or more salts e.g.
CaCl2), MgCl2, NaCl or other salts or combinations thereof
containing other alkali or alkaline earth metal cations and halide
anions, and the like and any combination thereof.
[0057] The viscosity modifier may comprise one or more
polysaccharide e.g. GuarGum, Xanthan Gum.
[0058] The viscosity modifier may comprise one or more external
structurant for example a cellulosic structurant such as
micro-fibrous cellulose (MFC) or carboxy methyl cellulos or a clay
or CITRUS PULP STUFF or any combination thereof
[0059] The viscosity modifier may comprise one or more
diluents.
[0060] The viscosity modifier may comprise one or more of the below
polymers.
[0061] The laundry liquid may comprise functional polymers to aid
cleaning in a weight-efficient manner which is advantageous for
letterbox delivered liquids.
Dye-Transfer Inhibitor Polymers
[0062] The polymers may be a so-called `dye-transfer inhibitors` to
prevent migration of dyes, especially during long soak times. The
dye-transfer inhibition polymer may include polyvinyl pyrrolidone
polymers, polyamine N-oxide polymers, copolymers of N-vinyl
pyrrolidone and N-vinylimidazole, manganese phthalocyanine,
peroxidases, and mixtures thereof. Nitrogen-containing, dye
binding, DTI polymers are preferred. Of these polymers and
co-polymers of cyclic amines such as vinyl pyrrolidone (PVP),
and/or vinyl imidazole (PVI) are particularly preferred. Polyamine
N-oxide polymers suitable for use herein contain units having the
following structural formula: R-AX-P; wherein P is a polymerizable
unit to which an N--O group can be attached or the N--O group can
form part of the polymerizable unit; A is one of the following
structures: --NC(O)--, --C(O)O--, --S--, --O--, --N.dbd.; x is 0 or
1; and R is an aliphatic, ethoxylated aliphatic, aromatic,
heterocyclic or alicyclic group or combination thereof to which the
nitrogen of the N--O group can be attached or the N--O group is
part of these groups, or the N--O group can be attached to both
units. Preferred polyamine N-oxides are those wherein R is a
heterocyclic group such as pyridine, pyrrole, imidazole,
pyrrolidine, piperidine and derivatives thereof.
[0063] Any polymer backbone can be used provided the amine oxide
polymer formed is water-soluble and has dye transfer inhibiting
properties. Examples of suitable polymeric backbones are
polyvinyls, polyalkylenes, polyesters, polyethers, polyamides,
polyimides, polyacrylates and mixtures thereof. These polymers
include random or block copolymers where one monomer type is an
amine N-oxide and the other monomer type is an N-oxide. The amine
N-oxide polymers typically have a ratio of amine to the amine
N-oxide of 10:1 to 1:1,000,000. However, the number of amine oxide
groups present in the polyamine oxide polymer can be varied by
appropriate copolymerization or by an appropriate degree of
N-oxidation. The polyamine oxides can be obtained in almost any
degree of polymerization. Typically, the average molecular weight
is within the range of 500 to 1,000,000; more preferably 1,000 to
500,000; most preferably 5,000 to 100,000. This preferred class of
materials is referred to herein as "PVNO". A preferred polyamine
N-oxide is poly(4-vinylpyridine-N-oxide) which as an average
molecular weight of about 50,000 and an amine to amine N-oxide
ratio of about 1:4.
[0064] Copolymers of N-vinylpyrrolidone and N-vinylimidazole
polymers (as a class, referred to as PVPVI) are also preferred.
Preferably the PVPVI has an average molecular weight range from
5,000 to 1,000,000, more preferably from 5,000 to 200,000, and most
preferably from 10,000 to 20,000, as determined by light scattering
as described in Barth, et al., Chemical Analysis, Vol. 113. "Modern
Methods of Polymer Characterization". The preferred PVPVI
copolymers typically have a molar ratio of N-vinylimidazole to
N-vinylpyrrolidone from 1:1 to 0.2:1, more preferably from 0.8:1 to
0.3:1, most preferably from 0.6:1 to 0.4:1. These copolymers can be
either linear or branched. Suitable PVPVI polymers include
Sokalan.TM. HP56, available commercially from BASF, Ludwigshafen,
Germany.
[0065] Also preferred as dye transfer inhibition agents are
polyvinylpyrrolidone polymers (PVP) having an average molecular
weight of from about 5,000 to about 400,000, preferably from about
5,000 to about 2000,000, and more preferably from about 5,000 to
about 50,000. PVP's are disclosed for example in EP-A-262,897 and
EP-A-256,696. Suitable PVP polymers include Sokalan.TM. HP50,
available commercially from BASF. Compositions containing PVP can
also contain polyethylene glycol (PEG) having an average molecular
weight from about 500 to about 100,000, preferably from about 1,000
to about 10,000. Preferably, the ratio of PEG to PVP on a ppm basis
delivered in wash solutions is from about 2:1 to about 50:1, and
more preferably from about 3:1 to about 10:1.
[0066] Also preferred as dye transfer inhibiting agents are those
from the class of modified polyethyleneimine polymers, as disclosed
for example in WO-A-0005334. These modified polyethyleneimine
polymers are water-soluble or dispersible, modified polyamines.
Modified polyamines are further disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos.
4,548,744; 4,597,898; 4,877,896; 4,891,160; 4,976,879; 5,415,807;
GB-A-1,537,288; GB-A-1,498,520; DE-A-28 29022; and
JP-A-06313271.
[0067] The modified ethoxylated polyamines (EPEI) are described
above and are generally linear or branched poly (>2) amines. The
amines may be primary, secondary or tertiary. A single or a number
of amine functions are reacted with one or more alkylene oxide
groups to form a polyalkylene oxide side chain. The alkylene oxide
can be a homopolymer (for example ethylene oxide) or a random or
block copolymer. The terminal group of the alkylene oxide side
chain can be further reacted to give an anionic character to the
molecule (for example to give carboxylic acid or sulphonic acid
functionality).
[0068] Preferably the composition according to the present
invention comprises a dye transfer inhibition agent selected from
polyvinylpyrridine N-oxide (PVNO), polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP),
polyvinyl imidazole, N-vinylpyrrolidone and N-vinylimidazole
copolymers (PVPVI), copolymers thereof, and mixtures thereof.
[0069] The amount of dye transfer inhibition agent in the
composition according to the present invention will be from 0.01 to
10%, preferably from 0.02 to 8, or even to 5%, more preferably from
0.03 to 6, or even to 2%, by weight of the composition. It will be
appreciated that the dye transfer inhibition agents will assist in
the preservation of whiteness by preventing the migration of dyes
from place to place. This preservation of whiteness assists in
cleaning and counteracts the reduction in surfactants present in
the wash liquor.
Anti-Redeposition Polymers
[0070] The polymer may comprise an anti-redeposition polymer; which
may comprise polycarboxylate materials. Polycarboxylate materials,
which can be prepared by polymerizing or copolymerizing suitable
unsaturated monomers, are preferably admixed in their acid form.
Unsaturated monomeric acids that can be polymerized to form
suitable polycarboxylates include acrylic acid, maleic acid (or
maleic anhydride), fumaric acid, itaconic acid, aconitic acid,
mesaconic acid, citraconic acid and methylenemalonic acid. The
presence in the polycarboxylates herein of monomeric segments,
containing no carboxylate radicals such as vinylmethyl ether,
styrene, ethylene, etc. is suitable provided that such segments do
not constitute more than about 40% by weight of the polymer.
[0071] Particularly preferred polycarboxylates can be derived from
acrylic acid. Such acrylic acid-based polymers which are useful
herein are the water-soluble salts of polymerized acrylic acid. The
average molecular weight of such polymers in the acid form
preferably ranges from about 2,000 to 10,000, more preferably from
about 4,000 to 7,000 and most preferably from about 4,000 to 5,000.
Water-soluble salts of such acrylic acid polymers can include, for
example, the alkali metal, ammonium and substituted ammonium salts.
Soluble polymers of this type are known materials. Use of
polyacrylates of this type in detergent compositions has been
disclosed, for example, in Diehl, U.S. Pat. No. 3,308,067, issued
Mar. 7, 1967. In the present invention, the preferred
polycarboxylate is sodium polyacrylate.
[0072] Acrylic/maleic-based copolymers may also be used as a
preferred component of the anti-redeposition agent. Such materials
include the water-soluble salts of copolymers of acrylic acid and
maleic acid. The average molecular weight of such copolymers in the
acid form preferably ranges from about 2,000 to 100,000, more
preferably from about 5,000 to 75,000, most preferably from about
7,000 to 65,000. The ratio of acrylate to maleate segments in such
copolymers will generally range from about 30:1 to about 1:1, more
preferably from about 10:1 to 2:1. Water-soluble salts of such
acrylic acid/maleic acid copolymers can include, for example, the
alkali metal, ammonium and substituted ammonium salts. Soluble
acrylate/maleate copolymers of this type are known materials which
are described in European Patent Application No. 66915, published
Dec. 15, 1982, as well as in EP 193,360, published Sep. 3, 1986,
which also describes such polymers comprising
hydroxypropylacrylate. Still other useful polymers
maleic/acrylic/vinyl alcohol terpolymers. Such materials are also
disclosed in EP 193,360, including, for example, the 45/45/10
terpolymer of acrylic/maleic/vinyl alcohol.
[0073] Polyethylene glycol (PEG) can act as a clay soil
removal-anti-redeposition agent. Typical molecular weight ranges
for these purposes range from about 500 to about 100,000,
preferably from about 1,000 to about 50,000, more preferably from
about 3,000 to about 10,000. Polyaspartate and polyglutamate
dispersing agents may also be used. Any polymeric soil release
agent known to those skilled in the art can optionally be employed
in compositions according to the invention. Polymeric soil release
agents are characterized by having both hydrophilic segments, to
hydrophilize the surface of hydrophobic fibres, such as polyester
and nylon, and hydrophobic segments, to deposit upon hydrophobic
fibres and remain adhered thereto through completion of washing and
rinsing cycles and, thus, serve as an anchor for the hydrophilic
segments. This can enable stains occurring subsequent to treatment
with the soil release agent to be more easily cleaned in later
washing procedures.
[0074] The amount of anti redeposition polymer in the composition
according to the present invention will be from 0.01 to 10%,
preferably from 0.02 to 8%, more preferably from 0.03 to 6%, by
weight of the composition.
Soil Release Polymers:
[0075] The polymer may comprise soil release polymers for polyester
comprising polymers of aromatic dicarboxylic acids and alkylene
glycols (including polymers containing polyalkylene glycols).
[0076] The polymeric soil release agents useful herein especially
include those soil release agents having:
(a) one or more nonionic hydrophilic components consisting
essentially of: (i) polyoxyethylene segments with a degree of
polymerization of at least 2, or (ii) oxypropylene or
polyoxypropylene segments with a degree of polymerization of from 2
to 10, wherein said hydrophile segment does not encompass any
oxypropylene unit unless it is bonded to adjacent moieties at each
end by ether linkages, or (iii) a mixture of oxyalkylene units
comprising oxyethylene and from 1 to about 30 oxypropylene units
wherein said mixture contains a sufficient amount of oxyethylene
units such that the hydrophile component has hydrophilicity great
enough to increase the hydrophilicity of conventional polyester
synthetic fiber surfaces upon deposit of the soil release agent on
such surface, said hydrophile segments preferably comprising at
least about 25% oxyethylene units and more preferably, especially
for such components having about 20 to 30 oxypropylene units, at
least about 50% oxyethylene units; or (b) one or more hydrophobe
components comprising: (i) C3 oxyalkylene terephthalate segments,
wherein, if said hydrophobe components also comprise oxyethylene
terephthalate, the ratio of oxyethylene terephthalate:C3
oxyalkylene terephthalate units is about 2:1 or lower, (ii) C4-C6
alkylene or oxy C4-C6 alkylene segments, or mixtures therein, (iii)
poly (vinyl ester) segments, preferably polyvinyl acetate), having
a degree of polymerization of at least 2, or (iv) C1-C4 alkyl ether
or C4 hydroxyalkyl ether substituents, or mixtures therein, wherein
said substituents are present in the form of C1-C4 alkyl ether or
C4 hydroxyalkyl ether cellulose derivatives, or mixtures therein,
and such cellulose derivatives are amphiphilic, whereby they have a
sufficient level of C1-C4 alkyl ether and/or C4 hydroxyalkyl ether
units to deposit upon conventional polyester synthetic fiber
surfaces and retain a sufficient level of hydroxyls, once adhered
to such conventional synthetic fiber surface, to increase fiber
surface hydrophilicity, or a combination of (a) and (b).
[0077] Preferably, the polyoxyethylene segments of (a)(i) will have
a degree of polymerization of from about 200, although higher
levels can be used, preferably from 3 to about 150, more preferably
from 6 to about 100. Suitable oxy C4-C6 alkylene hydrophobe
segments include, but are not limited to, end-caps of polymeric
soil release agents such as MO3 S(CH2)n OCH2 CH2 O--, where M is
sodium and n is an integer from 4-6, as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.
4,721,580, issued Jan. 26, 1988 to Gosselink.
[0078] Soil release agents characterized by poly(vinyl ester)
hydrophobe segments include graft copolymers of poly(vinyl ester),
e.g., C1-C6 vinyl esters, preferably poly(vinyl acetate) grafted
onto polyalkylene oxide backbones, such as polyethylene oxide
backbones. See European Patent Application 0 219 048, published
Apr. 22, 1987 by Kud, et al. Commercially available soil release
agents of this kind include the SOKALAN type of material, e.g.,
SOKALAN HP-22, available from BASF (West Germany).
[0079] One type of preferred soil release agent is a copolymer
having random blocks of ethylene terephthalate and polyethylene
oxide (PEO) terephthalate. The molecular weight of this polymeric
soil release agent is in the range of from about 25,000 to about
55,000. See U.S. Pat. No. 3,959,230 to Hays, issued May 25, 1976
and U.S. Pat. No. 3,893,929 to Basadur issued Jul. 8, 1975.
[0080] Another preferred polymeric soil release agent is a
polyester with repeat units of ethylene terephthalate units
contains 10-15% by weight of ethylene terephthalate units together
with 90-80% by weight of polyoxyethylene terephthalate units,
derived from a polyoxyethylene glycol of average molecular weight
300-5,000. Examples of this polymer include the commercially
available material ZELCON 5126 (from DuPont) and MILEASE T (from
ICI). See also U.S. Pat. No. 4,702,857, issued Oct. 27, 1987 to
Gosselink.
[0081] Another preferred polymeric soil release agent is a
sulfonated product of a substantially linear ester oligomer
comprised of an oligomeric ester backbone of terephthaloyl and
oxyalkyleneoxy repeat units and terminal moieties covalently
attached to the backbone. These soil release agents are described
fully in U.S. Pat. No. 4,968,451, issued Nov. 6, 1990 to J. J.
Scheibel and E. P. Gosselink. Other suitable polymeric soil release
agents include the terephthalate polyesters of U.S. Pat. No.
4,711,730, issued Dec. 8, 1987 to Gosselink et al, the anionic
end-capped oligomeric esters of U.S. Pat. No. 4,721,580, issued
Jan. 26, 1988 to Gosselink, and the block polyester oligomeric
compounds of U.S. Pat. No. 4,702,857, issued Oct. 27, 1987 to
Gosselink.
[0082] Preferred polymeric soil release agents also include the
soil release agents of U.S. Pat. No. 4,877,896, issued Oct. 31,
1989 to Maldonado et al, which discloses anionic, especially
sulfoarolyl, end-capped terephthalate esters.
[0083] If utilized, soil release agents will generally comprise
from about 0.01% to about 10.0%, by weight, of the detergent
composition, typically greater than or equal to 0.2 wt % even from
3 wt % to 9 wt %, but more preferably they are used at greater than
1 wt %, even greater than 2 wt % and most preferably greater than 3
wt %, even more preferably greater than 5 wt %, say 6 to 8 wt % in
the composition. Still another preferred soil release agent is an
oligomer with repeat units of terephthaloyl units,
sulfoisoterephthaloyl units, oxyethyleneoxy and oxy-1,2-propylene
units. The repeat units form the backbone of the oligomer and are
preferably terminated with modified isethionate end-caps. A
particularly preferred soil release agent of this type comprises
about one sulfoisophthaloyl unit, 5 terephthaloyl units,
oxyethyleneoxy and oxy-1,2-propyleneoxy units in a ratio of from
about 1.7 to about 1.8, and two end-cap units of sodium
2-(2-hydroxyethoxy)-ethanesulfonate. Said soil release agent also
comprises from about 0.5% to about 20%, by weight of the oligomer,
of a crystalline-reducing stabilizer, preferably selected from the
group consisting of xylene sulfonate, cumene sulfonate, toluene
sulfonate, and mixtures thereof.
[0084] Suitable soil release polymers are described in WO
2008095626 (Clariant); WO 2006133867 (Clariant); WO 2006133868
(Clariant); WO 2005097959 (Clariant); WO 9858044 (Clariant); WO
2000004120 (Rhodia Chimie); U.S. Pat. No. 6,242,404 (Rhodia Inc);
WO 2001023515 (Rhodia Inc); WO 9941346 (Rhodia Chim); WO 9815346
(Rhodia Inc); WO 9741197 (BASF); EP 728795 (BASF); U.S. Pat. No.
5,008,032 (BASF); WO 2002077063 (BASF); EP 483606 (BASF); EP 442101
(BASF); WO 9820092 (Proctor & Gamble); EP 201124 (Proctor &
Gamble); EP 199403 (Proctor & Gamble); DE 2527793 (Proctor
& Gamble); WO 9919429 (Proctor & Gamble); WO 9859030
(Proctor & Gamble); U.S. Pat. No. 5,834,412 (Proctor &
Gamble); WO 9742285 (Proctor & Gamble); WO 9703162 (Proctor
& Gamble); WO 9502030 (Proctor & Gamble); WO 9502028
(Proctor & Gamble); EP 357280 (Proctor & Gamble); U.S. Pat.
No. 4,116,885 (Proctor & Gamble); WO 9532232 (Henkel); WO
9532232 (Henkel); WO 9616150 (Henkel); WO 9518207 (Henkel); EP
1099748 (Henkel); FR 2619393 (Colgate Palmolive); DE 3411941
(Colgate Palmolive); DE 3410810 (Colgate Palmolive); WO 2002018474
(RWE-DEA MINERALOEL & CHEM AG; SASOL GERMANY GMBH); EP 743358
(Textil Color AG); PL 148326 (Instytut Ciezkiej Syntezy Organicznej
"Blachownia", Pol.); JP 2001181692 (Lion Corp); JP 11193397 A (Lion
Corp); RO 114357 (S.C. "Prod Cresus" S.A., Bacau, Rom.); and U.S.
Pat. No. 7,119,056 (Sasol).
[0085] Particularly preferred are combinations of relatively high
levels of EPEI (>5 wt % on the composition) with soil release
polymers, especially, but not exclusively, if betaine is included
in the surfactant system.
[0086] Particularly preferred are combinations of EPEI and soil
release polymers of the above types for enabling increased
performance at lower surfactant levels compared to 1.0 g/L or
higher non soap surfactant wash liquors with betaine but without
either EPEI or SRP. This effect is particularly visible on a range
of stains on polyester, most particularly red clay. The effect of
the combination on sunflower oil and foundation is also beneficial.
SRP performance is enhanced significantly by repeated
pre-treatment. There is some evidence of a build-up effect of EPEI
performance.
[0087] The most preferred soil release polymers are the water
soluble/miscible or dispersible polyesters such as: linear
polyesters sold under the Repel-O-Tex brand by Rhodia (gerol),
lightly branched polyesters sold under the Texcare brand by
Clariant, especially Texcare SRN170, and heavily branched
polyesters such as those available from Sasol and described in U.S.
Pat. No. 7,119,056.
[0088] The viscosity modifier may comprise a thickening
polymer.
[0089] The thickening polymer comprises linear/crosslinked alkali
swellable acrylic copolymers/ASE/HASE/C-HASE.
[0090] he preferred thickening polymers are linear/crosslinked
alkali swellable acrylic copolymers/ASE/HASE/C-HASE. Polymers that
require alkaline conditions to swell and so to provide thickening
of the detergent fluid should be added such that they are exposed
to alkaline conditions at least during the manufacture of the
fluid. It is not essential that the finished fluid is alkaline.
[0091] The thickening polymer is a water swellable polyacrylate.
Such polymers may be alkali swellable copolymers (ASE) optionally
with a hydrophobic modification on at least one of the monomers
(HASE) or with crosslinking groups (CASE) and possibly with both
hydrophobic modification and crosslinking (C-HASE).
[0092] As used herein the term "(meth)acrylic" refers to acrylic or
methacrylic, and "(meth)acrylate" refers to acrylate or
methacrylate. The term "acrylic polymers" refers to polymers of
acrylic monomers, i.e., acrylic acid (AA), methacrylic acid (MAA)
and their esters, and copolymers comprising at least 50% of acrylic
monomers. Esters of AA and MAA include, but are not limited to,
methyl methacrylate (MMA), ethyl methacrylate (EMA), butyl
methacrylate (BMA), hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA), methyl
acrylate (MA), ethyl acrylate (EA), butyl acrylate (BA), and
hydroxyethyl acrylate (HEA), as well as other alkyl esters of AA or
MAA.
[0093] Preferably, acrylic polymers have at least 75% of monomer
residues derived from (meth)acrylic acid or (meth)acrylate
monomers, more preferably at least 90%, more preferably at least
95%, and most preferably at least 98%. The term "vinyl monomer"
refers to a monomer suitable for addition polymerization and
containing a single polymerizable carbon-carbon double bond.
[0094] Hydrophobic properties may be imparted by use of
lipophilically-modified (meth)acrylate residues each of which may
contain either one, or a plurality of, lipophilic groups. Such
groups are suitably in the same copolymer component as and attached
to hydrophilic chains, such as for example polyoxyethylene chains.
Alternatively the copolymer may contain a vinyl group which may be
used to copolymerize the polymer to other vinyl-containing entities
to alter or improve the properties of the polymer. Polymerizable
groups may be attached to lipophilic groups directly, or indirectly
for example via one or more, for example up to 60, preferably up to
40, water-soluble linker groups, for example, --CH[R]CH2O-- or
--CH[R]CH2NH-- groups wherein R is hydrogen or methyl.
[0095] Alternatively, the polymerizable group may be attached to
the lipophilic group by reaction of the hydrophilic, for example
polyoxyethylene, component with a urethane compound containing
unsaturation. The molecular weight of the lipophilic-modifying
group or groups is preferably selected together with the number of
such groups to give the required minimum lipophilic content in the
copolymer, and preferably, for satisfactory performance in a wide
range of liquids.
[0096] The amount of lipophilically-modified component in the
copolymers preferably is at least 5%, more preferably at least
7.5%, and most preferably at least 10%; and preferably is no more
than 25%, more preferably no more than 20%, more preferably no more
than 18%, and most preferably no more than 15%.
[0097] The lipophilic-modifying groups themselves are preferably
straight chain saturated alkyl groups, but may be aralkyl or alkyl
carbocyclic groups such as alkylphenyl groups, having at least 6,
and up to 30 carbon atoms although branched chain groups may be
contemplated. It is understood that the alkyl groups may be either
of synthetic or of natural origin and, in the latter case
particularly, may contain a range of chain lengths.
[0098] The chain length of the lipophilic-modifying groups is
preferably is below 25, more preferably from 8 to 22, and most
preferably from 10 to 18 carbon atoms. The hydrophilic component of
the lipophilically-modified copolymer may suitably be a
polyoxyethylene component preferably comprising at least one chain
of at least 2, preferably at least 5, more preferably at least 10,
and up to 60, preferably up to 40, more preferably up to 30
ethylene oxide units. Such components are usually produced in a
mixture of chain lengths.
[0099] Preferably, the C2-C4 alkyl (meth)acrylate residues in the
copolymer are C2-C3 alkyl (meth)acrylate residues, and most
preferably EA. Preferably, the amount of C2-C4 alkyl (meth)acrylate
residues is at least 20%, more preferably at least 30%, more
preferably at least 40% and most preferably at least 50%.
Preferably, the amount of C2-C4 alkyl (meth)acrylate residues is no
more than 75%, more preferably no more than 70%, and most
preferably no more than 65%. Preferably, the amount of acrylic acid
residues in the copolymer used in the present invention is at least
5%, more preferably at least 7.5%, more preferably at least 10%,
and most preferably at least 15%. Preferably, the amount of acrylic
acid residues is no more than 27.5%, more preferably no more than
25%, and most preferably no more than 22%. Acrylic acid residues
are introduced into the copolymer by inclusion of either acrylic
acid, or an acrylic acid oligomer having a polymerizable vinyl
group, in the monomer mixture used to produce the copolymer.
[0100] Preferably, the copolymer contains residues derived from
methacrylic acid in an amount that provides a total acrylic acid
plus methacrylic acid content of at least 15%, more preferably at
least 17.5%, and most preferably at least 20%. Preferably, the
total acrylic acid plus methacrylic acid content of the copolymer
is no more than 65%, more preferably no more than 50%, and most
preferably no more than 40%.
[0101] Optionally, the copolymer also contains from 2% to 25%,
preferably from 5% to 20%, of a hydrophilic comonomer, preferably
one having hydroxyl, carboxylic acid or sulphonic acid
functionality. Examples of hydrophilic comonomers include
2-hydroxyethyl (meth)acrylate (HEMA or HEA), itaconic acid and
acrylamido-2-methylpropanesulfonic acid.
[0102] The fluids of the present invention contain from 0.1% and
preferably no more than 10% of thickening polymer; i.e., the total
amount of copolymer(s) is in this range. Preferably, the amount of
copolymer in the fluid is at least 0.3%, more preferably at least
0.5%, more preferably at least 0.7%, and most preferably at least
1%. Preferably, the amount of copolymer in the aqueous fluid is no
more than 7%, more preferably no more than 5%, and most preferably
no more than 3%. Preferably, the copolymer is an acrylic
polymer.
[0103] The copolymer, in aqueous dispersion or in the dry form, may
be blended into an aqueous system to be thickened followed, in the
case of a pH-responsive thickener, by a suitable addition of acidic
or basic material if required. In the case of copolymeric
pH-responsive thickeners, the pH of the system to be thickened is
at, or is adjusted to, at least 5, preferably at least 6, more
preferably at least 7; preferably the pH is adjusted to no more
than 13. The neutralizing agent is preferably a base such as an
amine base or an alkali metal or ammonium hydroxide, most
preferably sodium hydroxide, ammonium hydroxide or triethanolamine
(TEA). Alternatively, the copolymer may first be neutralized in
aqueous dispersion and then blended. The surfactant preferably is
blended into the aqueous fluid separately from the copolymer prior
to neutralization.
[0104] The molecular weight of uncrosslinked polymer is typically
in the range of about 100,000 to 1 million.
[0105] In the case that the polymer is crosslinked, a crosslinking
agent, such as a monomer having two or more ethylenic unsaturated
groups, is included with the copolymer components during
polymerization. Examples of such monomers include diallyl
phthalate, divinylbenzene, allyl methacrylate, diacrylobutylene or
ethylene glycol dimethacrylate. When used, the amount of
crosslinking agent is typically from 0.01% to 2%, preferably from
0.1 to 1% and more preferably from 0.2 to 0.8%, based on weight of
the copolymer components.
[0106] The copolymer may be prepared in the presence of a chain
transfer agent when a crosslinking agent is used. Examples of
suitable chain transfer agents are carbon tetrachloride, bromoform,
bromotrichloromethane, and compounds having a mercapto group, e.g.,
long chain alkyl mercaptans and thioesters such as dodecyl-,
octyl-, tetradecyl- or hexadecyl-mercaptans or butyl-, isooctyl- or
dodecyl-thioglycolates. When used, the amount of chain transfer
agent is typically from 0.01% to 5%, preferably from 0.1% to 1%,
based on weight of the copolymer components. If the crosslinking
agent is used in conjunction with a chain transfer agent, which are
conflicting operations for polymerization purposes, not only is
exceptional efficiency observed but also very high compatibility
with hydrophilic surfactants, as manifested by increased product
clarity.
[0107] Hydrophobically modified polyacrylate thickening polymers
are available as Acusol polymers from Dow.
[0108] An alternative or additional polymer type that may be
utilised is described in WO2011/117427 (Lamberti). These polymers
comprise:
i) from 0.2 to 10% by weight of a thickening agent which is a
crosslinked alkali swellable polyacrylate obtainable by
polymerization of: a) from 20 to 70% by weight of a
monoethylenically unsaturated monomer containing a carboxylic
group; b) from 20 to 70% by weight of a (meth)acrylic acid ester;
c) from 0.05 to 3% by weight of an unsaturated monomer containing
one or more acetoacetyl or cyanoacetyl groups; d) from 0.01 to 3%
by weight of a polyethylenically unsaturated monomer; e) from 0 to
10% by weight of a nonionic acrylic associative monomer; ii) from 5
to 60% by weight of a detergent component consisting of at least
one compound selected from anionic surfactants, amphoteric
surfactants, cationic surfactants, zwitterionic surfactants,
non-ionic surfactants and mixture thereof.
[0109] Such crosslinked alkali swellable polyacrylates containing
one or more acetoacetyl or cyanoacetyl groups possess high
thickening capability in the presence of surfactants and
electrolytes, provide homogeneous and clear solutions and possess
improved suspending and thickening properties in comparison with
crosslinked alkali swellable polyacrylates of the prior art.
Crosslinked thickening polymers of this type are available as
Viscolam thickening polymers from Lamberti.
[0110] The laundry liquid may comprise one or more enzymes.
[0111] The one or more enzymes may comprise any one or combination
of the following enzymes. Enzymes may be from bacterial or fungal
origin. Chemically modified or protein engineered mutants are
included. As used herein the term "enzyme" includes enzyme variants
(produced, for example, by recombinant techniques) are included.
Examples of such enzyme variants are disclosed, e.g., in EP 251,446
(Genencor), WO 91/00345 (Novo Nordisk), EP 525,610 (Solvay) and WO
94/02618 (Gist-Brocades NV).
[0112] Preferably said one or more enzymes comprise one or more
proteases. Preferred proteases include serine protease or a metallo
protease, preferably an alkaline microbial protease or a
trypsin-like protease. Alkaline proteases include subtilisins,
especially those derived from Bacillus, e.g., subtilisin Novo,
subtilisin Carlsberg, subtilisin 309, subtilisin 147 and subtilisin
168. Trypsin-like (i.e. capable of cleaving peptide bonds at the
C-terminal side of lysine or arginine.) Such proteases may be of
porcine or bovine origin. Fusarium derived trypsin proteases are
also included.
[0113] Commercially available protease enzymes include
Alcalase.TM., Savinase.TM., Primase.TM., Duralase.TM., Dyrazym.TM.,
Esperase.TM., Everlase.TM., Polarzyme.TM., and Kannase.TM.
(Novozymes NS), Maxatase.TM., Maxacal.TM., Maxapem.TM.,
Properase.TM., Purafect.TM., Purafect OxP.TM., FN2.TM., and FN3.TM.
(Genencor International Inc.).
[0114] Preferably said one or more enzymes comprise one or more
lipases. Preferred lipases include lipases from Humicola (synonym
Thermomyces), e.g. from H. lanuginosa (T. lanuginosus) or from H.
insolens, a Pseudomonas lipase, e.g. from P. alcaligenes or P.
pseudoalcaligenes,
P. cepacia, P. stutzeri, P. fluorescens, Pseudomonas sp. strain SD
705 (WO 95/06720 and WO 96/27002), P. wisconsinensis, a Bacillus
lipase, e.g. from B. subtilis (Dartois et al. (1993), Biochemica et
Biophysica Acta, 1131, 253-360), B. stearothermophilus (JP
64/744992) or B. pumilus (WO 91/16422).
[0115] Commercially available lipase enzymes include Lipolase.TM.
and Lipolase Ultra.TM., Lipex.TM. (Novozymes NS).
[0116] Preferably said one or more enzymes comprise one or more
phospholipases. Preferred Phospholipases (EC 3.1.1.4 and/or EC
3.1.1.32) include enzymes which hydrolyse phospholipids.
Phospholipases A1 and A2 which hydrolyze one fatty acyl group (in
the sn-1 and sn-2 position, respectively) to form lysophospholipid;
and lysophospholipase (or phospholipase B) which can hydrolyze the
remaining fatty acyl group in lysophospholipid are included as are
Phospholipase C and phospholipase D (phosphodiesterases) which
release diacyl glycerol or phosphatidic acid respectively.
[0117] The term "phospholipase A" used herein in connection with an
enzyme of the invention is intended to cover an enzyme with
Phospholipase A1 and/or Phospholipase A2 activity. The
phospholipase activity may be provided by enzymes having other
activities as well, such as, e.g., a lipase with phospholipase
activity.
[0118] The phospholipase may be of any origin, e.g., of animal
origin (such as, e.g., mammalian), e.g. from pancreas (e.g., bovine
or porcine pancreas), or snake venom or bee venom. Preferably the
phospholipase may be of microbial origin, e.g., from filamentous
fungi, yeast or bacteria, such as the genus or species Aspergillus,
e.g., A. niger; Dictyostelium, e.g., D. discoideum; Mucor, e.g. M.
javanicus, M. mucedo, M. subtilissimus; Neurospora, e.g. N. crassa;
Rhizomucor, e.g., R. pusillus; Rhizopus, e.g. R. arrhizus, R.
japonicus, R. stolonifer; Sclerotinia, e.g., S. libertiana;
Trichophyton, e.g. T. rubrum; Whetzelinia, e.g., W. sclerotiorum;
Bacillus, e.g., B. megaterium, B. subtilis; Citrobacter, e.g., C.
freundii; Enterobacter, e.g., E. aerogenes, E. cloacae
Edwardsiella, E. tarda; Erwinia, e.g., E. herbicola; Escherichia,
e.g., E. coli; Klebsiella, e.g., K. pneumoniae; Proteus, e.g., P.
vulgaris; Providencia, e.g., P. stuartii; Salmonella, e.g. S.
typhimurium; Serratia, e.g., S. liquefasciens, S. marcescens;
Shigella, e.g., S. flexneri; Streptomyces, e.g., S. violeceoruber;
Yersinia, e.g., Y. enterocolitica. Thus, the phospholipase may be
fungal, e.g., from the class Pyrenomycetes, such as the genus
Fusarium, such as a strain of F. culmorum, F. heterosporum, F.
solani, or a strain of F. oxysporum. The phospholipase may also be
from a filamentous fungus strain within the genus Aspergillus, such
as a strain of Aspergillus awamori, Aspergillus foetidus,
Aspergillus japonicus, Aspergillus niger or Aspergillus oryzae.
[0119] Preferred phospholipases are derived from a strain of
Humicola, especially Humicola lanuginosa or variant; and from
strains of Fusarium, especially Fusarium oxysporum. The
phospholipase may be derived from Fusarium oxysporum DSM 2672.
[0120] Preferably phospholipases comprise a phospholipase A1 (EC.
3.1.1.32). or a phospholipase A2 (EC.3.1.1.4.).
[0121] Examples of commercial phospholipases include LECITASE.TM.
and LECITASE.TM. ULTRA, YIELSMAX, or LIPOPAN F (available from
Novozymes NS, Denmark).
[0122] Preferably said one or more enzymes comprise one or more
cutinases. Preferred cutinases (EC 3.1.1.74.) are derived from a
strain of Aspergillus, in particular Aspergillus oryzae, a strain
of Alternaria, in particular Alternaria brassiciola, a strain of
Fusarium, in particular Fusarium solani, Fusarium solani pisi,
Fusarium roseum culmorum, or Fusarium roseum sambucium, a strain of
Helminthosporum, in particular Helminthosporum sativum, a strain of
Humicola, in particular Humicola insolens, a strain of Pseudomonas,
in particular Pseudomonas mendocina, or Pseudomonas putida, a
strain of Rhizoctonia, in particular Rhizoctonia solani, a strain
of Streptomyces, in particular Streptomyces scabies, or a strain of
Ulocladium, in particular Ulocladium consortiale. Most preferably
cutinase is derived from a strain of Humicola insolens, in
particular the strain Humicola insolens DSM 1800.
[0123] Commercial cutinases include NOVOZYM.TM. 51032 (available
from Novozymes NS, Denmark).
[0124] Preferably said one or more enzymes comprise one or more
amylases. Preferred amylases (alpha and/or beta) are included for
example, alpha-amylases obtained from Bacillus, e.g. from strains
of B. licheniformis NCIB8059, ATCC6634, ATCC6598, ATCC11945, ATCC
8480, ATCC9945a, or the Bacillus sp. strains DSM 12649 (AA560
alpha-amylase) or Bacillus sp. DSM 12648 (AA349 alpha-amylase).
[0125] Commercially available amylases are Duramyl.TM.,
Termamyl.TM., Termamyl Ultra.TM. Natalase.TM., Stainzyme.TM.,
Fungamyl.TM. and BAN.TM. (Novozymes NS), Rapidase.TM. and
Purastar.TM. (from Genencor International Inc.).
[0126] Preferably said one or more enzymes comprise one or more
cellulases. Preferred cellulases include cellulases from the genera
Bacillus, Pseudomonas, Humicola, Fusarium, Thielavia, Acremonium,
e.g. the fungal cellulases produced from Humicola insolens,
Thielavia terrestris, Myceliophthora thermophila, and Fusarium
oxysporum.
[0127] Especially preferred cellulases are the alkaline or neutral
cellulases having color care benefits. Commercially available
cellulases include Celluzyme.TM., Carezyme.TM., Endolase.TM.
Renozyme.TM. (Novozymes NS), Clazinase.TM. and PuradaxHA.TM.
(Genencor International Inc.), and KAC-500(B).TM. (Kao
Corporation).
[0128] Preferably said one or more enzymes comprise one or more
mannanases. Preferred mannanases (EC 3.2.1.78) include derived from
a strain of the filamentous fungus genus Aspergillus, preferably
Aspergillus niger or Aspergillus aculeatus or Trichoderma reseei or
from the Bacillus microorganism FERM P-8856 which produces
beta-mannanase and beta-mannosidase or from alkalophilic Bacillus
sp. AM-001 or from Bacillus amyloliquefaciens. The mannanase may
comprise alkaline family 5 and 26 mannanases derived from Bacillus
agaradhaerens, Bacillus licheniformis, Bacillus halodurans,
Bacillus clausii, Bacillus sp., and Humicola insolens.
[0129] Examples of commercially available mannanases include
Mannaway.TM. available from Novozymes NS Denmark.
[0130] Preferably said one or more enzymes comprise one or more
peroxidases and/or oxidases. Preferred peroxidases/oxidases include
peroxidases from Coprinus, e.g. from C. cinereus, and variants
thereof. Commercially available peroxidases include Guardzyme.TM.
and Novozym.TM. 51004 (Novozymes NS).
[0131] Any enzyme present in a composition may be stabilized using
conventional stabilizing agents, e.g., a polyol such as propylene
glycol or glycerol, a sugar or sugar alcohol, lactic acid, boric
acid, or a boric acid derivative, e.g., an aromatic borate ester,
or a phenyl boronic acid derivative such as 4-formylphenyl boronic
acid.
[0132] The fluid may be a fabric or hard surface treatment
liquid.
[0133] Fluids according to the invention may also contain various
functional ingredients: surfactants, builders, various adjuncts,
sequesterants, optical brighteners, dyes, softeners etc.
[0134] Various non-limiting embodiments of the invention will now
be more particularly described with reference to the following
figures in which:
[0135] FIG. 1 is a side view of an embodiment of a direct to
consumer laundry liquids dispensing system according to the
invention, with the container support and squeeze mechanism shown
in section.
[0136] FIG. 2 is an enlarged front view of the embodiment shown in
FIG. 1
[0137] FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of the spring component of FIG.
2
[0138] FIG. 4 is an enlarged sectional view of the upper part of
the system
[0139] FIG. 5 is an enlarged and exploded view of the container
support and squeeze mechanism in perspective
[0140] FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of the force translation
mechanism
[0141] FIG. 7 is an enlarged view of the metered dosing device in
place
[0142] FIG. 8 is a side view of the container
[0143] An Exemplary Fabric Treatment Laundry Liquid is below
TABLE-US-00001 Ingredient as 100% active Wt % Neodol 25-9* 6-8
Alcohol ethoxy sulfate 12-15 Linear alkylbenzene sulfonate 6-9
Sodium citrate, dihydrate 3-6 Propylene glycol 4-8 Sorbitol 3-6
Sodium tetraborate pentahydrate 2-4 Volatile benefit agent: perfume
1 Minor additives and water to 100%
[0144] A further exemplary laundry liquid is below
TABLE-US-00002 LAS 11 Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) 3EO 70% 12.0
Alcohol Ethoxylate 8.4 Hardened Topped Coconut Fatty Acid 3.5 MEA 6
Citric Acid 50% solution 5 triethanolamine TEA 4 EHDP 60% Solution
2.5 ACRYLATE COPOLYMER HASE30 2 Ethoxylated Polyethylene Imine EPEI
4 Mono Propylene Glycol 8.0% enzymes 3 Volatile benefit agent:
perfumes 1.5 Minor additives and water To 100
*C.sub.12-C.sub.15 alkoxylated (9EO) chain group
[0145] Referring to the figures, a direct-to-consumer laundry
liquid dispensing system 1 is shown comprising:
(a) a container 3 containing a liquid laundry 5 (which may be as in
the above examples), said container having an elongate cross
section adapted for letterbox delivery wherein the container width
is at least twice the container width and the container depth is
less than 5 cm; (b) a dispensing device 7 configured to house the
container 3 in a dispensing orientation; (c) a metered dosing
device 9 with a self-closing dispensing aperture 11, metered dosing
device 9 attached to the container for dispensing a unitized dose
of the laundry liquid 5 (sufficient for washing one load) from the
container 3 via a dispensing aperture 11, on actuation by the
consumer.
[0146] The system further includes a dosing shuttle 15, and this is
located below the dispensing aperture 11 when the container 3 is in
placed in the dispensing device 7. The laundry liquid 5 is
dispensed into the shuttle 15 and this is then placed directly into
the washing drum or other washing receptacle (not shown). A dosing
device locator 17 constrains the position of the dosing device so
that it stays directly below and in line with the dispensing
aperture so avoiding spillages during dispensing. The locator 17
comprises a shallow recess 17 in the base of the dispensing device
7, the recess 17 corresponding to the base of the dosing shuttle
15.
[0147] The container 3 has a longitudinal axis Y with a closed base
at one end and at an opposing (longitudinally) end, a dispensing
part, and the dispensing orientation of the container 3 is such
that the dispensing part is downward of the closed base.
[0148] The dispensing device 7 has a housing 21 comprising a
container support 23 for supporting the container 3 in the
dispensing orientation as shown in the figures, and which container
support 23 is movable relative to the housing 21 to effect
dispensing of the laundry liquid 5. The dispensing device 7 further
comprises a squeeze mechanism 25 which is operative to squeeze the
container 3 to effect dispensing of a unitized (sufficient for
treating one load) dose of the laundry liquid 5 via the metered
dosing device 9. The squeeze mechanism 25 is connected to the
container support 23 such that downward movement of the container
support actuates the squeeze mechanism 25 upon the container sides
3 and so in turn effects dispensing. The squeeze mechanism 25
comprises squeeze arms 27 connected by a series of pivoted levers
to a force transmitting mechanism 29
[0149] Dispensing may thus be achieved by simply pressing down on
the container 3 in direction A shown on FIG. 1 or container support
23. The squeeze mechanism is resilient in that once the container
support has moved down for dispensing, it returns to the its
original position via a return spring 33. The dispensing of the
liquid 5 takes place on the downward stroke.
[0150] The device is manually operated, requiring no power.
[0151] The container 3 has a stepped profile shown more clearly in
figure. This provides a force transfer surface 31 for transmitting
the downward pushing from the container to the support and to the
force transfer mechanism 29.
[0152] The container 3 has a primary face and an opposing rear
face, said faces connected along their two respective sides by
respective side walls. These walls are flattened faces which are
interconnected with smooth outer profiles. The container 3 has a
cross section generally based on an elongate ellipse with flattened
surfaces defining discrete walls whereby there are distinct edge
regions where adjoining walls meet. In other embodiments (not
shown) the container 3 has curved faces which create smoother edge
regions and more of a continuous curved wall. The primary and rear
faces are at least four times the width of the side walls.
[0153] The squeeze mechanism 25 engages the primary and rear faces
by means of a specifically shaped recess which corresponds with the
containers cross sectional shape to ensure that the container's
primary and rear walls (ie those with larger more flexible areas)
are aligned to engage the squeeze mechanism. This is necessary due
to the lack of radial symmetry of the container and the need to
engage certain walls for squeezing. The recess serves to provide a
guide so that as the consumer pushes down the movement is downward
and not sideward, and also as a resistance to prevent the cartridge
from shooting out the device on the return stroke.
[0154] When the container 3 is being compressed the metered dosing
device 9 releases a fixed amount of detergent. Once the cartridge
is released the metered dosing device 9 will refill itself
automatically, and is ready to dispense another fixed amount. The
silicone membrane stops the flow after decompressing begins on the
return stroke.
[0155] In another embodiment, the container has all or part of its
walls thickened to provide some resistance to the squeezing action
of the squeeze mechanism. This allows smaller doses to be achieved.
Having only those portions thickened which are in the vicinity of
the squeezing mechanism enables the remaining part of the bottle to
be lightweight.
[0156] The maximum depth of the container 3 is less than 4 cm,
preferably less than 3 cm. The maximum depth may be less than 2
cm.
[0157] The maximum width of the container is less than 30 cm,
preferably less than 25 cm, more preferably less than 20 cm. Most
preferably the width is less than 15 cm.
[0158] The container 3 is transparent or translucent with
translucent labels except for text.
[0159] The container 3 can be formed from polyethylene,
polyethylene terephthalate, polypropylene, and other polymers from
which clear or transparent or translucent containers 3 may be
formed.
[0160] The inclusion of a volatile perform in a liquid of viscosity
200-700 cPs at 21 s-1 together with the squeeze-operated device
means the laundry liquid exits under increased stress and speed
which enhances consumer experience by enhancing release of the
volatile benefit agent during dispensing.
[0161] The viscosity of 200-700 cPs at 21 s-1 provides for
excellent and rapid dynamic mixing during squeezing but without
splashing as it enters the dosing device. Preferably the viscosity
is measured at room temperature (21 degrees) using a Brookfield
Viscometer. The fluid is a liquid or pourable gel
[0162] The dispensing device comprises multiple sections and these
sections may themselves comprise sub sections which may be provided
unassembled and `flat-packed` for letterbox delivery to the
consumer. The consumer may then assemble the device from said
multiple sections. Alternatively the dispensing device may be
provided fully assembled as shown, and delivered without the need
for any assembly, other than to insert a container.
[0163] It is of course to be understood that the invention is not
intended to be restricted to the details of the above embodiment
which are described by way of example only.
* * * * *